This weekend, my partner has an all-day softball tournament. The last time I had the apartment to myself, I told myself I was going to enjoy being alone.

Instead, I got bored and cleaned. CLEANED.

Because I’m risking becoming a boring homebody, I told myself this Saturday I am getting out of the city and explore England a bit. I don’t want to wander too far, or spend too much money.

So I consulted my list of places I’d like to go, that I think could be fun for a summer Saturday trip. My limitations were:

• I don’t want to spend too much time on a train (under 2 hours from London)
• Wherever I go, it has to be walkable (I don’t want to spend too much on ubers, and I have no car access)
• My outgoing train has to arrive before 11am, so that I can enjoy most of the day (but have breakfast at home)
• My train coming home has to arrive before 11pm on Saturday night

This data was taken courtesy of the Trainline app, on June 25^th (Wednesday) for travel on June 28^th (Saturday). You might have more luck with prices if, unlike me, you give yourself more than three days’ notice to plan a trip.

The Cotswolds.

Starting Station: London Paddington

Finishing Station: Moreton-in-Marsh

Cost: £87.29

Time to destination: ~ 1hr, 10 mins

Why I’d go: There are so many historic places in England that will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time, but I’ve heard that the Cotswolds are first-class in terms of historic venues, antique shops, and beautiful outdoor walks. It looks like it would be the perfect mix of outdoor village scenes, antique shops, and historic museums. I’ve heard that Moreton-in-Marsh has a beautiful market, and that Bourton House Gardens is a beautiful, historic treasure. Sounds like lots to see and do!

Brighton.

Starting Station: London Blackfriars or Victoria

Finishing Station: Brighton

Cost: £20 – £40 (depending on time)

Why I’d Go: I’ve been to Brighton several time, and loved it every time. The beach is large-stoned, so you don’t have to worry about sand in your shoes—and it’s a straight walk down the street from the train station. Brighton is full of brightly-coloured houses, coffee shops, and bespoke boutiques; the beach has zip lining, a penny arcade, and a water-based roller coaster. I can’t help but think that these things might be more fun with a friend, though—so I’m not sold on it being my choice for a solo day.  

Thanet.

Starting Station: London St Pancras or Victoria

Finishing Station: Margate or Broadstairs

Cost: £35

Time To Destination: ~1 hr 40 mins

Why I’d Go: There’s no where I’d rather be on a hot day than a walk by the beach! I’ve been seeing hikes all over Tiktok of Broadstairs Bay—where the beautiful white cliffs reveal themselves at low tide. It looks like a perfect place to bring a picnic and pick up a coffee, hike for miles in the sun, and take a swim at the end!

Bath.

Starting Station: London Waterloo or Paddington

Finishing Station: Bath Spa

Cost: £62

Time to destination: ~1hr 30 mins

Why I’d Go: I’ve actually been to Bath before; it’s a city that somehow toes the line between “historic” and “cool”. I’ve been to hen do’s here, where I’ve taken long boat rides down the canal during the day, and enjoyed the clubs and bars at night; I’ve been to the Jane Austen Museum, gotten cocktailed brunch, and been through beautiful riverside parks in the same day. So a little something for everyone!

If you were me, which trip would you take this weekend? Let me know in the comments below—and as always, happy travels!