There’s More to the UK than London: Two Day-Trip Cities from the Capital
London is one of the most visited cities in the world. Most tourists come to Britain only to spend all their time in London. We can hardly blame them, there is just so much to see and do in this sizable city of over eight million.
From the main tourist attractions of the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace,Tate Modern, the V&A, The Natural History Museum, The Science Museum… the list goes on and on, to simply wandering along the South Bank, strolling down Brick Lane, shopping on Oxford Street, in Covent Garden and Knightsbridge to a day picnicking in Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and St James’ Park.
But London, being the transport hub of the UK is also a great base for exploring other regions, particularly those in the south and east that are just a few hours away by train. So here are two more cities you can add to your list of ‘been theres, done thats’. Oh and if you’re looking for top notch capital accommodation, check out the hotels in London from Millennium Hotels; talk about location, location, location.
Portsmouth
The naval city of Portsmouth is only 90 minutes from either London’s Victoria or Waterloo stations. It has long been a vital port for the British navy and it was from here King Henry’s men set sail in the Mary Rose. Admiral Lord Nelson’s ship The Victory also calls Portsmouth home as does The Warrior. The old naval dockyard has now been transformed into an award-winning retail and entertainment development of upmarket outlet shops, a cinema, bowling alley, numerous bars and restaurants and the Spinnaker Tower, a 170-metre tower boasting views out to the Isle of White and inland towards the South Downs.
Old Portsmouth is full of historic pubs and houses, whilst Southsea has a pebble beach, a funfair and several nightclubs.
Canterbury
One of Britain’s oldest cities, Canterbury is a British Heritage City and it’s home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site which encompasses St Martin’s Church, St Augustine’s Abbey and Canterbury Cathedral. The Abbey was founded in AD597 by St Augustine and marked the rebirth of Christianity in southern England. The Cathedral was founded at the same time and has been well-preserved throughout history. There’s also a Roman Museum, you can follow Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales in an attraction of the same name and there’s a daily farmers market to tantalize your taste buds.
