places to visit outside london for a day out

22 Best Places To Visit Outside London For Day Trips

Are you looking for the best places to visit outside London for a break from the UK capital’s hustle and bustle? Maybe you want to experience more of what England offers, beyond the bright lights of London? I’ve got you covered with some absolute gems that you are going to love!

From magnificent castles and charming historic cities to picturesque beaches, and a dreamy island paradise, there’s something for everyone just a short distance from London.

Whether you’re interested in soaking up some culture or want to relax in beautiful surroundings, these best places to visit outside London will not disappoint.

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Best Places to Visit Outside London on a Day Trip

While I’m a Brit, and I’ve explored England extensively, for this article, I’ve asked travel blogging friends to share some of their personal recommendations for the best places to visit outside London. For each place recommended, they have shared the top things to see and do, and exactly how to get to each location to make the most of your time.

Are you ready to get started?

1. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds  is an area of outstanding natural beauty located in southwest England. It stretches across five counties, including Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire and is one of the best places to visit outside London.

With miles of rolling hills, honey-coloured villages, and lush green countryside, it’s easy to see why the Cotswolds is so popular with tourists worldwide.

From quaint stone cottages to elegant manor houses, there are plenty of things to explore in the Cotswolds. The charming towns and villages like Chipping Campden, Stow on the Wold, and Bourton on the Water, are some of the most picturesque places in the UK. 

TIP: Admire Arlington Row in Bibury , stop by Cirencester, the largest town in the Cotswolds that was once an important Roman settlement, take a picture with the church door that inspired Tolkien’s “Doors of Durin” in Stow-on-the-Wold , or search for the filming locations of the famous Downton Abbey TV series. 

Practical Information

While few great train or public transportation connections exist, the Cotswolds are easily reached from London by car. The journey time is less than 2 hours each way. ➡️ You can check the best car rental rates here.

This charming suggestion for a day trip from London was submitted by Ingrid from Ingrid Zen Moments

2. Coventry, West Midlands

Coventry is a fun, convenient and unique day trip from London, where you can see a lot in one day. It’s a charming city often overlooked by its neighbours of Birmingham and Stratford-Upon-Avon.

See the famous Lady Godiva Statue , as well as one of England’s most famous Cathedrals, and visit the Transport Museum – a significant museum, seeing as Coventry was one of the car manufacturing capitals of the world until not long ago!

Coventry is full of history and unique hidden gems and was also named the UK City of Culture in 2021 . Around 900 years ago, Lady Godiva rode naked on a horse through the streets of Coventry to protest a tax her husband had imposed.

You’ll find the statue of her riding the horse in the town centre and the bust of ‘Peeping Tom’ who was caught looking at her! During World War II, Coventry was one of the most bombed places in the UK (yes – even more so than London !). In the Blitz, medieval Coventry Cathedral was completely destroyed. You can visit this Old Cathedral: the ruins still remain today, so you can walk around them and visit the New Cathedral adjacent to it. Both look fantastic during the day and when lit up in the evening.

The best way to travel to Coventry from London is by train. The journey takes just over an hour on the fast service. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Catrina from 24 Hours Layover recommends Coventry as one of the best places to visit from London on a day trip.

3. Paris, France

No list of the best places to visit outside London would be complete without mentioning Paris – it’s a very easy train ride from London to tick this incredible French city off your bucket list.

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must-do for most visitors (I highly recommend climbing the stairs to the second floor – it’s very fun being on the staircase inside the legs of the tower). 

Beyond that, it really depends on your interests. The Louvre is a great choice if you’re into world-class museums. You really want 2-3 hours in the Louvre to see some highlights.

Otherwise, you could stop by the Rodin Museum for sculptures, the L’Orangerie for Monet’s Water Lilies, or the Musée d’Orsay for impressionist art. 

If you prefer exploring the parks and gardens of Paris , then stop by the Jardin de Tuileries and Jardin de Luxembourg. These are two of the city’s most famous and popular gardens, and have greenspace, plenty of park chairs, stunning flower displays, basins and fountains, and sculptures galore. 

Or perhaps visiting Montmartre is more your vibe, with the gleaming white Sacre Coeur basilica and the artsy, bohemian neighbourhood around it. 

If you prefer a little bit of everything, I’d start with the Eiffel Tower, then visit the Louvre, the Jardin de Tuileries, walk part of the Champs Elysees, and end at the Arc de Triomphe. Most of these sites are in a straight line and make for a good sampling of Paris’ top attractions.

How to get to Paris

The fastest and easiest way to travel to Paris from London is by train. The journey takes 2 hours and 15 minutes on the Eurostar train via the Channel Tunnel. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

While you’re in the city, this guided tour of Paris includes the Opera House, Champs-Elysees , and the Arc de Triomphe , with a 1-hour river cruise on the Seine for memorable views of Notre Dame Cathedral . There’s also free time for you to shop or stop for a delicious meal.

Submitted by Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

4. Winchester, Hampshire

Winchester is best known for its Gothic cathedral and Jane Austin connections. Frequent direct trains make this cathedral city one of the easiest and best day trips from London without a car.

Walking from the train station into the city centre, you pass one of the impressive gates remaining from the Roman wall that once surrounded Winchester.

Good to know: Large parts of the wall remain, and the best place to see it is on the southern side of the cathedral, close to King’s Gate.

After exploring the narrow streets around King’s Gate, stroll along the river past Winchester City Mill back to High Street.

Save a visit to the cathedral for last. It is 900 years old and has long been associated with the British Royal family. It was where ‘Bloody’ Queen Mary got married, and more recently, it was featured in the Netflix show The Crown .

It is also where Jane Austin is buried. While she lived most of her life in the small village of Chewton, she died in Winchester. The house where she lived most of her life is now a museum.

Winchester is also great for shopping, and the side streets off High Street are full of cosy cafes and restaurants. For coffee, cake, or a light lunch, go to the Project Store & Kitchen . 

💡 Top Tip : The Black Rat is the best place to eat in Winchester . Make sure you book a table well in advance.

The best way to travel to Winchester from London is by train from Paddington station. The journey takes just over an hour on the fast service. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Submitted by Kristin from Scotland Explored

READ ALSO: Amazing Things To Do in the South Downs

5. Brighton, East Sussex

Vibrant and colourful, Brighton is a vibrant and colourful seaside town and one of the most popular day trips from London by train.

The famous pebble beach is perfect for strolling, sunbathing, or enjoying a refreshing dip in the sea, while the iconic Brighton Pier offers fun activities, including arcade games, amusement park rides, and classic seaside treats like fish and chips and ice cream .

Beyond the beach, Brighton also offers a range of cultural and historical attractions. The Royal Pavilion is a stunning palace that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of British royalty in the 19th century.

An exhilarating 5-star rated powerboat trip from Brighton is a great option if you want some sea air and views of the iconic Seven Sisters Cliffs . Alternatively, a skip-the-line ticket to the Brighton i360 will whisk you up 138 meters in a futuristic glass viewing pod to take in the panoramic views of Brighton and the South Coast.

Brighton is easy to visit from London. Trains depart from Victoria Station and London Bridge Station throughout the day, and the comfortable journey offers stunning countryside views. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Submitted by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

6. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Cambridge makes for a great day trip from London in the summer , as it’s the best season to visit this historic university city.

Going for a boat ride in the sun and admiring the beautiful architecture is one of the best things to do in Cambridge.

But, boat tours in Cambridge are not on just any boat but on a Punt – a long, flat-bottomed boat propelled with a long pole. You get some amazing views while going down the river!

After your batting trip, a walking tour is the best way to learn about the world-famous University of Cambridge and its many colleges.

Top Tip: You will get the best view of the stunning Gothic university buildings from the tower of Great St. Mary’s church.

Getting to Cambridge takes just over one hour, with trains departing from London’s Kings Cross Station or Liverpool Street regularly throughout the day.  Compare train prices and availability on  Trainline  and  Omio .

Submitted by Tina from Veganderlust

7. Leeds Castle, Kent

Nestled in the picturesque county of Kent, Leeds Castle is a stunning example of a fairy-tale castle . Dubbed the “ loveliest castle in the world ,” it is a popular destination for visitors looking for a romantic day trip from London .

TIP: Whether you travel by car or train, expect to spend most of the day touring the estate. If your budget allows, you can extend your visit by staying in one of the Courthouse Stable bedrooms .

The castle dates back 900 years and was once a royal residence, home to six queens and King Henry VIII himself. During World War II, the castle served as a military hospital. After the war, Lady Baillie, the last owner, spent much of her fortune restoring the residence to its former glory.

Upon her death, Lady Baillie bequeathed the estate to a trust, and the Leeds Castle Foundation maintains the estate. Today, visitors can explore Lady Braille’s renovated rooms, including her bedroom, seminar room, and library, while other parts of the castle remain untouched.

Beyond the castle walls, the 500 acres of grounds include breathtaking landscapes, a serene lake, and a thrilling hedge maze made of over 2,000 yew trees.

TIP: Consider a Segway tour if you’re seeking a unique way to explore the grounds.

The easiest way to visit Leeds Castle from London in just one day is on a guided tour. Here are a couple of great “skip the line” tour options:

• Private Tour: Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover Castle
• Small Group Tour: Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich – a ‘skip-the-line’ tour, so you won’t get stuck in long queues!

Good to know: If you prefer to travel independently, hourly trains depart from London’s Victoria Station to Bearsted for Leeds Castle, with a journey time of just over one hour.

Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio , and pre-book your entrance tickets for the castle here to save time when you arrive 🙂

Submitted by Karen from Forever Karen

8. Leeds, West Yorkshire

If you’re looking for a day trip outside London with a bit of a difference, Leeds is the perfect destination . The rich history and culture in this vibrant West Yorkshire city attracts visitors from all over the world.

To start your day right, head straight to one of Europe’s largest indoor markets-  Kirkgate Market – for   everything from fresh produce to vintage clothing and unique souvenirs. Wander through the stalls and soak up the atmosphere of this bustling marketplace.

Next, go to Leeds Art Gallery, where you’ll find an impressive collection of British art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so check their website beforehand to see what’s on display.

After immersing yourself in art, grab a water taxi from Leeds station and check out the Royal Armouries Museum , which houses the National Collection of Arms and Armoury. Don’t miss the incredible “ Hall of Steel ” display – it’s one of my favourite places in Leeds!

For lunch, head back into town for delicious street food at Trinity Kitchen . This trendy food hall features rotating vendors, so there’s always something new and exciting to try. Grab a bite to eat before heading off again on your adventure!

Kirkstall Abbey is an impressive ruined Cistercian monastery dating back almost 900 years! It’s one of the most iconic places in Leeds. Explore its beautiful grounds before heading back into town for drinks at one of Leeds’ many bars, such as North Ba r or The Maven Cocktail Bar .

READ MORE : 1 Day In Leeds Itinerary

Leeds is one of the best places to visit outside London, with a journey time of just over two hours from London Kings Cross Station. Check train prices on Trainline and Omio .

9. Bletchley Park, Buckinghamshire

At Bletchley Park , home of the WWII Codebreakers, you can immerse yourself in the world where the Allies intercepted and decoded German messages.

This is where about 10,000 people carried on their vital work. Though shrouded in secrecy for decades after the war, Bletchley Park is now partially restored and open to the public.

At this heritage attraction, you can enjoy films, interactive displays, museum collections, recreated working huts, and the main mansion used for administration.

Learn about the brilliant thinkers who figured out how to decode the complicated German Enigma machines.

An early computer developed here called a “bombe” runs so you can see how it worked. Even though these bombes were destroyed after the war, this one was rebuilt from existing plans. It was used in the movie “The Imitation Game,” set at Bletchley Park.  

A highlight of your tour will be the recently restored Teleprinter Building. The exhibition is called “D-Day: Interception, Intelligence, Invasion.” This will give you a more filled-out view of the codebreakers’ role during this Day of Days.

A visit to Bletchley Park will open your eyes to the vital work performed here and the global impact the codebreakers had on the outcome of WWII.

Bletchley Park is easy to reach from London, around one hour from London’s Euston Station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Submitted by Sharon Oldegaard of Exploring Our World

10. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is famous for its beautiful Art Deco buildings at La Grand Place , the Atomium , and the peculiar statues of Jeanneke and Manneke Pis .

The best way to explore Brussels is by visiting the above-mentioned highlights on arrival and picking one of Brussels’s cool neighbourhoods to explore in the afternoon.

Antique lovers can indulge in vintage shopping in the Marollen, which is known for its antique shops and the famous daily flea market at het Vossenplein .

The best area to visit in Brussels for a bit of luxury is Louiza. You can window-shop at high-end boutique stores and enjoy gastronomic diners at restaurants housed in marvellous Belle Epoque buildings.

If you’re a plant-based foodie, one of the best vegan restaurants in Brussels , Humus x Hortense, is in this area and recently received a Michelin Star. 

One of the best neighbourhoods in Brussels for a quick day trip is Dansaert and St. Catherine. With its avant-garde vibe, you’ll experience a great mix of old and new, traditional yet experimental.

Discover trendy stores from local designers, hip coffee shops, and typical Belgian brown pubs and vintage stores. Brussels Beer Project is a Belgian Brewery located in this part of the city that you can visit from Thursday to Sunday.

TIP: Don’t forget to try other typical Belgian delicacies like chocolate and Belgian waffles!

The fastest and easiest way to travel to Brussels from London is by train. The journey takes just 2 hours on the Eurostar train from London’s St Pancras Station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

By Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers

11. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Warwick is a medieval castle extended from the original Norman fort, built by William the Conqueror in 1068.

The facade opposite the town was refortified during the Hundred Years War (1337–1453) to create one of the most recognisable examples of 14th-century military architecture.

The castle remained in use as a stronghold until early in the 17th century. At that point, James I granted the castle to Sir Fulke Greville whose family converted it to a country house and lived in the castle until 1978. Today, Warwick Castle is owned and operated by the Tussauds Group.

Warwick Castle is one of the best places to visit outside London for families, as there are plenty of things for all ages to do. You can expect to spend several hours exploring, including getting lost in a maze, strolling the courtyard, or taking a history tour. 

A guided tour is the most relaxing way to visit Warwick Castle on a day trip from London, as there are no trains direct to the castle. This popular day trip from London includes visits to Oxford, Stratford, the Cotswolds, and Warwick Castle .

Good to know : If you prefer to travel by train, the total journey time is just over 2 hours; however, you will need to transfer to a bus from Coventry train station, and there’s a 10-15 minute walk to the castle from the bus stop.

You can c ompare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio , and pre-book your entrance tickets for the castle here to save time when you arrive 🙂

Shared by Brittney from A Mom Well Traveled

12. Dover, Kent

London to Dover is one of the most popular day trips from London, and it’s no wonder why. With its stunning views of the English Channel, historical sites such as Dover Castle, and various activities to do in the area, it’s a great destination for anyone looking for an exciting day out in England.

Whether you’re looking to explore the countryside and  hike the White Cliffs of Dover  or relax on a beach, there are plenty of amazing things to do.

Dover Castle , located in the southeastern county of Kent, is one of England’s most iconic and historically significant 12th-century castles. It has been a key fortification throughout its long history, playing an important role in defending Britain against foreign invasions.

Today, visitors can explore the castle’s many features and learn more about its fascinating past.

A day trip from London to Dover is a great way to experience the beauty of England’s countryside and a historic World War II site. 

➡️ This highly-rated tour from London to Dover includes a visit to Canterbury Cathedral as well as the White Cliffs of Dover .

If you prefer to travel by train, the journey takes from 1 hour and 30 minutes. C ompare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio

TIP: Don’t forget to pre-book your entrance tickets for Dover Castle to save time when you arrive 🙂

Submitted by Paulina from UK Everyday

13. Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff, the Welsh capital, is a great city to explore on an easy  day trip from London to Cardiff .

Cardiff Castle is one of the best attractions to visit. Take a few hours to explore the castle rooms, grounds, walls and museum and learn about the uses of the castle over the years.

While the weather in Cardiff can be rainy, you can make the best of the city by exploring the small covered arcades (shopping areas) packed with boutique shops and independent restaurants.

TIP: Visit Coffee Barker for delicious homemade cakes and luxury hot chocolate.

In Cardiff market, you’ll discover lovely local businesses, crafts and food to try, including traditional Welsh cakes from Bakestones. Welsh cakes are a sweet local treat similar to a scone, with many different flavours.

If the weather is nice, head to Bute Park in the heart of the city and enjoy the beautiful gardens and champion trees in the park.

Multiple trains operate from London to Cardiff daily, as well as coach tours . If you prefer to travel by train, the journey takes 2 hours from London’s Paddington Station. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Recommended by Steph from Book It Let’s Go!

14. Lincoln, Lincolnshire

Lincoln is one of the most underrated gems in the UK and the perfect day trip from London if you love the Gothic style and history. Best of all, it’s only a direct LNER train from King’s Cross! 

Lincoln Cathedral is the most famous landmark in this historic city. Its Gothic design, stunning interior and colourful stained glass windows make it a must-see when visiting! 

Fun Fact: Lincoln Cathedral was the filming location for Westminster Abbey in The Da Vinci Code, Young Victoria and The King!

Take the Medieval Wall Walk along the castle’s walls for the best views of Lincoln Cathedral and the city. The one-hour walk has information points about the city’s history and views of landmarks such as the Wastegate Water Tower , which still supplies water to the people of Lincoln to this day. 

Just across from the Cathedral, you’ll find Lincoln Castle . For a real sneak peek of what 19th century Lincoln was like, head over to the Castle’s Victorian Prison and discover the history and lives of prisoners, guards, governors, matrons and priests.

Good to know : If you’re interested in the history of UK politics, you can see one of the four remaining original copies of the Magna Carta in the castle too!  

To end your day trip to Lincoln on a spooky note, head to the Lincoln Ghost Walk , where you’ll find out about Lincoln’s ghost hauntings and supernatural history!  

Trains from London to Lincoln take 2 and a half hours from London’s Kings Cross station. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Abigail from The Novelsphere recommended Lincoln as one of the best places to visit outside London for a day trip.

15. Salisbury & Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Salisbury and Stonehenge are the perfect places for a day trip from London – a quick journey on a direct train from Waterloo takes you straight to the heart of the medieval city of Salisbury.

Take the Stonehenge Tour bus from outside the train station and enjoy a morning at the prehistoric stones. You can walk around them and visit the exhibition gallery with a fantastic 360-degree surround of the stones through the centuries.

Walk around the chalk landscape of Salisbury Plain , visiting neolithic barrows, the ancient Cursus and Woodhenge, which was built around the same time as Stonehenge.

The bus back to Salisbury takes you via Old Sarum , the ancient Roman fort with fantastic views over the countryside.

Salisbury city centre is filled with medieval timber buildings, museums, fantastic shops and restaurants and, of course, the famous  Salisbury Cathedral , which has the largest spire in the UK.

Top Tip: To see something special and off the usual tourist trail, visit medieval St Thomas’ Church for the country’s largest and best-preserved Doom Painting .

Discover Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral the easy way on this highly-rated tour direct from central London . Visits to the historic city of Bath and Windsor Castle are included!

16. Arundel, West Sussex

Arundel on the River Arun in West Sussex is one of the most picturesque towns in England and one of the top easy day trips from London.

The town is best known for Arundel Castle , the home of the Duke of Norfolk. Part of the castle is open to the public, and it’s one of the most visited castles in England. 

But Arundel is not only about the Castle. The Victorian and Georgian architecture , charming streets filled with pubs, restaurants, and galleries, and location on the lovely Arun River make Arundel one of the most beautiful places in England.

For lunch, head to one of Arundel’s many cosy restaurants. The Parsons Table is known for serving the best British food (which is among the  most popular food in the world !) Its relaxing atmosphere makes the entire dining experience even more enjoyable.

After lunch, consider exploring this historic town on a guided walking tour . If you are a fan of museums, you will love visiting Arundel Museum .

However, the green paths along River Arun are perfect for exploring if you are a nature enthusiast.

But that’s not all!

Many day trippers to Arundel choose kayaking or hiring a motorboat for cruising the River Arun.

TIP : Head to one of the many lively pubs for the end of your day in Arundel. The famous and historic Black Rabbit pub is fabulous!

The fastest way to reach Arundel is by train; however, driving to Arundel from London does not take much longer than a train ride. Trains from London’s Victoria station take 90 minutes to reach Arundel. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio

Submitted by Milijana of World Travel Connector 

17. Bath, Somerset

Famous for its Roman-built baths, the city of Bath was founded in the 7th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site . While it’s a compact city, there are plenty of things to do in Bath. It’s consistently rated as one of the best places to visit outside London.

Notable landmarks include the two universities, 250-year-old Pulteney Bridge , spas, canals, and the 7th-century church known as Bath Abbey . These old structures and buildings are fine examples of Roman and Georgian architecture.

Good to know: The best time to visit the spa and baths is in the morning, as they will be less crowded, so you can avoid long queues 🙂

TIP: Early and late summer (June and September) is the best season to visit Bath, although it’s well worth visiting the city during the off-season (from November to February), as you will find fewer crowds.

Good to know: Bath is easy to explore on foot on a walking tour – just remember to wear comfortable walking shoes!

Best Walking Tour of Bath ( Rating 4.9/5 )

👣 This top-rated guided walking tour includes skip-the-line entry to the Roman Baths. You’ll also discover Jane Austin’s role in the city, Bridgerton filming locations, Bath Abbey and the Pump Room!

➡️ Check price and availability here.

Bath makes the perfect day trip from London, with easy access by public transport and a journey time of around 1 hour and 45 minutes by train. Trains for Bath Spa station depart from London’s Paddington station. ➡️ Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Submitted by Raksha of Solopassport

18. Hampton Court, Greater London (Richmond upon Thames)

Hampton Court is one of the best places to visit outside London if you appreciate British history and culture. It’s an extravagant 16th-century palace on the River Thames with vast halls, enormous kitchens, and impressive gardens. 

Located less than 15 miles southwest of Central London , visiting Hampton Court is like stepping back into the turbulent reign of King Henry VIII.

Henry VIII moved into the palace with Anne Boleyn (the second of his six wives and mother to the future Queen Elizabeth I). During his time at the palace, the vast halls hosted up to 800 courtiers, and 1600 meals per day could be prepared in the Great Kitchen.  

After the deaths of Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I, King James I took up residence at Hampton Court. Under his reign, the palace hosted performances of William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and “Macbeth”, and a conference that produced the King James Bible in 1611.

Sir Christopher Wren (famed English architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral) completed more renovations during the rule of King William III and Queen Mary, including the Garden Maze and the Chocolate Kitchens . At the time, chocolate was a rare luxury, and it demonstrated the opulence and novelty of their reign.  

TIP: If you visit in the spring, make sure to visit the Wilderness Garden which has some of the prettiest cherry blossoms in London .

Each summer, two festivals showcase the history and art of Hampton Court. There is a Music Festival in June and a Garden Festival in July.

Visiting Hampton Court Palace is quick and easy, with a journey time of less than an hour from London’s Victoria Station. ➡️ Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Submitted by Audra from The Nerd Traveler

19. Windsor (+ Windsor Castle), Berkshire

Windsor Castle is the main attraction when you visit Windsor for the day . This Royal Residence has over 900 years of history and makes a fascinating visit.

Top Tip: Buy your ticket online and tick the “donation box”. The ticket will be valid for an entire year – a great budget saver if you plan to return to Windsor. ( Admission charges include a free audio guide covering the palace’s history and notable art pieces ).

The Long Walk extends from the gates of the palace for three kilometres to the Copper Horse Statue . Is a nice relaxing walk through the deer park where you can spot friendly red deer as well as ancient oak trees.

There are plenty of other things to do in Windsor besides visiting the castle. Find the crooked house and learn its naughty legends, and make sure to have a drink at the Prince Harry pub , which displays a photo of the Royal Couple on one of their upstairs windows.

➡️ The most popular way to visit Windsor Castle is on a guided tour, with everything organised for you. This popular one-day tour from London includes Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath.

Direct trains from Waterloo take about an hour to reach Windsor’s two train stations,- Windsor and Eton Riverside are the most central.

➡️ Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Submitted by Joanne from The World In My Pocket

20. Harry Potter Studio Tour, Hertfordshire

For a great day trip from London for all ages, head to Leavesden for the  Harry Potter Studio Tour!

The studio is a magical place. The costumes and sets from the movies are perfectly preserved and displayed in a way that every Harry Potter fan can enjoy and appreciate. 

This includes transportation to and from London on a cool Harry Potter-themed double-decker bus and a ticket to enter the studio. Once you’re inside the studio, it’s all self-guided. 

Good to know: It takes roughly 3.5 hours to see the entire studio. About halfway through the tour, food and butterbeer are available (which shouldn’t be missed)!  

Best time to visit : The Harry Potter Studios is amazing at any time of year. During Halloween and Christmas, the experience is spell-binding, as holiday decorations from the Harry Potter movies are displayed and the Great Hall looks incredible!

A hassle-free way to visit the studio is on an organised tour from London . 

➡️ Booking this Harry Potter tour is also a great idea since tickets on the studio’s website frequently sell out. The tour includes transportation to and from London on a cool Harry Potter-themed double-decker bus and a ticket to enter the studio. Once you’re inside the studio, it’s all self-guided, so you’re free to explore at your own pace.

Enjoy your visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour !

Submitted by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels

21. York, North Yorkshire

If you love history, York is one of the best places to visit outside London by train, as London to York trains take just over 2 hours.

While in the ancient city of York , you’ll want to visit York Minster , the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe. Take the York Minster Tower challenge if you’re fit and healthy – it’s a 10-minute climb up 275 narrow, winding steps to the top, but the view is incredible!

Alternatively, stroll through the Shambles – the most complete medieval street in Europe, walk the medieval Y ork city wall s, or step back to the days when York was a Viking settlement at Yorvik.

Some of the best ways to see York include guided walking tours, riverboat cruises , or (my favourite) spooky ghost tours .

READ MORE : Discover the Best Ghost Tours in York

The best way to travel to York from London is by train from London’s Kings Cross station. The journey takes just over two hours on the fast service. Book your tickets on Trainline and Omio .

22. Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire

Stratford upon Avon  is located so centrally in England’s midlands, that it makes for a perfect day trip from any major city in the UK, including day trips from London. 

Known as Shakespeare Country, Stratford Upon Avon was the home of the famous playwright and poet. On a guided tour you can see as many as six of the houses connected to Shakespeare (also known as “The bard of Stratford”).

These include Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Gardens, Nash’s House and New Place, Mary Arden’s Farm and Hall’s Croft, or book your favourite play at Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre . 

But, there’s more to Stratford upon Avon than Shakespeare. The historic half-timbered houses and buzzing Bancroft Gardens are well worth visiting.

Alternatively, try to spot all of the sculptures around the city centre or rent a boat and potter about on the River Avon.  Whether you are a literary buff or not, a day trip to Stratford upon Avon is totally worth it.  

The best way to travel to Stratford Upon Avon from London is by train from London’s Euston station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Submitted by Anu from Country Hopping Couple

FAQs: The Best Places to Visit Outside London

What countries are a day trip from london.

Some of the easiest countries to visit on a day trip from London include France (for Paris), Belgium (for Brussels), and Jersey, although Ireland is also only a short flight from London

What locations are just outside of London?

London has many options for day trips beyond the city centre. The suggestions in this post are a good starting point when looking for the best places to visit outside London.

In conclusion, there is no shortage of incredible places to visit outside London – by car or by train. From the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds to stunning coastal towns like Brighton and some of England’s most fascinating castles, each day trip from London offers its unique charm and appeal.

Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks, natural beauty, or vibrant city life, there is something for everyone just a short distance from London.

So why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and plan some day trips from London by car to explore everything these fantastic locations offer? You won’t be disappointed!

More UK travel inspiration:

Visiting England for the First Time? 25 Best Tips From a Local

• London : Top Things To Do in London & Nerdy Things To Do In London
• York: Best Things To Do in York & Unusual Things to Do in York
• Leeds: Day Trips From Leeds & 1 Day In Leeds Itinerary
• Durham: Best Things to Do In Durham & Best Day Trips From Durham
• South Downs : Best Things To Do in the South Downs & What To Do In Winchester
• Shropshire & Welsh Borders : What To Do In Ellesmere & What To Do At Pontcyscyllte Aqueduct

If you enjoyed this post on the best places to see outside London, please pin it to help it reach more readers!

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe, Egypt and China, with meticulously crafted travel itineraries and affordable luxury travel guides.

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!

35 Easy Day Trips from London + 24 to Avoid

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

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

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

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

Day Trips from London that are Absolutely Feasible ✅

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

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

1. Oxford ✅

• Drive: 1.5 hours
• Train: 1 hour 

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

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

2. Cambridge ✅

• Train: 50 minutes

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

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

3. Brighton ✅

• Drive: 2 hours
• Train: 1 hour  

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

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

• Drive: 4 hours
• Train: 2.5 hours 

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

5. Windsor ✅

• Drive: 1 hour
• Train: 50 minutes  

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

6. Canterbury ✅

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

• Drive: 2.5 hours
• Train: 1.5 hours  

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

8. Stonehenge ✅

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

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

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

9. Stratford-upon-Avon ✅

• Train: 2 hours 

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

10. Cotswolds ✅

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

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

11. Bristol ✅

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

12. Winchester ✅

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

13. Blenheim Palace ✅

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

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

14. Bletchley Park ✅

• Train: 40 minutes 

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

15. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour ✅

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

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

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

16. Hampton Court Palace ✅

• Train: 35 minutes  

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

• Train: 1.5 hours 

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

18. Leeds Castle ✅

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

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

19. Hever Castle ✅

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

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

20. Salisbury ✅

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

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

22. St Albans ✅

• Train: 20 minutes 

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

23. Rochester ✅

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

24. Hatfield House ✅

• Train: 20 minutes

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

25. Sissinghurst Castle Garden ✅

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

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

26. Cardiff, Wales ✅

• Drive: 3 hours

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

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

27. Dover ✅

• Train: 1.5 hours

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

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

28. Birmingham ✅

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

29. Lille, France ✅

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

30. Southend-on-Sea ✅

• Train: 1 hour

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

31. Broadstairs ✅

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

32. Portsmouth ✅

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

33. Bournemouth ✅

• Train: 2 hours

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

34. Brussels, (Belgium) ✅

• Eurostar: 2 hours 

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

35. Bury St. Edmunds ✅

• Drive: 2 Hours
• Train: 2 Hours

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

Day Trips from London that Are Just Too Far ❌

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

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

1. Edinburgh ❌

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

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

2. Paris & Disneyland Paris ❌

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

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

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

3. Lake District ❌

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

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

4. Dublin ❌

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

Requires a flight or a long ferry ride.

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

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

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

6. Isle of Skye ❌

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

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

7. Liverpool ❌

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

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

8. Loch Ness ❌

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

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

9. Amsterdam, Netherlands ❌

• Flight: 1 hour
• Eurostar: 4 hours 

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

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

10. Provence, France ❌

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

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

11. Nice, France ❌

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

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

12. Bordeaux, France ❌

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

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

13. Snowdonia National Park, Wales ❌

• Train: 3-4 hours to Betws-y-Coed

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

14. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland ❌

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

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

15. Bruges, Belgium (Brugge) ❌

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

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

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

16. Ghent, Belgium ❌

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

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

17. Antwerp, Belgium ❌

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

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

18. Scottish Highlands ❌

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

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

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

19. Pembrokeshire Coast ❌

• Train: 4.5-5 hours to Tenby 

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

20. Isle of Man ❌

• Ferry: 2.5-4 hours 

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

21. Belfast, Northern Ireland ❌

• Drive (including ferry): 8-10 hours 

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

22. Guernsey ❌

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

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

23. Jersey ❌

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

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

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

24. Rotterdam, Netherlands ❌

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

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

Taking a Day Trip from London: Final Tips

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

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

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

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Day Trips from London by Train FAQ

What is the best day trip out of london.

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

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

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

Can you do a day trip from London?

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

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

What is 1 hour away from London?

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

What countries are a day trip from London?

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

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

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

What towns are 2 hours away from London?

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

What is the closest beach to London?

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

What is the shortest Eurostar journey from London?

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

What is the closest countryside to London?

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

Which country is easy to travel from London?

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

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23 of the best day trips from London

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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 favourite day trips from London, in no particular order. For more seasonal specific inspiration, see our recommendations for winter day trips from London .

The Best UK Road Trips: Dungeness, Camber Sands and Rye

Join creative couple Roo Williams and Lydia Pang as they journey through Dungeness, Camber Sands and Rye on a scenic road trip, with their miniature pinscher Betty in tow. The trio experience the lunar-like beachy landscape and sea-driven lifestyle of Dungeness before exploring the beautiful Harbour Nature Reserve, sipping wine at Tullingham vineyard in Rye and stopping off for a locally sourced, freshly foraged lunch at The Gallivant hotel and restaurant in Camber Sands. Watch and discover the natural wildlife and quirky spots you can so easily visit during a quick road trip in the UK.

1. Canterbury, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a colourful, 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 favourites.

Stroll along the remnant of the ancient wall that is still accessible, or settle in for a lazy afternoon on the colourful 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.

2. Broadstairs, Kent

The best day trip from London for: following in Dickens’ sandy footsteps How to get there from London: high-speed direct trains from St Pancras International take 1 hour 25 minutes

Charles Dickens once described Broadstairs as “one of the freshest and freest little places in the world” – and we couldn’t agree more. This popular seaside town on the east coast of the Isle of Thanet remains a family favourite to this day and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital and inhale the benefits of refreshing sea air.

The Kentish town isn’t humungous, so start by exploring and expect to stumble across charming cafes, old-world pubs and picnicking spots for later in the afternoon. From the station, head toward Victoria Gardens and the clifftop promenade. Lounge on the green and take in sea views among the technicolour flowerbeds, listening out for brass bands as they entertain crowds on the bandstand during long summer afternoons.

Amuse little ones at Lillyputt Mini Golf, or queue for a legendary ice cream cone from Morelli's Gelato and head onto Broadstairs’ main attraction, Viking Bay. This horseshoe-shaped stretch of golden sand is home to trampolines and swings, pastel-hued beach huts, cafés and even bars and pubs. Scout out a bench in The Pavillion, arguably home to Broadstairs’ best beer garden with direct access to the beach, or head up Harbour Street, taking a left on Eldon Place, to complete the beach-promenade loop. Alternatively, detour to take in some of Dickens’ Broadstairs, from the Dickens House Museum to Bleak House. Finish with a bag of fish and chips, eyes on the orange skies, or plan ahead to secure a spot at The Table, where chef Joe Hill cooks up Japanese-style small plates for intimate groups.

If you decide to stay over: Request a sea-facing room at The Royal Albion Hotel to make the most of your seaside staycation. Found along the clifftop promenade, it’s the perfect base for visiting local attractions and beach-hopping along the Kent coast.

3. 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 Sunday to Thursday, the entry fee is £8 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 for £33 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.

4. Stratford-upon-Avon

The best day trip from London for: a Shakespearean adventure How to get there from London: a little over 2 hours by train from London mainline stations; changes are often required

There are few places more charming than the medieval market town of Stratford-upon-Avon. It’s the birthplace and resting place of Shakespeare, and it’s easy to fall in love with the West Midlands spot during a jam-packed day trip from London.

Day trips here, understandably, centre around the Bard. Start where the wordsmith’s journey began with an educational mooch around Shakespeare’s Birthplace, now a museum highlighting how his work continues to shape our lives today. From here, onto Anne Hathaway’s cottage. The family home of Anne Hathaway, William Shakespeare’s wife, is full of fascinating stories and historical finds, and passionate guides are on hand to delve into tales of the famous family that resided here for 13 generations. For the full experience, visit William’s resting place in Holy Trinity Church via Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall.

Literary associations aside, entertain young minds at the Mechanical Art and Design Museum, get tropical at the stunning Stratford Butterfly Farm, and sample a craft beer before the return journey home at The Garrick Pub Restaurant, which is purportedly the oldest boozer in the town.

In a town dating back almost 1,000 years, you’d expect to stumble across a spectral resident or two in the historical buildings. Check into one of the charming hotels during spooky season and embark on a ghost tour to hear about tales from a haunted tearoom and what some unlucky guests have experienced in one of the town centre’s four-star hotels.

If you decide to stay over: For a fittingly period stay, check into The White Swan . The property’s use as an inn dates back to the sixteenth century, and the walls hold all the charm of a Tudor property with trimmings suited to twenty-first-century travellers. Cosy by the fire after a hearty meal, and sink into four-poster beds before another day exploring Warwickshire’s attractions and natural beauty.

5. 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 pre-organised 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 cyder 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 favour 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.

6. 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 cosy 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.

7. 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.

8. 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 favourite 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 pummelled 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.

9. 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-coloured 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 – specialises 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 neighbouring 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.

10. Deal, Kent

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 colours 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

11. 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 favourite 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 .

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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 refuelling stops along the way (our favourite 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 neighbouring 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

15. 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 favourite 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

16. 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), handpainted 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 jewellery to books – Alexis Dove is a favourite 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.

17. 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

18. 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 studenty 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.

19. 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.

20. 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 favourite 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 favourite weekend breaks in the UK .

21. 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-storey 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 colours 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 mesmerising, 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.

23. 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 cosy 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.

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

Mar 12, 2024 • 11 min read

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

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

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

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

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

1. Explore royal Windsor and nearby Eton 

Travel time: 1 hour

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

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

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

2. Enjoy art and amusements in Margate

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

3. Spot Harry Potter fans in Oxford

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Head into nature in the New Forest

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

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

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

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

6. Step back in time in Winchester

Travel time: 1 hour

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

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

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

7. Marvel at Roman ruins and Regency streetscapes in Bath

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

Start at the beginning with the Roman Baths complex, which is divided into four main parts: the Bath House, the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple and the museum, displaying fascinating finds from the ruins. Next, have a wander around Bath Abbey , a huge medieval church that you can climb to the top of. Fuel up with the substantial gastropub fare at  Marlborough Tavern .

If you have time, it's worth staying in Bath for the full weekend. Wander the streets and enjoy the architecture, including ulteney Bridge and the  Royal Crescent , two of the city’s Georgian masterpieces – then take time to relax in Thermae Bath Spa .

How to get to Bath from London: Direct trains leave London Paddington twice an hour; the journey time is 1 hour 30 minutes. Driving takes around 2 hours 30 minutes, but traffic around the city is often heavy, with parking very limited and expensive.

8. Soak up Brighton’s indie attitude

Stuffed with independent businesses and creative spirit, Brighton is often referred to as London-on-Sea – though these days that’s more a nod to property prices than a reference to its character. This city has a personality all its own – grungy, creative and bohemian – and it's one of the UK's most LGBTIQ+ friendly cities.

There’s no shortage of things to do  in Brighton. Start in the North Laine neighborhood, packed with pubs, cafes and theaters, before going shopping in The Lanes a little farther south. Make a visit to the eccentric Royal Pavilion – built by King George IV in 1787 as a seaside retreat – and take a walk along the pier while checking out the amusements and swimmers at the beach. Brighton teems with great bars and restaurants:  Food for Friends offers excellent vegan dishes and is a great spot for lunch, while the Walrus pub is a good place to grab a beer.

How to get to Brighton from London:  Get on one of the frequent direct trains from London Victoria or London Bridge. The journey time is about an hour. Since it takes about two hours to drive from London to Brighton, and parking is both hard to find and expensive, the train is generally a better option.

9. Tour the colleges and go punting in Cambridge

With its world-class university, clutch of ancient colleges and love for punting (river rowing), Cambridge shares many similarities with its Oxfordshire counterpart. But with more green space and less traffic, this city is a more tranquil affair. A walking tour of the university is a must: the university colleges are the highlight, with Corpus Christi, Clare College, King’s College and Christ’s College being the most popular.

Once you’ve had your fill of academia, a punting trip along the River Cam is a lovely way to see the city. On a summer’s day, a picnic on the Backs is highly enjoyable.

How to get to Cambridge from London: Trains from London Kings Cross run several times an hour, with a journey time of about 50 minutes. It takes about 90 minutes to drive to Cambridge from central London.

10. Ponder the mystery of Stonehenge

Travel time: 2 hours

Stonehenge  is like an amazing magic trick – it boggles the mind, but you don’t really want to know how it happened. Which is convenient, because no one’s fully figured it out yet . Here’s what we do know: this massive, prehistoric stone circle is believed to have been constructed around 5000 years ago, making it older than the Pyramids of Giza. The largest stones weigh 25 tons and stand 9m (30ft) tall. 

Although you can’t touch the stones (to protect them), you can stroll around them on paths. The visitor center has an interactive presentation that allows you to experience among the stones as the seasons change. If you have your own ride, you could drive north to Avebury, home to another famous prehistoric circle – whose stones you can touch.

How to get to Stonehenge from London: Trains from London Waterloo to Salisbury depart twice an hour, taking just over an hour and a half. From Salisbury, hop on the Stonehenge Tour Bus , which takes you directly to the visitor center in just over 30 minutes. Alternatively, the drive takes around two hours from central London (traffic depending), and parking is available at the site.

This article was first published May 20, 2019 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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By: Author Julianna Barnaby

28 Brilliant Day Trips from London

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips from London by Train

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Paddington and London Marylebone

Average journey duration: 1 hour

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Victoria and St Pancras International

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

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

Read more: One Day in Canterbury Itinerary

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

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

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

Train departs from: Kings Cross and Liverpool Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next: 21 Brilliant Beaches Near London

Hampton Court

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Waterloo

Average journey duration: 50 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Paddington

Average journey time: 1hr 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Waterloo and Paddington Station

Average journey time: 50 minutes

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

Read More: 15 Must-Visit Castles Near London

The Lake District

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

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

Luckily, the area surrounding Oxenholme is ripe for exploration.

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

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

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

Train departs from: Euston

Average journey time: 2 hrs 45mins

Hassle-free option: A 10 lake day tour

Read more: Walking in the Lake District

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: King’s Cross

Average journey time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: See the best sights on foot

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Victoria

Average journey time: 1 hour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: Liverpool Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes

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

Henley on Thames

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Paddington, change at Twyford

Average journey time: 1 hour 10 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

Average journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes

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

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

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

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

Average journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

Hassle-free option: Book this Self Guided Tour

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London King’s Cross

Average journey time: 2 hours 19 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: Waterloo

Average journey time: 2 hours 15 minutes

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

Harry Potter Studios

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Euston

Average journey time: 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

Average journey time: 2 hours

Hassle-free option: Take a self-guided tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hassle-free option: Take a walking tour

Day Trips from London by Car

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

The Cotswolds

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

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

If it all sounds perfectly lovely, it is.

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

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

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

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

Average driving time from central London: 2 hours

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

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

Stratford Upon Avon

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

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

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

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

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

Seven Sisters Country Park

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

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

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

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

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

The New Forest

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

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

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

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

Leeds Castle

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

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

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

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

Average driving time from central London: 1 hour 15 minutes

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

Highclere Castle

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

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

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

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

Cirencester

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

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

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

Average driving time from central London: 2 hours 15 minutes

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

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

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

Practical Tips for Planning Day Trips Out of London

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

Best London Day Trips: Map

Discover More Day Trips From London Guides

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

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24 Hours in Oxford – insidersoxford.com

Wednesday 5th of May 2021

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

Wednesday 27th of May 2020

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

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

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

I look forward to your reply! Beth

Julianna Barnaby

Thursday 28th of May 2020

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

Sunday 3rd of February 2019

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

Tuesday 5th of February 2019

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

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104 Damn Good Day Trips From London

Ever get the feeling you're wanting to get out of town but not sure where to go? Well, if you do, why not try going on one of these top-notch day trips from London?

London has too much of a hold over us to leave for long, but these cracking day trips from London will give you a chance to see the English countryside and refresh your zest for our beloved capital. Whether you’re exploring windswept beaches or checking out some of the prettiest villages in the UK , there’s something for everyone to explore in 2024. Let’s dive in shall we?

Table Of Contents

City day trips from London

Historical places near london, nature day trips from london, foodie day trips from london, pretty places near london, day trips to castles near london, literary day trips from london, national trust properties near london, seaside day trips from london, day trips with kids near london, more amazing day trips near london, theme parks near london, sporty day trips from london.

Did you know there are other cities apart from London ? Here are the ones you really should explore – just remember to come back to London once you’re done, yeah?

1. Admire the dreaming spires of Oxford .

2. explore cardiff , another top uk capital., 3. go punting in cambridge ..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Scudamore's Punting Cambridge (@puntingcambridge)

4. Dip into the Roman baths  in Bath.

5. follow chaucer’s pilgrims to canterbury ., 6. visit cadbury world , the most delicious place in birmingham  (and maybe the world)., 7. catch some shakespeare  in stratford-upon-avon..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stacy Michelle Cartledge (@whatstacydid)

8. Have a right royal day out  in Windsor.

9. spend the day in the arcades and on the rides of brighton pier ., 10. hop a train to see the remarkable st albans cathedral ., 11. experience the urban cool of bristol ..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Secret Bristol (@secret.bristol)

12. Marvel at King Arthur’s round table  in Winchester.

These day trips from London will give you a glimpse into England’s past, whether that be at ancient monuments or at the pub …

13. Delve into 300 years’ worth of history at the UNESCO-listed and thoroughly gorgeous Blenheim Palace .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Blenheim Palace (@blenheimpalace)

14. Crack codes at Bletchley Park .

15. divine the mysteries of stonehenge ..

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

16. Wander around Avebury , the UK’s other famous stone circle.

17. enter the battle of hastings at battle abbey ., 18. drink at the royal standard of england , the oldest pub in britain ( see more of the uk’s oldest pubs here )..

Experience fresh air and stunning scenery on these day trips from London. You’ll even have time to explore some of the UK’s breathtaking national parks , some of which lie tantalisingly close to the capital! Who knows – you may even spot some wildlife .

19. Ramble your way through The Cotswolds .

You can also combine your visit with one to Blenheim Palace , and add a touch of history to your day trip.

20. Cycle along the South Downs Way .

21. take a peek at the north wessex downs ., 22. marvel at the majesty of the high weald ..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by High Weald National Landscape (@highwealdnl)

23. Make friends with the butterflies at Holtspur Bottom Reserve .

24. check out chiltern hills ., 25. stride your way around swinley forest ., 26. catch an explosion of colour at rhs wisley ..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by RHS Garden Wisley (@rhswisley)

27. Kick your way through the leaves at Kent Downs .

28. brave the weather to see the burnham beeches ., 29. try not to get lost in the magnificent chislehurst caves ., 30. amble your way through the new forest ..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by brambleandbeach (@brambleandbeach)

31. Go for a stroll around Surrey Hills .

32. take an excursion to elmley national nature reserve ..

The tastiest day trips around necessitate stuffing your face with high-quality cuisine, and then spending the rest of the day in a highly satisfactory food coma. Now that’s something we can definitely get on board with…

33. Eat your fill at The Fat Duck , Heston Blumenthal’s revered restaurant.

34. dine at le manoir aux quat’saisons , the idyllic hideaway of raymond blanc..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons (@belmondlemanoir)

35. Sample fine dining at The Latymer  in Pennyhill Park.

36. try the hand and flowers , a two-star michelin pub run by tom kerridge..

There’s nothing better than stumbling upon a picture-perfect vista that provides the perfect fodder for your Instagram feed. And let us tell you, there are some STUNNING spots around the UK.

37. Snap pictures of the medieval town of Lavenham , one of the prettiest villages near London . It’s also home to Harry Potter’s house, which is available on Airbnb !

38. amble through castle combe , star of many a film and tv show..

39. Wander through the charming village of Arundel – voted the most relaxing place in England!

40. have a gander at cookham , where wind in the willows was penned., 41. ramble through picturesque hambleden ., 42. visit chichester and head to the well-renowned theatre ., 43. explore shere , a favourite filming location. (in fact, it’s where the holiday classic, the holiday , was filmed ).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Surrey (@visitsurrey)

44. See East Bergholt , set amidst the landscape which inspired John Constable.

No need to storm the gates on day trips to these gorgeous castles, because they’re inviting you in. But will you be the king of the castle or just a dirty rascal with these London day trips listed below?

45. Step inside the real-life Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle .

46. Follow in Anne Boleyn’s footsteps at Hever Castle .

47. framlingham castle  (of ed sheeran’s ‘ castle on the hill ‘ fame), 48. leeds castle , which confusingly is in kent, not leeds., 49. warwick castle , home to an awesome medieval trebuchet that they’re more than happy to use..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Warwick Castle (@warwickcastleofficial)

50. Hadleigh Castle .

51. see the former prison of charles i at carisbrooke castle ., 52. dive into the history of dover castle ..

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a literary day trip will refresh your love for London, so go forth and wander the hallowed halls where literature’s greatest works were penned.

53. Take a tour of Jane Austen’s house  in Chawton.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jane Austen's House (@janeaustenshouse)

54. Explore Bateman’s , the former home of Rudyard Kipling.

55. see roald dahl’s inspiration  in great missenden., 56. head on a dickensian tour of rochester., 57. follow the footsteps of virginia woolf around monk’s house ..

These ultra-luxe houses are just life goals, and if you’re a National Trust member, you’ll get in for free.

58. Explore Hughenden , the former home of Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli.

59. fall in love with the chateaurrific waddesdon manor ..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elaine (@elaineblackall)

60. Check out the artwork at Petworth House .

61. meander round the botanical gardens at wakehurst ., 62. see chartwell , the family home of winston churchill., 63. get house envy at the stunning ightham mote ., 64. wander amongst the flowers of cliveden ..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cliveden House (@clivedenhouse)

65. Spend the day at picturesque Mottisfont .

66. admire the amazing views from leith hill tower  (on clear days you can even see the london skyline)., 67. visit runnymede , the site where the magna carta was sealed., 68. walk amongst the bluebells of winkworth arboretum ., 69. be enchanted by sissinghurst castle garden ..

There are some fantastic beaches near London , but if you don’t fancy sandy toes, you can still head to the coast to explore some beautiful seaside towns .

70. Gaze out to sea from Beachy Head , one of the UK’s most beautiful spots .

71. Walk the sandy beach of Great Yarmouth and go on the rides at Pleasure Beach.

72. feel the wind in your hair at broadstairs ., 73. eat seafood as fresh as you can get it in whitstable ., 74. get a taste of ‘shoreditch-on-sea’ in margate ., 75. ride the pier railway line  in southend., 76. watch the waves break on hastings  seafront..

77. Get away from the crowds on the Isle of Wight .

78. explore mersea island , but don’t get cut off by the tide, 79. explore kent’s beautiful countryside on this heritage railway line from tunbridge well to eridge with your little ones., 80. let your kids explore the tudor kitchens at hampton court palace., 81. visit the roald dahl museum and story centre , just 30 minutes away from london with your kids., 82. visit bekonscot model village ,   the world’s oldest original model village..

Still looking for places to visit near London? Here’s the best of the rest, with something to suit all tastes on your next jaunt from the capital.

83. Feel like a giant in Bekonscot Model Village , the world’s oldest such place.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bekonscot Model Village (@bekonscotofficial)

84. Take to the skies in a microlight flight across Kent.

85. see lions, tigers, and cheetahs at the the big cat sanctuary ., 86. get high with a rope course challenge ., 87. witness an exhilarating race at the brands hatch circuit ., 88. hit the slopes at the snow centre in hemel hempstead..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Snow Centre (@thesnowcentre)

89. Row like an Olympian on Dorney Lake.

90. get up close to wild animals at woburn safari park ., 91. take the steam train along the watercress line ..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Watercress Line (@thewatercressline)

92. Explore the New Forest on horseback .

Life’s a rollercoaster on these action-packed day trips – don’t forget your souvenir photos!

93. Thorpe Park

94. legoland.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by LEGOLAND Windsor Resort (@legolandwindsor)

95. Paulton’s Park

96. chessington world of adventures, 97. drayton manor, 98. alton towers, 99. new forest water park.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by New Forest Water Park (@newforestwaterpark)

These day trips are sure to get your pulse racing, even if you’re not stepping onto the field of play…

100. Be bowled over by Wormsley , the most beautiful cricket ground in England. (April-September)

101. don your finest hat for ascot (june), 102. make a splash at henley’s royal regatta (july).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Henley Royal Regatta (@henleyroyalregatta)

103. Visit Cowdray Park to enjoy the highlight of the polo calendar, the Gold Cup . (July)

104. start your engines for the goodwood festival of speed (june/july).

So there you have it – 104 epic day trips from London that you can enjoy in 2024. All we can say is – what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy some more of Blighty! But don’t forget to return is all we ask of you… please.

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

21 Road Trips From London IDEAS for 1-5 Days!

Categories England , London , U.K

There are so many places to visit near London and these include road trips from London ideas vary from options that can be done as day trips, or 2-5 day trips from London making them idea.

Road trips are all about getting into nature so the road trips from London given in this post are based on visiting the coast , countryside and small villages  outside of London!

Road Trips from London

Whether you live in London, or you are visiting London as a tourist, here are UK road trip ideas from London and the best road trips from London to help you start planning your London getaway!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here:

Road Trip From London Map

Here is a map with the below road trip from London destinations on it to help you work out which part of the UK will be best for your London Road Trip depending on the time you have!

Car Hire From London

If you don’t have a car as most Londoners don’t or you’re visiting from another country, I’ve found the best place to hire a car from in London is from one of the London Airports ! I recommend using Rental Cars as they search all the top car hire companies!

Search for the best car hire prices in London here!

Best Road Trips From London

Here are the best recommendations for road trips from London!

The Channel Island of Jersey is a great island escape form London and the UK, without leaving the UK. Drive down to Poole and catch the 4 Hour 40 Minute scenic car ferry from Poole to Jersey Channel Island .

Jersey works perfectly as a 3-day road trip from London!

Jersey is a small island which makes road-tripping around Jersey a lot of fun because you can see so much!

However although small, Jersey is packed with natural attractions, historic attractions and amazingly good food, perfect for a weekend road trip from London!

On your Jersey Channel Island itinerary , I recommend trying a surf lesson on the West Coast of the Island. Going hiking along the North Coast of the Island and going out on a RIB Boat Trip Adventure on the East Coast in search for seals!

I also really recommend having dinner at The Boat House in the pretty village of St Aubin. You’ll be sure to return back to London refreshed and relaxed from all that island air!

Diving Distance from London: 7 Hours by Road & Ferry

Suggested By: The Wandering Quinn

2. Cotswolds Villages

If you’d like to escape London for some peace and relaxation, there’s no better place to go than the beautiful English countryside !

Not too far away from London is the Cotswolds “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”, a collection of charming little villages surrounded by rolling green hills and stunning scenery. 

Whether you’re looking to take a day trip from London or searching for the perfect weekend getaway, visiting a few of the Cotswolds villages makes an excellent choice when it comes to planning a road trip from London, no matter the length you choose.

Some of the most picturesque villages to visit in the Cotswolds region are Bibury, Lower Slaughter, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Castle Combe (but there are so many more!).

The beauty of the Cotswolds villages is that they are all located close to one another and they are easy to reach from London in just a few hours making it a great road trip in England from London.

The best things to do when visiting any of the villages are exploring the pretty cobbled streets admiring the beautiful historic buildings, popping into a cosy historic pub for a bite to eat, and taking a scenic walk around the countryside to soak up the peaceful atmosphere!

Diving Distance from London: 87 Miles. 2 Hours.

Suggested By: The Road is Life

Click here to book a full day tour to Cotswolds from London via get your guide

3. Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is a 95-mile stretch of jagged coastline in southern England. Famed for its beautiful beaches, iconic country landscapes and captivating coastal hiking paths, it’s the ideal setting for a weekend from London where being in nature is your top priority.

Doing a r oad trip from London along the Jurassic Coast will encapsulate the best places in Dorset and Devon for a full Dorset and Devon Road Trip !

The defining icon of the Jurassic Coast is Old Harry Rocks ; a collection of dazzling white limestone stacks arranged along the coast like a jigsaw puzzle waiting to be assembled.

It’s the perfect place to unwind and watch the sun go down in front of iconic scenery.

Lulworth Cove is a circular cove surrounded by a sweeping arc of pebbles, backed by steep cliffs. It’s a beautiful part of England and the best way to see it is on a stroll along the coast to Durdle Door.

This walk, with towering cliffs on one side and bucolic countryside on the other, is one of the best short walks on the Jurassic Coast .

Corfe Castle , an 11th-century ruin, is an engrossing and atmospheric spot to catch the sunrise and Lyme Regis is a lovely seaside town to visit.

From the short but steep climb up nearby West Hill, the view as the sun lights up the decaying stone is a mesmerising way to experience the Jurassic Coast, a fantastic UK road trip from London!

Diving Distance from London:  125 Miles. 2 Hours 45 Minutes.

Suggested By: Anywhere We Roam

We know that staycations are all the rage right now so also see these 15 UK Staycation Ideas for this year!

4. Suffolk Coast

At about 2.5 hours from London , the Suffolk coast is a great choice for a day trip from London, but it’s such a beautiful part of the world and so quiet that you’ll want to stay for a weekend.

Suffolk is one of the most unspoiled parts of the UK and with over 50 miles of heritage coastline, there’s plenty of space to go and stretch your legs on its many beautiful and uncrowded beaches.

On a Suffolk road trip from London, the most popular beaches to visit are Aldeburgh, Southwold and Thorpeness , but if you’re looking to completely get away from it all, then Dunwich, situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a great choice.

It’s home to the National Trust owned Dunwich Heath, which is a beautiful spot for walks.

If you’re looking to do an overnight road trip from London by car, the Cliff House Holiday Park is a lovely campsite right on the cliffs where you can pitch a tent, caravan or hire a lodge

Diving Distance from London: 100 Miles. 2 Hours 30 Minutes.

Suggested By: UK Family Travel

Devon is often overlooked because of the popular county of Cornwall but a Devon road trip is a brilliant trip to do and the benefit of visiting Devon from London instead of Cornwall from London is that going to Devon will shave off a good 1-2 hours from your journey!

Devon has a North Coast and South Coast to visit plus inland places like Dartmoor National Park , I spent 3 days in Devon exploring all 3 areas and it was enough time to see a lot!

Devon still has the Jurassic Coast , just like Dorset so walking From Branscombe to the pretty village of Beer along the coast is a popular thing to do. So is going to the Victorian seaside town of Sidmouth and visiting the nearby Donkey Sanctuary.

On the North Coast of Devon there is Woolacombe beach , a popular place for surfing and families to visit and it isn’t too far from the edge of Cornwall where Bude is, so you can do a Devon and Cornwall Road Trip in one go!

Diving Distance from London: 180 miles / 3 hours 40 minutes

Suggested By:   The Wandering Quinn

6. Brecon Beacons, Wales

A road trip from London to the Brecon Beacons will take you through some beautiful spots in England and Wales and it’s easily accessible via the M4!

Once in the Brecon Beacons National Park , you can spend a few days hiking. Popular hikes are to the top of Pen Y Fan , the biggest peak in South Wales and South England, there’s also a great Brecon 4 Waterfalls Walk .

Because you’ll have your car you should drive along the Black Mountain Road which offers stunning views and is known as the Top Gear Road.

For relaxing the Brecon Beacons is filled with lovely towns and villages like Hay on Wye which is perfect for those who like literature and unique places!

Afterwards, you can stop in Cardiff and check our Cardiff Castle and Cardiff Bay before going back to London!

Diving Distance from London: 180 miles / 4 hours

7. Pembrokeshire, Wales

The drive from London to Pembrokeshire isn’t the shortest so this is best if you have at least 3 days or even 1 week to spend on a short trip from London.

However, Pembrokeshire is an amazing part of Wales and the most visited for holidays because of its endless beaches , a full coastal walk linking every beach, family fun activities, a huge amount of campsites, holiday parks and pretty Welsh villages.

Tenby is the most popular place to visit in Pembrokeshire and there are lots of cottages in Tenby and campsites near Tenby to stay.

Saun dersfoot Beach and Barafundle Bay are also popular beaches to visit.

Bosherston Lilly Ponds , Stack Rock Fort and St Govans Chapel are my recommended hidden gems in Pembrokeshire to visit to make your short trip from London to Wales really memorable!

Diving Distance from London: 240 miles / 4 hours 40 minutes

8. Barry Island, Wales

Visiting South Wales is a great idea for a road trip from London as both places are either end of the M4 and takes around 3.5 hours by car .

One of the best places to visit on a road trip from London in Wales is Barry Island especially if you’re looking for a trip to the seaside for some tasty fish and chips and easy hikes around the coast. 

When going on a road trip to Barry Island from London, there’s cheap and all-day parking in close walking distance to the attractions and two accessible roads because it’s not an actual island (anymore).

The best things to do on Barry Island include riding the fairground , indulging on candy floss and stick-a-rocks, making sandcastles, renting a colourful beach hut and playing crazy golf on the promenade. Here are the best beaches in Barry !

If you’re brave enough, you could dip in the freezing ocean for a swim or attempt to win prizes in the arcade grabbers.

The unmissable thing to do on Barry Island, however, is enjoy everything Gavin and Stacey which was set and filmed around the area.

On your visit, be sure to read this guide to Gavin and Stacey filming locations and take a selfie with the cast billboard at Marco’s cafe for a memorable weekend road trip from London!

Diving Distance from London: 160 Miles. 3 hours 15 minutes.

Suggested By:   The Happy Days Travels

9. Isle of Wight

One of the most unique places you can visit on a road trip from London is the Isle of Wight .

Located just a stones throw away from the southern coast of England is a great place to spend a weekend away with friends and family.

From a few amazing beaches like Ryde beach to unusual experiences like visiting the Garlic Farm – there are so many things to do on the Isle of Wright.

Don’t forget to drive the famous Military Road , full of stunning cliffs views and to visit the Needles – one of the main landmarks on the Isle of Wight.

It’s better not to visit the Isle of Wight during Bank Holidays in May but apart from that, this little island is a less touristy place – perfect for everyone willing to have great walks without crowds.

Diving Distance from London: 90 Miles. 3 Hours 10 Minutes.

Suggested By: Darek and Gosia

10. Ashdown Forest, Sussex

Ashdown Forest is a great place to stop on a road trip from London. For those who don’t know, Ashdown Forest is the real-life inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood where Winnie the Pooh lives.

A. A. Milne stated that he believed Ashdown Forest was enchanted, and spent many hours wandering through it.

Today, visitors can also walk through various parts of the forest and even try to find different characters from the books. The most popular activity is playing Poohsticks by the river.

Nearby is, of course, Pooh Corner the sweetshop where A. A. Milne would take Christopher Robin.

In addition to getting out and enjoying nature, it is worth stopping by many of the surrounding towns. In  East Grinstead  you can learn about the town’s fascinating connection to WWII or stand on the Meridian Line.

Or head South to Fletching and take an alpaca for a walk. The beautiful Tudor Hever Castle is just a 20 minute drive away!

Diving Distance from London:  36 Miles. 1 hour 20 minutes.

Suggested By: Cultura Obscura

11. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Camber Sands in East Sussex is a wonderful day out or weekend away from London. The beach is over two miles long so there’s plenty of space for everyone to spread out.

In summer time Camber Sands is a wonderful spot for a swim or a paddle. Children love to visit for sandcastle building, or flying a kite.

In wintertime, the beach is popular with horse riders and dog walkers and the sunsets are magnificent making this an all year round road trip from London!

Camber Sands is located just outside the medieval town of Rye near the border with Kent. There are plenty of interesting walks in the area as well as some good places to buy a take away lunch.

If you don’t want to stray too far from the beach, there are several restaurants next to the beach although most of Camber Sands is backed by sand dunes, making it very picturesque.

Ensure you arrive early at Camber Sands, on warm days the car parks can get very busy so plan your London road trip accordingly.

Diving Distance from London: 80 Miles. 2 Hours 10 Minutes.

Suggested By: Smudged Postcard

12. Lyme Regis, Dorset

When looking for a trip out of London, there is no greater escape from the crowds than the beach. A few hours drive from London and you can find yourself in the tranquil county of Dorset.

Famed for the beaches, cliffs and fossils , the charming seaside town of Lyme Regis is a great place to base yourself.

Due to the long drive, I would recommend spending at least a night, or perhaps even a weekend, in Lyme Regis  on this road trip from Lonon.

There are many things to do in Lyme Regis , the beach here is naturally pebbled, and you will often see people searching under the cliffs for fossils. There is also a man-made sand beach, great for when the sun comes out.

The main street of Lyme Regis is dotted with independent shops , and there is also an old working mill. In the summer, there is also the opportunity to take a boat trip from the harbour, wither for sightseeing or fishing.

In addition to this, there are some wonderful walks in the area. Many offer amazing views of the southern coastline.

Diving Distance from London: 154 Miles. 3 Hours.

Suggested By: Around The World With Her

13. Kent Villages

Kent isn’t known as “The Garden of England” for nothing. Kent is home to many quaint villages, amazing landscapes, historic castles, award-winning seaside resorts and breathtaking coastline views. 

There are indeed many beautiful villages in Kent to visit within 1-2 hours drive of London. You can reach Aylesford village in an hour which is on the River Medway, 4 miles to the northwest of Maidstone.

There are free car parks for visitors where you can find a walking path which leads you to the village and the countryside around it making Kent one of the great London road trip ideas for scenic drives near London.

Or, you can go to Godmersham, where you can find Godmersham Park. Keep in mind this park is not like any other parks, it is featured on 10 pounds notes. 

Fordwich, the smallest town in the UK With a population of 381 is also located in Kent on the River Stour. You can rent a boat and go on the river or just have a walk around. 

For the coastal walk, you can drive to Broadstairs, a pretty town on the Isle of Thanet, where you can visit Charles Dickens’ favourite holiday spot.

Diving Distance from London: 36 Miles. 1 Hour.

Suggested By:  Travel With Mansoureh

14. Peak District

Nestled between the big cities of Manchester, Sheffield and Derby, The Peak District National Park is the oldest National Park in the UK.

It’s only a 3-hour drive from London , and standing on the craggy edge of one of the Peak District’s escarpments, overlooking the expansive landscape of green rolling hills and quaint villages below, you will feel a million miles away from life in the Capital.

Grab your Ordnance Survey map and hiking boots and head for a hike in the hills. Whilst Mam Tor in the North, or Dovedale Stepping Stones in the South, are popular hiking destinations, perhaps head to Curbar Edge or the rolling hills around Monyash, which will be much quieter.

Alternatively, bring your bike in your car and cycle along the miles upon miles of disused railway tracks that criss-cross the National Park. These have been transformed into gravel paths that are entirely traffic-free.

Whilst it is very doable to do a day trip from London with an early start and late finish, a visit to the Peak District is all about connecting with nature and slowing the pace.

So really, you want to book in at least a full weekend to reap the benefits of this road trip from London.

Diving Distance from London: 150 Miles. 2 Hours 50 Minutes.

Suggested By: Peak District Kids

15. New Forest

The New Forest is a great place for a day trip from London or weekend road trip from London. There are several campsites in the area, where you can truly unwind and enjoy being close to nature.

You can take bikes with you or rent some, as the area has some great cycling trails. It is also a good destination for people, who want to go hiking near London .

You will most likely spot some wild horses on your outing. They are a common sight in the New Forest National Park. You can also book horse riding lessons and tours at most stables.

In the summer wild swimming is quite popular. There are several rope swings hung up by locals along the Lymington River.

Brockenhurst has a nice little area by the river, which is suitable for small children to paddle in the water. Families often come for a picnic at the river bank so this is a great option if you’re wanting to take a family road trip from London.

Diving Distance from London:  88 Miles. 1 Hour 40 Minutes.

Suggested By:  Travel Hacker Girl

16. Cornwall

A Cornwall road trip is best enjoyed on a long weekend road trip from London.

National Trust members can park for free in the specified car parks scattered around Cornwall, and the coastal paths are the best way to see the rugged Cornish coastline. 

One of the most scenic routes on the Cornish coastal path is the route from Sennen Cove to Lands End , which gives walkers views over the beautiful Sennen beach and harbour area.

It’s the perfect spot to see Cornish wildlife, including red-billed choughs, peregrines, kestrels and grey seals. Further along the Mayon Cliffs coastal path, you can also walk to Maen Castle and see the lighthouses/shipwrecks lining the path. 

As well as the coastal path walks, Cornwall has a plethora of beaches and coves to visit where you will find secluded spots to enjoy minus the other tourists.

Even tourist favourite, Kynance Cove has a variety of coves and rock pools to enjoy away from other tourists. The coastal path from Kynance Cove to Lizard Point takes 47 minutes to walk or 15 minutes to drive. 

Timing is often everything when it comes to visiting places like Cornwall, and getting up early to explore or visiting the beaches in the late afternoon/early evening are a great way to get around and see the sights without hordes of other tourists.

Cornwall has various National Trust and English Heritage sites to visit, including the legendary Tintagel, as well as waterfalls and green areas to visit. 

There’s no doubt that Cornwall is a tourist hotspot, it is the place to visit if you want to get a taste of The Med without leaving England, but there are plenty of places to visit minus the crowds so looking into a London to Cornwall road trip !

Diving Distance from London: 260 Miles. 5 Hours.

Suggested By: The Life of a Social Butterfly

Also see: Hidden Gems in Cornwall to Visit & Things to do in Padstow !

17. Norwich

Norwich is the perfect road trip destination from London as it is not as far as you think, just over 2 hours from Central London . It is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the country, and has a thriving independent food and shopping scene.

Home to one of the largest open-air markets in the UK , a 12th-century castle, two cathedrals and a maze of cobbled stone streets.

It is a city that offers everything! After a day of exploring there are plenty of pubs, cocktail bars and restaurants serving local produce for you to enjoy.

Norwich also provides a great starting point to discover some of Norfolk’s most stunning countryside.

The beautiful North Norfolk coastline stretches for over 100 miles and things to do in Norfolk include discovering gorgeous beaches, adorable coastal villages and some amazing wildlife – the seals live here all year round!

Closer to the city you can find the Norfolk broads . A man-made warren of waterways which provide beautiful views and a great day trip out! A perfect weekend getaway with a mix of country and city. 

Diving Distance from London: 118 Miles. 2 Hours 25 Minutes.

Suggested By: Where Charlie Wanders

18. Stonehenge

A Stonehenge day trip from London is both easy and fun because you can easily drive from London to Stonehenge and I recommend stopping in Salisbury, a town with a wonderful cathedral, along the way.

Once you get there, you may be surprised by the fact you can’t actually enter the stone circle, but only see it from a distance.

The only time of the year when you can enter is Summer Solstice when you can access Stonehenge for free on a first come first served basis to see the sunrise aligning perfectly with the rocks.

All other times of the year, you can learn about Stonehenge at the visitor centre, where you’ll discover theories about how and why it was built, plus see a 360° audiovisual view, allowing you to stand virtually in the centre of the stone circle and see how it changes in different seasons. 

Visiting Stonehenge, touring the visitor centre and admiring the stone circle from different angles takes about 3/4 hours, making this destination ideal for a day trip from London by car.

For a weekend away, you could add Salisbury and nearby Avebury so you have enough to do to fill two days on your road trip from London.

Diving Distance from London: 88 Miles. 1 Hour 40 Minutes.

Suggested By: The Crowded Planet

Click here to book yourself a Stonehenge Tour via get your guide!

19. Glastonbury

Most people think of the festival when they hear the name ‘Glastonbury’; few know that the town is well worth visiting in its own right. If you like nature, history and unique shops, you’re in the right place!

Quirky Glastonbury is a fantastic day trip from London or weekend road trip from London – it’s manageable in a day, but if you have time, it’s best to camp out nearby, or stay in one of the lovely guesthouses in town to make it a weekend trip. 

The drive from London to Glastonbury enjoys lush green scenery as you cross the beautiful rural counties of Wiltshire and Somerset.

Glastonbury is surrounded by nature, and plenty of hiking opportunities can be had close to the town, including the famous Glastonbury Tor, a hill that is awash with Pagan and Christian legend and has spring water that is said to be healing running out from underneath.

In the town, there are the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, and lots of shops, where amongst the usual clothes and books, you can also buy tarot cards and crystal balls!

Its culture and history have given it the title of ‘England’s most magical town’; and any tourists there will definitely feel a mystical air as they walk around!

Suggested By: Go South West

20. Avebury

Take a day trip from London and visit the largest stone circle in the world at Avebury in Wiltshire. Avebury Stone Circle has been there for since between 2850 and 2200 BC.

Avebury is set on a mound with a ditch running around it. The area has been used for farming for nearly 6,000 years and sheep still roam round the stones. Unlike Stonehenge, you can get up close and even touch the stones.

If you want a break from walking, you can stop for a bite to eat in the café at the barn or the Red Lion Pub, or have a look around the shops in the village.

The Alex Keiller Museum in the Museum Barn gives you an insight into the history of Avebury and the archaeological finds that have been made.

Walking tours around the stones can be booked at the museum too. The stones are free to walk round, though there is a charge for entering the Museum.

There is a large carpark which costs £4 per day for non-National Trust members and is free for members. The ticket machine only takes coins, so make sure you have change with you. There is parking for the disabled in the Old Farmyard.

Driving Distance from London: 83 Miles. 2 Hours

Suggested by: The Silver Nomad

21. London To Scotland

Finally, for something a bit different, if you have the time, and especially if you are flying into the UK for this UK Road Trip, why not look into a London to Scotland Road Trip or a Scotland to London Road Trip.

Indie Campers who I mentioned in this post have a depot near London Heathrow Airport and Edinburgh Airport which means you could start in Edinburgh and do a road trip to London visiting lots of places in Scotland and England in between, or a London to Edinburgh Road Trip. 

It would be best to do this as a 3-7 day road trip in the UK!

Diving Distance from London: 400 Miles. 7 Hours.

FAQs About Road Trips from London:

Here the answers to frequently asked questions about road trips from London:

What are good day trips from London?

Good day trips from London are those down to the South Coast to see the White Cliffs, Brighton, Kent and Bournemouth. More day trips from London that are great are to towns and cities like Windor, Bath, Bristol, The Cotswolds.

Where can you drive from London?

Once you get out of London driving is much easier so there are many places to drive from London like the South Coast of England, Essex, Kent, and to the West like South Wales, Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall.

Where can I go close to London?

The best places close to London to go are places in Kent, Brighton and Surrey

Where should I go within 2 hours in London?

You can get very far into South England with a 2 hour drive from London, you can get to Kent, Dorset, Surrey, Somerset and into The Cotswolds.

What are scenic road trips from London?

Scenic Road trips from London to go on are to the Jurassic Coast, the Sussex Coast, into Surrey, into The Cotswolds and the New Forest National Park.

Now you’re set with plenty of ideas for epic road trips from London!

More of my trips from London posts:

• 25 Day Trips from London by Train!
• 10 Alternative Day Trips from London to do!
• Things To Do in Oxford on a Day Trip from London.
• Things To Do in Brighton on a Day Trip from London.
• How to Visit the White Cliffs of Dover from London.

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Six dazzling day trips within an hour from London

Lose yourself in lavender, glide along in a punt, or be beside the seaside with these ace day trips less than 60 minutes from London

‘When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life,’ the great 18th-century poet Samuel Johnson once said. Still, there’s no denying a break from the Big Smoke is very tempting every now and then, especially if you’re a regular on the Northern Line at rush hour. Can’t wait until your next holiday for a little escape? Just fancy exploring somewhere new? A day trip is the perfect solution and won’t break the bank.

There’s little point in a day trip if you spend half of it getting to your destination, though. So, we’ve chosen six intriguing towns and cities that it only takes an hour or less to get to from one of London’s main railway stations, like Victoria and Kings Cross . All you need to do is jump on a train and keep your fingers crossed for good weather.

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from London The best Airbnbs in the UK

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

Day trips within an hour of London

1.  30 minutes away: hitchin.

A commuter town in Hertfordshire might seem an unlikely escape, but Hitchin Lavender Farm is a stunning place to run away to. In the flowering season from mid-June, you can pick your own blooms, and in August, there are outdoor cinema screenings at dusk. Check the website for summer music events, too. Who needs Provence when you can come here without having to dig around for your passport? How do I get there? Glide all the way to Hitchin from King’s Cross station in just 30 minutes. And if I only do one thing? Try to get there in the warmer months when the farm is open for visits (this year, it plans to open its doors in early summer – keep an eye on the website for a specific date). 

2.  43 minutes away: Box Hill

Depending on your point of reference, you might know Box Hill from a Jane Austen novel, or perhaps you remember it as the toughest section of the London 2012 cycling road race. Regardless, this National Trust estate boasts spectacular views across Surrey, wonderful walks, and, for history buffs, the chance to explore the exterior of an old fort from the 1890s. How do I get there? Head to Clapham Junction Overground to catch a train to Box Hill in 43 minutes. And if I only do one thing? Take a stroll among the butterflies and orchids with a picnic (and a few pre-mixed cans of gin and tonic).

3.  47 minutes away: Cambridge

If you can cope with sharing your space with undergraduates who walk and talk and cycle in long studenty streams, term time is as good a time as any to visit the prettiest city close to London. Cambridge's side roads and alleyways are lined with curious one-off shops, the museums and galleries are second to none and King’s College Chapel is breathtaking. How do I get there? Hop, skip and jump from King’s Cross train station to Cambridge in 47 minutes. And if I only do one thing? The one postcard experience you have to try is punting. Not too confident on the water? You can hire a chauffeured punt to prevent any accidents and minimise the chances of running into any of those picturesque bridges.

4.  54 minutes away: Brighton

You meet all types on the train to Brighton. Not just London commuters who have escaped the city to live somewhere with fresh air, but gig-goers who insist the music scene is just better there , and beach bums on their way for a day of sun, sea and sand. Brighton is big enough to accommodate any passion, but small enough to explore when you’re in search of fun. Go for lunch on the Marina and an afternoon of Riviera-style boutique shopping, with a bag of chips on the promenade at the end. How do I get there? Train from Victoria to Brighton from 54 mins or from London Bridge to Brighton from 60 minutes. And if I only do one thing? Head to the Lanes – a brick-paved collection of narrow streets lined with independent shops selling toys, crystals, vintage clothes, jewellery and more – or get cultured at the city’s local art galleries.

5.  57 minutes away: Folkestone

Head out of the town centre down to the narrow old streets of the Creative Quarter near the harbour, where art galleries sit alongside cafés and independent shops. If you want to roll up your trousers and dip your toes in the sea, Folkestone also has one of the closest sandy beaches to London (there’s a pebbly one, too) and boasts the landscaped Lower Leas Coastal Park. Perfect for a midweek day off, but busy in the summer holidays. How do I get there? Train from St Pancras International to Folkestone in 57 minutes. And if I only do one thing? Pay a visit to the Folkestone White Horse, a 90-metre hill figure etched into the side of Cheriton Hill. It was designed by local artist Charlie Newington and has been a resident on the hill since 2003.

6.  60 minutes away: Lewes

Fancy a day living the village life? Lewes in East Sussex is a laidback retreat with antique shops and local ales to enjoy, surrounded by farmland and the perfect place to start an exploration in the South Downs National Park. Walk the Glynde route, taking in Mount Caburn hill fort, the Elizabethan mansion Glynde Place and views over the stunning Ouse Valley. How do I get there?   Trains from Victoria to Lewes take as little as 60 minutes. If I only do one thing? Bonfire Night  (pictured) is when Lewes gets really lit. The town is famous for its fiery celebration, with the streets filled with burning crosses, controversial Guys and marching bands.

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London is a treasure trove of brilliant days out 

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17 Best Day Trips From London — From Small Towns to Stunning Forests

Take a break from the big city.

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There’s no denying London is one of the greatest cities in the world for art, culture, history, and theater. After a weeklong trip, though, you may want to escape its hustle and experience some of the U.K.'s best forests, country houses, seaside towns, and even other European neighbors. Thankfully, all of this and more lies within easy reach of the capital.

"London is often seen as the gateway to the rest of Europe and the United Kingdom, with six international airports and excellent rail connections to continue your onward journey," said Rose Wangen-Jones, the managing director of London & Partners, which runs the city's official tourism site . "You could even be at the Eiffel Tower taking snaps of the Paris skyline in just over two hours, thanks to the high-speed Eurostar train."

Complete with riverside walks, ancient towns, idyllic streets filled with indie shops, and amazing restaurants, here are our picks for the best day trips from London.

Whitstable, Kent

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Ask any Londoner and they’ll often tell you Whitstable, located about an hour east of London via high-speed train, is at the top of their city escape list. One of the U.K.'s most charming seaside towns , Whitstable is famed for its multicolored North Sea-facing beach huts and restaurants that plate up fresh lobsters. The town’s castle ruins are well worth exploring, too, and the hilly — and sometimes windy — coastal walks will help brush off those cerebral cobwebs.

Another major draw is the town’s oysters. Guzzling half a dozen of these must-try mollusks is almost a rite of passage in these parts, and one of the best times to try them is during the Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival , which takes place every summer. Expect live music, markets selling local wares, and stellar wines.

Margate, Kent

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Thanks to a cultural renaissance spearheaded by celebrities and artists such as Tracey Emin, Margate has experienced a rebirth. The Kent coastal town, less than a two-hour train ride from London, exudes cool grit and harbor glamour, with independent shops, contemporary restaurants, and the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool , made for a quick summer dip. Though Margate is on the gusty side, the Turner Contemporary gallery will keep you shielded from all the elements. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the retro theme park and roller-disco Dreamland is well worth the admission price.

Cliveden House, Berkshire

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Over its long, illustrious history, Cliveden has been a retreat for royals (Meghan, Duchess of Sussex stayed here on the eve of her wedding), and it played host to the scandalous Profumo affair back in the 1960s. The former home of the Astor family, the house was originally built in 1666 by the Duke of Buckingham as a country pad to rival all others. Now, anyone can visit to admire its over-the-top English style (think winding oak staircases and hallways filled with paintings, chandeliers, and armor). Aside from it being a great spot for afternoon tea, Cliveden really is all about stunning riverside walks, park picnics, and if you’ve got the time, a riverboat tour down the Thames. The best part? It's just an hour's drive west of London.

Rye, Sussex

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Instagrammers from across the globe descend upon Rye to snap photos of its cutesy, cobbled lanes and mishmash of Diagon Alley-esque antique shops and bookstores. Just under two hours from London, the small and hilly town is the perfect place to grab a local Sussex ale or English sparkling wine. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants serving top-notch seafood lunches and scrumptious lobster pots. Another bonus? It's close to one of the U.K.’s best beaches , picturesque Camber Sands. Tip: bring a fancy picnic basket.

Box Hill, Surrey 

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Green and pleasant pastures await in this dreamy part of the Surrey countryside. Less than an hour outside of London, Box Hill is a solid quick option for a day trip with fresh air. Most people cycle here from Richmond Park, but if you're short on time, you can take the train. It takes roughly four hours to complete the entire eight-mile circular Box Hill Hike , and those who reach the summit will be treated to sprawling views of the North Downs. Another option is walking from the train station via the Stepping Stones Path , which takes about two hours out and back. The National Trust cafe is a great spot for a well-deserved slice of cake, but if you fancy heading further out, the nearby Beaverbrook hotel has several dining venues on its 470-acre estate, including The Garden House Restaurant , which offers steaks of both the beef and cauliflower variety, salads, seafood, and pasta.

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Despite being more than 200 miles from the capital, York is actually one of the easiest day trips from London. Trains take just under two hours and run frequently enough that you can decide if you want to go the same day. The ancient walled city is best known for its Gothic masterpiece York Minster , one of the U.K.’s oldest cathedrals, dating back to the seventh century.

"York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world, as well as one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe," says Nicola Butler, a T+L A-List advisor and owner of NoteWorthy . "The first recorded church on the site was built in 627, and it has had a colorful and varied history ever since. We then suggest our clients admire the timber-framed buildings of the Shambles, which was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086."

In addition to seeing this stunner, visitors can walk along the city walls before climbing up Clifford’s Tower for some awesome views of the city and beyond. Learn about 3,000 years of chocolate history at York's Chocolate Story museum, then hit up the Shambles for winding, Harry Potter -style streets packed with cool storefronts and tea shops.  

Lewes, Sussex

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Lewes often gets overlooked for its neighbor Brighton but this quaint town, located about an hour south of London, has lots to offer. Lewes Castle , the remains of Lewes Priory , and the former home of Anne of Cleves will keep you busy for a few hours, as will the pubs and local handicraft shops. If you have more time to spare, take a cab to the nearby village of Rodmell. Here, you’ll find Monk’s House , the former 16th-century country retreat of groundbreaking 20th-century author Virginia Woolf and her husband, Leonard. The garden is pretty, and you’ll also get to go inside Woolf’s writing lodge where she sat and wrote her most famous novels and essays. And if you’ve got the stamina, the walk to the village of Glynde and its Elizabethan manor is well worth the steep hills. Your reward? Spectacular views over the South Downs.

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The beauty of Europe is its excellent and efficient train network. The Eurostar , for example, takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach the French capital from London’s St. Pancras International station. With little planning, you can easily tackle many of the top attractions in Paris if you book yourself on the earliest service out and the latest back. To make the most of your day here, focus on the heart of the city: the Louvre , Musée d'Orsay , plus the amazing stores, coffee shops, and restaurants of Saint-Germain-des-Prés are all within walking distance of each other. Round out the day at the Trocadéro to snap a selfie with the Eiffel Tower and relax on the banks of the Seine with a picnic, Emily in Paris- style.

Bath, Somerset

One of the best day trips from London for history lovers, Somerset’s largest city beckons visitors with its ancient Roman baths and Georgian architecture. After the Roman period, its healing hot springs experienced a surge in popularity, transforming Bath into a fashionable spa retreat in the 17th and 18th centuries. Recognized as one of UNESCO's "Great Spa Towns of Europe," the city can easily be reached via an hour-and-change train ride from London. When you arrive, explore the bathing complex, constructed around 70 C.E., and have afternoon tea at The Pump Room restaurant. Then, stop by Bath Abbey , where you can tour the top of the church tower. While you can’t swim in the historic baths, the next best option is Thermae Bath Spa 's rooftop thermal pool — a perfect place to cap off your visit before taking the train back to London.

Ashdown Forest, Sussex

Winnie-the-Pooh fans will likely want to add Ashdown Forest to their list of scenic day trips from the capital. A.A. Milne lived near the 6,500-acre woodland when he penned the stories of Christopher Robin and his friends. Better known as the fictional “Hundred Acre Wood,” the forest is accessible via a one-hour train ride to East Grinstead station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride. For an even easier journey, join a customized tour with Pooh Trek , which will pick you up at the station and visit highlights like the historic Pooh Sticks Bridge, plus cozy cottages and pubs. Those looking to extend their stay can even spend a few nights at Milne’s former house, the 16th-century Cotchford Farm .

Brighton, Sussex

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The unofficial gay capital of the U.K. is the place to go if you're in search of wall-to-wall live music venues, classic seaside bed-and-breakfasts, buzzing clubs, and Soho House's members-only Brighton Beach House . About an hour's train ride from London, Brighton's famed Palace Pier , pebbly beach, and shops on The Lanes are all worth a visit. Visitors can expect narrow alleyways packed with independent boutiques, record stores, pizza shacks, vegan eats, and small pubs championing local ales sourced from all over the city’s home county, Sussex.

Hastings, Sussex

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About a 1.5-hour train ride from London, Hastings has a long, colorful, and somewhat brutal history that’s kept tourists flocking to its windy cliffs for centuries. The former battleground of William the Conqueror offers all sorts of to-dos, from the ruins of its Norman castle (no dragons, sadly) to a strip of indie shops to great local restaurants. There's also a long pier stretching out into the English Channel that has "sunset walk" written all over it. The best views can be enjoyed from East Hill, accessible via the U.K.'s steepest funicular, the East Hill Cliff Railway. After riding down, head to George Street, a haven for continental-style cafes, art shops, and bookstores.

Stratford-upon-Avon, West Midlands

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Literature buffs will love this medieval town hidden away in England's West Midlands. Shakespeare’s former homes and his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage are the major draws. A little more than two hours north of London, the town is also a great place to indulge in a boat tour along the plant-flecked canal basin. If you’re a theater lover, catch a play at the Royal Shakespeare Company 's playhouse (book well in advance), or enjoy a dinner cruise down the picturesque River Avon on the Countess of Evesham restaurant boat.

Canterbury, Kent

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If you dig a medieval cathedral with a dash of Chaucer, head to Canterbury. Roughly a 45-minute train ride from London, the town is a great option for travelers who are pressed for time. Start off with a walk (or bike ride) down the wiggly King’s Lane to check out the city’s stellar indie shops. When it comes to fueling up, there's lots on offer, from pastries at The Goods Shed farmers market and food hall to Scotch eggs at pubs in town. Walk it off in one of England’s oldest parks, Westgate Gardens, before hitting up the nearby Blean Woods Nature Reserve , an ancient woodland filled with rare flora and fauna. The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge is also worth visiting for a glimpse at one of the world's most important collections of cow paintings.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

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An easy, one-hour train journey from St. Pancras, this university city dating back to 1209 is home to some of the world's most photogenic colleges and dorms. Begin your journey at King’s College and stroll through its 15th-century landmark Gothic chapel, home to the world’s largest fan vault and some impressive stained-glass windows.

Next, explore the waterways in a punt, a long, flat-bottomed boat. Aside from hopping on a bike, it’s the simplest (and most fun) way to explore the city on the cheap. Plus, you’ll see all the top attractions, from Trinity College to the Bridge of Sighs , along the way.

"NoteWorthy clients often visit the Wren Library in Trinity College Cambridge, designed by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren," says Butler. "It is one of Cambridge’s most famous and historic college libraries. This experience will take you behind the scenes to see some extraordinary and valuable literary works guided by a subject expert. Two of Shakespeare’s first folios and various letters of Sir Isaac Newton are just examples of what you could see on the tour."

When you get hungry, head to the Pint Shop for gourmet pub-style food served in a joint once loved by E.M. Forster. The Sunday roast is great, as are all the beers sourced from hops all over the country.

Oxford, Oxfordshire

Famed for its academic history, ivy-clad buildings, and Harry Potter filming locations , Oxford is another university city well worth a day trip from London. The train journey from Paddington or Marylebone station takes just over an hour and once you arrive, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a real-life version of the Wizarding World. Start your visit with a walking tour ( Bodleian Libraries offers guided explorations of the city and its beautiful libraries). Then, climb the tower of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin for one of the best views of the rooftops. In addition to the towering Gothic architecture, the city's historic streets are lined with traditional pubs and charming cafes. After refueling, end your day with a punting adventure along the River Cherwell or visit the Ashmolean Museum , which houses an impressive array of art and artifacts.

Bruton, Somerset

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Somerset is a long day trip from London, but it’s doable and worth the effort if you’re willing to wake up early. One of the most convenient ways to get a taste of it is via the Great Garden Escape , courtesy of one of England's most celebrated hotels, The Newt in Somerset . The approximately two-hour journey sets off from London’s Paddington station, with breakfast served on board before the train rolls into the hills of the West Country. Next to the hotel’s Georgian façade, explore picturesque gardens and ancient woodlands, plus learn the art of cider making before digging into an afternoon tea overlooking the orchards. It’s basically England summed up in about eight hours.

Related Articles

Roaming Required

Best day trips from london (in under 2.5 hrs).

Last updated: 17 July 2023

If you’re looking for some day trips from London that are under 2.5 hours for a short break or weekend away then you’re in luck because we’re going to cover some of the very best places to explore from London. 

We’ve curated suggestions from a few expert travel bloggers about their favourite same-day road trips from London. All of these destinations have a journey time of 2-2.5hrs each way so be sure to pack all your road trip essentials for a full day out.

If you’re short on time or want travel time under two hours, we have a similar post with 15 Day Trips From London by Car in Under 2 Hours .

This post contains some affiliate links which means that if you click on the link and make a purchase then, at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission. This helps us keeps the lights on at Roaming Required HQ and we sincerely thank you for your support. 

Map – Day Trips from London in Under 2.5 Hours

How To Use This Guide

Conditions for driving in England can vary widely.  Toll-free motorways (prefix of A or M i.e. A1 or M1) will help you get from A to B with ease, by way of a quality multi-lane roads. 

Away from arterial roads, country roads (B roads) carry less traffic and usually run between smaller towns.  These can be single lane and walled with high hedges. We recommend driving slowly and with your lights switched on to assist with visibility and safety.  Distance alone cannot always indicate how long a journey will take so we’ve also included a conservative estimate of duration (each way) from central London. 

Should you need to cross London to undertake these same-day road trips, you’ll need to factor in additional time to do so. 

Suggested by Roaming Required

Oxford is one of the most historic and beautiful cities in England and is a fantastic destination for a day trip from London. Oxford is easily accessible via a 1 train journey (on the fast train) or just under 2 hours by car.

Oxford is home to the oldest university in the UK, also the oldest English-speaking university the world. We highly suggest taking advantage of the many tours available in Oxford to explore the university grounds and the many incredibly beautiful and historic buildings throughout the city.

A really unique way to get to experience Oxford is from the river so if you have time for a river cruise it is well worth it. If you prefer a more hands-on approach with your river sightseeing then perhaps hiring a punt is more up your stream. Just a word of caution from the locals, don’t lose your setting pole!

There are so many things to see, places to go, and food to eat that you are almost guaranteed to have an amazing time when you choose to explore Oxford in a day .

From London

• Distance from London: 58mi (93km) 
• Drive time from London: 2 hrs

Suggested by: The World in my Pocket

A day trip from London to Arundel is a great way to escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital and relax in the English countryside in a small town with a beautiful castle.

Even if it’s tiny, there are plenty of things to do in one day in Arundel . Visiting the castle can take as long as half a day, if you choose to buy a ticket for all the rooms and explore the gardens as well. Sometimes, there are medieval festivals held in the castle’s courtyard, which are a fun way to experience “battles” between the English and the French troops, and taste delicious food cooked in giant cauldrons.

Another point of interest in Arundel is the cathedral, which is built in a French Gothic style and resembles Notre Dame, in Paris. 

Arundel is a very quaint town, with many independent shops, cafes and restaurants. I recommend having breakfast at the Motte and Bailey Café and lunch at Waterside Café which has lovely views over the river. In summer, you can rent a boat from here and steer it down river Arun, all the way to the next pub.

For those driving from London, parking in Arundel is easy, with a large parking lot just outside of the castle gates and another large one, in front of the train station for £5. As is the case with many small but popular villages, free street parking is hard to find.

• Distance from London: 64mi (102km) 

Castle Combe

Suggested by: Darek and Gosia

Located in the Cotswolds in the county of Wiltshire, Castle Combe is one of the most beautiful villages in this part of the UK. With its surrounding countryside, this village is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cotswolds – a perfect place to visit on a day trip from London.

In 2001, Pictures of England voted Castle Combe as the most picturesque village in Great Britain, so it’s not hard to see why this Cotswolds gem is known amongst many photographers. The bridge in the village along with many beautiful old houses are a magnet for amateur and professional photographers.

If you’re strolling the village and the streets feel oddly familiar it’s probably because you’ve seen them on TV. Castle Combe is a popular filming location and was used in the first episodes of 1960’s TV series ‘Dr Dolittle’, and more recently in ‘Stardust’ (2008), ‘The Wolfman’ (2009) and in 2010 Steven Spielberg shot scenes for the film adaptation of ‘War Horse’. 

If you get a bit hungry while visiting the village, head out to the Old Stables and try the famous shortbread rolls. 

• Distance from London: 100mi (160km)
• Drive time from London: 2 hours

Suggested by: Hello Sussex

If you love quirky, artsy seaside towns with a bit of a vibe then Hastings Old Town has got your name on it. Just 74 miles (119 km) from London and a 2-hour drive, the former fisherman’s villages makes a fabulous day out from London by car.

Hastings Old Town is tucked between two steep cliffs and the sea and is easily walkable. There’s a lot to see and do and the Old Town will keep you busy for at least a day.

To start, head to the Stade and the distinctive towering black net huts. The Fishermen’s Museum and Sea Life Centre are worth a visit. Fishing boats are launched from the beach behind the huts. Nearby you’ll find seafood stalls selling prawns, cockles, whelks, and freshly caught fish. Beware the seagulls – they’ll have your pot of prawns from you in seconds. There are some good fish and chip shops near to the Stade. Hastings Contemporary , a modern gallery with café, is also nearby.

Explore the twittens – an old Sussex term for a narrow lane or passageway. You’ll find lots in Hastings Old Town between the cute fishermen’s cottages and crooked half-timbered buildings. The Old town also has more than its fair share of pubs. The FILO and The Crown are two favourites.

Find the East Hill funicular and make your way up to the top for views over the town and beach. The Smuggler’s Caves make a good visit for both kids and adults and the remains of a castle are on the West Hill opposite.

George Street is full of cafes, coffee shops and cool vintage shops. The Thai Bookshop is a good spot – bookshop by day, Thai restaurant in the evening. Another favourite is Isabella’s in George Street – fab if you like Turkish food. Hastings Old Town has some really cool shops. From cute home stores, to an old-school ironmongers, antique and vintage shops plus galleries and craft shops.

There’s a heap of cool things do in Hastings Old Town but to get the quirky, bohemian vibe you really need to head there yourself.

• Distance from London: 74mi (119km)
• Drive time from London: 2 hrs 

Stratford-Upon-Avon

Suggested by: Eat Cook Explore

A trip to England is not complete without a visit to William Shakespeare’s home town. 

Stratford-Upon-Avon is an absolute gem. A beautiful old town with most of the old Elizabethan architecture still intact, meticulously maintained and almost all are available to visit as they are now museums. 

Everyone who has studied English literature has had to read and decipher at least one of Shakespeare’s plays. To understand what inspired the greatest poet of our time, you should start your journey at Shakespeare’s schoolroom and Guildhall. Most of the school rooms are as they were in his time. A live actor plays the school master and you get to play a part of being a Tudor school boy. It’s interactive, fun and informative. Not to be missed. 

Shakespeare Birthplace Trust looks after a number of Shakespeare’s family properties. These include his birthplace where can visit the room he was born, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, where his wife lived before marrying him, New Place, the mansion that he bought after he became a rich man, Mary Arden’s farm and Hall Croft, his daughter’s home. Make sure you find out where the phrase, “sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite” comes from. You can visit all these under one ticket. 

A visit to Stratford-upon-Avon is not complete without a visit to the Royal Shakespeare Company, an imposing theatre complex along the river. Try and catch a performance there if you can. 

• Distance from London:  101mi (163km)

Spend The Night in a Castle!

If you want to make a weekend out of it, you’ll be looking for accommodation nearby. Sleep in a castle at the stunning Grade II* listed Studley Castle in the village of Studley just 12 miles away.

Need Receipts? Read our review of Studley Castle or watch our video for more information.

Suggested by: Hello Manpreet

The beautiful waterfront is what sets Portsmouth apart, making it one of the most popular destinations within the UK for a day trip from London. 

In the heart of the city, the most visited attractions includes the famous dockyard, a popular Museum and Art Gallery , and the Spinnaker Tower where you will get an opportunity to walk over a glass floor and take some great pictures of the city down below. The Spinnaker Tower gets very busy on clear days so be sure to book your tickets for the tower well in advance. 

Many visitors come to Portsmouth to shop at the famous Gunwharf Quays shopping outlets. The waterfront area became home to one the largest premium shopping outlets in the UK, featuring some of the world’s most famous luxury brands.

Whether you plan to shop till you drop, or take a stroll along the historical waterfront, you can expect to be in Portsmouth in under 2 hours from London. Portsmouth city provides plenty of parking so there is no need to worry about that front.

• Distance from London: 75mi (120km)
• Drive time from London: 2 hours 

Suggested by: Wandering Bird

If you’re looking for a good day trip from London, look no further than the historic city of Winchester. 

Winchester is one of the oldest cities in England and has everything you’d expect- quaint old streets, beautiful buildings and one of the prettiest cathedrals in the country.

Some of the best things to do in Winchester include:

• Winchester Cathedral – Jane Austen is buried here and it’s home to one of the oldest bibles in the world
• Shopping – Winchester has some amazing shops, all close together on the high street, and you can happily pass several hours simply browsing
• Winchester Planetarium – a wonderful place to lie back and enjoy learning about the stars and planets. (Perfect for kids!)
• Visit the famous Christmas market. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in November or December, you should to head to the Winchester Christmas Market , it’s one of the best in the country. 

There are plenty of places to eat and drink. Enjoying the many award-winning pubs, bars and restaurants in the city. Winchester is a University town and has a great social scene. A local recommendation is ‘ The Porterhouse ’ which serves a range of foods, including award-winning steak. For a typical British pub experience, the Willow Tree is lovely

Winchester is a wonderful city, showcasing some of the history and character of England. You won’t be disappointed with your day trip choice. 

• Distance from London: 70mi (112km)

Suggested by: The Silver Nomad

Avebury Heritage Site is part of the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site.

While Stonehenge is better known, Avebury is less touristy and more intimate and certainly worthy of a day trip from London.

Unlike it’s bigger brother, Avebury is so intimate that you can get up and personal to touch many of the Neolithic stones. Soak in the history that goes back over 4,000 years to when they were built between 2850 BC and 2200 BC.

The stones were built on top of a henge, which is an earth mound with a top which is surrounded by a ditch and banking. Sheep have been grazing the site for over 6,000 years, so keep any dogs on a lead as you might see sheep wandering in between the stones.

Avebury village has built up around the stones. Visit the Barn Museum in the Old Farmyard to discover the Avebury’s history and see some of the artefacts that have been discovered over the years.

Next door to the museum is Circles Café where you can stop for a bite to eat and pop into the shop for souvenirs. If you fancy some delicious food try the Red Lion pub in the village.

From the centre of London, Avebury is about 84 miles or 137 kilometres down the M4 and then join the A361 at with Marlborough or Swindon. The journey takes just over 2 hours depending on the traffic. There is plenty of parking in the car park just past the village (postcode for satnav: SN8 1RD). Parking charges ( correct at 2020 ) are £7 per day or £4 after 3pm, free if you are a National Trust or English Heritage member .

Take time to drive along West Kennet Avenue to the other Neolithic sites that make up the Heritage Site, Silbury Hill, West Kennet Long Barrow and The Sanctuary. On the way home, look out for the chalk horse carved into Hackpen Hill.

• Distance from London: 84mi (137km)

Suggested by: Champagne on Arrival

Taking a day trip to the countryside is a great way to get a change of scenery if you live in London (or anywhere for that matter) and luckily you don’t have to go too far to get it.

The Cotswolds village of Broadway, often referred to as the “Jewel of The Cotswolds.” Go there and you will know why, this village is truly the place to get a bit of Great British countryside.

Among some of the best things to do in Broadway is to walk up to the Broadway Tower , the second highest point in The Cotswolds with sweeping countryside views, which on a clear day, spans 16 counties. A couple of miles down the road is the National Trust property Snowshill Manor and Gardens , a historic Manor House complete with English country garden and in the summer, a model village on display.

One of the best ways to pass a few hours here though is just to stroll along the high street, it really is very picturesque and there are lots of interesting, independent shops selling everything from antique furniture, clothes and hand made chocolates.

Interspersed between the shops there are numerous cafés serving breakfast, lunch and light bites, with the most eye catching being the Broadway Deli with a small café and garden out the back. For some wine and tapas, head to the Lygon Wine Bar or if you fancy a bit of fine dining in a relaxed setting, Tattershall’s Brasserie in the Broadway Hotel is a great choice.

If at all possible, try not to visit in June, July and August as it can get very busy. It is a great location to visit around Christmas as the village does a superb job of getting in the festive spirit, including fairy lights all the way along the high street.

• Distance from London: 95mi (153km)
• Drive time from London: 2 hr 10 minutes 

Seven Sisters

Suggested by: The Travel Bunny

If you love the outdoors, epic views, and coastal trails then the Seven Sisters Country Park and cliffs in East Sussex is a must-do day trip from London by car or train.

Escape the urban sprawl for one of the best hikes in the south east and one of the most iconic views in the UK.

Park up at Exceat by Seven Sisters Country Park. Find the nearby sign for the South Downs Way and follow your nose. Walk alongside the snaking Cuckmere River for a while before heading up the hill towards the first cliff, Haven Brow. From here follow the undulating cliff walk cliff until you get to Birling Gap, taking in the amazing views as you go. One of the cliffs is where Harry Potter climbed up to find the boots that transported him to the Quidditch World Cup in The Goblet of Fire. At Birling Gap head down the steps to the beach to grasp the full scale of the cliffs.

Local Tip: Be sure to stay at least 4 metres from the edge when walking the cliffs and at the beach stay back from the base of the cliffs. The chalk cliffs are crumbling and there are often rockfalls.

Stop for a picnic on the cliffs at Birling Gap, have a drink at the cafe or head back to Exceat for lunch at the Cuckmere Inn. In the afternoon hire a kayak or SUP and have some time on the water (you’ll need to book in advance at Buzz Active ) or you could walk down the right hand side of the river to Cuckmere Haven and the beach spotting wildlife in the nature reserve. If you want to find the iconic view of the coastguard cottages, you’ll find more info in this guide to visiting Seven Sisters Country Park .

• Distance from London: 70mi 113 km)
• Drive time from London: 2 hr 15 minutes 

Suggested by: Meet Me in Departures

Bristol has many claims to fame and they all start with the letter B; Blackbeard, Brunel, Balloons, and Banksy. The city makes for a great day trip from London. It’s located 118 miles (189km) from the centre of London. Traffic dependant, the journey should take just under 2.5 hours.

One thing Bristol doesn’t hide is its rich maritime history. The dockside has played an important role in the city for hundreds of years. Part of the history revolves around Edward Teach, also known as the notorious pirate Blackbeard. Robert Louis Stevenson, the author of ‘Treasure Island’ was inspired by one of the dockside pubs The Hole In The Wall. His character, Long John Silver, drank at a pub called the Spyglass and there’s a tribute to this – including the famous ‘’spy hole’’ which still stands today.

Bristol’s top attraction is The SS Great Britain , built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. This is the same engineer who designed two of Bristol’s other iconic landmarks, Temple Meads Station and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Wherever you wander about in Bristol, you will notice how vibrant the city’s street art scene is. As well as being the home of Banksy, Bristol also boasts an autonomous area called Stokes Croft where you’ll find the hub of everything street art. It’s certainly worth a couple of hours exploring this underbelly of the city. 

Finally, Bristol is also home to several hot air balloon manufacturers, on calm evenings you will often see balloons floating over the city. Bristol also hosts the International Balloon Fiesta every August at Ashton Court. Over the duration of the fiesta, hundreds of balloons are launched filling the skies with every shape and colour imaginable.

• Distance from London: 118mi (189km)
• Drive time from London: 2 ½ hrs

Suggested by: Roaming Required

Norwich in Norfolk is a pretty and creative place, drawing on a rich history as being the most complete medieval city in the UK. 

You could easily spend a weekend in Norwich , but if you only have one day then consider a visit to the Norwich Cathedral, an ancient beauty of stained glass, and cream-coloured Caen limestone. The domineering Norwich castle sits on a tall mound overlooking the Old Town is worth some of your time, as is the Market.

Norwich is home to a 900-year old market. Situated in the heart of the city, it operates most of the week. Merchants sell everything from spices to organic fruit and veg, flowers, clothing. If you’re feeling peckish there are plenty of food stalls selling everything from chips to pies to everything in between. 

If you’re craving green space, Norfolk happens to be the only English city situated in a National Park, the Norfolk Broads, a beautiful countryside setting with charming and picturesque towns and villages with over 125 miles of navigable waterways.

• Distance from London: 118mi (190km)
• Drive time from London: 2 ½ hours

Lulworth Cove

Suggested by: The Gap Decaders

Lulworth Cove is a stunning and unique horseshoe cove in the popular holiday county of East Dorset. A part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , which is home to dramatic rock formations, cliffs and dinosaur fossils as well as pretty villages and traditional sea-side resorts and is a favourite of day trippers and those taking a longer UK holiday .

Lulworth Cove is perfect for swimming and water sports on a hot summer’s day, with a sloping beach and clear turquoise waters. Hire a kayak and head for deeper water or embrace your childhood and try a bit or rock-pooling at either end of the bay. 

For more spectacular scenery, head west on foot from Lulworth Cove to the dramatic sea arch of Durdle Door and it’s beautiful beach or walk on the south west coastal path to the fascinating fossil forest, formed millions of years ago. Further along the cliff path is Worbarrow Bay, a beautiful, secluded and much less visited cove, only accessible by walking from Lulworth or the tiny abandoned village of Tyneham.  

Once you’ve done with swimming and walking, head to East Lulworth and the charming thatched Weld Arms, for a warm welcome and delicious local food. You’ll arrive home relaxed and tired after a day of sea air and amazing natural wonders.

• Distance from London: 127mi (205km)

North Norfolk Coast

Suggested by: Two Plus Dogs

The North Norfolk coast is perfect for a day trip from London to escape the pace of city life. 

Pack your walking shoes and enjoy the complete contrast of miles of golden beaches, sea air, peace and quiet, wildlife and nature, and open spaces. 

As you drive towards the Norfolk coast, relax by taking in the views of the marshlands and quaint country villages.

Start your day at the beautiful Wells-by-the-sea, where you can grab brunch at one of the many cafes and hotels offering quality, local produce. The Crown Hotel is a local favourite, serving homemade granola, locally smoked salmon, or a really good full English breakfast. Walk off your breakfast with a stroll around the pretty, independent shops on your way down to the beach.

At the beach head left and enjoy the beautiful sandy expanse which stretches to Holkham. Holkham beach is simply stunning and was voted UK Beach of the Year 2018. Time it right and you may be lucky enough to see the pounding of hooves on this beach as the riders exercise their horses. In addition to the unspoiled sand, you will find a bordering forest and sand dunes so take your pick of backdrops. Holkham itself also boasts an estate and nature reserve; 18th century country house Holkham Hall is also a great choice if you fancy taking in some history and natural beauty.

Back in Wells-by-the-sea, head back along the coastal road, where you will pass both Titchwell Manor and Eric’s Fish and Chips. Both are popular, family-owned businesses and a must visit when at the coast. The afternoon tea at Titchwell Manor is top notch, as are the fish and chips at Eric’s. Go traditional or try the delicious spinach and halloumi arancini. You will see a fishmonger, fresh produce shop, and other small independent shops here so bring a cooler bag, and stock up with Norfolk’s fresh finest to take home. 

• Distance from London: 132mi (212 km)

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Staying in London?

Check out our other london articles :.

• Conquering the Bermondsey Beer Mile
• 37 Unusual Things To Do in London for Couples
• Romantic things to do in London under £10
• 18 Iconic London Landmarks You Cannot Miss

Exploring the UK?

Check out these posts :.

• Can I Use ePassport Gates in the UK?
• 11 of the Best Castles Near London
• 9 Awesome UK Breaks in England
• Discovering The Potteries in Stoke-on-Trent
• Weekend in Norwich – What to See, Eat, Do
• 21 Same-day Road Trips from Glasgow

Train or Drive?

Day Trips from London are easiest by car. Many cities are easy by  train from London , but getting out to the rural, quaint country villages is much much easier with a car. That’s why we recommend   hiring a car  for independent travel.

Need a Hotel?

Sometimes plans change. Perhaps you love your day trip so much that you want to stay the night and see more the next day.  Book a hotel nearby  to extend your trip.

Do You Have Travel Insurance?

Accidents happen and travel insurance is something you should always have before setting off on an adventure.  It’s almost always cheaper to buy a  prepaid annual policy  than trip by trip. If you’re hiring a car as mentioned in this post, be sure to check that you’re covered for damages no matter who’s at fault. Should something happen, you want to know you’ll be taken care of and not a burden physically or financially to your family and friends.

Travel Smart. Travel Safe.

Need a SIM Card?

The UK is, for now, still member of the European Union so if you have an EU SIM you should be eligible for free data roaming from your home country.

If you’re needing a SIM card, there are Prepaid or Pay As You Go (PAYG) options.

Order a  Prepaid SIM Card for the UK  online and have it shipped to you.

Roma was raised on the white sandy beaches of Australia's East Coast, and she has called London home since 2012. With an adventurous spirit, a love of regional travel and anything food related, Roma looks to encourage working professionals to follow their dreams to travel the world one adventure and short break at a time. Don't let a full-time career stop you from seeing the world. Come roam with us!

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21 Top-Rated Day Trips from London, England

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Sep 29, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley has visited England many times, including an eight-week trip in the spring of 2022.

While London has plenty of attractions to keep tourists busy, so many wonderful places to visit lie close by that you're certain to be tempted to take at least one day trip while you're here. Some of the best day trips from London are as close as the magnificent palace of Hampton Court, but you can travel farther in a day — all the way to Paris, in fact, thanks to high-speed trains.

Within easy reach from London are the beautiful and historic cities of Bath and Oxford, the soaring cathedral at Canterbury, along with some of the best castles in England . Legendary Windsor Castle is also close, and not far beyond is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stonehenge, one of the top attractions in England.

Renting A Car: Getting to these destinations is relatively easy and there are several options. Rental companies like Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Europcar have many locations in and around London, and convenient online reservations mean more time exploring the countryside than spent lining up to get a car.

Trains: London is also the UK's major hub for passenger rail travel. And while train companies vie for business over some of the busiest routes, you can keep things simple by using online booking platforms such as Trainline and National Rail . Simple searches will not only show the best routes to get to your day trip destination but also the best prices, including cheap day returns and other money-saving options.

Find the best places to visit and things to do with our list of the top day trips from London, England.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

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High on the list of England's top tourist attractions , Stonehenge has mystified scholars, scientists, and historians for centuries. The giant stones that rise from the Salisbury Plain have been here for at least four millennia.

Before circling the megaliths, spend some time in the Stonehenge Visitor Centre to learn about the stones and the people who built them. In addition to beautifully conceived audio/visual exhibits, its fascinating displays include more than 250 ancient artifacts. This UNESCO World Heritage site also includes authentic replicas of Neolithic houses illustrating everyday Neolithic life.

An easy way to get to Stonehenge is on a 6.5-hour London to Stonehenge Shuttle Bus and Independent Day Trip . This popular tour includes admission tickets to see the stones and all the related exhibits, plus a complimentary audio-guide.

Prefer to make the journey from London to Stonehenge yourself? If you're planning on driving the 88-mile route, allow at least 2 hours each way, traffic depending. As there are no direct trains to Stonehenge, you'll want to make the 90-minute journey to the pretty cathedral city of Salisbury and pick up a Salisbury Red shuttle bus for the short final leg of your Stonehenge adventure.

Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire

Perhaps the most interesting of Britain's royal palaces, Hampton Court lies southwest of London on the north bank of the Thames. The Great Hall and other parts of the palace date from Henry VIII's time, and five of his six wives lived here as Queen; the ghosts of two of them are said to still haunt the palace. This is also where Elizabeth I learned of the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

Highlights of the palace include the Clock Court with its astronomical clock dating from 1540; the State Apartments, including the Haunted Gallery ; the Chapel Royal; the King's Apartments; and the Tudor tennis court. Visitors should also explore the Privy Garden, the Pond Garden, the Elizabethan Knot Garden, the Broad Walk, and the Wilderness, especially in mid-May when in full bloom .

One of the other popular things to do at Hampton Court Palace , particularly for children, is wandering through the palace's famous maze .

Hampton Court is easy to reach by a 45-minute train ride from London's Victoria Station. Although only 15 miles away from central London, driving there isn't recommended as it'll take as long, if not longer, by car.

Address: Hampton Court Way, Molesey, East Molesey, Richmond Upon Thames

The summer home of the British Royal Family, Windsor Castle is also the longest-occupied royal residence in Europe. Inside its walls is St. George's Chapel , begun by Edward IV in 1474 and among the finest examples of the English Perpendicular Gothic style. In its vaults and sacristy are the tombs of several monarchs.

One of the highlights of visiting Windsor Castle is a tour of the State Apartments , where the Queen's Gallery and the Dining Hall each have magnificently painted ceilings and wood carvings. The palace's art collection includes works by Michelangelo, Rubens, Leonardo da Vinci, Canaletto, and Rembrandt. Queen Mary's Dollhouse and the beautiful gardens are other highlights of the castle complex.

Windsor Castle is easy to combine with other nearby attractions on a Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London tour by luxury coach. The tour includes visits to both St. George's Chapel and the State Apartments, with an expert tour guide to point out the most important features and fill in the castle's history.

Other options for getting to Windsor Castle from London , a distance of only 23 miles, include by car, bus, or train. That said, given the usually busy roads in and around London, the 20-minute train journey is as good as it gets.

Address: Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire

One of Europe's oldest and most beautiful university towns, Oxford is easy to reach by direct train from London. A distance of around 58 miles, trains will swoosh you through the picturesque countryside in around an hour. Prefer to drive? Sure, it'll take a little longer, but Oxford's location on the edge of the Cotswolds means you can actually cross two items off your London day trip bucket list.

While its main draw for tourists is the university, Oxford is certainly an attractive place to visit for other reasons. Topping the list are its many pleasant parks and gardens, the historic Covered Market, and Christ Church Cathedral .

Highlights of the university are the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College , which gained new attention when it was featured in several Harry Potter movies. Other fun things to do in Oxford include exploring the historic city center, visiting the History of Science Museum , and enjoying some shopping in Cornmarket Street.

Close to Oxford and easy to combine on a day trip from London is the Cotswolds , a beautiful region of rolling landscapes and picturesque villages. The Cotswolds have been named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to the rare limestone grassland habitats and old-growth woodlands. But, for most visitors, the region's appeal is in its charming villages and towns, such as Bourton-on-Water , Castle Combe, and Chipping Norton.

An easy way to visit this beautiful region is on the Oxford, Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London . This 10-hour excursion by motor coach includes a guided walking tour of Oxford, as well as visits to Bodleian Library and Christ Church College.

For those who prefer to go it alone, this same route can easily be covered by car, with online admissions secured in advance from major attractions saving you both time and money.

Often named as the loveliest castle in the world, Leeds Castle in the county of Kent certainly has one of the prettiest settings. Surrounded by water, its stone towers are reflected from almost every angle. The first castle was built here in 1089, and Leeds became a favorite royal residence of King Edward I in the late 13th century.

Later, it was the home of Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII. It continued as a country house through the Jacobean and Georgian eras, and finally as the retreat of an Anglo-American heiress and her fashionable friends in the 1920s. You'll see reminders of all these eras and lives in the lavish rooms and in the Gatehouse Museum.

The gardens are known for the yew hedge maze. You can explore Leeds Castle on a private guided tour before the castle is open to the public and have time to stroll in the gardens as part of the Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover, and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour . Traveling from the city on a comfortable coach, you'll have state-of-the-art headphones throughout the tour, so you can easily hear the expert guide's commentary throughout the day.

Although just 42 miles from London, a day trip to Leeds Castle is one of those rare instances when you might want to forgo the train for a car or organized tour. Situated mid-way between the towns of Ashford and Maidstone, the need for a bus ride to tackle the last few miles from either destination can add an hour or more to your journey each way.

Location: Broomfield, Maidstone, Kent

Officially called the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Gardens is situated in southwest London on the south bank of the Thames. And it's easy to get to. Just 8 miles from central London, Kew is served by the London Underground (yes, the "Tube"), with easy connections to the District Line available from almost anywhere in the city. So save the car for a more remote day trip destination.

The world's most important collection of living plants contains more than 50,000 specimens and a library of as many volumes of botanical literature. So important a collection is it that Kew Gardens has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list , making it the best day trip from London for garden lovers.

The gardens were laid out in 1759 and became government property in 1841. A thatched cottage built for Queen Charlotte between 1754 and 1771 was a long-time favorite of Queen Victoria.

An entire pavilion is dedicated to water lilies, and throughout the gardens are a variety of buildings that include a Japanese house, England's smallest royal palace, and a pagoda. Also worth seeing are its two galleries of botanical art and several conservatories.

A river cruise along the Thames is a great way to get to this spectacular 300-acre garden with its many musical and cultural events.

Address: Kew, Richmond, Surrey

The name of this beautiful city gives a clue to its origins and its most famous site: the remarkable 2,000-year-old Roman Baths built around the city's natural hot springs. But Bath continued to be a spa town long after the Romans left, and later became a center for fashionable, wealthy English in the Georgian and Regency periods.

Several Bath tourist attractions recall that era immortalized by Bath's most famous resident, Jane Austen. Recapture her world at the Jane Austen Centre and learn about Regency fashions at the Fashion Museum, located in the stunning and historic Assembly Rooms . Be sure to see the Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon, lined with shops and said to be patterned after the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy.

You can visit this UNESCO World Heritage city as part of an 11-hour Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London tour, accompanied by a guide who will explain the history as you explore the famous Roman Baths.

Alternatively, getting to Bath from London yourself is pretty easy, with regular train services covering the 100 miles in just 90 minutes. Driving is also doable, but factoring in parking on the city outskirts and bussing in adds at least another 30-45 minutes to your trip, each way.

A beautiful medieval city in its own right, Canterbury is best known for the soaring Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, this cathedral has been the center of English Christianity since St. Augustine, its first bishop, converted the Anglo-Saxons here in 597.

The cathedral was also the site of the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170, an event memorialized in TS Elliot's Murder in the Cathedral . Along with strolling the charming streets of medieval houses, step outside the city walls to visit the remains of St. Augustine's Abbey and the graves of St. Augustine and King Ethelbert.

You can tour Canterbury Cathedral with an expert guide on the Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour , a 10-hour excursion from the city by a comfortable coach that also includes two more of southern England's outstanding sights.

If you're only interested in Canterbury, this picturesque 65-mile journey through the heart of Kent can easily be done yourself in about two hours by car or train each way.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Canterbury

With an early morning departure by the fast Eurostar train, you can be across the Channel for a full day's sightseeing in magical Paris from London in under 3 hours. You could take a car, but the additional 2 or 3 hours needed to cover the 300-mile route only works if you're planning on staying longer and touring more of France.

By train, however, you can reasonably expect to see several of the top Paris tourist attractions , including the Eiffel Tower and the magnificent 45-foot-tall stained-glass windows of Ste-Chapelle. You'll even have time to admire the highlights of the Louvre or the Impressionist collections at the Musée d'Orsay. All in a single day, and still be back in London for bedtime.

Alternatively, you could spend the day exploring the charming streets and attractions of the Left Bank. Here, you can spend time browsing in boutiques, pausing in cafés to absorb the Parisian atmosphere, and taking a leisurely cruise on the Seine for views of Paris landmarks.

Choose whether you want to explore Paris with the expert help of a guide, or independently on a Paris Rail Day Trip from London with an Optional Guided Tour or Sightseeing Bus tour . The fully escorted rail tour option includes a guided Paris city tour, a sightseeing cruise on the Seine River, and time to explore. The independent tour option includes a Paris hop-on-hop-off bus tour and time to explore the city as you wish.

Until the hit British TV series Downton Abbey was filmed here , very few people had heard of the stunning English manor house of Highclere Castle . Now its opulent halls, the Red Stairs, the music room, the sumptuous saloon, and even the bedrooms are a familiar sight to audiences all over the world.

The castle is open to visitors both for seasonal public viewings and for special tours for smaller groups that are themed around food, gardens, or the filming of Downton Abbey . Not far from Highclere are several other locations that fans will recognize as settings, including the Cotswolds village of Bampton , featured as Downton Village.

Get the inside scoop on the hit series by taking the Small Group Tour of Downton Abbey and the Village Tour of Locations from London . On this full-day tour, you'll visit the little village in Oxfordshire that doubled as Downton and hear behind-the-scenes stories about the series. Then you'll continue on to Highclere with time to explore the castle and gardens independently. The tour includes Highclere admission and return transport.

If you prefer to go it alone, you'll want to rent a car for the 67-mile journey to Highclere. If you do, you'll get there in around 2 hours, ensuring you'll have a full day to explore the famous manor home, plus even a little time to explore the historic city of Winchester , just a 20-mile drive to the south.

Address: Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury, Hampshire

Around 30 miles northwest of London, the studio where the Harry Potter films were produced is filled with original sets, costumes, and props used in re-creating the world inhabited by J.K. Rowling's characters. Visitors can step into the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, see the actual Hogwarts Express on Platform 9 ¾, and stand in the Forbidden Forest.

The actual costumes are on display, along with props, including the hundreds of potion jars lining the walls of the classroom, each with its own individually designed labels and spooky contents, from shrunken heads to dried animal bones. Exhibits explain how magical creatures were crafted and brought to life, and how special and visual effects made Harry and other characters fly.

The studios are about an hour's drive from Oxford where many of the scenes were shot. You can experience the studio and visit a few Oxford shooting locations, such as Bodleian Library, Christ Church College, and other university buildings used in the films, on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and Oxford Day Trip from London .

Another good option is to take the train for the 70-minute journey, hopping on a bus in Watford which will deposit you at the attraction. If you drive, stop at nearby St. Albans for a few hours. This often-overlooked city is home to one of the most unusual, uncrowded cathedrals in England.

Address: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, Watford, Hertfordshire

On a hot summer day, when you want to escape the city's soaring temperatures and head for the seaside, Brighton is the place to go. Getting from London to Brighton , a distance of 55 miles and around an hour's travel time, is easy and well worth the time and effort.

Not only is there a great beach and the charmingly retro Palace Pier loaded with old-fashioned penny arcades and entertainment, but Brighton also boasts many fun things to do . Highlights include shopping in the historic Lanes, eating fish and chips on the seafront, or spending time on the beaches .

The prime tourist attraction is the famous Royal Pavilion & Garden . This stunning structure was built for George IV and is pure frothy fantasy, a multi-domed and minareted faux-Indian palace faced in cream-colored tiles.

The interior is equally exotic and is furnished with Chinese wallpapers, silks, bamboo and lacquer furniture, and Oriental-themed art. The chandelier in the banqueting hall is a glittering tower held in place by a dragon.

Address: 4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, East Sussex

One hundred miles northwest of London, the Elizabethan market town of Stratford-upon-Avon is known primarily as the birthplace of William Shakespeare . But even without this famous poet and playwright, its importance as a stage and research center for his works, Stratford-upon-Avon is worth visiting for its charming half-timbered homes and the historic Stratford-upon-Avon Canal.

Most tourists come here, however, to follow in the footsteps of Shakespeare, visiting his well-preserved birthplace and several other homes of those associated with him. About a mile from the town center is the lovely thatched cottage of Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway, with its cottage garden.

Just 9 miles from Stratford-upon-Avon is medieval Warwick Castle with its impressive ramparts. You can tour the huge castle complex from the top of its towers to the dungeons and watch jousting matches or demonstrations of falconry and other medieval skills. Its theme park atmosphere provides plenty of things to do with children. Afterward, spend time exploring the historic town center and Warwick attractions , including the medieval Lord Leycester Hospital.

Warwick Castle and Shakespeare's birthplace are easy to combine with two other highlights of this part of England on the Oxford, Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London . After traveling from the city by coach, you'll have plenty of time to tour the castle and explore the Shakespeare sights.

Thanks to good road and rail connections, both of these historic English cities are doable in a day either by car or train.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Stratford-upon-Avon

Every inch the equal to Oxford, Cambridge is as popular a day trip destination as it is for those wanting a fun weekend break . Only an hour (60 miles) from London by train or car, this university city offers plenty of great attractions that are walkable from the train station, meaning it's easy to cross off multiple places to visit in a day.

Start your exploration at Cambridge University Botanic Garden . Just a five-minute walk from the station, this 40-acre site is a great place for a picnic or a coffee break before delving deeper into the city.

From here, it's only a 15-minute stroll to the Fitzwilliam Museum . Set in an impressive Neoclassical structure built in 1816, this museum is home to rare antiquities from across Europe as well as many artworks by the world's leading painters.

You'll want to spend the bulk of your remaining time exploring some of the 31 colleges of Cambridge University itself, some of them dating back to medieval times. Highlights include King's College and its famous chapel; Queens' College , home to the remarkable Mathematical Bridge ; and Trinity College with its attractive grounds.

For a truly memorable Cambridge experience, take a "punt" along the River Cam. These flat-bottomed vessels are propelled by a long "setting pole" that's thrust into the shallow river to push the boat forward. They can be rented by the hour, or better still, find a punt that comes with a tour guide and punter.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cambridge, England

This imposing Jacobean Hatfield House is surrounded by beautiful parkland and was designed at the beginning of the 17th century for the Earl of Salisbury (the home remains in the family today). The magnificent interior contains valuable period furniture, paintings and 17th-century tapestries in one of the largest and most impressive Jacobean mansions in England.

In addition to the house, the spectacular gardens and park encompass Hatfield Park Farm , complete with animals, a miniature train, play areas, and a restaurant.

Only an hour north of London by train (around the same by car if the traffic's light), it's well worth making this 22-mile journey for a pleasant day out in the Hertfordshire countryside.

Location: Hatfield, Hertfordshire

After all that historic sightseeing, Chessington World of Adventures , about 12 miles south of London, is a great place to unwind, particularly for those traveling with kids. One of Britain's biggest theme parks, Chessington features thrilling roller coasters and rides in its several themed areas, which include Market Square, Mystic East, Pirates Cove, Transylvania, and Land of the Dragons.

Chessington is also famous for its zoo (it's how the park began in 1931), today split into areas including the Children's Zoo, the Sea Life Centre, and AMAZU Treetop Adventure. The zoo features over 1,000 exotic animals, including tigers, lions, gorillas, monkeys, and penguins.

Just 17 miles from central London, this is yet another great day trip from London where you'll want to forego the car and opt for public transit, which will get you there in just over an hour.

Address: Leatherhead Road, Chessington, Surrey

The Royal Horticultural Society's showpiece garden, the 350-acre RHS Garden Wisley , showcases the widest range of gardening styles and techniques in the world. Among its nearly two dozen different gardens are a walled garden, alpine meadow, cottage garden, rose garden, mixed borders, and a Bonsai Walk.

The Glasshouse features plants from tropical, moist temperate, and dry temperate habitats. The woodland garden, Battleston Hill, is its most beautiful in the spring, when its winding paths are bordered in blooming camellias, magnolias, rhododendrons, and azaleas. One of the oldest, constructed between 1910 and 1912, is the naturalistic Rock Garden, showcasing alpine plants with dwarf conifers.

The newest, opened in 2017, is the Exotic Garden, filled with palms, ginger, banana plants, and large vibrant tropical blossoms you might not expect to see flourishing outdoors in northern European latitudes.

If driving the 25-mile distance from London to the gardens, you can expect to spend just under an hour on the road. You can travel the same distance by train and bus in 90 minutes.

Address: Wisley Lane, Wisley, Woking, Surrey

Originally a 15th-century monastery, Syon House in Brentford was one of the architectural jewels on the periphery of London, especially from the point of view of its interior, redesigned in the 18th century by architect Robert Adam.

As well as its imposing columns and statues, valuable paintings and fine silken wall coverings, Syon House is noted for its 54-acre park and gardens, which include the magnificent Great Conservatory built in the 1920s.

Just 10 miles from Central London, you can easily get here by bus or tube, with a journey time of around 45 minutes. Either way entails a little walking, but it's only a few minute's stroll through a pleasant park.

Two other excellent museums in Brentford are the Kew Bridge Steam Museum with its working steam engines, and the Musical Museum at Kew Bridge with its fine collection of automated musical instruments.

Address: London Road, Brentford, Middlesex

This lovely 300-year-old National Trust property features a serpentine lake, an island with a pavilion, a turf amphitheater, and numerous pleasant viewpoints and vistas. Located 21 miles southwest of London and accessible either by rail (plus a short bus ride) or car, Claremont Landscape Gardens are where many of England's best-known gardeners have left their mark, most notably Capability Brown .

Other highlights include a grotto, Camellia Terrace, Belvedere Tower and a café. There's also the Victorian Thatched Cottage , a great place for younger kids to play and dress up in period costumes.

Address: Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey

The Brooklands Museum in Weybridge is one of Surrey's most popular museums and is home to the only Concorde in the southeast with public access. Brooklands opened as a racetrack in 1907 and is now famous as the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation.

Just 21 miles from London and easily accessible by a 30-minute train ride and a 20-minute walk, the museum contains the Malcolm Campbell Workshop, a racing car collection, a Wellington bomber rescued from Loch Ness, and an aircraft collection spanning 85 years.

Another excellent display of aircraft can be seen at the De Havilland Aircraft Museum in London Colney, Hertfordshire . The oldest aviation museum in Britain, the museum has three historic Mosquito fighter-bombers as well as a variety of jet fighters.

Location: Brooklands Road, Weybridge, Surrey

This National Trust property located near Heathrow Airport is a stunning 18th century Georgian villa set in 140 acres of parkland with an interior designed by Robert Adam. Once the home of Thomas Gresham, founder of the Royal Exchange, it was described in his time as the "palace of palaces."

The house is preserved exactly as it would have looked in the 1780s. The estate also includes colorful formal gardens, roses and vegetable beds, as well as a lovely summer house with lemon trees and scented shrubs.

Just a 10-minute drive (4 miles) from Heathrow Airport, Osterley Park and House makes for an excellent final stop before catching your plane home.

Location: Jersey Road, Isleworth, Middlesex

Southern England's climate is temperate, so extremes of heat and cold are rare. But late March to mid-June, and September to mid-November, are likely to have the least rainfall . If you plan to visit several of the gardens, most are at their height in May and June, but there will be something in bloom, and the gardens will be lovely from spring through fall. Remember, Kew Gardens has extensive glasshouses, so there's plenty to see there year-round.

London hotel prices are the cheapest during the off-season: November and January through March. The highest rates are from mid-June through August. If you plan day trips to several stately homes, consider December. Even though the weather may be cold, most of them decorate for the holidays, some quite spectacularly.

A few of the tourist attractions above are accessible on a Visitor Oyster Card , the preferred London transport pass for tourists. You can buy these online or at any Visit Britain shop. Fares are determined by which zones you will be traveling in. You can also simply "tap in, tap out" using your credit card, an easy and convenient option that's available on most train, underground, and bus services.

Kew Gardens is in Zone 3 and has its own station, about 500 meters from the garden's Victoria Gate. It is served by the Richmond branch of the District Line.

Oyster cards are accepted on trains to Hampton Court, leaving from London Waterloo station at half-hour intervals. For Syon House and Conservatory, you can take the Piccadilly Line to Boston Manor, then an E8 bus to Brentlea Gate bus stop. Hatfield, unfortunately, is just outside the Oyster Card Zone.

The two theme parks, Chessington World of Adventures and Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio are especially appealing to young visitors. But historic sites and even gardens often have features specially designed for children.

Hampton Court Palace has excellent programs and special brochures to engage children, as well as costumed performers who impersonate, often humorously, figures from the palace's history, bringing them to life for kids.

Warwick Castle is filled with theme park activities and experiences that include learning swordplay and, for older kids, an interactive dungeon tour. The Brooklands Museum will interest auto-crazy teens with its racing cars, and younger kids will like the Hatfield Park Farm animals and miniature train rides.

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18 Of The Best Day Trips From London To Try In 2024

Published 27 August 2024 . By Josie May .

As much as we all love city life, sometimes a breather from the hustle and bustle is very much needed. Better yet, some of the best London day trips  don't require much travel to find the peace and quiet you've been craving. Whether you want to wander around the filming ground of Downton Abbey or prefer a quaint seaside retreat (with a side order of delicious oysters), then take a look at our list of hotspots outside of the city. 

Woodstock: 1 hr 40 min drive and 1hr 50 min train journey 

No, we're not talking about the legendary festival, but the edge of the Cotswolds. An area of natural beauty and home of Blenheim Palace, this great green space is well worth a visit. Check out The Orangery at Blenheim Palace, where an Italian-style garden welcomes you for alfresco suppers and spritzes in specially created marquee pods.

Cameras at the ready for this beaut. 

Dungeness: 1 hr 55 min drive and 1 hr 30 min train journey

Did you know there’s an actual desert in the UK? Well, prepare to have your mind blown . Located on the Kent coastline, Dungeness is one seriously stunning place to take a trip. As well as boasting an impressive natural landscape, the area’s architecture of fishing houses and various other dwellings have been used on album and book covers due to their mysterious charm, acting as a stark reminder of the location's historical and cultural value.

The UK's only desert can be found on Kent's coastline. 

Painshill Park: 53 min drive and 31 min train journey

There aren't many places that can offer you a gorgeous 18th-century garden, a Gothic tower and a crystal grotto all rolled up in one… in fact, we believe that’s exclusive to Painshill Park. Located a short drive away outside of London in Surrey, the estate features winding paths that’ll take you through impressive gardens, a ruined abbey and Gothic temple, plus a Turkish tent. To top it off? Spend some time in a natural hall of mirrors - aka the crystal grotto.

Looking for the best day trips from London by train? A natural hall of mirrors meets a gorgeous garden at this quirky destination.

Chislehurst Caves: 52 min drive and 33 min train journey 

Taking life in London for granite? Ok, that was a stretch but we got your attention at least. Head on over to Chislehurst Caves and you can let out your inner explorer while getting well into the historical know-how of this rock formation. Complete with spooky mannequins, impressive artwork and all the geological facts you could possibly need, this is a one day trip you definitely will not regret leaving the comfort of city life for.

Escape city life by going down under(ground). 

Runnymede and Ankerwycke: 43 min drive and 1 hr 16 min train journey

Runnymede is home to some beautiful countryside ideal for those romantic day trips from London. Within its grounds lie twelve bronze chairs known as The Jurors that stand tall on an ancient meadow. It symbolises the concept of law and key movements in the struggle for freedom and equal rights, namely the significance of the Magna Carta (the first document to ever be put into writing), which was signed on these grounds.

One of the best day trips from London UK is this historical destination where the Magna Carter was signed. 

Scotney Castle:  1 hr 23 min  drive and 1 hr train journey

If you want to know how the other half live(d), book a trip to  Scotney Castle in Kent which features a scenic garden, a stunning mansion and castle ruins. Spread over an impressive 770 acres, the landscape is made up of parkland, woodland and hop gardens, perfect if you like your botany. As well as this, there’s the chance to catch a glimpse of the 14th century moated castle and the Victorian country house.

Explore the grounds of Scotney Castle at this quirky day trip from London. 

Drayton House: 2 hr drive and 2 hr 51 min train journey

If you're not familiar with the film Saltburn by now, then where have you been? This disturbing thriller is known for its demonic twists, witty one-liners and Barry Keoghan being incredible (as per usual). If you're wanting to visit the real stately home featured in the film, then Drayton House is just a two-hour drive outside of London. You should also pop into The Peacock Inn for a cheeky pint or a bite to eat while you're in the area. 

Want to put yourself in Oliver's shoes? The Saltburn house is only a two-hour drive from London. 

Highclere Castle: 1 hr 30 min drive and 40 min train journey

Take a drive up to Berkshire and pay a visit to Highclere Castle , a country house built in the 17th century. It's the perfect spot for lovers of long walks, history buffs and fans of ITV's hit period drama Downton Abbey . The show was filmed on the grounds, so you'll be able to place your favourite scenes whilst taking a relaxing stroll. You can even go into the castle itself for a guided tour.

Explore the grounds of one of the most popular TV shows of all time. 

Petworth: 1 hr 40 mins drive and 1 hr 15 min train journey 

Leave city life behind and go for an explore in Petworth , West Sussex. This beautiful little market town has picturesque cobbled streets, a deer park and Petworth House - also seen in the hit Netflix show Bridgerton. Plus, it's a brilliant place to go antique hunting (so take a big bag). The Welldiggers Arms is a great spot for a bev and a bite to eat, overlooking the calming countryside. And if you want to extend your stay, book into one of their hotel rooms for a weekend getaway. 

Visit Petworth, one of the best places to visit outside London by train on a day trip.  

Surrey Hills: 1 hr 15 mins drive and 52 min train journey

On the scout out for some cheap day trips from London? Well, get those hiking boots on a head down to Surrey Hills to experience some seriously stunning countryside views. Three long-distance walks run through the area: the North Downs Way, Greensand Way and Pilgrims Way - you'll definitely get your steps in. You can also do the eight-mile trek around Box Hill, passing beautiful greenery and pubs. And if you get thirsty after all that walking, stop off at The Whitehorse , an award-winning countryside pub, for a well-earned refreshment. 

One of the most tranquil day trips from London by car. 

Whitstable: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 25 min train journey

Along the north coast of Kent, you'll find Whitstable . This idyllic little seaside town is the perfect escape from the city, showcasing everything from the best vintage shops, pastel beach huts (perfect for Insta) and an array of fresh seafood spots. It's the number one hub for oysters, with fishermen harvesting the popular shellfish here since the Roman times. 

If you're after 2 day trips from London, Whistable is just the ticket.  Trust us . 

Rye: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 5 min train journey

In the heart of East Sussex sits Rye , notably one of the prettiest towns. Take a trip down Mermaid Street (one of the most photographed areas in all of England), before popping into one of its many coffee shops and bistros . Travel over to Rye Nature Reserve if you want to see wildflowers and woodland, or head down to one of England's most sought-after beaches, Camber Sands. You might even spot a seal on your travels. 

This coastal town will make you question whether the city life is for you.  

Margate: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 45 min train journey

Some say Margate is the new Brighton, and it's one to keep on your radar. It's a brilliant place to visit for those wanting something a little quirkier than your regular seaside break. There's a Crab Museum, Dreamland amusement park full of vintage rides, and a shell grotto that was discovered in 1835. It's also great for lounging around on the sandy beach with a cocktail in hand. 

Looking for one of the best day trips from London without a car? The train to Margate takes just over an hour.   

Cambridge: 2 hr drive and 45 min train journey 

Known for it's world-class university and vast amount of swans, Cambridge is definitely one of the prettiest cities. Being just a 45 minute train journey from Kings Cross, this idyllic location has so much to offer, with everything from punting along The River Cam to exploring the famous Fitzwilliam Museum. After a day of exploring, grab a well deserved drink at The Roof Terrace at the Varsity Hotel to take in the incredible views of the city. 

Explore this historic city for the day by seeing the sites from a rooftop bar, or punting along The River Cam.

Chichester: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 30 min train journey

Take a trip to the Roman cathedral city of Chichester in West Sussex for a peaceful day out of the Big Smoke. A visit to the Novium Museum is a must, especially as it's free to enter and offers some of the best views of Chichester Cathedral - it's also built on the remains of a Roman bathhouse. There are also some fabulous walks around Priory Park and Bishops Palace Gardens, so be sure to pack a picnic. 

Chichester is the only city in West Sussex - and it's a great one to put on your list. 

St Leonards-On-Sea: 2hr 30 min drive and 1 hr 18 min train journey

Originally a town built for royalty, St   Leonards-on-Sea  makes for the perfect seaside retreat (even if your last name isn't Windsor). It's full of amazing foodie spots along the coast and vast areas of greenery such as Warrior Square Gardens and St Leonards Gardens. It was also voted the coolest place to move to in the UK earlier this year, so if you're looking for a place to purchase a holiday home (after a lottery win, of course) then definitely consider this place. 

Princess Victoria stayed here with her mother back in the 1830s - it's certainly a place fit for royalty.  

Brighton: 2hr drive and 1 hr train journey

Brighton is a classic beach destination that sees hoards of Londoners travel down when the weather rises above 20 degrees - and for good reason. Although the beach is pebbly, it still makes for a great sunbathing spot. The pier is also a famous hotspot where you can try out different rides, challenge your friends on some old-school arcade games, or just pop in for a bite to eat. Plus the fish and chips along the South Coast are unmatched, trust us . It's a great place for those wanting to stay amongst the hustle and bustle. 

Brighton beach is a classic destination only a stone's throw away from London.

Bath: 2 hr drive and 30 min train journey 

You can't go on a day out to Bath without visiting the Roman baths (it's a must). Not only is this place steeped in history, it's also home to plenty of foodie hotspots such as Edesia Restaurant and Lounge  and Square Grill House to name a couple. Literature lovers can also walk in the footsteps of Jane Austen, who lived there during the early 1800s - there's even a museum dedicated to the writer. The city itself is an architectural beauty, so be sure to bring your Polaroid because the backdrops are sensational. For views galore and to experience Britain's original natural spa for yourself, check out Thermae Bath Spa too.

Bath's historical sites boast so much beauty. 

If you're looking for more beaches to visit near London, check out this guide here . You can also stay in the loop by signing up to our newsletter . 

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15 Terrific Day Trips From London

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

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

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

Windsor Castle

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

How to Get There

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

Warner Brothers Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter

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

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

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

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

Brighton - London's Beach

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

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

A Weekend Is Great Too

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

Oxford England

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get There 

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

Blenheim Palace - Magnificent Home of the First Churchills

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

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

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

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

Bicester Village - Discount Designer Outlets

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral

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

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

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

And a Visit to Salisbury Cathedral

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

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

Leeds Castle

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

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

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

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

Hever Castle - Home of Anne Boleyn

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

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

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

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

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

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

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

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

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

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

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

Beaulieu and the National Motor Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Battlesbridge Antiques Center

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

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

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

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

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

RHS Wisley Garden

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

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

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

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

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33 easy day trips from london by train.

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

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

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

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

IN THIS ARTICLE

Best Day Trips Within a 1 Hour Train Journey from London

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

1. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A CAMBRIDGE PUNTING TOUR

By Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Liliane of My Toronto, My World

3. St. Albans

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

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

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

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

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

By Darek of DarekandGosia

4. Colchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Sarah of ASocialNomad

5. Hampton Court

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

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

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

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

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

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

By David of Delve Into Europe

6. Harry Potter Studios

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Pauline of BeeLoved City

7. Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

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

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

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

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

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

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

By Chris of  Explore Now or Never

8. Rochester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Erin of  Traveling Thru History

10. Winchester

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour via South Western Railway

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

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

Some of the best things to do in Winchester include:

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

By Kat of Wandering Bird

11. Bletchley Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Faith of XYU And Beyond

12. Canterbury

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

13. Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Epping Forest

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

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

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

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

READ THIS NEXT: Easy Epping Forest Walks

15. Mayfield Lavender Farm

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

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

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

Thirsty? This is your opportunity to sample lavender cider.

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

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

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

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

More Easy Day Trips from London by Train

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Larch of  The Silver Nomad

17. Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dave of  Dave Chant

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

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

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

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

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

By Ella of Many More Maps

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

19. Liverpool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Bisola of  Bis To The World

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

21. Norwich

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

Norwich is one of England’s true gems.

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

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

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

By Dagney & Jeremy of Cultura Obscura

22. Shrewsbury

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

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

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

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

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

By Dan of Horo Travel Memories

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A YORK WALKING TOUR

By Melissa of  Meet Me at the Pyramid Stage

24. Stonehenge

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

Few destinations in England fire the imagination like Stonehenge.

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

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

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

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

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

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour

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

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

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

Stonehenge, Windsor & Bath Tour

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

25. Dover 

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

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

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

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

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

You can book your Dover Castle ticket here .

By Ann of The Road is Life

26. Rye and Camber Sands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. Whitstable

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

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

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

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

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

By Caroline of CK Travels

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Roshni of The Wanderlust Within

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

29. Brockenhurst

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

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

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

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

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

By Eniko of Travel Hacker Girl

30. Saffron Walden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Paula of  Truly Expat

Best Eurostar Train Trips from London

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

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

• Journey time: 2 hours 20 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Elisa of World in Paris

• Journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

33. Brussels

• Journey time: 2 hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of Places to Visit Near London by Train

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

Tips for Day Trips by Train from London

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

ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE? THEN READ THESE NEXT!

• 40 Famous London Landmarks
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About Bridget

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

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

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

• Day trips from London >

5 Places to Visit Outside of London

There are many places to visit on a day trip from London. Below are the five most popular places: a royal palace, neolithic stone circles, a stunning Georgian city, an ancient university town, and a countryside of outstanding natural beauty.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, The Cotswolds, Bath, and Oxford are popular sites that are all worth a visit. You can visit them on one of our many tours that depart from Central London.

1. Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is one of the most stunning castles in the world located just outside of London in the county of Berkshire. This royal palace is nearly 1,000 years old and is used today by King Charles III as an official residence. Highlights of the State Rooms include the Throne Room, Grand Reception Room and Queen Marys Dolls House. St. George’s Chapel is located within the Castle grounds and is where Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest. Located just outside of London, there are many ways to see the Castle, either by train or by one of our daily guided tours departing from Central London.

2. Stonehenge

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge is one of the UK’s most popular attractions and a great site to visit just outside of London. This is one of the most mystical places in the world. Built 5000 years ago by Neolithic man, this ancient site of stone circles continues to inspire people worldwide. Though nobody is quite sure why Stonehenge was built, nobody disputes the fact that these stone circles are an extraordinary feat of engineering. Stonehenge can be reached by one of our daily tours departing from Central London.

3. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds

Picture postcard villages, green rolling hills and thatched roofed cottages are a distinct feature of the Cotswolds, one of most beautiful parts of England. This is a wonderful place to visit for a taste of England from a bygone era, with marvellous chocolate box villages that will make your heart melt away! These include Castle Coombe, Lacock, Boughton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. We offer group and bespoke tours to the Cotswolds from London.

Oxford is renowned for its university and medieval architecture. Founded in 1096 AD, there are a total of 38 university colleges scattered across the city. Highlights include the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe; Divinity School, the oldest building still in use by the university, and the 450-year-old Christ Church College. Oxford is an enjoyable city to walk around in, with its narrow cobbled streets and many independent shops and cafes. Located a short trip from London, Oxford can be reached by one of our daily tours .

The city of Bath is famous for its beautiful Georgian architecture and its Roman heritage. It has strong literary links to Jane Austin. The most popular places to visit in the city include the 2000-year-old Roman Baths and the 1,200-year-old Bath Abbey. The Royal Crescent is a stunning display of Georgian architecture. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The city of Bath was founded by the Romans 2000 years ago, who took advantage of the hot natural spring waters for their healing properties. The Roman Baths, the best preserved in the world, were constructed as a place of worship to the goddess Minerva. Nearby,1200 years old Bath Abbey towers above the city’s skyline with its impressive Gothic architecture.  The city lies alongside the River Avon, which visitors can cross by the Venetian-inspired Pulteney Bridge.  The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with Georgian architecture that inspired writers, including Jane Austen.

You can see all our day tours from London here>>>

more ideas…

We also offer private tours to these places. For more ideas of things to see just outside of London, check out our article on the  20 Best Day Trips from London

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35 ‘Horrible’ Places You Can Visit by Car Just Outside London!

Discover underwhelming yet strangely alluring day trips just a car ride away from London. Darek and Gosia guide you through Britain’s most lacklustre gems, where the disappointment is as real as the beauty. Perfect for those who enjoy irony as much as travel.

Ever thought London was a bit too much? The noise, the hustle, the ‘oh-so-tedious’ culture and the cosmopolitan buzz? Sometimes you just need a break. But before you go dreaming of exotic escapes, consider this: we’ve found 35 dreadful, eye-rollingly beautiful places right outside London that you can visit by car.

Brace yourselves, we, Darek and Gosia, are taking you on a car journey through landscapes so heinous; that you might actually miss the M25.

Tempting, isn’t it? We’ve got historical villages , scenic landscapes, and places so steeped in culture that you’ll want to run screaming back to the graffiti-filled alleys of Shoreditch.

So let’s get this ‘torturous’ journey started, shall we?

Day trips from London by car 1 hour away

Fancy a quick getaway just an hour from London? Windsor is perfect for aspiring monarchs, while Oxford beckons those ready for an impromptu thesis. St Albans , meanwhile, offers a walk down history lane without the commitment of a long drive. These short jaunts give you a change of scene, and a bit of British quirk, without eating up your entire day.

Is an hour’s drive for a day trip worth it? Strangely enough, yes.

Places to visit outside London by car

1. castle combe: quaint hell by car.

Drive to Castle Combe , and you’ll feel like you’ve teleported back to a time when WiFi was a fantasy and knights were galavanting around. It’s so quaint you’ll want to claw your eyes out. A mere hour and a half drive from London, it’s as if you’ve entered a parallel universe where modernity took a backseat.

Why You Shouldn’t Visit Castle Combe by Car

• Lack of Chains : No Starbucks here. Shocking!
• Tiny Streets : Where’s the traffic? We miss the traffic.
• Too Many Cottages : Enough said.

2. St Albans: Roman Rubbish Just Outside London

Sick of the tube? How about a Roman theatre then? Just a 45-minute drive from London, St Albans is where history buffs go to die happy. But if you’re not one, you might just die of boredom.

3. Old Amersham: Ancient Agony Near London

Just 50 minutes by car from Central London, Old Amersham is a cobblestone disaster. Perfect for anyone wanting to feel as if they’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel, but without Mr. Darcy.

Pitfalls of Old Amersham

• Ye Olde Tea Rooms : Great, if you like tea more than life.
• Artisan Shops : Where’s Primark when you need it?
• Close to London : So close, yet so painfully different.

4. Abingdon: The Wasteland by Car

Journey to Abingdon , a little over an hour by car from London, if you want to experience the agony of a quiet, well-behaved market town. It’s like London’s polite, unbearable cousin.

5. Marlow: Thames Terror

Would you visit Marlow ? Close enough to London for a quick escape, but far enough to be unbearable. The Thames here doesn’t even have a single discarded shopping trolley. What’s the point?

Why Marlow is Disastrous

• Boating : Perfectly awful for land-lovers.
• Michelin Stars : Because everyone hates good food.
• Proximity to London : Close but no cigar.

Ah, there you have it, folks. Top five abominable day trips just a car drive away from London. So horrible, they’re actually… stunning? Drive out at your own risk, but don’t say we didn’t warn you.

6. Windsor: Royally Awful

A 50-minute drive from London, Windsor offers something truly dreadful—majestic views and royal palaces. Gosia nearly shed a tear at the thought of the sheer dignity and grace that infuses this town.

7. Wallingford: The Quiet Nightmare Outside of London

Fancy a drive through peaceful countryside? Wallingford is around an hour and a half’s drive from London and brings a whole new level of tedium to your life. This town is so quiet, Darek joked he could hear his own thoughts. Now that’s terrifying, isn’t it?

Reasons to Skip Wallingford

• Market Place : Markets are so last century.
• River Thames : Different section, same old river.
• Ancient Ruins : As if London doesn’t have enough old stuff.

8. Hitchin Lavender Farm: Smell the Suffering

An hour’s drive from London, Hitchin Lavender Farm is the kind of place you visit when you’ve given up on the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s an aromatic crime scene, with rows upon rows of lavender.

9. Brighton: The Beach Blunder by Car

Just about a two-hour drive from London, Brighton is the sort of place you go to when you hate both yourself and sandcastles. The seaside town offers views so distressingly beautiful, Gosia almost forgot she was out of London.

Why Brighton is a No-Go

• Pebble Beach : What, no sand?
• Pier : Completely overrated.
• Brighton Lanes : Because who likes quirky shops?

10. Wendover: Forest Folly Near London

An hour from London by car and you arrive in Wendover , the gateway to despair in the form of the Chiltern Hills . If trees and fresh air give you hives, steer clear.

So there you are, 10 out of 35 jaw-droppingly dull and heartbreakingly stunning places just a car drive from London. The agony and the ecstasy, all rolled into day trips that you could – but probably shouldn’t – take. But if you do, you’ve only got yourself to blame. Stay tuned for more excruciatingly beautiful locations!

11. Henley-on-Thames: The Riverside Ruin

Ah, Henley-on-Thames , the eternal rival of London’s South Bank but without the tourists begging you to take their photo. A 90-minute car ride from London, Henley offers the unique experience of being close to the capital but feeling miles away, in terms of both distance and excitement.

Pitfalls of Henley-on-Thames

• Regatta : Oh look, more boats.
• Museums : Like London’s but smaller and quieter.
• Bridge : Because London clearly lacks those.

12. Sonning-on-Thames: Where Even the Ducks are Posh

Just about an hour by car from London, Sonning-on-Thames is a village so tranquil, it’s as if someone hit the mute button on life. Perfectly dreadful if you’re the sort who thrives on London’s chaos.

13. Oxford: The Ivy-Covered Letdown

An hour and a half’s drive from London, Oxford is where intelligence goes to show off. Yes, there’s the university, but don’t you miss London’s blissful ignorance?

Reasons to Skip Oxford

• Bookshops : Because digital is forever.
• Colleges : Too many, too grand.
• The Ashmolean : Art? We have Instagram.

14. Berkhamsted: Castle Ruins and Other Boring Bits

Drive an hour north-west from London and you’ll find Berkhamsted . It’s got a ruined castle and the Grand Union Canal – ideal for people who think excitement is overrated.

Berkhamsted’s Downfalls

• Historic Market : Yawn.
• Castle Ruins : Double yawn.
• Proximity to London : So close but oh-so-far.

15. Bath: Just Like London But Sleepier

Around a two-hour drive from London, Bath is like a lesser clone of our beloved city but with Roman spas and Georgian architecture. Talk about an identity crisis!

16. Guildford: The Countryside Conundrum

Guildford, an hour’s drive from London, is so packed with greenery, you’d think you’d accidentally driven into a garden centre. Even Darek found it unsettlingly peaceful.

Why Guildford is a Disaster

• Countryside : So much green, so little time.
• Guildford Castle : Small fry.
• Surrey Hills : They’re not even mountains!

17. National Trust Ashridge Estate: Too Much Nature

A short drive from London and you’ll find yourself in the National Trust Ashridge Estate . Acres and acres of woodlands and, well, more woodlands.

Pitfalls of Ashridge Estate

• Too Much Space : Claustrophobes beware!
• Woodlands : Trees everywhere!
• Wildlife : It’s like a Disney movie.

18. Margate: The Seaside Snore

An hour and a half by car from London, Margate boasts beaches and art galleries so boringly spectacular, they might just put you to sleep.

19. Cardiff: A Capital Mistake

Two hours by car from London, and suddenly you’re in another country! Wales welcomes you with its capital, Cardiff. Great, if you like castles and dislike excitement.

Reasons to Shun Cardiff

• Welsh Culture : Too far from London’s melting pot.
• Cardiff Bay : It’s no Thames.
• Cardiff Castle : A castle too many.

20. Bicester Village: The Shopping Sham

Just an hour’s drive from London, Bicester Village is where fashion goes to die and then miraculously resurrects at discount prices. Gosia couldn’t even find a pair of shades to hide her disapproval.

Why Bicester Village is Abysmal

• Discounts : Who wants a bargain?
• Designer Stores : Ugh, fashion.
• Outdoor Setup : Shopping should be an indoor sport.

With 20 down and more to go, we continue our perilous journey to explore day trips that are just a car drive away from London. They’re so abysmally beautiful that you might need to prepare an excuse for why you’re coming back to London. Stay tuned for more unmissable misery!

21. Stratford-upon-Avon: The Bard’s Boring Birthplace

Ah, Stratford-upon-Avon, a two-hour car drive from London. If you’re up for a day of Shakespearean melodrama minus the drama, this is your place. Darek thought even Hamlet would be livelier.

Why Stratford-upon-Avon is Tedious

• Shakespeare’s Home : Literature alert!
• River Avon : Yet another river to snooze by.
• Theatre Galore : Tragedy indeed.

22. Chalfont St Giles: The Village of Eternal Yawns

Roughly an hour by car from London, Chalfont St Giles is so quaint, you could use it as a sleeping aid. This place is essentially a British stereotype come to life, minus the excitement.

Reasons to Skip Chalfont St Giles

• Milton’s Cottage : Words, words, words.
• Village Green : Nothing to see here.
• Traditional Pubs : Because London has none of those, right?

23. Stonehenge: Where Rocks are the Main Attraction

A two-hour car drive from London, Stonehenge is a classic . A classic example of how exciting rocks standing in a field can be. It’s like a history lesson without the classroom.

Why Stonehenge is a Stone-cold No

• Ancient Stones : Yay, rocks.
• Tourist Crowds : Like London but less fashionable.
• Expensive Tickets : For rocks.

24. Isle of Wight: An Island of Tedium

Two hours by car and a bit by ferry from London, and you’re on the Isle of Wight . It’s a complete change of scenery if you’ve grown tired of London’s charisma and need some good old-fashioned monotony in your life.

25. Cobham Surrey: The Pinnacle of Dullness

Just a quick 30-minute drive from London, Cobham Surrey offers the unique blend of being both near and far from excitement. It’s what you might call a “non-happening” place. Even Gosia felt her enthusiasm waning.

Cobham’s Downfalls

• Painshill Park : Beauty without the buzz.
• Traditional Inns : London’s are better.
• The Medicine Garden : Healthy but heinous.

So there we go, 25 excruciatingly dull yet devastatingly beautiful places just a car ride away from London. As you can see, the list is growing and the options for disappointing day trips are nearly endless. Stay tuned as we plunge further into this abyss of day-tripping despair.

26. New Forest: Where Trees Steal the Limelight

An hour and a half by car from London, the New Forest is essentially a big garden without the landscapers. Here, nature goes wild and you’re supposed to love it for that. Darek couldn’t find a single Wi-Fi hotspot among the trees.

Reasons to Disregard New Forest

• Wild Ponies : No horsepower.
• Walking Trails : Legwork, literally.
• Camping Sites : Who needs a comfy London flat?

27. Cheddar Gorge: The Cheese Trap

About a two-hour drive from London, Cheddar Gorge is a picturesque nightmare. Imagine cliffs, caves, and cheese – each as underwhelming as the last.

28. Bibury: The Village of Yore

Another two-hour car journey from London, and you’re in Bibury . Known for its historic cottages and trout farm, it’s a perfect place if you’re writing a paper on “How to Survive a Day of Utter Boredom”.

Reasons to Bypass Bibury

• Arlington Row : Houses in a row, how novel.
• Trout Farm : Fishy business.
• Quaintness Overload : Enough said.

29. Dorchester-on-Thames: Where Time Stands Still

Just over an hour’s drive from London, Dorchester-on-Thames offers a monotonous blast from the past with its abbey and antique fairs. Even the river looks bored here.

30. Seven Sisters Cliffs: White Cliffs, Wide Yawns

About a two-hour car ride from London, Seven Sisters Cliffs offer stunning views that you could very easily Google from the comfort of your London home. Why bother?

Seven Sins of Seven Sisters

• White Cliffs : As thrilling as watching paint dry.
• Long Walks : Exercise is overrated.
• Lack of Amenities : It’s the countryside, what did you expect?

31. Peak District: Where Excitement Reaches a New Low

A bit of a stretch at three hours by car from London, but if you’re hell-bent on being unimpressed, the Peak District is your destination. Gosia brought a book – she knew what she was in for.

Dismal Highs of the Peak District

• Hiking Routes : They call it “Peak” for a reason.
• Scenic Views : Still couldn’t beat London’s skyline.
• Historic Sites : They’re not making history anymore.

32. Cambridge: Academia Never Looked So Dull

A relatively easy hour and a half by car from London, Cambridge is where fun goes to earn a degree in boredom. Think you’ll escape monotony here? Think again.

33. Silverstone Circuit: Revving Down the Excitement

Just over an hour by car from London, Silverstone Circuit is motor racing’s answer to a midlife crisis. It’s where cars go fast, and your excitement goes downhill.

Silverstone’s Shortcomings

• Loud Engines : What did you say? I can’t hear you.
• Expensive Tickets : All for circling a track.
• Merchandise Shops : Overpriced mementos of your dull day.

34. Rye: The Sea of Sameness

About a two-hour drive from London, Rye is your typical British coastal town—charming and utterly forgettable. Sea, salt, and snore.

35. Bournemouth: The Coast of Disappointment

A two-hour car trip from London will get you to Bournemouth. It’s like a beach holiday, but with all the joy sucked out. Sun, sea, and a serious lack of fun.

Bournemouth’s Bland Points

• Sandy Beaches : Overrated.
• Shopping : London does it better.
• Surfing : Wiping out is the highlight.

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to depressingly uninspiring yet oddly beautiful places you could waste your time visiting outside of London by car. Stay tuned for more riveting disappointments as we continue to explore Britain’s underbelly of tedium.

What to visit outside London by car?

Keen to see what lies just a stone’s throw from London? Here’s a list that covers a variety of natural landscapes, all perfect for a day trip. Gosia and I have had our fair share of these trips, and let’s just say they offer a different kind of ‘wow’ factor.

• Epping Forest : An ancient woodland that makes you forget London ever existed.
• Ashridge Estate : Trust us, the woodland walks are an Instagrammer’s dream.

Hills and Valleys:

• Chiltern Hills : An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty—no joke, that’s an official term.
• Surrey Hills : More hills, more beauty, more “Why did I not visit sooner?”
• Brighton Beach : Pebbles instead of sand, but hey, it’s the experience that counts.
• Whitstable : Known for oysters and, well, more oysters.

Riversides:

• Henley-on-Thames : A riverside town that’s more than just a regatta.
• Stratford-upon-Avon : Shakespeare’s birthplace and a charming riverside setting.

So, whether it’s forests, hills, beaches, or riversides you’re after, there’s something for everyone – and every mood. I prefer the hills, Gosia loves the beaches; you see, life’s about choices!

Are day trips from London by car worth it?

Pondering the age-old question of whether day trips from London by car are worth the petrol, eh? You’ll be delighted to swap the city’s buzz for a countryside that’s almost suspiciously quiet. The motorways might test your patience, but at least you’re not tied to a train timetable.

Then comes the joy of fuel costs and parking. You’ll bypass the train fares, sure, but prepare for a romantic relationship with petrol stations. Parking? Well, let’s just say it’s a bit like playing bingo but without the prize money.

Despite these little hiccups, there’s something oddly charming about escaping London for a day. So, is it worth it? In a way that defies logic but makes perfect British sense, absolutely.

Further reading

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Places to Visit If You Hate Yourself: Top 50 Near London!

Discover the best places near London you’ll wish you’d never heard of. From yawningly historic sites to nature spots that are natural letdowns, we’ve got the ultimate guide to boredom. Warning: May contain high levels of British...

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Hues Of Delahaye

30 Best Day Trips From London By Train | Beautiful Places to Visit

Looking for an epic day trip from London by train to escape the noise, fog and chaos of the city. Then look no further, I’ve listed 30 of the coolest day trips from London by train to be had.

From frolicking in the countryside, deserted beaches, castles and seaside piers there’s a day trip here for every traveller. The transportation links from London to other parts of the UK and even nearby cities in Europe are fast, easy and reasonably priced (aka cheap as chips).

Like myself, most Londoners don’t own a car (the transport system is actually really good in London, even the furnace that is the Central Line during rush hour).

So the day trips from London I’ve recommended range from 60 minutes to 5 hours train journey from London.

If you are planning on doing any of these day trips from London by train, specifically on Sundays make sure you check the station you are travelling through as most railway works are done on weekends and are the worst on Sundays.

Also booking your ticket in advance will help you save on train tickets. Below I’ve listed some of the coolest London day trips which will make your vacation to the UK an unforgettable experience. Now here’s what to do outside London.

Discover More Amazing London Day Trips Here

1. Day Trip To Bath From London

Travelling to Bath is an easy day out from London. Arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, the Georgian city was founded by the Romans, who created a spa retreat from the thermal springs in the area.

The city is celebrated for its preserved Roman baths and Georgian architecture making Bath one of the most popular day trips from London. It is widely considered one of the best places to visit outside London by train.

How to Get There:

Embarking on a trip to Bath from London by train is nice and straightforward. You can get to Bath from London by taking a direct train from London Paddington.The train leaves twice an hour and the trip is about 90 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Bath:

Start your adventure with a visit to the Roman Baths (this is a no-brainer) complex, which will take you through the Bath House, the Roman Temple, the museum and the Sacred Spring.

Next, stroll around the 15th century Bath Abbey, a medieval church and former monastery. Lastly, visit the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge: two Georgian gems in the city.

Check here for the best day trips from London to Bath tour:

• Stonehenge and Bath Full-Day Tour from London

Don’t forget to check this awesome Bath tour from London.

READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO BATH

2. Brighton Day Trip From London

Brighton you pebbly beach goodness! Many have referred to it as “London-by-the-Sea” and for a good reason.

Brighton has been a picturesque beach destination for over 100 years with a buzzing live music scene, chic-bohemian flare and a vibrant LGBTQ community. You can’t visit Brighton without having a good time, you just can’t — it’s just not possible.

Its pebbled beachside makes the city a great day trip from London if you’re visiting UK’s capital in the summer months (it’s not the best in winter as its a bit cold, wet, grey and miserable and being hungover on a pebbled beach in winter is no fun — trust me).

But even if the UK’S weather is anything but perfect, you will find lots of attractions and things to do in Brighton. You can get there by using any of the regular direct trains that take off every 15 minutes from London Bridge and London Victoria. Trip time from London to Brighton takes about an hour.

Book in advance for cheaper tickets if you want to take the bus. However, it is a cheap train journey from London.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Brighton:

In addition to its beautiful beachside, Brighton has a fantastic array of independent cafes, pubs, and theatres. Start off with a trip to the North Laine for some local cuisine. Wander The Lanes fame for doing a spot of shopping and don’t forget to dip into one of the many cool bars and restaurants you’ll find.

For something eccentric visit the Royal Pavilion Palace (paid museum inside – tickets £13.50 buy here in advance) and Edwardian-style Preston Manor or travel 500 feet above the seafront on the BAi3600 to round off your cool day trip from London to Brighton. Brighton is one of the best places to visit in the UK.

Activities to try in Brighton:

• Brighton: British Airways i360 Ticket
• Book Here For Tickets To Brighton | British Airways i360 Ticket

3. Day Trip To Cambridge From London

Only about an hour away from London, Cambridge is home to one of the oldest universities in the world. The city is filled with jaw-dropping architecture and tons of green space. Cambridge is a walkable city and a great escape from the chaos of London if you’re seeking a little tranquillity.

I don’t think there is anything not to love about Cambridge, even if you’re not the academic type. My Cambridge day trip is one of the best London day trips, hands down. Especially if you’re looking for one of the best places to go by train from London.

There are frequent direct trains from London Kings Cross to Cambridge, and the trip time is about 45 minutes.

For more inspiration read my guide on Cities close to London

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Cambridge:

Cambridge is one of the many cities near London. The Cambridge University colleges are the top pick of the bunch when it comes to things to see in Cambridge. And the most popular locations here include King’s College, Clare College, Christ’s College and Corpus Christi.

A walking tour of the University is a must to do while you’re there (and if you read the blog regularly enough, you know I am a huge fan of walking tours. Think they are one of the best ways to see a city, plus they’ll help combat all those fish and chips you’ll have had).

But University is not all there is in Cambridge, the city is also known for punting along The River Cam . It’s a relaxing way of seeing the University town. Cambridge is one of the top London day tours.

Check here for the best day trips from London to Cambridge tour:

• Day Trip: Cambridge from London
• Oxford and Cambridge Universities Tour

4. Stonehenge Day Trip From London

Now yes, I know this is touristy and cliche. But so what! It’s a really cool site to visit. I took a coach tour to visit Stonehenge and loved it. I learnt a ton about the prehistoric stone circle and its construction.

So, the legendary Stonehenge is an absolute must-visit for anyone looking to take a day trip from London. The prehistoric stone circle and one of the best-known prehistoric monuments in Europe is believed to have been constructed some 5,000 years ago.

Some say Stonehenge was a site of pagan worship to a burial ground, several mysteries and questions surround Stonehenge. Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site of significance and owned by the Crown (bet you didn’t know that).

Due to all this mystery and speculation, it is hardly surprising that Stonehenge attracts a large number of visitors; so, it’s best to pre-book your slot to tour this historic site, so you do not end up disappointed. Stonehenge is one of the quirkiest day trips from London.

The Best Stonehenge, Windsor and Bath: Day Trip From London

Trains leave from London Waterloo to Salisbury twice every hour, and the trip time lasts about 90 minutes. When you get to Salisbury, take a Stonehenge Tour Bus directly to the city’s prehistoric monument.

Top Things to Do and See in Stonehenge:

Though you cannot touch the stones (to protect them from erosion), you can take a stroll around them through the alleyways. There is an interactive session at the visitor centre where you can sit amongst the historic stones throughout the seasons.

If you are spending a few days in London and want to make the most of it by visiting several sites in a day, then you can do a full-day tour of Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour. Yes, it’s a lot, but it’s the most popular day trip from London to do.

You can even explore the best of the southwest of England on a tour from London. By seeing the prehistoric stones of Stonehenge, Roman Baths and driving along the fabled Jurassic Coast in Dorset.

Top Stonehenge Day trip from London Tours:

• Stonehenge, Windsor, and Bath: Day Trip from London
• From Bath: Stonehenge Private Half Day Tour
• Stonehenge Tours from London – Half Day
• Avebury and Stonehenge Day Trip from London

5. Day Trip From London To Cotswolds

Are you in search of a quintessential English village with something beautiful at every corner? Then a day trip to the Cotswolds from London should be at the top of your list for day tours from London.

The Cotswolds might be less known to many visitors outside the UK, but these tranquil villages, beautiful gardens and whirling green hills are steadily gaining popularity for visitors into London seeking more than just a quick holiday snap in front of Buckingham Palace.

The Cotswolds comprise beautiful little villages, and I would recommend staying in for a weekend or overnight to really explore the area.

But if a day is all you have, these are some of the best day tours of the Cotswolds as the area is a bit tricky to explore without a car. Exploring The Cotswolds is at the top of my list for countryside day trips near London.

Trains run from London Paddington Station to the Cotswolds.

Top 3 Things to Do in the Cotswolds:

Wander the famous National Trail. The trail offers loads of panoramic countryside views, running from Bath to Campden, but there are lots of shorter walks within the trail if you don’t want to go the distance.

Visit Lower Slaughter – home to Britain’s most romantic street (as voted by the people in 2011). Here you will find beautiful stone cottages and lush green trees in the incredibly charming village.

Do not miss out on the opportunity to learn about the history of bread making or the Manor Gardens’ five acres of landscape.

Spending some part of your time at a chocolate box village (picture-perfect English country villages), is one of the absolute must-dos during your day trip from London to the Cotswolds.

Read How To Do A Cotswolds Day Trip From London

6. Day Trip to Bristol From London

Often referred to as the happiest city in England, Bristol is home to many top attractions, festivals and live music. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the city’s unique bars, markets, restaurants and water sports at the Harbourside development, which was a former port in Bristol.

READ More 2 Days In Bristol Itinerary

You can combine a tour of Bristol with a tour of Bath if you have limited time as they are just 30 minutes apart.

Direct trains run from London Paddington Station to the famous Bristol Temple Meads several times during the day, and the trip time is about 1 hour 35 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Bristol:

The Banksy Walking Tour introduced by famous street artist Banksy is one you shouldn’t miss. Banksy grew up in Bristol so you can be sure to enjoy one of the most unique street art walking tours in the world.

If you are an art lover, visit attractions like the Royal West of England Academy and Arnolfini. History and architecture enthusiasts are not left out as Bristol is home to historic destinations like the Charles Wesley’s House and the Architecture Center.

Cool Bristol activities:

Bristol Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

7. Day Trip To Edinburgh From London

Scotland’s capital city is an excellent destination if you’re planning a family day out from London.

Filled with historical sites and amazing photo opportunities, visiting Edinburgh is one of the best things to do outside of London. This city definitely has its own personality, and you need to check it out for yourself.

I took the Coach from London Victoria when I visited Edinburgh as it was cheaper than fighting there and I was still a poor graduate and didn’t mind the 5-hour bus ride. It was actually fun as I got to see so many different sights on the journey to Edinburgh.

The average journey time from London to Edinburgh is around 5 hours, 34 minutes by train. On average, 31 trains run from London to Edinburgh, so it would be ideal for checking the train timetables to decide on your best travel time.

Top 3 Things to Do in Edinburgh:

Edinburgh Castle should be your first port of call once you arrive. The castle is one of the most iconic attractions in the UK, grandiosely seated atop the city’s other extinct volcano.

Get your ticket and go for a distillery tour around Edinburgh. A city guided walking whisky tour gives you the chance to visit some of the best bars in Edinburgh, to wet your whistle. Famous for its unique whisky tastings, a visit to one of the distilleries in the city will allow you to get an in-depth view of the creation process of the booze.

Visit Summerhall, it’s home to art exhibitions, workshops, films, gigs, and lots more. Summerhall even has its microbrewery where the refreshing Barney’s Beer is produced.

8. Day Trip To Oxford From London

The Radcliffe Camera, a symbol of the city and the University of Oxford. Another very popular day trip from London is to visit nearby Oxford University City. Oxford is a compact and historically rich University City filled with prestige and a magnificent architectural legacy. I could visit Oxford a hundred times and more, just for the architecture, no lie the builds are something to behold.

Explore the University’s history by visiting some of its 44 colleges (yes 44 colleges — there’s a whole process as to why there are 44 colleges).

Do a walking tour to learn why and also learn about why there is a fierce rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge and where it still stands today.

You only need to watch University Challenge, a famous academic quiz show, hosted by Jeremy Paxman, to see this effect. It’s brutal. A visit to Oxford is one of the best cheap day trips from London.

Trains run from London Paddington and London Marylebone to Oxford, and the trip time is about an hour.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Oxford:

A tour of Oxford University is an absolute must-do, but the city still has loads to offer. History enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the Bodleian Library and Ashmolean Museum. Other top attractions in Oxford include the Radcliffe Camera, Oxford Castle, and the Pitt Rivers Museum.

Harry Potter fans rejoice as there are tours that will take you to different locations in Oxford where some of the movies were shot.

READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO OXFORD

9. Day Trip To Canterbury From London

You might have read about Canterbury from “Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer, or you probably heard about the city as home to one of the world’s famous cathedrals (Canterbury Cathedral, a Unesco World Heritage Site).

Only an hour away from London via train, Canterbury is unusually attractive, with its narrow passageways following the original street plan.

This is one of the many places near London worth a day trip to Canterbury .

Every hour, trains depart from London St Pancras, and the trip lasts about an hour. There are also slower trains that take off from London Charing Cross and London Victoria, and the trip lasts about 90 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Canterbury:

A visit to the Canterbury Cathedral is an absolute must, people make pilgrimages to see it. Pilgrimages!

It is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury (he is always on the telly at Christmas) and an important Christian site. Other top attractions at Canterbury include a boat trip on the River Stour and a trip to Beaney House of Art and Knowledge.

Epic Canterbury day trip from London:

• White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury: Day-Trip from London

10. Day Trip to Guildford From London

This is one of the shortest train day trips from London on my list. Guildford is a large and vibrant town in Surrey filled with cobblestone streets, 17th-century facades and a vibrant student scene.

It is a hub for a variety of amazing stuff including a lively student population, sport and science. Guildford is one of the top places to visit if you are looking for great days out near London.

Train from London to Guildford takes off at the London Waterloo, and the trip lasts about 30 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Guildford:

If the weather is sunny, you can take a dip in the fantastic Dapdune Wharf waters. Visit Guildford Castle and Bailey fortress, the Guilford Castle was the residence of Henry III. Lastly, you could also hop on a train for a tour of the Hogs Back Brewery. Guildford is one of the many incredible places outside London.

11. Day Trip To Windsor From London

I have a friend that lives in Slough but tells everyone she lives in Windsor next to the Queen (but I keep telling her – stop lying girl you live in Slough, not Windsor). Windsor is considered a really posh area because it’s the residence of the Royal family. Slough on the other hand – let’s just say no ever admits to living there.

Windsor Castle is the draw for many people who make the trip here. The castle has hosted many royal weddings, and the Queen spends most of her time there. Windsor is one of the most beautiful places near London.

Trains from London to Windsor run twice every hour from London Waterloo, and the trip time is about an hour.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Windsor:

Visiting Windsor Castle is an absolute must for a day trip from London. You can better appreciate your visit here if you go through the Long Walk. Though you could spend a few days exploring the castle in all of its glory, must-sees include the State Apartments, Albert Memorial Chapel, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.

Eton, a pretty little village, looks up just across the river. When you’ve had your fill at Windsor Castle, strolling down to the town will be well worth it.

READ MY GUIDE ON A DAY TRIP TO WINDSOR

You’ll probably have heard the name Eton before as in Eton College (an all-boys college), is basically where all the 1% and super posh people send their kids and where some of the most famous/notorious UK politicians went to school.

Top tours to Windsor from London:

• From London: Windsor Half-Day Tour

12. Day Trip To Kent From London

Also known as the Garden of England, Kent is a breathtaking countryside with famous attractions, amazing coastline and delicious cuisines.

Stunning locations are waiting to be discovered upon your arrival. Kent and its surrounding towns are another of the short trips from London, you do.

Trains run from London Victoria to Kent, and the average journey time is 1 hour 1 minute.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Kent:

Visit Shell Grotto for a feel of the walking experiences in the subterranean spaces.

Stop by at the impressive Chartwell House to view the books, photographs and personal effects of Winston Churchill.

Lastly, head to Margate Dreamland – the historic amusement park where you’ll find lots of cool events.

13. Day Trip To Rye From London

Home to antique shops and seemingly cluttered cobbled streets lined with medieval, half-timbered houses. Rye is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in England. It’s one of the best towns to visit near London.

By train in 1 hour 10 minutes from London St Pancras International.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Rye:

Explore the pretty patchwork of woods, grassland and salt marsh by visiting Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.

Visit the pictures lanes dotted around Rye , these quaint streets will transport you back through centuries to storybook times.

Take a trip to Camber Sands. With sand dunes and salty air all around, you would be forgiven for thinking you’ve left England. Rye is one of the several day trip places to go outside London.

14. Day Trip To Whitstable From London

As seaside day trips from London go, Whitstable is up there with the best of them. This fantastic stretch of Kentish coastline is well known for seafood – fresh oysters being the top go-to.

Seafood doesn’t get any fresher as you can get fresh oysters from the Whitstable harbour and there are some of the best seafood restaurants in the Whitstable Fish Market. This is one of the many places to visit 2 hours from London.

Trains run from London Victoria and St Pancras International to Whitstable daily, and the average trip time is about 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 10 minutes respectively.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Whitstable:

Visit Tankerton Beach; it’s perfect for windsurfers Rockpool. At low tide, you can even enjoy what is called “The Street,” where a natural path is made on the beach, and you can walk out into the sea (think Moses when he parted the Red Sea). Is that cool or what?

Next, head to the Whitstable Cycle Hire to rent a bike and pedal along the 7-mile Crab and Winkle Way trail.

If you are a history buff, you will have a great time visiting the Whitstable Castle which was set up in the 1790s with beautiful gardens and magnificent scenery.

READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO WHITSTABLE

15. Day Trip To Deal From London

Smaller than Whitstable and not so much of the hipster mecca like Margate, Deal still has the makings of a great day trip from London. For those with a pendant for Georgian houses, quaint streets and slow travel.

Deal is for you, it’s in Kent and one of the great places to go near London. This unique seaside spot is where you head to recharge your batteries from hectic city life.

Trains run from London St Pancras International to Deal, and the trip time lasts about 1 hour 20 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Deal:

Start off with a visit to Deal Castle, built by Henry VII as a fortress designed to ward off Catholic Europe invasion. Next, stop by 81 Beach Street for some fresh and delicious seafood with an amazing seafront view just ahead.

Lastly, head to Deal beach, this pristine coastline is dotted with wooden fishing boats or wander along the 1950s pier.

16. Day Trip To Margate From London

Hanging out on the sandy beach always feels like the perfect idea, but there’s much more to Margate than the seaside. Margate was resurrected from the dead in 2011 after it became home to the Turner Contemporary art gallery, which initiated a widespread refresh of the Margate.

The streets are lined with unique attractions, independent cafes shops, and thanks to the influx of hipsters from the city — hipster hangouts, vintage shops and galleries.

Margate has now been dubbed ‘Shoreditch-on-Sea’. Obviously, this name was made up by a hipster that couldn’t afford a flat in actual Shoreditch (that was too funny not to mention), due to the regeneration of the area. Margate is another one of those fabulous short trips from London to consider for day-trippers.

Margate is some 76 miles away from London. You can reach there by train from London St Pancras International.

Top 3 Things to Do in Margate:

Millions of pounds were invested into the historic Dreamland (Margate’s theme park). The Scenic Railway (UK’s oldest working roller coaster), a growing collection of fair-ground-style rides and a Ferris wheel makes Dreamland a perfect location for families or oversize child adults (like myself).

Next, visit Margate Main Sands for some English seaside fun. The beach has an endless array of seafood stalls, shops, pubs and restaurants.

Lastly, head to the famous Turner Contemporary art museum for an opportunity to view Kent’s most significant visual arts venue up close.

17. Day trip to Dungeness

Often referred to as Britain’s only desert, Dungeness is a shipwreck-dotted beach with lighthouses, the ‘acoustic mirrors’, of concrete oddities and the largest expanse of shingle in Europe.

There is something that’s just otherworldly about Dungeness. It’s also a national nature reserve, for all you nature lovers. There is something that’s just otherworldly about Dungeness. It’s also a national nature reserve, for all you nature lovers.

A day visit to Dungeness is one of the many train trips from London that I highly recommend. Dungeness is 86 miles away from London and can be reached by train from London St Pancras International. Trip time by train is around 1 hour.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Dungeness:

Visit the RSPB Nature Reserve – home to an impressive variety of birds, including domestic and migratory species. The reserve also has several nature trails spanning across several miles overlooking the wetland areas and shingle. For avid railway enthusiasts visit the RHDR Mini Railway, known as ‘Kent’s Mainline in Miniature’.

For the past 90 years, the railway’s one-third of full-size steam locomotives, the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway has been offering visitors a magical way to see some of the country’s most beautiful countryside.

Visit Dungeness Lighthouse. It is a historical place that was constructed using over 3 million bricks. Head atop the lighthouse for amazing views of the flat Romney Marshland and the English Channel.

18. Day Trip To Mersea Island From London

When you think of day trips to the UK – Think Mersea Island. Mersea Island is a small estuary island and promises to be the perfect day trip from London for seafood lovers and families looking to relax.

Covering approximately 7 square miles, you’ll never get bored by the island’s beautiful scenery. Mersea Island is a charming day trip from London.

You can get to Mersea Island from London by taking the train from London Liverpool Street to Colchester, which lasts around 1 hour, before boarding a bus to Mersea Island for another 45 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Mersea Island:

Mersea Island’s biggest attraction is The Company Shed where seafood platters draw crowds from different parts of the UK. If you make your day trip with children, exploring the myriad creeks scurrying over the boardwalks connecting the marshes is definitely a great idea.

Historic buffs can go discover the appeal of connecting with the Romans’ viticulture legacy. Nearby Colchester was the administrative capital of the Romans in Britain, and they planted vineyards on the fertile land of Mersea Island, even introducing oysters into the island’s waters.

19. Isle of Wight day trip from London

Isle of Wight is one of England’s top tourist destinations, and this is for a good reason. With its golden sands and candy-coloured beach huts. It is also the largest and second most populated island in England. It’s also the site for the famous Isle of Wight festival.

Though the island is about 3 hours away from London, your travel time will be well worth it as there are lots of unique and amazing attractions to appeal to just nearly everyone.

How to Get There

Getting to the Isle of Wight is pretty easy, and once you arrive, you won’t want to leave. There are about 200 ferries that operate from Lymington, Portsmouth and Southampton to the Isle of Wight . Trips by ferry last around 2 hours.

You can also get to the Isle of Wight by train since there are excellent rail connections that link the Isle of Wight ferry ports. Trip time from London train stations to most of the island’s ports is around 2 hours.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in the Isle of Wight:

Head to the magnificent cliffs at the south-facing beaches for incredible 360-degree views.

The pastel-coloured beach huts are great for relaxation, but the sea views give you a unique perspective of the island. The Isle of Wight is a great day trip from London if you are into watersports as you can go sailing, paddle boarding and even surfing there.

Visit the St Catherine’s Oratory (locally known as Pepperpot), it’s the last remaining Medieval lighthouse in England.

Top Isle of Wight Day Trip from London Tour: Isle of Wight Day Trip from London Tour

20. Day Trip to Box Hill by Train From London

Box Hill is your perfect destination when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of London. It allows you to get out in nature with lots of green space for walks (there are several walking trails), cycling, wildlife viewing and loads of fresh air.

Making it a perfect option for those seeking family day trips from London. Box Hill was also a part of the 2012 Olympic road-cycling route, so you too can feel like an Olympian.

Trains travel from London Waterloo to Box Hill daily, and the average trip time is 46 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Box Hill:

Box Hill Juniper walk, starting at the top of Box Hill with stunning views as far as South Downs. You follow the trail enjoying bluebells in spring and the changing scenery of the magical woods.

Or you can go on the butterfly route to see one of the richest areas for butterflies in Britain with over 40 species occurring annually.

Box Hill Happy Valley walk this trail takes you into Box Hill’s hidden woodland and Broadwood’s Tower, down into Happy Valley. It’s a quaint little way of seeing the English countryside and staying active on holiday.

21. Day Trip to Chichester by Train From London

Sitting at the foot of South Downs, Chichester is a cathedral city surrounded by fishing villages, sandy beaches, historical attractions and beautiful countryside. Visiting the Chichester and the South Downs is another great day trip out of London to add to your growing bucket list.

Chichester is 80 miles away from London and can be reached by train in 1 hour 30 minutes from London Victoria. Trip time lasts around 2 hours by car, and making the trip via this mode of transport is said to be the best as it allows you to explore.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Chichester:

Visit Chichester Cathedral. Established in 1075, the architecture of this cathedral is unlike any other you’ll see in England. Next, head to Pallant House Gallery to observe one of the best collections of modern British art with works by Frank Auerbach, Tracey Emin and Peter Blake.

Visit Fishbourne Roman Palace. Famous for its age (dating back to AD 75), the Fishbourne Roman Palace is the largest Roman residence unearthed in England.

22. Day Trip To The Lake District From London

Also known as the Lakes of Lakeland, Lake District is a popular holiday destination, known for its lakes, charming villages, massive glacial ribbon lakes, and stunning views.

While these are the main draws, the area has other attractions that make it an excellent option for an easy day trip from London.

You can get to the Lake District from London by train in about 3 hours 10 minutes. The Lake District is one of the best day trips from London by train.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in the Lake District:

First, stop by Rydal Mount. The late William Wordsworth left his poetry mark all over the Lake District. Wander the poet’s ‘writing hut’ and stunning gardens he landscaped, and get up close with his personal possessions and library.

Visit Hill Top, the incredibly charming former home of Beatrix Potter. Upon her death, the children’s author bequeathed (bequeath I’m fancy like that -maybe not), her apartment to the National Trust, along with her personal effects.

When you visit, you’ll see her paintings, photos, furniture, and even get the chance to wander her famous garden.

Lastly, head to the Lakes Distillery. Though the distillery just opened as recently as 2014, it is quickly becoming a choice destination in the Lake District. Tours and tastings are allowed daily, and if you visit at the weekend, you stand a chance to meet their resident alpacas.

Top tours the Lake District from London:

• Lake District Day Trip from London with Afternoon Tea

23. Day Trip To Cardiff From London

Cardiff is the commercial nerve of Wales and the UK’s eleventh largest city. Although it is famous for being an industrial city, Cardiff has increasingly become a top tourist destination, in addition to its spectacular city centre.

The green city hosts large festivals and is home to top shopping destinations and pop-up dining events.

Trains run from London Paddington to Cardiff Central once every hour daily, and the journey time is around 2 hours on average.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Cardiff:

First, head to Cardiff Castle to see the interactive exhibits, impressive grounds and bomb shelters that were used during the second world war. Next, head to the 2,500-capacity Wales Millennium Center to see any of the activities on display, including contemporary dance, opera and the latest rock and pop musicians.

The building is made entirely of wood, metal, slate and glass sourced in the country itself. How impressive is that?

Head to Cardiff Bay to treat yourself to fabulous views as you speed over Europe’s most extensive waterfront development.

Top tours to Cardiff from London:

Day Trip to Cardiff from London

24. Day Trip To Birmingham From London

A manufacturing powerhouse in the 18th century After London, Birmingham is the UK’s second-most populated city; so, it is hardly surprising that the city is home to an unrivalled diverse culture, magnificent attractions, delicious dining areas and amazing shopping centres.

With lots of action to keep a visitor for weeks, you’d be tempted to take up a chance to see all of Birmingham in a day.

Trains from London to Birmingham depart from Marylebone or Euston, depending on your preferred station. On average, 142 trains travel from London to Birmingham, and the average travel time is between 1 hour 21 minutes and 1 hour 58 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Birmingham:

Visit Birmingham Museum, and Art Gallery houses the most extensive collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings in the world should not be missed. Visit one of the many curry houses in Birmingham to draw inspiration from the vast array of museums and attractions.

Lastly, you could unwind on a boat trip via one of Birmingham’s amazing canals or just wander by foot around the canal quarter.

25. Stratford-Upon-Avon Day Trip From London

Stratford-upon-Avon is synonymous with William Shakespeare, but you don’t have to be a big fan of his to really enjoy the city’s attractions and history. Let’s be honest, ‘A Midsummer’s Night Dream,’ was confusing as hell and I think ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ cute and all but it’s a bit too dramatic for my cynical, cold black heart.

I think I am not a fan of these two pieces just due to the sheer amount of times I was forced to re-enact them at school.

Now my favourite ‘Macbeth,’ is something I could re-read all the time. That’s real drama — it’s like watching UK politics unfold in real life.

Stratford-upon-Avon is 104 miles away from London and can be reached within 2 hours 15 minutes by train from London Marylebone. Travelling by car takes around 2 hours.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Stratford-upon-Avon:

Visit the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, where you’ll have the opportunity to catch many of Bard’s famous works. There’s really no better place to watch Shakespeare’s plays than his hometown. You should also visit Anne Hathaway’s (Shakespeare wife’s) cottage if you just can’t get enough of the writer.

Next, visit the MAD Museum to observe the successful marriage between science and technology and art and design. Lastly, pay a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly farm to stroll through the exotic plants, gurgling waterfalls.

26. The New Forest

One of England’s most extensive areas of open pasture land, a day trip from London to New Forest is about the closest you can get to going on safari without boarding a plane. The New Forest is an extensive area of picturesque towns, villages, parklands, clifftop pathways, and moors on Britain’s south coast.

The forest is famous for its wild horses. The New Forest Lavender Farm is renowned during the lavender season (June to September). This is where every dead hard Instagrammer will make their pilgrimage. Undeterred by hay fever, they will descend upon the farm like a swarm of bees.

To get their first shots of the lavender farm, with a flowing summer dress and wide brim straw hat in tow. With the usual pose – back to the photographer, face to the sky. Waiting for the light flow from the heavens (there goes my sarcasm again).

The journey time is about 1 hour 30 minutes by train from London Waterloo to Brockenhurst.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in The New Forest:

First, stop by at the New Forest National Park, which is located at the heart of the area.

The park is a paradise for nature lovers, and you can go hiking, cycling or horseback riding your way around the hundreds of kilometres of land.

Next, visit Hurst Castle. The castle is an artillery fortress that was built by Henry VIII in the 1500s. It has now been modernised and open to the public, so you too can visit and enjoy the views atop the castle or even hire one of the boats in the Hurst Marine Fleet.

Lastly, head to Beaulieu in South Hampshire. Beaulieu is a beauty to behold, and a fantastic family-friendly attraction. You could hang around to see the river or even navigate through it by canoe.

27. Day Trips To Paris From London

Paris is one of the fastest destinations to reach from London and that being said, A day trip to Paris from London has to be on your bucket list European destinations to visit. Pais is just a no-brainer for a day trip.

There are famous attractions like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and shopping on Avenue des Champs Elysees. But it also has terrific neighbourhoods and great foods to try.

Since you can’t possibly explore every nook and cranny of the French capital on your day trip, you can still make the best of it to see some of the city’s highlights.

Trains run from London to Paris from 06:43 to 21:13, and the average quickest route lasts around 2 hours 17 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Paris:

Visit the Eiffel Tower (very obvious, but why not). Your trip to the French capital will be incomplete without savouring the thrilling experience that Eiffel Tower offers. Wander the Champs-Elysees, one of the world’s and most recognisable streets and an exceptional shopping destination. Best to visit during the sales to bag a bargain.

Head to Arc de Triomphe which sits just atop Champs-Elysees to get the best views of Paris.

Top tours to Paris from London:

Paris Day Trip from London with Eurostar and Metro Card

28. Brussels Day Trip From London

Brussels is the seat of the European Union, so it is expectedly a place with a big attitude.

It is a compact historic city with lots of beautiful parks, music venues, squares, unique art and excellent transport, making it easy to get around.

The Eurostar runs from London St Pancras International to Brussels daily. Though only 3 run direct to Brussels, you would waste no time in changing along the way, and the average journey time is 2 hours 30 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Brussels:

Visit the Grand Place, a 15th-century city hall and a UNESCO Heritage Site. For my sweet tooth friends, explore the museum dedicated to Coca and speciality chocolate shops. Go on a beer tasting tour and discover thousands of Belgian beers.

READ MORE | BRUSSELS DAY TRIP FROM LONDON

29. Day trip to Lille

Home to gabled brick houses, tall belfries and the traditional beer culture, Lille is a fantastic blend of French and Flemish.

Long before its integration into France in 1667, Lille was a powerful Flemish town, and since it was elected the European City of Culture in 2004, it has increasingly become a dream day-trip destination and one of the best day trips from London to Europe.

Fast direct trains travel to Lille from London, and the average journey time is 1 hour 22 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Lille:

Visit Place De Charles de Gaulle to do some people-watching.

Head to the 17th century Book Market on Vieille Bourse to view the amazing architecture and even join in and play chess if you get there in the afternoon.

Lastly, visit Opera De Lille to view the impressive building façade. The house is one of the typical landmarks in Lille due to its history.

READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO LILLE FRANCE

30. Bruges Day Trip From London

Bruges is the crown jewel of Belgium. Though relatively small, packed with fascinating attractions, fun sights and great restaurants.

It is said to be one of the most photogenic cities in the world so why not visit and find out for yourself.

READ MORE | BRUGES DAY TRIP FROM LONDON

There are no direct trains from London to Bruges, but travelling through the Eurotunnel makes the trip really easy. Journey time ranges from 3 hours, 47 minutes to 4 hours 7 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Bruges:

Visit the Belfry Tower, a medieval bell tower at the heart of the city centre. Since only a few people are allowed to climb all 366 steps up the tower at a time. You will have to wait if there are lots of people already climbing the tower.

Sorry, had to do it – grab a Belgian waffle while you’re there. Visit The Canal. Cruising the waterways by boat is the best way to see Bruges on your day trip from London.

31. Ghent Day Trip From London

Dubbed the “gem of Belgium”, there are many things to love about Ghent. The city is home to great art, fantastic food, and even while it is relatively small compared to other European cities, it is a great day-trip destination.

READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO GHENT FROM LONDON

Travel with Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Brussels then changes to a local train to complete your trip. The average journey time by train is around 2 hours 52 minutes.

Top 3 Things to Do and See in Gent:

Visit the 12th-century Gravensteen to observe the beauty and uniqueness of the castle.

Visit St Bavo’s Cathedral & The Ghent Altarpiece, this Gothic building is Gent’s most recognisable landmark and is filled with religious artefacts.

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 13 Easy Day Trips from London by Car

I love a good day trip from London. There are so many great places near the UK capital, and it always amazes me how easy it is to get out and explore. While there are a lot of fun day trips by train, there are some that are easier to access by driving. If you have wheels, today I bring you A Lady in London’s 13 easy day trips from London by car.

Day Trips from London by Car

Pretty much any day trip from the UK capital can be done by car, but some are faster or easier to do by train. These include places like York and Newcastle, where high-speed rail lines make traveling by train much faster than driving.

Others are much easier to do by car. These encompass areas that are far from railway stations or require multiple connections with too much or too little transfer time.

They also include regions like the Cotswolds, which have a lot of places to see in one area and infrequent public transport services connecting them.

In this blog post I want to focus on the day trips that are faster and easier to do by car than by train. If you don’t have your own car, you can rent one here .

If you drive yourself, make sure to check traffic ahead of time (Google Maps is good for this). If you’re traveling during rush hour or during peak summer season, you’ll want to leave extra time in case there’s traffic on the way.

So now for the list. I’ve done all of these trips, so I can personally vouch for how good they are and the quality of what you’ll find when you get there. I hope you enjoy reading about them, and that they inspire you to get on the road.

1. Cotswolds Day Trip

The most obvious day trip from London by car is the Cotswolds. This area is spread over several counties and has a lot of villages , gardens, countryside, and landmarks dotted throughout. While it’s possible to go by train, it’s not easy to get around by public transport once you arrive.

Driving makes visiting the area a lot easier. It’s just under a 2-hour drive from London to the Cotswolds, and once you’re there you can see places like Castle Combe, Bibury, Upper and Lower Slaughter, Burford, Chipping Campden, Broadway, Painswick , Westonbirt Arboretum, and more.

If you go, keep in mind that there’s a lot more to see in the Cotswolds than you can fit into one day. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and map out what you want to see so you can get to everywhere you want to go.

If you don’t have your own car, I’ve written about 5 easy ways to visit the Cotswolds without a car .

2. Highclere Castle Day Trip

Highclere Castle (aka Downton Abbey) is another of the best day trips from London by car.

This stately home in the English countryside is stunning to see and exciting to tour. The interiors and grounds were used in the filming of Downton Abbey , so fans can feel like they’re stepping into the world of Lord and Lady Grantham while visiting.

You can tour the inside of the house and spend time walking around outside. There’s a lot to see, so make sure to leave yourself plenty of time to take in the gardens, stroll around the grounds, and have tea or lunch at the cafe.

It’s just over an hour and a half’s drive from London to Highclere Castle, so it’s an easy day trip and a fun one.

3. Stonehenge Day Trip

Stonehenge is another day trip from London that’s awkward to do by rail. The usual train-and-bus combination isn’t seamless, so it’s a better day out by car.

Stonehenge is one of those places people either love or hate. I think it’s magical to see the stones and imagine their history, but some see a pile of rocks next to a busy road and wonder why they came all the way to see it.

If you want to discover your own views on it, you can drive from London to Stonehenge in around 2 hours. There’s an audio tour to guide you around the stones, and Neolithic houses, a virtual tour, and exhibitions that bring the site to life.

4. Blenheim Palace Day Trip

Back to stately homes, Blenheim Palace is an ideal day trip from London by car. The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and the only non-royal, non-episcopal English country house to hold the title of palace, this historic mansion and surrounding gardens are stunning to see.

You can tour the State Rooms in Blenheim Palace to take in portraits, tapestries, and furniture. Afterwards you can head outside to walk through the Formal Gardens and get lost in the yew tree maze.

It takes around an hour and a half to drive from London to Blenheim Palace. You can spend the whole day there, or combine it with a visit to nearby Oxford. The two make a great twin-center day out from London if you get an early start.

5. Leeds Castle Day Trip

Leeds Castle is another of the most enjoyable day trips from London by car. Its historic charm, striking moat, and expansive grounds make it worth a drive to Kent.

At over 900 years old, this striking fortress has colorful rooms, a fun hedge maze, and activities like falconry to entertain visitors of all ages throughout the year. It’s exciting to come for a tour and explore the grounds for a day.

Driving from London to Leeds Castle takes around an hour and 15 minutes, so it makes an easy day out from the UK capital.

6. Burghley House Day Trip

Up in Cambridgeshire, Burghley House is an elegant 16th-century country house near Stamford in Lincolnshire. It’s a beautiful day out, and worth a special trip.

The rooms and grounds at Burghley House feature stunning interiors and pretty gardens, and the place is surrounded by expansive grounds. There’s a lot to explore here, and it’s rewarding to take it all in.

It takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive from London to Burghley House. You can combine it with a visit to the nearby town of Stamford if you want to do more and have time to see both in one day. I’ve written about how to do it here if you want to learn more.

7. Hever Castle Day Trip

Hever Castle , Anne Boleyn’s childhood home, is a great day trip from London by car. The Kentish fortress and its surrounding moat are straight out of a fairy tale, and it’s great to see the place where Anne spent her childhood years.

It’s best to visit when the gardens are in full bloom, as there are a lot of great colors to see. There’s also everything from huge fountains to pretty footbridges and topiary hedges to discover.

Driving from London to Hever Castle takes around an hour and 15 minutes, so its another easy trip from the capital.

8. Avebury Day Trip

If stone circles are your thing, Avebury is another great day trip from London by car. This village in Wiltshire is famous for its Neolithic heritage, and the stones are an integral part of the community.

The village of Avebury is beautiful, too. It has plenty of thatched-roof cottages, and there are beautiful gardens to explore at Avebury Manor.

But if stones are your thing, there are a lot more in the surrounding area. It’s good to have a car to travel between all the sites.

Driving from London to Avebury takes around 2 hours. You can combine a visit with Stonehenge for a bigger day trip if you want to see all the stones in one day. They’re a 40-mintue drive from one another, so it’s easy to get between them.

9. Lacock Day Trip

Not far from Avebury, Lacock is another of the best day trips from London by car. This Wiltshire village has been used as a filming location for Downton Abbey and other TV shows and films.

Lacock’s yellow stone buildings warm up the village, and the streets are full of shops and pop-ups selling jams and fresh baked goods.

Additionally, the famous Lacock Abbey started life as a 13th-century nunnery and later became a country house and then a museum. Scenes from the Harry Potter movies were filmed in its cloistered halls.

Driving from London to Lacock takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. Lacock is just a 25-minute drive from Avebury, too, so you can combine the two if you want to see both in one trip.

It’s also just 15 minutes by car from the beautiful Cotswolds village of Castle Combe, so you can do all three in one day if you want to. I’ve done it before and you can read about my experience here .

10. Sissinghurst Castle Day Trip

Back in Kent, writer Vita Sackville-West’s Sissinghurst Castle is a great day trip from London by car. The main event here is the garden, which has incredible flower beds.

There are also bluebell woods in spring, and the backdrop of the castle and oasts rounds out the picture. It’s a good place to visit in the spring and summer, when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is (usually) at its finest.

Driving from London to Sissinghurst Castle takes around an hour and 40 minutes, so it’s a great escape from the city.

11. Petworth Day Trip

Down in West Sussex, the town of Petworth has everything from cobbled streets to cozy pubs. Local shops, half-timbered facades, and colorful doors make this place worth visiting.

But an even bigger draw is Petworth House. This stately home has an impressive art collection, with paintings by everyone from Anthony van Dyck to Thomas Gainsborough on display. The sweeping grounds were designed by the famous 18th-century landscape architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.

It takes around an hour and 40 minutes to drive from London to Petworth. Exploring the town and stately home will keep you busy for a day, but if you only want to see the town, the nearby South Downs Way is a good add-on if you like country walks.

12. Camber Sands Day Trip

If you’re looking for somewhere on the seaside near London , Camber Sands beach in East Sussex is a beautiful stretch of shore on England’s south coast.

Camber Sands has grassy dunes and a rocky waterfront, and the beach and surrounding area feel natural and fresh.

The drive from London to Camber Sands takes around 2 hours. The beach is close to Rye, one of the prettiest towns in the UK. If you want to, you can combine the two for a day trip to the seaside and the picture-pretty streets.

13. Surrey Hills Day Trip

One of the closest day trips from London by car is the Surrey Hills. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty sits south of London and has everything from storybook villages to walking paths.

It’s great to visit the Surrey Hills by car, as there are a lot of pretty places dotted around the area. Driving makes it easy to see a number of them in a day.

Villages like Shere are famous for being filming locations for the movie The Holiday , and the hills in the surrounding countryside are dotted with adorable sheep.

It takes around an hour and 15 minutes to drive from London to the Surrey Hills, so it’s quick and easy to get out and into the beautiful landscapes this part of England has to offer.

I hope this post has helped you discover some new day trips from London by car. There are a lot of amazing places within driving distance of the UK capital, and it’s worth getting behind the wheel to see them.

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