But here’s a suggestion. What about a day trip to Lille in northern France? Look at the old town, see the Xmas market, have some nice food, buy some smelly cheese and still be home before bed time.
Lille is quite a nice city in the industrial north, though there are many old buildings, churches, art galleries and shops. It’s great to sit outside in the summer with a beer, though not at Christmas.
So, a few tips:
We haven’t been to the Lille market for years, so double check before you go that it’s really happening.
Look at Eurostar. It has become expensive over the years, but is cheaper if you can book in advance. Journey time is 80 minutes, roughly.
It’s about a ten minute walk from the station Lille Europe to the centre of town. The direction is obvious, and signposted. Be careful at the road crossings.
France is one (1) hour ahead of the UK and you will lose an hour going, but gain an hour coming home, so the last train isn’t too late.
You will need a valid passport. Check the requirements.
Trains go from St Pancras International. There are always queues. Another benefit of Brexit!
The UK is no longer in the European Union, but we never used the Euro for currency anyway, so you will need some cash or suitable cards. Euros are roughly equal to USD.
There are several nice cheese shops and one of the best chocolate shops in the world, Au Chat Bleu. No, they don’t have a website. Far too modern. There are nice cake shops too!
You may have to declare items at customs when you return. Another benefit of Brexit.