english countryside trips from london

I Heart Britain

The Best Countryside Day Trips from London: By Train

London is a wonderful city, but where England really shines is the in the countryside. That's why if you have the time, we very strongly recommend getting outside the city and soaking up some of the fresh air in one of England's lovely villages or market towns.

We know a lot of our readers don't feel comfortable driving in England, so we've decided to focus on destinations you can reach by train. Adding in bus trips would open up a LOT more, but who really wants to spend half of their day trip transferring between buses? Certainly not us. 

So, for those who want fun, simple countryside day trips from London by train, we've put together a list of some of our favourites. Since these ARE day trips, we've limited our recommendations to places you can reach by train in roughly 2 hours or less. The great part? That covers a lot more than you might think.

Table of Contents

British Countryside Day Trips from London

Moreton-in-marsh.

Whether you're looking for a day trip or planning on spending several days in the Cotswolds, Moreton-in-Marsh is an ideal location for anyone who plans on travelling the area without a car. You can get a direct route from London Paddington, and because it's a market town, there's plenty to see and do. 

Lovers of literature and lagers can stop in at The Bell Inn , a pub generally considered to be the inspiration for the “Prancing Pony” in Lord of the Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien used to meet his brother there for drinks.

On Tuesdays, Moreton-in-Marsh is home to the largest open-air market in the Cotswolds, where you can browse local merchants like the Cotswold Cheese Company. They produce more than 80 unique cheeses, many of them inspired by famous British figures.

If it's nature you're craving, don't miss The Batsford Arboretum . They have one of Great Britain's largest private tree collections, and their 56 acres of paths and gardens are virtually flawless. It's about a mile and a half from the central village, and there's a scenic footpath, the Monarch's Way, that takes you directly there. You can also reserve a taxi or get a bus.

If your goal is to see MORE of the Cotswolds, consider a tour. This one from Go Cotswolds takes you through Chipping Camden, Broadway Tower, Stow-on-the-Wold, Arlington Row, and Bourton-on-the-Water (with stops to look around). The Secret Cottage is another great option. I sent my parents on that one a couple years ago, and they spoke very highly of it.

Travel Time : As little as 1h 28m

If you're looking for a Cotswold village full of scenes so gorgeous it's not even fair, consider a day trip to Kingham. It was named was named “England’s Favorite Village” in 2004.

The village is home to The Wild Rabbit, an inn with a delightful bar and fine dining restaurant. You can snack on small plates and nibbles in the bar, or arrange to have a more formal meal in the restaurant.

Prefer something a bit more casual? Try the Kingham Plough instead.

To really get an appreciation for the lovely countryside, consider a tour with Cotswold Electric Bike Tours . You'll cover 28 miles (remember, the bike is ELECTRIC), and you'll see parts of the countryside that are impossible to view from trains and even cars.

Travel Time : As little as 1h 20m

Roughly 2 miles from the southern coast of England in East Sussex, you'll find the lovely historic town of Rye. With its cobblestone streets and old buildings, you could easily mistake it for the set of the BBC's latest period drama. In fact, it WAS actually the filming location for Mapp & Lucia – and there's a Mapp & Lucia tour for the die-hard fans. 

Because Rye is very much a tourist town, you'll find loads to do. Shops and restaurants abound, and if you want to get your nature fix, you can walk down towards the coast and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve . It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest, offering important habitat for rare species like the Spangled Button Beatle – and a little sea air is always nice. It's a couple miles down to the actual coast, but there's loads of wetlands scenery along the way. 

If you're a literary nut, be sure to get a look at the redbrick Lamb House – former home of authors Henry James and EF Benson. Fans of Harry Potter and other fantasy-oriented stories may enjoy The School of Wizards & Witches . It manages to be both fun and family-friendly at the same time.

Mermaid Street is a must-see part of any stroll through Rye, and you'll definitely want a camera handy. It's one of those classic British scenes, like Gold Hill in Shaftesbury or The Shambles in York. 

Castle lovers won't want to miss Rye Castle . Though small, it's mighty – and mighty interesting. Along with a great history lesson, you can also check out some great views and a pretty little herb garden in an enclosed courtyard.

Travel Time : As little as 1h 9m

Brockenhurst

With a population of roughly 3500, Brockenhurst is the largest village in the New Forest National Park in Hampshire. It's also a lovely place to spend a day (or a few of them, if you have the time). It's a great destination for active holidaymakers, with rambling, kayaking, and paddleboarding on offer nearby.

It's possible to have a lively time just walking around the village and browsing, but you may enjoy stopping in at The Beaulieu National Motor Museum , the Beaulieu Palace House , or the Beaulieu Abbey Church . 

With an almost ridiculous wealth of local trails, you could easily walk until your feet were black and blue – but know that there are also plenty of great restaurants nearby, should you decide to take a break. We recommend Afternoon Tea at Careys Manor Hotel , a pub lunch at Hare and Hounds , or a light snack at The Bakehouse . 

Travel Time : As little as 1h 33m

Warwick is a large market town of roughly 31,000, and it makes for a great escape from the urban chaos of London. It's home to the impressive Warwick Castle , and situated along the beautiful River Avon. 

For nature and scenery, check out Jephson Gardens , The Mill Garden , and Charlecote Park – or just take a walk along the river.  Or, if your countryside dreams involve cream teas and strolling independent shops, point yourself to the high street and just move in whatever direction feels right. 

The Market Hall Museum is a great deal more interesting than it might at first sound, and Warwick Market is a fun browse if you're there on a Saturday. 

If you're hungry, check out Thomas Oken Tea Rooms , Hatton Locks Cafe (great scenery), or The Tuckery . If you're looking for a chippy, try The Chip Shed . 

Travel Time : As little as 1h 18m

Cookham 

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Cookham is not the place to go if you want to browse endless shops, stately homes, and attractions. It's a small village along the River Thames with a population of around 5500. In 2011, it was named Britain's second richest village – and it's as lovely as you might expect, given that little bit of information. 

The Cookham High Street has a few shops and pubs worth browsing, but the best part of visiting Cookham is just walking and soaking up the atmosphere. You can do the Cookham and Cock Marsh Walk for an easy 4-mile circular trip, or just wander Cookham Moor and watch the wildlife. 

Art lovers will enjoy the Stanley Spencer Gallery on the high street, but there's not much else in terms of tourist attractions. 

For tapas and traditional pub fare, check out The Old Swan Uppers or The Kings Arms . For something a bit more modern, check out Bel and the Dragon or Boulters Riverside Brasserie . 

Travel Time : As little as 48m

This western Wiltshire town has a population of roughly 17,000, but the quiet countryside is just steps away. If you're not up for a bit of walking, you can also grab a taxi at the station and head just out of town to Stourhead , a lovely National Trust property with a truly incredible 18th-century garden.

 For more stately home and garden fun, visit Longleat House…and Safari Park . It's an unlikely combination, but there's no shortage of things to see and do. You could easily spend your entire day there. While the Safari Park portion of the estate is a drive-through experience, they do have a bus tour option.

The town itself isn't quite as charming as some of the others on the list (though please don't interpret that as a dig). It's lovely, and there's plenty of good food to be had, but it doesn't offer the same kind of wandering experience you might get in a place like Rye or Warwick or Moreton-in-Marsh. 

Travel Time : As little as 1h 51m

Though technically a cathedral city, Ely is a great place to wander around and soak up some of the lovely Cambridgeshire countryside. It definitely doesn't feel urban. Given that it's a cathedral city, there's a pretty good chance you'll at least give a few passing glances to Ely Cathedral . It's a lovely cathedral with a stained glass museum on an upper level, but be warned – there is a fee for admission. 

For a simple, relaxing day, plan a walk around the town and along the canal, along with a simple pub lunch. We recommend The Hereward (great options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free) or The Cutter Inn . 

If you're feeling adventurous, check out Truly Scrumptious Vegan Cafe . Their meals are animal-friendly, gluten-free, and surprisingly delicious. For a more traditional afternoon tea, cream tea, or sandwich, try Peacock's Tearoom – which also has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for those who want them. 

Antique lovers will delight in the selection at Waterside Antiques , and nature lovers will enjoy Jubilee Gardens along the River Great Ouse.  If you'd like to get out on the water, try Liberty Belle Cruises . 

Travel Time : As little as 1h 11m

What's Your Favourite Day Trip Destination from London?

Given a week or two in London, what are your favourite day trip destinations? Let us know in the comments! 

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 21 Beautiful Villages Near London You Have to See

Today I want to share my guide to the most beautiful villages near London. The English countryside is the stuff of dreams, and it’s worth a special trip to see the highlights. From Kent to Surrey, Sussex, and the Cotswolds, there are fairy-tale villages in easy driving, train, and tour distance of the UK capital. Read on for my top picks. I’ve included a map, too.

Villages Near London

It’s hard to make a list of the best villages near London because there are so many of them. In fact, the whole of the English countryside is pretty. Some of the best places to visit in the UK are here.

From rolling hills to fluffy sheep, this green and pleasant land feels like something straight out of a storybook. But since it’s real and since I’ve set myself the task of making a list of some of the prettiest villages in England , I’m going to do my best.

Whether you’re looking for places with idyllic thatched-roof cottages, destinations for country breaks near London , or fun ideas for day trips from London by train or car, there’s a village you’ll love.

1. Shere, Surrey

Down in Surrey , Shere is one of the most beautiful villages near London. With streets packed full of heritage buildings and a pretty pond full of ducks, this place has all the ingredients for a rural idyll.

Picture-pretty Shere is famous for being a filming location for The Holiday and the Bridget Jones movies. In fact, the church in the village was used in multiple Bridget Jones films.

The streets of Shere are everything one could dream of in an English country village, and pubs like the White Horse have historic interiors worthy of a leisurely Sunday lunch.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay near Shere here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and pubs with rooms.

2. Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Castle Combe. With its chocolate-box high street, picturesque side streets, and shops with teapot signs overhead, it has everything one could want in one place.

Castle Combe is one of the best villages in Wiltshire to explore, not least because of its picture-pretty houses and bridge over the By Brook river.

This quintessential village in the Cotswolds will get you dreaming about England. It makes a great day trip from London by car or overnight trip to Bath and the Cotswolds . You can also take a day tour from London to see Castle Combe. You can book one here .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can reserve a place to stay in Castle Combe here . The most famous is The Manor House . It’s a real treat to call this hotel home-away-from-home. You can book your room here .

3. Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire

Great Missenden is next on my list of the most beautiful villages near London. This place is famous for its Roald Dahl connections.

The famous children’s book author lived in the village for 36 years, and today there’s a museum dedicated to him in the heart of town.

But there’s more to see in the village beyond the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre. The High Street and Church Street are both lined with historic facades and listed buildings.

Given the village is in the Chiltern Hills, there are lots of great walks and places to explore in nature around here, too. From Angling Spring Wood to Abbey Park, there’s no shortage of options.

This place is also accessible from London by direct train, so it’s an easy trip if you don’t have a car. I’ve done it before and I really enjoyed it.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Great Missenden here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, cottages, and inns.

4. Bray, Berkshire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Bray. This beautiful place in Berkshire is so close to London you can take the Elizabeth Line (plus a short taxi ride) to get here.

Once in town, there are some exciting things to do in Bray. The village streets are packed with picturesque cottages, and the riverfront scenery on the Thames is beautiful. There are great walks you can do here, too.

But let’s be honest. Most people come here for the food. Bray is known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and pubs. From The Fat Duck to the Waterside Inn, it has more stars than many major cities.

It’s easy to come here for a half-day trip from London to walk around the village and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants or pubs.

But it’s worth staying a night to experience a couple of the famous places to eat here (and explore the streets). You can see why on my guide to spending 24 hours in Bray .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Bray here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, cottages, and restaurants with rooms.

5. Painswick, Gloucestershire

Back in the Cotswolds, Painswick is another of the most beautiful villages in England. With its pretty stone buildings and larger-than-life topiary trees, this place is bursting with beauty.

There are fun things to do in Painswick , too. The streets are full of heritage details, and the Painswick Rococo Garden is a stunning 18th-century number in a hidden valley with views across the English countryside.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Painswick here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and B&Bs.

6. Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire

In Buckinghamshire, Amersham is another of the best villages near London. Just outside the UK capital, this place is so close to the city you can reach it on the tube.

Amersham is famous for the historic houses and buildings on the high street in Old Amersham. It’s also known for country walks, as it’s located in the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

This is a fun place to visit if you want an easy half day trip from London with as little time in transit as possible.

If you want to extend your stay and live like a local, you can book a place to stay in Amersham here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including historic hotels and inns.

7. Lacock, Wiltshire

Back in Wiltshire, Lacock is another of the most beautiful villages near London. Lacock is close to Castle Combe, and it’s famous for being a filming location for everything from the Harry Potter movies to Downton Abbey .

This beautiful village in the English countryside is brimming with yellow stone buildings and picturesque roadside stands with baked goods and bunting. Photogenic shopfronts with bicycles outside round out the scene.

This place is also home to the 13th-century Lacock Abbey. It has stunning medieval cloisters and a museum dedicated to the history of photography.

You can reach the village by car, or you can take a day tour from London to see Lacock and other famous places in the area. If the latter appeals, you can book the tour I recommend here .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Lacock here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including inns and B&Bs.

8. East Meon, Hampshire

Out in Hampshire , East Meon is another of the best country villages near London.

This idyllic spot has a river meandering through its heart. Thatched-roof cottages and pink facades make it a fairy tale lover’s dream.

Cheerful hollyhocks bloom on the waterfront in the warmer months, and red post boxes are set into by brick walls in true storybook fashion.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in East Meon here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including lodges and guesthouses.

9. Bibury, Gloucestershire

Home of the most photographed street in the Cotswolds (that’s Arlington Row if you don’t know), Bibury sits on the banks of the River Coln. William Morris once called it ‘the most beautiful village in England’, and he could be right.

Arlington Row features 17th-century weavers’ cottages that attract photographers from all over the world. A historic village pub called The Catherine Wheel is the perfect place for a drink, too.

This English village is also home to a water meadow called Rack Isle. It’s an important wildlife habitat in the Cotswolds.

Bibury features a trout farm, too. Established in the early 20th century by naturalist Arthur Severn, it stocks local rivers and streams with native brown trout.

You can get here by car, or you can easily visit Bibury on a guided Cotwolds day tour . You can book the one I recommend here .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Bibury here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, houses, and B&Bs.

10. Burnham Market, Norfolk

Up in North Norfolk, Burnham Market deserves a place on my list of beautiful villages near London. Often referred to as Chelsea-on-Sea, the central green in this well-heeled place is surrounded by pretty buildings and cafes.

With great shopping, lively pubs and restaurants, and access to nearby coastal gems like Holkham Beach, Burnham Market is the perfect place to spend a weekend in Norfolk .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Burnham Market here . I’ve spent a weekend at The Hoste and I loved the rooms, pub, spa, and restaurant. You can book a room here .

11. Upper Slaughter, Gloucestershire

Back in the Cotswolds, Upper Slaughter is another of the best villages near London. This place wins hearts with its pretty stone cottages and idyllic surroundings.

The village lies on a slope above a stream, and it’s known for its 15th-century manor house, attractive medieval almshouses, and historic St Peter’s Church.

Upper Slaughter and its neighbor, Lower Slaughter, are some of the most beautiful places in England . They’re great to visit on a Cotswolds day trip .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Upper Slaughter here . The most exciting is Lords of the Manor . This famous country house hotel is straight out of a fairy tale. You can book your room here .

12. Bampton, Oxfordshire

Situated between Oxford and the Cotswolds, Bampton is another of the most beautiful villages near London. This place has thatched-roof cottages, a historic church, and charming local pubs.

Bampton’s pretty streets have great details to discover, and the Church of St Mary the Virgin was used as a filming location for many scenes from Downton Abbey .

It’s easy to discover Bampton on a day trip from London by car. You can also take a guided day tour of Oxford and the Cotswolds or a Downtown Abbey tour to see it. You can book one here .

If you want to stay longer, you can reserve a place to stay in Bampton here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels and inns.

13. Chilham, Kent

Next on my list of the prettiest villages near London is Chilham. Not far from Canterbury , this place is known for its chocolate-box streets and heritage buildings.

Chilham sits in the Kent Downs above the valley of the River Stour. It features steep, narrow lanes and a pretty square. There’s also a castle here.

You can visit Chilham independently by car or on a guided tour from London . You can book the tour I recommend here . It includes stops in famous places like Canterbury and Dover .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Chilham here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including B&Bs and inns.

14. Sapperton, Gloucestershire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Sapperton. This is one of my favorite places in the Cotswolds for a number of reasons.

The village is full of pretty houses, many of which feature Arts and Crafts architecture. Some of the most famous architect-designers of the movement lived here and are buried in the churchyard.

Speaking of which, St Kenelm’s Church is worth popping into for its historic interiors. There’s also a village hall, which is across the street from The Bell at Sapperton pub. Speaking of the pub, it’s fun to have a drink in the atmospheric surroundings.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Sapperton here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels and pubs with rooms.

15. Brockenhurst, Hampshire

Back in Hampshire, another of the prettiest villages near London is Brockenhurst. Located in the New Forest, it’s been called ‘Britain’s Most Beautiful Place to Live’.

Brockenhurst is home to a high street full of shops, pubs, cafes, and restaurants. It’s easy to stop here on a New Forest day trip , or make a longer journey of it.

There are famous restaurants nearby, too. And that’s to say nothing of surrounding villages like Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Brockenhurst here . There’s a wide variety of options to choose from, including hotels, inns, and apartments.

16. Aylesford, Kent

Next on my list of the most beautiful villages near London is Aylesford. Situated in the heart of the countryside, this is one of the best places to visit in Kent .

Aylesford sits on the River Medway not far from Maidstone. The heart of the village is home to beautiful historic houses, shops, and pubs. It’s a treat to wander around and take in the views here.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Aylesford here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including guesthouses and apartments.

17. Ashwell, Hertfordshire

Ashwell is another of the best villages near London. This picture-pretty place is known for its half-timbered facades, museum, pubs, and heritage buildings. It’s also right by the Icknield Way, so it’s a great place for country walks .

The 14th-century Church of St Mary the Virgin is renowned for its tower and the Medieval graffiti on its walls. There are also springs in the village that make up one of the sources of the River Cam (it’s the one that runs through Cambridge ).

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Ashwell here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and B&Bs.

18. West Chiltington, West Sussex

Next on my list of the best villages near London is West Chiltington. With pretty houses and country pubs with sunny gardens, this place is a treat to visit.

The village is surrounded by fields full of cows and gentle hills with some of the best vineyards near London . Idyllic cottages round out the scene.

There are great walks you can do while you’re here, too. I’ve done a fun circular walk in West Sussex that started in West Chiltington and took me alongside ponds and through fairy-tale woods adorned with flowers.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in West Chiltington here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including lodges and homes.

19. Lavenham, Suffolk

Another of the best villages near London is Lavenham. This place was one of the wealthiest settlements in England in the Medieval period.

Today Lavenham numbers among the best-preserved Medieval villages in England. So much so that it was used as a filming location for one of the Harry Potter movies.

Lavenham is known for its eye-catching historic buildings. From the Guildhall to Little Hall, the 15th-century church, and the half-timbered medieval cottages, there’s a lot to love about this place. There are also great country walks you can take from here.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Lavenham here . There’s a wide variety of options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs.

20. Kingham, Oxfordshire

Kingham is another of my favorite villages near London. From topiary hedges to Cotswold stone cottages, this prettiest of villages is picturesque in every way.

It’s fun to explore the village streets and take walks in the area to soak up the fields and flowers. You can even walk to Daylesford Organic Farm in Gloucestershire. It’s a luxurious complex with shops, restaurants, and a garden center.

Additionally, Kingham has a village shop to browse, the historic St Andrew’s Church to admire, and atmospheric pubs to eat and stay in.

Kingham is easily accessible by train from London, so it’s a great place to go if you want to visit the Cotswolds without a car . You can see more about the village in my itinerary for 3 days in the Cotswolds and my blog post about a Kingham circular walk .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Kingham here . I’ve stayed at The Kingham Plough and I love it. This beautiful property is a historic pub with rooms. You can book your stay here .

21. Cookham, Berkshire

Cookham is another of the best villages near London. Right on the Thames, this pretty place is known for its connections to Sir Stanley Spencer, one of the great 20th-century British painters. Many visitors come here to visit the Stanley Spencer Gallery.

But there’s more to the village than that. Cookham is home to one of the oldest pubs in England, a church with Norman origins, and sweeping views from Winter Hill.

It’s also one of the sites where the UK’s annual Swan Upping Ceremony takes place each summer. If you’re interested in witnessing this historic tradition, you can time your visit to coincide with it.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Cookham here . There’s a range of hotels to choose from.

Map of Villages Near London

As promised, I created an interactive Google map of all the villages on my list. You can find it here . If you click on the pins, you can see my relevant blog posts about each one.

I’ve also published a Cotswolds map and a map of Cotswold villages . You might find them useful in your planning, too.

Beautiful Villages Near London

I hope you’ve enjoyed my list of beautiful villages near London and that you’ve found some inspiration for your future British travels.

If you want more ideas, you can take a look at my blog post about the prettiest towns and villages in Britain . It includes lovely places like Rye .

If you prefer to stay closer to the capital (or in it, rather), there are some great villages in London you can explore. From Hampstead Village to Dulwich Village , Highgate Village to Greenwich Village , they’ll let you get your fix without leaving the city. Happy travels!

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2 Comments on Lady’s 21 Beautiful Villages Near London You Have to See

I’ve only been to Lavenham. This is such an inspiring list. I’d love to visit some of these villages such as Shere or Lacock

Thanks, Tanja! I hope you can see them soon.

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17 Absolute Best Day Trips from London (+ How to Visit, Top Tours & Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

London is an amazing city with so much to offer that you could spend weeks and still not see it all. But in addition to all the top sights and attractions in the city itself , there are also so many beautiful places near London, many of which can easily be visited as a day trip from London.

However, with such an array of possibilities, how do you choose the very best day trips from London that are worth your time the most?

In this article, we feature the absolute best places that you can visit as a one-day trip from London, England . This guide includes all the ‘musts’, the very best day trip destinations near London for first-time visitors, but also for local travelers who want to (re)discover some of the most popular sights near London.

In addition, for each place, we include recommendations on how to visit on your own and also the best day tours from London . Because even though you can visit many of these places by train, often, you will be able to see so much more if you go on an organized tour.

Many tours combine several major landmarks in one day, allowing you to make the most of your time and see a lot in a short time. Furthermore, going with a local guide is a great opportunity to explore deeper, scratch beneath the surface, and discover things you didn’t even know existed…

Good to know: At the bottom of this article, you can find a map indicating all the places that you can easily visit as a day trip from London mentioned in this guide. It will give you a better idea of where everything is.

TIP: If you don’t have the time to read the entire article and are looking for the best day trips from London, here are the 4 most popular day tours among our readers:

• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath (also in combination with Roman Baths that you can add when booking).
• Cotswolds .
• Harry Potter Studio (also in combination with Oxford).
• Seven Sisters & South Downs .

Interesting to know: Overall, the most-visited day trip destinations from London are Windsor Castle and Harry Potter Studios.

These are the best & most popular day trips from London:

1. Windsor Castle

If you visit just one place outside of London city, make it Windsor Castle ! Located just 20 miles (32 km) from the city center, a day trip to Windsor is a must on any London bucket list!

The spectacular Windsor Castle is one of the queen’s official residences and has been home to the royal family for 900 years! Kings and queens have been buried here, including the infamous Henry VIII and Jayne Seymour, his third wife. Most recently, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is also buried at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

An excellent example of church architecture in medieval times, Windsor Castle is still used for royal receptions and state occasions. In recent years it has been the venue of the weddings of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

Open all year round, Windsor Castle is a great way to explore royal history, from touring the Castle Precincts to viewing the lavish staterooms and apartments. The Castle Grounds are both beautiful and peaceful and from there you can observe the iconic Changing of the Guard, which normally happens at 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, from April until the end of July.

Good to know. At the moment, Windsor Castle is open daily except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Because it’s a working royal palace, sometimes parts of the castle or even the entire castle can get closed on short notice. Below, you can find all the practical information for your visit. Read on!

How to visit. You can easily get to Windsor by train from London. There’s a direct train from London Waterloo Station and it takes about 1 hour. From Windsor & Eton Riverside station, it’s just a short walk to the castle. Be sure to book your Windsor Castle tickets online in advance ! This is the best option for those who prefer to take their time and explore the castle at their own pace.

If you come here for a day, be sure to check out Windsor and Eton towns as well! The best way to do this is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus in Windsor . Another nice thing to do is take a boat tour and enjoy different views of the castle from the river.

Good to know: Entry to Windsor Palace is also included with the London Pass , which offers good value if you spend more time in London and plan on visiting many popular tourist attractions and museums.

Best tours from London. Windsor Castle is the most popular day trip destination near London, so there are many tours that can bring you here as well. Most tours that visit the castle also include one or several other nice places nearby – perfect for those who are short on time and want to make the most of their day.

Here are the most popular day tours from London that visit Windsor Castle:

• Windsor Castle only – this is a convenient bus transfer from/ to London that also includes the tickets to the castle. This tour takes about 4 hours in total – the fastest way to visit Windsor Castle from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – the most popular full-day tour from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – with an option to visit Roman Baths.

2. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments and another extremely popular destination for London day trips. Built almost 5000 years ago by farmers in the Neolithic period, this is a spiritual and architectural wonder that many people consider an absolute must-see in the UK!

Historians still debate its original purpose, although most agree that it was probably built for spiritual reasons. Meanwhile, engineers marvel at the extraordinary skill and size of the construction project, which must have involved hundreds of workers given the very simple tools they had available at the time.

Whilst the main attraction at this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the mystical Stone Circle itself, you can also view the 5 on-site Neolithic houses. Their design was based on the remains of houses from this period that were discovered during a nearby excavation in 2006.

You can step through the doors of these houses to see just how the builders of Stonehenge might have lived thousands of years ago, with each house equipped with replica axes, pottery, and artifacts.

How to visit . Stonehenge is located about 90 miles (145 km) from London. There are no direct trains to Stonehenge, but you can take a train to Salisbury train station and then take The Stonehenge Tour Bus service from there. The easiest way to get here from London is either by car or by tour. If you drive, prepare for very busy traffic and count at least 2 hours one way. If you go without a tour, be sure to book your admission tickets online in advance !

Best tours from London. Since Stonehenge is quite a drive from the city, but it doesn’t require that much time to visit, it’s usually included as one of the sights of some of the most popular day tours from London.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Stonehenge from London:

• Stonehenge only – a very popular half-day tour (morning or afternoon) that includes transportation and entrance tickets. It takes about 6 hours and is the fastest way to visit Stonehenge from London.
• Stonehenge & Bath – the most relaxing full-day tour.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – a very complete tour that also includes an entry to the Roman Baths.

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and the most popular town that you can easily visit as a day trip from London. This picturesque historic city is filled with stunning examples of honey-colored Georgian architecture and some of the most photographed buildings in the world.

Perhaps the most famous feature of this UNESCO World Heritage City is the ancient Roman Baths built around thermal springs and supplying water for over 2,000 years. Whilst the Baths are open for you to view, no bathing has been allowed there since 1978. Instead, the much more modern Thermae Bath Spa was opened in 2006, containing the only natural hot spring in England in which you are allowed to bathe.

In the city stands the magnificent Bath Abbey , with its unique ‘ladder of angels’ on the west front. This feature was inspired by Bath’s Bishop at that time, who saw angels ascending and descending in a dream. You will also see the iconic ‘Royal Crescent’ – 30 Grade I listed terraced houses built in the late 18th century, arranged in a crescent around a verdant lawn overlooking Royal Victoria Park.

Another architectural gem is the Circus , also built in the latter half of the 18th century. This historic street of large townhouses forms a circle, which is how it got its name (Circus is Latin for a ring, circle, or oval).

And perhaps most beautiful of all is the romantic Pulteney Bridge , with its small, leaded domes, pilasters, and pediments. The bridge was named after the wife of William Johnstone Pulteney, an important figure in Bath at that time and owner of much of the surrounding land. A popular thing to do in Bath is to take a short boat trip on River Avon – it allows you to easily see some of the main sights of Bath in a short time.

How to visit. Bath is about 120 miles (195 km), about 2.5 hours drive from London. If you drive, be sure to stop at Stonehenge along the way! The fastest way to get to Bath from London is by train – it takes less than 1.5 hours. And there are also many tours that visit Bath from London, usually in combination with other beautiful places nearby.

TIP. If you visit Bath on your own, you may want to take a walking tour of the city. It’s the best way to see a lot in a short time – you’ll be sure not to miss any important places, but it also gives you a better insight into the history and architecture of this unique town.

Best tours from London. Since Bath is so close to Stonehenge, most tours from London visit both of these places together. In addition, some tours also include one or several other places nearby.

Here are the most popular day tours from London to Bath:

• Stonehenge & Bath .
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath .
• Stonehenge and Bath Tour with Secret Site – a very highly rated small group tour.

One of the UK’s most famous university towns, Oxford is also a place that you can easily visit as a day trip from London.

Oxford University was established in the 12th century and is one of the oldest universities in the world. The university is composed of 38 separate college buildings, whose architecture inspired the poet Matthew Arnold to name it the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ (see the picture of the All Souls College below, and you’ll understand where the name comes from).

Some scenes in the Harry Potter movies were filmed in Oxford, so it can be fun to try and spot them as you tour the city. Harry Potter fans can also opt for this popular walking tour of the filming locations .

In the heart of the city center is Christ Church College , home to the magnificent Hall and Christ Church Cathedral with its landmark spire and Tom Tower. The gardens of the 12th-century Cathedral inspired Lewis Carroll to write ‘Alice in Wonderland’. You can hunt for features of the story, such as the Alice in Wonderland motives in one of the large windows in the Great Dining Hall.

The Cathedral also contains the shrine and tomb of Saint Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford. Christ Church College – one of Oxford University’s largest colleges – has lots more for visitors to see, from the famous Bodley Tower to the stunning Meadow Building.

There are two main museums that are well worth seeing during a visit to Oxford. Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum is Oxford University’s museum of art and archaeology. Free to enter, it’s a great place to learn all about human culture and societies across the world and throughout time, with its collections including everything from Egyptian mummies to contemporary works of art.

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History , meanwhile, houses a captivating collection of natural specimens, covering everything from Earth’s beginnings to a look inside an active beehive!

Connecting two parts of Hertford College is the Hertford Bridge , popularly known as the ‘Bridge of Sighs’. Named after its resemblance to Venice’s Bridge of Sighs , this particular bridge is a skyway that allows students to travel from one building to another. Designed by Sir Thomas Jackson and completed in 1914, this photo-worthy bridge is best viewed from the steps of the University’s Bodleian Library (another must-see in Oxford).

How to visit. Oxford is just 60 miles (95 km), 1.5 hours drive from London. There are also direct trains from London and the journey takes about 1 hour – this is the best way to visit Oxford on your own. There are also organized tours that visit Oxford from London – usually in combination with one or two other places nearby.

TIP: If you visit Oxford for a day, consider this walking tour . It takes just 1.5 hours and is a great way to learn more about the city and the university. River cruises are also very popular and are a fun way to explore Oxford!

Best tours from London. While you could easily fill an entire day in Oxford, most one-day tours from London only spend a few hours here and combine a visit here with several other places.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Oxford from London:

• Harry Potter Studio Tour & Oxford – a bucket list day trip for all Harry Potter fans!
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – see three of the most popular locations in one day.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – this is a great tour for those who want to see the English countryside. It’s also a nice addition to the popular Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath tours mentioned above. If you do two of these tours, you get to see most of the nicest day trip destinations near London in just two days.

5. Cotswolds

The scenic traditional towns and stone villages of the Cotswolds is one of the most popular London day trips for those who want to experience the true English countryside. This area is so picturesque! Below, you can find an overview of the most beautiful places not to miss.

Minster Lovell village is the home of Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote, which sits on the banks of the River Windrush. This 15th-century Oxfordshire manor house was built by William, Baron of Lovell and Holand – one of England’s richest men at the time. The house was eventually abandoned and now only the substantial ruins remain, giving lots of wonderful photographic opportunities against their beautiful rural backdrop.

A Cotswold village of outstanding beauty is Bibury , with its gorgeous stone buildings that run along the banks of the River Coln. Here you can see the iconic Arlington Row – a series of buildings that were originally built as a monastic wool store but were later converted into cottages. Now owned by the National Trust, Arlington Row is considered to be so quintessentially English that its image appears on the inside cover of UK passports.

Another village well worth visiting is Buford , with its 3 arched medieval bridges across the River Windrush. Famous for its High Street which runs down toward the river, Buford is popular for antique shopping and boasts lots of good restaurants, pubs, and tea rooms. It’s also home to a hotel in which King Charles dined with his mistress, Nell Gwynne.

Whilst there are many contenders for the title, most people will agree that Bourton-on-the-Water is the prettiest village in England. Also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, this ‘must-see’ village is named for the many beautiful bridges that cross its river at the center. Located in a small valley, Bourton-on-the-Water has many charming tea rooms and restaurants, plus a range of eclectic shops including pottery and the Cotswold Perfumery. Don’t miss the popular model village, which is a 1/9th scale replica of the entire center of the village.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting on the afternoon of the August Bank Holiday Monday, you’ll witness one of the village’s more curious traditions, in which a local team plays a full game of football right in the River Windrush. This bizarre game of soccer has been filmed and reported all over the world!

If you have more time in this area, here are some more really nice villages to see in the Cotswolds: Castle Combe, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester, Chipping Campden, Blockley, and Stanton .

How to visit. The Cotswolds are about 30 minutes drive west of Oxford and about 2 hours drive from London. Since the main attractions of the Cotswolds are its various villages, the best way to visit here is either by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. The beautiful Cotswolds region is just a short drive from Oxford, so many tours combine the two places. There are also popular Downton Abbey filming location tours that combine a visit here to that of the Highclere Castle, but because of time restraints, you usually only see one village on these tours.

Here is an overview of the most popular Cotswolds tours from London:

• Cotswolds only – this is the best tour for those who want to explore the Cotswolds deeper as it visits several of the nicest villages and allows you more time to experience this beautiful area.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – the most popular day tour.
• Oxford and Cotswolds Villages – the best small-group tour.
• Stonehenge, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Bath, and Cotswolds – this tour is packed, but well organized and you get to see some of the best places in a very short time.

6. Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small medieval market town and also a very popular place to see near London. The birthplace of William Shakespeare is probably at the top of most people’s must-see lists and the main reason to visit here.

The timber-framed house on Henley Street is where Shakespeare not only spent part of his childhood but also the first 5 years of his marriage after his father’s death in 1601. Live presentations from guides dressed in period costumes and the carefully restored Tudor rooms bring history to life.

In the many Tudor-style buildings of Stratford, you’ll also find 3 theatres owned by The Royal Shakespeare Company. They perform plays by Shakespeare, his contemporaries, and other, later writers. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is situated on the banks of the River Avon, panoramic views of which can be enjoyed from the theatre’s tower.

Also on the River Avon is the Swan Theatre , built on the side of the Royal Theatre and offering a more intimate atmosphere. The third theatre – the Other Place – is smaller and used as a center for performing arts.

For a taste of old-fashioned romance, pay a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage a bit outside of town. This beautiful 500-year-old building was originally a farmhouse and was where William Shakespeare courted Anne, his future wife. Incredibly picturesque, the cottage still contains original features and furnishings and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Another must-see is the Hall’s Croft , the house of Shakespeare’s daughter, with stunning gardens. Inside, you can find original 16-17th-century furniture, paintings, and other items.

How to visit. Stratford-upon-Avon is about 100 miles (160 km), 2 hours drive from London. If you don’t have a car, the easiest way to visit here on a day trip from London is by joining a tour.

Best tours from London. Most tours visiting Stratford-upon-Avon from London combine it with other places nearby and only spend a few hours here. They usually include a guided walk in the town center and sometimes a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace.

Here is a small selection of the best day tours from London:

• Shakespeare’s Stratford & Cotswolds – this is one of the few tours that spend more time in Stratford and also visits Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. It also brings you to three villages in the Cotswolds.
• Oxford, Stratford, & Cotswolds – this popular tour spends about 2 hours in Stratford and covers more ground in a day.

7. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Fans of Harry Potter – and even those who have yet to experience the wizardly wonder of the movies – will enjoy a visit to the fascinating Warner Bros. studio near London . It’s one of the most popular day tours from London (after Windsor Castle), and a must if visiting London with kids .

Here, you can see firsthand some of the amazing sets used in the film’s production, including the Great Hall of Hogwarts (which went on to be used in 6 more films) and the Forbidden Forest filled with 19 trees, each with a diameter of over 12 feet. You can even see The Hogwarts Express locomotive at the elusive Platform 9¾.

There are prop rooms where you can take a close-up look at look at the elaborate props used in the Harry Potter movies. There are almost 2,000 potion jars and memory vials, all with labels hand-designed by the Graphics Department. You can also see Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, which took 3 months to build and was intended to look as much as possible as a real 18th-century storefront.

If you have an interest in the making of movies, you will enjoy other parts of the studio as well. The Special and Visual Effects section reveals how some of the more incredible scenes were created, including how Harry and his friends were made invisible by the Invisibility Cloak and how they appeared to fly! Even more captivating is the Creature Effects section, where you can learn how the magical creatures in the Harry Potter films were created and brought to life.

A visit to the Making of Harry Potter Studio provides a magical and educational experience for adults and children alike. If you are looking for a fun relaxing day trip near London, this is a great option for the whole family!

How to visit. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio is located in Leavesden, Watford, about 20 miles from London city center. But because of the busy traffic, it’s quite a long drive. There’s a train from London to Watford, from where you’ll have to take a bus to the studios – the journey will take you over 1 hour not counting the time to get to the station. There are also several companies offering bus transfers from London – see below.

Best tours from London. The easiest way to get to Harry Potter Studios is by booking a transfer or a tour from London. That way you don’t have to worry about the tickets either.

This highly-rated  Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour  departs from Victoria Station, close to Westminster Catedral in the city center. There is also a popular  tour that departs from King’s Cross . The prices are usually the same and include a bus transfer and tickets. You’ll need about 7-8 hours in total for this day trip.

PRO TIP: One of the most popular tours from London is this popular tour that includes a visit to the studios and also visits Oxford . It’s a truly magical day trip as Oxford is one of the places where Harry Potter movies were filmed.

8. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace , one of the Tudor Palaces, was the former royal residence of King Henry VIII. In addition to Windsor, this is another really nice place to visit near London, especially if you are a fan of royal history.

Hampton Court is a huge, impressive baroque-style palace located at the River Thames and surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland . If you visit in spring, you can see the magnificent tulip festival. But the gardens have something nice to offer in every season, and there are various events at the Palace throughout the year.

The interior of the castle gives you a chance to take a glimpse into the daily life of royals in the 16-17th centuries. You can visit the impressive State Rooms and private apartments of William III . Also, don’t miss the kitchens of Henry VIII , where over 200 people worked in the past, cooking and serving more than 800 meals per day.

Another highlight is the magnificent Great Hall that was originally a dining room, but afterwards became a sort of theatre that was used for entertainment, plays, and dances. Back in the day, William Shakespeare performed his plays here. The highlights here include a series of tapestries showing scenes from the Book of Genesis and the impressive timber roof with Anne Bollaine’s coat-of-arms.

This is also a very nice place to visit for families, with a maze in the garden, fantastic play areas for children, and plenty of places for a picnic. When the weather is nice, you could easily spend an entire day just exploring the gardens.

How to visit. Hampton Court Palace is located on the outskirts of London, about 15 miles southwest of the city center. You can easily visit Hampton Court Palace from London by train. There is a train from London Waterloo Station to Surbiton Station, and from there to Hampton Court. It takes about 40 minutes.

In addition, there are also several tours – see below.

Good to know: Hampton Court Palace entry is included with the London Pass .

Tours from London. Because Hampton Court is quite easy to get to and explore on your own, there aren’t many organized tours. The best ones are private tours like this one ; it combines a visit to Hampton Court Palace with that of Windsor Castle. That way, you get to see two of the most impressive royal palaces near London in one day.

There are also some nice bike tours or boat tours that explore the surroundings of Hampton, starting from different locations nearby.

9. Brighton & Seven Sisters

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London and see some of the stunning nature of England, then definitely consider a day trip to the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs . At the same time, you can also visit one of the UK’s nicest coastal cities – Brighton .

Brighton is worth a trip in its own right, with all the little pleasures that a lively seaside resort has to offer. If you have some time to spare, check out the Royal Pavilion , an Asian-style palace that looks like it belongs in an Indian fairytale…

But for a sightseeing day trip from London, you can also opt for something slightly different and explore some of the beautiful nature outside of town as well.

The rolling hills of the South Downs offer so much to explore and enjoy, with spectacular views and popular spots with their own unique legends. One of the most famous is that of the Devil’s Dyke , a v-shaped dry valley whose creation was attributed to the work of the devil himself (although, as you will see, it’s far too beautiful for that!). The South Downs is also home to the Long Man of Wilmington – a 235 ft tall chalk figure on the side of a grassy hill and one of only two human hill figures in England.

Be sure to check out Beachy Head , which – at 535 feet – is the highest chalk cliff on the southern coast of England. From the top, you can see miles of coastline in either direction, plus the candy-striped lighthouse that sits just out to sea. Nearby is the Birling Gap – one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. Here you can see coastal erosion firsthand, with the cliffs eroding up to a meter a year at certain points.

Another highlight of any visit to the South Downs is the Seven Sisters – an undulating line of white chalk cliffs, each hill with its own name. They are best viewed from Seaford Head , where you can see evidence of an 8th hill beginning to form from the erosion of the sea.

TIP: Any visit to the Downs must include a visit to the popular Middle Farm , which offers such delicacies as local cheese, sparkling wines, and traditional Sussex cider.

How to visit. South Downs and the Seven Sisters are located near Brighton in south England. While you can easily get to Brighton by train from London, you’ll need a car for the other places. The best way to visit is with a tour – see below.

Best tours from London. There are just a few tours from London that visit this area. The best option is this highly-rated tour that includes a train ticket from London to Brighton and a small-group minibus tour of the sights along the coast. If you prefer to make your own way to Brighton, you can also book the same tour starting in Brighton .

TIP: If you rather book a private tour, there is one tour that offers a pick-up in your hotel in London and covers all these sights in and around Brighton.

10. Cambridge

Less than an hour by train from London, Cambridge is another beautiful town to visit for a day. Just as Oxford, it’s probably best known for its centuries-old University, and this beautiful town has lots of well-preserved historic buildings. But this medieval city is also a student town and has a very nice, relaxed atmosphere.

Don’t miss the King’s College Chapel , Queen’s College , Trinity College, and Wren Library . You can also climb to the top of the tower of Great St Mary’s Church for nice views over the city.

In addition to exploring the many colleges in the city (there are 31! of them), be sure to walk along the River Cam ! Also Cambridge has its own Bridge of Sighs . This covered bridge at St John’s College spans over the river and is a favorite photo spot for weddings as well as tourists visiting the town.

Other nice bridges worth seeing in Cambridge are the Mathematical Bridge , Clare College Bridge , King’s College Bridge , and there are many others.

A great way to explore the beautiful river, see the bridges, the town, and the surroundings is a punt tour . This traditional boat ride is a very typical thing to do in Cambridge – don’t miss it!

How to visit. Cambridge is just over 60 miles (95 km) north of London, and the easiest way to visit is by taking a direct train from King’s Cross Station in London. It takes less than 50 minutes, so you can easily visit Cambridge on your own, without a tour.

Once in Cambridge, you can take a walking tour with a local or explore on your own. The earlier mentioned punt tours on the river are also not to be missed.

Best tours from London. If you rather visit Cambridge with a tour from London, there are several options as well. We recommend this 2-in-1 tour that visits Cambridge and Oxford . That way, you get to see two university towns in one day.

11. Canterbury Cathedral & Leeds Castle

While Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral are over 20 miles apart, these two landmarks don’t require that much time and so are usually visited on the same day. In fact, they are usually combined with a short visit to Dover too, but more about it further below.

After a visit to Leeds Castle , you will not be able to help but agree with Lord Conway, who described it as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’. With a romantic, fairy-tale appearance, this 12th-century gem was built in the center of a natural lake, surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland.

Leeds Castle was once used as a palace by Henry VIII and the private property of six medieval queens. Its rooms have been beautifully restored and give you the opportunity to learn all about its long and fascinating history.

In addition to the Lady Baillie Garden, which gives stunning views across the lake, the grounds also hold one of Kent’s most popular mazes, with 2,400 yew trees. Once you reach the maze’s center, a fascinating underground grotto takes you back to the real world!

One of the most famous and picturesque Christian buildings in England, Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597, then extensively rebuilt from 1070 to 1077. It is the Cathedral of the leader of the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and is still used for active worship.

The Cathedral contains the shrine of Archbishop Thomas Becket and you can stand on the spot upon which he was murdered, as told in Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous ‘Canterbury Tales’.

Also the medieval town center of Canterbury, with its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses, is a nice place to see if you have more time. It’s a popular day trip from London for locals. Also here, you can take traditional boat tours on the river.

How to visit. Unless you have a car, the easiest way to visit Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral is by taking a tour. If you just visit one of these places, you could also get there by public transport. For Leeds Castle, you have to take a train to Ashford, followed by a bus trip to the castle. For Canterbury, there’s a direct train from London, and you can make a nice relaxing day trip by visiting this picturesque town.

Best tours from London. There are several tours from London that visit these places. You can find them here and they are all quite similar in terms of itinerary.

12. White Cliffs of Dover & Dover Castle

“There’ll be bluebirds over the white cliffs of Dover” went the words to the popular wartime song – and if you’re familiar with the song then it’s quite incredible to see the inspiring white cliffs for yourself. If you are looking for something different to see near London than historic towns and villages, Dover is a wonderful place to visit!

Composed of chalk, Dover’s cliffs are 350 ft high and stretch for 8 miles. They were on the front line of both world wars and were a critical part of England’s defenses at that time. Now, they provide wonderful views across the surrounding countryside and the English Channel. On clear days you can even look across and see France!

The unique chalky grassland habitat of the cliffs means that they are abundant in wildlife and you can see all sorts of flowers, butterflies, and birds as you walk, including the rarely spotted peregrine falcon.

You can either spend your visit simply enjoying the cliff-top views, or take a short trip to see Dover Castle too. Dover Castle is one of England’s biggest castles and was built in 1066 by William the Conqueror. Ironically, he built it to stop anyone from invading the country using the way in which he’d invaded it himself!

A visit to the Castle includes exploration of the tunnels that go deep into the cliffs, where you can learn all about the dramatic evacuation from Dunkirk and see the Underground Hospital that was used to treat injured soldiers in WWII.

How to visit. Dover is about 80 miles southeast of London. You can take a direct train to Dover from London and visit the town and the castle, and take a walk along the shore from where you can admire the beautiful white cliffs. Alternatively, you can also visit here with some day tours from London – see below.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that visit Dover from London, usually in combination with a few other places and Dover is often not more than a short photo stop. Here are the most popular day tours:

• Dover, Leeds Castle & Canterbury Cathedral – the most popular and best price/quality tour from London.
• Dover, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Greenwich – quite a full day, but you get to see a lot in a short time.

13. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a very impressive country house in Woodstock, about 65 miles northwest of London. This is England’s only non-royal country house that actually holds the title of a palace.

The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill currently the home of the 12th Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace is a stunning example of 18th-century Baroque architecture. During your visit, you will see the magnificent staterooms, which are filled with priceless works of art and beautiful tapestries. A grade I listed building and World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace also contains the finest collection of antiques to be found anywhere in Europe.

The gardens – set within over 754 hectares of land – are particularly wonderful to explore. Designed by the English landscape architect Capability Brown, there are several formal gardens to enjoy. Don’t miss the Rose Garden, the exquisite Water Terraces, the Secret Gardens, and the family-friendly Pleasure Gardens.

Historical monuments can be seen throughout, including the Column of Victory (built to commemorate the Duke of Marlborough’s military successes), the Grand Bridge which spans the two lakes and The Temple of Diana, where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to his future wife.

There are also a few recommended walks to take. Possibly the most beautiful is The Lake and Grand Cascade walk, which gives you breathtaking views of the countryside.

Good to know: The Palace and the grounds are so big and have so much to offer that you can easily spend an entire day here. In fact, many people find that one day isn’t even enough and many locals get a yearly pass for the Palace. However, many tours only spend a few hours here and just cover the main highlights. So how to visit depends on what you want to see and do here.

How to visit. The easiest way to visit Blenheim Palace is by car or with a tour, but you can also get here by public transport. From London Paddington Station, take a train to Hanborough (a bit over 1 hour), and from there, take a bus to the palace (it takes 7-10 minutes). If you want to spend an entire day at the palace, this is the best way to visit on a day trip from London.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that shortly visit Blenheim Palace from London. The best tour that spends more time at Palace is this Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds tour. This tour also includes a few short photo stops at other popular locations nearby.

14. Downton Abbey Filming Locations

Downton Abbey filming locations close to Oxford and the Cotswolds make another popular day trip destination from London. There are two main places that you’ll want to see here – Bampton village and Highclere Castle .

Highclere Castle is a beautiful building and another fine example of luxurious life in the English countryside. It has been used for various film sets but became hugely popular since the filming of the TV series Downton Abbey . It’s now a very popular place to visit from Oxford or from London. The castle belongs to the Carnarvon family and is kept as it is, without turning it into a ‘theme park’ like some other castles in the area.

Another must-see for Downton Abbey fans is the beautiful village of Bampton . You’ll recognize many of the buildings here from the series, and it’s great fun to try to spot them during your visit!

Be sure to locate the home of Isobel Crawley, the church (actually named St. Mary’s), two fictional pubs – the Grantham Arms and the Dog and Duck – plus the Downton Cottage Hospital. The building used for the hospital is, in reality, the Bampton Community Archive, which houses a collection of old photos of the village and its people.

Bampton is a lovely village to visit in its own right. It is mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086 and was already a large settlement during the era of the Norman Conquest. On the other hand, it’s so small that you don’t need much time here.

How to visit. Highclere Castle is located about 65 miles (105 km) west of London, whereas Bampton village is about 30-40 miles from here, very close to Oxford. The best way to visit these places is either by car or by taking a tour.

Best tours from London. There are several tours visiting Downton Abbey filming locations from London. Some of the tours also visit Oxford, some others pass several villages of Cotswolds as well. This tour has the most complete itinerary covering most of the Downton Abbey filming locations.

The picturesque village of Lacock in rural Wiltshire near Bath is another place often visited on day tours from London. It’s a small village and you don’t need much time here, but it’s well worth a stop if touring the area.

The historic village of Lacock looks much as it did two centuries ago. Founded in the Saxon era, Lacock’s buildings originally made up part of a monastery complex (be sure to visit Lacock Abbey !). In the 19th century, it lost its main source of income from the wool industry, so very little development has taken place since then.

This means that this unspoiled little village gives an authentic look into days gone by. In fact, you can still see an old workhouse and medieval tithe barn in addition to the traditional stone cottages, with classic English pubs dotted throughout.

The village’s beauty makes it a popular choice as a TV and film location. Scenes from Pride and Prejudice were filmed here and Lacock Abbey was also used to film parts of Harry Potter.

Lacock was also used in Downtown Abbey, but because of its location, it’s usually a place you’d visit in combination with Bath and Stonehenge and not together with Highclere castle or Bampton. Unless you drive – in that case, you could make your own tour covering all three.

How to visit. Because of its rural location, Lacock is best visited by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. There are many tours that stop in Lacock, usually in combination with a visit to Bath, Stonehenge, sometimes also with Windsor Castle. This is the most popular tour that also brings you to Lacock (in addition to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath).

16. Warwick Castle

If you want to visit a real medieval castle near London, consider a day trip to Warwick Castle . With a history that goes back over 1000 years, a visit here takes you on a journey back in time, to a world of historic myths and battles for the English throne, but also lavish banquets, and royal splendor.

The castle was originally built as a wooden fort in 1068 and was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century. As you arrive, you enter over the footbridge and find an impressive medieval castle with ramparts and towers. You can climb the stairs of the castle walls and explore this impressive castle inside out.

A visit to Warwick Castle is very different than the others mentioned in this guide – it has something of a theme park feel if you like. There are various events, shows, attractions, archery and sword lessons, and lots of other fun experiences all year round.

This is one of those places where locals visit with their children during weekends and school holidays, but it’s also fun and entertaining for tourists. Even more so if you are traveling with a family.

How to visit. Warwick Castle is located about 100 miles (160km), 2 hours drive from London. If you want to spend more time at the castle, by far the easiest way to visit Warwick from London for a day is by train.

There are direct trains from London Marylebone Station to Warwick Railway Station, the journey takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, it’s about 20-30 minutes walk to the castle. Be sure to check the official website of the castle for more info and book your tickets in advance!

Best tours from London. Most tours from London that visit Warwick Castle do this in combination with Oxford and Stratford. Some also stop at one or two villages in the Cotswolds. Here you can find a selection of tours that include a visit to Warwick Castle .

17. Liverpool & The Beatles

While not exactly next door, we feel that Liverpool also deserves a mention as a place that you can visit on a day trip from London. If you are a fan of The Beatles , a visit here is a bucket-list experience and well worth the journey.

A visit to Liverpool gives a fascinating look into the lives and times of 4 local lads who formed what would become one of the most famous bands in the world. A good starting point from which to enjoy this vibrant Victorian city is the Royal Albert Dock, which is made up of refurbished dock warehouses and is now packed with restaurants, cafes, and many attractions.

The Beatles Story is an award-winning, permanent exhibition totally devoted to the Fab Four! Located on the Dock, it contains lots of authentic memorabilia and provides an immersive experience for visitors. Even children are catered for in the Exhibitions Discovery Zone. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance !

Another interesting part of the visit for die-hard Beatles fans is the Magical Mystery Tour , which you take via a colorful tour bus that sets off from the Royal Albert Dock. In addition to the birthplaces, homes, schools, and original workplaces of the Beatles, you will also see the places that inspired some of their greatest hits, including Penny Lane and Strawberry Field.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool

How to visit. The best way to visit Liverpool as a day trip from London is by taking a train (going by car would be about 4 hours one way). The journey by train takes 2 – 2.5 hours and there are many trains throughout the day, but be sure to book in advance and start your day as early as possible!

Once in Liverpool, you can take the earlier-mentioned Magical Mystery bus tour. Definitely visit the Beatles Story exhibition as well!

TIP: If you find it overwhelming to arrange everything yourself, you can also book a day tour to Liverpool from London. Most of these ‘tours’ are actually individual trips where everything from train tickets to all activities is pre-arranged for you. See below.

Best tours from London. This Liverpool and The Beatles day tour is the most popular and probably the best option. It includes reserved train seats, an entry to the Beatles Story exhibition, and also a ticket to the 2-hour Magical Mystery Tour!

Good to know: The above-mentioned tour from London to Liverpool starts at Euston Station in London and is normally available every day except Sundays. You’ll have to meet their representative at the station at 6.30 AM, so prepare for this to be a long day!

LEARN MORE: How to Plan a Day Trip to Liverpool from London

Map of the best places to visit as a day trip from London & practical info

To give you a better idea of where all these places are located, we created a map indicating all the best day trip destinations from London mentioned in this guide. You can click on the map below in order to see it on Google Maps.

Good to know: As already mentioned, many of the most popular day trip destinations from London can be visited with organized tours or by train .

We don’t recommend renting a car if you are staying in London – the traffic is so busy in and around the city that it would be a nightmare for someone who’s not used to it. Renting a car would only make sense if you are planning a longer road trip, outside of the cities.

For organized tours , we recommend booking via the GetYourGuide website . They have a great selection of tours at the most competitive rates and the best cancelation policy and customer service out there. We personally book all tickets and tours via this website when we travel anywhere in the world.

So, this is our guide to some of the most popular day trips and tours from London. I hope that this helps you choose a few nice places to visit near London and make your trip even more memorable.

For more travel inspiration for London and the UK, please see our featured articles below. Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for London:

• Must-see in London: Top London Attractions
• Hidden Gems of London
• Camden Market
• What to See in Camden Town
• Best Views in London
• London Travel Tips
• Where to Stay in London
• 1 Day in London
• 2-day London Itinerary
• London with Kids
• Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Painted Hall
• Queen’s House and Tulip Stairs

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Cities: Best Cities to Visit in the UK
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & The Beatles in Liverpool
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1-day Manchester Itinerary
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh: Top Places to See in Edinburgh & One Day in Edinburgh & Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow
• Seaside: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Blackpool Travel Tips & Places to See Near Blackpool
• …for more destinations, check our UK travel guide .
• Read also: How to Plan a Trip to Europe

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Lacinda Mena

Tuesday 2nd of May 2023

I am traveling with a group of six. We would like to depart London on September 4 and view Stonehedge, Windsor, and Bath on our way to Southampton. Do you know of any tours that would offer this service?

Hi Lacinda, no, I don't personally know any tours that offer this kind of service. I found this private tour that visits all the places that you mentioned from London. It's one of the cheapest and best-rated tours in its kind. However, I'm not sure if they wouldn't mind dropping you off somewhere else. You could probably book it and then contact them and ask what is possible. If it's not what you are looking for, you can cancel it. I see that the tour has free cancelation, so that's how I would do it. Otherwise, try to search the internet for private drivers and ask for a quote. Good luck!

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

Amazing blog! Was looking for something like this for my trip to London in a few days, and this has been really useful information; the detail with which you describe are amazing. Plus the alternatives to get there and the map, loved it all! Thanks for taking the time.

Thursday 27th of April 2023

Glad to help and thanks a lot for taking the time to leave this kind feedback, Alex! Have a great trip!

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Awesome! Thanks for the info!

Saturday 4th of February 2023

This was great information. Thanks

Monday 6th of February 2023

Glad to help. Have a great time in the UK!

Thursday 15th of December 2022

Love this blog!!! I am planning a trip to London with my son in February! This is exactly the information we are looking for! Super helpful!!

Friday 16th of December 2022

Glad to help, Holley. Have a great time in London!

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The 21 Best Day Trips From London

By Condé Nast Traveller and Anna Prendergast

London ’s hustle and bustle can become overwhelming, even for the most dedicated locals—but its handy location means that day trips from London are easy for anyone who needs a quick escape, whether it be for a country walk, a seaside jaunt, or a cultural getaway. Most of our selection of the best day trips from London can be reached by train , within less than two hours—and many couldn’t be further from the busy streets and crammed schedules of the capital. Whether you’re looking for fresh air, delicious eateries or a new selection of shops, these easy-to-plan day trips should slot nicely into your schedule.

Below are 21 of our favorite day trips from London, in no particular order.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Canterbury, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a colorful, food-fuelled history lesson in the garden of England How to get there from London: The direct train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West can take as little as 53 minutes

Prehistoric settlements have been uncovered in this corner of Kent, and it was a popular haunt of the Romans, who surrounded the early city by constructing an earth bank and fortified walls around 130 acres of land. The story of Canterbury that schoolchildren learn, however, comes from the medieval period, courtesy of Chaucer.

The city is home to one of the UK’s most spectacular cathedrals. Pilgrims have navigated the route to this ethereal site for many centuries, and it’s here that Thomas Becket was infamously slaughtered at the order of Henry II–although this series of events has been contested by countless historians. From the cathedral, scan the selection of novels through the crooked door of the Catching Lives Charity Bookshop, before soaking up the sun in one of the city’s hidden pub gardens–The Dolphin and The Parrot are some of our favorites.

Stroll along the remnant of the ancient wall that is still accessible, or settle in for a lazy afternoon on the colorful banks of the River Stour after collecting treats from The Goods Shed. Historic river tours of the river are touristy but not overly expensive, so well worth booking ahead of a visit to uncover the secrets of these romantic, cobblestone streets.– Connor Sturges

If you decide to stay over: Parts of The Falstaff Hotel date to the 13th century, and original features such as fireplaces and oak beams are a nod to the city’s medieval history. The city’s main attractions are within walking distance, and comfortable beds, craft cocktails, and a signature afternoon tea await once you are back in the cosy setting.

Elmley Nature Reserve

The best day trip from London for:  getting fully immersed in nature How to get there from London:  The train from London St Pancras International to Swale takes 1 hour 50 minutes and then it’s a short taxi ride to Elmley Nature Reserve

Think of day trips to Kent and you’ll probably skip straight over the Isle of Sheppey. Just off the northern coast of Kent next to the Thames Estuary, Sheppey is an unglamorous largely industrial island that initially lacks the tourist appeal of some of its Kentish neighbours. But there’s a secret gem here right off the mainland–the bucolic Elmley Nature Reserve, 3,300 acres of wetlands and wilderness. This family-run estate is a true wildlife conservation haven and is the perfect trip for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With over forty varieties of birds raising their young at Elmley each year, there are some beautiful walking trails to spot them all, plus the other resident hares, frogs, dragonflies, cows, voles, bees and more. As soon as your taxi turns onto the long entry drive, it’s easy to see elegant birds such as egrets, lapwings and redshank happily frolicking on the flat marshlands and that’s before you’ve even started exploring. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the entry fee is £6 and that gets you access to the beautiful open landscape for a self-guided wander (although you have to stay on the paths!); they also arrange organised tours at dusk and dawn for £29.50 if you want an expert to help you spot marsh harriers, long-eared owls, sparrowhawk and peregrine falcons. It might be only 40 miles from London but it feels like another world. As well as an incredible place for a day out in nature, there’s also a lovely barn restaurant to get cosy in for toasties at lunch and more hearty evening meals, plus an impressive range of smart places to stay dotted across the reserve if you want to extend your visit.– Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  From decked-out shepherd’s huts with outside baths to four poster beds in the grand 18th-century main house, there’s a wide range of places to stay – all with stunning views over the nature reserve.

Great Garden Escape, The Newt in Somerset

The best day trip from London for: a VIP experience How to get there: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 25 minutes

If you’re not the planning type, The Newt in Somerset’s Great Garden Escape is a fun-filled organized day trip that shows off the best of the British countryside and its charming traditions. With a jam-packed schedule starting at Paddington station, day trippers travel First Class with breakfast served on-board. On arrival, they’ll be given a tour of the gardens at The Newt, which have been landscaped over hundreds of years and are now home to wildlife including deer and newts–of course. There's even an opportunity to explore the grounds with experts, along with a dive into the history and traditions of Somerset. Plus, a stopover at the incredible Roman Villa Experience.

Lunch leads into a cider tasting, made on-site using apples grown in local orchards, where you’ll undoubtedly be swayed into picking up a bottle or two to take home. When you’ve breathed in just enough country air, the train journey home serves up afternoon tea, depositing you back in the city just in time for sundowners. The whirlwind tour is the ideal tonic for shaking off burnout and reminding yourself of the beauty on your doorstep.– Abigail Malbon

If you decide to stay over : Should you choose to forego the train ride home in favor of waking up somewhere new, The Newt is a Jane Austen dream, whether you choose a room in the Georgian house or the converted outbuildings, barns and stables. Bedrooms are simple and beautiful, with a focus on relaxation, but those with a view are truly exceptional. In the morning, wake up early and treat yourself to a swim in the spa pool as the sun comes up – you’ll return to London feeling like a new person.

Clifton, Bristol

The best day trip from London for : packing a lot in How to get there from London: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 35 minutes.

After hopping off the train at Bristol Temple Meads, take a stroll to Clifton–the city’s most beautiful leafy suburb. Quiet residential streets are lined with pretty Georgian townhouses, spots of greenery to wander through off the cobbled streets and an eclectic mix of independent cafés, restaurants and shops.

Start with a gander around Clifton Arcade in the heart of Clifton Village, where the 17 boutiques are filled with knick-knacks and intriguing antiques. It’s not a true shopping experience without a pit stop for coffee and cake – try one of Bristol’s top coffee spots, Spicer + Cole, or–for a 100-per-cent plant-based menu–refuel with a slice of rose and vanilla loaf and a superfood latte at East Village Café.

Pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables from the local greengrocers and head to Clifton bridge for fabulous views across the River Avon. It's one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. Learn about its history at the Visitor Centre, stopping off for a pint of traditional Somerset cider at the White Lion by its side. Continue the historical tour by walking up to Clifton Observatory, which has a museum featuring a Victorian-era Camera Obscura and a mythical Giant’s Cave, alongside its own rooftop café serving up breathtaking views. And don’t miss out on a walk down Royal York Crescent–one of the most expensive streets in Bristol, which was also once reputed to be the longest terrace in Europe.

Next, spend time at Bristol Lido, a restored Victorian swimming bath from the 1800s surrounded by a spa and poolside bar for the ultimate in pampering. Round off the day with a cozy pub meal at The Albion, an Indian fine-dining experience at Nutmeg or a hearty pizza at Bosco around the corner on Whiteladies Road.– Cordelia Aspinall

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the recently refurbished Number 38 boutique hotel for a peaceful stay overlooking the Clifton Downs, perfect for your morning stroll.

Matt Ortile

Todd Plummer

Lauren Dana Ellman

Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Bath, Somerset

The best day trip from London for: soaking up history How to get there from London: The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Bath is known for its history, but among the buttery-hued Georgian architecture and ancient thermal springs there’s a fresh independent spirit. When the weather is good, there are a couple of brilliant walking routes to try: the six-mile Bath Skyline, for example, is a short stroll from the city centre and tramps through woodland, meadows and orchards with views of the buildings below.

The Somerset city’s literary heritage is well documented–Jane Austen is probably the most famous one-time resident–and there’s still a thriving network of bookshops and literature festivals here, including at bookworm magnet Topping and Company, which stocks more than 55,000 titles. Restaurants are driven by excellent local produce and seasonal ingredients. Grab a traditional lunch at The Circus (we recommend the Wiltshire lamb two ways) or order bun cha at Vietnamese spot Noya’s Kitchen. After a bite, shop at clever concept stores such as Nām, which sells antique furniture and homeware curated by owner Sharan Kaur, and Found, where you can buy clothes from niche global brands, or spend an afternoon at wine bar Corkage, where about 70 bottles are available to sample by the glass.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Small hotel Eight lives up to its name; there are just eight rooms, and the ground-floor restaurant always has eight dishes on the menu.

Read more about the best things to do in Bath, Somerset

The New Forest, Hampshire

The best day trip from London for : woodland walks and long pub lunches How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo usually takes about 1 hour 45 minutes

With its purple carpets of heather, ancient woodland and England-of-yore villages, the New Forest has long been a release valve for Londoners eager to clear the cobwebs and the cortisol. The apex of its beauty has to be autumn, when its rich hues cut through morning mists and dazzle in the afternoon sun. It's best enjoyed during a long ramble, where you’re likely to meet free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle and even pigs, followed by a hearty pub lunch with local ale and a warming log fire.

Take the train from Waterloo to Beaulieu Road station and fuel your hike with a pint of real ale at the Drift Inn. If independent shops, cafés and beaches are on the agenda, it’s best to head to Lymington instead, as this one-and-a-half-hour loop around the pub on the edge of the New Forest is blissfully rugged and remote. Having traipsed through a mixed mosaic of woodland and absorbed the silence and sweeping views across the heathland, hunker down at the Drift Inn for a Hampshire beef burger, ale-battered haddock or the pie of the day (invariably something along the lines of mud pie with mash and gravy).– Rosalyn Wikeley

If you decide to stay over : Those seeking the quintessential heather-and-wild-ponies New Forest should bed down at The Pig hotel in Brockenhurst or Limewood near Lyndhurst (about five minutes from the Drift Inn). However, the trusted favorite among New Forest devotees, Chewton Glen continues to lure weary urbanites with its coveted position – wedged between woodland and the coast – and commitment to the good, old-fashioned service and comforts of a country club. You’ll find few zeitgeisty design details or next-gen touches here. Instead, antiques, thick carpets and mahogany furniture keep this 18th-century manor house sure of its identity – save a few fun treehouse bedrooms, should privacy or the 21st century fall into your criteria. Don’t miss the fresh salads and fish lunches once you’ve been pummeled in the spa or worked up an appetite in the Grecian-style pool. The gardens are also glorious for afternoon tea after visiting Highcliffe beach.

Hertford, Hertfordshire

The best day trip from London for : pub-crawling and country walks How to get there from London: The train from Finsbury Park takes 35 minutes

With its higgledy-piggledy, pastel-colored buildings and cobbled streets, this county town serves up a slice of English antiquity that’s postcard-pretty enough to satisfy both shiny-eyed visitors from further afield and weary Londoners searching for fresher air, shorter queues and somewhere different to look at for the day. With trains running every half hour, it’s possible to find yourself marching around its 15th-century castle grounds (check ahead for cinema screenings, talks and events), net fishing from a sandy cove in Hartham Common or wandering about its dinky museum within the hour. Alternatively, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can cycle from London along the River Lea towpath.

On arrival, dip into its handful of local shops – The Women's Society Boutique has an imposing exterior but is a real treasure trove–before stopping at one of the many independent cafés and restaurants. Popular deli-bar Giambrone’s serves authentic Italian plates, while Hertford Coffee Lab makes for a cool pit-stop, and Georgian townhouse and B&B Number One Port Hill hosts occasional pop-up suppers. Plus, the artsy Dog and Whistle, once a pop-up café, has blossomed into a hipster foodie pub and music venue with rooms. Indeed, Hertford – quiet market town by day and more bustling nightspot come evening – specializes in pubs, particularly old-world ones. There's The Salisbury Arms Hotel, said to have been the place where Oliver Cromwell stayed during the Civil War and home to a number of ghosts; the 16th-century White Horse; the 17th-century Blackbirds; and the riverside Old Barge (exact age unknown, but 'old' is part of the name…). If you have time, go on the three-mile walk to Ware alongside the River Lea towpath–the neighboring town also has a plethora of pubs – and catch the train back to London from there.– Becky Lucas

If you decide to stay over: Hertford House Hotel took over the former local newspaper’s offices in pretty Parliament Square in 2006 and hasn’t stopped evolving since, with its latest restaurant and bar renovation completed in autumn 2020. Don’t miss out on brunch in the secret garden, a locally sourced roast in the restaurant and a pint in smart sister pub The Quiet Man.

The best day trip from London for: an under-the-radar getaway How to get there from London: The fast train from St Pancras International takes 1 hour 22 minutes

This hillside scribble of Georgian streets tucked behind the Kent coast really hit our radar in 2018. Nicknamed ‘Margate’s little sister’, it’s a much cosier, countryside version of its arty neighbour. And that’s exactly its appeal. Deal is less shouty than Margate, but there’s still an exciting slew of shops, cafés and galleries that have arrived over the past few years. The Saturday Market stalls are worth a rummage, but it’s the food that brings the locals back each weekend. For more of a sit-down lunch we love Frog and Scot where the chef, previously of The Sportsman in Seasalter, cooks up a daily changing menu based on hyper-local produce. Founder of Smugglers Records Will Greenham (ex singer and guitarist of the band Cocos Lovers, who’ve supported Mumford & Sons on tour) is at the heart of the town’s music scene, and in terms of art, Linden Hall Studio is a contemporary gallery in a converted chapel that wouldn’t look out of place in Mayfair.– Tabitha Joyce

If you decide to stay over: The Rose was revamped in 2018 and now there are eight cute bedrooms splashed in bold colors and filled with vintage finds. The restaurant is looked after by Rachel O’Sullivan (previously of East London’s Towpath Café) who dishes up Scandi-inspired breakfast plates of smoked salmon, avocado, soft-boiled egg, dill and whipped cream cheese.

Read more about Deal, Kent

Whitstable, Kent

The best day trip from London for: oysters on the beach How to get there from London : The train from from St Pancras takes 1hr 13 minutes

This little town on the north Kent coast isn’t quite the sort-of-secret it was back in the 1990s, when DFLs (local jargon for Londoners) rediscovered it, arriving at weekends for seafood at Wheelers on the high street and pints of Kentish ale at the beach-side Old Neptune pub. But it’s still an atmospheric place to head for a hit of vitamin B12 – via a dozen or so oysters – then a scrunch along the shingle shore, spotting Second World War sea forts across the waves and seals in the harbour. There are plenty of places to eat: avoid the overpriced Royal Native Oyster Stores and head instead to JoJo’s, just down the road in Tankerton, for mackerel fillets and Med-inspired small plates. Or Samphire, a Whitstable bistro with cuttlefish risotto and Romney Marsh lamb on the menu. There’s also a thriving micropub scene here, with The Handsome Sam, The Black Dog, and the larger Twelve Taps for hoppy experimentation. But our favorite pastime is picking up a pot of cockles and whelks from the quayside, or fish and chips and oysters from The Forge shack, and devouring them in the shade of a wooden groyne on the beach, preferably with a bottle of English fizz to hand.– Rick Jordan

If you decide to stay over: The Victorian fisherman’s huts on the beach are the best place in which to hole up, the sound of waves and boat masts jangling in the wind outside, and can be booked via Hotel Continental. Along the coast in Seasalter is the Driftwood Beach House B&B .

Rye, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : a bracingly fresh seaside getaway How to get there from London: The train from St Pancras International takes about 1 hour 10 minutes with a change at Ashford International.

Rye is home to what might just be Britain’s prettiest (and most prettily named) street, and a wave of newcomers have moved in alongside the quaint old-timers in Mermaid Street and beyond, opening smart interiors stores and artisan bakeries next to unironically vintage tea rooms and souvenir shops. After breakfast at Whitehouse Rye–order the halloumi hash–pick up a new read at The Tiny Book Store (the clue’s in the name) and window shop for that fantasy mansion at striking antiques shop Strand House Interiors. The blustery dunes and invigorating waters of Camber Sands, one of the best beach near London , are a 15 minute ride away on the local bus, but head back in time for a rustic supper at Tuscan Rye, where fresh pasta (ricotta ravioli with brown-butter sauce, potato and thyme tortellini in a rich ragu) draws loyal locals.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the lively George in Rye , which welcomes A-list guests (George Clooney and Helena Bonham Carter have both checked in for sleepovers) and smart locals in the same breath.

These are our favourite things to do in Rye

Margate, Kent

The best day trip from London for : a cultural day out How to get there from London: the fast train from London St Pancras takes 1 hour 25 minutes.

It’s no secret that this Victorian seaside town has had quite the hipster renaissance in recent years, sparked mostly by the arrival of the Turner Contemporary gallery in 2011 and spurred on by a slew of new openings and a wave of Londoners upping sticks and moving down to the Kent coast. For a cultural outing, the waterside Turner Contemporary is still a must. Entry is free so it’s worth popping in even if you’ve never heard of the artists on show, and the shop has some nice local products. For more contemporary art head to Crate, an artist-led project space in an old printworks. If you’d prefer something older–much older–wander over to the most ancient building in town, the Tudor House, a Grade II-listed 16th-century timber-framed house on King Street. It’s on your route from the seafront to the mysterious Shell Grotto, a spooky set of underground tunnels covered in more than four million shells.

A trip to Margate isn’t complete without a few hours in Dreamland, whether it’s for some spins on the rides or to see one of the amusement park’s impressive line-up of gigs in the evenings. Do take a stroll around town to hit up the vintage shops selling retro clothes, furniture and homewares, where you can still find some decent bargains. And don’t forget to head over to Cliff Terrace to visit the flagship store of cult natural skincare brand Haeckels, which makes divine-smelling beauty products using seaweed gathered on the beach nearby. Speaking of the beach, if you want to go swimming walk along the coast to Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, a man-made sea lagoon where you can find calm waters and steps for easier access. If you arrive early (or stay the night), tuck into cracking breakfast at Storeroom coffee shop or at Cliffs, where there’s also a record shop, a hair salon and a yoga studio. In fact, the whole up-and-coming area of Cliftonville is worth exploring. After all that roaming, great seafood can be found for dinner at either Angela’s or Hantverk & Found–reserve a table in advance though, as both get booked up. – Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over: The best beds in town are at The Reading Rooms , a boutique b&b in a restored Georgian townhouse a few minutes’ walk from the seafront. Be sure you don’t have to rush off in the morning as they’ll bring breakfast to your room so you can eat it overlooking the leafy square.

Read more about Margate's best things to do

Eastbourne, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : fair-weather walkers How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 30 minutes.

Eastbourne is an old-timey British seaside town with a Victorian pier, a pebble beach, and a much-loved bandstand where tribute acts reign: ‘Queen’, ‘ABBA’, ‘Frank Sinatra’ and ‘Lady Gaga’ have all played. You could spend the day taking in the town’s thriving art galleries, with plenty of opportunities for refueling stops along the way (our favorite is the stripped-back-trendy Nelson Coffee Co opposite the station) but the real draw here is enjoying the great outdoors at Beachy Head, where you’ll find the famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. A hike with seriously impressive views out to sea runs across the top. Wander all the way along to neighboring Seaford or make one of the secret beaches tucked away at the foot of the cliffs your way point. It’s a steep climb down, but Falling Sands Beach is quiet and sandy and well worth the adventure. Eastbourne often makes the list of the sunniest places in the UK, so don’t forget your sunglasses.– Olivia Holborow

If you decide to stay over: Book into the Beachy Head holiday cottages –there’s a choice of 8, all set around a rambling walled garden with fruit and vegetables you can help yourself to.

An insider guide to the South Downs

Brighton, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : blasting the cobwebs away by the sea How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 34 minutes.

Brighton is a brilliant mish-mash of retro, seaside fun and progressive culture. Book in advance and you can get return tickets from London for as little as £10. A maze of bunting-lined streets, The Lanes bursts at the seams with vintage shops–don’t miss Beyond Retro and Dirty Harry, and our two favorite independent boutiques, Our Daily Edit and Peggs & Son, as well as retro memorabilia (navigate the turnstile at Snoopers Paradise for collectors’ items, vinyl, and furniture). Time your day trip to include breakfast at Kensingtons – grab a table on the balcony for giant plates piled high with eggs, toast and beans. It’s not the easiest spot to find, so look out for a shop called Artemis on Kensington Gardens, which overflows with sheepskin rugs and pelts – the café is on the left; follow the smell of bacon up the stairs. Later, reserve a table at Food for Friends, a superb veggie restaurant with award-winning flavours and presentation. A short walk away is the huge 8km pebbly beach–the section near the Palace Pier is dotted with stripy deckchairs and usually buzzing from spring to autumn (and often absolutely crammed in summer). There’s something terribly British about layering up and enjoying a windswept walk in the winter months, too. Reward yourself with a bag of hot, sugary donuts from the pier.

If you decide to stay over : Walk along the seafront to The Ginger Pig, a restaurant-with-rooms with pre-mixed cocktails in the minibars and Cowshed bottles by the standalone bathtubs.

The best restaurants in Brighton

Lewes, Sussex

The best day trip from London for : history buffs and vintage hunters How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes just over 1 hour.

Lewes: the market town in the South Downs that sits against a backdrop of chalk hills and green peaks. Cobblestoned 'twittens' (narrow streets), hand-painted shop signs and crumbling tiles from the 1960s make it feel like a town time forgot, and its slower rhythm makes for a reinvigorating gear-change. The Needlemakers on West Street is home to a range of small, independent shops that sell local craftsmanship, from jewelry to books–Alexis Dove is a favorite for delicate silverware and Susie Petrou has an eye for vintage blouses and Romanian embroidery. There’s an incongruous well at the bottom by the vintage shops – throw in a penny for good luck before you start hunting through piles of clothes and bags. Lewes Flea Market is an alluring source for antique furniture and quirky homeware, and is open daily (not to be confused with the outdoor Sunday market, which is also worth a visit). At the other end of town, at the bottom of Cliffe High Street, you can find Bill Collison’s very first Bill’s restaurant, a European deli-turned-eatery, where you can get hearty dishes such as pumpkin, fig and chestnut roast, or a beef, bacon and camembert burger. After lunch, ponder the paperbacks at the Fifteenth Century Bookshop, which has been carefully restored in recent years but remains as much of a landmark as Lewes Castle. Finish the day with a pint; Harvey’s Brewery is the only independent brewery in Sussex and provides the John Harvey Tavern over the road with local cask ales (download the self-titled app to find out where you can get it in London).

If you decide to stay over : Head to Firle for a night at The Ram Inn , and enjoy crisp linen and generous breakfasts served by an open fire.

Folkestone, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a coastal up-and-comer How to get there from London : The fast train from London St Pancras to Ashford takes 40 minutes, where you can change for Folkestone Central.

The seaside town of Folkestone is mid-makeover, which is the ideal time to visit – before everything gets priced up and the place’s quirks glossed over. The appeal of Sunny Sands beach is self-explanatory – this tiny, windswept slip of sand is one of the best beaches in Kent and the ideal spot to kick off your day (unsurprisingly, it fills up with families wielding buckets and spades, sticky with sunscreen, too). A trio of swashbuckling pubs and restaurants–The Ship Inn, The Mariner, and The Captain’s Table–lines the seafront, but the real treasure can be found in the Creative Quarter. At the bottom of The Old High Street is Bounce Vintage, an open space with rails full of retro sportswear, French chore jackets and Aloha shirts. If you exchange smiles and pleasantries with the rosy-cheeked owners, they might just offer you an espresso on the house. Failing that, further up the road, Steep Street sells specialty coffee, homemade cake and books . Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall shelves of hardbacks tower over fat leather armchairs and blackboard tables that you can doodle on in chalk. There are endless places to eat and drink around town: Rocksalt for a smart menu and sea views; Papas for old-fashioned fish’n’chips ; Beano’s for veggies; La Casa Del Bello Gelato for ice cream Follies for pizza and The Pullman for pints. The Harbour Arm, though, is where Folkestone’s own folk go – the Champagne bar hidden in the lighthouse at the end is rustic, romantic, and completely charming.

If you decide to stay over : Book a room at the Linen Shed , a dove-grey, weatherboarded house on the old Roman road to Canterbury.

The best restaurants in Kent

Oxford, Oxfordshire

The best day trip from London for : a traditional slice of British culture How to get there from London : The Oxford Tube coach service takes 1 hour 30 minutes and runs until 3am; trains also run from Paddington and Marylebone stations and take 1 hour.

In one of the most quintessentially English cities in the UK (and the most expensive to live in outside London), cream tea is not just a rite of passage – it’s a requirement. And there’s only one place to take it – The Vaults & Garden Café, signposted by the presence of an antique bicycle with a flowerbed in its basket, is a gorgeous 14th-century building surrounded by colleges (Oriel, Brasenose, Murton, All Souls), where scones come loaded with clotted cream and seasonal homemade jam (the café has serious sustainability credentials, too). Architecture is a major draw in Oxford ; the libraries, bridges and even cinemas feature Palladian domes, Norman design, ziggurat influences and listed buildings which make this a city to see on foot (Radcliffe Square is a must, and it’s worth paying £4 to climb the tower at the Church of St Mary The Virgin for the best view of Oxford). If you’re taking kids, the Pitt Rivers Museum is packed with bizarre artefacts and stories they’ll tell their friends about, and The Story Museum welcomes you through a wardrobe into Narnia and other fictional worlds of wonder. If you booked a babysitter, however, grab a drink at the brilliant Freud bar in Jericho–a stained-glass church-turned-cool-cocktail-bar that is grown-up enough to feel sophisticated but student-y enough to have plenty of atmosphere and frivolity in the air (or perhaps it’s something in the drinks).

If you decide to stay over : There are plenty of lovely hotels in the Cotswolds , such as The Wild Rabbit –the latest outpost from eco-queen Carole Bamford of Daylesford Organic fame.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The best day trip from London for : people-watching and scenery How to get there from London : The train from London King’s Cross takes 45 minutes.

Like cycling in Amsterdam or taking trams in San Francisco , punting really is the most sophisticated way to see the city of Cambridge and the university grounds. Scudamore’s is the oldest ‘chauffeur’ company and offers a more traditional tour, but board a boat from the Garret Hostel Bridge for a younger, more humorous experience (ask your punter why the GHB is also known as Orgasm Bridge). For lunch, foodPark is a top hawker convoy of Sri Lankan curries, wood-fired pizza and open-wide burgers that sets up from 12pm until 2pm in varying locations around Cambridge from Wednesday to Friday. For something more upscale, book one of Galleria’s terrace tables on the south side of the Magdalene Bridge, with British fusion food and views of the River Cam (your gluten- and dairy-free friends will thank you, as there are two separate menus specifically catering to their diets). In the autumn, the leaf-covered colleges are particularly picturesque as they turn red and rust, and in spring, Parker’s Piece is a scenic stretch of greenery from which to navigate (spot the lamppost that supposedly inspired the post in CS Lewis’ Narnia). From here, find eccentric English shop Bowes & Co, Fitzbillies for iced buns, Aromi for Italian nibbles, Kettle’s Yard art gallery and G David for antique books. Finish your day with the choral evensong at King’s College Chapel around 5.30pm: goosebumps guaranteed. For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in Cambridge .

If you decide to stay over : It doesn’t get much better than the iconic University Arms hotel , reopened in 2018 after a serious reboot.

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for: welly-wielding outdoorsy types How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour to East Grinstead (a 15-minute drive from Forest Row).

AA Milne famously wrote the stories of Winnie the Pooh while living just north of Ashdown Forest. Known as 100 Acre Wood in Pooh’s world, the forest is home to the spellbinding stories and is an enchanting place to stretch your legs for a day, easily accessible via East Grinstead station. Stretches of open heathland give way to leafy walkways and carpets of bluebells in spring, where the woods teem with wildlife (spot fallow deer, badgers and the odd friendly pheasant–no honey-eating bears, though), and the only noise is birdsong. You can even visit Pooh Bridge (for a game of Poohsticks, naturally), but be warned, it’s a prominent tourist spot. Pooh was a big fan of having ‘a little smackerel of something’, and nearby village Forest Row has plenty of places for elevenses. Taffels deli is a family-run café and much-loved lunch spot (there is nothing skinny about the skinny chips; they are double-fried and divine) and caters to all dietary requirements, while Java & Jazz serves huge hot chocolates cakes and crispy-crusted pizza. For proper pub food, the cosy Hatch Inn (one of our favorite country pubs near London) is known for roasts with all the trimmings and offers plenty of dog-patting opportunities. If you’re not in a hurry to get home, head to Linton’s car park–locally known as ‘the viewpoint’–for sunset.

If you decide to stay over : Gravetye Manor is a very English Elizabethan country-house classic and one of our favorite weekend breaks in the UK .

Dungeness, Kent

The best day trip from London for : nature enthusiasts How to get there from London : The drive to Romney Marsh via the A20 and M20 takes 2 hours.

Arriving in Dungeness from London feels a little like stepping out of a Tardis into a different time zone, where a recent apocalypse has left the landscape barren, the wildlife overrun, the buildings flattened, and the population dramatically compromised (in fact, the Dungeness Power Station appeared in Doctor Who in 1971). Unofficially known as ‘Britain’s only desert’, Dungeness has a unique environment–single-story buildings appear to have been swallowed by the shingle and plants let loose with little regard for human-imposed order. The beach resembles a mass shipwreck; abandoned fishing boats, crumbling shacks, winches and forgotten tractors coated in decades of rust sit, untouched, unmoved and as mysterious as a Russell T Davies plot. There’s not a whole lot to do here – but there’s so much to see, and so much to pique your curiosity that you’ll spend the journey back Googling the area. Kids will love the sheer strangeness of it all, and it’s impossible to resist the childlike urge to climb and run and play. Few places so close to London feel like such an adventure; the journey can take less than two hours and, if you time it right, you can order the catch of the day for lunch from roadside hut the Snack Shack, which does the freshest fish, lobster rolls and ice-cold cans of San Pellegrino.

If you decide to stay over : You’ll have to venture out of Dungeness–try The Rose in Deal , a grown-up bolthole splashed with bold colors and covetable vintage finds.

The best day trip from London for : switching off How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo to Dorking takes 50 minutes.

Surrey’s proximity to London makes the journey a breeze–and it’s an especially astute pick if you’re likely to be coming with a car full of little ones. At Henry VIII’s home Hampton Court Palace, there are family-friendly events such as beast quests and ghost tours, as well as the famous giant hedge maze, where adventurous kids can lead the troops. In winter, an ice rink is set against the historic backdrop of the palace, a building whose grandiose architecture is shaped by both the Tudor and Baroque periods. If you’re escaping the city (and the kids), however, check in at Grayshott Health Spa, a traditional country home with cutting-edge treatments. Surrounded by 47 acres of flowering gardens, it’s a peaceful place to step back and take stock. Connect with nature at Kew, too, where the Royal Botanic Gardens are open to the public all year round. The winter light show is particularly mesmerizing, when the sun starts to sink earlier and earlier. Be sure to take cash for mince pies and mulled wine as you wander through the grounds. Having been awarded a Michelin star, Steve Drake’s restaurant Sorrel in Dorking (a market town with chocolate-box charm) is currently the county’s hottest restaurant with the most exciting ‘discovery menu’.

If you decide to stay over : Surrey is home to some of the best spas near London, such as Grayshott, where the Manor House rooms offer faded charm.

Hastings and St Leonards

The best day trip from London for:  old-school seaside charm How to get there from London:  The fast train from London St Pancras International takes 1 hour 32 minutes with a change at Ashford International

There’s almost too much to fit into a one-day visit to Hastings, especially if you want to pop over to the neighbouring town of St Leonards. Over the last few years, these two East Sussex enclaves have become a popular bolthole for burnt-out Londoners looking for a bohemian seaside escape. To see what all the fuss is about, head straight to explore Hasting’s quaint Old Town, a picturesque maze of streets sandwiched between two dramatic cliffs. Pedestrianised scenic George Street is where most of the action happens, with a thrum of cafés, shops and pubs, but it’s worth wandering the surrounding streets too. Seek out AG Hendy & Co on the High Street for well-curated vintage homewares and stop into The Crown for cozy pub grub made with excellent local produce. If you’re up for a wander, get the funicular up and walk along to the cliff to Fairlight Glen, a beautiful secluded beach where clothing is optional. Or if that sounds a bit much, stay in the Old Town and explore the dramatic black fisherman’s huts on Rock-A-Nore beach where there’s Hastings Contemporary art gallery, a tiny shipwreck museum, fresh seafood stalls and a very cute miniature railway. Next up, take the 40-minute amble along the beach past the pier to St Leonards and stop off for food at the fabulous seafront café, Goat Ledge. It’s worth the trip for their crispy panko fish baps and katsu curry sauce chips alone. Nearby, there are great independent shops selling everything from candles to kimonos on Norman Road and King’s Road where you can easily spend a few hours happily browsing and café hopping before settling into dinner at Michelin-recommended pub The Royal.  Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  Book into  The Old Rectory , a bijou  b&b  in Hasting’s Old Town with treatment rooms and a walled garden.

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Loving the Countryside: 5 Best Day Trips from London

London’s Best Day Trips

I’ve been lucky enough to see London several times throughout my life.

Each time I arrive with 10 things I can’t wait to see, and somehow each time I leave with a hundred things I’m sure I’ve missed – an appropriate compliment for a city as expansive, diverse, and entertaining as London.

Just as there is a country called France that exists outside Paris and plenty more to the States besides New York City, there’s plenty more to England than the crown jewel of London.

Whether you want to check out prehistoric monuments, pristine parks, or posh castles, there’s something to fit any vacation outside the capital so keep reading for the 5 best day trips from London!

1. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath

Few day trips from London, England can boast a heavy hitting lineup quite like this journey. Starting roughly 20 miles due east of the City of London, this tour begins at the stately Windsor Castle which, in addition to gorgeously befitting its royal residents, is the longest occupied castle in Europe.

From there you’ll take part in the obligatory series of Stonehenge day trips from London, finally getting the chance to examine the evidence for yourself – was there something supernatural at work, or was all that work really undertaken as mankind’s record for the most work-intensive method of regulating agriculture?

Mull it over among the Roman baths and Georgian architecture of Bath , where the tour makes a blissfully relaxing last stop before having you back in London – all within 11 hours!

Check tour availability here .

Lest New Yorkers consider themselves the center of civilization by being within 4 hours of cities like Philadelphia and Boston, let’s remember that the Eurostar connects London and Paris , the City of Lights itself, in under 2.5 hours.

Upon arrival, guests are treated to a star-studded coach tour of Paris with stops including the Champs-Élysées , Paris Opera House, and Louvre Museum . Afterward, the tour features a Seine River cruise past Notre Dame Cathedral and is punctuated by a champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower. Simply put, day trips from London to Paris are très magnifique!

Or, prefer to take a self guided day trip? It’s very straightforward to visit Paris from London on your own. Just check the London to Paris train schedule , book your rail tickets and off you go!

Book Paris train tickets

3. Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and Dover

Remember when you were growing up and read stories about princes who lived in towering castles surrounded by shimmering moats? Remember wishing that was real? Well, call me a genie because your wishes have been granted! (minus the princes).

That gorgeous castle is real, and its name is Leeds Castle , located in Kent, heart of the southern English countryside. On one of the top day trips from London, Viator offers a private Leeds Castle tour before the crowds swarm (perfect for Instagram!) followed by a visit to Canterbury Cathedral – a fairly recent newcomer to the cathedral scene, having been consecrated some 950 years ago – and the famous White Cliffs of Dover!

4. Lunch in the Cotswolds

When Cotswolds day trips from London visit towns with names like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, you know you’re preparing for overwhelming charm and beauty as you prepare to step back in time. That’s exactly what you get when you visit south-central England and the Cotswolds .

Known for their quaint row houses, rolling meadows, and limestone bridges that all tuck around the river Thames, the Cotswolds will make you yearn for a simpler time. Besides visits to the villages mentioned above, this day trip from London also features a shopping excursion to Burford’s famous high street and a traditional English lunch at a Cotswolds hotel. Fish and chips, anyone?

For more about visiting the Cotswolds , check out Emma’s trip!

5. Downton Abbey and Highclere Castle

Downtown Abbey fans, welcome to heaven. Consistently reviewed among the top day trips from London, this tour takes you straight away to Oxfordshire , principal filming location for the hit PBS series.

The first two stops feature a hot drink at Cogges Manor Farm and a visit to Bampton, which is the setting for Downton village. The trip culminates with an incredible tour of Highclere Castle, a stately sight for fans of the Dowager Countess of Graham and many other series regulars. Enjoy a guided tour of the Highclere estate and grounds (including the famed Secret Garden) before wrapping up with – of course – high tea!

Which London day trip would you want to do first?

Or, if you prefer the beach, you have to check out Brighton !

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This is a great list! I always suggest Stratford-upon-Avon as a great day trip from London. There’s loads of Shakespeare-focused things to see, as well as some beautiful traditional architecture. AND it’s only 1 hour 20 on the train!

Ooh great tip – Thanks for the suggestion! I always love traditional architecture

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Small group guided tours of England and the UK from London

Small groups.

#1 rated small group day tours from London. See the best of England with a family run company, and tour on a luxury bus with an expert guide. 

The Cotswolds, Oxford & Stratford upon Avon

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Make the most of your time in London with a guided tour of England’s must see destinations. Our bus tours take the back roads, with a great guide in a small group on our award winning day trips from London. Visit Stonehenge, Cotswolds, Oxford, Bath, Canterbury, Stratford-upon-Avon, Dover, Bruges & more. Don’t get lost in the crowd. Join The English Bus for the best tour experience.

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The cotswolds, oxford & stratford upon avon, canterbury, dover castle and cliffs & kent villages, a cotswolds village, bath and stonehenge, warner bros. studio tour london - the making of harry potter & oxford, winter solstice sunrise tour at stonehenge 2024, belgium – a day in beautiful bruges.

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" We already had high expectations for this tour, but the English Bus managed to exceed them. "Johny," our guide/driver, struck a perfect balance between professionalism and humor. The 'secret place' was the icing on the cake. " Christopher, Massachusetts, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

"Lilly was absolutely LOVELY! She was enthusiastic and humorous and very well-informed! The English Bus has mastered the day tour! Thank you Lilly for one of the best days of our vacation." Karen, San Diego, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

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The best weekend trips from London

We're having a heatwave and there's never been a better time to plan your next break from the city

London's teeming with stuff to do, but its endless array of museums, parks and attractions can lose their allure for even the most imaginative city dweller. So when that wanderlust hits (and you don't fancy booking a flight to Porto) here's where to go for an easy weekend away, full of the UK's best  restaurants , museums, shops, stunning scenery and hotels.

When you want to get out of London without any faff, look no further than these gorgeous getaways – from cosy rural retreats to proper city breaks.

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

RECOMMENDED: Stay nearer to home with  17 dreamy day trips close to London , or check out the very best  walks near London.

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Great weekend getaways from London

1.  Edinburgh

The Fringe in August is of course when the city comes into its own, but Edinburgh’s brimming with things to do and see during the other 11 months of the year. Climbing Arthur’s Seat is obligatory, as is trekking to Edinburgh Castle – then an evening picnic on the Meadows before hitting the dancefloor at small but legendary venue Sneaky Pete’s. Come bedtime, Rabble has gorgeous mid-century ‘rough-luxe’ rooms in the heart of the New Town, with a top-notch restaurant downstairs. While we’re on the subject of food: pop-up-turned-bricks-and-mortar-venture Ting Thai Caravan is well worth a visit to feast on street food to a soundtrack of, say, The Stooges. Still got itchy feet? Glasgow’s less than an hour away by train.

Get there  One hour and 20 minutes by plane; four hours 20 minutes by train from London King’s Cross; around eight hours by car.

2.  The Yorkshire Dales

It’s probably the UK’s most famous national park, and for good reason – the Dales has staggering good looks and drama in spades. A weekend gives you plenty of time to roam the vast Bolton Abbey Estate near Skipton and be wowed by the Ribblehead viaduct and the natural amphitheatre of Malham Cove (see if you can spot the pair of resident falcons). The Dales are heaven if you live to stuff yourself silly – it’s well worth touring the Wensleydale Creamery, home of the famous cheese, and nosing around Theakston’s brewery. Speaking of pints, The Black Bull near Sedbergh is in a class of its own, with a fantastic, modern kitchen. It's also an inn, so you can kill two birds with one stone and rest your head here after enjoying their finest food and drink. 

Get there: two hours 15 minutes by train from London King’s Cross to Leeds; around three hours 30 minutes by car.

3.  The Peak District

The Lake District’s slightly gentler cousin has loads to recommend it: pretty market towns like Bakewell (home of the tart!), miles of undulating hills and stately Chatsworth, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. If the weather’s fine you could spend a whole weekend exploring the Peak District National Park on foot or on two wheels (bikes can be found at Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire), stopping off at the likes of the Devonshire Arms at Beeley for real ale and venison pie. After all that yomping about you’ll want a comfy spot to lay your head, and The Peacock at Rowsley, a historic country house near Bakewell, the plush four-poster beds will do the job nicely.

Get there two and a half hours by train from London St Pancras; around three hours by car.

4.  Padstow

This pretty-as-a-picture port really is the cream of Cornish. It’s synonymous with everyone’s favourite seafood chef, Rick Stein – get to his fish-and-chip shop early to beat the queue. Or for a slightly less-trodden path, head to Prawn on the Lawn for the best shellfish you can stuff your mouth with. Mosey around the independent galleries and boutiques, before taking the Black Tor Ferry over the water to Rock for a pint at The Mariners, now co-run by chef Paul Ainsworth. Hire bikes and cycle the 18-mile Camel Trail to Bodmin, sign up for a lesson at Waves Surf School, or just take a kite for a spin on the beach. All that sea air means you’ll sleep like a log – book one of Georgian townhouse St Petroc’s cool, contemporary rooms, or a luxe tipi at Cornish Tipi Holidays if you have a car.

Get there  three hours 43 minutes by train from London Paddington to Bodmin Parkway, and a bus; around five hours 30 minutes by car. 

5.  The Cotswolds

Think of the English countryside and chances are you think of the Cotswolds: 750-odd ridiculously green and pleasant square miles straddling Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire. Each county has its own unique charm, but for a textbook weekend stick to Gloucestershire, land of Jilly Cooper, honey-coloured stone cottages and retired rock stars. Immerse yourself in nature: go leaf-peeping at Westonbirt Arboretum, take a clay pigeon-shooting lesson at the Cotswold Clay Club and coo over grazing cattle as you drive into Minchinhampton. Push the boat out with a stay at The Wild Rabbit in Kingham – a Pinterest board come to life – and don’t miss The Wheatsheaf Inn’s superlative Sunday roast.

Get there:  one hour 30 minutes by train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh; around two hours 30 minutes by car.

6.  The Gower Peninsula

It’s official: this south-westerly chunk of Wales is one of the UK’s best-looking spots (in 1956 it became the first area to be hailed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). It’s very close to Swansea but much of its coastline feels pleasingly remote – beaches like pebbly Pwll Du, for instance, are only accessible by foot. Explore ruined Pennard Castle and Three Cliffs Bay, and if the waves are beckoning you sign up for a lesson at Progress Surf School near Llangennith. For a meal to remember, The Beach House at Oxwich Bay has a Michelin star and stunning seafood, while Surfside Cafe on Caswell Bay has been hailed as one of Britain’s best beachfront eateries. Come bedtime, head for award-winning barn conversion Slade Barn, which has beautiful Scandi-style interiors and a surfing beach a five-minute walk away.

Get there four hours by car. 

7.  Winchester

It’s always had the looks, but Winchester never used to have that much in the way of personality. Suddenly, though, this handsome cathedral city has become Hampshire’s coolest corner. The food’s fantastic, for starters: you can breakfast on cruffins at Hoxton Bakehouse, settle in for craft brews and tacos at Overdraft, then tuck into a chilli beef burrito pie while flipping through a vintage comic at Piecaramba. Winchester’s the perfect base to explore the rest of Hampshire from, too: nose around Jane Austen’s house in Chawton and join a tour at Hambledon, the UK’s oldest vineyard. Accommodation-wise, you’ll get the VIP treatment at Hotel du Vin – or try gorgeous boutique B&B Hannah’s.

Get there  one hour by train from London Waterloo; one hour 45 minutes by car.

8.  Bristol

The West Country’s undisputed foodie capital, Bristol’s got it all. From cheesecake at Hart’s Bakery to modern British plates in a shipping container at Box-E, you could easily spend 48 hours here doing nothing but eating. And then there are the sourdough toasties with a side of Gallic charm at Bar Buvette and Poco’s internationally influenced tapas (don’t miss the merguez with buttered kale at brunch). Make time to visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the gorgeously restored lido and Stokes Croft’s street art – and don’t forget to sip some legendary Exhibition cider in The Coronation Tap (it’s so strong it only comes in halves). Bed down in former merchant’s house Number Thirty Eight, or at the utterly lush Bristol Harbour Hotel.

Get there  one hour and 38 minutes by train from London Paddington or if you’re watching your wallet National Express coaches run from Victoria for just £3.90 one way; around 2 hours 30 minutes by car. 

9.  Oxford

Those dreamy spires are just the start of Oxford’s charms. As well as being an ancient university city with history in every brick, it’s a young, thriving cultural hub with plenty of great places to eat and drink (The Varsity Club's where it's at if you're after cool rooftop vibes). Tick off the Ashmolean and the Pitt Rivers Museum, then wander through Port Meadow and the University Parks, stopping off for burgers at The Rickety Press. Shop till you drop in the Covered Market, make like Inspector Morse with a pint of Wychwood Hobgoblin at The White Horse on Broad Street (one of the show’s filming locations), then turn in at boutique B&B The Glove House in Woodstock – or bunk up in the Artist Residence, a sweetly chic pub with rooms just outside the city.

Get there  one hour by train from London Paddington; one hour 30 minutes by car. 

10.  North Norfolk

With its vast skies and meandering waterways, North Norfolk has an eerie beauty all of its own. Start off with a visit to see the seals at Blakeney Point (the pups arrive in the winter), then head to Cromer, where you can tuck into the famous crab at The Jetty, stroll down the pier and stock up on local preserves at the farm shop. Make time to chuff along the North Norfolk Railway from Sheringham to Holt, and see if you can book a tour of Voewood House, an arts-and-crafts masterpiece. After all that fresh air, bed down at The Chequers Inn in Thornham, a gastropub with luxe rooms in a building that dates back to 1499. Or for a splurge, head inland to The Gunton Arms, a plush inn set in a deer park with a magnificently meaty menu.

Get there: three hours 30 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street to Cromer, with changes; around three hours by car.

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Day trips from London

Britain packs a punch when it comes to the eclectic range of destinations within close proximity to London. Whether it’s experiencing the charm of the English countryside, breathing in the sea air, or walking in the footsteps of historic and literary greats, there’s plenty of opportunities to see Britain differently.

With the nation’s capital as your base, you can embark on a diverse choice of day trips from London. All have great transport links too, making it easy to discover the best of what each location has to offer.

VisitBritain

Brighton Beach

Explore Brighton’s beachfront with its iconic pier, colourful beach huts, the Artists’ Quarter galleries, independent traders and Sea Life aquarium. After dark, hit the clubs and bars beneath the Victorian beachfront for cocktails and dancing.

SUP Bristol

Looking for a different kind of sightseeing tour? On a paddleboard, you’ll witness the nature, beauty and relaxed pace of life on Bristol’s waterways and harbourside – and get a great workout too. This award-winning company offers group sessions every day of the week, as well as private classes, family bookings and tours further afield – to the likes of Pembrokeshire and The Gower, in Wales.

Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2022

Windsor Castle

Walk through 1,000 years of history at Windsor Castle, exploring its opulent state rooms and superb royal artefacts – such as the lavish gifts received by Queen Elizabeth throughout her reign.

Your ticket includes St George’s Chapel, where several royal couples have married.

Oxford Alumni Harry Potter Tour

Combine movie legends with fascinating history on this Harry Potter-themed walking tour, which visits key Oxford locations used in the ‘Philosopher’s Stone’ and ‘Goblet of Fire’ films. Every tour is hosted by Oxford University alumni or students, so you’ll also learn all about life in this world-famous academic institution and beautiful city – a treat for both wizards and muggles!

VisitBritain/Jon Attenborough

Cambridge University – The Theory of Everything

In the Theory of Everything film, St John’s College doubled as Trinity Hall, where Professor Stephen Hawking studied. See where the May Ball scene was filmed on the lawn outside the New Court Building, in which staunch atheist Hawking falls in love with devout Christian Jane Wilde.

rockin.goodtimes

The Shell Grotto

Decorated with an incredible 4.6 million shells, this spectacular underground hideaway has to be seen to be believed. It was discovered by accident in 1835, and nobody knows its origins. Was it a temple? A rich person’s folly? Enter the tunnels and decide for yourself.

Top day trips from London

London is an ideal base for a British adventure, with a wealth of unique day trips on the doorstep. With numerous rail hubs in the city, these day trips from London range from approximately 25 to 100 miles (40km-160km), are easy to get to by car if you’re hiring one, or take between 30 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes by train.

The city of Cambridge is a hotbed of history, architecture and innovation.

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Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires.

VisitBritain/Jess Barfield

Lovers of The Crown can wrap themselves in royalty as this town is about as regal as it gets.

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

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From ice-cream parlours to sea food festivals, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.

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A perfect blend of nature and urban living. Colchester, Essex, was made to be explored.

Indre @Colchesterstreets

A wellness retreat for the Romans and Georgian architecture around every corner.

Top destinations

Getting here: Around 50 mins by train from London King’s Cross station, or around 1 hour 20 minutes from London Liverpool Street station. Or 60 miles (96km) from London by car (1 hour 30 minutes).

Cambridge is known for its iconic University, where the late Professor Sir Stephen Hawking studied. Some of the city’s highlights include the University’s Botanic Garden, eclectic street food at Market Square, and leisurely punts along the River Cam.

Getting here: Around 40 minutes by train from London Paddington station or around 1 hour from London Waterloo station. Or 27 miles (43km) from London by car (1 hour).

For a taste of Royal Britain, head to Windsor. One of the most famous landmarks is Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world and an official residence of King Charles III. The charming town is packed with half-timbered houses and quaint shops, while Windsor Great Park has something for all ages. Eton College, just across the River Thames, can be toured and also boasts notable alumni including George Orwell and Prince William.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Getting here: Around 50 mins by train from London Paddington station, or 60 miles (96km) from London by car (1 hour 45 minutes).

With history at every turn, you can be in the heart of Oxford’s cobbled lanes and canals in no time. A tour of Britain’s oldest university is a must, while Harry Potter fans can spot famous landmarks which featured in several of the movies. From modern art to history-filled museums, look out for the Bodleian Library on this unmissable day trip.

Bodleian Libraries/Stu Heppell

Getting here: Around 1 hour 30 minutes by train from London Paddington station, or 118 miles (190km) from London by car (2 hour 20 minutes).

Bristol, a mecca for street art and the birthplace of Banksy, is a cultural and artistic hub with plenty to offer for all tastes. Highlights include surfing at The Wave, delicious eats at the historic St Nicholas Market, and numerous artistic tours and workshops. With multiple museums, craft beers to taste, paddle boarding on Bristol’s waterways and more, you’ll be spoilt for choice on things to do.

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Getting here: Around 50 minutes from London St Pancras station by train, or around 1 hour 30 minutes from London Victoria station. Or 60 miles (97km) from London by car (1 hour 30 minutes).

There’s more than one tale to discover in Canterbury. Where pilgrims walked and Romans ruled, this city that is home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites has never stood still in the face of time. Wake up under the shadows of towering cathedral spires with a stay in the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge or pick up an ale at Canterbury’s 14th century pub. With history to uncover, a river punt to see the sights and several nearby vineyards too, Canterbury is calling you.

VisitBritain/Raul Caramizaru

Getting here: Around a 1 hour journey by train from London Liverpool Street, or 67 miles (108km) from London by car (1 hour 40 minutes).

A blissful blend of nature and urban living, Britain’s oldest city was made to explored. Step back in time and uncover the hidden secrets of Europe’s largest Norman Keep, prisons and vaults. A journey out to neighbouring Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty connects you to the environment, with foraging walks or cycling adventures on offer. From local flavours to contemporary art, and plenty of history, now’s the time to unlock the stories of Colchester that span over 2000 years.

Colchester City Council

Seaside day trips from London

Getting here: Around 1 hour 30 minutes by train from London St Pancras, London Victoria or Charing Cross stations. Or 75 miles (121km) from London by car (2 hours).

Found to the south east of London on Kent’s northern coast, Margate’s sandy beach and seafront provide a taste of traditional seaside Britain. The revived Old Town is awash with cafes, retro shops and vibrant independent stores, as well as eclectic art and tasty food from pop up stalls. Discover the region’s artistic past at the Turner Contemporary gallery, or be immersed in the mysteries of the Shell Grotto, a captivating subterranean complex first discovered in 1835. From sea front hotels to cosy bed and breakfast options, Margate also has a broad range of places to stay if you fancy more than a day trip.

Getting here: Around 60 minutes by train from London Victoria, London Bridge, Blackfriars or London St Pancras stations. 0r 60 miles (96km) from London by car (2 hours).

Eccentric and trendy, head south to Brighton for its boho shopping streets and for a taste of traditional fish and chips on the beach. Try adrenaline-fuelled roller coasters on Brighton Pier, be immersed in the city’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ scene, or climb to the top of the Brighton i360 observation tower for breathtaking views. Marvel at the architecture of the Royal Pavilion, and absorb the charm of this British seaside resort.  Choose from a wide range of accommodation options if you want to spend more than a day here too.

Getting here: Around 1 hour 30 minutes by train from London Victoria, or 75 miles (120km) from London by car (2 hours).

Eastbourne, on England’s southern coast, mixes history and culture with striking outdoor landscapes. Explore the town’s wealth of independent shops in Little Chelsea, browse contemporary art at Towner Eastbourne, the south-east’s largest purpose-built gallery, and sample fish and chips on the town’s Victorian pier for lunch. For something a little more adventurous, venture out onto the water for kayaking or paddle boarding. Eastbourne also boasts vast green spaces for scenic coastal hikes, where you can admire the chalky white cliffs of Seven Sisters and the luscious Seven Sisters Country Park. Great as a day trip, there’s also an array of seafront hotels and guest houses if you fancy an extended stay.

Around 1 hour 30 minutes by train from London Bridge, or 70 miles (113km) from London by car (1 hour 50 minutes).

Steeped in history, Hastings has a rich fishing heritage and is home to Britain’s steepest funicular railway, offering stunning views across the English Channel. While the town gives its name to one of the most significant battles in British history in 1066, explore the historic conflict’s actual location a few miles to the north at Battle Abbey. Hastings Pier offers modern amusements and seaside views, while the Shipwreck Museum reveals rare artefacts from sunken vessels. Browse an eclectic mix of exhibitions and modern art at Hastings Contemporary, or head into nature at the Hastings Country Park Local Nature Reserve. If you’re keen to spend more than a day here, Hastings has a range of accommodation options for all budgets too.

Southampton

Getting here: Around 1 hour 20 minutes by train from London Waterloo station, or 80 miles (129km) from London by car (2 hours).

A catalyst for creatives, Southampton shines bright with artsy vibes, exhilarating watersports and relaxing boat trips. Discover contemporary galleries or indulge in luxury at the Ocean Village Marina. Or out on the water, pick up a paddle for a unique way to see the city. From clambering up the Clock Tower to tucking into seafood delights, uncover the bounties of this coastal city. Opt to spend longer here and look to Southampton’s abundance of places to stay , with waterfront views, city centre hotels and rural escapes all on offer.

Getting here: Around 1 hour 30 minutes by train from London Waterloo station, or 77 miles (124km) from London by car (2 hours).

Whether its for a slice of history, nature or film, Portsmouth is a melting pot of what makes Britain brilliant. A star of the screen, look to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard for scenes from Les Misérables alongside maritime history in its museums, galleries, and ships. Take your tea quite literally higher, with an afternoon tea at the tip of the Spinnaker Tower. Or for those that dare, up the antics with an abseil 100m down the iconic building. Choose to extend your stay and have your pick of hotels , guest houses and campsites with budget friendly options too.

Looking further afield

If you’re willing to travel slightly further, all of these locations are accessible via train from London in under three hours.

World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

VisitBritain/Manchester Craft Beer Festival

A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

Steeped in legends that surround Robin Hood to literary greats, discover what this city has to offer.

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An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

West Midlands Growth Company

Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

Lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers - the Cotswolds has it all.

Cotswolds, England

From a Medieval monarch found under a car park to the city’s celebration of multicultural modern life, Leicester has it all. See the top things to do here.

Visit Leicester

Leicester, England

Known as the City of Stories, create your own narrative as you explore Norwich’s huge array of historic and modern day attractions.

Visit Norwich/Norwich Paddleboarding

Norwich, England

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12 Beautiful English Countryside Getaways to Enjoy in 2024

Sometime’s I become so preoccupied with exploring the world that I forget about all the beautiful English Countryside getaway locations right on my doorstep.

The English countryside is often, sadly, overlooked. Visitors from abroad flock to London , stay a few days before moving onto the rest of Europe. But they are missing the best bit!

Whilst England is famed for its pretty countryside with rolling hills, forests and rivers, the charming villages themselves are well worth a visit. There is so much history in England and old buildings, castles and churches galore to reflect this.

The English are notoriously a friendly bunch with a cracking dry sense of humour (if a little eccentric at times…)

Ok, full disclosure; I am English though living in Wales so I may be a tad biased when I tell you the English are the most friendly people worldwide. I’m sure there are some facts out there somewhere to back me up..?!

My favourite thing about an English countryside getaway is the multitude of cafes for afternoon tea, the beautiful walks and spending evenings in a cosy old pub, warming myself by a roaring fire and tucking into some hearty pub food.

So if I’ve convinced you to explore beyond London next time, here are 12 beautiful English Countryside getaways suggested by travel bloggers to inspire your trip to rural England!

But first one of my own favourite places…

** Pssst, this article may contain affiliate links. If you have no idea what this means, click here and everything will be explained!**

What you can expect from this article...

• 1 English Countryside Getaway to Monmouth
• 2 English Countryside Getaway to The Lake District
• 3 English Countryside Getaway to Exmoor
• 4 English Countryside Getaways in The New Forest
• 5 English Countryside Getaway to Hambledon in Hampshire
• 6 English Countryside Getaway to Wensleydale in The Yorkshire Dales
• 7 English Countryside Getaway to Lacock, Wiltshire
• 8 English Countryside Getaways in Northumberland, North England
• 9 English Countryside Getaways to The South Downs
• 10 English Countryside Getaways to Teesdale, The North Pennines
• 11 English Countryside Getaways to The Cotswolds
• 12 English Countryside Getaways to The Peak District

English Countryside Getaway to Monmouth

Well, you could argue that this is a Welsh countryside getaway as in truth, Monmouth borders both England and Wales. It’s the town where I grew up and recently I heard it was Britains happiest town according to Capitol radio!

It’s no wonder why really. Monmouth is one of those places where community spirit is really strong. There’s always so much going on whether that be a free music festival or a country fair. The pubs are always bustling and lively and there are plenty of cafes for a cream tea or two.

Monmouth is also home to the only remaining fortified medieval bridge in the UK making it a popular place for history buffs to visit. Read more about Monmouth in my  Monmouth Visitors Guide .

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• Get a free £25 Airbnb coupon

Over to the other bloggers…

English Countryside Getaway to The Lake District

By Kathi Kamleitner

English Countryside Getaway to Exmoor

By Suzanne Easton

Exmoor is located on the border of Somerset and Devon and is one of the smaller National Parks in England.

It is a beautiful area to explore with deep wooded valleys, streams and high moorland.  It was used as the inspiration for the Lorna Doone book by RD Blackmoore and still has a romantic wilderness feel.

Exmoor reaches the coast with the seaside town of Minehead being on the boundary of the national park, perfect for a beach walk or supplies before heading away from the town.

One of our favourite places is Tarr Steps.  An ancient clapper bridge with beautiful walks and wild swimming in the river during the summer months.  Nearby is Liscombe Farm with gorgeous dairy ice cream from the cows that you see grazing near the river.

Exmoor is also known for its deer rut.  High on the moorland in the autumn months, the stags collect their hinds and congregate showing great displays of their strength, fighting other stags and generally being aggressive and loud.

Staying on Exmoor is really special as it has Dark Skies status and the stars really do shine on the moors at night.  We love the Dunkery Beacon Hotel , indulgence but worth every penny.

English Countryside Getaways in The New Forest

English countryside getaway to hambledon in hampshire.

By Kelly Mongan

With its stunning vineyard and charming village pub, there’s no better place for a weekend away than Hambledon.

Located in Hampshire, this town is often referred to as “the cradle of cricket”, since it is where the modern cricket rules were first played (head to the Bat & Ball pub if you’re a cricket fan!).

Hambledon is located in South Downs National Park and therefore offers stunning countryside walks, through the vineyard and cabbage fields, or even up Butser Hill.

It’s also a Dark Sky zone, meaning you’ll be treated to the most wonderful view of the stars at night.

If you want to truly experience the English countryside, there is no better place to stay than Wriggly Tin Shepherds Huts . Wriggly Tin offers glamping in its finest form and is just a ten-minute walk from Hambledon Vineyard.

At the vineyard, it’s possible to do a tour and taste their award-winning sparkling wine.

If you’re looking to explore more of the area, Winchester is an easy day trip, as is Arundel Castle. Or, for walking/cycling trips, you have the whole of South Downs National Park at your disposal!

English Countryside Getaway to Wensleydale in The Yorkshire Dales

By Sarah Poitras

This summer, we spent four days in the Yorkshire Dales for our first English countryside getaway. We based ourselves in Wensleydale for our Yorkshire Dales holiday .

If you like walking, Wensleydale is a great place to visit in the English countryside. You’ll be treated to rolling green hills, picturesque stone fences, and of course tons of sheep. And it’s a great place for people of all abilities as there are many different walks of varying difficulty levels.

There are also castles! We particularly enjoyed our visit to Bolton Castle, which is quite well preserved and has beautiful grounds to explore. It would also make for a good family outing (we saw a lot of kids enjoying themselves).

We based ourselves in two towns, Hawes and Masham, for their locations and for their local culinary delights. Hawes is home to Wensleydale Creamery which makes truly delicious cheese. And Masham has not one but two local breweries: Theakston Brewery and Black Sheep Brewery.

In Hawes, we stayed at Spring Bank House , a traditional B&B, and in Masham, we stayed at The Bay Horse , a traditional pub. Both served tasty and hearty breakfasts and had friendly and helpful owners. We would highly recommend both if you’re looking for places to stay in Wensleydale.

Read More | The ultimate Yorkshire bucket list

English Countryside Getaway to Lacock, Wiltshire

By Chandrima Chakraborty

If you’re looking for some beautiful English countryside getaways, the village of Lacock definitely needs to be on your list.

Located in the English county of Wiltshire (around 30 minutes from the city of Bath by car), this little village will transport you back in time, to almost 200 years ago. It’s maintained entirely by the National Trust. And mind you, it’s not a museum. It’s very much a functioning village.

Take a stroll down its many alleys and admire the cute traditional cottages in the village. There’s also an old tithe barn, church, and workhouse.

Here you can see the honour system still in use. Residents lay out their homemade jams, marmalades, buns, and scones outside their homes – unguarded and unsupervised. You’re expected to take what you want and leave the payment right there.

If you feel hungry, stop for a bite at one of its cute little bakeries or cafes. Also, don’t forget to check out the Fox Talbot Museum and the Lacock Abbey (especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan).

The village has also been a filming location for many popular movies and TV shows including Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, and BBC’s Pride and Prejudice.

Lacock can easily be covered on a day trip from London . You might even want to combine it with a visit to Bath and Stonehenge like we did.

English Countryside Getaways in Northumberland, North England

English countryside getaways to the south downs.

Picture proper English countryside and there’s a good chance you think of bright yellow flowering fields, rolling green hills and winding tracks. That’s the South Downs.

This enormous Sussex and Hampshire national park is a prime picnicking spot, with great cycling and walking – and all just 20 minutes from the bustle of Brighton and Hove.

Come for the next eclipse or to stargaze (it’s a Dark Sky Park) or pop over on a sunny day to soak up the country air and get away from it all. Spotting wildlife will have you keen to stay and there’s a cracking pub, The Devils Dyke, where you can refuel with good food and drink.

For day trips, you shouldn’t miss exploring colourful spots on the South Coast like Brighton , Eastbourne and Worthing, which will also offer great hotels. The Courtlands Hotel in Hove is a great option for those looking to splash out, while The Brighton Breeze Hotel is somewhere budget that I have stayed and can recommend.

English Countryside Getaways to Teesdale, The North Pennines

By Sarah Carter

Getaway to the little known Teesdale – part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The River Tees flows down through the dale, providing stunning waterfalls at Cauldron Snout, High Force and Low Force, with spectacular and easy walks along her banks.

The gateway to this glorious dale is the market town of Barnard Castle, named after the castle of the same name which was built in the 12 th century. Famous visitors to the town have included author Charles Dickens and landscape painter JMW Turner.

Here you’ll find great places to stay, including the friendly and welcoming 17 th century Old Well Inn , which backs onto the castle walls.

There are other fabulous cosy pubs and the magnificent Bowes Museum which boasts links to the Queen Mother. Explore the famous Butter Market or Market Cross, now serving as a beleaguered traffic island, but which was once the town jail!

There are great walks – a short 6km round trip takes you between the two main waterfalls further up the dale from Low Force to High Force and back. This is a stunning area of England in which to take a break, no matter what the time of year!

English Countryside Getaways to The Cotswolds

By Emily Cole

The Cotswolds is full of fantastic countryside; think thatched, honey coloured cottages nestling in the hollows of gently rolling hills, perfect for country walks.

There’s something for everyone in the Cotswolds. The most famous villages are Castle Combe, Bibury and Bourton on the Water, which are usually voted among the prettiest villages in the UK.

The Cotswold Way runs for 100 miles along the top of the hills linking Chipping Campden in the north of the region to Bath in the south.  Any section of this walk gives fantastic views and access to quaint towns.  Broadway Tower is a highlight along the route.

You can also discover a wealth of history in the region.  Sudeley Castle is a former royal palace and lies half in ruins, half still lived-in stately home.  Blenheim Palace is on the edge of the Cotswolds and is one of the most fantastic buildings in the UK. Cogges Manor Farm is a historic farm which was used in the filming of Downton Abbey.

There are numerous places to stay in the Cotswolds, although choosing a central location such as Barnsley House near Cirencester will allow you to get to both the north and south of the Cotswolds in less than an hour.

The Cotswolds are only a couple of hours away from London, making the region a perfect weekend getaway.

English Countryside Getaways to The Peak District

Just about an hour outside of Manchester lies the Peak District, a landscape like no other in Britain.

You will find rolling hills, moorland plateaus, and steep-sided deep dales. When you pair the amazing landscape with quaint villages housing amazing places to eat and drink, market towns, and historic houses, you are bound to have a vacation like no other.

Many people visiting the Peak District enjoy going out for a day hike that ends with a proper meal and ale at one of the many historic pubs you will find along the way.

Besides just hiking, you can go spelunking in a cavern, cycle the windy roads or even take a cable car up the famous Heights of Abraham.

If you don’t quite fancy the outdoor activities, there are plenty of villages to stop over and shop till you drop.

There are also plenty of charming bed and breakfasts to choose from if you would like to stay the night. While we were visiting we found a quaint little Airbnb to stay at where we were able to cook a full English fry up in the morning!

With everything the Peak District has to offer, it is definitely a must for anyone looking to visit a charming English countryside!

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19 Of The Best Day Trips From London, From The Countryside To The Coast

Get out of the city, ASAP, to destinations like Margate, the South Downs and Oxford.

Samuel Johnson once said that ‘when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life’. But we’re pretty sure he might have changed his mind about that if he’d had to live through endless Zoom parties and weekly Deliveroos to east London during lockdown.

As lockdown restrictions begin to ease in England as we head into spring and summer, exploring the sights of the UK has never been more appealing. And with global air pollution down during lockdown and more of us now inclined to enjoy staycations and day trips in the UK instead of hopping on a short-haul flight more than ever before, we can't think of anything better than hopping in a car with our lockdown bubble or on the train to reduce our carbon footprint and enjoy what's on our doorstep in the UK.

From fish and chips at the seaside to punting along some of the country’s most picturesque rivers, the island offers travellers some of the best day trips.

Here is a list of the best day trips from London:

South Downs

A range of chalk hills that extend for a whopping 260 square miles across the south-eastern coastal counties of England from Hampshire to East Sussex, the South Downs are a must-see when considering a day trip out of the Big Smoke.

There are several ways to explore the Downs but we suggest doing so by foot on the Seven Sisters route which covers approximately 3.7 miles (2 hours) and overlooks the sea.

Distance from London : 61.4 miles

How to get there : London Waterloo to Petersfield via train (1hr 3mins)

If you’ve visited Margate and Brighton more times than you can count then it’s time you packed up your rucksack and headed down to Deal for the day. A Kent coastal town often dubbed ‘Margate’s little sister’, Deal is a quieter seaside spot full of shops, galleries and eateries, and even hosts a market on a Saturday which delivers delectable food offerings.

During your visit, make sure to check out Deal Castle, the Taylor-Jones and Son gallery and Hut 55 on the beach, where they sell coffee beans locally roasted in nearby Hoath, cakes and sandwiches.

Distance from London : 82 miles

How to get there : London St Pancras International to Deal (1 hour 40 mins).

Derived from the the Old English ‘hlaews’, meaning ‘hills’ or ‘mounds’, Lewes is one of our favourite spots in Sussex.

With its steep streets, adorable cafés along, Lewes Castle, Harvey’s brewery and pubs like The Lewes Arms and Lamb of Lewes, you can’t go wrong with a day trip to this sweet town. Better yet, the shopping is phenomenal .

We recommend heading to The Fifteenth Century Bookshop, a Harry Potter -esque building with a swinging sign, Silverado jewellery shop and the pièce-de-résistance – Lewes Flea Market. After just one trip here we came away with a handful of trinkets, homeware and vintage clothing for bargain prices.

Come Bonfire Night, Lewes celebrates one of the biggest events in the world, with a procession through the streets involving 17 burning crosses to represent the 17 Lewes Martyrs.

Distance from London : 69 miles

How to get there : London Victoria to Lewes (1 hour 2 mins).

The Suffolk seaside town has plenty to offer those needing some rest and relaxation away from London. While most people will tell you to visit The Red House (the former home of composer Benjamin Britten) in Aldeburgh, we advise treading a less frequented path.

Pay a visit to the Aldeburgh Cinema, an old-fashioned picture house that’s been screening films since 1919, the four-metre high steel scallop on the beach and the boating lake, Thorpeness Meare.

The best fish and chips will be found at Aldeburgh fish and chips (we suggest the haddock) and ice cream at Harris & James Store. What are you waiting for?

Distance from London : 109.3 miles

How to get there : London Liverpool Street to Saxmundham to Alderburgh via train (2hr 45mins).

Located in Hertfordshire just north of London lies Hertford, a beautiful market town with castles, Georgian townhouses and pink-hued cottages. Dating back to Saxon times, the town is a perfect pitstop during a day out from London if you enjoy exploring England’s history and wandering around 15th century castle grounds.

For more sporty types, you can even cycle from London along the River Lea towpath to Hertford and stop off at several of its local shops along the way or cosy pubs such as the nearby The Alford Arms in Frithsden just down the road.

Distance from London : 30 miles

How to get there : London Liverpool Street to Hertford East via train (50 mins).

Surrey Hills

The hills are alive with spectacular sights south of London.

With more than 60 incredible areas to explore in the Surrey Hills, from The Gibbet and the Devil’s Punchbowl to Leith Tower and Frensham Ponds, we’re seriously impressed by the expanse of this area, which covers one quarter of Surrey.

Take a flask of tea and a picnic and make your way across what is known as the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the summit at Leigh Hill.

Distance from London : 25.6 miles

How to get there : London to Surrey Hills on the A3 in the car ( 1hr 18mins).

A perfect day at the seaside in Whitstable starts with a coffee at the Scandi-chic café Blueprint followed by a walk along the pebble beach where you can skim stones and take a dip.

We recommend planning lunch early, picking up some local seafood at the Lobster Shack (a former oyster-grading house) and shopping along Harbour Street and in Herne Bay for everything from bags and hats to beadwork and vinyl records.

There’s also the Whitstable Coastal Trail (five miles) which starts at Whitstable Harbour and ends at Herne Bay Pier which is ideal for those wanting to walk off their lunch in the sunshine.

Distance from London : 59.7 miles

How to get there : London St Pancras International to Whitsable via train (1hr 14mins).

A real life Hogwarts, Cambridge is a magical city (get it?) filled with Gothic architecture, university students and bicycles galore.

We suggest organising a visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum, and tours of King’s College Chapel and the Cambridge University Botanic Garden.

After a punt along the River Cam, head to The Punter pub along the ‘Backs’ of several of the university colleges’ for a delicious plate of fish and chips before making your way to Grantchester for a dessert of scones at The Orchard Tea Gardens.

Distance from London : 64 miles

How to get there : London Liverpool Street to Cambridge via train (1hr 23mins).

Stratford-upon-Avon

Most famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Straford-upon-Avon has long been regarded as one of the most beautiful and historically-rich spots in the UK.

Located in Warwickshire along the banks of the river Avon, the city it home to the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre, Anne Hathaway’s cottage (the former home of Shakespeare’s wife) and the Holy Trinity Church where the playwright is buried.

For a special treat, book a table at Salt or No 9 Church Street for some outstanding food and head down to Vinology and Paxton & Whitfield to source some of England's finest wine and cheese, respectively.

How to get there : London Marylebone to Statford-Upon-Avon via train (1hr 58mins).

If you’re heading out of London any time soon, make sure to add Chichester to your list of ‘must-visit locations’.

A small and quaint city, famous for its Roman history and location in the dukedom of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Chichester is home to a unique cathedral with England’s only campanile.

It also boasts the largest Roman residence at Fishbourne Roman Palace, the estate of Goodwood House, the luscious lawns of the West Dean Gardens and a harbour which is perfect for sailing aficionados.

When it comes to food and drink, make your way down to St Martin’s Organic Coffee House for some healthy grub and the Crab and Lobster pub at Sidlesham for some lip-smacking traditional English and Mediterranean cuisine.

Distance from London : 81.4 miles

How to get there : London Victoria to Chichester via train (1hr 31mins).

Head out of London to Kent today and you’ll find Caterbury – a cathedral city and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you’re into your history and architecture, make sure to walk around the city to see the 6th Century ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey, The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, Westgate Towers (which is one of the main gates to the city and almost 640 years old) and, of course, a wander through the Norman-era cathedral.

The city also has some adorable cafes like Café St Pierre and Tiny Tim’s Tearoom and we suggest booking a table for gin cocktails at Bramleys Bar .

Distance from London : 54 miles

How to get there : London to Canterbury via train (1hr 29mins).

A seaside town in Kent, Margate is a popular tourist destination for day-trippers from London in search of sand and sunshine. You can be walking along its beach from now in around the same time as it would take you to watch an episode on Netflix.

While there, we implore you to visit the Turner Contemporary gallery, named after artist JMW Turner, the amusement park Dreamland, the Winter Gardens and The Shell Grotto – a bizarre 70 ft of winding passages decorated with 4.6 million shells.

Full of bustling cafes, retro shops and artists, Margate is Kent’s version of Shoreditch but with a sea breeze.

Distance from London : 81.6 miles

How to get there : London St Pancras International to Margate via train (1hr 27mins).

Mersea Island

This little-known estuary island in Essex has everything to offer day-trippers in search of food, sunshine and coastline.

Book a table at the West Mersea Oyster Bar, Mehalah's at Oysters & Ale or the ever-popular Company Shed for some seriously tasty shellfish and fish and chips. Then take a boat trip with Lady Grace Boat Trips around the bay to see the 19th-century oyster-packing sheds.

Cudmore Grove Country Park makes a perfect picnic pitstop, which conveniently slopes down onto the beach. There’s also a spot where you can sip on locally-made beers and wine so we suggest booking yourself on a tour at the Mersea Island Vineyard and Brewery.

Booze and beach – what more could you want from a day trip?

Distance from London : 50 miles

How to get there : London to Mersea Island via ca via A12 i in the car (1hr 51 min).

The New Forest

Located in Hampshire, the Forest is one of the largest remaining tracts of unenclosed pasture land in the south of England and was once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror.

Covering an area of approximately 566 square kilometres, it’s the best place to spot deer, ponies and cattle in the woodland while on a walk, cycle or horse ride.

There are also several tea rooms and traditional pubs, as well as restaurants in the coastal town of Lymington (we suggest booking a table at the Lanes of Lymington).

How to get there : London to The New Forest via M3 in the car (1hr 41mins).

Popping in for a cuppa with Queen Elizabeth might not go down well in Windsor, but a day trip to the southeast of England town certainly won’t go a miss (or get you arrested).

Home to Windsor Castle, a famous residence of the British Royal Family, which was built by William The Conqueror in the 11th century, Windsor has become increasingly popular over the years following Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ’s royal wedding at St George’s Chapel in 2018.

Royal fans are advised to pay a visit to Frogmore House (the location of the couple’s wedding reception and burial grounds for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert) as well as taking taking a stroll down the Long Walk - a historic three mile avenue from Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse Statue.

Distance from London : 24.6 miles

How to get there : London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central via train (22mins).

Much like Cambridge, this city’s university history lies at the heart of its popularity.

With its impressive medieval architecture, it’s no wonder its nickname is ‘The City of Dreaming Spires’. We suggest starting the day with a spot of sight seeing, exploring the famous Bodelleian library, the Radcliffe Camera and the Oxford Botanic Garden.

A spot of lunch at the Eagle and Child pub (a popular hangout for Tolkien and CS Lewis back in the day) or a pub lunch at The Perch located along the history common stretching from Jericho to Wolvercote is a must.

Additionally, fans of Harry Potter , Lewis and ghosts would do well to book onto one of the city’s famous walking tours.

Distance from London : 56.3 miles

How to get there : London Paddington to Oxford via train (53 mins).

Famous for its ancient Roman Baths, there’s plenty to do in this adorable city for the day.

A visit to the Thermae Bath Spa (the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain) is a must, as well as a walk around the Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, the Holbourne Museum and the incredible range of speakeasy bars located in the vaults underneath the city.

There are also plenty of spots to dip your toe into open water swimming at the likes of Vobster Quay, Tarr Steps Nature Reserve and Claverton Weir.

Distance from London : 114.7 miles

How to get there : London Paddington to Bath Spa via train (1hr 21mins)

Famous for its bustling nightlife, arts scene, shopping and festivals, we couldn’t think of a better and more famous seaside resort town to escape to from the city.

With amusement arcades, jewellery shops lining The Lanes and regency-era buildings, there’s plenty on offer at this beach spot, in addition to its pebble-shoreline where it’d be rude not to take a dip or tuck into a bag of fish and chips.

A popular commuter spot, its proximity to London makes it even more appealing for those in need of a bit of sea-breeze and an escape from the Old Smoke for the day at a moment's notice.

Distance from London : 47 miles

How to get there : London Victoria to Brighton via train (1hr).

Hargate Forest

Located near Tunbridge Wells, the Forest is an ancient woodland that was once part of one of the medieval forests of the Sussex High Weald.

Fallow and roe deer inhabit the area making it the perfect place to stretch your legs and feel at one with nature.

A series of footpaths cross through the area, our favourite being the Medway Upstream (5.3km) and the more adventurous Bigborough Run (12.7km).

Distance from London : 45.8 miles.

How to get there : London to Hargate Forest via the A2 in the car (1hr 38 min).

To discover more about the Volvo Smart XC60 Recharge and its sustainable credentials, visit volvocars.co.uk

Katie O'Malley is the Site Director on ELLE UK. On a daily basis you’ll find Katie managing all digital workflow, editing site, video and newsletter content, liaising with commercial and sales teams on new partnerships and deals (eg Nike, Tiffany & Co., Cartier etc), implementing new digital strategies and compiling in-depth data traffic, SEO and ecomm reports. In addition to appearing on the radio and on TV, as well as interviewing everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Rishi Sunak PM, Katie enjoys writing about lifestyle, culture, wellness, fitness, fashion, and more. 

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English Countryside: Where to Go and What to See

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Looking for the best English countryside? Having lived in England all my life, these are my favourite countryside spots and beautiful places to visit.

England is a wonderful country with so many different landscapes to explore. But you don’t have to travel to places like the Lake District to find gorgeous countryside in England. You can find it all over the country.

But it’s not just walking in the woodland that you can do in the English countryside. There are also historic sites, scenic cliff trails, delicious food at country pubs, and quaint villages brimming with charm.

If you are looking for an escape from city life or just want to experience something new, then this article will give you all the information you need to know about what makes the beautiful British countryside so wonderful. It’s also why I sometimes prefer staying in England to travelling abroad.

My favourite Travel resources for the UK

✅ Book cheap flights and accommodation with Booking.com ✅ Don’t forget your travel insurance ✅ Stay connected with this eSim

Where is The Most Beautiful Countryside in England?

It’s all around the country. You can find beautiful countryside in England everywhere. From Cornwall to Cambridgeshire , there is stunning scenery across all four of England’s corners .

How To Get to The English Countryside

You also don’t have to travel far from the large cities to reach some greenery. In most cases, you can get to the English countryside within a couple of hours, and there are great public transport links too .

The train travels from London to Edinburgh , branches out to all major cities, and stops at plenty of other towns and villages in between.

The bus links are pretty good too, although they’re slightly slower. They’ll also likely drop you off at a more central location and you’ll be able to reach more remote destinations than the trains.

The Most Beautiful Countryside Getaways in England

So, what is the most beautiful English countryside? These are a few top picks for a little slice of remote England.

1. The Lake District

If you’re looking for mountains, lakes, and beautiful scenery all in one place then this is the ideal destination. The most popular part of the Lake District includes places like Keswick, Windermere, Ambleside, and Grasmere.

The whole of the Lake District was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. After visiting this natural beauty, you really won’t be surprised that it’s considered one of England’s greatest treasures. 

You’ll find rolling landscapes, sweeping lakes, and picturesque villages. It’s the perfect place to get away and surround yourself with breathtaking scenery instead of a busy office building!

What to do there:

The Lake District is most famous for its breathtaking hikes , cycling trails, and outdoor activities. If you love to keep active, then you’ll have no shortage of things to do. You can go for a leisurely stroll or walk around one of the District’s beautiful lakes.

Also, take in the views and explore nearby villages, hike up England’s highest peak, or cycle through valleys with hills on either side. There is so much to do here and so much beauty.

Where to stay:

If you want to stay overnight, there are plenty of hotels and B&Bs in the Lake District. You’ll find most bookings will be made months in advance, so be sure to book early. A few top hotels are the Beech Hill Hotel and Spa and The Wild Boar.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Lake District

2. Cornwall

Of course, Cornwall deserves a spot on this list. It is well known for being one of the most beautiful places in England. The coastal area is blessed with sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs overlooking crashing waves below.

There’s no shortage of wildlife either including seals lounging on the shore and oystercatchers wading in the water. The most popular part of Cornwall is around Penzance, with St Ives not far behind. But you’ll find beautiful stretches of coastline all over this county.

What to do:

Cornwall is a paradise for walkers who want to explore dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. Most of the coastline is easily accessible with well-maintained paths. There are also plenty of options for boat trips along its coast.

For history buffs, Cornwall is steeped in myth. You’ll find castle ruins where King Authur was said to have lived (I highly recommend visiting Tintagel Castle) and many ancient stones and megalithic sites.

St Ives and Penzance are the most popular for accommodation in Cornwall, so naturally, they’ll also be the busiest and the most expensive. For a few affordable options, The Land’s End Hotel and Hotel Penzance are great choices.

Be sure to book in advance as this area gets very busy during holiday periods.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cornwall

3. Peak District

If you’re looking for a spot with beautiful hills and green pastures, the Peak District will be right up your street. Most famous for its rolling landscapes, it’s home to many of England’s most historic manor houses too, so it’s perfect if you want to take in some rural English charm. 

There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor lovers and hikers. You can hike popular trails like Mam Tor or Kinder Scout or cycle to pretty villages along historic routes. With a wide range of activities, you won’t run out of things to explore in the Peak District.

One great thing about exploring this area is that there’s lots of wildlife. You’ll be able to spot animals like red kites soaring high overhead with their large wingspans and forked tails or deer grazing on green hillsides.

The most popular areas for walking include Edale Valley, Mam Tor Ridge, and Kinder Scout (where you can admire iconic views). Dark Peak Forest is also lovely, with ancient woodland trees and pretty rivers.

If you enjoy walking then head towards one of its picturesque villages. Monsal Dale, Edale, or Castleton offer idyllic walks through scenic countryside as well as lovely small towns.

There are plenty of hotels and B&Bs dotted all over the Peak District, so you won’t have any trouble finding accommodation. The most popular villages to stay in in the Peak District are Edale, Castleton, and Buxton. Robin Hood Farm B&B is a great place to stay.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Peak District

4. Cotswolds

Famous for some of the most beautiful villages in England , the Cotswolds has some of the most beautiful UK countryside. The Cotswolds is also a pretty large area – it spans through the counties of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire.

It’s most famous for its rolling green hills, and traditional thatched cottages in picture-perfect villages like Bibury, Stow on the Wold, and Castle Combe. There are also plenty of historic market towns including Chipping Campden and Cirencester.

One of the most popular things to do here is to simply explore these beautiful old English towns on foot. You’ll pass chocolate box cottages, tiny market towns, cobbled streets, and old stone bridges crossing little streams. The entire area looks like it’s been plucked out of a fairytale.

In summer, you’ll be able to see the Insta-famous lavender fields in bloom. In autumn you’ll see trees turning leaves to golds, reds, and oranges.

There are also plenty of tours around this area like the Stonehenge tour which will allow you to marvel at England’s curious stone circle. You can even explore Harry Potter film sets like Lacock Abbey.

Cotswolds has a range of accommodation options – from quaint little country cottages and hotels with views along the River Wye or through green fields in Elton, Bibury ( the Bull Hotel is a great choice here), and Chipping Campden. The Courtyard Cirencester is a great self-catering option.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Cotswolds

5. Yorkshire Dales

This region has some pretty spectacular countryside with rolling hillsides covered in heathers or lush pastures capped by snowy peaks. It’s also home to plenty of small towns that are great for exploring.

Spend your days wandering beautiful valleys and walking along babbling brooks. Yorkshire’s beautiful and sometimes dreamy landscape makes it some of the most beautiful countryside in England.

With challenging multi-day hikes like the popular 268-mile Pennine Way , you’ll certainly be able to wander through a lot of England’s beautiful countryside in the Yorkshire Dales.

You can also hike along heather-capped hillsides or climb mountains like Whernside, Ingleborough, or the Great Shunner Fell – perfect for a day outdoors. 

There are plenty of towns dotted around the area like Alston and the picturesque village of Aysgarth, which have fascinating museums and interesting places to explore too. There are loads of historic sights worth seeing too, like Wilton Castle or Dacre Cellar. 

There are plenty of accommodation options in the Yorkshire Dales from fancy hotels to glamping retreats. The most popular villages are Hawes (stay at the Famous Tan Hill Inn ), Grassington (stay at the gorgeous Grassington Lodge ), and Burnsall – but most have a range of options to choose from.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Yorkshire Dales

There are plenty of beautiful valleys and rolling hillsides in Devon . It’s most famous for Dartmoor National Park. It’s a stunning spot that’ll take your breath away with its rugged beauty and moorland views.

Devon’s countryside is diverse: lush fields of patchwork meet rocky coastlines and fossil-filled cliffs. You’ll find steep and wild moorland, rolling hillsides, and beautiful rivers flowing through lush valleys.

Devon’s breathtaking natural scenery makes it one of the most beautiful countryside getaways in England. Lydford Gorge, a stunning spot located in Dartmoor National Park is literally one of my favourite places in the UK. It’s so beautiful.

Devon is a great destination for outdoor activities. You can go walking in Dartmoor National Park or explore the lovely villages with cobbled streets and historic buildings. There are also plenty of castles worth visiting as well – places like Tiverton Castle, Berry Pomeroy Castle, and Powderham Castle. 

You can explore the coastline too; there are plenty of little coves and bays to explore.

Some of the most popular places to stay are Appledoor, Biddeford, Torquay, and Dartmoor. Most of them have a range of options to choose from, like the Dartmoor Inn or Osborne Hotel . The Osborne Apartments are also great if you’d prefer a self-catering option.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Devon

7. Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire is most famous for the city , but also for its many beautiful villages, including Fen Drayton, St Ives (not to be confused with the one in Cornwall), and the charming village of Grantchester. You’ll find wildflowers, winding streets, and beautifully preserved thatched cottages.

This is a great destination for outdoorsy types. With picturesque woodland, marshy fenland, and the beautiful, green English countryside, many visitors are drawn to the scenic walking routes in Cambridgeshire .

Decorated with dainty cottages, tiny churches, and market towns, this is definitely some of the most beautiful English countryside. You can explore bluebell forests, wander along the famous River Cam, or rent a boat and explore the area from the water.

Cambridgeshire is most famous for its historic buildings, ancient literature, and beautiful countryside. You can spend some time wandering around the quaint villages and eating delicious brunch , but Cambridge is also famous for its water activities.

Punting, canoeing and kayaking are all popular pastimes here. A lot of visitors enjoy taking in the beautiful scenery and historic buildings from the water. You can also visit the city of Cambridge for a day; wandering its historic streets and visiting museums can be just as fascinating as exploring the country.

Popular villages to stay in Cambridgeshire include Chesterton, Barton, and St Neots – most of them have a range of options to choose from. The Waterfront Hotel Spa & Golf , or Rectory Farm are great options. If you’d rather stay in Cambridge city centre , the Gonville Hotel is a wonderful treat.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cambridgeshire

Dorset’s beauty comes from its coastline, which is not only gorgeous but also diverse. There are high cliffs with dramatic rock formations and everything from pebbly, fossil-filled beaches to soft sandy dunes.

The area’s most famous attraction is the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. It stretches for 95 miles (153 km), and you’ll find some fascinating and beautiful sights.

This includes Lulworth Cove (one of the best beaches in the UK ), Portland Bill, Studland Bay, and the infamous Durdle Door , which might be considered one of England’s most iconic views.

Many visitors come here for the coastal walks and natural beauty of England’s southern county. Rocks are popular with climbers, while those who enjoy walking will love exploring this wild coastline.

You can also visit Portland Bill Lighthouse or take a boat trip from Swanage Pier. And don’t forget to see the gorgeous Durdle Door, go fossil hunting along the coastline, and see some of the historic castles.

There is accommodation in most towns and villages throughout Dorset. Popular destinations include Lyme Regis, Poole, Weymouth , and Bridport.

They all have plenty of options available including hotels, B&Bs, cottages, and hostels, like Lulworth Lodge and the Weymouth Beach B&B . There are also camping sites dotted along the coast.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in Dorset! 🡸

9. South Downs

South Downs is most famous for its breathtaking views and sprawling countryside. The South Downs National Park boasts more than a million acres of downland.

It’s the perfect spot if you love open spaces, fresh air, wildflower meadows, and dramatic hillsides. It’s also home to the tallest chalk sea cliff in the UK – 531ft above sea level.

The area has plenty of outdoor activities. The South Downs National Park welcomes many visitors coming here to enjoy walking, cycling, or horse riding on one of the many bridleways through this area.

There are also some great wildlife attractions including Lancing College Deerpark where you can see free-roaming fallow deer along with other rare breeds like Highland cattle.

The most popular things visitors enjoy doing here are exploring and enjoying some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. You’ll find plenty of walks from gentle strolls in open fields to woodland trails with wildlife spotting opportunities.

For a more challenging route, head up Beachy Head for panoramic views over the National Park and the famous Seven Sisters . It will be tiring, but worth every step!

Most people choose to stay in the South Downs during summer when most villages offer campsites as well as B&Bs. Popular towns include Brighton, Portsmouth, Chichester, and Eastbourne which all have various options available including hotels and cottages, like the stylish Tides Apartment or Chichester Harbour Hotel and Spa .

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the South Downs

10. High Weald

For one of the best countryside getaways in England that’s not too far from London, head to High Weald. It’s ideal if you need to escape from city life but don’t want to travel too far.

This area has a lot to offer – most of it is made up of rolling hills and lush meadows with villages dotted across the landscape. You’ll find plenty of farms, country pubs, and historic buildings to explore.

High Weald has a few popular visitor attractions. A few include Mayfield Lavender Fields which offers you one of the most fragrant places in England. With over 40 acres (162,000 sq m) of fields filled with rows upon rows of lavenders, it’s a pretty amazing sight! 

The most famous village here is Dormansland which has some lovely historic buildings, including St Mary’s Church and The Priory pub.

If you’re looking for something more modern then why not try Beckenham? There are plenty of shops along Regents Road as well as delightful cafes along the High Street.

There are more than enough things to see and do in High Weald. Places like Ashdown Forest are great spots for wildlife sightings. You can also go rock climbing at Copehill Down or horse riding along bridleways through farmland. 

If you prefer something less strenuous then enjoy some time on the Kent and East Sussex Railway which runs through the area. Hop on a steam train and experience England’s countryside by rail.

The cutest English countryside towns here are East Grinstead, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, and Brenchley. All offer plenty of attractions as well as accommodation options including bed & breakfasts (B&Bs), cottages, or hotels like the Hotel du Vin and Bistro .

✅ Discover the best places to stay in High Weald

My personal favourite countryside in England is either Dartmoor National Park or the Lake District.

I love the wildness of Dartmoor and the beautiful woodland areas, plus the fact that it’s such a hidden gem in southern England. And I love the Lake District for its incredible hiking trails.

However, you can find beautiful countryside in England everywhere. From Cornwall to Cambridgeshire, there is stunning scenery across all four of England’s corners .

How to Get To the English Countryside

The bus links are pretty good too, although they’re slightly slower. They’ll also likely drop you off at a more central location and you’ll have to taxi the rest of the way. However, you’ll still be able to reach more remote destinations than the trains.

Does London Have Countryside?

London has plenty of beautiful parks and gardens to explore, most of which are within walking distance of the city centre. The most popular ones include Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, and Holland Park.

But, to physically get lost in the countryside, you will have to travel outside the city centre. Although, you won’t have to travel too far – most of the countryside is just a stone’s throw away from London!

Where is The Closest Countryside to London?

If you are looking for a quick escape from the bustle of city life or only have one day in London , then head to Hampstead Heath. This hilly area is just northwest of central London. Most people can reach it on foot or by bike in about an hour.

If you have slightly longer in the city, you can also visit places like Kentish Town and Stepney Green for a small sliver of the countryside near the busy capital.

When Should You Visit the British Countryside?

For the most enjoyable experience, I suggest visiting between the late spring and autumn. During these times, the weather is best, ideal for outdoor activities, and the scenery is gorgeous.

These are a few of the top times to visit:

• Late Spring – This is when most of its flowers are in bloom. There is plenty of green space for outdoor activities like cycling or walking around lakes. You’ll find pleasant temperatures and most of the winter tourists have left.
• July – August – This is the most popular time to visit, but also one of the busiest periods. It’s peak season and the school summer holidays and a lot of locals will be making the most of England’s best weather and flocking to Cornwall and the seaside areas. However, you may still be able to find remote spots away from the typical tourist trail.
• September – This is a good time to visit if you want some fresh air, but don’t like crowds or too much heat. It’s also an opportunity to see the last of the summer sun and enjoy late-summer fruits such as grapes, apples, and pears.
• Late Autumn – If you arrive in October – November, then the leaves will be changing or have already fallen, but the snow and frost won’t have quite arrived yet. This season will give you some stunning views of almost leafless trees against blue skies with grazing sheep nearby. It’s also a great time for apple picking. But, you will probably have to bring a raincoat and waterproof shoes!

Worst times to visit

The English countryside can be enjoyed year-round, however, it does get very cold, wet, dark, and dreary during winter so visits will need to be planned and packed carefully .

Depending on what you want to do, trips can be ruined by the near-constant rain that England is known for. The same can be said for early spring , between February and March.

You’ll likely experience lots of chilly weather and frequent showers if you visit during these times. Nonetheless, if you visit in December, you will also be able to see some of the best Christmas markets in England.

Overall…

The English countryside is vast, varied, and beautiful. A trip to the countryside is one of my favourite things to do in the UK and there are some stunning spots in England just waiting to be explored.

If you love hiking and exploring the great outdoors, I can almost guarantee that you’ll fall in love with the countryside in England. I hope you’ve enjoyed my recommendations and that you’ll love rural England as much as I do!

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – THANK YOU! It allows me to keep doing this! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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13 BEST Day Trips from London by Train

From the roman city of bath to the wilds of the new forest, there are so many amazing day trips from london by train to discover.

Honestly, when I’m in London, I am 100% not using a car. Whether it’s riding on the Tube, hailing a taxi, or just wandering around the city centre, driving is not something I’m likely to do.

So, when I want to get outside of the city for the day, I rely on the train. Over the years, I’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from London by train. Maybe you want to hit the beach? Perhaps you want to dive into history? Or maybe you want to check out a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Within a couple of hours’ ride from London, you can do all of that!

Some of my favourite train trips from London include heading into the picturesque Cotswolds regions, hiking the Seven Sisters near Dover, and even casting a spell or two at the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

The best part? You can hop on a train, enjoy the scenic journey through the English countryside, and be back in London in time for a West End show or a late-night stroll along the Thames. The accessibility of these day trips is what makes them truly special—it’s like having a variety of mini adventures right at your doorstep.

So, with that in mind, let’s check out the best train trips from London. Hopefully this blog post will help you with planning your next day trip.

Day trips from London by train

Hampton court palace.

Looking to check out the palace where King Henry VIII used to reign supreme? This London day trip favourite is always popular with history buffs visiting the capital thanks to the beautiful architecture, art, and knowledgeable guides. It’s also a super easy train ride from the centre of London. 

In fact, it’s just a 45-minute ride from London Waterloo Station directly to Hampton Court Palace train station and from there, it’s only around a five-minute walk to the palace gates. Day trips from London by train don’t come much easier than this!

If you’re heading to Hampton Court, you can pick up your tickets here beforehand.

Harry Potter Studio Tours

Want to experience the magic in front of and behind the camera? Well then, a visit to the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford is a must. Filled with memorabilia, props, sets, and costumes from the films, it’s every fan’s dream. 

To get to the studios, you’ll journey for about 20 minutes from London Euston Station to Watford Junction, and then jump on the 15-minute shuttle to the studio. The bonus is that the shuttle is actually designed like the famous Knight Bus, so the experience starts before you even arrive. All aboard!

This legendary Roman city is a beautiful train trip from London as it’s only 90 minutes from London Paddington Station. Home to the Roman Baths UNESCO World Heritage Site, stunning architecture, and the home of the iconic author, Jane Austen, there’s certainly a little something for everyone on a day trip to Bath.

You can easily spend a full weekend here, but with the regular train routes back to the capital that run relatively late, you can definitely enjoy a full day running around this historic city.

The Seven Sisters

As one of the UK’s most iconic sights, the Seven Sisters white chalky cliffs near Dover are an easy train trip from London. You can travel from London Victoria Station and get off at Eastbourne, allowing you to wander along the coastline and see the Seven Sisters in all their glory. 

Trains to Eastbourne take around an hour and 25 minutes from London, and then you can enjoy a stunning coastal hike to your final destination!

Windsor Castle

Love royal history or are you just a fan of insanely old castles? Well, Windsor Castle is one of the King’s royal residences and is over 900 years old. This impressive palace has played host to royal weddings, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s.

Windsor Castle is super popular at pretty much any time of the year, so I definitely recommend getting your tickets in advance . This will also let you know when the royal family are in residence, as you might not be able to access the full castle and grounds. Travel-wise, Windsor Castle is around an hour from London Waterloo station. 

If you’re looking to check out another bustling city, journey between one and a half to two hours from London Paddington Station to Bristol. Home to the impressive Clifton Suspension Bridge, a bustling independent food and drink scene, and a fun and thriving waterfront, Bristol is an ideal day trip from London by train. 

Make sure you take time to check out all the street art around the city, after all, the city is the hometown of famous artist, Banksy!

Leeds Castle

This next train trip from London is a little more complicated to get to, but if you’re visiting Kent, you can’t leave without checking out Leeds Castle . Get the 50-minute train from London Bridge to Maidstone and then jump on a short 20-minute bus ride to the gates of Leeds Castle.

With a super cool hedge maze, museum, lake, and more, this Norman Castle is a popular day trip for a good reason. Again, I’d recommend booking your ticket in advance , especially during the school holidays.   

Looking for a fun day at the seaside? Well, you’ll be hard-pushed to find a better day trip than Brighton . Located on the south coast around an hour from either London Victoria Station or London Bridge Station, Brighton is always bustling with things to do.

From the opulent and historic Brighton Palace Pier to the popular waterfront and beach to the dozens of independent boutiques and restaurants, you’re really spoiled for choice here!

Warwick Castle

If you’re looking for a train trip from London that’s a little further north, jump on the train to Warwick Castle. You can get a one hour and 45-minute train from London Marylebone to Warwick and then walk to the castle gates.

With the original parts of the castle stemming back to 1068, Warwick Castle has seen a lot of bloody battles, royalty, and history along the way. Nowadays, you can experience archery, falconry shows, renactments of medieval battles, and many more. It’s the perfect family-friendly day trip, but again, book way in advance !

As one of the academic heartlands of England, Oxford is a beautiful and architecturally stunning city to visit. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan who wants to visit the real Great Hall or you’re in love with the His Dark Materials series, Oxford has inspired a lot of writers and academics over the years.

Oxford is actually really easy to get to on a day trip from London by train. Depending on which is closer or more convenient, you can get a train from either from Marylebone Station or Paddington Station, and both routes are around an hour. 

The New Forest

Need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get back to the nature? Well, a day trip to the New Forest is going to be right up your street. You can get a 90-minute train from London Waterloo station to Brockenhurst, in the heart of the New Forest.

With tons of wildlife, walking routes, and museums in the area, you can easily have a fun-filled day surrounded by tranquil greenery.  Keep in mind that the National Park is huge and spreads all the way down to the coastline, so make a plan of the areas you want to visit first!

When you think of quintessential English towns and villages, the image that comes up is probably of the Cotswolds . Located just an hour and 40 minutes from London Paddington Station, the Cotswolds is the perfect quaint escape from the city. With chocolate box cottages, hiking and walking routes and plenty of cosy pubs to warm up in, it’s an amazing day out for the whole family.

In fact, the Cotswolds is actually an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you might want to bring your camera with you! It’s also rumoured that parts of the Cotswolds inspired J.R.R Tolkien when he was writing The Lord of the Rings!

Stratford-Upon-Avon

If you’re a literature lover then you have to carve out time in your itinerary to visit Stratford-Upon-Avon. This small town in the Midlands is known for basically one thing and that’s being the home of the iconic playwright, William Shakespeare.

Located around two and a half hours from London Marylebone Station, Stratford-Upon-Avon is home to the Royal Shakespeare Company who perform works of the Bard all year round. It’s a prestigious theatre and has featured actors like Dame Judi Dench, Sir Ian McKellen, and David Tennant to name just a few! Check out the RSC website ahead of time to find out what’s on while you’re in the area!

So, there you have it, the 13 best day trips from London by train. Where are your favourite day trips from London without a car? Let me know in the comments below!

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10 ways to get out of London and into the countryside for the day

Mar 12, 2024 • 11 min read

Brighton Beach is just a short train journey from London © Klaus Vedfelt / Shutterstock

Since London is a world unto itself, it’s only natural that many travelers never look beyond the confines of the city limits for a fulfilling trip.

But when you’ve made the most of free entry to the city’s best museums  and wandered through its many vast parks and green spaces , you might be ready for a day trip to explore the towns, historic sites and coastline that lie just beyond the capital.

Many of the most famous attractions in England  are just a short train ride away from London . While road trips are also a great option farther afield, in and around London, traffic and exorbitant parking fees mean escaping the city by train (or bus) is usually your best bet. For the cheapest rates, try to book rail tickets at least three months in advance. 

Then set out on one of these great itineraries, the 10 best day trips from London.

1. Explore royal Windsor and nearby Eton 

Travel time: 1 hour

Most people who visit Windsor do so to see Windsor Castle , the location for many a royal wedding  and the place where Queen Elizabeth II (and many other monarchs before her) spent much of her life and is now resting in peace. Along with its towers and beautiful chapels, you can also see the Changing of the Guard , a ceremony packed with music and pageantry.

The best way to appreciate the full majesty of Windsor Castle is to approach via the aptly named Long Walk. This arrow-straight road cuts through Windsor Great Park . (There are no cars, but you might see some deer.) While the castle could keep you busy for days, must-sees include Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House , the Albert Memorial Chapel and the State Apartments. Across the river, Eton is a pretty little town that's quieter than Windsor and worth a stroll.

How to get to Windsor from London: Trains run from London Paddington and London Waterloo twice an hour; the journey takes between 40 and 60 minutes and the Paddington line requires a change at Slough. It’s around a 45-minute drive, and there are parking lots near the town center and at the base of the castle.

2. Enjoy art and amusements in Margate

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Its long curve of golden sand made Margate a  top seaside destination for the Victorians, only to fall out of town with holidaymakers in the late 20th century. Recent investment has brought many day-trippers back to enjoy its retro charm.

Leading the way with this regeneration is art gallery  Turner Contemporary , one of the top attractions in the area, which showcases world-class art exhibits with superb views of the harbor and beyond. The skies off the coast here captivated the great painter JMW Turner; linger in the gallery yourself to take in the light out on and off the sea. Internationally renowned artist Tracey Emin has also opened a studio and exhibition space in Cliftonville. 

If you like your day to be sprinkled with a bit of mystery, then book a ticket to tour the intriguing  Shell Grotto  (is it an ancient site or a 19th-century hoax?), while  Dreamland  is the town's famous amusement park and a great day out for the family, with many different classic rides. Once you've got your fill of the windswept beach, artworks and rides, warm up with a hot chocolate at one of the independent cafes in the rejuvenated old town before browsing or buying in the many vintage stores.

How to get to Margate from London: Trains run to Margate station, right on the beach, from London St Pancras International (1 hour 30 minutes) and Victoria (1 hour 40 minutes). It takes around two hours to drive from London to Margate, and you should expect to pay upward of £10 to park all day in town.

3. Spot Harry Potter fans in Oxford

Best known for its world-famous university and forest of ocher spires, Oxford is a grand old place steeped in privilege and prestige. Though it’s hard to escape the history of this storied town, the large student population keeps the atmosphere young and fresh, and there’s plenty for visitors to do. Highlights include several museums, punting along the River Isis and the 30 colleges that make up the university, the most famous of which are Christ Church and Magdalen . You could easily spend more than a day in Oxford.

A tour of the university colleges is a must. (Harry Potter fans will recognize various locations used in the movies.)  Blenheim Palace , a monumental 18th-century country house and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, is a short bus ride or drive from the city.

How to get to Oxford from London: Trains from London Marylebone and London Paddington to Oxford run several times an hour, and the journey time is about an hour. If you’re on a tight budget, consider taking the Oxford Tube , a coach that departs from several locations in London. Driving time is around two hours, but you’ll have to park outside town and catch a shuttle bus for the last leg.

4. Visit the country’s most important cathedral in Canterbury

Canterbury is one of England’s most attractive and important cathedral cities, with its star building considered one of the finest in Europe. The town itself is almost absurdly quaint, with narrow alleyways following the original medieval street plan and the River Stour idling past Tudor facades.

Visiting  Canterbury Cathedral , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an absolute must. As the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the Church of England, it’s the most important Christian site in the country. Just outside, you can see the ruins of the 6th-century St Augustine’s Abbey .

Other highlights include the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge  and boating trips  on the River Stour. On these peaceful jaunts in a flat-bottomed punt, knowledgeable guides share stories of the city as they expertly navigate the boat under bridges with barely any headroom. For a traditional English tearoom experience, visit  Tiny Tim’s Tearoom . 

How to get to Canterbury from London: Fast trains from London St Pancras International depart once an hour, with the journey taking about an hour. Slower trains (1 hour 30 minutes) run from London Victoria and London Charing Cross. The drive takes around an hour and a half.

5. Head into nature in the New Forest

Designated a  national park  in 2005, the New Forest dates all the way back to 1079. So it’s anything but ”new.” And it’s not even really a forest.

Comprising woodland, bog, marshland, heathland and coast, with many quaint villages in between, the area is home to free-roaming animals, including pigs, cattle and the famed ponies. You can easily spend more than a day in the New Forest, and while there are fantastic cycling routes and hiking trails, to make the most of the region as a whole, it’s best to explore by car.

If you’re in the New Forest for just the day, focus your attention on one activity, whether that’s visiting a historic site, such as Buckler's Hard, Hurst Castle  or Beaulieu ; or following a walking trail, where you’ll be drawn in by the beautiful colors of the landscapes. Many people come to the area simply to dine at The Pig  in Brockenhurst, which celebrates home-grown and local produce (book well in advance).

How to get to the New Forest from London:  The region is slightly under a two-hour drive from central London. If traveling by train (1 hour 30 minutes from London Waterloo to Brockenhurst), consider renting bikes and following trails that take you beyond the town.

6. Step back in time in Winchester

Travel time: 1 hour

Its fabulous cathedral officially makes  Winchester  a city – though it has more of the feel of a friendly small town. The city served as England’s capital about 1000 years ago and was the home of King Alfred the Great; today, it boasts a variety of excellent pubs, countryside walks and lively streets.

At the top of the high street is an imitation of King Arthur’s Round Table hanging in the Great Hall . Just off the high street through a short alleyway is Winchester Cathedral , a stunning building with the longest nave of any Gothic cathedral in Europe. Back on the high street, head past the statue of Alfred the Great to the River Itchen, then follow it to get to Winchester College .

How to get to Winchester from London: Trains leave London Waterloo several times an hour, and the journey time is about an hour. The drive from central London takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, and Winchester’s city center has several parking options.

7. Marvel at Roman ruins and Regency streetscapes in Bath

Bath might be Britain ’s most beautiful city. Founded by the Romans, who used the area’s thermal springs to create a spa retreat, it’s now the premier tourist attraction of southwest England . It’s also celebrated for its magnificent Georgian architecture, with grand squares and felicitous crescents defining the city.

Start at the beginning with the Roman Baths complex, which is divided into four main parts: the Bath House, the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple and the museum, displaying fascinating finds from the ruins. Next, have a wander around Bath Abbey , a huge medieval church that you can climb to the top of. Fuel up with the substantial gastropub fare at  Marlborough Tavern .

If you have time, it's worth staying in Bath for the full weekend. Wander the streets and enjoy the architecture, including ulteney Bridge and the  Royal Crescent , two of the city’s Georgian masterpieces – then take time to relax in Thermae Bath Spa .

How to get to Bath from London: Direct trains leave London Paddington twice an hour; the journey time is 1 hour 30 minutes. Driving takes around 2 hours 30 minutes, but traffic around the city is often heavy, with parking very limited and expensive.

8. Soak up Brighton’s indie attitude

Stuffed with independent businesses and creative spirit, Brighton is often referred to as London-on-Sea – though these days that’s more a nod to property prices than a reference to its character. This city has a personality all its own – grungy, creative and bohemian – and it's one of the UK's most LGBTIQ+ friendly cities.

There’s no shortage of things to do  in Brighton. Start in the North Laine neighborhood, packed with pubs, cafes and theaters, before going shopping in The Lanes a little farther south. Make a visit to the eccentric Royal Pavilion – built by King George IV in 1787 as a seaside retreat – and take a walk along the pier while checking out the amusements and swimmers at the beach. Brighton teems with great bars and restaurants:  Food for Friends offers excellent vegan dishes and is a great spot for lunch, while the Walrus pub is a good place to grab a beer.

How to get to Brighton from London:  Get on one of the frequent direct trains from London Victoria or London Bridge. The journey time is about an hour. Since it takes about two hours to drive from London to Brighton, and parking is both hard to find and expensive, the train is generally a better option.

9. Tour the colleges and go punting in Cambridge

With its world-class university, clutch of ancient colleges and love for punting (river rowing), Cambridge shares many similarities with its Oxfordshire counterpart. But with more green space and less traffic, this city is a more tranquil affair. A walking tour of the university is a must: the university colleges are the highlight, with Corpus Christi, Clare College, King’s College and Christ’s College being the most popular.

Once you’ve had your fill of academia, a punting trip along the River Cam is a lovely way to see the city. On a summer’s day, a picnic on the Backs is highly enjoyable.

How to get to Cambridge from London: Trains from London Kings Cross run several times an hour, with a journey time of about 50 minutes. It takes about 90 minutes to drive to Cambridge from central London.

10. Ponder the mystery of Stonehenge

Travel time: 2 hours

Stonehenge  is like an amazing magic trick – it boggles the mind, but you don’t really want to know how it happened. Which is convenient, because no one’s fully figured it out yet . Here’s what we do know: this massive, prehistoric stone circle is believed to have been constructed around 5000 years ago, making it older than the Pyramids of Giza. The largest stones weigh 25 tons and stand 9m (30ft) tall. 

Although you can’t touch the stones (to protect them), you can stroll around them on paths. The visitor center has an interactive presentation that allows you to experience among the stones as the seasons change. If you have your own ride, you could drive north to Avebury, home to another famous prehistoric circle – whose stones you can touch.

How to get to Stonehenge from London: Trains from London Waterloo to Salisbury depart twice an hour, taking just over an hour and a half. From Salisbury, hop on the Stonehenge Tour Bus , which takes you directly to the visitor center in just over 30 minutes. Alternatively, the drive takes around two hours from central London (traffic depending), and parking is available at the site.

This article was first published May 20, 2019 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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17 Best Day Trips From London — From Small Towns to Stunning Forests

Take a break from the big city.

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There’s no denying London is one of the greatest cities in the world for art, culture, history, and theater. After a weeklong trip, though, you may want to escape its hustle and experience some of the U.K.'s best forests, country houses, seaside towns, and even other European neighbors. Thankfully, all of this and more lies within easy reach of the capital.

"London is often seen as the gateway to the rest of Europe and the United Kingdom, with six international airports and excellent rail connections to continue your onward journey," said Rose Wangen-Jones, the managing director of London & Partners, which runs the city's official tourism site . "You could even be at the Eiffel Tower taking snaps of the Paris skyline in just over two hours, thanks to the high-speed Eurostar train."

Complete with riverside walks, ancient towns, idyllic streets filled with indie shops, and amazing restaurants, here are our picks for the best day trips from London.

Whitstable, Kent

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Ask any Londoner and they’ll often tell you Whitstable, located about an hour east of London via high-speed train, is at the top of their city escape list. One of the U.K.'s most charming seaside towns , Whitstable is famed for its multicolored North Sea-facing beach huts and restaurants that plate up fresh lobsters. The town’s castle ruins are well worth exploring, too, and the hilly — and sometimes windy — coastal walks will help brush off those cerebral cobwebs.

Another major draw is the town’s oysters. Guzzling half a dozen of these must-try mollusks is almost a rite of passage in these parts, and one of the best times to try them is during the Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival , which takes place every summer. Expect live music, markets selling local wares, and stellar wines.

Margate, Kent

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Thanks to a cultural renaissance spearheaded by celebrities and artists such as Tracey Emin, Margate has experienced a rebirth. The Kent coastal town, less than a two-hour train ride from London, exudes cool grit and harbor glamour, with independent shops, contemporary restaurants, and the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool , made for a quick summer dip. Though Margate is on the gusty side, the Turner Contemporary gallery will keep you shielded from all the elements. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the retro theme park and roller-disco Dreamland is well worth the admission price.

Cliveden House, Berkshire

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Over its long, illustrious history, Cliveden has been a retreat for royals (Meghan, Duchess of Sussex stayed here on the eve of her wedding), and it played host to the scandalous Profumo affair back in the 1960s. The former home of the Astor family, the house was originally built in 1666 by the Duke of Buckingham as a country pad to rival all others. Now, anyone can visit to admire its over-the-top English style (think winding oak staircases and hallways filled with paintings, chandeliers, and armor). Aside from it being a great spot for afternoon tea, Cliveden really is all about stunning riverside walks, park picnics, and if you’ve got the time, a riverboat tour down the Thames. The best part? It's just an hour's drive west of London.

Rye, Sussex

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Instagrammers from across the globe descend upon Rye to snap photos of its cutesy, cobbled lanes and mishmash of Diagon Alley-esque antique shops and bookstores. Just under two hours from London, the small and hilly town is the perfect place to grab a local Sussex ale or English sparkling wine. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants serving top-notch seafood lunches and scrumptious lobster pots. Another bonus? It's close to one of the U.K.’s best beaches , picturesque Camber Sands. Tip: bring a fancy picnic basket.

Box Hill, Surrey 

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Green and pleasant pastures await in this dreamy part of the Surrey countryside. Less than an hour outside of London, Box Hill is a solid quick option for a day trip with fresh air. Most people cycle here from Richmond Park, but if you're short on time, you can take the train. It takes roughly four hours to complete the entire eight-mile circular Box Hill Hike , and those who reach the summit will be treated to sprawling views of the North Downs. Another option is walking from the train station via the Stepping Stones Path , which takes about two hours out and back. The National Trust cafe is a great spot for a well-deserved slice of cake, but if you fancy heading further out, the nearby Beaverbrook hotel has several dining venues on its 470-acre estate, including The Garden House Restaurant , which offers steaks of both the beef and cauliflower variety, salads, seafood, and pasta.

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Despite being more than 200 miles from the capital, York is actually one of the easiest day trips from London. Trains take just under two hours and run frequently enough that you can decide if you want to go the same day. The ancient walled city is best known for its Gothic masterpiece York Minster , one of the U.K.’s oldest cathedrals, dating back to the seventh century.

"York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world, as well as one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe," says Nicola Butler, a T+L A-List advisor and owner of NoteWorthy . "The first recorded church on the site was built in 627, and it has had a colorful and varied history ever since. We then suggest our clients admire the timber-framed buildings of the Shambles, which was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086."

In addition to seeing this stunner, visitors can walk along the city walls before climbing up Clifford’s Tower for some awesome views of the city and beyond. Learn about 3,000 years of chocolate history at York's Chocolate Story museum, then hit up the Shambles for winding, Harry Potter -style streets packed with cool storefronts and tea shops.  

Lewes, Sussex

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Lewes often gets overlooked for its neighbor Brighton but this quaint town, located about an hour south of London, has lots to offer. Lewes Castle , the remains of Lewes Priory , and the former home of Anne of Cleves will keep you busy for a few hours, as will the pubs and local handicraft shops. If you have more time to spare, take a cab to the nearby village of Rodmell. Here, you’ll find Monk’s House , the former 16th-century country retreat of groundbreaking 20th-century author Virginia Woolf and her husband, Leonard. The garden is pretty, and you’ll also get to go inside Woolf’s writing lodge where she sat and wrote her most famous novels and essays. And if you’ve got the stamina, the walk to the village of Glynde and its Elizabethan manor is well worth the steep hills. Your reward? Spectacular views over the South Downs.

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The beauty of Europe is its excellent and efficient train network. The Eurostar , for example, takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach the French capital from London’s St. Pancras International station. With little planning, you can easily tackle many of the top attractions in Paris if you book yourself on the earliest service out and the latest back. To make the most of your day here, focus on the heart of the city: the Louvre , Musée d'Orsay , plus the amazing stores, coffee shops, and restaurants of Saint-Germain-des-Prés are all within walking distance of each other. Round out the day at the Trocadéro to snap a selfie with the Eiffel Tower and relax on the banks of the Seine with a picnic, Emily in Paris- style.

Bath, Somerset

One of the best day trips from London for history lovers, Somerset’s largest city beckons visitors with its ancient Roman baths and Georgian architecture. After the Roman period, its healing hot springs experienced a surge in popularity, transforming Bath into a fashionable spa retreat in the 17th and 18th centuries. Recognized as one of UNESCO's "Great Spa Towns of Europe," the city can easily be reached via an hour-and-change train ride from London. When you arrive, explore the bathing complex, constructed around 70 C.E., and have afternoon tea at The Pump Room restaurant. Then, stop by Bath Abbey , where you can tour the top of the church tower. While you can’t swim in the historic baths, the next best option is Thermae Bath Spa 's rooftop thermal pool — a perfect place to cap off your visit before taking the train back to London.

Ashdown Forest, Sussex

Winnie-the-Pooh fans will likely want to add Ashdown Forest to their list of scenic day trips from the capital. A.A. Milne lived near the 6,500-acre woodland when he penned the stories of Christopher Robin and his friends. Better known as the fictional “Hundred Acre Wood,” the forest is accessible via a one-hour train ride to East Grinstead station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride. For an even easier journey, join a customized tour with Pooh Trek , which will pick you up at the station and visit highlights like the historic Pooh Sticks Bridge, plus cozy cottages and pubs. Those looking to extend their stay can even spend a few nights at Milne’s former house, the 16th-century Cotchford Farm .

Brighton, Sussex

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The unofficial gay capital of the U.K. is the place to go if you're in search of wall-to-wall live music venues, classic seaside bed-and-breakfasts, buzzing clubs, and Soho House's members-only Brighton Beach House . About an hour's train ride from London, Brighton's famed Palace Pier , pebbly beach, and shops on The Lanes are all worth a visit. Visitors can expect narrow alleyways packed with independent boutiques, record stores, pizza shacks, vegan eats, and small pubs championing local ales sourced from all over the city’s home county, Sussex.

Hastings, Sussex

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About a 1.5-hour train ride from London, Hastings has a long, colorful, and somewhat brutal history that’s kept tourists flocking to its windy cliffs for centuries. The former battleground of William the Conqueror offers all sorts of to-dos, from the ruins of its Norman castle (no dragons, sadly) to a strip of indie shops to great local restaurants. There's also a long pier stretching out into the English Channel that has "sunset walk" written all over it. The best views can be enjoyed from East Hill, accessible via the U.K.'s steepest funicular, the East Hill Cliff Railway. After riding down, head to George Street, a haven for continental-style cafes, art shops, and bookstores.

Stratford-upon-Avon, West Midlands

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Literature buffs will love this medieval town hidden away in England's West Midlands. Shakespeare’s former homes and his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage are the major draws. A little more than two hours north of London, the town is also a great place to indulge in a boat tour along the plant-flecked canal basin. If you’re a theater lover, catch a play at the Royal Shakespeare Company 's playhouse (book well in advance), or enjoy a dinner cruise down the picturesque River Avon on the Countess of Evesham restaurant boat.

Canterbury, Kent

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If you dig a medieval cathedral with a dash of Chaucer, head to Canterbury. Roughly a 45-minute train ride from London, the town is a great option for travelers who are pressed for time. Start off with a walk (or bike ride) down the wiggly King’s Lane to check out the city’s stellar indie shops. When it comes to fueling up, there's lots on offer, from pastries at The Goods Shed farmers market and food hall to Scotch eggs at pubs in town. Walk it off in one of England’s oldest parks, Westgate Gardens, before hitting up the nearby Blean Woods Nature Reserve , an ancient woodland filled with rare flora and fauna. The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge is also worth visiting for a glimpse at one of the world's most important collections of cow paintings.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

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An easy, one-hour train journey from St. Pancras, this university city dating back to 1209 is home to some of the world's most photogenic colleges and dorms. Begin your journey at King’s College and stroll through its 15th-century landmark Gothic chapel, home to the world’s largest fan vault and some impressive stained-glass windows.

Next, explore the waterways in a punt, a long, flat-bottomed boat. Aside from hopping on a bike, it’s the simplest (and most fun) way to explore the city on the cheap. Plus, you’ll see all the top attractions, from Trinity College to the Bridge of Sighs , along the way.

"NoteWorthy clients often visit the Wren Library in Trinity College Cambridge, designed by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren," says Butler. "It is one of Cambridge’s most famous and historic college libraries. This experience will take you behind the scenes to see some extraordinary and valuable literary works guided by a subject expert. Two of Shakespeare’s first folios and various letters of Sir Isaac Newton are just examples of what you could see on the tour."

When you get hungry, head to the Pint Shop for gourmet pub-style food served in a joint once loved by E.M. Forster. The Sunday roast is great, as are all the beers sourced from hops all over the country.

Oxford, Oxfordshire

Famed for its academic history, ivy-clad buildings, and Harry Potter filming locations , Oxford is another university city well worth a day trip from London. The train journey from Paddington or Marylebone station takes just over an hour and once you arrive, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a real-life version of the Wizarding World. Start your visit with a walking tour ( Bodleian Libraries offers guided explorations of the city and its beautiful libraries). Then, climb the tower of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin for one of the best views of the rooftops. In addition to the towering Gothic architecture, the city's historic streets are lined with traditional pubs and charming cafes. After refueling, end your day with a punting adventure along the River Cherwell or visit the Ashmolean Museum , which houses an impressive array of art and artifacts.

Bruton, Somerset

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Somerset is a long day trip from London, but it’s doable and worth the effort if you’re willing to wake up early. One of the most convenient ways to get a taste of it is via the Great Garden Escape , courtesy of one of England's most celebrated hotels, The Newt in Somerset . The approximately two-hour journey sets off from London’s Paddington station, with breakfast served on board before the train rolls into the hills of the West Country. Next to the hotel’s Georgian façade, explore picturesque gardens and ancient woodlands, plus learn the art of cider making before digging into an afternoon tea overlooking the orchards. It’s basically England summed up in about eight hours.

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The Real English Countryside Tour

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Private tour to beautiful countryside & villages, near London!

Beautiful English countryside begins. . .just outside London. I’m a born and bred London tour guide and I do love my city. But I also love my rural English scenery and history too. Our tour takes us to the Chiltern Hills, officially designated an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ (an AONB is similar to a US National Park).

The Chilterns are less than a 90 minute drive from central London. The idea behind this tour is that we spend time sightseeing and visiting beautiful countryside locations, NOT driving for hours and hours. I will guide us through the buildings, churches and histories of the villages we visit and some walking will be involved.

We’ll definitely see: ancient villages, medieval churches, nice old pubs (for eating & drinking), winding lanes, rolling hills, wooded glades + Film & TV locations (Chitty Chitty, Midsomer Murders and Killing Eve).

We might see: bluebell woodlands (in spring), grazing muntjack deer (they’re very shy), cows, sheep, raptors milvus milvus , sun, blue skies, cloud or rain (so dress for the weather).

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Our final village has a lovely old pub (well known for its pies) where we usually have lunch.

• 09.00: Meet at your hotel/accommodation and drive to the Chiltern Hills.
• 10.15: Arrive in the Chilterns.
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• 16.00: Return to London hotel.

I’m your driver and private guide and I’ll be explaining as we explore. Walking is integral to this tour. There are lots of stops for photo opps. I’ll talk as we walk and when we’re up close. Time spent viewing a location varies from one or two minutes to a few minutes.

Having a driver/walking guide like me conducting your tour in a London taxi is super-efficient and will help to make the day enjoyable and memorable.

NB: I also tour a beautiful area called the Cotswolds . My English Countryside tour is very nice too. This is the ‘anti-Cotswolds’ tour: less driving, lovely scenery, genuine history, old villages and no tourists.

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Escape to the countryside: the most beautiful day trips from london by train.

London is such a beautiful city with so many things to offer its tourists. However, if you really want to discover what England is all about, you must take some of the numerous day trips from London by train, to the countryside. The good news is that the capital is so well connected by train to pretty much all the corners of the country, touristy or off the beaten path. A day trip from London by train can be a nice escape in the nature, a way to discover the English history and culture, a foodie adventure and, why not, a great way to take a break and just relax. So, where will you be going to?

If you’re visiting London for an extended trip and would like to add in some additional destinations to your itinerary, considering taking a day trip to the historic city of Oxford which lies just over 50 miles west of the capital.

Of course, the most famous thing that draws travelers to Oxford from around the world is the famous university known for its breath-taking buildings, many of which have been used as filming locations for films and TV series including Harry Potter. Oxford University is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and visitors can walk around the site or opt to take a guided tour.

Other sites and attractions in Oxford include Oxford Castle , the Bridge of Sighs, the Bodleian Library, and the Museum of History of Science (which houses one of Einstein’s blackboards), as well as Blenheim Palace which lies just outside the city.

After visiting some of these top sights you’ll be in need of some refreshments, so head to The Turf Tavern (one of the oldest pubs in Oxford) or visit The Grand Café for a deluxe Afternoon Tea !

Travelers can easily take a train from the center of London to Oxford, with regular routes running from Marylebone and Paddington Stations. Trains take just over an hour from London to Oxford (leaving approx. every 30 minutes from Paddington) so you can easily set out from the capital in the morning and enjoy a full day out in this impressive university city.

Only an hour train ride away from London’s Kings Cross Station you will find the picturesque University city of Cambridge. Many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of the train station so it’s ideal for a day excursion to Cambridge on public transportation.

Cambridge University is the second oldest university in the English-speaking world. It is made up of 31 colleges. Most colleges allow visitors, although access may be limited during the school term. If you can, visit King’s College and see its famous chapel started by Henry VII.

Additionally, the University has eight museums that are open to the public.  You should definitely visit the Fitzwilliam and the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology, which are always free.

For your lunch break, why not pop into the historic Eagle Pub. Originally opened in 1667, it’s best known as the place where Francis Crick announced that he and James Watson had “discovered the secret of life” after they developed their proposal for the structure of DNA in 1953. Don’t miss the ceiling in the room in the back. It is full of graffiti from men that fought in World War II.

If it’s nice weather during your day trip to Cambridge , you must try punting on the Cam River. Punting uses a boat that is similar to a gondola, but you use a pole instead of an oar.  You can try to punt yourself or hire someone else to do the punting. It’s the best way to explore the lovely area known as The Backs where you can see some of Cambridge’s most prestigious colleges.

By Hadas from Luxury Voyager

Located at Hertfordshire, the heart of the British countryside, is a cute little town named Saint Albans. Saint Albans is great escape from the hassle and bustle of London. It is easily reachable from London via the Thameslink trains and the journey takes about 20 minutes from St Pancras station.

A must-visit in St Albans is the beautiful Cathedral- an impressive building with a blend of architectural styles. A short walk away from the cathedral is Verulamium Park if you fancy a walk. The beautiful park spans across 100-acre of green and features a lake, cafe and even museum. The town also doesn’t have shortage of food options with various cute brunch spots, cafes and restaurants. Waffle House is a favourite of mine when the weather is good. At the heart of town is St Albans Clock Tower. The medieval tower that has survived over 600 years is almost a constant reminder of the town’s rich history. Indeed, St Albans has something to offer to everyone. For shopping lovers, for example, there are a few shopping streets with high street brands and as well as small boutiques.

Overall, St Albans is a great day-trip from London being relatively close and having so much to offer.

Just over an hour by train from London but feeling much further is the lovely old town of Rye in East Sussex. The charming town has timber framed houses, enticing independent shops and restaurants along with some characterful inns. Ensure you stay long enough for darkness to descend, the streets are incredibly atmospheric, particularly on a foggy winter evening.

The George Inn Rye has an excellent restaurant for a leisurely lunch. For those visiting with children, Simply Italian has a lovely informal atmosphere. The Mermaid Inn, meanwhile, is essential for anyone after a pint in a proper old English pub. There’s even a café dedicated to hot chocolate, Knoops.

If you’re visiting Rye in the summer, it’s a short bus journey down to the sea where you’ll find the vast expanse of the beach at Camber Sands. Alternatively, for history buffs, the museum at Ypres Tower (dating back to the 13 th century) is well worth exploring.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly escape from London, Rye is perfect. With a castle, smuggling tales and an excellent old fashioned sweet shop, Rye is definitely one of the most fun destinations to visit in East Sussex with kids .

Rye can be reached from London St Pancras via a quick change at Ashford International.

Warner Brothers Studios

By Dan from Cabin Critic

Located just outside London is the Warner Brothers Studio Tour, an essential day trip for any Harry Potter fan. To arrive, take the train to the Watford Junction. From the station, you can see signs letting you know you are in the right place before getting off. Outside the station, there are shuttle buses that will take you to the studio which you must pay for with £2.50 cash.

The website says the tour should take around 3 and a half hours, but to really take in as much as possible it can take 4 to 5 hours easily. If you can get an earlier arrival time that will ensure you will have the time you need to see and experience everything. Arriving at the studio you will wait in line to get in. Next the adventure will begin as you go to The Great Hall. From here you can go at your own pace looking at all the details you want including costumes, props, full sets, and photo ops.

Halfway through you will come to the Backlot Cafe serving sandwiches, salads, and hot entrees like hamburgers and macaroni and cheese. The real star here is the butterbeer and related treated. While a simple butterbeer is great, ice cream or frozen butterbeer are crowd favorites.

The White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover, one of the most spectacular places in Kent , make for the perfect day trip to London by train.  The impressive cliffs tower an enormous 350ft above sea level and stretch for 16 miles along the coast.

There are a number of trails from Dover that you can take to explore these giants.  However, the South Foreland Lighthouse trail is the most popular route.  This easy 2-mile walk traverses the chalk grassland atop the cliffs.  From here you can appreciate the immense scale of the cliffs, while meandering through colourful wildflowers.  Throughout the walk you will be rewarded with sweeping vistas over the azure waters of the English Channel.  On a clear day, you may even be able to spot France in the distance.  Pack a picnic or stop at Mrs Knott’s tea room at the South Foreland Lighthouse for a quick lunch.

Located just over an hour by train from St Pancras, it’s easy to reach the  White Cliffs of Dover from London .  From Dover Priory station you will need to walk 40 minutes (with a 285ft elevation gain!) or take a 5-10 minute taxi (around £6) to the information centre where the Dover Cliffs walk starts.

Beyond the natural beauty of the area, one of Dover’s main draws is its extensive history.  Dover has long been considered the key to England and has witnessed several notable historical events, including Stone Age settlers, Roman invasions, and the return of soldiers from Dunkirk during World War 2.

The city is also home to England’s largest castle, Dover Castle.  This 11 th century castle has survived several invasions over the years.  It is sat impressively atop the cliffs, watching over the city and oceans below.  Be sure to set aside some time to visit this impressive castle while visiting Dover.

Tring is a pretty little market town in Hertfordshire on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is characterised by its picturesque mock Tudor buildings but it’s most famous for being home to the Tring Natural History Museum .

The museum was built by Walter Rothschild in 1889 and housed his private zoological collection. He died in 1937 and donated everything to the Natural History Museum. In many ways it is just like its London relative but on a much smaller scale. If you’re a fan of the original museum in London and can’t imagine how anything can compare, don’t let that put you off visiting. The collection here is extensive and while it doesn’t include dinosaurs (save for an impressive giant sloth), it offers a much more intimate experience.

There is a little café at the museum where you can grab a quick sandwich (or there are picnic tables) but if you have time, Lussmanns on the high street is fabulous. It’s an independent chain and always has excellent quality food with a great value lunchtime menu.

If you feel like walking off your lunch, right next door to the museum is Tring Park which offers some lovely scenic walks through ancient woodlands. You can leave your car in the free car park of the museum and head off into the park. Look out for the stunning architecture of Tring Park Mansion, designed by Sir Christopher Wren who also designed one of London’s most iconic sights, St Paul’s Cathedral.

Tring is located about 40 miles north west of London and it’s a very easy 40-minute journey on West Midlands Trains out of Euston Station making it perfect for a day trip from London.

Winchester is a wonderful day trip from London- especially by train.

This historic city is one of the oldest in the UK and has much recommend it- cute houses, quaint streets and one of the most famous cathedrals in the country.

You can get to Winchester easily by train. Services are regular and the journey takes about an hour. The train station is around a 5 minute walk to the town centre. (Downhill on the way there- uphill on the way back!)

Some of the best things to do in Winchester include visiting Winchester Cathedral. Some very famous people are buried here- including Jane Austen. You can also see one of the oldest bibles in the world. Mizmaze is also worth a visit if you have time; it’s a very old turf maze which you can try and navigate- lots of fun for the kids. shopping.

Of course, don’t forget about shopping at the many high-end boutiques and unique shops, as well as enjoying the MANY award-winning pubs, bars and restaurants in the city. And, of course, if you’re lucky enough to be visiting in November or December, you NEED to head to the Winchester Christmas Market – one of the best in the country. There are hundreds of stalls and even an ice rink!

By Liliane from My Toronto My World

A day trip to Windsor from London is one of the easiest day trips from London by train. The journey takes between 30 minutes and approximately 1 hour depending on the route that is chosen. Arrival in Windsor is at either Windsor Central Station or Windsor Riverside Station. The most direct journey is from Waterloo Station in London. This journey takes about 1 hour and will arrive at the Riverside Station which is approximately 5 minutes from Windsor Castle. There’s an option to also depart from Paddington Station in London. This is a quicker journey (approximately 30-50 minutes) but involves a change in Slough. Arrival with this route is to Windsor and Eton Central Station.

The town of Windsor is mainly known for Windsor Castle which is one of Queen Elizabeth’s main residences. Sight-seeing the castle also includes the well known St. George’s Chapel. While you definitely should dedicate at least a few hours of the day to the castle, it’s not the only thing to do in Windsor. The main core of the town consists of many nice shopping streets with restaurants and cafes you can pop into for a quick meal. There’s also plenty of royal landmarks around town like the Diamond Jubilee Fountain and the Queen Victoria Statue. Make sure to explore Alexandra Gardens and walk down the Great Walk for a great view of the castle.

Windsor makes for an excellent day trip because it’s so compact and so close to London. While Windsor Castle is the biggest draw, even the biggest royal fan most likely wouldn’t spend more than half a day there which still leaves half a day to explore the rest of the town.

By Laura from What’s Hot?

Bristol is just 1.5 hours away on the train from London Paddington making it a great option for a day trip. The city is a wonderful mix of old and new with some parts home to beautiful classic architecture and others sporting the trendiest brunch joints and shops in town. It’s a city that’s big enough to fill a day and more but small enough that you can walk to most places.

As soon as you hop off the train, you should head straight for brunch in a yurt. That’s right, a yurt. Right by the train station is Yurt Lush, a beautiful space where you can enjoy one of the best breakfasts in Bristol in a unique setting. After that, you should be Clifton Suspension Bridge where you can enjoy great views over the city and have a nice outdoor walk. Then you can visit Clifton Arcade, which is lined with small, independent stores, for some vintage shopping.

For art and culture, head to Bristol’s Museum and Art Gallery, which is completely free! From dinosaurs to Egyptian mummies and art, there’s more than enough for one afternoon in here. There’s art all over the city’s walls too so look out for street art by the infamous Banksy as you wander around. For a mid-afternoon snack after all that exploring, stop off at Pinkmans Bakery for a sour doughnut. They’re doughnuts made from sourdough and oozing with flavour be it chocolate or fruit.

Towards the end of the day, head to Bristol’s Harbourside and enjoy a pint at one of the pubs near the water or bring your own drinks and sit around the Harbour. This can get very busy on a nice sunny day so come early if you want a spot right by the water’s edge!

By Samantha from The Wandering Wanderluster

Often referred to as London by the sea, Brighton is one of the top seaside resorts on the English Channel and a popular day trip option for city-goers in search of a laid-back beach vibe, hedonistic nightlife and a plethora of boutique and vintage shopping. Just under 1 hour from London Victoria or London Bridge by train, Brighton is known for its pebble beaches, its hedonistic and bohemian vibe but most of all, the neon-lit Brighton Pier that extends 524 metres out into the sea.

Brighton has much to offer its visitors, with an abundance of top attractions easily visited in a single day. Day-trippers can explore its Victorian heritage with a stroll along the beachfront and along Brighton’s Palace Pier, a major landmark for the city and a big hit for families. Save up your pennies and coppers for hours of fun on the arcades, ride on one of the thrilling roller coasters or enjoy traditional fish and chips, served in paper cones with wooden forks while looking out to sea. For a bird’s eye view, take a ride on the British Airways i360 observation tower , installed on Brighton’s seafront in 2016, adding a modern attraction to this historic seaside resort. There is also the Sealife Centre, known as the world’s oldest operating aquarium, home to over 3500 sea creatures and fish.

Shoppers will want to head to the pedestrianised and warren of streets called The Lanes, a lively and quirky neighbourhood located close to another of Brighton’s landmarks, the Royal Pavilion. These small narrow lanes are awash with vintage antique shops, quaint cafes, boutiques and jewellery shops; a shopper’s paradise as well as being the perfect place to stop for a fish lunch in Brighton .

The nearby village of Rottingdean is worth adding to your day trip itinerary, if you love smugglers tales and are a fan of Rudyiar Kippling’s books.

By Larch from The Silver Nomad

Swindon is not normally on lists of places to visit from London, but it is surprising what you can do on a day trip to Swindon.

Leaving London from Paddington Station, the train takes around an hour to get to Swindon.

The town has a long association with the railways and the Great Western Railway. GWR opened the Swindon Railway Works in 1843 and STEAM Museum, 10-minutes’ walk from the station follows the history of GWR and its chief engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Next to the STEAM Museum is the Outlet Centre if you fancy a bit of discount shopping. There is also a food court offering a range of different foods.

If you are visiting on a Sunday, don’t miss the Farmers Market outside the Outlet Centre from 10 – 4 for beautiful fresh produce.

Swindon is home to the Museum of Computing, which was the first in the UK. Track the history of computers through the years with interactive exhibits and see how far computing has come.

For people partial to hand crafted beers and ales, Arkells Brewery has been brewing beer in Swindon since 1843. Many of the pubs in Swindon serve it. If you prefer gin, Tickle Gin, is distilled in Swindon. Try their Signature Gin, or Raspberry Bakewell

On sunny days, head for one of the large parks in Swindon. Visit Coate Water where you can stroll around the lakes, Lydiard Country Park and enjoy a walk round the 260 acres or have a look around the Palladian Country House.

England’s oldest recorded town, Colchester in Essex, is an easy day excursion from London by train. Take a regular train from Liverpool Street Station for 1.5 hours to Colchester North Station, just 15 minutes’ walk from the town centre.

Spend a day in Colchester by starting at Colchester Castle.  While the dungeons in the castle contain foundations from a Roman temple, the particularly impressive castle keep is Norman and dates from 1076.  The museum at the Castle contains a Roman treasure hoard that was discovered during renovations of a high street department store.  Explore the most intact Roman walls in England and be sure to find the pub – named the Hole in the Wall – which is built into the walls.  You’ll want to also visit Colchester’s Roman circus, which is the only one in the country.  It’s easy to explore Colchester on foot and there are several walking tours – mostly free, some including audio tours, that goes through the history and key locations of the town.  Make sure, too, to visit St Botolphs, the 11th century Augustin priory which is home to glorious architecture.

You won’t want for places to stop for lunch in Colchester, but particularly recommended is the Tiptree Jam Tea Room.  Tiptree Jam is world-famous and hails from the nearby town of Tiptree, the tearoom here has a lovely garden and is an excellent lunch stop.

Stonehenge is one of the most famous landmarks in England, and it can be easily visited on a day trip from London. This prehistoric monument is surrounded in mystery and is a top attraction for tourists visiting the United Kingdom.

Visiting Stonehenge from London is simple. Take the South Western Railway line from Waterloo Station in London to Salisbury. From there, you’ll need to buy a ticket on the Stonehenge Tour Bus (this bus is the only way to get to Stonehenge via public transportation). Tickets for the bus are £16 for adults; however, you can also opt for more expensive tickets that include admission into Stonehenge and other area attractions. The Stonehenge Tour Bus will take you directly to the prehistoric monument’s visitor center.

When you arrive at the visitor center, spend some time exploring the exhibitions – they will provide you with a bit more information on the history of Stonehenge as well as what life was like during the years of its construction.

After learning more about the monument, grab a lunch from the café at the visitor center and hop on the complimentary shuttle to the Stone Circle. When you get there, pick the perfect spot to have a picnic and enjoy your lunch. After eating, you can get a bit closer to admire Stonehenge and all of its mystery.

Stonehenge is only about 2 hours from London, making it ideal for a day trip. If you’re short on time and would like to explore more of England on your day trip, consider taking a guided tour of Stonehenge and Bath from London .

Hurley Lock

Hurley Lock is a small island in the middle of the Thames, surrounded by a wooded space with large patches of green grass. It’s the ideal day excursion from London to recharge in a beautiful natural environment within close proximity to the charming village of Hurley.

The most atmospheric way to get to Hurley is to catch the train to Marlow (50 minutes from London), then walk the 2-mile flat Thames footpath along the river. It’s a lovely easy stroll which will take around one hour, plus additional time to stop on the banks of the Thames and admire the beautiful scenery.

At Hurley Lock, a shallow shelving beach with almost no current makes Hurley Lock an excellent place for wild swimming in the Thames for families with kids of all ages. A little further towards the middle of the river, the water gradually deepens providing the opportunity to get some exercise in as well. The island surrounding the lock has patches with both sun and shade, and a few picnic tables dotted about.

The village of Hurley dates to 1135. The Old Bell Inn – an excellent place to stop for lunch – claims to be the oldest hotel in the UK with a chequered history of famous occupants. Today, however, it’s most well regarded for the innovative menu of locally source ingredients.

Historic Hastings is a quaint seaside resort on Sussex’s east coast that is only 90 minutes on the train to and from London. Boasting a beautiful beach and picture perfect pier that stretches into the sea, Hastings is a classic coastal town that has all the traditional trappings including a cobbled high street, numerous old inns and pubs, plus several rather delicious fish and chip shops to choose from.

There are many things to do in Hastings including the UK’s steepest cliff railway, which allows you to easily get to the top of the cliffs for stunning views looking down on the resort as well as the nearby protected coastal parks. Plus check out some contemporary art exhibitions at the Jerwood Gallery on the Old Town’s fishing beach.

The seaside history of Hasting is most evident in the beachside area known as the Stade, Europe’s oldest fishing beach. Often used as a filming location in TV and movies (particularly for period dramas, the Stade consists of candy coloured fishing posts, old fishing huts and seafood stalls selling cockles and fish that have come out of the sea earlier that day – can you get any fresher than that?

A world away from the hustle and bustle of busy London, this cute and charming English town has so much to enjoy, so hurry to Hastings now!

Saffron Walden

By Paula from Truly Expat

Saffron Walden is a beautiful little village full of quaint boutique style shops, and lovely cafes and restaurants was once a market town. You can catch the train from Liverpool St Station to Audley End in approximately 1.5 hours.

 Saffron Walden has always been one of my favourites because there are many things to do when you arrive. This includes The Bridge End Garden, which is one of the many highlights of this quaint little town. You can’t go by without checking out the beautiful gardens and getting lost in the maze.

The town is small enough to fill an entire day with activities but not large enough to get lost! Perfect for an outing from London.  Once you arrive in Saffron Walden and you have a little look around the village (especially the markets on the weekend) head over to the The Saffron Walden Museum as it is a great place to explore (with or without children)

If you are stopping for lunch or dinner, then you cannot not go by The Eight Bells. Each dish is well thought out and beautifully arranged. The meal is a memorable one from start to finish as each dish is as delicious as the next. This cosy country style restaurant’s ambience makes you feel right at home from the get-go.

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34 thoughts on “ Escape to the Countryside: The Most Beautiful Day Trips from London by Train ”

Oh my goodness, there is so much to take in! My husband and I would absolutely love to backpack Europe one day and these places would definitely be on the to-do list of places to visit. So much history and beauty!

That’s a comprehensive list. Last year during our UK trip we did a couple of these day trips.

I would really love to see the Stonehenge and the warner bros studios. These places are so remarkable to me because I have heard some good tales about them. Your pictures are so beautiful

London is on my list so I am saving all of these day trips for ideas!! Beautiful Pictures!!

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Vip shopping, an english manor and more: a 3-day oxfordshire road trip.

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Estelle Manor and its beautiful grounds in Oxfordshire, England.

Drive an hour northwest out of London and you're in Oxfordshire, a county that promises a picture-perfect English countryside getaway, that's right out of the movies. Spend a day shopping at the upscale Bicester Village, learn about Oxford's rich Medieval history through the eyes of some of its prestigious university's residents, stay at old stone manors and tuck into a candle-lit feasts at historic gastropubs. Flanked by the city of Reading to the south and the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's birthplace, to the north, Oxfordshire's draws are all within easy reach, making it perfect road trip material for a weekend. The county is also the gateway to the picturesque Cotswolds villages, to be explored from the back of an offbeat tour guide's vintage Rolls-Royce.

Cecconi's Restaurant at Bicester Village, England and designer boutiques found at the village.

Get The VIP Shopping Experience At Bicester Village

As a Londoner whose adopted home city has been Paris for over a decade, I hadn't been back to Bicester Village in England for a while. The last time, it was winter and I distinctly remember the aroma of mulled wine wafting through the crisp countryside air, the pre-Christmas cheer almost palpable as shoppers scurried around the village of designer stores inside smart white clapboard houses decorated with twinkly lights. Fast-forward to spring 2024, and, except for the change in season, my memories of the village feel intact.

On my latest visit, I leave the London city bustle behind at Marylebone train station. Under an hour away, where the scenery gives way to vibrant green fields tethered to great big oak trees, I arrive at Bicester Village, which has its own station. I pick my way through the flower-planted lanes, and arrive at The Apartment, where I had arranged to meet an old university friend for our three-day road trip. Inside, a butler greets me, unburdening me of my bags and jacket before whisking me up an elevator and through an open plan living area with gabled ceilings, and adorned with handpicked art works hanging above plush pastel velvet settees. Console tables are curated with books about fashion and design, and decadent floral arrangements sit in oversized handmade ceramic vases.

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We arrive at a personal shopping suite, where my friend Jessica is waiting, a glass of chilled champagne in hand, as our stylist runs through racks of clothes picked out especially for us. Our reunion was off to a good start, the glint in Jessica's eyes told me as we hugged hello. Living in two different countries and now having our respective families, makes spending time together too rare an occurence, so needless to say that a child-free weekend feels like a very special treat.

After playing dress-up, we are let loose in the village to explore British heritage brands like Burberry, Alexander McQueen, and Vivienne Westwood, as well as other big names like Dior and Celine. The big draw at Bicester is being able to shop for designer apparel at a fraction of the price, as well as spot the latest season's non-discounted items.

The elevated shopping experience at Bicester Village, England.

The first outlet village of its kind to open in 1995, the Bicester Collection has since grown and counts 11 offshoots around the world, offering discounted prices with elevated shopping experiences , top-end services, perks for members that include access to the The Apartment and additional discounts, and facilities like good dining options.

At Bicester Village, we're torn between sitting down to lunch at the new Ottolenghi offshoot and the Soho House-owned Cecconi's. We settle on the latter, for its cozy interiors of fluted duck-egg blue banquettes and sunlight streaming in through the glass ceiling.

After an overdue catch-up over crunchy Milanese escalope with buttery mashed potatoes and puttanesca artichoke tortellini, we pick up our bags at The Apartment, where we say our goodbyes to the cast of personable staff before setting off for our hotel.

Design-Forward Estelle Manor, The County's Hottest Stay

The hotel bar at Estelle Manor, Oxfordshire, England.

We drive through the glorious Oxfordshire countryside, where rivers crisscross meadows and are straddled by bridges leading to hamlets of Banbury ironstone houses that could be right out of a fairytale. Half-an-hour later, we pull up at enormous gates where security personnel buzz us through. Our tires crunch under the gravel as we continue onto the driveway. We gasp in unison, feeling prickles of excitement up our arms, as the dazzling Jacobean Revival manor set in 3,000 acres of grounds pulls into sight. Estelle Manor 's been the talk of the county for being the hottest place to stay since it opened last year as part of the Ennismore hospitality group, belonging to hotel conglomerate Accor.

Formerly known as Eynsham Hall, some parts of the building date back to the mid-1800s. During World War II, it was used as a maternity ward for London evacuees and served as a rest site for US Army Air Corps officers. Since it was snapped up in 2018 as the Mayfair members' club countryside offshoot, the interiors were entirely transformed. Rich fabrics, contemporary artworks scattered throughout, handpicked flea market finds, impressive hand blown glass ceiling chandeliers, and bespoke furniture come together in a magical setting.

We stay in one of the 34 manor house rooms, which are less streamlined than the rest in the former stables and out-buildings. Adjoining the manor terrace is a heated outdoor pool that looks out onto acres of peaceful parkland. There are also two restaurants, a breakfast room in a light-filled greenhouse, an elaborate kids' club and a state-of-the-art gym where a coach is on hand to devise private fitness programs for guests.

An Offbeat Guided Tour Of Oxford And Beyond

Oxfordshire guide Jonathan Sayers - Oxford, England

The next morning, after a hearty breakfast in the manor greenhouse, Jess and I travel to the nearby city of Oxford. Although both born and bred in England, this was a first for us both, and being university friends, exploring the city and its university heritage together, brings back memories, making the weekend even more special. Founded in the 8th century, it is home to the University of Oxford, the oldest university in the English-speaking world evidenced by references of teaching as early as 1096.

Oxford's museums and 43 colleges, chapels, halls, libraries and residences are the top attractions for their magnificent and varied architecture styles, however, it's also more generally a wonderful city to walk around for its Medieval setting of cobblestoned lanes and grand hotels like the Gothic Revival style Randolph Hotel, built in 1866. It's here that we meet William Thomson. A former member of the Clés d'Or concierges, he decided to go it alone and launch Ask William , his own concierge business, where his network of in-the-know concierges allow him to organize top-end stays for clients anywhere in the world.

That morning, we sit under a green vaulted ceiling, having cups of hot milky tea in the hotel's wood paneled Morse bar, named after a well-known English television series which was filmed here. He's organized a tour of the city for us with a student from the university for a behind-the-scenes take. "I've got a surprise lined up for you after lunch," he tells us, with a wink.

The Gothic Revival style Randolph Hotel in Oxford, England.

The next three hours zip by in a flash as our guide Uri walks us through the city's gems, unpacking the significance of key details, and pointing out fun trivia like two coffee shops that have been battling it out for the title of the oldest coffee shop in Oxford, as long as anyone can remember. We even get to have a quick peek inside halls of residence, as well as a bookshop with a Guinness World Record for holding the most books in a single room.

After a quick lunch at a local gastro restaurant, we're met by our guide Jonathan Sayers, who sits behind the wheel of a Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. A man with an imposing frame, he wears a three-piece pinstripe suite, complete with a pocket watch and cap. "I'm your surprise," he smiles, waving us into the vintage car. We squeeze onto the leather seats, windows rolled down, listening to Jonathan, a former history teacher, as he recounts tales of how Oxford came to be and its link to Winston Churchill, who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom twice, during the Second World War and in the fifties, and who was born nearby at Blenheim Palace, now a museum open to the public.

As we leave the city and drive through pretty villages, passerby wave to us, making us feel like royalty sitting in a carriage parading through the streets. We reach a no-frills church at the end of a small residential lane. It's here that Churchill was laid to rest. A modest affair, we're surprisingly completely alone. The rest of the afternoon is spent zipping through the Cotswolds' villages of chocolate box houses and handsome English pubs lined up along rivers that run all the way to the open countryside.

The candle-lit dining room and signature beef dish at The Bull in Charlbury, Oxfordshire, England.

Just before sundown, we return to our manor quarters for a quick change before dinner at the much acclaimed The Bull in the nearby village of Charlbury, a 15-minute drive away. Reopened last year by the duo behind popular London pub The Pelican, it has a moodily lit beamed dining space adjoining a garden, open in the warmer months. Elevated British classics like the house-made pie and hake fish with mashed potatoes, are whipped up using the wonderful local Oxfordshire produce, from lamb and beef reared in neighboring fields to vegetables plucked from eco-conscious farms nearby. In winter, there's a roaring fire burning in the stone fireplace, creating the most perfect English pub setting. For diners who want to stay on, there are a handful of cozy rustic chic rooms upstairs.

Kicking Back At Estelle Manor And Soho Farmhouse

The outdoor pool and dining room at Estelle Manor, Oxfordshire, England.

The next day, we wake to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting up the creaky mahogany staircase of the manor's main hallway, from the large open plan breakfast room downstairs with teal blue velvet banquettes curved around marble tables. Before checking out, we take a dip in the outdoor pool, a slab of turquoise water lined by potted trees and deck chairs laid out under smart red and white cabana stripe umbrellas. It has the best vantage point from which to really take in the manor's grandeur.

Our next and last stop, is Soho Farmhouse for brunch and a treatment at their Cowshed spa part set up outside on the banks of a lake planted with tall wispy grasses where guests unwind in hot tubs sunk into wooden decks. Inside an old barn, the sprawling members-only hotel is surrounded by a hundred acres of countryside. The attractive bohemian-chic spin on an English countryside retreat makes us question whether we should be making Soho Farmhouse our go-to for future getaways. While we ponder the question, we settle a little deeper in our day beds lined up at the water's edge, pulling our fluffy white robes tighter around us, and begin plotting our next get-together.

Estelle Manor, Oxfordshire, England.

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In This English Countryside Race, the Winner Takes the … Cheese

Every year, thousands gather at a steep hill in southwestern England to watch competitors hurtle themselves after a coveted prize: a wheel of Double Gloucester.

The site of the Gloucestershire Cheese Roll in England, which was softened by rain before the competition on Monday. Credit... Molly Darlington/Reuters

Supported by

By Jenny Gross

Reporting from Cooper’s Hill in Gloucestershire, England

• May 29, 2024

“Cheese! Cheese! Cheese!” hundreds of people chanted at the top of their lungs.

An eight-pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese flew down a hill. Seconds later, a cascade of two dozen people tumbled after it. The first person to reach the bottom of the hill, which is so steep that it is almost impossible to remain standing while sprinting down it, wins.

The cheese-chasing contest, one of the most peculiar traditions in England, if not the world, dates to at least the early 1800s, according to local lore. Though it’s unclear why the race started — some say it had to do with grazing rights on the land, or a fertility ritual — today, people come from around the world to see or participate in the event themselves.

Thousands showed up to Cooper’s Hill in southwestern England to watch on Monday, undeterred after the local authorities deemed the event unsafe for competitors and spectators alike. The winners hailed from as close as Gloucestershire and as far away as Germany, the United States and Australia.

Dylan Twiss, a 25-year-old from Perth, Australia, who won one of the races, said that as soon as he realized he would be in England when the competition took place, he knew he had to compete. “I said, ‘All right, I’m going, and I’m winning it,’” he said.

At the top of the 200-yard hill, said Mr. Twiss, an outdoors instructor, he tried to stay relaxed. As soon as the race began, he was “literally just rolling with it,” running and tumbling as fast as he could. “I’ve got a gash on the knee, but that is a small price to pay,” he said, holding the prize : a large wheel of Double Gloucester.

Before the first race, it started raining, and the crowd began to agitate. “Put your brollies down!” onlookers yelled, using the popular British term for umbrellas, frustrated that their views of Cooper’s Hill were being blocked.

The rain, while brief, may have turned out to be a blessing. A volunteer paramedic said it had made the ground much softer and therefore safer for those hurtling down it. In years with no rain, he said, he is typically “running around like a headless chicken” to provide medical treatment to contestants.

It was not clear whether anyone was seriously injured this year, although there were plenty of bumps and bruises. Two men limped off the hill, clutching their ribs, and at least one person said he had gone to the hospital.

Last year, one of the winners, Delaney Irving of Canada , was knocked unconscious just before crossing the finish line. In 1997, more than 30 people had to be treated by paramedics, according to the local news outlet Gloucestershire Live.

The participants couldn’t say they weren’t warned: Before the event, Arman Mathieson, assistant chief constable of the Gloucestershire Constabulary, advised those who attended to participate or watch to “consider the risk.”

The race involves no sign-up form or waivers. There were three men’s races and one women’s race, each with about 25 people, as well as an uphill race for children and another for adults. To compete, participants just need to show up at the top of the hill and jostle their ways to the starting line.

Lewis Graves, a police officer who finished in the top five of one of the men’s races, was covered in mud and had blood streaming down his knee after the race. He ran for the first few seconds and then tumbled down most of the hill.

“As soon as you get rolling, you’re not stopping,” said Mr. Graves, 24, who lives about two hours away. He shrugged off any warnings about risk. “I know what I was getting myself into,” he said, though he added that he would probably not compete again.

Spectators were enthralled by the scene. “It’s pretty mad,” said James Collins, a photographer who had come to see the race out of curiosity.

“I just wanted to see people throw themselves down a hill,” said another spectator, Vega Salsbury, 19. “Looking at it now, it’s so steep.”

One of the winners, Abby Lampe, a financial services consultant in Raleigh, N.C., won her second title, after winning two years ago. (She missed last year because of a Taylor Swift concert.) Thankfully, she sustained no serious injuries in the race.

“It went the best as it could have,” Ms. Lampe, 23, said. “I wanted to do it again, to defend the title, to bring it back to the U.S.”

As for her trophy? She said she would pack it in her carry-on and store it in her fridge. It will go under what’s left of her 2022 prize, another wheel of Double Gloucester cheese.

Jenny Gross is a reporter for The Times in London covering breaking news and other topics. More about Jenny Gross

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Can't travel far? These 3 Florida destinations will make you feel like you're elsewhere

Yearning for an extravagant vacation, but traveling overseas or even getting on an airplane isn’t possible right now?

Not to worry.

There are several spots right here in Florida that will mentally make you feel like you’re far from the Sunshine State. From over-water cabanas to equestrian adventures and rodeo roundups, there are some surprising getaways just a short drive away.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

So even if you can’t take the far-away vacation, check out one of these options to quench your wanderlust.

Evermore Orlando Resort: a (mental) Caribbean getaway

This picturesque resort is just a few miles from Walt Disney World, but once you’re on property, you will think you’re in a Caribbean paradise.

The heart of the resort is Evermore Bay, 20-acres of tropical, sandy beach paradis e. At the center is a sparkling blue, eight-acre manmade lagoon.

Enjoy the water by paddleboard, kayak or from your private cabana complete with over-the-water hammock. If you’re feeling adventurous you can enter the lagoon via a rope swing or 8-foot jump.

The only signs you’re minutes from the theme park capital of the world are the Walt Disney World fireworks visible each night.

Once you’ve exhausted yourself at the lagoon, retreat to your own private accommodations. Options range from two- to four-bedroom villas, to flats, which are essentially four-bedroom, four-bathroom apartments complete with full kitchens and bunk rooms.

The showstoppers are the resort’s vacation homes. They range from five to 11 bedrooms and sleep as many as 32 people.

If a more traditional hotel is more your speed, the property includes a Conrad Resort, which has a full spa and top-notch dining options. Guests of the Conrad Resort, a Hilton property, can use the Evermore facilities.

Evermore Orlando Resort , 1590 Evermore Way, Orlando, 407-239-4700, www.evermoreresort.com

Equestrian Hotel in Ocala: a page out of the English countryside

This sprawling resort, not too far off Interstate 75, is a picturesque destination straight out of the English countryside.

There are 400 acres of stables and horse arenas that host equestrian events throughout the year. While the area is a big draw for those in the equestrian world, it’s a fun getaway for those looking for an elegant escape.

The Equestrian Hotel, a AAA Four Diamond Resort, welcomes guests with a grand lobby adorned with marble floors, 20-foot ceilings, crystal chandeliers and massive fireplaces. Stately furniture decorated various sitting areas flanked by enormous amusing portraits of dogs.

This is a resort where tank tops and cutoff shorts seem out of place. The choice attire is more collared shirts and riding boots.

Guests staying at the resort, which opened in 2021, have the option to book a room that overlooks one of the main arenas. You can watch horse competitions from the comfort of your own room.

A second hotel opened on the property earlier this year. The Riding Academy Hotel offers nearly 400 rooms with touches of Ralph Lauren throughout the hotel.

The Equestrian Hotel, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala, 352-414-7900, www.equestrianhotel.com

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo: a slice out of the Wild West

Smack-dab in the middle of the state is this Florida dude ranch, recently named the best glamping spot in the country by USA Today 10Best .

Situated on 1,700 acres and surrounded by 400,000 acres of state and federally protected wetlands, this retreat is literally in the middle of nowhere.

The resort is home to one of the longest-running rodeos in Florida.

Started in the late 1960s, the rodeo features cowboys participating in a variety of events including bull riding, barrel racing and trick riding. Each week the 1,200-seat rodeo arena is packed with spectators dressed head to toe in Western attire, from cowboy boots to big, shiny belt buckles.

Other activities on site include fishing, horseback riding and air boat rides.

Guests can camp in everything from traditional tents to a hotel-style lodge to cabins to full-on glamping mode. There are 651-square-foot teepees that include a king bed, a sleeper sofa, a full bathroom, microwave, refrigerator, of course air conditioning and even a fireplace.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo , 3200 River Ranch Blvd., River Ranch, 863-692-1321, www.westgateresorts.com

Spitzer is a trending reporter. She can be reached at [email protected]

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Can't travel far? These 3 Florida destinations will make you feel like you're elsewhere