First cycle tour - route suggestions starting from London?

It's a bit late feedback from me, but I ended up going on a 3-day cycle trip over Easter, to Wales. I thought I'd share the route, and the tips I followed.

It was definitely not a “hardcore” tour. As the distances I did weren't very long (never topped 100 miles a day) and I stayed overnight with AirBNB.

Setup

My bike, the—ahem—Purple Lightning

Rode on an old Peugeuot Road Bike, with Vittoria 700cx28 tyres. Two Ortlieb Classic Back Rollers on a p-clip mounted rear-rack.. Worked very well, but I don't think I should make the rear too heavy without putting some more weight up front, the front wheel didn't feel as “grippy” as I'm used to. I also used a Garmin for the routes. Might take a lighter lock with me next time, as the Kryptonite felt a bit like overkill for most places.

Day 1 - High Wycombe to Gloucester (route)

First of all I listened to your advice, and took a train out of London, to High Wycombe. This was a tough day, because I think I spent 4hrs of it in the rain. Descending with panniers and calliper brakes was terrifying. This was actually my longest day at 134km (83 miles). Arriving in Gloucester was a great feeling, especially as there was a warm lasagna waiting for me.

Day 2 - Gloucester to Edw Valley (route)

Mostly flat, except at the end. Hills while loaded were tough, and I might change my cassette for my next tour, especially when carrying more (camping) gear. Country side was beautiful, and towards the end it got sunny.

The River Edw

Day 3 - Edw Valley to Swansea via the Brecon Beacons (route)

This was the last day. I simply chose Swansea, because it had a good train connection to get me back to London. Next time I want to venture further in to Wales, and see Snowdonia. Brecon Beacons was stunning.

Brecon Beacons