Megabus Weekend Travel: 4 Fun Destinations Near London

Discover the magic of quick getaways from London with Megabus. You’ll find an array of exciting destinations to explore for a weekend escape, all conveniently accessible by Megabus for affordable transport. From charming historic towns to vibrant cities, immerse yourself in fresh scenery and culture without the stress of extensive travel. This guide provides sample weekend itineraries to four fascinating spots near London that you can briskly reach via Megabus. Let yourself unwind and recharge as you delve into these alluring nearby locales perfect for a revitalizing short break from the city. With Megabus, you can effortlessly venture to these alluring destinations for an enriching weekend at an unbelievable price.

Escape to Brighton for a Seaside Getaway

Brighton is a mere hour from London, making it ideal for a quick weekend escape. Upon arrival, head to the beachfront and stroll the Palace Pier, a Victorian pier featuring fairground rides, food stalls, and stunning sea views. For shopping, visit the Lanes, a maze of alleyways housing independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Art enthusiasts should tour the Royal Pavilion, an exotic palace with a striking Indo-Saracenic design. The Brighton Museum & Art Gallery also showcases visual arts, decorative arts, fashion, and local history.

Enjoy fish and chips or sample innovative fare from award-winning chefs as night falls. Then have a pint at a traditional pub or catch live music at funky seafront bars. With a buzzing nightlife and something for everyone, Brighton offers an exciting weekend getaway just a short ride from London on Megabus.

Discover History and Nature in Oxford

Oxford provides an enticing combination of culture, history, and natural beauty. Home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, its architecture and libraries are renowned. However, Oxford also offers picturesque nature escapes.

Explore the Gardens

The University of Oxford Botanic Garden is Britain’s oldest, with over 6,000 plant species. For a quiet stroll, the Christ Church Meadow borders the River Cherwell. Magdalen Deer Park lets you glimpse the local wildlife.

Soak in the History

No trip to Oxford is complete without visiting the Bodleian Library and Christ Church Cathedral. While wandering cobblestone streets, you may recognize locations from Harry Potter films. Climb the 99 steps of the Carfax Tower for panoramic city views.

With efficient Megabus service, relish a revitalizing weekend in this city of learning and nature: Discover Oxford’s tranquil gardens, inspiring architecture, and captivating history.

Enjoy Coastal Views in Portsmouth

Portsmouth, just over an hour from London, offers an invigorating seaside getaway. Stroll along the historic waterfront and take in views of the Solent Strait and Isle of Wight. Visit the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to explore HMS Victory, HMS Warrior 1860, and the Mary Rose Museum. Afterward, walk to Gunwharf Quays for dining, shopping, and entertainment. A perfect weekend escape with coastal scenery and culture.

Recharge in Bath’s Thermal Waters

Immerse yourself in Bath’s renowned thermal waters for a rejuvenating escape. The ancient Roman spa city is only 90 minutes from London by Megabus, making it ideal for a quick weekend getaway. Relax in the open-air thermal pools at Thermae Bath Spa with panoramic views of Bath’s Georgian architecture. The mineral-rich waters have a temperature of 33°C, perfect for soothing your mind and muscles. After unwinding at the spa, stroll through the cobblestone streets and visit attractions like the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, a picturesque church in the heart of town. A weekend in Bath will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the week ahead.

Experience Cambridge’s Charming College Town

Visit the historic university city of Cambridge for a delightful weekend escape. Explore the beautiful colleges with their Gothic architecture, including King’s College and its magnificent chapel. Punt on the River Cam and soak in the scholarly atmosphere. Cambridge’s charming town center offers higgledy-piggledy streets, shops, and cafés galore.

Stay at a traditional inn like the Varsity Hotel or Gonville Hotel for a true taste of Cambridge. Take a walking tour to hit the highlights. Shop for souvenirs on King’s Parade and Rose Crescent. As night falls, enjoy a pint at an ancient pub like the Eagle. With its bookshops, museums, and lively cultural scene, Cambridge will captivate you for a weekend. Catch a Megabus from London and in under two hours, you’ll be exploring this charming college town.

Marvel at York’s Medieval Architecture

During your weekend in York, devote time to appreciate the city’s splendid medieval architecture. York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe, features architectural wonders from the 12th to 15th centuries, including the Five Sisters stained-glass window and intricately carved choir stalls. Beyond the Minster, walk The Shambles, a narrow cobbled street lined with timber-framed buildings dating from the 14th century. Clifford’s Tower, the remains of York Castle’s stone keep, provides panoramic views of the historic walled city. Amid the bustle of the modern world, York offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Middle Ages.

Relax in the Lake District’s Natural Beauty

The picturesque Lake District National Park offers a rejuvenating escape into nature. Surrounded by mountains and 16 lakes, the charming towns and villages dotted throughout the park showcase the region’s scenic beauty. Windermere, England’s largest lake, is a hub for outdoor activities. You can go boating, cycling, or hiking on the park’s many trails. The historic town of Keswick on Derwentwater Lake provides shopping, dining, and culture. For a peaceful retreat, stay in a traditional Lakeland inn or cottage. A weekend enjoying the Lakes’ fresh air and stunning vistas will leave you feeling renewed.

Explore Windsor Castle and Gardens

A trip to Windsor is well worth the short journey from London. As one of the largest inhabited castles in the world still used by the Royal Family, Windsor Castle offers a glimpse into centuries of British history. Take a guided tour of the lavish State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel, the site of Prince Harry’s wedding. The castle is open most days, but check the schedule for closures before you go.

After touring the castle, stroll through the sprawling Windsor Great Park and the Savill Garden. The Savill Garden is one of the finest woodland gardens in England, with themed gardens, lush lawns, and rare plant species. The Long Walk, a 2.6-mile avenue, offers striking views of Windsor Castle. On weekends, watch the colorful spectacle of the Changing of the Guard.

A perfect weekend escape, the town of Windsor has a charming village vibe with shops, restaurants, and hotels to suit any budget. Easily reached in under an hour from London by Megabus, Windsor Castle, and Gardens should top your list for a quick getaway.