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WalesThe capital city of London is by far the most visited city in the UK and is considered one of the top three most visited cities in the world, along with Paris and Bangkok.
Over 21 million people visit the capital each year to see attractions such as the infamous Tower of London, The Eye, the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace or to stroll around Westminster Abbey (to name but a few).
If you don’t want to stay in the City itself, there are some fantastic lodges you can stay at in nearby locations such as Kent, Essex and Sussex with the capital being accessible by rail or road. This gives you a luxurious base, with plenty of space and of course a bubbling hot tub!
Discover 2024’s top lodges with hot tubs in Kent here.
Discover 2024’s top lodges with hot tubs in Essex here.
In this guide, we’ll cover some of the best options for 2024 and everything you need to know to book the perfect accommodation for your city staycation.
More info on staying in a lodge near London
With attractions ranging from galleries and museums to dungeons, castles, historic parks, one-of-a-kind gigs and more, there is something for everyone in London. But the history and culture can come at a steep cost – for travel, accommodation and day-to-day expenses.
In addition, the busy city may not be everyone’s preference when it comes to holiday relaxation, so why not consider a nearby lodge with ample access to the city via public transport?
1) Pump House in Hellingly, Sussex
1 bedroom, sleeps 2, travel to London less than 2 hours
This one-bedroom cottage is located in the Sussex countryside, surrounded by trails and greenery to clear the lungs with fresh air after an exciting day in the big city.
Featuring an open plan living dining kitchen, a bedroom, a bathroom with shower over bath and a private hot tub, this bright spacious cottage is ideal for a couple on a romantic retreat, a young family, or two friends travelling.
There is a direct train to London taking around 1h15m on average from nearby Lewes which is less than half an hour away, making travel time in total less than two hours each way.
If you have seen your fill of London, a short drive or train journey in the other direction will take you to the metropolitan coastal city of Brighton where you can enjoy pebble beaches and seaside attractions.
2) Dreamwood Lodge – Keston near Leaves Green, Kent
2 bedrooms, sleeps 4, travel to London less than 1 hour
Dreamwood Lodge is in the centre of Keston’s conservation area and combines old-world charm with up-to-date comforts. Encircled by green woods and peaceful walking paths, it’s an ideal place to get away from it all and is a short distance from London.
You’ll be staying in a beautifully restored lodge with a cosy living space, a well-equipped kitchen, spacious double bedroom and a bathroom with a walk-in shower.
A separate annexe offers an additional studio-style space with a double bed and en-suite facilities. It’s a good choice for families or friends travelling together.
Located just 15 miles from Central London, travel to the city takes under an hour by car or train, making it convenient for day trips to explore London’s iconic landmarks and attractions.
After a day in the city you get to return to the peaceful serenity of the countryside, where you can relax in the private garden or enjoy nearby pubs and eateries or chill in the hot tub!
3) The Fishing Lodge in Halling, Kent
1 bedroom, sleeps 2, travel to London less than 1 hour
Combining the style of a traditional wooden lodge with a more modern aesthetic, The Fishing Lodge features wood-panelled walls and beams on the ceilings, paired with creams and grey tones throughout the property.
The kitchen is modern, with all the appliances you could need and the lodge features a private hot tub, as well as views and access to St Andrew’s Lake where you can enjoy wild swimming, watersports, or carp fishing.
The Fishing Lodge Living areaFor travel purposes, there is a fast train to London from Strood taking around half an hour, in addition to the ten-minute drive to the station.
However, slower trains or journeys with connections can take up to two hours, so make sure to plan your times and trains in advance to maximise your time in London and minimize travel or waiting times.
4) The Old Farmhouse
3 bedrooms, sleeps 6, travel to London: about 1 and a half hours
Just think of all the stories that have taken place in this beautiful traditional English Cottage! And you can add your own. The Old Farmhouse dates back to the 16th Century and has a fantastic farm setting. Step back in time and experience an immaculately restored cottage that sleeps up to 6 guests.
The Old Farmhouse is situated on a working farm and you’re welcome to meet the animals who call it their home. Inside you’ll find a very traditional cottage with original features such as the exposed beams and fantastic artwork throughout.
This property makes for an ideal base to head into London but the setting here is about as far removed from a city backdrop as you could imagine! Set in 40 acres of the real British countryside, you’ll find there’s lots to see in and around the cottage.
Or you can just take it easy and make a splash in your own private hot tub. Outside you’ve got everything you need for perfect evenings enjoying the scenery including BBQ, smoker ad a wood-fired hot tub.
This property makes a big impression on our guests and regularly receives full 5-star reviews. Read some of the reviews of this accommodation here.
The property is located close to the medieval market town of Saffron Walden and the market town of Clare, which has a host of independent shops, antique shops and culinary delights.