The capital is a whirlwind of glitzy West End theatres, energetic East End markets, green swathes of royal parkland and architectural feats. Think gothic spires, Georgian townhouses and abstract skyscrapers resembling razors and shards – even gherkins. Step outside the 'big smoke' and relax in green spaces including Kent's (known as the Garden of England), the undulating Sussex downs and Hampshire's lush New Forest – pack your bike and riding hat. History lessons in the Home Counties transport you back in time with Irons Age forts, motte-and-bailey castles and Jacobean mansions. The scenic southeast coastline is a Hollywood star, making cameos in iconic films like Brighton Rock and The White Cliffs of Dover.
London and South East England
Eat and drink by the riverside, at The Trout pub, Wolvercote
Sample local Oxfordshire food at this famously good pub on the banks of the River Thames.
Location: Wolvercote, Oxford
Drink a beer at The Bear Inn – Oxford’s oldest pub
Sit back, relax and sample the cask ales and pub grub at Oxford’s oldest drinking hole.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
August events: Oxford Foodies Festival
Feeling hungry? Eat and drink your way around one of the UK’s biggest food festivals.
Location: Oxford South Parks, Oxfordshire
Spend an afternoon in the gardens of The Fishes pub
Eat away the afternoon at the Fishes, a serious gastropub with beautiful views in the Oxfordshire countryside.
Location: North Hinksey, Oxford
Enjoy elegant riverside dining at The Folly
Enjoy alfresco dining whilst taking in views of the river at The Folly in Oxford, followed by a cruise aboard one of the river boats moored outside.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Plan a seasonal dinner party with Raymond Blanc
Embrace your passion for food and learn to create phenomenal cuisine with new techniques that support Raymond's own cuisine and food philosophy.
Location: Great Milton, Oxfordshire