Day Trips from London – A helpful guide
London is an energetic and captivating city but spending too long in the city can often result in finding yourself craving to explore other locations. There are so many amazing day trips from London that the planning stage can be a little overwhelming. That is why I have created this guide to help you travel with ease and find your next favourite city!
Short Trips from London
Being the exciting capital of England, there are many reasons for travellers to visit London. Whether you’re using London as a base to get the feel for the British culture, or if you live in London, you should be aware that there are many incredible cities a short journey away. Even if you are only in the city for a short while, I would strongly recommend visiting a city outside of London to understand key cultural differences. Plus, if you don’t live in London, stories about travelling to lesser-known UK cities are sure to impress your friends upon your return home.
Where can I go for a day trip from London?
Depending on your timeframe, there are many cities that can be explored from London. Below I have listed some of the best destinations for a day trip from London.
Bath
The lovely city of Bath is located in the South West of England and belongs to the county of Somerset. Bath is commonly known as the home to some interesting museums and tours, including the famous Roman Baths. You can stroll through the city’s historic streets, visit the Jane Austen Centre, or relax in one of its charming tea rooms. There is a stark difference between Bath and London, and you are guaranteed to be amazed by the amazing architecture and the unique sense of calmness as soon as you arrive in Bath.
Oxford
Just over an hour away from London, Oxford is home to the world-renowned University of Oxford. The city is filled with historical and architectural wonders, including the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and the Bridge of Sighs. You can take a tour of the university, explore the Ashmolean Museum, or enjoy a leisurely punt on the River Cherwell. Oxford offers a blend of academic prestige and picturesque scenery, making it an ideal destination for a quick getaway.
York
York is a historical gem in northern England, steeped in medieval history and Roman heritage. A two-hour train ride from London, York offers visitors a chance to walk along the ancient city walls, visit the stunning York Minster, and lose themselves in the narrow, cobblestone streets of The Shambles. It’s also home to the famous Jorvik Viking Centre, where you can learn about the city’s Viking past. York’s blend of history, charm, and vibrant culture makes it a perfect day trip destination.
Where can I go an hour away from London?
Sometimes, it’s nice to plan a day trip that doesn’t require too much travel time. If you’re looking for destinations within an hour of London, here are some top choices:
Cambridge
Only about 50 minutes by train, Cambridge is a charming city best known for its prestigious university. Here, you can admire the iconic King’s College Chapel, take a serene punting trip on the River Cam, and explore the various museums and galleries. Cambridge’s mixture of historical architecture and academic heritage makes it a delightful destination for a quick day trip.
Canterbury
Canterbury is famous for its medieval cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its charming old town. Just under an hour from London by train, you can visit Canterbury Cathedral, explore the Canterbury Tales attraction, and wander through the narrow lanes lined with timber-framed houses. The city’s rich history and literary connections (thanks to Geoffrey Chaucer) make it an enchanting option for a short trip.
Windsor
Windsor is home to the spectacular Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the British Royal Family. A short 45-minute train ride from London, this historic town is a fantastic place to explore royal history and stroll through Windsor Great Park. You can also cross the Thames and visit nearby Eton, famous for its prestigious boys’ school. Windsor’s combination of history, green spaces, and royal connections makes it a delightful quick getaway.
Where is the best place to visit outside of London?
Whilst this blog post is about day trips from London, I wanted to include a couple of UK gems that should be explored when visiting nearby. Please note that these could be visited in a day with meticulous planning and scheduling (and an early wake up), I would recommend spending more than one day in my below suggestions.
My personal favourite location for a trip outside of London is Brighton. Known for its vibrant arts scene and iconic pebble beach, Brighton offers a fun and relaxed seaside experience. Just an hour by train from London, you can explore the stunning Royal Pavilion, stroll along the Brighton Pier, or simply relax by the sea. However, I’d recommend staying at least one night in a hotel to fully appreciate Brighton’s sights and lively nightlife, which are some of the best in the UK. Whether it’s beachside dining or quirky bars, Brighton comes alive after dark.
Alternatively, Southampton is another excellent seaside destination. Famous for its maritime history and as the departure point of the Titanic, Southampton offers a mix of cultural attractions, waterfront dining, and access to the beautiful New Forest National Park. Similar to Brighton, please note that Southampton is quite far from London. Therefore, it may be best to pair your visit with an overnight hotel stay to fully enjoy everything Southampton has to offer without feeling rushed.
Day trips from London by train
One of the most convenient ways to explore the UK from London is by train. All of the day trip locations mentioned above can be visited via train from London. The extensive rail network makes it easy to reach many destinations within a couple of hours. With frequent services departing from major stations like Paddington, King’s Cross, and Waterloo, you can enjoy day trips to places like Brighton, Oxford, and Bath with ease. The trains are comfortable and often offer scenic views of the British countryside along the way.
Eurostar
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a day trip to a different country? The Eurostar train service can whisk you from London St. Pancras International to cities like Paris, Brussels, or Lille in just a couple of hours. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the charm of Europe without the hassle of air travel. However, keep in mind that both Paris and Brussels are around a two-hour train journey from London, so a large portion of your day will be spent travelling. To make the most of your trip, you’ll likely need an early start—with many trains departing as early as 6:00 AM. Still, it’s an unforgettable way to explore a new city in a single day.
Paris
The romance and elegance of Paris are just a train ride away from London, making it one of the most exciting Eurostar day trips. In just over two hours, you’ll arrive at Gare du Nord, placing you right in the heart of Paris. With limited time, you’ll want to prioritize your itinerary. Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvreare must-sees, but Paris is also perfect for simply strolling around its beautiful streets, visiting a charming café, or walking along the Seine.
Brussels
Another fantastic Eurostar destination is Brussels, the capital of Belgium, which you can reach in approximately two hours from London. Brussels may be smaller and more compact than Paris, but it offers a rich blend of culture, history, and of course, world-famous chocolate and beer. Once you arrive at Bruxelles-Midi station, you’re only a short walk or quick metro ride away from the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, surrounded by intricate architecture.
Day trips from London by plane
One of my favourite pass-time activities is to search for the cheapest flights on sky scanner. If you plan ahead, you can find affordable flights to European cities such as Dublin, Amsterdam, or Edinburgh. Many budget airlines operate from London’s airports, making it possible to explore a whole new city for the day.
Which London airport should I fly from?
London has several airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted. If you’re planning a day trip, I’d recommend flying from either Gatwick or Stansted, as they often have the best deals on budget flights. Although Stansted isn’t actually located in London, it’s easily accessible via a direct train from central London in under an hour. Both airports offer a wide range of affordable flights and are convenient to reach by train or coach (National Express is London’s best coach option).
My favourite day trips a short flight away
Recently, I’ve discovered a new love for exploring cities that are just a short flight from London. What started as a curiosity has quickly turned into a passion, and I’m becoming quite good at finding quick getaways! A short flight opens up a world of possibilities, and some of my favourite day trips I’ve done by plane include visits to Oslo, Dublin, Edinburgh, Copenhagen, and Rome.
Dublin
As a big Guinness drinker, I couldn’t resist making Dublin a priority on my travel list. This vibrant Irish capital has the perfect blend of culture, history, and, of course, amazing pubs. My main reason for visiting was to experience the Guinness Storehouse and taste the stout fresh from the source, and it certainly didn’t disappoint! After the tour, I headed to the Temple Bar district, where live music filled the streets, and the pub scene came alive. If you love good music, friendly locals, and some of the best stout in the world, Dublin makes for an ideal quick getaway.
Oslo
I decided to visit Oslo purely for the Christmas markets in December, and it turned out to be one of my best decisions! Oslo’s winter charm is undeniable, and the markets were everything I hoped for. Cozy wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and the festive scent of mulled wine filled the air. The snow-covered streets and Christmas atmosphere made Oslo feel like a winter wonderland. Even though I only spent a day there, I was able to experience the heartwarming holiday spirit and enjoy traditional Norwegian treats.
Day Trips from London by car
If you prefer flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car for a day trip is an excellent option. Driving allows you to reach some of England’s hidden gems and rural areas that may be difficult to access by train. While London itself can be a bit tricky for driving due to congestion and parking restrictions, once you’re out of the city, the English countryside opens up to endless possibilities.
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), is famous for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and honey-coloured stone cottages. About a two-hour drive from London, it’s an ideal spot for a peaceful escape. You can visit charming towns like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold, where you’ll find cosy pubs, scenic walking trails, and beautiful gardens. The Cotswolds offer a quintessential English countryside experience that is perfect for a leisurely day out.
Stratford Upon Avon
For literary lovers, Stratford-upon-Avon is an incredible day trip destination. A two-hour drive from London, this picturesque town is best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Here, you can visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The town offers a perfect mix of Tudor charm and cultural significance. Wander through its historic streets, or take a relaxing boat ride on the River Avon. While you can experience the town in a day, you may also want to stay overnight to enjoy a performance at the theatre or explore the surrounding Warwickshire countryside.
Final Thoughts
I hope that you have learnt that there are a variety of amazing day trips from London that are desperate to be discovered. London is an incredible city, but with so many nearby gems, it would be a shame not to explore beyond the city limits!
Whether by train, plane, or car, there’s no shortage of fantastic destinations for a memorable day trip. So pack your bags, leave the hustle and bustle behind, and discover the diverse beauty that lies just a stone’s throw from London. Happy travelling ✈️
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