To London And Beyond...

London is one of those cities that breathes... no, pulsates with life – if New York never sleeps, then London never stops having fun. Whether you’re a London virgin or a London veteran, and whatever your budget, you're sure to be constantly bowled over by the infinite range of attractions and activities in the city. Great pubs, top-notch clubs, buzzing bars and restaurants, heaving markets and high-end shopping centers, historical sights and hysterical street performers... you can feel like you’ve done everything in London in one weekend, come back again and again, do everything differently each time, and leave feeling the exact same way.

The major tourist centers of Picadilly Circus and Leicester Square lie in London’s West End, adjacent to London’s world-famous theatres and the infamously hedonistic Soho. Shopaholics can get their fix on Regents street and Oxford Street, while those looking for some cheaper, low cost retail therapy could visit Camden or Covent Garden. A visit to high-end Knightsbridge is an experience in itself, although a shopping spree here is likely to break most budgets!

Some of the biggest sights and attractions include the London Eye (the world’s biggest Ferris wheel), the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (11.30am daily), the magnificent Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the dauntingly large Parliament buildings and London’s iconic Big Ben. Trafalgar Square is lovely – depending on your opinion of pigeons – and of course the Tower of London and London Bridge shouldn’t be missed. The Planetarium is a popular spot, as is London Zoo, and Madame Tussaud’s is super entertainment, although not a cheap day out. The Tate Modern gallery is just one of the more famous of London’s wealth of galleries, and there are numerous museums for you to visit as well.

DAY TRIPPING FROM LONDON CITY

Yes, London has all the tourist attractions and activities you could hope to find in a city – enough that it is unlikely you will run out of things to do during your stay. It’s always nice, however, to escape from the city for a while. A little road trip to flee the noise, pollution and hustle and bustle of a large city (however cool the city) is always a nice idea, and there is a great selection of tranquil and interesting locations within easy reach of London in your rental car from Argus Car Hire. Here are four of the best options….

1. Stonehenge

One of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world and Britain’s number one tourist attraction, Stonehenge is a fascinating and mystical place, and what’s more it is easily accessible in your rental car from London city. Constructed over thousands of years, the colossal stone circles were erected by hand – a feat that defies belief, particularly when the sheer scale of the monument is witnessed firsthand.

Admission to Stonehenge is cheap at £6.30 for adults with a discount price for children. Pensioners and students pay less and there is also a special deal for families. The attraction makes for a low cost, high impact excursion that will leave a lasting impression. Make sure to bring your camera as there are opportunities for some superb photography, particularly is you visit at sunset.

2. Brighton

Brighton is about 70 miles from London Heathrow, taking around two hours in your rental car from Argus Car Hire. One of the biggest and best-known seaside resorts in the UK, Brighton is often called London-by-the-sea and is the perfect destination for fun in the sun when you’ve had your fill of London city. As the city has developed around tourism there is an endless choice of attractions and activities around Brighton to suit every budget and taste, with everything from historical attractions to arcades.

The Brighton Dome, Marina, Museum and Art Gallery, Pier and Sea Life Centre are all terrific attractions for those who want to do more than simply while away the hours on the fabulous beach. There is great shopping opportunity in Brighton, even for those traveling on a budget – for some low cost retail therapy visit the wonderfully bohemian North Laine where you are sure to find an interesting bargain or two in one of over 300 diverse and often quite peculiar shops. A welcome (and cheap) change from the high street stores in London.

3. Hampstead

A suburb of London, Hampstead feels a million miles away from the fast paced commotion and endless activity of the city. It is an ideal retreat for a lazy afternoon in old-world, picturesque surroundings, with ample opportunity for long leisurely lunches in open-air cafés and restaurants. Hampstead is a haven for artists, writers and actors, and the atmosphere of the area reflects this – Hampstead offers an air of tranquility and calm that one is unlikely to find in London City. Shoppers can enjoy a totally different type of shopping here, with an antiques and crafts market offering some great bargains for budget antique hunting.

The untouched beauty of Hampstead Heath is another major attraction for London escapees, with many beautiful walks and even some outdoor swimming locations, perfect for cooling off if the weather is fine. A day trip to Hampstead is an ideal low cost excursion, offering respite from the consumerism of London city.

4. Alton Towers

Situated around 150 miles from London is the exciting theme park, Alton Towers. It may be necessary to stay the night here if you are visiting from London city, as the drive takes roughly 3 hours and you will certainly want enough time to experience all the top rides as well as the fantastic water park. As a family activity however, it is well worth the journey. It is not quite as cheap an excursion as those previously mentioned, but if factored in to your budget in advance should be no great problem. Open from March through to November (check for exact dates), the park offers some high-octane thrills for adults and children alike.

Check out the various hotel deals and special rates that are on offer - you may even find a ‘buy one get one free’ offer, making it a far more low cost day out than you might think. You will pay less if you book your tickets online, a great option for thrill-seekers working with a budget. To save on money once you get inside, bring your own snacks and drinks into the park – it will cut down on your spending.

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There is a plethora of other options available for people looking to get out of London city for a day or two, including Windsor Castle, Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, the white cliffs of Dover, the enchanting Cotswolds and many more. The freedom offered by renting a car with Argus Car Hire means you can choose destinations to suit your preferences and budget and tailor your holiday to suit your needs.