best train day trip from london

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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12 Best Day trips from London by train (+logistics, tips & maps)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 2, 2024

Are you planning to take some day trips from London by train but unsure where to go? Discover 12 of the very best places to visit by rail including practical tips, logistics, and things to do and see in each destination.

What better way to explore some of the most beautiful cities , towns, landmarks and attractions of England than to hop on a train from London for a day trip? While there are lots of sights and places to keep you busy in London we recommend (if you have time) adding some of these day trips into your itinerary.

With numerous destinations and places to go by train from London, how do you pick the right one/s for you?

In this guide, we have chosen 12 of the very best places to visit on a day trip by train from London. These are our top picks of the best tourist destinations, landmarks and sights you can visit on a one day trip from London.

If you prefer to avoid public transport discover our choice of the best day trips you can take from London on a tour.

To help plan your day we have included logistics and practical information about how to travel to each destination – which London station to depart from, the length of the journey, and the very best things to do and see in one day at each of the places.

You will also find a helpful map showing the location of each destination and route of each of these London day trips by train.

Good to know – if you plan to make multiple train trips from London it may be cost-effective to purchase a BritRail London Plus Pass which is valid on rail services in the South East of England. The BritRail London Plus pass is ideal for short journeys outside of London. Click here for more information about BritRail passes.

If you are pushed for time or nervous about travelling outside of London by train the best option for you may be to take a tour. Tours often visit several places so you can see more and make the most of your time especially if you have a limited number of days.

Find out more in our guide to the best day tours from London which includes the most popular tourist and sightseeing destinations including how to visit Harry Potter Studios from London .

Guide to UK Train Travel

Quick picks – summary of train trips from london.

One day in Oxford (Must see Oxford attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Oxford by train

One day in Cambridge (Must see Cambridge attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Cambridge by train

One day in the cotswolds (must-see cotswold attractions), logistics – how to get from london to moreton-in-marsh by train.

One day in Winchester (Must see Winchester attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Winchester by train

One day in Windsor (Must see Windsor attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Windsor by train

One day in St Albans (Must see St Albans attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to St Albans by train

One day in Brighton (Must see Brighton attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Brighton by train

One day in Bath (Must see Bath attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Bath by train

One day in Bristol (Must see Bristol attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Bristol by train

One day in Salisbury (Must see Salisbury attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Salisbury by train

One day in Canterbury (Must see Canterbury attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Canterbury by train

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon (Must see Stratford attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Stratford by train

Guide to uk train travel, how can i save money on train travel in the uk, more train travel suggestions for the uk, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks).

Are you excited but nervous about travelling by train in the UK? We have written a book to help you!

Our guide includes practical tips and information to ensure you make the most of your UK rail adventure (including where and how to buy tickets, information for your day of travel and 12 ‘done for you’ UK rail itineraries.)

You can read more about our ebook here.

*these times are for guidance only

Oxford is a great place to visit by train from London.

Good for – History | Architecture | Harry Potter fans

A journey time of just over an hour makes Oxford the perfect destination for an easy one-day train trip from London.

Once in Oxford, you will find the main attractions all located in the compact and very walkable city centre. Known as the “City of Spires” due to its beautiful skyline enjoy the beautiful architecture and fascinating history on your day trip to Oxford.

Oxford is a lovely city to visit by train from London.

One day in Oxford ( Must see Oxford attractions )

Oxford University

Founded in the 13th century Oxford University is one of the most famous universities in the world. Alumni include numerous international heads of state including 26 British Prime Ministers, Nobel prize winners, famous authors, and many well-known actors.

I recommend exploring the colleges on a walking tour to soak in the scholarly atmosphere of this famous seat of learning.

Oxford University is comprised of 38 colleges varying in size from the larger Magdelen and Christ Church Colleges to the smaller colleges such as Corpus Christi and Trinity.

Fans of Harry Potter movies may recognise some of the colleges which were used as film locations for many famous scenes.

Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest in Europe and the second-largest in the UK. It contains a collection of 12 million items – in fact, every book that has ever been printed in the UK and Ireland is located in the library!

Good to know – Most of Oxford’s walking tours include a visit to this famous library.

Radcliffe Camera

The interestingly named Radcliffe Camera houses Oxford University’s Science Library. This neo-classical style building was built between 1737 and 1749 and is beautiful both inside and out. It comprises part of the larger Bodleian Library.

The Covered Market

Opened in 1774 the market houses lots of shops and stalls to browse as well as a great choice of eateries. This is the place to stop for a coffee break or a bite to eat before resuming your exploration of Oxford.

Blenheim Palace

If you decide to spend a little longer in the city (Oxford is popular for weekend trips from London by train) I would highly recommend including a trip to Blenheim Palace in your itinerary. A short ride from Oxford by bus the palace was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is owned by the Duke of Marlborough.

One day in Cambridge ( Must see Cambridge attractions )

Take a punt along the River Cam. A great way to see the city and even better you can hire someone to do the punting for you so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views.

King’s College Chapel

Home of the largest vault ceiling in the world King’s College Chapel is an absolute must-see in Cambridge.

Of particular note is the Rood Screen (a large wooden screen that separates the nave from the altar) which Henry VIII gave his 2nd bride Anne Boleyn.

St John’s College, King’s College, Trinity College

Cambridge University like its main rival Oxford is also comprised of a number of colleges (31 to be exact)

St John’s, King’s, and Trinity College are just some of the colleges worth exploring.

The Cotswolds

Good for – Pretty villages | Countryside | Afternoon tea | Thatched cottages

The Cotswolds are not one place but actually an area stretching over 2000 km so if you are planning to visit from London I would recommend hiring a car and taking a road trip.

Tours of the Cotswolds are also available which include visits to most of the most picturesque and quaint towns and villages (plus include other attractions such as Oxford and Windsor on the way)

However, if you prefer to travel to what many consider England’s prettiest towns and villages independently it is possible to see some of the area by train.

The easiest destination to travel to by train from London is the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh which is located in the heart of the Cotswolds.

There are so many things to do and places to see in the Cotswolds it will be difficult to fit them all into one day. However, these are my recommendations if you arrive at Moreton-in-Marsh.

Market Day (Tuesday)

Arrive on a Tuesday and the town will be bustling with its weekly market. Enjoy a stroll through the market and purchase a souvenir or gift in one of the many shops before partaking in tea and cake at one of the many quaint cafes and teahouses.

Batsford Arboretum

Located 1.5 miles west of the town the arboretum is full of rare and endangered species from around the world. Tip – if you are visiting the area in spring don’t miss the Japanese cherry blossoms.

Chipping Campden

Located a short bus ride from Moreton is the pretty medieval Cotswold town of Chipping Campden. If honey-coloured buildings spring to mind when you think of the Cotswolds you will find them in abundance here. The famous Cotswolds Way also stretches for 100 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath but you will need a week to do that!

One day in Winchester ( Must see Winchester attractions )

Winchester Cathedral

As I mentioned above there is a lot to see in Winchester cathedral. I would recommend taking one of the tours to learn all about the history as it is so interesting. After his successful invasion of England William the Conquerer was crowned king in Winchester Cathedral in 1066.

Don’t miss Anthony Gormley’s sculpture Sound II in the crypt. If you are a fan of the novelist Jane Austen , who lived in Winchester, you will find her grave within the cathedral.

The Great Hall

The Great Hall is a 13th-century aisled hall that contains one of the most iconic symbols linked to the legends of King Arthur – the Round Table.

One day in Windsor ( Must see Windsor attractions )

Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of the Queen and also the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Look for the Royal Standard flying above the castle – it indicates that the Queen is at home.

St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle is where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wed in 2018.

Plan to spend 2 hours to visit the castle.

Frogmore House and Gardens

This grand country house is located within the grounds of Home Park in Windsor half a mile from the castle. The house and has belonged to the royal family since the 16th century.

Many members of the Royal family including Queen Victoria are buried in at Frogmore.

The house and grounds are open to the public on certain days of the year.

Frogmore Cottage located on the grounds is the English home of Prince Harry and Meghan and is a private residence and not open to the public.

Distance from London: 21 miles / 34 km
Time taken by train: 55 mins
Leave from: London Waterloo to Eton Riverside Station

Day trips by train from London London to Windsor 2

Good for – History lovers

The market town of St Albans in Hertfordshire is the closest city to London.

St Albans is only minutes from the capital (a 20-minute train ride from London St Pancras to be exact) which makes it an easy day trip if you want to only spend a few hours out of the capital.

St Albans was the site of the Roman settlement of Verulamium and remains which can be seen today include a Roman wall, theatre and impressive mosaics.

One day in St Albans ( Must see St Albans attractions )

St Albans Cathedral

St Albans Cathedral was built in 1077 and is the second largest cathedral in England (after Winchester) It is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in England.

Located in the cathedral is the shrine of St Alban after whom the city is named. Look for the medieval wall paintings that adorn the walls which are amongst the oldest in existence.

Verulamium Museum

If you have an interest in Roman history visiting the Verulamium Museum is a must. Filled with an extensive collection of ancient treasures and fine mosaics you can immerse yourself in Roman life as it was in England over 2000 years ago.

St Albans Abbey and Cathedral in the snow.

Distance from London: 19 miles / 30 km
Time taken by train: 30 mins
Leave from: London St Pancras International

Day trips by train from London London to St Albans 1

Brighton is the closest city to London located on the south coast of the UK . It has buckets of charm and character and is home to the fascinating and ostentatiously beautiful Brighton Pavilion .

This is one of the most popular train rides from London especially during the summer months when city dwellers head to the coast.

Plan a full day – enjoy the sights and take a break in one of the many bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from in Brighton.

A trip to enjoy the Seven Sisters Cliffs in the South Downs National Park is popular for visitors heading to the south coast – take a tour from Brighton to see these beautiful white cliffs.

One day in Brighton ( Must see Brighton attractions )

The Brighton Pavilion

Do not miss the chance to visit the Brighton Pavilion . Built by King George IV (during his time as Prince Regent) at a considerable cost the pavilion is opulently decorated and filled to the brim with exquisite furnishings.

Packed with plenty of restaurants, tea rooms, pubs, and shops the narrow alleyways that make up The Lanes are a shopper’s paradise.

Brighton Palace Pier

Opened in 1899 the famous pier is 525 metres long, Grade II listed, and an iconic symbol of Brighton.

One day in Bath ( Must see Bath attractions )

Visit the Roman Baths

Built over 2000 years ago the Roman Baths are one of England’s most popular tourist attractions. Plan at least 2 hours to explore the Roman Temple, Bath House, Sacred Spring, and museum.

The Grand Pump Room next to the Roman Baths serves refreshments including afternoon tea (book in advance)

Admire the Royal Crescent

This row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape is officially known as the Royal Crescent . Built between 1767 and 1774 the houses are a beautiful example of Georgian architecture.

Whilst some of the houses are private residences No.1 Royal Crescent is a museum and No. 16 is the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa.

Afterwards, take a boat ride along the River Avon to admire the shop-lined Poultney Bridge.

Read more – Bath in one day (complete itinerary)

Poultney Bridge in Bath England at night

Distance from London: 94 miles / 152 km
Time taken by train: 2 hours 28 mins
Leave from: London Paddington

Good for – Museums | Art | Street Art | Architecture

Bristol is synonymous with 2 very different famous figures – one is Isambard Kingdom Brunel who was of the most prolific mechanical and civil engineers in history and the other is the street artist and political activist known as Banksy .

One day in Bristol ( Must see Bristol attractions )

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Designed by Brunel this 150-year-old suspension bridge is a toll bridge linking Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.

Bristol Shopping Quarter

Visit the Bristol Shopping Quarte r home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes, and attractions – shop, eat, drink and enjoy!

Take a walking tour of Banksy’s art

If you are a fan of Banksy’s work I highly recommend doing one of 3 great free walking tours written by some Bristol locals to guide you around the work. Bristol’s city walls are covered in murals too.

Salisbury & Stonehenge

Good for – Architecture | Stonehenge | History lovers | Market

If you are planning a London day trip by train to visit the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge your first destination will be beautiful Salisbury.

This cathedral city has a market day every Tuesday held in the city centre. Salisbury Charter Market is held outdoors in all weathers throughout the year.

One day in Salisbury ( Must see Salisbury attractions )

Salisbury Cathedral

Not only a beautiful cathedral in its own right but also the home of one of only four Magna Carta documents in the world Salisbury Cathedral is a must-visit if you are in the city. Don’t miss the spire which is the tallest church spire in the UK.

Not far from Salisbury is one of England’s most famous and popular tourist attractions – Stonehenge . The ancient stone circle dates back thousands of years and is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments.

Good to know – There are no direct trains from London to Stonehenge. Once you arrive in Salisbury jump onto the Stonehenge Tour Bus at the train station for the transfer to Stonehenge.

Read more – A complete guide to visiting Stonehenge (and Salisbury)

Distance from London: 79 miles / 126 km
Time taken by train: 1 hour 33 mins

Day trips by train from London London to Salisbury 1 2

Good for – History |Museums | Tudor buildings

UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canterbury Cathedral was a place of Christian pilgrimage during the Middle Ages following the murder of Thomas Becket within its walls.

Founded in 597 AD Canterbury Cathedral is the headquarters of the Anglican Church .

Associated with the works of Middle Ages English poet and author Geoffrey Chaucer whose Canterbury Tales are a collection of 24 stories recounted by 30 pilgrims as they make their way to Canterbury.

One day in Canterbury ( Must see Canterbury attractions )

Visit Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral has a long and interesting history including surviving the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII and an extensive bombing campaign during WWII.

The Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Anglican community worldwide and the Archbishop of Canterbury presides at its head.

Stroll the medieval centre of Canterbury

The medieval centre of Canterbury is surrounded by ancient walls which were originally built by the Romans. Stroll through the medieval centre and admire its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Good for – History | Architecture | Theatre | Lovers of Shakespeare

Stratford-upon -Avon is famous as the birthplace and home of William Shakespeare (1564-1616 )

Good to know – For those interested to learn more about Shakespeare’s connections with the town we recommend taking the hop-on-hop-off bus tour .

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon ( Must see Stratford attractions )

Shakespeare’s birthplace

Visit the house where Shakespeare was born and raised. Located on Henley Street this is the home in which John and Mary Shakespeare raised 8 children!

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

The beautiful thatched cottage was the home of Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway . Located about a mile from Stratford it is included in the hop-on-hop-off bus routes around Stratford.

Church of the Holy Trinity

To see Shakespeare final resting place head to the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Read more – Stratford-upon-Avon Travel Guide

Shakespeare's garden cottage in Stratford upon Avon.

Distance from London: 83 miles / 133 km
Time taken by train: 2 hours 27 mins
Leave from: London Euston/ London Marylebone

Day trips by train from London London to Stratford upon Avon

FAQs & Tips for train travel in the UK

If this is your first time travelling by train in the UK we recommend that you read our complete guide to rail travel in the UK which contains practical, no-nonsense advice.

In it, you will find the answers to some of the commonly asked questions such as:

How and where do I purchase train tickets in the UK?
How do I know what platform the train leaves from?
How do I find my train carriage and seat?
How accessible are trains in the UK?
How will I know where to alight the train?

The guide was written by Doug Collins (one of the founders of this website) who worked in the UK rail industry for 25 years and travelled on nearly every line across the network.

Our guides to getting around London on public transport plus an article about the 9 main train stations in London (such as Kings Cross Station, Paddington Station and St Pancras International) and our complete guide to transportation options in the UK are also recommended reading.

Purchase a rail pass

Although train travel in the UK is not cheap there is a range of train passes and railcards and options available to make it more affordable for both visitors and UK residents.

Read more about the various train passes available for overseas visitors to the UK – read more about BritRail Passes here.

Purchase tickets in advance

Buy tickets as far in advance as possible as prices tend to rise near to the date of travel. Always check that there are no last-minute changes (such as train works*) on your day of travel.

I recommend buying train tickets for the UK from the trainline . They s ell tickets for all the rail companies in the UK and Europe (unlike Europe the rail network in the UK is privatised so there are numerous companies who organise trains across the UK.)

* During public holidays essential rail maintenance is completed so check before you book/ travel in case of any delays. Often the rail service is replaced by buses and this could add considerably to your travel time.

You can find more train travel inspiration for the UK in our guide to the top 10 rail journeys to take in Britain!

If you are a history lover you may also wish to visit some of the beautiful castles located near London including Windsor Castle, Warwick Castle , Dover Castle (why not see Dover’s famous white cliffs too?) or Sudeley Castle in the Cotswolds .

If you are adventurous it is possible to visit Paris (and see the Eiffel Tower or take a stroll along the Seine) from London for a day trip. This is one of the Eurostar day trips from London to consider (Amsterdam and Brussels are also possible) and while it is tiring I would say DO IT!

You can find out more about organising a trip to Paris from London in our guide here.

We also have more information about travelling on the Eurostar too.

London Travel Guide and itinerary planner.

19 Best Day Trips from London by Train

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 2, 2024

Looking for the best day trips from London by train? We have you covered! Discover 19 places to visit from London all within easy reach of the capital for a perfect day trip

What better way to explore some of England’s most beautiful towns and cities than to hop on a train from London for a day trip?

Day trips from London by train are easy , and if you book your train tickets in advance, they do not have to be too expensive. There are numerous day trips by train from London from which to choose. In this article, you will find a guide to my top 19. All are doable if you are staying in London (most less than two hours away by train)

I have chosen places within an easy train ride of the capital, with mainly direct services , that I would consider adding to any London itinerary . These are all easy day trips from London and, in my opinion, the best day trips from London by train.

Estimated times only

Stratford-upon-Avon

Tips for train travel in the uk.

University Heritage | Historic Pubs | Literary History

Oxford is a great city to visit on a one-day trip from London. Numerous trains are available daily, and the journey takes, on average, only one hour.

Once in Oxford, the main attractions are in the compact and very walkable city centre. With beautiful architecture and a fascinating history, there is lots to see and do on a day trip to Oxford.

Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km
Time taken by train: 1 hour
Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO OXFORD

Oxford is one of the best day trips from London by train.

What to see and do in Oxford

Oxford University

Oxford University is one of the most famous universities in the world. Founded in the 13th century, it is composed of 38 colleges. Its alumni include numerous international heads of state, including 26 British Prime Ministers, Nobel prize winners, famous authors, and many well-known actors.

I would recommend wandering around the colleges on a walking tour and soaking in the scholarly atmosphere of this famous seat of learning.

The colleges vary in size, from the larger Magdelen and Christ Church Colleges to the smaller Corpus Christi and Trinity Colleges.

If you are a Harry Potter fan, some colleges may seem familiar as they were used as film locations for many of the famous scenes in the Harry Potter movies.

Bodleian Library

The library is one of the oldest in Europe and the second largest in the UK. There are various tours of the library available which you can book via the link at the bottom of this section.

Radcliffe Camera

The interestingly named Radcliffe Camera houses Oxford University’s Science Library. Built in 1737-49 in the neo-classical style, it is beautiful inside and out and part of the larger Bodleian Library.

The Covered Market

Opened in 1774, the market houses many shops and stalls to browse and a great choice of eateries. It is the place to stop for a coffee break or a bite to eat before resuming your exploration of Oxford.

Blenheim Palace

If you decide to spend more than a day in Oxford, I recommend a trip to Blenheim Palace. The Palace is the home of the Duke of Marlborough, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, and a UK UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Learn more – Oxford Travel Guide

University sights | River punting | Historic Churches

Cambridge, the location of another famous university (and Oxford’s rival in the boat race each year), is also only an hour from London by train.

It is also compact and perfect for walking with lots to see and do.

Distance from London: 49 miles/ 79 km
Time taken by train: 1 hour 17 mins
Leave from: London King’s Cross/ London Liverpool Street

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO CAMBRIDGE

What to see and do in Cambridge

Take a punt along the River Cam. It’s a great way to see the city; even better, you can hire someone to do the punting for you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views.

King’s College Chapel

Home to the largest vault ceiling in the world, King’s College Chapel is a must-visit place in Cambridge. If you are a fan of English history, don’t miss the Rood Screen (a large wooden screen that separates the nave from the altar), which Henry VIII gave his second bride, Anne Boleyn.

St John’s College, King’s College, Trinity College

Cambridge University, like its main rival, Oxford, comprises several colleges (31) worth exploring. St John’s, King’s, and Trinity College are just some of the colleges to see.

Learn more – Cambridge Travel Guide

Coastal landscapes | War history | Castles

Dover, on the southeast coast of England, is an iconic spot. The famous White Cliffs are a British landmark, symbolising the defence of the British Isles. Pre-air travel, the white cliffs provided travellers from the continent with their first glimpse of the UK.

From London, you can get to Dover in just under two hours by direct train from Victoria Station. Apart from the White Cliffs, places to visit include Dover Castle, St. Margaret’s Bay Beach, and Fan Bay Deep Shelter.

Organised tours to Dover from London often include Canterbury, the capital city of Kent with a famous cathedral.

Distance from London: 77 miles / 124 km
Time taken by train: 1 hour 58 minutes
Leave from: London Victoria

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO DOVER

What to see and do in Dover

White Cliffs of Dover

Facing the English Channel and France, the White Cliffs must be seen when in Dover. At 350 feet high, it’s chalk streaked with black flint that gives the cliffs their characteristic appearance. Perhaps best of all, you don’t need to pay to walk on them.

Fan Bay Deep Shelter

Also at the White Cliffs site is Fan Bay Deep Shelter, a network of World War II tunnels. They were built between late 1940 and early 1941, 23 metres underground. You do need to pay admission to see the former accommodation for Fan Bay Battery artillery battery.

Dover Castle

Medieval Dover Castle dates back to the 11th century. It’s worth visiting for the commanding clifftop position alone, and rivals Windsor for the title of England’s biggest castle. Allow at least three hours to explore all the site has to offer.

St. Margaret’s Bay beach

Forming part of the Saxon Shore Way, St. Margaret’s Bay beach offers an escape from the city. As well as stunning views over the iconic Kent coastline, of course.

Read more – Day trips from London to Dover

Medieval architecture | Ancient cathedral | Christmas market

Winchester is home to one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Founded in 1079 the structure has been remodelled over the centuries and has Romanesque and Gothic styles throughout. It is also famously the resting place of Jane Austen.

There is a lot to see just in the cathedral itself, including exploring the crypt, home to Anthony Gormley’s famous sculpture Sound II, visiting Jane Austen’s grave, and admiring the Winchester Bible, an 800-year-old manuscript. Again, this is an easy day trip from London by train.

Distance from London: 60 miles / 96 km
Time taken by train: 1 hour 14 mins
Leave from: London Waterloo

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO WINCHESTER

What to see and do in Winchester

Winchester Cathedral

As I mentioned above, there is a lot to see in Winchester Cathedral. I would recommend taking one of the tours to learn all about the history, as it is so interesting. After his successful invasion of England, William the Conqueror was crowned king in Winchester Cathedral in 1066.

Also, don’t miss Anthony Gormley’s Sound II sculpture in the crypt. If you are a fan of the novelist Jane Austen, who lived in Winchester, you will find her grave in the cathedral.

The Great Hall

The Great Hall is a 13th-century aisled hall that contains one of the most iconic symbols linked to the legends of King Arthur – the Round Table.

What to see and do in York

York Minster

York Minster is one of the most breathtaking cathedrals in Britain. The site is also central to religion in the north of England. Its age is why it’s known as a minster rather than a cathedral, as the latter term wasn’t used during Anglo-Saxon times. The minster dates back to the 600s.

City Walls

York’s city walls are said to be more intact than any others in England. Stretching for over two miles (3.4 kilometres), they encircle the city. They are also known as the Roman walls, or the Bar Walls. You can access them year-round, on foot, for free.

York Castle Museum

You can discover hundreds of years of history at York Castle Museum. It occupies the site of York Castle, which was constructed in 1068 by William the Conqueror. The recreated Victorian Street is one of the big draws for both kids and adults.

JORVIK Viking Centre

Head here if you want to know about Viking life in York. A ride through the city of Jorvik is an immersive way to experience the past.

What to see and do in Liverpool

Pay homage to the Beatles – Take the Magical Mystery Tour, have a selfie with the Beatles statues and visit the Beatles Story
Take a stroll around Albert Dock, which is packed with museums, cafes, and the Tate Modern!
Explore Liverpool Cathedral, famous for its beautiful architecture

Canalside areas | Football fans | Industrial History

Manchester prides itself on being England’s second city after London—though people from Birmingham do have something to say about that! Whether it is or not, it’s packed with things to see and do. The BBC moving much of its operations from London to MediaCity at Salford Quays also put Manchester and Salford—actually a separate adjoining city—on the map.

Top Manchester attractions include the superb Museum of Science & Industry, the canalside heritage Castlefield area, and the huge, famous football stadiums. In Salford, the quays offer lots to see, too. You can get to Manchester by train from London in as little as two-and-a-quarter hours.

Time taken by train: 2 hours 12 minutes

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO MANCHESTER

What to see and do in Manchester

Castlefield

Castlefield is a lovely place to wander around. There are plenty of waterside places to eat and drink, plus the remains of the Roman fort of Mamucium. This industrial area is rich in Roman and local history, and strolling by the canals can be very relaxing.

Museum of Science & Industry

With an emphasis on local advancements in science, industry, and technology, this respected museum is well worth anyone’s time. It’s also free to enter.

Salford Quays

Salford Quays is also by the water and home to the BBC’s flagship MediaCity. The Lowry, named after a famous local artist, is also here, along with lots of entertainment, dining and drinking venues, and hotels.

City of Manchester or Old Trafford stadiums

No football (or soccer) fan’s trip would be complete without visiting the home of Manchester City or Manchester United!

What to see and do in Birmingham

Visit the Bullring

If you enjoy shopping, you will find many great shops and shopping centres in Birmingham’s Bullring.

Cadbury World and Bourneville

If you enjoy chocolate, visiting Cadbury World is a must when heading to Birmingham! The quant village of Bourneville was created to house the workers at the chocolate factory and is an example of a Victoria model village.

What to see and do in Portsmouth

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, with several historic ships and buildings, forms part of HM Naval Base Portsmouth. Here, you can see HMS Victory, the Mary Rose, HMS Warrior, and the National Museum of the Royal Navy.

Spinnaker Tower

The 170-metre Spinnaker Tower is the symbol of Portsmouth’s redeveloped waterfront. The so-called Sail of the Solent observation tower offers spectacular views. The Spinnaker Kitchen and Bar also serves food and drinks.

Gunwharf Quays

If you feel like a spot of shopping, Gunwharf Quays offers a good range of discounted outlet retailers, plus places to eat.

Hear more – Discovering Portsmouth UK Travel Planning Podcast Episode

Beachfront leisure | Lively nightlife | Pier attractions

Brighton is one of my favourite cities to visit in the UK and one of the best places to visit in East Sussex . It has loads of charm and character and is also home to one of the most amazing buildings I have ever seen – the Brighton Pavilion .

There are also lots of great restaurants and cafes to choose from in Brighton.

Distance from London: 65 miles/ 105 kms
Time taken by train: 1 hour 10 mins direct service
Leave from: London Victoria / London Bridge

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO BRIGHTON

What to see and do in Brighton

The Brighton Pavilion

Do not miss the chance to visit the Brighton Pavilion . Built by King George IV (during his time as Prince Regent) at considerable cost the pavilion is opulently decorated and filled to the brim with exquisite furnishings. It is really incredible and I had no idea until I visited just how beautiful it was.

Brighton has a great atmosphere and there is no-where better to enjoy this than in The Lanes . Packed with restaurants, tea rooms, pubs and shops these narrow alleyways are a shopper’s paradise.

Brighton Palace Pier

The pier in Brighton is Grade II listed and was opened in 1899. It is 525 meters long and is an iconic symbol of Brighton

Roman baths | Georgian architecture | Spa town heritage

Bath is another wonderful city to visit. Although a little further taking on average 2 and a half hours by train from London it is a hugely popular destination and absolutely worth a day trip (at the very least)

Distance from London: 94 miles/ 152 kms
Time taken by train: 2 hours 28 mins
Leave from: London Paddington

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO BATH

What to see and do in Bath

Visit the Roman Baths

Built over 2000 years ago the Roman Baths are one of England’s top tourist attractions. Ensure you have at least 2 hours to explore the Roman Temple, Bath House, Sacred Spring and museum.

Don’t miss the Grand Pump Room which is next to the Baths and serves refreshments including afternoon tea.

Admire the Royal Crescent

This row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape is officially known as the Royal Crescent . Built between 1767 and 1774 they are a beautiful example of Georgian architecture and incredibly expensive to buy!

Learn more – What to do and see in Bath

Harbour attractions | Street art | Engineering marvels

Bristol is synonymous with the work of Isambard Kingdom Brunel one of the most prolific mechanical and civil engineers in history. He built bridges and tunnels and steamships and railways and was one of the greatest figures during the Industrial Revolution.

21st century Bristol is a great place for shopping with loads of independent retailers to enjoy. Food and drink is also topnotch in Bristol with numerous restaurants and cafes to choose from.

It is also the home of Banksy.

Distance from London: 106 miles (171 km)
Time taken by train: Approx 1 hour 30 mins
Leave from: Paddington

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO BRISTOL

What to see and do in Bristol

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Designed by Brunel, this 150-year-old suspension bridge is a toll bridge linking Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.

For those of you with an interest in engineering, free tours operate at 3 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays between Easter and October!

Bristol Shopping Quarter

Visit the Bristol Shopping Quarte r , home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes and attractions – shop, eat, drink and enjoy!

Learn more – Bristol Travel Guide

Gothic Cathedral | Close to Stonehenge | Quaint streets

Salisbury offers visitors a unique blend of historical and cultural experiences. The city is renowned for its magnificent cathedral, which has the tallest church spire in the UK.

Nearby, you can explore the ancient ruins of Old Sarum and the world-famous Stonehenge.

Distance from London: 88 miles/ 142 kms
Time taken by train: 1 hour 30 mins
Leave from: Waterloo

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO SALISBURY

What to see and do in Salisbury

Salisbury Cathedral

One of England’s most popular tourist attractions is not far from Salisbury – Stonehenge . This ancient stone circle has existed for thousands of years and is probably the world’s most famous prehistoric monument.

There is a Stonehenge Tour Bus at the train station, which will take you to Stonehenge. Click here to find out more about visiting Stonehenge .

Learn more – Salisbury Travel Guide

Storied Cathedral | Chaucer’s Tales | Pilgrimage site

Wander through Canterbury and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into the pages of a storybook. This enchanting city is not only famed for its stunning Canterbury Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, but it’s also the setting of Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales,” which brings its rich history to life.

Take a walk along the cobblestone streets, past the ancient Roman walls and alongside the tranquil River Stour, and you’ll quickly see why Canterbury’s blend of history and charm makes it a popular day trip from London.

Distance from London: 61 miles/ 98 kms
Leave from: St Pancras International (The Javelin) to Canterbury West

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO CANTERBURY

What to see and do in Canterbury

Visit Canterbury Cathedral

The Archbishop of Canterbury is the head of the Church of England and Anglican Church worldwide.

The Cathedra l has a long and interesting history including surviving the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII and an extensive bombing campaign during WWII.

Stroll the medieval centre of Canterbury

The medieval centre of Canterbury is surrounded by ancient walls that were originally built by the Romans. Stroll through the medieval centre and admire its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses.

Shakespeare’s birthplace | Theatrical performances | Elizabethan architecture

Another popular day trip from London by train is to Stratford-upon-Avon -Avon. Famous as the birthplace and home of William Shakespeare (1564-1616 ), Stratford-upon-Avon is a little under two and a half hours from London.

If you want to learn more about the Bard of Avon, this is the place to come. Hop-on, hop-off bus tours are available, and they are the best way to see all the sights.

Distance from London: 83 miles/ 133 km
Time taken by train: 2 hours 27 mins
Leave from: London Marylebone/ London Euston

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO STRATFORD-UPON-AVON

What to see and do in Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare’s birthplace

You can visit the house where Shakespeare was born and raised.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

The beautiful thatched cottage that was the home of Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway is located about a mile from Stratford and is included in the hop-on hop-off bus routes around Stratford.

Church of the Holy Trinity

Birth, marriage and death. If you want to see where Shakespeare is buried head to the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Read more – Stratford upon Avon Travel Guide

A Royal Castle | A Great Park | St. George’s Chapel

Windsor is simply unmissable if you have even the remotest interest in British royalty – and all the pomp and pageantry that goes with it. Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest at St. George’s Chapel here, and the castle itself has so much to see. The glorious grounds and Windsor Great Park also offer plenty of green space.

Eton College – the UK’s most prestigious private school – is close to central Windsor, too. You can get there by train from Paddington or Victoria, arriving at either Windsor & Eton Riverside, or Windsor & Eton Central.

Distance from London: 25 miles / 40 km
Time taken by train: 30 minutes
Leave from: London Victoria or Paddington

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO WINDSOR

One day in Windsor (Must-see Windsor attractions)

Windsor Castle

The castle is what most people come to Windsor for. Don’t miss St. George’s Chapel, Queen Elizabeth II’s final resting place. Other key attractions include Queen Mary’s Dolls House, the State Apartments, the Semi-State Rooms, and the Moat Room.

Changing of the Guard

You can witness the Changing of the Guard in Windsor at around 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Check before you travel, as the ceremony can be cancelled due to bad weather, or for other reasons.

Windsor Great Park

You can truly escape the city, look out for other royal residences, and even spot deer at Windsor Great Park. Take the historic oak-lined, two-and-a-half mile Long Walk to pass through Deer Park.

Read more – Getting to Windsor Castle from London

Magnificent castle | Historic hospital | Collegiate church

Warwick Castle is one of the loveliest castles in the UK, making the Midlands city a must for fortress fans. Some people also like to combine Warwick with Stratford-upon-Avon, William Shakespeare’s birthplace. Other historic sites in the city include the Collegiate Church of St. Mary and Lord Leycester Hospital.

You can get to Warwick by train from Marylebone station in London, and the trip takes around an hour-and-a-quarter.

Distance from London: 83 miles (133 km)
Time taken by train: 1 hour 15 mins
Leave from: Marylebone

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO WARWICK

One day in Warwick (Must see Warwick attractions)

Warwick Castle

Once built from wood, Warwick Castle was rebuilt during the 12th century, this time in stone. Today, it showcases around 1,000 years of history. The mediaeval architecture, spooky dungeons and majestic interiors attract visitors of all ages.

Collegiate Church of St. Mary

The tower of this large church dominates the Warwick skyline. It dates back to the 12th century, is overseen by secular clergy, and still plays a key role in city life.

Lord Leycester Hospital

Grade I listed Lord Leycester Hospital next to the West Gate, on High Street in Warwick is one of England’s finest examples of mediaeval courtyard architecture. It’s also a charity for ex-servicemen.

Roman remains | Exploring on foot | Shopping and dining

A Roman fortress built during the 1st century A.D. formed the basis for where the city of Chester now stands. In northwest England, it lies close to both Manchester and Liverpool. Chester is mainly known for Roman remains and half-timbered, Tudor-style architecture.

Chester is a compact city that’s easy to explore on foot and packed with ancient sites. It is also popular for shopping and dining out. The fast, direct train service from London Euston takes just over two hours.

Distance from London: 210 miles / 338 km
Time taken by train: 2 hours 3 minutes
Leave from: London Euston

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO CHESTER

One day in Chester (Must see Chester attractions)

Roman Walls

After building their fortress here, the Romans then added Chester city walls to defend it. Sections of the astonishingly well-preserved walls are nearly 2,000 years old, and you can access them at any time. Completing the circle gives you sweeping views over the city.

Roman Amphitheatre

Chester Roman Amphitheatre is the biggest in Britain. Its remains are centrally located, open during daylight hours, and free to enter. It was used by the Romans for military training as well as entertainment, and the design differs from others in England.

Chester Rows add character and interest to the streets, distinguishing Chester from other British cities. The half-timbered galleries are unique to Chester, and very Instagrammable indeed. Some date back as far as the 13th century.

One day in Paris (Must see Paris attractions)

Eiffel Tower

The wrought-iron tower designed and built by Gustave Eiffel is a global icon. At 330 metres tall, there are magnificent city views from the top floor. It’s a must-visit when in Paris.

The Louvre is one of the world’s most famous and respected art galleries. It’s renowned as the home of the Mona Lisa, which is carefully screened behind thick, bullet-proof glass. The other artworks, the architecture of the building, and the ceiling frescoes are also incredibly impressive.

River Seine

The River Seine flows through the centre of Paris, and many city icons and attractions can be found on or close to its banks. Take a boat trip to see the French capital from the water, or wander along by the water to see where the day takes you.

Notre-Dame cathedral

The mediaeval Notre-Dame de Paris is a stunning example of French Gothic architecture. It’s currently being rebuilt following a fire in 2019, but is still worth a look – not least as seeing the reconstruction means witnessing history taking shape.

Read more – Getting from London to Paris

If you’re new to train travel in the UK and wondering how to buy tickets or catch a train, check out our Guide to UK Train Travel ebook.

Here are some quick tips to help you get started:

Buy Early: Secure your tickets in advance to get better prices.
Choose the right pass: Look into different railcards and passes to save money.
Check for updates: Always confirm your travel plans right before you leave to avoid any surprises due to schedule changes.
Ticket purchasing: I suggest using thetrainline.com for an easy booking experience as they cover all UK rail companies.
Travelling during holidays and weekends: Be mindful of public holidays when maintenance might affect your plans with potential delays or bus replacements.

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33 easy day trips from london by train.

Are you looking for the best day trips from London by train?

Then you’ve come to the right place. I’m a Londoner born and bred and am excited to share my favourite places to visit from London by train.

Whether you want to breathe in a lungful of sea air or explore more of England’s history, here are some fabulous London day trips by train.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

Best Day Trips Within a 1 Hour Train Journey from London

Are you looking for the best short trips from London by train? Here is my pick of the best destinations that are less than an hour from London.

1. Cambridge

Fastest journey time: 50 minutes via Great Northern
From London Kings Cross

college buildings in cambridge around a grass quadrangle

Cambridge may be best known as home to the famous university, but it has much more to offer. And as the train ride from London to Cambridge is under 1 hour, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of the train station, it is one of the easiest day trips from London by train.

Cambridge University was founded in 1209 and has 31 colleges. It’s the second oldest university in the English-speaking world.

Try to visit at least one college if you can. Better still, join a walking tour of the colleges led by a former student. My favourites are King’s College, St. John’s, and Trinity College.

King’s College Chapel has some of the most beautiful stained glass you will ever see. At Trinity College , don’t miss the Wren Library , designed by Christopher Wren, who also designed St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Additionally, the University has eight museums that are free and open to the public.

My favourites are the Fitzwilliam and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology . The Fitzwilliam reminds me of a smaller version of the British Museum in London because it has a diverse collection.

If the weather behaves during your day trip to Cambridge , try punting on the Cam River .

Punting uses a boat similar to a gondola, where you stand on the back to paddle, but you use a pole instead of an oar. If you’re not brave enough to try it on your own, you can hire someone else to do the punting or go on a punting tour through the lovely area known as The Backs .

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A CAMBRIDGE PUNTING TOUR

By Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

Fastest journey time: 50 minutes via Great Western Railway
From London Paddington

aerial view of spires and domes of oxford university

An Oxford day trip from London is perfect for history and literature buffs.

Oxford is best known for the university that shares its name.

Walk in the footsteps of greats like C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien and start your day by exploring Oxford’s colleges. You’ll be able to see where masterworks like Alice in Wonderland were written and the inspiration for the Narnia books, not to mention some of the Harry Potter film locations.

Its landmarks include the Bridge of Sigh s and Radcliff Camera . Once you’ve had your fill of the colleges there’s still plenty left to do.

Oxford is home to a number of first-rate museums like the Natural History Museum , the Ashmolean and the Pitt Rivers Museum, which is unique in that it catalogues its items by item type as opposed to age or geography.

Make sure to stop by the Oxford Covered Market for some local goods, and to climb to the top of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin for a panoramic view of Oxford.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK AN OXFORD UNIVERSITY & CITY WALKING TOUR

By Liliane of My Toronto, My World

3. St. Albans

Fastest journey time: 20 minutes via Thameslink
From London St. Pancras International

panoramic view of rooftops and cathedral in st albans hertfordshire

If you are looking for a historic day trip outside London, visit St Albans , a charming city located northwest of London. It’s less than 20 minutes by train from London.

Its crown jewel is St. Albans Cathedral , a architectural marvel with a rich a history spanning over a thousand years. Beyond the cathedral, there are many beautiful medieval buildings, cute cafes and a market, where you can buy local homemade produce.

Verulamium is situated in Verulamium Park, close to the city centre. Albans. These well-preserved Roman ruins include the city walls, hypocaust (underfloor heating system), mosaics and the Roman theatre.

If you have a bit more time, before going back to London, visit Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, the oldest pub in Great Britain . A very British way to finish your day out.

By Darek of DarekandGosia

4. Colchester

Fastest journey time: 45 minutes via Greater Anglia
From London Liverpool St.

Colchester is another excellent day trip from London by train for history buffs.

This is England’s oldest recorded town and is the site of the only Roman circus in England . It is home to a host of other Roman remains, including one of the most intact Roman walls in the country. There’s even a pub (the Hole in the Wall) built into part of it!

Colchester Castle ‘s keep dates from 1076, but the dungeons of the castle contain the foundations of the Roman temple of Claudius.

The museum here is well worth a visit as it contains a number of key finds, including a Roman treasure hoard that was excavated during renovations of a department store on the high street. There’s also an 11 th Century Augustine priory, St Botolphs , that is free to visit.

There are several free walking tours to take in Colchester . All of these are downloadable with maps; some have audio guides.

When you’re ready for a break you should head to the Tiptree Jam Tea Room . Tiptree Jam is local to Colchester but is famous the world over.

By Sarah of ASocialNomad

5. Hampton Court

Fastest direct journey time: 35 minutes via South Western Railway
From London Waterloo

large statue overlooking wide red brick exterior of hampton court palace

Hampton Court is one of the great buildings of England . Most people visit to look around the palace of King Henry VIII , the most notorious English monarch of all, who had a penchant for chopping off his spouses’ heads. But this is only the half of it.

Henry’s palace is magnificent, one of the high points of Tudor architecture. This was among the very last Gothic buildings in England, and the Great Hall is hugely impressive.

It’s also possible to look around the State Apartments and Haunted Gallery , where Catherine Howard’s ghost is said to run screaming for mercy, knowing that execution was likely to be her fate.

Hampton Court has a superb Baroque palace and gardens , added by King William III and Mary who reigned from 1689 to 1702. This is one of the finest Baroque buildings in England, along with the likes of St Paul’s Cathedral in the centre of London.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR FAST-TRACK TICKET

By David of Delve Into Europe

6. Harry Potter Studios

Fastest journey time: 15 minutes to Watford Junction Station via West Midlands Railway and then a shuttle bus to the studio
From London Euston

Calling all Potterheads! If you are a Muggle craving to discover the world of Harry Potter in London , take a day trip to the Harry Potter Studios.

Harry Potter was mainly filmed at the Warner Bros Studios in Watford. Hop on a train from Euston or Victoria to Watford Junction. From the station, the Harry Potter shuttle bus will take you straight to the studios.

When you buy your ticket , you will have to choose a slot. I recommend you book the first one available.

Once you are in the studios, you are free to stay as long as you want so the earlier you get there, the longer you can stay. On average, visitors stay four hours.

You will see many sets such as the dining hall, the Gryffindor common room and the Gringott bank, in addition to many costumes. More importantly, you will discover how the movies were made. Everything from training animals to prosthetic makeup.

There are a couple of restaurants on site. You can even buy butterbeer!

The Warner Bros studios are a truly magical experience (whether you are a Harry Potter fan or not). The best day trip from London by train for all you Muggles out there!

If you want someone to take care of all of the arrangements for you, why not buy your skip-the-line ticket with a transfer from London? Click here to book.

By Pauline of BeeLoved City

7. Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

Fastest journey time: 40 minutes to Newbury station via Great Western Railway and then a 15-minute taxi ride to Highclere Castle

exterior of a grand stately home on a sunny day

Downton Abbey fans will delight at the opportunity to visit the famous Highclere Castle where the series was filmed.

The castle was established in 749 and rebuilt in the 17th century when it was purchased by the grandfather of the current Earl of Carnarvon (who still resides there with his wife). Just as in the Downton Abbey series, Highclere Castle served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during World War I. During World War II, it was home to evacuees.

Due to popularity, Highclere Castle entrance tickets can be challenging to secure so be sure to book well ahead if you’re visiting independently. Alternatively, plan to spend the night nearby and arrive bright and early for first dibs on tickets.

An easier option is to visit Highclere Castle on an organised day trip from London as the admission ticket will be included.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

By Chris of Explore Now or Never

8. Rochester

Fastest journey time: 40 minutes via Southeastern
From London Victoria (services also leave from London St. Pancras International)

rochester castle kent under deep blue sky

Rochester in Kent is one of the easiest places to visit near London by train as well as one of the most rewarding.

The majestic Rochester Cathedral is the second oldest medieval church and also the second most visited pilgrimage site in England.

Charles Dickens lived in nearby Higham and based many of his novels in the area. Stop by the friendly Tourist Information Office and pick up a Charles Dickens trail map for a small fee. Information boards marking key sights on this self-guided walk will also point the way.

Finally, don’t leave town before visiting Rochester Castle . Although just the carcass of the original building remains, the castle’s 12 th Century stone tower is reputed to be one of the best-preserved in England and there are great views from the top.

Fastest journey time: 30 minutes via Great Western Railway
From London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central (change at Slough)

As the favourite weekend home of the late Queen Elizabeth II, Windsor is one of the best-known cities in the UK and is one of Europe’s most stunning palaces .

The city of Windsor was established by William the Conqueror in the 11th Century and is home to just under 1,000 residents. Situated just 25 minutes from the capital, this historic town is one of the easiest day trips by train from London.

But there is more to see in Windsor than its castle and St. George’s Chapel . Explore Windsor Great Park , the former private royal hunting ground, or Guildhall , where Charles and Camilla wed. There’s St. John the Baptist Church , originally built in the 12th Century and reconstructed in 1810.

Runnymede , where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215, is nearby. Cliveden House , a three-story Italianate mansion, just 15 minutes north of Windsor, is where the works of Charles Barry reside.

Finally, there’s the Royal Windsor Horse Show that is held each May.

If you’re uncertain of what to see or where to go, there are various day tours of both the city and river to give an overall view of the beautiful sites to be found in Windsor.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET

By Erin of Traveling Thru History

10. Winchester

Fastest journey time: 1 hour via South Western Railway

Visit Winchester for a fun-filled day trip by train from London. Winchester station is roughly a five-minute walk to the town centre (downhill on the way there; ten minutes uphill on the way back!).

This historic city is one of the oldest in the UK and has picturesque cobbled streets, historic buildings and one of the most famous cathedrals in the country.

Some of the best things to do in Winchester include:

Winchester Cathedral . Some very famous people are buried here- including Jane Austen. You can also see one of the oldest Bibles in the world
Shopping! Winchester has some great shops on and around the high street.
Mizmaze . On the outskirts of Winchester is a very old turf maze that you can try and navigate. Well worth a visit if you have time
Visit the Christmas market . If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in November or December, you must go to the Winchester Christmas Market . There are hundreds of stalls and even an ice rink.

By Kat of Wandering Bird

11. Bletchley Park

Fastest journey time: 30 minutes (to Milton Keynes Central) via Avanti West Coast

exterior of large country home of bletchley park

Bletchley Park , the home of the WWII code breakers , is a fascinating glimpse into the work of these heroes and of the early days of computers. See the iconic code-breaker huts and learn more about the work of Alan Turing and his group of code-breakers who cracked the German’s Enigma code machine , instrumental in winning the war for the British and Allied troops.

The estate comprises some 581 acres and the house on the site contained many WWII secrets whilst pretending to be a luxury getaway for some of Britain’s most brilliant minds. In the house are displays of the rooms just as they were used during the war and it feels like the people just left that day.

You can tour the huts that Turing and the code-breakers used and see how they broke Enigma.

Within the estate is the National Museum of Computing where you can try your hand at code-breaking puzzles and explore how computers have changed the world.

Take a picnic and enjoy the grounds and the small lake where children can feed the ducks. And for adults? You can have a gin and tonic in the sunshine and dance to some retro 1940s or jazz-age music on the lawns in front of the house.

By Faith of XYU And Beyond

12. Canterbury

Fastest journey time: 55 minutes (to Canterbury West) via Southeastern
From London St Pancras International

old stone buildings and 2 towers by side of river

Travelling from London to Canterbury is certainly not a new idea. Londoners have been making the trip for the past 1,000 years or so, although it wasn’t always possible as a day trip.

Originally, Christian pilgrims made the arduous journey on foot to Canterbury Cathedral , more specifically to the spot inside the Cathedral where Thomas Becket was murdered. This popular journey was the inspiration for Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales , one of the greatest works of English literature.

Nowadays, you can hop on a train in London and be in Canterbury in less than 1 hour. One thing that hasn’t changed much, though, is the imposing Cathedral.

Whilst it is the city’s main attraction, it’s not the only thing to see while you’re in Canterbury. St. Martin’s Church and St. Augustine’s Abbey are two other historic religious buildings that are also worth a visit.

A good option for lunch is the Lady Luck, which bills itself as a “rock ‘n’ roll pub”. They offer vegan as well as meaty versions of traditional pub grub, so it’s a great choice for vegan visitors to Canterbury .

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

13. Brighton

Fastest journey time: 1 hour via the Gatwick Express. However, this is more expensive than the service run by Thameslink which takes 1 hour 10 minutes.
From London Victoria, London Blackfriars or London Bridge

people relaxing on brighton beach with pier in background

Brighton, on England’s south coast, is one of the most popular train trips from London.

Home to the UK’s largest Jedi population (!), Brighton is blessed with a broad shingle beach, a cool bohemian air and one extraordinary building.

The Royal Pavilion is the opulent Victorian pleasure palace of Prince George, later Prince Regent and then King George IV. Indian on the outside and Chinese on the inside, it is as extravagant and eccentric as its first occupant and seems oddly out of place in an English seaside town. You can grab your skip-the-line ticket here .

Brighton Pier is a prime example of an Edwardian pier. Take a stroll along its length, fill your face with candy floss and try your luck in one of its amusement arcades.

Finally, Brighton is a first-class shopping destination. The Lanes are home to independent shops, including some good antique shops, jewellery shops and boutiques.

14. Epping Forest

Are you looking for another destination near London to get closer to nature?

Located on the northeastern outskirts of London, Epping Forest is a fabulous walking destination at any time of year. However, it is at its best in autumn when its plants and trees are transformed into multi-colour works of art.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or something more vigorous, Epping Forest’s 8,000 acres offer a dizzying choice of walking trails , nine of which are waymarked circular trails. These range in distance between 1.25 and 6.6 miles, and most start close to parking and train stations.

To reach these ancient woodlands take the Overground train from Liverpool Street to Chingford or London Underground’s Central Line to Chigwell, Roding Valley, Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, Debden, Theydon Bois or Epping.

READ THIS NEXT: Easy Epping Forest Walks

15. Mayfield Lavender Farm

lavender field against blue sky with a few clouds

On the outskirts of the capital lies South London’s purple paradise.

Instagram heaven, Mayfield Lavender Farm is a full-blown assault on the senses but in a good way. Wander through a sprawling field of purple flowers, the air perfumed with the soporific scent of lavender.

If you are feeling peckish, treat yourself to a lavender-themed afternoon tea overlooking a sea of purple.

Thirsty? This is your opportunity to sample lavender cider.

For a tasteful gift, pick up homemade lavender products, including soaps and jams, at the gift shop.

Lavender blooming season runs from June through to late August, with peak bloom around mid-July. Check Mayfield Lavender ’s website for flower updates and opening hours.

To reach Mayfield Lavender Farm, take a train from London Victoria to West Croydon and then hop on the 166 bus to the farm. A note of caution though; this route can get very busy at weekends (I walked back one stop to make sure I was able to board the bus).

Alternatively, catch a train from London Victoria to Sutton or Cheam and then take a cab/minicab to the farm (this is the fastest route but more expensive).

More Easy Day Trips from London by Train

Whether you are looking for a day at the seaside or want to explore one of England’s cool cities, here are some more fabulous places near London. Many of my favourites are here, including Rye, Liverpool (also a fabulous weekend break) and lovely Brockenhurst in the New Forest.

Most of these destinations are within two hours of London by train.

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 15 minutes via Great Western Railway

stone buildings and a covered bridge over a river with a weir and boat in bath england

Bath is one of the most charming cities in England, filled with beautiful architecture, ancient buildings, culture and interesting places to eat and drink. Once you arrive at Bath Spa station you are only a five-minute walk from the centre of Bath itself.

This UNESCO -listed city is filled with beautiful Georgian buildings made of pale golden limestone. They blend perfectly with the Roman Baths and Temple , which are a must-see.

As the queues can be long, it is better to book ahead. You can choose to join a free walking guide around the baths or go at your own pace with an audioguide. For a treat, visit the Pump Rooms next door for a bite to eat.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET WITH WALKING TOUR

Right next to the Roman Baths is Bath Abbey , an imposing Gothic building that towers over the city. You can take a guided tour that includes the 212-step climb to the roof to take in the view.

Pultney Bridge and views over the River Avon are a short walk from the Abbey. The bridge has quaint shops and restaurants on top of its three arches.

For an afternoon treat, head to Sally Lunns Buns for one of their delicious cinnamon buns and a look around the living museum. Other museums are the Holbourne Museum in Great Pultney Street or the Fashion Museum in the Assembly Rooms on Bennett Street.

If you want to combine Bath with a visit to Stonehenge and Windsor, take a look at this excellent day tour that bundles them into one neat package.

By Larch of The Silver Nomad

17. Bristol

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes via Great Western Railway

street art of girl on swing holding two red baloons

Sitting in Castle Park on a Monday morning, sipping coffee in a boutique café and watching commuters go about their unhurried business with a smile on their face, you can’t help but feel the harmony of Bristol.

For the consumer, you can shop at Cabot Circus which is also home to a good range of chain restaurants. You can walk in the parks, explore Queen’s Square and maybe grab a cider at one of the boat pubs.

There are the renovated docks and the M Shed museum . Walking down the river, you can visit the famous SS Great Britain ship. Those who enjoy religious places should see the Bristol Cathedral or St Mary Redcliffe .

Or you can climb the steps of Cabot Tower, perched at the top of Brandon Hill for views over Bristol. Slightly further out is the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Observatory nearby. Or head out to the Ashton Court Estate.

The family will enjoy the Bristol Zoo Gardens or the Aquarium down by the docks.

By Dave of Dave Chant

Fastest journey time: 2 hours 10 minutes via London North Eastern Railway

red brick buildings lining river in leeds

Spend a day in Leeds to understand why people rave about this city.

The train station is right in the city centre. But if you’re looking to explore the suburbs, the bus system is cheap and easy to navigate.

Situated in West Yorkshire in the north of England, a huge draw for visitors to Leeds is the huge amount of vintage shopping you can do. From kilogram sales to the numerous vintage, second hand and thrift stores in the city, you’ll struggle to come away empty-handed, and all for way less than you’d pay in London.

If you’re in the mood for some culture, you won’t have to look far. Kirkstall Abbey , the ruins of a monastery founded in 1152, is fascinating and free to explore. The Royal Armouries Museum , which displays the national collection of arms and armour, is one of the top things to do in Leeds and could keep you occupied for hours.

By Ella of Many More Maps

Say overnight in Leeds to see more of the city and to explore the surrounding area. For a centrally-located budget choice, check in to Premier Inn Leeds City Centre .

19. Liverpool

Fastest journey time: 2 hours 20 minutes via Avanti West Coast

iron statue of the beatles in liverpool england

With its rich maritime heritage, striking architecture and buzzy cultural scene, there are more than a few reasons to visit Liverpool . And let’s not forget the stamp that the Fab Four have left on the city.

But did you know that it’s a breeze to visit Liverpool on a day trip from London?

Hop on a train at London Euston station, and two and a half hours later you’ll find yourself on the steps of Lime Street station. And as Liverpool is compact, it’s easy to explore on foot.

Make your way to the buzzy Albert Dock with its restaurants, bars and cultural attractions, including Tate Liverpool (the sister museum to the London Tate Galleries ) and the superb International Slavery Museum . If you want to pay homage to Liverpool’s favourite sons, pop into The Beatles Story , the award-winning museum that charts John, Paul, George and Ringo’s rise to global superstardom.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET FOR THE BEATLES STORY

Visit nearby Pier Head for The Three Graces, the iconic buildings that define Liverpool’s skyline, and to take your photo with the sculpture of The Beatles.

Finally, for the ultimate view of Liverpool’s waterfront, take a ferry across the Mersey. The easiest way to do this is to join a 50-minute River Explorer Cruise (book your ticket here )

READ THIS NEXT: 13 Reasons to Spend a Weekend in Liverpool: The Best Things to Do

20. Manchester

Fastest journey time: 2 hours 10 minutes via Avanti West Coast

Most travellers make a beeline for London without considering Manchester. But with its rich history, vibrant culture and friendly locals, this northern powerhouse is 100% worth the direct train journey from London.

After arriving at the train station, grab one of the free city buses to Manchester Cathedral , which dates from 700AD.

Next, walk down to The John Rylands Library , a must-see in Manchester. It is like taking a step into Hogwarts for the day. Go up to the gorgeous Reading Room and be wowed by the glorious Gothic architecture.

Walk across to Cloud 23 in the Hilton Hotel for sweeping views of the city below, with a pot of tea, a coffee or even an early cocktail.

Before you head back to the train station, don’t miss exploring the Northern Quarter , Manchester’s hipster neighbourhood. From Arcade game bars to vintage shops, striking street art to even cat cafes, it’s worth a wander.

Finally, stop by Mackie Mayor , a gorgeous indoor food market. Visit even just to appreciate this stunning building.

By Bisola of Bis To The World

Read my review of Avanti West Coast First-class to decide whether it’s worth upgrading your journey

21. Norwich

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes via Greater Anglia

Norwich is one of England’s true gems.

Less than two hours by direct train from London, this beautiful city was once more important than the nation’s capital. With winding lanes brimming with independent cafés and shops, museums, historic churches, restaurants serving both traditional and modern food, and dozens of authentic English pubs, there’s no end of things to do in Norwich .

The city’s cathedral , with its sprawling grounds and stone walls, is almost nine hundred years old and the second tallest in the country.

Norwich’s marketplace , sitting just outside the city hall, is even older and visitors still go there to buy goods, foodstuffs and souvenirs. And if you want to be super British, you can grab some fish ’n’ chips – one of the most iconic British foods – from the national award-winning Grosvenor Fish Bar in Norwich’s Lanes.

By Dagney & Jeremy of Cultura Obscura

22. Shrewsbury

Fastest journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes via Avanti West Coast (change trains at Birmingham International)

If you are looking to escape the bustle of London, Shrewsbury provides an idyllic slower-paced destination, filled to the brim with beauty and history. The buildings are so varied in their ornateness and style that they rival the narrow, wonky passageways and steep streets for charm.

Shrewsbury has 660 listed buildings, the oldest of which was constructed in the 15th Century. Older still is Shrewsbury Castle . Dating back to 1074, this is home to the Shropshire Regimental Museum and is set amongst beautiful grounds.

You can follow a Charles Darwin trail or tour and learn about the great man and his early life in the town of his birth. If you’re a fan of the other famous Charles, you can still see a headstone with the name Ebenezer Scrooge in the churchyard of St Chad’s.

To clear your head after these big doses of history and architecture, why not try a walk at The Quarry ? This 29-acre park offers riverbank walks, regular festivals and events and even a sunken garden called The Dingle, which was masterminded by Blue Peter ’s Percy Thrower.

By Dan of Horo Travel Memories

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 50 minutes via London North Eastern Railway

gothic exterior of york minster on sunny day

Do you want to immerse yourself in almost 2,000 years of history in just a day? If so, York is the perfect place to do just that.

On arrival at York station, grab a coffee and stroll along the City Walls . The walls run 3.4km around the old city and are the most complete example of medieval walls in England.

Travel back in time to the age of the Vikings at the Jorvik Viking Centre. This world-class centre is also an active archaeological site and is home to interactive displays about Viking life, history, and the importance of York to the Vikings.

Lunchtime. If the sun is out, stop for lunch at any one of the cafes and restaurants along the River Ouse .

After lunch, amble down York’s most famous laneway – The Shambles . Fun fact: It was an inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.

This 14th-century laneway is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in the world. From here, wander past Clifford’s Tower, the remains of York Castle built by William the Conqueror, and on to York Minster.

York Minster is simply magnificent. Join a Hidden Minster Tour to explore the areas not open to the public.

Finally, end your day in York by ascending the 275 stairs of the tower to take in the spectacular views of York and beyond.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A YORK WALKING TOUR

By Melissa of Meet Me at the Pyramid Stage

24. Stonehenge

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes to Salisbury via South Western Railway , then Stonehenge tour bus from the railway station.

stone circle under a blue sky with a few clouds

Few destinations in England fire the imagination like Stonehenge.

Shrouded in mystery, this iconic megalithic stone circle may have been a Neolithic burial site. Folklore variously attributes Stonehenge to Merlin, the Arthurian wizard, invading Danes or Ancient Romans. Some believe the stone circle has extra-terrestrial origins.

Your first port of call is the site’s Visitor Centre where there is an exhibition. see how our ancient ancestors lived by visiting the reconstructed Neolithic houses next to the centre.

Frequent free shuttle buses make the ten-minute journey from the Visitor Centre to the stones.

As this is one of the UK’s biggest tourist attractions, I recommend booking your timed-entrance ticket in advance. Although entry is free if you are a member of English Heritage or the National Trust, you still need to book your time slot.

Although you can visit Stonehenge independently from London, this is one destination where it may be more time efficient to join a day tour , particularly if you want to also visit Bath, Windsor or Oxford. Here are a few options to consider.

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour

Although Stonehenge is one of the most popular day trips from London, it is not the easiest place to reach by public transport, requiring a train and bus/taxi journey. This half-day tour includes a return transfer and an audio guide.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

Three top destinations are bundled into one neat package here. You can choose to visit the interior of Windsor Castle and will benefit from a live guide.

Stonehenge, Windsor & Bath Tour

This guided full-day tour includes Windsor and Bath in addition to Stonehenge. Admission to the Roman Baths is optional.

25. Dover

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 5 minutes to Dover Priory via Southeastern

Dover is one of the best seaside towns in Kent , is rich in English history and is home to some of Kent’s most popular attractions .

Over three million tourists per year visit both the White Cliffs of Dover and Dover Castle on a day trip from London. Dover is a great escape from the city for the day and is surrounded by the beautiful English countryside.

Once you arrive at Dover Priory Station, make your way to the White Cliffs of Dover for a scenic walk on the path that runs along the cliffs. Take in the view over the English Channel from the top of the cliffs; on a clear day, you can see France.

Next up on your day trip is a visit to Dover Castle , which is conveniently located near the White Cliffs. With a history stretching over 800 years, this is one of Britain’s finest and most important castles. Inside, there are rooms furnished with beautiful medieval decorations and a panoramic view awaits you at the top of the great tower.

You can book your Dover Castle ticket here .

By Ann of The Road is Life

26. Rye and Camber Sands

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 10 minutes via Southeastern
From London St. Pancras International to Rye (change trains at Ashford International)

Spend a day in Rye and Camber Sands to sample two fabulous destinations for the price of one.

History buffs will adore the medieval town of Rye with its Georgian townhouses and timber-framed Tudor houses. Steep cobbled streets are dotted with haunted inns that will set your imagination on fire. There’s even a castle.

To burn off decadent cake calories consumed in one of the town’s excellent cafes, climb the tower of the 12 th Century St Mary’s Church.

Don’t leave Rye before checking out its shops and galleries . The town has an impressive selection of small independent shops and a handful of galleries displaying work by local artists.

When you have finished exploring Rye, head to Camber Sands by taking the signposted National Cycle Network Route 2, a three-mile walk. Alternatively, jump on bus #102 which runs between Rye from Camber Sands every hour.

With its seven miles of golden sand and rolling dunes, Camber Sands has a beach to rival any in the Caribbean. Paddle in the rock pools, collect seashells or embrace your inner child by building sandcastles. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can try your hand at kitesurfing.

READ THIS NEXT : Rye and Camber Sands Beach: An Easy Day Trip from London

27. Whitstable

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes via Southeastern
From London St. Pancras International or London Victoria

Whitstable is a charming fishing and harbour town located on the north coast of Kent, southeast of London, and is a super easy day trip from London by train.

Famed for its seafood scene, Whitstable is a great spot for foodies and has many oyster shacks in the harbour. The town also holds a popular two-day oyster festival every July, featuring hundreds of food stalls, live music and a parade.

Other things you can do in Whitstable include taking a walk along the coast, which is lined with colourful beach huts, or visiting the main high street which is filled with boutique shops, galleries and cafes.

End your day trip with a drink at the Old Neptune, which is one of the most popular pubs in town. It is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy a delicious pint of locally brewed beer with a beautiful sea view.

By Caroline of CK Travels

28. Bourton-on-the-Water (The Cotswolds)

Fastest journey time: 2 hour s 10 minutes to Moreton-in-Marsh via Great Western Railway (change at Charlbury) for local bus #801 to Bourton-on-the-Water

people walking by river in a pretty town in england

Known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most beautiful Cotswolds villages and a perfect day trip from London by rail.

This quintessential English village is famous for its golden stone buildings and arched bridges. Other than roaming around the quaint streets of the village, the best things to do in a day include exploring the Cotswold Motoring Museum , the Birdland Parks and Gardens and the famous model village.

For the perfect souvenir, visit the Cotswold Perfumery (you can also take part in one of their fragrance courses).

Finally, if you are feeling peckish, head to one of the many pubs in the village such as the Duke of Wellington, which has a great beer garden.

By Roshni of The Wanderlust Within

Thanks to less-than-stellar bus services, it’s fair to say that visiting the Cotswolds isn’t the easiest day trip from London by public transport. Joining a day tour is an excellent way for you to see a few more beautiful Cotswold villages and you will benefit from the knowledge of a local guide. Take a look at this day tour of the Cotswolds from London, which includes Bourton-on-the-Water.

29. Brockenhurst

Fastest journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes via South Western Railway

Beautiful Brockenhurst is one of the best day trips from London by train for nature lovers. The town is easily reached by train from Waterloo.

The area is famous for its great cycling network. You can transport your bikes on the train, but it is also possible to rent bikes next to Brockenhurst train station. You will find several bike-friendly cafes and pubs in town.

In the nearby fields, it is common to spot wild horses roaming free. Some local stables offer horse-riding tours and lessons. Complete beginners and children are also welcome.

If you want to go hiking near London , this is also a good region for that. There are many paths nearby with hidden wild swimming spots. A popular place for a picnic and swim is by the Lymington River in Brockenhurst. Children especially love the rope swings hung up by locals.

By Eniko of Travel Hacker Girl

30. Saffron Walden

Fastest journey time: 50 minutes to Audley End via Greater Anglia . From here, take a taxi or bus to Saffron Walden.

Saffron Walden was once a Suffolk market town, but now it is a picturesque village filled with boutique-style shops, charming cafes and restaurants.

Here are the best places to visit during a day trip to Saffron Walden from London

Bridge End Garden – Bridge End Garden is best visited when it isn’t raining as the gardens are beautiful. However, the highlight here is the maze, which will keep you amused for hours.

Saffron Grange Vineyard – The Vineyard is a little out of the town centre, approximately 1.7 miles away. If you book online before arriving, you can join the vineyard tour and tasting. Wine tasting is perfect at any time of the year.

Audley End House and Gardens – For a small entrance fee, you can explore this grand Estate.

Saffron Walden Town Centre – Explore the town centre (at weekends you will find great little markets right in the centre). This is a great spot to have lunch or afternoon tea. The restaurants and pubs all serve deliciously fresh food, so you are spoilt for choices. A great little town to explore.

By Paula of Truly Expat

Best Eurostar Train Trips from London

Day trips from London by train are not confined to England. Thanks to Eurostar, some cities in mainland Europe can be reached from London in under two and a half hours.

>>> Read my review of Eurostar Standard Premier to decide whether it’s worth upgrading your journey

Journey time: 2 hours 20 minutes

large elegant building by the side of the river in paris france

Take an early train from London St. Pancras International Station and you are set for a wonderful day in Paris. Trains arrive at Paris Gare du Nord train station, from where you can travel around on the Paris Metro.

What to do during a day in Paris? If this is your first time in the French capital, you should go up the Eiffel Tower for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

>>> SKIP THE LINE & BUY YOUR EIFFEL TOWER SUMMIT TICKET HERE

Then, I suggest spending your time in one district so you don’t waste time navigating the city on public transport.

I recommend Ile de la Cité , the island in the middle of the Seine River, where most of the historical buildings are located. Visit Notre Dame (from outside), the Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie.

Also, you can wander around the medieval streets of this island and watch the typical Bateaux Mouches sail by.

By Elisa of World in Paris

Journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Lille is one of the most underrated cities in France and an easy day trip from London by train.

Located close to the Belgian border – the so-called capital of French Flanders – Lille feels more Flemish than French, from its architecture to its food.

Due to its compact city centre, it’s a breeze to explore Lille on a self-guided walking tour .

Walk through its series of large cobblestoned squares lined with extravagant Flemish Baroque buildings. Browse the book market in the Renaissance La Veille Bourse , formerly the city’s stock exchange, a collection of small houses arranged around a porticoed courtyard.

Pay your respects at the Notre Dame de la Treille , Lille’s spiritual beating heart and an intoxicating mix of Gothic meets contemporary.

If time permits, stop by the Palais des Beaux-Arts , a fine art gallery that is second only to the Louvre in France for size and stature.

Finally, don’t leave town before trying merveilleux , little cakes of light meringue smothered in fresh cream and chocolate shavings.

READ THIS NEXT : One Day in Lille, France: A Free Walking Tour

33. Brussels

Journey time: 2 hours

detailed sculpture of figures on a pillar with gable roof buildings in background

Courtesy of Eurostar, a day trip to Brussels from London is both easy and affordable. Take a morning train from London St. Pancras International and in just over two hours you can be munching on waffles in the Grand Place.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Grand Place is the core of Brussels’ medieval city centre and is lined with ornate, late Medieval buildings. This is also home to the city’s Christmas markets .

For a stark contrast to Brussels’ historic centre, head over to the city’s east side. Ancient architecture is replaced by sleek skyscrapers, including the headquarters of the European Union .

For something completely different, take a comic trail to discover just how many cartoons were created in Brussels. From The Smurfs to Tintin, Blake and Mortimer to Marsupilami, watch out for the comic

Finally, don’t leave Brussels before sampling one of the excellent Belgian beers and, of course, chocolate.

>>> JOIN A 1-HOUR CHOCOLATE-MAKING WORKSHOP HERE

READ THIS NEXT : One Day in Brussels: Itinerary and Best Things to Do

Map of Places to Visit Near London by Train

If you find it helpful to map it out, here’s one I made earlier. To take a closer look at these beautiful places near London, simply click here or on the map itself.

map showing the location of best day trips from London by train

Tips for Day Trips by Train from London

As many Londoners do not own a car (myself included), expect services to be much busier at the weekend, especially to popular destinations like Brighton. To avoid the crowds, if possible try to visit on a weekday.
However, rail improvement works tend to take place on a weekend, particularly on Sundays. Therefore check for travel disruptions before you set out. Trust me, a rail replacement bus is not a joy.
Rail travel in England can be expensive but buying your ticket in advance will often save you money. For example, if I wanted to travel to Bath today, a return ticket would cost me in excess of £69 (and this would not be the most expensive ticket on this route!). However, the same ticket booked a month in advance is only £23.
Consider booking two one-way tickets instead of a return ticket as this can sometimes be cheaper.
A railcard can also save you money on train travel. A 16-25 Railcard, 26-30 Railcard, Senior Railcard, Family & Friends Railcard, Two Together and Network Railcard (London and SE only) save you ⅓ on eligible fares.

soldier on horseback in gateway of horseguards PARADE in london

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About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a Londoner who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

25 Best Day Trips From London By Train (In +/- 2 Hours)

London is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in the world with a rich history, iconic landmarks (many of which are free to visit ) as well as hidden gems and a fantastic foodie scene. So why should you consider taking day trips from London?

Well, as amazing as London is (we are born and bred Londoners so we are quite partial to it), there is a whole lot more in the way of iconic landmarks and rich history waiting to be explored just outside of London.

But if you want to explore a little further and don’t drive, there are loads of great options for day trips from London by train. Even if you do drive, sometimes it is faster and more convenient to take the train.

There are some fabulous days out from London to take in famous landmarks like Stonehenge and great beaches in case you just want to escape the heat of the city.

And of course, London has the added benefit of being an international transport hub and is serviced by a superfast international train service, the Eurostar. You can easily take train trips from London to Europe in a day.

Whether you live in London or are just visiting and looking to explore the UK further, here are some fun and easy places to go by train from London.

Travelling with kids? Make sure to check out our guide to day trips from London with kids and also the best attractions for kids in London .

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Paddington Bear at Paddington Station in London

Day trips from London by Train (Towns and Cities) Bath Bristol Cambridge Colchester Hastings Leicester Lincoln Norwich Oxford Rye Salisbury Stratford upon Avon Tring Warwick Winchester Windsor York Day trips from London by Train – Beaches Brighton Margate Southend-on-Sea Day trips from London by Train – Attractions Leeds Castle Day trips from London by Train – International Brussels Paris Disneyland Paris Looking for more ideas for trips from London?

Have you got your railcard?

If you are planning on doing a few day trips from London by train, did you know that you can make large savings on UK rail travel with the right railcard?

If you do a lot of rail travel, it really makes sense to get one.

Here are the most popular ones:

Friends & Family Railcard – saves 1/3 off adult fares and 60% off kids’ fares. For up to four adults (16+) and four children (5-15).

16 – 25 Railcard – 1/3 off travel for 16-25 year olds.

Two Together Railcard – 1/3 off travel when you travel together (couples or a couple of friends etc).

Senior Railcard – 1/3 off travel for passengers over 60.

Day trips with kids?

One of our top tips for exploring new cities with kids (apart from taking a Hop-on/hop-off bus tour) is to see if there is a Treasure Trail that you can do.

Most of the large cities will have at least one. We find that the kids get so engrossed in the trail that they won’t mind walking a little further than they normally might do.

You will also learn so much about the city as you are wandering around solving the clues. You can find all of the Treasure Map Trails here . Use code FLASHPACKING for 10% off.

Day trips from London by Train (Towns and Cities)

Submitted by Erin from Traveling Thru History

Bath is a beautiful city known for beautiful architecture, historic shops, the famed Roman Baths and Jane Austen. It is the only city in the United Kingdom to be designated a Unesco World Heritage Site. With so many wonderful sites to see, a day trip to Bath is something everyone should enjoy.

Getting to Bath is quite simple: take the Great Western Railway from Paddington Station. After five stops, the train will reach Bath Spa Railway Station in just under an hour and a half.

From there, visitors can explore the city on foot and see some truly fascinating sites. After exploring the Roman Baths and perusing cute little shops, visitors should be sure to check out Bath Abbey, a 7th-century parish church; Sally Lunn’s House, home of the famous Sally Lunn bun; and the Royal Crescent, one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK.

If you’re unsure of what else to see, Bath offers a variety of free and paid walking tours to help you see and enjoy more of the city.

Much of the Netflix series Bridgerton is filmed in Bath and there is a popular walking tour showing you the Bridgerton filming locations .

Or, if you prefer to explore on your own, you’ll find hidden treasures down every street in the city.

London to Bath by train

Route : From London Paddington to Bath on Great Western Railway. Journey time : Around 1 hour 20 minutes.

The Roman Baths in Bath

Submitted by Nichola from Globalmouse Travels

Bristol is a great city for a day trip from London as it’s easy to reach by train and perfect for wandering. You can also take a hop-on/hop-off bus tour of Bristol to help you familiarize yourself with the city.

Bristol is known for its street art thanks to its one-time resident Banksy (you can do street art tours or try this Bristol street art exploration game ).

It is also known for its wonderful Clifton Suspension Bridge which is well worth a wander over. If you have time, pop into Cliftonwood, the most colourful area in Bristol.

If you’re looking for things to do in Bristol with kids then Bristol Zoo is a must visit as is the imaginative We the Curious, one of the UK’s biggest interactive science museums.

All ages will love the free to visit M Shed, a museum by the docks which tells the history of this great city and the people who have called it home through the ages.

Another must-visit site is the SS Great Britain which is packed full of the sights, sounds and even smells of the past.

Visit Za Za Bazaar for food – an amazing restaurant where you can try food from all over the world and eat as much, or as little as you like. Bristol is great for a day trip and after you’ve been, you’ll be planning a longer visit.

London to Bristol by train

Route : From London Paddington to Bristol on Great Western Railway. Journey time : Around 1 hour 40 minutes.

View of Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol

Submitted by Paul from Anywhere We Roam

Boasting some of the country’s most important achievements, a day trip to Cambridge is a journey that evokes quirky English tradition, intellectual zeniths and a history so rich it oozes from the wonky lanes and idyllic river-backed gardens that make it such a special place.

Most famous for the university that brought the world IVF treatment, computer games, Artificial Intelligence and the rules of football, Cambridge is also just a great place to hang out.

Punting along the River Cam is a great way to appreciate the splendour of the Georgian architecture as you sail past immaculate college greens.

For a more cerebral experience, take in evensong at King’s College Chapel and be uplifted by ethereal music and the largest fan-vaulted ceiling in the world. Take a walking tour of one of the most elite universities in the world guided by one of the Cambridge University alumni.

Visiting Cambridge with kids? Take a look at these TreasureMapTrails (for Cambridge City Centre or Cambridge Colleges ). Use code FLASHPACKING for 10% off.

Once you’ve explored the majesty of Cambridge, down a pint in a local river-side pub, enjoy artisanal food in the thriving restaurant scene, or have a rooftop cocktail with sweeping views over the city centre.

Later, stroll the Botanic Gardens, home to rare plant species before exploring one of the many world-class museums in Cambridge .

See here for things to do in Cambridge at Christmas if you happen to be visiting Cambridge at Christmas.

London to Cambridge by train

Route : London Liverpool Street to Cambridge on Greater Anglia . There are also indirect trains from London King’s Cross. Journey time : From 1 hour 4 minutes to 1 hour 37 minutes.

Punting in Cambridge

Submitted by Sarah from A SocialNomad

Colchester is one of the easiest day trips from London by train. From the train station, it is a mere 15 minute walk into the centre of this old Roman town.

A day trip to Colchester is both easy and great fun! Colchester is England’s oldest recorded town and is famous as the place where Queen Boudicca made her stand and fought against the invading Romans.

The Roman Army certainly left their mark here. You’ll find the most intact Roman city wall in England (and a pub built into it!), the only Roman circus in the country and even Roman treasure.

Colchester’s castle museum is where you’ll find the Fenwick’s Hoard – Roman Treasures that were found in the town during department store excavations.

Colchester Castle is one of the top things to do in Colchester . The remarkable Keep may date from Norman times but there’s also a Roman temple in the dungeons.

You also shouldn’t miss the 11th century St Botolph’s Priory ruins right in the centre of town. Finally, no trip to Colchester is complete without trying the world-famous Colchester Native Oyster (yes those Roman’s introduced them too).

And the equally world-famous Tiptree Jam company has a glorious tea room in town where you can try all manner of fruit and savoury specialities, including the Moorish Blackberry Gin.

London to Colchester by train

Route : From London Liverpool Street to Colchester on Greater Anglia. Journey time : Fastest time – 46 minutes / Average time – 57 minutes.

Colchester Castle

Submitted by Jenni Fielding from Choose Veganism

Hastings is a quaint little seaside town on the south coast of England and a great place to head if you are looking for beach day trips from London by train.

You can travel directly to Hastings by train from a number of London stations including Charing Cross, Victoria, London Bridge and Blackfriars. Whichever station you leave from, you’ll arrive at Hastings Station, which is located right in the city centre and less than half a mile from the beach.

At the beach you will find Hastings Pier, a traditional Victorian pier built in 1872 that nowadays runs family-friendly events with numerous food and drinks stands and colourful beach huts.

Hastings is most famous for the Battle of Hastings which took place in 1066. If you visit Hastings Castle (which can be reached by taking a beautiful Victorian funicular railway), you can learn all about it.

Hastings was also a favourite haunt of smugglers several hundred years ago. The Smugglers Adventure attraction is well worth a visit too. You can head deep underground to discover the ancient tunnels that were used to hide all kinds of contraband in years gone by.

Hastings Country Park, a 345 hectare nature reserve, is very scenic and just a short walk from the town centre. You will have the most stunning views of the south east coast from the cliff tops.

Hastings has lots of great dining options, but one that you absolutely must visit is the Prince Albert pub. This traditional and cosy pub has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and a menu of the most incredible vegan food. Even if you aren’t vegan, it’s well worth a try as the food is certainly something to write home about.

London to Hastings by train

Route : From London Bridge to Hastings on Southeastern . Journey time : Around 1 hour 36 minutes.

Hastings Pier at sunset

Submmitted by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Leicester lies in the East Midlands, close to the geographical centre of England. Leicester is an easy day trip from London by train with around 89 trains a day from London to Leicester.

Leicester is one of the oldest cities in England with evidence of Roman settlement in the form of Roman baths that can be seen at Jewry Wall. Artefacts taken from this site can be seen in the museum next door.

In more recent years, there was a gruesome discovery of bones under a car park in Leicester city centre. They turned out to be the remains of King Richard III from 500 years ago. You can visit the award-winning Richard III Visitor Centre next to Leicester Cathedral and tour the site, learning about the history surrounding the King.

Leicester Cathedral, built in Norman times, lies at the heart of Leicester and is thought to be one of the six churches mentioned in the Domesday Book from 1086. Today it houses the remains of King Richard III.

Other attractions to visit in Leicester include the National Space Museum, packed with space-themed interactive exhibits including a 4D cinema and the chance to drive a Mars Rover. It is also home to the largest planetarium in the UK as well as a space rocket or two.

For those that love food and retail therapy, the Golden Mile is just the place for you. It is full of the best Indian restaurants and shops in the city. Forget the big department stores. On the Golden Mile you will find unique and quirky stores selling all manner of goods from clothing to spices.

After the Golden Mile head to Leicester market in the city centre. It has been running in this location for over 700 years and is the largest outdoor market in Europe.

On your way back to the train station you could pop into the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery. It opened in 1849 (one of the first museums in the country to open to the public) and is home to fascinating natural history and Ancient Egyptian collections.

London to Leicester by train

Route : From London St Pancras to Leicester on East Midlands Railway . Journey time : Fastest time – 1 hour 2 minutes / Average time – 1 hour 13 minutes.

Prince Rupert Gateway leading to Leicester Castle

Submitted by Alex from Lincoln and Beyond

The historic city of Lincoln makes for a fantastic alternative family day trip from London. This off-the-beaten-path city has many treasures to explore and stories to discover. Its most impressive feature is the towering hilltop cathedral that was once the tallest building in the world for over two centuries.

Lincoln is home to one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta, the document that laid the foundation for English law. You can see it inside a vault beneath Lincoln Castle.

You can also walk around the full half-kilometre perimeter on top of the stone walls of the castle and enjoy spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside from these walls.

After visiting the cathedral and the castle, pop down Steep Hill, one of the prettiest and, as the name suggests, steepest streets in the country. For lunch, stop by at local favourite Stokes High Bridge Café, or one of the many wonderful Lincoln tea rooms .

There are many fun free educational activities to try in Lincoln when visiting with kids, such as the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, which has a History Hunters playground and special museum trail for children. The city also has creative traditions, with various independent galleries for discovering local art.

London to Lincoln by train

Route : From London King’s Cross to Lincoln on East Midlands Railway (with a change in Newark). Journey time : Fastest time – 1 hour 56 minutes / Average time – 2 hours 20 minutes.

View of Lincoln Cathedral from Lincoln Castle

Submitted by Sheree from Winging the World

Norwich is a wonderful medieval city located in Norfolk, England. It’s situated around 2 hours by train from London and the train goes direct to Norwich station, the gateway to the city.

Most famous for its epic castle which sits in the middle of the city, Norwich has a wealth of interesting history. A great place to learn about the city’s past is on an underground Norwich tour which takes visitors into a medieval undercroft.

As well as the castle, the city boasts two cathedrals and the largest permanent undercover market in Europe. With its cobbled back streets, the famous Norwich Lanes and beautiful architecture, Norwich is a wonderful city to get lost in. Owing to its small size, it is also very easily navigable on foot.

For families, Norwich offers plenty to do. There are all the usual city attractions such as the cinema and bowling but Norwich is also home to a Puppet Theatre, offering fun for everyone.

Don’t miss the opportunity to grab lunch at the Waffle House, a popular independent restaurant located down St Giles Street. Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth or prefer more of a savoury snack, you’re sure to find something delicious here.

Visiting Norwich at Christmas? See here for things to do in Norfolk at Christmas .

London to Norwich by train

Route : From London Liverpool Street to Norwich on Greater Anglia . Journey time : Fastest time – 1 hour 42 minutes / Average time – 1 hour 55 minutes.

Quayside Street in Norwich

Submitted by Emilie from London City Calling

The historic city of Oxford is definitely one of the best and easiest day trips from London by train. Known for being home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, there’s plenty to see and do in Oxford to fill up an entire day .

You can wander around the impressive University of Oxford college buildings (or take a guided tour by Alumni ) which have been used as the backdrop for many famous movies (including Harry Potter). See here for Harry Potter tours .

Admire the neo-classical Radcliffe Camera and famous Bodleian Library, and step inside the 1,000 year old Oxford Castle and Prison.

On a sunny day, you can’t miss the opportunity to go punting along the river or take a river cruise . Plus, don’t miss the newly refurbished Westgate shopping center and its multiple rooftop restaurants and bars which offer some of the best free views over the entire city. See here for more great recommendations for restaurants in Oxford .

Nearby Oxford is the fabulous Blenheim Palace which is well worth visiting. If you are visiting at Christmas, there is an amazing Christmas light trail there.

Visiting Oxford with kids? You might like to check out these lovely TreasureMapTrails ( Oxford Centre and Oxford Radcliffe Square ). Use code FLASHPACKING for 10% off.

London to Oxford by train

Route : From London Paddington to Oxford on Great Western Railway and from London Marylebone on Chiltern Railways. Journey time : 50 minutes from Paddington and 1 hour 15 minutes from Marylebone.

The Radcliffe Camera at Oxford University

Rye is located in East Sussex on the south coast and is one of the most beautiful small towns in England and one of the most beautiful places near London by train.

But there is so much more to Rye than its looks.

There are some lovely things to do in Rye including visiting the Ypres Tower (Rye Castle Museum) which was built in 1249 by King Henry III to help defend the country against the French.

It houses a collection of pottery and medieval weapons as well as displays detailing stories of smugglers who operated in Rye.

Rye was once an island and only reachable at low tide but the channel has silted up over the centuries and it is now connected to the mainland.

It is one of the Cinque Ports which were set up to help defend the country from French invaders and was also an important trade port.

In the 13th century, Rye was a famous pirate town. Smugglers would take Mermaid Street up into town from the River Brede and stop off in the Mermaid Inn for a drink. These days, Mermaid Street is one of the most photographed streets in England.

Combine your visit to Rye with a trip to the beach if the weather is good. Rye is just a stone’s throw from one of the best beaches in the UK , Camber Sands.

It is a little under 3 miles to walk from Rye to Camber Sands along a National Cycle Network Route or you can take a short bus ride.

London to Rye by train

Route : From London St Pancras to Rye on Southern Railway . Journey time : Around 1 hour 9 minutes (with 1 change in Ashford International).

Mermaid Street in Rye

Submitted by Ucman from BrownBoy Travels

Salisbury is a quintessentially small English city and can be easily explored on foot. You can do a self-guided or guided Salisbury walking tour to learn about the history of the city and the buildings.

Some of the buildings are from the Tudor period. One of the things you will learn on a walking tour is that there are quite a number of haunted buildings in the city. There is a ghost story about almost every other building in the city centre.

Salisbury Cathedral is the main highlight of Salisbury. It has the tallest spire in England and if you climb to the top, you will be rewarded with the most magnificent views over Salisbury and the surrounding Wiltshire countryside.

The cathedral is also home to an original copy of the Magna Carta dating from 1215.

Adjacent to the cathedral is the Salisbury Museum which houses archaeological finds relating to Stonehenge.

As lovely as Salisbury is, it may not warrant a full day trip from London. This means you will have time to visit one of the most famous landmarks in Britain, Stonehenge, which lies just 8 miles from Salisbury.

Tours run from the centre of Salisbury or the railway station and take around 2 – 3 hours.

London to Salisbury by train

Route : From London Waterloo on South Western Railways . Journey time : Around 1 hour 30 minutes.

View from the top of Salisbury Cathedral

Stratford upon Avon

Submitted by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

Stratford-upon-Avon is a lovely medieval market town located along River Avon, in the county of Warwickshire. The town is known worldwide and has attracted visitors for over 250 years.

Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of the renowned English poet William Shakespeare. Naturally, for this reason, top things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon are associated with Shakespeare.

There are a total of five Shakespeare family homes that are managed by Shakespeare trust – Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Place, Mary Arden’s Farm and Hall’s Croft. See here for Shakespeare’s Birthplace tickets .

These houses are 16th and 17th century half timbered and thatched buildings and each of these have an association with the poet and his family.

If you are interested in visiting all 5 family homes, taking a hop-on-hop-off tour is a good option since some of these homes are located a few miles away from each other.

Other attractions include visiting Shakespeare’s Schoolroom , taking a boat trip on River Avon and visiting Stratford Butterfly Farm, especially if you are travelling as a family.

See here for Shakepseare’s England Explorer Pass which includes 10 tours and attractions in and around Stratford-upon-Avon.

London to Stratford upon Avon by train

Route : From London Marylebone to Stratford on Chiltern Railways . Journey time : 2 hours 6 minutes.

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall in Stratford-upon-Avon

Tring is a pretty little market town in Hertfordshire on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It is characterised by its mock Tudor buildings but it is most famous for being home to the Tring Natural History Museum (sister museum to the Natural History Museum in London – one of the best museums to visit in London with kids )

The museum was built by Walter Rothschild in 1889 and housed his private zoological collection. He died in 1937 and donated everything to the Natural History Museum.

The collection here is extensive and while it doesn’t include dinosaurs (except for an impressive giant sloth), it offers a much more intimate experience with far fewer crowds than its London relative.

There is a little café at the museum where you can grab a quick bite but if you have time for a longer lunch, Lussmanns on the high street is fabulous.

If you feel like walking off your lunch, right next door to the museum is Tring Park which offers some lovely scenic walks through ancient woodlands.

Look out for Tring Park Mansion which was designed by Sir Christopher Wren who also designed one of London’s most iconic sights, St Paul’s Cathedral.

If you are up for a bit of a longer walk, you could reach nearby Ashridge Estate. If you’re there in spring, you will be rewarded with the most magnificent display of purples and blues in their bluebell woods .

Tring is one of the most perfect day trips by train from London for combining culture and nature and ideal if you are looking for day trips from London for walks.

Tring is also a lovely place to visit at Christmas. Make sure to read our guide to things to do in Hertfordshire at Christmas as there are so many things going on that are easy to reach from London.

If you are visiting Tring with kids, you might like to take a look at the Tring TreasureMapTrail . Use code FLASHPACKING for 10% off.

London to Tring by train

Route : From London Euston to Tring on West Midlands Railway (take a taxi or bus into town from the station). Journey time : Fastest time – 34 minutes / Average time – 50 minutes.

Large animal specimens at the Tring Natural History Museum

Submitted by Tracy from UK Travel Planning

Located in the West Midlands , the beautiful English city of Warwick is only a 1 1/2 hour train ride from London.

Warwick is perhaps most famous because of its imposing castle. Built over 900 years ago, it merits an entire day to be able to fully explore the grounds, gardens and castle. The Great Hall, state rooms and dungeons are all worth a visit and are packed with historical objects.

During the summer, Warwick Castle has a packed schedule of activities and is a popular destination for families. This includes birds of prey, jousting competitions and the medieval trebuchet show which is particularly impressive.

At Christmas enjoy Warwick Castle’s Light Trail and outdoor ice rink. They also have a lovely Santa Sleepover if you are looking for places to visit Santa or a family Christmas break .

The castle is a 10 to 15 minute walk from the train station. When visiting Warwick it is also worth taking a stroll around the old town to admire the many 17th and 18th century buildings which still remain.

Warwick has many cafes and restaurants offering a wide selection of traditional English food and afternoon teas. Alternatively, in summer pack a picnic and blanket and enjoy lunch in the castle grounds.

London to Warwick by train

Route : From London Marylebone to Warwick on Chiltern Railways . Journey time : Around 90 minutes.

View of Warwick Castle

Submitted by Kat from Wandering Bird

If you’re looking for fun day trips from London to somewhere easily accessible by train, take a look at the historic city of Winchester.

Winchester is one of the oldest cities in the UK and has a lot to see including medieval houses, narrow, cobbled streets and one of the most famous cathedrals in the country.

You can reach Winchester by train very easily from London. There are regular trains between the two and the journey only takes about an hour. There is a short 5 minute walk from the train station in Winchester to the city centre – it’s downhill on the way there but uphill on the way back!

Whilst you’re in Winchester, be sure to visit the historic cathedral which is where the author Jane Austen is buried. You can also see one of the oldest bibles in the world on display.

If you’re lucky enough to visit Winchester during December, you’ll find the famous Winchester Christmas Market right next to the Cathedral- it’s regularly voted as one of the best Christmas markets in the UK .

Back on the high street, spend some time enjoying the great mix of high-brand shops and unique boutiques. The high street isn’t large and you can explore it fairly quickly.

There are plenty of good places to take a break and get some food in the city. If you enjoy steak, head to ‘The Porterhouse’ which serves a range of dishes, including its award-winning steak. If you want to experience a traditional British pub in summer, visit the Willow Tree by the river.

London to Winchester by train

Route : From London Waterloo to Winchester on South Western Railway . Journey time : Around 1 hour 5 minutes.

Winchester Cathedral

Submitted by Joanna from The World in my Pocket

Windsor is one of the easiest and most accessible day trips from London by train. The easiest direct route is from Waterloo Station to Windsor and Eton Riverside station, with a journey of around one hour.

There are plenty of things to do on a day trip to Windsor from London , starting with visiting Windsor Castle, one of the most famous castles in England and the royal residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

Windsor Castle is the oldest largest occupied of its kind in the world, with a history of over 900 years. As a tip, if you buy your ticket directly through the Royal Collection Trust, you can revisit the castle free of charge at any time for the next year.

One of the most famous walks in Windsor is the Royal Mile, which starts just behind the castle. It is 3 miles long and passes through Windsor Great Park, which used to be a hunting ground in the 11th century.

The chances of seeing deer when you walk the Royal Mile are very high, as the Deer Park is home to around 500 red deer that roam freely on the grounds, often not far from the avenue.

Another fun place to see in Windsor is the Crooked House, an uneven building that will make you question how is it still standing.

Visiting Windsor with kids? Take a look at this fun Windsor TreasureMapTrail . Use code FLASHPACKING for 10% off.

For foodies, you might want to consider taking a 15 minute taxi to Heston Blumenthal’s world-renowned restaurant, the Fat Duck – if you can get a reservation!

And if you are a family looking for an action packed adventure, Legoland Windsor is just outside of Windsor. You can take shuttle buses running from close to the train station. See here for Legoland Windsor tickets .

London to Windsor by train

Route : From London Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Riverside on South Western Railway or from Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Central on Great Western Railway (if visiting Legoland). Journey time : Around 1 hour.

Windsor Castle

Submitted by Maja from Away With Maja

York is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the north of England, and one of the most historic and charming cities in the country. It is ideal if you are looking for places to go by train from London that feel a million miles from London.

You can travel from London King’s Cross station to York by train in 2 hours. Much of the compact city is pedestrianized, so it’s easy to get around on foot once you arrive.

There are lots of things to do in York but York Minster should be your first stop to admire the stunning architecture of the cathedral both inside and out. Walking the medieval City Walls is a must—the best sections are near Station Road and between Bootham Bar and Monkgate Bar.

Don’t miss Jorvik Viking Center, where you can step back in time (smells included!) to experience life in York during the Viking era.

The cobblestone streets and narrow, winding alleyways (called snickelways in York) are perfect for exploring, with the Shambles being the most famous.

It was supposedly the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. See here for more Harry Potter UK experiences .

If you’re hungry, check out some of York’s unique, independent venues: Pig and Pastry or Brew and Brownie for brunch, Blue Barbakan for delicious Polish cuisine, Yak and Yeti for delicious Nepalese food, or the Rose and Crown for the best pies in town.

London to York by train

Route : From London King’s Cross to York on London North Eastern Railway . Journey time : Around 2 hours.

View of York Minster in York

Other day trips from London by train

Looking for more ideas? Here are some more towns and cities that are easy to reach by train from London:

St Albans – one of the easiest places to visit from London by train (20 minutes). For St Albans Cathedral, Roman ruins and lovely shops and restaurants and one of the oldest pubs in Britain, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks. Get your St Albans TreasureMapTrail here . Use code FLASHPACKING for 10% off.

Birmingham – for the UK’s largest Christmas market and the most Michelin Star restaurants outside of London.

Canterbury – for Canterbury Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the country.

Day trips from London by Train – Beaches

Whether you are looking to escape the heat of the city in the summer or fancy a bracing winter walk, there are some lovely beach day trips from London.

Submitted by Erica from Travels with Erica

Brighton is the perfect quick day trip from London. It is just under a 90-minute train ride from central London , and you can explore all of Brighton’s major attractions by foot!

Of course, most people visiting in the summer months will be coming for Brighton Beach but there are lots of things to do in Brighton other than the beach.

The must-visit attractions in Brighton to see on your day trip are the seafront, Brighton Pier, the Lanes, and the Royal Pavilion.

They are all within a 15-minute walk of each other, so you can easily visit them all and not feel rushed.

If you have extra time to spare, Sea Life Brighton ( you can purchase tickets here ) is the oldest operating aquarium in the world. It is right along the seafront and is a fun way to spend an hour or two.

When it comes time to eat, there is no better place than the Lanes. It is filled with locally owned restaurants, cafés, and shops. It is the heartbeat of the city and no trip to Brighton is complete without wandering through the small alleys and stopping for a pint or two.

Did you know you can get fantastic views of Brighton from the Britsh Airways i360? Get your tickets here .

Brighton is one of the most popular beaches near London and one of the best places to visit by train from London for some sea air.

London to Brighton by train

Route : From London Victoria on Southern and from London King’s Cross on Thameslink . Journey time : Fastest time: 58 minutes / Average time 1 hour 20 minutes.

Brighton Pier in Brighton

Margate has had a bit of a facelift in recent years with parts of its old town resembling a hip East London area.

It is packed with boutique shops, bakeries, antique shops and vintage clothes stores and is one of the best places to visit in Kent if you’re looking for a good old-fashioned British seaside day trip from London.

If you’re seeking a more cultured day, head to the Turner Contemporary. If you time your visit right, you will spot the Antony Gormley ‘Another Time’ statue.

You will need to check the Margate tide times if you want to see him as he is only visible for a couple of hours either side of low tide.

For those seeking traditional seaside day trips from London by train, Dreamland, a vintage theme park on the seafront complete with vintage rides and attractions will fit the bill.

Build up an appetite and then pop to Gina’s Bakery in the Old Kent Market and pick up some freshly baked goodies. They are utterly delicious.

If you’ve come to Margate for the beach, there is a chance you might be disappointed. The best part of the beach is away from the Turner Contemporary and closer to Dreamland.

There are some far nicer beaches nearby at Botany Bay and Broadstairs which can be reached by walking or hopping back on the train for 5 minutes.

If walking, take the coastal path for just over 2 miles to Botany Bay. The beach is lovely but there is not much there so you may want to carry on to Broadstairs which is nestled around the neighbouring bay.

Here you can grab a delicious seafood lunch at Wyatt & Jones (or a takeaway at Flotsam & Jetsam ). Just watch out for pesky seagulls if you head to the beach to eat it! Save room for a traditional gelato from Morelli’s which has been serving Italian ice cream on the seafront for over 100 years.

Broadstairs is on the same trainline as Margate back to London so you can hop on it here and head back home at the end of the day.

London to Margate by train

Route : From London St Pancras to Margate on Southeastern . Journey time : Around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Antony Gormley Another Time statue at low tide

Southend-on-Sea

Submitted by Kylie from Essex Explored

A great day trip from London by train is to the Essex seaside town of Southend-On-Sea. The train from London is a quick 60 minutes and then the seafront is just a short 10 minute walk from the train station.

There are lots of things to do in Southend , however it is most famous for having the longest pleasure pier in the world!

Southend Pier extends 1.34 miles into the Thames Estuary and even has a narrow gauge railway if you don’t feel like walking that far to the end which runs on the hour and half hour.

Alongside the pier is Adventure Island amusement park with over 30 rides. It has an inside area that is open year-round and suited for younger visitors. The outside attractions are seasonal with larger thrill rides, including ‘Rage’, a looping roller coaster with a vertical drop!

Southend is also famous for Rossi Ice Cream which has been made in Southend since 1932. There are plenty of restaurants in Southend, but a trip to the seaside isn’t complete without takeaway fish and chips!

Several fish and chip shops line the seafront and they are all very good. Being close to the sea, the fish is always fresh!

Southend Beach can get quite busy during the summer months so if you feel like a quieter beach experience, walk a little further from the attractions to Chalkwell Beach. Southend is one of the best day trips from London with kids.

London to Southend by train

Route : From London Fenchurch St to Southend Central on the C2C or London Liverpool Street to Southen Victoria on Greater Anglia . Journey time : Around 60 minutes.

Adventure Island at Southend-on-Sea

Other seaside day trips from London by train

Looking for more ideas? These places near London are also easy to reach by train:

Whitstable – great for local seafood.

Seven Sisters – great for scenic walks along the white cliffs.

Dover – for Dover Castle and the white cliffs.

Day trips from London by Train – Attractions

Leeds castle.

Leeds Castle is the most beautiful castle in Kent. In fact, it has been called the loveliest castle in the world and you can see why when you visit this beautifully restored castle with its magnificent grounds.

Leeds Castle is located in Leeds in Kent which is only 25 miles from London. It is reached by taking a train to nearby Bearsted station and then Leeds Castle provides a free shuttle bus service to take you to the castle (between April to September).

The castle was built in 1119 but there is not much left of the original structure. It has been significantly modified over the years by its owners who include King Henry VIII and Sir Richard Smythe.

There is so much to do at Leeds Castle that you can spend a whole day there. The castle itself deserves around an hour if you are doing a self-guided tour.

If you are visiting Leeds Castle with kids, you can pick up a leaflet with some fun games in it, including trying to spot mini Henry VIII dolls that are hidden around the castle.

Outside, you can attempt the castle maze, test out your archery skills, watch a falconry show or let the kids enjoy one of the best playgrounds we have ever seen.

If you are visiting Leeds Castle at Christmas, make sure to check out our guide to the Christmas events in Kent !

Leeds Castle won’t disappoint and makes for one of the best family day trips from London.

London to Leeds Castle by train

Route : From London Victoria to Bearsted on Southeastern . Journey time : Around 1 hour 9 minutes.

Autumn colours at Leeds Castle in Kent

Other attractions near London

Hampton Court Palace – a beautiful Royal Palace and a great place to go ice skating in London in the winter.

Mayfield Lavender Farm – one of the best places to see lavender in the UK.

Blenheim Palace – Beautiful historic house and gardens and a World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the stunning Blenheim Palace light trail at Christmas .

Kew Gardens – one of the best botanic gardens in the world (also home to a fantastic Christmas light trail ).

Legoland Windsor – a great day out for families from London with rides suitable for kids of all ages. See here for tickets .

Day trips from London by Train – International

The beauty of London is that it is so easy to take day trips from London to Europe. These are the best international day trips from London by train.

Submitted by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

One of the advantages of Europe is how easy it is to travel between countries. With Eurostar, you can easily take train trips from London to Europe.

Say you are looking for a day trip from London, why not hop on the Eurostar from London St Pancras to be whisked away to exotic Brussels?

Ok, granted perhaps Belgium is not the single most exotic location but there are lots of things to do in Brussels in a day !

If your day trip happens to coincide with rain, fear not there are plenty of interactive museums to visit: The National History Museum, the Magritte Museum and even the Comics Art Museum!

Now if you like a more hands on approach why not try one of the famous chocolate or waffle-making workshops that are widely available.

No trip to Brussels would be complete without sampling some classic Belgian food and it doesn’t get more classic than Moules Frites followed by a waffle washed down with a Belgian beer!

Summer is the best time of the year to visit Brussels. Walk around the Grand Place (Grote Markt) and take in all the fabulous gold guild houses.

Next, go on the hunt for the illusive little peeing man (Manneken Pis) before taking the comic strip mural walk (a self-guided walk that takes you around all the murals dedicated to comics around the city).

End your day at the Atomium – a remnant of the 1958 World Expo – where you have some of the best views over the city. If you are visiting Brussels with kids, you may want to check out Mini Europe .

If you happen to be visiting Brussels at Christmas, you should visit the Brussels Christmas market, one of the best Christmas markets in Europe and if you have more time, a weekend in Brussels is perfect!

London to Brussels by train

Route : Eurostar to Brussels from London St Pancras. Journey time : Around 1 hour 48 minutes.

The Grand Place in Brussels

Submitted by Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

When thinking about the best day trips from London by train, most people only think about destinations inside the United Kingdom.

However, thanks to well-established train routes, you can easily take an international day trip to Paris from London as well!

Although it’s recommended to spend at least a few days in the City of Love, you can easily get acquainted with and cover a lot of sights even if you spend only one day in Paris !

And if you catch the earliest train possible, you will have almost the full day to explore the best attractions in Paris .

Paris has a fantastic public transportation system with 16 different metro and countless bus lines, so getting around won’t be a problem.

On top of that, many of the must-see sights are actually close to each other, so you can easily walk from one to the other.

Start your day by exploring Montmartre, one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris. You can’t miss seeing the Sacre-Coeur here and if you’re feeling hungry, you can also pop into one of the many amazing Parisian cafés.

Next, walk along the River Seine where you can admire world famous sights such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum or Pont Alexandre III.

Your one day in Paris wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower from up close, so make sure to stop by Champ de Mars to admire the Iron Lady!

If your time allows, you can also go up to the top from where you can get an incredible panoramic view over Paris.

As the Eiffel Tower is the top attraction in the city, make sure to purchase your tickets well in advance !

Although this is a post about day trips from London by train, if you happen to want to spend a weekend in Paris, make sure to check out these fabulous hotels in Paris with views of the Eiffel Tower !

London to Paris by train

Route : From London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord on Eurostar . Journey time : From 2 hours 16 minutes.

View of the Eiffel Tower at dusk

Disneyland Paris

Submitted by Elisa from World in Paris

London to Disneyland Paris is one of the best day trips from the UK capital. Thanks to fast and good train connections, it is possible to spend a fun day out in Europe’s most famous theme park and be back at your hotel in London at the end of the day.

Eurostar trains leave from London St Pancras train station. The journey to Paris Gare du Nord only takes 2hrs 23 min, and it is very straightforward. From there, there’s another local train to take to Marne La Vallée – Chessy, which is the Disneyland Paris train station.

If you take one of the first Eurostar from London, you can reach Disneyland Paris before the opening. Be careful not to book the direct train to Disneyland Paris (which operates during the holidays) because this leaves later and you will not have any time at all in the park.

In Disneyland Paris, you will find two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Walk Disney Studios. With only one day available, we recommend visiting Disneyland Park, which is the park of Mickey Mouse, and the classic Disney Movies.

There, you will find fun rides and shows, and if you are lucky, you will also meet some of the Disney characters.

See here for 1 Day Disneyland Paris tickets .

Inside Disneyland Paris, you will find many restaurants and food trucks offering all kinds of food. We recommend Captain Jack’s Restaurant des Pirates, located in Adventureland, for its exotic atmosphere and delicious Creole cuisine.

London to Disneyland Paris by train

Route : From London St Pancras to Disneyland Paris on Eurostar . Journey time : Around 3 hours (OK, so it doesn’t quite fit in the 2 hour criteria for day trips from London by train BUT it’s worth it!).

See here for great deals on Disneyland Paris tickets .

Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Paris

Looking for more ideas for trips from London?

Some people would suggest that Suffolk and the beaches in Suffolk are good for a day trip from London by train, in particular Aldeburgh and Southwold (even Dunwich and Walberswick ), but in truth, they are best explored by car over a weekend.

There are lots of things to do in Suffolk with kids but they are not easily reached by train and make far better day trips from london by car. Check out our post on unusual places to stay in Suffolk with the wow factor , including a cabin in amongst the vines at one of the vineyards in Suffolk .

The same can be said for neighbouring Norfolk. Norwich is one of the easiest day trips from London by train, but reaching the Norfolk beaches is a little trickier. Like Suffolk, Norfolk is best explored by car as many things to do in Norfolk like Bewilderwood or Norfolk Lavender , are a little remote.

These two counties make lovely UK staycation destinations if you are looking for somewhere not too far from London.

Visiting the UK at Christmas? We have loads of ideas on things to do at Christmas in the UK .

See also our guide to the Harry Potter Studio tour which makes a great day trip from London by train.

Travel Resources

Accommodation : Booking.com is our favourite choice for booking places to stay with their flexible cancellation policy and VRBO for their huge selection of self-catering rental properties.

Flights : Find cheap flights using Skyscanner .

Insurance : Staysure is our go-to travel insurance provider. This link gives you 20% off your first policy.

Tours and Activities : We find that GetYourGuide and Klook have the most comprehensive range of activities worldwide.

Airport Lounge Pass : For getting access to 1300 airport lounges in 600 countries around the world, use Priority Pass .

We would not be without : Our National Trust and English Heritage memberships.

9 Beautiful Train Trips From London to European Destinations | Brief Journeys for Memorable Visits

Destinations
European Rail
Types of Travel
United Kingdom

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

There are lots I love about Europe: the different countries’ history, the languages, the cuisines, and, tying them all together, the efficient rail network connecting them. A train trip allows you to sit back, relax, and watch the world go by your window. Travel across borders and to numerous capitals and regions in a brief journey, often much easier and faster than it would be if taking a less than an hour long flight with all the airport hassle.

It’s so easy taking trains in Europe, and when I lived in Paris, I was forever hopping on the Eurostar for a day in London, while exploring France and nearby countries too. There is something magical about train journeys; watching the ever-changing scenery roll by, sipping a coffee, a glass of wine, or, depending on which train and which route you are taking, enjoying a full-blown fancy dinner with champagne.

Here I have chosen a few fantastic trips — in no particular order — that will connect you in comfort from London to other European capitals and cities. This list allows you to keep London as a base, taking in a few other grand cities on your vacation without having to worry about catching flights and spending hours at an airport.

Sit back, look out of the window, or even lie down, and let these easy train journeys from London inspire you.

9 Beautiful Train Trips From London to European Destinations

Distance: 212 miles
Travel Time: 2 hours, 20 minutes

This is a busy Eurostar route , you could nearly call it a commuter route because the fast connection between the two capitals makes a day trip eminently possible and convenient. Start at the wonderful London St. Pancras station, where there is a very lovely champagne bar above the tracks. You’ll then head straight to Gare du Nord in Paris, where you can hop on the metro and start your sightseeing without any noticeable fatigue after the brief journey. You can go standard class with no frills but absolutely comfortable for the duration, standard premier with a light meal, or business premier where you can enjoy a three-course meal with champagne and have full use of the lounges at either end.

10 Fantastic Paris Rentals With Amazing Eiffel Tower Views

Pro Tip: Should you be traveling with the grandchildren, there is even a direct service through to Disneyland Paris running every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Please note that this direct service will be stopped by summer 2023.

2. Brussels

Distance: 197 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour, 55 minutes

An even quicker Eurostar journey takes you from St. Pancras to the Belgian capital of Brussels , which is full of grand sights, much art and architecture, plus a perfect place for sampling the famous Belgian foods and drinks. The relative compactness of the inner city makes it perfect for a short visit, allowing you to see most of the famous sights within a few hours. But, if you decide to stay a little longer, you have Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent within an easy train journey from the main station, allowing you to explore Belgium more in-depth.

Pro Tip: To add an extra city along the way, you can hop off in Lille , a perfect mix of French and Flemish flair, full of history and great food. Or indeed just take the day trip to Lille, have a look around, and stop for some moules frites and a Belgian beer before heading back to London.

3. Amsterdam

Netherlands.

Distance: 220 miles
Travel Time: 3 hours, 52 minutes

While not so far in miles, Amsterdam might be a little long of a ride for a day round-trip. But it is still a very comfortable ride through the French, Belgian, and Dutch countryside. With nearly 4 hours on board, and the café bar on the train offering limited choices, consider bringing a picnic or book into one of the premier classes and enjoy a meal and wine en route to avoid arriving parched and hungry.

Pro Tip: There are direct Eurostar routes between London and Amsterdam, and some where you can change in Brussels, adding a chance to extend your trip and take in two extra capitals in one swoop.

Distance: 765 miles
Travel Time: 16 hours

An absolutely fabulous journey is traveling from London to Brussels on the Eurostar, and then connecting onto the Austrian Nightjet . The Nightjet is a sleeper train that leaves Brussels in the evening (offering a possibility for daytime sightseeing before heading onward) and arrives in Vienna in the morning, after breakfast. Unlike day trips rush, traversing Germany, traveling through cities such as Aachen, Koblenz, Wurzburg, Nuremberg, and Passau, it is nearly a shame that you will be snuggled up in your cabin . You can also take this journey during the daytime on a regular train to enjoy the German countryside flying past your window, but if you schedule your visit over the summer, you will have plenty of daylight to enjoy both the views and your sleep.

Pro Tip: Depending on your budget and how many people you are traveling with, you can also get bunk bed cabins (without a toilet) or single cabins with a bathroom. You can even do the hostel thing and join gender-separated bunk bed cabins, making it really economical.

Distance: 941 miles
Travel Time: 17 hours

You can enjoy the opportunity of traveling on one of the world’s most luxurious trains, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express direct from London. Launched in 1883, the long-haul Orient Express was the first luxury train of its kind, with stylish cabins and restaurants on-board catered to the rich traveling long-distance to Istanbul. This service has just been relaunched, but, honestly, it costs an arm, a leg, and then some. If you don’t have the budget, you can still enjoy this historic way of traveling, between London, Victoria, and Venice , taking time to enjoy the utter extravagances on the train.

You can indulge in anything from gourmet meals served with champagne to a celebratory midnight brunch, and also have time to sit back to enjoy the fabulous views from your window across changing European landscapes to the Alps and northern Italy. Depending on your budget, you can continue onward , maybe all the way to Istanbul, or return on the same train to do it all over again. Most packages include a one-way train ride and a return flight. Either way, this is your chance to pack your best outfits and enjoy.

Pro Tip: If this whets your appetite for experiencing the Orient Express train but the budget is tight, you can opt to travel on the train not far from London while enjoying anything from afternoon tea to dinner .

6. Inverness

Distance: 444 miles
Travel Time: 10 hours, 31 minutes

Let’s just get the most important point out of the way: This is not the Orient Express. But, while not luxury, the Caledonian Sleeper is a viable alternative to flying when you think of hassle, time spent, and carbon footprint. You will get a comfortable cabin with an ensuite bathroom or a simple sleeper seat, depending on your comfort requirements and budget. All accessible, the train departs London Euston in the evening and you’ll wake up in Inverness on the doorstep of the Scottish Highlands. The train splits into three in Edinburgh, parts heading off to Aberdeen, Fort William, or Inverness. With Inverness being the northernmost city in Scotland, you actually have a chance to look out of the window for a while in the morning after breakfast.

Pro Tip: There are also direct daytime connections between Inverness and London, so you can easily sleep one way and look out of the window the other.

7. Marseille

Distance: 621 miles
Travel Time: 6 hours, 21 minutes

Want to check out the south of France from London? No problem. Taking the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord, and after a quick change of train stations, you can be on your way south from the rather pretty Gare de Lyon. Whether you stop over in Paris for a croissant or head straight to the next train, you can leave London in the morning and reach the south of France around lunchtime. Marseille itself is one of those underrated cities that seems to get a bad rap simply because it is a port city and there were some troubles decades ago. Today, the stunning old harbor, the super-modern Mucem modern art museum, the cobbled streets, and the famous cuisine are just some of the reasons to pay the city a visit. Add the fact that Provence , Aix-en-Provence , the Cote d’Azur, and even Monaco are just around the corner, you potentially have a city break, beach vacation, and road trip all rolled in one. It’s all just a few hours’ train ride from London.

Pro Tip: If you are even vaguely interested in architecture, you should visit La Cite Radieuse by Le Corbusier, a unique concept of habitation.

8. Rotterdam

Distance: 196 miles
Travel Time: 4 hours, 30 minutes

On average, the train journey from London to Rotterdam Centraal takes around 4h 30m, with around 3 trains running on this route each day. With the fastest direct Eurostar services, the journey can take just 3h 38m.

Upon reaching the station, you’ll be required to scan your ticket at the NS ticket gates when exiting, so be sure to keep your ticket at hand. The station is an ultra-modern structure that was reconstructed in 2014.

Distance: 576 miles
Travel Time: 16hours

Concluding this list of the best train trips from London is a trip to Berlin. Being just 16 hours long and with only one stop in between, it’s ideal for those looking to catch more views out of train windows across Europe or reduce their air miles in 2024.

Moreover, you can now hop on a sleeper train if you’re up for a weekend getaway in Berlin from London without the inconvenience of air travel. Having aligned its schedules with those of Eurostar, European Sleeper now enables passengers from London to easily transfer to Good Night Train in Brussels.

What Are the Best Train Trips From London to Europe?

The best train trips from London to Europe include some of the most exciting cities in Europe like Paris, Amsterdam, Vienna, Venice, or Istanbul. These train trips require a little more dedication and the ability to entertain oneself during long journey time.

Can I Take a Day Trip from London to Paris by Train?

Yes, not only is a day trip to Paris from London possible but if you can squeeze the short train ride in, it is highly recommended. Paris is just a quick two-hour train ride away, heading under the Channel on the high-speed train.

What Is the Easiest European Train Trip to Get to From London?

The easiest European train trips from London are to France. Day trips from London to France are extremely popular, with the French capital being only two hours away from King’s Cross, London Paddington, or Victoria Station in London.

Why Choose Train Trips From London Over Bus Rides or Flights?

Train trips invoke a sense of adventure within us. Train trips are usually more comfortable and cheaper. Most importantly, train trips are the most environmentally friendly form of travel aside from walking or cycling.

What Beach Day Trip by Train Can I Take From London to Europe?

France’s Brittany Coast, Côte d’Azur, and Promenade des Anglais are some of the best train trips you can take from London for a day at the beach. Just take the Eurostar from London to Paris, Nice, or Marseille.

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

27 Awesome (And Easy!) Day Trips From London By Train!

If you’re looking for some awesome day trips from London by train, which let you explore the rest of England with no need to drive on the UK’s congested road system, there’s good news! It’s super easy to make the most of the rail system, and have an easy day trip!

Well, here’s my promise to you: as a local, I’m going to show you just how easy it is to hop on a train, and see some of the very best places that England – and beyond! – have to offer! I’m going to give you the full, juicy details on where to go on a day trip, what to do there, and how to get there with as little fuss as possible.

So let’s look at some epic day trips from London by train, and examine why you’re going to fall in love with them!

How to get your train tickets

Let’s be honest: no-one likes queuing, not even the British (and as a local, don’t even think about jumping the queue for tickets when you’re in London. It’s punishable with a 6-year stretch in the darkest dungeons of the Tower of London, with daily tickle-torture sessions. Okay, not really, but if we could get away with it under international law, we totally would).

So if you’re super savvy, have a look at beloved train website Trainline . This nifty little site is a standard for any regular travellers on the British rail network, thanks to its cheaper prices (as long as you’re booking even just a couple of days in advance), and for the ability to use their app for paperless tickets. No need to keep a tiny scrap of card safe all day; get your ticket on your phone, and swipe your way to victory.

If that just seems like way too much technology for you, you’re going to have to brave the queues. Most stations have ticket machines, but I’ll be honest – unless you specifically know which type of ticket you need (and which will be the most cost-effective), you’ll probably get overwhelmed by the amount of options. Put it this way: I make the same long-distance journey every month, and I still get confused about which option I need on the machines.

If you’re not a regular rail traveller, and just want the easiest way to enjoy day trips from London by train, queue up at the ticket office, and ask the nice employee behind the desk. In my experience, the good folks of the British rail system automatically assume you want the cheapest option, and they’ll happily answer any questions you have about routes or timetables.

Day trips from London by train within Britain

Now you know the best way to get your ticket, let’s check out where you can go!

By the way – although it’s super-tempting, I don’t recommend Edinburgh as a day trip from London. That’s purely because the Scottish capital is so wonderful, you’ll want plenty of time to explore it, and with a travel time of over 5 hours it’s simply not feasible. Do yourself a favour, and spend at least a couple of days in Edinburgh!

Head on down to London Waterloo station, and after a mere 1 hr 20mins, you can be in the beautiful Roman city of Bath – one of the most beguiling cities anywhere in the UK!

The city is most famous for its Roman Baths museum (hence the name!), and it’s a must-do for any history lover. Although the Romans had plenty of bases around Britain – including some little-known town called Londinium – they took full advantage of the natural hot springs in this part of the country, and built a splendid bathing complex. It’s seriously impressive, and you’ll be amazed at how much remains!

Once you’re Romaned out, there’s plenty more of Bath to explore. The city’s other most popular site is the Royal Crescent, a 500-metre long terrace of houses which curves around in a semi-circle, and is one of the best examples of Georgian architecture anywhere in the country. Oh, and it’s extremely Instagrammable too!

If shopping is more your thing, head to the streets around the Roman Baths to explore some truly unique stores. Cake lovers should make a beeline to Sally Lunn’s Eating House and Museum , home of the original – and very tasty! – Bath Bun. On the way, you’ll pass through Abbey Green, where Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein. There’s definitely nothing monstrous about the buns, though!

Bath is one of the best day trips from London by train

Okay, so you can’t take a train direct to Stonehenge . Alas, the ancient druids didn’t bear rail transportation in mind when they built it in 3100BC; short-sighted fools! But a journey of just over an hour will take you from Waterloo station to Salisbury, and Stonehenge is a short bus ride from there!

Probably the most iconic sight anywhere in England, a visit to this World Heritage Site will take you back in time. My first visit here was back when facilities and the visitor centre were a shabby affair: these days, the organisation is top-notch, with a visitor centre located a very respectful distance from the site itself and shuttle buses which transport you to the stones. This results in you feeling like you’re completely in the middle of unspoiled countryside, and able to get the best possible view of the henge.

It’s difficult to describe what’s so magical about Stonehenge – it just is. Come here on a sunny day, learn about the history of the site from the visitor centre, and then head up to the stones as close to sunset as you can manage. I guarantee you that it’ll be one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever see in your life. The mystery of how and why the henge was constructed just adds to the appeal.

If you’re not keen on doing Stonehenge by public transport, and you fancy doing Bath and Windsor Castle on the same day – yep, three British icons! – then check out this Stonehenge tour from London!

Being a Sussex resident, I’ll happily admit that I’m biased. But in my opinion, Brighton is one of the best cities in the UK, with a vibrant LGBT scene and a metric ton of things to do!

Head on down to London Bridge train station, and after a travel time of only one hour, you’ll be by the seaside in fabulous Brighton. If you’re looking for quirky day trips from London, this is the place for you: head into the nearby North Laine , and you’ll find more independent shops than you’ve ever seen in your life. Featuring everything from way-out fashion to quiet vegan cafes, it’s the beating heart of Brighton.

If you want to explore the history of the city, the most obvious target is the Royal Pavilion . This vaguely Indian-looking palace was a seaside retreat for George, the Prince of Wales in 1811, and is suitably lavish! In more serious matters, it was also used as a hospital for the Indian Army during the First World War, hence a number of monuments dedicated to the fallen in the grounds.

But one of the real joys of Brighton is to simply walk along the beach, sit on the pebbles, and enjoy some fish and chips or Brighton Rock. You simply can’t go wrong!

Day trips from London by train - Brighton beach

One of the most popular train trips from London is to Oxford – home of dreaming spires, and the world’s best-known university. Leave London from Paddington Station, and you can be in Oxford in less than one hour!

So, what’s the big deal? Simply, Oxford is a lovely place to just stroll around and explore. Most of the buildings in the city centre are built with a lovely, creamy-coloured stone which instantly makes them very attractive to look at, and you’ll love just wandering around and seeing the sights. Plus, if you’re so inclined, you can do a Harry Potter tour! Parts of the university were used as doubles for Hogwarts in the movies.

Speaking of, you can take a tour of the university itself, or explore academic buildings and museums such as the Bodleian Library (surely the top contender for the title of “Prettiest Building in Oxford”). There’s also the gorgeous Botanic Gardens and Arboretum, in case you’re feeling like you need to get away to somewhere tropical!

All sounds pleasantly exhausting? Good news: at the end of the day, you can retire for a drink in the Eagle And Child pub – previously a haunt of Oxford’s literary set, including J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. If that’s not a pub with a cool bit of history, then I don’t know what is!

The Cotswolds

Yup, it is possible to visit one of the UK’s most famed beauty spots by train! There’s no denying that you’re going to have to be a little more flexible, and take a few bus services here and there (not a great hardship when the view from the window is as pretty as the ones around here), but it’s most certainly doable!

As well as being mind-blowingly gorgeous, there’s also plenty of things to do. A popular choice is to hike the Cotswolds Way, a 100-mile trail which stretches from Bath to Chipping Campden – but don’t worry; you don’t have to do it all in one go! You can walk as far along it as you fancy, or take in some of the other popular Cotswold walks which amply show off the countryside to its best advantage!

However, the favourite pastime of most visitors to the Cotswolds is to go village-hopping. The villages around here are the very epitome of the phrase “chocolate box”. These are your stereotypical, gorgeous, flower-strewn English cottages, and you’ll immediately be checking out house prices and making plans to move. Lower Slaughter is officially one of the prettiest villages in the UK – a title which is most fought-over – and nearby Blockley runs it pretty close.

Whether you have an active day’s hiking, or simply choose a village to spend the day in and relax, you’ll come back feeling refreshed and recharged!

Day trips from London by train - Cotswolds

Again I’m biased, especially because Arundel is my home turf, but it’s definitely one of the best day trips from London by train! Catch a train heading south from Victoria station, and you’ll be living the English countryside life in a bit over an hour.

The best thing about Arundel is that it’s a total hidden gem – not that many people in the UK seem to know an awful lot about it, meaning that you’ll escape the worst of the tourist hordes, and potentially have places to yourself! Arundel Castle is the biggest attraction (literally), looming over the town, and is well worth a visit. If you’re lucky, they may well have a jousting weekend, or historic life demonstrations being held in the grounds!

But even if castles aren’t your thing, Arundel is a fantastic place to just relax. Poke around the shops selling second-hand books or antiques. Have lunch in some of the excellent Italian restaurants in town, such as Pappardelle (my personal haunt). Or grab a beer from the independent Arundel Brewery , and sip it by the river.

Want a good walk? Arundel has you covered there too, with easy trails leading into the South Downs National Park, or just pleasant strolls along the river. By the way, most of those trails end up at a pub, because that’s just how we roll around here!

Day trips from London by train - Arundel

Seven Sisters Cliffs

Fancy a day trip from London by train which takes in one of the most famous sights in the world? You’ll be wanting a trip to Seven Sisters Cliffs , then!

Again, you’re going to have to do a tiny bit of bussing, but it’s thoroughly worth it to see one of the UK’s most beautiful places. To get to Seven Sisters Cliffs from London, simply catch a train from London Victoria to Eastbourne, then catch a number 12 bus from the town centre (heading towards Brighton). Hop off at East Dean, and you’ll walk for 27 minutes until you reach this splendid sight!

It’s possible to walk a trail along the cliffs (be sure to keep dogs on a lead, and to stay away from the cliff edge, because that tends not to be the safest of places), but it’s also worth visiting purely to take in the views. There’s something about the greenness of the turf, the white undulating cliffs, and the blue sea below which has captured the imagination of visitors for centuries.

Seven Sisters Cliffs is one the the UK’s most spectacular and iconic spots, and should be a bucket list destination for everyone!

Day trips from London by train - Seven Sisters Cliffs

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is one the easiest day trips from London by train, and it’s got something for everyone! Whether you’re a local or visiting from abroad, it’s a fantastic experience to see the Queen’s favourite residence in all its glory – and the town of Windsor itself is nothing to be sniffed at, either!

You don’t need to go on a bus tour to see it: take a train from London Waterloo, enjoy a journey of an hour, and arrive Windsor & Eton Central – simple as that! You can take a leisurely stroll through the town of Windsor itself before you join the inevitable queue for the castle (expect to have an understandable bag search and metal detector session before you enter).

You can wander at will through the open buildings, or join a tour – either way, be sure to check out the glorious decor in the State Apartments, where nearly everything drips with gold. History lovers can visit St George’s Chapel, a stunning building and veritable landfill site for royal burials, including Henry VIII and his favourite wife Jane Seymour.

Windsor Castle and the surrounding grounds will provide you with a full day’s interest, entertainment, and beautiful scenery, whilst being a stone’s throw from London itself!

Day trips from London by train - Windsor Castle

Stratford-upon-Avon

The home of England’s favourite son (that’s William Shakespeare, btw), Stratford-upon-Avon has much more to offer than thespians in tights – it’s a beautiful town in its own right!

You can get direct trains from London to Stratford-upon-Avon from Marylebone Station, and after a journey of a couple of hours you’ll be arriving at the home of the Bard himself! And if you fancy it, you can visit his actual, legit home – Shakespeare’s birthplace is understandably the most popular attraction in town, and a must for any lovers of his work.

If that’s not enough Shakespeare for you, it’s also possible to visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage , which is filled with the original furniture. The future Mrs. Shakespeare certainly had an eye for a beautiful location, as the cottage itself is so pretty that you’ll immediately fall in love with it! Once you’re Shakespeared out, head to the Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm for a visit with some fine flapping friends – it’s incredibly Instagrammable!

Stratford-upon-Avon is one of the brightest jewels in the UK’s box, and it’s utterly perfect for an enchanting day trip with a side-serving of culture!

Day trips from London by train - Stratford Upon Avon

Hop on a train from Victoria station for a mere two hours, and you’ll arrive in Portsmouth – a city that might not be the prettiest, but has a lot more history going on than people think!

Even without the historic dockyard (and we’ll get to that in a minute), Portsmouth teems with notable residents. Charles Dickens and Isambard Kingdom Brunel were both born there. H.G. Wells and Rudyard Kipling were residents, as was Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who managed to juggle being a doctor with playing in goal for Portsmouth Football Club, and somehow finding time to write the first Sherlock Holmes novel. Neil Gaiman completes the city’s literary pedigree.

With all these fine upstanding individuals, it’s no surprise that Portsmouth fairly brims with history, whether it’s taking refuge in an old smuggler’s pub down by the quayside (I recommend the Spice Island Inn), or visiting the dockyards. The star of the show is the Mary Rose Museum , a huge venue housing one of England’s most famous ships, which was wrecked in 1545 and rediscovered and raised in 1982. You can easily spend a whole day viewing the ship, as well as learning more from various interactive displays.

If that leaves you with a taste for things that are nautical but nice, pop next door to the drydock of HMS Victory , the world’s oldest ship which is still in commission (even if it’s more of an honorary thing). This was Nelson’s flagship during the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, and where he met his untimely demise. You can see the exact spot where he died, and perhaps whisper his reputed last words: “kiss me, Hardy!”

Day trips from London by train - Portsmouth

Harry Potter Studio Tour

In just under an hour, you can be immersed in the wizarding world of Harry Potter! To get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour from London, simply catch a train from Euston station to Watford Junction. At the station, hop on a number 10 bus (heading towards Woodside), and ask the driver to drop you off at Ashfields. From there, it’s just a short walk!

Forget other Harry Potter attractions: if you’re a true fan of the movies and books, this should be at the top of your destination list. This is where a lot of the Harry Potter movies were filmed – that means you can walk around the actual sets which were used! Want to visit the Great Hall, the Forbidden Forest, or most excitingly, Diagon Alley? Yup, you really can!

There’s also a plethora of props and costumes for you to gawp at, including potions and the adorable kittens from Professor Umbridge’s office, as well as all the Quidditch uniforms you’ll ever care to see. It’s a true Harry Potter experience, and you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s a massive array of merchandise for you to take home, too!

You’ll have to buy tickets in advance, and each tour takes just under four hours.

Day trips from London by train - Harry Potter tour

Another stupidly simple day trip from London, you can reach Winchester by taking a train from Waterloo station – and you’ll arrive in just over an hour!

Winchester is another of those beautiful cathedral cities, a speciality of the UK, and Winchester Cathedral definitely deserves a visit. It’s over 900 years old, and one of the finest examples of a medieval cathedral in the country. When you enter, you’ll be blown away by the elaborate carvings in the stonework, as well as the preserved medieval paintings – it’s also home to the tomb of Jane Austen, who we’ll be hearing more about later!

If you’re in the mood for more of Winchester’s history (and a perfectly Instagrammable location!), take a walk through the meadows until you reach the Hospital of St. Cross . This former almshouse has an incredibly pretty church, and it’s been used several times as a filming location, most notably in the BBC’s excellent adaption of Wolf Hall . If you like to take awesome photos, and have some good history on the side, this is the place!

Fancy a walk on the wild side? Take a bus to Marwell Zoo . As a big animal lover, I’m picky with my zoos – and Marwell is the best of the bunch. It’s not a “point-and-stare” kind of zoo; it’s seriously devoted to the conservation of rare animals (especially antelopes), and all of the species have huge enclosures (the park itself is in the countryside, and absolutely massive). The zoo and its society do some fantastic work!

Day trips from London by train - Winchester

Bristol (or “Brizzle”, at it’s known by locals), is one of the UK’s most engaging cities! Catch a train from Paddington station, and you can be there in just over an hour and a half.

There’s so many things to do in the city, but the HMS Great Britain is a good place to start! Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, she’s an absolutely huge ship – by far the biggest of her time – and was designed to be a transatlantic ship travelling between Bristol and America. Her size meant that she was expensive to run, however, and she was scuttled before being raised and converted to a museum in 1970. These days, it’s a fascinating glimpse into day gone by!

If scenery is more your thing, take a trip to another of Brunel’s designs – the Clifton Suspension Bridge , which crosses the Avon Gorge and some appropriately beautiful landscapes. It’s become the symbol of Bristol, and there’s a number of viewpoints and a visitor centre, where you can really make the most of your trip!

Still not enough Bristol for you? Check out St Nicholas Markets , an indoor permanent market with a wide variety of traders offering just about anything you could ever want, especially if it’s a bit quirky! You’ll find everything from Portuguese and Caribbean food, to vinyl records, to Japanese-inspired gifts. It’s great fun, and totally Bristol!

Day trips from London by train - Bristol

Fancy dipping a toe into another part of the UK? Then consider day trips from London by train that head into the beautiful country that is Wales – specifically Cardiff!

Get on a train at Paddington station, and you’ll be in the Welsh capital in under two hours. Wales is such an underrated part of the UK; it doesn’t get nearly the amount of international visitors that it deserves, and you’ll be able to explore somewhere which is culturally and historically distinct. Although getting into the best of the Welsh countryside might not be possible on a day trip, there’s still plenty to do in Cardiff!

If you love your history, you’ll be well catered for! St Fagans National Museum of History is a gorgeous open air museum devoted to Wales’ past, and it’s a true delight to just wander around. You can see quaint cottages, water mills, and even ye olde general goods stores (with ye olde products!). If that gets you well and truly bitten by the history bug, then Cardiff Castle is also available to you, with some fascinating tales and beautiful grounds.

Not done travelling through time? Well, the good news is that you can take a Doctor Who tour, too!

The Jane Austen Centre

What could possibly be more civilised, and more English, than reading all about Jane Austen before having some afternoon tea? Nothing, I say!

The Jane Austen Centre in Bath will allow you to fulfil all your fantasies of having tea with your personal Mr. Darcy (okay, we can’t guarantee that you’ll meet a smouldering gentleman there), but you will be able to wander through the exhibitions that’ll teach you all about Bath’s most famous resident. Austen loved the city, mentioning it in every single one of her books, and the exhibitions really demonstrate the link between her stories and the city itself.

Once you’re exhausted by all that learning, then it’s time to move into the Regency tea room! The staff are dressed as they would’ve been in Austen’s day, giving you that authentic experience with a nice dollop of elegance (as well as a nice dollop of the most delicious jam and cream with your scones!). A lot of the menu options are named after Austen’s characters, and they’re all mouthwatering!

Once you’ve been fed and watered, move to the gift shop for the ultimate shopping experience for Austen fans, where you can get everything from luxury hardback editions of the books, to jewellery which is in keeping with Regency times. It’s perfect for grabbing gifts for your friends… or just keeping for yourself!

Day trips from London by train - Jane Austen Centre

Blenheim Palace

It’s more simple than you may think to visit Blenheim Palace from London! Depart from Marylebone station to Oxford Parkway, then hop on a 7 Gold bus heading towards Old Woodstock. You’ll spot Blenheim Palace a mile off, and the whole journey takes just an hour and a half!

Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and rightly so – it’s a magnificent pile in the middle of the Oxfordshire countryside, and was the birthplace to one of the most famous Britons who ever lived. None other than Winston Churchill took his first, screaming breaths here – you can see the exact room, with objects dating from the time. It’s strangely adorable.

The rest of the Palace (which was a gift for John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough as a reward for doing rather well in various wars) is equally worth exploring, with gorgeous state rooms which are almost the equal of anything you’ll find at Windsor Castle. It has an added interest, because as well as being home to one of the noble families of England, it’s also been pretty well used – there’s nothing stuffy about it, and there’s personal touches which reminds you that this was a living residence.

By the way, remember to check out the grounds. They’re expansive and beautiful, but you’ can also see the lovely Temple of Diana – the spot where Winston Churchill proposed to his beloved Clementine.

A view of the exterior of Blenheim Palace

It’s super-easy to take a day trip from London to Cambridge, the other of England’s great university cities! Take a train from King’s Cross station, and you’ll be there in a mere 48 minutes. You can’t get many easier day trips from London by train than that!

Cambridge is best-known for its university buildings (of which there are many, and the majority of them are rather pretty), but there’s plenty to see and do without having to go to the rather extreme step of signing up as a student! The Fitzwalliam Museum is the city’s star attraction, with a fantastic collection of antiquities – it’s much like a miniature version of the British Museum . If you love ancient Greek, Roman, and Chinese treasures housed in an equally beautiful building, this is the place!

Of course, given that this is Cambridge, punting on the River Cam is also an option! If you’re not familiar with it, a punt is a low-lying boat which is propelled through the sleepy waters of the Cam by using a long pole, gondola-style. You can hire a local (often a student) to chauffeur you along the waters, or you can hire out a punt and do it yourself. Be warned: I’ve seen people fall in!

All sounds like too much effort? Then take yourself along to the Cambridge Gin Laboratory , where you can learn all about one of the UK’s favourite tipples. Oh, and did I mention that you get to blend your own gin, with no appointment needed? Yep, let’s go!

An ornate bridge crossing the river in Cambridge

The Isle of Wight

No UK childhood is complete without a trip to the Isle of Wight. If you missed out – no problem! It’s just as good as an adult!

It’s more straightforward to get there than you may think, too! Simply follow the instructions above for Portsmouth, and alight at Portsmouth Harbour station. This is one of the country’s more unusual train stations, as it’s built on a pier over the harbour itself – meaning that all you need to do is go down the large ramp marked with WightLink , and get a catamaran to Ryde!

If you buy a train ticket to Shanklin, then the cost of the crossing and onward journey will all be included. Plus, you’ll be able to explore one of my favourite villages on the Isle of Wight! Shanklin is best known for its beaches, but be sure to check out Shanklin Chine , a dramatic gorge with a waterfall and lush greenery growing around it. Totally not what you expect to find on the Isle of Wight! Also be sure to stop in The Rock Shop , the finest purveyors of rock and fudge anywhere!

Enjoy a lovely walk along the beach northwards, and you’ll soon end up in Sandown. Uapologetically touristy, this is an ideal English seaside resort, and it’s also home to the Isle of Wight Zoo . I have a massive soft spot for this place, because it’s actually just a retirement home for animals who have been rescued from the pet trade or circuses. They have a good number of elderly tigers, who are given as much of a hands-off life as possible, expertly looked-after and clearly enjoying their new lives!

A view of Sandown and Shanklin on the Isle of Wight

Who didn’t read the Canterbury Tales at school, and think to themselves, “I’d kind of like to do that some day”? Well, catch a train from St Pancras International, and you can be there in less than an hour!

Quite obviously, Canterbury Cathedral is the main attraction in the city. The very destination of Chaucer’s pilgrims in the Canterbury Tales (and I bet they would’ve liked to have done the journey in under an hour…), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most beautiful buildings in the UK. Ironically, it was able to become this elaborate due to a murder – this is where Thomas Becket became martyred, and the steady flow of pilgrims allowed the church to become very rich indeed!

Once you’ve had a look around, pop next door to the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge . You’ll spend a while admiring the building itself (it looks something of a cross between something from Sherlock Holmes, Enid Blyton, and Harry Potter), but it has some wonderful exhibits. As well as historical curiosities, including an array of penny farthing bicycles mounted on the wall, there’s Rupert the Bear memorabilia, and most excitingly for me, the original Bagpuss!

Canterbury is just a lovely place to wander around, and being so quick and easy to reach, it’s definitely one of the best day trips from London by train!

A view of the river going through Canterbury

I do like a good cathedral city, and Chichester is an underrated gem! It’s also nice and easy to get to: simply catch a train from Victoria station (taking care to sit in the front 4 carriages), and you’ll be there in an hour and a half!

Chichester train station is a little bit outside the city centre, but fear not – a walk of ten minutes, which takes you past some rather nice shops and eateries, delivers you right to the Market Cross! This structure stands slap in the middle of the city, and was the place where peasants in Chichester would meet, and be able to sell some of their wares. It’s still very much used as a meeting place, and you can explore some of the city’s quirky shops from here!

Chichester Cathedral is a stone’s throw from the Market Cross, and was completed in 1108. It’s got a couple of claims to fame: it’s the only English cathedral which is visible from the sea (having been on the sea near Chichester, I can confirm), and it’s also the only cathedral in England with a campanile – a separate bell tower. You can see it by wandering out into the rather lovely grounds – if you’re lucky, you might also see the cathedral’s resident peregrine falcons!

Chichester is a lovely, compact city – historically, it’s been possible for all the residents of the city to fit into the cathedral at once – and is great for a quiet amble. Before you head back to the station, check out the area by the canal nicknamed Little Copenhagen, and take a walk down the towpath if you fancy!

Hampton Court Palace

How about a trip back in time to Tudor England? No problem! To get Hampton Court Palace from London, simply catch a train from Waterloo to Hampton Court – it’ll take just under an hour, and is as easy as can be!

Hampton Court Palace was built in 1515 as a residence for Thomas Wolsey, but he fell from Henry VII’s favour and wisely gave him the house to patch things up. It became Henry’s favourite, seeing a lot of the key events of Tudor history: Jane Seymour died there, having given birth to Edward VI, and Henry also learned about Catherine Howard’s affair with a courtier in the palace’s chapel.

These days, there’s probably no better place in the whole of the UK for learning about Tudor history! The kitchens are a great area to visit; they’ve changed very little since Tudor times, and there’s often demonstrations – they still cook meats on a spit over a fire! You can follow the food’s journey by going up to the magnificent Great Hall, where many a banquet was had. You’ll be impressed, both by the decor, and the amount of food they could put away!

Oh, by the way – Hampton Court Palace is supposedly haunted by the ghost of Catherine Howard, who runs through the Gallery towards the Chapel, screaming for mercy. Apparently, this happens every night. Have fun!

The New Forest

If you just want to get away from it all, and walk through one of England’s most unspoilt forests, a day trip by rail to the New Forest is just the thing! Depart from Waterloo station, and you can be in the village of Brockenhurst in under two hours.

The New Forest is the perfect place to go for a walk in the woods. It’s home to many rare animals and birds, as well as wild ponies! You’ll often spot these exceptional equines if you go on one of the many walking trails in the forest, and they’re actually very well cared for. Once a year, they’re rounded up and given a health check, as well as medications to keep them in fine fettle, before being released back to their lives.

The New Forest is also a great place if you’re into classic cars, thanks to the Beaulieu National Motor Museum . 285 vehicles have their home here, including everything from cars dating from the early days of motoring, to the fastest and sleekest Formula One cars around. There’s even an exhibit on toy cars, where you can totally regret throwing away the packaging from that one from your childhood.

For day trips from London by train that get you out into the beautiful green countryside of England, you can’t do better than the New Forest!

Manchester might not be England’s second city (Birmingham just edges it out), but that doesn’t stop it from being world-famous – and it’s well worth a day trip from London!

Catch a fast train from Euston station, and you can be in the splendid city of Manchester in just over two hours. It’s super-easy to then explore the aspect of Manchester which has brought it the most fame in recent years – football! Both Manchester United and Manchester City provide tours of their stadiums. Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium is older, but has more silverware in the trophy cabinet, while Manchester City’s Etihad is state-of-the-art, but lacking in history. Choose your side!

Once you’re finished pretending to be the next David Beckham, pop along to the University of Manchester, and check out the John Rylands Library . Once you’ve entered, taking full advantage of the free admission (yay!), you’ll be blown away by how stunningly beautiful this depository of rare books and manuscripts is. The library looks almost like a cathedral of books, and is easily up there with the most beautiful bookshops in the world! It’s a definite photo stop!

You can easily spend a full day exploring the many museums that Manchester has to offer – the only problem you’ll have is narrowing down which ones you want to visit!

Liverpool is one of the shining lights of northern England – and like nearby Manchester, it’s incredibly easy to get to! To go from London to Liverpool, all you’ll need to do is catch a train from Euston – you’ll arrive in two hours and fifteen minutes!

Also like Manchester, Liverpool is a former port city made famous by its pop culture icons, and you don’t get much bigger than the Beatles! Liverpool’s favourite sons are on display everywhere in the city, but the holy grail for fans is the Cavern Club – the venue where they played and gained their popularity in the early days of their career. You can take a tour of the club, and see the stages where they once stood, as well as take full advantage of their gift shop!

Once you’ve paid homage, pop down to the Royal Albert Dock . This harbour, which was the entry point of the wealth which made Liverpool great, fell into disrepair when Liverpool’s shipping heyday was over, but it’s now been reborn as a vibrant district. There’s shops, restaurants, a Beatles Museum (of course), and even an outpost of the Tate Gallery. It’s definitely the place to be!

If the history of the harbour has you intrigued, check out the Merseyside Maritime Museum , which contains a comprehensive story of Liverpool and its ships. You can learn all about the goods which were imported in, the immigrants who left for the New World, as well as a little-known ship which once made a stop in the city. You might’ve heard of it; she was called the Titanic…

Day trips from London to other countries

Seen plenty of the UK, and fancy a day trip to another country by train? Yup, thanks to the Eurotunnel, it’s most definitely possible!

If you remember to take your passport, and have realistic expectations of it being a fairly long day, taking a day trip from London to Paris, Lille, or Brussels is extremely doable. You can even go from London to Amsterdam by train, but with a journey time of four hours, you’ll have to weigh up just how much usable time you’ll have in your destination.

Wherever you choose to go continental, the Eurostar train departing from St Pancras International is your friend! Check out destinations and ticket prices on the Eurostar website , and remember that the further in advance you book your ticket, the cheaper it’s likely to be!

Yep, it’s true – Paris is most certainly a viable day trip from London by train! With the London to Paris train taking a mere two and a half hours, you can be strolling down the boulevards in the blink of an eye. The public transport system is so good that you’ll waste no time in getting around!

So, where to start? The answer is obvious: the Eiffel Tower . It may seem super-touristy, but you simply can’t visit Paris without paying the Iron Lady a visit, even though it’s visible from most of the city. There’s just something truly magical about seeing it close-up, and realising how elaborate the construction is – and if you feel so inclined, you can even take a tour up the Tower itself!

When you’re done there, it’s time to tick off the other must-do; the Louvre Museum . I highly recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket, especially if you want to see the star attraction of the Mona Lisa – being one of the biggest and most popular art museums in the world, the queues can be quite hellish at the best of times, and you’re going to want to make the most of every minute you have. Plus, it gives you more time to look at the other world-famous treasures held here!

It’s nearly impossible to not enjoy a trip to Paris, but if you really want to make the most of the experience, check out my guide to things to do in Paris , and my primer on Paris for first-timers!

C’mon, let’s give Belgium some love! Often forgotten due to being wedged between The Netherlands and France, and dismissed as being little more than a land of chocolate and Tintin, Belgium is a true hidden gem of Europe. And whilst nearby Bruges may be prettier, there’s plenty in Brussels for an awesome day trip!

You can reach Brussels on the Eurostar in almost two hours exactly, and you’ll wonder why on earth you never thought of coming here before. The centre of the city, and its most impressive sight, is that of the Grand Place – a truly gorgeous town square which surely must be one of the prettiest in Europe. The elaborate architecture will take your breath away, as they were previously guild halls which competed to out-do each other! It’s a perfect place to stop for a beer and people watch!

It would be remiss to visit Brussels without taking in its most infamous (and shamelessly touristy) sight – the Mannekin Pis . Yup, a fountain of a boy relieving his bladder has strangely fascinated visitors to Brussels, ever since it was placed there in 1618. If that doesn’t say something about the human sense of humour, I don’t know what does. But its popularity endures, and you may well see it dressed up in a little outfit!

But how about making the most of your day trip, and seeing the whole of Europe? No, really! Well, kinda. Mini Europe is a popular attraction, located right by the large and distinctive ATOMIUM installation, and it recreates the sights of Europe in miniature. Make future travel plans! Take photos and trick your friends into thinking that you do drone photography! It’s surprisingly good fun.

My friends, you are sooo missing out if one of your day trips from London by train isn’t Lille. It’s brimming with French charm, not over-infested with tourists, and is a stone’s throw from England. Oh, and it’s super pretty, too!

It’s so close that the Eurostar will deposit you at Lille’s rather fancy train station in only an hour and a half. From there, it’s a short walk to the city centre, and a walk around what is a truly underrated French city. My favourite thing to do is just to sit in the beautiful Grande Place – like the one in Brussels, it’s a series of buildings more gorgeous than the next, all clustered around a handsome square. Buy a baguette from the nearby bakeries, and enjoy the scene!

Once you’re ready to get on the move again, simply take a wander around the Old Town (or Vieux-Lille, as it’s known around here). All of the buildings here are just heartwrenchingly gorgeous, a feat even more impressive when you remember that Lille was right in the centre of two world wars. Enjoy gazing at elegant cafes, and bakeries with exquisite cakes and macarons. Stop at a bar or brasserie for a real slice of Lille life.

End up at the Palais des Beaux-Arts , and you’ll be treated to a feast of top quality art, including works by Donatello and Goya. And this is Lille, so obviously it’s in an awesome building which is a work of art in itself! Even if art isn’t your thing, it’s well worth heading here just to look around the grounds, before you head back to the train station to complete a successful day trip from London!

Share this guide!

And there we have it! I hope that this has really opened your eyes to how easy it is to see the best of England and Wales (and beyond!) as day trips from London by train. As awesome as London is, the rest of the country is completely different, and just as magical. You’re missing out if you don’t get out there and explore, and travelling by train makes it so easy!

If you did find this useful, as well as vaguely enjoyable, how about giving it a share using those lovely social media buttons on the side there? Simply click them, and you’ll be helping out someone else who’s looking for some nifty day trips from London!

If you’re super smart, save the below images to Pinterest! That way, you get a permanent bookmark back to this page, right when you need it – and you know that you’ll forget half the places on this list, and want to look it up again. Save those images, and it’s so much easier to do!

Looking for epic, yet simple, day trips from London by train? Look no further: here's 27 amazing day trips from London you'll love - and they couldn't be easier! See the best of England and beyond, including Brighton, Stonehenge, Oxford, Windsor Castle, Bath, Bristol, and the Cotswolds - plus trips to Wales, Paris, Brussels and Lille! It's everything you need for stress-free London day trips and UK staycations! #London #England #LondonTravel #EnglandTravel

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Courtney Byrneheim

What a great list of London day trips! I have been to London a few times, but I haven’t gotten to escape the city. Saving this list for the next time I’m back. I would love to make it to the Cotswolds, especially. I have heard about how lovely some of these destinations from my local colleagues in London, too!

Great post! I am happy to say I have done 7 of these day trips- guess I will just have to go back and do the rest. love all the good info!

Wow. So many day trips from London. I will need to add an extra month to my next visit!

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Made with in Seattle.

The 28 best day trips from London by train (2023 + map!)

There’s no denying that we love London but we also love to explore beyond the capital. Fortunately, it’s easy to leave the city and there are lots of places to discover nearby.

Not only is train travel easy, it’s a far greener way to travel. Just make sure to book your train tickets in advance to ensure you get the best deals.

From seaside towns and cultural centres to famous cities and historical sites, these are some of the best day trips from London by train.

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Best day trips from London

Table of Contents

There are 10 main train stations in central London offering services across the country. The main stations are:

Waterloo Station
King’s Cross
London Euston
Charing Cross
Victoria Station
London Bridge
Fenchurch Street
Liverpool Street

These train stations all have luggage storage options and all have direct Tube links except for Fenchurch Street, which is close to Tower Hill and Aldgate Tube stations.

When travel planning do look at the Trainline website . You can buy tickets in advance, reserve a seat and save money. The National Rail website has information on timetables, connections, stations and fares. Most rail services offer First and Standard Class accommodation.

Popular day trips 1 hour (or less) from London

Hampton Court Palace

One of the most popular day trips from London by train is to Hampton Court Palace , the former home of Henry VIII on the banks of the River Thames. The palace is actually in London, located in the borough of Richmond upon Thames, but you still need to travel by train from the city center to reach it.

Hampton Court is a fantastic place for a day out . Among the many things to see and do don’t miss Henry VIII’s state apartments , which gives an insight into the palace’s Tudor period and Henry’s life here with his six wives and children.

The largest room in Hampton Court Palace is the Great Hall , where banquets were held and up to 450 guests could be entertained at any one time.

The Tudor kitchens – including the Boiling House where large joints of beef and mutton were prepared – is a fascinating look at what life would have been like for the cooks and serving staff.

Hampton Court Palace is also home to the UK’s oldest serving hedge maze , the largest known vine in the world and a fantastic playground the Magic Garden.

Hampton Court Palace is one of the easiest day trips from London by train; trains depart every 30 minutes from London Waterloo .

Travel time from London: 35 minutes

The little town of Lewes in East Sussex is known primarily to historians as the setting for the Battle of Lewes and to archaeologists as the site of a settlement since at least 961 AD. But for travellers the town’s main claim to fame is as a centre of fiery celebration: Lewes Bonfire Night ; the Britain’s most dangerous Guy Fawkes celebration.

As locals and visitors Remember the 5th of November, the streets of Lewes turn to smoke and fire. Six separate Lewes Bonfire Society organisations host parades and bonfires around town, all in celebration of the death of Guy Fawkes and the failure of the Gunpowder Plot .

The remainder of the year, Lewes remains a quaint countryside town capped by a Norman castle and several sites of historic architectural interests.It also lies along the South Downs Way footpath , and can serve as the beginning or end of a day of walking in the surrounding countryside.

If you do want to spend the night in Lewes you’ll find one of the most unusual places to stay in the UK here, the Big Green Bus. The Lewes to London train is operated by Southern Line and runs into London Victoria.

Travel time from London: 1hr

Stephen, Monk Bought Lunch

If you are looking for a unique day trip from London then St Albans is definitely a great choice. St Albans is a small, but charming city located about 20 miles from London. The train journey from St. Pancras shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes.

One of the biggest attractions there is the St. Albans Cathedral , but you should also spend a few hours in the Verulamium Park , which is a perfect place to have a picnic.

The Clock Tower from the beginning of the 15th century is also a key landmark in the city. It’s one of the few medieval towers in England. It’s worth climbing its narrow stairs – a great panorama of the city stretches from above.

St Albans hosts a traditional street market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Over 150 stalls make it definitely one of the most colourful markets in the south of England. To finish off your day trip, visit Ye Olde Fighting Cocks , one of the oldest pubs in England, and enjoy a typical British dinner.

Travel time from London: 32min

Contributed by Darek and Gosia, DarekandGosia.com

East Grinstead

The town of East Grinstead is easily reached from London by train. Make sure you check out the neighbouring Bluebell Railway Museum when you arrive at the station!

The town is most famous for the role it played during WWII. During this time, the local hospital, the Queen Victoria, became a specialist hospital for facial reconstruction treatment. Almost all of the British soldiers who were severely burned or lost limbs during the war were treated here.

The hospital remains one of the top specialist centres in the world for facial reconstruction. You can learn all about the hospital, the “Guinea Pig Club” and Dr Archibald McIndoe at the East Grinstead Museum .

Once you’ve finished at the museum, have your photo taken standing on the Meridian Line. Alternatively, collect Pooh Sticks in nearby Ashdown Forest , the forest that inspired the Hundred Acre Wood.

Make sure to grab a cake and coffee at the East Grinstead Bookshop on the High Street. The bookshop has been there since 1535!

Dagney from Cultura Obscura

Sitting on the southern coast of the UK, Brighton is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip from London. Thameslink runs direct trains from London Bridge and St. Pancras International stations and within an hour you’ll be at the seaside.

Getting around Brighton is just as simple as getting there; it’s a very walkable town with a relaxing and upbeat atmosphere. Head to the pier and enjoy its arcade with fun video games, delicious food stalls, and wonderful views of Brighton beach. It’s also a great place for photography if you’ve already visited the best photo spots in London and are looking for a change in scenery.

I also recommend taking a stroll in the Brighton Lanes , the charming historic quarter of the city. The narrow alleys there will lead you to lots of shops, boutiques, and delicious seafood restaurants such as Riddle And Finns . And don’t miss the Royal Pavilion , originally constructed as the seaside pleasure palace of King George IV and today a Regency museum.

Jiayi, The Diary of a Nomad

Aside from its music festival or the recently renovated train station, few people choose to visit Reading unless just passing through. Yet, there are tons of things to do and see there that make it a great place for a day trip from London .

Located in Berkshire, to the west of London, Reading is easily accessible by train. There are two different train lines that will take you between London and Reading, either via Waterloo or Paddington , but the latter can whizz you into Reading centre in as little as 26 minutes!

The town has a fascinating history , with historical attractions ranging from a replica Bayeux Tapestry in the Reading Museum to the ruined 12th century Reading Abbey. There are also plenty of places to stroll and relax in the city centre, including the Forbury Gardens and Caversham Court Gardens.

Further afield but a quick taxi ride away, you’ll find one of the best vineyards in the country, Stanlake Wine Estate , and the beautiful National Trust stately home, Basildon Park . Did you know some of the interior shots of Downton Abbey were filmed here?

Foodies will love the town’s boutique cafes dotted across the centre, from 7 Flowers & Tea , which is a tea shop and florist in one. The neighbourhood of Caversham to the north of the station also boasts numerous independent cafes and restaurants.

Time from London: 26mins

Anna, Would Be Traveller

Harry Potter Studios

Whether you are a Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw, you will find so many Harry Potter things to do in London (including this excellent Harry Potter walking tour ). But no trip to England would be complete without visiting the Harry Potter studios where most of the movies were actually filmed.

Warner Bros Studios: The making of Harry Potter is located in Watford. To get there, hop on a train from Euston or Victoria to Watford Junction. Once you arrive you will find a Harry Potter shuttle that will bring you straight to the entrance of the studios.

Harry Potter fans can book their ticket on the WB Studios website and the best thing to do is to get the first one available. Once you are in the studios, you are free to stay as long as you want.

Inside, you will get to see the sets including the Great Hall , the Gryffindor common room and Gringotts Wizarding Bank . You will also find plenty of information on how the movies were made including how they chose the filming locations, special effects, make up… everything you can think of!

Finally, you will find a couple of restaurants where you can treat yourself to a Butterbeer.

Travel time from London: 48mins to Watford Junction

Pauline, Beeloved City

One of the most beautiful cities in England, Oxford is also one of the best places to visit by train from London. Not only is it easily reached from the capital, but it offers a real slice of English tradition and charm . Regular direct trains leave from London Marylebone and London Paddington arriving in Oxford an hour later.

One of the most popular things to do when visiting Oxford is to explore the oldest and most prestigious university in the country. Oxford University has been home to many world-renowned scholars and the beautiful architecture of the university is simply stunning.

This is where you’ll find Christ Church College , home to an important collection of Old Masters paintings and drawings. The university is also home to the Bodleian Library , one of the oldest libraries in Europe and the second-largest library in the UK after the British Library.

Other top sights in the city include the Bridge of Sighs , the Carfax Tower, the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin and Oxford Castle . Oxford Castle is located on the western side of the city and has a rich history which can be uncovered with an informative tour given by an exquisitely costumed guide.

No trip to Oxford would be complete without a punt down the River Cherwel l. This is a great way to see the city during summer months (although if you do the punting yourself be warned, it’s harder than it looks!).

From Oxford you can catch a 40min bus ride to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace, a stunning country house home to beautiful gardens.

Chrysoula, Historic European Castles

Windsor

Windsor Castle is one of the Royal Residences of the Queen of England, and it is the longest continually inhabited palace or castle in all of Europe. Windsor Castle dates back to the 11th century and tours are available, allowing visitors to see the elegant rooms and fabulous art collection.

If you spend the day here, you can also walk around the village, enjoy the charming English country pubs here, and walk over to Eton to enjoy a stroll through this charming town as well.

To get to Windsor from London by train takes between thirty minutes to just over an hour. Trains depart from London Paddington to Windsor and Eton Central or London Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Riverside.

Travel time from London: 30mins – 1hr

Stephanie, History Fangirl

As England’s oldest recorded town, Colchester is an easy day trip from London . The journey time from London to Colchester takes around 90 minutes with regular train services from Liverpool Street Station to Colchester North, just 15 minutes walk from the town centre.

In Colchester you’ll find a wide variety of free walking tours and these all include audio guides and downloadable maps.

As well as being the oldest town on record, Colchester is also the site of England’s only Roman Circus . The Roman Wall around the old part of town is also one of the most intact in the country – there’s even a pub built into part of it. You’ll find St Botolphs , an 11th century Augustine Priory here that’s free to visit and several museums in the town.

The stunning Norman Keep of Colchester’s Castle dates from 1076, but the dungeons are built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. Be sure to visit the museum and find all the Roman treasures. These include a treasure hoard from the Fenwick department store on the high street, found when renovations to the shop were taking place.

And while there are many cafes and places to stop for a lunch break in Colchester, you should make your way to the Tiptree Jam Tea Room . Tiptree Jam is local to Colchester but is famous the world over!

Travel time from London: 52mins

Sarah, A Social Nomad

At just over an hour from central London, the medieval town of Rye in East Sussex is one of the very best day trips you can take from London by train.. Once an important port town on England’s south coast, Rye is now surrounded by marshland with the sea a couple of miles beyond. The town is full of atmospheric cobblestone streets and timber-framed houses.

Visit in winter and the streets are frequently cloaked in sea mist . During the evening, it’s easy to imagine the smugglers from days gone by sneaking from tavern to tavern. In summertime, Rye is a delightful town to wander through, there are lovely independent shops and plenty of cafes to enjoy lunch or coffee.

Just a mile or two from the town centre is the wonderful expanse of Camber Sands , one of the best beaches in this part of England. Buses run regularly from Rye to the beach.

The Mermaid Inn , of 12th century origins, is Rye’s most famous pub. It’s definitely worth checking timings of the last train back to London to ensure you can have a few drinks in this characterful watering hole.

To learn more about Rye’s history pop into Ypres Tower , a former jail and now a fascinating museum complete with gallows and a skeleton as well as a model of how the town would have looked in medieval times before the sea water receded away from the defensive town walls.

Travel time from London: 1hr 8min

Annabel, Smudged Postcard

Famous for being one of the most prestigious universities in the world, the university town of Cambridge is the perfect day trip, particularly if you have a number of days to spend in London .

The easiest way to get to Cambridge from London is by taking the train from Kings Cross Station – there are regular trains that will get you to Cambridge in approximately one hour.

Once in Cambridge, take your time to explore the sites of the famous university, including some of the colleges where students live. King’s College and Trinity College are two of the most famous. There are also many walking tours that you can take, often run by local students to give you a great insight into daily life in the city.

One of other iconic things to do in Cambridge is to try your hand at punting along the River Cam . If you prefer to stay dry, then it can arguably be more fun to sit on the banks of the river and watch the chaos of many people trying to punt and possibly falling in!

Time from London: 1hr 10 min

Contributed by Michael, The World Was here First

Popular day trips 2 hours from London

Situated on the beautiful Avon River, Bristol in South West England is a mere two hours from London by train.

Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel , his Clifton Suspension Bridge is the city’s most famous icon and is a must-see. The bridge over the Avon River offers amazing views of the surrounding areas, and it’s a lovely spot for watching the sunset.

Another highlight of the city is the Arnolfini , which is one of Europe’s leading centres for the contemporary arts , artist’s performances, music, and dance events. This is a go-to place if you want to experience art through all your senses. Entry is free; make sure to go to the top floor for views across the harbour.

Bristol is also famous for street art and the city walls are painted multicoloured murals. Bristol’s Stokes Croft neighbourhood is an area where the legendary Banksy makes his mark.

If it’s a sunny day, pay Bristol harbourside a visit, where you’ll find museums, galleries, exhibitions and, of course, lovely houses overlooking the water. Also don’t miss out on visiting the beautiful Bristol Cathedral.

There are direct trains from London to Bristol that leaves every 5-15 minutes from London Paddington and London Waterloo . The city has two railway stations, Bristol Parkway and Temple Meads Station, with the latter being much closer to Bristol’s town center. Consider taking a train to Temple Meads Station and get off closer to the city’s main attractions.

Travel time from London: 1hr 40min

Ivan, Mind The Travel

Nottingham

The city of Nottingham is synonymous with myths and legends. Local stories tell the tales of Robin Hood and his men dashing through the trees in Sherwood Forest , taking from the rich and giving to the poor. Several street names and statues around the city pay homage to this tight-wearing hero. Today though, Nottingham is one of the most underrated destinations in the UK.

Nottingham is just 90 minutes by train from London St Pancras . The centrally-located Nottingham train station is just a stone’s throw away from the city’s main points of interest.

Nottingham Castle is one of the city’s top attractions and should be the first port of call upon arrival. The castle, which dates back to 1674, is perched on top of a craggy rock where it watches protectively over the city. The views of the city skyline from up here are spectacular and visitors can take guided tours of the labyrinth-like network of caves beneath the castle.

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is a ramshackle pub and restaurant that sits adjacent to Nottingham Castle. This is the oldest inn in England and the owners will tell you fascinating tales about its resident ghosts and spirits. The menu boasts all of the traditional English classic dishes – Sunday roast dinners, toad in the hole, etc.

Nearby, Hurt’s Yard is a narrow little passageway filled with coffee shops and eclectic boutique stores that have been designed to look just as they would have done during the Victorian era.

The Lace Market is Nottingham’s premier social district. Nottingham was once one of the main lacemaking cities in the UK and this neighbourhood is filled with old factories that have been converted into chic cocktail bars and upscale eateries.

Time from London: 1hr 30min

Melissa, High Heels & a Backpack

Approximately two hours by train from London Waterloo, Portsmouth is a great option for a day trip.

This popular port city in Hampshire has a host of great attractions like The Historic Dockyard . This forms part of the HM Naval Base and houses a number of historic buildings and ships which are open to the public. There’s also the Mary Rose Museum where you will find the recovered remains of Henry VIII’s warship which was lost in 1545.

In addition to these two main attractions, Portsmouth also has the iconic Emirates Spinnaker Tower , the D-Day Story museum and the Portsmouth Museum . There are also beautiful beaches, water sports avenues and a fantastic shopping scene. In fact, a number of visitors make a day trip to Gunwharf Quays just for the shopping!

There’s a thriving dining and drinking scene as well in Portsmouth. There are a number of restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs across the city with many just a short walk away from the seafront. For fantastic brunches in a beautiful setting, Cosy Club in Gunwharf Quays comes recommended.

There are so many things to see and do in Portsmouth that it’s not easy to fit everything into a single day. But a day trip will certainly give you an introduction to this great city on England’s south coast.

Travel time from London: 1hr 30min – 2hrs

Deeptha, The Globe Trotter

You certainly won’t be the first person to travel from London to Canterbury. Pilgrims have been making this journey for nearly 1,000 years to visit the Canterbury Cathedral .

More specifically, they come to see the place inside the cathedral where Thomas Becket , the Archbishop of Canterbury, was murdered in 1170. This pilgrimage became the inspiration for The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer.

Of course, back then the journey was made on foot, and it took a lot longer than a single day to get there. Located about 60 miles southeast of London , Canterbury is now an easy London day trip by train. Hop on a train at St. Pancras station, and you’ll be at Canterbury West station in approximately 1hr 30mins.

The Cathedral is still the main attraction, but it’s certainly not the only thing to see here. The entire old town of cobblestone streets and historic buildings is very well preserved and easy to explore on foot. When you’re ready for a lunch break, head to the Lady Luck , which serves up pub grub favourites as well as some of the best vegan food in Canterbury .

Wendy, The Nomadic Vegan

Located only 1 hour and 20 minutes from London Bridge Station by train, Whitstable is a favourite day trip for South East Londoners in particular.

Whitstable is located on the north coast of Kent in south-east England. This charming seaside town has a large, wide and long pebble beach and dozens of colourful beach huts.

Whitstable is most famous for its oysters which have been harvested in this area since Roman times. An Oyster Festival is held here every July.

Whitstable has a long high street with brilliant independent shops . There are unusual bookshops, stores selling stunning, wooden, handmade toys alongside lovely clothes and jewellery. Don’t miss the amazing ‘Oysterman’s Daughter’ , an enormous mural painted on the side of a house depicting a mermaid with an oyster and pearl.

If that wasn’t enough Whitstable also has a castle where you can stroll around the gardens or enjoy an afternoon tea within the cafe.

Travel time from London: 1hr 20mins

Kristie, Mamma Prada

Bath is a historic city famous for the ruins of Roman Baths dating from 70 AD. It’s also one of the most beautiful places in England. The city was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage in 1987.

The Roman Baths sit on natural and still active hot springs, visitors can enjoy the relaxing power of nature in the nearby thermal spa. If visiting without kids, you should book a Twilight Package and take in the stunning city views from a hot pool on the spa’s rooftop.

Another iconic place in Bath not to be missed is the Royal Crescent. These beautiful architecture here is a wonderful example of the classic British Georgian style. Many noble people used to live there, but today you can explore its museum and stay a night at number 16, which is the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa .

Other interesting places to visit are Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge . Finally, don’t forget to pop into the Pump Room Restaurant for a traditional afternoon tea.

Bath is located in county Somerset, in the southwestern part of England. You can catch a direct train from London Paddington Station.

Mal, Raw Mal Roams

Located on the banks of the River Avon, Warwick is famously known for the magnificent medieval Warwick Castle .

On your day trip from London, start your visit with a guided tour of Warwick Castle . Check out the iconic St.Mary’s Church, an 11th-century collegiate church. You can get beautiful panoramic views of Warwick from its tower. Visit Charlecote Park , a large 16th-century country house on River Avon surrounded by a lovely deer park.

Other well-maintained gardens are the Mill Garden , Jephson Gardens and St.Nicholas’ Park, all ideal for relaxing. The Mill garden and Charlecote are highly recommended if you are here for a day.

Explore the famous Lord Leycester Hospital , famous for its courtyard-style medieval architecture and East and West Gate. If you are into museums, you should visit St. John’s house – a Jacobean style social history Museum.

The earliest train departs from London at 6:05 AM and they run regularly throughout the day. Chiltern Railways operate on this route.

Travel time from London: 1hr 15mins

Reshma, The Solo Globetrotter

The New Forest National Park

The New Forest National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty and, not surprisingly, has long been a popular holiday destination. Located in Southern England, covering southwest Hampshire and southeast Wiltshire, the area is easily reached by train from London in about 90 minutes.

The New Forest has a number of activities on offer. There are the award-winning Exbury Gardens and the internationally renowned National MotorMuseum at Beaulieu . There are also leisure and wildlife parks including the famous family-friendly Peppa Pig World at Paulton’s Park.

You can discover the cobbled streets of the picturesque towns and villages or take a long walk along the New Forest Coastline , which is mesmerising! With over 100 miles of gravel tracks to choose from, another option is to go off-road by bicycle. Bikes are available to hire.

There are various train stations you can travel to from London including Ashurst, Beaulieu Road, Lymington Town and Lymington Pier.

Travel time from London: 1hr 30mins

Tanayesh, Shoestring Travel

Lincolnshire is almost directly north of London and makes for a great day trip from London.

Start your visit with a walk up the popular Steep Hill – the 14% gradient is well worth it. At the top of the hill is the entrance to Lincoln Cathedral and at the bottom is Well Lane . The Hill consists of independent shops, tea rooms and pubs.

At the top of Steep Hill you will find Lincoln Castle with its restored wall walk and its 19th Century prison . It’s even home to the historic Magna Carta that was a charter of rights agreed to by King John of England. Opposite the castle is the magnificent Lincoln Cathedral , famous for its Lincoln Imp gargoyles . Work began on the Cathedral back in 1072.

There are plenty of cute little cafes to wander into on your walk up or down the hill. Halfway up you will also find two free museums that stand side by side; The Collection and the Usher Gallery, Lincolnshire’s premier art gallery. Another great free museum is the Museum of Lincolnshire Life , which tells the history of Lincolnshire through some excellent exhibits. There’s a lovely play area for kids in the courtyard.

Lincoln’s waterfront area is especially beautiful. Here you can catch a movie, take a boat trip or choose from one of the many restaurants overlooking the water.

For more ideas take a look at this post on things to do in Lincoln .

Travel time from London: 2hrs

Suzy, Our Bucket List Lives

Popular day trips 3 hours from London

There are endless options for day trips out of London, but York remains a popular destination thanks to its myriad historic attractions. York is located a 2.5hr – 3hr hour train ride from London’s King Cross Station.

The city of York dates back to 71AD, the time of the Ancient Romans . Today it remains one of the oldest walled cities in the world and home to plenty of Roman ruins.

Highlights include York Minster one of the finest cathedrals and medieval buildings in Europe. Barley Hall is a family friendly option highlighting what life was like in the late 1400s. The Merchant Adventurers’ Hall was built in 1357 and has one of the grandest Great Halls on show.

Other attractions that must not be missed include The Shambles the most well preserved medieval street in the world. Make sure to visit the York Walls and numerous fortresses located throughout the city that were once used as Roman defences.

Be sure to stop in on Spring Espresso for coffee.

Travel time from London: 2.5 – 3hrs

Toni, Enchanted Serendipity

Jump on a train at Euston Station and enjoy a day trip from London to Liverpool . In just a couple of hours you will be in one of the UK’s friendliest cities, brimming with culture and quirky things to do.

There are the obvious things to do in Liverpool like the Beatles tours , the football grounds and the Liverpool Docks . But how about spending your train trip from London exploring the lesser known sights of Liverpool?

If you’re into history, St Luke’s Bombed Out Church Gardens is a hidden treasure. Destroyed during the Blitz and left derelict as a war memorial this church is a beautiful place to relax and learn about the past.

For some of the best food in Liverpool don’t miss the Baltic Market . With street food stalls from around the world, it showcases Liverpool’s multiculturalism through food.

The best way to see Liverpool is from Liverpool Cathedral; climb to the top for the best views over the city. Check out the top ten things to do in Liverpool from a local tour guide here .

Travel time from London: 2hr 13min – 2hr 30min

Contributed by Jo, Lost Wanders

Stratford-upon-Avon

Best known for being Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon is in Warwickshire, the heart of England. Easily reached by train direct from London Marylebone, the station is a short walk from the town centre.

Shakespeare’s birthplace is right in the centre, on Henley Street. Visit and learn more about how he would have lived as a boy and when he was married to Anne Hathaway.

Nearby is the Guildhall and Shakespeare’s Schoolroom , open to the public with interactive sessions where you can take part in a Tudor classroom!.

The Royal Shakespeare Company is based in Stratford, with two theatres on the banks of the River Avon. There are regular productions in both the main auditorium and the smaller Swan theatre. On the third floor there’s an excellent restaurant with great river views.

Stratford is famous for the Butterfly Farm which is just five minutes’ walk from the Town Centre. You’ll find hundreds of the world’s most beautiful butterflies there.

And, there are regular boat trips along the River Avon, including gin tasting tours in the summer, run by the Shakespeare Gin Distillery .

Stratford upon Avon is a quintessentially English Market Town , with pretty half-timbered buildings, tea shops and churches. There are plenty of places to eat and drink from the stunning Garrick Inn , built in 1718 to the traditional style Hathaway’s Tea Rooms in a Grade II listed building on the High Street.

It’s also worth checking out the Woodsman restaurant in the Hotel Indigo, run by the team behind the Michelin Starred Ledbury and Harwood restaurants.

Travel time from London: 2hr 12min

Contributed by Fiona Maclean, London Unattached

International day trips from London

It’s not just the UK that you can explore on a day trip from London, you can also head across the English Channel.

Brussels, Belgium

It’s easy to plan a day trip to Brussels from London. In 1h 53min, the Eurostar takes you to Brussels South which is only a short subway ride away from the historical centre.

There are no shortage of things to see in Belgium’s capital, in fact, there’s no way you’ll be able to visit Brussels in only one day (but nothing is stopping you from coming back!).

Must do’s when you’re visiting Brussels for the first time are the Grand Place with its old guild houses and its impressive city hall and the Saint-Hubert Galleries . If you’re really interested, go and visit the Manneken Pis and its female counterpart Jeanneke Pis , but expect tiny statues and long lines.

Amazing museums in Brussels include the Magritte museum, the Musical Instruments Museum and the Natural Sciences Museum (dinosaurs!). When you’ve had your fill of culture and history, wander around the Marollen and the Matongé neighbourhoods to discover the ‘real’ Brussels.

A highlight – but a little out of the city centre – is also the national monument The Atomium , which will give you awesome views over the city. Next door you can find Mini Europa, which is great fun, especially with kids.

If you’re hungry during your day trip to Brussels, grab a bite at Houtsiplou , this colourful restaurant has a child friendly menu, toys and a huge terrace where parents can relax after spending the day chasing their kids in this large city.

Travel time from London: 1hr 53min

Contributed by Babs, Next Stop Belgium

Disneyland Paris, France

Looking for something different for a day trip to London? Then take the train to visit Mickey Mouse in Disneyland Paris !

Thanks to the Eurostar, a trip to Paris from London is super easy and fast. The London to Paris train departs from London St Pancras, travels under the English Channel and arrives at Paris Gare du Nord 2 hours and 16 minutes later. From here it’s only 40 extra minutes to reach Marne La Vallée – Chessy, where Disney is located. The total trip from London St Pancras train station to Marne La Vallée train station takes less than 3 hours.

First of all, be sure you have your FastPass as you don’t want to spend your precious time in Eurodisney waiting in line. FastPass can be used for the most popular rides and you will never have to wait more than 10 minutes for the ride.

For the rides, it depends on what you like. There are many fun rides and activities for all ages so you will be spoilt for choice! Be sure, however, to visit Sleeping Beauty’s Castle for some selfies. The Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain Mission 2 are also two musts of Disneyland Paris.

Travel time from London: 3 hours

Contributed by Elisa, World in Paris

Lille, France

The pretty city of Lille is the capital of the Hauts-de-France region and is an easy day trip from London. The London to Lille train departs from St. Pancras station and arrives in the centre of Lille 1 hour 22 minutes later.

There are lots of things to do in Lille from world-class museums to the largest Christmas market in Northern France. The old town is a delight to discover; especially if you take a tour of the cobbled streets in an open-top 2CV .

Lille is also home to the largest flea market in Europe , La Grande Braderie de Lille, which takes place annually on the first weekend of September. The flea market is hugely popular – some two million people visited in 2019 – so book your accommodation well in advance.

Make sure to visit Aux Merveilleux de Fred . This patisserie is famous for ‘Les Petits Merveilleux’, roughly translated as “the little marvels”. These cakes originated in Belgium and consist of a sandwich of two meringues with whipped cream in the middle, which is then covered in more whipped cream and topped with flavours such as chocolate shavings or nuts.

Travel time from London: 1hr 22mins

Paris, France

Travelling by Eurostar you can be in Paris 2hrs 17mins after leaving Kings Cross Saint Pancras. In other words, leave early enough and you can be in the City of Lights in time for breakfast.

Paris a relatively compact city and easy to get around either on foot or using the Metro. Obviously you’re not going to see everything in one day but you can get a good feel for Paris on a day trip.

A tour with Fat Tire Tours is a fun way to see the main sights. Once you’ve spied the Eiffel Tower and taken a photo of the Arc de Triomphe , make your way to the Jardins des Plantes , a 17th century garden located near the Natural History Museum (itself well worth a visit). The Louvre is obviously a highlight but for a museum that’s a little less well known, try the Paris Magic Museum .

Other things to do in Paris include a cycle along the Promenade Plantée, a raised pathway similar to the Highline in New York City, and a visit to Le Jardin d’Acclimatation, a traditional theme park that’s particularly fun if you’re visiting Paris with kids .

Travel time from London: 2hrs 17mins

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Katja Gaskell

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15 Best Day Trips From London by Train (+ How to Get There)

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The best day trips from London will take you to lavish palaces, steeped in history castles, picturesque villages, and cities full of charm. While you’d need a lifetime to explore all that London has to offer, there are so many beautiful places around London , it would be a pity to miss them. Here I’ve rounded up the very best day trips out of London that I’ve taken over the years.

These easy day trips from London are just perfect if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. All of these day trips can be done by train , which is really convenient and I’ve included information on how to get there for each location.

If on the other hand, you want to make the most of your time and see several places in one day, I’ve also included recommendations for organized day tours from London . The main advantage of a day tour is that you’ll be joined by a local guide and you’ll explore deeper, learn more, and get answers to questions you didn’t even know you had.

Whether you’re in London for a few days (in which case, make sure you also check out my 3 days in London itinerary ) or longer, these half-day and full-day trips around London are a great opportunity to get the most out of your vacation.

Good to know: At the bottom of this article, you’ll find a map with all the day trips from London mentioned in this guide. This will give you a better idea of how far from London each place is located, help you plan your trips, and batch two or three destinations into a full day’s exploration.

Also Read: 45 Fun Things To Do in London

1. Stratford upon Avon

Anne Hathaway’s cottage in Stratford upon Avon

The birthplace of Shakespeare is a cute town dating back to the middle ages. You can visit the house where he grew up, the house where he drew in his last breath, and his grave inside the Holy Trinity Church. This is a great day trip from London by train and one I’ve greatly enjoyed.

I also recommend you visit the other Shakespeare family homes. They are gorgeous half-timbered houses in Tudor style, each with its own out-of-this-world garden. My favorite was Anne Hathaway’s cottage (Shakespeare’s wife, not the actress!). It’s a romantic place built more than 500 years ago and it has a beautiful apple orchard where you can relax surrounded by greenery.

Hot tip: Purchase your entry ticket to the houses online. There’s a lot to see and you’ll often have to wait in line to visit each of the attractions so every little helps. Here you can book your Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall entrance tickets and your Shakespeare’s Birthplace tickets. Another interesting tour you can take is that of the Shakespeare Distillery.

How to get there by train: Take the train from London Marylebone to Stratford upon Avon. The journey time is around 2h and 30min.

2. The Cotswolds

A row of stone houses in Bibury, a beautiful village in the Cotswolds and one of the most unique day trips from London

Cotswolds is home to some of the most charming villages in England. It is a honey-colored stone cottage galore and a must-visit if you want to catch a glimpse of quintessential Britain. The Cotswolds was declared an area of outstanding natural beauty and apart from quaint villages and towns, you can also visit the many palaces, stately homes, and castles that dot the rolling hills.

A visit to the Cotswolds is one of the best day trips from London. My favorite villages were The Lower and Upper Slaughters, Bourton on the Water , and, of course, Bibury, which is often referred to as the most beautiful village in England. Its emblematic Arlington Row is featured on the inside cover of the British passport so there must be some truth to it.

Hot tip: Village hopping in the Cotswolds can be tricky and slow. The buses are scheduled around the needs of the locals and the links between villages and towns are lacking, to say the least. Many villages are connected by only one bus service a day or even a week (on market day).

How to get there by train: Take the train from London Paddington directly to Moreton-in-Marsh. The journey time is around 1h and 40min.

3. Leeds Castle

Celebrating nine centuries this year, Leeds Castle in Kent used to be home to Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII’s first wife. Over the years, queens, ladies, and even an American heiress lived here. As each of these women left their mark, the castle got to have a pretty feminine feel.

Today the castle boasts lavishly decorated interiors, beautiful gardens, and a moat where swans can swim to their heart’s content. This is a wonderful day trip the whole family can enjoy. They have a maze and falconry and you can even have afternoon tea in the castle’s dining room.

Hot tip: Leeds Castle can be visited in a couple of hours, so you’ll likely spend more time getting there and back than visiting the castle itself. To make the most of your day trip from London, combine it with other fun nearby locations.

How to get there by train: Take the train from London Vicotria or London Cannon St to Bearsted Station. The journey takes a little over an hour. Then take the coach shuttle from the station to Leeds Castle (the shuttle service is only available during the summer months).

Recommended: Wanna see London off the beaten path? Check out these London hidden gems and what to do in Greenwich in 1 day.

Oxford is another popular day trip from London. It’s a beautiful university city with gorgeous honey-colored buildings, some of which served as filming locations or set design inspiration for the Harry Potter movies.

You can easily spend the whole day visiting medieval colleges, churches, and museums. Not to be missed are the Christ Church College and Divinity School (for their Harry Potter connections), the Bridge of Sights, and the Bodleian Library.

How to get there by train: There are frequent trains from London Paddington and London Marylebone to Oxford. The journey takes around one hour.

5. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace as seen from the palace gardens

Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO heritage site near Oxford. It is best known for being the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The palace features lavishly decorated rooms and the romantic gardens are huge and peaceful. I especially loved the rose garden and the butterfly house.

The palace was used as a filming location for quite a few blockbusters, like “ Transformers “, “ Cinderella “, “ Harry Potter ” and “ Avengers “. Look out for the ginormous Lebanon trees as well as the second-largest maze in the world.

How to get there by train: Take the train from London to Oxford and from there take the bus to Blenheim Palace. The bus journey takes approximately 20 minutes.

Visiting Chilham you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into a Jane Austen novel. In fact, in recent years, the BBC even filmed an adaptation of ‘ Emma ‘ here.

This village feels suspended in time, nearly motionless and quiet, a true hidden gem. You can walk among gorgeous timber-framed houses and Edwardian gardens, and visit the castle. Take your time to browse whimsical gift shops and stop by a tea room to unwind.

Hot tip: Chilham is a small village that can be seen (and photographed) in a couple of hours. You can easily combine it with a day trip to Canterbury (a short 20 minutes train ride away) and/or Dover.

How to get there by train: There are direct trains from several London stations. The journey time is around 1h and 30 min.

7. Canterbury

With its charming cobbled streets and half-timbered and red brick houses, Canterbury is a sight to behold. I loved the adorable shop signs, the intriguing stories surrounding the Marlowe Theatre, and that there seemed to be something surprising around every corner.

While the huge cathedral with its cloisters and gardens is a UNESCO heritage site and Canterbury’s most famous attraction, St Augustine’s Abbey and the Beaney House are also worth a look around.

How to get there by train: There’re frequent train services from several London train stations to Canterbury. The average journey time is 1h and 40min.

8. The White Cliffs of Dover

Views of the White Cliffs of Dover, the nearby beaches and the sea

Immortalized through song, the White Cliffs of Dover are legendary. They are also a beautiful sight and stretch for 10 miles to the east and west of the city. And that’s not to mention anything about the views across the channel to France!

But Dover is also famous for its medieval castle, an impressive structure perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. Its secret tunnels were used by the Allies as a command center in WWII, while the Battle of Britain War Memorial is a popular stop for day tours from London.

Hot tip: If you want to visit the White Cliffs of Dover and the Battle of Britain War Memorial (which is way outside the city), the best option is to join a tour. This is a beautiful corner of England and personally, I felt lucky when I had the chance to know it better.

How to get there by train: Dover is served by various London train stations. The average journey time is two hours.

Pulteney Bridge over Avon River in Bath, an easy day trip from London by train

Bath is a gorgeous city and it’s impossible not to love it. Famous for its hot springs ever since Roman times, the baths are incredible and a must-visit.

But there’s more to Bath than just thermal waters and you’ll surely find the Georgian architecture and the abbey with its fan-vaulted ceiling out of this world beautiful. Last but not least, go on a shopping spree on the arched bridge. It’s one of only four in the world that has shops across its full span on both sides!

Hot tip: Bath is a beautiful city and you can surely spend the whole day wandering its streets, but you can also visit it as part of a day tour from London that includes other nearby locations. I’ve done both versions and didn’t feel like I missed out a lot when visiting it on an organized day tour.

How to get there by train: Take the train from London Paddington Station to Bath. The journey takes approximately 1h and 30min.

Midway between Stonehenge and Bath, the medieval wool village of Lacock, although tiny, surely packs a punch. Most people visit it because of the abbey situated just outside the village, for it’s considered to be the birthplace of photography and was featured in two Harry Potter movies. Other movies like “ Pride and Prejudice “, “ The Other Boleyn Girl “, and “ Downton Abbey ” were also filmed here.

Lacock is full of charm and feels like a trip back in time. Think stone houses surrounded by flower gardens, a 14th-century church, and merchandise left in front of houses with only a price tag and a note as to where to leave the money.

How to get there by train: Take the train from London Paddington to Chippenham (approx. 1h and 20 min). Then take the bus to Lacock (another 20 minutes).

11. Stonehenge

Situated among rolling hills, poppy fields, and lush green pastures, Stonehenge is a surreal experience.

On a beautiful day, the sun peeks through the puffy clouds, the cattle are peacefully grazing in the distance, and the crows reign supreme (or so they think). I kid you not. Just ask the staff and they will tell you all about the crows and how each has a name to suit their unique personality.

Hot tip: You don’t really need more than a couple of hours to visit, so Stonehenge is rather a half-day trip from London. To make the most of your time, combine Stonehenge with another destination, like Bath or Windsor Castle. Check out the tours below for ideas.

How to get there by train: Take the train from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury. Then take the Stonehenge tour bus. The total journey time is 2h and 15min.

12. Windsor Castle

One of the most popular day trips from London, this majestic royal residence is a must-visit. It was built by William the Conqueror back in the 11th century and is the longest and largest occupied castle in Europe – 40 monarchs called it home throughout the ages!

The State Apartments are grand and tastefully decorated. But perhaps you’ll be more interested in St George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie got married in 2018. Or you’ll find the guards in bearskin hats and purple coats most intriguing.

Hot tip: The market town of Windsor with its cobbled streets and beautiful architecture, is worth a stroll as well. A hop-on hop-off bus is available.

How to get there by train: Take the train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Riverside (includes a change en route). Or take the direct train from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside. The journey takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

13. Cambridge

The facade of The Baron of Beef pub in Cambridge, a gorgeous university town not far away from London

Cambridge is another university town. While smaller than Oxford, the rivalry between the two is well and truly alive to this day.

Explore a few colleges, discover its rich history and beautiful architecture, and wander down little lanes for a relaxing day away from London.

When I visited, I was surprised to see so many people punting on the river behind the colleges. It certainly looked like fun and if you want to try this for yourself, there are many tours that you can choose from.

How to get there by train: Cambridge is served by several train stations across London. The average journey time is just over an hour.

14. Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is a fun day out for the whole family

The turreted Warwick Castle near Stratford-upon-Avon is glorious. It’s also my favorite English castle. A day trip here is packed with fun activities, from medieval tournament reenactments to picnics on the perfectly manicured lawn.

The castle is owned by the Madame Tussauds organization and the vast chambers are filled with wax figures depicting medieval daily life scenes. Walk from room to room and you’ll find Henry VIII and his six wives, as well as a young Winston Churchill.

How to get there by train: Warwick is served by several train stations in London. The average journey takes 1h and 30min.

15. Brighton

The onion-shaped domes of the Royal Pavilion in Brighton

When I first visited Brighton a few years ago, the Royal Pavilion crowned the list of things I wanted to see. This pleasure palace built for King George IV is incredibly exotic and wouldn’t look out of place in India. Personally, I loved it so much, that I didn’t want to tour to end!

But Brighton is a really cool city with many interesting attractions, which makes it one of the most fun and relaxing day trips from London. Think an amusement park on a pier, pebbled beaches, the world’s oldest aquarium, and wonderful narrow streets brimming with cafés, bookstores, and vintage emporiums.

How to get there by train: Take the train from London Victoria or London Blackfriars to Brighton. The journey time is just a little bit over an hour

Map of the best day trips from London

To give you a better idea of where each of the places mentioned above is located, I’ve created a map of the best day trips from London. You can click on the small top left arrow to see the list of places. Then click on a place’s name to see its location on the map. You can also star this map to save it to your maps so you can easily reference it in the future.

What is the most popular day trip from London?

The most popular day trip from London is Windsor, which is less than an hour away. The main attraction here is Windsor Castle, which is the only royal residence open to the public year-round. The town of Windsor is pretty as well and worth visiting, so you can either make this a half-day trip or a full-day trip.

What are the best day trips within 1 hour by train from London?

Two of the best day trips within a 1-hour train ride from London are the university city of Oxford and Windsor Castle. The university city of Cambridge and the seaside resort of Brighton are quite close as well, with the train journey taking a bit over an hour.

These are some of the best day trips from London and you really can’t go wrong with any of them. If you want to make the most of your time in the UK’s capital, check out my London travel tips for first-timers and these 50 fun facts about London .

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Enhance your trip to London with these incredible day trips. If you have a few extra days in London, these trips are a must. #London #daytrips

Note: Departure train stations and journey times are for informational purposes only and can change without notice. Please check out the train schedules and info before your trip.

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Day trips from London by Train

The best Luxury Train Trips from London

Escape the big city, rest, relax and experience unrivalled luxury with a day trip from London aboard a luxury train. Whether you’re looking to go somewhere to explore or simply want to sit back, relax and enjoy some truly sumptuous cuisine, a luxury day trip from London is exactly what you’re looking for. Nothing comes close to a luxury train ride; essentially a five-star hotel on wheels, you will be wined and dined as if you were royalty while you enjoy the glorious British countryside glide by. With so many journeys available from Afternoon Teas to visiting some of Britain’s most beautiful sights such as Blenheim Palace or Chatsworth House finding your dream journey is much easier than you think. It doesn’t have to be as expensive as it sounds either. Day trips from London are actually quite reasonable and give you a taste of what it was like to during the Golden Age of Travel. Think of these journeys as a once-in-a-lifetime experience and you’ll soon see why luxury train travel has never been so popular. There are generally two options when it comes to luxury train travel: journeys where you stay aboard and enjoy exceptional cuisine, drink and simply relax in unrivalled levels of comfort, or those that take you to a destination and offer exceptional meals on the return journey. Whichever trip from London you choose, you will be coming home with memories you’ll cherish forever.

Best Day Trips from London

All journeys aboard the British Pullman luxury locomotive will evoke a sense of luxury throughout your entire round trip from and returning to London. The best day trips from London are those that take you on an adventure and allow you to truly immerse yourself in 1920’s opulence. With so many journeys on offer, all of which offering something unique, the hardest decision will be narrowing down your options. All journeys are available throughout the year on multiple dates. If you need assistance finding your ideal journey or have a specific date or budget in mind, do contact our complimentary concierge service who will be more than happy to assist.

Cheap Day Trips from London

Day trips are much more affordable than sleeper trains that cross countries and continents, but they still offer all the highlights of what it is like aboard one of the most luxurious methods of transport in the world. A luxury train trip from London can cost as little as £200 per person, making this the ideal treat for a special occasion or that once-in-a-lifetime experience. Below are some of our more affordable day trips from London via luxury train, however do enquire about any offers we may have available. At LuxuryTrainTickets.com, we are able to match discounts some providers simply can’t match, so be sure to ask before you buy.

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All Day Trips from London

LuxuryTrainTickets.com are pleased to offer a generous range of day trips from London by train over a variety of dates at different prices and for various themes of journey. With so many journeys available, we invite you to browse our selection and find the ideal journey for you. All our British Pullman journeys depart and return to London the same day and offer a full day’s trip. While some offer a full, round trip through the glorious British countryside while you experience unrivalled levels of opulence in pure comfort, others will take you to a specified destination where you will be able to explore stately homes, gardens or even attend events. These trips will then depart and offer you the finest cuisine over a multiple course meal. All journeys have a limited number of tickets available and selected dates, so we encourage you to book as soon as possible. If you require assistance or advance, please do contact our complimentary concierge service who are available to assist in any way possible. Experts in luxury train travel, our concierge can find and book the ideal journey for you at a price you will adore.

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

Mar 12, 2024 • 11 min read

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

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

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

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

The changing of the guard ceremony at Windsor Castle, Berkshire, England, United Kingdom

1. Explore royal Windsor and nearby Eton

Travel time: 1 hour

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

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

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

Sunset at low tide at Margate, Kent, England, United Kingdom

2. Enjoy art and amusements in Margate

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

Interior view of the famous Great Hall in Christ Church College, Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, United Kingdom

3. Spot Harry Potter fans in Oxford

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

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

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

Tourists enjoying punt tour in the heart of old Canterbury, Kent, England, United Kingdom

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

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

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

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

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

Two New Forest ponies standing among heather on a frosty morning in the New Forest, England

5. Head into nature in the New Forest

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

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

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

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

People sit on the grass on a sunny day in front of Winchester Cathedral in Winchester, England

6. Step back in time in Winchester

Travel time: 1 hour

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

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

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

The famous Royal Crescent at Bath, Somerset, England, United Kingdom

7. Marvel at Roman ruins and Regency streetscapes in Bath

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

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

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

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

People enjoying the 2019 Brighton Pride Parade. Brighton, England

8. Soak up Brighton’s indie attitude

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

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

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

People on small flat-bottomed boats travel along a river lined by fields with large grand buildings

9. Tour the colleges and go punting in Cambridge

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

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

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

Costumed revelers gather for the summer solstice at Stonehenge, Wilshire, England, United Kingdom

10. Ponder the mystery of Stonehenge

Travel time: 2 hours

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

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

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

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

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10 unmissable day trips from London to see historic wonders — all less an hour by train

E very corner of the UK is packed with incredible history . Whether it’s towering castles with drawbridges and deep moats, magnificent cathedrals with worn medieval effigies, or market squares with quirky alleyways and lanes, there is heaps to discover in every village and town.

What’s more, the countryside is criss-crossed with over 10,000 miles of railway lines, many of which pass through our most idyllic historic towns. So, if you’re looking to set out on a historic day trip this summer, the options are plentiful.

Londoners just need to hop on the train for a historic adventure: but perhaps it’s time we brushed up on our history knowledge! In new research from Trainline, it turns out only half of Londoners know when the Great Fire of London took place, the lowest awareness in the whole of the UK. It was also revealed that only 52 per cent of those living in the capital visited a historic site last year, and 7 per cent have never done so.

That’s not to say we aren’t a historically curious bunch: in the polling, two-thirds of Brits expressed a desire to get more historical sites on their bucket list.

So, if you are curious to learn more about Britain’s past, pack your sandwiches (and suncream) jump on the train, and zoom out into the countryside. There are plenty of wonderful locations to explore.

St Albans and its Roman and Norman relics

Verulamium, now known as St Albans, was the third largest city of Roman Britain. Here are some of the most incredible Roman ruins in the UK, all in the shadow of St Albans Cathedral, the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain. There’s so much history here: a Norman tower, the longest nave in England, medieval wall paintings, the Shrines of Alban and Amphibalus, and the Abbot’s Kitchen (a café). All just 30 mins on the train from London.

Hatfield and its Tudor wonders

Just under an hour from London is Hatfield in Hertfordshire, a must see for any Tudor history fan. A short walk from the station, Hatfield House was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I. Here you can wander through the rooms young where Elizabeth grew up in alongside her half-siblings Edward and Mary. There are beautiful gardens, too, as well as a tree located where Elizabeth is said to have been told the news she was to be queen.

Sevenoaks and Knole house

Less than an hour train ride from London brings you to Sevenoaks, in Kent. A short walk from the station, and you’ll arrive at one of the grandest houses in the country: Knole. The footprint of this house itself covers four acres, and it is surrounded by a vast medieval deer park. Packed with sumptuous interiors and glossy Tudor paintings, this house was later the childhood home of the famous writer, Vita Sackville-West. Look out for the leopard motif as you walk around – this is the Sackville coat of arms.

Brighton and the royal pavilion

In Brighton – only an hour away from London by train – is a remarkable royal pavilion. Though an English seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales (later King George IV), the architecture – with its domes and minarets – was inspired by Indian tastes. It was a royal residence until it was sold to the city of Brighton in 1850 (Queen Victoria took a preference to holidaying at Osborne House, on the Isle of Wight).

Windsor and its castle

You’ve probably heard of Windsor Castle, but did you know it to be the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world? Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has since been the home of 40 monarchs, and is open to visitors today. Regular trains run from Waterloo to Windsor in just under an hour.

Egham and Runnymede

Runnymede, near Egham, is the historic site where Magna Carta was sealed in 1215. As well as exploring this remarkable history, it’s not a bad place for a picnic spot. It’s easy to get there too. Just hop on the train to Egham station and it’s about a 25-minute walk away.

Bletchley Park and its WWII secrets

Bletchley Park is one of the most fascinating modern historical sites in the UK, once the top-secret home of the World War Two Codebreakers – including famous names such as Alan Turing. The park provides deep insights into wartime history and cryptography, all under an hour away on the train.

Guildford and the Watts Gallery artists’ village

The Watts Gallery Artists' Village in Guildford, is dedicated to the work of the Victorian-era painter and sculptor George Frederic Watts. It’s a short train journey to Guildford, Farncombe or Godalming, and from there it’s a short walk to the village.

Rochester and its castle

There’s plenty of history in Rochester, too (an hour on the train from London Victoria). A highlight is the magnificent cathedral – England’s second oldest, and a place of Christian worship since AD 604. This was also a favourite spot of Charles Dickens: nearby is Gads Hill Place, where Dickens lived, and he based many of his novels on the area.

Waltham Cross and The Royal Gunpowder Mills

Finally, The Royal Gunpowder Mills in Waltham Cross. Gunpowder production began on the site in the 1660s, and after the Crown acquired it in 1787 it became one of the world’s most important centres for the understanding and manufacture of gunpowder. Today, there’s a museum and science centre to explore – all under 30 mins on the train from London.

That gives you a taste of the wonderful history to explore, not far from the capital. Hopefully that whets your appetite for some historical day trips – have a wonderful time!

Alice Loxton is a historian with an interest in British history. Find her on Instagram at @history_alice

Book trains around the UK at thetrainline.com

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I Heart Britain

The Best Countryside Day Trips from London: By Train

London is a wonderful city, but where England really shines is the in the countryside. That's why if you have the time, we very strongly recommend getting outside the city and soaking up some of the fresh air in one of England's lovely villages or market towns.

We know a lot of our readers don't feel comfortable driving in England, so we've decided to focus on destinations you can reach by train. Adding in bus trips would open up a LOT more, but who really wants to spend half of their day trip transferring between buses? Certainly not us.

So, for those who want fun, simple countryside day trips from London by train, we've put together a list of some of our favourites. Since these ARE day trips, we've limited our recommendations to places you can reach by train in roughly 2 hours or less. The great part? That covers a lot more than you might think.

Table of Contents

British Countryside Day Trips from London

Moreton-in-marsh.

Whether you're looking for a day trip or planning on spending several days in the Cotswolds, Moreton-in-Marsh is an ideal location for anyone who plans on travelling the area without a car. You can get a direct route from London Paddington, and because it's a market town, there's plenty to see and do.

Lovers of literature and lagers can stop in at The Bell Inn , a pub generally considered to be the inspiration for the “Prancing Pony” in Lord of the Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien used to meet his brother there for drinks.

On Tuesdays, Moreton-in-Marsh is home to the largest open-air market in the Cotswolds, where you can browse local merchants like the Cotswold Cheese Company. They produce more than 80 unique cheeses, many of them inspired by famous British figures.

If it's nature you're craving, don't miss The Batsford Arboretum . They have one of Great Britain's largest private tree collections, and their 56 acres of paths and gardens are virtually flawless. It's about a mile and a half from the central village, and there's a scenic footpath, the Monarch's Way, that takes you directly there. You can also reserve a taxi or get a bus.

If your goal is to see MORE of the Cotswolds, consider a tour. This one from Go Cotswolds takes you through Chipping Camden, Broadway Tower, Stow-on-the-Wold, Arlington Row, and Bourton-on-the-Water (with stops to look around). The Secret Cottage is another great option. I sent my parents on that one a couple years ago, and they spoke very highly of it.

Travel Time : As little as 1h 28m

If you're looking for a Cotswold village full of scenes so gorgeous it's not even fair, consider a day trip to Kingham. It was named was named “England’s Favorite Village” in 2004.

The village is home to The Wild Rabbit, an inn with a delightful bar and fine dining restaurant. You can snack on small plates and nibbles in the bar, or arrange to have a more formal meal in the restaurant.

Prefer something a bit more casual? Try the Kingham Plough instead.

To really get an appreciation for the lovely countryside, consider a tour with Cotswold Electric Bike Tours . You'll cover 28 miles (remember, the bike is ELECTRIC), and you'll see parts of the countryside that are impossible to view from trains and even cars.

Travel Time : As little as 1h 20m

Roughly 2 miles from the southern coast of England in East Sussex, you'll find the lovely historic town of Rye. With its cobblestone streets and old buildings, you could easily mistake it for the set of the BBC's latest period drama. In fact, it WAS actually the filming location for Mapp & Lucia – and there's a Mapp & Lucia tour for the die-hard fans.

Because Rye is very much a tourist town, you'll find loads to do. Shops and restaurants abound, and if you want to get your nature fix, you can walk down towards the coast and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve . It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest, offering important habitat for rare species like the Spangled Button Beatle – and a little sea air is always nice. It's a couple miles down to the actual coast, but there's loads of wetlands scenery along the way.

If you're a literary nut, be sure to get a look at the redbrick Lamb House – former home of authors Henry James and EF Benson. Fans of Harry Potter and other fantasy-oriented stories may enjoy The School of Wizards & Witches . It manages to be both fun and family-friendly at the same time.

Mermaid Street is a must-see part of any stroll through Rye, and you'll definitely want a camera handy. It's one of those classic British scenes, like Gold Hill in Shaftesbury or The Shambles in York.

Castle lovers won't want to miss Rye Castle . Though small, it's mighty – and mighty interesting. Along with a great history lesson, you can also check out some great views and a pretty little herb garden in an enclosed courtyard.

Travel Time : As little as 1h 9m

Brockenhurst

With a population of roughly 3500, Brockenhurst is the largest village in the New Forest National Park in Hampshire. It's also a lovely place to spend a day (or a few of them, if you have the time). It's a great destination for active holidaymakers, with rambling, kayaking, and paddleboarding on offer nearby.

It's possible to have a lively time just walking around the village and browsing, but you may enjoy stopping in at The Beaulieu National Motor Museum , the Beaulieu Palace House , or the Beaulieu Abbey Church .

With an almost ridiculous wealth of local trails, you could easily walk until your feet were black and blue – but know that there are also plenty of great restaurants nearby, should you decide to take a break. We recommend Afternoon Tea at Careys Manor Hotel , a pub lunch at Hare and Hounds , or a light snack at The Bakehouse .

Travel Time : As little as 1h 33m

Warwick is a large market town of roughly 31,000, and it makes for a great escape from the urban chaos of London. It's home to the impressive Warwick Castle , and situated along the beautiful River Avon.

For nature and scenery, check out Jephson Gardens , The Mill Garden , and Charlecote Park – or just take a walk along the river. Or, if your countryside dreams involve cream teas and strolling independent shops, point yourself to the high street and just move in whatever direction feels right.

The Market Hall Museum is a great deal more interesting than it might at first sound, and Warwick Market is a fun browse if you're there on a Saturday.

If you're hungry, check out Thomas Oken Tea Rooms , Hatton Locks Cafe (great scenery), or The Tuckery . If you're looking for a chippy, try The Chip Shed .

Travel Time : As little as 1h 18m

Cookham

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvyXMK8BHqg/

Cookham is not the place to go if you want to browse endless shops, stately homes, and attractions. It's a small village along the River Thames with a population of around 5500. In 2011, it was named Britain's second richest village – and it's as lovely as you might expect, given that little bit of information.

The Cookham High Street has a few shops and pubs worth browsing, but the best part of visiting Cookham is just walking and soaking up the atmosphere. You can do the Cookham and Cock Marsh Walk for an easy 4-mile circular trip, or just wander Cookham Moor and watch the wildlife.

Art lovers will enjoy the Stanley Spencer Gallery on the high street, but there's not much else in terms of tourist attractions.

For tapas and traditional pub fare, check out The Old Swan Uppers or The Kings Arms . For something a bit more modern, check out Bel and the Dragon or Boulters Riverside Brasserie .

Travel Time : As little as 48m

This western Wiltshire town has a population of roughly 17,000, but the quiet countryside is just steps away. If you're not up for a bit of walking, you can also grab a taxi at the station and head just out of town to Stourhead , a lovely National Trust property with a truly incredible 18th-century garden.

For more stately home and garden fun, visit Longleat House…and Safari Park . It's an unlikely combination, but there's no shortage of things to see and do. You could easily spend your entire day there. While the Safari Park portion of the estate is a drive-through experience, they do have a bus tour option.

The town itself isn't quite as charming as some of the others on the list (though please don't interpret that as a dig). It's lovely, and there's plenty of good food to be had, but it doesn't offer the same kind of wandering experience you might get in a place like Rye or Warwick or Moreton-in-Marsh.

Travel Time : As little as 1h 51m

Though technically a cathedral city, Ely is a great place to wander around and soak up some of the lovely Cambridgeshire countryside. It definitely doesn't feel urban. Given that it's a cathedral city, there's a pretty good chance you'll at least give a few passing glances to Ely Cathedral . It's a lovely cathedral with a stained glass museum on an upper level, but be warned – there is a fee for admission.

For a simple, relaxing day, plan a walk around the town and along the canal, along with a simple pub lunch. We recommend The Hereward (great options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free) or The Cutter Inn .

If you're feeling adventurous, check out Truly Scrumptious Vegan Cafe . Their meals are animal-friendly, gluten-free, and surprisingly delicious. For a more traditional afternoon tea, cream tea, or sandwich, try Peacock's Tearoom – which also has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for those who want them.

Antique lovers will delight in the selection at Waterside Antiques , and nature lovers will enjoy Jubilee Gardens along the River Great Ouse. If you'd like to get out on the water, try Liberty Belle Cruises .

Travel Time : As little as 1h 11m

What's Your Favourite Day Trip Destination from London?

Given a week or two in London, what are your favourite day trip destinations? Let us know in the comments!

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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

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
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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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13 BEST Day Trips from London by Train

Day trips from London by train

Harry Potter Studio Tours

The Seven Sisters

Windsor Castle

Leeds Castle

Warwick Castle

The New Forest

Stratford-Upon-Avon

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12 Best Day trips from London by train (+logistics, tips & maps)

Guide to UK Train Travel

Logistics – how to get from London to Oxford by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Cambridge by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Winchester by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Windsor by train

Logistics – how to get from London to St Albans by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Brighton by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Bath by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Bristol by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Salisbury by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Canterbury by train

Logistics – how to get from London to Stratford by train

One day in Oxford ( Must see Oxford attractions )

One day in Cambridge ( Must see Cambridge attractions )

The Cotswolds

One day in Winchester ( Must see Winchester attractions )

One day in Windsor ( Must see Windsor attractions )

One day in St Albans ( Must see St Albans attractions )

One day in Brighton ( Must see Brighton attractions )

One day in Bath ( Must see Bath attractions )

One day in Bristol ( Must see Bristol attractions )

Salisbury & Stonehenge

One day in Salisbury ( Must see Salisbury attractions )

One day in Canterbury ( Must see Canterbury attractions )

Stratford-upon-Avon

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon ( Must see Stratford attractions )

FAQs & Tips for train travel in the UK

Purchase a rail pass

Purchase tickets in advance

19 Best Day Trips from London by Train

Stratford-upon-Avon

What to see and do in Oxford

What to see and do in Cambridge

What to see and do in Dover

What to see and do in Winchester

What to see and do in York

What to see and do in Liverpool

What to see and do in Manchester

What to see and do in Birmingham

What to see and do in Portsmouth

What to see and do in Brighton

What to see and do in Bath

What to see and do in Bristol

What to see and do in Salisbury

What to see and do in Canterbury

What to see and do in Stratford-upon-Avon

One day in Windsor (Must-see Windsor attractions)

One day in Warwick (Must see Warwick attractions)

One day in Chester (Must see Chester attractions)

One day in Paris (Must see Paris attractions)

DESTINATIONS , ENGLAND , EUROPE

Best Day Trips Within a 1 Hour Train Journey from London

1. Cambridge

3. St. Albans

4. Colchester

5. Hampton Court

6. Harry Potter Studios

7. Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

8. Rochester

10. Winchester

11. Bletchley Park

12. Canterbury

13. Brighton

14. Epping Forest

15. Mayfield Lavender Farm

More Easy Day Trips from London by Train

17. Bristol

19. Liverpool

20. Manchester