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The 21 Best Day Trips From London

By Condé Nast Traveller and Anna Prendergast

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

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

Read our complete London travel guide here .

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

Canterbury, Kent

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

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

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

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

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

Elmley Nature Reserve

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

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

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

Great Garden Escape, The Newt in Somerset

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

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

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

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

Clifton, Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

Bath, Somerset

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

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

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

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

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

The New Forest, Hampshire

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

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

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

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

Hertford, Hertfordshire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more about Deal, Kent

Whitstable, Kent

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

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

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

Rye, East Sussex

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

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

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

These are our favourite things to do in Rye

Margate, Kent

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

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

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

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

Read more about Margate's best things to do

Eastbourne, East Sussex

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

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

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

An insider guide to the South Downs

Brighton, East Sussex

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

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

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

The best restaurants in Brighton

Lewes, Sussex

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

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

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

Folkestone, Kent

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

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

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

The best restaurants in Kent

Oxford, Oxfordshire

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

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

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

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

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

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

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

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

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

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

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

Dungeness, Kent

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hastings and St Leonards

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

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

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

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The best day trips from London to escape the city

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

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

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

RECOMMENDED:  the best weekend trips from London RECOMMENDED: the best family day trips from London RECOMMENDED: the best Airbnbs near London RECOMMENDED: Quirky Airbnbs in the UK

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

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17 dreamy day trips from London

1.  Saint Leonards

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

How far? 58 miles

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

2.  Dungeness

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

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

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

How far? 86 miles

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

3.  Stratford-upon-Avon

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

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

How far? 104 miles

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

4.  Whitstable

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

How far? 50 miles

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

5.  Brighton

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

How far?  A little over 50 miles

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

6.  The New Forest

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

How far? 90 miles

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

7.  Box Hill

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

How far? 30 miles

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

8.  Mersea Island

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

How far? 69 miles

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

9.  Rye

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

How far? 79 miles.

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

10.  Margate

The Kent coastal town of Margate is awash with cold-brew coffee and craft beer, with enough salty charm to help you weather gusty sea winds. Start at the Turner Contemporary gallery, then mosey over to retro theme park and roller-disco Dreamland. Once the effects of the waltzer have worn off, head to Hantverk & Found for a lunch of fresh seafood and natural wines. Spend the rest of the afternoon shopping: snap up stunning vintage pieces in Breuer & Dawson, and seaweed-based skincare at Haeckels.

How far? 76 miles

Get there  One hour 25 minutes by train from St Pancras International; around two hours by car. 

11.  Bath

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

How far? 115 miles

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

12.  Deal

Though it might not get shouted about the way Margate and Whitstable do, Deal ticks all the day-trip boxes with its quaint rows of Georgian houses, unique boutiques and well-loved Saturday market. Kick things off at Deal Castle (built by Henry VIII as part of an ambitious chain of coastal forts), then treat yourself to lunch at 81 Beach Street or Victuals & Co. Parisian-style bottle shop Le Pinardier is great for stocking up on gluggable goodies, and make sure you stop by gallery-cum-homewares boutique Taylor-Jones & Son, where Delilah the sheepdog will welcome you with open paws.

How far? Just over 80 miles

Get there One hour 20 minutes b y train from St Pancras International; around two hours by car. 

13.  Canterbury

In Chaucer’s day, this was where people came for a big old religious knees-up. Today, Canterbury is a little more sedate, but its large student population means there’s still a pleasingly rowdy edge. Kick things off with a leisurely stroll down the King’s Mile, home to boutiques aplenty. Lunchwise you’re spoilt for choice, from gourmet scotch eggs with slaw and fries at Pork & Co, bento boxes at Tamago or pizza straight from the oven at indoor farmers’ market The Goods Shed. Round off your very own Canterbury tale with a visit to the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, which features one of the world’s most important collections of cow paintings and a mummified  Egyptian cat.

How far? 61 miles

Get there  One hour by train from St Pancras International; around one hour 30 minutes by car.

14.  Guildford

Heads up, horror fans: Guildford’s cathedral stars in cult bone-chiller ‘ The Omen’ . That said, everything else about Surrey’s county town is bucolic in the extreme: if it’s sunny you can lounge beside the water at pretty Dapdune Wharf, or actually get in it at the Guildford Lido. Lunch on locally sourced nacho boxes at Burrito Loco, before checking out the 400-year-old Star Inn. Still thirsty? Hop on a train to tour the nearby Hogs Back Brewery.

How far? 31 miles

Get there  30 minutes by train from Waterloo; around one hour by car.

15.  Southend-on-Sea

For nostalgic seaside fun, you could do much worse than Southend. From amusement parks, fairground rides and the world’s longest pier (it has a train running along it) to old-school chippies and retro ice-cream parlour Tomassi’s, the place has all the typical trappings of a vintage seaside town. On top of that it boasts some ambitious eateries , like fine-dining joint Aurum and gastropub The Pipe of Port, plus a burgeoning creative scene spearheaded by Focal Point Gallery and the annual Village Green music and arts festival. 

How far? 36 miles

Get there  One  hour 15 minutes by train from Fenchurch Street; two hours by car.

16.  Cambridge

Quieter, smaller and (whisper it) prettier than Oxford, Cambridge has plenty to keep you entertained. A visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum is a fine way to start your trip, followed by a bite at Fitzbillies. Make sure to buy a box of the sticky chelsea buns to take home. Spend a couple of hours wandering around the colleges and King’s Chapel before taking to the river for a spot of punting: behatted guides will do the hard work, or you can hire a boat of your own (it’s trickier than it looks: you’ve been warned). Come teatime, head for Grantchester and feast on scones in The Orchard Tea Gardens, just like poet Rupert Brooke.

How far? 64 miles

Get there  45 minutes by train from King’s Cross; one hour ten minutes from Liverpool Street; around two hours by car. 

17.  Chichester

Dinky, pastel-coloured Chichester looks like it’s built of macarons – but it’s more than just a pretty face. Start at the Norman-meets-Gothic cathedral before moving on to the Pallant House Gallery, home to brilliantly curated exhibitions, a first-class bookshop and a courtyard café that gives Rochelle Canteen a run for its money. Some of the best bits of Sussex are an easy drive (or, if you’re feeling full of beans, a slightly less easy bike ride) away, from the Goodwood Estate to West Dean Gardens and the gorgeous sandy beach at West Wittering.

How far? 80 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes from Victoria; around two hours by car. Car is best, so you can really explore. 

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21 Unforgettable Day Trips from London 2024: Hidden Gems and Must-Visit Destinations

Looking for the best day trips from London?

Listen up, fellow Londoners! If concrete jungles and crowded streets are starting to feel a bit same-old, I’ve got just the remedy – epic day trips!

As a seasoned explorer with a serious case of wanderlust, I’ve uncovered the 21 most brilliant day escapes from the Big Smoke for 2024. We’re talking fairytale castles, breathtaking coastlines, and charming country pubs.

Those rolling green hills and sparkling seasides aren’t going to explore themselves. And why waste your weekends holed up in the city when you could be making magical memories just a quick train ride away?

Planning your trip? Use my favorite resources!

🏨 Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com ✈️ Flights: for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner 🚗 Rental Car: I recommend Discover Cars 🛡️ Travel Insurance: for the best deals I rely on SafetyWing

From foodie havens in Kent to windswept trails in the Cotswolds, you’re spoiled for choice. But never fear – I’ve narrowed down the very best of the best so you can stop scrolling and start adventuring.

As a Londoner born and raised, I’ve explored every inch of the city, so I’m happy to share my firsthand knowledge of the very best day trips.

Ready to shake up your usual routine? Then let’s do this! That English countryside is calling your name.

Top Day Trips From London by Train [2024 Edition]

A complete guide to all the best and most unusual day trips from London by car, train, bus or coach. Includes free day trips from London, and more.

Best London Day Trips By Train

With so many incredible options to choose from, you’re sure to find a day trip that suits your taste and budget. So get your train ticket ready, and let’s embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Bath, my friends, is the quintessential English retreat. With its postcard-perfect Georgian buildings, ancient Roman ruins, and utterly charming countryside surroundings, this city straight up dazzles.

🎈 Click here to book your Roman Baths and Georgian Baths tour today!

Now, let’s talk logistics. Bath is just a quick train ride from London – we’re talking 1.5-2 hours from London Paddington Station. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a car and take in the scenic countryside views as you drive to Bath – just be prepared for some narrow roads and tight parking!

While Bath isn’t the cheapest destination, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for food, accommodation, and activities, so don’t let that deter you from visiting this amazing city.

As for things to do in Bath , there is no shortage of attractions and activities to keep you busy. The Roman Baths are an obvious must-see. But don’t miss out on Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, or a long stroll through gorgeous Georgian streets. And spoil yourself with a spa session at Thermae Bath Spa. You deserve it!

🏨 Wanna spend the night there? Eight . True to its name, it only has eight cozy rooms, and the restaurant on the first floor always features eight delectable dishes on its menu. Come check it out and experience the intimate atmosphere for yourself!

Oxford, my friend, is a true time capsule. With its spellbinding Gothic architecture, cobblestone lanes, and cozy local pubs, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel.

But beyond the old-timey aesthetics, this charming university town boasts one of the most prestigious universities on Earth. Okay, so not all of us are academics or students. But we can still soak up the living history and brilliance that permeates Oxford’s storied halls and libraries.

Getting to Oxford is a breeze – just an hour train ride from London Paddington. Once there, navigating is easy by foot, bike, or public transport.

Now, what to actually do in Oxford, you ask? For starters, wander the ancient halls and libraries of the famed University of Oxford . Explore the where scholars and luminaries have walked for over 900 years. 

Let your inner scholar geek out. And don’t skip the Ashmolean Museum – a treasure trove of art and artifacts spanning millennia. From Ancient Greek sculptures to Warhol pop art, you’ll encounter humanity’s creativity laid bare.

Beyond the textbooks and museums, take a punt on the river, grab a pint at a local pub, or lose yourself down charming side streets. Oxford offers delights around every corner.

So come ready to time travel through this city’s storied past. But also embrace the vibrant present-day energy pulsing through its lanes. Oxford awaits you, my friend.

🏨 Where to stay in Oxford: The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels, is located opposite the Ashmolean Museum. With sumptuous rooms and a wellness center, it offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience.

🏛️ Oxford tours and excursions

Use the widget below to book the most popular tours in Oxford:

3. Brighton

Looking for a quick seaside escape from the London bustle? Well, look no further than Brighton, baby! This vibrant beach town packs a colorful punch, with its cheerful beach huts, funky shops, and classic seaside pier.

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the big city, Brighton serves up a swell mix of seaside chillin’ and cultural stimulatin’. Wander through the exotic Royal Pavilion, an architectural marvel fit for a king. Lace up your walking shoes and hit the legendary Brighton Pier to soak up those ocean views and sea breezes.

And don’t sleep on the North Laine neighborhood! This eclectic hub boasts rad street art, indie boutiques, and quirky cafes galore. Be sure to pop into Open House art gallery, and fuel up at Marwood Cafe – total local faves.

Rolling into Brighton is simple – just a quick train ride from London Victoria Station, about an hour door-to-door. You can also bus or drive it, but be prepared for narrow streets and limited parking.

Brighton brings just the right dose of beachy vibes and cool culture. And the best part? You can experience it all in just one day. During my university years, I took the train to Brighton almost every weekend to enjoy the seaside and explore the shops and cafes.

🏨 Looking to stay over? For those seeking a perfect blend of food and luxury, The Ginger Pig is the ideal destination. Located in Brighton, this restaurant with rooms offers pre-mixed cocktails in minibars and Cowshed bottles by standalone bathtubs, ensuring you’ll have a truly indulgent experience.

👉 For more exciting activities in London, consider visiting one of these 12 top mazes near London .

This corner of England is chock full of fascinating sights spanning back to prehistoric times.

Let’s start with the crown jewel – Canterbury Cathedral . This awe-inspiring medieval structure has been attracting pilgrims for centuries with its intricate architecture and air of mystery. Don’t miss the site of Thomas Becket’s infamous murder – juicy historical drama!

Afterward, peruse the shelves at the charming Catching Lives Charity Bookshop, then relax over a pint in one of Canterbury’s hidden pub gardens like The Dolphin or The Parrot. Bliss!

Looking for more laidback adventures? Meander along the ancient city walls, picnic along the colorful River Stour, or pop into The Goods Shed for tasty local treats. Feeling spicy? Book a historic river tour to see Canterbury’s romantic cobblestone streets from a new vantage point.

🏨 Thinking of staying over in Kent? The Falstaff Hotel is the perfect pick. With parts of the hotel dating all the way back to the 13th century, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you admire the original features like cozy fireplaces and sturdy oak beams. And the location can’t be beat – all of the city’s main attractions are just a short stroll away.

5. New Forest

If you’re looking for options on natural day trips from London and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the big smoke, the New Forest is the perfect place to clear your head and enjoy some stunning natural beauty.

With ancient woodland, heathland, and quaint English villages, it’s the ideal spot for a long, leisurely ramble, followed by a hearty pub lunch and a pint of local ale by a roaring fire.

During autumn, the New Forest is especially stunning, with its rich hues cutting through the morning mists and dazzling in the afternoon sun. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle, and even pigs along the way.

To get to the New Forest from London, take the train from Waterloo to Beaulieu Road station, and make a pit stop at the Drift Inn for a pint of real ale before embarking on your hike. And if you’re looking for some independent shops, cafes, and beaches, head to Lymington for a rugged and remote one-and-a-half-hour loop.

🏨 Where to stay in the New Forest: The Thatched Cottage in Brockenhurst or The Stag Hotel near Lyndhurst are excellent options. But if you’re after a trusted favorite among New Forest devotees, Chewton Glen is a must-visit. With its 18th-century manor house, treehouse bedrooms, and Grecian-style pool, it’s the perfect place to unwind and indulge in some good old-fashioned service and comforts.

➤ Related post: Cannock Chase Forest: Hidden Gem in the Heart of England

Best Day Trips From London By Car

Feeling overwhelmed by the London grind? Give yourself a breath of fresh sea air with a day trip by car to Portsmouth, a coastal city rich in naval heritage, Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, or Windsor, home to the iconic Windsor Castle and beautiful surrounding countryside.

Each of these destinations can be reached within two hours, making for the perfect getaway from the city, and all make for perfect family-friendly day trips from London.

6. Portsmouth

This lively waterfront city is just a 2 hour drive south, making it the ultimate easy breezy day escape.

In Portsmouth, maritime history and nautical vibes abound. Take a scenic stroll along the harbor, soaking up views of boats bobbing about before diving into the city’s storied naval past. History nerds, listen up – the historic dockyards offer an awesome glimpse into the Royal Navy’s adventures, including ships like Lord Nelson’s HMS Victory and Henry VIII’s fave Mary Rose.

Once you’ve gotten your history fix, head to Gunwharf Quays to refuel on food and retail therapy. With trendy restaurants, lively pubs, and designer shops, this area is primed for sipping, sampling, and strolling along the waterfront.

🚶🏽‍♂️ You can book a guided walking tour of the city here .

🏨 Spending a night in Portsmouth? Portsmouth Village Hotel is a charming and inviting accommodation option located in the city. This boutique hotel offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a personal touch.

➤ Related post: Southampton to London (How to Get There & Where to Stay)

7. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty, is the perfect day trip destination just a short drive from London.

With rolling hills, charming honey-colored stone villages, and traditional English cream teas, this quintessentially English experience is just waiting to be explored, the whole region offering quite possibly the most picturesque countryside day trips from London imaginable.

The Cotswolds is roughly 90 miles (145 km) from London, and the scenic drive takes around 2 hours. Once you arrive, take your time strolling through the idyllic towns and browsing the quaint independent shops and galleries.

And with plenty of delicious local food to try, including regional specialties like Cotswold lamb and Gloucester cheese, your taste buds are sure to be delighted. Don’t forget to take in the stunning countryside views and snap some instagrammable photos along the way.

A close friend of mine has lived in a tiny village there for years and says the Cotswolds are her favorite place to unwind.

🏨 Staying over in the Cotswolds: The Fuzzy Duck in Newbold on Stour, Cotswolds is a delightful gem of a hotel nestled in the picturesque Cotswold countryside offering guests a truly memorable stay.

🌲 Cotswolds day trips & excursions

Book a private tour of the Cotswolds using the widget below:

8. Stonehenge

A day trip by car from London to Stonehenge is definitely possible. Zip down to the legendary Stonehenge in just 1 hour 45 minutes by car. Trust me, this epic trek is well worth it to marvel at the 5,000 year old stone circle, one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites.

Once you arrive, take a leisurely stroll around the mystical monoliths and soak up thousands of years of history. Chat up the knowledgeable guides to get the scoop on these mysterious rocks and their significance. Refuel at the onsite cafe with a hearty lunch before heading back.

Insider tip: check out my guide on visiting Stonehenge for free ! Yes, you can experience the magic without paying a penny. Pretty sweet deal if you ask me.

Whether you’re a history buff, mythology nerd, or just love an Insta-worthy backdrop, Stonehenge never disappoints. And the best part? It makes for the ultimate easy historical day trip from London by car. Cruise in, explore the neonithic wonder, and be back in time for dinner. Now that’s what I call a win-win!

🏨 Where to stay near Stonehenge: The Old Mill Hotel in Salisbury is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends history, comfort, and scenic beauty. Nesteld on the banks of the River Avon, this charming hotel occupies a historic building that was once a mill, offering a unique and characterful experience for guests.

🪨 Stonehenge day trips & excursions

Check out the popular Stonehenge tours and excursions in the widget below:

9. Stratford-Upon-Avon

Calling all Shakespeare fans and culture vultures – let’s take a day trip from London to the Bard’s beloved hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon! One of the best cultural day trips from London, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this charming town that’s just a 2-hour drive away and choc-full of Tudor realness. We’re talking narrow cobbled streets, timered buildings, and poetic river views. Swoon!

Obviously we need to make a beeline for Shakespeare’s birthplace and get all the juicy deets about his early years. Then, let’s take a leisurely stroll along the River Avon and picture Will as a moody teenager scribbling sonnets along the banks.

But wait, there’s more! We simply must catch a show at the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company theatre. I mean, is it even a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon without seeing some live Shakespearean drama?

And finally, we’ll wrap up our day of all things Will with pints and pub grub at a cozy inn. After all, we need to refuel after soaking up all this amazing culture!

🎈 Book your private Shakespeare walking tour of Stratford today !

🏨 Wanna stay in Stratford? Situated in the heart of this historic town, Hotel du Vin is a captivating boutique hotel that exudes elegance and sophistication, offering a luxurious retreat for travelers seeking refined accommodations.

10. Hastings and St. Leonards-on-Sea

Feel like breaking free from the London bubble for a day? Well, look no further than the delightful coastal towns of Hastings and St Leonards-on-Sea. Just a quick jaunt southeast, these seaside charmers offer the perfect blend of history, scenery, and good old-fashioned character.

Rolling into Hastings, you’ll be greeted by narrow cobbled lanes, quirky antique havens, and oh-so-charming cafes. But don’t be fooled by the small town vibe – Hastings has epic history! Be sure to explore the striking Hastings Castle ruins and transport yourself back to the Norman Conquest era.

Next up is St Leonards-on-Sea, Hastings’ artsy neighbor. Here, creativity and boho vibes flow through the streets. Funky boutiques, contemporary galleries, and an awesome beachfront promenade await. I’m talking colorful huts, cool sculptures, and plenty of character.

But the real charm of these towns lies in the people. Warm, welcoming locals who genuinely love their community. You’ll feel it in the buzzing atmosphere and see it in their smiling faces.

👉 Related post: How to Travel from London to Cardiff (Best routes)

Get some fresh air with a rejuvenating day trip to Surrey – one of the most recommended places to visit near London. This tranquil county is just outside the Big Smoke, but feels worlds away with its rolling green hills, charming villages, and laidback vibe.

Driving through Surrey’s country lanes is like pressing pause on life’s stresses. Gone are the crowded streets and skyscrapers – now it’s just you, vibrant nature, and some serious serenity.

Fancy a leisurely stroll? Lace up your walking shoes and meander along the River Wey, surrounded by soothing nature sounds. Prefer jaw-dropping views? Hike the Surrey Hills and soak up those sweeping vistas! Or uncover the county’s hidden gems – quaint cottages, colorful gardens, and cozy old pubs brimming with character.

Whether you crave outdoor adventures or just some good old-fashioned R&R, Surrey delivers. Its picturesque landscapes and welcoming villages call out: relax, unwind, and enjoy the simpler things!

🏨 Where to spend the night in Surrey: Hand & Spear , a boutique hotel where the spirit of Victoria reigns supreme. Step into a world where vintage retro artifacts, Secret Garden wallpaper, and plant-filled terrariums transport you back in time. 

London Day Trips To Other Countries

Why not take your day tours from London up a notch and book a day trip to somewhere outside the UK, like continental Europe?

Yep, you can easily make a memorable day of these international trips listed below, taking in the top highlights and landmarks of some major capital cities, and the best part is that all of these are less than 4 hours reach from London, with some of them just an hour jaunt. Here are my top recommendations:

12. Paris, France

First up, magical Paris is just a 2-hour train ride away. Lose yourself in iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, world-class art museums, and mouthwatering cuisine. Ooh la la!

13. Brussels, Belgium

Next, Brussels. This 2-hour train ride whisks you away to Belgian delights – think stunning architecture, decadent chocolate, and drool-worthy waffles. Don’t miss the historic Grand Place and Manneken Pis. For a complete guide, check out this London to Brussels post .

14. Dublin, Ireland

The Irish capital is only a 1-hour flight from London, enthralling visitors with its charming streets, lively pubs, and welcoming atmosphere. Discover renowned landmarks like Trinity College, housing the Book of Kells, the magnificent Dublin Castle, and the vibrant Temple Bar district.

➤ Did you know: 10 million pints of Guinness are produced in Dublin every day? Read more fun facts about Ireland here .

15. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Or how about Amsterdam? A 4-hour train journey transports you to the city of canals, vibrant nightlife, and amazing museums. Bike along those charming waterways and dive into Dutch culture.

16. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is just a 4-hour train ride or 1-hour flight from London, enchants visitors with its rich history and iconic landmarks like the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, the cobblestone streets of the charming Royal Mile, and the beautiful Holyrood Palace. Lose yourself in the captivating atmosphere of the historic Scottish capital.

➤ Did you know: there’s a knighted penguin at Edinburgh Zoo? For more interesting facts, check out these 63 facts about Edinburgh here .

17. Berlin, Germany

Prefer a quick flight? In 2 hours, you can be immersed in Berlin’s dynamic arts and nightlife scene. Check out remnants of the Berlin Wall and soak up the history. Explore iconic landmarks like the historic Brandenburg Gate, and the magnificent Reichstag building, delving into the diverse culture and heritage of this captivating city.

18. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a 2.5 hour plane ride to sunny Spain, blessing you with architectural marvels like the Sagrada Familia, sandy beaches, and incredible food. ¡Olé!

19. Reykjavik, Iceland

And don’t forget exotic Reykjavik! Fly 3 hours to Iceland’s colorful capital and make your Game of Thrones dreams come true. Discover iconic attractions such as the striking Hallgrimskirkja Church, the scenic Golden Circle route encompassing Geysir and Gullfoss, and the stunning Blue Lagoon. Between stunning landscapes, natural hot springs, and potential Northern Light sightings, this city absolutely enchants.

20. Lisbon, Portugal

The Portuguese capital is just 2.5 hours on the plane from London and enthralls visitors with its captivating blend of history, picturesque coastlines, and delectable seafood. Be in awe of stunning landmarks such as the enchanting Belem Tower, the magnificent Jeronimos Monastery, and the colorful Alfama district, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of this coastal gem.

21. Rome, Italy

Just a 2-hour flight from London, history comes alive in the Italian capital, amidst ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and lively local energy. Marvel at the mighty Colosseum, tour the Vatican’s galleries, and wander through the Roman Forum’s crumbling pillars. Then indulge in velvety gelato, al dente pasta, and crisp Aperol spritzes. Between captivating sights and simple pleasures, Roma will steal your heart!

👉 Read more: 130+ Famous English Quotes

Renting a Car in London

So you’re in London, ready to embark on thrilling day trips outside the city. Renting a car is your golden ticket to unlocking a world of possibilities! Bid farewell to the crowded tubes and buses as you hit the road to explore enchanting countryside, majestic castles like Windsor Castle, prestigious universities like Oxford, and monolithic ruins of Stonehenge.

With a car, you’re the captain of your adventure, free to make detours, sing along to your favorite tunes, and maybe even engage in some questionable dance moves at traffic lights (no judgment here). I always use Discover Cars for the best deals on rentals. So, buckle up and let the open road be your guide!

Where can I go an hour away from London? 

Places an hour away from central London that are worth visiting include Windsor, Luton, Royal Tunbridge Wells, and Cambridge.

If you’re looking for a regal day trip from London, then hop in the car and head to Windsor. This quaint town is dominated by the magnificent Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world and a favored weekend residence of the King.

According to Visit Britain’s 2022 survey, Windsor Castle remains the most visited royal residence in England.

Explore the castle’s opulent state apartments, stroll around the picturesque streets of the town, and take a walk in the sprawling Great Park. And don’t forget to indulge in a traditional English cream tea at one of the charming cafes before heading back to London. The drive to Windsor is a breeze and takes just over an hour, making it the perfect destination for a leisurely day trip. And of course, there’s LegoLand! 

What towns are 2 hours away from London?

Towns and cities that are around 2 hours away from London include Birmingham, Manchester, Derby, Bristol, and York. Here’s two of my recommendations:

Birmingham (1.5 hours by train, 2 hours by car)

Picture this: you hop aboard a train at the crack of dawn, leaving behind London’s hustle and bustle, as the scenery transforms into an English countryside extravaganza. Greeted by rolling hills, quaint villages, and endless greenery, you’ll feel the anticipation building as you speed toward Birmingham.

First stop? Cadbury World, my sweet-toothed friends! Prepare for a mouthwatering adventure as you delve into the magical world of Cadbury, where chocolate reigns supreme. Unleash your inner Willy Wonka as you explore the captivating heritage, sample delicious treats, and even try your hand at crafting your own mouthwatering confections.

Following that, there’s plenty more to see and do in Birmingham , such as the Jewellery Quarter, National SEA LIFE Centre, Symphony Hall, and the popular Peaky Blinders tour , to name a few.

York (2.5 hours by train, 4 hours by car)

This medieval gem nestled in the heart of Yorkshire is bursting with history and charm. Prepare to be captivated by the majestic York Minster, a sight that will leave you breathless. Trust me, it’s like stepping into a fairytale!

As you stroll along the ancient city walls, you’ll feel the weight of centuries of stories and secrets whispering through the stone. And don’t even get me started on the narrow, winding streets of the Shambles! It’s like stepping back in time, with its charming timber-framed buildings that seem to lean in close and share their tales with passersby. York is a treasure trove for history buffs and adventurers alike.

Best London Day Trips: FAQs

Here are some commonly-asked questions about day trips from the English capital:

What is close to London for a day trip?

Historic cities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Bath make for great day trips from London. You can also visit royal sites like Windsor Castle or seaside towns like Brighton and Whitstable.

What is the best day tour of London?

Hop-on, hop-off bus tours are a great way to efficiently see top London sights like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye all in one day.

Where is good for a day trip in UK?

Some top day trip destinations from London include Stonehenge, York, Lake District, and Edinburgh if you take an early train. Each offers amazing history, scenery, and culture.

Can you do a day trip to Lake District from London?

The Lake District makes for an incredible yet long day trip from London. Take a morning train to experience the mountains, lakes, villages, and scenic hikes in a day.

What is 2 hours away from London?

Destinations about 2 hours from London by train include Cambridge with its famous university, royal Windsor Castle town, and seaside Brighton known for its pier.

Where can I go an hour away from London?

Places an hour from London include Windsor Castle, historic Greenwich, Richmond Park for wildlife spotting, and Kew Gardens’ beautiful landscapes.

How do I spend a day in Keswick?

In Keswick, hike Cat Bells for breathtaking Lake District views, cruise Derwentwater lake, explore the quirky Pencil Museum, and recharge at a local pub for dinner.

Day Trips from London Map

Click on the interactive map below to see the various day trip locations near London:

London & UK Travel Guides:

For more essential UK travel guide information, check out these articles:

✪ Ultimate UK Packing List (+ Free Checklist) ✪ 28 Memorable Things to Do in the West Midlands ✪ 47 Interesting Facts About London You Probably Didn’t Know ✪ 17 Top Things to Do in Nottingham for a Fun Day Out ✪ Cockney Rhyming Slang: A Traveler’s Guide ✪ The Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Derby, UK ✪ Where to stay in London for the first time ✪ Best Spots to Go Paddleboarding in London

There you have it, folks – the 21 most brilliant day trips for exploring beyond London’s city limits! From rolling green hills to windswept coastlines, charming villages to bustling cities, there’s something to spark every wanderlust.

History buffs, get your fill of castles, cathedrals, and ancient sites. Nature nerds, breathe in that fresh country air and roam peaceful trails. Foodies, sample local flavors from fish & chips to regional specialties. And thrill-seekers, hit the waves, cliffs, and trails for adventure.

The best part? These destinations are just a quick, comfy train ride away. Sit back, relax, and watch the city fade into quaint towns, vivid landscapes, and fresh experiences.

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Day Trips from London

15 Best Day Trips from London

One of the most frequented and diverse cultural hubs in the world, London has an unimaginable amount to offer the intrepid traveller in the way of cuisine, entertainment and history.

However, in a metropolis that hardly sleeps, you can be left wanting a change of scenery and the surrounding English cities, coasts and villages are the perfect remedy to the breakneck pace of the capital.

Here are the 15 best day trips from London :

1. Stonehenge

Ever the topic of fierce debate to this day, the iconic, prehistoric and divisive monument of Stonehenge is a must-see for anyone looking to take a day trip from London.

Take in the gorgeous English scenery on the route from the capital to the Wiltshire countryside (it helps to visit in summer!) and make your way to Salisbury Plain where you’ll find Stonehenge.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to have been a site of pagan worship, though opinions have famously differed on this for decades.

Find out for yourself and discover the mysteries of this prehistoric marvel in under a day.

Boasting the title of largest and oldest occupied castle on earth, Windsor Castle is a hallmark of British history and the intriguing weekend getaway home of the Royal Family.

Also used for state and ceremonial occasions, the castle features an elaborate visitor route that grants access to the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel and more.

Bedecked with treasures from the royal collection, the stately rooms and halls of the castle are fascinating to those both interested in the British monarchy and those who simply enjoy ogling at impressive castles.

3. Oxford and Stratford

Known as England’s most romantic cities, Oxford and Stratford are a veritable stone’s throw from London, a mere few hours away but a world away from the metropolitan capital’s hustle and bustle.

Stratford-upon-Avon is undoubtedly most famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, no doubt you’ll be feeling inspired before long after walking on the same cobbled streets in between attractive cottages as he once did.

Continue on to Oxford and explore the most famous University City on the planet as you wind your way in between the various colleges and their fairytale-like spires and towers.

The undeniably gorgeous Georgian city of Bath is best known for it’s perfectly preserved Roman baths, where you’ll have the chance to walk around the steaming pools, along ancient paving stones whilst marvelling at the Roman architecture.

The city itself is a visual delight too, with picturesque Georgian buildings filled with terraces and crescents.

Once you’ve had your fill of World Heritage sites, churches and abbeys, take advantage of the buzzing cosmopolitan environment found in town and visit one of Bath’s many pubs, famed for producing some of the best country ale in the UK.

5. Leeds Castle and the Cliffs of Dover

Idyllically placed in the middle of a lake surrounded on all sides by English forests and parklands, Leeds Castle truly is a spectacle to behold.

Step back in time as you stroll the castle grounds, admiring the views of the lake and lose yourself in the beautiful Lady Baillie Gardens.

After you’ve experienced the unique magic of the castle, continue on to another iconic British site, the White Cliffs of Dover.

With an 800 year old castle perched atop the impressive chalk cliff face, the site is a popular tourist spot, a mere few hours from London and well worth the trip.

6. Brighton

Referred to far and wide as “London-by-the-sea”, Brighton is one of the most convenient and utopian British escapes that seemingly manages to cram everything the capital has to offer into a small city a fraction of its size.

From the charming bohemian market-streets of The Laines to regal, Victorian-era seafront hotels, the diversity of attractions found in Brighton caters to all tastes.

For the signature Brighton experience, amble along the pier in search of fish and chips and ice-cream, followed by a visit to the beautifully preserved Royal Pavilion.

If you’re after something a little different, catch a show at the Brighton Dome, frequented by locals and students alike, or head across town to the Marina to enjoy world-class food surrounded by pristine yachts.

7. Cambridge

Home to globally loved British exports like rowing and elite universities, Cambridge is one of England’s most famous cities and one of the easiest day trips to take from London.

Discover the internationally famed Cambridge University and it’s breathtaking grounds, complete with 12th century brickwork and no shortage of Hogwarts-esque buildings.

Join the throngs of visitors, students and couples alike bobbing along Cambridge’s rivers and pick yourself up everything from seasonal fruit to pastries in Cambridge market.

With museums, parks and farms galore, it’s no wonder Cambridge is wildly popular with people looking to escape London for the day.

8. Seaford and Seven Sisters Cliffs

Easily reachable as part of your Brighton day trip or as a full day in itself, Seaford is best known for the series of beautifully pristine white chalk cliffs that pepper the coastline of East Sussex.

Instantly recognisable and featuring in various TV and film productions, the cliffs are an absolute dream to explore.

You’ll also be treated to a stroll through the Seven Sisters Country Park on the way there which consists of a leisurely coastal trail.

Owing to infamous English weather, its widely recommended to visit in the spring or summer time.

9. Canterbury

Comfortably as famous as either Oxford or Cambridge, the city of Canterbury is the delightful source of inspiration for many English authors’ tales, including the renowned Geoffrey Chaucer.

The small city’s prize jewel and UNESCO World Heritage Site is the historic English cathedral situated in the center and visited by fascinated local and foreign onlookers.

Asides from the plethora of museums and preserved buildings in Canterbury, there’s also a thriving student scene, giving the old city a refreshing, contemporary atmosphere.

10. Ipswich, Suffolk

Perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, Ipswich – the county town of Suffolk, has something to suit all needs.

From 6th Century Anglo-Saxon burial grounds at Sutton Hoo, to the beautiful expanses of Crane Beach, Ipswich is an ode to the quaint prettiness and culture-laden English seaside town.

Sample craft beers and ales at Ipswich Brewery or get close to nature at the unique wolf sanctuary, Wolf Hollow – the variety of attractions is truly immense if you’re prepared for the mildly lengthy 2 hour journey by train from London.

11. Isle of Wight

Arguably one of the top destinations for people visiting England, the Isle of Wight is well worth the 3 hour travel time each way from London.

The golden sands of it’s south-facing beaches are peppered with pastel-coloured beach huts and backdropped by magnificent cliffs that can also be ventured up to admire the 360 degree sea views.

Visit the Medieval lighthouse known as the Pepperpot, or wander the country lanes in search of postcard-perfect old cottages, or even embark on a trek on the back of a friendly llama with West Wight Alpacas.

12. Birmingham

With enough variety and action to keep you busy for weeks, you’ll be hard pressed to see all of Birmingham in a day, but the West Midlands city is so close to London it’s well worth making the journey to get to know it.

Try one of the many nationally loved curry houses and be inspired by an endless array of museums and attractions like the ThinkTank Birmingham Science Museum, or for those with a sweet tooth, the birthplace of the confectionary giant Cadbury’s ‘. Shop till you drop at the Bullring Shopping Center or simply unwind on a boat trip down one of the city’s gorgeous canals.

13. Harry Potter Tour

Possibly one of the UK’s biggest cultural exports that has become the stuff of legend, the Harry Potter cinema franchise was filmed predominantly at the Warner Bros studios that are located a hair’s breadth outside of London.

Perfect for those who want to discover the magic behind the movie, the film studio and sets offer a glimpse into the world of wizardry that you won’t find anywhere else.

Whimsical props, costumes and set pieces galore, Harry Potter fans will not be disappointed.

14. Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire

For a taste of an iconic English village, complete with beautiful rolling paddocks, winding cobbled streets and quaint storefronts, then look no further than Great Missenden.

The surrounding countryside is part of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and as a result there’s no end to the variety of beautiful walks than can be taken around the outskirts of the town.

Less than an hour away from London, Great Missenden was also home to the famous author Roald Dahl and as such, has numerous trails and tours based on his sources of inspiration.

15. Bray, Berkshire

Also known as Bray-On-Thames, this picturesque village is ideal for those looking to take a scenic day trip through hamlets and greens while taking in the English countryside.

Impossibly attractive during the spring and summer months, Bray can be explored solely on foot.

Be sure to work up an appetite as it’s also home to two of the four Michelin Star restaurants in the UK – The Fat Duck and The Waterside in.

The Fat Duck is particularly commendable, having been named the best restaurant in the world in 2005, but make sure you book in advance as the waiting lists are famed for their relentless length.

15 Best Day Trips from London:

• Oxford and Stratford
• Leeds Castle and the Cliffs of Dover
• Seaford and Seven Sisters Cliffs
• Ipswich, Suffolk
• Isle of Wight
• Harry Potter Tour
• Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire
• Bray, Berkshire

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

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

28 Brilliant Day Trips from London

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips from London by Train

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Paddington and London Marylebone

Average journey duration: 1 hour

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Victoria and St Pancras International

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

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

Read more: One Day in Canterbury Itinerary

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

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

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

Train departs from: Kings Cross and Liverpool Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next: 21 Brilliant Beaches Near London

Hampton Court

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Waterloo

Average journey duration: 50 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Paddington

Average journey time: 1hr 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Waterloo and Paddington Station

Average journey time: 50 minutes

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

Read More: 15 Must-Visit Castles Near London

The Lake District

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

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

Luckily, the area surrounding Oxenholme is ripe for exploration.

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

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

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

Train departs from: Euston

Average journey time: 2 hrs 45mins

Hassle-free option: A 10 lake day tour

Read more: Walking in the Lake District

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: King’s Cross

Average journey time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: See the best sights on foot

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Victoria

Average journey time: 1 hour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: Liverpool Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes

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

Henley on Thames

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Paddington, change at Twyford

Average journey time: 1 hour 10 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

Average journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes

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

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

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

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

Average journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

Hassle-free option: Book this Self Guided Tour

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London King’s Cross

Average journey time: 2 hours 19 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: Waterloo

Average journey time: 2 hours 15 minutes

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

Harry Potter Studios

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

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

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

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

Train departs from: London Euston

Average journey time: 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

Average journey time: 2 hours

Hassle-free option: Take a self-guided tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hassle-free option: Take a walking tour

Day Trips from London by Car

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

The Cotswolds

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

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

If it all sounds perfectly lovely, it is.

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

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

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

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

Average driving time from central London: 2 hours

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

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

Stratford Upon Avon

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

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

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

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

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

Seven Sisters Country Park

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

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

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

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

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

The New Forest

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

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

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

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

Leeds Castle

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

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

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

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

Average driving time from central London: 1 hour 15 minutes

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

Highclere Castle

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

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

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

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

Cirencester

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

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

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

Average driving time from central London: 2 hours 15 minutes

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

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

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

Practical Tips for Planning Day Trips Out of London

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

Best London Day Trips: Map

Discover More Day Trips From London Guides

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

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24 Hours in Oxford – insidersoxford.com

Wednesday 5th of May 2021

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

Wednesday 27th of May 2020

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

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

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

I look forward to your reply! Beth

Julianna Barnaby

Thursday 28th of May 2020

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

Sunday 3rd of February 2019

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

Tuesday 5th of February 2019

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

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We delve into the cool, interesting and quirky spots that make London such a dynamic city, telling you the best things to do, eat and drink along the way. 

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Last Minute Trips

October 23, 2023, destination: london, best day trips from london.

It may seem a slightly odd thing to say about one of the world’s great capital cities, but London is a very easy place from which to escape. It’s brilliantly connected to the rest of the UK, making it easy to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city in just a short drive or train ride.

Whether you fancy a country walk , a cultural visit to the iconic Stonehenge, or a trip to the seaside, there are several places you can reach in less than two hours by train, from London.

Here’s our pick of 10 of the best day trips from London.

1. Bath, Somerset

Not only is Bath one of the UK’s most handsome cities, but it’s also compact and mostly manageable in a day. It’s famous for its beautiful Georgian architecture, the Roman Baths ( Romanbaths.co.uk ), the Jane Austen Centre ( Janeausten.co.uk ), a great culinary scene, and even beautiful walks, like the Bath Skyline ( Nationaltrust.org.uk )

For a midday snack, grab a legendary bun from Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House ( Sallylunns.co.uk ), a must-visit in Bath. And if you’re visiting over the festive season, be sure to visit Bath’s Christmas Market ( Visitbath.co.uk ). 

How to get to Bath: Take the train from London Victoria to Bath, which takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.

2. The New Forest, Hampshire

Brockenhurst is a small, quaint village in the New Forest. It’s home to a couple of cosy pubs, cafes, and the famous The Pig ( Thepighotel.com ), which has a menu showcasing food sourced within 25 miles, as well as much grown on their grounds, too.

Before you settle into the delights of The Pig, though, go for a leisurely walk in the beautiful New Forest. Or why not hire some bikes and tackle the trails on two wheels?

How to get to the New Forest: Take the train from London Waterloo to Brockenhurst, which takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.

3. Oxford, Oxfordshire

Oxford is a magical place, with stunning architecture and museums filled with ancient treasures. It also has a thriving music and art scene, and if you’re a Harry Potter fan you can walk in the wizard’s footsteps, as the Great Dining Hall and famous staircase are inside Christ Church College.

Blenheim Palace ( Blenheimpalace.com ), the birthplace of Winston Churchill, is just a short bus ride away, where you can tour the gardens and huge country house. There’s also a brilliant Christmas market during the winter. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even tour Oxford by boat ( Oxfordrivercruises.com ) .

How to get to Oxford: Take the train from London Paddington to Oxford, in just over 1 hour.

4. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Needing little introduction, Stonehenge is the most visited attraction in England (outside of London).

The best way to understand the history is to book a tour with Stonehenge Tour ( Thestonehengetour.info ). Available in 10 languages, onboard commentary will guide you through the gentle, rolling landscape, sharing historical tales. 

How to get to Stonehenge: Take the train from London Waterloo to Salisbury, which takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. You can then take a Stonehenge Tour bus to the site, which takes 35 minutes. Alternatively, take a taxi.

5. Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

Cheltenham is on the edge of the Cotswolds, so it’s a great base from which to explore the many beautiful walking and cycling routes , while also staying close to easy transport links.

Take a walk around Sudeley Castle and Gardens ( Sudeleycastle.co.uk ) – take the ‘W’ bus from Pittville Street to the War Memorial and walk 15 minutes – explore The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, ( Cheltenhammuseum.org.uk ) and visit the famous Cheltenham Racecourse ( Thejockeyclub.co.uk ) . 

Most walks begin a little outside of the city centre, like Cleeve Hill walk (a 15-minute drive away) and Crickley Hill (a 10-minute drive away).

How to get to Cheltenham: To get to Cheltenham, take the train from London Paddington to Cheltenham Spa, which takes around 2 hours.

6. Margate, Kent

On the southeast coast of the UK is Margate, a seaside town with sandy beaches, quaint shops and deliciously fresh seafood.

If it’s a warm day, be sure to take your swimmers so you can go for a dip in the sea. But before you do, take a visit to the Turner Contemporary Gallery ( Turnercontemporary.org ), right on the seafront, to soak up the artwork first. 

If you like thrift shops, there are a few dotted around the town, too, like Handsome Freaks and Peony Vintage.

How to get to Margate: Take the train from either London Victoria or London St. Pancras International to Margate, both of which take between 1 hour 30 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes.

7. Chippenham, Wiltshire

In just over an hour, you’ll be out of the busy big city and into the peaceful Cotswolds. 

The historical market town of Chippenham is nestled on the banks of the River Avon. There are colourful street markets on weekends and characterful pubs where you can grab some lunch or a drink in the garden or by the fire.

Take a stroll through John Coles Park ( Chippenham.gov.uk ) in the heart of the town and visit Lacock Village, which you may recognise from films like Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts. It’s an 11-minute drive away or you can take the X34 bus.

How to get to Chippenham: A train from London Paddington to Chippenham takes a minimum of 1 hour and 11 minutes.

8. Brighton, East Sussex

Brighton has a bit of everything: seaside fun, cliff-top walking routes, retro shops, great restaurants, contemporary art, and progressive culture. The Lanes are full of vintage shops like Beyond Retro  ( Beyondretro.com ) and Our Daily Edit ( Ourdailyedit.com ). And if you like coffee, it isn’t hard to find a quirky little boutique cafe. 

The pebbly beach is about 5 miles long, where you can either brave the cold sea or instead grab a deckchair and some fish and chips from RYBKA ( Rybka.fish ) and tuck in.

How to get to Brighton: There are a few different ways to get to Brighton. The ThamesLink from either Farringdon, London Bridge, or Blackfriars to Brighton (under 1 hour 30 minutes); or the Gatwick Express, from London Victoria to Brighton, which takes about 50 minutes.

9. Box Hill, Surrey

Visiting Box Hill is a great Sunday out from London. It isn’t too far and there’s a great coffee shop at the top selling cakes, sausage rolls and hot drinks.

If you’re not arriving on two wheels, then take a walk on one of the many hiking trails. You can either wander around the top of the hill, where there’s a Gruffalo Trail offering great family fun, or do one of the more strenuous hikes, like this 8-mile circular route  ( Nationaltrust.org.uk ). 

How to get to Box Hill: Take the train from London Waterloo to Box Hill in as little as 50 minutes. Or, if you like cycling, grab your bike. It’s about a 30-40 mile round trip, depending on where you start and finish and how much you deviate on the country roads. Plus, you can always take the train home if you don’t want to cycle back.

10. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Cambridge is packed with things to see and do. You can marvel at the architecture, go punting down the river, visit the market stalls, lose yourself in the Botanical Garden s ( Cambridgeppf.org ), or soak up some culture at The Fitzwilliam Museum ( Fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk ). 

A few must-visit foodie spots are Jack’s Gelato ( Jacksgelato.com ), for some unusual flavour combinations, and Fitzbillies ( Fitzbillies.com ), for a Chelsea Bun, which they’ve been making since 1920 – they also do brunch, lunch, and afternoon tea.

How to get to Cambridge: Take the train from London King’s Cross to Cambridge, which can be as fast as 1 hour 9 minutes. 

If we’ve whetted your appetite and you fancy exploring the British countryside on foot, check out our walking tours of the Cotswolds . Alternatively, we offer a unique London cultural tour to help you experience the very best of what the capital has to offer.

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19 Best Day Trips From London

Jessica Furseth

November 29, 2023

19 min read

London is one of the great cities of the world—you could easily spend all of your time here and still be hungry for more. But if you fancy a taste of lush English countryside or some breezy seaside, London is also ideally located for a day trip. An hour or two in a car or train will take you to charming seaside towns, historic castles, world-class university towns, heritage monuments, and thatched cottages on picture perfect cobbled streets.

To car or not to car

In central London, having a car is more of a hindrance than a help—it’s hectic, parking is expensive, and there are congestion charges at play in the city core. Save yourself the trouble and use public transport, supplementing with taxis. 

If you want to get out of London and head deeper into the English countryside, there are places where a car is a must. (Drive times listed here are approximate—it largely depends on the time of day that you’re on the road.) But equally, there’s no shortage of great destinations reachable by rail; trains out of the capital are frequent and efficient. London has about a dozen rail terminuses (all connected to the Tube network) that serve the surrounding areas, and your destination will mostly determine which one you’ll need. To plot your route, use a service like The Trainline . Buying train tickets weeks (or months) in advance leads to greater savings; train prices below are for a same-day, roundtrip ticket booked the day before. Bear in mind, the very best savings can be made by traveling by coach—that’s British for long-distance bus—at the cost of a longer journey.

Best day trips from London

Hitchin: 30 minutes by train.

The lush lavender fields of Hitchin are worth the trip out of London all by themselves—the purple flowers stretch out in every direction, and you can wander through them to your heart’s content, picking as much as you can carry. In addition to about 20 acres of fragrant lavender, Hitchin Lavender Farm also has a sunflower patch and a wildflower field, as well as some lovely walking routes around the area. The town of Hitchin is also worth a few hours of your time, with its pretty cobbled streets and frequent market days. Check ahead to see whether it’s a day for the farmer’s market, the car boot sale, or the antiques market. 

How to get to Hitchin from London

Hitchin is about a 90-minute drive from London. Trains to Hitchin are 30 minutes long (£23 roundtrip) from London’s St. Pancras Station. Hitchin Lavender Farm is open during flowering season, which runs from mid-May to mid-August. It’s best to buy your tickets in advance. To get to the lavender field from the Hitchin station, you’ll have to take a 15-minute ride by taxi or local bus, both of which leave from outside the train station.  

Oxford: 1 hour by train

The “city of dreaming spires”—as penned by Victorian poet Matthew Arnold—is only an hour away from London. Oxford is the place to go for stunning architecture of bridges, squares and gardens, endless romantic strolls, and world-class educational buildings. The view from the tower of the Church of St. Mary the Virgin is the best in the city—definitely worth the £5 entrance fee. Into Harry Potter? You’ll enjoy a tour of the buildings featured in the films. You can also go punting—this quintessential Oxford habit is a lovely way to see the city by cruising down the river in a flat-bottom boat, using a long stick to propel yourself. Or maybe just hire a punt with a pro to do the work while you relax, take in the scenery, and tuck into a picnic as the world floats by.

How to get to Oxford from London

The drive from London to Oxford is about 90 minutes. Direct trains to Oxford depart from London’s Marylebone Station and take just over an hour (£32 roundtrip).  

Cambridge: 1 hour by train

Historic streets, picturesque university buildings, and charming bridges, Cambridge is the quintessential English academia town. Watch out for bicycles, as there seems to be a million of them! Head up the steps to Great St. Mary’s Church for a view of the town that can’t be beat—except for maybe the sight that awaits you inside King’s College Chapel (this is the largest fan vaulted ceiling in the world). Cambridge is another town where punting on the river is a proud pastime; wintertime tours even come with blankets so you can stay warm and cozy.  

How to get to Cambridge from London

Trains to Cambridge leave from King’s Cross Station in London (one-hour ride) or Liverpool Street Station (90-minute ride) for around £30 roundtrip. The drive from London to Cambridge takes about two hours. 

Rye, Camber Sands, and Dungeness: 1 hour 10 minutes by train

If you’re after that picture-perfect English country lane with cobblestones and timber-framed houses, Rye will certainly deliver. This quaint town’s Mermaid Street is famously pretty— The Telegraph calls it “storybook lovely”. Rye is full of tea rooms, artisan bakeries, and cute shops, just ten minutes inland from Camber Sands, a popular beach with picturesque sand dunes. 

If you make it to Rye, don’t ignore Dungeness, a truly unique and somewhat dystopian landscape of shingle beaches and crumbling shacks, perfect for a long walk. Make sure to pop into the Snack Shack for a lobster roll.

How to get to Rye, Camber Sands, and Dungeness from London

Rye is about a two-hour drive from London. From Rye, it’s a 10-minute drive to Camber Sands or 30-minute drive to Dungeness. You can also get to Rye via train, which takes 70 minutes from London’s St. Pancras Station with a change at Ashford (£42 roundtrip). While Rye itself is easy to see on foot, Camber Sands and Dungeness are trickier to get to without a car, although local buses serve the areas intermittently.  

Bath: 1 hour 20 minutes by train

The city of Bath has a golden hue, courtesy of the stone used to build it, and it has swoony Georgian architecture and engaging history to boot. Bath is home to natural hot springs; you can visit the 2,000-year-old Temple of Sulis Minerva at the Roman Baths museum (from £23.50). For the modern spa experience, head to Thermae Bath Spa , which uses the same water as the old Roman baths for its heated swimming pool and wellness treatments such as massages and hot-stone therapy. Literature lovers may already know Bath as the home of Jane Austen, lauded author and now the face of the UK’s £10 notes. Visit the Jane Austen Centre (£15 entry) for an interactive insight into her life; in September, the Jane Austen Festival is a highlight here.

How to get to Bath from London

Bath is about a 2.5-hour drive from London. You can also take the train to Bath Spa Station from London’s Paddington Station; the trip takes about 80 minutes (£70 roundtrip). 

Margate: 1 hour 30 minutes by train

The loveliest skies in all of Europe, said British landscape painter JMW Turner, are found in Margate. Take a walk across the wide crescent-shaped beach, where the sea and the sky seemingly fade into one, and you’ll see why. This Kent seaside town has had a renaissance in recent years as the choice for young Londoners looking to relocate to the sea. Look out for creative arts exhibits at the Pie Factory or The Margate School , and make sure to drop by Turner Contemporary —this gallery is the driving force for Margate’s creative revival and is known for hosting innovative exhibitions. If you’re an open-water swimmer, make a beeline for Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, a large Victorian sea pool available at low tide. In the evenings, the Dreamland amusement park is where it’s at, with rides and entertainment including roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, dance classes, 18+ festivals, and major musicians (think Bastille and Will Young).    

How to get to Margate from London 

Margate is 90 minutes from London’s St. Pancras Station by train or slightly more than 90 minutes from Victoria Station (£32 roundtrip). The drive from London to Margate is around two hours.

Avebury: 1 hour 30 minutes by train and bus

Stonehenge draws the crowds, but Avebury is the insider pick—it’s the quirky little sister to the great Henge. Avebury is part of the Stonehenge UNESCO World Heritage Site, and if you’re driving, you can easily see both in a day (they’re a 40-minute drive apart). But unlike the more famous stone circle, Avebury is unfenced and you can get up close and personal with the stones without charge. The town of Avebury was actually built around (and sometimes inside) the curious monument, originally composed of 100 stones, making this a free and easy place to get a feel for history. 

How to get to Avebury from London

Avebury is about a two-hour drive from London, and the local carpark has a small fee. To get there by train, travel from London’s Paddington Station to Swindon (one hour, £40 roundtrip), and transfer to a local bus for a 30-minute ride. 

The New Forest: 1 hour 50 minutes by train

It’s called the New Forest, but the villages within this national park are historic and the woodlands are literally ancient. Less than two hours outside of London, this forest begs to be explored with a hike, which will reward you with heather fields or autumn leaves depending on the time of year. There’s also a cornucopia of animals, including cattle, acorn-eating pigs, and free roaming New Forest ponies, which are unique to the area. Make dinner reservations at a local pub to cap off your ideal woodland day out— The Crown Stirrup in Lyndhurst cooks with locally sourced ingredients, and the Royal Oak in Fritham is a local favorite with a thatched roof.

How to get to the New Forest from London

Trains from London to the New Forest take about one hour and 50 minutes. There are lots of hiking opportunities —one option is to make it a loop starting and ending at Brockenhurst Station (get there from London’s Waterloo Station for £60 roundtrip). Driving from London to the New Forest takes about two hours. Remember: Animals have the right of way in the New Forest. 

Seven Sisters: 2 hours by car

The walking paths along the entire south coast of England are spectacular—but few are more spectacular than where the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs cut a striking figure in the landscape. Located on the coast between fun-time Brighton and old-time Eastbourne, the Seven Sisters are a dramatic sight. Pristine white cliffs contrast the rolling green before dropping straight into the sea—it’s simply a sight to be seen. Be mindful that while there are country pubs around, this is a rural area and food options can be scarce so plan ahead, and consider bringing snacks.

How to get to Seven Sisters from London

Seven Sisters is about a two-hour drive from London. You can pay a small fee to park just a few minutes from the cliffs, or you can make the most of your day trip and the stunning scenery and plan a hike around it (short or long depending on your appetite). 

Seven Sisters is a little trickier to reach without a car, but you can get the train from London's Victoria Station to Eastbourne (80 minutes, £30 roundtrip) and take a bus from there. Or you can start your hike from Eastbourne and walk along the coastline to the cliffs, which is about a two-hour hike each way (about 10.5 miles total). On the walk back to Eastbourne, stop by the Beachy Head pub for a well-earned British country pub dinner.  

Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle: 2 hours by train

Welcome to Shakespeare’s home turf. Stratford-upon-Avon is the place to get up close and personal with the Bard by visiting his birthplace, his family home, and Anne Hathaway Cottage, the house where his wife grew up. You can purchase tickets to visit all three properties for £25. 

Swing by the historic market town of Warwick, just 15 minutes away by car; there’s also a direct train that takes 30 minutes (£7 roundtrip). Medieval Warwick Castle is the star of the show, with dungeons, turrets, and all the ingredients for a Middle Age time warp. 

How to get to Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick from London

Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick are about a two-hour drive from London. To get there by train, set off from London’s Marylebone Station, where it takes just over two hours to get to Stratford-upon-Avon with one change in Solihull or Leamington Spa (£36 roundtrip). Alternatively, you can take a train from Marylebone to Warwick, which takes 90 minutes (£36 roundtrip).  

Stonehenge: 2 hours 15 minutes by train and bus

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, the prehistoric stone circle in the Wiltshire countryside is a mystery even today. On the summer solstice, the sun rises precisely behind the Heel Stone, before the first rays shine into the heart of the 3,000-year-old monument. This is a place where you truly feel your place in history and nature. 

How to get to Stonehenge from London

Stonehenge is about a 90-minute drive from London. You can buy tickets, starting at £23, from the official website ; these tickets get you close to the monument but not inside. If you want to get inside, opt for a Stone Circle Experience , which allows you to walk among the stones in smaller groups outside of standard opening hours; at £60, it’s pricier, but it’s a truly unforgettable experience. 

To get to Stonehenge via public transport, take the train from London’s Waterloo Station to the town of Salisbury (£50 roundtrip). From there you can join a bus such as the Stonehenge Tour (£18; you can book online, or in summer you can buy tickets from the train station) to take you the rest of the way. Another option is to join a coach tour to Stonehenge from London. A simple web search will bring up several to choose from, starting from £65 depending on what’s included.  

The Cotswolds: 2 hours 30 minutes by car

Honey-colored stone houses, rolling green hills, manor houses, and sheep dotting the countryside—the Cotswolds are a slice of old England. This area measures an expansive 800 square miles or so, but it’s still possible to have an extremely charming time if you only have a day; just be sure to make your itinerary in advance so as not to waste precious time. Bourton-on-the-Water is the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, known for its adorable bridges and gardens, as well as its yew hedge maze. Another solid bet is Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic wool town with a charming square, church, and perhaps England’s oldest pub, the Porch House, thought to be over 1,000 years old.  

How to get to the Cotswolds from London

By car, the Cotswolds are about 2.5 hours from London (depending on where you’re going). Rent a small car to make the narrow roads and tight parking spaces more manageable, and spring for GPS navigation. If you’re relying on public transport, it’s possible to get the train to nearby towns—like Cheltenham, Bath, Oxford, and Moreton-in-Marsh—and transfer to local buses, but these buses can be infrequent, so you’d likely want to stay in the area for more than a day.   

Best day trips from London by train 

Bath, Margate, Oxford, Cambridge, and Stratford-upon-Avon are all ideal day trip destinations to take by train. They all have train stations in the middle of town or within a 10-minute walk of the center, and they are compact in size so that they can easily be explored on foot. They also have regular, frequent train services to London, making it an easy day out. 

If you’re looking for more great day trip destinations suited to visit from London by rail, there are other options. 

Windsor: 30 minutes by train

Windsor Castle—the oldest and largest castle in the world that’s still occupied—was Queen Elizabeth’s beloved main home (and where Prince Harry and Meghan married). It’s open to visitors year round; book ahead for the discounted rate of £28. Windsor also has the Royal Dairy Farm & Shop , which sells produce from the royal estates, as well as a café that serves cream teas with proper English scones. 

Windsor is also home to the UK Legoland ( book ahead for a better value), a 10-minute drive from the center of Windsor. If traveling from London, a rail-and-bus package makes Legoland an easy visit.  

How to get to Windsor from London

Windsor has two central train stations, so choose the one that aligns best with your starting point. From London’s Paddington Station, ride to Windsor & Eton Central Station (30 minutes), changing at Slough. Or ride from Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station (about one hour). Both options are about £15 roundtrip. It takes about an hour to drive from London to Windsor. 

Bletchley Park: 40 minutes by train

Discover how crucial codes were cracked during World War II at this brilliantly preserved historic site. Here you can see one of the Enigma machines, used by Alan Turing (the English mathematician who cracked the codes) as depicted in the film The Imitation Game . Make no mistake, this operation was a big one: At its peak, Bletchley Park had over 9,000 people working on cracking codes during the war. Among the fascinating displays is information about the birds trained to deliver messages for the Allied forces.  

How to get to Bletchley Park from London

From London’s Euston Station, the train to Bletchley is 40 minutes (£23 roundtrip). From the station, Bletchley Park is a five-minute walk. Book tickets to Bletchley Park online. The drive from London to Bletchley Park is about an hour, and there’s free on-site parking. 

Brighton: 1 hour by train

The vintage shopping in Brighton is second to none, although you may end up spending all your time at the seafront, enjoying the delights of the pier, the arcade, and the endless pebble beach. A liberal and freewheeling city, this is a firm favorite for a day out for Londoners—Brighton is always a good idea. 

How to get to Brighton from London

To get to Brighton, take a one-hour train ride from London from Victoria, Blackfriars, or London Bridge stations. Fares start at £34 roundtrip. The drive from London to Brighton takes about 90 minutes.

Folkestone: 1 hour by train

An up-and-comer in the day trip game, Folkestone is an increasingly popular destination for Londoners looking for a day out by the seaside. A historic port with an incredible beach, Folkestone also scores high for its quirky arts scene. Come for the fish and chips (we like Sandy’s ), and stay for the beachside bars ( The Pilot Beach Bar is hard to beat). While you’re here, look for the statue of the human figure, created by the British sculptor Antony Gormley, hidden below the main walkway of Folkestone Harbour—it’s visible only at low tide. 

How to get to Folkestone from London

Direct trains to Folkestone Central depart London’s Charing Cross or St. Pancras stations, taking a little over an hour depending on the station (£40 roundtrip). By car, London to Folkestone takes about 90 minutes.

Canterbury: 1 hour 20 minutes by train

Canterbury is a pleasant student town ideal for a day of exploring and losing yourself in the medieval streets. There are punts here too if you want to take a trip on the River Stour. Canterbury was one of the busiest pilgrimage cities in the medieval world, making the Gothic-style Canterbury Cathedral a must-see. Fans of the great English poet Geoffrey Chaucer will get their moment at the interactive Canterbury Tales tour , which brings the 17,000-lines-long pilgrimage story to life. 

How to get to Canterbury from London

From London, travel from Victoria, Charing Cross, or St. Pancras stations (starting at £32 roundtrip) to either Canterbury East or Canterbury West—both stations are central. The drive from London to Canterbury takes about one hour and 45 minutes. 

Norwich: 1 hour 50 minutes by train

Norwich is officially named “A Fine City”—and the nickname checks out. Centered around medieval Norwich Cathedral, this city has a thriving cultural scene with great art galleries, music, and festivals for everything from literature and architecture to beer. The city has an excellent covered market that’s open daily, serving food, crafts, and flowers, as well as great little restaurants often serving local produce; expect Norfolk lamb, Norfolk pigeon, and Cromer crab from the Norfolk coast. Outside of the city are the Norfolk Broads—Britain’s largest protected wetland. If you have a car, make sure you leave time to explore these gorgeous waterways, the countryside, and the striking open seaside.   

How to get to Norwich from London

To get to Norwich, ride from London’s Liverpool Street Station about an hour and 50 minutes (£42 roundtrip). By car, Norwich is just over two hours from London.

Paris: 2 hours 30 minutes by train

A day trip to Paris? The train is only two hours and 20 minutes, so it’s possible! The first Eurostar of the morning leaves London around 6am, and the last return train is after 9pm, giving you a full day to get charmed by Paris. A city that needs no introduction, Paris has plenty to do in a day. Climb the Eiffel Tower, eat macarons (Dalloyau, of course), visit a museum (The Louvre, l’Orangerie, or the Picasso Museum—the list is endless), and maybe even take a quick after-dinner stroll along the Seine before catching the train back to London.  

How to get to Paris from London

To get to Paris from London, head to the Eurostar terminal at London’s St. Pancras Station. (Note: Be there a minimum of 30 minutes before departure.) Your passport is checked before boarding so you can just walk off the train at Paris Gare du Nord. Prices vary, but with a bit of luck, it’s possible to book a roundtrip ticket for under £100 by planning it months ahead. If you’re driving from London, Paris is a bit too far for a day trip though, clocking in at 6-7 hours via an undersea tunnel train. 

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Other london guides.

• The Travel Guide to London
• London: The Big British Capital That's Actually Quite Small
• Where To Stay in London: Best Neighborhoods and Hotels for 2023
• 18 Things To Do in London
• London Itinerary: 2, 3, and 5 Days

Freelance Writer

Published November 29, 2023

Last updated December 21, 2023

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15 Best Day Trips from London for First Timers

Visiting London for the first time should include a few extra days to explore other places close to London. Come along with me on my favorite and best day trips from London.

In this article:

What to Expect when Planning Day Trips from London

Being able to take a beautiful day trip from London, takes some extra planning.  First, you must know what transportation option you will take. Whether it’s the train or a rental car or simply booking an organized tour from London , the choice is yours.

Secondly, London is a very large city and therefore you must also plan how you will get to whatever mode of transportation you have chosen.  Plan for extra time to get to the train station or meeting point for your tour.

1. Cambridge

The city of Cambridge is a 90 minute drive or train journey from Kings Cross Station in London. We think Cambridge is one of the best day trips from London you can take. Visit Christ’s College located on St Andrews Street. Entry is free and it’s worth visiting the College Chapel on a Thursday or Sunday evening when the Choral Evensong services are held.

The River Cam offers plenty of things to do. You can try your hand at punting or hire a guide and let them do the work while you relax. The Bridge of Sighs crosses the River Cam at St John’s College. Named after the covered bridge of the same name in Venice, it offers lovely photo opportunities. Day Trip from London to Cambridge

York is located about 2.5 hours by train from London’s Kings Cross station. Driving to York will take 4 hours by car which will make it a difficult day trip. If you’re driving, make sure you spend a few extra days in the area. The city of York is one of the most historic cities in the UK and is a great choice as one of the best day trips from London. Visit The Shambles, a street with overhanging timber buildings, some dating back to the 14th Century and see where the city’s butchers would have displayed fresh meat for sale. More recently, The Shambles claims to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley of Harry Potter fame!

York Minster is a sight to behold. This magnificent Cathedral dates back over 1000 years, a masterpiece of stained glass and stone. Entry prices start at £11.50 and you should allow at least 2 hours for your visit. Beautiful Walking Tour of York

3. Cotswolds

As there is so much to see in The Cotswolds, we recommend you travel by car and drive for 2 hours into the heart of ‘King Cod’s Land’ to Bourton-on-the-Water. There is a charming model village to explore as well as Birdland, the rare breeds bird center, home to the only group of breeding King Penguins in the UK. Cheltenham is a 2 hour train journey from Paddington Station and is home to the famous racecourse.

Stay at the 5-star  Ellenborough Park Hotel and let the staff drive you to the course across the rolling hillside where you can gain access at your very own private entrance My favorite places to visit in the Cotswolds

4. Stratford-upon-Avon

The home of Shakespeare is located a 2 hour drive or 2.5 hours by train from London’s Marylebone Station. Situated on the River Avon, its history stretches back to the 7th Century and warrants a mention here as one of the best day trips from London you can take.

Visit the three theaters which are home to The Royal Shakespeare Company, the most famous being The Royal Shakespeare Theater . Here you can watch a performance of one of the Bard’s plays or take a tour behind the scenes.

If technology is your thing, visit the MAD Museum where you can explore all things science and technology. Entry prices are reasonable at less than £10 per head. A Historical Tour of Stratford-upon-Avon

5. Warwick Castle

Just 2 hours by car or train from Charing Cross Station you will find Warwick castle built by William the Conqueror in 1068.

Allow time for a full day at the castle since there is so much to see and do. Visit the castle dungeon and learn all about it’s bloody history. Get lost in the maze or take time out to eat at one of the restaurants. Walk the turrets, battlements, towers and great hall. Entry prices start at £16 per person if you book in advance online. 4 Beautiful English Castles

6. Windsor Castle

Windsor is just under an hours drive or train journey from London Paddington. It’s the oldest, occupied castle in the world and a firm favorite in our list of the best day trips from London. It is said to be the Queen’s favorite residence.

This working castle has over 900 years of history to explore. Visit Queen Mary’s Dolls House and enjoy the workmanship of the tiny fixtures and fittings. The 30 minute precinct tour will give you an insight into the castles long and varied history.

7. Bath & Stonehenge

The beautiful city of Bath is a 2.5 hour drive or a 90 minute train journey from Paddington Station in central London.

The Roman Baths are a must-see. You can ‘take the waters’ yourself at the modern Thermae Bath Spa. Bath is still home to the only natural thermal hot springs in the UK you can bathe in. Day Trip from London to Bath A short 30 minute drive takes you to Stonehenge, a World Heritage Site where you can view the prehistoric standing stones. Stonehenge should not be overlooked when planning your best day trips from London journey.

Day Trip from London to Stonehenge

8. Leeds Castle

Take a 1 hour 20 minute journey by car or travel by train from London Victoria to Maidstone in just over an hour to visit Leeds Castle.

There is so much to do here, from a round of adventure golf to the dog collar museum, all situated in over 500 acres of beautiful parkland with free flying falconry displays.

9. Canterbury

Canterbury is certainly a destination which should feature on your best day trips from London list. It is a 90 minute drive or train journey from London St Pancras International.

Canterbury’s history stretches back to the Middle Ages when it was a pilgrimage site. As well as visiting the cathedral, take a guided walking tour to see the 14th Century timber-framed houses. Visit Chartham Vineyard or sample a few of the 16+ locally produced beers, ciders, gins or vodkas at the brewery on Stour Street. Day Trip from London to Canterbury

10. Oxford & Blenheim Palace

Oxford, ‘the city of dreaming spires’ is located a 90 minute drive or train journey from London Marylebone Rail Station.

Home to Oxford University, you can take a tour of the city by boarding one of the hop-on-hop-off buses which circle the important sights. Finish your journey at Oxford Castle and Norman Prison where a guide, dressed in historical costume, will regale you with snippets of history.

Blenheim Palace is located a short distance away at Woodstock. You can learn all about its 300 year history, ride on the miniature train or take a buggy tour around the lake. Entrance tickets start from £25 and are cheapest if you book ahead online. Day Trip from London to Oxford

11. Duxford

The Imperial War Museum at Duxford is a 60 minute journey by car or train from Kings Cross Station in London.

Duxford is the place from which the first Spitfire planes flew and you can learn all about them and the history of this important airfield used extensively during WW2 during your visit. Wander through the huge aircraft hangars and marvel at the engineering of the B52 bombers as well as appreciating the sleek beauty of Concord.

Check out Duxford air museum website to see their impressive list of upcoming events and get information about tickets and visiting.

12. Stamford & Burgley House

At Burghley House visit the elegant state-rooms, the old kitchen and the chapel before taking a walk through the deer park.

England’s most impressive Elizabethan House can be found near Stamford, just over an hour by car from London or 1 hour 45 minutes from London Kings Cross.

Stamford itself is also worth a visit, you can see Brown’s Hospital and Museum, or catch a show at the open air theater. Check it off from your best day trips from London wish list, you won’t be disappointed.

13. Audley End

This Jacobean mansion is a 90 minute drive from Central London or by train in just over 2 hours from London Liverpool Street Station. If you rent a car in England , you can easily visit rural gems like Audley End.

Beautifully restored, the mansion is set in glorious gardens designed by capability Brown. Visit the kitchen garden and pop in to see the friendly horses in the stable yard. 10 Beautiful English Manor Houses

14. Woburn Abbey

Take a 90 minute car journey from Central London to visit Woburn Abbey. Since the Abbey is remote, traveling by train is very difficult. However, this shouldn’t mean you discount it from your list of best day trips from London.

Woburn is home to one of the most important art collections in the world and the sculpture gallery is an inspiring place to sit for a while. In the extensive grounds, you can take a horse drawn carriage tour complete with afternoon tea. Take time to look out for the deer roaming freely in the park, many of which are tame enough to get up close to.

Important Note: Even at the end of 2023, Woburn Abbey is undergoing extensive refurbishment and will still be closed to the public until reopening .

Just under 2 hours drive and just over an hour by train from London St Pancras you will find Rye, a charming medieval village.

Half timbered houses on cobbled streets are well preserved and you will find plenty of them on Mermaid Street. Rye Nature Reserve is home to seals and it is possible to watch them enjoying their natural habitat from hides which jut out into the sea. If hunting for an antique bargain is your thing, there are plenty of quaint shops to explore.

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13 BEST Day Trips from London by Train

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day trips from London by train

Hampton court palace.

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

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

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

Harry Potter Studio Tours

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

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

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

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

The Seven Sisters

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

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

Windsor Castle

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

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

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

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

Leeds Castle

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

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

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

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

Warwick Castle

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

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

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

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

The New Forest

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

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

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

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

Stratford-Upon-Avon

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

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

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

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15 BEST DAY TRIPS from London [Hidden Gems!]

But what if you need a break from the big smoke? Can you find the same high-quality offerings outside of the capital?

That’s where we come in. Our team of expert travel writers has rounded up the 16 best day trips from London to help you plan an amazing vacation. Whether you’re interested in a seaside getaway or visiting a picturesque village, we’ll help you figure out exactly which day trip will best suit your travel style, budget and interest.

So let’s get to it. Here are the 16 best day trips from London.

Editor’s note – Feel at home in England and check out our 32 best hostels in London!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from London

• Day Trips from London by Train – White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury: Day-Trip from London
• Romantic Day Trips from London for Couples – Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Day Tour from London
• Best Day Trips from London with Kids – Stonehenge Half-Day Tour from London

Best Places to Stay in London

London is a BIG city, let’s be honest. There are so many different areas of this impressive river city that you could base yourself in. Do you go for the central Soho? The trendy Shoreditch? Or the more leafy Paddington? Tricky choice! So here are a few of the best accommodation options you could choose from.

• Best Hostel in London •

Wombats city hostel london.

• Awesome bar with an awesome atmosphere

This has got to be the best hostel in London. The staff are super chill, the people who stay here are nice, the bar is amazing, and as a huge bonus it’s clean! When it comes to security, a card system as well as a 24-hour front desk means you’ll feel safe and secure staying here.

• Best Budget Hotel in London •

Point a london paddington.

• Great location for public transport

This hotel is around a five minute stroll to Paddington station itself, which means easy access not just to London’s comprehensive tube system but to national trains as well. Perfect! The rooms here are unfussy but clean and contemporary for a great budget stay in the UK capital.

Looking for a deal? Our recommended budget hostels in London won’t break the bank!

• Best Luxury Hotel in London •

The ritz london.

• Close to Reykjavik harbour

How could it NOT be the Ritz? This is an iconic London hotel that is all about English class and sophistication. Everything about this place, from its traditional rooms to its sparkling dining room and ballroom, is regal. Take afternoon tea in the palm-lined courtyard and be spoilt forever – seriously ornate stuff.

#1 Best Day Trip from London – Dover

Day trips from london by train.

For an unforgettable experience, take a quick day trip from London to Dover.

Dover is a major port town located just over an hour by train outside of London. It’s the closest port to continental Europe and sits just 21 miles from the French town of Calais.

Dover is famous throughout the world for its chalk-white cliffs. Standing an impressive 100 meters straight out of the sea, the White Cliffs of Dover are an awe-inspiring and breathtaking sight.

But there’s more to Dover than these epic natural wonders. The city is also home to Dover Castle. Sitting high atop a hill, Dover Castle is known as the “Key of England,” and has existed for more than 2,000 years. It was also from within the castle tunnels that the evacuation of Dunkirk was planned. Imagine if those walls could talk!

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#2 – Cambridge

Cambridge is arguably one of the most famous university towns in the world. It has stunning architecture, a rich history, and a vibrant atmosphere. And, at less than an hour’s journey from the capital by train, a day trip from London to Cambridge is a great option for travellers.

There’s plenty to see and do in Cambridge. From exploring the colleges and lush grounds to taking a stroll along the backs and admiring the city’s churches. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, architecture or nature, you’ll surely be impressed with all that Cambridge has to offer.

For a different view of the city, try punting. This stereotypical ‘Cambridge’ activity involves a long wooden boat that is steered by pushing a long pole again at the bottom of the river. For the full ‘Cambridge’ experience, enjoy a glass of champagne and a dish of strawberries as you move smoothly along the river.

#3 – Oxford

Another great college town – and Cambridge’s historic rival – is Oxford. Just 60 minutes by train, a day trip from London to Oxford is ideal for travellers young and old.

The world famous & illustrious Oxford University is far and away the city’s most famous attraction. Founded in the 12 th -century, it is the oldest English speaking University in the world. Its 40 colleges and associated buildings are scattered throughout the city and boast stunning architecture and impressive detail.

Beyond the university, there are many other great things to do in Oxford . The city is home to a great number of attractions and activities. It has a compact city centre that is mostly pedestrianised making it not only easy but safe to explore on foot. With many shops to visit, markets to browse, bridges to cross and landmarks to see, you certainly won’t be bored on a day trip to Oxford.

Need to save money? Check out the cheapest hostels in Manchester, England !

#4 – Manchester

Manchester is a vibrant, exciting and friendly city located in the North of England.

Manchester is located more than 330 kilometres north of the capital. It is often overlooked as a day trip from London , but thanks to the fast rail system it can be reached in around two hours.

The unofficial capital of the North, there’s plenty to see and do in Manchester. From Manchester Cathedral and Town Hall to the Central Library and Opera House, this metropolitan city is packed with historic landmarks, cultural institutions and architectural gems. No matter your interests, you’re going to love exploring this city.

Foodies will enjoy visiting Manchester’s Chinatown. Here you’ll find a wide variety of savoury and delicious cuisines, as well as shops, supermarkets and boutiques. Full of colour and chaos day and night, this is also one of the best areas to experience Manchester’s nightlife scene.

Sports fan will also want to make the pilgrimage to Manchester to see the iconic Manchester United and Manchester City football clubs in action.

#5 – Brussels

Add a new stamp to your passport by taking a day trip from London to Brussels . Thanks to the Eurostar train line, motivated travellers can reach the Belgian capital in just over two hours!

The majority of Brussel’s most famous landmarks are located within the city centre and can easily be reached on foot.

Start your day in Grand Place-Grote Markt. Here you’ll be surrounded by towering guild houses and detailed historic buildings. Stand at the centre of the square and taking in the magnificence that is this ravishing city.

Continue navigating the winding streets and alleys to see other famous landmarks including Mannekin Pis, the Palais Royale, the Arc de Triomphe and more!

Craving a snack? No problem! You’ll find a wide variety of sweet treats and savoury snacks throughout the city. Whether you’re hankering for a traditional Belgian waffle, a delectable chocolate or a cone of crunchy frites, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Brussels.

MUST READ! We’ve organized the best places to stay in Lake District  for all types of trips!

#6 – Paris

Paris is another international destination that can easily be reached from London by train.  Hop aboard the Eurostar and in just two hours and 15 minutes you’ll find yourself exploring the charming streets of the City of Lights. Whether you’re a culture vulture, history buff, fashionista or foodie, there’s something for everyone in the French capital city.

Paris is home to a number of iconic landmarks and some of the world’s most visited tourist sites, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, the Moulin Rouge and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Culture vultures will love making their way through town and checking these famous sights off their lists.

The fashion capital of the world, fashionistas will be overwhelmed by Paris’ many shops and boutiques selling everything from high street fashions to one-of-a-kind designer finds. There are also three main flea markets on the outskirts of the city that specialize in retro wares and unique antiques.

For foodies, there’s no better place to indulge and tease your taste buds than Paris. The land of wine, cheese, pastries, and chocolate, you certainly won’t go hungry with all the delicious dishes on offer.

Staying Safe in London

While London is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around England!

#7 – Bath

Romantic day trips from london for couples.

Set in the Somerset countryside, Bath is one of the most romantic day trips from London for couples. Located just over an hour and a half away from the capital by train, Bath is a city full of history, charm, and dreamy appeal.

The Roman Baths are undoubtedly the city’s most famous attraction. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, the baths feature stunning and intricate architecture and are the only baths in England fueled by mineral hot springs.

Visit the Roman baths to learn about the history of the city and to see this stunning historic landmark. For a great bird’s eye view of this landmark, climb to the top of the impressive Bath Abbey tower and peer down at the famous waters below.

Tease your taste buds in Bath by sampling some of the city’s famous coffee and cheese. Home to one of the best baristas in the UK, here you’ll find an awesome selection of gourmet brews and award-winning soft-cheeses. We highly recommend you don’t leave the town without sampling each of these Bath specialities!

There’s so much to do in England! So you won’t run out of things to do in Bournemouth !

#8 – Cirencester, Cotswolds

Cute, quaint and full of charm are just a few of the things we love about the Cotswolds. Located in south central England, the Cotswolds are famous for their rolling hills, ancient villages and postcard-perfect towns.

Any of the Cotswolds’ many towns and villages would be perfect for a day trip from London, but we highly recommend you choose to visit Cirencester.

Cirencester is a great day trip from London by car. The two-hour and 20-minute journey will have you weaving and winding your way through the idyllic English countryside.

Park outside of the town and explore Cirencester’s compact centre on foot. Here you’ll find a myriad of historic landmarks including the Corinium Museum, the Paris Church of St John the Baptists and the Abbey Grounds.

For a leisurely stroll through nature, visit Cirencester Park. Sitting on Cecily Hill, this offers stunning views, verdant scenery and a peaceful surrounding.

There’s so much to do in England! So you won’t run out of things to do in Cardiff !

#9 – Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is best known as the birthplace of playwright and poet William Shakespeare. But, did you know that it’s also one of the most romantic cities in England?

The perfect destination for a day trip for couples , Stratford-upon-Avon is located just two hours north of the capital. It is charming and attractive and boasts a great variety of things to see and do.

Fans of Shakespeare won’t want to miss the chance to visit his birthplace and home as well as his burial site at the Holy Trinity Church. View artefacts and authentic items as you pay your respect to one of history’s greatest playwrights.

For theatre buffs, there’s nothing better than seeing a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Tickets to this stunning and prestigious theatre are hard to come by, but this is an experience you won’t soon forget.

I’m sure you’ve heard of Blackpool, but there are so many other things to do in Blackpool !

#10 – Canterbury

The city’s most famous landmark is the beautiful and inspiring Canterbury Cathedral. An architectural marvel, Canterbury Cathedral has intricate and colourful medieval stained glass, beautiful carvings, and lush and manicured grounds. It is the burial place of King Henry IV and Edward the Black Prince and is also home to St. Gabriel’s Chapel where you can see the oldest Christian murals in England.

In addition to the church, Canterbury is home to a variety of museums and galleries that cover topics from the history of the city to T.S. Cooper, England’s finest cattle painter.

Beyond the Cathedral, couples visiting Canterbury as a day trip from London will love taking a riverboat along the historic Stour. See the town from a different perspective as you cruise along this charming and relaxing river.

#11 – Winchester

Small and historic, Winchester is one of England’s best-kept secrets. Hop on a train and in less than an hour you’ll be exploring this beautiful and quaint historic town.

Start your day in Winchester at the incredible Winchester Cathedral. Built in the late-11th-century, this impressive church boasts an outstanding architectural design, great detail, and the longest Gothic nave in the world.

Fans of Jane Austen will particularly enjoy visiting the Cathedral as this is where the great novelist is buried.

Winchester is also home to King Arthur’s Round Table. Located in the Great Hall, the only remaining part of Winchester Castle, you can pretend to be one of history’s greatest knights by visiting this unique attraction.

Outside of history and legend, Winchester is a great destination for couples who love to eat. The city boasts a great variety of restaurants and bars that serve everything from tradition and modern British fare to pizza, pasta, seafood and more!

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#12 – Brighton

Best day trips from london with kids.

Are you planning on spending 5 days in England or more? You should definitely check out Brighton!

Located almost due south of the capital, Brighton can be reached in approximately 60 minutes by train. This vibrant and colourful town is the perfect day trip from London with kids.

Fun and exciting Brighton Pier should be your first stop of the day. Here you’ll find arcades, games, rides and more! You can’t help but have fun when visiting Brighton Pier.

If you’re more interested in working on your tan than playing games, head to Brighton Beach. Covered in small pebbles, this wide beach is the perfect place to lay down your towel and catch some raise. Enjoy warm sunshine and stunning views during the day, and see beautiful sunsets and lantern launches at night.

Foodies rejoice; Brighton is a small town with a big culinary scene. Here you can sample everything from fresh seafood and burgers to dishes and delicacies from all around the world.

Love Leeds? Check out our secret guide to for where to stay in Leeds, England!

#13 – Bristol

A rich maritime history, colourful locales and a wide range of attractions and activities are just a few of the reasons we think everyone should take a day trip from London to Bristol.

The eighth most populous city in the UK, Bristol can be reached by train in less than an hour and a half from London. Must-sees for anyone visiting Bristol include the Harbourside and the Old City areas. The Harbourside is the crown jewel of Bristol. Here you’ll find historic ships, science centres, an IMAX, and the Bristol Industrial Museum.

Within walking distance is the Old City. Comprised of winding cobblestone streets and hidden alleyways, Old City is packed with historic landmarks, ornate churches, the bustling Corn Exchange, and many other noteworthy attractions. Wander throughout the Old City and enjoy the remarkable atmosphere that greets you around every curve.

#14 – Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the most iconic and mysterious natural attractions on the planet. Any family visiting the UK will thoroughly enjoy taking a day trip from London to Stonehenge to see this wondrous site.

Set on the Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, Stonehenge is a stone monument that dates back nearly 5,000 years. Approximately 140 kilometres southwest of London, it is a great day trip by car.

Obviously, Stonehenge is the regions most popular attraction. Arranged in a circle, the stones measure up to nine meters tall and weigh an impressive 22.6 metric tonnes. Although you can’t walk amongst the stones, visitors can enjoy great views from not too far away.

Stonehenge is best experienced with a knowledgeable guide who can explain the monument in detail. Not only will they share the history of the site, but you’ll hear some of the legends and theories of how they got there.

But there’s more to Stonehenge than that one iconic monument. This archaeologically rich area contains some 200 stone monuments and statues across the landscape.

#15 – Windsor Castle, Windsor

Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. An official residence and weekend getaway for the British royal family, Windsor Castle is a fantastic day trip from London for families with kids of all ages.

Windsor is a small town in Berkshire in the south east of England. It is well connected via train and can be reached from the capital in less than an hour. Used by the royal family since the time of Henry I, Windsor Castle is a massive estate that covers 13 acres of land. It has lush lawns, stunning gardens, and lavish apartments for visitors to explore.

The magnificent State Apartments are a sight to behold. Decorated with impressive works of art and containing treasures from the royal collections, these stately rooms give visitors a glimpse into the past of the royal family.

Bonus Trip! – Harry Potter: Warner Brothers Studio, London

Step into the magical and mystical world of Harry Potter at Warner Brothers Studio. A short 40-50 minute train ride north, getting from London to the Harry Potter at Warner Brothers Studios couldn’t be easier – or more fun!

The Harry Potter experience takes fan behind the scenes of the beloved film series. Here you can visit some of your favourite sets from the films. You can sit in the Great Hall, take a walk through the Forbidden Forest, and wander down Diagon Alley. You can even visit the office of Hogwart’s headmaster, the great wizard, Dumbledore.

See props and costumes used in the films. Try butterbeer, sample Bertie Bott’s beans, and even get measured for your very own wand! Harry Potter fans of all ages will be entranced and enthralled by the whimsical world of Harry Potter.

And of course, there’s also a ton of cool stuff to do in London with kids. 

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from London

The towns and villages surrounding London are packed with a wealth of activities and attractions that cater to travellers of all ages and styles. From north to south, east to west, there are castles, theme parks, ruins and monuments that will excite and entertain you!

Travelling by train? No problem. London is centrally located and well linked throughout the country. You won’t ever have to worry about getting from one great sight to the next!

Whether you’re looking for a romantic excursion or an all-ages adventure, there’s a day trip from London that’s perfect for you.

Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below!

After accommodation? This list of the 17 best hostels near Stansted Airport will show you the BEST hostels so you can travel like a boss! Need to stay near Kings Cross in London? Our list of the 17 best hostels in Kings Cross is designed to help you find a great hostel – no matter your budget!

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11 Desirable Day Trips from London by Train

Posted on Last updated: March 18, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » England » 11 Desirable Day Trips from London by Train

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Planning a trip to London and are thinking about side trips? Keep scrolling for my list of the best day trips from London by train worth adding to your London itinerary!

This list of day trips from london by train was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Visiting London on vacation and want to maximize your time by taking day trips from London by train?

You absolutely can! London is the most well-connected city in the UK and you have an endless list of options.

There are cool historic cities, seaside towns, world-class attractions, and even other countries that make easy day trips from London by train.

No need to lose your cool in horrendous London traffic or pay high congestion charges by renting a car!

There are lots of short trips from London by train that will help you make the most of your time in the UK without hauling your luggage everywhere too.

Let’s dive into this detailed list of the best London day trips by train to inspire you and break down all the key info you need to plan an awesome adventure!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of London blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting London with kids.

Popular London Tours/Activities

• London Eye (this is a relaxing adventure where you can see a birdseye view of London)
• Double-Decker Bus Tour (this one has a 2-hour guided tour option)
• Harry Potter Walking Tour (this one is especially for families)
• WB Studios in London (this is a MUST-DO for any Harry Potter fan)
• Afternoon Tea (this one takes place on a vintage double-decker bus)
• Flytographer Photo Shoot (this is an easy and affordable London photography option)

Kid-Friendly London Hotels

• Crowne Plaza London Kings Cross (this is right by Kings Cross Station, which is really convenient)
• The Clermont London (this is an easy walk to the London Eye and Buckingham Palace)
• Georgian House Hotel (this is perfect for Harry Potter fans)

Day Trip to Cambridge from London

Famous for its prestigious universities and historic cobblestone streets, a day trip to Cambridge from London by train is a great choice.

You get to explore a smaller, walkable English city where you can sail along the river and check out the majestic King’s College Chapel.

How To Get from London to Cambridge by Train

There are three main options to travel from London to Cambridge by train depending on where you’re based in England’s capital.

From London Bridge station, take a direct Thameslink service to Cambridge . This journey is under 90 minutes and there are around 34 services a day. Tickets start from £20.40.

From Liverpool Street station, take a direct Greater Anglia service to Cambridge . This train journey is just over one hour and there are over 60 services a day. Tickets start from £22.20.

From King’s Cross , hop on a direct Great Northern service to Cambridge . The length of this journey is less than an hour and they run every 30 minutes. Tickets for this service start from £11.10 if you book far in advance.

Day Trips from London to Paris

Your mind will be blown at how easy it is to take day trips from London to France by train! No wasting time with airport transfers and long lines at the gate.

If you don’t have room in your travel schedule to stay in France for a couple of days then the fact that you can take day trips from London to Paris will give you a small taster of Parisian life.

You’ll have just enough time to stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, see the Eiffel Tower, and be scowled at by a French waiter before heading back to London in time for dinner.

How To Get from London to Paris by Train

Eurostar trains are services between London and other countries across the English Channel. These services depart from St Pancras in London and arrive in Gare du Nord in Paris. 

Book your tickets in advance for the best prices and to avoid disappointment! Arrive at the station early to allow for security checks.

There are around 16 services a day and tickets start from €38.50. The length of this train journey is around two hours and 30 minutes.

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Day trip to margate from london.

Looking for the best family day trips from London by train? Margate in Kent is a fantastic choice for two reasons. 

First, it has a fantastic beach which automatically makes it one of the best day trips from London for kids and one of the top beach day trips from London by train. Second, Dreamland Margate is the cutest retro amusement park you’ve ever seen!

Other day trips from London for kids will find this seaside resort town tough to beat.

How To Get from London to Margate by Train

From St Pancras , get on the direct South Eastern train service to Margate station. This journey is around 90 minutes and they run every 40 minutes. Ticket prices start at £10.40.

Day Trips from London to Brighton

But if you would like more suggestions for great seaside day trips from London by train then Brighton is a no-brainer. 

It has a huge beach and an iconic Victorian pier which make day trips from London to Brighton so popular. It’s a diverse and welcoming city with lots of huge festivals like Brighton Fringe, Brighton Pride, and more.

How To Get from London to Brighton by Train

There are two easy options for taking day trips from London to Brighton by train, depending on which London station is more conveniently-located.

From Victoria Station , hop on the direct Gatwick Express service to Brighton station which will take less than 60 minutes. These trains run every 30 minutes and ticket prices start from around £10.

From London Bridge , get a direct Thameslink train to Brighton every 20 minutes for a journey that takes just over one hour. Ticket prices start from £5.50.

Day Trip to Edinburgh from London

Most Londoners wouldn’t dream of taking day trips from London to Scotland by train. They’d rather much rather fly!

But taking a one-day trip from London by train to Edinburgh should give you more time on the ground exploring as much as possible.

Edinburgh is the easiest city in Scotland to visit on London day trips by train. You can visit Edinburgh Castle , climb Calton Hill, and walk along the historic Royal Mile and Victoria Street which will make you feel like an extra in Harry Potter.

How To Get from London to Edinburgh by Train

Book your train tickets in advance on any train journey over 90 minutes which allows you to reserve seats.

On busy services in the UK, you aren’t guaranteed a seat and when traveling to and from Edinburgh, you’ll want one when taking day trips from London by train to Scotland.

You should also book in advance to guarantee a seat on the first and last services of the day to maximize your time in Scotland.

From King’s Cross , take a direct LNER (London North Eastern Railway) service to Edinburgh Waverley station. This journey takes around four hours and 40 minutes, with trains leaving every 30 minutes. Ticket prices start from £40.20 but can be much higher.

Day Trips from London to Bath

Bath is a former Roman spa town and where Jane Austen set many of her works, so no wonder it’s one of the best day trips from London by train.

Don’t forget to check out the stunning Georgian houses on Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, and the amazingly preserved Roman Baths . Check out the best free things to do in Bath !

How To Get from London to Bath by Train

From London Paddington Railway Station , hop on a direct GWR (Great Western Railway) service to Bath Spa station. It will take less than 90 minutes and these services depart every 30 minutes. Tickets start at £21.50.

Day Trip to Oxford from London

Visiting the City of Spires is ideal if you’re looking for easy train trips from London. And there are so many cheap and free things to do in Oxford !

The University of Oxford’s many colleges are open for visitors and you can give punting on the River Cherwell a try too. Be warned, it’s more difficult than it looks!

How To Get from London to Oxford by Train

From London Paddington Railway Station , take a direct GWR service to Oxford station which departs every 30 minutes. The length of this journey is less than an hour. Ticket prices start from £5.40.

Day Trips from London to Harry Potter Studios

One of the best day trips from London with kids has to be visiting the Harry Potter Studios . Not only is it so easy to reach, but it’s so much fun!

You can visit the sets of the Harry Potter movies including The Great Hall and the dormitories.

There are also costumes, props, and tons of other interactive activities that will easily take up a good chunk of your day. It’s mostly indoors, so it’s one of the best day trips from London by train in winter too.

How To Get from London to Harry Potter Studios by Train

From London Euston station, take a direct West Midlands Trains service to Watford Junction Railway Station . This journey only takes about 15 minutes and this service runs up to seven times per hour. Ticket prices start from £11.50.

Regular shuttle buses run from Watford Junction to the Studios every 30 minutes from 9:20 am for ticket holders. The bus journey is only 15 minutes so it could not be easier!

Day Trip to Stonehenge from London

Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an outstanding example of a prehistoric monument. Luckily, the stone circle is easy to visit on a day trip from London too.

There’s also a visitor’s center and lots to see in the nearby city of Salisbury so it’s a fun day out as well as a tick off your bucket list.

How To Get from London to Stonehenge by Train

From Waterloo Station , get a direct South Western Railway train to Salisbury . These trains leave every 60 minutes and the length of this journey is less than 90 minutes. While ticket prices start at £15, prices around £35-55 are much more common.

Once at Salisbury , get on a bus run by The Stonehenge Tour . You will need to book tickets for the bus which includes access to Stonehenge and the Visitor’s Center too. Check their timetables as they differ in winter and summer. 

The Stonehenge Tour bus takes 30 minutes and all-inclusive tickets start from £22.50, which includes a return journey.

Day Trips from London to Brussels

Is taking a day trip to Paris from London not adventurous enough? Many locals take train holidays from London to Brussels so there’s no reason why you can’t hop over on a day trip.

Take a walking tour through Grand Place and eat as much Belgian chocolate, fries, and waffles as you can! Sample some Belgian beer too but not so much that you forget to show up for your train back to London.

How To Get from London to Brussels by Train

From St Pancras station, get a Eurostar train to Brussel-Zuid/Midi station which takes only two hours. There are only three trains per day, so book in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets start from €58.

Day Trip to Windsor from London

Traveling to Windsor is one of the best cheap day trips from London by train. It’s less than 25 miles outside of central London and you’ll probably spend all day at Windsor Castle anyway!

This castle is one of the official residences of the British Royal Family and it’s where Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie held both of their weddings.

Remember, if the Royal Standard flag is flying then the King is in residence. If it’s the British flag, he’s elsewhere.

How To Get from London to Windsor by Train

From Waterloo Station , hop on a direct South Western Railway service to Windsor & Eton Riverside station. These services leave every 30 minutes and take less than an hour. Ticket prices start from £10.

London Day Trips FAQs

There are many popular day trip destinations from London, including Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, Stonehenge, and Windsor Castle.

The transportation options for day trips from London depend on the destination. Some options include taking a train, bus, or booking a tour.

The travel time for day trips from London varies depending on the destination. Some destinations, like Windsor Castle, are only a short train ride away, while others, like Bath, may take several hours.

Many day trip destinations from London are family-friendly, such as Legoland Windsor, Harry Potter Studio Tour, and Warwick Castle. There’s also the Chester Zoo, which was named one of the top zoos in Europe by Forbes Magazine!

Some day trip destinations from London, such as the Cotswolds and the Isle of Wight, offer different experiences depending on the season. It’s important to research and plan accordingly.

Day Trips from London by Train Wrap-Up

Climbing aboard one of these day trips out of London by train will allow you to see more of what England (or Scotland, Belgium, or France!) has to offer.

Book your ticket in advance to secure a good price and you’re almost guaranteed to have an easy, amazing experience that you never would have had if you didn’t consider days out from London by train.

Looking for more London travel resources? Check out my top London travel tips , kid-friendly London 4 day itinerary , hidden gems in London , family-friendly hotels in London , things to do in London with kids , top London photography spots , London tours for families , Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to London , and how to book a London family photographer !

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Our exclusive eBook, Top 10 Unforgettable Family Adventure Destinations , is your ticket to a world of wonder and excitement. Get your free copy today!

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

One Day in London – What to Do in London in A Day

Last updated: April 13, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 72 Comments

Planning on spending just one day in London? Sure, it’s not very long, but you’ll be able to see a lot of London’s highlights even in such a short space of time.

In this post, we’re going to help you plan your perfect day in London. We’re going to take a look at some of our favourite sights in London, capital of the UK and a spot I was thrilled to call home for a couple of years before I set off on my travels.

This guide to what to do in London in a day makes for the perfect day exploring London. It would make for a great way to start a longer trip around the UK , or to see some of London’s top sights if you have a few hours stopover in one of London’s airports .

This itinerary would also help someone planning a general European adventure – take a look at our 2 week Europe itinerary for a suggestion of how to plan something like that.

This post is set up to help you see all of these key London sights in one day and I’ve ordered them in the way that I’d recommend you go about doing that.

1 Day London Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick overview of what this plan has you doing, for quick reference

• The Tower of London & Tower Bridge
• The South Bank and London Eye, Shard or St. Paul’s Cathedral
• The Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace
• Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and the West End
• Traditional London Pub

Now, let’s see how that looks in our detailed guide to what to do in London for a day.

One Day In London: What to Do in London for A Day

Below is a detailed guide to what to do in London if you only have a day, in the order that makes the most sense in terms of getting around and minimizing transport.

Ideally, you’ll start the day at opening time of the first attraction (between 9am and 10am, depending on the day of the week), and keep going until you’ve seen everything!

1. The Tower of London

History! If you like the TV show Game of Thrones (and who doesn’t?), then you’ll love the Tower of London . This place was home to so much plotting, scheming, death and betrayals that it almost makes George’s epic tale of Westeros seem pale in comparison.

Queens, princes and archbishops died here, and history was literally made on the grass underfoot.

Admittedly, there are less dragons in London.

Expect to spend a least two hours here, exploring all there is to see, from the tower, to the execution block, to the crown jewels themselves. You can see full ticket pricing information here . It’s free for holders of the  London Pass .

Alternatively, you can buy a ticket online in advance here . Using our link normally saves you between 5 and 10% on the adult admission price for the Tower of London, meaning these discounted Tower of London tickets are some of the best value we’re aware of.

We also recommend checking prices via GetYourGuide here , and on the official website  here , where you can also see opening times. Note that tickets bought via GetYourGuide normally include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance of your visit (although do check the ticket description prior to purchase to be sure).

While you’re at the Tower of London, you might as well take the opportunity to pop across the Thames on Tower Bridge, easily the most famous of London’s bridges, and for good reason!

You can also actually go inside this bridge and learn all about how it works by visiting the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which is often a place we love to take friends and family when we show them around the city as it’s quite a unique experience.

2. The South Bank and London Eye

Once you’ve crossed over Tower Bridge, you’ll find yourself on the South Bank, cunningly named because it’s on the south bank of the river Thames.

As you walk west along this lovely bit of pedestrianized riverway you’ll find yourself passing such sights as HMS Belfast (one of our favourite military museums in London ) and London’s City Hall.

You’ll also be walking past the recreation of Shakespeare’s famous Globe theatre, the Shard (Western Europe’s tallest building), the Millennium Bridge which leads to St. Paul’s cathedral and the quite magnificent Tate Modern Art Gallery, all of which are likely to tempt you in. Go on, I won’t tell anyone.

Once you’ve made it past all these attractions, and maybe grabbed a bite to eat at Borough Market just behind London Bridge, you’ll find yourself coming around the corner, with the Houses of Parliament swinging into view and the giant Ferris wheel known as the London Eye looming large.

If you want a spectacular view of London, take a spin in the wheel, and marvel as the city unfurls beneath you.

For tickets, it’s cheaper to book in advance than in person. You can book tickets and check prices on the official site here . It’s also included on the London Pass, which you can buy here .

We also have a complete guide to the London Eye here with lots more information to help you plan a visit.

Another option is to visit the Shard, which also offers spectacular views from a higher vantage point. The Shard has better views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, whilst the London Eye gets you close to the Houses of Parliament.

You can book tickets for the Shard in advance on Tiqets here (book online in advance for the best prices). It’s also included on the London Pass.

If you’d prefer not to walk from Tower Bridge to the Houses of Parliament, you can also take a river “bus” from either Tower Pier or London Bridge City Pier all the way down the river to Westminster Pier.

It’s a nice way to see London from the water, and prices for the river bus are pretty good value. See our guide to getting around London for tips on the different public transport options in the city.

3. The Houses of Parliament

After your London Eye ride, walk or boat ride (whichever you opt for!), you’ll want to pop across the river to take in the Houses of Parliament, home to the English lawmakers and the bell known as Big Ben.

This is one attraction that is easy to see from the outside, but not many people know that you can also drop inside if you want to, and go on a guided tour.

Tours aren’t quite “turn up and go in”, as they only run-on certain days, but with a bit of research and forward planning (and by visiting this site ), you should be able to visit the English home of power and authority without too much trouble. You can also book a guided tour of both Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament here .

If it is too much trouble though, fear not. The building is very impressive from the outside, and you can sate your thirst for history quite easily by popping to Westminster Abbey, which happens to be just behind the Houses of Parliament.

Westminster Abbey has played host to some of the most important historical events of the last thousand years in the UK, hosting 16 royal weddings, around 50 coronations and a host of memorial services, including that of Diana, Princess of Wales.

It is also home to some of Britain’s most famous dead, including Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, notable royals, and many more. Very much worth a visit and free for holders of the London Pass. Full details on pricing and opening hours here . You can also book your tickets online in advance here .

4. Buckingham Palace

Ah, the Queen. Depending on you who you talk to in the UK, she’s either a lovely old dear who the country needs, or a tragic waste of taxpayers’ money.

Whichever, she does happen to have a number of rather lovely houses to live in, the most famous of which is of course Buckingham Palace. Here you can peer through the railings to watch the changing of the guard and wonder as to how the other half live, and wave frantically at the windows on the off-chance that someone waves back.

On our itinerary, you’ll likely miss the Changing of the Guard (see when that happens here ), so you would need to move things around if that happens to be a priority for your visit. Missing it isn’t the end of the world though, as it gets really crowded at that time of day.

You can also visit and actually go inside Buckingham Palace in very narrow windows of opening during the summer, with full details of pricing and opening hours available on this website.

Of course, whilst you’re at Buckingham Palace, you should probably take a moment to explore some of the other local attractions.

A quick stroll down the Mall will take you past the pretty St James’s Park, home to a number of pelicans. Then you can head out onto Trafalgar Square, where you can enjoy seeing the lions, Nelson’s famous column and sate your art appetite at the excellent, and free, National Gallery .

Note if art and museums is more your thing, you might want to schedule a visit to the British Museum in this itinerary. From Trafalgar Square it’s a 20 minute walk or a 12 minute tube ride to one of London’s most famous (and free) museums.

5. Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and the West End

From Buckingham Palace you could either stroll up the Mall, or head back towards Westminster Abbey, and go up Whitehall. I’d advise the latter, and not least because one of the Harry Potter London locations is nearby .

Going up Whitehall takes you through the heart of government in Britain, and you’ll pass right by 10 Downing Street. Don’t be upset if you miss it though, you can’t actually see the famous door from the street.

As you walk along Whitehall you’ll find yourself passing the Cenotaph, one of Britain’s most well-known war memorials . You’ll also pass the Horse Guards, where you can get photos of the, well, Horse Guards atop their horses, before finally arriving at Trafalgar Square.

This is home to Nelson’s Monument and the National Gallery, and a photo with one of the lions is pretty much mandatory. From here, you’re an easy walk to the West End, home to the famous covered market of Covent Garden and a number of London’s most well-known theatres.

If you have time, you might now consider visiting the excellent Transport Museum in Covent Garden, where you can learn all about the history of London’s transport system. Alternatively, you can just take in a free show from one of the street entertainers here.

This is also where you’ll find Leicester Square, which is famous as where major films are first shown in the UK.

Here you might want to take in a show to round off your day in London – we can recommend the Mousetrap , the world’s longest running stage show in the world!

6. Visit a Decent London Pub

It’s not all hard work and sightseeing, you know. When you’re in London, you really should take the time to experience a truly British experience – a pub.

Enjoy a pint of something exotically named hand-pulled from a wooden handle, and marvel as to how the decor is likely not to have changed for a good couple of hundred years.

If you’re hungry, try out an English classic like fish and chips or steak and ale pie, and rejoice at how much of London you were able to see in one day.

If you’ve gotten to this point and think the idea of focusing on the pubs of London is more your scene, check out this walking tour which does just that.

Map of 1 Day London Itinerary

To help you visualise the above we’ve put it into a map, which you can also see on Google Maps here .

Getting Around and Saving Money in London

For the day in London as described above, getting around by foot is entirely feasible – contrary to public opinion, central London is perfectly walkable. If you’re not so into walking though, then London is very well served by public transport.

The cheapest way to use that is with an Oyster card, a pre-pay system which works out much cheaper than paying for tickets, and available at nearly every transport hub. You can also use a contactless credit card or a device which supports contactless payments.

We have a detailed guide to using the London transport network here which covers all your options.

In terms of visiting attractions, a number of London sights are free, including some of the top museums like the Tate Modern.

However, places like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, and St. Pauls Cathedral aren’t free, and if you think you’re going to be visiting a few sights, then you have a couple of options for saving money.

First is the  London Pass , a sight-seeing pass that gives you access to over 80 top attractions across the city.

From those listed on this page, the London Pass includes the Tower of London, Tower Bridge Exhibition, View from the Shard, London Eye, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Transport Museum.

If you plan on visiting all those attractions (we’d suggest either the London Eye or the Shard rather than both though), the entry fees as of April 2024 would be around £153 per person (assuming you pick either the Shard or the London Eye, it would be even more if you visited both!).

A 1 day London Pass currently costs £114, so that would save you around £39 per person. It also saves you the hassle of having to book separate tickets for each attraction or joining long ticket lines on site.

Check our full review and guide to the London Pass to see if it’s for you.

The second option we recommend is the GoCity London Explorer Pass . This lets you pick and choose from a set of attractions. You can choose to go to 2, 3, 5 or 7 attractions from the selection of over 60 attractions.

We think that both of these passes can save you money in London, the difference is largely down to which attractions you want to see, and how many attractions you want to see.

Get your London Pass online from the official site here .

What about a walking tour of London?

If you’d prefer to have a guide for all or part of your day in London, who can share with you some of the history of this city as well as more local knowledge and insights, then we can recommend this London in a Day tour .

This tour covers nearly everything we have in our one-day London itinerary, including the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the Changing of the Guard, and Westminster Abbey.

It’s a full day tour, but we think is one of the better options if you would prefer an escorted experience and the input of a guide.

We’ve used the tour company “ Take Walks ” for walking tours around the world, and have always had a positive experience, and are happy to recommend this tour . They also have a number of other tours in London that are worth checking out.

Another option we suggest are  these tours by City Wonders , they offer a wide range of tours in London, from introductory tours through to more detailed and specific tours.

They also offer attraction entry to most of the attractions in this list if you want to book items individually. Definitely a good one-stop shop for your London trip planning.

Harry Potter fans will want to check out this guided tour of Harry Potter filming locations in London .

We have a full guide to some of the best walking tours in London , which is also worth reviewing if you are interested in a walking tour while you are in the city.

Where to Go After Your Day in London – Day Trips & More

We’re often asked where to head to from London after this itinerary is over, or just for suggestions on good day trips from London.

We’ve done quite a  few day trips from London, including a day trip to Oxford and a day trip to Stonehenge from London , and we wanted to share some ideas, for both day trips from the city and longer trips to see more of the country.

• Stonehenge, Bath and the Cotswolds are really popular destinations, and you can easily do these together as part of a day trip from London. This tour features all of those destinations, as well as Windsor Castle. It even includes lunch!
• Lovers of Downton Abbey will want to visit Highclere Castle where the show was filmed. See our guide to visiting Highclere Castle , which includes tips for visiting as a day trip from London, then check out this tour .
• A tour of Oxford, the Cotswolds and Stratford . Three popular destinations from London that you can visit as part of a day trip. Also see my guide to visiting Oxford from London for more ideas.
• A private tour down to Portsmouth . This is a good tour for those of you with an interest in naval history and/or visiting a lovely English seaside city. Also see our guide to things to do in Portsmouth for more ideas.
• For a longer trip, check out my 10 day UK itinerary by public transport , which starts with a couple of days in London, but then has you touring some highlights of the rest of the country. We also have 1 week and 2 week self drive itineraries .
• Visiting Paris as a day trip from London is a popular option as well, and with the Eurostar train direct from central London to Paris in around 2 hours, this can even be done as a day trip. You can either do this yourself, booking train tickets here , or you can take a day tour like  this one . See our guide to spending a day in Paris for sightseeing tips.
• If you want to take a longer guided tour from London and see more of the UK, we recommend  this small group tour , which takes eight days to take you from London to Edinburgh.

Hopefully these give you a starting point for the next stage in your trip!

Where to Stay in London

If you’re planning on spending the night in London, you have no shortage of accommodation options, from hostels to luxury five star properties.

For this itinerary, we’d suggest placing yourself fairly centrally if you can, to minimise travel time. For a short stay like this, we’d definitely recommend using booking.com to book your property – whilst we love apartment rentals, we think they are less sensible for a whistle stop visit.

For examples of properties at different price points that are centrally located, here are some options:

• The Walrus Bar and Hostel – A well reviewed centrally located hostel
• The Z hotel in Shoreditch – excellent value in a lively and popular part of London with great dining options
• Lime Tree Hotel – A well reviewed boutique hotel, around nine minutes walk from London Victoria
• The Resident Victoria Hotel – a well reviewed and centrally located hotel offering excellent value for money
• The Savoy – true luxury as close to the city centre as you can get!

Generally when searching for somewhere to stay our first choice is booking.com. They’re easy to use, usually have the best prices, and have everything from hotels to hostels , guest-houses and even apartments . Try them for London and see!

If you prefer an apartment, then we recommend either Plum Guide or Vrbo .

Plum Guide doesn’t have quite so many choices, but they carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve stayed at a number of their properties around the world, and you can see our  review of the Plum Guide here . See their listings for London here .

If you can’t find what you want from the above choices, or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the best alternatives to AirBnB which you should check out!

Between these options, you should find the best prices and places to stay for your trip, as well as a good selection of reviews and feedback to help you make an informed decision.

We also have a complete guide to where to stay in London . That has over 60 recommendations for where to stay across a number of areas in London for all budgets. It also has tips on which neighbourhoods to stay in and things to know before booking a property. Well worth a read.

Practicalities for Visiting London

Electricity in London is of the 220v standard, with a three pin plug that isn’t found in too many other countries. Travellers from most of the rest of the world, including mainland Europe and the US will need an adapter like this .

In addition, US travellers will need to check their equipment supports the 220v standard – it will be written clearly on the power adapter.

As a general rule, we have found that laptops, phone and camera chargers and other small electronics are universal, whilst larger devices like hair dryers and hair straighteners are not.

See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

London uses the British pound, which is accepted across the British Isles. You can get Pounds from ATM’s, banks and currency exchanges, although credit cards are widely accepted, and there is no need to carry large quantities of currency.

If you do use a credit or debit card, just make sure it doesn’t charge foreign exchange fees or have a poor currency conversion rate. There are a number of excellent credit cards for travellers, and it’s always worth checking to be sure you have a good deal before travelling and racking up unexpected fees.

Internet Access

Internet access is widely available in the form of WiFi all around the city, including in hotels and coffee shops, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting online. You can also pick up local SIM cards if you have an unlocked phone. These are usually excellent value as data rates in the UK are very competitive.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options. We also have a guide to picking the best travel router , which can help you extend a weak WiFi network and share it across multiple devices.

Water 

The water in the taps in London is safe to drink unless otherwise indicated. If you don’t like the taste, bottled water is widely available. We usually recommend you travel with a re-usable water bottle like this to save on having to buy water bottles.

London is a safe city in our experience, although as with any major city, of course you need to keep your wits about you – keep your possessions in view all the time, keep your wallet or phone in a front pocket (with a zip if possible), and don’t do anything that you wouldn’t do at home. If you’re going to use a taxi, make sure you use a licensed operator such as a black cab.

Further Reading on Visiting London

We have plenty of further reading to help you plan your trip to London, both content we’ve created based on our experiences, and third party content we think you’ll find useful in planning what to do in London, as well as the wider UK.

• The official TfL website , which will give you information on tickets, routes and any updates to services in the forms of delays or cancellations
• Jess’s detailed guide to the London pass , which will help you decide if this is a good way for you to save money on your London sight-seeing.
• Spending more time in London? Check out our itinerary for spending two days in London , as well as our detailed itineraries for 3 days in London and 6 days in London .
• We have a complete guide to where to stay in London , with over 60 recommendations across all the main areas in London we recommend.
• We have detailed guides to visiting the Tower of London and the London Eye which includes information on planning your visit and how to save money on these popular attractions
• A guide to public transport options in London , as well as the best ways to pay for public transport in London
• Harry Potter fans will want to check out our guide to the key Harry Potter filming locations in London
• Jess’s guide to a 1-day walking tour of the highlights of London .
• A detailed London packing list to help you pack
• A guide to getting into central London from all London’s airports
• How about heading to Paris from London? We have a detailed guide to the best way to get from London to Paris to help you plan
• The Eyewitness Travel Guide to London , which has all sorts of information within, including more itineraries and ideas for your trip
• Rick Steve’s London guide, the #1 bestseller on Amazon for UK travel guides, and always an excellent source of relevant information

And that sums up our idea of the perfect one day in London! Have you visited London? What would your perfect day look like. Let us know in the comments below!

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Leeroy Jenkins says

22nd August 2023 at 8:11 am

This is the best guide I’ve found in looking for how to hoof it around London in a day. Exactly the itinerary I was looking for and practical guidance and helpful tips. Thank you, we are there tomorrow!

Laurence Norah says

22nd August 2023 at 8:52 am

Thanks very much Leeroy! Have a great time and remember, stick with your team and watch out for dragons 😉

Ajitabh Gupta says

1st January 2023 at 10:26 pm

Hi there , this is a fantastic itinerary. Thanks for putting this together . We have a 12 hour layover at Heathrow and we are planning to book a private car for the entire duration. We land at 9 am on Sunday with return flight at 8:55 pm same Day. Will you suggest any changes to the itinerary since we will have a private taxi for the entire duration, if so , what ? Thanks in advance

3rd January 2023 at 4:39 pm

Hi Ajitabh,

It’s my pleasure! So I think you should have plenty of time with a vehicle. Traffic into and around London can be a bit slow, I’d estimate you’re looking at around an hour each way from Heathrow conservatively. But this should give you time to see the highlights as described. The only recommendation I might have it to do the itinerary in reverse. Depending on the day and how long it takes you to clear customs, you might make it to Buckingham Palace in time to see the Changing of the Guard in the morning. Then you can work your way through the sights in reverse and finish at the Tower of London. I believe it is still recommended to book timed entry for the Tower of London, so if you do that for the afternoon you don’t need to worry about getting there by a certain time in the morning, which could be stressful. I’d also recommend booking a timeslot for the London Eye / Shard if you plan on visiting one of those.

Other than that though, have a great trip!

Kelly Powell-Smith says

15th August 2022 at 6:27 pm

These are great tips! Thank you for posting them. My daughter and I will have a full day in London (plus the afternoon we arrive) and are looking at this one day itinerary and it seems perfect. High on our list of things to do are Tower of London, London Eye, and Westminster Abbey. I think we will start at the Tower of London when it opens at 9 am. Estimating about 2 hours there as you suggest. If we take the walking route shown, about how long might it be before we arrive at the London Eye? Trying to buy tickets in advance so trying to guess arrival time. Same for the Abbey. Thinking we’d do the latest afternoon tour and then stay for Evensong since there will be one of those services on that day. Thank you for any tips you can share.

16th August 2022 at 9:13 am

Thanks very much! So if you take the route I suggest, which crosses Tower Bridge and follows the South Bank, it’s about a 55 minute walk. However, you are going to see quite a few things along the way, including Tower Bridge from various angles, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Tate Modern and the Golden Hind ship. These will probably all have you stopping and taking photos, so I’d suggest planning for a 1.5 hour trip just to be on the safe side.

Then from the Eye to Westminster Abbey is a 15 minute walk, but again, you’ll be going past the Houses of Parliament, so I’d recommend planning for 30 minutes.

I hope this helps! Have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions, I’m happy to help 🙂

27th September 2021 at 4:50 pm

Wow, you’re quick! Thank you Laurence, I appreciate your help.

We (my mom and me) fly to London Stansted around midnight and from there have a transfer to Victoria. We’re not staying at any hotel, but have an evening flight back, so have to transfer back to the airport from Victoria around 4pm, so basically we have 15 hours or so to spare. Unfortunately most of it is at night 🙁 We have only our backpacks, no other baggage, so that’s good. I’m so afraid we’re not going to see much and walk in circles or be late for the transfer back to the airport.

I thought we could first go from Victoria to walk around Soho and China town, then maybe to St Paul’s Cathedral and through Tower Bridge toward Tate Modern – but it opens at 10, so we have several hours to get there… After that I was thinking London Eye & Big Ben and, since it would be after 10am – The National Gallery, Buckingham Palace and back to Victoria.

What do you think?

27th September 2021 at 6:39 pm

It’s my pleasure 🙂

Ok, so that sounds pretty full on! Unfortunately, yes, London is going to be mostly closed. Obviously late night bars and clubs will be open, but other than that the sights will be closed. SoHo will be pretty lively I expect as there are a lot of bars and things there. Overall your plan sounds pretty good, as long as you don’t mind spending a fair amount of time with not too much open. You will at least see a side of London that is less seen, especially in the early hours of the morning! Should be an experience 😀

Let me know if I can help any more! I think you’ll have more than enough time to do everything you want 🙂

27th September 2021 at 11:45 am

Hi! How are you?

What free attractions do you recommend? And what could I see at night? I’m arriving at Victoria Coach Station at midnight and go back home from the same station around 4PM, so I have some time to sightsee but I don’t really know how to schedule all that 🙁 I would really appreciate your help!

Thank you so so much in advance

27th September 2021 at 12:59 pm

Good to hear from you! So I’m not sure from your message if you are planning to sleep somewhere or just sightsee. At midnight pretty much all the attractions will be closed in London until the following morning, although you can of course see the outside of all the sights. So I’d probably suggest sleeping until the morning and then getting up quite early and sightseeing. I’d suggest staying near the coach station so you can get to and from your accommodation, and ensure to pick somewhere that lets you store any bags you have as well as one which has late check in.

From the Victoria Coach station area you could easily follow our route in reverse if you just wanted to see sights from the outside. So that could include Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Covent Garden, London Eye, South Bank, Shakespeare’s Globe, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and Tower of London.

In terms of free attractions, it depends on your interests. I like the science museum, V&A museum and Natural History Museum, which are all close to each other in Kensington. The Tate Modern is good if you like modern art, and the Museum of London is awesome to learn about the history of the city.

I hope this helps a bit, let me know if I can provide any more input! Have a great trip!

David Bunting says

22nd September 2021 at 11:12 pm

Hi me and my wife are coming down to London in October we are trying to plan a good tour to see the sights I’ve just seen your walking tour in one day and it’s just what we are looking for we are staying in kings cross and would get the tube to the start point and walk it to finish up in convent garden area we are not planning on spending much but may do London eye or shard we may do a river cruise but we like to walk and take in the sights how far from start to finish is your walk if we start between 10 and 11 taking it steady calling for a couple of drinks and maybe the attractions I’ve mentioned would we be round for mid afternoon maybe or would it take longer we may not use the attractions we may just take the sights on foot we enjoy just walking your walk plan I think is ideal for us I think we will see all we want in the walk I hope you can help me it will be much appreciated. Cheers. David

23rd September 2021 at 9:50 am

So the total walking time you are looking at on this route is about 2 hours. I’d also recommend when you get to the Tate Modern, to cross over the millenium bridge and take a look at St. Pauls Cathedral. It only adds five minutes walk to the trip but is well worth the detour.

Obviously, depending on how long you stop to look at attractions / have a drink or two, the journey will take longer, but I’d say if you started around 10am you’d definitely be able to do this by mid-afternoon.

Have a great time in London, let me know if you have any more questions!

Deana Rasberry says

7th January 2020 at 4:09 am

I have been reading all your lovely suggestions and that is great information to have. I am planning a first time trip to London in May and arriving at 0900 in Heathrow and staying at Accor hotel right near that airport. My question is I have the full day from arriving to 7:30 where I booked tickets to see WICKED at Apollo Victoria Theatre, but in terms of sites to see in which order would you recommend with that event in mind? The morning after I fly ( on 16th) back to States. Its just one full day in London after 3 weeks around Europe, I am departing out of Heathrow so decided to arrive one day before. Thanks for your time in advance and look forward to suggestions. I already down loaded the LONDON city mapper for trans options….. wanted to see much as possible including Piccadilly and maybe Abbey Road studios.

7th January 2020 at 3:16 pm

I would actually say that the order in the itinerary should work just fine for you. The only change I might make would be to switch the last two stops around, but only if you don’t want to go inside Westminster Abbey. This is because the abbey closes fairly early, so if you get here late you will only be able to enjoy the outside (which is also magnificent). Otherwise, the rest of the itinerary should work fine in the order it is in, as the theatre is near Westminster Abbey 🙂

Let me know if I can be of any more help, and have a lovely time in London,

7th January 2020 at 5:14 pm

Osum!! Thank you For all the advice. I appreciate them. Deana

8th January 2020 at 11:56 am

My pleasure!

1st January 2020 at 7:15 pm

Such a helpful overview of 1-day in London! And one short ‘day’ is all we have. To make the most of our time I’m wondering if you can help fine tune our itinerary plan.

We arrive at Heathrow at 8pm on a Sat night in Sept, and fly out on Sun at 5pm. Given the relatively late arrival we’re wondering which neighbourhood we should stay in. We’re looking for something that would put us in good position to launch into the walking tour the next morning and at the end, be in a good position for picking up the luggage and whisking back to the airport. Accomodation-wise, we’re look for something moderate meaning charm and comfort but not luxury.

Also, are there any parts of the tour or off-tour suggestions that would be conducive to squeezing in 10pm-midnight on Saturday?

Look forward to any further advice you have for us!

Karen & Carla

1st January 2020 at 8:29 pm

Hi Karen & Carla,

Great to hear from you, and thanks very much.

So I would personally suggest staying at a hotel near Paddington train station. We stayed at this one a couple of weeks ago, which was just a five minute walk from the train station, and they held our luggage on our last day with no problem. It’s also a short walk to nearby tube, from where you can easily get to the start of your day. There are quite a few in the area. From Paddington, you can get the Tfl rail service direct to Heathrow for around £10 per person each way, and it takes around 30 minutes. There’s also the Heathrow Express, which is twice as fast and costs twice as much, so it’s up to you!

In terms of what you could squeeze in, obviously most indoor attractions will be closed at the time. However, Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square are pleasant to walk at night, and I always love walking across the Thames Bridges near the London Eye at night as it is so pretty and lit up.

I hope this helps – have a wonderful trip, and do let me know if I can be of any further assistance!

All the best, and Happy New Year,

2nd January 2020 at 1:06 am

Happy New Year to you as well, Laurence, and wishes for many more happy travels. Thanks for the advice. We’re booked and ready to go. 🙂

2nd January 2020 at 11:20 am

My pleasure – have a great time!

Vijay Patel says

3rd September 2019 at 6:10 am

It’s my dream to visit London for once in my life as I am very fond of places to visit in London. especially, the London Eye. The list of places and other things to do in London is just amazing. London is such an amazing place to reside and visit hence I will be definitely sharing this great blog with my friends and family. I am glad I came across this and thanks for investing time and sharing this informative post with us.

3rd September 2019 at 9:45 am

My pleasure Vijay, thanks for your comment 🙂

7th August 2019 at 11:41 am

These are some fantastic tips which I will definitely be going to follow on my next one day trip to London. And please suggest any of the budget hotels in North London which have all the necessary facilities and close to these attractions. Thanks

7th August 2019 at 8:52 pm

Thanks Ammy!

So the two properties in our list we’d suggest based on your criteria would be:

• The Walrus Bar and Hostel – A well reviewed centrally located hostel
• The Z hotel in Shoreditch – excellent value in a lively and popular part of London with great dining options

If those don’t work, the linked site should have plenty more options for you 🙂

21st March 2019 at 6:38 am

Hello Laurence, I stumbled upon your posts in Google, I found very helpful tips from your website. I’m thankful for such detailed, well-done posts. It will by our first time in London, I’m nervous because I’m bring my parents and will be there for only a day. Taking Euro Star train from Paris we will arrive Monday May 13, 2019 at St. Pancras @ 8AM and leaving same day at 8PM. Knowing that we won’t have a lot of time and afraid to get lost, your posts have eased somewhat my anxiety.

I’ve been watching other channels on YouTube but yours is the best by far and have met my needs. I saw your 1 day London itinerary & map. London has comes alive to me, I was so happy because I’ve been trying to study the map, city mapper, bus routes…and was so overwhelmed.

We’re on a budget so we’ll take public transportation and will do sightseeing only.

I was planning to take public bus but since you mentioned taking the Tube & River Boat/Bus will save some times from and back to St. Pancras is a great idea.

Is there any way you can give more details of how to take the Tube, bus numbers/routes efficiently for our trip?

I plan to go directly to Buckingham from St. Pancras to watch the changing of the guards then head to Sky Garden and Borough market for lunch. I’m excited to take River Boat and walk to some of your suggested sites as time allows before we head back to St. Pancreas.

Not to be greedy but do you think we can stop by and check out Little Niece on the way back to the train station and call off the day? Hopefully we can visit British Museum as well. .So sad already…

Lastly, will we have trouble of finding public toilets there?

Thanks so much again for your time & people like you to help out others via Internet of travel needs. Annie N.

21st March 2019 at 11:12 am

Thanks for your comment (and e-mail!).

So you have quite a lot of time – 12 hours should give you plenty of time to explore.

In terms of your route, the easiest way to plan a route in London, in my opinion, is just to use Google Maps. It has all the transportation options that you need and will pick the fastest route. Even if you don’t have data, there’s free WiFi available throughout London to help you.

It’s hard to give you an exact route plan as I’m not sure of your overall itinerary. However, from St. Pancras to Buckingham Palace, the best option is going to be the Victoria line ( https://goo.gl/maps/w9C3mATLCHu ).

From there to the Sky Garden you can take the Circle and District Line ( https://goo.gl/maps/nPLm5VNNi1q )

I would definitely advise downloading London as an offline Google Map to your phone, then you will be able to find your way around the streets.

I’m not familiar with Little Niece – where is that?

There are some public toilets in London, so you should be able to find them without too much trouble 🙂

Have a great trip, let me know if I can help any more!

22nd March 2019 at 5:44 am

Thank you Laurence for your quick reply! Sorry I meant Little Venice not Little Niece.

22nd March 2019 at 9:57 am

Ah, that makes sense. So you could try and squeeze that in, although you would be cutting it quite fine with everything else as well 🙂

22nd March 2019 at 6:50 pm

Thanks! One more question please, if we follow your suggested routes and start from St.Pancras to Towel of London…will we make it to watch the changing of the guard in time?

22nd March 2019 at 6:55 pm

The Changing of the Guard usually takes place from 10.45 – 11.30am. From St. Pancras to Buckingham Palace shouldn’t take you more than half an hour. So if you arrive into St. Pancras at 8am you will have more than enough time 🙂 I’d suggest seeing something else on the way. Unfortunately many attractions do not open until 10am, however you could explore Covent Garden and see Trafalgar Square in the meantime.

2nd March 2019 at 8:56 am

Hi, myself, husband and two teens (16 and 17) are visiting London in June for one day. Our first time visiting and feeling anxious. We would like to maybe visit some free places but also do a couple of paid sites. what would you recommend for us, and of interest to the teens. Is your itinerary doable by foot and how far between each site to walk? Thanks in advance

2nd March 2019 at 9:03 am

I understand the anxious feeling of wanting to see everything! I guess I would say that it is definitely possible to see many of the highlights in a day, but not to worry too much about trying to see everything London has to offer in just one day, as it’s a big city with hundreds of attractions! I’d try and focus on a few big items that you really want to see. My suggestions would be things like Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, which are some of the more iconic landmarks in the city.

The itinerary as I have laid it out is do-able on foot yes. You’re probably looking at a total of 2 hours of actual walking, but obviously you will take a lot more time as you’ll be taking pictures and looking at the sights. You’ll also need to get from wherever you are staying to the start and end point.

In terms of paid sites, I would definitely recommend the Tower of London. It’s home to the Crown Jewels and one of the oldest castles in the UK, and there is so much history to learn about here. After that, many of the attractions can be enjoyed from the outside, like the Tower of London and the south bank. You could also pop across the Millenium Bridge from the Tate Modern to visit St. Pauls. Even if you’re not into Modern Art, I can recommend a visit to the Tate Modern as there’s a great view from the balcony.

I hope this helps – do let me know if I can be of any more assistance 🙂

Melissa says

20th January 2019 at 12:52 am

Hello, I’m visiting in March for one day coming in on the Eurostar. What should be my first stop on your list ? And how can i get to it ? Thanks so much

20th January 2019 at 12:07 pm

Hi Melissa!

So the Eurostar arrives at St. Pancras. My suggestion is to follow this itinerary in the order it’s laid out, so your first point of call will be the Tower of London. This is easy to get to from St. Pancras, you just take the Underground. Specifically, you’ll want to take the Circle line (Yellow colour) from St. Pancras in the direction of Liverpool Street, and get off at Tower Hill. It’ll take around 10 minutes.

I hope this helps! I have a using the London transport network here which might be useful too 🙂

Have a great trip!

Kathleen Trakas says

27th January 2019 at 4:10 pm

Hello! My Husband & I also are in Paris for our 3rd trip in December & want to take the Eurostar to London for the day. Reading your suggestions we feel confident we can do your itinerary in just one day- we’re early birds so with this itinerary what train times do you suggest would give us a relaxing but full day? We can catch the 6am train and how long would this all take to get back to the train station without worry?

27th January 2019 at 4:38 pm

Hi Kathleen!

So it’s around a two hour trip to London from Paris, meaning the 6am train will get you in at just after 8am. The only thing to bear in mind is that many of the attractions in London don’t open until after 9am.

To make the most of your time therefore, you might want to reorder the day. I’d suggest starting with some of the outdoor sights like Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and the Houses of Parliament first, and then Buckingham Palace. You can then make your way along the south bank past the London Eye, Tate Modern, Golden Hind and HMS Belfast before getting to Tower Bridge, and then seeing the Tower of London.

From the tower of London you can then hop on the tube for the ten minute ride back to St. Pancras, for the train. I’d advise giving yourselves plenty of time for all that, as you’ll likely want to eat at some point as well and not feel rushed, so a train at around 6 or 7pm would be my suggestion.

I hope this helps!

28th January 2019 at 4:55 pm

Thanks so much! Pretty excited to be Headed to London for a day! Cheers!

Helena says

20th December 2018 at 4:28 pm

Heey, I’m going to London with a friend inJanuary. He are arriving sunday at 9am at Gatwick and sleeping somewhere in Enfield and going to Southampton the next day. I enjoyed looking your guide for one day and i would like to ask your opinion on what to do in one day, knowing that the tickets are kinda expensives and we love nature and high-views. Thank you! And good work!

20th December 2018 at 4:39 pm

So are you asking for advice in London? I will assume so 🙂

For views, I would recommend the Sky Garden. It’s free to visit, but you do need to book a timeslot in advance which you can do on their website here . Tickets are released on a Monday for the following week, and they alway go very quickly, so you’ll want to set a calendar reminder. Another good viewpoint can be had in the Tate Modern museum, which is also free 🙂

In terms of more sightseeing, many of the sights and attractions in London are free, such as watching Changing of the Guard, and looking at the outside of the major buildings like Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and so on. So I would advise you to basically follow this itinerary fairly closely, but just to skip any attractions you don’t want to pay to see if budget is a key concern.

For nature, you will likely enjoy a visit to some of the parks, like Hyde Park or Green Park, which are just near Buckingham Palace / Trafalgar Square.

I hope this helps! Have a great trip

Kadeer says

13th December 2018 at 10:12 pm

Hello my family and I are traveling and have one day in London, we fly in to Gatwick at 12 pm and out of Gatwick the next morning at 7 am. We are staying at a hotel close to the airport…. would you recommend any changes or advice for us (kids ages are 11/13/15). I am not sure if we should take uber, train, the express train, or taxi. Also while in London should we do the hop on and off bus?

14th December 2018 at 2:47 pm

So from Gatwick one of the easiest ways to get into London is to take the train (see my full guide to getting to central London from all the airports here ). You can take the Gatwick Express, but these tickets are usually £20 per person each way, so if budget is a consideration i would instead suggest taking the normal train, which has tickets starting at £9.90. You can check ticket prices and times here – it’s always cheaper to buy in advance online, just make sure you get on the train that you buy the ticket for.

In terms of the itinerary, you will definitely have to reduce the sight seeing a bit as you only really have half a day. My suggestion would be to visit Tower Bridge and look at the Tower of London from the outside, then take the tube to Westminster where you can see Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace.

I hope this helps – have a great time in London!

3rd December 2018 at 1:07 am

family of 4 person , visiting london for one day what tips you suggest for us. thanks alot

3rd December 2018 at 11:05 am

My advice would be to follow the itinerary, but to perhaps slow it down depending on the age and stamina of your family. Certainly, everything is do-able, but in hearing feedback from family travellers, travelling as a family will require you to take things a bit slower (depending on age).

Have a great time!

Amanda says

4th November 2018 at 7:16 am

Your itinerary sounds perfect everything I would love to see! I’ve been so anxious just thinking of how to plan my ONE day in London. Could you provide some tips on where to start the day? I will be arriving in London in the morning about 9 at Heathrow. My departure will be about 11 that evening from Gatwick. I’ll be using your itinerary as my guide. But need tips on how to use my time as efficiently as possible. I also want to make sure I make my flight that evening. Please help!

4th November 2018 at 9:04 am

Hi Amanda! Sounds like you have lots of time to see all the things on my itinerary, but I would suggest in a different order to make it more efficient based on your airport arrival and departure. 🙂 So from Heathrow the cheapest option is to take the tube, you could take this to Leicester Square. From here you can get out and see Trafalgar Square, then walk to the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace – you should be in time to see the Changing of the Guard. From here you can then walk along the south bank of the river, from the London Eye all the way around, past Shakespeare’s Globe and HMS Belfast, the Tate Modern, the Golden Hind etc. You’ll finish near Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Then, when you are done you can take the train from London Bridge train station which goes direct to London Gatwick airport 🙂

Hope this helps – have a great day out!

Nandini says

11th August 2018 at 11:55 am

Hi Laurence and Jessica! Thanks so much for the post! Most certainly, It gives a pretty good idea to plan a one-day trip! I will go to London from Birmingham on 31st August and leave on 2nd September. That gives me 1 evening and 1 full day and 1 morning to explore London! Would you please give me any particular suggestion so that I can utilize my stay to the best extent?

13th August 2018 at 9:23 pm

Hey Nandini!

Sounds like a fun trip 🙂 So, it’s a bit hard to give specific advice without knowing your interests, but our general advice would be to figure out what you really want to see, and try to plan your time so you can see them as efficiently as possible. So for example, if you have an evening in London, some attractions such as the London Eye or the Shard are open later, so you can go to them on your first day perhaps. Or you could catch a show. Essentially, try to make the best use of your time as possible whilst you are there 🙂 Hopefully this helps!

Talva Walker says

2nd August 2018 at 8:12 pm

Hi, I’ve been enjoying your post. Very insightful. I’m planning a trip to Paris Aug 31-Sept 5, arriving CDG at 7:20am on Sept 1, staying at the Mercure Paris Alesia. I am planning a day trip to London via EuroRail. Can you please suggest the best travel and sightseeing routes from Paris to London so I can get the most out of my day while in London. Thanks

2nd August 2018 at 8:21 pm

HI Talva, thanks for your comment. Could you just elaborate for me what you need – as you say you are taking the Eurail train, which will put you right in central London, are you looking for a tour guide or a suggested itinerary? There’s only one train option as far as I know, you just have to pick a time that works for you 🙂

8th August 2018 at 9:24 pm

Hi Laurence, thanks for your response. I’m sorry I wasn’t clear. I’m looking to find the best way to spend my day in London allowing time to/from the Eurorail. Is this doable.

9th August 2018 at 2:41 pm

Hey Talva! Well, that makes more sense. This itinerary is definitely do-able in a day but it does depend on what time your train gets in and leaves. If you are looking for the highlights, I’d suggest the Tower of London, walking across Tower Bridge, the London Eye or The Shard for great views, the exterior of the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace. That should all be very achievable in a day 🙂

11th July 2018 at 4:52 am

Hi, We are planning a trip to England and visit to Scotland and/or Ireland in early August. This may be too optimistic coverage but we have 12 full days. Our flight lands in Gatwick and we come back via Shannon. What is your recommendation? I plan to rent a car after spending 3 days in London.

11th July 2018 at 9:46 am

My advice would be to check out our 2 week UK itinerary: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/two-weeks-in-ukmy-perfect-itinerary/ and adjust it slightly to meet your time-frame and particular interests 🙂 We also have 1 week and 10 day UK itineraries, as well as loads of other content on travelling in the UK. So I am sure you will find the answers you need, but I’m always happy to provide further information as well.

Camilla says

1st July 2018 at 6:45 pm

I love the tips! We will be staying in a hotel near Covent Garden and will follow this! Any recommendations for places to eat around the area? I will be travelling with my in-lawsmy parents and my husband, we are not picky with food and we want to try where the locals eat.

3rd July 2018 at 10:30 am

Hey Camilla! Thanks very much 🙂 To be honest, we rarely recommend restaurants as recommendations can go out of date very quickly. Our advice would be to ask at the hotel reception when you get in, or look on Yelp / Google for nearby restaurants or pubs that have good ratings. A good pub meal is a must when visiting London. I would also add that there is a huge volume of visitors to London, as well as a very multi-cultural feel to the city, so most venues will cater to both locals and visitors 🙂

Beccare says

19th May 2018 at 10:38 am

Hello there, I will be heading into the Uk at the ending of this year and I have a list of places I would like to see in one day but not very sure how to see them all. I only have one day for sight seeing unfortunately. I plan on purchasing a one day london pass, the places are: British Museum, St Paul Cathedral, London motor museum, Charles Dickens museum, Globe Theater, Kensington Palace, London Zoo, London Bridge, West Minister Abbey, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, The view from the shard.

19th May 2018 at 7:09 pm

Hi Beccare!

I will be honest with you, I think you will struggle to see all of those locations in one day. I think you should be able to see a lot of them, but not all. My suggestion would be to start at the Tower of London, then Tower Bridge, Globe Theater, St. Paul’s cathedral, London Motor Museum and Westminster Abbey. Then head to the shard as that is open later. I think that would be achievable, but still you will have to go quite quickly. Otherwise you will rush so much you won’t see anything so well. I hope this works!

Alma J Saad says

16th May 2018 at 5:05 am

Excellent photographs. particularly the one of the Routemaster transport. Notwithstanding the 9 appeared, one additionally keeps running on the 15 (Heritage) course, which takes guests past numerous traveler spots (Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral and so forth.) an incredible method to see London and considerably less expensive than a visitor transport!

17th May 2018 at 9:12 am

Thanks very much Alma!

Mohamed Haikel says

30th March 2018 at 3:35 pm

Im planning a honeymoon trip to europe and london is one of my stops and this article/post has been very helpful in narrowing down my list of places to visit. ill have a full day for sightseeing. Im staying at the Novotel Wembley in London. Any advice or recomendation on where i should start my sightseeing?

30th March 2018 at 3:48 pm

Hi Mohamed! Congratulations on your wedding 🙂 The easiest way to get around London is to take public transport, so my suggestion would be to take the tube (also known as the underground) from near your hotel. There are two easy options. First would be to take the Metropolitan line from Wembley Park Station to Aldgate Station, and then walk to the Tower of London. Alternatively, and I think my preferred option, would be to take the Jubilee Line from Wembley Park Station to London Bridge Underground Station, and then walk from there. It’s a prettier walk from the latter.

If you need information on getting around London, I have two posts to help, one on how to use the public transport system in London: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/guide-public-transport-london/

And one on paying for transport in London: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/pay-public-transport-london-oyster-contactless-best/

Andrea Heys says

26th March 2018 at 6:34 pm

Wow, This is really helpful, thank you. We are 4 ladies (3 Canadians and 1 Brit) staying around the Gatwick area at the end of April 2018. We have one full day and evening to see everything. We would love to see as much as possible (1 lady can’t walk a long way at a time but can rest for a few minutes and then carry on). The Canadians are leaving it up to me, the Brit (but from the North) to show them around. They want to sight-see and then take in a west end show in the evening. Can you recommend a route that can accommodate not too much walking?

26th March 2018 at 6:44 pm

Hi Andrea – delighted that you found the post useful 🙂 I’ll do my best to help out!

From Gatwick (I’m assuming the airport), my advice would be to take the train into central London – specifically London Bridge. This will put you almost directly across the river from the Tower of London, as well as a number of other great London sights (HMS Belfast, St. Pauls Cathedral & Tower Bridge). So a good place to start.

I’d then suggest after seeing all that you want in that area, that you take the River Bus service from either Tower Pier or London Bridge City Pier, and go to Westminster Pier. It’s pretty cost effective, and is a good way to see London from the water 🙂 Then you’ll be in the heart of Westminster, right next to Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, the Churchill War Rooms, and whatever else you want to see in that area. You could also do the London Eye quite easily. Then, from Westminster it’s a short walk up Whitehall past 10 Downing St to Trafalgar Square, from where you have your pick of the shows.

Hopefully that all makes sense! I wouldn’t advise doing everything in the comment, obviously pick and choose what you’re interested in. IF you are interested in going in a few of the different attractions, definitely check out the London Pass (linked in the post) to see if the cost savings make it a benefit to you.

Have an amazing time – do pop back and let me know how it went!

29th March 2018 at 3:37 pm

Thank you so much for your reply. I’ll definitely let you know what we chose. This is great information and I heard about the London pass so we’ll check it out. This is a fantastic website that I’ll be recommending to all I know in Canada. Great information about London. Thank you again ?

29th March 2018 at 4:19 pm

My pleasure Andrea – and thanks very much!

Dale Fisher says

25th March 2018 at 2:50 pm

Your itinerary sounds perfect since we are staying for one day. We, husband and two daughters 21 & 23, leave in a few days and I will use your itinerary. We are staying at the London Arch so should I still start my day at the Tower of London? What if I begin at Westminster Pier and take the River Cruise to the Tower? I have pre booked tickets to the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey. I plan to do it all walking. I value any opinions. Thank you!! Dale

25th March 2018 at 3:02 pm

Glad to be of help! It’s really up to you. From Marble Arch, it would probably make the most sense to go in the following order:

Buckingham Palace Westminster Abbey / Houses of Parliament River cruise or walk along south bank to Tower of London Tower of London Then you could either take public transport back or the river cruise again.

Alternatively you could take public transport to the Tower of London, and then the itinerary would finish near Buckingham Palace and be quite close to where you are staying 🙂

25th March 2018 at 3:23 pm

Thank you!! This was extremely helpful! We arrive the day before and have the evening free, any suggestions to make the most of our evening? All the best, Dale

25th March 2018 at 4:08 pm

My pleasure! There are a few options, you could try one of the following;

Take in a West End London Show (there are many to choose from, we know the Lion King is very popular!) Take a ride on the London Eye at sunset or head up the Shard for great views Pop out for a meal or a drink – there are so many dining and drinking options we don’t think you’ll struggle to find somewhere

simon harding says

26th November 2015 at 9:00 am

beautiful photos. especially the one of the routemaster bus. In addition to the 9 shown, one also runs on the 15 (Heritage) route, which takes visitors past many tourist spots (Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral etc.) a great way to see London and much cheaper than a tourist bus!

Claudia Luxembourg says

6th August 2015 at 11:43 am

You got it covered! I know London so well that whenever people visit me I take them on my very personal walking tour. I usually start in Covent Garden, walk to Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, then head to Trafalgar Square where we stop at the National Gallery. Keep on to Buckingham Palace and then continue to Big Ben, Parliament and Westminster. Then I go to the British Museum too. I taylor it depending on what people are interested in. But it usually works fine. It is an amazing city. I also love Chiswick. Perhaps my fav. part of London!!

Laurence says

7th September 2015 at 9:11 am

That’s one of my favourite routes 😀 I lived in Covent Garden for a couple of years, love that part of town!

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The 11 Best London Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Brie Greenhalgh Last Updated: January 18, 2024

London is one of Europe’s oldest cities, which means there is a lot to explore in and near the city. It can be difficult to decide just which tours you want to book. From Stonehenge day trips and Harry Potter tours to walking tours of London’s top attractions, here are the best London tours to take and why we think you’ll love them.

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to London  for more planning resources, our  top London tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to see London in a day .

Should You Take a Tour in London?

Short answer: Yes, it’s one of the best places to take advantage of a passionate, knowledgeable guide who knows England’s complex yet lively history!

London has a storied past filled with Romans, crusades, and powerful monarchs who oversaw one of the world’s largest empires. While the city you see today is a fantastic blend of modern alongside ancient—meshed surprisingly well—it can be overwhelming to get to all the places you want to see, from the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace .

And famous sites like Stonehenge aren’t even in the city at all. So, if you’re coming from a country where you drive on the right side of the road (ahem), you might not feel comfortable driving on those lovely countryside roads. These are just a few reasons why booking a tour in London is worth i t. And our clients agree!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it .

The 11 Best Tours in and Around London To Take

If London has been calling your name, then make sure you’ve planned in advance what you really want to see. Why? Because London is really, really big with some of the most incredible attractions a day’s trip away too.

That’s why it’s always a good idea to look for ideal tours in London that make your day hassle-free, filled with memories, and unforgettable. Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Bath, Stonehenge—explore all of these and more on one of the best London tours!

1. London in a Day Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London 2. Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters 3. London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard 4. The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour 5. Legends and Lore Tours of the Tower of London 6. Windsor Castle , Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip from London 7. Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters 8. Early Access Stonehenge Morning Tour from London with Inner Circle 9. The Magic of Harry Potter : Warner Bros Studios & Walking Tour of London 10. After Hours Stonehenge Inner Circle Tour from London 11. The Ultimate London Speedboat Adventure

1. London in a Day Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

Westminster Abbey

Your full-day tour of London starts at Westminster Abbey with skip-the-line tickets and a guided tour of this ancient church. It’s the site of famous churches, funerals, and every British coronation ceremony since 1066 AD! There’s a lot to discover so you’ll appreciate having a guide who knows exactly where to spend your valuable time here.

Pro tip: If you head towards your meeting point early, you’ll have time to snap pictures of the imposing Big Ben clocktower at the Houses of Parliament!

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

After your visit to Westminster, it’s time to quickly head over to the Mall to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (certain days) or the Changing of the Horse Guard. You’ll get more than just a moment’s view of this famous event since your guide will lead you through the entire process at Buckingham Palace. Did you know only one set of guards wears the traditional black and red uniforms? Learn all about it, thanks to your guide!

River Thames Boat Ride

Now that you’ve walked through London’s central attractions, it’s time to head afield with the help of some transportation. A ride down the River Thames is the perfect way to see London from a new angle. Watch for Shakespeare’s Globe Theater re-creation, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge. You’ll travel to your next stop: the Tower of London.

Tower of London

Here your guide will unveil the deep history of Britain’s oldest fortress, which has Roman origins! Get to know the history of Thomas Moore, Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII, Walter Raleigh, and more. Plus, step into the museum where the ostentatious crown jewels are kept. This London tour makes all of this easy to do and incredibly rewarding too.

Highlights:

• See the best of London’s top attractions in a single day
• Skip-the-line entry at Westminster Abbey
• Changing of the Guard ceremony (certain days)
• Pictures of Buckingham Palace
• Free time for lunch
• Transportation to the Tower of London included
• Quicker entry and guided tour at the Tower of London
• Entry to see Crown Jewels
• Free time to walk across Tower Bridge at the end of your tour

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  London Guide for more resources.

2. Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters

Open the Gates

For certain days in the spring and summer, you can enjoy a limited experience of watching the Beefeaters open the gates at the Tower of London. They’re an entertaining, though important, part of this historical tradition, you’re sure to laugh as they complete their duties with a few jokes. Plus, you get an early entrance before the crowds!

Your local guide can’t wait to show you the rest of the Tower of London. It’s both haunted and historic, so listen to their tales at the Beefeater’s Quarters and the Bloody Tower. They’ll help you navigate this massive estate easily.

And, of course, you’ll get to go inside the Jewel House to see the 140 pieces of the royal collection of valuables and jewels. From the White Tower to Tower Green, your tour of the Tower of London will be unforgettable.

• Early entry to the Tower of London
• Exclusive opening ceremony with Beefeater guards
• Guided tour of the walls, grounds, and many buildings
• Entry to the Jewel House for the crown jewels
• Free time to explore the grounds or nearby Tower Bridge

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour in London is worth it .

3. London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

Clients love our skip-the-line access to the famous Westminster Abbey where they can enjoy a few minutes of quiet time with their guide in the nave of the abbey before the public enters. This is the oldest part of the entire church, and your guide will share its unique history as you stand in near-quiet solitude here.

The abbey is also full of the tombs and effigies of many famous Brits dating back several centuries. The famous Poet’s Corner will intrigue you as you see whose names are buried there—some you’ll recognize and might even surprise you! Explore the tombs of kings and queens, then see the coronation chair in the Quire as you learn who gets to sit in those tiny seats.

Finally, you’ll also get a chance to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. This happens every day in June and July, but only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays the rest of the year. Your guide knows just how to help you see the most of this auspicious event and will explain exactly what’s happening too.

• Skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey
• Guided visit to Britain’s most famous church

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Westminster Abbey tours to take and why .

4. British Museum Guided Tour in London

The British Museum is undoubtedly one of the world’s most significant collections. When I find myself in London, I always try to stay nearby so I can head in for an hour or so each morning, taking my time to explore each section in detail.

But not everyone has that luxury or that interest. If time is limited, or you want to ensure you don’t miss anything key without doing hours of research, then why not sign up for this expert-led two-hour guided tour?

You will be led through the expansive museum’s most impressive highlights, detailing the fascinating history behind each collection. Marvel at the amazing ceiling of the Great Court, learn about the famous Rosetta Stone, admire the Parthenon Sculptures, and explore the Ancient Egyptian galleries.

After your tour, you can continue exploring the rest of the museum’s many treasures on your own!

• Learn about the history and significance of each collection
• Expert, licensed guide
• Informative walking tour of the British Museum
• Admire the glass roof of the Great Court
• See the famous “Rosetta Stone”
• Witness the Parthenon Sculptures
• Visit stunning Ancient Egypt galleries and collection of Egyptian mummies
• See the Winged Bulls from Khorsabad

4. The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour

St. James Park and the Mall

Start with a guided stroll like a proper Londoner through a tranquil garden that has quite a past. Your guide has stories about its history as a deer park before it became a usable area for the public. Then learn how the important avenue leading from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square came to be. The Mall has been used as a processional and ceremonial road for centuries, and you just might feel like a royal as you walk it with your guide.

Buckingham Palace

This tour includes your ticket to Buckingham Palace, and it will be a meaningful experience since your guide has prepared you with stories and things to watch for as you explore inside. Only audio-guided tours are allowed in the summer, but you’ll have a leg up on the other travelers who didn’t have a morning guide with them. Envision life like a royal in the State Rooms and Throne Room.

• Guided tour of St. James Park and the Mall
• Entry to Buckingham Palace
• Audio guide for Buckingham Palace

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to visit Buckingham Palace .

5. Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

Cruise the River Thames

With a start in the famous Trafalgar Square, you’ll follow your guide to the River Thames to board a Thames Clipper boat. See London’s modern skyline with the beloved St. Paul’s Cathedral rising proudly between the skyscrapers as your guide explains each building. Get familiar with London’s other sites like the London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, the Oxo Tower, Tower Bridge, and more.

The oldest fortress in London stands as a citadel on the River Thames near Tower Bridge. This unique structure has been built upon over the centuries since it’s first building, the White Tower, constructed by William the Conqueror in 1066 A.D.

Watch for the ravens and learn about the legend behind them and the British monarchy. Then try to distract a Beefeater guard before heading in to see the crown jewels. There are centuries of history, executions, and tragedy to learn about here, which is why your guide will be essential to enjoying one of the best London tours.

• Entry to the Tower of London
• Guided tour of the grounds and buildings
• Entry to see the British crown jewels
• Free time to explore the White Tower and Tower Bridge

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Tower of London tours to take and why .

6. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip from London

Round-trip Transportation from London

Make your day trip to Stonehenge easier by leaving the driving, transportation, and ticketing to a trusted guide. It’s a 2.5-hour drive out to Stonehenge, and if you’re not familiar with driving on the left side of the road, it can make for a stressful experience. Instead, when you book with us, you’ll feel comfortable as you sit back and let your driver do the work.

Windsor Castle

First, head to Windsor Castle, the former Queen’s favorite residence. Located just an hour outside of London, this castle and its grounds are a popular place to visit. If you’re a fan of the royals, it’s easily one of the best London tours to take.

While no guides are allowed inside the castle, you’ll be prepared with a narrative from your driver-guide ahead of time and your skip-the-line tickets. There are 13,000 acres here, and you’ll be free to explore the Grand Apartments, Queen Mary’s Doll House, and more.

Next, you’ll head over to Stonehenge, which is possibly Britain’s most famous ancient ruins. This 4,000-year-old structure is likely of Druid origin and fascinates visitors who marvel at its construction. You’ll have plenty of time to walk up to these mysterious stones and take pictures. Depending on the time of year, you might even have a chance to purchase some local strawberries to enjoy while you’re here!

Your final stop is at Bath, which is another city with deep roots from the Roman Empire. In fact, those Roman baths here are what gave this town its name, despite their original use by the Celts too. You’ll need to arrange your own tickets here, but if you’re not as interested in Roman baths, you might be tempted by the Jane Austen Museum.

This time in Bath is free for you to explore as you like after hearing all about it on your drive there. Be sure to check out any of the local restaurants your driver recommends!

• London’s iconic sites outside of the city
• Skip-the-line tickets to Windsor Castle
• Time to explore Stonehenge
• Lunch in Bath (on your own)
• Options to visit the Roman Baths or Jane Austen Museum
• Round-trip transportation from London

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Windsor Castle tour is worth it .

7. Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters

Private Meeting with a Beefeater

It doesn’t get more exclusive than a private 15 minutes with a Yeoman Warder (also known as a Beefeater). While these guards have a serious 20+ years of military career behind them, there’s nothing they love more than entertaining visitors with stories at the Tower in between their official duties. You can’t beat that!

Then you get to have your own guided tour of the rest of the Tower. From the Bloody Tower to St. Thomas’ Tower, Traitors Gate, and the White Tower, there’s more to explore than you can imagine. That’s why your guide is here to help you navigate and understand it all.

You’ll also get entry to the crown jewels that have wowed millions of visitors with their lavish decadence. Make sure to keep an eye out for the piece your guide tells you is the oldest in the entire collection—dating back to the early 1600s!

• Private meet & greet with a Beefeater

8. Early Access Stonehenge Morning Tour from London with Inner Circle

Even if you’re an early bird, you might not want to navigate unfamiliar roads in the wee hours of the morning. That’s why you’ll appreciate leaving those details to a confident, local driver-guide. Catch an extra hour or two of sleep while you are safely transported to Stonehenge in the pre-dawn hours.

Stonehenge Sunrise

Watching the sunrise is always a magical moment. Make it even more memorable by seeing Stonehenge in that early morning light! These ancient stones are captivating any time of the day, but with this early morning tour, you get special access to Stonehenge before the general public. It’s a truly special experience that most don’t get to have.

Salisbury Cathedral and Magna Carta

A trip to Salisbury is up next, and you’re not too far away. This is the town where you’ll find the largest spire in the UK at the Salisbury Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Mary). Your guide will also tell you how to find an original copy of the Magna Carta, long regarded as the first accepted standard for human rights. You’ll have free time to explore this town and enjoy a break for lunch before heading back to London in the late afternoon.

• Early access to Stonehenge before the public
• Entry to Salisbury Cathedral
• Free time to see Magna Carta and explore Salisbury

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Stonehenge tours to take and why .

11. The Magic of Harry Potter: Warner Bros Studios & Walking Tour of London

London Harry Potter Walking Tour

You could wander through the streets of London trying to follow a random blog article’s recommendation to find Harry Potter’s filming sites. Or you could book a guided tour with a local Potterhead who knows just where to go and how to get there easily. From Lambeth Bridge to Southwark, see where Diagon Alley was filmed and the location for the Ministry of Magic (and much more).

Warner Brothers Studio

This is where booking a guide really comes in handy for a Harry Potter day tour. You can hop in a vehicle and let your guide easily take you to the famous Warner Brothers Studio outside of the city. Make your Harry Potter tour in London easy by leaving the details to us so you can just enjoy a few hours exploring the Harry Potter sets and gift shop here.

Then head back to London to depart at Platform 9 3/4! For Harry Potter lovers, the best London tours to take just don’t get any better!

• Guided walking tour of top Harry Potter sites
• See Diagon Alley, Ministry of Magic, Platform 9 3/4 and more
• Free time at Warner Brothers Studio to see Harry Potter sets and shop
• Round-trip transportation

10. After Hours Stonehenge Inner Circle Tour from London

If you’re not an early bird but more of a night owl, then a sunset trip to Stonehenge is ideal. You’ll leave mid-morning with a small group on this full-day tour of some of England’s most ancient sites near London. And after a long day, you can relax while your trusted driver takes care of the driving.

Silbury Hill and West Kennet

England has its own mysterious manmade mound that is roughly the size of an Egyptian pyramid. You’ll find it at Silbury Hill, where your guide will take you first thing. Plus, you’ll stop at West Kennet Long Barrow to see an ancient burial ground that probably dates back to the Neolithic period (about 5,000 years ago!). These areas have so much mystery that it’s essential to go with a guide who can help you understand the significance of what you’re seeing.

Did you know there are mysterious circles of stones in Avebury too? They’re not quite as impressive as Stonehenge, but there are still some great mysteries to see here. Avebury is a charming town with a haunted pub. Your guide will definitely tell you all about it and recommend you eat a late lunch there too.

After your free time in Avebury, your driver-guide will transport you to the highlight of this tour: Stonehenge. What’s extra special about this tour is that your tickets give you guided access to the Inner Circle of Stonehenge for an hour after the public has already left. It’s the perfect way to enjoy this monolith in solitude at the end of the day. Then you’ll head back to London and let your driver do the hard work.

• Visits to see Silbury Hill and West Kennet
• Free time in Avebury with lunch on your own
• Haunted pub tales
• Entry to Stonehenge after the public leaves

11. The Ultimate London Speedboat Adventure

Looking for a thrill? You might not envision an adventure activity in the heart of London, but here it is! Hop aboard one of London’s speedboats on the River Thames. You’ll zoom from one iconic monument to the next on an 800-horsepower speedboat. Best of all, your skipper is quite entertaining, so you’re sure to love the stories you hear as you take in the Shard, the Globe, London Eye, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and more.

• 800-horsepower speedboat with a skipper
• Guided tour of River Thames sites
• See Big Ben, London Eye, Tower Bridge, and more

Find the best places to stay

Where To Stay in London

Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

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About Brie Greenhalgh

Writer, editor, teacher, hiker, traveler, dreamer. With a book or pen in hand and a majestic sunset on the horizon, life is never short of fulfilling moments for Brie. She has a background in history and writing, and enjoys writing and editing for BobVila.com, The Tour Guy, and her own business.

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