Ditching the Big Smoke: Top Escapes from London (That Won't Leave You Grass-Stained)
Let's face it, London's a fantastic city. But, between the constant tube delays, the rent that could buy you a small island, and enough pigeons to reenact Hitchcock's "The Birds," sometimes you just gotta get out.
Fear not, weary Londoner! There's a whole world (well, a fair chunk of the UK at least) waiting for you, with charming towns, stunning countryside, and enough peace and quiet to hear your own internal monologue for the first time in years.
But where to go? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's a whistle-stop tour of some of the best places to escape the London rat race (minus the actual rats, hopefully):
The Commuter Champs:
- Reading: Buckle up for a 30-minute train journey to Paddington and a town that's like London's slightly less frantic younger sibling. Think cool bars, decent nightlife, and the holy grail - relatively affordable housing.
- Brighton: Beach life, babes (of the seaside variety), and enough kitsch to keep you entertained for years. Brighton's a quirky gem, just an hour from London by train, perfect for those who need an injection of fun into their lives. Warning: May cause uncontrollable outbreaks of spontaneous dance on the pier.
The Sleepy Hollows:
- The Cotswolds: Honey-coloured stone cottages, rolling green hills, and enough afternoon teas to make your pinky finger permanently extended. The Cotswolds are pure quintessential England, perfect for those who like their pace slow and their villages picture-perfect. Hot tip: Practice your best "Downton Abbey" accent for maximum immersion.
- Hitchin: A charming market town in Hertfordshire, Hitchin offers a perfect blend of history, countryside walks, and enough pubs to keep you merry. Plus, it's only about half an hour from King's Cross by train, so you can still get your London fix in small doses. Ideal for: Those who dream of escaping the city, but still crave the occasional Pret a Manger fix.
The Wildcard Wonders:
- Manchester: If you thought London was lively, wait till you get a load of Manchester! This vibrant city boasts a cracking music scene, a legendary football rivalry (City vs United - choose your side wisely!), and a friendly, no-nonsense vibe. Plus, the transport links to London are excellent. Word of warning: Be prepared for rain (it practically has its own postcode up there) and a healthy dose of local lingo.
Remember: This is just a taster menu! There are countless fantastic places to live outside London, each with its own unique charm. Do your research (because nobody likes a rash escapee), consider your budget and lifestyle, and most importantly, have fun with the hunt!
FAQs:
How to choose the perfect place to live outside London?
Consider your priorities! Do you crave countryside walks or cool bars? Short commutes or village life? Make a list of your must-haves and research towns that tick your boxes.
How much cheaper is it to live outside London?
Generally, rent and house prices will be significantly lower outside the capital. However, consider transport costs if you'll be commuting.
How long does it take to commute from some of these places?
The towns mentioned above have varying commute times, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour or so. Check train and bus links before you make your final decision.
What are some things to consider when moving to a new town?
Think about local amenities, job prospects, schools (if you have kids), and the overall vibe of the place. A visit is always a good idea!
Is it easy to make friends when moving to a new town?
Absolutely! Join local clubs or groups, strike up conversations with your neighbours, and embrace the community spirit. Most people are friendly and welcoming (especially if you bring a box of decent London-bought biscuits to share).
