Beyond London: Must visit UK attractions

Why you should visit

The only surviving stone circle in the world, Stonehenge, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that scientists believe was a way to tell the time of year. It's one of the world's most mysterious and fascinating monuments, so it's a great idea to see it in person and realise just how unique it is!

How to get there?

It takes less than 2 hours to drive from London to Stonehenge, so hire a car and take a lovely drive through the countryside. If you want to avoid the risk of traffic, you can take a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury, and jump aboard a shuttle bus - with your admission included in the cost.

Fun Fact

The biggest stones here are about 9 metres tall and weigh 2 5 tonnes - that's as heavy as 4 African elephants!

Why you should visit

For classic British charm, Bath is a beauty. Explore ancient Roman Baths, natural hot springs, elegant streets, museums, galleries and riverside views, then stay for buzzing bars and restaurants. With the Cotswolds nearby, it is well worth adding to your UK trip today.

How to get there?

Travel from London to Bath by train in as little as 1 hour 15 minutes, making it an easy car-free escape. Once there, local buses, trains and coaches help you explore Bath and nearby gems without the faff of parking or traffic. Simple, scenic and stress-free from start to finish.

Fun Fact

Bath actually has its own currency, believe it or not! You can exchange your money for the 'Oliver', which you're able to use as a payment method at any shop in Bath with a Pixie sign in their window.

Why you should visit?

The Isle of Wight is a mini holiday within your UK holiday, with beautiful beaches, coastal cycle routes, country pubs and family fun from Blackgang Chine to Monkey Haven. Visit for a day or stay longer, and time it with Isle of Wight Festival or Cowes Week for extra buzz.

How to get there?

Getting to the Isle of Wight is part of the adventure. Take the train from London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour or Southampton, then hop on the ferry by foot, car or coach. Once on the island, explore by bus, train, bike, walking trails or even a charming steam railway.

Fun Fact

It's the smallest county in England... sometimes! When the tide is in, the Isle of Wight is the smallest county in the country, but when the tide is out, the size expands and it's larger than Rutland!

Why you should visit?

Canterbury is a must for history lovers, with its magnificent cathedral, soaring towers and intricate stained glass. After your visit, wander the pretty historic streets, browse boutique shops, pop into cosy pubs or catch a show at the Marlowe Theatre for a perfect day out.

How to get there?

Canterbury is easy to reach from London by road or rail. Drive via the M20 and M2, then use the handy park and ride to reach the cathedral without the parking faff. Prefer the train? Services run from London Victoria, Charing Cross and St Pancras, including high-speed options.

Fun Fact

The stained glass in the cathedral was used to communicate to the masses who could not read, and then later on, to tell the story of the Miracles of Saint Thomas Becket.

Why you should visit?

Warwick Castle is more than mighty walls and epic history. It is a brilliant day out for all ages, with birds of prey, live shows, jousting and even sleepovers in the grounds. Visit year-round for spectacular events, or go at Halloween for extra spooky castle thrills.

How to get there?

Warwick Castle is an easy day trip from London in the UK. Drive up the M40 in just over 2 hours, with parking a short walk from the castle and drop-off for additional needs. Prefer the train? Go direct from London Marylebone to Warwick in around 1 hour 45 minutes, or book a day tour.

Fun Fact

The castle is home to the world's most powerful catapult - it got the record in 2006 when it launched a missile 800ft (that's the length of 10 tennis courts) at a speed of 160mph. If you're lucky, you might get to see it in action when you go!