Short break ideas

[Flamingosarentreal]

Supposed to be going for a short break with friends next week but one is ill and can't go and think the other will cancel too as the cost of the cottage is expensive for just the two of us.
Looking for suggestions for a short mid week break , around 2 hours drive from Surrey , possibly just for me .
Usually go to Liverpool, London and Manchester so alternatives welcomed .
Like history, literature, mooching around architecturally attractive cities , eating and drinking coffee.
thanks

Just a couple of suggestions:
Brighton - go to the Pavillion and mooch around the Lanes.
Lewes - lots of history (castle) and lovely High Street. Great for browsing old book shops
Tunbridge Wells - the Pantilles is great for coffee shops
Bath - beautiful city with lots of history

Chester?

Stratford Upon Avon

Bath

Portsmouth has the historic dockyard and the Isle of Wight is 10 mins on the hovercraft.

Chester is a good idea.
What about Shropshire?
www.donthibernate.co.uk/shropshire-autumn-weekend/

Thanks for all these great suggestions. Will look at booking somewhere

Oxford
Cambridge
I like York but a bit far from you.

Jump on a train and go to Edinburgh.

It might be worth looking on websites like Travelzoo and Secret Escapes.

If you want to visit Bath, I recommend you find a place with parking included in the price. It's 1/2 term here next week, which might make it a bit busier.

Bristol
Canterbury

I had a wonderful weekend in Birmingham recently, highly recommended

RWST holiday lodges offer stunning views along the River Conwy and incredible views on your doorstep!