With beautiful, rugged scenery, Roman and Viking heritage, two National Parks, and plenty of hearty home-cooked delicacies to try, the north of England is well worth exploring. The spa town of Harrogate sits on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, offering plenty of activities both indoors and out.<\/p>\n
![\"Beech](\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/09\/041115-blog-lakeyorks.jpg\")
Morning mist. Photo \u00a9 anthurren<\/p><\/div>
Harrogate’s waters have long been praised for their rejuvenating qualities, and there’s definitely a healthy feel to the place. Today, you can visit the stunning Fountains Abbey<\/span><\/a>, where red deer wander the grounds and ancient trees create a beautiful backdrop for Gothic architecture. Book a room at our Travelodge Harrogate hotel<\/span><\/a> to start your great escape.<\/p>\n 2. Primrose Hill, London<\/strong><\/p>\n London might not seem like a great place to relax and unwind, but watching the sun set over the capital from Primrose Hill is surprisingly refreshing. The best thing about an escape to London is that you can easily jump on the Tube to get to the heart of the city where you can catch world class theatre, cinema and art galleries. Locals refer to Primrose Hill as a village, and it does have a surprisingly peaceful feel.<\/p>\n Take a walk through Regent’s Park or dine at the iconic Odette’s<\/span><\/a>, a favourite with London’s artistic types. For more affordable local dining, head to Ripe Kitchen<\/span><\/a>, serving healthy, good quality food in a relaxed atmosphere. Book a room at our Travelodge hotel Euston<\/span><\/a> to be in the centre of the city and close to major rail links.<\/p>\n 3. Lake Windermere, Lake District<\/strong><\/p>\n England’s largest natural lake, Lake Windermere is beautiful at all times of year. During the tourist season there’s plenty to do for active travellers, including balloon rides, cycling, boat trips and horse riding. But you can still take to several of the peaceful walking trails in winter. If the weather is bad head to the cosy Golden Rule<\/span><\/a> in nearby Ambleside for a traditional local pub at its best.<\/p>\n 4. Brighton Seafront, Brighton<\/strong><\/p>\n The bustling town of Brighton combines great culture, food and activities with a happy seaside atmosphere. A walk along the seafront in winter has added drama – and you’ll be even happier to pop into one of the local fish and chip restaurants for a warming meal.<\/p>\n Atmospheric skies. Photo \u00a9 Oliver Huitson<\/p><\/div> Stop off at Brighton Pier for photo ops that are brimming with nostalgia. For traditional English tea and cake head to the Mock Turtle, a few streets back from the seafront itself and serving up generous portions. Our Travelodge Brighton seafront hotel![\"Beach](\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/09\/041115-blog-brightonbeach.jpg\")