As an avid budget traveler, I can’t wait to unveil my tales of discovering incredible and affordable destinations to explore from the bustling capital of the United Kingdom, London. Known as the Big Smoke, this vibrant city serves as a gateway to a world of budget-friendly escapades, both near and far.
So, dust off your travel essentials, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to join me on an exhilarating journey through the hidden gems of these cheap places to travel from London. From short train rides to exciting flights, we’re about to uncover unforgettable experiences that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Let’s dive headfirst into this adventure of a lifetime!
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Table of Contents
1. A Historical Gem on a Budget- Bath
- Estimated Travel time from London to Bath by car: 2 hours to 3 hours
- Distance: 115 to 122 miles.
- Accommodation: $120- $200 per night
- Food: $43 per day on average
I had a short train ride to the city of Bath. Famous for its well-preserved Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture, Bath is a treat for history enthusiasts. I found affordable accommodations within walking distance of the city center, allowing me to explore attractions such as the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Royal Crescent.
Don’t forget to stroll along the picturesque Pulteney Bridge and indulge in a relaxing soak at the Thermae Bath Spa.
2. Seaside Charm on a Shoestring- Brighton
- Train travel time: 50 min – 1 hour
- Train cost: £15-£50+ ($18-$60+) (round trip)
- Accommodation: £20-£150+ ($24-$180+) per night
- Food: £20-£50+ ($24-$60+) per day
- Budget trip: £75-£100 ($90-$120) per day Mid-range trip: £150-£200 ($180-$240) per day
A quick train ride south of London took me to the vibrant coastal city of Brighton. Known for its pebble beaches, lively pier, and bohemian atmosphere, Brighton offers a budget-friendly escape from the capital.
I discovered affordable accommodations near the seafront, allowing me to enjoy leisurely walks along the promenade, explore the quirky North Laine neighborhood, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the famous Brighton Palace Pier.
3. Academic Splendor on a Budget- Cambridge
- Travel Time (Train): 1-1.5 hours
- Train Cost: £20-£70+ ($24-$84+) (round trip)
- Accommodation: £30-£200+ ($36-$240+) per night
- Food: £25-£50+ ($30-$60+) per day
- Budget trip: £100-£150 ($120-$180) per day Mid-range trip: £175-£250+ ($210-$300+) per day
Just a short train journey from London lies the historic city of Cambridge. Home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, Cambridge offers a captivating blend of academic splendor and medieval charm. I found budget-friendly accommodations near the city center, allowing me to explore the stunning architecture of colleges like King’s College and St John’s College.
Punting along the River Cam and visiting the iconic Fitzwilliam Museum were among the highlights of my affordable Cambridge adventure.
4. Literary Delights on a Budget- Oxford
- Travel Time (Train): 1-1.5 hours
- Train Cost: £20-£70+ ($24-$84+) (round trip)
- Accommodation: £30-£200+ ($36-$240+) per night
- Food: £25-£50+ ($30-$60+) per day
- Budget trip: £80-£130 ($96-$156) per day
Another academic gem within easy reach of London is Oxford. Renowned for its prestigious university and rich literary history, Oxford offers a budget-friendly trip filled with intellectual stimulation and cultural delights.
I found affordable accommodations near the city center, allowing me to explore the historic Bodleian Library, stroll through the picturesque college courtyards, and visit attractions like the Ashmolean Museum and the Botanic Garden. A visit to the charming Covered Market is a must for food and shopping enthusiasts.
5. European Adventure on a Budget- Brussels
- Train travel time: 2 hours (Eurostar)
- Train cost: £75-£300+ ($90-$360+) (round trip)
- Accommodation: €30-€200+ ($34-$234+) per night
- Food: €30-€80+ ($34-$94+) per day
- Budget trip: £175-£200 ($210-$240) per day Mid-range trip: £250-£350+ ($300-$420+) per day
For an international escapade, I hopped on a budget flight from London to Brussels, the capital of Belgium. This vibrant city is famous for its stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and world-class chocolate. I discovered affordable accommodations within walking distance of the Grand Place, the city’s central square.
Exploring iconic landmarks like the Atomium, indulging in delicious Belgian waffles and chocolates, and immersing myself in the lively atmosphere of the street markets made my Brussels trip both affordable and memorable.
6. Irish Charm without Breaking the Bank- Dublin
- Travel time: Plane: (1 hour 15 min) Ferry: (7-9 hours)
- Travel cost: Plane: £30-£200+ ($36-$240+) (round trip)
- Accommodation: €20-€200+ ($23-$234+) per night
- Food: €30-€80+ ($34-$94+) per day
- Budget trip: £100-£150 ($120-$180) per day Mid-range trip: £200-£300+ ($240-$360+) per day
A short flight from London took me to the bustling city of Dublin, the capital of Ireland. Known for its warm hospitality, rich history, and lively pub culture, Dublin offers a budget-friendly adventure filled with Irish charm.
There are affordable accommodations in the city center, allowing me to explore attractions like Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy traditional Irish music and dance in the vibrant Temple Bar district.
7. Majestic History on a Budget- Edinburgh
- Train travel time: 4.5-5 hours
- Train cost: £25-£150+ ($30-$180+) (round trip)
- Accommodation: £20-£200+ ($24-$240+) per night
- Food: £25-£60+ ($30-$72+) per day
- Budget trip: £100-£150 ($120-$180) per day Mid-range trip: £175-£250+ ($210-$300+) per day
A scenic train journey led me to the majestic city of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital. This historic city is famous for its stunning castle, charming old town, and annual Edinburgh Festival. I discovered affordable accommodations within walking distance of the Royal Mile, allowing me to explore iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the picturesque Arthur’s Seat.
Exploring the vibrant pubs, hiking up Calton Hill, and catching panoramic views from the Scott Monument were some of the highlights of my budget-friendly Edinburgh adventure.
8. Romantic Getaway on a Budget- Paris
- Train travel time: 2 hours 15 min (Eurostar)
- Train cost: £50-£200+ ($60-$240+) (round trip)
- Accommodation: €30-€300+ ($36-$360+) per night
- Food: €40-€100+ ($48-$120+) per day
- Budget trip: £150-£200 ($180-$240) per day Mid-range trip: £250-£350+ ($300-$420+) per day
No list of cheap places to travel from London would be complete without mentioning the romantic city of Paris. Thanks to budget-friendly transportation options like the Eurostar train, exploring the City of Love is more affordable than ever.
I discovered affordable accommodations in charming neighborhoods like Montmartre, allowing me to visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Strolling along the Seine River, indulging in delicious pastries, and immersing myself in the artistic ambiance of the city made my Paris trip unforgettable.
9. Canals and Culture on a Budget- Amsterdam
- Train travel time: 4-5 hours
- Train cost: £40-£200+ ($48-$240+) (round trip)
- Accommodation: €30-€200+ ($36-$240+) per night
- Food: €30-€80+ ($36-$96+) per day
- Budget trip: £120-£170 ($144-$204) per day Mid-range trip: £200-£280+ ($240-$336+) per day
Last but certainly not least, I couldn’t resist a visit to the picturesque city of Amsterdam. With its charming canals, iconic tulip gardens, and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam offers a budget-friendly adventure filled with beauty and excitement. I found affordable accommodations in the city center, allowing me to explore attractions like the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and the famous Rijksmuseum.
Cycling along the canals, exploring the colorful Jordaan neighborhood, and indulging in Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels and cheese made my Amsterdam experience truly memorable.
Note: All the Estimated costs are according to March 2024.
The Departure– Cheap Places to Travel from London
There you have it, fellow adventurers! A journey through 9 cheap places to travel from London, where I discovered a world of affordable and unforgettable experiences. From the historical charm of Bath and the vibrant seaside atmosphere of Brighton to the academic splendor of Cambridge and Oxford, these destinations offered captivating adventures without breaking the bank.
Venturing further afield, Brussels, Dublin, Edinburgh, Paris, and Amsterdam showcased the richness of European culture and history, all within reach of London on a budget. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of exploration, and head on your affordable travel adventures from the Big Smoke. Happy travels!
FAQs
How can I find affordable accommodations in these cheap travel destinations from London?
Finding budget-friendly accommodations is easier than you might think. Start by utilizing online travel platforms that offer a wide range of options, including budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Consider staying in slightly less central areas or exploring alternative accommodation options like Airbnb or vacation rentals for more affordable prices. Additionally, booking in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can often lead to better deals and discounts.
Are there any specific travel seasons or times that offer better prices for these destinations?
Yes, timing can play a significant role in finding cheaper travel options. Consider traveling during off-peak seasons or shoulder seasons when tourist crowds are thinner, and prices tend to be more affordable. Avoiding major holidays, school breaks, and popular event periods can help you secure better deals on accommodations and transportation. Do some research on the specific destination you’re interested in, as some places may have specific seasons or events that impact pricing.
What are some affordable transportation options to reach these destinations from London?
Fortunately, London offers excellent transportation connections to various destinations. For shorter distances, consider taking trains or coaches, which can often be more budget-friendly than flights. Websites and apps like Trainline, National Express, and Megabus can help you find the best deals on transportation. If you’re planning to travel internationally, consider budget airlines or search for discounted flights through comparison websites like Skyscanner or Kayak. Keep an eye out for promotional offers and book in advance to secure the lowest fares.