The Great Hall University of Reading

While gritty London is beautiful in its own way, nowhere exudes quintessential English charm quite like Oxford. Combining excellent shopping and dining with a deep-delving history, and a sprinkle of nature, this city is ideal for city slickers and culture cats, as well as families.

As London and Oxford are two major tourist hubs, accommodation can be steep. Those watching their pennies might be more comfortable in Reading where prices are generally cheap whether you’re going for a luxury suite or budget room. Although it’s not as highly reputed as its neighbouring cities, Reading offers outstanding shopping, dining, and nightlife too.

Alternatively, ditch the cities altogether and opt for a cute country escape instead. With both North Wessex Downs and Chiltern Hills on its doorstep, Reading’s countryside is hard to beat. Find anything from a 17th-century estate to converted barns and even remote glamping pods to immerse you in nature.