Travelling to London is all fun and games, but it’s also pretty overwhelming and full to the brim of touristy things pretty much all year round. Enjoying the summer holidays or time off from work may lead you to think that there are only things to do in London, but I beg to differ! Beyond the border of the city centre, there are so many hidden gems to enjoy as a solo act or with your friends and family.

Here are some hidden gems outside of London that I would recommend to anyone and everyone.

The Cotswolds

A classic southern village that is known for its stunning vintage beauty, but also charming character that leads people back to this spot for weekends away, summer breaks for a lovely stroll, and also because of its quintessential English charm. It’s also a great spot for couples for an old-school love story weekend.

It’s also a great place for those who enjoy a good trail walk, perfect for all seasons as there are over 3,000 miles of footpaths, down rivers, through gardens and farm land. It’s a great place to do nothing but chill in a pub, but it also has a lot to offer, which is why it is such a popular destination for southerners wanting to escape the London centre.

Romford

Not a far commute from the centre, but also is full of its character maintained over the past couple of centuries, including a market that has been running since the 18th century. This town offers so much as formally part of the Essex town, it has a unique character which brings people to this little town. There are a few landmarks that tickle people's interest, such as Upminster Windmill, Raphael Park and the Havering Museum.

Not to mention it also carries a bit of the convenience from the London city life, such as The Liberty shopping centre and incredible restaurants in Romford.

Cornwall

Not only are its gorgeous beaches, but it’s also one of the rare spots that gets hot in summer, as one of the farthest southern points, which means Cornwall is a summer spot.  Being a seaside town, it has water sports and is overall full of friendly locals and Cornish charm. It feels like a whole different place to the UK, like you are on a mini holiday without having to get on a horrible plane journey. 

East Sussex

Rye, East Sussex, is a beautifully preserved medieval town that feels worlds away from the pace of modern London. On a hilltop overlooking the Romney Marsh, the town is most known for the iconic Mermaid Street, a steep, cobbled street lined with houses that have stood there since the 15th century. At the heart of this street lies the Mermaid Inn, a historic haunt once frequented by the notorious Hawkhurst Gang of smugglers. 

Rye offers breathtaking views from the tower of St Mary’s Church, a glimpse into history at the 13th-century Ypres Tower, and a legacy at Lamb House, the former home of Henry James. Whether you can sip hot chocolate at the original Knoops or explore the nearby dunes of Camber Sands, Rye is a perfect spot for more than just history buffs.

Surrey

Shere, Surrey, is frequently referred to as one of the most stunning villages in England, serving as a quintessential backdrop for major films like The Holiday, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, and Four Weddings and a Funeral, all of the classic and well adored british films still to this day.

The gentle River Tillingbourne flows under small stone bridges, where visitors often gather to feed the ducks or enjoy the waterside path. The village has what most know as the White Horse, a 15th-century Grade II listed pub with low oak beams and log fires, famously used as the location for Amanda and Graham’s first date in The Holiday. There also stands a 12th-century St James’ Church, which holds an interesting story that we won’t spoil for you today.