Weekend escapes: Upscale destinations 1 Hour from London
Many guests staying with us choose London as their destination for a Student Luxe apartment. Why? Because many are either studying in London or working here from abroad.
We know from speaking with our guests that many head elsewhere in the UK after landing in London, in search of other places to visit. And why not? The UK is full of incredible destinations, many a short train or coach ride from London and brimming with incredible attractions.
Whether you’re after riverside charm, spa retreats, or historic wonders, here are nine upscale places to visit near London that can be reached in an hour or less. Perfect for a weekend away with friends or during your time off generally. Each offers a slice of refined relaxation – ideal for luxury getaways and premium day trips.
Windsor
Windsor is a picturesque town on the River Thames, known for its royal connections and stately elegance. With cobbled streets, riverside views, and centuries of history, it offers an opulent yet walkable setting ideal for a refined weekend escape.
Distance: 30 – 40 minutes from London by train.
Attractions
Windsor Castle: Visit for the Changing of the Guard (Tues, Thurs & Sat at 11am).
Windsor & Ascot Racecourses: Highlights include Royal Ascot in June.
Windsor Great Park.
Eton College.
St. George’s Chapel.
Theatre Royal Windsor.
Dining
The Brasserie at St Christopher Wren – Classy modern European cuisine with beautiful river views.
Meet At The Parish – Highly-rated steak and cocktails in a warm, contemporary setting.
A La Russe – A sophisticated bistro just minutes from Windsor Castle.
Coffee
Harper’s Windsor – Artisan coffee and a top-tier brunch menu.
Cup of Rosie – Pretty and elegant with terrific views of Windsor Castle.
Marlow
Marlow is an upmarket riverside town in Buckinghamshire, celebrated for its Georgian architecture, boutique-lined high street, and stunning natural surroundings. Known for drawing celebrities and high-end visitors, it's a perfect retreat from the bustle of London.
Distance: Around 1 hour by train via Maidenhead..
Attractions
Marlow Bridge.
Marlow Lock.
All Saints Church.
Higginson Park.
Dining
Suum Kitchen – Premium Vietnamese cuisine and cocktails.
Megan’s at Liston Court – Mediterranean-inspired brunches and dinner plates.
Laavin – Contemporary Mediterranean dining with a superb Sunday roast.
Coffee
Laurent’s – A fabulous French deli and cafe with delicious sweet treats.
The Cedar Coffee Shop – An intimate spot with great cake and coffee.
Henley-on-Thames
Henley-on-Thames is a refined and affluent riverside town, known for its luxury homes, independent boutiques, and globally recognised rowing events. It’s a destination that combines countryside calm with a strong sense of style and community.
Distance: Around 1 hour via Twyford or Reading.
Attractions
Henley Royal Regatta (July)
Private boat hire via Hobbs of Henley.
Spa days at Danesfield House.
Warburg Nature Reserve.
The Henley Distillery.
Dining
Hof’s Bar and Dining – Elegant fusion cuisine and wine pairings.
Bistro at the Boathouse – Riverside dining with delicious locally sourced ingredients.
Orwell’s Restaurant – Refined, seasonal tasting menus in a charming 18th-century setting.
Coffee
Hot Gossip Coffeehouse – A super cosy spot with a hidden garden.
Spoon Cafe – Ethical, local produce and arguably the best coffee in Henley.
Oxford
A city of timeless academic prestige and classical beauty, where historic college buildings meet elegant gardens, galleries, and gourmet dining. Whether you're punting down the river or exploring iconic landmarks, Oxford is one of the most rewarding luxury getaways near London.
Distance: Around 1 hour from London Paddington or Marylebone.
Attractions
Christ Church College.
Radcliffe Camera.
Bodleian Library
Ashmolean Museum
River Cherwell punting
Dining
Quod Brasserie & Bar – Modern European fare in a striking, stylish space.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie – A popular chain with elegant interiors and elevated British classics.
Branca – Upscale Italian cuisine in Oxford’s trendy Jericho area.
Coffee
Jericho Coffee Traders – Artisan roast specialists.
Society Café – A Scandinavian-inspired space with excellent espresso.
Winchester
A charming cathedral city steeped in history, Winchester offers a peaceful yet refined escape. With medieval streets, fine restaurants, and a mix of culture and countryside, it’s an ideal destination for a serene and stylish break from city life.
Distance: About 1 hour from London Waterloo.
Attractions
Winchester Cathedral.
The Great Hall.
Winchester College.
Walk the Water Meadows and River Itchen.
Dining
The Chesil Rectory – Fine British cuisine in a charming centuries-old building.
Kyoto Kitchen – Elegant Japanese dishes using local produce.
Rick Stein, Winchester – First-class seafood from an award-winning British chef.
Coffee
Flat Whites – Premium coffee meets laid-back brunch.
Coffee Lab – Creative brews in a slick, modern setting.
Rye (East Sussex)
Rye is a picture-perfect town on the Sussex coast, known for its cobbled streets, antique shops, and nearby beaches. Full of charm and romantic atmosphere, it’s one of the most photogenic and tranquil places to visit near London.
Distance: Around 1 hour 10 mins via Ashford.
Attractions
Mermaid Street.
Ypres Tower.
Camber Sands beach.
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
Dining
The George in Rye – A boutique hotel restaurant serving refined British classics.
The Mermaid Inn – Atmospheric and full of character, with a great Sunday lunch menu.
Hoof – A chic steakhouse using the best locally sourced produce.
Coffee
Marino’s – A contemporary cafe with a boutique feel.
Rye Bay Coffee – Artisan coffee meets waterfront views.
St Albans
A historic and upscale cathedral city just north of London, blending Roman ruins with stylish boutiques, and a thriving cafe culture. One of the most convenient and cultured day trips available from London.
Distance: 20–30 minutes from London St Pancras.
Attractions
St Albans Cathedral.
Verulamium Park.
St. Albans Market.
The Clock Tower.
Dining
Thompson St Albans – An upmarket eatery with an attractive courtyard.
Per Tutti – Refined and modern Italian cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Lussmanns Brasserie – Exquisite dining in a beautiful glass domed venue, next to St Albans Cathedral.
Coffee
Nkora – A chic coffeehouse with a loyal following.
The Pudding Stop – Delicious sweet treats in a cheerful, informal cafe.
Whitstable
Whitstable is a creative, laid-back seaside town on the Kent coast, famed for its oysters, beach huts, and independent spirit. It’s a refreshing and indulgent coastal getaway, ideal for food lovers and those craving sea air and simplicity.
Distance: Around 1 hour 10 mins from London St Pancras (via high-speed rail).
Attractions
Whitstable Harbour.
Tankerton Slopes.
Whitstable Oyster Tours.
Harbour Street boutiques.
Dining
The Sportsman – A Michelin-starred pub with a famed tasting menu.
The Lobster Shack – Fantastic, fresh seafood on the beach.Wheelers Oyster Bar – The place to go for oysters in Whitstable.
Coffee
Blueprint Coffee & Books – A cosy and creative hangout.
Grain & Hearth Bakery – Fresh sourdough and excellent coffee.
Cambridge
A refined university city that rivals Oxford in beauty and tradition, offering college tours, punting on the River Cam, and elegant green spaces. With its blend of academic culture and boutique dining, Cambridge makes for a peaceful and polished escape.
Distance: Around 50 minutes from London King’s Cross.
Attractions
King’s College Chapel.
Punting by The Backs.
Fitzwilliam Museum.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
Dining
Midsummer House – An elegant fine dining restaurant with two Michelin stars and a serene riverside setting.
Restaurant 22 – Exquisite cuisine focused on creative contemporary British dishes.
Trinity – A stylish, upmarket restaurant with a sophisticated atmosphere known for its seafood.
Coffee
Bould Brothers – A stylish, high-end coffee shop with scrumptious freshly-baked goods.
Hot Numbers Coffee – Independent coffee done properly in a warm and welcoming setting.
A little about us
When London is your home base, the rest of the UK is at your fingertips. From your Student Luxe apartment, it’s easy to swap city streets for countryside retreats, riverside walks, or coastal escapes – all without straying far from comfort.
Our luxury apartment rentals across London are designed for students and professionals who want more than just a place to stay. With flexible leases, thoughtful design, and everything taken care of, your time in London becomes more than a trip – it becomes a lifestyle.
So go ahead, explore. And when you’re ready to return, your space (and the city) will be waiting.
