The 22 Best Day Trips from London
While the city of London offers an endless amount of activities to see and do, sometimes the allure of the countryside or coastal retreats calls. For that very reason, I’ve created a list of the 22 best day trips from London, when that call to get out of the city needs to be picked up! Here is your ultimate guide for adventuring beyond the bustling streets of London!
22 Day Trips from London
via Leonid Andronov
Windsor Castle & Eton, Berkshire
The best day trip from London for: exploring royal history.
How to get there from London: Take a train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central Station (approx. 30 minutes).
Begin your escapade with a royal touch by visiting the majestic Windsor Castle, the world's oldest and largest inhabited castle. Explore the State Apartments and St. George's Chapel before strolling through the charming streets of Eton.
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Stonehenge & Salisbury
The best day trip from London for: marvelling at a spiritual and architectural wonder.
How to get there from London: Join a guided tour or take a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
Unravel the mysteries of Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shrouded in legend and history. Continue your journey to the medieval city of Salisbury, where the iconic Salisbury Cathedral awaits with its towering spire.
via Ryan King
Oxford, Oxfordshire
The best day trip from London for: a scholarly adventure.
How to get there from London: Hop on a train from London Paddington to Oxford (approx. 1 hour).
Embark on a scholarly adventure to the "City of Dreaming Spires." Wander through the hallowed halls of Oxford University, explore the Bodleian Library, and lose yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter at Christ Church College.
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
The best day trip from London for: punting.
How to get there from London: Catch a train from London King's Cross to Cambridge (approx. 1 hour).
Delve into the intellectual hub of Cambridge, renowned for its prestigious university and picturesque riverbanks. Punt along the River Cam, visit the awe-inspiring King's College Chapel and immerse yourself in the city's rich history.
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Brighton, East Sussex
The best day trip from London for: enjoying the coastline.
How to get there from London: Board a train from London Victoria to Brighton (approx. 1 hour).
Escape to the vibrant seaside city of Brighton, where eclectic vibes meet stunning coastal views. Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Brighton Pier, explore the quaint lanes filled with independent shops, and soak up the sun on the pebbled beach.
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Bath, Somerset
The best day trip from London for: exploring ancient Roman Baths.
How to get there from London: Take a train from London Paddington to Bath Spa (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation in the historic city of Bath. Marvel at the Roman Baths, admire the elegant Georgian architecture and unwind in the Thermae Bath Spa for the ultimate pampering experience.
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Canterbury, Kent
The best day trip from London for: experiencing medieval history.
How to get there from London: Travel by train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West (approx. 1 hour).
Step back in time as you wander through the medieval streets of Canterbury. Visit the awe-inspiring Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the city's fascinating tales of pilgrimage and literary heritage.
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Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
The best day trip from London for: river walks.
How to get there from London: Catch a train from London Marylebone to Stratford-upon-Avon (approx. 2 hours).
Immerse yourself in the world of the Bard in the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Explore Shakespeare's Birthplace, stroll along the tranquil River Avon, and catch a performance at the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
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Cotswolds
The best day trip from London for: experiencing the true English countryside.
How to get there from London: Join a guided tour or rent a car for a scenic drive from London (approx. 2 hours).
Embark on a picturesque journey through the idyllic villages of the Cotswolds. Admire the honey-hued cottages, explore quaint market towns like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, and bask in the beauty of the rolling countryside.
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The Warner Bros. Studio Tour
The best day trip from London for: unleashing your inner wizard.
How to get there from London: Take a shuttle bus from London Victoria or Euston to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour (approx. 1 hour).
Calling all Potterheads! Step into the enchanting world of Hogwarts with a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Explore iconic sets, marvel at intricate costumes and props, and unleash your inner wizard.
via Ryan King
Dover & Canterbury Cathedral
The best day trip from London for: marvelling at the white cliffs of Dover.
How to get there from London: Travel by train from London St Pancras to Dover Priory (approx. 1 hour 40 minutes).
Marvel at the iconic White Cliffs of Dover before delving into the historical treasures of Canterbury Cathedral. With its breathtaking architecture and spiritual significance, this day trip promises a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
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Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey
The best day trip from London for: diving into history.
How to get there from London: Catch a train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court (approx. 35 minutes).
Transport yourself to the Tudor era with a visit to Hampton Court Palace. Lose yourself in the maze, stroll through the sumptuous gardens, and uncover the palace's rich history, from Henry VIII to William III and Mary II.
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Greenwich, Kent
The best day trip from London for: world-class museums and beautiful parks.
How to get there from London: Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) from central London to Greenwich (approx. 20 minutes).
Journey to the heart of maritime history in Greenwich. Stand on the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory, explore the fascinating exhibits at the National Maritime Museum, and take a leisurely walk through Greenwich Park.
via Carlo Bazzo on unsplash
Wimbledon
The best day trip from London for: tennis enthusiasts.
How to get there from London: Board a train from London Waterloo to Wimbledon Station (approx. 20 minutes).
Game, set, match! Tennis enthusiasts will delight in a visit to Wimbledon, home of the world's most prestigious tennis tournament. Tour the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, walk in the footsteps of tennis legends, and soak up the atmosphere of this iconic sporting venue.
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Winchester, Hampshire
The best day trip from London for: long walks in nature.
How to get there from London: Travel by train from London Waterloo to Winchester (approx. 1 hour).
Discover the ancient capital of England in Winchester. Explore the magnificent Winchester Cathedral, delve into the city's rich heritage at the Winchester City Museum, and wander through tranquil green spaces like the Water Meadows.
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Kew Gardens
The best day trip from London for: outdoor enthusiasts.
How to get there from London: Take the London Underground or Overground to Kew Gardens Station (approx. 30 minutes).
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a tranquil retreat to Kew Gardens. Marvel at the diverse botanical collections, explore the treetop walkway for panoramic views and immerse yourself in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
via Getty Images
Woburn Abbey & Safari Park
The best day trip from London for: exotic animal encounters.
How to get there from London: Drive or take a train from London Euston to Milton Keynes Central, then a short taxi ride to Woburn (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
Experience the thrill of the wild with a visit to Woburn Abbey and Safari Park. Encounter exotic animals on safari, explore the stately home of the Duke and Duchess of Bedford, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque gardens.
via Simon Watson Photography
Blenheim Palace
The best day trip from London for: visiting the only non-royal, non-episcopal country house in England to hold the title of palace.
How to get there from London: Join a guided tour or drive from London (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
Step into the opulent world of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Admire the grandeur of the palace interiors, stroll through the stunning landscaped gardens, and embark on a scenic boat ride on the lake.
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Duxford Imperial War Museum
The best day trip from London for: witnessing Britain's largest aviation museum.
How to get there from London: Travel by train from London King's Cross to Cambridge, then a short taxi ride to Duxford (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
History buffs will be captivated by a visit to the Duxford Imperial War Museum. Explore vintage aircraft, tanks, and military vehicles, and gain insight into Britain's aviation and military history through interactive exhibits and immersive displays.
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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
The best day trip from London for: soaking up trees & flowers from around the globe.
How to get there from London: Take a train from London Waterloo to Kew Bridge station (approx. 30 minutes).
Lose yourself in the beauty of nature at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Wander through lush gardens, marvel at exotic plants from around the world, and enjoy a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
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Epping Forest
The best day trip from London for: reconnecting with nature.
How to get there from London: Catch a train from London Liverpool Street to Chingford station (approx. 30 minutes).
Reconnect with nature in the ancient woodlands of Epping Forest. Embark on scenic walks, spot diverse wildlife, and breathe in the fresh air as you explore this green oasis on London's doorstep.
via Getty Images
The New Forest, Hampshire
The best day trip from London for: being surrounded by nature's beauty.
How to get there from London: Join a guided tour or drive from London (approx. 2 hours).
Escape to the enchanting landscapes of the New Forest for a day of outdoor adventure. Hike or cycle through ancient woodlands, spot wild ponies roaming free and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature's beauty.
London Day Trips
With this comprehensive list of day trips from London, you're sure to find the perfect adventure to suit your interests and preferences. With these detailed travel instructions and highlights, you can easily plan your day trips from London and make the most of your time exploring the diverse landscapes, historical treasures, and cultural attractions that await beyond the city limits.
Remember, the key to a successful day trip is planning ahead. Be sure to check opening hours, book tickets in advance where necessary, and consider transportation options to make the most of your adventure. Whether you're craving culture, history, or nature, there's a day trip from London waiting to fulfil your wanderlust.
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