Less than an hour’s drive from London,
Oxford is the perfect place to escape the big city without
moving too far afield. Nicknamed the “City of Dreaming Spires”,
it’s defined by honey-hued medieval colleges, churches and
libraries dotted around the winding River Thames. More modern
establishments are gradually settling into the city centre,
including creative cocktail bars and vegan restaurants (Happy
Friday Kitchen is a local favourite), but old British pubs remain
at the heart of Oxford’s cultural scene. Winter months should be
spent going for long countryside walks, and summertime weekends
paddling in the river – both rounded off with an ice-cold beer at
one of the city’s many pubs.

For those wanting a cheaper cost of living but unwilling to
skimp on big-city lifestyle, the capital of the North delivers
every time. Particularly good for football fans, it gives residents
access to Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium, while weekends can
be spent exploring sporting museums such as the National Football
Museum. Also known for its musical alumni (the Gallaghers, The
Smiths and The Stone Roses to name a few), Manchester
has plenty to offer in the form of evening entertainment including
live music and DJ sets.

Although technically Cornwall’s only city, Truro draws in those
looking for countryside lifestyle. The city is oozes a laid-back
village feel, while retaining city-style amenities (that being
plenty of supermarkets and things to do). Test it out over a
weekend – people-watch from a glass-fronted café before taking a
long walk on any of the sandy beaches nearby (Gunwalloe Church Cove
is our favourite). You’ll be convinced by the end of the first
day.

If you have a penchant for culture and the arts, this is the
place for you. You’ll struggle to be at a loss for something to do
– during the summer months Edinburgh
comes alive with theatre and music and, come winter, Christmas
markets, stalls and ice rinks are dotted around the city. Even
strolling along its streets and cobbled alleys is entertaining, as
buskers provide merry tunes to accompany your gawking at the
impressive gothic architecture. If it all gets a bit much,
disappear down to Leith for a charming wander around the docks, or
head to Portobello beach for some peace and quiet.

Straddling the River Avon, this character-filled city is the
perfect London replacement. Once a maritime centre, its disused
docks have now been reborn as leisure centres filled with upmarket
restaurants, trendy bars and quaint cafés. A vivid cultural scene
has drawn in young artists, resulting in world-famous street art
adorning the city’s walls and buildings, while Bristol’s culinary
stage is ever-growing, offering the most Michelin-starred
restaurants in the UK outside of London.