Top 10 Best Places to Avoid the Olympic Crowds

Kristy Alexander | July 16, 2012

This year’s Olympics are almost here! The Opening Ceremony of the ‘London 2012 Olympic Games’ is on Friday, July 27th, 2012 and finding a good place to escape these events can be challenging, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to scurry off to! Whether you’re looking for something great in the ‘inexpensive’ category, or you want full-on luxury – there’s a little something here for everyone.

1) Bath

Bath is known as one of the most beautiful British cities – with Jane Austen at the centre of it all, having called Bath home between 1801 and 1806. This spa city is enchanting, and with natural hot springs and spas being the most popular attraction, relaxation is only a short trip away from the capital. Make sure you see the Roman baths, the Fashion Museum and the Victoria Art Gallery – as well as the many other historic sites on offer.

2) Brighton

This city is known as England’s playground by the sea and has been hailed as a perfect pleasure destination. It is quiet, quirky, and historic. If you stay at a Brighton hostel, you’re going to experience a wonderful time by the ocean, and all for minimal cash.

3) New Forest Park

This amazingly historic park really is something to see – with wildlife, museums, art galleries, and wild woodlands virtually untouched since the days of William the Conqueror! Be sure to see the Roman Villa and Bucklers Hard (a shipyard) as well as the Lyndhurst churchyard, the gardens of Braxton, and New Forest Water – the forest’s largest water garden.

4) Stratford-upon-Avon

The home of William Shakespeare will entice any literature buffs, as his birthplace is the centre of it all. Not to mention Anne Hathaway’s cottage, the Avon River plays and a treasure trove of history. Stay at a quaint local hostel to save money on a hotel.

Stratford-Upon-Avon

Image credit: ell brown

5) Cambridge

The beautiful ancient university town of Cambridge offers serenity, beauty and an amazing venture into architecture, art and museums. The bookstores are a must see – grab a tome and just relax by the river.

6) Dover

Often known as the ‘front door to England’ and sung about on more than one occasion, (eg; the White Cliffs of Dover) Dover is the perfect getaway. It’s a bustling town with plenty of things to do including Dover castle and the infamous White Chalk Cliffs, as well as a treasure trove of military history.

7) Windsor

Visiting Windsor can be a right royal experience, as the Queen herself resides in this beautiful city – inside the beautiful walls of Windsor Castle! A great place to see the Changing of the Guards without fighting the tourists at Buckingham Palace. The castle can be explored, there is great shopping and a quick river trip could land you in Eton.

Windsor

Image credit: mdpettitt

8 ) Shoreham

This city by the sea offers wonderful activities for the adventurous spirit. Get out on the water and go kite surfing – an adrenalin-fuelled sport that will have you upright in no time, with experienced tutors close at hand to train you. It’s a fun sport, and since Brighton is close, there are lots of great restaurants and attractions to experience post-dip.

9) Isle of Wight

Although it is a bit like walking back in time, the Isle of Wight is the perfect island getaway with plenty of old world charm. The beaches are long and sandy, the scenery beautiful with rolling hills, quaint villages and a quiet country getaway. Critics praise the great range of food and accommodations on offer in this lovely little holiday resort.

10) Bournemouth

This is sea lover’s town, and a popular holiday resort, thanks in part to the Victorians. With nearly 70 miles of sandy beaches, gardens, surfing, and sea kayaking it’s a bit of a party town, but can be healing, with holistic yoga sessions right on the beach. If the incredible sea views aren’t enough, take in some of the fabulous foods within reach!

So getting out while the Olympics are in town may be the perfect chance to see the places you wouldn’t normally visit. Be adventurous and take this great opportunity before the visitors begin to venture outside of London as well. Have fun!

Kristy Alexander is a frugal mom who takes charge of the family finances but always has a reason or two for family vacations. In her spare time she is a writer of HotelClub where she helps people save on travel.