country day trips from 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.

Jessica Puckett

Matt Ortile

Olivia Morelli

Alex Van Buren

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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35 Easy Day Trips from London + 24 to Avoid

If you’re visiting Europe, it makes sense to make the most of your time in England with a day trip from London.

I get a lot of emails asking which day trips from London are feasible, and which ones aren’t. Here I’ve compiled the most common destinations that travelers ask about and analyze whether they’re fit for a day trip or need more time.

Let’s go over the best day trips from London that won’t leave you totally depleted, and explore the day trips from London that just aren’t realistic.

Disclosure: I only recommend products & services I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read my full privacy policy here .

Day Trips from London that are Absolutely Feasible ✅

Please note that these travel times are approximate and can vary based on specific starting points in London, traffic, specific train schedules, and other factors. Always check current travel times before planning a trip using Google Maps or my favorite app: Citymapper .

This is not an exhaustive list – that would take up the whole of the internet 😉

1. Oxford ✅

• Drive: 1.5 hours
• Train: 1 hour 

Famous for its prestigious university, Oxford offers beautiful architecture, museums, and the Bodleian Library.

Oxford is one of the best day trips from London by train. It’s like stepping into the Harry Potter films, and it’s such a short train ride to be transported a world away.

2. Cambridge ✅

• Train: 50 minutes

Another charming, ancient university town with punting on the River Cam and the stunning King’s College Chapel.

Cambridge is truly magical and makes for one of the easiest day trips from London by train.

3. Brighton ✅

• Drive: 2 hours
• Train: 1 hour  

A vibrant seaside town with a pier, the Royal Pavilion, and quirky shopping lanes.

If you want a day trip from London by train that takes you to the beach, Brighton is the way to go!

• Drive: 4 hours
• Train: 2.5 hours 

A historic city with a rich Viking and Roman heritage. While it’s possible to visit in a day, you may may feel rushed as there’s lots to see here!

5. Windsor ✅

• Drive: 1 hour
• Train: 50 minutes  

Visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. I always encourage London travelers to fit this in if they have time, as it’s much more magical than Buckingham Palace.

6. Canterbury ✅

Home to the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral and a charming medieval town center. This day trip from London by train will take you worlds away in just 1 hour.

• Drive: 2.5 hours
• Train: 1.5 hours  

Known for its Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture, Bath is a picturesque town in the Cotswolds. This is one of the best day trips from London by train because once you arrive in Bath, it’s all walkable straight from the train station.

8. Stonehenge ✅

• Train (to Salisbury, then bus): 1.5 hours 

The iconic prehistoric monument is a super popular day trip from London. Many tour companies offer excellent Stonehenge tours in conjunction with other nearby attractions like Windsor and Bath for a really affordable price.

Personally, I don’t think Stonehenge on its own is worth the trip, but if you book with a company that also takes you to other iconic locations on the way, it’s totally worth it.

9. Stratford-upon-Avon ✅

• Train: 2 hours 

The birthplace of William Shakespeare! So much charming history, and a great day trip for students and history lovers.

10. Cotswolds ✅

• Train (to various towns): 1.5-2.5 hours 

Picturesque villages and rolling hills. Bath is the most visited place in the Cotswolds, but there’s so much more to explore here, especially if you drive or rent a car there .

11. Bristol ✅

A vibrant city with a rich maritime history. Bristol is a great day trip from London if you want a larger city (not a small village) with more things to do.

12. Winchester ✅

The ancient capital of England with a stunning cathedral. This place is charming as heck.

13. Blenheim Palace ✅

• Train (to Oxford, then bus): 1.5 hours 

A monumental country house and UNESCO World Heritage site. Blenheim Palace is truly magical, and well worth the trip from London.

14. Bletchley Park ✅

• Train: 40 minutes 

The historic site where British codebreakers decrypted German codes during WWII. History and science nerds – this one is your best bet. So much world history happened here!

15. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour ✅

• Train: 20 minutes to Watford Junction, then a shuttle bus, though most tour companies include transport from Central London.  

Dive into the magical world with The Making of Harry Potter tour, a must for fans of the series.

This is the most popular day trip from London, and tickets often sell out months ahead. Read all my tips to scoring tickets here.

16. Hampton Court Palace ✅

• Train: 35 minutes  

A historic palace once home to Henry VIII, showcasing Tudor and Baroque architecture. Fans of SIX the Musical and history nerds, you have to go!

• Train: 1.5 hours 

A medieval town with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a rich smuggling history. A super charming, quaint little village!

18. Leeds Castle ✅

• Train: 1 hour to Maidstone, then a local bus 

A picturesque castle set on two islands in a tranquil lake.

19. Hever Castle ✅

• Train: 40 minutes to Hever, then a short walk 

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, set within beautiful gardens.

20. Salisbury ✅

A historic city close to Stonehenge, home to the impressive Salisbury Cathedral.

Known for its magnificent cathedral and the historic home of Oliver Cromwell.

22. St Albans ✅

• Train: 20 minutes 

A historic market town boasting Roman ruins and a stunning cathedral.

23. Rochester ✅

A town steeped in history with its Norman castle, cathedral, and Charles Dickens connections.

24. Hatfield House ✅

• Train: 20 minutes

 This is a lesser-known day trip from London to a really incredible spot. Hatfield House is a Jacobean house with sprawling gardens, once the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I.

25. Sissinghurst Castle Garden ✅

• Train: 1 hour to Staplehurst, then a local bus 

A historic estate renowned for its beautifully designed gardens by Vita Sackville-West.

26. Cardiff, Wales ✅

• Drive: 3 hours

Wales is the closest country to England , so if your goal is to just get to another country cheaply and quickly, go to Cardiff!

The capital of Wales, Cardiff boasts a blend of historic and modern attractions. The Cardiff Castle, located in the city center, showcases 2,000 years of history, while the Cardiff Bay offers a modern waterfront with dining and entertainment options.

27. Dover ✅

• Train: 1.5 hours

Famous for its iconic White Cliffs, Dover also offers the impressive Dover Castle. The port town is a gateway to the continent, with ferries frequently departing for France.

On a clear day, you can actually see France from the cliffs!

28. Birmingham ✅

As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham offers a mix of cool experiences. The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, and the historic Jewellery Quarter are among its top attractions.

29. Lille, France ✅

Hop on the Eurostar and be in another country in 1 hour and 22 minutes ! Lille, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is a vibrant city with a rich blend of French and Flemish influences. It’s not nearly as big as Paris, so it’s perfect for a day trip from London.

30. Southend-on-Sea ✅

• Train: 1 hour

A popular seaside resort, Southend offers the longest pleasure pier in the world. With its beaches, arcades, and Adventure Island amusement park, it’s a fun destination for families.

31. Broadstairs ✅

A charming coastal town, Broadstairs boasts sandy beaches and a rich history. It’s known for its association with Charles Dickens, who visited frequently.

32. Portsmouth ✅

A historic port city, Portsmouth is home to the Historic Dockyard, where you can see the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum. The Spinnaker Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.

33. Bournemouth ✅

• Train: 2 hours

A vibrant coastal town, Bournemouth is known for its seven miles of sandy beaches, beautiful gardens, and a bustling town center. The Bournemouth Pier and Oceanarium are popular attractions.

34. Brussels, (Belgium) ✅

• Eurostar: 2 hours 

As Belgium’s capital, Brussels is accessible via Eurostar for a day trip , but you won’t get to explore this huge city for very long. 

35. Bury St. Edmunds ✅

• Drive: 2 Hours
• Train: 2 Hours

Commonly just called “Bury,” this is a charming historic market and cathedral town in Suffolk.

Day Trips from London that Are Just Too Far ❌

While all these destinations are fascinating and offer unique experiences, the travel times and logistics involved make them challenging for day trips from London. If you do decide to visit, consider staying overnight to truly appreciate what each location has to offer.

Keep in mind that although flights to some of these places might be a short time in the air, getting to and from the airport in London will take at least 1 hour, not to mention time going through security and passport control & immigration.

1. Edinburgh ❌

• Drive: 7-8 hours
• Train: 4.5-5 hours 

Scotland’s capital is too far for a comfortable day trip. It deserves an entire trip of its own!

2. Paris & Disneyland Paris ❌

• Eurostar to Paris: 2.5 hours
• Eurostar to Marne-la-Vallée (Disneyland): 3 hours  

Can you do Paris as a day trip from London? Technically yes. But even with the short(ish) Eurostar journey, it’s a stretch to do in one day and truly enjoy. Paris deserves so much time as it’s such an incredible and massive city. 

Disneyland Paris is equally difficult to do in one day, especially with kids – everyone would be absolutely exhausted.

3. Lake District ❌

• Drive: 5-6 hours
• Train: 2.5-3 hours to Windermere  

While beautiful, it’s a long journey from London!

4. Dublin ❌

• Flight: 1.5 hours
• Ferry: 3.5-8 hours (depending on route and ferry type) 

Requires a flight or a long ferry ride.

5. Cornwall (Penzance, St Ives, etc) ❌

• Drive: 4.5-8 hours (depending on destination within Cornwall)
• Train: 3-5 hours 

The stunning coastline is too far for just one day. The trouble with Cornwall is you really need a car once you’re there, but driving from London takes forever with traffic and the narrow twisting lanes of the West coast.

6. Isle of Skye ❌

• Drive: 12-13 hours
• Train (to Mallaig, then ferry): 10-11 hours 

Located in Scotland, it’s too remote for a day trip.

7. Liverpool ❌

• Drive: 4-5 hours
• Train: 2-2.5 hours 

Home to The Beatles and rich maritime history, Liverpool is doable for a day trip but would be very rushed.

8. Loch Ness ❌

• Drive: 9-10 hours
• Train to Inverness: 8 hours, then drive or bus: 30 minutes 

Located in the Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness is famous for its legendary monster and beautiful scenery, but it’s too far for a day trip from London.

9. Amsterdam, Netherlands ❌

• Flight: 1 hour
• Eurostar: 4 hours 

The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is famous for its canals, historic houses, museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, and vibrant nightlife.

While technically reachable in a day, Amsterdam really deserves a longer stay of at least 2 days minimum. Here’s all the ways to get there from London.

10. Provence, France ❌

• Drive (including Eurotunnel or ferry): 10-12 hours
• Flight to Marseille or Nice: 2 hours, then drive/train varies 

Known for its lavender fields and picturesque towns, Provence in the south of France is too far for a comfortable day trip.

11. Nice, France ❌

• Drive (including Eurotunnel or ferry): 12-14 hours
• Flight: 2 hours 

Located on the southeastern coast of France, Nice and its surrounding towns are famous for their Mediterranean beaches, but the journey would be too long for just a day trip.

12. Bordeaux, France ❌

• Drive (including Eurotunnel or ferry): 8-10 hours
• Train (Eurostar to Paris, then TGV): 6 hours

 Famous for its wine, Bordeaux in the southwest of France would be a stretch for a day trip.

13. Snowdonia National Park, Wales ❌

• Train: 3-4 hours to Betws-y-Coed

In Wales, it’s a lengthy journey from London. This is an incredible area that deserves more than a day to explore fully! 

14. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland ❌

• Drive (including ferry): 10-12 hours
• Flight to Belfast: 1.5 hours, then drive: 1 hour 

Located in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a unique geological formation and UNESCO World Heritage site, but it’s too far away for a practical day trip from London.

15. Bruges, Belgium (Brugge) ❌

• Eurostar to Brussels, then train: 3.5-4 hours total 

A medieval gem with picturesque canals, Bruges is technically reachable for a day trip from London, but you won’t hardly any time to spend in one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe.

When booking travel to Bruges, don’t confuse your destination with Bruges, France. Try typing in “Brugge” instead of “Bruges, ” and you’ll be sure to find your correct Belgian destination.

16. Ghent, Belgium ❌

• Eurostar to Brussels, then train: 3-3.5 hours 

Slightly closer than Bruges, Ghent’s blend of historic sites and vibrant culture can be sampled in a day.

17. Antwerp, Belgium ❌

• Eurostar to Brussels, then train: 2.5-3 hours 

Known for its diamonds and port, Antwerp isn’t feasible for a day trip from London.

18. Scottish Highlands ❌

• Drive: 8-12 hours (depending on destination)
• Train: 8-9 hours to Inverness 

While parts of the Highlands might be reachable by a very long train journey or flight, the vast landscapes truly deserve more than a day.

I know this makes some of you Outlander fans sad, but you really can’t do a day trip from London to the Highlands.

19. Pembrokeshire Coast ❌

• Train: 4.5-5 hours to Tenby 

Located in the southwest of Wales, this stunning coastal national park is too far for a day trip from London.

20. Isle of Man ❌

• Ferry: 2.5-4 hours 

Situated in the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man has its own rich history and culture. Getting there would involve a flight or ferry, making it impractical for just a day.

21. Belfast, Northern Ireland ❌

• Drive (including ferry): 8-10 hours 

The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is steeped in history and culture. From the Titanic Belfast museum, which commemorates the city’s shipbuilding heritage, to the political murals of the Falls and Shankill roads, Belfast offers a deep dive into the region’s past and present.

22. Guernsey ❌

• Ferry: 3 hours (from Portsmouth. Portsmouth is a 2.5 hour train from London).

Located in the English Channel, Guernsey boasts beautiful beaches, historic forts, and a unique blend of British and French influences. The island’s compact size is perfect for exploring, but its distance from London makes it a challenging day trip.

23. Jersey ❌

• Ferry: 4.5 hours (from Portsmouth. Portsmouth is a 2.5 hour train from London)

The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey offers a mix of sandy beaches, cliffside walking trails, and historic castles. Its rich history spans from prehistoric times to its occupation during World War II.

Even though the Channel Islands look quite close on the map, it’s not feasible for a day trip from London.

24. Rotterdam, Netherlands ❌

• Flight: 1 hour to Amsterdam, then train: 40 minutes
• Eurostar to Amsterdam, then train: 4.5 hours in total 

A major port city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, maritime heritage, and cultural attractions like the Kunsthal and the Cube Houses. It’s a bit of a stretch for a day trip from London, especially if you want to explore the city in depth.

Taking a Day Trip from London: Final Tips

The most important tip I can give you is this: if you’re only in London for a short time, don’t do a day trip. London has so much to see and do that you’ll never get bored.

If you’re in London for more than 5 days, I would absolutely recommend a day trip. Just make it something that won’t exhaust you too much – two hours on a train, max.

If you live in London like me, you probably have a list as long as your arm of day trips to take. All you can do it tick them off, one by one!

More on Trips from London

Debating ‘Should I Rent a Car in London?’ Insider Tips

Visiting Greenwich with Kids: 5 Things That Adults Will Love, too! 

The Perfect Day out in Cambridge: 7 Things you Have to See 

Is Solo Travel Boring? 5 Reasons You Should Travel Alone ASAP

Trip from London to Amsterdam: 4 Ways to Get there for Every Budget

How to Get from London to Cornwall: 3 Easy Ways for Every Budget

Kynance Cove in Cornwall: 10 Must-Read Tips before Visiting 

Kennack Sands Beach: Is it the Best Beach for Kids in Cornwall? 

10 Things to Know about Visiting Stunning Poldhu Cove

Day Trips from London by Train FAQ

What is the best day trip out of london.

The best day trip for you depends on your goals and preferences.

Do you want to see a pretty village? Try St Albans, Canterbury, Bath, or Rye. Do you want to go to the seaside? Try Brighton, Dover, or Margate. Are you into history? Definitely check out Blenheim Palace, Bletchley Park, Stratford upon Avon, or Windsor Castle. Are you a student or an academic? Check out Oxford or Cambridge.

The list goes on, and all you can do is pick a place that sounds cool, get your train ticket, and go!

Can you do a day trip from London?

If you have enough time to spend in London and want to explore more of England, you can definitely do a day trip from London!

The best way is to pick a destination (start with this list!) and hop on the train. There’s so much to see in England, you don’t have to go far.

What is 1 hour away from London?

Harry Potter Studios, Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton, Windsor, Canterbury, Winchester, Hampton Court Palace, Hever Castle, St Albans, Rochester, and Hatfield House are all within a 1 hour train ride from London.

What countries are a day trip from London?

Wales is the closest country to London for a day trip. Try Cardiff, which is a charming Welsh city less than 2 hours from London by train.

Other countries like France are possible for a day trip, but you won’t get much time to spend there. Lille is a short 1.5 hour journey from London on the Eurostar, and it’s a much easier and smaller place to explore than Paris.

Belgium is also fast to get to, with only a 2 hour train ride to Brussels. Brussels is a bit easier to explore than Paris, but it’s also a large city.

What towns are 2 hours away from London?

York, Stonehenge, Stratford upon Avon, Cardiff, Dover, Birmingham, Worcester, Bournemouth, Bristol, Brussels, and many more towns are just a 2 hour (or less) train ride from London.

What is the closest beach to London?

Brighton is the closest proper sandy beach to London, and it takes less than 1 hour to get there by train. Margate is also a popular beach destination that takes only 2 hours on the train.

What is the shortest Eurostar journey from London?

The shortest journey on the Eurostar from London is to Lille, France at just 1 hour and 22 minutes.

What is the closest countryside to London?

There is incredible countryside bordering London, but the prettiest and closest natural woodlands are probably Epping Forest , which is just 1 hour from London on the Overground.

Which country is easy to travel from London?

France, Belgium, and Wales are the easiest countries to travel to from London by a short train ride.

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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 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!

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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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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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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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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The ferry building marketplace, a view above the clouds on cape …, review: the american trade hotel in panama …, the best airbnbs in nantucket: oceanfront, pretty ….

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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Posted on Published: 10th November 2022  - Last updated: 5th December 2022 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

28 Brilliant Day Trips from London

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We all love London… but the UK is full of wonderful spots that are ripe for exploration. Planning your next adventure? Here are 28 cool day trips from London to get you started.

London is a great city – but there’s so much more to the UK to explore.

Hop on a train or into your car and you can go on an adventure around some of the UK’s historic sites and beautiful landscapes.

In need of some inspiration? Check out this guide to the best day trips from London by train and by car.

Sneak a peek at the day trip destinations in this video to see what they look like in action!

Day Trips from London by Train

Planning your day trip from London? We love using Omio for finding the best deals when it comes to train travel around the UK. They work with over 1000 major travel companies to bring you the best deals (including many major airlines if you’re looking to travel a little bit further). 

Better yet, download the Omio App and you can store all of your travel tickets in one place. This means that you can spend less time organising your tickets and more time planning an adventure. Yes, please!

Oxford, the city of the dreaming spires is an easy day out from London. It’s only an hour on the train and trains run frequently until the early hours.

We might be biased, but we really think that it’s one of the best places to visit in the UK – a gorgeous city that’s brimming with history and cool things to do.

While there’s a lot to see in the city, its small size means that a lot of the biggest Oxford attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

From the iconic Radcliffe Camera to the world-famous Ashmolean Museum, you certainly have your work cut out when it comes to seeing Oxford in a day – but it is possible. Start with this 24 Hours in Oxford guide .

Train departs from: London Paddington and London Marylebone

Average journey duration: 1 hour

Hassle-free option: Book this Oxford day trip from London

Read more: The Best Things to do in Oxford Finding Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations

Canterbury has always been an important place to visit in the UK – it was the destination for many a pilgrimage in times past (hence its role in Chaucer’s famous Canterbury Tales). It still deserves to be at the top of your list of days out from London today.

What’s there to see? How about one of England’s great cathedrals, ye olde English pubs and quaint little streets that look like they’ve been plucked straight from medieval times? Add to that a selection of cool museums and some scenic walks and you’ve got an excellent day trip in the making.

Train departs from: London Victoria and St Pancras International

Average journey duration: 1 hour from St Pancras, 1.5 hours from Victoria

Hassle-free option: Book this day trip to Canterbury and the White Cliffs of Dover

Read more: One Day in Canterbury Itinerary

Cambridge is beautiful. This world-famous university town is another popular day trip outside London – and for good reason.

Visiting impressive colleges such as Trinity College and King’s College (whose chapel you simply must see) would be enough to fill your day alone. But you should also take time to visit some of Cambridge’s other landmarks – The Fitzwilliam Museum and Botanical Gardens among them.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months be sure to hire a punt and indulge in the traditional pastime of gliding down the River Cam. Bonus points to you if you don’t fall in or lose your pole along the way.

Train departs from: Kings Cross and Liverpool Street

Average journey duration: 50 minutes from Kings Cross, 1 hour 20 minutes from Liverpool Street

Hassle-free option: Book this London to Cambridge Day Trip

We think that Brighton is South East England’s coolest beach destination. 

First thing’s first – the beach is pebble – so don’t get your hopes up with dreams of golden sands. It’s still perfectly good for plumping down on your towel and soaking a few rays of the rare British sun.

Away from the beach, Brighton’s history as the seaside escape for the UK’s rich and famous has left its mark.

Long rows of Regency houses, the long-standing Pier, not to mention the out-and-out fabulous Brighton Pavillion stand as testament to Brighton’s colourful past.

There’s a thriving dining and drinking scene – and a number of cool little independent shops clustered in The Lanes area. Just be sure not to have so much fun that you miss the last train home (this has totally happened to me).

Train departs from: St Pancras International (also stops at Farringdon, Blackfriars and London Bridge) and London Victoria

Hassle-free option: Book a bike tour of Brighton (doesn’t include transport to Brighton)

Read Next: 21 Brilliant Beaches Near London

Hampton Court

Hampton Court is one of the easiest day trips from London – easy transport connections and short travel time make it perfect for an impromptu trip.

Hampton is pretty much all about the palace – which was first built by the ill-fated Cardinal Wolsey before being pinched by Henry VIII.

All six of Henry’s wives lived here at some point or another, before it passed through a number of hands and was finally opened to the public during the Victorian times.

Wonderful as Hampton Court’s interiors are, we would recommend visiting during the summer months when the gardens are at their best (avoid the summer holidays if you can though, when it’s always busy). Don’t miss the maze, which is the oldest surviving hedge maze in the world.

Train departs from: London Waterloo

Average journey duration: 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: Buy your Hampton Court tickets in advance

A trip to the Georgian spa town of Bath is like stepping straight into the pages of a Jane Austen novel (not surprising, seeing as she set so many of them there).

Jaunt around town, checking out the city’s many historical sites. Start with the immersive experience of the Roman Baths (unfortunately you’re not actually allowed to bathe there any more) and the Pump Room.

You can even “take the water” at the Pump Room – sipping on the supposedly restorative waters in the fashion of the hoi polloi of old.

We should warn you that the water tastes absolutely gross though.

Just across the road, Bath Abbey is one of the UK’s most beautiful cathedrals – make sure that you take a look inside too, it’s just as spectacular.

Small but entertaining, The Fashion Museum walks you through the catwalk of British fashion through the centuries.

Don’t think that Bath’s spa heritage is dead and gone – it’s still home to more than its fair share of spas that are perfect for a spot of pampering.

The reasonably-priced Thermae Bath Spa is a popular option thanks to its rooftop pool and indulgent massages, while the high-end Gainsborough Bath Spa is the place to go when you really want to push the boat out.

Train departs from: London Paddington

Average journey time: 1hr 30 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book this Bath & Stonehenge Day Trip

The fact that it’s the home of the royal residence Windsor Castle means that Windsor’s many other charms often get overlooked.

Windsor is well-known as one of the best day trips from London. Even so, many visitors disembark from the train, make a beeline for Windsor Castle, have a nose around and then head straight back home. It’s a shame as Windsor is a rather charming riverside town that merits your attention.

Sure, you should start your visit with a look at the castle, which just so happens to be the oldest inhabited castle in the world. The State Rooms and beautiful grounds take some time to explore.

However, you shouldn’t make the mistake of dashing home the moment that you are finished. Stick around to visit the Royal Windsor Racecourse and its more famous counterpart Royal Ascot Racecourse next door.

Or why not walk around the expansive Windsor Great Park then test your skills on the water rowing or kayaking along the Thames?

Train departs from: London Waterloo and Paddington Station

Average journey time: 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: Half-Day Windsor Day Trip and Tour

Read More: 15 Must-Visit Castles Near London

The Lake District

The Lake District is a long day trip from London but it’s just about doable and worth the effort if you’re short on time and can’t stay overnight.

With its gorgeous green pastures, towering fells and chocolate-box villages, it’s no surprise that the Lake District tops the list of Britain’s beautiful regions. The fastest train to the Lake District takes around 2.5 hours to Oxenholme, so is easiest to tackle on a day trip from London.

Luckily, the area surrounding Oxenholme is ripe for exploration.

There are frequent buses to Kendal, a pretty Lakeland town with lots of cute shops and tea rooms. You can also catch a local train (or taxi) to Windermere – the most famous of the Lakes – the walks around the lake are superb.

As we have already mentioned – The Lake District is not close to London, so you will need to start early and come back late to make it worth the effort.

Don’t even think about doing it by car either – you can just about do it by train but you’re really much better off staying overnight if you want to drive. Or you can go the full mile and head off on a road trip to a few British national parks .

Train departs from: Euston

Average journey time: 2 hrs 45mins

Hassle-free option: A 10 lake day tour

Read more: Walking in the Lake District

Despite being pretty far from London, York is actually not a difficult day trip.

Trains take just a smidge under two hours and run frequently enough that you can just turn up and go.

The walled city is best-known for the Gothic masterpiece that is York Minster but, with more attractions per square mile than any other UK city, there’s a lot to see here.

It’s tough to cover it all in one day – start with York Minster, the fascinating Yorkshire Museum and York Castle Museum (which comes complete with a restored street of Victorian shops) then add in a few other spots if time allows.

Chocolate-lovers will want to head to Chocolate Story – where you can learn about York’s important role in the history of British chocolate and, more importantly, gorge yourself on your own handmade chocolate bar.

Train departs from: King’s Cross

Average journey time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: See the best sights on foot

Lewes (pronounced Lewis ) often sits in the shadow of nearby Brighton, but there’s a lot to charm in the county town of East Sussex on a one day trip from London.

The town itself is pretty, with a few spots like Lewes Castle, the remains of Lewes Priory and the timber-framed Anne of Cleves House to lure you in for an hour or two.

A surprising number of Lewes’ medieval buildings have survived the test of time – there’s history around every corner.

Personally, we think the spectacular walks in the area surrounding Lewes are also worth the trip. We recommend the six-mile walk to Glynde – there are a couple of steep hills but each step comes with views out over the South Downs.

You can extend the walk to Southease and back to Lewes if you’re feeling really energetic – then quench your thirst with a locally-brewed pint of Harvey’s when you’re finished.

Train departs from: London Victoria

Average journey time: 1 hour

Hassle-free option: This is a DIY trip – but it’s really easy

Read More: Fantastic Hikes Near London You Shouldn’t Miss

Colchester is Britain’s oldest recorded town. With a long history that dates back beyond the Roman times, it was a Roman city and traces of that heritage can still be found dotted all over Colchester today.

Walking in the footsteps of the Romans, visit the remains of the Roman wall, as well as the Roman Circus – the only verified Roman chariot-racing track still standing.

Move onto Colchester Castle, which while not Roman itself, displays a few Roman mosaics and many Roman artifacts in the large Norman keep.

The castle is actually the largest Norman keep in Europe – testament to the fact that you can pretty much spy architecture from every single period in British history in Colchester.

Away from the past Colchester also happens to be the home of some very good tea shops. It would be rude not to indulge in a cream tea before you hop on the train back home again.

Train departs from: Liverpool Street

Hassle-free option: Book onto one of the frequent tours run by Visit Colchester

There haven’t been nearly enough seaside towns in this guide to day trips around London – time to fix that. Where better to head to than Whitstable with its picturesque, cobbled streets and famous oyster eateries?

There’s not a tonne to do in Whitstable – you can visit Whitstable Castle, but really, most of the appeal is wandering around the gorgeous town, seafront and harbour.

Seafood-lovers will be in their element – there’s no better place to tuck into a pint of fresh prawns or guzzle down half-a-dozen oysters.

If you’re really keen, time your visit for the annual knees up that is the Whitstable Oyster Festival .

Not only can you eat all the oysters you can ever dream of (20 is our personal best), but there’s live music and markets selling local wares and wine.

Train departs from: St Pancras International, London Bridge and London Victoria

Average journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Hassle-free option: None – but it’s a really easy trip

Henley on Thames

More than just the annual regatta that sees it burst into life, Henley on Thames is one of England’s traditional market towns.

The best way to explore Henley on Thames is on a self-guided walking tour – be sure to stop by the River & Rowing Museum for a walk through the history of the famous sport.

It contains an immersive Wind in the Willows experience that’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids – you’re led through the eccentric world of Mr Toad, Badger, Ratty and Mole.

Henley also used to hold the dubious title of having more pubs per head than any other town in the south east. While those days are gone, the upshot is that there are still a number of cool little pubs for you to explore.

Train departs from: London Paddington, change at Twyford

Average journey time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Hassle-free option: Just hop on a train and go and explore

Margate’s renaissance has been a marvel to behold. Once the darling of the British seaside, it had a bit of a slump before transforming itself into one of the UK’s coolest seaside spots.

That transformation is complete – these days you’re more likely to hear Margate being compared with Copenhagen than with any shoddy seaside town.

There’s the Turner Contemporary of course, which turned heads when it opened in 2011 and is still doing so several years later.

Add to that an assortment of chic independent shops, contemporary restaurants and even a gorgeous tidal pool for a quick dip and you’ll start to understand why it charms the pants off of so many people.

Average journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Hassle-free option: Check out the Thanet Tourist Board’s Page for Inspiration

Manchester is the small city that packs a big punch. With a strong culture and identity (think the Industrial Revolution and Oasis and you’re on the right track) a visit to Manchester is a breath of fresh air.

There’s too much to see in one day – Manchester Art Gallery, Imperial War Museum North, a guided tour of the BBC, the Museum of Science & History among them. If you’re a footie fan, a visit to Old Trafford is a must.

Seeing as you’re short on time, we recommend stopping off at a few museums, visiting Manchester Cathedral and fuelling up from one of the city’s cool eateries. Then, if you’re so inclined, stay for a taste of Manchester’s legendary nightlife before you head back home.

Average journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Hassle-free option:  Book a private tour with a local (transport to Manchester not included)

Bristol is one of our favourite cities. The chilled-out, easygoing city (which just so happens to be the largest in the southwest) is a brilliant day trip from London.

Bristol is a city of contrast – on the one hand, there are plenty of big landmarks to see – the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the SS Great Britain being two. On the other hand, a lot of the city’s appeal is the cool and quirky culture it’s fostered over the years.

A hive of street art, indie cafes (where you can guarantee you’ll get a great flat white) and alternative music venues – Bristol is just so damned cool.

It’s perhaps no surprise that one of the city’s biggest claims to fame is that the street artist Banksy hails from there.

Hassle-free option: Book this Self Guided Tour

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Lincoln (@visitlincoln)

Although it was previously a bit far for a day trip, LNER has launched new trains to Lincoln after the success of their Lincoln Experience event, which was part of a Visit Lincoln week celebrating the city. 

This is big news. It means that in just two hours you can escape London and make your way to the city steeped in Roman history.

The day trip alone is worth it for Lincoln castle and the picturesque grounds surrounding it, but you’ve also got plenty of shops, cafes, and pubs to make your way through in the city centre between museum hopping.  

Train departs from: London King’s Cross

Average journey time: 2 hours 19 minutes

Hassle-free option Book a guided walking tour of the city

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stonehenge (@stonehenge)

As one of the strangest day trips from London, a visit to the mysterious Stonehenge is a must for everyone. This is a rock formation that has puzzled historians for centuries.

How did the stones get there? Nobody is quite sure, but experts reckon that they were carried for over 160 miles, so they must be pretty special. 

We highly recommend booking a guided tour of the site, so you get to hear about all the interesting theories surrounding the mystical Stonehenge – and you can ask any burning questions (trust me, you’ll have a few).

Bear in mind that post-lockdown you need to book your entry time slot for Stonehenge well in advance, and remember to bring your booking confirmation with you.

Train departs from: Waterloo

Average journey time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: A morning tour of Stonehenge with London transfers

Harry Potter Studios

From the mystical to the pure magical – if you haven’t visited the Harry Potter Studios yet, what are you waiting for? 

This is one of the best family days out near London and whether you’re a Potterhead or not, it’s so fun to go behind the scenes of arguably the most popular franchise to ever exist.

If the idea of heading to a city and wandering aimlessly doesn’t appeal to you, book yourself a ticket to the studios and experience Hogwarts for yourself.

If you want the full lowdown on the studio tour, including how to get there, tickets, and what to expect when you arrive, check out this article.

Train departs from: London Euston

Average journey time: 30 minutes

Hassle-free option: Entry tickets and London transfers all rolled into one

This old spa town is one of the prettiest in Gloucestershire and can be reached in around 2 hours from London. Cheltenham boasts Regency buildings in abundance, including the Pittville pump room which was incredibly important in Cheltenham’s spa town history. 

Famed for hosting both the Cheltenham Horse Racing Festival and the Jazz Festival, this historic town is incredibly lively during the summer months. 

Don’t get us wrong, it’s equally beautiful in winter – but there’s just something so magical about hanging out in Montpellier Gardens in the sunshine.

Make sure to visit The Wilson Museum for fine art and catch a movie at the Everyman Theatre – the ornate Victorian ceiling is divine.

Average journey time: 2 hours

Hassle-free option: Take a self-guided tour

Explore two capitals in one day by taking a day trip to Cardiff. It’s surprisingly easy thanks to the high speed train from London Paddington, and Cardiff Castle is beautiful and well worth the journey alone.

Other things to do in Cardiff include taking a trip to the famous Wales Millenium Centre – an arts centre which hosts plenty of live performances and workshops – and exploring the harbour nearby, as well as trying a famous Welsh Cake. Fabulous Welshcakes (opposite the castle) is our top pick for the best.

Hassle-free option: Take a day trip tour from London

Guildford is a picturesque medieval town with a castle at its heart. It’s a surprisingly quick day trip here from London and one we implore you to make – after all, it’s one of our favourite places to visit outside London.

Nestled in the Surrey countryside, it may be small but this town certainly packs a punch when it comes to things to do. Not to mention it’s filled with plenty of brilliant pubs for a well-deserved pint.

What to do? Our top picks include Guildford House, a 17th-century townhouse gallery with rotating exhibitions, hikes along dapdune walk, and a visit to the hilltop cathedral that boasts views of the town.

Hassle-free option: Take a walking tour

Day Trips from London by Car

Easy as it is to hop out of London on a train, some places are more suited to day trips from London by car.

The Cotswolds

It’s a rare event indeed when the words picture-perfect and Cotswolds aren’t mentioned in the same breath.

The Cotswolds is the kind of England you find on the postcards – twee villages with thatched cottages in golden hues, rolling green hills, steaming piles of scones piled high with jam and clotted cream for your afternoon tea.

If it all sounds perfectly lovely, it is.

There’s a reason that the Cotswolds find themselves on many a travel itinerary. Bibury and Burford are two of the prettiest villages- be sure to visit them during your trip.

If you want to see as many villages as possible, I’d recommend starting in Burford and finishing in Winchcombe, meandering through Northleach, Lower and Upper Slaughter, Moreton-in-Marsh and Chipping Camden along the way.

It’s an easy drive, but it means you don’t get much time any one spot.

Alternatively, you can narrow it down to a couple of villages and add in a long walk and some afternoon tea for a much more relaxed trip.

Average driving time from central London: 2 hours

Hassle-free option: Book this full-day Cotswolds four-village tour

Read Next: Pretty Spots You Have to Visit in the Cotswolds

Stratford Upon Avon

Stratford Upon Avon – the birthplace of Britain’s famous bard, Shakespeare and a twee little Tudor town set around the River Avon.

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s Theatre dominates the town – rightly so. There’s always something fantastic to see on one of its several stages.

Away from the theatre, Stratford Upon Avon’s Tudor architecture offers a glimpse into days of yore. You can visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, as well as the home that he retired to after the bright lights of London proved too much.

His final resting place, Holy Trinity Church is said to be the most visited parish church in the country.

But Stratford isn’t just Shakespeare – hop onto a boat and row along the Avon, go on a river walk out of town, hole up in an old pub for a pint or two and appreciate the sleepy appeal of this quaint little town.

Seven Sisters Country Park

There are few landscapes as striking as the sight of the chalk faces of the Seven Sisters rising up from the coast.

These gorgeous cliffs form the focal point of the larger Seven Sisters Country Park, part of the South Downs National Park.

Strap on your hiking boots and set off on a walk along the Sisters for a refreshing day out from London. Park at the Visitor Centre (where you can also pop in to learn about the history of the country park) and take the path to Seaford Head View Point for the classic view of the cliffs.

Alternatively, why not tackle the part of the South Downs Way that runs through the country park and over the sisters themselves.

Hassle-free option: Seven Sisters and South Downs day trip

The New Forest

The New Forest might be less than 100 miles outside of London but it feels like a world away. It’s the largest stretch of unenclosed pasture land and forest in the country and is famous for the wild ponies that roam across its lands.

In terms of attractions, The New Forest has surprisingly varied arsenal of things to see. Beaulieu, a vintage car museum, stately home and medieval monastery rolled into one is one such destination and worth seeing if you’re not a complete petrolhead.

Still, a lot of the appeal is in getting outdoors and onto the many walking trails that crisscross the region. Be sure to wear some comfortable shoes.

Hassle-free option: Train to Lymington or Brockenhurst and hop onto the New Forest tour bus

Leeds Castle

London has plenty of castles nearby that make for great day trips, and, despite its name, Leeds Castle is actually in Kent.

This castle is no stranger to royalty with 6 medieval queens previously residing here, and Queen Elizabeth I was even imprisoned at the castle before her coronation. If you fancy stretching the day trip into an overnight experience and live the life of a royal yourself (who wouldn’t?) you can even book a place to sleep in the Maiden’s Tower.

Humbly labelling itself as the “loveliest castle in the world”, you’ve got over 900 years of history to uncover at Leeds Castle – if you can make it past the moat!

Tickets cost £28 for adults and £19.50 for kids, but you get a better deal if there’s a group of you, which is definitely worth looking into.

Average driving time from central London: 1 hour 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: Tour Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover with transfers from London

Highclere Castle

Yes, this is the Downton Abbey Castle. I can’t guarantee that you’ll run into any of the Crawley family while you’re there, but I can promise you a brilliant day trip from London at Highclere Castle .

Take a walk around the grounds and make sure to snap some all-important insta pics of the Jacobethan facade, before you enter the castle and soak in all the history.

Admission tickets cost £24 for adults and £14 for children but check out the website as they host plenty of special events throughout the year, including Downton Abbey Tours and quaint Afternoon Teas.

Average driving time from central London: 1 hour 30 minutes Hassle-free option: Combine Highclere Castle with Oxford

Cirencester

Looking for the best day trip from London? Technically Cirencester is in the Cotswolds, but we think it’s so nice that it’s worth us raving about it separately. It has, like many other English cities, a distinctive Roman history that you can explore in the Corinium Museum.

Cirencester is also great when it comes to shopping – it boasts plenty of independent boutiques and dreamy bookshops that you could spend an entire day exploring alone. 

Cirencester Park is the perfect place to spend an hour or two if the sun decides to make a much-welcomed appearance. You might just catch a game of Polo here, too.

Average driving time from central London: 2 hours 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: There isn’t one – though this is an easy DIY

So, there we are – 28 day trips outside London. We hope that you have found more than a few things to inspire your next jaunt out of the city.

PS: Looking for a longer trip? You’ll want to scope out our guide to Weekend Getaways from London .

Practical Tips for Planning Day Trips Out of London

• It’s always worth checking your train times but you should be sure to do so if you are planning to do your day trip on a Sunday. Sunday train service is notoriously bad – with rail replacement buses, less frequent services or indirect connections often popping up to mess up your travel plans.
• If you are travelling by train, try and book your tickets as far ahead as possible for the best prices. You should also consider whether it’s worth purchasing one of the many railcards available if there are a few of you travelling or you plan to do several excursions within a short period of time.

Best London Day Trips: Map

Discover More Day Trips From London Guides

• 2 8 Fabulous Beaches Near London
• National Parks Near London for a Weekend Break
• Caves in and Around London That You Have to See

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24 Hours in Oxford – insidersoxford.com

Wednesday 5th of May 2021

[…] looking for a short break or escape in the United Kingdom within easy reach of London, Oxford is a perfect day trip. Even if you aren’t, you should go […]

Wednesday 27th of May 2020

Juliana - thank you for all of your posts. We have one weekend left in London coming up before returning to the US. We've been here 3 months and enjoyed exploring London by foot and the city cycles.

I'd love a recommendation on a day trip knowing we have to take the train and that we are still in lock down (somewhat).

In the last weeks we visited Cambridge, Hastings, Greenwich and Seven Sisters. Prior to lock down we have visited the Cotswalds and the Lake District and Oxford.

I look forward to your reply! Beth

Julianna Barnaby

Thursday 28th of May 2020

A total pleasure Beth - sounds like you've been exploring a lot! If you haven't been to Bath, I'd normally recommend a trip there - it's very pretty but obviously destinations like the Roman Baths and the Pump Rooms will be closed. I would say the city is pretty enough to more than justify a trip to spend some time walking around. That said, I think the official guidance is only to use transport for necessary journeys, so I'd check that before you book anything.

Sunday 3rd of February 2019

What a great assortment of day trips! I've bookmarked this post for when I'm visiting London later this year - so handy. Thanks very much!

Tuesday 5th of February 2019

Thanks Lesley - I hope you get to head on at least a couple of the day trips while you're in London. Have an awesome trip!

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Day Trips From London

15 Terrific Day Trips From London

These UK  day trips  are quick, fun alternatives to a day in the city. Castles, famous movie sets, great discount shopping, historic homes, and gardens are all less than two hours from London . And transportation links from the British capital to the suburbs, the countryside and even other nearby cities are easy, fast and reasonably priced.

If you are looking for an alternative to London's hustle and bustle, and a chance to see England from a different perspective, a quick "away day" may be just the ticket. They're all reachable by public transportation too.

UK travel tip : To keep transportation costs down, try to book your train or coach tickets well in advance to take advantage of the lowest fares.

Windsor Castle

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Windsor Castle is everyone's idea of a fairytale castle. And there's plenty to see at the Queen's weekend home (which, we hear, is her favorite). The building alone covers 13 acres and is the biggest inhabited castle in the world. William the Conqueror picked the site, west of London overlooking the Thames and it has been a Royal residence and fortress ever since - almost 950 years.

How to Get There

• Take the train - Trains leave regularly from London's Paddington Station to Windsor & Eton Central. The castle, a short walk from the station, dominates the town and is impossible to miss. The trip takes between 25 and 40 minutes depending upon the train you choose.
• By car: Windsor Castle is 24 miles from Central London. Take the A4 and M4 to Junction 6 then follow signs for Windsor town center and parking.
• By bus: Green Line buses (701 and 702) leave hourly from Victoria station, stopping at Windsor Castle and  Legoland Windsor.

Warner Brothers Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter

If you've ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of your favorite film characters or look behind the scenes at how all the special effects are accomplished, Warner Brothers' Harry Potter attraction at its Leavesden studios, 20 miles northwest of London is a must see. And if you or members of your family are Harry Potter fans, this is a definite "don't miss".

The makers of the film have pulled together some of the most iconic sets, loads of the actual props used in the films and created a walking tour in two soundstages where the Harry Potter films were made. Even for those of us who have not been dyed-in-the-wool Harry Potter fans, it's endlessly fascinating and entertaining. We spent about five hours there, making the apparently high ticket prices surprisingly good value for money.

Top tip: Don't forget to book your tickets in advance. No tickets are offered for sale at the site.

• By train: Trains from London's Euston Station leave for Watford Junction roughly every ten minutes throughout the day. The trip takes between 15 and 20 minutes. Once at the station, a colorful bus takes you directly to the attraction, while you watch a film to get you in the mood. The bus meets passengers in front of Watford Junction Station. When weighing up travel costs and choosing between car and train, keep those costs in mind. A family of four could spend more than £50 just traveling to the attraction by train. Frequent trains from Birmingham New Street also stop at Watford Junction.
• By car: The attraction is just a few miles from the M1 and M5 motorways and once you leave the motorways, brown signs lead you in. There are detailed directions for travel by road on the attraction website as well as SatNav coordinates.
• By coach: Transfers from London with a preferred transportation partner are regularly scheduled and can be purchased without studio admission.

Brighton - London's Beach

In 2016, Brighton added a spanking new attraction: The BA i360 rises more than 500 feet above the seafront and on a clear day it really does seem like you can see forever. It's only one of the attractions of the funky seaside resort known as London's beach. The Royal Pavilion, Brighton, the splendid summer house built by George IV when he was Prince Regent, is an Arabian Nights fantasy slap bang in the middle of town. In the early 19th century, his architect, John Nash, slapped a cast iron framework around an older, simpler farmhouse and, well, just went to town, really.

• By train:  Trains leave about every 15 minutes from either London Bridge or Victoria Station and take about an hour.
• By car: Brighton is 54 miles due south of London. It takes about 1h30 to drive. South of the M25 ring road, the M23 leads into Brighton.
• By bus: Buses from London to Brighton take between an hour and forty minutes to more than three hours. Each journey has a small amount of lowest fare tickets available. These sell out quickly so it is a good idea to buy your tickets well in advance. Buses travel hourly between Victoria Coach Station in London and Brighton Pier Coach Station.

A Weekend Is Great Too

There's more than enough to do in Brighton to spend a short break. Visitors love to stroll among the antique shops and boutiques of "The Lanes", walk the shingle beach or take some fish and chips out to the end of  Brighton's Victorian pier . In winter there's the spectacle of Brighton Burning the Clocks and in May Brighton stages England's biggest multi-arts festival. Why not plan a Brighton getaway ?

Oxford England

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Oxford University, England, is the oldest university in the English speaking world, dating back to the 11th century. Graduates have made notable contributions in every form of human endeavor.

Walk these streets and you will be following in the footsteps of Nobel prize winners, kings, presidents, and prime ministers. The university has produced saints, scientists, explorers, artists, authors, and actors.

And where you find students and the UK's gilded youth you'll also find wonderful pubs and great shopping.

Another Oxford treat is the recently reopened Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology . Founded in 1683 as Britain's first public museum, its dusty and dark old galleries were reborn with a major, multi-million-pound refurbishment program. The museum reopened in 2009 with 39 new galleries and a 100% increase in exhibition space.

Among the treasures you might see at the Ashmolean are drawings by Michaelangelo, Raphael, and Rembrandt; a Stradivarius Violin; ancient Chinese and Middle Eastern porcelain and glass; the coins with the heads of Nero and Henry VIII, and lots more. The museum is part of Oxford University and it's free.

Altogether Oxford is a terrific, and easy, day out of London.

How to Get There 

• By train: Express trains to Oxford from Paddington Station are frequent and take about an hour and round-trip fare. If you don't catch the express train, a conventional journey takes about an hour and 45 minutes.
• By car: Oxford is 62 miles northwest of London via the M4, M25, M40 and A roads. It takes about an hour and a half to drive. Parking is difficult but the city is surrounded by Park and Ride parking lots with cheap bus services into the center.
• By bus: The Oxford Tube is a very popular way to get to Oxford by bus. The company runs buses every ten minutes, 24 hours a day, with pickups from multiple stops in London and in Oxford.

Blenheim Palace - Magnificent Home of the First Churchills

Blenheim Palace is more than another one of England's stately homes. This magnificent palace, home of the Dukes of Marlborough and an easy day trip from London, is:

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• A stunning example of 18th century English Baroque style
• A memorial to one great British hero, the first Duke of Marlborough, and the birthplace of another, Sir Winston Churchill.
• One of the finest examples of the work of 18th-century landscape architect Launcelot "Capability" Brown.
• A wonderful backdrop for family activities, virtually year round.

It's in Woodstock - the gateway to the Cotswolds - and less than two hours away from London.

• By train: Express trains to Oxford from Paddington Station are frequent and cost under £25; then 10 minutes on the local S3 bus from the station.
• By car: Blenheim is about 62 miles from London via the M4, M25 and M40 motorways and the A40 and A44 roads. The main entrance is at the bottom of Woodstock High Street.

Bicester Village - Discount Designer Outlets

Shopping! If you thought London was the be-all and end-all of fashionable shopping, a short train journey to Bicester Village will open your eyes. More than 100 chic boutiques are all discount designer outlets. All the big European and international designer brand names are there with prices much lower than Bond Street or Fifth Avenue. And there are a few restaurants and coffee shops where you can rest your tired feet (or park your "bag man").

• By train:  Trains to Bicester North Station leave up to four times an hour, daily, from London Marylebone. The journey takes just under an hour. There is an inexpensive shuttle bus from Bicester North direct to the Village.
• By car: The shopping center is about 64 miles from Central London on the A41. The drive takes between an hour and a half and two hours. Take the A4 to the M4 Motorway, then the M25 north to the M40 west. Exit at Junction 9 and follow the A41 to Bicester Village. It looks a bit like a small town...with a huge parking lot.
• By bus: Morning and afternoon luxury coach trips to Bicester Village operate daily with pick ups from several London hotels and other Central London points.

Ightham in Kent - A Village With Secrets and a Great Day Trip to Walk or Drive

Ightham is as charming a Kentish village as you can imagine - but it's the sort of place with so many dark happenings in its history that Agatha Christie would have rubbed her hands together with glee.

Besides having picturesque 14th and 15th-century houses and pubs, Ightham is just up the road from Ightham Mote, a fortified medieval manor, and just down the hill from Oldbury Wood, a protected ancient woodland and Iron Age earthwork. There's plenty to see, a good lunch to be had at the George & Dragon and some fine but easy walking.

• By train : Trains to nearby Borough Green & Wrotham Station from Victoria Station are frequent and take less than an hour.
• By car: Ightham (pronounced "item" by the way, is about 55 miles from Central London via the A3, the M25, and the M26.

Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral

Nothing can really prepare you for your first sight of Stonehenge . No matter how many pictures you've seen of this iconic landmark, watching it rise up from Salisbury Plain is heart-stopping.

After that, in the past, a visit to the site could be disappointing. But in 2013 the monument was reborn. A new visitor center with a reconstructed Stone Age village and a restoration of the ancient landscape around the stones themselves, plus the opening of an excellent museum and interpretive center shows off ​Stonehenge in a completely new light.

The road that once passed close enough to rattle the stones was dug up and grassed over as was the old parking area. Now, from the visitor center, you can either walk a mile to the stones or travel in a silent electric buggy to within a few hundred yards. 

And a Visit to Salisbury Cathedral

You can book various coach tours to get to Stonehenge but they're typically overpriced and try to cram in too many different places. Instead, especially if you are an independent sort of traveler, go by train via Salisbury to visit the city's nearly 800-year-old cathedral. Among its highlights are the best preserved of the four remaining copies of the 1215 Magna Carta, the world's oldest working mechanical clock, and - at 404 feet - the tallest spire in Britain.

• By train: Trains from London Waterloo to Salisbury leave 20 minutes and 50 minutes after the hour throughout the day. The trip takes about an hour and 20 minutes. Salisbury Reds run regular bus services from the train station to the Stonehenge Visitor Center.
• By car: Stonehenge is about 85 miles from Central London via the M3 and the A303.

Leeds Castle

A neighboring lord once described  Leeds Castle , near Maidstone in Kent, as "the loveliest castle in the world." It's hard to argue once you see this gorgeous, 900-year-old moated castle, surrounded by gardens and parklands.

Unusually, from its beginnings, this castle has been inherited by women. It was the dower house of six Plantagenet Queens, the so-called she-wolves of England. Later, Henry VIII had it updated and made luxurious for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.

What makes Leeds Castle a particularly fine day out is that there is plenty to please everyone in the family. Besides its glorious interiors and wine cellars, it has a devilish maze with an exit through a scary grotto, two playgrounds for pretending to be knights and ladies, a dog collar museum with more than 100 unusual and historic examples, several restaurants, a covered pavilion for temporary exhibits and a full schedule of family-friendly events.  

• By train: Southeastern Trails run regular services, 22 and 52 minutes after the hour throughout the day from London Victoria to Bearsted Station. The trip takes about an hour. A shuttle bus operates from the station to the castle during the summer months. Do be careful, by the way, not to accidentally book a train to Leeds in Yorkshire or you could end up 230 miles away.
• By car: The castle is about 44 miles from Central London via the A20 and the M20. From junction 8 off the M20 motorway, follow the brown and white tourist signs.
• By bus: Several tour companies operate sightseeing tours from London that include Leeds Castle. As these change from time to time, it's best to check the castle website for the latest information.

Hever Castle - Home of Anne Boleyn

Hever Castle , Anne Boleyn's childhood home is a fascinating place. Steeped in the history of Tudor court intrigue, the house was begun in the 13th century and made into a comfortable Tudor home by the Bullen (or Boleyn) family. It later became part of Henry VIII's divorce settlement with Anne of Cleves, his 4th wife. The house has a very good collection of Tudor portraits, lots of family activities, two mazes to wander around in, jousting, romantic gardens, and several restaurants and snack bars.

Strolling through the castle's magnificent gardens before stopping for lunch or a cup of tea makes a really fine UK day out. And there's plenty more to do for every member of the family:

• An adventure Playground
• Yew and water mazes
• Hever Lake walk
• A gruesome exhibition of armor, instruments of execution, and torture

Throughout the summer months, Hever Castle also hosts a variety of events including jousting tournaments, demonstrations of longbow warfare and a summer performing arts festival in its open-air theatre, with matinee and evening performances.

• By train : Trains to nearby Edenbridge Town Station leave frequently from London Bridge Station. Book a taxi on +44 (0)1732 863 800 (Relyon) or +44(0)1732 864009 (Edenbridge Cars) for the three-mile onward journey. It's a good idea to book your ride before you arrive in the town.
• By car: Hever Castle is 44 miles from Central London via the A3 and the M25.

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

For 400 years, the Historic Dockyard at Chatham in Kent built the ships that built the British Empire. From the mid-1500s to its closure in 1980s, it created, launched and maintained some of the most historic ships of the British Navy. HMS Victory, Admiral Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, was built here. 

When it closed, time stood still. And while various interests tried to decide what to do with, it was saved for posterity. And it is an amazing place to visit. The 80-acre site has 100 listed buildings and 47 scheduled ancient monuments. There's

• A Victorian Ropery - still in action, with a "rope walk" that's a quarter of a mile long
• Covered slips where ships hulls were constructed
• A multi-media exhibition in the Mast and Mould Loft (where you can still see the outlines of HMS Trafalgar scribed on the wooden floor)
• Three 19th century drydocks, one of which holds a diesel submarine retired in the 1960s that you can board

This barely scratches the surface. This is one of the best historic sites you can visit. And if you're lucky, you might get to see some of your favorite film and TV stars at work. The historic buildings of the dockyards are popular backdrops for filmmakers.

• By train: Chatham is within the London commuter belt and trains leave from several different London stations throughout the day. The fastest trains are from St Pancras International for a 38 minute trip to Chatham. The Chatham Maritime bus (route 190) makes the 8 minute trip from the station to the Dockyard gates or you can walk - it's just under a mile.
• By car:  This is a journey that involves either going through Central London (about 38 miles on the A2) or all around London (68 miles via the M25 to the A2). Not surprisingly, given London traffic, both journeys take about the same amount of time. Best advice - take the train.

Beaulieu and the National Motor Museum

Beaulieu, a country house in the New Forest, is a great day trip, not far from London, that is jam-packed with things to see and do. Besides offering a look at Victorian upstairs-downstairs life in a manor house, it has beautiful gardens, an abbey ruin, a monorail, vintage double-decker bus, a restaurant, and Go Karts. 

But all of that pales before Beaulieu's amazing National Motor Museum. Car enthusiasts from all over the world come to admire more than 100 years of automobiles, plus star cars, movie cars, and James Bond cars. It's a knockout!

• By train :  Trains to Brockenhurst Station leave every 15 minutes from Waterloo. The journey takes 1.5 hours. Take a taxi from the station. If you arrive all or in part by public transportation, present your travel tickets at reception for a 20% discount on admission.
• By car: Beaulieu (pronounced "Bewley" by the way) is 87 miles from Central London. Take the M3 to the M27 exit 2 and follow the brown and white signs. There is free parking.

William Morris's Red House - English Home of the Arts and Crafts Movement

Red House was the only building ever commissioned by 19th-century artist and designer William Morris. Now owned by the National Trust and open to the public, the house, in Bexley Heath, just south of London, was designed as Morris's first marital home by his friend and design partner Philip Webb.

Artists and writers of the period were frequent visitors, including Dante and Christina Rosetti, Augustus and Gwen John. Some added their own personal touches, which can still be seen. Pre-Raphaelite Edward Burn-Jones, a frequent visitor, designed some of the stained glass and, inside an upstairs closet, there's a primitive painting attributed to Gwen John.

Morris believed a garden should "clothe" a house and the gardens at The Red House have been landscaped according to drawings and pictures of Morris's original designs.

Bexley Heath is the nearest train station. Trains from London Victoria or Charing Cross Stations take about half an hour. Plan on visiting in good weather as The Red House is a 3/4 mile walk from the train station.

Battlesbridge Antiques Center

If your idea of heaven is spending hours poking around an enormous antique center with dozens of dealers trading in everything from junk to treasure, then you will love the Battlesbridge Antiques Center .

It's a collection of buildings, including a former granary and a range of barns, sheds, and cottages, open every day from about 10 am to 5 pm. At any one time, at least 80 antique dealers buy and sell a very wide range of items including stamps, jewelry, ephemera, furniture, vintage clothing, lamps, music boxes and musical instruments and, yes, plain old-fashioned dusty junk. Paradise.

This isn't the sort of place where posh interior decorators find elegant 18th-century Italian furniture. It's a real grab bag of antiques, reproductions, and fakes. But there are real treasures to be found.

By the way, in case you are wondering what battle took place here, the answer is none. The village takes its name from a family named Bataille who once looked after the bridge over the River Crouch beside the Granary.

• By train: Regular trains leave London Liverpool Street Station throughout the day. Change at Wickford to the Southminster. Battlesbridge is the first stop on that line. The center is about a third of a mile from the station.
• By car: Battlebridge in Essex is about 40 miles from London, midway between Chelmsford and Southend beside the A130. 

RHS Wisley Garden

The Royal Horticultural Society's Wisley Garden is where keen English gardeners go to be inspired. Its world famous collection of plants has been developing for more than 100 years and there is always something new to see, any time of year. Spread out over 240 acres in Woking, Surrey, about an hour's drive from Central London, Wisley is a lovely, peaceful place for a stroll as well as a demonstration garden full of practical garden design ideas and cultivation techniques.

In June 2007, a huge new glasshouse, 40 feet high and covering an area equal to ten tennis courts, was opened to the public. The glasshouse at RHS Wisley covers three different climatic zones - tropical, moist temperate and dry temperate habitats. A winding path, past rocky outcrops, waterfalls, pools, and slopes, leads visitors through the glasshouse to see some of Wisley's most important plant collections. The RHS's tender plant collection is housed there. So are rare and endangered species and hundreds of varieties of orchids.

A new lake, intended to bring environmental benefits to the whole of Wisley and colonized by mollusks, damselflies, dragonflies, and amphibians, surrounds The Glasshouse.

• By train:  Trains from London Waterloo Station leave regularly for nearby West Byfleet or Woking. Take a taxi for the short ride from the station. On weekdays during the summer months, a special bus service operates from Woking Station to Wisley.
• By car: Wisley is about 22 miles west-southwest of Central London on the A3.

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• Travel Guides

12 Of The Best Day Trips From London

London is a truly exciting city with lots to do and see. However, there are also many wonderful attractions just a day away from the bustling capital. So, whether you want a break from the London crowds, or you just want to explore more of England, here are 12 of the best day trips from London:

1. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

This iconic prehistoric monument is still a topic of mystery and debate today. Stonehenge in Wiltshire dates back to 3000 BC, but no one really knows what the ring of 30-foot-tall standing stones was used for. You can take the 90-minute train from London to the nearest town, Salisbury, and hop on the Stonehenge Tour Bus there.

The gorgeous Georgian city of Bath is perhaps most famous for its wonderfully preserved ancient Roman baths. Set at the southern edge of the Cotswolds, this town also has many picturesque buildings, lush green parks, and fascinating museums. You can also visit the imposing Bath Abbey. There are lots of trains and buses from London.

Also Read:   Top Things To See In Bath

One of the most popular day trips from London is a visit to the famous university town of Oxford. This grand old city has lots of places to see, from the university colleges (many were even featured in the Harry Potter films) like Christ Church and Magdalen, to the imposing Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Also Read:   6 Places You Absolutely Cannot Miss at Oxford

4. Canterbury

The city of Canterbury is one of England’s most picturesque towns. It is home to Canterbury Cathedral, which is considered to be one of the finest in Europe. The town itself is filled with quaint, narrow alleyways and medieval buildings. Also, visit the ruins of the 6th century St Augustine’s Abbey and the serene River Stour. Canterbury is about an hour away from London by train.

5. Brighton, Sussex

The wonderful seaside town of Brighton is located just 80 kilometres from London. From charming Regency-era houses to lush gardens and unique shops, there are lots of things to see and do in Brighton. Don’t miss the eclectic Royal Pavilion and a walk along the pier that is lined with Victorian-era seafront hotels.

Also Read:   6 Of The Top Things To See And Do In Brighton

6. Cambridge

Much like Oxford, the historic university town of Cambridge is a short drive away from London. Cambridge University’s breathtaking grounds are full of 12th-century buildings, lots of green spaces, many museums, and the wonderful River Cam. Be sure to visit some of the university colleges, such as Clare College, Kings College, and Christ’s College.

Also Read:   6 Places You Have To See In Cambridge

Windsor is probably most famous for being home to Windsor Castle, which is the world’s largest and oldest occupied castle. The castle is known for its grand State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and many towers. However, the town itself is also worth a visit. You can also visit the nearby town of Eton.

8. Stratford

Stratford lies just a few hours away from London, but its quiet pace makes it seem like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Stratford-upon-Avon is most famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and you can still visit many buildings associated with his life, like his birthplace, his daughter’s home, and the cottage of his wife, Anne Hathaway.

Also Read:   Literary Destinations In The UK For Book Lovers To Visit

9. The Cotswolds

This bucolic area in Gloucestershire is dotted with enchanting villages and pristine English countryside. Just two hours northwest of London, and less than an hour from Bath, the Cotswolds is the perfect summer getaway.

10. Leeds Castle, Kent

Situated in the middle of a lake and surrounded by forests and parkland, Leeds Castle is truly an idyllic destination. Admire the wonderful castle grounds and the grand rooms, as well as the beautiful Lady Baillie Gardens. You can also visit the nearby White Cliffs of Dover, an iconic British site.

11. Isle of Wight

Slightly further away, the Isle of Wight is a top destination in the UK. An island off the south coast of England, it is just 3 hours away from London and is famous for its golden sand beaches dotted with dinosaur remains and fossils. You can also visit the Pepperpot, a historic lighthouse, and explore the picturesque old cottages and country lanes.

12. Harry Potter Warner Brother’s Studio Tour, London

Housed at Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden just outside London, The Making of Harry Potter at the Warner Brothers Studio Tour is a must-see for most Harry Potter fans. The experience takes you into the heart of the Harry Potter films. It has a vast collection of props, models, and sets that show the amazing effort that went on behind the scenes to bring J.K. Rowling’s books to life.

Also Read:  Step Into The World of Harry Potter in Britain

BONUS: Paris, France

It is actually possible to leave England (and the UK) entirely for a day and to visit a whole different country. Paris is just 2 hours away via the Eurostar. While just a day in Paris probably isn’t enough to see it all, it’s definitely a start!

Also Read:  How To Spend a Weekend in Paris

So, have we missed any of your favourite day trips from London? If so, be sure to share them in the comments below.

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

Are you ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, culture, tradition, and exciting attractions? Let your explorer's spirit soar and make unforgettable memories as you explore the beauty of our diverse world.

The 10 Best Day Trips from London

London is one of my favourite cities in the world and will likely steal your heart too. However, if you have any more than three days in the city, take the opportunity to get out of London and see more of the United Kingdom.  Here are the 10 best day trips from London to inspire your trip!

1. Bath, Windsor Castle & Stonehenge

A day visit to Bath , Windsor Castle & Stonehenge is the most popular day trip to take from London. Sure, it is a long day, but it is entirely worth it to pack so much into one day. Should you wish to spend more time in Bath and skip the others, this is also a really great day trip from London and can be done on your own by train (1.5 hours one way).

2. Oxford, Blenheim Palace & Woodstock

One of the best day trips from London is to visit nearby Oxford University City . It is only a short 90minute trip, whether you take a bus or the train. If you make it out for a day visit, you’ll have plenty to fit in as there are a handful of free universities and some paid that cannot be missed (particularly Christ Church for Harry Potter fans!) If you allow time for a few hours to visit Blenheim Palace just 20 minutes up the road by bus, be sure to take the time to also drop into Woodstock, a small town right next door. Buses are frequent (usually every 20 minutes) and inexpensive (6 pounds return Oxford-Blenheim Palace).

3. Paris by Eurostar

It is also entirely possible to leave England and visit another country entirely! Paris is just a little over 2 hours away by Eurostar, making it another one of London’s most popular day trips. Sure, this isn’t anywhere near long enough in Paris (you’ll need 3-4 days to see and do everything), but if its your only chance don’t miss it!

4. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are slightly less known to international visitors, but Brits will be quick to tell you just how beautiful they are! Because you really need a car to get around the Cotswolds and see all the different little villages, the best way to visit this area is to catch an early train from London and book a full-day tour of the Cotswolds in advance, including morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea. This is hands down one of the best day trips from London if you’re looking for a more quintessential British experience.

5. Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour

If you’re a Harry Potter fan or a poor ol’ muggle that has been dragged along with one, then you absolutely must make your way out to the studio tour. It is only a short drive out of the city and well worth your while. In fact, you will be able to learn absolutely everything about the Harry Potter films and how they were made. Its the ultimate experience for fans of the films and is just a short drive outside of London (book the Warner Bros bus to play it safe).

6. Cambridge University Town

While Oxford was the first university town, Cambridge is equally if not more beautiful (depending who you ask, of course, the inter-college rivalry is well and truly alive!) Cambridge is, like Oxford, a 1.5-hour drive from London with many buses and trains departing frequently.

7. Downton Abbey Locations

For fans of the hit tv series Downton Abbey, you’ll be delighted to learn there are Downton Abbey day tours departing London to fulfil your love for the show. The tours are often a full day to partake in, but this can be a really fun way to get out of the city.

8. Brighton & Brighton Beach 

In just under an hour by train, you can reach the blissful beachy town of Brighton, a favourite for visitors to London and Londoners themselves! It is a large thriving city with much to offer visitors but is also home to many locals, unlike other popular beach towns that exist only for tourism. A day in Brighton is best enjoyed in summer as the winter can be quite cold and grey (not unlike London though!)

9. Edinburgh & Edinburgh Castle

Fancy seeing a bit more of the UK beyond England!? If you don’t mind a quick flight (just over an hour) in the morning and back again at the end of the day, then there’s one city that flies still somewhat under the radar in the UK but is SO worth visiting it isn’t even describable. That’s Edinburgh , pictured above.

10. Bristol 

If cities are your thing and you’re interested in seeing another city in England, then head over to Bristol as this is just 2 hours by train or to drive. Bristol is also another popular city to visit combined with Bath, as the two are a mere 30 minutes drive away from one another.

PLANNING A TRIP TO LONDON? CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE:

The WOW Guide to London

Plan your visit to London:

The Complete London Bucketlist

12 Quotes about London to inspire your trip

Solo in London: Your Guide to enjoying London Solo

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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Visiting london for the first time here’….

I loved reading these kind of blogs which are so interesting and well written, please keep on writing blogs like this in future.

This is an amazing post, We also have an article about 10 Best Day Trips From London let’s checkout

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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.

More inspiration for escaping the city

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The best places to visit in the UK

Put away your passport and check out the ultimate UK break bucket list.

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Refresh yourself instead of Twitter with these wellness weekend breaks

12 super rural getaways from London

Forget wi-fi, some of these getaways don’t even have electricity

Magical and mystical places within reach of London

This little country of ours sure is steeped in myth

A perfect weekend in the north east Highlands

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19 Best Day Trips from London by Train

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 27, 2024

Looking for the best day trips from London by train? We have you covered! Discover 19 places to visit from London all within easy reach of the capital for a perfect day trip

What better way to explore some of England’s most beautiful towns and cities than to hop on a train from London for a day trip?

Day trips from London by train are easy , and if you book your train tickets in advance, they do not have to be too expensive. There are numerous day trips by train from London from which to choose. In this article, you will find a guide to my top 19. All are doable if you are staying in London (most less than two hours away by train)

I have chosen places within an easy train ride of the capital, with mainly direct services , that I would consider adding to any London itinerary . These are all easy day trips from London and, in my opinion, the best day trips from London by train.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Tips for train travel in the uk.

University Heritage | Historic Pubs | Literary History

Oxford is a great city to visit on a one-day trip from London. Numerous trains are available daily, and the journey takes, on average, only one hour.

Once in Oxford, the main attractions are in the compact and very walkable city centre. With beautiful architecture and a fascinating history, there is lots to see and do on a day trip to Oxford.

• Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour
• Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO OXFORD

What to see and do in Oxford

• Oxford University

Oxford University is one of the most famous universities in the world. Founded in the 13th century, it is composed of 38 colleges. Its alumni include numerous international heads of state, including 26 British Prime Ministers, Nobel prize winners, famous authors, and many well-known actors.

I would recommend wandering around the colleges on a walking tour and soaking in the scholarly atmosphere of this famous seat of learning.

The colleges vary in size, from the larger Magdelen and Christ Church Colleges to the smaller Corpus Christi and Trinity Colleges.

If you are a Harry Potter fan, some colleges may seem familiar as they were used as film locations for many of the famous scenes in the Harry Potter movies.

• Bodleian Library

The library is one of the oldest in Europe and the second largest in the UK. There are various tours of the library available which you can book via the link at the bottom of this section.

• Radcliffe Camera

The interestingly named Radcliffe Camera houses Oxford University’s Science Library. Built in 1737-49 in the neo-classical style, it is beautiful inside and out and part of the larger Bodleian Library.

• The Covered Market 

Opened in 1774, the market houses many shops and stalls to browse and a great choice of eateries. It is the place to stop for a coffee break or a bite to eat before resuming your exploration of Oxford.

• Blenheim Palace

If you decide to spend more than a day in Oxford, I recommend a trip to Blenheim Palace. The Palace is the home of the Duke of Marlborough, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, and a UK UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Learn more – Oxford Travel Guide

University sights | River punting | Historic Churches

Cambridge, the location of another famous university (and Oxford’s rival in the boat race each year), is also only an hour from London by train.

It is also compact and perfect for walking with lots to see and do.

• Distance from London: 49 miles/ 79 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 17 mins
• Leave from: London King’s Cross/ London Liverpool Street

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO CAMBRIDGE

What to see and do in Cambridge

Take a punt along the River Cam. It’s a great way to see the city; even better, you can hire someone to do the punting for you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views.

• King’s College Chapel

Home to the largest vault ceiling in the world, King’s College Chapel is a must-visit place in Cambridge. If you are a fan of English history, don’t miss the Rood Screen (a large wooden screen that separates the nave from the altar), which Henry VIII gave his second bride, Anne Boleyn.

• St John’s College, King’s College, Trinity College

Cambridge University, like its main rival, Oxford, comprises several colleges (31) worth exploring. St John’s, King’s, and Trinity College are just some of the colleges to see.

Learn more – Cambridge Travel Guide

Coastal landscapes | War history | Castles

Dover, on the southeast coast of England, is an iconic spot. The famous White Cliffs are a British landmark, symbolising the defence of the British Isles. Pre-air travel, the white cliffs provided travellers from the continent with their first glimpse of the UK.

From London, you can get to Dover in just under two hours by direct train from Victoria Station. Apart from the White Cliffs, places to visit include Dover Castle, St. Margaret’s Bay Beach, and Fan Bay Deep Shelter. 

Organised tours to Dover from London often include Canterbury, the capital city of Kent with a famous cathedral. 

• Distance from London: 77 miles / 124 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 58 minutes
• Leave from: London Victoria

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO DOVER

What to see and do in Dover

• White Cliffs of Dover

Facing the English Channel and France, the White Cliffs must be seen when in Dover. At 350 feet high, it’s chalk streaked with black flint that gives the cliffs their characteristic appearance. Perhaps best of all, you don’t need to pay to walk on them.

• Fan Bay Deep Shelter

Also at the White Cliffs site is Fan Bay Deep Shelter, a network of World War II tunnels. They were built between late 1940 and early 1941, 23 metres underground. You do need to pay admission to see the former accommodation for Fan Bay Battery artillery battery.

• Dover Castle

Medieval Dover Castle dates back to the 11th century. It’s worth visiting for the commanding clifftop position alone, and rivals Windsor for the title of England’s biggest castle. Allow at least three hours to explore all the site has to offer.

• St. Margaret’s Bay beach

Forming part of the Saxon Shore Way, St. Margaret’s Bay beach offers an escape from the city. As well as stunning views over the iconic Kent coastline, of course.

Read more – Day trips from London to Dover

Medieval architecture | Ancient cathedral | Christmas market

Winchester is home to one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Founded in 1079 the structure has been remodelled over the centuries and has Romanesque and Gothic styles throughout. It is also famously the resting place of Jane Austen.

There is a lot to see just in the cathedral itself, including exploring the crypt, home to Anthony Gormley’s famous sculpture Sound II, visiting Jane Austen’s grave, and admiring the Winchester Bible, an 800-year-old manuscript. Again, this is an easy day trip from London by train.

• Distance from London: 60 miles / 96 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 14 mins
• Leave from: London Waterloo

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO WINCHESTER

What to see and do in Winchester 

• Winchester Cathedral

As I mentioned above, there is a lot to see in Winchester Cathedral. I would recommend taking one of the tours to learn all about the history, as it is so interesting. After his successful invasion of England, William the Conqueror was crowned king in Winchester Cathedral in 1066.

Also, don’t miss Anthony Gormley’s Sound II sculpture in the crypt. If you are a fan of the novelist Jane Austen, who lived in Winchester, you will find her grave in the cathedral.

• The Great Hall

The Great Hall is a 13th-century aisled hall that contains one of the most iconic symbols linked to the legends of King Arthur – the Round Table.

Read more – Winchester Travel Guide

Ancient history | Roman Walls | Viking heritage

York in northeast England takes slightly longer to get to from London, but we promise that it’s worth the extra effort! Board a train at Kings Cross and you could be there in a little over two hours. 

York is a very historic and beautiful city. It’s also very compact, and therefore walkable. Heritage attractions to see include York Minster, the city walls, and some fine museums, including the JORVIK Viking Centre and York Castle Museum. Wandering the cobbled streets, dipping into shops and cafes, is also a pleasure in itself. 

• Distance from London: 211 miles / 340 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours and 2 minutes +
• Leave from: King’s Cross

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO YORK

What to see and do in York

• York Minster

York Minster is one of the most breathtaking cathedrals in Britain. The site is also central to religion in the north of England. Its age is why it’s known as a minster rather than a cathedral, as the latter term wasn’t used during Anglo-Saxon times. The minster dates back to the 600s.

• City Walls  

York’s city walls are said to be more intact than any others in England. Stretching for over two miles (3.4 kilometres), they encircle the city. They are also known as the Roman walls, or the Bar Walls. You can access them year-round, on foot, for free. 

• York Castle Museum

You can discover hundreds of years of history at York Castle Museum. It occupies the site of York Castle, which was constructed in 1068 by William the Conqueror. The recreated Victorian Street is one of the big draws for both kids and adults.

• JORVIK Viking Centre

Head here if you want to know about Viking life in York. A ride through the city of Jorvik is an immersive way to experience the past.

Read more – Things to do in York

Beatles history | Maritime attractions | Cultural museums

Liverpool is the perfect destination for Beatles fans, with so many attractions, tours and sights related to the Fab 4. But Liverpool is also a cultural hub offering great restaurants and cafes and, according to my husband, the best football team on earth!

• Distance from London: 178 miles (288 kms)
• Time taken by train: 3 to 3½ hours
• Leave from: Euston

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO LIVERPOOL

What to see and do in Liverpool

• Pay homage to the Beatles – Take the Magical Mystery Tour, have a selfie with the Beatles statues and visit the Beatles Story
• Take a stroll around Albert Dock, which is packed with museums, cafes, and the Tate Modern!
• Explore Liverpool Cathedral, famous for its beautiful architecture

Canalside areas | Football fans | Industrial History

Manchester prides itself on being England’s second city after London—though people from Birmingham do have something to say about that! Whether it is or not, it’s packed with things to see and do. The BBC moving much of its operations from London to MediaCity at Salford Quays also put Manchester and Salford—actually a separate adjoining city—on the map. 

Top Manchester attractions include the superb Museum of Science & Industry, the canalside heritage Castlefield area, and the huge, famous football stadiums. In Salford, the quays offer lots to see, too. You can get to Manchester by train from London in as little as two-and-a-quarter hours.

• Time taken by train: 2 hours 12 minutes

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO MANCHESTER

What to see and do in Manchester

• Castlefield  

Castlefield is a lovely place to wander around. There are plenty of waterside places to eat and drink, plus the remains of the Roman fort of Mamucium. This industrial area is rich in Roman and local history, and strolling by the canals can be very relaxing. 

• Museum of Science & Industry

With an emphasis on local advancements in science, industry, and technology, this respected museum is well worth anyone’s time. It’s also free to enter. 

• Salford Quays

Salford Quays is also by the water and home to the BBC’s flagship MediaCity. The Lowry, named after a famous local artist, is also here, along with lots of entertainment, dining and drinking venues, and hotels. 

• City of Manchester or Old Trafford stadiums

No football (or soccer) fan’s trip would be complete without visiting the home of Manchester City or Manchester United!

Read more – Manchester Travel Guide

Industrial landmarks | Canal-side dining | Vibrant music scene

Located at the heart of England in the West Midlands, Birmingham is a dynamic, multicultural city known for its vibrant art scene and significant industrial past

• Distance from London: 101 miles (163 km)
• Time taken by train: Approx 2 hours
• Leave from: Euston (to New Street)

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO BIRMINGHAM

What to see and do in Birmingham

• Visit the Bullring

If you enjoy shopping, you will find many great shops and shopping centres in Birmingham’s Bullring.

• Cadbury World and Bourneville

If you enjoy chocolate, visiting Cadbury World is a must when heading to Birmingham! The quant village of Bourneville was created to house the workers at the chocolate factory and is an example of a Victoria model village.

Read more – Birmingham Travel Guide

Maritime history | Sea views

Portsmouth is a less obvious choice than some for a day trip, but it’s a great way to get a breath of fresh sea air. The city is also a must for fans of all things maritime, with Portsmouth Historic Dockyard the main draw. 

Other attractions include outlet shopping at Gunwharf Quays, and the Spinnaker Tower. You can reach Portsmouth by train from London in about an hour and a half.

• Distance from London: 75 miles / 120 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 32 minutes+

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO PORTSMOUTH

What to see and do in Portsmouth

• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, with several historic ships and buildings, forms part of HM Naval Base Portsmouth. Here, you can see HMS Victory, the Mary Rose, HMS Warrior, and the National Museum of the Royal Navy.

• Spinnaker Tower

The 170-metre Spinnaker Tower is the symbol of Portsmouth’s redeveloped waterfront. The so-called Sail of the Solent observation tower offers spectacular views. The Spinnaker Kitchen and Bar also serves food and drinks.

• Gunwharf Quays

If you feel like a spot of shopping, Gunwharf Quays offers a good range of discounted outlet retailers, plus places to eat.

Hear more – Discovering Portsmouth UK Travel Planning Podcast Episode

Beachfront leisure | Lively nightlife | Pier attractions

Brighton is one of my favourite cities to visit in the UK and one of the best places to visit in East Sussex . It has loads of charm and character and is also home to one of the most amazing buildings I have ever seen – the Brighton Pavilion .

There are also lots of great restaurants and cafes to choose from in Brighton.

• Distance from London: 65 miles/ 105 kms
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 10 mins direct service
• Leave from: London Victoria / London Bridge

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO BRIGHTON

What to see and do in Brighton

• The Brighton Pavilion

Do not miss the chance to visit the Brighton Pavilion . Built by King George IV (during his time as Prince Regent) at considerable cost the pavilion is opulently decorated and filled to the brim with exquisite furnishings. It is really incredible and I had no idea until I visited just how beautiful it was.

Brighton has a great atmosphere and there is no-where better to enjoy this than in The Lanes . Packed with restaurants, tea rooms, pubs and shops these narrow alleyways are a shopper’s paradise.

• Brighton Palace Pier

The pier in Brighton is Grade II listed and was opened in 1899. It is 525 meters long and is an iconic symbol of Brighton

Roman baths | Georgian architecture | Spa town heritage

Bath is another wonderful city to visit. Although a little further taking on average 2 and a half hours by train from London it is a hugely popular destination and absolutely worth a day trip (at the very least)

• Distance from London: 94 miles/ 152 kms
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 28 mins
• Leave from: London Paddington

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO BATH

What to see and do in Bath

• Visit the Roman Baths

Built over 2000 years ago the Roman Baths are one of England’s top tourist attractions. Ensure you have at least 2 hours to explore the Roman Temple, Bath House, Sacred Spring and museum.

Don’t miss the Grand Pump Room which is next to the Baths and serves refreshments including afternoon tea.

• Admire the Royal Crescent

This row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape is officially known as the Royal Crescent . Built between 1767 and 1774 they are a beautiful example of Georgian architecture and incredibly expensive to buy!

Learn more – What to do and see in Bath

Harbour attractions | Street art | Engineering marvels

Bristol is synonymous with the work of Isambard Kingdom Brunel one of the most prolific mechanical and civil engineers in history. He built bridges and tunnels and steamships and railways and was one of the greatest figures during the Industrial Revolution.

21st century Bristol is a great place for shopping with loads of independent retailers to enjoy. Food and drink is also topnotch in Bristol with numerous restaurants and cafes to choose from.

It is also the home of Banksy.

• Distance from London: 106 miles (171 km)
• Time taken by train: Approx 1 hour 30 mins
• Leave from: Paddington

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO BRISTOL

What to see and do in Bristol

• Clifton Suspension Bridge

Designed by Brunel, this 150-year-old suspension bridge is a toll bridge linking Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.   

For those of you with an interest in engineering, free tours operate at 3 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays between Easter and October!

• Bristol Shopping Quarter

Visit the Bristol Shopping Quarte r , home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes and attractions – shop, eat, drink and enjoy!

Learn more – Bristol Travel Guide

Gothic Cathedral | Close to Stonehenge | Quaint streets

Salisbury offers visitors a unique blend of historical and cultural experiences. The city is renowned for its magnificent cathedral, which has the tallest church spire in the UK. 

Nearby, you can explore the ancient ruins of Old Sarum and the world-famous Stonehenge.

• Distance from London: 88 miles/ 142 kms
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 30 mins
• Leave from: Waterloo

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO SALISBURY

What to see and do in Salisbury

• Salisbury Cathedral

Not only a beautiful cathedral in its own right but also the home of one of only four Magna Carta documents in the world Salisbury Cathedral is a must-visit if you are in the city. Don’t miss the spire, which is the tallest church spire in the UK.

One of England’s most popular tourist attractions is not far from Salisbury – Stonehenge . This ancient stone circle has existed for thousands of years and is probably the world’s most famous prehistoric monument.

There is a Stonehenge Tour Bus at the train station, which will take you to Stonehenge. Click here to find out more about visiting Stonehenge .

Learn more – Salisbury Travel Guide

Storied Cathedral | Chaucer’s Tales | Pilgrimage site

Wander through Canterbury and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into the pages of a storybook. This enchanting city is not only famed for its stunning Canterbury Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, but it’s also the setting of Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales,” which brings its rich history to life.

Take a walk along the cobblestone streets, past the ancient Roman walls and alongside the tranquil River Stour, and you’ll quickly see why Canterbury’s blend of history and charm makes it a popular day trip from London.

• Distance from London: 61 miles/ 98 kms
• Leave from: St Pancras International (The Javelin) to Canterbury West

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO CANTERBURY

What to see and do in Canterbury

• Visit Canterbury Cathedral

The Archbishop of Canterbury is the head of the Church of England and Anglican Church worldwide.

The Cathedra l has a long and interesting history including surviving the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII and an extensive bombing campaign during WWII.

• Stroll the medieval centre of Canterbury

The medieval centre of Canterbury is surrounded by ancient walls that were originally built by the Romans. Stroll through the medieval centre and admire its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses.

Shakespeare’s birthplace | Theatrical performances | Elizabethan architecture

Another popular day trip from London by train is to Stratford-upon-Avon -Avon. Famous as the birthplace and home of William Shakespeare (1564-1616 ), Stratford-upon-Avon is a little under two and a half hours from London.

If you want to learn more about the Bard of Avon, this is the place to come. Hop-on, hop-off bus tours are available, and they are the best way to see all the sights.

• Distance from London: 83 miles/ 133 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 27 mins
• Leave from: London Marylebone/ London Euston

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO STRATFORD-UPON-AVON

What to see and do in Stratford-upon-Avon

• Shakespeare’s birthplace

You can visit the house where Shakespeare was born and raised.

• Anne Hathaway’s Cottage 

The beautiful thatched cottage that was the home of Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway is located about a mile from Stratford and is included in the hop-on hop-off bus routes around Stratford.

• Church of the Holy Trinity

Birth, marriage and death. If you want to see where Shakespeare is buried head to the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Read more – Stratford upon Avon Travel Guide

A Royal Castle | A Great Park | St. George’s Chapel

Windsor is simply unmissable if you have even the remotest interest in British royalty – and all the pomp and pageantry that goes with it. Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest at St. George’s Chapel here, and the castle itself has so much to see. The glorious grounds and Windsor Great Park also offer plenty of green space. 

Eton College – the UK’s most prestigious private school – is close to central Windsor, too. You can get there by train from Paddington or Victoria, arriving at either Windsor & Eton Riverside, or Windsor & Eton Central.

• Distance from London: 25 miles / 40 km
• Time taken by train: 30 minutes
• Leave from: London Victoria or Paddington

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO WINDSOR

One day in Windsor (Must-see Windsor attractions)

• Windsor Castle

The castle is what most people come to Windsor for. Don’t miss St. George’s Chapel, Queen Elizabeth II’s final resting place. Other key attractions include Queen Mary’s Dolls House, the State Apartments, the Semi-State Rooms, and the Moat Room. 

• Changing of the Guard

You can witness the Changing of the Guard in Windsor at around 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Check before you travel, as the ceremony can be cancelled due to bad weather, or for other reasons.

• Windsor Great Park

You can truly escape the city, look out for other royal residences, and even spot deer at Windsor Great Park. Take the historic oak-lined, two-and-a-half mile Long Walk to pass through Deer Park. 

Read more – Getting to Windsor Castle from London

Magnificent castle | Historic hospital | Collegiate church

Warwick Castle is one of the loveliest castles in the UK, making the Midlands city a must for fortress fans. Some people also like to combine Warwick with Stratford-upon-Avon, William Shakespeare’s birthplace. Other historic sites in the city include the Collegiate Church of St. Mary and Lord Leycester Hospital.

You can get to Warwick by train from Marylebone station in London, and the trip takes around an hour-and-a-quarter. 

• Distance from London: 83 miles (133 km)
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 15 mins
• Leave from: Marylebone

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO WARWICK

One day in Warwick (Must see Warwick attractions)

• Warwick Castle

Once built from wood, Warwick Castle was rebuilt during the 12th century, this time in stone. Today, it showcases around 1,000 years of history. The mediaeval architecture, spooky dungeons and majestic interiors attract visitors of all ages.

• Collegiate Church of St. Mary

The tower of this large church dominates the Warwick skyline. It dates back to the 12th century, is overseen by secular clergy, and still plays a key role in city life. 

• Lord Leycester Hospital  

Grade I listed Lord Leycester Hospital next to the West Gate, on High Street in Warwick is one of England’s finest examples of mediaeval courtyard architecture. It’s also a charity for ex-servicemen.

Roman remains | Exploring on foot | Shopping and dining

A Roman fortress built during the 1st century A.D. formed the basis for where the city of Chester now stands. In northwest England, it lies close to both Manchester and Liverpool. Chester is mainly known for Roman remains and half-timbered, Tudor-style architecture.

Chester is a compact city that’s easy to explore on foot and packed with ancient sites. It is also popular for shopping and dining out. The fast, direct train service from London Euston takes just over two hours.

• Distance from London: 210 miles / 338 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 3 minutes
• Leave from: London Euston

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO CHESTER

One day in Chester (Must see Chester attractions)

• Roman Walls

After building their fortress here, the Romans then added Chester city walls to defend it. Sections of the astonishingly well-preserved walls are nearly 2,000 years old, and you can access them at any time. Completing the circle gives you sweeping views over the city. 

• Roman Amphitheatre

Chester Roman Amphitheatre is the biggest in Britain. Its remains are centrally located, open during daylight hours, and free to enter. It was used by the Romans for military training as well as entertainment, and the design differs from others in England. 

Chester Rows add character and interest to the streets, distinguishing Chester from other British cities. The half-timbered galleries are unique to Chester, and very Instagrammable indeed. Some date back as far as the 13th century. 

Read more – Chester travel guide

Food | Romance | Iconic sights

It might not have crossed your mind to take a day trip to another country from London, but it’s perfectly do-able. The Eurostar can whisk you off to Paris from St. Pancras station – in well under two-and-a-half hours!

Paris barely needs any introduction: you’ll be spoiled for choice regarding things to see. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, there’s far more than you can do in a day. If you plan and prioritise carefully, though, you can make the most of it.

• Distance from London: 295 miles / 475 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 18 mins
• Leave from: St Pancras International

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO PARIS

One day in Paris (Must see Paris attractions)

• Eiffel Tower

The wrought-iron tower designed and built by Gustave Eiffel is a global icon. At 330 metres tall, there are magnificent city views from the top floor. It’s a must-visit when in Paris. 

The Louvre is one of the world’s most famous and respected art galleries. It’s renowned as the home of the Mona Lisa, which is carefully screened behind thick, bullet-proof glass. The other artworks, the architecture of the building, and the ceiling frescoes are also incredibly impressive. 

• River Seine

The River Seine flows through the centre of Paris, and many city icons and attractions can be found on or close to its banks. Take a boat trip to see the French capital from the water, or wander along by the water to see where the day takes you. 

• Notre-Dame cathedral

The mediaeval Notre-Dame de Paris is a stunning example of French Gothic architecture. It’s currently being rebuilt following a fire in 2019, but is still worth a look – not least as seeing the reconstruction means witnessing history taking shape. 

Read more – Getting from London to Paris

If you’re new to train travel in the UK and wondering how to buy tickets or catch a train, check out our Guide to UK Train Travel ebook.

Here are some quick tips to help you get started:

• Buy Early: Secure your tickets in advance to get better prices.
• Choose the right pass: Look into different railcards and passes to save money.
• Check for updates: Always confirm your travel plans right before you leave to avoid any surprises due to schedule changes.
• Ticket purchasing: I suggest using thetrainline.com for an easy booking experience as they cover all UK rail companies.
• Travelling during holidays and weekends: Be mindful of public holidays when maintenance might affect your plans with potential delays or bus replacements.

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DESTINATIONS , ENGLAND , EUROPE

33 easy day trips from london by train.

Are you looking for the best day trips from London by train?

Then you’ve come to the right place. I’m a Londoner born and bred and am excited to share my favourite places to visit from London by train.

Whether you want to breathe in a lungful of sea air or explore more of England’s history, here are some fabulous London day trips by train.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

Best Day Trips Within a 1 Hour Train Journey from London

Are you looking for the best short trips from London by train? Here is my pick of the best destinations that are less than an hour from London.

1. Cambridge

• Fastest journey time: 50 minutes via Great Northern
• From London Kings Cross

Cambridge may be best known as home to the famous university, but it has much more to offer. And as the train ride from London to Cambridge is under 1 hour, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of the train station, it is one of the easiest day trips from London by train.

Cambridge University was founded in 1209 and has 31 colleges. It’s the second oldest university in the English-speaking world.

Try to visit at least one college if you can. Better still, join a walking tour of the colleges led by a former student. My favourites are King’s College, St. John’s, and Trinity College.  

King’s College Chapel  has some of the most beautiful stained glass you will ever see. At  Trinity College , don’t miss the  Wren Library , designed by Christopher Wren, who also designed St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Additionally, the University has eight museums that are free and open to the public. 

My favourites are the  Fitzwilliam  and the  Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology . The Fitzwilliam reminds me of a smaller version of the British Museum in London because it has a diverse collection.

If the weather behaves during your  day trip to Cambridge , try  punting on the Cam River .

Punting uses a boat similar to a gondola, where you stand on the back to paddle, but you use a pole instead of an oar. If you’re not brave enough to try it on your own, you can hire someone else to do the punting or go on a punting tour through the lovely area known as  The Backs .

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A CAMBRIDGE PUNTING TOUR

By Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

• Fastest journey time: 50 minutes via Great Western Railway
• From London Paddington

An  Oxford day trip  from London is perfect for history and literature buffs.

Oxford is best known for the  university  that shares its name.

Walk in the footsteps of greats like  C. S. Lewis  and  J. R. R. Tolkien and start your day by exploring Oxford’s colleges. You’ll be able to see where masterworks like Alice in Wonderland were written and the inspiration for the Narnia books, not to mention some of the Harry Potter film locations.

Its landmarks include the  Bridge of Sigh s and  Radcliff Camera . Once you’ve had your fill of the colleges there’s still plenty left to do.

Oxford is home to a number of first-rate museums like the  Natural History Museum , the  Ashmolean  and the  Pitt Rivers Museum,  which is unique in that it catalogues its items by item type as opposed to age or geography.

Make sure to stop by the  Oxford Covered Market  for some local goods, and to climb to the top of the  University Church of St Mary the Virgin  for a panoramic view of Oxford.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK AN OXFORD UNIVERSITY & CITY WALKING TOUR

By Liliane of My Toronto, My World

3. St. Albans

• Fastest journey time: 20 minutes via Thameslink
• From London St. Pancras International

If you are looking for a historic day trip outside London, visit  St Albans , a charming city located northwest of London. It’s less than 20 minutes by train from London.

Its crown jewel is St. Albans Cathedral , a architectural marvel with a rich a history spanning over a thousand years. Beyond the cathedral, there are many beautiful medieval buildings, cute cafes and a market, where you can buy local homemade produce.

Verulamium is situated in Verulamium Park, close to the city centre. Albans. These well-preserved Roman ruins include the city walls, hypocaust (underfloor heating system), mosaics and the Roman theatre.

If you have a bit more time, before going back to London, visit Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, the  oldest pub in Great Britain . A very British way to finish your day out.

By Darek of DarekandGosia

4. Colchester

• Fastest journey time: 45 minutes via Greater Anglia
• From London Liverpool St.

Colchester is another excellent day trip from London by train for history buffs.

This is England’s oldest recorded town and is the site of the  only Roman circus in England . It is home to a host of other Roman remains, including one of the most intact Roman walls in the country. There’s even a pub (the Hole in the Wall) built into part of it!

Colchester Castle ‘s keep dates from 1076, but the dungeons of the castle contain the foundations of the Roman temple of Claudius.

The museum here is well worth a visit as it contains a number of key finds, including a Roman treasure hoard that was excavated during renovations of a department store on the high street. There’s also an 11 th  Century Augustine priory,  St Botolphs , that is free to visit.

There are several  free walking tours to take in Colchester . All of these are downloadable with maps; some have audio guides.

When you’re ready for a break you should head to the  Tiptree Jam Tea Room . Tiptree Jam is local to Colchester but is famous the world over.

By Sarah of ASocialNomad

5. Hampton Court

• Fastest direct journey time: 35 minutes via South Western Railway
• From London Waterloo

Hampton Court is one of  the great buildings of England . Most people visit to look around the palace of  King Henry VIII , the most notorious English monarch of all, who had a penchant for chopping off his spouses’ heads. But this is only the half of it.

Henry’s palace is magnificent, one of the high points of Tudor architecture. This was among the very last Gothic buildings in England, and the  Great Hall  is hugely impressive.

It’s also possible to look around the  State Apartments  and  Haunted Gallery , where Catherine Howard’s ghost is said to run screaming for mercy, knowing that execution was likely to be her fate.

Hampton Court has a superb  Baroque palace and gardens , added by King William III and Mary who reigned from 1689 to 1702. This is one of the finest Baroque buildings in England, along with the likes of St Paul’s Cathedral in the centre of London.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR FAST-TRACK TICKET

By David of Delve Into Europe

6. Harry Potter Studios

• Fastest journey time: 15 minutes to Watford Junction Station via West Midlands Railway and then a shuttle bus to the studio
• From London Euston

Calling all Potterheads! If you are a Muggle craving to discover the world of  Harry Potter in London , take a day trip to the Harry Potter Studios.

Harry Potter was mainly filmed at the Warner Bros Studios in Watford. Hop on a train from Euston or Victoria to Watford Junction. From the station, the Harry Potter shuttle bus will take you straight to the studios.

When you  buy your ticket , you will have to choose a slot. I recommend you book the first one available.

Once you are in the studios, you are free to stay as long as you want so the earlier you get there, the longer you can stay. On average, visitors stay four hours.

You will see many sets such as the dining hall, the Gryffindor common room and the Gringott bank, in addition to many costumes. More importantly, you will discover how the movies were made. Everything from training animals to prosthetic makeup.

There are a couple of restaurants on site. You can even buy butterbeer!

The Warner Bros studios are a truly magical experience (whether you are a Harry Potter fan or not). The best day trip from London by train for all you Muggles out there!

If you want someone to take care of all of the arrangements for you, why not buy your skip-the-line ticket with a transfer from London? Click here to book.

By Pauline of BeeLoved City

7. Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

• Fastest journey time: 40 minutes to Newbury station via Great Western Railway and then a 15-minute taxi ride to Highclere Castle

Downton Abbey  fans will delight at the opportunity to visit the famous Highclere Castle where the series was filmed.

The castle was established in 749 and rebuilt in the 17th century when it was purchased by the grandfather of the current Earl of Carnarvon (who still resides there with his wife). Just as in the  Downton Abbey  series, Highclere Castle served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during World War I. During World War II, it was home to evacuees.

Due to popularity,  Highclere Castle entrance tickets  can be challenging to secure so be sure to book well ahead if you’re visiting independently.  Alternatively, plan to spend the night nearby and arrive bright and early for first dibs on tickets.

An easier option is to visit Highclere Castle on an organised day trip  from London as the admission ticket will be included.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

By Chris of  Explore Now or Never

8. Rochester

• Fastest journey time: 40 minutes via Southeastern
• From London Victoria (services also leave from London St. Pancras International)

Rochester in Kent is one of the easiest places to visit near London by train as well as one of the most rewarding.

The majestic  Rochester Cathedral  is the second oldest medieval church and also the second most visited pilgrimage site in England.

Charles Dickens  lived in nearby Higham and based many of his novels in the area. Stop by the friendly Tourist Information Office and pick up a Charles Dickens trail map for a small fee. Information boards marking key sights on this self-guided walk will also point the way.

Finally, don’t leave town before visiting  Rochester Castle . Although just the carcass of the original building remains, the castle’s 12 th  Century stone tower is reputed to be one of the best-preserved in England and there are great views from the top.

• Fastest journey time: 30 minutes via Great Western Railway
• From London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central (change at Slough)

As the favourite weekend home of the late Queen Elizabeth II, Windsor is one of the best-known cities in the UK and is one of  Europe’s most stunning palaces .

The city of Windsor was established by  William the Conqueror  in the 11th Century and is home to just under 1,000 residents. Situated just 25 minutes from the capital, this historic town is one of the easiest day trips by train from London.

But there is more to see in Windsor than its castle and  St. George’s Chapel . Explore  Windsor Great Park , the former private royal hunting ground, or Guildhall , where Charles and Camilla wed. There’s St. John the Baptist Church , originally built in the 12th Century and reconstructed in 1810.

Runnymede , where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215, is nearby. Cliveden House , a three-story Italianate mansion, just 15 minutes north of Windsor, is where the works of Charles Barry reside.

Finally, there’s the  Royal Windsor Horse Show that is held each May.

If you’re uncertain of what to see or where to go, there are various day tours of both the city and river to give an overall view of the beautiful sites to be found in Windsor.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET

By Erin of  Traveling Thru History

10. Winchester

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour via South Western Railway

Visit Winchester for a fun-filled day trip by train from London. Winchester station is roughly a five-minute walk to the town centre (downhill on the way there; ten minutes uphill on the way back!).

This historic city is one of the oldest in the UK and has picturesque cobbled streets, historic buildings and one of the most famous cathedrals in the country.

Some of the best things to do in Winchester include:

• Winchester Cathedral . Some very famous people are buried here- including Jane Austen. You can also see one of the oldest Bibles in the world
• Shopping! Winchester has some great shops on and around the high street.
• Mizmaze . On the outskirts of Winchester is a very old turf maze that you can try and navigate. Well worth a visit if you have time
• Visit the  Christmas market . If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in November or December, you must go to the  Winchester Christmas Market . There are hundreds of stalls and even an ice rink.

By Kat of Wandering Bird

11. Bletchley Park

• Fastest journey time: 30 minutes (to Milton Keynes Central) via Avanti West Coast

Bletchley Park , the home of the  WWII code breakers , is a fascinating glimpse into the work of these heroes and of the early days of computers. See the iconic code-breaker huts and learn more about the work of  Alan Turing  and his group of code-breakers who cracked the German’s  Enigma code machine , instrumental in winning the war for the British and Allied troops.

The estate comprises some 581 acres and the house on the site contained many WWII secrets whilst pretending to be a luxury getaway for some of Britain’s most brilliant minds. In the house are displays of the rooms just as they were used during the war and it feels like the people just left that day.

You can tour the huts that Turing and the code-breakers used and see how they broke Enigma.

Within the estate is the  National Museum of Computing  where you can try your hand at code-breaking puzzles and explore how computers have changed the world. 

Take a picnic and enjoy the grounds and the small lake where children can feed the ducks. And for adults? You can have a gin and tonic in the sunshine and dance to some retro 1940s or jazz-age music on the lawns in front of the house.

By Faith of XYU And Beyond

12. Canterbury

• Fastest journey time: 55 minutes (to Canterbury West) via Southeastern
• From London St Pancras International

Travelling from London to Canterbury is certainly not a new idea. Londoners have been making the trip for the past 1,000 years or so, although it wasn’t always possible as a day trip.

Originally,  Christian pilgrims  made the arduous journey on foot to  Canterbury Cathedral , more specifically to the spot inside the Cathedral where  Thomas Becket  was murdered. This popular journey was the inspiration for Chaucer’s  Canterbury Tales , one of the greatest works of English literature.

Nowadays, you can hop on a train in London and be in Canterbury in less than 1 hour. One thing that hasn’t changed much, though, is the imposing Cathedral.

Whilst it is the city’s main attraction, it’s not the only thing to see while you’re in Canterbury.  St. Martin’s Church  and  St. Augustine’s Abbey  are two other historic religious buildings that are also worth a visit.

A good option for lunch is the Lady Luck, which bills itself as a “rock ‘n’ roll pub”. They offer vegan as well as meaty versions of traditional pub grub, so it’s a great choice for  vegan visitors to Canterbury .

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

13. Brighton

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour via the Gatwick Express. However, this is more expensive than the service run by Thameslink which takes 1 hour 10 minutes.
• From London Victoria, London Blackfriars or London Bridge

Brighton, on England’s south coast, is one of the most popular train trips from London.

Home to the UK’s largest Jedi population (!), Brighton is blessed with a broad shingle beach, a cool bohemian air and one extraordinary building.

The  Royal Pavilion  is the opulent Victorian pleasure palace of Prince George, later Prince Regent and then King George IV. Indian on the outside and Chinese on the inside, it is as extravagant and eccentric as its first occupant and seems oddly out of place in an English seaside town. You can grab your skip-the-line ticket here .

Brighton Pier  is a prime example of an Edwardian pier. Take a stroll along its length, fill your face with candy floss and try your luck in one of its amusement arcades.

Finally, Brighton is a first-class shopping destination.  The Lanes  are home to independent shops, including some good antique shops, jewellery shops and boutiques.

14. Epping Forest

Are you looking for another destination near London to get closer to nature?

Located on the northeastern outskirts of London,  Epping Forest  is a fabulous walking destination at any time of year. However, it is at its best in autumn when its plants and trees are transformed into multi-colour works of art.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or something more vigorous, Epping Forest’s 8,000 acres offer a dizzying choice of  walking trails , nine of which are waymarked circular trails. These range in distance between 1.25 and 6.6 miles, and most start close to parking and train stations.

To reach these  ancient woodlands  take the Overground train from Liverpool Street to Chingford or London Underground’s Central Line to Chigwell, Roding Valley, Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, Debden, Theydon Bois or Epping.

READ THIS NEXT: Easy Epping Forest Walks

15. Mayfield Lavender Farm

On the outskirts of the capital lies South London’s purple paradise.

Instagram heaven, Mayfield Lavender Farm is a full-blown assault on the senses but in a good way. Wander through a sprawling field of purple flowers, the air perfumed with the soporific scent of lavender.

If you are feeling peckish, treat yourself to a lavender-themed afternoon tea overlooking a sea of purple.

Thirsty? This is your opportunity to sample lavender cider.

For a tasteful gift, pick up homemade lavender products, including soaps and jams, at the gift shop.

Lavender blooming season runs from June through to late August, with peak bloom around mid-July. Check  Mayfield Lavender ’s website for flower updates and opening hours.

To reach Mayfield Lavender Farm, take a train from London Victoria to West Croydon and then hop on the 166 bus to the farm. A note of caution though; this route can get very busy at weekends (I walked back one stop to make sure I was able to board the bus).

Alternatively, catch a train from London Victoria to Sutton or Cheam and then take a cab/minicab to the farm (this is the fastest route but more expensive).

More Easy Day Trips from London by Train

Whether you are looking for a day at the seaside or want to explore one of England’s cool cities, here are some more fabulous places near London. Many of my favourites are here, including Rye, Liverpool (also a fabulous weekend break) and lovely Brockenhurst in the New Forest.

Most of these destinations are within two hours of London by train.

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 15 minutes via Great Western Railway

Bath is one of the most charming cities in England, filled with beautiful architecture, ancient buildings, culture and interesting places to eat and drink. Once you arrive at Bath Spa station you are only a five-minute walk from the centre of Bath itself.

This UNESCO -listed city is filled with beautiful  Georgian buildings  made of pale golden limestone. They blend perfectly with the  Roman Baths and Temple , which are a must-see.

As the queues can be long, it is better to book ahead. You can choose to join a free walking guide around the baths or go at your own pace with an audioguide. For a treat, visit the  Pump Rooms  next door for a bite to eat.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET WITH WALKING TOUR

Right next to the Roman Baths is  Bath Abbey , an imposing Gothic building that towers over the city. You can take a guided tour that includes the 212-step climb to the roof to take in the view.

Pultney Bridge and views over the River Avon are a short walk from the Abbey. The bridge has quaint shops and restaurants on top of its three arches.

For an afternoon treat, head to Sally Lunns Buns for one of their delicious cinnamon buns and a look around the living museum. Other museums are the  Holbourne Museum  in Great Pultney Street or the Fashion Museum in the Assembly Rooms on Bennett Street.

If you want to combine Bath with a visit to Stonehenge and Windsor, take a look at this excellent day tour that bundles them into one neat package.

By Larch of  The Silver Nomad

17. Bristol

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes via Great Western Railway

Sitting in Castle Park on a Monday morning, sipping coffee in a boutique café and watching commuters go about their unhurried business with a smile on their face, you can’t help but feel the harmony of Bristol.

For the consumer, you can shop at  Cabot Circus  which is also home to a good range of chain restaurants. You can walk in the parks, explore Queen’s Square and maybe grab a cider at one of the boat pubs.

There are the  renovated docks  and the  M Shed museum . Walking down the river, you can visit the famous SS Great Britain ship. Those who enjoy religious places should see the  Bristol Cathedral  or  St Mary Redcliffe .

Or you can climb the steps of Cabot Tower, perched at the top of Brandon Hill for views over Bristol. Slightly further out is the  Clifton Suspension Bridge  and the Observatory nearby. Or head out to the Ashton Court Estate.

The family will enjoy the  Bristol Zoo Gardens or the Aquarium down by the docks.

By Dave of  Dave Chant

• Fastest journey time: 2 hours 10 minutes via London North Eastern Railway

Spend  a day in Leeds  to understand why people rave about this city.

The train station is right in the city centre. But if you’re looking to explore the suburbs, the bus system is cheap and easy to navigate.

Situated in West Yorkshire in the north of England, a huge draw for visitors to Leeds is the huge amount of  vintage shopping  you can do. From kilogram sales to the numerous vintage, second hand and thrift stores in the city, you’ll struggle to come away empty-handed, and all for way less than you’d pay in London.

If you’re in the mood for some culture, you won’t have to look far.  Kirkstall Abbey , the ruins of a monastery founded in 1152, is fascinating and free to explore. The  Royal Armouries Museum , which displays the national collection of arms and armour, is one of the top things to do in Leeds and could keep you occupied for hours.

By Ella of Many More Maps

Say overnight in Leeds to see more of the city and to explore the surrounding area. For a centrally-located budget choice, check in to Premier Inn Leeds City Centre .

19. Liverpool

• Fastest journey time: 2 hours 20 minutes via Avanti West Coast

With its rich maritime heritage, striking architecture and buzzy cultural scene, there are more than a few reasons to visit Liverpool . And let’s not forget the stamp that the Fab Four have left on the city.

But did you know that it’s a breeze to visit Liverpool on a day trip from London?

Hop on a train at London Euston station, and two and a half hours later you’ll find yourself on the steps of Lime Street station. And as Liverpool is compact, it’s easy to explore on foot.

Make your way to the buzzy Albert Dock with its restaurants, bars and cultural attractions, including Tate Liverpool (the sister museum to the London Tate Galleries ) and the superb International Slavery Museum . If you want to pay homage to Liverpool’s favourite sons, pop into The Beatles Story , the award-winning museum that charts John, Paul, George and Ringo’s rise to global superstardom.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET FOR THE BEATLES STORY

Visit nearby Pier Head for The Three Graces, the iconic buildings that define Liverpool’s skyline, and to take your photo with the sculpture of The Beatles.

Finally, for the ultimate view of Liverpool’s waterfront, take a ferry across the Mersey. The easiest way to do this is to join a 50-minute  River Explorer Cruise (book your ticket here )

READ THIS NEXT: 13 Reasons to Spend a Weekend in Liverpool: The Best Things to Do

20. Manchester

• Fastest journey time: 2 hours 10 minutes via Avanti West Coast

Most travellers make a beeline for London without considering Manchester. But with its rich history, vibrant culture and friendly locals, this northern powerhouse is 100% worth the direct train journey from London.

After arriving at the train station, grab one of the free city buses to  Manchester Cathedral , which dates from 700AD.

Next, walk down to  The John Rylands Library , a must-see in Manchester. It is like taking a step into Hogwarts for the day. Go up to the gorgeous Reading Room and be wowed by the glorious Gothic architecture.

Walk across to  Cloud 23 in the Hilton Hotel for sweeping views of the city below, with a pot of tea, a coffee or even an early cocktail.

Before you head back to the train station, don’t miss exploring the  Northern Quarter , Manchester’s hipster neighbourhood. From Arcade game bars to vintage shops, striking street art to even cat cafes, it’s worth a wander.

Finally, stop by  Mackie Mayor , a gorgeous indoor food market. Visit even just to appreciate this stunning building.

By Bisola of  Bis To The World

Read my review of Avanti West Coast First-class to decide whether it’s worth upgrading your journey

21. Norwich

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes via Greater Anglia

Norwich is one of England’s true gems.

Less than two hours by direct train from London, this beautiful city was once more important than the nation’s capital. With winding lanes brimming with independent cafés and shops, museums, historic churches, restaurants serving both traditional and modern food, and dozens of authentic English pubs, there’s no end of  things to do in Norwich .

The city’s  cathedral , with its sprawling grounds and stone walls, is almost nine hundred years old and the second tallest in the country.

Norwich’s  marketplace , sitting just outside the city hall, is even older and visitors still go there to buy goods, foodstuffs and souvenirs. And if you want to be super British, you can grab some fish ’n’ chips – one of the most  iconic British foods  – from the national award-winning  Grosvenor Fish Bar  in Norwich’s Lanes.

By Dagney & Jeremy of Cultura Obscura

22. Shrewsbury

• Fastest journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes via Avanti West Coast (change trains at Birmingham International)

If you are looking to escape the bustle of London, Shrewsbury provides an idyllic slower-paced destination, filled to the brim with beauty and history. The buildings are so varied in their ornateness and style that they rival the narrow, wonky passageways and steep streets for charm.

Shrewsbury has 660 listed buildings, the oldest of which was constructed in the 15th Century. Older still is  Shrewsbury Castle . Dating back to 1074, this is home to the Shropshire Regimental Museum and is set amongst beautiful grounds.

You can follow a  Charles Darwin trail  or tour and learn about the great man and his early life in the town of his birth. If you’re a fan of the other famous Charles, you can still see a headstone with the name Ebenezer Scrooge in the churchyard of St Chad’s.

To clear your head after these big doses of history and architecture, why not try a walk at  The Quarry ? This 29-acre park offers riverbank walks, regular festivals and events and even a sunken garden called The Dingle, which was masterminded by Blue Peter ’s Percy Thrower.

By Dan of Horo Travel Memories

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 50 minutes via London North Eastern Railway

Do you want to immerse yourself in almost 2,000 years of history in just a day? If so, York is the perfect place to do just that.

On arrival at York station, grab a coffee and stroll along the  City Walls . The walls run 3.4km around the old city and are the most complete example of medieval walls in England.

Travel back in time to the age of the Vikings at the  Jorvik Viking Centre.  This world-class centre is also an active archaeological site and is home to interactive displays about Viking life, history, and the importance of York to the Vikings.

Lunchtime. If the sun is out, stop for lunch at any one of the cafes and restaurants along the  River Ouse .

After lunch, amble down York’s most famous laneway –  The Shambles . Fun fact: It was an inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.

This 14th-century laneway is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in the world. From here, wander past Clifford’s Tower, the remains of  York Castle  built by William the Conqueror, and on to York Minster.

York Minster  is simply magnificent. Join a Hidden Minster Tour to explore the areas not open to the public.

Finally, end your day in York by ascending the 275 stairs of the tower to take in the spectacular views of York and beyond.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A YORK WALKING TOUR

By Melissa of  Meet Me at the Pyramid Stage

24. Stonehenge

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes to Salisbury via South Western Railway , then Stonehenge tour bus from the railway station.

Few destinations in England fire the imagination like Stonehenge.

Shrouded in mystery, this iconic megalithic stone circle may have been a Neolithic burial site. Folklore variously attributes Stonehenge to Merlin, the Arthurian wizard, invading Danes or Ancient Romans. Some believe the stone circle has extra-terrestrial origins.

Your first port of call is the site’s Visitor Centre where there is an exhibition. see how our ancient ancestors lived by visiting the reconstructed Neolithic houses next to the centre.

Frequent free shuttle buses make the ten-minute journey from the Visitor Centre to the stones.

As this is one of the UK’s biggest tourist attractions, I recommend booking your timed-entrance ticket in advance. Although entry is free if you are a member of English Heritage or the National Trust, you still need to book your time slot.

Although you can visit Stonehenge independently from London, this is one destination where it may be more time efficient to join a day tour , particularly if you want to also visit Bath, Windsor or Oxford. Here are a few options to consider.

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour

Although Stonehenge is one of the most popular day trips from London, it is not the easiest place to reach by public transport, requiring a train and bus/taxi journey. This half-day tour includes a return transfer and an audio guide.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

Three top destinations are bundled into one neat package here. You can choose to visit the interior of Windsor Castle and will benefit from a live guide.

Stonehenge, Windsor & Bath Tour

This guided full-day tour includes Windsor and Bath in addition to Stonehenge. Admission to the Roman Baths is optional.

25. Dover 

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 5 minutes to Dover Priory via Southeastern

Dover is one of the  best seaside towns in Kent , is rich in English history and is home to some of  Kent’s most popular attractions .

Over three million tourists per year visit both the White Cliffs of Dover and Dover Castle on a day trip from London. Dover is a great escape from the city for the day and is surrounded by the beautiful English countryside.

Once you arrive at Dover Priory Station, make your way to the  White Cliffs of Dover  for a scenic walk on the path that runs along the cliffs. Take in the view over the English Channel from the top of the cliffs; on a clear day, you can see France.

Next up on your day trip is a visit to  Dover Castle , which is conveniently located near the White Cliffs. With a history stretching over 800 years, this is one of Britain’s finest and most important castles. Inside, there are rooms furnished with beautiful medieval decorations and a panoramic view awaits you at the top of the great tower.

You can book your Dover Castle ticket here .

By Ann of The Road is Life

26. Rye and Camber Sands

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 10 minutes via Southeastern
• From London St. Pancras International to Rye (change trains at Ashford International)

Spend  a day in Rye and Camber Sands  to sample two fabulous destinations for the price of one.

History buffs will adore the medieval town of  Rye  with its Georgian townhouses and timber-framed Tudor houses. Steep cobbled streets are dotted with haunted inns that will set your imagination on fire. There’s even a castle.

To burn off decadent cake calories consumed in one of the town’s excellent cafes, climb the tower of the 12 th  Century  St Mary’s Church.

Don’t leave Rye before checking out its  shops and galleries . The town has an impressive selection of small independent shops and a handful of galleries displaying work by local artists.

When you have finished exploring Rye, head to  Camber Sands  by taking the signposted National Cycle Network Route 2, a three-mile walk.  Alternatively, jump on bus #102 which runs between Rye from Camber Sands every hour.

With its seven miles of golden sand and rolling dunes, Camber Sands has a beach to rival any in the Caribbean. Paddle in the rock pools, collect seashells or embrace your inner child by building sandcastles. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can try your hand at kitesurfing.

READ THIS NEXT : Rye and Camber Sands Beach: An Easy Day Trip from London

27. Whitstable

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes via Southeastern
• From London St. Pancras International or London Victoria

Whitstable is a charming fishing and harbour town located on the north coast of Kent, southeast of London, and is a super easy day trip from London by train.

Famed for its seafood scene, Whitstable is a great spot for foodies and has many oyster shacks in the harbour. The town also holds a popular two-day  oyster festival  every July, featuring hundreds of food stalls, live music and a parade.

Other  things you can do in Whitstable  include taking a walk along the coast, which is lined with colourful beach huts, or visiting the main high street which is filled with boutique shops, galleries and cafes.

End your day trip with a drink at the  Old Neptune,  which is one of the most popular pubs in town. It is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy a delicious pint of locally brewed beer with a beautiful sea view.

By Caroline of CK Travels

28. Bourton-on-the-Water (The Cotswolds)

• Fastest journey time: 2 hour s 10 minutes to Moreton-in-Marsh via Great Western Railway (change at Charlbury) for local bus #801 to Bourton-on-the-Water

Known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most  beautiful Cotswolds villages  and a perfect day trip from London by rail.

This quintessential English village is famous for its golden stone buildings and arched bridges. Other than roaming around the quaint streets of the village, the best things to do in a day include exploring the  Cotswold Motoring Museum , the  Birdland Parks and Gardens and the famous  model village.

For the perfect souvenir, visit the Cotswold Perfumery  (you can also take part in one of their fragrance courses).

Finally, if you are feeling peckish, head to one of the many pubs in the village such as the Duke of Wellington, which has a great beer garden.

By Roshni of The Wanderlust Within

Thanks to less-than-stellar bus services, it’s fair to say that visiting the Cotswolds isn’t the easiest day trip from London by public transport. Joining a day tour is an excellent way for you to see a few more beautiful Cotswold villages and you will benefit from the knowledge of a local guide. Take a look at this day tour of the Cotswolds from London, which includes Bourton-on-the-Water.

29. Brockenhurst

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes via South Western Railway

Beautiful Brockenhurst is one of the best day trips from London by train for nature lovers. The town is easily reached by train from Waterloo.

The area is famous for its great  cycling  network. You can transport your bikes on the train, but it is also possible to rent bikes next to Brockenhurst train station. You will find several bike-friendly cafes and pubs in town.

In the nearby fields, it is common to spot  wild horses  roaming free. Some local stables offer  horse-riding tours  and lessons. Complete beginners and children are also welcome.

If you want to go  hiking near London , this is also a good region for that. There are many paths nearby with hidden wild swimming spots. A popular place for a picnic and swim is by the  Lymington River  in Brockenhurst. Children especially love the rope swings hung up by locals.

By Eniko of Travel Hacker Girl

30. Saffron Walden

• Fastest journey time: 50 minutes to Audley End via Greater Anglia . From here, take a taxi or bus to Saffron Walden.

Saffron Walden was once a Suffolk market town, but now it is a picturesque village filled with boutique-style shops, charming cafes and restaurants.

Here are the best places to visit during a day trip to Saffron Walden from London

Bridge End Garden   – Bridge End Garden is best visited when it isn’t raining as the gardens are beautiful. However, the highlight here is the maze, which will keep you amused for hours.

Saffron Grange Vineyard  – The Vineyard is a little out of the town centre, approximately 1.7 miles away. If you book online before arriving, you can join the vineyard tour and tasting. Wine tasting is perfect at any time of the year.

Audley End House and Gardens  – For a small entrance fee, you can explore this grand Estate.

Saffron Walden Town Centre  – Explore the town centre (at weekends you will find great little markets right in the centre). This is a great spot to have lunch or afternoon tea. The restaurants and pubs all serve deliciously fresh food, so you are spoilt for choices. A great little town to explore.

By Paula of  Truly Expat

Best Eurostar Train Trips from London

Day trips from London by train are not confined to England. Thanks to Eurostar, some cities in mainland Europe can be reached from London in under two and a half hours.

>>> Read my review of Eurostar Standard Premier to decide whether it’s worth upgrading your journey

• Journey time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Take an early train from London St. Pancras International Station and you are set for a wonderful day in Paris. Trains arrive at Paris Gare du Nord train station, from where you can travel around on the Paris Metro.

What to do during a day in Paris? If this is your first time in the French capital, you should  go up the Eiffel Tower  for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

>>> SKIP THE LINE & BUY YOUR EIFFEL TOWER SUMMIT TICKET HERE

Then, I suggest spending your time in one district so you don’t waste time navigating the city on public transport.

I recommend  Ile de la Cité , the island in the middle of the Seine River, where most of the historical buildings are located. Visit  Notre Dame  (from outside), the  Sainte-Chapelle  and the  Conciergerie.

Also, you can wander around the medieval streets of this island and watch the typical  Bateaux Mouches  sail by.

By Elisa of World in Paris

• Journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Lille is one of the most underrated cities in France and an easy day trip from London by train.

Located close to the Belgian border – the so-called capital of French Flanders – Lille feels more Flemish than French, from its architecture to its food.

Due to its compact city centre, it’s a breeze to  explore Lille on a self-guided walking tour .

Walk through its series of large cobblestoned squares lined with extravagant Flemish Baroque buildings. Browse the book market in the Renaissance  La Veille Bourse , formerly the city’s stock exchange, a collection of small houses arranged around a porticoed courtyard.

Pay your respects at the  Notre Dame de la Treille , Lille’s spiritual beating heart and an intoxicating mix of Gothic meets contemporary.

If time permits, stop by the  Palais des Beaux-Arts , a fine art gallery that is second only to the Louvre in France for size and stature.

Finally, don’t leave town before trying  merveilleux , little cakes of light meringue smothered in fresh cream and chocolate shavings.

READ THIS NEXT : One Day in Lille, France: A Free Walking Tour

33. Brussels

• Journey time: 2 hours

Courtesy of Eurostar, a day trip to Brussels from London is both easy and affordable. Take a morning train from London St. Pancras International and in just over two hours you can be munching on waffles in the Grand Place.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the  Grand Place  is the core of Brussels’ medieval city centre and is lined with ornate, late Medieval buildings. This is also home to the city’s  Christmas markets .

For a stark contrast to Brussels’ historic centre, head over to the city’s east side.  Ancient architecture is replaced by sleek skyscrapers, including the headquarters of the  European Union .

For something completely different, take a  comic trail  to discover just how many cartoons were created in Brussels. From The Smurfs to Tintin, Blake and Mortimer to Marsupilami, watch out for the comic

Finally, don’t leave Brussels before sampling one of the excellent Belgian beers and, of course, chocolate.

>>> JOIN A 1-HOUR CHOCOLATE-MAKING WORKSHOP HERE

READ THIS NEXT : One Day in Brussels: Itinerary and Best Things to Do  

Map of Places to Visit Near London by Train

If you find it helpful to map it out, here’s one I made earlier. To take a closer look at these beautiful places near London, simply click here or on the map itself.

Tips for Day Trips by Train from London

• As many Londoners do not own a car (myself included), expect services to be much busier at the weekend, especially to popular destinations like Brighton. To avoid the crowds, if possible try to visit on a weekday.
• However, rail improvement works tend to take place on a weekend, particularly on Sundays. Therefore check for  travel disruptions  before you set out. Trust me, a rail replacement bus is not a joy.
• Rail travel in England can be expensive but buying your ticket in advance will often save you money. For example, if I wanted to travel to Bath today, a return ticket would cost me in excess of £69 (and this would not be the most expensive ticket on this route!). However, the same ticket booked a month in advance is only £23.
• Consider booking two one-way tickets instead of a return ticket as this can sometimes be cheaper.
• A railcard can also save you money on train travel. A 16-25 Railcard, 26-30 Railcard, Senior Railcard, Family & Friends Railcard, Two Together and Network Railcard (London and SE only) save you ⅓ on eligible fares.

ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE? THEN READ THESE NEXT!

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• 35+ Epic Things To Do Alone In London
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• 22 Old Streets of London: Historic Roads You MUST Visit
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About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a Londoner who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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• 3 Days in London

The Michelin Inspectors' top tips on where to eat, drink, stay and have fun in one of the world's busiest and most exciting cities

Travel Michelin Stars 2 Days in: Editor's Pick London

London is a city of contrasts, of the old and the new, the stately and the subversive, the ceremonial and the spontaneous. Art, music, theatre, history, festivals, markets, restaurants, bars, clubs, parks and sport – the list of what to do and what to see is endless. Three days can only scratch the surface of a city many often consider to be the capital of the world. But it’s worth giving it a try, as long as you have two guarantees: a comfortable bed and comfortable shoes.

Dinner & Evening

London has a multitude of great options for pre or post-theatre dining , but you can’t go far wrong with J. Sheekey . One of the city’s best seafood restaurants , it has been feeding actors and theatregoers since 1896. Its walls are festooned by the famous and its menu packed full of delicious fish and shellfish. Cora Pearl is another charming spot, round the corner from what's affectionately known as “The Actors’ Church”, and focuses on seasonal British produce.

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