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London Life Hacks: A break from the city, day trips

Fancying a break from London? City life can get a bit suffocating, which is why every Londoner ought to take a break from London once in a while. London is well located for a variety of different excursions, ranging from blissful beach hikes to culturally rich history tours. Be ready to explore beautiful places and towns which are just around the corner from London!

Five recommended hikes: Five Signs you need a break from London: If you miss being in a quiet place in the countryside then one of these recommended hikes is for you! These 5 top hikes have 1) You know it’s sunny but you views that will blow your mind and are all doable in one day! haven’t seen the sky in weeks They are a perfect way to get away from the city for a day and 2) You are suspicious of large enjoy the English nature and countryside bodies of water

3) You think a fiver is okay for a pint of beer 1) Seaford to Eastbourne (13.8 miles): the best hike for seaside 4) You are checking your emails in view the park Do you miss the sea? Or do you just want to spend a day near 5) You just find it hard to relax the water? This is the best hike for sea views in : it extends across dramatic cliff-tops and river valleys. This hike includes views of the white cliffs of Seven Sisters, Beachy Heady and it ends in the Eastbourne, a beautiful seaside town. For more details on how to get there, where to eat and the hiking route options visit: https://www.walkingclub.org.uk/walk/seaford-to-eastbourne/

2) to (7 miles): Best Hike for Insane views This hike takes you through green meadows, past the old cottages and it ends on the highest point in south east England! When you climb up the tower and you are lucky enough to get a clear day, you will be able to see the clock face on the Big Ben, 14 counties and the . For more information on the hiking route please visit: http://www.fancyfreewalks.org/Surrey/Ockley- LeithHill.pdf

3) Mole Gap Trail (6 miles): Best Hike for Vineyard Views Are you a wine lover? Then you must go to this hike! The walk goes from to passing through beautiful countryside following the route of the . During this walk you will pass an 18th century Manor House at and the , the largest vineyard in the country! Here you will be able to do tours of the vineyard and tasting of their wine! For more details on this hiking route, visit: http://www.gps- routes.co.uk/routes/home.nsf/RoutesLinksWalks/mole-gap-trail-walking-route

4) Waltham Abbey (6 miles): The best hike for Art View Walk through the wonderful Lea Valley passing unique art sculpture along the way. These include the Glade Sculpture, carved wildlife benches, a work called Stag Beetles and a Giant Chair sculpture. Don’t miss the stop at Musicality, a giant xylophone in the park, to give that a whirl. For more information visit: https://www.visitleevalley.org.uk/en/content/cms/outdoors/walks- walking/walking-routes/ware-to-waltham-abbey/artworks-route-three/

5) Hastings (5.9 miles): Best Hike for Castle Views Starting at Hastings station, you will hike through Hastings Old Town along the seafront then up a steep coastal path, through Hastings Country Park. The hike then continues through some woodland and up to the atmospheric ruins of Hasting Castle. To find out more about this hike visit: http://www.wegoplaces.me/walks- near-london/

Five stunning British cities you can visit from London in a day

1) Cambridge With its world-class university, clutch of ancient colleges and love for punting, Cambridge is a destination you can’t miss. What to do: A walking tour of the university is a must: visit the Corpus Christi, Clare College, Kings College and Christ’s College. Once you’ve had your fill of academia, visit the city by taking a walk along the River Cam. On a summer’s day, a picnic on The Backs is highly enjoyable. Where to eat and drink: The Sandwich bar Urban Shed is a good place for a quick bite. Alternatively try Chop House, known for its steaks and views of King’s College. Visit The Free Press which housed a printing press before it became a bar. How to get there: There are several trains departing from London Kings Cross every day and the journey takes about 45 minutes.

2) Brighton Brighton is often referred to as London- on-Sea, a beautiful small town stuffed with originality and independent businesses. What to do: When visiting Brighton, start in the North Laine neighbourhood, packed with pubs, cafes and theatre, and then delve into The Lanes for a great shopping experience. Look out for the eccentric Royal Pavilion (built by King George IV) and take a walk along the pier. Where to eat and drink: Brighton offers a fantastic array of bars and restaurants. Food for Friends offers great vegan dishes and is a great spot for lunch, while the Walrus pub is a good place the grab a beer. How to get there: There are frequent direct trains from London Victoria and London Bridge and the journey is about an hour.

3) Bath Bath is arguably Britain’s most beautiful city. Founded by the Romans, who used the area’s thermal springs to create a spa retreat, it’s now the premier attraction of Southwest England. What to do: Start with the Roman Baths complex, which is divided into four main parts (the Bath House, the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple and the museum displaying fascinating finds from the ruins). Next, have a wander around Bath Abbey, a large medieval church that you can climb to the top. Lastly, see two of the city’s Georgian masterpieces: Pulteney Bridge and the Royal Crescent Where to eat and drink: The independent Café Retro is a nice little spot for a coffee and snack, while the Marlborough Tavern gastro pub serves impressive and more substantial dishes. How to get there: Direct trains from London Paddington twice an hour and the journey time is about 90 minutes.

4) Oxford Oxford is a grand old place, steeped in privilege and prestige. The large student population keeps the atmosphere young and fresh, though there’s no shortage of history if you want it. What to do: A tour of the university colleges is a must, Harry Potter fans will recognise various locations used in the movies. Another highlight is Blenheim Palace, a monumental residence and the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Where to eat and drink: Vaults & Garden is a popular local café in a lovely venue, while Fishes is a good gastropub. How to get there: Trains from London Marylebone and London Paddington to Oxford run several times an hour and the journey is about an hour.

5) Canterbury Canterbury is one of England’s most attractive and important cathedral cities, with its star building considered one of the finest in Europe. The town itself is absurdly quaint, with narrow alleyways following the original medieval street plan. What to do: Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an absolute must. As the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the Church of England, it’s the most important Christian site in the country. Just outside you can see the ruins of the sixth century St Augustine’s Abbey. Other highlights include the Beany House of Art and Knowledge and a boat trip on the River Stour. Where to eat and drink: Tiny Tim’s Tearoom is one of the best cafes, though be prepared to queue for a table. For heartier fare, head to Boho where the burgers are huge! How to get there: There are fast trains from London St Pancras departing once an hour and taking one hour. Slower trains (90 minutes) run from London Victoria and London