One of the most exciting parts of moving to a new place is exploring. You can learn so much about the country you’re living in by visiting different parts of it, soaking up the culture and experiencing the food and drink. We have written a guide about adapting to UK culture, which new arrivals may find useful.
In London there are so many amazing things to do. However, it is also a good idea to spend some time outside the capital to really experience British culture. Read on for some ideas of where to go, what to see and how to get there.
A Historical Trip
Where: Bath
How: You can take a direct train from Paddington Station in West London to Bath Spa. The journey takes just under 1 hour and 30 minutes and tickets cost roughly £30.
Why: The city of Bath is located in the southwest of England and is famous for its Roman baths and beautiful architecture. The whole city was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 1980s and people still come to use the spas. On a day out, you can visit the many museums, take a stroll along the banks of the River Avon and then finish off with a soak in the natural thermal waters before jumping on the train back to London.
A Beach Trip
Where: Brighton
How: Trains depart regularly from Victoria Station and take around a 1 hour and 10 minutes direct. Tickets can be bought for under £10.
Why: Brighton has a very distinct personality and is great fun whenever you visit – however, if you want to go for a swim in sea, you might want go during the summer. The pebble beach and the pier are must-see sites for newcomers, and no trip to Brighton is complete without a portion of fish and chips which you can buy on the seafront. The best view of the whole seaside town is from the British Airways i360 so make sure to book a ticket.
A Nature Trip
Where: Box Hill
How: It only takes 45 minutes to get to Box Hill from Waterloo Station and tickets are around £12.
Why: You don’t have to travel far from London to find some beautiful British countryside. Box Hill in Surrey is a National Trust site that offers free guided walks across the hills. You can go for a short stroll or an eight-mile hike depending on your preference then grab a bite to eat at the official café or one of the cosy pubs in the area. You don’t even have to wait until summer to visit – there are plenty of activities and gardens to see that are made for the winter weather.
A Cultural Trip
Where: Stratford-Upon-Avon
How: The train from Marylebone Station is direct and takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. Tickets usually start at around £30.
Why: Where better for a cultural day trip than the home of William Shakespeare? England’s most famous writer was born here on the 26th of April in 1564 and the town remains dedicated to his life and work. You can take a tour of all the important places from his early life, including his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage. Plays are often performed at the Royal Shakespeare Company’s theatre there, including some by the Bard himself. However, the stunning Tudor architecture alone makes this town a wonderful place to visit and walk around for the day.
If you want more information about studying at the University of Roehampton Pathway, visit our website: qa.roehampton.ac.uk/pathway.