There’s something truly special about escaping the hustle and bustle of city life for a weekend escapes. Whether you’re meeting up with friends for a reunion, spending quality time with family or bonding with colleagues on a team-building trip, weekend breaks away from London offer something for everyone.
But here’s a travel secret you might not know… sometimes the journey itself can be just as fun as your destination if you spend it travelling together in comfort and style.
So, buckle up, pack your bags and read on for our ultimate guide to weekend escapes from London for groups hiring a minibus, including top tips on how to plan your trip.
Why Weekend Escapes from London are Perfect for Minibus Hire
Let us explain…
Why Weekend Escapes from London Make Sense with Minibus Hire
Pros with Minibus Hire:
- Cost: Hiring one vehicle between multiple people can save you a lot of money over buying individual train tickets/public transport/ fuel costs for several cars.
- Flexibility: Nobody cares if you stop for photos. Get lost down a hidden country lane to your favourite pub. Spend ages at that nice viewpoint. Travel in a way that suits you!
- Storage Space: You’re going away for the weekend. That means bags. Luggage. Shopping. Therefore, you’ll need the space and wouldn’t dream of squashing all your suitcases into the boot of a small car.
- Bonding: Meanwhile, share playlists, eat strange foods on the side of the motorway. Have impromptu karaoke competitions. Turn your travel time into quality time.
Top 8 Weekend Escapes from London by Minibus Hire
1. The Cotswolds: Picture Perfect Villages and Hills for Days
Distance: ~2 hours
Who it’s best for: Photographers, countryside walkers, foodies.
Not much farther than a two-hour drive west of London lies the Cotswolds; the ultimate getaway for a traditional English countryside weekend. From picturesque villages boasting honey-coloured stone cottages to manicured gardens and pubs serving traditional hearty British grub; the Cotswolds is a honey pot for anyone looking for a rural retreat. What’s more, with minibus hire, your entire group can visit Cotswold gems like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury or Castle Combe, without having to worry about finding parking or getting lost on narrow country lanes.
Top Things to Do
- Go for a stroll through the Windrush Valley.
- Grab a cream tea at a traditional tea room.
- Catch some breathtaking views over the valley at sunset from Broadway Tower.
Bonus: Make a detour to Blenheim Palace
Tip: Travelling by 16 seater minibus is ideal for exploring the Cotswolds as they’re able to fit down even the smallest village roads with ease. our drivers also have years of experience driving in rural areas so you can rest assured that they know how to get you there, even if it struggles on smaller lanes.
2. Brighton: Pebble Beaches and Boho-Chic Spirits
Distance: ~1.5 hours
Who it’s best for: Sun seekers, culture vultures, night owls.
Dubbed London-by-the-Sea; Brighton is the destination for everyone who loves beaches (with pebbles instead of sand though!), trendy shopping in The Lanes, or iconic attractions like the Royal Pavilion or Brighton Pier. Arrive in style by minibus hire and enjoy spending your weekend with your group rather than queuing for the train or trying to find parking.
Top Things To Do
- Catch the sunrise on the beachfront.
- Wander around North Laine and soak up the independent, quirky shops.
- Check out the Royal Pavillion.
- Enjoy drinks with a view of the seafront as the sun sets.
Tip: Did you know Brighton has allocated coach drop off points by the seafront? In addition, minibus drivers know where they are and can help organise easy pick-ups back to London after a busy day exploring too.
3. Oxford: Boasting “Dreaming Spires” and World-Class Academia
Distance: ~1.5 hours
Who it’s best for: History enthusiasts, bookworms, architecture aficionados.
Oxford’s “City of Dreaming Spires” offers a captivating blend of world-class academia, stunning architecture, and riverside charm. With this in mind, minibus travel allows your group to journey in comfort, arriving refreshed and ready to explore Christ Church College, the Bodleian Library, or punt along the River Cherwell.
Top Things to Do
- Take a guided tour of one of the historic colleges.
- Punt down the River Cam or Cherwell.
- Visit The Ashmolean Museum (free admission).
- Have a spot of afternoon tea at an Oxfordshire café.
Tip: Did you know that vehicles are restricted from driving in parts of Oxford city centre? However, minibus companies in London are used to this and know where your group can be dropped off near the park-and-ride service closest to your desired destination.
4. Bath: Roman Ruins & Georgian Grandeur
Distance from London: ~2 hours
Perfect for: History buffs, spa-goers, architecture fans
Step back in time visiting the UNESCO-listed Roman Baths, Bath Abbey and more in this iconic spa town. Romantic Bath is ideal for groups looking for relaxed adventure on the weekend.
Highlights:
- See the Ancient Roman Baths.
- Visit the Royal Crescent.
- Soak in the views from Thermae Bath Spa’s rooftop pool.
- Tour Jane Austen sites
Tip: Bath has limited parking in the city centre. Our team knows where to safely drop your group off near popular attractions so they can explore on foot without finding parking.
5. The New Forest: Ponies, Hikes and Coastal Paths
Distance from London: ~2 hours
Perfect for: Animal lovers, hikers, families
Located just shy of two hours from London is the New Forest National Park. In particular, famous for its wandering ponies, the Forest offers ancient woodlands and quaint walking paths your group will love. Hire a minibus so your group can plan your own itinerary with ease.
Highlights:
- See ponies and deer roaming free.
- Hike or bike forest trails.
- Visit Beaulieu Abbey and The National Motor Museum.
- Coastal stroll through Lepe Country Park.
Tip: There are lots of narrow country lanes in the New Forest. Therefore, minibus drivers know rural routes like the back of their hand and can comfortably navigate your group through even the narrowest of roads.
6. Cambridge: Colleges & Cruising the River Cam
Distance from London: ~1.5 hours
Perfect for: Museum visitors, river cruising, photographers
Mirroring many of Oxford’s characteristics, Cambridge provides unique university history and boasts beautiful architecture and calming river views. Arrive together with your group by hiring a minibus so everyone can unload together before a day full of punting and palace exploration.
Highlights:
- Take a punting tour with a local guide.
- Explore King’s College Chapel and Bridge of Sighs.
- Tour the Fitzwilliam Museum.
- Pack a picnic and visit Grantchester Meadows.
Tip: Park and ride, as well as coach drop-off points are located throughout Cambridge. Minibus hire companies handles all the logistics, so your group knows where to go when they arrive in the city.
7. Windsor: Castle & Countryside
Distance from London: ~1 hour
Perfect for: Families, castle explorers, photographers
Windsor is home to Windsor Castle—the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. As a result, your group will have no problem filling a weekend with royal history and riverside relaxation. Additionally, your group can easily travel together in one bus to Windsor Castle.
Highlights:
- Take a tour of Windsor Castle. Book tickets ahead of time.
- Walk around Windsor Great Park.
- Take a Thames-side river cruise
- Stop for afternoon tea at a historic hotel.
Tip: Windsor is accessible for coaches and offers great parking options. Let Travel orginazation worry about the transportation details. Our drivers can park the bus while your group spends the day exploring Windsor.
8. Stratford-upon-Avon: To See What’s Known ‘Round the World
Distance from London: ~2 hours
Perfect for: Shakespeare fans, theatregoers, history buffs
Shakespeare was born here and you and your group can feel like you’ve been transported to Elizabethan England as you tour his Birthplace and many other historical attractions. In addition, with minibus hire, your group can relax knowing transportation is sorted and spend more time exploring Stratford-upon-Avon.
Highlights:
- Tour Shakespeare’s Birthplace and many other historic homes.
- Catch a show with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
- Rent a boat and punting on the River Avon..
- Wander the Tudor buildings in the town centre
Tip: Stratford-upon-Avon is easily walkable. Organization can drop your group off near the centre of town so that everyone can explore hassle-free on foot.
Planning Your Perfect Weekend Escape: Pro Tips
1. Book in Advance
Weekend getaways, especially during peak periods will need advanced booking. Destinations near London which see lots of visitors at the weekend include The Cotswolds and Brighton so will require booking your minibus hire up to 4 weeks ahead if you’re wanting to secure a vehicle. Prices are always better the earlier you book too!
2. Think About Your Group Requirements
- Parents: Make sure you order child seats/booster seats in advance.
- Mobility/Accessibility Needs: All vehicles can cater for accessibility needs. Simply let us know what you require when booking.
- Suitcases? Think How Many? Minibuses have plenty of space especially the 16-seater VIP Minibus. Mention if you have any special oversized luggage (sports equipment, bicycles) and we can let you know what’s possible.
3. Pack Bags for the Car Hire
- Snacks and drinks
- Headphones and chargers
- Layer up! Dont forget it rains in the UK sometimes.
- Have a music/podcast queue ready for the journey.
4. Leave Time for Spontaneity
Remember that the whole point of hiring a minibus is that you can be spontaneous. So, allow time for detours on route – whether that’s a pitstop at an adorable local café, or mooching along a lakefront path you hadn’t realised was there. Minibus drivers will be able to accommodate reasonable changes to the route.
5. Enjoy Ease-of-Mind Travel Essentials
At Travel Force all our vehicles are serviced regularly and come equipped with safety features like seatbelts, ABS brakes and air-condition. Moreover, our drivers are licensed, DBS-checked, and trained professionals. Therefore, with Travel Force, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey, knowing your group is in safe hands.
Conclusion: Your Weekend Escape Awaits
There’s nothing worse than spending your entire weekend stressing about the travel. Whether you’re visiting family in the countryside, hitting the beach or wondering around Windsor Castle we hope you take these tips on board and utilise London minibus hire for your next trip.
Our helpful customer service team at Travel Force are available 7 days a week should you have any questions about your booking. Our FAQ section below answers some of the most commonly asked questions about weekend breaks from London by client.
Have questions in mind?
1. How Many Seats Will I Need from London?
We have vehicles ranging from 8-seat MPVs all the way up to 86 seat coaches. But most groups find that our 16-seater minibus is ideal for weekend getaways. With spacious luggage compartment and seating for larger groups the London 16-seater is versatile enough to cope with most requirements.
2. Do Minibus Drivers Need a Special Licence to Drive a Minibus?
For minibuses a driver will usually require a D1 category licence or higher. That said the majority of our customers use our professional drivers when they book minibus hire so you and your group can sit back and relax knowing your Transport has got it covered.
3. How Far in Advance Should I Book my Minibus?
We recommend that you book any travel for weekends / Bank Holidays / during summer in advance. Otherwise, there is always the possibility that your desired time or vehicle may not be available. That said we are quite often able to accommodate last minute bookings if you call and check with us directly.
4. Can Travel Force accommodate accessibility requirements?
Yes of course. Like before please mention any special requirements your group may have when requesting a quote from us. Our drivers can also assist passengers who require extra help getting in and out of the vehicle.
5. How Does Quoting Work with Travel Force?
When you request a quote from Travel Force, you’ll be quoted a price which includes the vehicle, Professional Driver, fuel, insurance, tax and standard mileage. If you wish to add extras like post or stop off charges these will be advised to you upfront – we pride ourselves on being transparent about our prices.
6. Can We Plan Detours/Sightseeing Stops?
Yes of course! One of the great things about minibus hire is flexibility. If you want to stop off at specific points to take photos, grab lunch or get some sightseeing done just let us know when booking. Our drivers will be able to advise what’s reasonable.
7. Can I Cancel or Amend my Booking if my Plans Change?
Absolutely we understand that things happen! Give us a call as soon as you know your plans have changed and we will do our best to help you amend your booking.
8. Are Travel Force vehicles suitable for luggage on weekend trips?
Our 16 seater VIp minibuses have luggage compartments at the back so lots of room to store bags etc. If you have a large group with lots of luggage make sure you specify this when booking so we know to allocate a suitable vehicle with enough storage space.
9. How Do I Know My Group will be Safe?
Your groups safety is our number one priority. That’s why all our vehicles are subject to regular safety inspections and breakdown checks. As for our drivers, they’re all qualified professionals who have DBS-checked and background DBS-checked.
10. Can Travel Force help plan multi-destination weekend itineraries?
Let us help! Many customers use Travel Force to plan holidays which combine countryside, beaches and city breaks into one seamless itinerary.
