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Original London Sightseeing Bus Tour

The 9 best bus tours in London from 007 to fine dining

Anyone call for a bright red double-decker? See the capital in all its glory on one of these brilliant London bus tours

Whether you’re after a whirlwind tour of London’s attractions  for the first time or you want a little refresher of your favourite spots in London, we’ve rounded up the best London bus tours for you to take your pick. Our choice selection includes open-top classics that enable you to tick off your favourite landmarks one by one and some sinister tours that take place after dark... And don’t worry Harry Potter fans – we’ve included a London bus tour that takes in all the bespectacled boy wizard’s trips around the capital, from King’s Cross to Number 12 Grimmauld Place. 

Time Out tip:  Wherever you're headed while you're visiting London always have two things to hand: a brolly and Citymapper. 

Want more? 🚲Try a London bike tour instead 💂‍♀️Check out  the best London tours   🛏Stay in the best Airbnbs in London

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

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best London bus tours

1.  the beatles evening tour.

The Beatles evening tour

Trace the years from 1962 to 1970, when Beatlemania was at its peak, as you visit more than 35 Beatles-related landmarks on this evening tour of central London. You’ll also see some of the sites surrounding the band members’ individual music careers, while your expert local guide entertains you with Beatles history through music and film footage - don't worry, there are plenty of photo stops.

Time Out tip: If you're a Beatles fan, you might also enjoy Music of The Mind, an exhibition exploring the works of artist and activist Yoko Ono. It runs until 1st September. 

2.  Ghost bus tour

Ghost bus tour

Set aside an hour of your time to get well and truly spooked. On this ghost bus tour you’ll cruise the city’s historic streets in an old Routemaster (painted black, of course), learning all about London’s gruesome past with a hefty helping on chilling tales and the most haunted sites in the capital.

Time Out tip: For even more gore, why not check out the Sweeny Todd experience at the London Dungeon ?

3.  Big Bus London hop-on hop-off tour

Big Bus London hop-on hop-off tour

Hop on and off at London's best landmarks and attractions on this classic open-top tour bus. Soak up the sights with over 40 stops around the capital, listen to captivating commentary about your surroundings and experience it all at your own pace.

Time Out tip: With a city this widespread, you'll need some flexibility. For that, you can grab a ticket valid for up to three days, that way you can take your time getting to know London.

4.  Harry Potter bus tour

Harry Potter bus tour

We may all be muggles, but London contains a wealth of fun Harry Potter experiences that are more than magical. Hop onboard this tour and you’ll journey from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross to Number 12 Grimmauld Place – a trip that takes three hours (aka just enough time to get  really  into the Potterverse). You’ll get to learn about locations that inspired JK Rowling’s awesome books and discover the tales behind some of wizarding wonders. And the best thing? You’ll also be shown some of the most famous Harry Potter film locations.

Time Out tip: Once you head back to Kings Cross, you grab a slice and enjoy the sun (providing there is any) at Happy Face Pizza. It's Neapolitan style, so you know it's good. 

5.  James Bond bus tour

James Bond bus tour

Sure, James Bond drives fancy cars, like a classic Aston Martin, but can he fit all his mates in there for a jolly around London? Not likely. Especially if you want to throw a guide in for good measure, too. Luckily, you can fit all those people and more on this Bond bus tour. Delve into 007’s world of espionage and late-night wanderings to discover filming locations as well as sites frequented by Ian Fleming.

Time Out tip: Want even more British novelty? Just a 14-minute tube stop away you'll find Rules, London's oldest restaurant serving traditional British fare. It's pretty fancy, so Bond would approve.

6.  London at night tour

London at night tour

Giving lucky riders a taste of the lit-up London skyline, this 1.5-hour night tour hits all of the top tourist spots. Naturally, you’ll be travelling on-board a classic double-decker, and it’s the perfect way get views of famous attractions, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye after hours. Plus, learn fascinating facts about these legendary landmarks from your expert guide and hear insider tips on exciting places to visit in the capital at night.

Time Out tip : If you're looking for more lates the National Gallery is open until 9 pm every Friday, while Sir John Soane's Museum hosts a themed late each month.

7.  Open-top tour on a vintage bus

Open-top tour on a vintage bus

A vintage double-decker bus has been transformed into an open-top sightseeing experience. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London via the Houses of Parliament, The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral, see London without any of those annoying panes of glass in the way. Aboard the bus, you'll also have screens with historical footage of London through the decades. 

Time Out tip: If you're feeling peckish after the tour, head to the vibrant, colourful Carnaby Street (a 15-minute stroll) for lots of great food options. 

8.  Bustronome London

Bustronome London

A bus tour for gourmands. The Bustronome team combine fine views with fine dining, across a series of lunch, afternoon tea and dinner services. As you pass a sequence of landmarks including Nelson’s Column, the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s and the Tower of London, you’ll also enjoy a seasonal menu with an optional paired wine. Bon appetit!

Time Out tip: While this tour is on the pricier end of the scale, it makes a great gift. Not to mention you get to site-see while you dine.

9.  Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour

Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour

Fancy a quintessentially British afternoon tea on a classic London bus? Get involved on one of Golden Tours' afternoon tea buses  – as you sit down to a brew and a spread of sandwiches, cakes and pastries, you’ll be driven past Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, the Royal Albert Hall and all the usual suspects. Splendid!

Time Out tip: This tour is an excellent choice if you're looking for wholesome hen-do ideas. 

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Hop On Hop Off London - Bus Tours

London sightseeing bus tours, ( ) experiences found.

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City Tour London: Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus

Experience London in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

Get to ride the London Eye or visit Madame Tussauds to say 'hello' to the stars! You'll be saving some pennies if you do. Your ticket allows you to hop off the bus where you choose. You can always hop back on again later!

Nothing beats a good combo ticket. Check out all the options in the simple online booking process. All tickets offered by Golden Tours and Original London Hop on hop off  Tours come with options to add on the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, and more. Options will be presented in the simple online booking process.

And those looking for some great deals may wish to pick up The London Pass, which provides access to the Tower of London, skip-the-line admission at St. Paul's Cathedral, and a lot more! A London bus tour is the perfect accompaniment to your trip and one of the best things to do in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is a hop-on hop-off london bus tour.

A Hop-on Hop-off London bus tour essentially works over a designated route that allows you to see London’s top attractions and set your own itinerary. With all the stops located strategically around all the major attractions, it is convenient to explore at your own pace. When you are ready to return, simply show your pass, hop back on the bus and onward toward your next attraction. You can do this as many times as you like within your ticket limit.

Q: What are the key attractions covered in the London Hop-On Hop-Off tour?

London Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour will take you through major attractions and landmarks including Trafalgar Square, Thames River, Westminster pier or Tower of London pier, London Eye, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral, Downing Street, Piccadilly, Buckingham Palace, and more.

Q: Where can I find a list of all the stops and a map of the various Hop-On Hop-Off London tour routes?

You can visit the relevant product page and check the Useful Downloads section to find the latest information as routes, stops and timings change frequently.

Q: Are these tours guided?

Depending on the London tour operator, bus tours can either have a live guide or an audio guide. You can enjoy an informative commentary on the bus as you pass famous attractions and neighborhoods.

Q: What is the validity of the tour?

You can choose from 24/36/48/72-hour or ½/3-day London tours depending on your travel plans. The vouchers are valid anywhere between 6 months to 12 months and can be used anytime during that period.

Other Hop On Hop Off Destinations

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  • Johannesburg
  • San Antonio
  • Reykjavik Iceland
  • St-Petersburg
  • Benalmadena
  • Thessaloniki
  • Kristiansand
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london tour buses

Top Sight Tours Group

london tour buses

Open Top London Bus Tour with Live Guide

Tour start time: daily from 10am to 5pm, start every 1 hour, what we will see & where we will be.

This is an open top bus tour through most iconic landmarks of London with live guide ( on selected departures, subject to availability) . Sit back and relax as our well-ventilated bus reconnects you with the city. The tour lasts between 1.5 hours and 2 hours (subject to traffic on the day).

The bus glides past Central London with most iconic landmarks such as London Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, London Eye, .

The buses will be running at reduced capacity and tickets will be sold in specific time slots to avoid overcrowding.

Know before you go

What’s included :

  • Professional live guide on selected departures (s ubject to availability)
  • Audio guides available in 11 languages
  • Reduced capacity and allocated time slots to avoid over crowding

What’s exlcuded :

  • Entrances to any attraction

Please bring with you

  • Bottled water

Please note :

  • Not hop-on hop-off bus tour
  • Buses will be cleaned thoroughly after every tour.

Where we meet

London Eye Tourist Stop, Belvedere Road

Once you have booked, we will send you a confirmation email with all the details of how, where and who to meet on the day of your tour.

TripAdvisor

Tour Highlights

  • A fully ventilated open top bus tour of London
  • See London’s most iconic landmarks
  • Great history lesson for all ages
  • Live English-speaking guide
  • Audio guide available 

Notable sights :

  • London Tower Bridge
  • Houses of Parliament
  • Buckingham Palace
  • Westminster Abbey
  • Trafalgar Square
  • Piccadilly Circus
  • London Eye 

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girl gone london

17 Best London Bus Tours in 2023 (ranked!)

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Ready to tour London by bus?

You’ve come to the right place. I live in London, and have spent a lot of time figuring out the best London bus tours so that you can make the most of your trip to this incredible city.

In this guide, we’re going to explore the best 17 London bus tours – all led by expert guides who want to share their knowledge and help you have a memorable time.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

london tour buses

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best London bus tour is this Hop-On and Hop-Off bus tour .

Click here to check prices and availability.

The best London bus tour if you want the classic sightseeing experience is this Big Bus Hop-On and Hop-Off Bus Tour and the best bus tour in London if you want something a bit different is this Spooky London Ghost Vintage bus tour.

They both have hundreds of amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

London is a massive city that can be much easier to explore by bus, and there are plenty of London bus tours that will cater to your specific interests, whether that be music history, architecture, filming locations in London , or something else entirely!

If you want to see what your other options are, here are the best London bus tours that are definitely worth your time.

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

Easy Guide: Best London Bus Tour Picks

Best classic bus tours in london, 1. big bus hop-on hop-off classic london tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 7,300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-3 day pass | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Big Bus is the most iconic London bus tour and one of my favorite of the sightseeing tours that are hop-on/hop-off style.

Choose the red route if you have less time, or the blue route if you want to see more of London, and enjoy being whizzed around the city with information at each stop about what you’re looking at (the worst kind of bus tour is one where they don’t even tell you!).

Big Bus operate in multiple cities around the world, so the formula isn’t new in London, but it’s a tried-and-tested hop-on and hop-off tour, and that’s why it makes my list as the best one if you’re just going to do one bus tour in London.

2. Vintage London Bus Tour with Optional London Eye

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 370+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

london tour buses

The difference between this bus tour and a normal sightseeing tour is that you get to travel in style on a vintage London bus, not one of the ugly themed hop-on and hop-off bus styles.

The London Eye can also be included in your sightseeing ticket, which is a fantastic way to cover both at once as you’ll finish at the London Eye and not waste any time in traveling there (because the bus will take you!).

This is not a hop-on and hop-off variation, so this is also great if you don’t really need to get on or off and just want to sit and enjoy the views.

3. London Tootbus Must-See Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 3,500+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 – 2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW!

Tootbus is newer on the scene in London when it comes to bus tours, but they’re doing amazing and have fantastic reviews and lots of repeat customers.

There are three different circuits to choose from to customize your London bus experience, and the upper deck is obviously the best place to sit (particularly when you’re going over the bridges!).

Tootbus is a great option for families with kids in London , as it has a little bit more of a casual vibe than the Big Bus options.

4. London Vintage Bus Tour with Thames Cruise

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 170+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Want to combine your London sightseeing bus tour with a Thames river cruise?

This is your best bet!

So many people want to do both during their time in London, and this is a great option for that, combining land and river for an epic sightseeing day out.

For the record, I prefer doing a sightseeing cruise with sightseeing bus in the warmer months, and a sightseeing bus with the London Eye (a previously listed tour – scroll up a bit) during the colder months just for comfort.

5. Golden Tours Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 600+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 day | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Golden Tours offer a hop-on and hop-off sightseeing tour around London that rivals the other big companies, and they are easy to spot with their blue and orange coloring.

I love that the front of the upper deck is covered in case the weather is bad, while the back of the top is open to the elements in case the sun is shining (or you just want to brave it!).

They do audio tours instead of live guides on their buses, so it’s better if you want that pre-recorded experience or have already tried Big Bus or Tootbus.

Best Night Bus Tours in London

6. london by night open top sightseeing tour.

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 540+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

London is completely different at night , and even if you’ve done a London sightseeing tour during the daytime, a London bus tour at night is such a memorable experience that I recommend to all visitors.

This tour takes you all around the most iconic London attractions to see them lit up and sparkling in the dark, including the bright lights of the London Eye, the Tower of London , and the iconic Westminster Abbey.

You’ll get to see a side of the city that many people never see, and it can be a great thing to do on your first night in London to try and beat that jet lag.

7. London Christmas Lights at Night Bus Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 130+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 45 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

london tour buses

Deck the halls in London with a beautiful Christmas lights bus tour during the winter season.

There is something so insanely magical about London in winter when the Christmas lights are on, and this tour will take you right down some of the most important streets like Oxford Street and Regent’s Street.

The best part is that on the upper deck, you’ll be right under and right up close to the lights, as well as have a great vantage point to lights on the sides of the street lighting up the shops.

It’s a really wonderful tour to take in London in the winter if you’re visiting around the holiday season, and one I recommend to my friends and family often.

Best Music Bus Tours in London

8. rock music bohemian soho and north london tour.

⭐️  RATING:  5 of 5 Stars, 12+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

From Pink Floyd’s studio to the former home of Rod Stewart, the Rock Music Bohemian tour will take you through some of London’s most boho neighborhoods to let you into the world of rock music legends like The Clash, the Beatles, Sting, and so much more.

london tour buses

You’ll get to take a bus around town, meaning you can hit more places than if you go on a walking tour, and along the way you’ll also get to enjoy the architecture and charm of Camden, Islington, and of course the iconic Abbey Road.

Listen to the music blasting from your bus as you tour around the city, perfectly timed with the stops, and enjoy this wonderful world of London rock music with an expert (and hilarious) guide.

9. London Rock Legends Bus Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 350+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

london tour buses

Another fantastic option for music fans, the London Rock Legends bus tour is a great choice if you’re wanting to see Notting Hill, Soho, Chelsea, and more – and if those don’t ring a bell to you, think: Ringo’s House, Jimmy Page’s house, and tons of Queen-related locations.

You’ll zip around the city with your guide and leave feeling like you’ve truly learned something new about the musical history of London – this tour is similar to the one mentioned above, so choose which one works best for your schedule.

10. A Ticket to Ride: Beatles in London Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.6 out of 5 Stars, 170+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Join the Beatles’ vibe on a chill evening bus tour through London, catching the city all lit up.

Cruise through the ‘Beatlemania’ era, from 1962 to 1969, and beyond, hitting up Mayfair, Marylebone, St John’s Wood, and the edge of Soho. Celebrate the ‘Fab Four’ spanning over 50 years.

Swing by cool spots like the Scotch of St James Club and other joints where the Beatles hung out.

Check out the pads and offices of the band members and their manager Brian Epstein, where they partied, met their significant others, and did their thing.

And, of course, take a casual stroll across the iconic Abbey Road crossing near the legendary recording studio.

11. London Rock Music Tour

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 830+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Wanna dive into London’s rock history?

From where the Rolling Stones rocked their first record at ‘Tin Pan Alley’ to the famous Abbey Road zebra crossing, this tour has got it all covered.

Take your pick between morning, afternoon, or go all-in with the full-day London Rock Music Tour.

Check out Abbey Road, swing by Apple HQ, drop by Paul’s House, Ringo’s place, and Jimmy Page’s crib, plus a bunch more.

Your rock-savvy guide will dish out insider stories about your favorite musicians while giving you the lowdown on all things music.

Best Ghost Bus Tours in London

12. spooky london ghost vintage bus tour.

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 480+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Join your spooky guide as you hit up notorious local haunts, hearing tales of restless spirits and passing by places with a dark history—St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the infamous Fleet Street.

As you roll through the city, keep an eye out for top attractions like Tower Bridge while your guide spills the beans on London’s haunted past.

The cherry on top?

You’ll be cruising in a retro 1960s Routemaster with a Gothic twist.

Get set for a laid-back, eerie adventure through the spookier side of London!

13. Comedy London Ghost Bus Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.3 out of 5 Stars, 1300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

london tour buses

Get ready to hop on the Necrobus for a ride on the creepy side of London! It’s like the city’s spooky history comes to life.

With on-board actors and tech tricks, this tour is all about giving you the heebie-jeebies while checking out London’s coolest and eeriest spots.

Picture this: a creepy conductor sharing all the ghostly deets, from haunted palaces to secret burial grounds.

The Ghost Bus Tour takes you all around town, hitting up the West End and cruising south of the river.

You’ll get the lowdown on Westminster Abbey, Fleet Street, The Tower of London, and London Bridge—all while soaking in the eerie vibes of the city’s oldest and most historic places.

Best Afternoon Tea Bus Tours in London

14. english afternoon tea bus with panoramic tour of london.

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 150+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Ditch the crowds and hop on a double-decker bus to check out the coolest London landmarks without any obstructions.

Cruise around, see way more stuff than you would on foot, and to top it off, indulge in some classic British afternoon tea while you ride.

There’s even a bunch of menu options, so you can munch on what you love. It’s like soaking up the vibes of London while enjoying good eats and drinks on the upper deck.

Perfect for newbies trying to figure out the city!

15. Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 900+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 25 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Brigit’s is one of the most iconic afternoon tea buses in London, and you can’t go wrong with one of their afternoon tea bus tours .

In addition to the regular sightseeing tour, they also offer specialty afternoon tea London bus tours like ones for kids featuring Paddington, as well as ones during the holiday season where everything gets a good dose of Christmas as you look at the lights while enjoying tea.

They’re absolute professionals at making sure that you have the best time seeing the city with your pinkies up, and visitors to the city always rate this as one of their favorite things to do in London.

Best London Movie Bus Tours

16. magical harry potter london bus tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 130+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

london tour buses

Harry Potter fans, all aboard!

Not the Hogwarts Express, sadly, but the Magical Harry Potter London Bus tour, where you’ll zip past so many Harry Potter filming locations while on tour.

London was where many of the scenes of the “muggle” world were filmed, and you can recognize important attractions like the Millennium Bridge featuring heavily in the movie franchise as the bridge the dementors destroy in the 6th film.

But it doesn’t stop there.

From the origins of Diagon Alley to other Harry Potter filming locations throughout the city, this is the perfect Harry Potter tour in London to pair with the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford to make sure you’ve truly followed in the footsteps of the Boy who Lived.

17. James Bond Bus Tour of London

london tour buses

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Dive into the awesome world of 007 with this super cool 4-hour James Bond tour around London!

Follow the footsteps of your favorite spy as you hit up filming spots from classics like ‘GoldenEye,’ ‘The World is Not Enough,’ and ‘Die Another Day,’ as well as recent hits like ‘Spectre,’ ‘Skyfall,’ and ‘No Time to Die.’

Get the lowdown on Bond trivia, from Sean Connery to Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig.

Feel the spy vibes for real as you cruise past MI6, the actual spy headquarters in London.

Kick back in a comfy mini-coach with live commentary, and soak up the cinematic thrill of Bond’s adventures all over the city!

Want more London tours? Check these out!

  • 15 Best London History Tours
  • 5 Best London Speedboat Tours
  • 5 Best Tower of London Tours
  • 5 Best Westminster Tours in London
  • 5 Best Winston Churchill Tours in London
  • 7 Best Borough Market Tours
  • 7 Best James Bond Tours
  • 7 Best Black Cab Tours of London
  • 11 Best Royal Tours in London for Visitors
  • 11 Best London Art Tours
  • 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
  • 11 Best Full Day London Tours
  • 9 Best Tours of London’s East End
  • 11 Best Private Tours in London
  • 17 Best London Food Tours
  • 17 Best London Harry Potter Tours
  • 11 Best London Bus Tours
  • 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
  • 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
  • 9 Best London Literary Tours for Bookworms
  • 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
  • 11 Best London Bike Tours
  • 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
  • 11 Best London Museum Tours
  • 21 Best London Walking Tours
  • 11 Best London Rock N Roll Tours
  • 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
  • 19 Unique London Tours
  • 5 Best Open Top Bus Tours in London
  • 7 Best London Helicopter Tours

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

london tour buses

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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London Bus Tour

Let the city simply take you by surprise.

Tootbus London St Paul's Cathedral

Service disruptions are expected on 1 September due to the Big Half (half marathon). See details

Hop-on hop-off: explore London at your own pace in 1, 2 or 3 days

london tour buses

Must See London

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + cruise

  • 1, 2 or 3 days
  • 3 bus routes
  • 3 walking tours
  • River cruise

london tour buses

London Discovery

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + walking tours

london tour buses

London Discovery + London By Night

Daytime hop-on hop-off bus tour + evening bus tour

  • 3 daytime bus routes
  • 1 night tour

New Tootbus app

London themed bus tours: discover the city from a different angle

london tour buses

London Kids Tour

Non-stop live guided bus tour

  • Live guided in English
  • Fun and educational

london tour buses

London by Night

Non-stop evening bus tour

  • Adult & kids commentary

london tour buses

Unique rooftop on wheels

  • Catchy playlist
  • Drinks available on board

Self-guided city discovery walks

Need inspiration to discover more of London ?

Wi-Fi on board

Audioguide in 10 languages

Family Pass

Kids special commentary

Walking tours includded

Fully accessible

The 5 Best London Bus Tours – [2024 Reviews]

For a convenient way to see the most of london's sites take one of these top bus tours.

London is certainly a city with a lot to take in. A London bus tour allows you to get from site to site, museum to museum, and even from one tour to another. With someone else doing the driving, feel free to watch this beautiful city pass by and snap the perfect photos.

You may even be able to rid in a vintage London double-decker bus. Here are the best London bus tours available for your next vacation.

Best Bus Tours of London

Quick answer: the 5 best bus tours of london.

  • Buckingham Palace and Vintage Bus Tour of London
  • Vintage London Bus Tour Including Thames River Cruise w/ Optional London Eye
  • London Pass including Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Entry to Over 80 Attractions
  • London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Tower of London Ticket
  • Tootbus Must See Windsor: Hop-on Hop-off Tour & Cruise

Bus Tours of London Reviews

#1 buckingham palace and vintage bus tour of london.

  • Departure Point : Victoria Coach Station
  • Departure Time : 8:15 AM
  • Duration : 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Includes : bus tour with guide, Thames river cruise, tour of Buckingham Palace, free snacks

The red London double-decker buses are as unique to the city of London as Buckingham Palace itself. This sightseeing London bus will take you by many of the city’s attractions so you can pack as much as possible into just over 5 hours.

See the infamous Tower of London, the year-round residence of the Queen, the Houses of Parliament and even Big Ben among others. That is only the beginning of the excitement this tour of London has to offer.

You’ll then see the city from the perspective of a cruise boat as you travel the Thames. Plus, you will be able to tour Buckingham Palace to experience the royal residence up close and personal.

2019 marks 200 years since Queen Victoria was born and there is a special exhibit at the Palace to commemorate Her Highness.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, #2  vintage london bus tour including thames river cruise w/ optional london eye.

  • Departure Time : 7:45 AM
  • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Includes : experienced local guide, London sightseeing bus tour, Thames river cruise, priority access to the London Eye or Tower of London with purchased admission to those attractions

This is one of the best London bus tours if you are looking to enjoy the city from one of their popular, vintage red buses. In addition to Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, you’d also ride past Shakespeare’s famous theatre, The Globe.

That’s only the start of the attractions you can see and experience on this London double-decker bus tour. You’ll ride over the London Bridge, made famous by song and rhyme, and pass by Westminster Abbey.

If you decide to add a ride on the London Eye to your big, red bus London tour, you’ll have priority access to the attraction. The same for visiting the Tower of London. If you purchase tickets in advance, you will have priority access.

Enjoy the Changing of the Guard, lots of photo ops, and even a Thames river cruise. You’ll be brought back to the Victoria Coach Station where you can easily board another tour to Stonehenge taking place in the afternoon.

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

#3 london pass including hop-on hop-off bus tour and entry to over 80 attractions.

  • Departure Point : Multiple Hop-On Hop-Off Points
  • Departure Time : Immediately After Purchase
  • Duration : Various Options
  • Includes : Access to 80+ attractions, Skip-the-Line access at several attractions, hop-on hop-off access to the London red bus

When it comes to a hop-on hop-off London bus, this “all-inclusive” option is one of the best London bus tour deals available. What is a hop-on hop-off London bus tour? You can literally hop on the bus and hop off at many places around the city. This makes it a great mode of transportation while sightseeing.

With this hop-on hop-off tour, London is at your fingertips. You will enjoy discounts at many shopping venues and restaurants you can access with this bus tour.

While the full list of stops and included attraction tickets are listed in the free London travel guidebook you receive with the confirmation of your booking, there are more than 80 and way too many to list here. However, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Zoo even have skip-the-line access.

With this hop-on hop-off bus, London is yours for the taking. You can take advantage of the best London bus tours with many different lengths of use. For example, you can purchase credits for everything from 1 day to 10 depending on the length of your stay.

#4 London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Tower of London Ticket

  • Departure Point : Any of the 80+ stops
  • Departure Time : Any
  • Duration : 24 hours or 48 hours
  • Includes : guided hop-on hop-off access to a London city tour bus, access to 3 walking tours in the city, ticketed access to the Tower of London

If you won’t be in London long enough to enjoy all 80+ attractions included in the above hop-on hop-off big bus tour, London can still be yours with this one. Bring your confirmation to any of the stops and they will exchange it for your 24-hour pass or offer a 48-hour pass as an upgrade.

There are more than 80 different stops where you can literally hop on and hop off where and when you’d like. This can be one of the best London tours available while you also enjoy a Thames river cruise and access to the Tower of London.

The hop-on hop-off London bus tour will stop at each of the 80+ predesignated stops approximately every 15 minutes. This allows you to stop at those you want to and hop right back on after your visit at the attraction or museum.

Your confirmation of this London city bus tour also entitles you to three different walking tours of the city, which the bus also stops at. For convenience, all inclusions can be used on different days.

#5 Tootbus Must See Windsor: Hop-on Hop-off Tour & Cruise

  • Duration : 24 hours from the time of first use
  • Includes : guided hop-on hop-off access to a London city tour bus, access to 3 walking tours in the city, a Thames river cruise, ticketed access to Shrek’s Adventure

With your confirmation for this original bus tour, London is open to you and your family. Many of the 80+ stops are at or near family-friendly attractions such as museums and walking tours. There are 3 walking tours included with this package, making it one of the best London bus tours.

Another great inclusion with this hop-on bus: London seen from the Thames river on a river cruise. Cruise past many of London’s biggest attractions as you take advantage of wonderful photo opportunities.

The children’s activity will keep the little ones busy during the less exciting parts of the London city bus tour, at least for them, until it’s time to head to Shrek’s Adventure. There, you will board another bus, but you’ve never seen one like this. Have fun with Donkey as he takes you through Shrek’s Swamp and to 10 different fairy-tale themed shows.

London Travel Guide

Airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions.

Here, we offer a guide to visiting London, from the airport you will be arriving at to other attractions you may want to visit and even the weather.

Let’s help you make the most of your vacation to London!

There are five airports that service London, England. If you are traveling abroad, you will most likely be arriving at London Heathrow. For shorter flights departing European airports, should you be heading to London from a previous vacation spot, you may fly into one of these smaller London airports:

  • London City
  • London Gatwick
  • London Luton
  • London Stansted

Visiting London is unlike visiting any other city on earth. Because of this, you will want to take a full city tour of London to get a idea of where all the attractions are. We list our top 5 tips for visiting London below. Do you have additional tips to suggest? We’d love for you to comment them below!

Tip #1: Bring Your Walking Shoes

Much of your travel around the city will be walking. Even when you head out of town for a day tour, such as those to Stonehenge, most of the tours require quite a bit of walking. It’s best to be relaxed wearing athletic shoes instead of wearing more fashionable shoes that can make the necessary walking uncomfortable.

Tip #2: Bring a Converter or Transformer

Your electric and electronic devices made for use in the US will not work in the UK without a converter or transformer. A converter is made to use with electronics such as your phone or tablet and a transformer with electric devices such as a hairdryer. The US runs on 120 V and the UK on 240. This means that using your US devices without a voltage converter or transformer in the UK may damage them.

Tip #3: Start Planning Your Trip Early

London receives millions of tourists each year. This means that you will most likely have to book tours well in advance. You should also book your accommodations and reservations in restaurants as soon as possible. This is especially true for tickets to theater events and shows.

Tip #4: Always Bring an Umbrella

It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting London, quick showers and rainstorms are always a possibility. It’s best to bring an umbrella with you as purchasing one at a convenient location in the city will most likely cost much more. A collapsible umbrella that is easy to carry with you is ideal.

Tip #5: Start Budgeting in Advance

London is quite an expensive city to visit but it’s worth it. Be sure you have budgeted for your flight and accommodations as well as your daily meals. You should have plenty of British pounds, the local currency, on hand as taxis and some stores may not take debit or credit cards. Also, keep in mind that the farther out your trip is planned, the better deals you will get, especially on accommodations.

There are several Dishoom restaurants located around the city. These restaurants serve high quality and delicious Indian food within a modern atmosphere. London is one of the best places to enjoy Indian food outside of India. These restaurants often have a wait but the wait is well worth it.

Not only will you want to experience the delicious Indian food, it also wouldn’t be a trip to London without an afternoon tea. There are plenty of places around town to enjoy your tea, but afternoon tea at The Savoy Hotel, London is something not to be missed. Sketch is another afternoon tea hotspot offering a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a meal with a great view, you’ll want to make reservations at the Duck & Waffle. However, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the most popular meal in London, fish and chips, at many local hotspots.

Nightlife in London can be anything you’d like it to be. There are nighttime tours of the city and surrounding areas for something a little more low-key, or you can head to a nightclub or one of the many music venues to turn up the entertainment dial.

From standup comedy and dramatic theater to the trendy clubs of the West End and even the casinos that can be found around town, nightlife in London is perfect for everyone.

As mentioned, visiting London requires a lot of walking. However, you can also choose to ride the subway, board a boat, or even hop on a bus or take a taxi. You may find the subway also referred to as “the underground” or “the tube.”

The cost of transportation by any of these methods will be determined by your destination’s distance from central London. The city and surrounding areas are divided into zones that determine distance and cost. If you’re going to be visiting for at least a few days, you may want to invest in a daily or weekly Travelcard pass.

There are many choices in accommodations when visiting London. You may find a great Airbnb location, and you can also find everything from a small hostel to a five-star, luxury hotel. The accommodations you choose should be determined by your budget, but also by the type of experience you’re looking for. An Airbnb can instantly make you feel like a local.

A hostel can provide plenty of opportunities to meet other tourists and learn more about attractions and eateries. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, the Camden Enterprise Hotel or even the Dorset City London can provide it.

The average low temperatures during the winter months are in the mid-40s Fahrenheit or around 7°C. These mild winter temperatures make London an ideal vacation spot for the holidays. July, London’s hottest month of the year, usually doesn’t reach the 70s Fahrenheit, or above 18⁰ Celsius.

Even with mild temperatures during the summer, it can feel quite humid and you may run into a short shower or two. Once again, always have an umbrella handy.

A vacation to London necessitates a visit to Buckingham Palace . Other attractions include the Coca-Cola London Eye, the Ferris wheel easily seen in every London skyline, as well as historical landmarks such as Kensington Palace, the London Tower, or the Churchill War Rooms.

While in London, be sure to visit one of the many museums and art galleries that can be found in nearly every area of the city. Parks, waterfronts, and bridges provide great photo ops and can provide a beautiful place to rest and take in the local sights. Fans of the Harry Potter books and movies will be in heaven. Be sure to do a Harry Potter tour to see all the sites and filming locations from the series.

Maybe the best way to get most of the sights to see in London is a Thames River sightseeing and dinner cruise . You will glide by the sights on the beautiful Thames River while enjoying lunch or dinner and avoiding the crowds.

If you want to see a castle, the Windsor Castle is a don’t miss! This 1000 year old castle has been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there. To fully appreciate the splendor, be sure to take a guided tour of Windsor Castle .

The History, Beauty, and Mysticism of Stonehenge

When planning your vacation to London, be sure to plan for a day trip to Stonehenge while there. The best guided tour from London to Stonehenge will allow you to experience the English countryside, the 18th-century city of Bath, the ancient Roman baths, 14th-century English pubs, and more.

However, that doesn’t mean you can skip on visiting the many museums and art galleries, enjoying some of the best food available, and taking time to appreciate the beautiful mix of modern style and historical sites that London provides.

Enjoy your trip to London!

Outside Pursuits chose a vintage London Bus Tour for our Editor's Choice. Buckingham Palace and River Thames are just two of the sites you'll enjoy along its route.

Richard Moore

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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  • Stops 5 and 6 (Red Route)  will be closed to the sports event in Central London.
  • The nearest pick-up point will be at the Tower of London -  Stop 7

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London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus 1 Day Ticket

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format_quote We spent 3 days sightseeing with London City Tour. In addition to the sightseeing bus, we also did the boat trip that is free with the extended tickets. The complete package!

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format_quote Very complete routes, perfect for a better view of everything London has to offer and that we would not have known otherwise. They have over 30 stops that you can easily find with the App.

format_quote The best option to visit such a big city with family and small children. Enjoy the panoramic views, entertain yourself with the audio guide and travel long distances without crowds. Lucas García

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About CityTour

We want you to experience London as you have never done it before! Enjoy all the benefits of a hop-on hop-off bus and explore at your own pace without the concerns of arranging transportation to move from one landmark to another.

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About CityTour

When in the city, the popular double-decker open top red buses will welcome you to a reliable and convenient service to tour London’s most iconic sights, from the Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London.

All of our routes are designed to offer a sophisticated tour for everyone to enjoy the city, whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first time visitor.

The whole fleet of buses is adapted to wheelchair users with one reserved space in the ground floor for a chair. At the same time, each bus is equipped with every service required for you to have a great time in London.

Once on board, you will have access to the free Wi-Fi . We recommend you to download the official Crown Sightseeing App and check the real-time location of the buses, a true game changer!

Crown Sightseeing© is the official sightseeing bus tour of London, operated by the union of three of the most prestigious companies in the travel and tourism industry: Julià Travel , Stagecoach and City Sightseeing . We have combined our more than 80 years of experience in tourism and transportation to offer you the best options for your trip. Offering great service, quality and safety are the three pillars of our company.

We invite you to discover our routes! If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to contact us .

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Visiting a city as vast as London is an exciting proposition, but it can also be a little bit daunting. Finding your way around somewhere with so many distinct districts and a sprawling transport network can be tricky – which is why we’ve put together this guide to getting around London. How do I pay for The Tube? How do London buses work? How do I get to the city from the airport? Whatever your London transport question, we’ve got the answer.

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You can also tap using an Oyster card . This is a pre-payment card that you can buy from almost all Tube stations, and can be topped up during your trip either at physical Oyster machines or using the Oyster app. The card itself requires an initial deposit, but is returnable and refundable at the end of your stay. You may also want to look into Transport For London’s various travelcards, which offer unlimited travel for a set length of time – but they rarely work out much cheaper than just using the ‘pay as you go’ options. When planning a Tube journey, try to make the most of cheaper off-peak prices and avoid rush hour if you can, or your train might resemble a tin of sardines. And don’t forget the number one rule of Tube etiquette: when you’re on an escalator, stand on the right and walk on the left – otherwise you might be met with disapproving glances. If you’re still curious about The Tube, check out our guides to each line and its restaurants: Bakerloo , Central , Circle , District , Hammersmith & City , Jubilee , Metropolitan , Northern , Piccadilly , Victoria , Elizabeth and London Overground .

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A Lady in London

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Lady’s 35 Best Day Trips from London Without a Car

Today I want to bring you my guide to the best day trips from London without a car. There’s no shortage of fun places to visit near the UK capital. Whether you’re into cities, coastal escapes, or the countryside, there are places in the UK and Europe that will fit your travel style. If you’re looking for your next day trip from London by train , bus, or tour, my list will help you choose the perfect destination. I’ve included an interactive map as well.

Day Trips from London Without a Car

Best Day Trips from London Without a Car

My list of the best day trips from London without a car covers a range of places you can visit in a short time. Whether you dream of escaping to the English countryside or the seaside, a famous European city or a quintessential village, there’s a short break for you.

I’ve been to every place on my list (many of them multiple times), so I can assure you how worthwhile they are from personal experience. There’s more about day trips in the book Escape London: Days Out within Easy Reach of London , too. You can get it on Amazon here .

You can do these trips independently by train or bus, or on a guided tour . If you prefer the former, my guide to UK train travel can help. If you want to do the latter, you can look at tours and book one here .

Radcliffe Camera, Oxford

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in England , and it deserves a place on my list of the best day trips from London without a car. Known for its stone buildings and heritage architecture, it’s an easy train trip from London.

The ancient Roman Baths are worth a special trip, and the city’s Jane Austen connections draw literature lovers from across the globe. Add to that the Royal Crescent and The Circus, and there’s beauty all around.

There are lots of independent shops and restaurants that make for an enjoyable day trip to Bath , too. From bookstores to cafes, there’s enough to even fill an entire weekend in Bath .

Pulteney Bridge, Bath, UK

If you’re interested in a guided day tour, you can see some of the area around Bath, too. From pretty villages to famous landmarks like Stonehenge, there are lots of options.

It’s particularly fun to explore Bath and the Cotswolds in one trip. You’ll get to see some of the prettiest villages in Wiltshire and other counties.

If that sounds good, you can see a range of tours and book one here . There are lots of options, so you’re sure to find one that fits your interests and travel style.

Roman Baths

If you want to visit one of the most famous university cities in the UK , Oxford is one of the best day trips from London without a car. It’s only an hour from London by train and it’s served by multiple rail services every hour. It’s one of the best places to visit in the UK .

Oxford is not only known for academics, but also architecture. From Christ Church to Magdalen and St John’s, there are famous college buildings everywhere you look within the university. You can do my self-guided walking tour of Oxford to see the best of them.

Beyond the colleges, the city is full of historic pubs, markets, and museums. Oxford is also popular for its Alice in Wonderland connections and Harry Potter filming locations.

Magdalen College, Oxford

If you’re interested in a guided day tour, you can see places around Oxford as well. From pretty villages to famous filming locations, there’s plenty to discover.

It’s always a treat to explore Oxford and the Cotswolds in one trip. You’ll get to see some of the prettiest Cotswolds villages and places where Downtown Abbey was filmed.

If that sounds good, you can see a range of tours and book one here . There are lots of options, so you’re sure to find one that fits your interests and travel preferences.

Oxford, England street

3. Cambridge

Oxford’s rival Cambridge is another of the best day trips from London without a car. Not only is it easy to get to by train from multiple London stations, but it’s also less than an hour’s journey from the capital if you take a fast service.

Cambridge is not only beautiful, but also an important center of British academics and heritage. Add to that stunning architecture, rich history, and pretty streets, and Cambridge is hard to beat for a day out from London.

If you’re going on a Cambridge day trip , you can see the highlights and experience the best things to do. From touring the colleges to attending evensong at King’s College Chapel, there’s a lot to keep visitors entertained.

Mathematical Bridge, Cambridge

While you’re here, you can do my self-guided walking tour of Cambridge . It will show you the big attractions and hidden side streets in addition to the colleges.

One of my favorite things to do in Cambridge is go punting on the river behind the colleges. It’s an idyllic—not to mention quintessentially English—way to spend a sunny afternoon.

If you prefer a guided tour, you can see options and book one here . There are lots of tours to choose from, so you’re bound to find one that fits your travel style and preferences.

View of Kings College Chapel, Cambridge

4. Brighton

On the south coast, Brighton is another of my favorite day trips from London without a car. It’s an easy journey from the UK capital by rail. Trains leave from multiple stations in the city, and the trip takes an hour or less in most cases.

There’s a lot you can do on a day trip to Brighton . From the opulent 18th-century pleasure palace to the amusement park on the pier, wide beaches, and little lanes with shops, Brighton has something for every traveler.

Brighton is not only one of my go-to seaside day trips from London , but also one of my favorite places to visit in East Sussex . If you have time, it’s worth spending 2 days in Brighton .

Brighton Pier

While visiting this famous seaside town you can see everything from the English Channel to the sightseeing attractions and street art. If you stay late, you can experience the city’s famous nightlife scene as well.

If you want to see more of the coast, you can take a guided tour. There are lots of beautiful areas around Brighton, from the chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters to beaches and more.

If that appeals, you can see a range of choices and book one here . There’s a wide variety to choose from, so you’re bound to find one that includes the places you’re interested in seeing most.

North Laine, Brighton

5. Canterbury & Dover

In Kent, Canterbury and Dover make for a great day trip from London without a car. The former is one of the most famous cathedral cities in England , and the latter is known for its hilltop castle and white cliffs.

The cathedral is the main event in Canterbury , and it’s worth a special trip whether you’re religious or not. It’s big, beautiful, and inspiring, and once you’ve seen the inside there are gardens and cloisters to tour outside.

But it’s not just the cathedral that draws visitors to Canterbury. The surrounding streets are full of shops, cafes, and hidden surprises to discover. It’s one of the best places to visit in Kent .

River Stour, Canterbury

Dover is renowned for its castle, which is full of history. It’s home to an ancient Roman lighthouse, an Anglo-Saxon church, and Napoleonic War-era tunnels that were used as an Allied command center in World War II. Which is to say nothing of the views across the channel to France.

It’s easy to see both Canterbury and Dover on one day trip from London. Guided tours will pick you up from the heart of the city and whisk you off to Kent. It’s a great way to see two places in one day.

If that sounds good, you can see a variety of options and book one here . There’s a number of them to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that fits your travel style.

Dover Castle View

6. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is next on my list of the best day trips from London without a car. It’s a short train ride from the city center (or a scenic boat trip), leaving you plenty of time to explore the interiors, gardens, and grounds.

There’s a lot to see on a day trip to Hampton Court Palace . From the State Apartments and private rooms of William III and Mary II to the gardens, kitchens, and courtyards, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

And that’s to say nothing of the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze and the centuries-old Great Vine. The latter is the largest grapevine in the world, and it’s worth seeing.

Hampton Court Palace

If you can time your visit to coincide with the annual Hampton Court Garden Festival , you’ll be in for even more of a treat. It’s a fun annual event every summer, and it makes this one of the best garden day trips from London .

If all that sounds good, you can book your entry ticket here . If you want to go by boat, you can book a ticket here . Whether you go from Westminster, Richmond , or elsewhere, it’s a fun way to get to the palace.

You can also take a tour while you’re here. There are all kinds of guided tours on offer, including ones that feature afternoon tea at Hampton Court Palace . And if you want to see two royal residences in one day, you can take a tour of Hampton Court and Windsor Castle. You can book tickets here .

Garden at Hampton Court Palace

7. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is another day trip you can take from London without a car. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is spread over several counties, and it has a lot of villages , gardens, countryside, and landmarks dotted throughout.

While it’s possible visit the Cotswolds by train, it’s difficult to get around by public transport once you arrive. Taking a day tour makes it a lot easier. Not only will it allow you to see more of the highlights, but it will save you time trying to navigate on your own.

It’s just under a 2-hour drive from London to the Cotswolds, and once there your tour will show you places like Burford , Bibury, Upper Slaughter , Lower Slaughter, Painswick , and/or other places.

Burford High Street, Cotswolds

If that appeals, you can see options and book a Cotswolds day tour here . In addition to the ones I’ve already mentioned that include Bath and Oxford , there are plenty of Cotswolds day tours that spend the whole time in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

If you don’t want to go on a guided tour, I’ve written about 5 easy ways to visit the Cotswolds without a car . Whether you want to take a country walk or see one of the most beautiful villages near London by train , my guide will help you do it.

If you go, keep in mind that there’s a lot more to see here than you can fit into one day. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and map out where you want to go so you can get to everywhere you want to see. Make sure to pre-book taxis well in advance and look up local bus schedules, as not all services run every day.

Arlington Row, Bibury, Cotswolds

8. Warner Bros Studio Tour

The Warner Bros Studio Tour is another of the best day trips from London without a car. This is where the Harry Potter movies were filmed, and you can see all the sets from his magical world of wizardry while you’re here.

From the Gryffindor common room at Hogwarts to Diagon Alley, Gringotts Wizarding Bank, and Dumbledore’s office, visitors can get up close to the highlights and explore all the interactive exhibits.

Located just outside of London, you can get to the Warner Bros Studio Tour by a combination of train and shuttle from the city center.

Warner Bros Studio Hogwarts

It’s a 15-20 minute ride from Euston station to Watford Junction, from where regular shuttles make the 15-minute journey to the studio.

You can also visit by taking a tour from London by coach or bus. It will make it an easier trip since you’ll be on the same vehicle whole way. If that appeals, you can see options and book one here .

I’ve done this before and I loved how easy it was. The bus takes you right to the entrance, and you can explore on your own all day before taking it back to London at the end.`

Diagon Alley at the Warner Bros Studio Tour London

9. Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is another of my favorite day trips from London without a car. One of the most famous castles in England , it’s a great place to get into all things royal.

There’s a lot to see on a day trip to Windsor Castle . Most visitors tour the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel to take in the historic and ceremonial highlights. You can book tickets here .

There’s more beyond the fortified walls, too. Windsor and Eton are full of shops, historic buildings, and green spaces. It’s easy to spend an hour or two exploring them after you tour the castle.

Windsor Castle Guards

Then there’s Windsor Great Park. This huge green space is worth discovering, not least because it’s a beautiful place to walk. The ancient Royal landscape features forests, grasslands, lakes, and gardens.

If that sounds good, Windsor is close enough to the UK capital that it’s only a 40-minute train ride from Paddington station. It’s so close you can even do it as a half-day trip from London .

You can also come here on a guided tour. You can book one here . You can even combine it with other destinations like Stonehenge, Bath, and/or Hampton Court . You can see options and book a tour here .

Windsor Castle, England

In East Sussex, Rye is one of those day trips from London without a car that I keep taking again and again. Seriously, it’s so beautiful here.

Full of cobbled streets, haunted inns, half-timbered facades, and quaint cottages, Rye is one of the prettiest towns in Britain .

While you’re visiting, there are a lot of fun things to do in Rye . From climbing the bell tower of the church to touring the home of writer Henry James, the town has a lot to see no matter your interests.

Pub in Rye, East Sussex

Rye is also an easy walk from Camber Castle, a historic fortress with connections to Henry VIII. It’s one of the best castles near London , and it’s worth a special trip if you have time.

And that’s to say nothing of the town’s location near Camber Sands, one of the best beaches in East Sussex . If you pre-book a taxi you can head out to the coast for part of the day.

Whatever you decide to do, Rye is an easy train trip from London. It’s worth the rail journey to get here and discover one of the best towns near the UK capital.

Mermaid Inn, Rye

11. Margate

Margate is another of the top day trips from London without a car. Often referred to as Shoreditch-on-Sea, Margate brings cool East End London style to the waterfront in Kent.

A Margate day trip is a great way to play hipster on the seaside near London . If that’s not your thing, Margate has a world-class art gallery, plenty of pretty historic houses, and great cafes.

There’s a big beach in Margate with a lighthouse in the distance, too. The seafront is backed by colorful buildings and the famous Turner Contemporary.

Dreamland Margate

The Dreamland Margate amusement park is near the waterfront, too. It’s a famous place to have fun in the sun on the seaside.

Margate’s vintage clothing shops, cafes, and restaurants round out the scene, which is to stay nothing of the 16th-century Tudor House and streets like Love Lane.

This seaside town in Kent is easily accessible from London by train. Over on the Kentish coast, it’s around an hour and a half from the city, and it’s conveniently served by a couple of London stations.

Margate Vintage Shop

12. Winchester

Winchester is another of my favorite day trips from London without a car. It’s an hour or less by rail from the capital, and the town’s train station is a quick and easy walk from the heart of the city.

Once on a day trip to Winchester , there’s a wealth of heritage sites and other fun places to explore. The cathedral is stunning, and it’s worth a special trip. Jane Austen and other notables are buried here.

You’ll also find King Arthur’s round table and the ruins of a medieval bishop’s palace in town. They’re both worth seeing for their unique historical importance.

Hospital of St Cross, Winchester, England

Add to that the bucolic river walk and gardens of the Hospital of St Cross, and it’s hard to want to take the train home from Winchester.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can take a day trip to Winchester and Chawton to see the house where Jane Austen once lived. It’s worth a trip if you’re a fan of her work.

If you want some guidance while you’re here, you can take a tour. There are plenty to choose from, including historic tours and ghost walks. You can see options and book one here . With so many good choices, you’re sure to find one you love.

Winchester Building

13. Hastings

Hastings is another of the best day trips from London without a car. This seaside town in East Sussex is known for its Norman history, but its beaches are what draw the majority of visitors.

There’s no shortage of them, either. Rock-A-Nore Beach is famous for having steep cliffs behind it. Hastings Beach features a wide apron of pebble shoreline. It’s also home to Hastings Pier, which has iconic striped beach huts on it.

The Stade, a shingle beach, is lined by colorful fishing boats, nets, and stalls selling fresh fish and seafood.

Hastings Beach Huts

The waterfront in Hastings is packed with historic net huts, carnival rides, and lively restaurants. Behind them you’ll find a delightful maze of streets with heritage houses and two funiculars.

Then comes the clifftop fortress. Hastings Castle was established by William the Conqueror in 1066 while he was making his way from Normandy to Battle at the beginning of the Norman Conquest. It evolved over time to be a stone fortress of strategic importance.

Taking a Hastings day trip is simple and straightforward by rail, as there are direct services from London to the heart of town. It’s one of the easiest seaside day trips from London by train.

Hastings High Street

14. Bristol

Out west, Bristol is another of the best day trips from London without a car. Less than 1.5 hours from the capital by rail, this city on and around the River Avon is easy to get to, and it makes for a great day out.

Bristol has a lot for visitors to see and do, from museums to fun shops and cafes. There are famous bridges, colorful houses, and narrow lanes to explore, not to mention a world-class zoo (the red pandas are adorable!).

The city is known for its independent spirit, student population, and riverside attractions. Converted 19th-century riverfront warehouses shelter cool restaurants, shops, and galleries.

Bristol Church

Harbourside is home to the contemporary M Shed museum, which explores Bristol’s industrial and social heritage. Clifton is full of elegant crescents, Georgian townhouses, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It’s a fun place to take photos and videos.

Bristol is also famous for its Banksy connections. Many visitors enjoy taking tours to see his iconic street art around the city. If you’re interested, you can book one here .

Other fun tours include the St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour . If you want to see more, you can find a range of tours and book one here . There are lots of options, so you’re sure to find one that fits your interests and travel style.

Courtyard with a Fountain in Bristol, England

15. Whitstable

Another coastal highlight, Whitstable is one of the best day trips from London without a car. It’s served by more than one London station and the fastest services reach the town in less than an hour and a quarter.

Whitstable is famous for its seafood, and for the annual oyster festival that it hosts each year. But it’s a great place to visit at other times for its delicious fresh catches, pretty beaches, and sweet high street full of shops.

If you’d prefer to visit on a guided tour, you can book one here . It’s a great way to see this part of the Kentish coast with an expert.

Whitstable Oyster Company on a seaside day trip from London

Also on the seaside in Kent, Deal is another of my favorite day trips from London without a car. Located where the North Sea meets the English Channel, this historic town has wide pebble beaches and a long pier.

Deal is most famous for what lies behind the beach, though. The seafront Deal Castle is legendary. Established by Henry VIII, it’s one of seven forts built to defend ships in Kent and guard against enemy invaders from France and other parts of Europe.

Furthermore, the pastel houses and historic pubs on Middle Street are both eye-catching and steeped in smuggling lore. There’s great shopping here, too.

The Ship Inn Pub, Deal, England

If you’re up for a walk, you can see Walmer Castle while you’re visiting Deal. Like Deal Castle, it’s one of the seven forts built by Henry VIII between 1539 and 1540. It’s fully furnished inside and features lush gardens outside.

There’s a train station in Deal with direct services to London, so it’s easy to take a day trip to Deal if you want to travel by rail.

If you prefer a guided tour, there are tours of Kent with stops in Deal. They’re great ways to see things like the White Cliffs of Dover, Canterbury, and other highlights in one day. You can book a tour here .

Pastel Houses in Deal, England

17. St Albans

St Albans is one of the best day trips from London without a car because it’s so close to the city. Less than 20 minutes by train from some London stations, it’s a great choice if you don’t want to spend too much time in transit.

St Albans has a lot of Roman history, and it’s an ideal place to visit if you like Roman ruins. But it has a contemporary side, too, with shops, street markets, and restaurants in town.

It also has something in between with St Albans Cathedral, which dates back to Norman times, and the Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, a pub that claims to be the oldest in England. No matter what you’re into there are plenty of things to do in St Albans you’ll love.

St Albans Cathedral

18. Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is another fun day trip from London without a car. Located in Warwickshire, this historic town is known for its Shakespeare connections.

Stratford is full of houses The Bard and his family lived in, theaters showing his plays, and historic streets and riverside pubs perfect for drinking and dining.

A day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon will give you ample time to visit the Shakespeare houses, go to a play, and explore the historic streets, shops, and riverfront.

Stratford upon Avon Sculpture

If this short break sounds good to your inner travel lover, there are lots of tours you can take. From open-top buses to walks, there’s something for every traveler. You can see options and book one here .

You can also take a guided tour from London to see Stratford and other highlights nearby. There are lots of great ones to choose from, including tours that cover the Cotswolds. You can see a variety and book here .

I’ve even taken a tour that took me to Stratford, Warwick Castle, the Cotswolds, and Oxford in one day . It was a busy trip, but I enjoyed seeing so many highlights in a short amount of time. You can book it here .

Stratford Upon Avon Garden in England

19. Bletchley Park

Just north of the city, Bletchley Park is another easy day trip from London. This World War II codebreaking center is so close to the UK capital you can reach it on a 35-minute train journey from Euston station.

Located in Buckinghamshire, Bletchley Park is famous for being the top-secret workplace of codebreakers like Alan Turing. It’s also considered the birthplace of modern computing.

A day trip to Bletchley Park is a fun way to learn about the important work that was done here during the war. If you want a fully guided tour, you can book one here .

Paperwork at Bletchley Park

In Cambridgeshire, Ely is another of the best day trips from London without a car. This famous cathedral city in the UK is often overlooked, but it’s worth a special train trip to get here.

That’s not least because Ely Cathedral traces its origins to 672, and its historic interiors are stunning. One of England’s biggest cathedrals, it’s known locally as the ‘Ship of the Fens’.

Away from the church, there are a lot more things to do in Ely . The city has a pretty riverfront area and rich history. It’s brimming with historic streets, great shops, and bustling markets. It even has a house that was once lived in by Oliver Cromwell.

If you want to, you can go on a guided tour to see Cambridge and Ely in one trip. It’s a great day out, and a fun way to see two famous cities in one day. You can book tickets here .

Ely Cathedral

21. Rochester

Next on my list of the best day trips from London without a car is Rochester. This pretty city in Kent is famous for its castle, cathedral, and Charles Dickens connections.

I fell in love with Rochester the first time I saw its fortress from the train. It took a few more years to visit, but when I did I found a town full of pretty streets and classic English atmosphere.

The castle and cathedral are highlights of a day trip, but there are plenty more things to do in Rochester . The town has great bookshops, cafes, and parks to explore.

Rochester Street

Rochester is famous for its Charles Dickens connections because he lived here. Many of the buildings on the high street are named after characters from his books and life. In fact, more places in Rochester feature in his writing than any other part of Britain besides London.

If that appeals, there are plenty of tours you can take while you’re here. From walks to arts tours and costumed tours, there’s a variety to choose from. You can see options and book one here .

If you want to see more of the area around Rochester on your day trip, there are guided tours that will take you all over Kent. From Dover Castle to the white cliffs, you’ll see the highlights. You can book a tour here .

Rochester Cathedral, England

Lewes is another of my favorite day trips from London without a car. This town is one of the best places to visit in East Sussex because it’s full of beautiful streets, a historic castle, and independent shops.

Lewes is an hour from London by train, which means you’ll have plenty of time to explore. There are lots of things to do in Lewes , including visiting the priory ruins, seeing the historic homes, and taking in the views from the town’s hills.

There’s even a legendary fortress here. Lewis Castle is a Norman number that was built by supporters of William the Conqueror after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. You can tour it if you want to see it up close.

Pub in Lewes

23. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the most popular day trips from London without a car. Its history and mystery draw visitors from all across the globe to see the stones and imagine how and why they made their way here. It’s one of the most magical places in the UK .

If you take a day trip to Stonehenge , you can book tickets in advance to save time when you arrive. Once here, there’s an audio tour that will guide you around the site. There are also Neolithic houses, a virtual tour, and exhibitions that bring the place to life.

Traveling by a combination of train and bus to Stonehenge takes a while, so I recommend visiting on a guided tour. There are lots that combine the stones with visits to other places. You can see options and book one here . With so many to choose from, you’re bound to find one that appeals.

Stonehenge

24. Ramsgate

Ramsgate is next on my list of the best day trips from London without a car. Out in Kent, it’s a seaside town known for its big sandy beach, heritage architecture, and royal harbor.

Ramsgate is one of the best beach day trips from London because there’s a huge stretch of sand here. It’s a great place to visit on a sunny summer day.

Beyond the sand, there are lots of things to do in Ramsgate . The town is known for everything from shops to seafood restaurants.

Ramsgate Beach, England

The side streets are fun to explore, too. There are plenty of pretty houses and details to take in here. And that’s to say nothing of the views of the boats from the hill.

Then there’s the Pugin architecture. Augustus Pugin designed the Houses of Parliament in London, and he lived in Ramsgate. His work can be seen at St Augustine’s Church in town.

There’s a railway station in Ramsgate with direct services to London, making it an easy day trip from the UK capital by train.

Ramsgate Doors

25. Norwich

In Norfolk, Norwich is one of my top picks for day trips from London by train. With a beautiful historic city center and charming cobbled streets, this place is worth a special trip.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Norwich , including exploring the cathedral, walking around the market square, seeing the hilltop castle, and discovering the hidden courtyards.

Elm Hill is littered with Tudor buildings, and Norwich Market is one of the oldest and biggest outdoor markets in Britain. Add to that a smattering of colorful houses, and there’s a lot to love about this place.

There are plenty of fun things to do if you like being active, too. From stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking and canoeing, there are lots of activities on offer on the Norfolk Broads. You can see a range and book one here .

Norwich Street, UK

26. Henley-on-Thames

In Oxfordshire, Henley-on-Thames is another great day trip from London without a car. With its historic church, picturesque Town Hall, market square, and independent shops, there’s a lot to love about it.

It’s fun to time a trip to coincide with the annual Henley Royal Regatta , but even on quieter days this riverside town is the perfect place for afternoon tea and a wander along the water.

Rail services operate from London to Henley-on-Thames (with one change en route), making it an easy day trip from the capital by train.

Boats in Henley on Thames during the Henley Royal Regatta

Battle is another of my top picks for day trips from London by rail. This town in the High Weald in East Sussex is famous for its historic abbey, but there are lots of other things to do in Battle that make it worth spending a day exploring.

Battle is known for being the site of the Battle of Hastings in 1066. William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, defeated the English army of King Harold here.

His victory kicked off the Norman conquest of England, making the battle one of the most important military events in British history.

Battle Abbey Sculpture of an Archer

The fighting took place in a field in the present-day town of Battle. After his victory, William the Conqueror founded an abbey on the site.

Remnants of both the battle and the abbey still remain, and they’re what draw most visitors to the town today.

While here you can walk the battlefield and take in the abbey ruins, not to mention discover the high street and side streets and tour the Battle Museum of Local History.

Battle High Street

28. Broadstairs

Broadstairs is another of the best day trips from London without a car. This seaside town on the Isle of Thanet in Kent is packed with sandy beaches, chalk cliffs, and scenic coastline. From Botany Bay to Joss Bay and Viking Bay, there’s lots to love about the waterfront here.

There are plenty of great things to do in Broadstairs beyond the seashore, too. From shopping to eating fish and chips, the town has no shortage of things to offer visitors.

Add to that Charles Dickens connections, lively pubs, ice cream shops, and scenic paths like the Viking Coastal Trail, and there’s a lot to enjoy in this place.

Viking Bay Beach, Broadstairs, Kent

29. Amersham

Amersham is next on my list of the best day trips from London without a car. Located just outside the city, it’s so close you can reach it on the tube. It’s one of the most beautiful villages near London , too.

Amersham is known for the heritage houses and historic buildings on and around the high street in Old Amersham. From homes that date back to 1450 to the Market Hall and the 13th-century St Mary’s Church, there’s a lot to see in town.

Old Amersham is around a 20-minute walk from the tube station. The route goes through beautiful woodland, and it’s a picturesque way to arrive in town.

Amersham Almshouses

Speaking of which, this place is also known for walks near London by train , as it’s located in the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you want to do a combination of a village visit and a country ramble, it’s just the spot.

An Amersham day trip is ideal if you’re interested in going on an easy journey from London with as little time in transit as possible.

It’s also a great option if you’re on a budget, as it’s one of the best cheap days out from the city.

Old Amersham hotel

30. Greenwich

Some of the best day trips from London are places in London itself. Greenwich is a prime example of this, not least because it’s so quick and easy to get here by public transport from the city center.

Once on a Greenwich day trip , there’s a wealth of things to do . This is particularly true when it comes to the area’s historic gems. Everything from the National Maritime Museum to the Queen’s House is here.

Walking through the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College to take in the stunning historic buildings is fun, and climbing the hill in Greenwich Park to take in the stunning views from the top is worth the trip.

View from Greenwich Park, London

Greenwich Market is also a treat to browse. There are great food stalls, not to mention vendors selling all kinds of art, handicrafts, and other goods.

I’ve created a free self-guided Greenwich walking tour that will let you explore more of the area and its side streets, too.

If you want a guided tour or a longer day out, there are plenty of options. I’ve done one that goes to Leeds Castle, Dover, Canterbury, and Greenwich . It’s a big trip, but it’s great to see so many places in one go if you’re pressed for time. You can book it here .

Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London

Next on my list of day trips is York. It might seem a long way from London, but I discovered how easy it was to take a day trip from the UK capital by train a number of years ago. It’s 2 hours each way, so it’s doable if you get an early start.

On my first day trip to York I was won over by everything from York Minster cathedral to the tiny Snickelway lanes and the half-timbered facades that line them.

The restaurants and cafes are excellent, and York is home to some of the prettiest historic buildings in the UK.

York Minster, England

On my second visit I traveled to York on what I consider one of the best Christmas day trips from London .

Each year, the annual Christmas markets take over the streets and squares and turn the city into a winter wonderland. It was amazing to see them all and take in the seasonal spirit in York.

Whatever time of year you visit, there are lots of fun things to do here. If you want some guidance, you can take a river cruise, go on a Harry Potter walking tour, or ride the ghost tour bus. You can see a range of options and book one here .

York Shambles at Christmas

Paris is one of my favorite day trips from London to Europe without a car. There are direct trains from London, and the City of Light is just over 2 hours and 15 minutes away. That leaves you a lot of time to see the sights if you get an early start.

The French capital is known for everything from culture to cuisine. It has museums for art aficionados, fashion for shopping lovers , and beautiful streets for those who want to wander.

While Paris is best visited over the better part of a week (or more), you can see the highlights in one long day if that’s all you have.

Notre Dame, Paris

If you use the metro, you’ll be able to visit Paris landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, walk around neighborhoods like Montmartre, and take in the scene on the Seine.

You can learn more in my guide to taking a day trip to Paris from London . It will show you all the things you can do in the French capital in a day.

If you want guidance, there are tours you can take as well. You can see a range of options and book one here . Whether you’d like to go relatively independently or have lunch on the Eiffel Tower, there’s one that will fit your preferences.

Restaurant in Paris

33. Brussels

Brussels is another of the easiest day trips from London to Europe without a car. Like the French capital, the Belgian capital benefits from direct rail services from the UK capital. You can get here in just under 2 hours, leaving you with plenty of time to see the sights.

Brussels is underrated as far as European capital cities go. I spent a summer living and working here after college, and I found no shortage of places to love.

From the beautiful buildings in the Grand Place (it’s one of the best city squares in Europe) to the narrow streets lined with restaurants and beautiful shopping arcades, there’s a lot to see.

Grand Place, Brussels

And that’s to say nothing of the museums, street art, Art Nouveau architecture, and delicious food (think waffles, fries, chocolate, and mussels).

It’s easy to spend 1 day in Brussels , as most of the sightseeing highlights are in a compact area near the Grand Place and central train station.

If you want some guidance, there are tours you can take when you arrive. You can see options and book one here . Whether you’d like to go on a hop on, hop off bus tour or a guided walk through the city streets, there’s one that will fit your style.

Rue des Bouchers in Brussels

Lille is next on my list of the best day trips from London without a car. One of my favorite under-the-radar cities in France, this northern gem benefits from direct rail services from London.

Lille is reachable in just over 1 hour and 20 minutes from the UK capital, meaning you can see a lot in a day.

And there’s a lot to see. Like Brussels, the main Lille sightseeing highlights are fairly concentrated in one area. They’re all conveniently located in walking distance of the train station you’ll arrive into as well.

Grand Place, Lille

From the Place du General de Gaulle with its beautiful historic buildings to the delicious pastries in the patisseries, there’s a lot to love about Lille.

The shopping is good as well. If you want to find the best French clothing boutiques without going all the way to Paris, there are plenty of shops you’ll enjoy browsing here.

If you’d like some guidance, there are tours you can go on when you get here. You can see options and book one here . Whether you’d like to go on a guided walk through the old town, a food tour, or a ride in a vintage Citroen, there’s one that will fit your interests.

Lille Restaurant

Bruges is another of the best day trips from London to Europe without a car. While there are no direct trains from London to Bruges, you can take a train to Brussels and change there for continuing rail services to Flanders.

Bruges is packed with waterways and wanderlust-worthy lanes. This medieval city in Belgium charms visitors with its attractive squares, bell towers, and well-preserved old town.

Being in Bruges feels like stepping back in time. Everything from the bridges to the waterfront houses is postcard-pretty.

If you need guidance, there are tours you can go on when you arrive in town. You can see options and book one here . Whether you’d like to go on a boat tour, a guided walk, or do a waffle-making workshop, there’s one that will fit your tastes.

Boat in Bruges

Map of Day Trips from London

As promised, I created an interactive Google map of all the destinations I covered in this blog post. You can see it here . If you click on the pins, you can find more information and my blog posts about each one. I hope it helps you plan a quick getaway!

Canterbury Cathedral, England

I hope you have a great day out and that this post has helped you discover some exciting new day trips from London. Whether you want to travel by rail or on a guided tour, they’ll show you some of the best places near the city.

If you’re looking for seasonal trips, you can take a look at my guides to spring , summer , autumn , and winter day trips from London for ideas.

And if you have more time, you can check out my blog posts about 2-day trips from London , 3-day trips from London , and 4-day trips from London . My guide to the best weekend trips from London by train can help, too.

Find this post helpful? Buy me a coffee!

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2 Comments on Lady’s 35 Best Day Trips from London Without a Car

Thank you for writing “for me”. :)) I have been wondering what there is to see without a car. THANK YOU for this list. So timely.

You’re welcome! I’m glad you found it helpful.

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    The bus is particularly good value too, with the 'Hopper' fare meaning you can take unlimited bus journeys within an hour of first tapping in for £1.75. The daily cap on buses is £5.25, so you'll never pay more than that for a day of exploring. It's important to remember, however, that London buses no longer take cash.

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