Spring 2025 bucket list enthusiasts will love exploring England’s best day trips and hidden gems. From the picturesque Cotswolds to the rugged coastline of Cornwall, England offers countless adventures and serene retreats. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking for a peaceful getaway, there’s something for everyone. Let this guide help you uncover must-visit destinations and create lasting memories this spring.
The Cotswolds: A Springtime Treasure
The Cotswolds, known for its rolling hills and honey-coloured cottages, is one of England’s hidden gems. Stroll through the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water or enjoy the tranquil beauty of Hidcote Manor Garden. Don’t miss the local spring markets, which feature fresh produce, handmade crafts, and vibrant floral displays. The Cotswolds also offers scenic walking trails like the Cotswold Way, which provides breathtaking views of the English countryside.
Canterbury combines history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the city’s medieval streets. Spring brings life to the Westgate Gardens, where you can enjoy picnics surrounded by blooming flowers. Take a peaceful boat ride on the River Stour for a unique perspective of this historic city.
Cornwall’s coastline is breathtaking in spring, with fewer crowds and stunning views. Visit the iconic Kynance Cove or explore the historic Tintagel Castle, steeped in Arthurian legend. The South West Coast Path is perfect for scenic walks, offering views of dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. For art enthusiasts, St. Ives is a must-visit, with its thriving artistic community and galleries like the Tate St. Ives.
The Lake District in spring is alive with colorful wildflowers and serene landscapes. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Windermere, hike Catbells for panoramic views, or visit Dove Cottage, the former home of poet William Wordsworth. The Lake District is perfect for those seeking tranquility, with its charming villages like Grasmere and peaceful lakes surrounded by majestic peaks.
The Yorkshire Dales offer rugged beauty and cultural charm. Explore the quaint village of Grassington, admire the waterfalls at Aysgarth, or visit White Scar Cave, England’s longest show cave. Spring is the ideal time to explore the lush green landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. Don’t miss a visit to the Wensleydale Creamery for a taste of authentic Yorkshire cheese.
The Norfolk Broads is a serene destination, perfect for a spring retreat. Rent a boat and explore the waterways surrounded by blooming greenery. Visit the historic Horsey Windpump or enjoy birdwatching in this peaceful environment. The Broads is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot rare birds and otters in their natural habitat.
Brighton is a lively coastal city, perfect for a spring getaway. Stroll along Brighton Pier, explore The Lanes for unique shopping, or relax on the beach. For nature lovers, the South Downs National Park offers excellent hiking trails and stunning views. Spring festivals in Brighton celebrate music, food, and art, making it a vibrant destination for all.
The Peak District is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike Mam Tor for panoramic views, explore the limestone valley of Dovedale or visit Chatsworth House, a grand estate with stunning gardens. The Peak District is a haven for adventurers, offering rock climbing, caving, and horseback riding.
England in spring 2025 is a season of discovery and beauty. From the hidden gems of the Cotswolds to the cultural vibrancy of Brighton, these destinations offer something for everyone. Make this spring unforgettable by exploring England’s best day trips and hidden gems.
Spring and summer 2025 travel from England to Europe offers a wealth of exciting destinations. With quick connections by train or plane, you can discover breathtaking places in just a few hours. Whether you crave vibrant cities, serene beaches, or charming countryside retreats, here are ten must-visit European getaways for spring and summer 2025.
1. Paris, France
Paris never loses its charm, especially in spring and summer. Stroll along the Seine, enjoy a picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens, or admire the Eiffel Tower. Spring blooms make the city even more magical, and summer evenings are perfect for outdoor dining. High-speed trains from London make it an easy and quick escape. Learn more about travel tips to Paris in our France travel vlog.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam comes alive in spring with its famous tulip season. Visit the Keukenhof Gardens or explore the city’s canals on a boat tour. Summer is ideal for biking through the city’s picturesque streets. Direct flights and Eurostar trains make it a convenient getaway from England. Learn about the best places to visit in Amsterdam on I Amsterdam.
Barcelona combines vibrant culture with stunning beaches, making it a fantastic summer destination. Visit iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia, relax on Barceloneta Beach, and indulge in tapas. Spring offers pleasant weather for exploring the city’s architecture and parks.
4. Rome, Italy
Spring and summer are the best times to experience Rome. Discover historical landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain. Enjoy gelato as you explore cobblestone streets or unwind in the city’s piazzas. Budget airlines from England make Rome a top choice.
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s sunny weather and colorful streets are perfect for spring and summer getaways. Enjoy scenic views from the city’s hills, explore the Alfama district, or visit nearby beaches. Summer evenings are ideal for enjoying fado music and fresh seafood.
6. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s medieval charm and stunning Adriatic coastline make it a top summer destination. Wander through the Old Town, take a boat trip to nearby islands, or relax by the crystal-clear sea. Spring offers fewer crowds, while summer is perfect for beach days.
7. Vienna, Austria
Vienna in spring boasts blooming gardens and outdoor concerts. Summer brings lively festivals and outdoor dining. Visit the historic Schönbrunn Palace, stroll along the Ringstrasse, and indulge in Viennese coffee culture. Direct flights from England make Vienna an accessible choice.
8. Santorini, Greece
Santorini’s iconic whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches are picture-perfect in spring and summer. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets, relax on volcanic beaches, and explore charming villages like Oia. Direct flights from England to Athens with connecting ferries make Santorini a dream destination.
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is perfect for spring and summer with its waterfront vibes and colourful Nyhavn district. Explore Tivoli Gardens, bike through the city, or enjoy Nordic cuisine at local eateries. Summer’s long daylight hours add extra time for sightseeing.
10. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges offers fairytale charm just a short train ride from England. Spring brings blooming flowers, while summer is perfect for canal boat tours and exploring the medieval town square. Try Belgian chocolates and waffles for a delicious treat.
Tips for Planning Your Getaways
Book flights and accommodations early to secure the best deals. Consider using travel apps like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track prices. For train travel, book through platforms like Eurostar and Rail Europe for discounts. Pack appropriately for the season; spring may require layers, while summer calls for lightweight clothing.
Spring and summer 2025 travel from England to Europe promises unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the romantic streets of Paris, the sunny beaches of Santorini, or the cultural treasures of Vienna, these quick getaways offer something for everyone. Plan your trip early, embrace the adventure, and create lifelong memories.
We had such a lovely time discovering dog friendly Margate! It’s a town nestled on the southeast coast of England in Kent – one that has seen a revival as a sought-after seaside destination.
For years, this town has seamlessly blended traditional British seaside allure with modern arts and culture. We were drawn to its magnetic charm, and our recent visit reaffirmed why it’s a must-visit. A snapshot into dog friendly Margate is here:
Margate highlights
Turner Contemporary: A Modern Art Haven
Starting off our journey, one of our first stops was the Turner Contemporary, a beacon of modern art on Margate’s seafront. Named in honour of the 19th-century artist J.M.W. Turner, who was enamoured with Margate’s unique light, this gallery showcases a plethora of contemporary visual arts from global artists. Interestingly, with ever-changing exhibitions, there’s always something fresh and intriguing to witness.
Dreamland: A Nostalgic Adventure
Following that, another highlight is Dreamland, a vintage amusement park that has graced Margate since the early 1900s. After undergoing its recent restoration, Dreamland now boasts retro rides, roller discos, and lively music events. The park’s nostalgic ambiance captivated us, especially the iconic Scenic Railway wooden rollercoaster. It’s an absolute must-ride!
Margate’s Seaside and the Enigmatic Shell Grotto
Transitioning to a more relaxed vibe, strolling along Margate Main Sands was a serene experience. This sandy beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming, is complemented by a promenade dotted with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. However, the real surprise awaited us at the Shell Grotto. Discovered in 1835, this subterranean passage is adorned with intricate seashell mosaics. The grotto’s origins remain a mystery, making it an even more intriguing attraction.
On a side note, our experience here was a hit on social media – check it out!
Old Town and Dog-Friendly Spots
Initially, we couldn’t resist exploring Margate’s Old Town, a treasure trove of independent shops, galleries, and eateries. The best part? Moreover, the best part? Most of these spots are dog-friendly! Our little Westie, London, was more than happy to accompany us, basking in the sun and enjoying the warm ambiance of the town.
A Sunset to Remember
Subsequently, we wrapped up our Margate adventure with a breath-taking sunset, echoing those at Cafe Mambo, Ibiza. Along with many others, we perched on the newly constructed stairs along Margate Harbour’s seafront, absorbing the mesmerising hues of the setting sun.
Margate boasts a plethora of activities, establishing itself as a perfect getaway. Its art galleries, beaches, and the enigmatic Shell Grotto cater to diverse interests. If you seek dog-friendly spots, Margate delivers. We eagerly anticipate our next visit!
What can we say, it’s worth spending 48 hours in Whitstable, Kent! :)
Stepping off the train, we were greeted by the radiant sun shining over Whitstable, a picturesque seaside town on the coast of Kent in Southern England. We had been here once before, and it was so nice to be able to return! Just an hour’s train ride from London, we were eager to dive back into the wonders of this renowned fishing town, adorned with pastel-coloured fishing cottages, expansive pebbled beaches, and an array of quirky shops.
Every corner of Whitstable whispered tales of its rich maritime heritage, a legacy that stretches back to Roman times.
Take a look:
The Oyster Experience
The town’s pride in its oyster farming is palpable, and we learned of the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival, a grand celebration complete with parades, performances, and, naturally, oyster-eating competitions. Tasting the famed Whitstable oysters was the crowning jewel. The taste was a harmonious blend of saline, a touch of saltiness, complemented by a creamy sweetness. One was simply not enough.
Artistic Flair and Coastal Pubs
Our stroll down Harbour Street was nothing short of enchanting. The street, alive with energy, was a tapestry of quirky boutiques, unique shops, and a delightful mix of colourful weatherboard houses, historic edifices, and charming cottages. Our exploration led us to the intriguing street art by Catman, Whitstable’s answer to Banksy. For those in search of a unique coastal pub experience, “Neppies” or Old Neptunes is the place to be.
A Culinary Finale
As our 48 hours neared its end, we decided to indulge in the town’s best fish and chips at Ossie’s. The generous servings and the golden, flaky fish were the perfect culmination to our Whitstable adventure. Sitting on the beach, watching the sun dip below the horizon and the waves gently caress the shore, we reflected on our time in Whitstable.
A town that seamlessly marries its rich history with modern allure. If the Kent Coast is on your radar, Whitstable is a must-visit. A town that’s not just picturesque but also dog-friendly. And remember, the oysters are a must-try!
If the sun comes out we want for nothing more than to head to the seaside, and the beach at Whitstable is absolutely accessible by train from London to Whitstable for a day trip or weekend.
Whitstable is a quaint seaside destination in Kent. The train London to Whitstable is just over an hour’s ride from St Pancras (at Kings Cross).
Escape to the beach at Whitstable
A Whitstable day trip on the train from London means you can enjoy quirky shopping, seafood aplenty, oysters, oysters, oysters… and best of all, there are dogs everywhere!
Kent is a beautiful and accessible destination from London.
We love it because it’s easy to get to the beach in around an hour; the scenery, energy and vibe of similar beach-side destinations like Broadstairs and Botany Bay means that just one day away from the big city energises you! Well worth the time.
For those seeking swimming opportunities, do your research – the beach at Whitstable is great for paddling and water sports, as well as people watching and lounging about.
It’s not the sandiest of beaches, from what we saw, but it has the best of any seaside experience.
Beat the crowds on your Kent beach day trip
Our major travel tip is be to go early, because if you strike a lovely day, by around midday this little town (and others like it) is packed.
Whitstable is famous for its an annual mid-year Oyster festival.
To give you some idea of how popular this is, the town’s is population is around 32,000 and during this festival attracts an additional 40,000!
Take a look around at our Whitstable beach and seaside escape.
Hopefully you’ll be inspired to book your train from London to Whitstable next time the sun is out.
Got questions about travel in and around London? Or your own travel tips? Let us know in the comments…
Congrats to the producers of this weekend’s LoveFit 2017 festivalin the UK – the first of its kind – that combines dance music with health + fitness activities.
It was fun to be invited along.
While in this instance we did more spectating than participating in classes, we applaud the overall message from wellness experts and speakers like Andrea Corbettabout fitness being the best way to a happy mind and life.
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
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