When city life starts to feel a bit too hectic, a short break can be the perfect reset....
Whether you’re craving fresh air, culture, good food, or simply a new place to explore, you don’t need to travel far (or drive) to enjoy a change of scenery.
With so many destinations just a comfortable train ride from London Euston, planning a relaxing escape has never been easier.
Avoid the roads and take the train for a getaway near London
Choosing the train removes the hassle of traffic, parking and complicated routes. From the moment you step on board, you can settle in, stretch out and make the journey part of your time away.
Our trains are designed for comfort, providing a cosy space for you to watch the London skyline disappear and the landscape pass by. Whether you’re travelling alone, with friends or as a family, travelling with London Northwestern Railway is the first step to a well deserved short break. 🏙️🏞️
With plenty of room to stretch out, on-board WiFi, safe luggage storage and power outlets available on all of our new trains, you can start your holiday the moment you leave the platform. 🚆
Which train tickets should I book for my trip from London?
Planning a budget-friendly trip is simple when you choose the right fare. For weekend travellers, off-peak and super off-peak tickets are an excellent choice. These tickets are designed for those who can travel outside of the busiest times, offering significant savings on your journey.
💰🎟️ Off-peak return tickets are often the best value for a short break as they offer:
- Cheaper fares: These tickets cost less than Anytime fares.
- Quieter trains: Off-peak services are outside of commuter hours, perfect for those who want a relaxed weekend away from the hustle and bustle of London. Use our ‘How Busy is My Train?’ tool to find our typically quieter services.
- Flexible options: There is no requirement to book for a specific time in advance, as long as you travel during off-peak hours.
- Weekends and bank holidays: You can use these tickets to travel at any time during these days.
- Railcard discounts: You can save an additional 1/3 on your fare with a valid Railcard that can be used in tandem with off-peak tickets.
Picturesque places to visit near London
Picture your ideal weekend away from the noise of the city. Are you sitting in a cosy café with a warm beverage and a good book? ☕️📖 Are you taking a brisk, welly-walk in the crisp country air? 🚶🌨️ Or, are you wandering the lanes of a high street lit with golden lights? 🛍️🌟
Regardless of what your perfect getaway looks like, there’s a spot for you near London.
Getaways for unwinding and recharging
If you’re looking for a slow-paced weekend spent curled up with a good book, movie or craft activity, there is no shortage of countryside towns that are accessible by train near London:
🫖 Berkhamsted
For those looking for a sub-30-minute, direct train journey from London Euston into a quieter spot, Berkhamsted is a great option. This historic market town - complete with Grand Union Canal, scenic footpaths and cafés galore - was named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Live in 2025 .
Browse independent bookshops on the high street, find a seat in one of the many traditional tea rooms and spend a quiet afternoon to switch off.
⛪️ St Albans
With its cathedral, peaceful parks and a bustling high street full of independent businesses, St Albans offers plenty to explore at a relaxed pace. Reach it from Euston in under an hour for an easy, restorative escape.
Take a walk through Verulamium Park and head to St Albans Cathedral. Once you’ve enjoyed the hushed echoes and grounding presence of the cathedral, head to one of the many independent shops, charming cafés or firelit bars to grab a bite and take it easy.
With LNR, this peaceful weekend is under an hour away from London Euston.
Getaways near London for the adventurous kind
If you’re not the kind of person to slow down and your idea of taking a break includes a brisk walk, winter sports or even a half-marathon, these destinations may just be for you:
🏃Milton Keynes
Known for running events and green parks, Milton Keynes is ideal for active travellers.
And if you prefer skis to running shoes, Milton Keynes offers a wide range of snow-related activities for all ages at the Xscape centre . Spend the day with family or friends, keeping fit and enjoying the slopes at the Snozone .
🥾Tring
Tring is a gateway to the Chiltern Hills, perfect for families or solo hikers who want to enjoy walks with panoramic views. The Natural History Museum is also a great indoor option for curious minds, brimming with eco-inspired exhibitions to entertain all ages.
Getaways for those looking to stay in the city
If you want to escape London, but you’re still after the buzz of city life, these top city spots offer plenty of excitement:
🌃Birmingham
Arrive at Birmingham New Street Station to explore a city full of life. You can visit the many museums, enjoy world-class dining or head to the Jewellery Quarter for unique shopping. However you choose to spend your time in the city, Birmingham remains buzzing throughout the year!
🍻Northampton
Northampton offers a blend of heritage and modern entertainment. You can explore the Cultural Quarter, visit the theatres or enjoy the local nightlife and restaurant scene.
Our top tips for a stress-free getaway near London
To make the most of your getaway, we’ve rounded up our tried and tested tips to ensure a stress-free train journey. 🚆☺️
- Plan your route: planning your route before your trip ensures that you can arrive at your departure station on time and without fuss before you sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.
- Make your train journey part of the fun: for family trips from London with little ones (or without), pack some books, games or music (with headphones of course) for the train to make travelling part of the adventure.
- Save money on your train: Travel Off-peak, book Advance tickets (our cheapest tickets released every Saturday), or travel together as part of our GroupSave discount for a getaway that doubles as a money-saving excursion. Take advantage of Railcard discounts for 1/3 off your tickets, too!
- Travel on Off-Peak services: as well as being cheaper than anytime fares, Off-peak tickets have the added benefit of being typically quieter compared to our commuter hours. Aim to plan your departure time for mid-mornings or early afternoons to avoid the rush.
Ready to explore? Book your tickets today and hop aboard with us for an unforgettable getaway by train!
Frequently asked questions
Train journeys offer the unique advantage of being able to sit back, relax and enjoy travelling without needing to navigate in the car. To make the travel part of the adventure, especially when taking the children along, consider packing books, music (with headphones), or games to keep everyone entertained en route.
Arriving 10–15 minutes before your train gives you enough time to find your platform, grab a warm drink and board your train without rushing. If you’re travelling from a larger station like London Euston, giving yourself a little extra time to use the station facilities can make the experience even smoother.
By planning your route in advance and arriving at the station in plenty of time, you can help to ensure your travel goes as smoothly as possible. Aiming for mid-morning or early afternoon off-peak trains can also help you avoid the busier commuter services and give you more chance of finding a seat on board.