With December around the corner and the year behind us, it may be time for a well earned break. With the Euro crisis, fluctuating currencies and the December snow risks, planning a flight away may not seem the best option especially with so much to do and see in the UK. In this edition we look at how Londoners can escape the rat race for a day, two days or even more, to return feeling rejuvenated and ready to “mind the gap” again.
With recent rail and road improvements, getting down to the sea and nearest coastal retreat is now easier for most London vacationers, especially those with easy access to Victoria Station, London Bridge or if driving, easy access to the A3. The new Hindhead tunnel now makes a car journey to Brighton or Chichester just under an hour and a half, in most cases a lot less. So hire a car and escape…
One of our favourite places to escape to from London is Chichester in West Sussex which strikes a balance between city and countryside, with lots to do and see. Shopping in Chichester is well known for variety and a lot of the high street chains are in Chichester, but so to are unique independent stores. The Chichester Cathedral is always one to see and a great talking point. The Roman walls surrounding the centre of Chichester offer a great walk along the top, all the way around the city – the Great Wall of China can wait until another time!

Chichester City Centre, South Street
The most precious thing about Chichester is the unique coastal position, opposite the Isle of Wight. One of the UK’s best Blue Flag beaches, West Wittering beach is located in Chichester, just 6 miles from the city centre, as are other beaches in the Witterings. For December, walks on the beach and cycle rides on the Salterns Way cycle route which runs from Chichester centre to East Head, deliver a sense of appreciation for the environment and real fresh air – whatever the weather.
Places to eat in Chichester, Crouchers Restaurant
There are fantastic places to stay and eat in Chichester, including chain hotels, but to enjoy an out of London experience a boutique hotel is the way to go. One of our favourite boutique hotels in chichester is the Crouchers Country Hotel, a 26 bedroom hotel, each room amazingly decorated and offering luxury accommodation at great value prices. The Crouchers Restaurant, is also one of our best value restaurants in Chichester, offering great 3 course meals and wines from around the World.
Getting out of London this December is a great option, even if for just a day or two. For soul, body and mind…discover, meet, relax, eat and drink in Chichester, West Sussex.
For booking at the Crouchers Country Hotel call +44 (0)1243 784995or book online at www.croucherscountryhotel.com