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8 unique and alternative weekend breaks from London

Planning a romantic weekend break? Forget Paris or Rome, there are some incredibly unique locations for an unusual weekend away near London! From glamping in a Mongolian yurt to dining al fresco overlooking a vineyard, these special spots feel like anything but England.

Safari Tents

If you love venturing into the woods, why not spend the night in the forest in a luxurious safari tent? These spacious canvas structures feature an open-plan fully equipped kitchen and living space, master bedroom with double bed, second bedroom with bunk beds, and a bathroom with flushing loos and a shower with hot water…now that’s what we call glamping! It’s perfect for a short break if you’re longing to get back to nature.

Distance from London by car: 34 miles

The Trap

Ever longed to spend the night stargazing out in the desert? This unique glasshouse on an Essex farm is the perfect alternative that has nailed the aesthetic, with added luxury. A softly draping canopy over the bed provides privacy, but the rest of your stylish accommodation is open to the heavens. With a bathtub large enough for two sunken into the decking outside, a huge BBQ, and an incredible treehouse lookout, what more could you need for a weekend break from London?

Distance from London by car: 28 miles

Denbies Vineyard Hotel

Dreaming of holidaying at a sun-drenched vineyard in Tuscany? This vineyard hotel in Dorking is the next best thing. Boasting the title of England’s first carbon-neutral vineyard hotel, the restaurant opens onto a sweeping garden overlooking vast rows of vines. It goes without saying, but there is an impressive wine list, and vineyard tours and wine tasting experiences for guests making it the ideal spot for an unusual romantic break.

Distance from London by car: 27 miles

Treehouse Hideaway

Realise your childhood dream of living in a treehouse, even if it is just for a weekend break. There isn’t a sleeping bag in sight in this wooden wonderland, which features a plush leather sofa, log burner, sumptuous double bed and wooden cladding throughout. But the icing on the cake is the outdoor hot tub!

Distance from London by car: 62 miles

The Harpy Houseboat

There’s no “getting away” required with this unique holiday destination. Moored right in the heart of London with an unrivalled view of Tower Bridge, The Harpy Houseboat has hosted guests as distinguished as King George V! It’s an amazing destination for a London weekend break with a group of friends, sleeping up to 12 guests in luxurious Edwardian style. If you don’t feel like cooking in the spacious kitchen, why not order a takeaway from one of the top London restaurants?

Distance from London: 0 miles!

Mongolian Yurt

You need only step inside this traditional wooden tent to be transported into the depths of Asia. The yurt is decked out with vibrant ethnic textiles, a cosy futon and log burning stove, certainly living up to its name – Kushti! Located in stunning natural surroundings within a woodland, with a picnic table and an open fire pit at your disposal.

Distance from London by car: 33 miles

Owls Outlook

Is it a treehouse? Is it a train? No, it’s an owl-themed lodge in the woods! Utterly unique and unforgettably lovely, Owls Outlook at North Hill Farm comes complete with a sauna, slide, BBQ and firepit for a weekend break you won’t forget in a hurry.

Distance from London by car: 26 miles

Coastguard Lookout

If you love falling asleep to the sound of the waves on the beach, this spectacular location on the Dungeness coast is for you. With breath-taking panoramic views over the sea, the converted former coastguard tower is an amazing location for romantic weekend breaks. The ultra-modern, minimalist interior extends onto a patio area spilling out onto the pebble beach.

Distance from London by car: 80 miles

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