Summer 2024: Conquer the Pre-Olympics with Day Trips from London
The Summer 2024 Olympic Games are approaching! To be precise, the Olympics will take place in Paris on 26th July 2024, and what better way to prepare than by immersing yourself in the history and spirit of athletics? Should you be making a pit stop in London for a weekend or city break before going to Paris, then there’s much to do. So, while you await the Games, embark on pre-Olympic adventures that combine sightseeing with exciting challenges, leaving you feeling energized and inspired.
Should day trips from London alone not inspire you, here are 15 Best Royal Things to do in London so you’re left with a good list of activities to be involved him.
Day Trips from London:
1. Hike the Ancient Landscape of Stonehenge:
Imagine yourself walking in the same footsteps across the bare plains of Salisbury Plain, following in the footsteps of ancient Britons who gathered at Stonehenge 5,000 years ago. Before them lay the 13-foot-high monument built by their own hands, still standing tall today. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is shrouded in mystery and imbued with an undeniable energy that some consider real. Whilst myths live on, whispers of forgotten rituals are surrounded always by conspiracies.
Challenge Yourself:
- Hike the 3-mile perimeter path around the monument, testing your endurance and appreciating the sheer scale of the stones.
- Take on the “Heel Stone Challenge,” a 2.5-mile circular route for an additional adventure.
- Explore the nearby Salisbury Plain with various trails and ancient barrows to discover.
Uncover the Mysteries:
After your hike, delve deeper into the secrets of Stonehenge at the Amesbury Archer Heritage Centre. Exhibits showcase archaeological finds and delve into the lives of the Neolithic people who constructed this enigmatic monument. A great activity should you find yourself travelling on your own to Salisbury with friends and family and consider a short stay for a day or two.
2. Explore the Brecon Beacons: Hike or Bike Like Welsh Olympians:
Escape the bustle of London and head west to Wales, where breathtaking landscapes and a rich sporting tradition await. The Brecon Beacons National Park, with its rolling hills, dramatic waterfalls, and rugged peaks, serves as the training ground for renowned Welsh athletes.
Embrace the Adventure:
- Choose from a variety of routes to suit your fitness level, from gentle walks to adrenaline-pumping climbs up Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales.
- Imagine yourself training alongside future Olympic hopefuls, fuelled by the crisp mountain air and the panoramic vistas around you.
Follow in the Footsteps of Champions:
Visit the National Museum Wales in Cardiff, home to a fascinating exhibit dedicated to Welsh sporting history. Discover artefacts and stories of Olympic champions, drawing inspiration from their dedication and achievements. Get friends and family together on a carefree trip to Cardiff and make those visits a reality by booking your trip to Cardiff with us!
3. Conquer the White Cliffs of Dover:
Stand atop the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, gazing out across the vast expanse of the English Channel. The force of the wind is experienced, imagine the countless maritime adventures and historical battles as you take in the experience. These majestic cliffs, stretching for 8 miles, offer a challenge unlike any other, pushing your physical and mental limits in a truly awe-inspiring setting.
Challenge Yourself:
- Embark on the iconic clifftop walk, choosing from various routes ranging from 2 to 9 miles in length.
- Feel the burn in your legs and savour the panoramic views stretching across the Channel as you ascend and descend the undulating terrain.
- Imagine yourself witnessing Olympic sailing events unfolding below, testing the skill and resilience of athletes in this demanding environment.
Step Back in Time:
Explore Dover Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched dramatically atop the cliffs. Delve into Roman history and witness the remnants of their training grounds, where soldiers honed their physical prowess for combat. Reflect on the parallels between their dedication and the rigorous training regimens of modern athletes.
Get set, get ready for a day trip!
These are just a few ways to train like a Brit and connect with the Olympic spirit near London. Explore other historical sites, delve into local sporting traditions, and embark on your Olympic adventure. Book here!