Unbeatable places near London

London is beloved. Whether you’ve been wandering the city for days hoping to bump into Meghan and Harry, or you’re here for work, don’t you think the city has something more to offer?

Why not escape the city for a short trip and return before evening? Hop in the car and discover the 5 quintessential places in England, just 30 minutes from London.

Pretend to be a member of the royal family

Windsor Castle, home to British kings and queens for over a millennium, was also the venue for the wedding, not too long ago, between a beautiful American actress and the most eligible bachelor on the planet. If you find yourself in Windsor, just 6.5 km from Slough, the Boatman Riverside pub-restaurant is a must-stop for lunch. Eavesdropping on the conversations of those speaking in the snobbiest of accents is part of the fun! Later, hop aboard a French Brothers cruise on the Thames. Your short trip wouldn’t be complete without experiencing traditional English tea at Coworth Park: afternoon tea on the lawn with over 20 varieties of sandwiches, scones, baked goods, and other treats. You’ll be spoiled for choice!

Town Hall, St. Ives Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1RF

Get a bit of color on your face

If you’re in London exhausted from too many endless meetings, without a doubt, at some point, you’ll want to feel human again. Here’s the perfect location for you. Get in the car and head to Richmond Park, located 12 km from the city. Its nature reserve is home to thousands of endemic species. Bonus: if you manage to approach quietly, you might even see groups of deer.

Richmond TW10 5HS

Refresh your biology knowledge

If you’re traveling with someone who believes the Earth is flat and refuses to acknowledge that humans evolved from apes, perhaps it’s time to take them to Charles Darwin’s house. Explore the scientist’s gardens, where he found inspiration for his revolutionary theories, and visit the exhibition where you can learn about all his works.

Luxted Rd, Downe, Orpington BR6 7JT

Sneak into four weddings and attend a funeral

In Amersham, just 21 km from Watford, immerse yourself in the charming English countryside on the Chiltern Hills. Have a drink at The Crown, a traditional pub featured in a scene from the quintessential English romantic comedy. We don’t want to get too macabre, but while you’re there, you can also visit the grave of the last woman to be hanged in Britain. Lastly, before heading back to London, don’t miss the chance to dine at the Artichoke restaurant, awarded a “Rising Star” in the 2011 Michelin Guide.

Address: High Wycombe HP14 4NF

Among ghosts, but with style

If you’re not claustrophobic, how about driving 20 km from London to the Chislehurst Caves and exploring this 14-acre man-made cave system? An ammunition store and shelter for thousands during a massive air raid during the war, the caves were also the venue for several musical events during the 1960s. If the eerie intrigues you, know that it’s rumored the caves are haunted by ghosts…

Caveside Cl, Chislehurst BR7 5NL