24 Best Day Trips from London (By a Local)

Making day trips from London is an amazing way to explore unique sites without straying too far from the city. There are so many fun activities in London, but several other stimulating destinations are only a brief train ride away.

Whether you’re looking for a beach getaway, a bit of history, or some royal architecture like Windsor Castle, there are plenty of day trips from London that will provide a great cultural experience.

As a London local, I’m here to assist you plan your day excursion and have created a list of the best day trips from central London that are easily accessible. And while you’re here, bookmark my guide to where to stay in London.

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24 Best London Day Trips

Cambridge

🗺️ Distance from London: 50 minutes to 1.5-hour train ride from Liverpool St. Station or Kings Cross St. Pancras Station | 📍 Google Maps | Cambridge Website

Cambridge is an incredible city filled with history and green spaces. It’s home to one of the world’s most renowned and prestigious universities, the University of Cambridge, and offers a wide range of attractions, all within a very picturesque setting.

Traveling along the river by punt is a pleasant way to spend a sunny day, whether handling the pole oneself or relaxing as someone else guides you through the water. The punt operators are typically well-informed on local history and facts, ensuring visitors return home with interesting details to share.

While exploring Cambridge University, make sure you visit King’s College Chapel, the most iconic and recognizable building in Cambridge.

Should you have any questions, or wish to share your favorite activities to partake in while in Las Vegas, please leave a comment below. I`d appreciate hearing from you! Enjoy your trip to the entertainment capital!

Margate, Kent

🗺️ Distance from London: 1.5 hours drive or on the train from London Victoria Station or London Blackfriars Station | 📍 Google Maps | Margate Website

One of the United Kingdom‘s most pursued shoreline destinations, the coastal town of Margate is one of the very best day trips from London. Situated on the coast of Kent, Margate offers a little bit of all from sandy beaches to top-notch fish and chips and modern art.

While visiting, be sure to set aside time for the Turner Contemporary art gallery which showcases both modern and classic works and is renowned worldwide. Advance booking is recommended for those hoping to experience an exhibition. Margate also offers a thriving theatre scene sure to satisfy those seeking cultural enrichment.

If the objective of this day trip is to enjoy more outdoor activities, there are several options worth considering like cycling along the coast, walking on the Isle of Thanet, or participating in beach yoga.

🏖️ Fun Fact – This is one of the solitary spots in the UK where you’ll find a sandy coast rather than a rocky coast.

Stonehenge

🗺️ The drive from London takes around 1.5 hours or the train from Waterloo Station takes approximately 2.25 hours | 📍 Google Maps | Stonehenge Website | 👉 Browse Stonehenge Tours

An iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stonehenge is one of the best historical day trips from London. The outstanding natural beauty held by this unique prehistoric monument is just a short drive from Salisbury train station.

While you’re out on this day trip, it’s worth engaging in the Stone Circle Experience, where you can get up close and learn more about it from an expert guide.

This experience takes place outside of normal visiting hours to ensure you get to capture the true beauty of Stonehenge without being surrounded by several other tourists.

👉 Did You Know? This UNESCO world heritage site attracts over a million visitors per year.

Bristol

🗺️ Distance from London: 1.75 hours on the train from Paddington Station | 📍 Google Maps | Bristol Website | 👉 View Bristol Trips on Viator

Another UK city that makes a great one-day trip from London is Bristol. Known for its outdoor dining and growing number of award-winning restaurants, Bristol competes even with the top London restaurants. You won’t have trouble finding a bite appealing to your taste. The city has several Michelin-starred restaurants.

One great way to explore the city is by participating in a Bristol walking tour, allowing you to experience all of the primary attractions during a day trip. The panoramic view of Clifton Suspension Bridge is worth beholding, particularly from the nearby hillsides. Several boat trips are also available to survey the city from the water.

👉 Local Tip – If you’re a cider aficionado, be sure to stop by ‘The Apple’, a lovely cider pub on a moored boat that serves a variety of unique local craft ciders.

Brighton

🗺️ Distance from London: 1 hour on the train from London Victoria Station or London Bridge Station | 📍 Map location | Brighton website

As Britain`s premier beach town, Brighton demands consideration for day trips from London. Beyond the well-known Brighton Palace Pier and pebbly coast, Brighton maintains a positive and inclusive culture with ongoing community events.

If you’re looking to enjoy some seaside air during your day trip, check out this charming spot. The downtown offers boutiques, eateries, and cafes ensuring an enjoyable day or weekend.

Brighton is also home to a wealth of arts and culture, and if you visit on a day trip from London in early August, be sure to participate in the Pride festivities. They are world renowned!

The Cotswolds 

🗺️ Distance from London: Approximately a 2 hour drive | 📍 Google Maps | Cotswolds Website

When envisioning a cozy cottage nestled in the heart of the English countryside, I`m certain the image conjured is reminiscent of the Cotswolds.

After visiting, I can confirm that the Cotswolds matched my preconceived notions exactly. This area remains one of my favorite day trips from London because it provides a totally different atmosphere, despite only being a 2-hour drive away.

If you have a keen interest in the Tudor era, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is a must-see attraction. It’ll provide insight into the place where William Shakespeare’s wife grew up, which was built over 500 years ago.

Situated in Stratford-upon-Avon, you can proceed at your own pace as you wander through the breathtaking cottage gardens and orchards, where you’ll find a sculpture trail inspired by Shakespeare’s plays.

Southwold

🗺️ Distance from London: 2.75 hours drive | 📍 Google Maps | Southwold Website

Of all the coastal day trips from London, Southwold is special in that it nearly resembles an island. Although it may seem like a relatively prolonged journey exceeding the two-hour travel timeframe, I can assure you the drive is worthwhile.

The wonderful town offers numerous shoreline delights including intensely shaded shoreline shelters, a lighthouse, an award-winning arm, a harbor, a precipice top weapon, and the wonderful shoreline. With its seaside style, it normally offers a portion of the best fish and chips in the entire UK.

Furthermore, Halesworth Golf Club is a lush course less than a 20-minute drive away. Focusing more on arts and culture, check out The Cut Arts Centre to participate in some music, drama, and films.

Windsor

🗺️ Distance from London: 50-minute drive or 40 minutes on the train from Paddington Station | 📍 Google Maps | Windsor Website

The enchanting town of Windsor on the River Thames is home to the British Royal Family. If you love history or are a royal knowledge buff, then you will certainly want to add Windsor to your list of day trips from London.

Situated in southeast England, Windsor Castle has witnessed one thousand years of royal history. As the world`s oldest and largest occupied fortress, Windsor Castle boasts much to see such as the changing of the guard ceremony, moat room, St George’s Chapel, state apartments, and more.

Advance tickets for Windsor Castle can be purchased on the Royal College Trust website, and they offer a discount for families visiting the landmark worth learning about British history from.

Bath

🗺️ Distance from London: 1.75 hours on the train from Paddington Station | 📍 Google Maps | Bath Website

The largest city in all of Somerset, England, Bath derives its name from its key feature: the Roman Baths. The city itself is lovely and is one of the top day trips from London, with many activities available.

Visiting the Roman Baths is a must, as these are an icon within the city. There is also an incredible rooftop spa that includes both hot and cold pools and provides the best view of the historic city from above. After you’re finished at the spa, head into town for afternoon tea to make the most out of the day.

Whitstable

Girona is undeniably a beautiful city, making it well worth a day visit from Barcelona without question. It’s actually so idyllic and well-kept that parts of it were used as a filming location for the television series Game of Thrones. Its appeal and history make Girona a must-see for any traveler with space in their itinerary for Spain for a day trip.

A bohemian coastal town filled with fresh locally caught seafood, beer gardens, a rocky shoreline, shops, and galleries, Whitstable is one among the finest summertime day trips from London. Whitstable West Beach is dog friendly, allowing this day trip to be pet approved, or you could try your hand at windsurfing at Tankerton Beach.

In this scenic coastal town full of attractions, you’re bound to find something of interest. Make sure to stop by the Lobster Shack for the freshest seafood around and a drink.

👉 Related Reading: 11 Best Travel Backpacks for Europe (Tested & Ranked)

Oxford

🗺️ Distance from London: 1 hour and 20 minutes by automobile, coach, or train from Paddington Station | 📍 Google Maps | Oxford Website

A renowned scholarly competitor of Cambridge, Oxford is another of the finest day trips from London. Within the medieval city, the prestigious Oxford University is comprised of 38 colleges filled with history, culture, and architecture. Church College is one of the most picturesque and notable university structures worth exploring.

Although it`s a university town, there are many other attractions one can explore while visiting Oxford. These include the Oxford Botanic Garden, Arboretum, Museum of the History of Science, Oxford`s main street, Harry Potter films location tour, and much more.

If you’d like to explore off the well-trodden path into the countryside, I would strongly recommend visiting Blenheim Palace, the only non-royal Palace in England, which is just a brief drive from the city.

Seven Sisters, Eastbourne

🗺️ Distance from London: 2 hours by car | 📍 Google Maps | Seven Sisters Website

If you’re looking to escape London and bask in nature, the Seven Sisters Cliffs walk in Eastbourne is a great option for a day trip from London. The Seven Sisters Cliffs are a beautiful coastal walk characterized by chalk cliffs along the shoreline.

This area appeals to a range of interests, and families looking for an easy coastal walk with ocean views and a lighthouse may enjoy a picnic in the family-friendly coastal path over Seven Sisters cliffs.

If you seek a challenge (and workout), you can brave the Cliff Top Walk from Birling Gap to admire breathtaking views along the cliffs.

👉 Local Tip: The 14-mile Seven Sisters Cliffs hiking trail is recommended to have ample water, snacks, and drinks available throughout.

Bournemouth

🗺️ Distance from London: 2 hours by car or on the train from Waterloo Station | 📍 Google Maps | Bournemouth Website

Another famously scholastic metropolis, Bournemouth is very popular among youthful grownups throughout the year but is distinctly famed for its summertime attractions. When it comes to beachy day excursions from London, look no farther than Bournemouth beach.

A great feature about this picturesque town is the fact that it appeals to so many different people groups. It’s a great spot to bring children on a sunny day to play on the beach, visit the pier, and partake in the funfair. You can take surf lessons, relax with a cold one on a boat, or visit one of the many museums and galleries the town has to offer.

Paris, France

🗺️ Distance from London: 2.25 hours by Eurostar train from St Pancras International | 📍 Google Maps | Paris Website

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Highlights of Paris incorporate the famous Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. The options are endless in this romantic and beautiful city, making it a great day trip or weekend getaway with friends or a partner.

Beyond the incredible attractions, Paris has an amazing food and drink scene that is distinct in each area of Paris. Check out Le Cafe Du Commerce for a traditional Parisian meal in a setting pleasing architecturally and aesthetically.

Lille, France

🗺️ Distance from London: 1 hour and 20 minutes by Eurostar train from St Pancras International station | 📍 Google Maps | Lille city website

Renowned for its culture and roots from Flanders, Lille is a lively yet underrated city in northern France near Belgium. Similar to Paris, it is very accessible by train from London. You will be amazed by the character brought by the historic center with its cobblestone streets and large central square.

Known as the `old town` of the city, Vieux Lille is paved with history and heritage. As you wander its winding cobblestone streets, take in the ornate architecture and stop at one of the unique local shops, trendy cocktail bars, or terraced restaurants dotted throughout the area.

For one of the finest perspectives, head to the Town Hall which is known as the Belfry, a notable bell tower enrolled as a UNESCO world heritage site, to get a bird`s eye view of the entire city.

👉 Related Reading: Backpacking Europe: The Ultimate Guide

Hampton Court Palace

🗺️ Distance from London: 45 minutes by automobile or train from Waterloo Station | 📍 Google Maps | Hampton Court Palace Website

Situated in Richmond upon Thames, listed as a Grade I Royal Palace, and the once-home of Henry the VIII, Hampton Court Palace has an impressive heritage. Steeped in Tudor history and less than an hour away from London by train, Hampton Court Palace is definitely a place you want to add to your UK travel plan.

Upon entrance to the palace, one`s view is greeted by an opulent spread of verdant greenery and beautiful botanical arrangements, making it worthwhile to linger a moment admiring the scenic splendor before venturing inside. The ticket provides access to the great hall, enchanted garden, Hampton court gardens, the culinary chambers of Henry VIII, the grand observatory room, and many other notable locations.

There is such a lot to explore at Hampton Court Palace that you probably won`t see everything in a single day, so planning ahead is recommended. This makes for an interesting day trip from London without a vehicle.

🌳 Fun Fact: If you’re a fan of Bridgerton, you’ll be thrilled to know that several scenes were filmed at Hampton Court Palace.

Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour

🗺️ Distance from London: 1 hour by train from London Euston | 📍 Location | Studio Website | 👉 Check out this Top Rated Harry Potter Tour of the Warner Bros. Studio

A day excursion from London ideal for hardcore Harry Potter enthusiasts, the Warner Bros. Harry Potter studio tour offers an in-depth exploration into the films. Situated in the town of Leavesden housing several Harry Potter filming areas, you`ll have the pleasure of stepping onto some of the most iconic sets in cinema history.

Featuring locations like the Forbidden Forest, Platform 9 3⁄4, and Diagon Alley, all your wizarding dreams will become reality as you journey where Harry Potter walked with insider views of original costumes, sets, props, and special effects through your ticket.

Following your trip, there are several eating spots within the properties where you can try the well-known butter beer along with other tasty delights. And if you’re wondering which hotel you should lodge it for easy access, check out my where to Stay in London guide!

Leeds Castle

🚦 Distance from London: 1 hour and 20 minutes by car or 2 hours by train from Victoria Station, London Blackfriars Station, or Liverpool Street Station | 📍 Google Maps | Leeds Castle Website

Known since the year 857, the majestic Leeds Castle has stood proudly on islands in a lake. Throughout the centuries, the castle has served many purposes, including as the private property of six medieval queens, a Tudor palace, a Jacobean country house, and more.

There is plenty to explore at Leeds Castle and you can certainly make a day of your visit. Touring the castle is essential, but the gardens that span over 500 acres surrounding it are also worth a stroll.

There is also abundant wildlife encircling the castle for animal admirers, making this a superb place to head with the family.

York

🗺️ Distance from London: 2 hours by car | 📍 Google Maps | York Website| 👉 Reserve this Ouse River Scenic Voyage for a relaxing tour around the city

Situated between London and Edinburgh, York is an English city founded by the Romans that remains surrounded by defensive walls. One of the most iconic structures in the city is York Minster, a massive 13th-century cathedral adorned with medieval stained glass windows and possessing two bell towers.

This charming city has a rich Viking history and offers experiences suitable for all tastes. Including over 30 world-renowned museums, an unrivaled racetrack (arguably amongst England`s finest), and diverse independent shops and eateries.

For those with a sweet tooth, York has a heritage in chocolate and confectionery and is home to the renowned creator of the chocolate orange, Terry’s. Follow the York Chocolate Trail to sample each of the city’s finest cocoa offerings.

👉 Local Tip: The train journey to York takes a bit longer so it is advisable to make this day trip by car. Check out Discover Cars to book your rental ahead of time.

Norwich, Norfolk

🗺️ Approximately 2.5 hours by vehicle or 2 hours by train from Liverpool Street Station | 📍 Google Maps | Norwich Website

If you’re looking to spend a wholesome family day away from London, then Norwich, Norfolk should be your top choice. Known as the ‘city of stories’, Norwich has everything needed for an enjoyable trip, like the historic city center, castles, great shops and restaurants in abundance, and the peaceful River Yare.

Cruise along the river on a boat excursion and take in the vivid, picturesque buildings lining the water for a peaceful afternoon adventure.

If you’re hoping to see one of the most visited parts of the city, then head to the Norwich Lanes, an assemblage of mini alleyways and rocky roads filled with autonomous eateries, boutiques, galleries, churches, and more.

💗 Read Next: 25 Best London Date Ideas

Rye

🗺️ Distance from London: 2 hours by car or 1 hour and 20 minutes by train from London Blackfriars Station | 📍 Google Maps | Rye Website

Near the Sussex coast along the English Channel, just two miles from the sea, Rye is a very small and quintessentially English town that is characterized by narrow lanes of medieval buildings.

Nearby the town is Camber Sands beach home to East Sussex`s sole sand dunes. A trail connects the community with the shore accessible year-round.

While visiting, explore the charming Mermaid Street and savor the local cuisine and drink offerings. Be sure to stop by Rye Castle`s Ypres Tower or climb the bell tower at St Mary’s Church to take in magnificent views of the town.

Bicester Village

🗺️ The distance from London to Bicester Village is around 2 hours by car or 1 hour and 10 minutes by train from London Marylebone Station. Google Maps | Bicester Village Website

Famous for its discounted high-end fashion brands, Bicester Village is a picturesque outdoor shopping center located in Oxfordshire home to boutiques from labels such as Gucci, Prada, Saint Laurent, Fendi, and others. In addition to clothing, visitors will find sports gear, home decor, and various stores throughout the village.

And don’t overlook the eateries – I strongly recommend the popular Italian option from The Ned in London, Cecconi’s.

In just a couple hours you can reach Bicester Village by car, or if you feel like relaxing, the train will get you there in around seventy minutes from London Marylebone Station. Bicester Village makes a great day out for shoppers looking for a good bargain.

Cardiff, Wales

🗺️ Distance from London: around 3.75 hours by car or 1 hour and 50 minutes on the train from London Paddington Station | 📍 Google Maps | Cardiff Website

Visiting Cardiff in Wales is a great way to combine explorations of two UK territories and have the opportunity to tour another well-liked city amid your excursion to London. Reachable in under 2 hours on the train from London Paddington Station, Cardiff is charming, cozy, and filled with obliging inhabitants, notable restaurants, and historic attractions to investigate.

Be sure to check out the Castle and walk there through the lovely Bute Park. Then head to the nearby Kindle restaurant for lunch, a genuinely charming rustic spot that thoughtfully sources its ingredients and offers fire food and natural wine.

For dinner, I would also recommend the Michelin-starred restaurant in the city center called The Potted Pig, situated in an old Lloyd’s bank.

Nottingham

🗺️ Distance from London: 3 hours and 10 minutes drive or 2 hours on the train from London King’s Cross Station | 📍 Google Maps | Nottingham Website

A well-known University city in the UK, Nottingham is an excellent spot for a day trip, particularly for younger folks. Among the colorful streets filled with shops including many vintage clothing spots, to the great variety of restaurants and bars and Nottingham Forest Football Club, there is guaranteed to be something for everyone.

From London King’s Cross Station, take the train first to Grantham where a transfer will be made to continue the journey to Nottingham, with a travel time of around 2 hours. Once in Nottingham, there is an excellent choice of dining spots, though I would especially recommend the trendy Italian locale Sexy Mama Loves Spaghetti.

FAQs about Day Trips from London

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Yes, without question! Walt Disney World is the top spot for family getaways, but there is endless excitement for visitors of all ages.

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