7 Things To See And Do Outside Of London

Hello Everyone!

Today’s post is all about things you can do, outside of London. As someone who lives on the edge of the city, I have easy access to things both within it, and outside it, and most of the time, I tend to enjoy the activities outside of London.

Of course, that doesn’t mean I don’t also enjoy the city as well, it’s just sometimes, it can be too loud and too busy, so escaping to the closest countryside or park re-centres my equilibrium. That's why I suggest not only visiting London, but the surrounding areas. Now, what can you do outside of London, I hear you ask? Let me tell you! Here are 7 things to see and do, outside of London.

1.   Windsor

I don’t mean the castle. Yes, you can do that if you want, but if you're looking for good places to shop, which you can totally find in London, visit Windsor High Street. I guarantee you, the usual staples are there, and more. You won’t just find the standard big brand names, but there are also small independent shops that actually sell cool stuff, like handmade clothes and accessories, or cute and one-of-a-kind gifts that aren’t found in your major stores. In fact, there are even a few shops dedicated to local crafts and businesses. All you need to do is walk about and explore these hidden gems.

You can even go for a walk along the riverside. Enjoy a nice ice cream, on a hot summer’s day, or watch the ducks float by in your woolly hats and coats, in winter. There are even a few independent restaurants and cafes you can check out before heading out to the Great Park, or the Magna Carta Park. There are even some tearooms where you can have the full British experience of an afternoon tea. There’s so much you can do in Windsor, and it’s much more picturesque than London. So, hop on the train, and take a day trip to the small town. It’s worth it.

2.   Hampton & Bushy Park

One of my favourite places outside of London is the area surrounding Bushy Park. The homes there are old, and every time I drive past them, I can’t help but imagine what life would be like, if I lived in one of them. There are even boat houses that really capture my imagination. I mean, who wouldn’t want to live on the River Thames? It would be an experience. I find it romantic, just walking along the streets with their wonky buildings and old Tudor facades that I can’t help but feel like I’ve gone back in time.

If that isn’t enough, then walk through Bushy Park, the giant park that surrounds Hampton Court Palace, and run into the wild deer and other animals that roam its grounds. It's enough to recharge your spirit. It’s such a beautiful place, and not as crowded as Hyde Park. Not to mention, the park isn’t nearly as decorated, as they try to keep the environment as natural to the animals as possible, maintaining the whole woodland feel, and protecting them from possible predators.

3.   Brighton or Bournemouth

You’re probably wondering why I’ve put two beach destinations in one. That’s because if one beach is busy, the other is probably not as much. Both beaches are popular destinations for Londoners who want the summer beach fun, without the ridiculous prices of flying abroad. You can guarantee that once summer comes around, these beaches will be flooded with people who want to get away from the city for a little bit, get that summer tanned look, and be asked at work “where did you go?”

If the city gets too hot for you, head on over to the beach. It’s only a hop, skip and a jump away. Ok, so it’s about 2-3 hours away, but make a day of it, and enjoy the salty breeze. Or if you’re visiting during a heatwave (we all know what that’s like), book a night at a nearby hotel, and extend your beach stay. Trust me, you’re going to thank me later for suggesting it.

4.   Stratford Upon-Avon

As a book lover, I can never get enough of Shakespeare’s birthplace. Granted, tickets to his and Anne Hathaway’s cottage (not that Anne Hathaway, I mean Shakespeare’s wife) can be a bit pricey, but just walking down the cobble streets and peeking into the many small independent shops there is enough for me. I love walking about the main streets, or even in the small park next to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. In fact, there are a few pubs and restaurants I’ve been to that really make me want to go back and experience them all over again.

Stratford Upon-Avon is about 1 & ½ hours away, but it’s worth the visit because of the theatre alone, and if you’re lucky (or if you book tickets in advance), you might be able to watch one of the plays that they perform...in his hometown! That’s actually something I’ve yet to do, but I am planning on it. So, if I ever post something about it up here on Feather’s Charm, you know I managed to score those tickets.

5.   Canterbury

One of my oldest childhood memories was joining a school trip, with all my friends and exploring the strange reimagining of Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales. Granted, it’s an experience for children, but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit as adults. The Canterbury Tales are one of the UK’s oldest classical pieces of literature and worth a read, if you’re looking to improve your knowledge about classical literature. Of course, you can also explore them in this immersive experience, in Canterbury itself.

Not only that, but you can also visit the cathedral where St Thomas Becket, or St Thomas of Canterbury, was brutally killed by King Henry VIII's men (let's be clear, the king himself didn't murder a priest). There’s even a sculpture to honour the sacrifice, inside the cathedral. Just be respectful, when you visit the cathedral, it is still a working cathedral and is used for worship. So just be mindful of your behaviour, while you’re inside. Once you’re outside, go and have fun in the local town centre. Enjoy a good roast in one of the local pubs or grab yourself a large helping of fish and chips at the nearest fishery. You can’t really go wrong with food there.

6.   Henley-On-Thames

For that quaint English countryside vibe, head on over to Henley-On-Thames. There are many quaint shops and restaurants there that really show you what local life is like. It’s a great day out, especially along the riverside, or if you want to head further into the city, you can wander amongst the old architecture there and grab yourself a good pub lunch, before walking around one of their local parks.

If you’re lucky, or if you do your research, you may just stumble across the annual Henley Royal Regatta. It’s the annual rowing competition that takes place on the water, right in front of you. Just be aware you will need to attend according to the HRR dress code, so pack those boatman hats, your best dress or suit, and head on over to the riverside. It’ll be a great day for rowing.

7.   Warwick

Not too far from Stratford Upon-Avon is Warwick, or more specifically, Warwick Castle. I’ve been here a few times, but each time I go, I realise I’d forgotten what the place was like. It’s such a fun place to go, especially for young children and families. It’s a bit like Windsor, but it’s not as busy. Plus, tickets to tour the castle isn’t as expensive as Windsor. So, if you want that palatial experience, come visit Warwick!

There are even loads of activities they host right outside, on the lawn. From bird handling shows, to practicing archery and even jousts! There are lots of things you can do there, especially if you’re a kid (or a big kid at heart)! Or if you want a taste of the local life, head on over to their weekly market, which they hold every Saturday. You’ll find crafts, clothes, and food that are handmade and local, so you’ll also be helping out their town’s economy too!

There You Have It! 7 Things To See And Do Outside Of London!

Believe me, as someone who’s lived in London all her life, the city scene can get a little boring. Sometimes, you just want to escape the busy-ness of the place and just relax by the river, or in the middle of a forest. Not to mention, it can be difficult to trust the small independent shops you find there, because not all of them are actually local businesses. So, head on out of London, and discover the many hidden gems that are dotted around the countryside. It’ll be worth the day trip, or overnight stay, if you’re looking to spend a bit more time in these dinky little villages.

Well, that’s it from me today. I’m going to hop into my car and drive out to one of my favourite parks (side note, it’s actually called Colne Valley Park, I love hiking the trails there). While I’m at it, please don’t forget to like, subscribe, comment, share and follow me, here on Feather’s Charm, on my YouTube channel, on my other social media channels (Instagram, Twitter/X, TikTok), and on Patreon. Your support really helps me make more content like this, for you guys.

And as always be kind, be creative, and be unique.

I’ll see you later!

Feather, out!