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If you’re planning a UK getaway this year, the South West has plenty of culture, attractions and world-class entertainment. It’s home to diverse and striking scenery, from rocky coastal bays to lush green forests, so there are plenty of hidden gems to discover.
Whether you’re searching for an action-packed city break or a slower-paced countryside retreat, the South West has it all. Here are some of our favourite South West destinations for families, couples and solo staycations.
Planning a staycation in London
London is one of the world’s most-visited cities, attracting around 30 million tourists annually. Will you join them for your staycation this year?
Reasons to visit London
Visitors flock from afar for a glimpse of the capital’s icons, including Big Ben, black cabs and red telephone boxes. But there’s more to London than tourism. It boasts world-renowned theatre in the West End, outstanding museums on Exhibition Road and an abundance of parks and green spaces.
Getting there: It’s easy to catch a train to London with South Western Railway. Our London stations include London Waterloo, Clapham Junction and Vauxhall.
Things to do on a family staycation in London
The Science Museum has over 7 million objects in its collection. It also hosts some of the best interactive exhibitions in London for kids! Meanwhile, the Natural History Museum has one of the world’s most significant dinosaur collections for a roar-some day out.
There are more parks and green spaces in London than any other major city, so take your pick. Whether you’re near Central London’s Hyde Park and Regent’s Park[DF1] or South London’s Richmond Park and Clapham Common, you’re never too far from a fun-filled family day out.
Things to do on a couple's staycation in London
There’s nothing more romantic than getting dressed up for an evening show. Choose from London’s stunning selection of food gems before catching one of the best theatre shows in London’s world-class West End theatre district.
Things to do on a solo staycation in London
London’s famous Southbank is a great place to start exploring the city.
Visit the Southbank Centre and find some of the best exhibitions in London. Then, stroll along the river to Borough Market, one of the best street food markets in the South West.
Walking is one of the best ways to explore the city. Check out our list of the best free self-guided London walks to soak up the sights on foot. You can walk all the way from Greenwich to Richmond along the Thames, stopping to refuel at various pubs and cafés en route.
Planning a staycation in Portsmouth
Reasons to visit Portsmouth
With its storied dockyard and fascinating museums, Portsmouth should be high on any historian’s travel list. There’s plenty to see and do with 48 hours in Portsmouth. This picturesque city is filled to the brim with maritime heritage.
Getting there: Portsmouth’s main stations are Portsmouth Harbour and Portsmouth & Southsea.
Things to do on a family staycation in Portsmouth
What better way to entertain young bookworms than an afternoon at the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum or the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Collection? Grab an ice cream afterwards and stroll along Portsmouth’s stunning seafront from Old Portsmouth in the east to Eastney in the west.
Things to do on a couple's staycation in Portsmouth
Visit Gunwharf Quays for some retail therapy, shopping over 90 fashion and lifestyle brands and choosing from various restaurants and bars to refuel at. Then, head to a show at the 100-year-old Kings Theatre. The stunning 1,500-seat auditorium hosts everything from big-name Q&As to world-class musicals.
Things to do on a solo staycation in Portsmouth
Visit Portsmouth’s famous historic dockyard in the city’s heart, then take a trip up the Spinnaker Tower to admire the landscape from new heights.
Planning a staycation in Exeter
Reasons to visit Exeter
Exeter’s rich history makes it the ideal staycation destination for families, couples and individuals. From the iconic cathedral to action-packed adventure activities, there’s something for everyone.
Getting there: Exeter’s two main stations are Exeter Central and Exeter St David’s.
Things to do on a family staycation in Exeter
There are plenty of things to do in Exeter with kids. GoApe Haldon has some of the best adventure activities in the South West[DF1] for an adrenaline-fueled afternoon atop high ropes and ziplines.
Or, get your fill of history at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery for a fun educational activity. It has plenty of interactive exhibits and a dedicated family-friendly area.
Things to do on a couple's staycation in Exeter
Exeter’s historic quay, built in 1566, is the quaintest corner of the city. Take a seat at one of the many quayside bars, cafés and restaurants and watch the world go by. Plus, there’s alfresco dining and live music in summer (how romantic!).
Things to do on a solo staycation in Exeter
Exeter is a cultural city, perfect for solo trips. No visit’s complete without seeing one of the oldest cathedrals in the South West[DF2]. With nearly 1,000-year roots, Medieval art and Norman architecture, Exeter Cathedral is ideal for historical and spiritual visits. There’s no better view of the city than from the cathedral roof!
Planning a staycation in Windsor
Reasons to visit Windsor
It’s only 30 minutes from Central London, but visiting the historic market town of Windsor feels like travelling back in time. It’s the perfect destination for city-dwellers wanting an idyllic escape.
Windsor Castle is the jewel in this cobble-stoned town’s crown. It’s also why it’s known as the Royal Borough of Windsor. Founded 1,000 years ago by Wiliam the Conqueror, Windsor Castle is the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle.
There’s no shortage of things to do with 48 hours in Windsor.
Getting there: South Western Railway has regular trains to Windsor. Windsor’s two main stations are Windsor & Eton Riverside and Windsor & Eton Central.
Things to do on a family staycation in Windsor
Look no further than Legoland Windsor for a fun-filled family staycation. This action-packed adventure park receives over 2 million visitors annually – and for good reason! It’s got miniature Lego recreations of your favourite landmarks, a theme park and theatre shows .Windsor Great Park has over 4,000 acres and more than 1,000 years of history. It’s the perfect spot for a stroll and a picnic. Explore Cow Pond, a tranquil 300-year-old lake, the iconic 2.5-mile Long Walk and the Deer Park, home to 500 Red Deer.
Things to do on a couple’s staycation in Windsor
Head to Windsor Royal Shopping to treat yourselves to some retail therapy, with over 40 stores, plus bars and restaurants to choose from.
For a culture-filled couple’s day, go from Windsor Castle to the historic theatre next door. Theatre Royal has been Windsor’s home of entertainment for over 200 years, showing everything from comedies to musicals, from Basil Brush to The Great Gatsby.
Things to do on a solo staycation in Windsor
The River Thames is 215 miles long and partly winds through Windsor. Enjoy a relaxed cruise along one of the most peaceful parts of the river, admiring views of Windsor Castle on one side and Eton on the other.
The South West offers so much, and planning your staycation is easy with South Western Railway. Book your train tickets and discover the best ticket type for your trip. Enjoy further savings with Railcards and discounts, and visit the SWR Rewards hub to see what offers are available. Plus, find out how group travel could help save with GroupSave. Travel any time with a Sunday Out ticket.
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