great day trips in england

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12 Best Day Trips In England

Honestly, there’s a huge amount of places in England to explore, especially on a sunny day. We’re so fortunate to have a whole heap of the best day trips in England that are dotted all across the country. With everything from tropical-like islands to magnificent castles .

That being said, it can be pretty tough to nail down a few of the best day trips in England to head out on. This is especially true when you’ve got such a huge amount to see.

This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the best day trips in England that everyone can enjoy.

Now, rather than just focusing on one area of England (after all, we’re not all based in London , Manchester etc), I thought I’d pop a few suggestions that are dotted all across the country.

This’ll hopefully give you a load of relatively local spots to visit for one of the best day trips in England.

With that in mind, take a look at some of the best day trips in England that I’m sure you’ll love. Have the best trip!

1.) The Cotswolds

For me, visiting the Cotswolds is easily one of the best day trips in England. This is especially true if you’re based around Bristol , Bath or further north, too.

Nestled within a protected area of outstanding natural beauty, the Cotswolds is filled with rolling hills and quaint little villages and towns to boot! It’s the kind of place where you can spend a day driving around the country lanes and randomly just come across the prettiest little places.

Once here, make sure to explore Bibury and see the iconic Arlington Row . The houses are so quaint. Afterwards, take a little drive to Stow-on-the-Wold or visit Castlecombe that is equally idyllic.

To make things really easy, book this incredible Cotswolds tour from London. Along the way, you’ll stop at Bibury, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold and more.

Just be sure to book your tour before arriving in London as the tour can fill up fast at peak times. Alternatively, check out the tours that have slightly different routes, too.

Read more: Best places to visit in the Cotswolds

Not too far from the Cotswolds, Bath is a Roman city that’s totally steeped in history.

It’s a totally stunning city and one of the best day trips in England as it’s only a few hours by train from central London.

Once here, you’ve got to go visit the Roman baths that you can still tour to this day. Also, pop into Sally Lunn’s for some of her iconic buns that are famous in Bath.

They’re so tasty and a must-have when hunger strikes.

Afterwards, take a stroll around the town and see Bath Abbey and the circus, too. It’s a present of houses that are so beautiful and totally unique.

Finally, after strolling the cobbled streets, pop over to the Thermae Spa pool that’s heated by geothermal activity. Their outdoor pool is just so nice.

Though be warned, you can easily get sunburned, especially on a sunny day. Lather yourself in sun protection, like the ones Bioderma produce that’s not using nano mineral filters and are better for the environment.

Plus, you won’t look like a lobster when you leave the spa! 

After a little dip, head inside for one of their massage treatments, too. They’re amazing.

Also, be sure to book this Bath walking tour with optional Roman Bath tickets . It’s a great way to explore the whole city and see all the main spots.

Just be sure to book before arriving in Bath; places fill up on weekends and you don’t want to miss out.

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

3.) Peak District

Being the oldest national park in the country, the Peak District is a totally gorgeous area to explore.

Plus, it’s one of the best day trips in England if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Once here, make sure to ramble around Winnats Pass , visit the underground river and take a tour in a historic car across the hills and valleys. It’s so picturesque.

Read more: Exploring the Peak District

4.) Cambridge

Now, after living in Cambridge for a year, I’ve come to realise how special this place is. You see, it’s not only steeped in history but it also has a shed load of gorgeous foodie spots and stunning university grounds to see, too.

Only 45-minutes from central London by train, it’s totally easy to visit if you’re wanting to see one of England’s prettiest little cities.

Yeah, it’s much smaller than the likes of London or Birmingham but it has a charm that is well-worth experiencing.

After arriving in Cambridge, make sure to head over to King’s College Chapel and see the ornate works that have stood for centuries.

Afterwards, book these tickets and hop on board a guided punting tour of Cambridge at your own pace. It’s so much fun, even in the colder months when you wrap up warm.

Alternatively, check out the (below) tours of Cambridge which are great options, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

5.) The Jurassic Coast

Nestled on the south coast of England, the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO-protected area of England that’s pretty unique.

You see, what makes the Jurassic Coast so special is its geological formations and the fact you can go fossil hunting , too.

Once here, take a stroll on the beach and keep your eyes peeled! If you’re patient, you’ll end up finding quite a few fossils that you’re actually allowed to keep. Though, no digging into the cliffs isn’t allowed.

Some people have even found dinosaur skeletons, too. It’s such a special place and a perfect spot for one of the best day trips in England.

After scouring the beach, head over to Corfe Castle for a wander around this ancient village.

Finally, pop over to see Durdle Door and ramble to Old Harry Rocks that’s totally beautiful on a sunny day.

Read more: How to go fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast

Situated within Yorkshire, York is a Viking city that’s got a history dating back over 1,000 years.

Plus, it’s also a relatively small city which makes it one of the best day trips in England if you’re already in the area.

After arriving in the city, take a wander over to York Cathedral and climb the stairs to the views from the roof. You’ll get a gorgeous view of the walled city from up here.

Afterwards, head on over to the Shambles that’s a street that’s so quaint and pretty. It almost looks like it has fallen out of Harry Potter!

Afterwards, take a wander around the city walls, visit the castle and even head to Roots for a delicious seasonal meal.

It’s one of my favourite spots; plus, they have the tastiest cocktails.

Finally, if you want to take to the water, book these self-drive boats around York . It’s so much fun for a morning; we loved it. 

Read more: Best things to do in York

7.) Newcastle

Being England’s most northerly city, Newcastle is one of the best day trips in England if you’re heading up (or down) the east coast.

You see, over the last few decades, Newcastle has really made a name for itself as a great little city break, especially with all the things to do there.

If you love art, then check out the Laing Art Gallery or the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. These are great spots to visit, especially if the weather gets a little wet!

Afterwards, pop down to Sage, and wander the Riverside to see the Tyne Bridge. It’s an iconic part of Newcastle. You honestly can’t miss it.

Read more: Best places in Newcastle to visit

8.) Northumberland Coast

Northumberland has a nickname as ‘castle country’ and it’s easy to see why once you arrive. It’s the county that has the most castles out of any in England and they’re totally stunning.

Once here, make sure to check out Bamburgh Castle which is huge and so imposing. Also, don’t forget to see Dunstanburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle, too. Now, you probably won’t have enough time to visit them all when searching for the best day trips in England, but you can certainly give it a shot.

Alternatively, stay for a few days and head out to see Holy Island that’s totally unique! It’s a tidal island that gets cut off from the mainland every day, so be sure to plan your trip in advance.

Once here, you can visit Lindisfarne Castle and even try some of the monks’ mead that they produce on the island (and is made from honey).

Read more: Best places in the north of England to visit

9.) Lake District

One of England’s newest UNESCO world-heritage-sites, the Lake District is just beautiful.

With around sixteen lakes in all, the Lake District is a great place to visit if you love the outdoors and you’re already in the northwest of England.

Now, the most famous lake to visit has to be Windermere, but if you want to avoid the crowds, pop over to the quieter (but still big) Ullswater.

From here, you can stay in places like Another Place and ramble around the hills and countryside before heading out onto the lake itself.

We decided on paddle boarding and also taking the traditional steamer across the lake itself.

It really is a stunning area of England and, if I’m honest, a great place to spend longer than just one day.

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

10.) St. Ives

Cornwall is a totally beautiful area within England to explore. Better still, it’s a really easy place to visit for one of the best day trips in England when you’re already in the southwest of the country.

Whilst here, make sure to check out the sandy beaches of St. Ives, take a wander around the town and find some of the best places to eat.

Pop into the Cellar Bistro for their freshly-caught sea bream and haddock that is always so tasty.

Alternatively, pop into the Mermaid Seafood Restaurant which serves some tasty seafood, too. Their hake is so yummy and the restaurant is so cute.

Read more: Best things to do in Cornwall

11.) Arundel

Situated around a 100-minute drive from central London, Arundel is dominated by its incredible castle that’s something to behold!

Occupied by the Howard family, it has a history that dates back almost 1,000 years. Nowadays, you can head inside the grounds and the grand rooms that still overlook the town of Arundel itself.

Once here, make sure to scale the Norman Motte and see the views of the quadrangle and courtyard of the castle itself.

Afterwards, head into the staterooms and libraries to get a glimpse of what castle life is really like. It’s totally incredible.

Read more: Visiting Arundel Castle in West Sussex

12.) Windsor

If you’re already in London, Windsor is probably one of the easiest (and arguably) one of the best day trips in England. You see, it’s only about 30-minutes on the train, right from the heart of central London.

Before arriving, be sure to book these tickets and head inside Windsor Castle and explore some of the staterooms and iconic grounds which the royal family call home.

You’ll likely spend about 3-4 hours here, so plan your day trip in advance.

Afterwards, pop over to Eton and take a boat trip down the River, too. It’s a great way to relax and see more of the area on a sunny day.

Read more: Best things to do in Windsor

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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

Devra Ferst

Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

Olivia Morelli

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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Days out and trips in England

Find the best days out near you and plan your next day trip with our handy guide. Whether you're planning a family day out or a day trip in your local area, you'll find a range of zoos, theme parks, outdoor activities and much more to help shape your big day out in England.

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16 of the best days out

Discover fun days out that are all an hour or less away from a major city.

Explore Cheshire's slice of the Peak District

Push yourself to the limit hiking the Gritstone Trail. With outstanding countryside and amazing views, the 35-mile trail is a challenge and a pleasure.

Location: Lyme Park, Cheshire

Walk Cheshire’s beautiful Sandstone Trail

Take a walk on the wild side discovering the ancient market town of Frodsham, Georgian Whitchurch and everything in between.

Location: Frodsham, Cheshire

Savour your scoops at The Ice Cream Farm

Keep the kids happy with more than 40 delicious flavours of ice cream, an outdoor play area, farm, quad bikes, mini golf and more...

Location: Tattenhall, Cheshire

Explore the tranquil gardens at Tatton Park

Spread across the grounds of a historic estate in Cheshire, Tatton Park have been carefully expanded and cultivated since Edwardian times.

Location: Knutsford, Cheshire

Bronze Age living at Flag Fen Archaeology Park

Travel back 3,500 years to discover a prehistoric causeway at one of the finest Bronze Age archaeological site in Northern Europe, discovered 1982.

Location: Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

Explore Nene Park in the River Nene Valley

Imagine somewhere beautiful, safe and unspoilt where you can explore endless meadows, lakes and woodland, and the River Nene.

Go punting on the River Cam

Find your inner rhythm in Cambridge as you mess about on the River Cam.

Location: Cambridge, Cambridgshire

Take the whole family to Chester Zoo

Venture to tantalising tropical islands in the heart of Cheshire with innovative exhibits at the UK’s most popular zoo.

Location: Upton near Chester, Cheshire

Get your thrills and spills at Gulliver’s World

With more than 50 rides and attractions suitable for the whole family, a short break to Gulliver's World is sure to leave you giddy with glee.

Location: Warrington, Cheshire

See London in miniature at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort

See the London Eye, Big Ben and Tower Bridge made entirely of LEGO in the LEGOLAND Windsor Resort's Miniland attraction.

Location: Windsor, Berkshire

Discover dinosaur footprints on the beach

Everyone who has been to the beach has seen footprints left in the sand, but have you ever seen ones that have been left by a dinosaur?

Location: Brook, Isle of Wight

A grand day out in Dalby, Yorkshire’s greatest forest

The soft green light and dappled shadows of Dalby Forest hide a secret world of offbeat experiences and artisan adventures.

Location: Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire

Build sandcastles at Bamburgh Beach

Do you know your cockles from your winkles? St. Aidan and Grace Darling certainly did. And what better place to learn than on Bamburgh Beach.

Location: Bamburgh, Northumberland

Go on an exotic adventure at Woburn Safari Park

Explore the habitats of lions, zebras, giraffes and much more at this family-friendly, conservation-focused safari park.

Location: Woburn, Bedfordshire

Step into the cockpit of Blackpool’s Red Arrow Skyforce ride

Blackpool Pleasure Beach has joined forces with the world famous Red Arrows for a new 72ft-high white knuckle ride that’s great for family holidays.

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire

Discover summer romance in a secret city garden

Plantation Garden is a tranquil three acre lush heritage green space in the centre of Norwich, but the challenge is to find it!

Location: Norwich, Norfolk

Step into Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park

Meet their favourite characters and enjoy a variety of toddler-friendly rides at the first official Peppa Pig theme park in the world.

Location: New Forest, Hampshire

Spy on endangered wildfowl at Rutland Water Nature Reserve

Visit Rutland Water's famous wildfowl sanctuary, covering a 1,000 acres of bird hides, mucky nature trails and interactive visitor centres.

Location: Rutland Water, Rutland

Take the kids to Fantasy Island

Round up your little devils and set off to Fantasy Land - a fun-packed amusement park, in the seaside resort of Skegness, with attractions for all the family, even the smallest members!

Location: Skegness, Lincolnshire

Go bananas for Trentham Monkey Forest

Pay a visit to the only place in Britain where you can walk among 140 Barbary macaques roaming free in 60 acres of forest.

Location: Trentham , Staffordshire

Family fun at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

The appeal of Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens goes way beyond its remarkable wildlife collection to breeding programmes and exuberant gardens.

Location: Burford, Oxfordshire

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20 of the best day trips around England

By: Author Monica

Categories Blog , UK

The best day trips around England are outside of the big cities and here are 20 of the best places to visit around England (that aren’t London!)

Top thing to do in Windsor: Visit Windsor Castle

Windsor is an easy 40-minute train journey west of London so it makes a great day trip from London. The historic city dates back to the 11th century when it was founded by William the Conqueror!

You can walk along the River Thames, explore the pretty parks and check out the shops, but the top thing to do in Windsor is undoubtedly visiting the royal residence, Windsor Castle.

If you watched one of the Royal weddings from the last few years on TV then you’ve seen Windsor Castle! It’s incredible to witness such an impressive castle IRL and one of the British Royal family’s residences in person. Remember, if you see the Union flag flying on top of the castle then the King is not home!

This has been a royal home for over 900 years and is the largest occupied castle in the world.

Here’s a half day trip to Windsor Castle with tickets for an easy day trip from London.

2. The Peak District 

Best thing to do in the peak district: hiking followed by a country pub lunch.

Visiting the Peak District National Park has to be one of the best day trips around England because it’s gorgeous – but it’s also close to so many other cities so it’s great for a day trip from Manchester, Sheffield, Leeds, Liverpool, and Birmingham. .

The Peak District is picture-perfect countryside but it’s less than 90-minutes from these major cities, plus it has charming spa towns like Buxton, stately homes like Chatsworth House, and delicious villages like Bakewell.

If you prefer more active days out, book a rock climbing excursion on Hathersage Edge. You could also hike along Cave Dale or explore the limestone caves at Blue John Cavern. Winnats Pass is a very scenic mountain drive in the Peaks, as long as you’re okay with narrow roads and hairpin bends.

Read more: Chee Dale Hike – A secret alternative to the Monsal Trail

Best thing to do when you visit Oxford: Visit the beautiful university buildings

Oxford day trips are popular day trips for a reason! Oxford is a go-to day trip from London and it’s only a one-hour train journey south of Birmingham too. Most of the top things to do in Oxford revolve around the prestigious university and some of the best buildings to visit are Christchurch College and the Bodelian Library.

On a warm summer’s day, go punting on the River Cherwell (it’s worth paying for a professional to punt for you, trust me!) and climb up Carfax Tower for lovely views. And if the heavens open, dive inside the Covered Market or the quirky Pitt Rivers Museum.

Read more: Things to do in Oxford during your first visit

I highly recommend taking a walking tour of the uni with an Oxford student!

4. Northumberland Coast

Best thing to do in northumberland: visit bamburgh castle.

Staying in or around Newcastle? There are plenty of places to explore on the Northumberland Coast that make excellent day trips. Bamburgh Castle is a phenomenal structure that looks even more impressive perched on a rugged cliff edge. And it’s near to Lindisfarne, an inhabited holy island that is only accessible when the tide is out.

Alnwick is an old market town where you can find Barter Books, one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Europe. This town’s namesake castle is one of the top Harry Potter locations where you can even take broomstick-flying lessons!

Read more: Visiting Bamburgh Castle

5. Brighton

Top thing to do in brighton: walk along brighton pier.

There’s always so much going on in the seaside resort city of Brighton. Whether they’re celebrating England’s largest arts festival with Brighton Fringe in June or one of the biggest Pride events in August, you’re never far away from a good time.

No matter when you visit, the stunning Brighton Palace Pier, beach, and brightly coloured houses will be there to greet you. It’s an ideal day trip from London or smaller cities along the coast like Portsmouth.

Read more: An insider’s guide to Brighton and Hove

For great views across Brighton, it’s well worth going up the Brighton i360

6. The Jurassic Coast

Best thing to do along the jurassic coast: visit durdle door in dorset.

Further west along the south of England is the Jurassic Coast stretching 96 miles from Studland Bay in Dorset to Exmouth in Devon. This slice of coastline is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its unique geological characteristics. Parts of the Jurassic Coast are easily accessible from Exeter or Bournemouth and even Southampton or Portsmouth.

You can walk part of the coastal trail or marvel at the limestone Durdle Door in Dorset. Book a fossil walk to see if you make any impressive discoveries and check out Corfe Castle, Old Harry Rocks, and the nature reserve at Abbotsbury.

Read more: A weekend guide to Dorset

You can do day trips to Durdle Door from Bournemouth which is easiest if you don’t have a car.

Best thing to do in York: Go shopping along the Shambles

York is a great alternative day out to Oxford if you’re based in Leeds or Sheffield (or Manchester, at a push). It’s a historic city built by the Romans on the River Ouse with medieval streets like the Shambles prompting comparisons to Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

You can visit the 13th-century York Minster cathedral, York’s city walls, and so many other historic landmarks. There are a surprising number of great craft beer and cocktails bars in York too!

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, check out the Harry Potter themed walking tour in York .

8. The Cotswolds

Best thing to do in the cotswolds: have lunch in a charming town such as castle combe.

The Cotswolds has been a firm favourite amongst day trippers and staycationers for decades. The area is filled with adorable villages nestled into lush green hills is an official area of outstanding natural beauty and there’s no better descriptor for The Cotswolds than that. 

This is a great day trip from Bristol or Bath. But if you can handle a 12+ hour day then it’s doable from London too. Driving is best so you can visit as many charming towns as possible like Bibury for Arlington Row, Castle Combe, and Stow-on-the-Wold for Yew Tree Door.

Read more: A family weekend in the Cotswolds

If you’re taking a day trip from London to the Cotswolds then day tours are available.

Top thing to do in St Ives: Visit the Tate St Ives

Not forgetting about the southwest coast, St Ives in Cornwall is an ideal day trip from Plymouth or Exeter. It’s a postcard-perfect seaside town with lots of pleasure boats in its marina and surf beaches nearby.

But St Ives is mostly famous for its art scene. The Tate St Ives is a brilliant modern art museum with exhibitions that are constantly rotating. You can also buy local art from galleries like Blue Bramble Gallery and the Harbour Galleries.

10. Hadrian’s Wall

Only 10% of the wall that the Roman Emperor Hadrian built almost 2,000 years ago in Northern England is still standing. But there are plenty of forts and other interesting sites left to see which makes for a great day out if you have kids. 

Chesters Roman Fort, Housesteads Fort, and Vindolanda Fortress are super close to Newcastle. Sycamore Gap, a huge tree that grows out of dip in the wall, is an incredibly beautiful site too. And if you’re in the city of Carlisle in Cumbria, you can visit Birdoswald Fort which is closer to the west.

Read more: Why visit Hadrian’s Wall?

Best thing to do in Whitby: Visit Whitby Abbey

Who doesn’t love spending a day at a classic British seaside town that almost never promises beach weather? Whitby is exactly that for cities in Yorkshire like Leeds and York. Luckily, there are lots of other things to do here besides stubbornly eating ice cream on the beach as the strong wind throws sand in your face.

Some sources claim that Whitby’s Gothic Abbey was the inspiration for Dracula’s castle in the original Bram Stoker novel. Captain Cook lived in Whitby for a while and you can visit a museum dedicated to him or climb the 199 steps up St Mary’s Church Tower for lovely coastal vistas. And when the sun is shining, Whitby Beach with its multicoloured beach huts is actually a stunning place to spend the day.

Read more: A perfect Whitby Travel Guide

12. Chester

Best thing to do in chester: admire the unique ‘rows’.

Chester is a small historic city near the Welsh border and it’s a great, easy day trip from Manchester, Liverpool or North Wales. It really deserves to get just as much recognition as York because they’re very similar. Also built by the Romans, Chester’s city walls are so well-preserved, you can still walk along them!

It must have one of the prettiest high streets in England with lots of Tudor-style half timber buildings and a beautiful Victorian clock as the centrepiece. If you visit in the right season, you can enjoy a day at Chester Races or enjoy a walk along the canals and through Chester Meadows.

Read more: 100 things to do in Chester

13. Suffolk Coast

Best thing to do along the suffolk coast: go walking along the wild beaches.

The Suffolk and Essex coastal towns are so underrated! Places on the seaside like Gorleston-on-Sea, Clacton-on-Sea, and Frinton-on-Sea might not sound as sexy as Brighton or Eastbourne but they’re so pretty and great places to enjoy a day at the beach.

Plus, the Suffolk Coast is much more convenient for a day trip if you are based in Norwich or Cambridge. You’ll find Victorian bandstands and piers, funfairs, and long stretches of clean and safe white sands.

14. Cambridge

Best thing to do in cambridge: go punting along the river.

Speaking of Cambridge, it’s one of the best day trips around England if you’re staying in London or Birmingham. This university city resides on the River Cam with a notable and historic building around every corner. King’s College and King’s College Chapel along with Trinity College are a couple of the most impressive University of Cambridge buildings you should visit.

Like Oxford, you can try punting along the river where you’ll see Cambridge’s own Bridge of Sighs. But if you’re visiting in winter, check out The Fitzwilliam Museum for quirky antiquities and classical art.

When visiting Cambridge, I highly recommend taking a tour of the university with students who can give you an insight into uni life!

15. Seven Sisters Cliffs

The White Cliffs of Dover might be the most famous chalk cliffs in England, but the Seven Sisters Cliffs are just as impressive plus easier to visit. It’s an easy day trip from Brighton and not far from Portsmouth or cities in Kent.

You can walk along the beach to the Coastguard Cottages for the most stunning views. And don’t forget to drive a few minutes down the road to check out Beachy Head Cliffs and the Beachy Head Lighthouse too.

You can take a day trip from London to the Seven Sisters Cliffs which is easiest if you don’t have a car.

16. The Yorkshire Dales

Best thing to do in the yorkshire dales: visit ingleton waterfalls.

The Yorkshire Dales is the second biggest national park in England after the Lake District. While the Lake District maybe slightly more popular, the Yorkshire Dales are much easier to visit as a day trip around England. The Dales is less than a 90-minute drive from Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.

Explore the charming market towns like Settle. Hike vast geological formations like Malham Cove and stroll along the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. Witness the stunning 19th-century 24-arch Ribblehead Viaduct and be amazed at how much there is to see in this often overlooked part of England.

17. Isle of Wight

Best thing to do on the isle of wight: visit the picture perfect town of shanklin.

Not many of England’s islands are close enough for a day trip, but the Isle of Wight is only a 45-minute ferry ride (or should I say hovercraft ride!) from Southampton or Portsmouth.

It’s like a miniature England with lots of beaches, hikes, pubs, and historic monuments. If you have kids, hop on board the Isle of Wight Steam Railway or the Monkey Haven animal rescue centre.

18. Stratford-Upon-Avon

Best thing to do in stratford-upon-avon: visit shakespeare’s childhood home.

Stratford-Upon-Avon is a market town that dates back to medieval times and is known for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare. It’s one of the best day trips around England for cities in the Midlands region like Birmingham.

You can actually visit Shakespeare’s childhood home and approximately 5,000 other buildings and monuments dedicated to the Bard. If you haven’t had much to do with the famous playwright since high school, visiting Stratford-Upon-Avon is a fun way to swot up!

19. North Wessex Downs

Best thing to do in north wessex downs: visit the filming location of downton abbey.

This area of outstanding natural beauty is right in the middle of Bristol and Bath to the west and London to the east, so it’s an ideal day trip from London. Nature lovers should visit White Horse Hill, which features a white horse that was etched into the landscape during prehistoric times.

Fans of lavish stately homes and gripping TV dramas have no choice but to pay Highclere Castle in Newbury a visit. This Victorian country house transformed into Downton Abbey for all six seasons of the show and it’s even more spectacular in real life.

20. Stonehenge

Overseas travellers are probably more keen to visit Stonehenge on a day trip than Brits. But these UNESCO standing stones are such an iconic landmark, it had to make the list! 

Bath and Southampton are the closest cities to Stonehenge but many make the trip from Bristol and London too.

Stonehenge is actually quite fascinating for good reason. We know the stones were transported from Wales during the Neolithic period around 2500 BC. But to this day, no one knows why! Stonehenge is somewhere everyone in England has to visit at least once and if you’re going to do it, do it right and head down during the summer solstice for that gorgeous midsummer light.

• Places to go

50 of the best day trips across GB

Published on May 25, 2021 25 min read

Whether it’s a single day trip, or a series of long weekends, there’s some epic things to see and do outside across Great Britain. The OS GetOutside Champions bring you 50 of the best day trip ideas!

You might fancy a long distance walk or cycle over a few consecutive day trips, or a visit to a new wild swimming spot. Perhaps there’s a few great crags you’ve been meaning to take on? Or is it a family adventure day where you don’t need to spend a penny, perhaps river wildlife spotting with a picnic to enjoy along the bank.

Click on a button below to find day trip ideas near you.

1. Alpaca walking

Alpaca trekking is a brilliant activity to do as a group or team building event. When you arrive, you will be welcomed by members of our team. After a short health and safety talk and introductory into all things alpacas we will hand over the alpacas, and the fun will begin. The trek will explore different areas of the farm, saying hello to some of our other animals along the way while getting a first-hand insight into life on a working farm. Each tour will take you to a scenic spot where you will have an opportunity to take photographs with your alpacas. We will then return the alpacas to their field, and you will have a chance to feed them their reward and then say your goodbyes.

Tracy selfie with alpaca

Alpaca walking

2. Donkey/pig walking experience

The ultimate animal experience days for donkey lovers! Walk Maverick and Goose & Bertie, sweet Miniature Mediterranean donkeys across scenic farmland, sometimes accompanied also by Betty, our lovely small standard donkey. You’ll follow quiet pathways with great views towards Pen Y Fan and The Black Mountain in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales.

Have a mini adventure and take some little Kune Kune pigs for a walk along a beautiful valley in the Brecon Beacons, followed by a “Pig-Nic” of tea/coffee/squash and cakes! Great fun for families and also people wanting a fun and engaging few hours in the countryside with these friendly little animals. Have the opportunity to learn all about their welfare and their life in this scenic area.

Both day trip ideas brought to you by Tracy Purnell.

3. Llandegfedd Reservoir

Llandegfedd and its reservoir is a great day out for the family. Fishing, watersports, bird watching and a great walk of almost 9km on permissive paths around the reservoir. There’s a coffee shop and toilets at the visitor centre where there is free parking. Easy to reach from Newport/Cwmbran/Pontypool.

4. The Black Mountain and Llwyn y Fan Fawr

A cracking ridge walk with two mountain lakes. Keep this for a clear day to enjoy the incredible views. Car park at the start, no facilities. More about the area .

Carmarthen Fans

Merthyr Mawr

Usk Reservoir, photo credit Sophie Hillier

5. The sand dunes of Merthyr Mawr

Sand dunes and sea. This is a great day out for young and old! Just a few miles from the M4 between Cardiff and Swansea, Merthr Mawr is a national nature reserve with the highest sand dune in Wales! You can walk through the dunes, picnic in a hidden spot, or have a dip in the sea. Pay and display parking.

6. A tour of Usk Reservoir

Usk Reservoir , between Trecastle and Llanddeusant is a hidden gem. It’s great for all abilities and ages, with a clearly marked six mile track which you can walk or cycle. The views are wonderful as you go through woodland and gaze across to open moorland and the striking Carmarthen Fans.

All of these day trips ideas brought to you by OS Champion Phillipa Cherryson . Follow Phillipa on Instagram .

7. A visit to Llanberis

If you’re visiting the Snowdonia National Park this summer then a trip to the lovely town of Llanberis is a must. The High Street has a great selection of cafes, craft shops and outdoor clothing shops. There are lakeside accessible walks along the side of Llyn Padarn where you can visit the old quarry hospital, a children’s park and it’s also where you’ll have the opportunity to have your photograph taken next to a replica sword named Llafn y Cewri by local schoolchildren.

Dolbadarn Castle, which is a short walk away takes you back a thousand years to the time of the native Welsh princes. It is free to visit, open to explore and the perfect place to sit and have a picnic. Llanberis also has its own lakeside railway, where you can take a 5-mile return journey on a little steam engine which runs along the side of Llyn Padarn, right into the heart of Snowdonia.

Lisa on SUP

National Slate Museum

Snowdon Mountain Railway will take you to the summit of Snowdon (COVID-19 restrictions currently in place). The National Slate Museum, which is another free attraction tells the story of Snowdonia’s rich industrial heritage.

Snowdonia Watersports hire out Stand Up Paddleboards and kayaks so that you can view the mountains from the water. It is also the perfect place to see the Lonely Tree which is reputedly the most photographed tree in Wales.

If you have enough energy left you could walk to the summit of Wales’s most famous mountain, Snowdon. Llanberis has something for everyone, you just need to decide how many days you need to set aside for your visit.

Llyn Padarn

Dolbadarn Castle

Lisa with dog

This awesome day trip idea brought to you by OS Champion Lisa Wells . Follow Lisa on Instagram .

8. Roman Caerleon

Then known as Isca, one of just three permanent legionary fortresses in Britain, Roman Caerleon was quite the bustling town. When the Roman legionary weren’t fighting the ancient Britons, they were allowed to enjoy the modern facilities here, including keeping fit at the fortress baths and watching the gladiators at the local amphitheatre. The remains of the Roman buildings are surprisingly intact, albeit with all the gaps filled in with housing and other buildings charting Roman times through to the present day, but there is still a surprising amount to see. You can see the remains of the large open-air swimming pool (now inside a building…), that would have once held more than 80,000 gallons of water, and parts of the bath house (owned and managed by CADW).

Fortress baths

Walk along the river

You can also see the amphitheatre, which would have held 6,000 spectators when it was open, and the remains of the barracks where the soldiers lived. The National Roman Legion Museum houses an impressive collection of Roman artifacts, including a coffin that was discovered when builders were working on the University, and some beautifully preserved precious stones that were excavated from the water pipes that fed the bathhouse – the Roman’s hadn’t learnt to take their rings off when they went for a swim and a sauna. Find out more about this area.

9. Newport Wetlands

The Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve lies between the Severn Estuary and the River Usk on the South Wales coast. Owned and managed by Natural Resources Wales, in partnership with RSPB Cymru, Newport City Council and others, it is exactly the kind of place I’d go with my family to explore – and not just because there is a lovely little café serving soup and stew when you’re done. Built on mudflats and marshland, the nature reserve here was opened in 2000 as a mitigation project to restore wildlife habitat following the Cardiff Bay Barrage scheme. The reserve covers just over 1,000 acres of the Caldicot Level, a low-lying area of land bordering the northern shore of the Severn Estuary. The reserve was designated a National Nature Reserve in 2008, and is now a haven for birds and other wildlife, and a lovely place for a walk.

Find out more at Visit Monmouthshire .

Both day trip ideas brought to you by OS Champion Zoe Homes .

10. Gordon Way via Bennachie

11 mile linear hike along the Gordon Way . Beautiful Forest tracks to open hill tops. Waymarked route with views further afield over the Cairngorms. Some overgrown parts due to quiet trails. Slight detour off the trail to climb Bennachie. Started in Suie Hill and finished Bennachie centre.

Brought to you by OS Champion Jess Mather . Follow Jess on Instagram .

11. Beach Clean at Lunderston

A lovely wee beach to spend a day rockpooling but when you are there you could spend a bit of time litter picking.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Ross Toole . Follow Ross on Instagram .

12. Canoe and Kayak adventures in Wester Ross

Tailored Canoe or Kayak adventures to suit all experience levels and ambitions.

Kayak adventures on Loch Ewe

13. Climb, ride, explore in Wester Ross

Hill guiding, MTB, SUP and coasteering. Find out more here .

14. Red Point Beaches, Wester Ross

Easy 6km walking with 2 stunning beaches. Views of Torridon mountains, Raasay and Skye

These great day trip ideas brought to you by OS Champion Sal Thornton . Follow Sal on Instagram .

England: North, Yorks & Humber

15. craster to beadnell via embleton bay.

Sand, sea, coastal paths, quaint villages and an amazing castle. You can start from Craster, meaning you”ll go past Dunstanburgh Castle or if you prefer, start at Embleton Bay, either way, its a beautiful day out. A long and rewarding coastal hike.

Brought to you by OS Champion David Finlayson . Follow David on Instagram .

Craster to Beadnell via Embleton Bay

16. Coombs Wood Near Armaithwaite

An awesome woodland which runs parallel with the River Eden. You can park in Armaithwaite village on the main bridge (for free) then head up the river on a bridleway, taking in the incredible/lush woodland. You can drop down near the river and see the powerful rapids/weir that many canoeists spend time thinking about ! If you are into bouldering you can even climb some lovely sandstone rocks and then cool off with a dip in the river ! Also some really cool face carvings in the sandstone rock.

Brought to you by OS Champion Craig Henderson . Follow Craig on Instagram .

17. Whernside Wander, Yorkshire Dales

Ribblehead Viaduct

View from Whernside

Starting from the beautiful Ribblehead Viaduct this route takes you to the highest point in Yorkshire – Whernside. This 7.5-mile walk starts with a long steady climb followed by a scenic wander along an impressive high-level ridge. On a clear day there are spectacular views out to the Howgills, the Lake District and Morecambe Bay. Whernside is one of the three peaks in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge (three peaks in 12 hours!) and in my eyes, is the most impressive of the three.

18. Cycling on the Cinder Track

The Cinder Track, a former railway line, is one of the foremost cycle routes in the UK. The route from Scarborough to Ravenscar is a pleasant 10 miles with fantastic sea views. The track is very easy to follow as signposting is plentiful.

Among the highlights is Ravenscar itself and the beach at Hayburn Wyke, where woodland meets the sea. There is also a selection of places to eat and drink right on the track which makes it particularly well suited to family cycling.

Route in OS Maps

19. Easy paddling on Ullswater Lake

Kayak from Glenridding to Blowick Bay at the southern end of of Ullswater Lake. It’s only a short paddle across to this secluded beach making it suitable for all abilities. Get up close to Wall Holm, a small secluded island in the middle of the lake which makes a fantastic photo! Back at Glenridding, reward yourself with coffee and cake in the beautiful garden of the The Inn On The Lake Hotel .

Kayaking on Ullswater

All three day trip ideas are brought to you by Helen Newman from the OS team. Follow Helen’s adventures on Instagram .

England: Midlands

20. local explorer challenges.

Events cancelled or lacking inspiration? No problem – Our answer was to further explore what’s on our doorstep and design our own adventures from home.

Andy & Gee

8 miles to Derby path

Map with bridges plotted

21. Micro End to End

An ‘End to End’ adventure is often associated with the larger scale adventure from Land’s End to John O’Groats, or the Coast to Coast. But applying a ‘micro’ perspective to this challenge can create some really fun half day, full day or even weekend microadventures in either your local surroundings or further afield.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Two Travlrs . Follow Two Travlrs on Instagram .

22. Grishill Crag

Some great sandstone climbing to be experienced in rolling countryside of Shropshire. This small outcrop boasts a large array of climbing experiences and some breathtaking views.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Ben Turner . Follow Ben Turner on Instagram .

23. Discover Lud’s Church

Whether you are climbing, walking or trail running, The Roaches take in some of the best scenery in the Peak District. A visit to nearby Lud’s Church is a must. The impressive deep, moss-covered chasm is full of history, and is wet and cool even on the hottest of days. This popular 6-mile circular walk takes in the spectacular ridgeline of The Roaches plus the unmissable Lud’s Church. There’s plenty of less trodden trails in the area for those wanting to venture off the beaten track. Discover more routes in OS Maps .

Lud’s Church

Helen at The Roaches

The Roaches

24. Explore Kinder Scout’s air crash sites

There are more than 11 remaining air crash sites on Kinder Scout, the most visited being the B-29 Superfortress on Bleaklow which came down on the 3rd November 1948. Despite taking place over 70 years ago it almost feels (and looks!) like it happened yesterday thanks to the remoteness of this vast moorland. Parking is located in the lay-by on the A57, north of the Snake Pass Inn. It’s a pleasant 4 mile walk to the crash site through Lady Clough Forest. Why not plan a longer route and make the most of the wild and rugged moorland of Kinder Scout? It’s so large, you have enough space to really get away from it all!

Both walks are brought to you by Helen Newman from the OS team. Follow Helen’s adventures on Instagram .

East England

25. deserted beach.

A short beach ramble North of crumbling Covehithe brings you to a wild and desolate coastal broad at Benacre. The beach sandbar seperates the sea from the broad lagoon and is generally deserted, it’s easy to imagine being cast away here, even for a few hours. Fire up the stove and slow the pace down. You could easily spend a morning collecting sea glass and drift wood, spotting bitterns and marsh harriers or simply capturing the landscape on canvas or film. Continue North towards the Denes before joing the Suffolk Coast Path inland to complete the loop back to Covehithe inland.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Chris Webster . Follow Chris Webster on Instagram .

26. Dunwich and Dunwich Heath

This circular 7 mile walk takes in the best scenery around around the lost town of Dunwich , which disappeared due to erosion from the Sea. You will take in sections of the Sandlings Walk, an off road path connecting Ipswich and Southwold, Dunwich Heath with its vivid purple flowering heather, the ruins of Greyfriars Priory, see the last grave remaining next to the cliff tops and encounter spectacular views towards Walberswick and Southwold.

27. Rendlesham Forest

Rendlesham Forest is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, covering 1500 hectares, just outside of the well-known market town of Woodbridge. Located close by is a RAF Woodbridge, where US Air Force personnel were based. In 1980 there was a series of reported sightings of unexplained lights near Rendlesham Forest, which were linked with UFO sightings. Today, there is a UFO trail for children to follow in the forest, there are also marked routes for mountain bikes, walkers, runners and those wishing to explore. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of a herd of Deer.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Tom Wake . Follow Tom Wake on Instagram .

England: South East

Views from Butser Hill (#30)

28. Frensham Pond – escape from London!

A beautiful beach and varied walks through sandy heathland within easy reach of London. Perfect for a family day out there is a National Trust cafe as well as ice cream van – you wouldn’t know you were under an hour on the train from London!

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Sophie Power . Follow Sophie Power on Instagram .

29. Blackdown & The Temple of the Winds

A gentle and easily accessible walk along the Blackdown Ridge to the highest point of the Southdowns NP. Enjoy the fantastic views from the Temple of the Winds

Blackdown route in Os Maps

30. Butser Hill & Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Visit the QECP and enjoy accessible walks, picnics, cafe and shop. This is a great location for all the family with plenty to do and plenty of space. Take a walk up Butser HIll, the highest point on the Southdowns Way and look across to the Isle of Wight

Butser Hill

Both walks brought to you by GetOutside Champion Glyn Dodwell . Follow Glyn Dodwell on Instagram .

31. A peaceful day walk around Thorney Island

Pack a picnic for this leisurely 9-mile circular route, along the shoreline of MOD-owned Thorney Island in Chichester Harbour AONB . The peaceful shores of this island are a sanctuary for wildlife, including seals! The coastal route takes in the deserted sand dunes of Thorney Island Beach, the historic St Nicholas Church with its war graves and you can even walk over to Pilsey Island, which is a rspb Bird Sanctuary (access on to the sanctuary is restricted). The coastal route is easy to follow but you must make sure you stick to the coast. Walking across the island is prohibited as it is MOD land. Parking can be found in Emsworth or in Prinsted.

Thorney Island at sunset

32. Halnaker Windmill

The recently restored Halnaker Windmill is an iconic sight close to Chichester. Starting from Boxgrove Village Hall Car Park the Windmill Trail is a leisurely 5-mile circular route to the windmill. Passing Tinwood Estate Vinyard, the trail then takes you through ‘the tunnel of trees’ on Mill Lane before climbing up to Halnaker Hill itself, boasting spectacular views across the countryside. On a clear day you can even see the sea.

View from the Halnaker Windmill

Halnaker Windmill

England: South West

33. the blue pool of dorset.

The Blue Pool of Dorset … which isn’t always blue! Formerly a clay pit, supplying tons of clay for making of smoking pipes and porcelain, it has later filled with rainwater becoming what is is today – a beautiful lake that changes colour in different light conditions, from blue to green and turquoise, thanks to a high concentration of minerals in the water as well as a good deal of clay in suspension. A fascinating natural oasis tucked away in Dorset’s rolling green countryside, The Blue Pool is a spot of beauty and tranquillity even on a busiest day. It is a centre-piece of the Furzebrook Estate surrounded by 25 acres of heath and woodland and offering it’s visitors a retreat from the hustle and bustle of civilisation.

The Blue Pool

Both walks brought to you by GetOutside Champion Richie Rakauskas . Follow Richie on Instagram .

34. A day out at Worth Matravers

Starting at the village car park this 12km circular walk takes in the awe inspiring views of Winspit Quarry, St Aldhelm’s Head, Chapmans Pool and miles and miles of views of the Jurassic Coastline. You can spend time watching the climbers ascend routes in the quarry (or if you’re a climber, join in!), enjoy the sea views on the walk round to St Aldhelm’s head, then you’re greeted with arguably one of the best views in Dorset into Chapmans Pool. Before heading back to the village take a path down to the beach, stop for a picnic, have a swim and watch the sun set. Be sure to venture into the Square and Compass which contains a rather quirky museum!

Walks brought to you by GetOutside Champion Charlotte Fowler . Follow Charlotte on Instagram .

35. Wiltshire White Horses

Visiting the Nine White Horses of Wiltshire (inc one on the Oxfordshire border). All are great one day walks but also why not walk the 150km White Horse Way and see them all over a week.

36. Uffington White Horse

An 11km, 2.5hr walk taking in the White Horse, Wayland Smithy long barrow, Uffington Castle, part of the Wessex Ridgeway and White Horse Way

Uffington White Horse

37. Broad Town White Horse

An 8km, 2.1hr walk taking in the paths and bridleways of the North Wiltshire downland and White Horse Way

38. Cherhill White Horse

A 14km, 3.5hr walk taking in the beautiful Marlborough Downs, Cherhill White Horse, the ancient Wandsdyke path, hill forts and the source of the River Marden at Calshott springs

39. Devizes White Horse

A 7km, 1.5hr walk from Devizes, along the Kennet And Avon Canal and up towards Roundway Down and the youngest of the Wiltshire White Horses

Kennet and Avon Canal near Devizes

40. Westbury White Horse

A 12km, 3hr walk from Bratton to see the oldest of the horses at Bratton Down with far reaching views and steep coombes, feel the ground tremble if the big guns are in action on the Plain!

41. Pewsey Downs White Horse

A 6km, 1.5hr circular route across unfarmed downland with magnificent sping/early summer flowers. Crossing the Wandsdyke and White Horse Way, the route passes over one of the two high points of Wiltshire at Milk Hill (the other one at Tan Hill being a few km’s away further on the Wandsdyke and the hills still argue today as to which is the highest)

42. Marlborough White Horse

A 5km, 1.25hr walk taking in quiet lanes, paths and tracks which links up to the White Horse Way. This route has lots of alternatives including links to Marlborough via footpaths through its well known public school(which give the best views of the White Horse!)

43. Hackpen White Horse

A 2hr 8km walk (or great trail run) taking in the ancient Wessex Ridgeway and hidden valleys and wooded coombes littered with Sarcen stones of Marlborough Downs

Hackpen White Horse

44. New Pewsey White Horse

Lots of short circular walks heading south out of Pewsey along ancient drovers tracks.

All Nine White Horses brought to you by GetOutside Champion Lisa Drewe . Follow Lisa on Instagram .

45. Martin Down Nature Reserve

A newtork of footpaths across chalk downland full of flora and fauna plus archeological interest with ancient ditches and tumuli. Great visit on a summer’s day when a host of species of butterfly are fluttering amongst the wildflowers and there is chance to hear turtle doves. Perfect peaceful spot for a picnic far from the madding crowd or star gazing at night. Find out more .

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Sue Barrett . Follow Sue on Instagram .

46. Tisbury and Old Wardour Castle

A great day out visiting Tisbury , which is steeped in 2,000 years of history, with a walk that takes you to Old Wardour Castle, which dates from the 14th century and was the scene of two sieges, it also featured in the film `Robin Hood Prince of Thieves.

All of these day trips ideas brought to you by GetOutside Champion Phillipa Cherryson . Follow Phillipa on Instagram .

47. Cotswold Water Park

Located within Cotswold Water Park and close to Cirencester, Cotswold Country Park and Beach is a facility with two lakes, a beach, and a whole host of activities – a place to spend a whole day as a family or group or friends. Describing themselves as “the ultimate for watersports in the Cotswolds”, there is the inflatable assault course Aquaventure, paddleboards, kayaks and Canadian canoes, swan pedalos, rowing boats, mini electric boats for the kids, mini golf, and other things.

48. Sea Swims in Dorset

Being an island nation, there are a plethora of great spots for taking a dip in the ocean here in Great Britain. If you’re on holiday down in Dorset (and who wouldn’t want to be?!), these are four lovely places for a swim. They’re already popular, so I’m not giving away any secrets!

Worbarrow Bay, a beautiful bay perfect for a sunrise swim and breakfast on the beach. Winspit, more of a dip off the rocky shoreline than an endurance sea swim, but a lot of fun. Durdle Door and Man of War Bay, the iconic south England swim through the natural arch. Dancing Ledge, a natural pool good for a plunge.

All of these swims require a bit of a walk from the local parking, and should be taken seriously – the Dorset coast is beautiful but it’s also very rugged and can be rough.

49. Four Hills to Climb Near Cheltenham

One day with lots of views, or four days with one view each – four great views near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.

Being right on the edge of the Cotswolds, there are a whole host of amazing walks of all kinds of lengths to keep you busy from Cheltenham. Having recently moved to the area from the flatlands of Lincolnshire, I was particularly interested to explore the line of hills surrounding the old Spa town, as they promise excellent views back down into the valley and across the wide landscape to the Malvern Hills and into Wales.

You can easily visit Crickley Hill, Leckhampton Hill, Nottingham Hill and Cleeve Hill in one day or over one weekend – all offering short hikes, great scenery, and views of other hills you can come back and visit another time.

Both day trip ideas brought to you by GetOutside Champion Zoe Homes . Follow Zoe on Instagram .

50. Coastal strolls and ice cream at West Bay

The section from Burton Bradstock westwards towards Golden Cap is a beautiful family-friendly stretch of the South West Coastal Path . There’s certainly no shortage of scenic stops and the seaside towns of West Bay and Seatown allow plenty of opportunity to stock up on food, drink and of course, ice cream (the best being from Baboo in West Bay!). The SWCP route is well sign posted and you can make the walk as long or as short as you like. Challenge yourself to reach the top of Golden Cap – the highest point on the south coast of Great Britain.

South West Coast Path

This day trip idea is brought to you by Helen Newman from the OS team. Follow Helen’s adventures on Instagram .

So for day trips this summer, spread out a paper map , or download the OS Maps app, spot what you want to see and do, visit views with the wow-factor and explore new places.

Make sure you check that any sites, events, activity centres or adventure destinations are open and accessible before travelling, plus what the weather plans to do. The Met Office have these beach and mountain forecasts to help you enjoy the outside safely.

Share your day trip adventures with us by using #GetOutside and tagging us on Twitter (@OSLeisure), Facebook or Instagram (Ordnance Survey).

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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!

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from England

Day trips from england.

• England to London
• England to Windsor
• England to Amesbury
• England to Bath
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small

2. Private Cotswold Villages Day Tour see the beauty of the Villages

3. Private tours to Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace, Oxford

4. Private Windsor Castle and Stonehenge Day Tour

5. Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, The City of Bath Day Tour

6. Private Cotswolds and Stratford upon Avon

7. Full Day Private Tour in Lizard and West Cornwall

8. Private Shopping Tour from Liverpool hotels to Outlet Cheshire

9. Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York

10. Full day Private Tour of the Isle of Man with experienced qualified driver guide

11. London & Heathrow to Southampton cruise terminals via Windsor Castle

12. Private Day Tour to Bath, Avebury & The Cotswolds

13. Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Tour

14. Hire a Driver from Southampton Day Tour

15. Private half day Guided Tour of Windsor Castle PLUS and History

16. Stonehenge and Salisbury / Magna Carta Private Tour from Southampton

17. Osborne House-A driver guided tour of Victoria's Island Paradise

18. Cotswolds Private Tour from Southampton

19. Stonehenge & Bath Private guided Tours

20. Southampton Cruise Terminal/Hotel to London with Stops at Salisbury & Stonehenge

21. Bath and Stonehenge Day Tour from Southampton

22. Private Tour to Stonehenge, Bath and The Cotswolds

23. Windsor Castle Private Tour in Executive Vehicle With Admission

24. Royal Windsor, Oxford & Cotswold Private Tour

25. Essential Cornwall - the "must see" places

26. All Inclusive Full Day Private Tour in Oxford and Cotswold

27. Southampton to Heathrow via Attraction of your choice (Stonehenge, Windsor etc)

28. Stonehenge Private Tour

29. Private Avebury.Stonehenge.Salisbury.

30. Cruise Ship Pickup Private Tour

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17 day trips from London to escape the city

Whether you’re after a seaside jaunt or a country retreat, here are the best trips from London we’re planning right now

As much as we love London here at Time Out, we’re also partial to the odd daydream about a leisurely getaway to somewhere that’s not quite so big and busy. Microdose on that holiday vibe by taking a day trip to one of the many laidback, joy-inducing destinations just a few hours away from London, which pack in plenty; from historic cities and cute villages to sandy beaches and rolling countryside.

If you’re wanting a quick getaway, here are 17 of the Time Out team’s favourite day trips from London, complete with our recommendations of cute pubs and ace restaurants – all close enough to the city to get there and back in one sweet day. 

RECOMMENDED: ✨The best day trips from London 👪 The best  family day trips from London ☀️ The best  weekend trips from London 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs near London 🌳 The best  quirky Airbnbs in the UK

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Dreamy day trips from London

1.  St Leonards-on-Sea

Famed for how many Londoners moved here during lockdown (it’s even been referred to as Dalston-on-Sea, which is cringe, we’ll admit), St Leonards-On-Sea is a cracking day out from the Big Smoke for beachside drinks and a tonne of great food spots. Head to food market Heist  (basically a much nicer version of Boxpark) for orange wine and street food, then sink pints at Goat Ledge , a vibesy, colourful shack right on the beach. If you fancy splashing out a little, book dinner at the fabulously old-school  St Clement’s for white tablecloths and delicious seafood. Plus you've got easy access to the rest of Hastings for its Old Town, pier and the Norman castle ruins.

How far? 58 miles

How to get there: A one hour 18 minute train from London Charing Cross

2.  Dungeness

Dungeness’s shingly, shipwreck-dotted beach is so spookily empty that it’s been described as Britain’s only desert (though the Met Office refuses to technically recognise it as such, the party poopers). It’s a beautifully eerie landscape, with the (disused) nuclear power station and two lighthouses looming over a motley mixture of weathered shacks, beached fishing boats and sleek, modernist bungalows – all clustered along a single in-and-out road.

But despite all that emptiness, there’s a surprising amount to do here. You could catch the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch steam train down the coast, and hop off in Dungeness for a walk and a pint at the lonely Britannia Inn. Grab a freshly-caught lunch at the famous Snack Shack: specialities include lobster or crab rolls and smoked cod chowder. And check out the galleries and open houses showcasing the work of the (surprisingly) many artists who have moved down here, including the shingle garden of the experimental filmmaker Derek Jarman, whose yellow-windowed Prospect Cottage is a major landmark here. Book in advance for a 40-minute tour inside.

If you’ve got time, head over to RSPB Dungeness nature reserve for a chance to glimpse glossy ibises and marsh harriers – plus the huge concrete ‘sound mirrors’, pre-radar experiments from WW1 that were designed to listen out for planes. (Look out on the RSPB site for news of the rare open days when you can get up close.) Finish off your day with dinner at the Pilot Inn; I’m willing to back the quality of their famous fish and chips, which were the thing that brought Derek Jarman here in the first place.

How far? 86 miles

Get there O ne hour  by train from St Pancras International to Folkestone, with a one-hour 30-minute bus ride to Dungeness. Or take a bus or taxi from Folkestone to Hythe station to board the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. Alternatively, Dungeness is  around two hours from London by car.

3.  Stratford-upon-Avon

As a born-and-bred Midlander, I’ve spent many Saturdays traipsing around Stratford-upon-Avon’s lovely streets. With its half-timbered houses and canalside pubs, Stratford’s got just enough of the  small-town charm you’re craving on an escape from the Big Smoke, but unlike a small town, there’s actually loads to see and do.  

The Bard, of course, is the big draw here, and Shakespeare’s house, his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage and the RSC’s famous theatre are all must-sees. But Stratford is more than just a Tudor Disneyland, we promise. Take a boat tour of the canal basin to find out more about the West Midlands waterways, refresh yourselves in the Grade II-listed Old Thatch Tavern and stop for a scoop of Eton mess ice cream at Hooray’s British Gelato Kitchen. 

How far? 104 miles

Get there T wo hours 15 minutes  by train from Marylebone; around two hours by car. 

4.  Whitstable

Don’t even think about thinking about it: Whitstable is far from overhyped. Sure, the secret is most definitely out about this fabulous little seaside town, but the vibes here are as great as they were 20 years ago. Grab brunch at Farm & Harper , fish and chips at Ossie’s and a glorious pint of craft at the Twelve Taps , and treat yourself to a dozen oysters to go at Wheelers Oyster Bar on the high street. Once you’ve walked the length of the beach and admired the beach huts, settle in at the famous pub-on-the-beach Old Neptune for a pint and wait for sunset to fall. Plus, Whitstable is so near, you’ll be back home before you can say ‘ another   bank holiday?’. But that’s if you don’t miss the last train.

How far? 50 miles

Get there One hour 15 minutes from St Pancras International, around two hours by car.

5.  Brighton

With its pebble beach, wall-to-wall live music venues and buzzing LGBTQ+ scene, there’s nowhere better for topping up your Vitamin Sea levels than Brighton . Start your day by dodging seagulls on the Palace Pier, then shop up a storm in the Lanes, which are packed with independent boutiques, record stores and vegan eateries. Sit down with a couple of pints in the Brighton Beer Dispensary, which champions small Sussex breweries like the Hand Brew Co.

How far?  A little over 50 miles

Get there One hour by train from Victoria, Blackfriars or London Bridge; around two hours by car. 

6.  The New Forest

A trip to the New Forest is about as close as you can get to going on safari without buying a plane ticket. As you make your way down dappled lanes and across the heather-covered heath you’ll be watched the famous ponies, which have grazed there for thousands of years, plus free-ranging Highland cattle and pigs hoovering up fallen acorns. Don’t fancy being stuck in the car all day? Hire a two-seater electric Twizzy buggy to explore in, or book a beginners’ hack at one of the stables. Don’t forget to make time for a proper ploughman’s lunch at the Royal Oak in Fritham.

How far? 90 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Waterloo to Brockenhurst; around two hours by car. Just remember that animals, not drivers, have right of way here.

7.  Rye

The antique shops and higgledy-piggledy cobbled lanes of Rye make it feel like a little slice of the Cotswolds on the coast. After you’ve satisfactorily browsed around the accurately named Tiny Book Store, treat yourself to a seafood lunch surrounded by lobster pots at Globe Inn Marsh, followed by Sussex real ale or a glass of local wine at The George. The Chapel Down vineyard is just up the road and well worth a visit if you want to know the ins and outs of wine-making – or simply enjoy a tipple with their signature wine tasting. Ten minutes away are the pillowy dunes of Camber Sands: roll your trousers up and splash through the shallows, take a kite for a spin or just park your towel and stretch out.

How far? 79 miles.

Get there  One hour 10 minutes by train from St Pancras International (with a change at Ashford); around two hours by car. 

8.  Box Hill

Biking to green and pleasant Surrey is a wheely nice way to spend a Sunday (sorry) – plus, Box Hill was part of the 2012 Olympic road-cycling route. Start in Richmond Park and pedal down past Hampton Court – it should take you about two hours. After a 1.6 mile climb and some hairpin bends (easier than it sounds!), you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the North Downs from the top of Box Hill. Grab a slice of cake from the National Trust café, and save space for lunch at The Tree, which serves homemade pies and crumbles. Your last stop is Box Hill and Westhumble station, where you can load your bikes on to a train back to Waterloo. Whew!

How far? 30 miles

Get there  Two hours by bike (obviously). Plan the route carefully before you set out, and take a map and a puncture repair kit, plus water and snacks.

9.  Bath

A glorious water-themed day awaits you in the city of Bath . Start as you mean to go on with a tour of the Romans baths (no paddling allowed, you’ve been warned), before making a splash in the Thermae Bath Spa – the rooftop pool has stunning views of the city. Once you’ve dried off, make like Jane Austen and stroll along the Royal Crescent. Peckish? Sally Lunn’s teahouse is home to the Sally Lunn Bun, a kind of sweet brioche bap – for a Bath take on the cream tea, order one toasted and spread with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

How far? 115 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Paddington; two hours 30 minutes by car. 

10.  Mersea Island

Attached to the mainland by a causeway that floods (and pub quizzers, take note: this is the UK’s most easterly inhabited island), Mersea feels properly remote at high tide. The big draw is The Company Shed, which serves seafood platters that pull in crowds from all over the country every weekend. It’s BYOB – bring your own bread – and they don’t take bookings, so get there before noon to make sure you can feast on prawns, smoked fish, oysters and dressed crab. Speaking of which, catch-and-release crabbing is encouraged – there are specially marked areas near the water, and shops selling the kit. Or you can book a boat trip around the bay.

How far? 69 miles

Get there  One hour by train from Liverpool Street to Colchester, then a 45-minute bus to Mersea Island; around two hours by car. D on’t forget to check the tide timetable before you set off...

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The best one-day hikes in Great Britain

Mar 16, 2021 • 6 min read

Hadrian's Wall is one of the top day hikes in Great Britain © Nigel Eve / 500px

Call it a hike, a stroll, a toddle or a ramble – there really is nothing that the British like better than a jolly good walk in the countryside. Since ancient times, people have been exploring every last inch of this old island on foot, leaving behind a great web of byways, bridleways, lanes, tracks and footpaths covering practically every corner of the British landscape.

Lonely Planet's  Best Day Walks in Great Britain  has lots of of inspiration, from family-friendly strolls through city parks, to scenic walks across wild moors, and challenging hikes through snow-blown glens. In the meantime, you can check out 10 great walks below. Just remember to pack the brolly (umbrella).

Editor's note: During COVID-19 , please check the latest travel restrictions in Britain  before planning any trip and always follow government health advice. 

Helvellyn and Striding Edge - Cumbria and The Lakes

Duration: 6-7hr | difficulty: hard | distance: 8 miles/12.5km .

Cumbria ’s third-highest mountain (950m) is a fairly formidable proposition even for experienced walkers, with dizzying drops and some all-fours scrambling. But don’t let the challenges put you off: Helvellyn is well within the reach of most ordinary walkers.

The key is not to rush, to watch your step on the trickier sections, and to try and take the easiest route wherever you can. You’ll be on the top in no time. The there-and-back trail starts at the car park in Glenridding, next to Lake District National Park .

Hadrian's Wall - Northern England

Duration: 4hr | difficulty: moderate | distance: 7.2 miles / 12km   .

Hadrian’s Wall is the most dramatic and extensive legacy of the Roman occupation of Britain , stretching for more than 70 miles across northern England . This walk follows part of the famous Pennine Way along the most scenic stretch of the wall, as well as visiting the two best-preserved Roman forts in the country (the time given is for walking; allow at least two hours extra for exploring at Housesteads and Vindolanda ). Start and end at Still Visitor Centre. 

The ultimate guide to hiking Hadrian's Wall

Porthcurno to Land's End - Devon and Cornwall

Duration: 3.5-4hr | difficulty: moderate | distance: 7.2 miles / 11.2km .

Is Porthcurno to Land's End the finest coast walk in all of Britain? Many a seasoned rambler might say so – and there are few who would sensibly argue. This walk really has it all: booming surf, massive cliffs, historic lighthouses and wild Atlantic vistas that will sear themselves onto your retinas.

Don't forget to pack swimming gear; there are some great spots for bathing along the way, including the popular Porthcurno beach and the relatively quiet Porth Chapel beach. The trail starts in Treen village and ends at Land's End. 

The Ridgeway - Southwest England

Duration: 5hr | difficulty: hard | distance: 11 miles / 18km.

The Ridgeway is one of the most ancient walkways in the country. It runs for 87 miles, from Overton Hill in Wiltshire to Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire. Take the longish stretch from Foxhill to Wantage – it’s a little difficult to access, meaning you need an early start, and you’ll probably want to stay at the Court Hill Centre hostel at the end. But it’s well worth the effort to follow in the footsteps of some of England’s first hikers, and the prehistoric sites you’ll encounter – the tomb of Wayland’s Smithy , the earthworks of Uffington Castle and the graceful White Horse – are some of the most mesmerising anywhere. Start at Foxhill and end at Wantage. 

Walk through England's pagan past on the country's oldest road

The Seven Sisters - Southeast and East England

Duration: 5hr | difficulty: hard | distance: 12.5 miles / 20km.

Brace yourselves for a big bold walk, which leads from Eastbourne, with its long stone beaches and grand Edwardian seafront, up onto the high chalk cliffs whose most famous landmark is the red-and-white-striped Beachy Head lighthouse . You’re then on the ups and downs of the famous Seven Sisters , which will give your legs a great workout and your eyes some gorgeous English Channel vistas.

The route drops down to the Friston Forest, winds past lovely Westdean village, then follows the bends of the Cuckmere River to the beautiful downland settlement of Alfriston. The trail starts at Eastbourne station and ends in Alfriston. 

Hampstead Heath - London

Duration: 1.5hr | difficulty: moderate | duration: 3.4 miles / 5.5km .

Even hardened Londoners are amazed by the size and wildness of Hampstead Heath . Set on a sandy ridge, it provides sweeping urban views as well as dense ancient and more recent woodland. On a sunny day bring a swimming costume, as the natural ponds provide a gorgeous spot for a dip. Kenwood House is a good stop for art lovers, and Keats House , the poet’s home from 1818 to 1820, is a stroll away. Start and end at Hampstead Heath Overground, near  Parliament Hill . 

Loch Affric Circuit - Scotland

Duration: 5-7 hrs | difficulty: hard | distance: 11.5 miles / 18.5km .

Glen Affric – Gaelic for ‘valley of the dappled woods’ – is a scenic wonderland of shimmering lochs, rugged mountains and mist-shrouded forests of native Scots pine, home to a treasure trove of iconic Scottish wildlife including ospreys and golden eagles, wildcats and otters, red squirrels and pine martens.

The upper reaches of the glen are designated as the Glen Affric National Nature Reserve . This is a great trail for wildlife-watching, start and end at the River Affric car park. 

Haystacks - Cumbria and The Lakes

Duration: 4-5hr | difficulty: moderate | distance: 5.5 miles / 8.8km .

Haystacks is far from the highest Lakeland fell, but the views over Buttermere are hard to better. This route follows cartographer and author Alfred Wainwright’s preferred ascent from Gatesgarth, and descends via the arête of Fleetwith Pike. The climb to the summit is steep but not too testing, although there are a few bits of clambering. The panorama from the top is grand, stretching northwest across Buttermere, west into Ennerdale and south towards Pillar and Great Gable. Start and end at the car park near Gatesgarth Farm.

Pen Y Fan, Corn Du and Cribyn - Wales

Duration: 4hr | difficulty: moderate | distance: 8.2 miles / 13.2km.

At 886m above sea level, Pen y Fan is southern Wales ’ highest mountain – which means everyone wants to climb it. Tackle it from the less-trodden southern side to avoid most of the crowds, and take  in two other summits (Corn Du at 873m and Cribyn at 795m)  – a boon for peak-baggers.

The route begins and ends at the car park near the Upper Neuadd Reservoir. 

10 great day hikes in Wales 

The Malvern Hills - Central England

Duration: 1.5hr | difficulty: moderate | distance: 2.5 miles / 4km .

The green spine of the Malvern Hills rises to unexpected heights out of the gentle contours of three counties: Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire. The rocks from which the hills are formed are the most ancient in the country, something which perhaps adds to the mystical feel of the area, with its mineral springs, prehistoric earthworks and caverns. All this beauty has provided plenty of inspiration, from the 14th-century Visions of Piers Plowman by William Langland, to the works of JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis and the music of Elgar. Start and end in the spa town of Great Malvern. 

You might also like:

A new hiking network links thousands of towns around Britain The UK's 10 best hiking trails 8 of the world's most epic hikes

This article was first published Mar 30, 2013 and updated Mar 16, 2021.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from England

Day trips from england.

• England to London
• England to Windsor
• England to Amesbury
• England to Bath
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small

2. Private Cotswold Villages Day Tour see the beauty of the Villages

3. Private tours to Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace, Oxford

4. Private Windsor Castle and Stonehenge Day Tour

5. Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, The City of Bath Day Tour

6. Private Cotswolds and Stratford upon Avon

7. Full Day Private Tour in Lizard and West Cornwall

8. Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York

9. Private Shopping Tour from Liverpool hotels to Outlet Cheshire

10. Full day Private Tour of the Isle of Man with experienced qualified driver guide

11. London & Heathrow to Southampton cruise terminals via Windsor Castle

12. Private Day Tour to Bath, Avebury & The Cotswolds

13. Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Tour

14. Hire a Driver from Southampton Day Tour

15. Private half day Guided Tour of Windsor Castle PLUS and History

16. Gems of the British countryside - sightseeing from Southampton

17. Stonehenge and Salisbury / Magna Carta Private Tour from Southampton

18. Osborne House-A driver guided tour of Victoria's Island Paradise

19. Cotswolds Private Tour from Southampton

20. Stonehenge & Bath Private guided Tours

21. Southampton Cruise Terminal/Hotel to London with Stops at Salisbury & Stonehenge

22. Bath and Stonehenge Day Tour from Southampton

23. Private Tour to Stonehenge, Bath and The Cotswolds

24. Royal Windsor, Oxford & Cotswold Private Tour

25. Essential Cornwall - the "must see" places

26. All Inclusive Full Day Private Tour in Oxford and Cotswold

27. Southampton to Heathrow via Attraction of your choice (Stonehenge, Windsor etc)

28. Stonehenge Private Tour

29. Private Avebury.Stonehenge.Salisbury.

30. Cruise Ship Pickup Private Tour

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in England

Find the right fully guided tour for you in England. There are 168 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 20 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit England.

168 Fully Guided tour packages in England with 1,441 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

5-Day Devon & Cornwall Small Group from London

Small group is definitely the best way to see the attractions! B&B accomodations were lovely.

• Coach / Bus

Best of Devon and Cornwall (6 Days)

Really enjoyed the tour and all the history of the areas we visited. As a visitor from Australia there is so much to learn.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

London Explorer (8 Days)

The itinerary was excellent, saw everything that I had hoped to see, and there was plenty of free time to explore on my own.

3-Day Lake District Explorer Small-Group Tour from Manchester

The places to visit were also well chosen with really positive communication between the tour guide and ourselves.

• Hiking & Trekking

Walk Hadrian's Wall Highlights

Highlights of South-West England

• Walking Adventure

London & Iconic England Tour - 6 days

Every location that we visited was amazing and our tour exceeded all expectations.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Corners of Cornwall

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

London & Country

The 2 days we went outside of London with the group were ok.

Stonehenge, Devon & Cornwall - 5 days

Kent: the Garden of England

Cycle Hadrian's Wall - Coast to Coast

I had a very good holiday

Stonehenge, Devon & Cornwall (Hotel) - 5 days

Cotswolds Walking Tour

To be in the English Cotswolds countryside is an opportunity which we have been so lucky to have had.

Lake District & Yorkshire Dales Walking & Hiking Tour.

What people love about fully guided tours in england.

This Tour was excellent and I would recommend it to anyone and our Guide and Driver John was extremely informative regarding the History of the area.

Greg is an excellent tour guide, knowledgeable, friendly, cheerful and very helpful. As well our driver was the best, kind and helpful.

Overall, it was a fantastic experience. There were a couple of small hiccups, nothing is perfect, but our guide and our driver did a fantastic job of making the experience fun and meaningful. The only thing I would flag is that the group size is a bit large - we were 46 - which can sometimes make for slower travel. Otherwise, absolutely wonderful!

Top operators

"This tour was absolutely wonderful. It was more beautiful than I ever expected. Everything ran so smoothly. Mark our tour guide was over the top terrific. He even had us all write down 2 songs. He made a playlist and we were all to try and guess who’s song. Made the trip back such fun . He also sent each of us the playlist. Highly recommend. ❤️

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"Greg is an excellent tour guide, knowledgeable, friendly, cheerful and very helpful. As well our driver was the best, kind and helpful.

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"The tour was rated a 2. It should have been a 4. It was poorly laid out-a 12hr overnight ferry crossing with no sleep then av brisk 4 hr hike after arrival. It was downhill after that. I have travelled with intrepid 2 other times -i should have known better. This is it. Anyone who travels with them should think twice

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13 BEST Day Trips From York, England

From exploring the yorkshire dales to a day out at castle howard, these are the best day trips from york perfect for the whole family..

York is one of our favourite cities in Great Britain, and it’s perfect for a weekend away.

Whether it’s shopping along the Shambles, learning about York’s history (which usually involves eating a lot of chocolate), or discovering medieval pubs to cosy up in, it’s one of those cities that you’ll instantly fall in love with.

However, if you’re looking at staying in the city for more than a couple of days, then here are some of the best day trips from York. This is perfect if you want to see some more of Yorkshire (and you should because it’s beautiful).

Yorkshire is known as “God’s Own Country”, so no trip here would be complete without hiking the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Another must is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, an old fashioned steam engine. This is one activity that’s perfect for the whole family. I’m not going to lie to you, the dad’s always seem to love it more than the kids!

I really can’t recommend York and the surrounding countryside enough though. Hopefully these York day trips will help you plan your trip here. Right, let’s get into it!

Plus, if you’re looking at treating yourself, here are the best Michelin starred restaurants in Yorkshire and the best luxury and boutique hotels in Yorkshire .

13 Amazing Day Trips from York

Located on the Yorkshire Coast, Whitby is such an amazing place to visit in Yorkshire. Check out the Pavilion where you can watch the latest films in the cinema, rock out at a gig, or grab a portion of tasty fish and chips.

Of course you’re going to want to visit the beach at Whitby. Hop on the Whitby Coastal Cruise where you can sail out into the bay and explore the Yorkshire Coastline. If you prefer to keep your feet on land, you can enjoy the open-top bus tour instead.

Fans of Dracula are going to want to try the audio-guided GeoStories where you can follow in the footsteps of Bram Stoker. Stoker was famously wrote the novel in Whitby, so if you’re a fan of the book there’s an extra special connection here.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Known for its picturesque scenery, Yorkshire Dales National Park is the perfect choice for those who love the great outdoors. Whether you choose to go walking or to visit historical towns and castle ruins, there’s something for everyone.

The Dales are full of natural attractions, like Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls. Will you be brave enough to tackle the Three Peaks? Take in the landscapes as you take on one peak, or conquer all three.

If you’re more into sightseeing, there’s so many quaint towns to visit. I love checking out the independent shops in Kirkby Stephen, a small market town. The Parish Church has one of two Loki stones in Europe, which depict the Norse God. 

Kilburn White Horse

Located in the hills of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park is Britain’s largest white horse. Kilburn White Horse is one of the most famous landmarks and a fun day trip from York. 

At a massive 318 feet long and 220 feet high, you can’t miss it! Why not take a walk down the scenic footpath to see the majestic horse up close? Did you know, the best view is from Bagby Road? Take a seat on one of the benches or capture the perfect picture to share on Instagram!

Castle Howard

Castle Howard and gardens is a unique day trip from York. The well preserved house and exquisite gardens are a must-see. 

Whilst touring around the house, there are so many unique exhibits and tours to choose from. You can learn about the hidden lives of the women at Castle Howard, hidden objects, or the impact of the war. I would personally recommend visiting the chapel, with its stunning pre-Raphaelite architecture. 

Castle Howard is a popular filming location. Can you spot where scenes from Bridgerton and Victoria were filmed? It was even used in the Arctic Monkeys ‘Four Out Of Five’ video!

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

For a fantastic day out, head to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway . This is an old fashioned steam train that runs from Whitby along the Yorkshire coast to Pickering.

Once a popular route, this heritage rail line was brought back to life and reopened showing what the journey would’ve once been like. Each station is a classic station from the early-mid 1900’s. The life of the railway has gone full circle, and it’s now one of the busiest steam trains again in the world!

On the train you can have afternoon tea, have a delicious decadent dinner, meet Santa during the holiday season, or our favourite, solve a murder mystery. This really is one of the best day trips from York that’s for sure!

Visit Leeds , the unofficial capital of Yorkshire, for a fantastic day out. Whether you’re a couple enjoying a date, a family looking for fun or you want to shop ‘till you drop, there’s plenty for everyone in this city.

Head to Tropical World or Meanwood Valley Urban Farm for an animal-packed day with the kids, or check out one of Leeds’ many museums for a quieter day. We love visiting the ancient Egyptian mummies at Leeds City Museum!

Don’t forget to check out the independent food scene – after all, Leeds is known as the foodie capital of the North.

Home of the Bronte sisters, Haworth is a must-visit. With a rich literary history and surrounded by the Moors, there’s so much to do in this picturesque village.

Of course you must visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum and experience how the famous sisters lived as they wrote novels which would stand the test of time. Perhaps you’d prefer to explore Haworth village and park on a short one mile walk through the cobbled streets?

Treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea at Cobbles and Clay or head to Mrs Beighton’s Sweet Shop to choose from over 500 different varieties of sweets!

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the charming village of Saltaire has a rich industrial past. Now it’s home to many museums, including the infamous Salts Mill. 

Why not hop aboard the Saltaire Trio Boat to see the charming village in all its glory as you sail down the canal? Be sure to look out for Victoria Hall and Roberts Park. Art fans can check out the David Hockney collection at Salts Mill.

For a unique experience visit Interlude Cafe, a 1920s style tea room that specialises in a classic cream tea. Do you put jam or cream first?

The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner is one of York’s most unique attractions. Located in Tupgill Park, the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers make for a brilliant family day out.

Run through the underground dwellings and explore the stone pathways to see what surprises pop out. There are many things to see, from the Green Man and castle towers. The newest addition is the stained glass windows which have come from Carlton Church.

Don’t forget to take your picnic and enjoy the gardens and outdoors areas. I’ll be munching on fresh donuts from The Potting Shed – yum!

Durham 

From museums and parks, to shopping and museums, there’s so much to do in Durham. This city is full of activities for family fun, a romantic date, or a solo adventure.

For some family fun, check out Beamish, the living museum of the north. Here you can travel back in time in this immersive experience. It’s brilliant fun!

Durham is the perfect place for shopaholics. From farmers markets and antiques, to independent boutiques and shopping centres, you’ll find exactly what you need. Pick out a new cushion with your partner or take yourself on a shopping spree. 

Knaresborough 

With stunning architecture surrounded by cliffs, Knaresborough is top of my list of places to visit in Yorkshire. I just love the feel of the marketplace surrounded by mediaeval streets.

Check out the mediaeval remains of Knaresborough Castle before checking out the independent shops in the traditional marketplace. I love visiting Yorkshire Mixture, where you can choose from 100 jars of traditional sweets. 

If you love the great outdoors you’re going to want to visit Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well. The landmark is England’s oldest visitor attraction and has been open since 1630! Check out the mile-long walk along the River Nidd.

Bolton Abbey

There’s so much to see and do at Bolton Abbey making it’s place to visit. From the Priory Church and Ruins and Barden Tower, to the Valley of Desolation and The Money Tree, you’ll be entertained for hours. 

Check out the stunning 12th century ruins of the Augustinian Priory before venturing through the riverside landscapes that surround it.

Why not admire the aqueduct or jump across the 60 stepping stones across the river, which were once a crossing point for workers. 

Harrogate 

Rounding off our list of York day trips is Harrogate , which is a fantastic year-round destination. Discover the Victorian spa town and all it has to offer.

The Turkish Baths are perfect for a romantic getaway. Offering modern treatments with the Victorian Turkish baths decor, this is the ideal location for a relaxing couples activity. Why not finish your evening with a show at one of Harrogate’s many theatres?

Our green-fingered readers are going to love the variety of gardens in Harrogate. Check out the Himalayan Gardens and Sculpture Park where you can discover over 80 sculptures and botanical masterpieces! 

There are so many fantastic day trips from York to choose from! Which one of these are at the top of your list? If you have any questions at all you can let us know in the comments below!

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11 Unmissable Day Trips from Manchester (By Train & Car!)

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The following list of day trips from Manchester is brought to you by Tilly from  TillyText , a Manchester local! Read on for her roundup of the greatest Manchester day trips, and how to access them by car or train.

There’s a reason it’s hard to drag yourself away from Manchester.

Well, there’s about nine. Music, shopping, culture and one-hell-of-a-night-out. It’s true when they say Manchester truly has everything you could wish for from a great Northern city in the UK. 

But so do the areas surrounding Manchester, too. You’ve got the swoon-worthy Lake District so beautiful that Taylor dedicated a whole entire song to it on her album – in fact, pretty much all of the cute quaint little towns outside Manchester look like they belong in the Folklore universe. 

Not to mention the bustling cities of York and Liverpool that are on hand to help you experience a distinctly different flavour of a good British knees-up!

So, if you’re lucky enough to have set aside a whole weekend to explore Manchester and its surrounding areas, why not jump on the train (or snag a lift) to do one of these fab day trips – after smashing through this 24 hours in Manchester itinerary, of course.

Save this list of Manchester Day Trips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Liverpool

The argument over which is a better city has made Mancunians and Liverpudlians even feistier over the years (an achievement in itself!). An easy way for you to settle this debate is to visit them both yourself. 

If you’re a big Beatles fan, there’s plenty of fun Beatles-themed Liverpool activities, like the Magical Mystery Tour , a fascinating 2-hour tour over every spot in the city the band ever laid eyes on. Or head to the British Music Experience Museum to fully cement the idea that no one has contributed more to British music than Northerners. 

Finish the day by testing out some of Liverpool’s incredible beer gardens and terraces, before moving onto Matthew Street or one of the city’s very many Irish bars for a night out you definitely won’t forget in a hurry. 

And yes, that photo of you and the John Lennon statue will definitely look good in the morning.

How to get to Liverpool from Manchester: The drive to Liverpool takes just over an hour if you’re willing to deal with city centre parking. Equally, you can get a direct train from either Manchester Victoria or Manchester Picadilly to Liverpool Lime Street for less than £10.

2. Crosby Beach  

Look, no one is going to the North of England for beaches. That’s what the South is for! 

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some great coastal spots up there too. One of these is Crosby Beach. 

Crosby Beach is just outside Liverpool city centre, which makes it a very doable day trip from Manchester. Come summer, the beach is full of groups of friends enjoying those endless summer evenings with a picnic blanket, music speaker, and can of supermarket gin and tonic. 

And the pièce de résistance to Crosby Beach? The 100 cast-iron figures stretching the coastline, many of which are in the water when the tide comes back in. So, no. You don’t need to call the coastguard to rescue that random person who is stuck still in the far distance.

How to get to Crosby Beach from Manchester: Unless you’re driving to Crosby Beach, the quickest way to get there from Manchester is taking a train from Manchester Victoria or Manchester Picadilly to Liverpool Lime Street, and then changing onto a train to Blundellsands & Crosby station. The beach is a 10-minute walk from there.

3. Hebden Bridge

There’s no doubt that Manchester has its fair share of vegetarian eateries, independent coffee houses, and shops full of everything and anything. 

But so does the small market town of Hebden Bridge. And some might even say it does it better!

After it was taken over by former hippies in the 1970s, Hebden Bridge quickly became home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, locally sourced and independent businesses, and a melting pot of free-thinking and liberation. 

The reason I love Hebden Bridge is because it’s one of the more unique day trips from Manchester. Where else are you able to spend hours trawling through one-of-a-kind stores stocking eco-friendly clothing, and also go wild swimming, too?

How to get to Hebden Bridge from Manchester: Direct trains from Manchester Victoria to Hebden Bridge take less than 30 minutes and cost less than £5.

4. Hope Valley (The Peak District)

Much like how Evermore is Folklore’s chaotic younger sister , the Peak District is the dramatic and all-encompassing counterpart to the more serene and cool-as-a-cucumber Lake District. 

If you’re looking to find yourself in the Peaks’ many gritstone ridges and stark moorlands (or just fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle of Manchester city centre for the day) head to Hope Valley. 

Here, you can strap on your walking boots and complete one of the many renowned nearby walks like Mam Tor and Kinder Scout. 

And the best reward after a couple of hours hiking in the Hope Valley? A cold pint of cider or a hot mulled wine in one of the local villages – depending on the season you visit. 

However, I’d argue a Sunday roast goes well whatever the weather. 

How to get to Hope Valley from Manchester: Hope Valley is a great option for those who want to explore The Peak District without a car. You can get the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Hope (Derbyshire) for about £7.50 and takes less than 50 minutes.

It’s okay that Manchester isn’t the prettiest city. Why? Because Buxton’s just over an hour away. 

Step into the set of Bridgerton (not literally – that’s Bath , but Buxton looks close!) in this quaint town full to the brim with Georgian and Victorian architecture that’s guaranteed to make you swoon. 

You could take a romantic stroll in Buxton’s Pavilion Gardens while keeping an eye out for the Duke of Hastings looking for his next wife, or rent a boat and go rowing in the lake desperately hoping that Anthony will appear soaking and shirtless on the promenade!

After trying (and sadly probably failing) to be married off into perhaps the greatest literary family out there, you can dry your tears on Buxton’s outdoor adventure Go Ape course where you’ll have so much fun swinging through the trees, you won’t even notice the humungous camel toe from your harness…

How to get to Buxton from Manchester: You can get a train from Manchester to Buxton that takes just over an hour, and starts from just £5 if you book in advance.

Small and mighty – that’s the best way to describe York. And fitting everything into only one day might be a challenge, but it’s definitely possible. 

You just have to keep an eye on the time you spend getting lost in this medieval city’s higgledy-piggledy back lanes, the number of cups of tea you drink at Betty’s Tea Rooms, and the photos you take in the 2,000-year-old Gothic halls of York’s cathedral!

If you still need convincing that York is worth the visit, why not trust the thousands of people who have voted it as one of the UK’s top tourist destinations? They probably went to the city’s Viking Centre, too… yep, you read that right.

How to get to York from Manchester: There are tons of trains that go between York and Manchester every day. The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes and can cost as little as £6.90 if you book ahead of time.

7. The Lake District 

Find out if those Windermere peaks really do look like a perfect place to cry by visiting the Lake District for a day. 

Compared to the Peaks, the Lakes are a little further out of Manchester – but they’re definitely more than worth the extra journey…

You could honestly just go to The Lake District for the jaw-dropping scenery itself, but if you’re up for it, there are also a few short-ish hikes that’ll really help you understand why Taylor kept begging to go back here. 

The Old Man of Coniston route takes you up and through some of The Lakes’ steepest and most spectacular peaks, passing the many remnants of discounted copper mines. No doubt the incredible view from the top from leave you speechless and unable to shout all the many Wordsworth puns in your repertoire. 

Finish your day trip to The Lake District by visiting some of the other imaginatively named towns like Ambleside or Lakeside. The best way to get there? Across Lake Windermere on a boat, of course. Oh, Taylor would be so proud!

How to get to the Lake District from Manchester: The easiest way to get to the Lake District is to drive, however, it is possible to get the train. There are over 30 direct trains from Manchester to Oxenholme Lake District every day. Just be wary of the walk on the other side to get to the different hotspots.

8. Stockport

If you’d asked a Mancunian about the best Manchester day trips ten years ago, they would never have said Stockport. However, this historic market town is now well and truly on the map. 

Just seven minutes on the train from Manchester Picadilly, Stockport is the definition of a great day trip destination: accessible, affordable, and different enough from the starting point 

Take Stockport’s unique hat museum, for example. That’s not in Manchester! And the gorgeous 1930s art deco theatre that does afternoon tea. You can’t find that in the city! 

Aside from some brilliant cultural landmarks and museums (don’t miss Stockport’s Staircase House, a Medieval townhouse that’s been converted into a museum), there are also tons of great places to eat and drink in Stockport. 

See here: Where the Light Gets In, an open kitchen/restaurant where the chefs aren’t separated from the diners, and the soon-to-be-opened curry banquet hall with room for 1500+ people looking for some delicious Indian cuisine across four staggering floors.

Need I say more?

How to get to Stockport from Manchester: There’s no need to drive to Stockport. You can take a direct train from Manchester Picadilly which takes as little as 7 minutes, or the 203 bus which (unsurprisingly) takes slightly longer.

Fans of the Brontë sisters, this one’s for you. Step into the world of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights with a visit to Haworth, a quintessential village just off the Yorkshire moors. 

With cobbled streets lined with shops and cafes, and majestic steam trains bringing visitors to their very own moorland adventure, Haworth belongs in every Gothic romance. 

There’s also the must-visit Brontë Parsonage Museum where keen Brontë buffs will delight in showing you around the house of these female literary legends. 

Just remember to bring your Cathy or your Heathcliffe with you…

How to get to Haworth from Manchester: The far easiest way to get to Haworth is by car. However, you can also get there by train – it’s just a little long-winded. You could either get the train from Manchester Victoria to Hebden Bridge, before taking the hourly 500 bus to Haworth over the moors. Equally (and a much more fun way) to get to Haworth from Manchester is by taking a train to Leeds, then a train to Keighley. At Keighley, hop onto the restored Keighley and Worth Valley steam train.

10. Dovestones

If you’re keen to escape the hullabaloo of Manchester city centre but have vowed never to be that person who pretends to like hiking , Dovestones is a great middleman. 

Part of the Peak District National Park, a day trip to Dovestone Reservoir will give you the chance to experience the unique beauty of the Peaks, but on a much more toned-down scale; a popular walk in the Dovestone Reservoir is a pretty flat circular route around the Reservoir edge and briefly up into the Twilight -esque forest. 

Hold on tight, Spider Monkey!

Those in desperate need of some cool countryside air often head to Dovestones with a picnic in tow, ready to be eaten near the end of the trail on the allocated picnic benches. 

If it’s chilly, you’ll also likely see many walkers warming themselves up on their flasks of tea and hot chocolate!

How to get to Dovestones from Manchester: Annoyingly, Dovestones isn’t very accessible by public transport, so your best bet is to go by car (or head to Hope Valley in the Peak District instead.)

11. Chester 

Chester is my Roman Empire. No, really. This historic city is home to the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain – not to mention some great places to grab some grub and a pint.

I often find cities that feel like you’re reading a history textbook aren’t usually as good for eating, drinking, and shopping – but that doesn’t fly with Chester. 

You could spend hours nosing about independent and high-street brands in Chester’s Tudor-style half-timber buildings or following the Roman walls along traditional boozers and local pubs!

Slightly left-field suggestions for a Chester day trip include a visit to Chester Zoo (one of the UK’s largest zoos that’s so famous it appears on British TV) and kayaking or paddleboarding along the River Dee. 

Equally, having a drink and a mooch around the Roman ruins is great, too.

How to get to Chester from Manchester: You can get a direct train to Chester from Manchester in 50 minutes for as cheap as £5.80 if you book ahead of time.

Did we miss any of your favourite Day Trips from Manchester? 

Let us know in the comments!

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England Vacation Packages 6-Days and More

7-Day London Classic

Kent - Garden of England - 7 Days

Best of Devon & Cornwall, West of England - 8 Days

London & England Explorer - 8 Days

London & Paris - 9 Days

England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland - 10 Days

England & Scotland - 10 Days

England, France, Germany, Italy & More - 14 Days

England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland - 15 Days

European Discovery - 16 Days

Britain & Ireland Grandeur - 23 Days

European Supreme with 3 Day Cruise - 30 Days

Our guide to England vacation packages in 2024. We’ve made a list of over 20 package tours to England, and some also include visits to Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Choose from large or small group experiences, with a huge selection of tour lengths and itineraries to suit every interest. From our classic England packages to themed trips for special events taking place in 2024, check out our complete guide below.

Quicklinks:

England Vacation Packages >>>

England & Scotland Vacation Packages >>>

England & Ireland Vacation Packages >>>

Packages for Special Events in 2024

TV & Movie Themed Packages >>>

Self-Drive & Private Packages >>>

Guide to Planning your Trip to England >>>

Frequently Asked Questions

Vacation Packages to England

Our pick of vacation packages that mainly visit England, starting and ending in London. Some of the trips have the option of travelling with a smaller group of no more than 24 guests.

8 Days Devon & Cornwall >>>

13 Days Devon & Cornwall** >>>

8 Days – London Explorer >>>

9 Days England Package >>>

5 Days Gems of Britain** >>>

**Small Group Tour option

Best of Devon & Cornwall – 8 Days

Trip Size: Large Group

Price: from $1,950 USD per person

Package Includes: Accommodation, some meals, transport

This is a very popular England vacation package that takes you to two of the iconic regions – Devon and Cornwall. These are the lands where the legends of King Arthur came alive, most notably at Tintagel Castle. It’s where the pilgrims set sail on the Mayflower in Plymouth. And it’s where Capability Brown created one of his most famous English gardens at Longleat. You’ll see beautiful countryside in Dartmoor National Park, wonderful sea views from the coastline and visit stately homes as well as Windsor Castle. Plus in Cornwall, you’ll visit and see amazing views from St. Michael’s Mount!

More Details: Devon & Cornwall >>>

Country Roads Wales, Devon & Cornwall – 13 Days

Trip Size: Choice of Large or Small Group

Price: from $5,150 USD per person

This is a similar itinerary to the 8-day vacation package above, but this time extended and with a different feel to the trip. Travel down country roads as you meander your way through the glorious English countryside. See the university city of Oxford and explore the quintessential Cotswolds villages. You’ll also visit Wales, with an overnight stay in Cardiff.

London Explorer – 8 Days

Trip type: Large Group

Price: from $2,150 USD per person

Our 8-day package tour takes you to the best of London! See the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace and get a sense of royal life at Windsor Castle. Soak up English culture at Borough Food Market, enjoy a cruise along the River Thames and explore Westminster Abbey where King Charles was crowned. Plus, there will be a trip to Windsor Castle to see where Harry and Meghan tied the knot, as well as the world-famous stone circle at Stonehenge.

More Details: London Explorer >>>

Real England Package – 9 Days

Price: from $1,800 USD per person

Includes: Accommodation, some meals, transport

This 9-day trip starts in London and travels north into Northern England. It combines old-world cities like York, with the stunning countryside of the UNESCO Lake District. You’ll get to see the home of the Beatles in Liverpool, regency era Bath and the most mysterious stone circle in the world at Stonehenge. You will also spend a day in Edinburgh which is the Scottish capital and briefly see Cardiff which is the Welsh capital.

More Details: Real England Trip >>>

Gems of Britain – 5 Days

Price: from $1,595 USD per person

With this fast-paced 5 day trip you’ll discover some fantastic places in England, as well as seeing a bit of Scotland and Wales. You’ll see the historic northern city of Chester that was built by the Romans and marvel at the beauty of the Lake District National Park. Visitors will also explore Shakespeare’s birth town of Stratford-upon-Avon along with admiring the Scottish and Welsh capitals. It’s a great introductory trip to England if you are looking for a short vacation package.

More Details: Gems of Britain >>>

England & Scotland Vacation Packages

Here are our picks of vacation packages that combine both England and Scotland, as well as a bit of Wales. All packages start and end in London.

10 Days Britain Package >>>

14 Days Britain Package >>>

11 Days Britain Package** >>>

13 Days Britain Package** >>>

** Available as a small group tour

Amazing Britain Package – 10 Days

Price: from $2,475 USD per person

Our amazing Britain package starts in London as you’ll travel into Northern England. Highlights of the England part of the trip include visiting the birthplace of William Shakespeare in the town of Stratford-upon-Avon. You’ll explore the three great cities of York, Liverpool and Bristol, each with its own distinct feel and charm. Plus, discover exquisite towns including Durham and Bath. In Scotland, you’ll stay 2 nights in Edinburgh, 1 night in Glasgow and venture into the Scottish Highlands.

More Details: Amazing Britain >>>

Best of Britain Package – 14 Days

Price: from $3,650 USD per person

Our 14-day package has a lot in common with the 10-day package above but is extended with more fantastic locations! Departing and returning from London you’ll visit Northern England and head into Scotland. You’ll also visit the southwest of England. See Plymouth where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for the New World, with millions of American families tracing their family heritage back to these voyages. You’ll also explore the legends of King Arthur with a visit to mystical Glastonbury. In Scotland, you will also head to the Isle of Skye, an island with one of the most spectacular pieces of scenery in the world!

More Details: Best of Britain >>>

Best of Britain Package – 11 Days

Price: from $2,825 USD per person

This trip will venture from London into Northern England, stopping at classic highlights including Stratford-upon-Avon and the Viking town of York. 3 days are spent in Scotland, with stops in the two big cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as time in the magnificent Scottish countryside. On your way back down south, you’ll drive through the Lake District and Wales. The trip also heads into South West England, stopping at Plymouth where the Pilgrim Father’s set sail to America.

More Details: Britain 11 Day Package >>>

Elegance of Britain Package – 13 Days

Trip Size: Large or Small Group

Price: from $4,370 USD per person

Departure Point: London or Edinburgh

Our 13-day package spends most of the time in England, with two nights in the Scottish capital of Edinburgh. We’ll explore the Lake District, a UNESCO region that was home to many English writers and poets including Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. We’ll stay 2 nights in the Viking city of York and use it as a base to explore the cathedral city and the nearby town of Lincoln. Highlights include a visit to the Brontë Parsonage Museum where the Brontë sisters – Charlotte, Emily and Anne lived. As we head down south, we’ll stop at Blenheim Palace, England’s version of the Palace of Versailles that was the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Plus there will be visits to Stonehenge, Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon and more!

More Details: Elegance of Britain >>>

England & Ireland Vacation Packages

Our picks of packages combining trips to England and Ireland.

10 Days Britain & Ireland >>>

15 Days England & Ireland >>>

20 Days Britain & Ireland** >>>

24 Days UK & Ireland Package** >>>

**Small group tour option

Britain & Ireland Highlights – 10 Days

Price: from $2,675 USD per person

Our whistlestop package tour combines a bit of England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland. Perfect if you are short on time but want to see a lot of places. You’ll head from London into Northern England to York and the Lake District. See Glasgow and Edinburgh before taking a ferry into Northern Ireland. See Belfast and Dublin and enjoy the delights of the Irish countryside. A ferry crossing takes you into Wales, where you’ll pass by Cardiff and return to London stopping at Stonehenge and Bath along the way.

More details: Britain & Ireland 10 Days >>>

England & Ireland Package – 15 Days

Price: from $3,795 USD per person

With 15 days there’s a little bit more time to explore England and Ireland in depth. On this package tour, you’ll spend 9 days in England, 2 days in Scotland and 4 days in Ireland. That’s a great way to get a feel for the beautiful landscapes and customs of this part of the world, as well as a taste of English, Scottish and Irish cultures, which are all quite different and unique. The trip also includes two short ferry rides between Britain and Ireland.

More Details: England & Ireland 15 Days >>>

Romantic Britain & Ireland – 20 Days

Trip Size: Small or Large Group

Price: from $6,950 USD per person

Our 20 day mega trip to Britain and Ireland is a wonderful way to explore the region. In England, you’ll visit towns including Plymouth, Oxford, Bath and York. In Scotland you’ll head to Loch Ness, venture onto the Isle of Skye and see the home of golf at St Andrews. Spend a day exploring the Northern Ireland capital city of Belfast before heading down south into Ireland. Here you’ll explore lots of spectacular countryside, as well as see the Irish capital of Dublin. There is even time spent in Wales and Cardiff. This trip has something for everyone – UNESCO World Heritage Sites, big cities, quaint villages and spectacular countryside.

More Details: Britain & Ireland 20 Days >>>

UK & Ireland Package – 24 Days

Price: from $7,195 USD per person

Spend 3.5 weeks exploring England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland in depth. This is quite possibly the trip of a lifetime, with the choice of a small or large group. It’s hard to sum this one up in just a short paragraph, but it’s probably the most in-depth vacation package we offer. It’s also the only tour that heads into the UNESCO Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland which was a Game of Thrones filming location, as well as visiting UNESCO Conwy Castle in North Wales.

More Details: 24 Day Package >>>

Vacation Packages for Special Events 2024

There are lots of special events taking place in England during 2024, and we’ve listed below some of the specialist vacation packages that coincide with these events. We also have garden packages that include the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Many of these are once-in-a-lifetime events that are not to be missed!

3 Day Platinum Jubilee Weekend Package >>>

4 Day Edinburgh Military Tattoo Package >>>

15 Days English Gardens & Chelsea Flower Show >>>

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Package – 4 Days

Price: from £319 per person

Departure Dates: August 

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of the most important events in Scotland, with military bands and performers descending onto the Scottish capital from around the world. There will be Highland Dancers, military pipes and drums, flybys of military jets, fireworks and more! The package also includes a visit to Loch Lomond in the Scottish Highlands.

More Details: Edinburgh Tattoo Package 2024 >>>

English Gardens & Chelsea Flower Show – 15 days

Price: From $5,559 per person

Our 15-day package takes you around the fabulous gardens of England. Starting in London you’ll spend a day at the Chelsea Flower Show, perhaps the biggest horticultural event in the world with spectacular displays from international exhibitors. It takes place in May for just 6 days every year, so this is a rare treat for flower lovers! Following your visit, you will then tour England visiting some of the finest gardens and country estates in the world! This includes The Lost Garden of Heligan, Wisley Gardens, Bodnant Garden, Blenheim Palace and more! Regions of England that are visited on this package include Cornwall, the Lake District, the Cotswolds and North Wales. The trip also includes a visit to Bampton, which was the real-life village used in the filming of the Downton Abbey TV Series.

More Details: Chelsea Garden Package >>>

Interested in more English garden packages? Check out our dedicated page for English Garden Package Tours .

Movie & TV Themed Packages

There are loads of blockbuster movies and TV shows that have been filmed and produced in the UK. American audiences have been wowed by series including Downton Abbey, Outlander and Game of Thrones. Here are some shorter and longer vacation packages dedicated to these shows!

5 Days Downton Abbey Mini-Package >>>

4 Days Game of Thrones Mini-Package >>>

13 Days Outlander Package >>>

Downton Abbey Vacation Package – 5 Days

Price: from £675 per person

Our Downton Abbey package visits the real-life locations used in the making of the hit TV series. You’ll visit Highclere Castle, the iconic country estate that will be instantly recognizable to fans of the show! Explore the majestic rooms and lavish gardens. The package will then visit a selection of manor houses and country estates that were typical of the Downton Abbey period of history. This includes Loseley Park, Hatchalnds Park, as well as a visit to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery, makers of the iconic drink!

More Details: Downton Abbey Package >>>

Game of Thrones Mini-Package – 4 Days

Price: from £499 per person

Game of Thrones fans will love this 4-day package that visits the filming locations in Northern Ireland! It includes flights from London to Belfast and free time to explore the city. You’ll visit the recently opened Game of Thrones Studio Tour where you’ll go behind the scenes to see how the TV series was brought to life. The next day, you’ll drive to the Giant’s Causeway and into the Northern Irish countryside to see locations used to portray the free city of Braavos, the Stormlands, the cost of Dorne and the background for Kingsroad.

More Details: Game of Thrones Package >>>

Outlander Inspired Package – 13 Days

Price: from $3,825 per person

Our 13-day Outlander inspired package takes you along the Highland trail to explore some of the most spectacular locations in the region. You’ll start the trip in Edinburgh and end in Glasgow, travelling through the Highlands in between. You’ll see Outlander filming locations for the village of Cranesmuir, Mrs Baird’s B&B, ‘L’Hopital des Anges’, as well as landscapes that were used as backdrops for some of the most important scenes in the show. You’ll visit the Orkney Island and the Isle of Skye, pass through Glencoe, Inverness, St. Andrews and much more!

More Details: Outlander Package >>>

Self-Drive & Private Vacation Packages

Self-Drive Packages

Looking to go solo? We can put together a once-in-a-lifetime self-drive package that can include inspirational driving roads in England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland. We can arrange for car hire and can plan an itinerary according to your interests. Feel free to get in touch for more information.

Private Packages

Looking to travel in a group of 9 or more? A private vacation package can work out as a really cost-effective way of travelling. Take a look at our private tour pages for some inspiration. We can arrange private versions of the tour package listed above. Or we can tailor make a trip according to your interests with an expert guide. We can even arrange family heritage tours to trace the roots of your ancestors. Feel free to get in touch with us to find out more information.

Guide to Planning a Trip

There are so many different vacation packages to choose from when visiting England, let’s break it down and give you a few important things to consider!

Where to Visit? England, Scotland, Britain, UK, United Kingdom….

This can get confusing so let’s start out by getting a few things straight!

England is part of what is officially called The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland . That’s a very long name to keep using! So to make things a little easier, we’ll just call it the UK.

The UK is made up of 4 regions – England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland . And across the border from Northern Ireland lies the country of Ireland (which is totally independent from the UK.)

So the first question to ask when looking for an England vacation package. Are you looking just to visit England? Or do you also want to visit other parts of the United Kingdom as well?

There are a few ways to plan an England Vacation Package. You could visit:

100% England Packages (we’ve got plenty of amazing things to see here!)

England with Scotland Packages: Combine a trip and go to Scotland as well!

England, Scotland & Ireland Packages : The big trip! These vacation packages sometimes also include Northern Ireland as well. For this size of trip, we recommend packages that are at least 2 weeks long!

And what about Wales? Many of the vacation packages also include 1 or 2 days in Wales

So in this article, we’ll divide up our vacation packages into 4 – ‘100% England Packages’, ‘England & Scotland Packages’, ‘England & Ireland Packages’ & finally ‘Special Packages’

What are our special vacation packages ? Well… these are packages that are based around a specific theme or event. In 2024, we have the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo Parade in July.

Plus we’ve got some amazing vacation packages for Downton Abbey fans, Game of Thrones fans, Outlander fans, as well as some awesome walking trips, railway trips and even adventure trips!

That’s a lot of England vacation packages to sift through! So please use the contents at the top of the page to navigate directly to what interests you.

We hope you find this guide useful. Please contact the Tourist England team if you have any questions!

How much would a trip to England cost?

This really depends on the length of your vacation package and the size of the group. Prices can range anywhere from $1,800 per person for an 8 day trip in a large group to over $5,000 for a 14-day small-group tour of England.

How many days do you need in England?

We would say that at least 7 days is a good amount of time to explore many of the highlights of England and get a feel for the country. Of course, you could easily spend many more days exploring the best of England, Scotland and Ireland with our amazing vacation packages from London !

How Can I spend 10 days in the UK?

We have many package tours that are 10 days in duration. Typically these trips depart from London and you can expect to spend 7-8 days in England, with 2-3 days in Scotland. With these kinds of holidays, you will normally travel in a loop, travelling north from London along the east side of England, heading into Scotland and then returning to London via the west side of England, with a little bit of Wales as well. Regions you’ll visit include Yorkshire, the Lake District, Scotland and London.

Do these vacation packages include financing options?

Many of the packages offer financing options, allowing you to spread out the cost of the trip over multiple payments. Many of the tours also require a low-value deposit in order to secure your place on the tour.

Do all-inclusive vacations get cheaper closer to date?

Normally booking well in advance is a good way to get a great price on vacation deals, since travel companies like people to book early. Vacation packages will only get cheaper closer to the travel date if the travel company is struggling to fill up the tour.

Is there a package to London and Paris?

We have a 9-day London and Paris vacation package that’s perfect for you! Spend a few days in London before hopping over the English channel and spend some time exploring the French capital.

Do you have mini-vacation packages to England?

Yes, we also have a selection of multi-day tours from London that last 2-5 days, as well as Scotland minibreaks from Edinburgh . These are great options if you are looking to visit a lot of sights but are pressed for time.

more things to do

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring London on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

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25 Things to do in London

Get Tickets to Harry Potter Studio Tour If Sold Out

Highclere Castle Opening Dates 2024