7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Weymouth

As a digital nomad living in Weymouth, you have the unique opportunity to explore the charm of the English countryside and coast during your weekends. While Weymouth itself offers a picturesque seaside experience, there are several getaways within easy reach that promise to enrich your nomadic lifestyle with culture, history, and natural beauty. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven weekend destinations that offer a perfect escape from your weekday routine.

Bath

The city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its Georgian architecture and Roman baths. It's a cultural hub with museums, galleries, and theaters. Visitors can indulge in the thermal waters at the Thermae Bath Spa, explore the ancient Roman Baths, or stroll through the cobbled streets admiring the stunning architecture. The city also offers a variety of shops and eateries, making it a perfect blend of history and modern convenience.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Bath is by train, with direct services from Weymouth taking approximately 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Bath Abbey and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

Where to Stay: The Gainsborough Bath Spa offers luxurious accommodations with its own naturally heated thermal spa. For a more intimate experience, try the boutique Henrietta House.

Where to Eat: Sally Lunn's is one of the oldest houses in Bath and is famous for the Sally Lunn Bun, a delightful local delicacy.

Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is England's first natural World Heritage Site, stretching 95 miles along the southern coast. It's a haven for fossil hunters and nature lovers. The coastline offers dramatic cliffs, quaint villages, and beautiful beaches. Visit the charming town of Lyme Regis or the iconic Durdle Door arch. Walking along the coastal paths provides breathtaking views and a chance to discover hidden coves and beaches.

How to Get There: Driving is the most convenient way to explore the Jurassic Coast, with various points of interest easily accessible from Weymouth.

Travel Tip: Visit the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre to learn about fossil hunting before trying your luck on the beaches.

Where to Stay: The Alexandra Hotel in Lyme Regis offers stunning sea views and a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Eat: Hix Oyster & Fish House in Lyme Regis provides fresh, locally sourced seafood with a view over the harbor.

Isle of Wight

A short ferry ride from the mainland, the Isle of Wight is a delightful mix of seaside resorts, fossil-rich beaches, and scenic countryside. Explore the historic Osborne House, Queen Victoria's seaside palace, or take a walk along the coastal paths for some fresh sea air. The island also hosts several music and sailing festivals throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

How to Get There: The best way to reach the Isle of Wight is by ferry, with services running from Lymington, Portsmouth, and Southampton.

Travel Tip: For an adventurous experience, try paragliding off the island's cliffs for a unique perspective of its beauty.

Where to Stay: The Royal Hotel in Ventnor offers a touch of luxury and a famous afternoon tea.

Where to Eat: The Crab & Lobster Inn in Bembridge is known for its excellent seafood and picturesque location.

Salisbury and Stonehenge

Salisbury is a medieval city with an impressive cathedral boasting the tallest spire in England. Just a short drive away, you can step back in time at Stonehenge, one of the wonders of the world and the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe. The city's charming streets are lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes, making it a delightful destination for history buffs and casual explorers alike.

How to Get There: Salisbury is easily accessible by train from Weymouth, with a journey time of around 2 hours. Stonehenge is a short drive or bus ride from Salisbury.

Travel Tip: Visit the Salisbury Cathedral to see the Magna Carta, one of the best-preserved copies in existence.

Where to Stay: The Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel offers beautiful views of the river and cathedral.

Where to Eat: The Haunch of Venison serves traditional English fare in a historic setting, complete with a mummified hand!

Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park is a landscape of moorland, woodland, valleys, and an impressive coastline. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, horse riding, and stargazing in one of the UK's designated Dark Sky Reserves. The park's diverse habitats are home to an array of wildlife, including the famous Exmoor ponies.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to reach Exmoor is by car, which allows you to explore the park at your own pace.

Travel Tip: For a magical experience, visit the Tarr Steps, a clapper bridge across the River Barle, and one of Exmoor's most famous landmarks.

Where to Stay: The Luttrell Arms in Dunster offers historic charm and is set in a picturesque medieval village.

Where to Eat: The Coleridge Restaurant, located within the Dunkery Beacon Country House, offers fine dining with locally sourced ingredients.

Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon

Chesil Beach is an 18-mile long pebble beach that shelters the Fleet Lagoon, a brackish water lagoon and a haven for wildlife. This unusual destination is perfect for those seeking tranquility and a chance to connect with nature. Birdwatchers and photographers will find plenty to capture, while the beach itself is ideal for long, reflective walks.

How to Get There: Chesil Beach is easily accessible by car from Weymouth, taking only about 20 minutes to reach.

Travel Tip: Visit the Chesil Beach Centre to learn about the unique geology and wildlife of the area.

Where to Stay: Moonfleet Manor, overlooking the Fleet Lagoon, offers a family-friendly stay with stunning views.

Where to Eat: The Crab House Café is a must-visit for seafood lovers, with its oyster beds just outside the window.

Tyneham Village and Worbarrow Bay

Tyneham Village is a ghost village that was evacuated during WWII and has been preserved as a time capsule. Nearby Worbarrow Bay offers a secluded beach experience within the Jurassic Coast. This off-the-beaten-path destination provides a unique glimpse into the past and a peaceful coastal escape, making it an intriguing spot for history enthusiasts and beachgoers alike.

How to Get There: Access to Tyneham and Worbarrow Bay is easiest by car. Note that the village and bay are only open to the public on certain days.

Travel Tip: Check the opening times before you visit, as the area is still used for military training and has restricted access.

Where to Stay: For a rustic experience, try the Lulworth Cove Inn, located a short drive away, with cozy rooms and a traditional pub atmosphere.

Where to Eat: The Boat Shed Café in Lulworth Cove offers fresh, local produce with stunning views of the cove.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that can enrich the lives of digital nomads seeking adventure and relaxation on their weekends away from Weymouth. Whether you're looking for history, nature, or just a change of scenery, these getaways are sure to provide memorable experiences.