Catch the morning Eurostar from London-Lille, then midday train Lille-Nimes. Book seat on top deck of TGV to get views of Eiffel Tower as train arcs around Paris.
Arrive Nimes 16:30 and check into the Novotel Atria, a short walk from the station and adjacent to the fabulous Roman amphitheatre.
Trawl shops, restaurants and bars in Nimes’ pedestrianised centre, buy locally pressed lavender and olive oils, visit the park and water-gardens that climb up to La
Tour.
Visit the Norman Foster-designed art gallery overlooking the Roman forum. Return on the 9:00 direct train to Lille; arrive London late afternoon.