If you’re lucky enough to live in Birmingham, then you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to reasonably local, attractive countryside escapes. When the grind of city life begins to wear on you, you might venture out in any given direction and stand a good chance of stumbling upon an inspiring landscape, or an interesting historical attraction.
But which escapes constitute the low-effort options? Where might a resident of Birmingham plan a trip, without dealing with extra hassle?
Explore the Cotswolds and the surrounding countryside
Few parts of the country typify English rural idyll in the same way as the Cotswolds. It’s a network of small villages, connected by canals, country lanes, and bridleways. You’ll spend your time moving from one charming traditional pub to the next, and discovering the countryside in the process.
Discover historic cities nearby
You don’t have to travel far to discover a well-preserved historic town. Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, offers a myriad of bard-related attractions. York and Bath lie within a short train ride, in different directions. The former offers a glimpse into the Roman and Medieval origins of the country as a whole, while the latter is a well-preserved blend of the ancient and the contemporary.
Of course, if you’re going to York, you’ll want to see the famous York Minster cathedral, and the National Railway Museum. The Jorvik Viking centre is worth a visit, too – and there are amazing one-off events in the city throughout the year.
In Bath, meanwhile, the main attraction is the Roman Baths from which the city draws its name. You might also visit the Abbey, nearby Wells, and the famous Cheddar Gorge, from which the nation’s favourite cheese originates. Getting around requires renting a car, but you’ll be treated to some wonderful winding routes along the way.
Head to the coast for fresh sea air
Many tourists will crave a lungful or two of sea air. The good news is that there are a number of coastal resorts within easy reach. You might take a train to Whitby or Brighton, or even extend the adventure overseas via a trip to Southampton. Cruises from Southampton are departing constantly, and they offer a hassle-free way to explore the wider world. Whether you’d like to soak in the Mediterranean sunshine, or explore the fjords of Norway, or even cross the Atlantic and experience the Caribbean, Britain’s famous port city might represent a perfect place to start the adventure.
Short countryside retreats
Of course, there’s nothing to say that your break has to span several weeks. If you just have a few days to kill, then you might head to the hills of the Peak District, the Lake District, or Shropshire. There are a variety of routes available for hikers and cyclists. Whatever your level or experience, you’ll find one that will expose you to some of England’s most inspiring landscapes. Just make sure that you have the right equipment, including a sturdy, reliable pair of walking boots.
