Reach for the factor 50, it’s summertime! And while it’s great to scout all of London’s cool things to do, heading beyond the Oyster-card borders can provide some light relief from all the hustle and bustle.
Car share honchos Drivy by Getaround can help make both city life (and escaping it) a little easier – and a lot more eco-friendly. Essentially, the service lets you rent cars from your neighbours – whether that’s for a quick nip to do a big shop or for a long weekend escape. Plus it’s super simple to get on-board: there’s no subscription, insurance is included, and you can book and unlock the car nearby directly through the Drivy app.
So, we hope you’ve booked time off, because the three spots below have some serious appeal – and you can be there in around an hour with a Drivy hire car. Beats feeling all hot and bothered on public transport, doesn’t it? Just think of the sweet, sweet air con...
For summer loving with a slice of Kentish charm, Tonbridge has your back. The 13th-century Tonbridge Castle is a fascinating spot for all budding historians, Tudeley Church has some spectacular stained-glass windows and Haysden Country Park is pretty for a relaxing wander through nature. Fancy more of a challenge? Bring your bike along and take the cycle route to Penshurst Place and back for five miles of wild, floral-filled beauty.
This leafy market town is home to adrenaline-fuelled wonderland Thorpe Park, the impressive National Trust-managed Claremont Gardens and the picnic-worthy landscaped gardens of Painshill and Bushy Park, where you can spot deer. Oh, and pack your cozzie, because you can go for a dip at Desborough Island.
Feeling regal? Well you will be, because Windsor Castle is one of the Queen’s primary hangouts. It’s not all pomp and ceremony though – you can hunt for bargains at Windsor Independent Market, eat at the charming Bel and the Dragon, or visit Legoland for some nostalgic fun. Don’t need to drive back for a few days? Hop along to a beer tour at the Windsor and Eton Brewery.
Getting out of town is one thing, but taking the high road for the environment is another. And that’s why Drivy want to liberate city spaces from parked cars. Yep, one shared car replaces up to 10 private cars in London*. So, you can be even more smug about your break. Eco-win.
*(Source: Como UK).
To bag £40 off your first rental use code TIMEOUT40 at www.drivy.co.uk or on the app.
