Uxbridge has a lively town center where you’ll find many stores, cafés and restaurants. And with its close proximity to central London, Uxbridge is ideally placed for visiting many attractions around the capital. With a rental car you’ll find all these destinations on your doorstep.
Wartime history
Uxbridge is home to a former air force base, which was in operation until 2010. Today, it’s one of the town’s top visitor attractions, the Battle of Britain Bunker. This building was the headquarters of No 11 Group Fighter Command, which was responsible for the air defense of London and south-east England during World War II.
Inside, you can see the control room as it was in 1940, with maps and display boards still in place. There’s a museum on site, and tours are available to learn more about the crucial work that went on here to protect London from Luftwaffe attacks.
For history buffs, another fascinating experience is the Churchill War Rooms, just a short drive from Uxbridge in central London. Here you can discover the stories of the men and women who worked in the city’s underground war rooms and the key role they played in the Allied victory.
City culture
Uxbridge is just a short distance from the heart of London. Here you’ll find many cultural and historic attractions on offer. Many visitors head straight for the London Eye on the banks of the River Thames, which offers incredible views of the city.
From one of the pods on this gigantic Ferris wheel, you can see many of London’s most famous attractions – from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament. The attraction is hugely popular, so arrive early to avoid the longest lines.
Once you’ve seen London from the skies, head across the River Thames to Westminster Abbey, a magnificent structure that has been the site of royal coronations in England since 1066. Many former monarchs are also buried here, along with famous figures such as Stephen Hawking and Sir Isaac Newton.
From Poets’ Corner to the Coronation Chair and royal tombs, there are a host of fascinating things to see at the abbey. One of the newest additions is the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries; a revamped medieval space that houses treasures including ancient manuscripts and the royal marriage license for William and Catherine, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Back to nature
For a break from the busy city, you can take just a short drive outside the center of Uxbridge to Colne Valley Regional Park, a beautiful stretch of land that reaches all the way to the River Thames. It covers 43 square miles and features hills, lakes and woodland, as well as farmland.
The central part of the park is home to wetland habitats where you can see many species of birds, and you might spot rabbits, squirrels or even foxes. If you’re feeling active, there are plenty of activities on offer, from horse riding to hiking, and even several golf clubs.
All these attractions and more are within easy reach with a rental car in Uxbridge.
