London’s bustling streets and iconic landmarks are undoubtedly captivating, but sometimes you need a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic day trips from London that offer a refreshing change of scenery and new experiences. Whether you’re craving seaside charm, historical wonders, or a picturesque countryside, these top day trips from London have got you covered.
Table of Contents:
- Canterbury: A Journey Through Time
- Brighton: Seaside Fun and Quirky Charm
- Bath: Roman History and Georgian Elegance
- Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespeare’s Birthplace
- Whitstable: A Traditional English Seaside Town
- Windsor: Royal History and Scenic Charm
- Cambridge: Punting on the River Cam and Historic Colleges
- FAQs about Top Day Trips from London
- Conclusion
Canterbury: A Journey Through Time
Just a short train ride away, Canterbury is a perfect blend of history and modern charm. This ancient city, with its UNESCO World Heritage Site cathedral, offers a glimpse into England’s rich past. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The journey to Canterbury is quick and painless. Direct trains from London St Pancras to Canterbury West can take as little as 53 minutes, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. Once you arrive, the city’s compact size means you can easily explore its main attractions on foot, enjoying a leisurely walk through ancient woodland.
Start your day at the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, the mother church of the Anglican Communion. Its stunning architecture and rich history, including the infamous murder of Thomas Becket, make it a must-visit site. After exploring the cathedral, take a stroll down the charming High Street, lined with timber-framed buildings housing a mix of familiar brands and independent shops.
For a unique perspective on the city, consider taking a punt tour along the River Stour. These guided boat trips offer a relaxing way to see Canterbury from a different angle while learning about its history and legends. This is a great way to experience a true taste of England, complete with breathtaking views.
Where to Eat in Canterbury
When hunger strikes, head to The Goods Shed, a farmers’ market and restaurant housed in an old railway building. Here, you can sample local produce and enjoy a meal made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. For a more traditional experience, stop by one of Canterbury’s historic pubs, such as The Old Buttermarket or The Parrot, for a pint and some classic British pub grub.
Brighton: Seaside Fun and Quirky Charm
Brighton, often called “London-by-the-Sea”, is one of the most popular day trips from London, and for good reason. This vibrant coastal city offers a perfect mix of beach relaxation, cultural attractions, and eclectic shopping.
The journey to Brighton is quick and convenient, with trains from Victoria, Blackfriars or London Bridge taking just about an hour. Once you arrive, the city’s compact nature means you can easily explore on foot or by bike, enjoying the fresh air. While exploring be sure to make time for a seaside jaunt to see the colourful beach huts that line the shore.
Start your day with a stroll along the iconic Brighton Palace Pier, taking in the sea air and perhaps trying your luck at the arcade games. From there, head to the Royal Pavilion, an exotic palace built as a seaside retreat for King George IV. Its striking Indo-Saracenic architecture stands out dramatically against the backdrop of British seaside buildings.
Shopping in The Lanes
No trip to Brighton is complete without exploring The Lanes, a maze of narrow alleyways filled with independent shops, boutiques, and cafes. This is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs or gifts, from vintage clothing to handmade jewellery. After shopping head over to one of the many wine bars and enjoy the rest of your day.
For a taste of Brighton’s famous alternative scene, head to the North Laine area. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of vegetarian restaurants, record shops, and street art. Don’t miss Snoopers Paradise, a huge flea market where you can spend hours browsing through antiques and curiosities.
Brighton’s Food Scene
Brighton is known for its diverse and exciting food scene. For a quintessential seaside experience, grab some fish and chips to eat on the beach. If you’re looking for something more upscale, book a table at The Salt Room for excellent seafood with sea views.
Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for in Brighton, with standout options like Purezza, which serves delicious plant-based pizzas. Brighton truly offers something for everyone making it a popular choice for day trips from London.
Bath: Roman History and Georgian Elegance
A day trip to Bath is like stepping into a Jane Austen novel, with its elegant Georgian architecture and rich Roman history. This UNESCO World Heritage city is a feast for the eyes and a balm for the soul, offering a perfect escape from London’s modern hustle.
Getting to Bath is straightforward, with trains from London Paddington taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, you’ll find that most of Bath’s main attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore in a day. If you would like to venture outside the city centre a short taxi ride can take you to some breathtaking views of the Bath skyline.
Start your visit at the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world. Here, you can explore the ancient bathing complex and learn about life in Roman Britain. While you can’t bathe in the original Roman Baths, you can sample the mineral-rich water at the Pump Room next door.
Georgian Architecture and Jane Austen
After your Roman history lesson, fast forward to the Georgian era by taking a stroll along the Royal Crescent. This sweeping curve of 30 terraced houses is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture and offers stunning views over the city.
For Jane Austen fans, a visit to the Jane Austen Centre is a must. Here, you can learn about the author’s life in Bath and how it influenced her novels. The centre is located just a short walk from the city centre.
For a truly relaxing experience, book a session at Thermae Bath Spa, Britain’s only natural thermal spa. The rooftop pool offers panoramic views of the city and is particularly magical at sunset.
Culinary Delights in Bath
Bath has a thriving food scene that caters to all tastes. For a quintessential Bath experience, enjoy afternoon tea at the Pump Room Restaurant. If you’re looking for something more casual, head to Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House to try the famous Sally Lunn Bun, a local delicacy.
For dinner, book a table at The Circus Restaurant for modern British cuisine in an elegant Georgian setting. Or if you are looking for a traditional country pub then visit The White Swan which is a 17th-century manor house with real ale and breakfast served daily.
Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
Oxford, home to one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and youthful energy. This compact city is packed with attractions that make it an ideal destination for one of the top day trips from London.
The journey to Oxford is quick and easy, with trains from Marylebone or Paddington taking around one hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive, the city centre is easily walkable, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of this historic university town.
Start your day with a visit to one of Oxford’s many colleges. Christ Church is particularly popular, not least because parts of it were used as filming locations for the Harry Potter movies. The college’s grand dining hall served as inspiration for Hogwarts’ Great Hall.
Oxford’s Literary Heritage
Oxford has a rich literary heritage, and bookworms will find plenty to explore. Visit the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and take a tour to see its magnificent reading rooms.
For a more hands-on literary experience, stop by Blackwell’s Bookshop, a local institution that’s home to the largest single room devoted to book sales in Europe, the Norrington Room. You are sure to find something you love as they have a massive selection of books.
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK. Its diverse collection of plants from around the world makes for a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.
Oxford’s Culinary Scene
Oxford’s food scene is diverse and exciting. For a traditional pub experience, head to The Eagle and Child, once a regular haunt of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. If you’re after something more upscale, try The Oxford Kitchen, which holds a Michelin star.
For a quick bite, the Covered Market is home to numerous food stalls offering everything from artisanal cheeses to freshly baked pastries. Here you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the market and try small plates of local produce.
Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespeare’s Birthplace
For literature lovers and history buffs, a day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon is a must. This charming market town in Warwickshire is famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare and offers a delightful mix of Tudor architecture, theatrical performances, and picturesque riverside scenery. There is something for everyone with the perfect mix of town and country.
The journey to Stratford-upon-Avon takes a bit longer than some other day trips, with trains from Marylebone taking about two hours and 15 minutes. However, the town’s compact size means you can easily explore its main attractions in a day.
Start your Shakespearean adventure at Shakespeare’s Birthplace, the half-timbered house where the Bard was born and grew up. The house has been beautifully preserved and offers insights into Shakespeare’s early life. From there, take a short walk to New Place, the site of Shakespeare’s final home, now transformed into a contemporary garden with sculptures inspired by his works.
Theatrical Experiences
No visit to Stratford-upon-Avon would be complete without experiencing some live theatre. The Royal Shakespeare Company performs year-round at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. If you can’t fit in a full performance, consider taking a behind-the-scenes theatre tour or climbing the Theatre Tower for panoramic views of the town.
For a change of pace, take a leisurely stroll along the River Avon or rent a rowboat for a different perspective of the town. The Bancroft Gardens, located between the theatre and the river, is a perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day.
Dining in Shakespeare’s Town
Stratford-upon-Avon offers a range of dining options to suit all tastes. For a historic experience, have lunch at The Garrick Inn, reputedly the oldest pub in town. If you’re after something more upscale, book a table at Salt, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative modern British cuisine.
For a sweet treat, don’t miss the chance to try a traditional cream tea at one of the town’s many tea rooms. After your visit, head home or if you want to extend your trip there are some boutique hotels that offer beautiful rooms with antique furniture.
Whitstable: A Traditional English Seaside Town
Escape to the coast for a day and experience the quintessential English seaside charm of Whitstable. Known for its oysters, independent shops, and creative atmosphere this town is a must-visit. This makes it the perfect choice for those looking for a relaxed seaside town within easy reach of the capital.
Direct trains from St Pancras International will get you there in just over an hour, or you can take a scenic train journey from London Victoria with a change at Gillingham. Once you arrive in Whitstable, everything is within walking distance, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
No trip to Whitstable is complete without trying the town’s famous oysters. Head down to Harbour Street where you’ll find a variety of oyster shacks and seafood restaurants, all serving up fresh, locally-sourced oysters. For those who prefer something else, there are also plenty of other dining options available, from traditional pubs to trendy cafés.
What to See in Whitstable
Whitstable is known for its working harbour so be sure to visit the harbour and watch the boats come and go. Then browse the independent shops along Harbour Street. You’ll find a range of unique gifts and souvenirs here, from handmade jewellery to vintage clothing.
Visit the Whitstable Museum and Gallery to delve into the town’s history and maritime heritage. Alternatively, head to the beach and relax by the sea. Whitstable’s beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with stunning views out over the Thames Estuary.
Where to Stay
While Whitstable is easily accessible for day trips from London if you decide to extend your stay, there are a number of accommodation options available, from charming bed and breakfasts to stylish hotels. So why not make a weekend of it and spend a little longer exploring this delightful seaside town?
Windsor: Royal History and Scenic Charm
No list of day trips from London would be complete without mentioning Windsor. Home to the magnificent Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, Windsor is steeped in history and royal connections. The town itself is full of charming cobbled streets, independent shops, and traditional pubs, making for a picturesque day out.
It’s easy to reach Windsor with frequent direct trains from London Paddington station taking approximately 30-45 minutes. Once you arrive, you’re within walking distance of all the main attractions.
The highlight of any visit to Windsor is undoubtedly Windsor Castle. As the official residence of the Queen, be sure to check if she is in residence as this may limit your access to the castle and grounds.
Exploring Windsor
Explore the castle’s State Apartments, marvel at St George’s Chapel (the burial place of ten monarchs, including Henry VIII), and witness the Changing the Guard ceremony. Afterwards, wander through Windsor Great Park, one of the largest royal parks in England. You may even spot some deer.
For a unique way to see the town, take a boat trip down the River Thames. This relaxing journey offers a different perspective on Windsor Castle and the surrounding countryside. If shopping is on the agenda, Windsor’s high street won’t disappoint.
You’ll find a variety of high street names, alongside independent boutiques and antique shops. For those who love their history, be sure to check out the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum. Here, you can learn all about the town’s fascinating past and royal connections.
Where to Eat in Windsor
When hunger strikes, Windsor offers a diverse range of places to eat and drink. From traditional pubs serving hearty British classics to Michelin-starred restaurants offering exquisite fine dining, you’ll find something to satisfy all tastes and budgets. For a traditional afternoon tea experience, complete with dainty sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of fine teas, there are numerous options to choose from.
Cambridge: Punting on the River Cam and Historic Colleges
Renowned for its prestigious university, stunning architecture, and picturesque River Cam, Cambridge offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With direct trains from London King’s Cross station taking just under an hour, it’s a breeze to spend time in this beautiful city.
A visit to Cambridge wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its most iconic activity—punting on the River Cam. Glide beneath the Bridge of Sighs, punt past the beautiful backs of the colleges, and soak up the unique atmosphere.
Alternatively, hire a rowing boat and explore the river at your own pace. For those seeking a more leisurely way to explore, hop on a guided tour bus and discover the city’s historic streets.
What to Do in Cambridge
Cambridge is home to some of the most beautiful and historic university colleges in the world. Visit King’s College Chapel with its breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling, wander through the courtyards of Trinity College, or explore the Wren Library at Trinity College, home to over 200,000 rare books. Many of these colleges require an entrance fee.
Immerse yourself in the world of science and discovery at the Cambridge Science Centre, an interactive museum perfect for families and anyone curious about the wonders of science. Be sure to visit The Fitzwilliam Museum, home to a remarkable collection of art and antiquities spanning centuries and cultures.
Finally, no trip to Cambridge is complete without a visit to its charming market square. Browse the stalls selling local produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. You’re sure to find something special to take home as a reminder of your day exploring this remarkable city.
FAQs about Top Day Trips from London
What is the best place to visit outside London?
The best place to visit outside London depends on your interests. For history lovers, Canterbury or Bath are excellent choices. If you’re after seaside charm, Brighton or Whitstable are great options. For literary enthusiasts, Stratford-upon-Avon or Oxford would be ideal.
Where to go in London for a day trip?
While this article focuses on trips outside London, there are many places within Greater London that make for great day trips. Consider visiting Greenwich for its maritime history, Richmond for its beautiful park and deer, or Hampton Court Palace for a dose of Tudor history.
Where is 2 hours by train from London?
Within a 2-hour train journey from London, you can reach a wide range of destinations. Some popular options include Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cambridge, and even Paris via the Eurostar.
Are there day trips from London?
Yes, there are numerous day trips from London. This article has highlighted some of the most popular ones, including Canterbury, Brighton, Bath, Oxford, and Stratford-upon-Avon. These destinations are all easily accessible by train and offer a wealth of attractions that can be enjoyed in a day.
Conclusion
London is an incredible city, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. These top day trips from London offer the perfect opportunity to explore more of what England has to offer, from historic cities and literary landmarks to seaside resorts and beautiful countryside. Whether you’re a history buff, a literature lover, or simply in need of some fresh air, there’s a day trip from London that’s perfect for you.
So next time you’re in the capital, why not venture beyond its borders? You might be surprised at what you discover just a short train ride away.
