day trip london guide

17 Absolute Best Day Trips from London (+ How to Visit, Top Tours & Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

London is an amazing city with so much to offer that you could spend weeks and still not see it all. But in addition to all the top sights and attractions in the city itself , there are also so many beautiful places near London, many of which can easily be visited as a day trip from London.

However, with such an array of possibilities, how do you choose the very best day trips from London that are worth your time the most?

In this article, we feature the absolute best places that you can visit as a one-day trip from London, England . This guide includes all the ‘musts’, the very best day trip destinations near London for first-time visitors, but also for local travelers who want to (re)discover some of the most popular sights near London.

In addition, for each place, we include recommendations on how to visit on your own and also the best day tours from London . Because even though you can visit many of these places by train, often, you will be able to see so much more if you go on an organized tour.

Many tours combine several major landmarks in one day, allowing you to make the most of your time and see a lot in a short time. Furthermore, going with a local guide is a great opportunity to explore deeper, scratch beneath the surface, and discover things you didn’t even know existed…

Good to know: At the bottom of this article, you can find a map indicating all the places that you can easily visit as a day trip from London mentioned in this guide. It will give you a better idea of where everything is.

TIP: If you don’t have the time to read the entire article and are looking for the best day trips from London, here are the 4 most popular day tours among our readers:

• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath (also in combination with Roman Baths that you can add when booking).
• Cotswolds .
• Harry Potter Studio (also in combination with Oxford).
• Seven Sisters & South Downs .

Interesting to know: Overall, the most-visited day trip destinations from London are Windsor Castle and Harry Potter Studios.

These are the best & most popular day trips from London:

1. Windsor Castle

If you visit just one place outside of London city, make it Windsor Castle ! Located just 20 miles (32 km) from the city center, a day trip to Windsor is a must on any London bucket list!

The spectacular Windsor Castle is one of the queen’s official residences and has been home to the royal family for 900 years! Kings and queens have been buried here, including the infamous Henry VIII and Jayne Seymour, his third wife. Most recently, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is also buried at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

An excellent example of church architecture in medieval times, Windsor Castle is still used for royal receptions and state occasions. In recent years it has been the venue of the weddings of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

Open all year round, Windsor Castle is a great way to explore royal history, from touring the Castle Precincts to viewing the lavish staterooms and apartments. The Castle Grounds are both beautiful and peaceful and from there you can observe the iconic Changing of the Guard, which normally happens at 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, from April until the end of July.

Good to know. At the moment, Windsor Castle is open daily except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Because it’s a working royal palace, sometimes parts of the castle or even the entire castle can get closed on short notice. Below, you can find all the practical information for your visit. Read on!

How to visit. You can easily get to Windsor by train from London. There’s a direct train from London Waterloo Station and it takes about 1 hour. From Windsor & Eton Riverside station, it’s just a short walk to the castle. Be sure to book your Windsor Castle tickets online in advance ! This is the best option for those who prefer to take their time and explore the castle at their own pace.

If you come here for a day, be sure to check out Windsor and Eton towns as well! The best way to do this is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus in Windsor . Another nice thing to do is take a boat tour and enjoy different views of the castle from the river.

Good to know: Entry to Windsor Palace is also included with the London Pass , which offers good value if you spend more time in London and plan on visiting many popular tourist attractions and museums.

Best tours from London. Windsor Castle is the most popular day trip destination near London, so there are many tours that can bring you here as well. Most tours that visit the castle also include one or several other nice places nearby – perfect for those who are short on time and want to make the most of their day.

Here are the most popular day tours from London that visit Windsor Castle:

• Windsor Castle only – this is a convenient bus transfer from/ to London that also includes the tickets to the castle. This tour takes about 4 hours in total – the fastest way to visit Windsor Castle from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – the most popular full-day tour from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – with an option to visit Roman Baths.

2. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments and another extremely popular destination for London day trips. Built almost 5000 years ago by farmers in the Neolithic period, this is a spiritual and architectural wonder that many people consider an absolute must-see in the UK!

Historians still debate its original purpose, although most agree that it was probably built for spiritual reasons. Meanwhile, engineers marvel at the extraordinary skill and size of the construction project, which must have involved hundreds of workers given the very simple tools they had available at the time.

Whilst the main attraction at this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the mystical Stone Circle itself, you can also view the 5 on-site Neolithic houses. Their design was based on the remains of houses from this period that were discovered during a nearby excavation in 2006.

You can step through the doors of these houses to see just how the builders of Stonehenge might have lived thousands of years ago, with each house equipped with replica axes, pottery, and artifacts.

How to visit . Stonehenge is located about 90 miles (145 km) from London. There are no direct trains to Stonehenge, but you can take a train to Salisbury train station and then take The Stonehenge Tour Bus service from there. The easiest way to get here from London is either by car or by tour. If you drive, prepare for very busy traffic and count at least 2 hours one way. If you go without a tour, be sure to book your admission tickets online in advance !

Best tours from London. Since Stonehenge is quite a drive from the city, but it doesn’t require that much time to visit, it’s usually included as one of the sights of some of the most popular day tours from London.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Stonehenge from London:

• Stonehenge only – a very popular half-day tour (morning or afternoon) that includes transportation and entrance tickets. It takes about 6 hours and is the fastest way to visit Stonehenge from London.
• Stonehenge & Bath – the most relaxing full-day tour.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – a very complete tour that also includes an entry to the Roman Baths.

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and the most popular town that you can easily visit as a day trip from London. This picturesque historic city is filled with stunning examples of honey-colored Georgian architecture and some of the most photographed buildings in the world.

Perhaps the most famous feature of this UNESCO World Heritage City is the ancient Roman Baths built around thermal springs and supplying water for over 2,000 years. Whilst the Baths are open for you to view, no bathing has been allowed there since 1978. Instead, the much more modern Thermae Bath Spa was opened in 2006, containing the only natural hot spring in England in which you are allowed to bathe.

In the city stands the magnificent Bath Abbey , with its unique ‘ladder of angels’ on the west front. This feature was inspired by Bath’s Bishop at that time, who saw angels ascending and descending in a dream. You will also see the iconic ‘Royal Crescent’ – 30 Grade I listed terraced houses built in the late 18th century, arranged in a crescent around a verdant lawn overlooking Royal Victoria Park.

Another architectural gem is the Circus , also built in the latter half of the 18th century. This historic street of large townhouses forms a circle, which is how it got its name (Circus is Latin for a ring, circle, or oval).

And perhaps most beautiful of all is the romantic Pulteney Bridge , with its small, leaded domes, pilasters, and pediments. The bridge was named after the wife of William Johnstone Pulteney, an important figure in Bath at that time and owner of much of the surrounding land. A popular thing to do in Bath is to take a short boat trip on River Avon – it allows you to easily see some of the main sights of Bath in a short time.

How to visit. Bath is about 120 miles (195 km), about 2.5 hours drive from London. If you drive, be sure to stop at Stonehenge along the way! The fastest way to get to Bath from London is by train – it takes less than 1.5 hours. And there are also many tours that visit Bath from London, usually in combination with other beautiful places nearby.

TIP. If you visit Bath on your own, you may want to take a walking tour of the city. It’s the best way to see a lot in a short time – you’ll be sure not to miss any important places, but it also gives you a better insight into the history and architecture of this unique town.

Best tours from London. Since Bath is so close to Stonehenge, most tours from London visit both of these places together. In addition, some tours also include one or several other places nearby.

Here are the most popular day tours from London to Bath:

• Stonehenge & Bath .
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath .
• Stonehenge and Bath Tour with Secret Site – a very highly rated small group tour.

One of the UK’s most famous university towns, Oxford is also a place that you can easily visit as a day trip from London.

Oxford University was established in the 12th century and is one of the oldest universities in the world. The university is composed of 38 separate college buildings, whose architecture inspired the poet Matthew Arnold to name it the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ (see the picture of the All Souls College below, and you’ll understand where the name comes from).

Some scenes in the Harry Potter movies were filmed in Oxford, so it can be fun to try and spot them as you tour the city. Harry Potter fans can also opt for this popular walking tour of the filming locations .

In the heart of the city center is Christ Church College , home to the magnificent Hall and Christ Church Cathedral with its landmark spire and Tom Tower. The gardens of the 12th-century Cathedral inspired Lewis Carroll to write ‘Alice in Wonderland’. You can hunt for features of the story, such as the Alice in Wonderland motives in one of the large windows in the Great Dining Hall.

The Cathedral also contains the shrine and tomb of Saint Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford. Christ Church College – one of Oxford University’s largest colleges – has lots more for visitors to see, from the famous Bodley Tower to the stunning Meadow Building.

There are two main museums that are well worth seeing during a visit to Oxford. Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum is Oxford University’s museum of art and archaeology. Free to enter, it’s a great place to learn all about human culture and societies across the world and throughout time, with its collections including everything from Egyptian mummies to contemporary works of art.

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History , meanwhile, houses a captivating collection of natural specimens, covering everything from Earth’s beginnings to a look inside an active beehive!

Connecting two parts of Hertford College is the Hertford Bridge , popularly known as the ‘Bridge of Sighs’. Named after its resemblance to Venice’s Bridge of Sighs , this particular bridge is a skyway that allows students to travel from one building to another. Designed by Sir Thomas Jackson and completed in 1914, this photo-worthy bridge is best viewed from the steps of the University’s Bodleian Library (another must-see in Oxford).

How to visit. Oxford is just 60 miles (95 km), 1.5 hours drive from London. There are also direct trains from London and the journey takes about 1 hour – this is the best way to visit Oxford on your own. There are also organized tours that visit Oxford from London – usually in combination with one or two other places nearby.

TIP: If you visit Oxford for a day, consider this walking tour . It takes just 1.5 hours and is a great way to learn more about the city and the university. River cruises are also very popular and are a fun way to explore Oxford!

Best tours from London. While you could easily fill an entire day in Oxford, most one-day tours from London only spend a few hours here and combine a visit here with several other places.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Oxford from London:

• Harry Potter Studio Tour & Oxford – a bucket list day trip for all Harry Potter fans!
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – see three of the most popular locations in one day.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – this is a great tour for those who want to see the English countryside. It’s also a nice addition to the popular Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath tours mentioned above. If you do two of these tours, you get to see most of the nicest day trip destinations near London in just two days.

5. Cotswolds

The scenic traditional towns and stone villages of the Cotswolds is one of the most popular London day trips for those who want to experience the true English countryside. This area is so picturesque! Below, you can find an overview of the most beautiful places not to miss.

Minster Lovell village is the home of Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote, which sits on the banks of the River Windrush. This 15th-century Oxfordshire manor house was built by William, Baron of Lovell and Holand – one of England’s richest men at the time. The house was eventually abandoned and now only the substantial ruins remain, giving lots of wonderful photographic opportunities against their beautiful rural backdrop.

A Cotswold village of outstanding beauty is Bibury , with its gorgeous stone buildings that run along the banks of the River Coln. Here you can see the iconic Arlington Row – a series of buildings that were originally built as a monastic wool store but were later converted into cottages. Now owned by the National Trust, Arlington Row is considered to be so quintessentially English that its image appears on the inside cover of UK passports.

Another village well worth visiting is Buford , with its 3 arched medieval bridges across the River Windrush. Famous for its High Street which runs down toward the river, Buford is popular for antique shopping and boasts lots of good restaurants, pubs, and tea rooms. It’s also home to a hotel in which King Charles dined with his mistress, Nell Gwynne.

Whilst there are many contenders for the title, most people will agree that Bourton-on-the-Water is the prettiest village in England. Also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, this ‘must-see’ village is named for the many beautiful bridges that cross its river at the center. Located in a small valley, Bourton-on-the-Water has many charming tea rooms and restaurants, plus a range of eclectic shops including pottery and the Cotswold Perfumery. Don’t miss the popular model village, which is a 1/9th scale replica of the entire center of the village.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting on the afternoon of the August Bank Holiday Monday, you’ll witness one of the village’s more curious traditions, in which a local team plays a full game of football right in the River Windrush. This bizarre game of soccer has been filmed and reported all over the world!

If you have more time in this area, here are some more really nice villages to see in the Cotswolds: Castle Combe, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester, Chipping Campden, Blockley, and Stanton .

How to visit. The Cotswolds are about 30 minutes drive west of Oxford and about 2 hours drive from London. Since the main attractions of the Cotswolds are its various villages, the best way to visit here is either by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. The beautiful Cotswolds region is just a short drive from Oxford, so many tours combine the two places. There are also popular Downton Abbey filming location tours that combine a visit here to that of the Highclere Castle, but because of time restraints, you usually only see one village on these tours.

Here is an overview of the most popular Cotswolds tours from London:

• Cotswolds only – this is the best tour for those who want to explore the Cotswolds deeper as it visits several of the nicest villages and allows you more time to experience this beautiful area.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – the most popular day tour.
• Oxford and Cotswolds Villages – the best small-group tour.
• Stonehenge, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Bath, and Cotswolds – this tour is packed, but well organized and you get to see some of the best places in a very short time.

6. Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small medieval market town and also a very popular place to see near London. The birthplace of William Shakespeare is probably at the top of most people’s must-see lists and the main reason to visit here.

The timber-framed house on Henley Street is where Shakespeare not only spent part of his childhood but also the first 5 years of his marriage after his father’s death in 1601. Live presentations from guides dressed in period costumes and the carefully restored Tudor rooms bring history to life.

In the many Tudor-style buildings of Stratford, you’ll also find 3 theatres owned by The Royal Shakespeare Company. They perform plays by Shakespeare, his contemporaries, and other, later writers. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is situated on the banks of the River Avon, panoramic views of which can be enjoyed from the theatre’s tower.

Also on the River Avon is the Swan Theatre , built on the side of the Royal Theatre and offering a more intimate atmosphere. The third theatre – the Other Place – is smaller and used as a center for performing arts.

For a taste of old-fashioned romance, pay a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage a bit outside of town. This beautiful 500-year-old building was originally a farmhouse and was where William Shakespeare courted Anne, his future wife. Incredibly picturesque, the cottage still contains original features and furnishings and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Another must-see is the Hall’s Croft , the house of Shakespeare’s daughter, with stunning gardens. Inside, you can find original 16-17th-century furniture, paintings, and other items.

How to visit. Stratford-upon-Avon is about 100 miles (160 km), 2 hours drive from London. If you don’t have a car, the easiest way to visit here on a day trip from London is by joining a tour.

Best tours from London. Most tours visiting Stratford-upon-Avon from London combine it with other places nearby and only spend a few hours here. They usually include a guided walk in the town center and sometimes a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace.

Here is a small selection of the best day tours from London:

• Shakespeare’s Stratford & Cotswolds – this is one of the few tours that spend more time in Stratford and also visits Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. It also brings you to three villages in the Cotswolds.
• Oxford, Stratford, & Cotswolds – this popular tour spends about 2 hours in Stratford and covers more ground in a day.

7. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Fans of Harry Potter – and even those who have yet to experience the wizardly wonder of the movies – will enjoy a visit to the fascinating Warner Bros. studio near London . It’s one of the most popular day tours from London (after Windsor Castle), and a must if visiting London with kids .

Here, you can see firsthand some of the amazing sets used in the film’s production, including the Great Hall of Hogwarts (which went on to be used in 6 more films) and the Forbidden Forest filled with 19 trees, each with a diameter of over 12 feet. You can even see The Hogwarts Express locomotive at the elusive Platform 9¾.

There are prop rooms where you can take a close-up look at look at the elaborate props used in the Harry Potter movies. There are almost 2,000 potion jars and memory vials, all with labels hand-designed by the Graphics Department. You can also see Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, which took 3 months to build and was intended to look as much as possible as a real 18th-century storefront.

If you have an interest in the making of movies, you will enjoy other parts of the studio as well. The Special and Visual Effects section reveals how some of the more incredible scenes were created, including how Harry and his friends were made invisible by the Invisibility Cloak and how they appeared to fly! Even more captivating is the Creature Effects section, where you can learn how the magical creatures in the Harry Potter films were created and brought to life.

A visit to the Making of Harry Potter Studio provides a magical and educational experience for adults and children alike. If you are looking for a fun relaxing day trip near London, this is a great option for the whole family!

How to visit. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio is located in Leavesden, Watford, about 20 miles from London city center. But because of the busy traffic, it’s quite a long drive. There’s a train from London to Watford, from where you’ll have to take a bus to the studios – the journey will take you over 1 hour not counting the time to get to the station. There are also several companies offering bus transfers from London – see below.

Best tours from London. The easiest way to get to Harry Potter Studios is by booking a transfer or a tour from London. That way you don’t have to worry about the tickets either.

This highly-rated  Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour  departs from Victoria Station, close to Westminster Catedral in the city center. There is also a popular  tour that departs from King’s Cross . The prices are usually the same and include a bus transfer and tickets. You’ll need about 7-8 hours in total for this day trip.

PRO TIP: One of the most popular tours from London is this popular tour that includes a visit to the studios and also visits Oxford . It’s a truly magical day trip as Oxford is one of the places where Harry Potter movies were filmed.

8. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace , one of the Tudor Palaces, was the former royal residence of King Henry VIII. In addition to Windsor, this is another really nice place to visit near London, especially if you are a fan of royal history.

Hampton Court is a huge, impressive baroque-style palace located at the River Thames and surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland . If you visit in spring, you can see the magnificent tulip festival. But the gardens have something nice to offer in every season, and there are various events at the Palace throughout the year.

The interior of the castle gives you a chance to take a glimpse into the daily life of royals in the 16-17th centuries. You can visit the impressive State Rooms and private apartments of William III . Also, don’t miss the kitchens of Henry VIII , where over 200 people worked in the past, cooking and serving more than 800 meals per day.

Another highlight is the magnificent Great Hall that was originally a dining room, but afterwards became a sort of theatre that was used for entertainment, plays, and dances. Back in the day, William Shakespeare performed his plays here. The highlights here include a series of tapestries showing scenes from the Book of Genesis and the impressive timber roof with Anne Bollaine’s coat-of-arms.

This is also a very nice place to visit for families, with a maze in the garden, fantastic play areas for children, and plenty of places for a picnic. When the weather is nice, you could easily spend an entire day just exploring the gardens.

How to visit. Hampton Court Palace is located on the outskirts of London, about 15 miles southwest of the city center. You can easily visit Hampton Court Palace from London by train. There is a train from London Waterloo Station to Surbiton Station, and from there to Hampton Court. It takes about 40 minutes.

In addition, there are also several tours – see below.

Good to know: Hampton Court Palace entry is included with the London Pass .

Tours from London. Because Hampton Court is quite easy to get to and explore on your own, there aren’t many organized tours. The best ones are private tours like this one ; it combines a visit to Hampton Court Palace with that of Windsor Castle. That way, you get to see two of the most impressive royal palaces near London in one day.

There are also some nice bike tours or boat tours that explore the surroundings of Hampton, starting from different locations nearby.

9. Brighton & Seven Sisters

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London and see some of the stunning nature of England, then definitely consider a day trip to the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs . At the same time, you can also visit one of the UK’s nicest coastal cities – Brighton .

Brighton is worth a trip in its own right, with all the little pleasures that a lively seaside resort has to offer. If you have some time to spare, check out the Royal Pavilion , an Asian-style palace that looks like it belongs in an Indian fairytale…

But for a sightseeing day trip from London, you can also opt for something slightly different and explore some of the beautiful nature outside of town as well.

The rolling hills of the South Downs offer so much to explore and enjoy, with spectacular views and popular spots with their own unique legends. One of the most famous is that of the Devil’s Dyke , a v-shaped dry valley whose creation was attributed to the work of the devil himself (although, as you will see, it’s far too beautiful for that!). The South Downs is also home to the Long Man of Wilmington – a 235 ft tall chalk figure on the side of a grassy hill and one of only two human hill figures in England.

Be sure to check out Beachy Head , which – at 535 feet – is the highest chalk cliff on the southern coast of England. From the top, you can see miles of coastline in either direction, plus the candy-striped lighthouse that sits just out to sea. Nearby is the Birling Gap – one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. Here you can see coastal erosion firsthand, with the cliffs eroding up to a meter a year at certain points.

Another highlight of any visit to the South Downs is the Seven Sisters – an undulating line of white chalk cliffs, each hill with its own name. They are best viewed from Seaford Head , where you can see evidence of an 8th hill beginning to form from the erosion of the sea.

TIP: Any visit to the Downs must include a visit to the popular Middle Farm , which offers such delicacies as local cheese, sparkling wines, and traditional Sussex cider.

How to visit. South Downs and the Seven Sisters are located near Brighton in south England. While you can easily get to Brighton by train from London, you’ll need a car for the other places. The best way to visit is with a tour – see below.

Best tours from London. There are just a few tours from London that visit this area. The best option is this highly-rated tour that includes a train ticket from London to Brighton and a small-group minibus tour of the sights along the coast. If you prefer to make your own way to Brighton, you can also book the same tour starting in Brighton .

TIP: If you rather book a private tour, there is one tour that offers a pick-up in your hotel in London and covers all these sights in and around Brighton.

10. Cambridge

Less than an hour by train from London, Cambridge is another beautiful town to visit for a day. Just as Oxford, it’s probably best known for its centuries-old University, and this beautiful town has lots of well-preserved historic buildings. But this medieval city is also a student town and has a very nice, relaxed atmosphere.

Don’t miss the King’s College Chapel , Queen’s College , Trinity College, and Wren Library . You can also climb to the top of the tower of Great St Mary’s Church for nice views over the city.

In addition to exploring the many colleges in the city (there are 31! of them), be sure to walk along the River Cam ! Also Cambridge has its own Bridge of Sighs . This covered bridge at St John’s College spans over the river and is a favorite photo spot for weddings as well as tourists visiting the town.

Other nice bridges worth seeing in Cambridge are the Mathematical Bridge , Clare College Bridge , King’s College Bridge , and there are many others.

A great way to explore the beautiful river, see the bridges, the town, and the surroundings is a punt tour . This traditional boat ride is a very typical thing to do in Cambridge – don’t miss it!

How to visit. Cambridge is just over 60 miles (95 km) north of London, and the easiest way to visit is by taking a direct train from King’s Cross Station in London. It takes less than 50 minutes, so you can easily visit Cambridge on your own, without a tour.

Once in Cambridge, you can take a walking tour with a local or explore on your own. The earlier mentioned punt tours on the river are also not to be missed.

Best tours from London. If you rather visit Cambridge with a tour from London, there are several options as well. We recommend this 2-in-1 tour that visits Cambridge and Oxford . That way, you get to see two university towns in one day.

11. Canterbury Cathedral & Leeds Castle

While Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral are over 20 miles apart, these two landmarks don’t require that much time and so are usually visited on the same day. In fact, they are usually combined with a short visit to Dover too, but more about it further below.

After a visit to Leeds Castle , you will not be able to help but agree with Lord Conway, who described it as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’. With a romantic, fairy-tale appearance, this 12th-century gem was built in the center of a natural lake, surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland.

Leeds Castle was once used as a palace by Henry VIII and the private property of six medieval queens. Its rooms have been beautifully restored and give you the opportunity to learn all about its long and fascinating history.

In addition to the Lady Baillie Garden, which gives stunning views across the lake, the grounds also hold one of Kent’s most popular mazes, with 2,400 yew trees. Once you reach the maze’s center, a fascinating underground grotto takes you back to the real world!

One of the most famous and picturesque Christian buildings in England, Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597, then extensively rebuilt from 1070 to 1077. It is the Cathedral of the leader of the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and is still used for active worship.

The Cathedral contains the shrine of Archbishop Thomas Becket and you can stand on the spot upon which he was murdered, as told in Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous ‘Canterbury Tales’.

Also the medieval town center of Canterbury, with its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses, is a nice place to see if you have more time. It’s a popular day trip from London for locals. Also here, you can take traditional boat tours on the river.

How to visit. Unless you have a car, the easiest way to visit Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral is by taking a tour. If you just visit one of these places, you could also get there by public transport. For Leeds Castle, you have to take a train to Ashford, followed by a bus trip to the castle. For Canterbury, there’s a direct train from London, and you can make a nice relaxing day trip by visiting this picturesque town.

Best tours from London. There are several tours from London that visit these places. You can find them here and they are all quite similar in terms of itinerary.

12. White Cliffs of Dover & Dover Castle

“There’ll be bluebirds over the white cliffs of Dover” went the words to the popular wartime song – and if you’re familiar with the song then it’s quite incredible to see the inspiring white cliffs for yourself. If you are looking for something different to see near London than historic towns and villages, Dover is a wonderful place to visit!

Composed of chalk, Dover’s cliffs are 350 ft high and stretch for 8 miles. They were on the front line of both world wars and were a critical part of England’s defenses at that time. Now, they provide wonderful views across the surrounding countryside and the English Channel. On clear days you can even look across and see France!

The unique chalky grassland habitat of the cliffs means that they are abundant in wildlife and you can see all sorts of flowers, butterflies, and birds as you walk, including the rarely spotted peregrine falcon.

You can either spend your visit simply enjoying the cliff-top views, or take a short trip to see Dover Castle too. Dover Castle is one of England’s biggest castles and was built in 1066 by William the Conqueror. Ironically, he built it to stop anyone from invading the country using the way in which he’d invaded it himself!

A visit to the Castle includes exploration of the tunnels that go deep into the cliffs, where you can learn all about the dramatic evacuation from Dunkirk and see the Underground Hospital that was used to treat injured soldiers in WWII.

How to visit. Dover is about 80 miles southeast of London. You can take a direct train to Dover from London and visit the town and the castle, and take a walk along the shore from where you can admire the beautiful white cliffs. Alternatively, you can also visit here with some day tours from London – see below.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that visit Dover from London, usually in combination with a few other places and Dover is often not more than a short photo stop. Here are the most popular day tours:

• Dover, Leeds Castle & Canterbury Cathedral – the most popular and best price/quality tour from London.
• Dover, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Greenwich – quite a full day, but you get to see a lot in a short time.

13. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a very impressive country house in Woodstock, about 65 miles northwest of London. This is England’s only non-royal country house that actually holds the title of a palace.

The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill currently the home of the 12th Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace is a stunning example of 18th-century Baroque architecture. During your visit, you will see the magnificent staterooms, which are filled with priceless works of art and beautiful tapestries. A grade I listed building and World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace also contains the finest collection of antiques to be found anywhere in Europe.

The gardens – set within over 754 hectares of land – are particularly wonderful to explore. Designed by the English landscape architect Capability Brown, there are several formal gardens to enjoy. Don’t miss the Rose Garden, the exquisite Water Terraces, the Secret Gardens, and the family-friendly Pleasure Gardens.

Historical monuments can be seen throughout, including the Column of Victory (built to commemorate the Duke of Marlborough’s military successes), the Grand Bridge which spans the two lakes and The Temple of Diana, where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to his future wife.

There are also a few recommended walks to take. Possibly the most beautiful is The Lake and Grand Cascade walk, which gives you breathtaking views of the countryside.

Good to know: The Palace and the grounds are so big and have so much to offer that you can easily spend an entire day here. In fact, many people find that one day isn’t even enough and many locals get a yearly pass for the Palace. However, many tours only spend a few hours here and just cover the main highlights. So how to visit depends on what you want to see and do here.

How to visit. The easiest way to visit Blenheim Palace is by car or with a tour, but you can also get here by public transport. From London Paddington Station, take a train to Hanborough (a bit over 1 hour), and from there, take a bus to the palace (it takes 7-10 minutes). If you want to spend an entire day at the palace, this is the best way to visit on a day trip from London.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that shortly visit Blenheim Palace from London. The best tour that spends more time at Palace is this Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds tour. This tour also includes a few short photo stops at other popular locations nearby.

14. Downton Abbey Filming Locations

Downton Abbey filming locations close to Oxford and the Cotswolds make another popular day trip destination from London. There are two main places that you’ll want to see here – Bampton village and Highclere Castle .

Highclere Castle is a beautiful building and another fine example of luxurious life in the English countryside. It has been used for various film sets but became hugely popular since the filming of the TV series Downton Abbey . It’s now a very popular place to visit from Oxford or from London. The castle belongs to the Carnarvon family and is kept as it is, without turning it into a ‘theme park’ like some other castles in the area.

Another must-see for Downton Abbey fans is the beautiful village of Bampton . You’ll recognize many of the buildings here from the series, and it’s great fun to try to spot them during your visit!

Be sure to locate the home of Isobel Crawley, the church (actually named St. Mary’s), two fictional pubs – the Grantham Arms and the Dog and Duck – plus the Downton Cottage Hospital. The building used for the hospital is, in reality, the Bampton Community Archive, which houses a collection of old photos of the village and its people.

Bampton is a lovely village to visit in its own right. It is mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086 and was already a large settlement during the era of the Norman Conquest. On the other hand, it’s so small that you don’t need much time here.

How to visit. Highclere Castle is located about 65 miles (105 km) west of London, whereas Bampton village is about 30-40 miles from here, very close to Oxford. The best way to visit these places is either by car or by taking a tour.

Best tours from London. There are several tours visiting Downton Abbey filming locations from London. Some of the tours also visit Oxford, some others pass several villages of Cotswolds as well. This tour has the most complete itinerary covering most of the Downton Abbey filming locations.

The picturesque village of Lacock in rural Wiltshire near Bath is another place often visited on day tours from London. It’s a small village and you don’t need much time here, but it’s well worth a stop if touring the area.

The historic village of Lacock looks much as it did two centuries ago. Founded in the Saxon era, Lacock’s buildings originally made up part of a monastery complex (be sure to visit Lacock Abbey !). In the 19th century, it lost its main source of income from the wool industry, so very little development has taken place since then.

This means that this unspoiled little village gives an authentic look into days gone by. In fact, you can still see an old workhouse and medieval tithe barn in addition to the traditional stone cottages, with classic English pubs dotted throughout.

The village’s beauty makes it a popular choice as a TV and film location. Scenes from Pride and Prejudice were filmed here and Lacock Abbey was also used to film parts of Harry Potter.

Lacock was also used in Downtown Abbey, but because of its location, it’s usually a place you’d visit in combination with Bath and Stonehenge and not together with Highclere castle or Bampton. Unless you drive – in that case, you could make your own tour covering all three.

How to visit. Because of its rural location, Lacock is best visited by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. There are many tours that stop in Lacock, usually in combination with a visit to Bath, Stonehenge, sometimes also with Windsor Castle. This is the most popular tour that also brings you to Lacock (in addition to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath).

16. Warwick Castle

If you want to visit a real medieval castle near London, consider a day trip to Warwick Castle . With a history that goes back over 1000 years, a visit here takes you on a journey back in time, to a world of historic myths and battles for the English throne, but also lavish banquets, and royal splendor.

The castle was originally built as a wooden fort in 1068 and was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century. As you arrive, you enter over the footbridge and find an impressive medieval castle with ramparts and towers. You can climb the stairs of the castle walls and explore this impressive castle inside out.

A visit to Warwick Castle is very different than the others mentioned in this guide – it has something of a theme park feel if you like. There are various events, shows, attractions, archery and sword lessons, and lots of other fun experiences all year round.

This is one of those places where locals visit with their children during weekends and school holidays, but it’s also fun and entertaining for tourists. Even more so if you are traveling with a family.

How to visit. Warwick Castle is located about 100 miles (160km), 2 hours drive from London. If you want to spend more time at the castle, by far the easiest way to visit Warwick from London for a day is by train.

There are direct trains from London Marylebone Station to Warwick Railway Station, the journey takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, it’s about 20-30 minutes walk to the castle. Be sure to check the official website of the castle for more info and book your tickets in advance!

Best tours from London. Most tours from London that visit Warwick Castle do this in combination with Oxford and Stratford. Some also stop at one or two villages in the Cotswolds. Here you can find a selection of tours that include a visit to Warwick Castle .

17. Liverpool & The Beatles

While not exactly next door, we feel that Liverpool also deserves a mention as a place that you can visit on a day trip from London. If you are a fan of The Beatles , a visit here is a bucket-list experience and well worth the journey.

A visit to Liverpool gives a fascinating look into the lives and times of 4 local lads who formed what would become one of the most famous bands in the world. A good starting point from which to enjoy this vibrant Victorian city is the Royal Albert Dock, which is made up of refurbished dock warehouses and is now packed with restaurants, cafes, and many attractions.

The Beatles Story is an award-winning, permanent exhibition totally devoted to the Fab Four! Located on the Dock, it contains lots of authentic memorabilia and provides an immersive experience for visitors. Even children are catered for in the Exhibitions Discovery Zone. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance !

Another interesting part of the visit for die-hard Beatles fans is the Magical Mystery Tour , which you take via a colorful tour bus that sets off from the Royal Albert Dock. In addition to the birthplaces, homes, schools, and original workplaces of the Beatles, you will also see the places that inspired some of their greatest hits, including Penny Lane and Strawberry Field.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool

How to visit. The best way to visit Liverpool as a day trip from London is by taking a train (going by car would be about 4 hours one way). The journey by train takes 2 – 2.5 hours and there are many trains throughout the day, but be sure to book in advance and start your day as early as possible!

Once in Liverpool, you can take the earlier-mentioned Magical Mystery bus tour. Definitely visit the Beatles Story exhibition as well!

TIP: If you find it overwhelming to arrange everything yourself, you can also book a day tour to Liverpool from London. Most of these ‘tours’ are actually individual trips where everything from train tickets to all activities is pre-arranged for you. See below.

Best tours from London. This Liverpool and The Beatles day tour is the most popular and probably the best option. It includes reserved train seats, an entry to the Beatles Story exhibition, and also a ticket to the 2-hour Magical Mystery Tour!

Good to know: The above-mentioned tour from London to Liverpool starts at Euston Station in London and is normally available every day except Sundays. You’ll have to meet their representative at the station at 6.30 AM, so prepare for this to be a long day!

LEARN MORE: How to Plan a Day Trip to Liverpool from London

Map of the best places to visit as a day trip from London & practical info

To give you a better idea of where all these places are located, we created a map indicating all the best day trip destinations from London mentioned in this guide. You can click on the map below in order to see it on Google Maps.

Good to know: As already mentioned, many of the most popular day trip destinations from London can be visited with organized tours or by train .

We don’t recommend renting a car if you are staying in London – the traffic is so busy in and around the city that it would be a nightmare for someone who’s not used to it. Renting a car would only make sense if you are planning a longer road trip, outside of the cities.

For organized tours , we recommend booking via the GetYourGuide website . They have a great selection of tours at the most competitive rates and the best cancelation policy and customer service out there. We personally book all tickets and tours via this website when we travel anywhere in the world.

So, this is our guide to some of the most popular day trips and tours from London. I hope that this helps you choose a few nice places to visit near London and make your trip even more memorable.

For more travel inspiration for London and the UK, please see our featured articles below. Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for London:

• Must-see in London: Top London Attractions
• Hidden Gems of London
• Camden Market
• What to See in Camden Town
• Best Views in London
• London Travel Tips
• Where to Stay in London
• 1 Day in London
• 2-day London Itinerary
• London with Kids
• Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Painted Hall
• Queen’s House and Tulip Stairs

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Cities: Best Cities to Visit in the UK
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & The Beatles in Liverpool
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1-day Manchester Itinerary
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh: Top Places to See in Edinburgh & One Day in Edinburgh & Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow
• Seaside: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Blackpool Travel Tips & Places to See Near Blackpool
• …for more destinations, check our UK travel guide .
• Read also: How to Plan a Trip to Europe

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Lacinda Mena

Tuesday 2nd of May 2023

I am traveling with a group of six. We would like to depart London on September 4 and view Stonehedge, Windsor, and Bath on our way to Southampton. Do you know of any tours that would offer this service?

Hi Lacinda, no, I don't personally know any tours that offer this kind of service. I found this private tour that visits all the places that you mentioned from London. It's one of the cheapest and best-rated tours in its kind. However, I'm not sure if they wouldn't mind dropping you off somewhere else. You could probably book it and then contact them and ask what is possible. If it's not what you are looking for, you can cancel it. I see that the tour has free cancelation, so that's how I would do it. Otherwise, try to search the internet for private drivers and ask for a quote. Good luck!

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

Amazing blog! Was looking for something like this for my trip to London in a few days, and this has been really useful information; the detail with which you describe are amazing. Plus the alternatives to get there and the map, loved it all! Thanks for taking the time.

Thursday 27th of April 2023

Glad to help and thanks a lot for taking the time to leave this kind feedback, Alex! Have a great trip!

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Awesome! Thanks for the info!

Saturday 4th of February 2023

This was great information. Thanks

Monday 6th of February 2023

Glad to help. Have a great time in the UK!

Thursday 15th of December 2022

Love this blog!!! I am planning a trip to London with my son in February! This is exactly the information we are looking for! Super helpful!!

Friday 16th of December 2022

Glad to help, Holley. Have a great time in 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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10 ways to get out of London and into the countryside for the day

Mar 12, 2024 • 11 min read

Brighton Beach is just a short train journey from London © Klaus Vedfelt / Shutterstock

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 2019 and updated March 2024

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The 18 Best Day Trips from London in 2024

Kristoffer Fons

March 20, 2024

Why not take a day trip from London and explore the beauty of its surroundings? From charming seaside towns to historic castles and vibrant cities, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.

In this post, I’ll look at some of the best day trips from London that tourists should try.

Whether you want a relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle of city life or an adventure packed with activities, I’ve got something for everyone

Let’s begin our journey.

1. Windsor, Stonehenge & Oxford Tour

2. harry potter studios ⚡️, 3. blenheim palace and the cotswolds, 4. the best of kent – canterbury cathedral & dover, 5. trip to the famous white cliffs of dover, 6. downtown abbey day trip from london, 7. half-day trip from london to stonehenge, 8. the seven sisters in sussex, 9. day trip to paris with lunch at the eiffel tower 🇫🇷, 10. shakespeare’s stratford & cotswolds, 11. visit bicester village for luxury shopping 👛, 12. the beatles trip to liverpool 🎸, 13. best of cambridge, 14. bath, avebury & lacock village, 15. lake district – england’s most beautiful nature, 16. glastonbury and cheddar gorge, 17. edinburgh by train 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿, 18. isle of wight 🏝️.

Visit the picture-perfect town of Windsor and explore the world-famous Stonehenge and Oxford on an action-packed day trip from London.

Experience the beautiful English countryside, get to know the history behind some of England’s most famous landmarks, and even have time for shopping or sightseeing.

The tour starts with a visit to Windsor , a charming market town full of character home to the world’s largest inhabited castle – Windsor Castle . Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city and learn about its 600-year-old history.

Visit sites like St George’s Chapel, see where Her Majesty The Queen lives during weekends, or relax in one of the many quaint cafes and pubs that line the streets.

From there, continue onto Stonehenge – an ancient monument built about 5,000 years ago that still fascinates visitors today. Listen as your guide explains how it was constructed and learn about their theories regarding its purpose.

Next is Oxford – one of Britain’s oldest cities renowned for being a centre of education with beautiful University College buildings at each turn. Take a leisurely walk around this city filled with architectural wonders before returning to London.

On this unforgettable full-day tour from London, you will discover some of England’s most iconic historical sites in style.

With plenty of free time to explore on your own, shop or take photos along the way – you’ll be sure to get plenty out of your journey.

Read more about the day trip here .

If you’re looking for a fun-filled day trip from London, then the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter ( Harry Potter World ) could be just the ticket.

Located in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, this unique experience is guaranteed to transport you into the wizarding world of Harry Potter.

First off, you’ll get to explore the very sets and props used in the movies themselves. Take a walk down Diagon Alley, or observe real-life Quidditch matches.

You’ll learn all about how these iconic scenes were created with state-of-the-art special effects techniques, as well as hearing some behind-the-scenes secrets from the cast and crew members who worked on them.

The tour also features an impressive collection of detailed costumes and props straight out of Hogwarts – including Harry’s wand! If you’re a fan of the franchise, then this is a must-see experience – it’s like taking a step inside JK Rowling’s magical universe.

There are also plenty of interactive activities available at the Harry Potter World.

Visitors can try their hand at creating illusions with Animatronics Modeling or witness famous broomstick trickery for themselves by taking part in an exclusive action workshop.

For those seeking an even more immersive experience, there are also options to explore one of four film locations with exclusive access either through a guided tour or a self-exploration route.

Plus, there’s plenty more to see and do – making your visit to Harry Potter Studio Tour educational and entertaining.

Read more about the trip to Harry Potter Studios here .

Please read our complete guide to the Harry Potter World in London .

Explore the beautiful Cotswolds and visit the historic Blenheim Palace on a full day excursion from London.

Enjoy a delicious pub lunch in one of the region’s quaint villages before taking a tour of Blenheim and its grounds.

Your journey will start with an early morning coach ride to the Cotswolds , an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty ( AONB ).

You can admire stunning English countryside scenery as you pass through quaint villages with charming thatched cottages and rolling hills.

Next, you’ll be invited to experience a traditional pub lunch at one of the Cotswolds’ iconic pubs. Take some time to sample a pint or two from the local brewery and soak up some of the region’s unique atmosphere.

Afterwards, it’s time for your visit to Blenheim Palace – home of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

Stroll around the magnificent Baroque palace surrounded by 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland where deer roam freely!

Get ready for a big dose of history as your expert guide takes you through its impressive state rooms, ballroom and chapel – each painted in exquisite 18th century ornamentation.

Relax as you travel back to London after an unforgettable day out in England’s beautiful Cotswolds countryside.

Whether it’s culture you crave or simple relaxation – there’s something for everyone during this amazing full day excursion.

You can read more about the day trip here .

See the best of Kent on a day trip from London to Leeds castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover.

Enjoy an exclusive private showing of Leeds Castle before heading to Canterbury Cathedral for a guided tour and some free time exploring.

Finish the day with a visit to Dover and take in some of England’s most stunning coastal views.

Start your journey with a visit to Leeds Castle in Kent (not in the actual city of Leeds in Yorkshire) which has been used as a palace, stronghold and home throughout its 900-year history.

With its 500 acres of beautiful parkland, lake and gardens it is one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain.

Get ready for an exclusive private viewing of the castle before being dropped off at lunchtime.

Next is Canterbury Cathedral – perhaps one of England’s best known landmarks due to its mention in Chaucer’s Tales Of The Canterbury Pilgrims.

Take a guided tour of this stunning Norman cathedral and marvel at its architecture, stained glass windows and crypt.

You will then have enough free time to explore on your own or take part in special activities like ringing the bells.

Finish the day off with a scenic drive along the coast stopping by Dover for amazing views over the English Channel.

Don’t forget your camera – you won’t want to miss out on capturing these incredible vistas.

On this full day tour from London you’ll get to experience some of England’s most iconic landmarks while soaking up true culture and history in style!

Read more about the trip here .

After your day trip from London, check out my extensive guide on the best things to do in London .

Discover the stunning White Cliffs of Dover and explore its historical city centre on a day trip from London.

See the iconic cliffs, visit Canterbury – one of England’s oldest cities, walk along the picturesque beach and enjoy a two-course lunch in a traditional pub.

Begin your tour with a 3-hour coach ride to Dover, where you can admire the spectacular views of the English countryside as you head down south.

On arrival in Dover, prepare for an awe-inspiring view from the cliffs .

Capture some fantastic photos of this striking landscape before taking some time to explore the area.

Continue onto Canterbury, where you can wander around its cobblestoned streets full of independent stores, cafes and restaurants.

Plus, no tour to Canterbury would be complete without visiting its famous cathedral – considered one of England’s finest Norman structures and takes you back over 1,400 years in history.

After a busy morning exploring, stop for a delicious two-course lunch at a traditional pub nearby – perfect for recharging your batteries before heading to neighbouring Whitstable.

Stop by this famous seaside town with picturesque beaches and a colourful harbour where you can take some more beautiful photos while having free time to explore independently or relax on the beach before starting your journey back to London.

Enjoy a memorable day out discovering England’s south coast, including its breathtaking White Cliffs of Dover – an experience not to be missed.

Read more about this day trip here .

Enjoy a day out of London with a visit to the real-life set of the world-famous drama series Downton Abbey.

Follow in the footsteps of the Crawley family and explore village life on a full-day tour from London.

Visit Highclere Castle – home to the Crawleys, learn more about their story through an experienced guide and wander around the quaint village of Bampton.

Depart from central London and take an hour-long journey to the actual location of Downton Abbey – Highclere Castle .

Enjoy beautiful views over this Victorian mansion and learn more about its history during your guided tour inside.

Feel like Lord Grantham as you pass by period furniture, grand paintings and stately rooms!

Continue your tour with a visit to Bampton village – nearby Hills & Holes, which was used for filming scenes for Downton Abbey.

Take a stroll along its streets admiring traditional cottages and churches, explore St Mary’s Church where Lady Mary’s wedding took place – recreated at Ely Cathedral in season 3 – or sit back, relax and enjoy some free time exploring independently before beginning your journey back to London.

This 8-hour coach trip is perfect for all fans of the popular show Downton Abbey who have ever dreamt of visiting its iconic sets.

See why it is one television’s most successful shows while taking memorable photos along the way!

Read more about the Downtown Abbey day trip from London here .

Step back in time and embark on a 4-hour journey from London to Stonehenge – one of the world’s oldest and most mysterious monuments.

Experience the mystic atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site, admire its unique stone circles and enjoy an audio guide as you make your way around the site.

Plus, with your entrance ticket included , you can save time at the gate.

Begin your tour with a comfortable coach ride out of London towards the Wiltshire countryside.

Admire stunning views over rolling hills and farming land as you reach Stonehenge – one of England’s top attractions.

On arrival, explore below and above ground while listening to interesting comments on an audio guide.

Discover why it was built and its significance through time thanks to intriguing facts about life in prehistoric times.

Listen to fun stories about the druids and try to guess who left their mark at Stonehenge taking some fantastic photos along the way.

Afterwards, head back to London with plenty of unforgettable memories from this historical monument that dates back more than 5 millennia ago.

Read more about the half-day trip from London to Stonehenge .

Check out this guide with tips on visiting Stonehenge .

Enjoy a full-day tour filled with breathtaking views and coastal delights.

Explore nature’s beauty of the South Downs National Park and Seven Sisters Country Park on a comfortable coach from London.

Admire white cliffs, rolling hills, lush woodlands, quirky villages and pristine beaches – ideal for fabulous photos.

Depart London and let yourself relax in an air conditioned coach as you make your way to the beautiful countryside of Sussex.

Get ready to admire amazing views over South Downs National Park’s rolling hills while learning interesting facts about the area from audio guide commentary.

Pass through picturesque villages such as Alfriston or Seaford with their charming churches, traditional pubs and tea rooms – ideal for free time to explore independently.

You can continue towards Beachy Head – a stunning chalk headland boasting spectacular views over the Channel Sea.

Make sure not to miss Birling Gap – an old smuggling village – where you can enjoy a delicious picnic lunch before heading towards Seven Sisters County Park.

On arrival, take a stroll along clifftops admiring its distinctive rugged beauty before returning back to London filled with memorable moments from this amazing tour.

You can read more about the day trip from London here .

Yes, you can go from London to Paris on a day trip 😀

Experience the magic of Paris in one day with an exclusive tour that includes a delicious 3-course champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower.

Embark on a luxurious train ride from London and enjoy air-conditioned comfort as you make your way to the City of Lights.

Enjoy yourself while listening to audio guide commentary on Paris’ rich history, culture and architecture as you travel.

On arrival, admire breathtaking views over this iconic city from the top of Montparnasse Tower before soaking up La Ville Lumière’s beauty with a guided walking tour that stops at all the must-see sights such as Palais Garnier Opera House or Notre Dame Cathedral.

Indulge in gourmet cuisine like a true Parisian with a 3-course lunch accompanied by Champagne at the famous Jules Verne Restaurant atop the iconic Eiffel Tower .

Spend some free time admiring 360° views over Paris before heading back to London, saying au revoir until next time.

Read more about the day trip from London to Paris here .

If you want to know more about Paris, I’ve also got another travel blog called Destination Well Known, where I’ve written about the best things to do in Paris .

Escape the hustle and bustle of London for a day and experience a journey full of fascinating sights, hidden corners and delicious food.

Board an air-conditioned coach from London and enjoy comfort as you make your way to Stratford-upon-Avon – the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

Let yourself get lost in this incredible town’s charming streets while learning interesting facts about William Shakespeare’s life from audio guide commentary.

Visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage – the childhood home of William Shakespeare’s wife – before indulging in a delicious lunch at The Fleece Inn.

Continue on your way through the beautiful Cotswolds countryside with its rolling hills, typical villages and lively market towns such as Stow-on-the-Wold or Warwick – perfect for some free time exploring independently.

Finally, discover one of England’s most beautiful country houses – Charlecote Park that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Return back to London after an amazing day filled with unforgettable moments.

Get more info about the trip here .

Get ready to experience a day of shopping luxury.

Travel from London by train to one of the world’s leading shopping destinations — Bicester Village .

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by a village ambassador to get you acquainted with this incredible shopping haven full of designer boutiques and outlet stores offering up to 60% discount prices on European and American fashion brands.

Enjoy free time exploring the chic shop-lined streets, wander through the alleys and find yourself among the most sought-after luxury labels such as Prada and Chloé or perhaps a timeless souvenir like charming English tableware.

Let yourself be spoiled with refreshing snacks, coffee & more at one of the many cafes within Bicester Village before taking a break in its beautiful gardens full of colourful blooming flowers.

At the end of your shopping spree, return back to London by train after an unforgettable experience perfect for any fashionista.

Read more about the trip and get tickets here .

Step into The Beatles’ shoes and discover Liverpool’s iconic sights on a day trip from London.

Travel to this city in style while listening to some of The Beatles’ greatest hits — the perfect way to inspire you for your tour.

Start off your day at The Beatles Story Museum located in the very heart of Liverpool where an audio guide narrated by John Lennon’s sister Julia will take you through over nine interactive galleries full of fascinating memorabilia.

Then, have a speedboat ride across the River Mersey, just like the one that The Beatles took when they landed back in 1964.

Walk through Mathew Street along cobbled streets filled with history and vibrant music venues before visiting Penny Lane — home of Saint Barnabas Church, The Shelter Hall and Lennon’s childhood abode known as Mendips.

I’ve been to Liverpool quite a few times and visited to Beatles Story Museum as well and I’ve got to say that it’s one of the best things to do in England as a music fan.

See more about the Beatles day trip from London to Liverpool here .

If you’re spending more time in the North West of England, I’d also recommend visiting Chester where you’ve got a lot of interesting things to do without as many tourists.

Get ready to explore one of the world’s most famous university towns known for its stunning architecture, proud history, and vibrant culture.

Find yourself wandering through King’s College Chapel where you’ll admire over 500 years of history in its stunning interiors.

Make sure to stop by Fitzwilliam Museum, the second-largest museum in England, where you can enjoy sculptures from ancient Egypt or masterpieces from Monet.

Take a peaceful stroll along the Cam River or relax in one of its many beautiful parks like Christ College Meadow.

Learn about Cambridge’s rich history with visits to punting boats along the water gardens; taste traditional English scones at afternoon tea in one of Cambridge’s iconic colleges; immerse yourself in Cambridgeshire culture with a visit to spectacular Great St Mary’s Church – there is something for everyone.

At the end of your day, return to London feeling refreshed and energized.

Read more about the best of Cambridge day trip here .

Get ready to explore some of the most picturesque sights in England on a full-day tour from London.

Take a journey back in time while visiting medieval stone circles, elegant manor houses and quaint villages.

Your first stop is the beautiful Bath , with its impressive architecture and hot springs, which were used by the Romans two thousand years ago.

Then you’ll visit Avebury Stone Circle – the largest megalithic stone circle in Britain – where you’ll marvel at its ancient mystery.

You’ll also see Lacock Village, with its unique cobbled streets and traditional cottages.

Don’t forget to admire the historical Lacock Abbey, which has been featured as part of Hogwarts school in Harry Potter movies.

On your last stop of the day, experience a taste of relaxing English countryside life at the 13th-century Stourhead House and Gardens.

After a day of exploring these iconic landscapes and breathtaking views, jump back into your comfortable coach for an enjoyable ride back to London.

Enjoy a full-day trip to some of the most magnificent natural landscapes of Great Britain, packed with wonderful experiences.

Marvel at idyllic lakes, emerald valleys and spectacular mountains on your journey to a land known as Wordsworth’s poetic playground.

Take in the breathtaking views of the beautiful Ullswater lake, the second largest lake in England, and stroll through lush green forests.

Visit charming villages where you’ll get to taste traditional English scones during afternoon tea before heading back to London.

On this tour, you’ll also get an exclusive visit to one of the finest gardens in England – Holehird Gardens – and take a ride on Windermere by steamboat for a unique perspective on this incredible landscape.

Get ready for a day filled with exciting activities, beautiful sights and delightful afternoon tea treats.

Read more about the Lake District 1-day trip from London here .

Take a journey to one of the most intriguing places in Britain on a full-day trip from London.

Discover mysterious Glastonbury, famous for its legend of King Arthur and the Holy Grail and renowned for its world-renowned music festivals.

You’ll also visit Cheddar Gorge – an impressive natural ravine carved by glacial meltwater with towering limestone cliffs and amazing views of the Mendip Hills.

Explore its stunning scenery, including Gough’s Cave which is one of England’s longest caves, and marvel at the Iron Age fort located on the crest of the Gorge.

During your tour, you’ll get an exclusive visit to St Margaret’s Chapel – one of England’s oldest chapels dating back to 1135 – and an opportunity to learn about the Glastonbury Thorn tree, said to have bloomed each Christmas by miracle.

Get ready for an unforgettable day filled with magic, history and beautiful landscapes.

Read more about the daytrip here .

I mentioned earlier that it’s possible to go to Paris on a 1-day trip from London, but how about the Scottish capital of Edinburgh ?

Take a direct train ride from London to Edinburgh, which is a fantastic experience in itself.

Once you arrive, explore this breathtaking capital city with its elegant Georgian terraces, hidden back streets and magnificent architecture.

Visit Edinburgh Castle – a symbol of power for more than 1000 years – marvel at the stunning views from Calton Hill or stroll through Princes Street Gardens.

Get exclusive access to areas not normally open to the public on your tour, including the romantic Ross Fountain in Princes Street Gardens or Mary Kings Close – an underground network of alleyways dating back to medieval times.

Get ready for a day full of culture, history, art and spectacular views in Scotland.

Read more about the day trip to Edinburgh here .

I used to live in Edinburgh, so I’d actually recommend that you spend a couple more days in Scotland as it’s honestly one of the best cities in Europe.

On my other travel blog, I’ve written a complete guide to the best things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland , and if you’re on a budget I’d recommend this post that covers a few excellent cheap and free things to do in Edinburgh .

Enjoy a memorable day trip from London to the Isle of Wight – one of the loveliest islands in the UK.

On your journey, you’ll cross the Solent and admire spectacular coastal views.

Once you arrive, explore its stunning natural beauty and fascinating history.

Visit Osborne House, former residence of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, see their private beach or visit Carisbrooke Castle – home to Charles I when he was held prisoner by Parliament.

You’ll also get an opportunity to take a guided tour around Newport’s old town and discover its hidden treasures, such as St Thomas’ Church, where Queen Victoria worshipped during her visits to the island – or even ride one of the island’s vintage steam trains.

Get ready for a delightful day full of amazing landscapes, centuries-old monuments and unique activities.

Read more about the day trip to Isle of Wight here .

Going on a day trip from London gives you the perfect opportunity to discover new places and create lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure or something in between, there’s something for everyone.

I hope this guide has helped give you insight into the best day trips from London.

The best day trips from London depend on what you’re looking for, but some of the top picks include Brighton, Canterbury, Oxford and Cambridge. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you will want to visit the Harry Potter World .

The most popular destinations are within a few hours’ drive from London, but you can go on day trips to the Lake District, Liverpool, Edinburgh and even Paris, France.

Depending on how much you plan on doing during your day trip from London (number of attractions visited, amount of transportation required etc.) it could be cost-effective compared to staying in the city due to the reduced accommodation costs among other things – however, this will depend upon your individual needs and budget.

There are plenty of hidden gems around London that make great additions to any day trip itinerary, such as Woburn Safari Park just outside Milton Keynes or Cotswold villages like Bibury in Gloucestershire that has been featured in movies like Bridget Jones’ Diary and TV shows like Midsomer Murders.

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London Travel Hacks is an online travel guide to the beautiful capital of England. The aim of this website is to give you all the information you need before coming to London on a trip. The website is run by Kristoffer Fons, who has been travel blogging since 2013.

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17 day trips from London to escape the city

Whether you’re after a seaside jaunt or a country retreat, here are the best trips from London we’re planning right now

As much as we love London here at Time Out, we’re also partial to the odd daydream about a leisurely getaway to somewhere that’s not quite so big and busy. Microdose on that holiday vibe by taking a day trip to one of the many laidback, joy-inducing destinations just a few hours away from London, which pack in plenty; from historic cities and cute villages to sandy beaches and rolling countryside.

If you’re wanting a quick getaway, here are 17 of the Time Out team’s favourite day trips from London, complete with our recommendations of cute pubs and ace restaurants – all close enough to the city to get there and back in one sweet day. 

RECOMMENDED: ✨The best day trips from London 👪 The best  family day trips from London ☀️ The best  weekend trips from London 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs near London 🌳 The best  quirky Airbnbs in the UK

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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Dreamy day trips from London

1.  St Leonards-on-Sea

Famed for how many Londoners moved here during lockdown (it’s even been referred to as Dalston-on-Sea, which is cringe, we’ll admit), St Leonards-On-Sea is a cracking day out from the Big Smoke for beachside drinks and a tonne of great food spots. Head to food market Heist  (basically a much nicer version of Boxpark) for orange wine and street food, then sink pints at Goat Ledge , a vibesy, colourful shack right on the beach. If you fancy splashing out a little, book dinner at the fabulously old-school  St Clement’s for white tablecloths and delicious seafood. Plus you've got easy access to the rest of Hastings for its Old Town, pier and the Norman castle ruins.

How far? 58 miles

How to get there: A one hour 18 minute train from London Charing Cross

2.  Dungeness

Dungeness’s shingly, shipwreck-dotted beach is so spookily empty that it’s been described as Britain’s only desert (though the Met Office refuses to technically recognise it as such, the party poopers). It’s a beautifully eerie landscape, with the (disused) nuclear power station and two lighthouses looming over a motley mixture of weathered shacks, beached fishing boats and sleek, modernist bungalows – all clustered along a single in-and-out road.

But despite all that emptiness, there’s a surprising amount to do here. You could catch the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch steam train down the coast, and hop off in Dungeness for a walk and a pint at the lonely Britannia Inn. Grab a freshly-caught lunch at the famous Snack Shack: specialities include lobster or crab rolls and smoked cod chowder. And check out the galleries and open houses showcasing the work of the (surprisingly) many artists who have moved down here, including the shingle garden of the experimental filmmaker Derek Jarman, whose yellow-windowed Prospect Cottage is a major landmark here. Book in advance for a 40-minute tour inside.

If you’ve got time, head over to RSPB Dungeness nature reserve for a chance to glimpse glossy ibises and marsh harriers – plus the huge concrete ‘sound mirrors’, pre-radar experiments from WW1 that were designed to listen out for planes. (Look out on the RSPB site for news of the rare open days when you can get up close.) Finish off your day with dinner at the Pilot Inn; I’m willing to back the quality of their famous fish and chips, which were the thing that brought Derek Jarman here in the first place.

How far? 86 miles

Get there O ne hour  by train from St Pancras International to Folkestone, with a one-hour 30-minute bus ride to Dungeness. Or take a bus or taxi from Folkestone to Hythe station to board the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. Alternatively, Dungeness is  around two hours from London by car.

3.  Stratford-upon-Avon

As a born-and-bred Midlander, I’ve spent many Saturdays traipsing around Stratford-upon-Avon’s lovely streets. With its half-timbered houses and canalside pubs, Stratford’s got just enough of the  small-town charm you’re craving on an escape from the Big Smoke, but unlike a small town, there’s actually loads to see and do.  

The Bard, of course, is the big draw here, and Shakespeare’s house, his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage and the RSC’s famous theatre are all must-sees. But Stratford is more than just a Tudor Disneyland, we promise. Take a boat tour of the canal basin to find out more about the West Midlands waterways, refresh yourselves in the Grade II-listed Old Thatch Tavern and stop for a scoop of Eton mess ice cream at Hooray’s British Gelato Kitchen. 

How far? 104 miles

Get there T wo hours 15 minutes  by train from Marylebone; around two hours by car. 

4.  Whitstable

Don’t even think about thinking about it: Whitstable is far from overhyped. Sure, the secret is most definitely out about this fabulous little seaside town, but the vibes here are as great as they were 20 years ago. Grab brunch at Farm & Harper , fish and chips at Ossie’s and a glorious pint of craft at the Twelve Taps , and treat yourself to a dozen oysters to go at Wheelers Oyster Bar on the high street. Once you’ve walked the length of the beach and admired the beach huts, settle in at the famous pub-on-the-beach Old Neptune for a pint and wait for sunset to fall. Plus, Whitstable is so near, you’ll be back home before you can say ‘ another   bank holiday?’. But that’s if you don’t miss the last train.

How far? 50 miles

Get there One hour 15 minutes from St Pancras International, around two hours by car.

5.  Brighton

With its pebble beach, wall-to-wall live music venues and buzzing LGBTQ+ scene, there’s nowhere better for topping up your Vitamin Sea levels than Brighton . Start your day by dodging seagulls on the Palace Pier, then shop up a storm in the Lanes, which are packed with independent boutiques, record stores and vegan eateries. Sit down with a couple of pints in the Brighton Beer Dispensary, which champions small Sussex breweries like the Hand Brew Co.

How far?  A little over 50 miles

Get there One hour by train from Victoria, Blackfriars or London Bridge; around two hours by car. 

6.  The New Forest

A trip to the New Forest is about as close as you can get to going on safari without buying a plane ticket. As you make your way down dappled lanes and across the heather-covered heath you’ll be watched the famous ponies, which have grazed there for thousands of years, plus free-ranging Highland cattle and pigs hoovering up fallen acorns. Don’t fancy being stuck in the car all day? Hire a two-seater electric Twizzy buggy to explore in, or book a beginners’ hack at one of the stables. Don’t forget to make time for a proper ploughman’s lunch at the Royal Oak in Fritham.

How far? 90 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Waterloo to Brockenhurst; around two hours by car. Just remember that animals, not drivers, have right of way here.

7.  Rye

The antique shops and higgledy-piggledy cobbled lanes of Rye make it feel like a little slice of the Cotswolds on the coast. After you’ve satisfactorily browsed around the accurately named Tiny Book Store, treat yourself to a seafood lunch surrounded by lobster pots at Globe Inn Marsh, followed by Sussex real ale or a glass of local wine at The George. The Chapel Down vineyard is just up the road and well worth a visit if you want to know the ins and outs of wine-making – or simply enjoy a tipple with their signature wine tasting. Ten minutes away are the pillowy dunes of Camber Sands: roll your trousers up and splash through the shallows, take a kite for a spin or just park your towel and stretch out.

How far? 79 miles.

Get there  One hour 10 minutes by train from St Pancras International (with a change at Ashford); around two hours by car. 

8.  Box Hill

Biking to green and pleasant Surrey is a wheely nice way to spend a Sunday (sorry) – plus, Box Hill was part of the 2012 Olympic road-cycling route. Start in Richmond Park and pedal down past Hampton Court – it should take you about two hours. After a 1.6 mile climb and some hairpin bends (easier than it sounds!), you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the North Downs from the top of Box Hill. Grab a slice of cake from the National Trust café, and save space for lunch at The Tree, which serves homemade pies and crumbles. Your last stop is Box Hill and Westhumble station, where you can load your bikes on to a train back to Waterloo. Whew!

How far? 30 miles

Get there  Two hours by bike (obviously). Plan the route carefully before you set out, and take a map and a puncture repair kit, plus water and snacks.

9.  Bath

A glorious water-themed day awaits you in the city of Bath . Start as you mean to go on with a tour of the Romans baths (no paddling allowed, you’ve been warned), before making a splash in the Thermae Bath Spa – the rooftop pool has stunning views of the city. Once you’ve dried off, make like Jane Austen and stroll along the Royal Crescent. Peckish? Sally Lunn’s teahouse is home to the Sally Lunn Bun, a kind of sweet brioche bap – for a Bath take on the cream tea, order one toasted and spread with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

How far? 115 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Paddington; two hours 30 minutes by car. 

10.  Mersea Island

Attached to the mainland by a causeway that floods (and pub quizzers, take note: this is the UK’s most easterly inhabited island), Mersea feels properly remote at high tide. The big draw is The Company Shed, which serves seafood platters that pull in crowds from all over the country every weekend. It’s BYOB – bring your own bread – and they don’t take bookings, so get there before noon to make sure you can feast on prawns, smoked fish, oysters and dressed crab. Speaking of which, catch-and-release crabbing is encouraged – there are specially marked areas near the water, and shops selling the kit. Or you can book a boat trip around the bay.

How far? 69 miles

Get there  One hour by train from Liverpool Street to Colchester, then a 45-minute bus to Mersea Island; around two hours by car. D on’t forget to check the tide timetable before you set off...

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21 Unforgettable Day Trips from London 2024: Hidden Gems and Must-Visit Destinations

Looking for the best day trips from London?

Listen up, fellow Londoners! If concrete jungles and crowded streets are starting to feel a bit same-old, I’ve got just the remedy – epic day trips!

As a seasoned explorer with a serious case of wanderlust, I’ve uncovered the 21 most brilliant day escapes from the Big Smoke for 2024. We’re talking fairytale castles, breathtaking coastlines, and charming country pubs.

Those rolling green hills and sparkling seasides aren’t going to explore themselves. And why waste your weekends holed up in the city when you could be making magical memories just a quick train ride away?

Planning your trip? Use my favorite resources!

🏨 Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com ✈️ Flights: for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner 🚗 Rental Car: I recommend Discover Cars 🛡️ Travel Insurance: for the best deals I rely on SafetyWing

From foodie havens in Kent to windswept trails in the Cotswolds, you’re spoiled for choice. But never fear – I’ve narrowed down the very best of the best so you can stop scrolling and start adventuring.

As a Londoner born and raised, I’ve explored every inch of the city, so I’m happy to share my firsthand knowledge of the very best day trips.

Ready to shake up your usual routine? Then let’s do this! That English countryside is calling your name.

Top Day Trips From London by Train [2024 Edition]

A complete guide to all the best and most unusual day trips from London by car, train, bus or coach. Includes free day trips from London, and more.

Best London Day Trips By Train

With so many incredible options to choose from, you’re sure to find a day trip that suits your taste and budget. So get your train ticket ready, and let’s embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Bath, my friends, is the quintessential English retreat. With its postcard-perfect Georgian buildings, ancient Roman ruins, and utterly charming countryside surroundings, this city straight up dazzles.

🎈 Click here to book your Roman Baths and Georgian Baths tour today!

Now, let’s talk logistics. Bath is just a quick train ride from London – we’re talking 1.5-2 hours from London Paddington Station. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a car and take in the scenic countryside views as you drive to Bath – just be prepared for some narrow roads and tight parking!

While Bath isn’t the cheapest destination, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for food, accommodation, and activities, so don’t let that deter you from visiting this amazing city.

As for things to do in Bath , there is no shortage of attractions and activities to keep you busy. The Roman Baths are an obvious must-see. But don’t miss out on Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, or a long stroll through gorgeous Georgian streets. And spoil yourself with a spa session at Thermae Bath Spa. You deserve it!

🏨 Wanna spend the night there? Eight . True to its name, it only has eight cozy rooms, and the restaurant on the first floor always features eight delectable dishes on its menu. Come check it out and experience the intimate atmosphere for yourself!

Oxford, my friend, is a true time capsule. With its spellbinding Gothic architecture, cobblestone lanes, and cozy local pubs, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel.

But beyond the old-timey aesthetics, this charming university town boasts one of the most prestigious universities on Earth. Okay, so not all of us are academics or students. But we can still soak up the living history and brilliance that permeates Oxford’s storied halls and libraries.

Getting to Oxford is a breeze – just an hour train ride from London Paddington. Once there, navigating is easy by foot, bike, or public transport.

Now, what to actually do in Oxford, you ask? For starters, wander the ancient halls and libraries of the famed University of Oxford . Explore the where scholars and luminaries have walked for over 900 years. 

Let your inner scholar geek out. And don’t skip the Ashmolean Museum – a treasure trove of art and artifacts spanning millennia. From Ancient Greek sculptures to Warhol pop art, you’ll encounter humanity’s creativity laid bare.

Beyond the textbooks and museums, take a punt on the river, grab a pint at a local pub, or lose yourself down charming side streets. Oxford offers delights around every corner.

So come ready to time travel through this city’s storied past. But also embrace the vibrant present-day energy pulsing through its lanes. Oxford awaits you, my friend.

🏨 Where to stay in Oxford: The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels, is located opposite the Ashmolean Museum. With sumptuous rooms and a wellness center, it offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience.

🏛️ Oxford tours and excursions

Use the widget below to book the most popular tours in Oxford:

3. Brighton

Looking for a quick seaside escape from the London bustle? Well, look no further than Brighton, baby! This vibrant beach town packs a colorful punch, with its cheerful beach huts, funky shops, and classic seaside pier.

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the big city, Brighton serves up a swell mix of seaside chillin’ and cultural stimulatin’. Wander through the exotic Royal Pavilion, an architectural marvel fit for a king. Lace up your walking shoes and hit the legendary Brighton Pier to soak up those ocean views and sea breezes.

And don’t sleep on the North Laine neighborhood! This eclectic hub boasts rad street art, indie boutiques, and quirky cafes galore. Be sure to pop into Open House art gallery, and fuel up at Marwood Cafe – total local faves.

Rolling into Brighton is simple – just a quick train ride from London Victoria Station, about an hour door-to-door. You can also bus or drive it, but be prepared for narrow streets and limited parking.

Brighton brings just the right dose of beachy vibes and cool culture. And the best part? You can experience it all in just one day. During my university years, I took the train to Brighton almost every weekend to enjoy the seaside and explore the shops and cafes.

🏨 Looking to stay over? For those seeking a perfect blend of food and luxury, The Ginger Pig is the ideal destination. Located in Brighton, this restaurant with rooms offers pre-mixed cocktails in minibars and Cowshed bottles by standalone bathtubs, ensuring you’ll have a truly indulgent experience.

👉 For more exciting activities in London, consider visiting one of these 12 top mazes near London .

This corner of England is chock full of fascinating sights spanning back to prehistoric times.

Let’s start with the crown jewel – Canterbury Cathedral . This awe-inspiring medieval structure has been attracting pilgrims for centuries with its intricate architecture and air of mystery. Don’t miss the site of Thomas Becket’s infamous murder – juicy historical drama!

Afterward, peruse the shelves at the charming Catching Lives Charity Bookshop, then relax over a pint in one of Canterbury’s hidden pub gardens like The Dolphin or The Parrot. Bliss!

Looking for more laidback adventures? Meander along the ancient city walls, picnic along the colorful River Stour, or pop into The Goods Shed for tasty local treats. Feeling spicy? Book a historic river tour to see Canterbury’s romantic cobblestone streets from a new vantage point.

🏨 Thinking of staying over in Kent? The Falstaff Hotel is the perfect pick. With parts of the hotel dating all the way back to the 13th century, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you admire the original features like cozy fireplaces and sturdy oak beams. And the location can’t be beat – all of the city’s main attractions are just a short stroll away.

5. New Forest

If you’re looking for options on natural day trips from London and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the big smoke, the New Forest is the perfect place to clear your head and enjoy some stunning natural beauty.

With ancient woodland, heathland, and quaint English villages, it’s the ideal spot for a long, leisurely ramble, followed by a hearty pub lunch and a pint of local ale by a roaring fire.

During autumn, the New Forest is especially stunning, with its rich hues cutting through the morning mists and dazzling in the afternoon sun. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle, and even pigs along the way.

To get to the New Forest from London, take the train from Waterloo to Beaulieu Road station, and make a pit stop at the Drift Inn for a pint of real ale before embarking on your hike. And if you’re looking for some independent shops, cafes, and beaches, head to Lymington for a rugged and remote one-and-a-half-hour loop.

🏨 Where to stay in the New Forest: The Thatched Cottage in Brockenhurst or The Stag Hotel near Lyndhurst are excellent options. But if you’re after a trusted favorite among New Forest devotees, Chewton Glen is a must-visit. With its 18th-century manor house, treehouse bedrooms, and Grecian-style pool, it’s the perfect place to unwind and indulge in some good old-fashioned service and comforts.

➤ Related post: Cannock Chase Forest: Hidden Gem in the Heart of England

Best Day Trips From London By Car

Feeling overwhelmed by the London grind? Give yourself a breath of fresh sea air with a day trip by car to Portsmouth, a coastal city rich in naval heritage, Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, or Windsor, home to the iconic Windsor Castle and beautiful surrounding countryside.

Each of these destinations can be reached within two hours, making for the perfect getaway from the city, and all make for perfect family-friendly day trips from London.

6. Portsmouth

This lively waterfront city is just a 2 hour drive south, making it the ultimate easy breezy day escape.

In Portsmouth, maritime history and nautical vibes abound. Take a scenic stroll along the harbor, soaking up views of boats bobbing about before diving into the city’s storied naval past. History nerds, listen up – the historic dockyards offer an awesome glimpse into the Royal Navy’s adventures, including ships like Lord Nelson’s HMS Victory and Henry VIII’s fave Mary Rose.

Once you’ve gotten your history fix, head to Gunwharf Quays to refuel on food and retail therapy. With trendy restaurants, lively pubs, and designer shops, this area is primed for sipping, sampling, and strolling along the waterfront.

🚶🏽‍♂️ You can book a guided walking tour of the city here .

🏨 Spending a night in Portsmouth? Portsmouth Village Hotel is a charming and inviting accommodation option located in the city. This boutique hotel offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a personal touch.

➤ Related post: Southampton to London (How to Get There & Where to Stay)

7. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty, is the perfect day trip destination just a short drive from London.

With rolling hills, charming honey-colored stone villages, and traditional English cream teas, this quintessentially English experience is just waiting to be explored, the whole region offering quite possibly the most picturesque countryside day trips from London imaginable.

The Cotswolds is roughly 90 miles (145 km) from London, and the scenic drive takes around 2 hours. Once you arrive, take your time strolling through the idyllic towns and browsing the quaint independent shops and galleries.

And with plenty of delicious local food to try, including regional specialties like Cotswold lamb and Gloucester cheese, your taste buds are sure to be delighted. Don’t forget to take in the stunning countryside views and snap some instagrammable photos along the way.

A close friend of mine has lived in a tiny village there for years and says the Cotswolds are her favorite place to unwind.

🏨 Staying over in the Cotswolds: The Fuzzy Duck in Newbold on Stour, Cotswolds is a delightful gem of a hotel nestled in the picturesque Cotswold countryside offering guests a truly memorable stay.

🌲 Cotswolds day trips & excursions

Book a private tour of the Cotswolds using the widget below:

8. Stonehenge

A day trip by car from London to Stonehenge is definitely possible. Zip down to the legendary Stonehenge in just 1 hour 45 minutes by car. Trust me, this epic trek is well worth it to marvel at the 5,000 year old stone circle, one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites.

Once you arrive, take a leisurely stroll around the mystical monoliths and soak up thousands of years of history. Chat up the knowledgeable guides to get the scoop on these mysterious rocks and their significance. Refuel at the onsite cafe with a hearty lunch before heading back.

Insider tip: check out my guide on visiting Stonehenge for free ! Yes, you can experience the magic without paying a penny. Pretty sweet deal if you ask me.

Whether you’re a history buff, mythology nerd, or just love an Insta-worthy backdrop, Stonehenge never disappoints. And the best part? It makes for the ultimate easy historical day trip from London by car. Cruise in, explore the neonithic wonder, and be back in time for dinner. Now that’s what I call a win-win!

🏨 Where to stay near Stonehenge: The Old Mill Hotel in Salisbury is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends history, comfort, and scenic beauty. Nesteld on the banks of the River Avon, this charming hotel occupies a historic building that was once a mill, offering a unique and characterful experience for guests.

🪨 Stonehenge day trips & excursions

Check out the popular Stonehenge tours and excursions in the widget below:

9. Stratford-Upon-Avon

Calling all Shakespeare fans and culture vultures – let’s take a day trip from London to the Bard’s beloved hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon! One of the best cultural day trips from London, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this charming town that’s just a 2-hour drive away and choc-full of Tudor realness. We’re talking narrow cobbled streets, timered buildings, and poetic river views. Swoon!

Obviously we need to make a beeline for Shakespeare’s birthplace and get all the juicy deets about his early years. Then, let’s take a leisurely stroll along the River Avon and picture Will as a moody teenager scribbling sonnets along the banks.

But wait, there’s more! We simply must catch a show at the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company theatre. I mean, is it even a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon without seeing some live Shakespearean drama?

And finally, we’ll wrap up our day of all things Will with pints and pub grub at a cozy inn. After all, we need to refuel after soaking up all this amazing culture!

🎈 Book your private Shakespeare walking tour of Stratford today !

🏨 Wanna stay in Stratford? Situated in the heart of this historic town, Hotel du Vin is a captivating boutique hotel that exudes elegance and sophistication, offering a luxurious retreat for travelers seeking refined accommodations.

10. Hastings and St. Leonards-on-Sea

Feel like breaking free from the London bubble for a day? Well, look no further than the delightful coastal towns of Hastings and St Leonards-on-Sea. Just a quick jaunt southeast, these seaside charmers offer the perfect blend of history, scenery, and good old-fashioned character.

Rolling into Hastings, you’ll be greeted by narrow cobbled lanes, quirky antique havens, and oh-so-charming cafes. But don’t be fooled by the small town vibe – Hastings has epic history! Be sure to explore the striking Hastings Castle ruins and transport yourself back to the Norman Conquest era.

Next up is St Leonards-on-Sea, Hastings’ artsy neighbor. Here, creativity and boho vibes flow through the streets. Funky boutiques, contemporary galleries, and an awesome beachfront promenade await. I’m talking colorful huts, cool sculptures, and plenty of character.

But the real charm of these towns lies in the people. Warm, welcoming locals who genuinely love their community. You’ll feel it in the buzzing atmosphere and see it in their smiling faces.

👉 Related post: How to Travel from London to Cardiff (Best routes)

Get some fresh air with a rejuvenating day trip to Surrey – one of the most recommended places to visit near London. This tranquil county is just outside the Big Smoke, but feels worlds away with its rolling green hills, charming villages, and laidback vibe.

Driving through Surrey’s country lanes is like pressing pause on life’s stresses. Gone are the crowded streets and skyscrapers – now it’s just you, vibrant nature, and some serious serenity.

Fancy a leisurely stroll? Lace up your walking shoes and meander along the River Wey, surrounded by soothing nature sounds. Prefer jaw-dropping views? Hike the Surrey Hills and soak up those sweeping vistas! Or uncover the county’s hidden gems – quaint cottages, colorful gardens, and cozy old pubs brimming with character.

Whether you crave outdoor adventures or just some good old-fashioned R&R, Surrey delivers. Its picturesque landscapes and welcoming villages call out: relax, unwind, and enjoy the simpler things!

🏨 Where to spend the night in Surrey: Hand & Spear , a boutique hotel where the spirit of Victoria reigns supreme. Step into a world where vintage retro artifacts, Secret Garden wallpaper, and plant-filled terrariums transport you back in time. 

London Day Trips To Other Countries

Why not take your day tours from London up a notch and book a day trip to somewhere outside the UK, like continental Europe?

Yep, you can easily make a memorable day of these international trips listed below, taking in the top highlights and landmarks of some major capital cities, and the best part is that all of these are less than 4 hours reach from London, with some of them just an hour jaunt. Here are my top recommendations:

12. Paris, France

First up, magical Paris is just a 2-hour train ride away. Lose yourself in iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, world-class art museums, and mouthwatering cuisine. Ooh la la!

13. Brussels, Belgium

Next, Brussels. This 2-hour train ride whisks you away to Belgian delights – think stunning architecture, decadent chocolate, and drool-worthy waffles. Don’t miss the historic Grand Place and Manneken Pis. For a complete guide, check out this London to Brussels post .

14. Dublin, Ireland

The Irish capital is only a 1-hour flight from London, enthralling visitors with its charming streets, lively pubs, and welcoming atmosphere. Discover renowned landmarks like Trinity College, housing the Book of Kells, the magnificent Dublin Castle, and the vibrant Temple Bar district.

➤ Did you know: 10 million pints of Guinness are produced in Dublin every day? Read more fun facts about Ireland here .

15. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Or how about Amsterdam? A 4-hour train journey transports you to the city of canals, vibrant nightlife, and amazing museums. Bike along those charming waterways and dive into Dutch culture.

16. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is just a 4-hour train ride or 1-hour flight from London, enchants visitors with its rich history and iconic landmarks like the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, the cobblestone streets of the charming Royal Mile, and the beautiful Holyrood Palace. Lose yourself in the captivating atmosphere of the historic Scottish capital.

➤ Did you know: there’s a knighted penguin at Edinburgh Zoo? For more interesting facts, check out these 63 facts about Edinburgh here .

17. Berlin, Germany

Prefer a quick flight? In 2 hours, you can be immersed in Berlin’s dynamic arts and nightlife scene. Check out remnants of the Berlin Wall and soak up the history. Explore iconic landmarks like the historic Brandenburg Gate, and the magnificent Reichstag building, delving into the diverse culture and heritage of this captivating city.

18. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a 2.5 hour plane ride to sunny Spain, blessing you with architectural marvels like the Sagrada Familia, sandy beaches, and incredible food. ¡Olé!

19. Reykjavik, Iceland

And don’t forget exotic Reykjavik! Fly 3 hours to Iceland’s colorful capital and make your Game of Thrones dreams come true. Discover iconic attractions such as the striking Hallgrimskirkja Church, the scenic Golden Circle route encompassing Geysir and Gullfoss, and the stunning Blue Lagoon. Between stunning landscapes, natural hot springs, and potential Northern Light sightings, this city absolutely enchants.

20. Lisbon, Portugal

The Portuguese capital is just 2.5 hours on the plane from London and enthralls visitors with its captivating blend of history, picturesque coastlines, and delectable seafood. Be in awe of stunning landmarks such as the enchanting Belem Tower, the magnificent Jeronimos Monastery, and the colorful Alfama district, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of this coastal gem.

21. Rome, Italy

Just a 2-hour flight from London, history comes alive in the Italian capital, amidst ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and lively local energy. Marvel at the mighty Colosseum, tour the Vatican’s galleries, and wander through the Roman Forum’s crumbling pillars. Then indulge in velvety gelato, al dente pasta, and crisp Aperol spritzes. Between captivating sights and simple pleasures, Roma will steal your heart!

👉 Read more: 130+ Famous English Quotes

Renting a Car in London

So you’re in London, ready to embark on thrilling day trips outside the city. Renting a car is your golden ticket to unlocking a world of possibilities! Bid farewell to the crowded tubes and buses as you hit the road to explore enchanting countryside, majestic castles like Windsor Castle, prestigious universities like Oxford, and monolithic ruins of Stonehenge.

With a car, you’re the captain of your adventure, free to make detours, sing along to your favorite tunes, and maybe even engage in some questionable dance moves at traffic lights (no judgment here). I always use Discover Cars for the best deals on rentals. So, buckle up and let the open road be your guide!

Where can I go an hour away from London? 

Places an hour away from central London that are worth visiting include Windsor, Luton, Royal Tunbridge Wells, and Cambridge.

If you’re looking for a regal day trip from London, then hop in the car and head to Windsor. This quaint town is dominated by the magnificent Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world and a favored weekend residence of the King.

According to Visit Britain’s 2022 survey, Windsor Castle remains the most visited royal residence in England.

Explore the castle’s opulent state apartments, stroll around the picturesque streets of the town, and take a walk in the sprawling Great Park. And don’t forget to indulge in a traditional English cream tea at one of the charming cafes before heading back to London. The drive to Windsor is a breeze and takes just over an hour, making it the perfect destination for a leisurely day trip. And of course, there’s LegoLand! 

What towns are 2 hours away from London?

Towns and cities that are around 2 hours away from London include Birmingham, Manchester, Derby, Bristol, and York. Here’s two of my recommendations:

Birmingham (1.5 hours by train, 2 hours by car)

Picture this: you hop aboard a train at the crack of dawn, leaving behind London’s hustle and bustle, as the scenery transforms into an English countryside extravaganza. Greeted by rolling hills, quaint villages, and endless greenery, you’ll feel the anticipation building as you speed toward Birmingham.

First stop? Cadbury World, my sweet-toothed friends! Prepare for a mouthwatering adventure as you delve into the magical world of Cadbury, where chocolate reigns supreme. Unleash your inner Willy Wonka as you explore the captivating heritage, sample delicious treats, and even try your hand at crafting your own mouthwatering confections.

Following that, there’s plenty more to see and do in Birmingham , such as the Jewellery Quarter, National SEA LIFE Centre, Symphony Hall, and the popular Peaky Blinders tour , to name a few.

York (2.5 hours by train, 4 hours by car)

This medieval gem nestled in the heart of Yorkshire is bursting with history and charm. Prepare to be captivated by the majestic York Minster, a sight that will leave you breathless. Trust me, it’s like stepping into a fairytale!

As you stroll along the ancient city walls, you’ll feel the weight of centuries of stories and secrets whispering through the stone. And don’t even get me started on the narrow, winding streets of the Shambles! It’s like stepping back in time, with its charming timber-framed buildings that seem to lean in close and share their tales with passersby. York is a treasure trove for history buffs and adventurers alike.

Best London Day Trips: FAQs

Here are some commonly-asked questions about day trips from the English capital:

What is close to London for a day trip?

Historic cities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Bath make for great day trips from London. You can also visit royal sites like Windsor Castle or seaside towns like Brighton and Whitstable.

What is the best day tour of London?

Hop-on, hop-off bus tours are a great way to efficiently see top London sights like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye all in one day.

Where is good for a day trip in UK?

Some top day trip destinations from London include Stonehenge, York, Lake District, and Edinburgh if you take an early train. Each offers amazing history, scenery, and culture.

Can you do a day trip to Lake District from London?

The Lake District makes for an incredible yet long day trip from London. Take a morning train to experience the mountains, lakes, villages, and scenic hikes in a day.

What is 2 hours away from London?

Destinations about 2 hours from London by train include Cambridge with its famous university, royal Windsor Castle town, and seaside Brighton known for its pier.

Where can I go an hour away from London?

Places an hour from London include Windsor Castle, historic Greenwich, Richmond Park for wildlife spotting, and Kew Gardens’ beautiful landscapes.

How do I spend a day in Keswick?

In Keswick, hike Cat Bells for breathtaking Lake District views, cruise Derwentwater lake, explore the quirky Pencil Museum, and recharge at a local pub for dinner.

Day Trips from London Map

Click on the interactive map below to see the various day trip locations near London:

London & UK Travel Guides:

For more essential UK travel guide information, check out these articles:

✪ Ultimate UK Packing List (+ Free Checklist) ✪ 28 Memorable Things to Do in the West Midlands ✪ 47 Interesting Facts About London You Probably Didn’t Know ✪ 17 Top Things to Do in Nottingham for a Fun Day Out ✪ Cockney Rhyming Slang: A Traveler’s Guide ✪ The Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Derby, UK ✪ Where to stay in London for the first time ✪ Best Spots to Go Paddleboarding in London

There you have it, folks – the 21 most brilliant day trips for exploring beyond London’s city limits! From rolling green hills to windswept coastlines, charming villages to bustling cities, there’s something to spark every wanderlust.

History buffs, get your fill of castles, cathedrals, and ancient sites. Nature nerds, breathe in that fresh country air and roam peaceful trails. Foodies, sample local flavors from fish & chips to regional specialties. And thrill-seekers, hit the waves, cliffs, and trails for adventure.

The best part? These destinations are just a quick, comfy train ride away. Sit back, relax, and watch the city fade into quaint towns, vivid landscapes, and fresh experiences.

30+ Best Day Trips From London

London is an amazing city that can capture your heart. But taking a break from the urban bustle can be a refreshing experience. Luckily, there are many options for day trips from London that offer a variety of attractions and activities.

In this guide, I’ve compiled 32 of the best day trips from London, providing an overview of each destination and transportation options, including train, bus, car, and guided tour.

With my knowledge of the city and its surroundings, I’ve curated a list that includes something for everyone, from world-famous UNESCO sites to hidden gems off the beaten path. And I’ve visited them all personally over my many years of travel to and living in London.

Popular destinations such as Windsor, Bath, Stonehenge, and Oxford are covered. But I’ve also included lesser-known locales that offer the chance to escape both the crowds and the city.

Each trip is designed to take under two hours, depending on the mode of transport. So you can enjoy a fairly full day of exploration and return to London in the evening.

Best Day Trips From London

If you’re planning a getaway, here’s some fuel for your London day trip dreams. For ease of reference, I’m listed these 32 day trips from London in alphabetical order.

I give you an overview of the attractions in each city and tell you how to get there by car, train, or guided tour. Let’s hit the road!

1. Arundel Castle

Arundel is home to one of the best medieval castles in England. Arundel Castle is 1,000 years old. Since Richard III’s reign, it’s been the Duke of Norfolk’s principal home.

The castle fell into ruin after the English Civl War and was later rescued and restored in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The castle follows much the same plan as Windsor Castle . It has a central moat and two baileys to the north and south, curtained with walls.

In 2021, thieves broke into the castle and made off with artifacts valued at over $1.4 million, including rosary beads carried by Mary Queen of Scots at her execution in 1587.

How To Get To Arundel:

• By car : 1.5 hour drive
• By train : From Victoria Station, a direct train takes 1.5 hours.

I absolutely love taking day trips from London, and Bath is one of my favorites. Despite being a small city, it’s simply stunning.

Bath is nestled amidst the verdant hills of the English countryside. It’s been a popular destination for tourists since Roman time. Its quaint beauty is a perfect blend of romance and ruins, with every street corner hiding a unique tale.

What sets Bath apart is its historic center, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its stunning Roman architecture and awe-inspiring Georgian buildings, the city is truly a visual treat.

Bath has more protected buildings than any other city in England, most of which are crafted from the iconic “Bath stone” with its creamy honey color. Walking through the streets feels like stepping into a Jane Austen novel, surrounded by the city’s timeless elegance.

What To Do In Bath:

Historic Center :

Bath’s historic center is very pretty. Everywhere you go, there’s lovely honey-washed Georgian architecture hugging pristine roads.

You may want to book a  1.5 hour guided walking tour  to get the lay of the land. You can also take a  guided 2 hour walking tour of Bath that includes an entry ticket to the Roman baths .

Roman Baths : Dating back to 75 A.D., the Roman Baths are the best preserved ancient baths in Northern Europe. The museum is filled with ruins and artifacts. The grand finale is a smoldering open air pool known as the Great Bath.

Bath Abbey : Bath Abbey is a massive medieval church built in an eye catching Victorian-Gothic style. The abbey was the last great church built in England. There’s an amazing fan vaulted ceiling and beautiful stained glass windows.

Royal Crescent : The Royal Crescent is one of the great set pieces in Europe. It’s a row of terraced Georgian houses, laid out in a graceful 600 foot crescent shape.

Circus : The Circus refers to a semi-circular graceful loop of grand historic townhouses in Bath. The Greco-Roman inspired building has Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian capital decorations. In the Georgian era, the Circus was home to a veritable who’s who from world history. 

J ane Austen Heritage Center : Housed in a 270 year old Georgian townhouse, the museum is an homage to Jane Austen. It gives insight in the life and work of Jane Austen, who lived in Bath from 1800-06. The guides are actors dressed in period costumes. 

Pulteney Bridge : This is one of very few bridges in the world that is completely lined with shops. Its three graceful arches span the River Avon. 

Bridgerton Filming Locations :

Bath was a major filming location for the smash Netflix series  Bridgerton . The series is an American fantasy of Regency era London in 1813.

If you, like me, are a massive Bridgerton fan, you can book a  2 hour guided walking tour to the Bridgerton filming locations . Here’s my one day itinerary for Bath , to help you have an efficient visit.

How To Get To Bath:

• By car : 2 hour drive
• By train : Bath is just a 1.5 hour train ride from London’s Paddington Station.
• By bus : By bus, it takes 2.5 hours to get to Bath from Victoria Coach Station.
• By guided tour : If you’re based in London, you can also book a  guided day trip tour to both Bath and Stonehenge . You can also book a  guided tour that includes Stratford-Upon-Avon, Stonehenge and Bath .

3. Blenheim Palace

If you’re following the UNESCO trail in Europe , Blenheim Palace is a must visit destination for a day trip from London. Located in the picturesque Cotswold village of Woodstock, it’s often referred to as the “Versailles of England.”

The Baroque-style palace, which took over 17 years to construct between 1705-22, is the seat of the dukes of Marlborough. It was also the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The palace features a magnificent great court with long wings that lead to the grand portico, drawing visitors in.

Inside, the palace is adorned with luxurious tapestries, statues, and elegant period furniture that are sure to leave you in awe. After taking in the palace’s grandeur, you can stroll through the exquisitely landscaped gardens, which are simply stunning.

Click  here  to pre-book an entry ticket to the palace.

How To Get To Blenheim palace:

• By train : It’s an approximately 1 hour ride from Lord’s Marylebone or Paddington to Oxford Station. From there, take Bus 7 to the palace.
• By bus : 2:45 from Victoria Coach Station
• By guided tour : On a day trip from London, you can book a 10 hour Blenheim + Cotswolds tour or a 6 hour private tour from London . If you’re staying in Oxford, you can book a  guided tour of Blenheim Palace from Oxford . 

4. Bodiam Castle

Bodiam Castle is a picturesque fortress that seems straight out of a fairytale. The castle makes for a delightful day trip from London. The square castle is surrounded entirely by a massive moat, giving it a unique and impressive appearance.

Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a wealthy man, built this castle in the 14th century. He gave it a symmetrical design with sturdy towers at each corner and battlements along the walls.

By the 17th century, it had fallen into a state of romantic disrepair, with ivy growing up its walls. However, it was restored in the 19th century, bringing it back to its former glory.

When you visit Bodiam Castle, you can either take a free guided tour or explore every nook and turret on your own. The site has a parking lot, and you pay at the kiosk.

How To Get To Bodiam Castle:

• By car : 1:15 drive
• By train : It’s over 2 hours from London’s Victoria Station and you have to change trains.

5. Brighton

Brighton is England’s most fascinating and popular seaside city. It’s a rich and eccentric mix of attractions.

There is beautiful Regency architecture, outdoor cafes, a great art scene, an amusement pier, and the exotic Royal Pavilion.

What To Do In Brighton:

Brighton Pier : Open in 1899, the pier is a classic amusement pier. You’ll find fish and chip shops, fairground rides, and arcade games.

Royal Pavilion :

This is the top attraction in Brighton, built by famed architect John Nash in 1815-23. It’s a fairytale pavilion of Eastern design with opulent Chinese interiors.

The Music Room and Banqueting Room are especially spectacular. There’s also an onsite Tea Room with a balcony overlooking the gardens. You can pre-book a skip the line ticket for the pavilion.

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery : Housed in the pavilion, this museum displays Art Deco and Art Nouveau collections. An interesting piece is Salvador Dali’s famous sofa in the shape of Mae West’s lips.

Fabrica : Fabrica is an arts venue housed in a converted Regency era church. It commissions contemporary art works and hosts temporary exhibitions and workshops.

Lanes District : The Lanes is Brighton’s historic quarter, just a stone’s throw from the beach. You’ll find twisting lanes and pastel facades. It’s an ideal spot for strolling, people watching, and sitting down for a cuppa or pint.

Brighton Beach : On a summer’s day, you can lounge on Brighton Beach or go paddle boarding. In winter, you can order a hot chocolate and stroll down the stony beach.

How To Get To Brighton:

• By train : It’s a 1 hour ride with trains leaving from Victoria, Gatwick, and St. Pancras stations.
• By bus : It’s 2+ hours by bus from Victoria Coach Station.
• By guided tour : You can visit Brighton on an 8 hour guided private tour from London .
• Getting around : You can take the hop on hop off bus .

6. Cambridge

Cambridge is a university city in Cambridgeshire England, just a 60 mile day trip from London. The historic town is famous, naturally, for Cambridge University. There are 31 colleges, which act as social communities.

Cambridge is the epitome of an idyllic university town with students buzzing around on bikes, bookshops galore, and stately university buildings.

What To Do in Cambridge :

Visit the Colleges : Some colleges can be visited for free. Others require a ticket. To learn about the famous colleges and alumni, you can book a guided walking tour .

King’s College : This college should be at the top of your list. It’s one of the greatest examples of late Gothic architecture with the world’s largest fan vaulted ceiling. It also has a stunning chapel with Renaissance stained glass and a wooden chancel screen.

Enjoy the Rive r Cam : The River Cam offers boat tours. If you want some exercise, you can also take a classic punting tour and learn to paddle the iconic flat bottomed boats.

Stroll the Old Town : The town itself is also charming. It offers up pretty medieval streets, art-filled churches, and some splendid museums.

Fitzwilliam Museum : This is the university’s main museum, with over half a million art works and antiquities. It’s effectively a mini- British Museum that houses everything from Impressionist masterpieces by Monet to Egyptian mummies.

Corpus Clock : This is a distinctive public monument in Cambridge. It’s a golden clock designed by Cambridge physicist Stephen Hawking. It’s also known as the Grasshopper Clock because a grotesque grasshopper is the timekeeper, eating up time.

Wren Library :

Completed in 1695, Wren Library in Trinity College was designed by the famous architect Sir Christopher Wren, from St. Paul’s Cathedral fame.

The library houses medieval manuscripts, early editions of Shakespeare, and books from Isaac Newton’s personal collection. They’re in bookshelves topped by busts of great thinkers.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to taking a Cambridge on a day trip from London .

How To Get To Cambridge:

• By train : The train is the best option for getting to Cambridge. It’s an easy 50 minute train ride from King’s Cross Station.
• By bus : Buses to Cambridge run from the Victoria Coach Station and take 1:45.
• By guided tour : You can book a 9 hour guided day trip from London . You can also visit both Cambridge and Oxford on an 11 hour guided tour .

7. Canterbury

It was love at first sight for Canterbury and me. I think it’s one of the most beautiful towns you can visit on a day trip from London. It’s a mini-Rome wrapped up in half timbered homes with its very own UNESCO sites.

To get oriented, you may want to book a short guided walking tour or a private walking tour .

What To Do in Canterbury:

Canterbury Cathedral :

At the heart of the town lies the UNESCO-listed cathedral, which serves as the city’s main attraction. It is the oldest of England’s great Norman cathedrals, dating back to the 11th century. It was the first cathedral that I personally fell in love with in Britain.

Aside from its breathtaking Gothic architecture, the cathedral is also renowned as the location where Thomas a Becket was murdered by Henry II’s agents in 1170.

In the Trinity Chapel, you can see a candle indicating what was once a shrine to Beckett. Stained glass windows depicting miracles that occurred after his death.

If you have the time, book one of the cathedral’s “Behind the Scenes” tours to get the full scoop on this great edifice.

Christchurch Gate : This ancient gate was built in 1517 and leads to the cathedral. Atop it are the sculptures of Prince Arthur, Henry VIII’s younger brother, and his wife Catherine of Aragon. Henry would later, very famously, marry and divorce Catherine.

St. George’s Church : This was the place where the playwright Christopher Marlow was baptized. But all that remains of the medieval church on High Street is the clock tower.

Canterbury Roman Museum :

In 1868, a 3rd century Roman Domus (home) was discovered and excavated. A century later, a well curated museum opened to show what was found.

It houses one of the only in situ mosaic pavements from Ancient Rome in England and gives you a peak into Roman Britain.

St. Augustine’s Abbey : This is one of England’s oldest monastic sites. A greedy Henry VIII seized the abby in the 16th century and turned it into a manor house for his wife Anne of Cleves. You can learn about it on the free audio tour.

Crooked House :

Charles Dickens described Canterbury’s Crook House as “A very old building building over the road … leaning forward, trying to see who was passing on the narrow pavement below.”

The Crooked House is a skewed 17th century half timbered building perched at the end of Palace Street, near the center of Canterbury. 

City Walls : The city’s 13th and 14th century medieval walls are a source of pride. You can access them from Castle and Broad streets. Some of the walls are 20 feet high, yielding great views of the town.

For more information, here’s my one day in Canterbury itinerary .

How To Get To Canterbury:

• By train : It’s a 90 minute ride from London’s Victoria, St. Pancras, or Charing Cross stations.
• By bus : Bus is the cheapest option. It takes 2:15 from Victoria Coach Station.
• By guided tour : You can book a full day guided tour from London that includes Canterbury, Dover, and Leeds castle.

The harbor city of Cardiff is located about 150 miles from London. Cardiff was built during Britain’s 19th century coal boom, but has since been gentrified.

Cardiff known for its castle, museums, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. You can kick off your visit with a guided walking tour .

What To Do In Cardiff:

Cardiff Castle

The castle was built by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago and is steeped in Welsh history. It boasts Roman ruins, an 11th century keep, and a Neo-Gothic clock tower.

Inside, you’ll want to visit the Arab Room, the Norman Keep, and the labyrinth of tunnels from WWII. You can climb the keep’s tower for view. But it’s a craggy uneven path up.

National Museum Cardiff : Situated in the middle of the city’s civic center, the National Museum in Cardiff houses an eclectic mix of historical and scientific artifacts.

Cardiff Arcades : Cardiff is nicknamed the “City of Arcades.” Its glass covered Victorian arcades are filled with unique boutiques and shops.

St. Mary’s Street : This is the main street in Cardiff and one of the oldest streets in Wales. It’s the go to place for nightlife. From St Mary’s Street, you can also visit the Cardiff Indoor Market.

Dr. Who Filming Locations : The TV series Dr. Who used many filming locations in Cardiff. You can even take a Dr. Who themed walking tour .

Cardiff Harbor :

The harbor is a polished district crammed with restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It was once one of the world’s busiest ports. From here, you can take a spin around the harbor with Open Boat Tours.

How To Get To Cardiff:

• By car : 2:45 to 3 hour drive
• By train : Trains depart from the Paddington Station and take about 2:15.
• By bus : 3:30
• By guided tour : From Cardiff, you can book a guided day tour to visit stunning castles all across south Wales.
• Getting around : You can take the hop on hop off bus in Cardiff.

9. Chartwell House

Chartwell House  is where Winston Churchill grew up. Just outside London, it was Churchill’s country seatfor over four decades. The house was Churchill’s sanctuary from the tumultuous political battles in London.

Chartwell House isn’t a grand home. Though Churchill could ill afford it, he did try to gussy up the place. Churchill almost lost the house twice because he was broke. 

His friends bought the house and presented it to the UK’s National Trust. Upon Churchill’s death, it opened to the public as a museum.

You can see five rooms where Churchill lived — the dining room, the library, the drawing room, his wife Clementine’s bedroom, and Winston’s study. Three other rooms are filled with Churchill memorabilia. You can also check out his painting studio.

How To Get To Chartwell House:

• By car : 50-55 minute drive
• By train : Trains leave from Paddington and Charing Cross stations and take about 2.5 hours.
• By guided tour : You can book a  guided day trip tour  to Chartwell House from London.

10. Chichester

Chichester is a tiny town 80 miles from London. It’s famous for having once been inhabited by the Romans. If you’re a history buff or ruin luster, pencil in Chichester on your London day trip bucket list.

What To Do In Chichester:

Chichester Cathedral : The top attraction in Chichester is its cathedral, which is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Consecrated in 1108, it’s home to both medieval and contemporary masterpieces, including a Chagall painting.

City Walls : Rome built walls to fortify the town against attack. You can take a 1.5 mile walk on the walls. 3/4 of the original walls are preserved.

Novium Museum : Opened in 2012, this award winning museum stands on what was once Chichester’s ancient Roman baths. You can tour the bath ruins and examine Roman artifacts from mosaic to coins.

Fishbourne Roman Palace : Chichester is home to the largest Roman residence unearthed in England. The palace was excavated in the 1960s and is about the size of Nero’s Golden Palace in Rome . You’ll see some very beautiful mosaics.

Chichester Cross : The Chichester Cross stands in a spot where two Roman roads once converged. It’s a stunning Perpendicular Gothic monument dating from the 15th century. It’s an octagon and each side has a pointy Gothic portal.

How To Get To Chichester:

• By car : 1:30 drive
• By train : A direct train leaves from Victoria Station and takes 1:10.

11. Cotswolds

In the Cotswolds, little has changed since the Middle Ages. It’s a romantic destination with a beguiling mix of nature and history. This area has tumbling hills, chocolate box villages, and sauthentic thatched cottages.

What To Do In The Cotswolds:

Bibury : This is a cute town on the River Coln. It’s home to one of the Cotswolds most famous streets, Arlington Row. It’s chock full of appealingly crooked brick cottages.

Castle Combe : This town is an adorable jigsaw‐puzzle painter’s vision of an English village. Laid out in a valley alongside a rushing stream, the town has slate roofed stone cottages and picturesque shop signs.

Chipping Camden : This is yet another town with charming thatched roof cottages. You can admire the local wool church, the 17th century marketplace, and take a ramble down Cotswold Way.

Bourton-on-the-Water : This adorable village is quintessential “ye old England.” There are loads of historic buildings and tiny bridges cross the water.

How To Get To Cotswolds:

• By car : 2 hours
• By train : From Marlyebone Station, it’s an hour ride to Banbury in northeast Cotswold. From Paddington Station, it’s 1:10 to Kemble.
• By bus : The most affordable way to get to the Cotswolds is by bus from Victoria Station, which takes 2.5 hours.
• By guided tour : You can book a  g uided Cotswolds tour just for your group . You can also book a  day trip from London that combines Oxford and the Cotswolds .
• Getting around : It’s easiest to explore by car. But you can also take a guided biking tour of the Cotswolds .

Deal is a charming little town that’s often overlooked but definitely worth a visit in Kent . It has all the makings of a perfect day trip from London, with its charming rows of Georgian townhouses, unique boutiques, and relaxed seaside vibe.

Although there isn’t a ton of things to do in Deal, that’s part of its charm. It’s a great place to simply unwind, stroll around, and explore the cute vintage shops and galleries.

One of the main attractions is Deal Castle, a Tudor-style castle built by Henry VIII as part of his ambitious coastal fortification project.

Deal has been dubbed the “new Shoreditch” due to its trendy and quirky art galleries and a thriving foodie scene.

Don’t miss out on the town’s golden sand beach and fresh seafood. It’s a pristine and peaceful beach dotted with wooden fishing boats, and definitely worth a visit.

How To Get To Deal:

• By car : It’s a 1.5 hour drive from London to Deal.
• By train : From St. Pancras Station, it’s a 1:25 ride on the high speed train.

The port town of Dover has been around since Roman times. It’s home to the famous White Cliffs that welcome you to England.

Dover itself isn’t the prettiest town. But its landscapes and attractions will keep you busy. The ocean breeze on your face is worth making the day trip from London.

What To Do In Dover:

Dover Castle : This is England’s largest castle. The castle dates from the 12th century during the reign of Henry II. Henry VII later remodeled it for artillery warfare. You can visit Dover Castle with the English Heritage Pass .

White Cliffs :

The famous towering white chalk cliffs are Dover’s trademark. They stretch for 8 miles along Dover’s coastline.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can walk the entire stretch to the picturesque town of Deal. Alternatively, you can book a guided local tour to see the most photogenic spots.

St. Margaret’s Bay : This bay is at the midway point of the stretch of cliffs from Dover to Deal. You can reach the bay by descending a not so easy to find set of stairs. You’ll have beautiful views of the cliffs.

South Foreland Lighthouse : This is a castle-like lighthouse near St. Margaret’s Bay. First lit in 1843, it’s a National Trust Monument.

Dover Museum : If you need a dose of culture, head to the town museum. It’s housed in a beautiful arcaded building. It displays art and archaeological artifacts. The highlight is a perfectly preserved Bronze Age boat.

Here’s my complete guide to taking a Dover day trip from London .

How To Get To Dover:

• By train : Trains depart from London’s St. Pancreas Station and take 1 hour.
• By guided tour : You can visit Dover and Canterbury on a 10 hour guided day trip from London .

The lovely town of Eton is right next door to Windsor. You could combine both destinations on a day trip from London.

Eton is home to Eton College, an exclusive boarding school in England. It’s a magnificent example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture.

Founded in 1440 by Henry VI, the college is known as the “nursery of Englands gentlemen” and is the world’s most famous public (i.e., private school. Most recently, Princes William and Harry attended Eton.

All boys wear a uniform of a black tailcoat (or morning coat) and waistcoat, with pin striped trousers and a white tie. This uniform is not for special occasions; it’s worn at all times.

You can only visit the college by making a reservation for a guided heritage tour . The tour covers School Yard, College Chapel, Upper School, Lower School, and the Museum of Eton Life.

You should also wander down Eton High Street. It will charm the pants off you with its authentic buildings and old world feel.

You can also take a 1 hour duck boat cruise for classic views of Eton, Eton College, and Windsor Castle.

How To Get To Eton:

• By car : 30+ minute drive
• By foot : Eton is only a 15-20 minute walk from Windsor.
• By train : It’s a little over an hour train ride from London’s Waterloo Station.
• By guided tour : You can book a guided student tour in Eton on a day trip from London that also includes Windsor and Oxford.

15. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is truly a gem of medieval architecture and an iconic destination for history lovers. This palace is filled with great art and has a delightfully scandalous history that you won’t want to miss.

The palace was once the favored playground and leisure complex of England’s notorious King Henry VIII, as well as other infamous characters from English history.

What makes Hampton Court Palace so unique is that it’s really two palaces combined into one. The Gothic Palace of Cardinal Wolsey and Henry VIII was merged with the Baroque Palace built by the Stuart monarchs William and Mary.

Don’t miss the highlights of the palace tour, including the magnificent Great Hall, the beautiful Chapel, the opulent State Rooms, the impressive Cumberland Art Gallery, and the meticulously manicured gardens.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Hampton Court Palace . You can pre-book a skip the line ticket to the palace. You also get free admission with  London Pass .

How To Get To Hampton Court Palace:

• By car : 50-55 minutes drive
• By train : Trains run from Waterloo Station every 30 minutes and take 40 minutes.
• By guided tour : Click  here  for a skip the line entrance ticket to Hampton Court Palace. You can book a  guided day trip tour  from London. Alternatively, if you’re traveling on your own, you can book a  3 hour guided tour  of the palace.

16. Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio

The Warner Bros. Studio is a highly sought-after destination for a day trip from London, especially for Harry Potter fans.

This is where the majority of the eight Harry Potter movies were filmed. Once filming was completed, Warner Bros. transformed the property into an exciting tourist attraction.

For Potterheads, the studio is a magical place. You’ll get to see an impressive collection of iconic sets, props, and costumes that were used in the movies.

Among the highlights are the original set pieces such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, the Forbidden Forest, and a model of Hogwarts. You can even grab a butterbeer to sip on at the onsite cafe.

Click  here  to pre-book a ticket the the studio. They’re expensive, but it’s an incredibly unique experience.

You can’t purchase a ticket onsite. You have to do it online.

How To Get To Harry Potter Studio:

• By car : 30 minute drive and parking is free of charge.
• By train : From London’s Euston Station, you arrive in Watford Junction. The Harry Potter shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes and is a 15 minute ride.
• By bus : The bus from Victoria Coach Station takes about 1.5 hours.
• By guided tour : On a day trip from London, you can book a 7 hour guided tour from London or a private 7 hour day trip tour from London .

READ : Guide To Harry Potter Sites In London

17. Hastings

Like Deal, Hastings has fast become one of southeast England’s hippest seaside resorts.

Hastings used to be a scrappy mix of unrestored 19th century homes and amusement rides. But, in recent years, the town’s been gentrified and is an artists’ haven, with painters heading to the coast for the incredible light.

The old town has some half timbered homes and Georgian facades. Hastings Contemporary is a respected public art museum. There are also antique shops and quirky boutiques.

Hastings got its name from the historic Battle of Hastings, when William Hastings defeated a pretender to the throne in 1066. The battlefield and the ruins of its abbey are just 15 minutes down the road from Hastings.

How To Get To Hastings:

• By train : 1:45 train ride from London’s Charing Cross Station

18. Hatfield House

If you’re a fan of the Tudor era, Hatfield Hous e is the perfect day trip from London, both for its charm and its royal connections. Those who have a special interest in Queen Elizabeth I, the Virgin Queen, will find the early 17th century Jacobean palace particularly enchanting.

For more than 400 years, the magnificent country estate has been the home of the Cecils, one of England’s most politically influential families. Elizabeth spent much of her childhood in Hatfield’s “Old Palace.” The newer mansion, though still old, is adorned with some of her most famous portraits, alongside tapestries.

Hatfield is so elegant that it has served as a filming location for many movies. The latest was The Favourite , a darkly comic period piece about the life of the ailing Queen Anne.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to Hatfield House .

How To Get To Hatfield House:

• By car : 1 hour drive
• By train : From London King’s Cross or St. Pancras stations, it takes about 35 minutes.
• By guided tour : You can book a guided tour of Hatfield House from London .

19. Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle is located just 50 minutes away from Windsor Castle, so it’s definitely possible to visit both places in a day trip from London.

The castle is the impressive residence of the Earl of Carnarvon and boasts a whopping 300 rooms. However, it’s perhaps best known as the filming location for the beloved British TV series, Downton Abbey .

Originally constructed in 1679, the castle underwent a remodel in the 1840s by the same architect who designed London’s Houses of Parliament. The gardens, designed by famous landscape architect Capability Brown, are also worth exploring.

If you’re planning a visit, make sure to check the castle’s website for seasonal opening dates. The State Rooms and the Egyptian Exhibition are must-sees during your visit, as well as the beautiful gardens.

How To Get To Highclere Castle:

• By car : 1.5-2 hour drive
• By train : Trains run from Paddington Station and take 1 hour. They arrive in Newbury, from which you can taxi 5 miles to the castle.
• By bus : You can catch a bus from London Victoria Station to Newbury.
• By guided tour :

This guided day trip from London includes a  visit to Highclere Castle and other  Downton Abbey  filming locations . You can also book a guided day trip from London that combines  Highclere and Stonehenge .

Lacock is a quintessential trapped-in-time English village. You might never want to leave it’s so quaint and cozy.

The bite-sized townscape is dotted with centuries old half timber houses and stone cottages. Lush flower boxes overflow with colorful blooms and climbing roses decorate brick facades.

All this beauty attracted filmmakers. Three of the eight Harry Potter films used Lacock as a filming location, making the idyllic town a pilgrimage site for die hard Potterheads.

Lacock is home to Lily and James Potter’s House in Godric’s Hollow. Lacock Abbey’s scenic cloisters doubled as Hogwarts and Snape’s Potions Classroom in several films.

Be sure to stroll down historic High Street. It’s a eye catching hodgepodge of historic half timbered cottages and shops. You may recognize this street from the movie Downton Abbey .

Fox Talbot Museum is included in your Abbey ticket. You can learn about the history of photography.

And don’t forgot to pop into St. Cyriac Church. It’s a small but interesting 14th century country church at the end of a picturesque street 

How To Get To Lacock:

• By car : 1:50 drive
• By train : From London’s Paddington Station, it’s a 2:15 train ride to Lacock.
• By guided tour : You can book an 11 hour small group tour from London that also includes Bath and Stonehenge.

21. Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is one of theoldest castles in Britain, with a lush backdrop of Kent’s wooded countryside. And guess what? It’s famous for having rare black swans swimming in its lake.

Built back in the 11th century during Saxon times, Leeds Castle is actually older than the more well-known Windsor Castle . It’s got interesting features like outer bastions and ramparts with crenellations. And let’s not forget the Gloriette, the royal apartments which happen to be the oldest part of the castle.

Back in the Middle Ages, Leeds Castle was where eight queens called home, and it was more of a royal residence than a fortress.

Fast forward to the 20th century and the castle was in a bad state of neglect until American heiress Olive Lady Baillie came to the rescue in 1926. She brought it back to its former glory and later bequeathed the castle to Britain.

You reach the island castle by a causeway. Thanks to renovations by Henry VIII, the walls are six feet thick and impenetrable.

Here’s my complete guide to Leeds Castle . You can pre-book your ticket online .

How To Get To Leeds Castle:

• By car : 50-55 minute
• By train : A direct train leaves from Victoria Station and takes 1:15.
• By guided tour : You can visit the castle on a 10 hour guided cathedral tour from London .

22. Liverpool

Liverpool is a popular day trip from London where you can sample urban England at its most authentic.

Liverpool is best known as the home of the Fab Four and is the hub of Beatles tourism. But Liverpool has more to offer than the requisite Beatles’ pilgrimage.

You’ll find a pair of magnificent cathedrals, museums, cathedrals, old maritime buildings, and glassy skyscrapers.

You may want to book a guided history + Beatles tour or a 3 hour Beatles themed tour .

What To Do In Liverpool :

Beatles Story : This is a must visit exhibition about the Beatles’ lives narrated by John Lennon’s sister. You’ll learn the musical roots of the band and see replicas of the Casbah Club, Cavern Club, and Lennon’s White Room. You can pre-book a skip the line ticket .

British Museum Experience : This is an immersive museum where you can learn about the history of British Music from 1945 to the present. Click here to book a ticket.

Lennon & McCartney Homes : Paul McCartney’s childhood home is a well preserved brick townhouse. You can’t go in unless you reserve a tour with the National Public Trust. The same goes for Lennon’s home.

Beatles Sites : You can walk down Penny Lane, stroll in Strawberry Fields, stand in front of a wall painted with the Sgt. Pepper album cover, see the headquarters of Apple Corp., and pay homage at Eleanor Rigby’s tombstone in St. Peter’s Church.

Liverpool Cathedral :

Liverpool has not one but two giant cathedrals, located at either end of Hope Street. They couldn’t look more different.

Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King is a modern building with a striking lantern tower and the famous Lutyens Crypt.

Liverpool Anglican Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Britain and the 5th largest in Europe. There are fantastic view from the top of the tower.

Tate Gallery Liverpool : Art lovers should head to this modern art gallery, which is a branch of the Tate Modern in London. This is the most visited visual art gallery outside London. You’ll find works by Matisse, Picasso, and Dali.

Museum of Liverpool : This is a museum for history nerds. It’s a well done museum telling the story of Liverpool’s history and culture.

How To Get To Liverpool:

• By car : 4 hour drive
• By train : 2:15 from Euston Station
• By guided tour : If you want to take a magical mystery tour, you can book a full day tou r from London to Liverpool.
• Getting around : You can get around Liverpool on the hop on hop off bus or the Beatles Explorer Bus .

23. Norwich

Just a bit north of Cambridge, Norwich is one of the prettiest cities in England and most tourists haven’t heard of it. The town is over 1,000 years old and barely shows its age.

Norwich was one of England’s most important cities in the Middle Ages. 31 medieval churches have survived the march of time.

The lanes in the historic town are a dream, fashioned out of flint cobblestone. They’re filled with medieval facades. Elm Hill is particularly pretty, with its iconic Tudor architecture.

Norwich is a good place for bookworms. It’s a UNESCO City of Literature.

The city is obsessed with books, with Britain’s most popular library and a slew of bookstores. One of Norwich’s best known restaurants is even housed in a library.

What To Do In Norwich

Norwich Cathedral : The city’s cathedral dates from the 12th century. It’s home to England’s second tallest spire and second largest cloister. Be sure to see Ethelbert Gate, which is an access point to the cathedral.

St. Peter Bancroft : This church was consecrated in 1455. It’s a pretty church with clerestory windows and a hammerbeam roof.

Norwich Arts Center : The center is housed in the 15th century St. Swithin’s Church. It hosts art exhibitions, readings from local writers, and concerts. Other literary events are held in Dragon Hall.

Victorian Royal Arcade : The arcade is a shopping spot enclosed in translucent stained glass, just off Gentleman’s Walk. It’s stuffed with independent shops and boutiques. This is an especially good place to nip into if you get caught in the rain.

Norwich Castle : Built almost 1,000 years ago, this is another historic spot in the city. There’s an onsite museum. The highlight is the Happisburgh hand axe that is 700,000 years old.

Norwich Market : The market has been a fixture on the Norwich scene for over 900 years. The stalls are housed in cheerful colorful buildings with striped awnings. You can explore, grab a snack, or eat lunch.

How To Get To Norwich:

• By train : Norwich is a 2 hour train ride from London’s Liverpool Station.
• Getting around : You can take the Norwich hop on hop off bus .

Oxford is an amazing university town that’s one of my favorite day trips from London. The city has been around for a thousand years, so it’s got a lot of history and stunning architecture that may make you feel like you’re on a movie set.

Oxford is home to the world’s oldest English-speaking university. The whole town’s got a dreamy, peaceful vibe with its beautiful buildings and scholarly atmosphere.

The university is made up of 39 different colleges, each with their own traditions and culture. It’s like a group of small communities that all live and learn together.

The colleges are situated within a square mile, so it’s easy to explore them all in a day. You’ll be walking around in awe of the stunning stone buildings and spires made of gorgeous Cotswold limestone.

You may want to start your one day in Oxford with a guided talking tour to get the lay of the land. You can book a  small group tour with a university alumnus  or a  private 2 hour guided walking tour . 

What To Do in Oxford:

Christ Church College :

This is a stunning architectural gem. It’s the largest and most prestigious of Oxford’s colleges. It was founded by Henry VIII’s chancellor, Cardinal Wolsey. The college is the alma mater of 13 British prime ministers

The Tudor Great Hall is a stunning Renaissance space. It was used as inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall in the Harry Potter films.

With its long table and high ceiling, you can see why. It’s just missing floating candles.

Sheldonian Theater : This little architectural jewel was one of architect Sir Christopher Wren’s first big commissions. The theater is modeled on the  Theater of Marcellus  in  Rome . It has a distinctive white cupola, from which you’ll have panoramic views.

Radcliffe Camera : The Rad Cam is one of Oxford’s most photographed landmarks. It has a towering 140 foot rotunda. Inside, you’ll find a light-filled circular library.

Bodelian Library : The venerable Bodleian Library is Oxford’s spiritual core. It’s one of the oldest libraries in Europe. The complex includes the Weston Library, the Divinity School, and Duke Humphrey’s Library.

Duke Humphrey’s Library : Completed in 1488, this sumptuously decorated library doubled as the Hogwarts Library in the Harry Potter films.

Ashmolean Museum : Established in 1683, the Ashmolean is one of Britain’s oldest public museums. Housed in an early Victorian building, it has an international art and archaeology collection spread out over six floors. You’ll see everything from Minoan artifacts to sketches by  Michelangelo  and  Raphael .

For more information, here’s my complete guide to spending one perfect day in Oxford .

How To Get To Oxford:

• By car : Oxford is 62 miles northwest of London. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive.
• By train : Traveling by train is the fastest way to get to Oxford. Trains leave from London’s Paddington Staton for Oxford every 5-10 minutes and take 1 hour.
• Getting around : To get around the city, you can take the hop on hop off bus .
• By guided tour : On a day trip from London, you can book a  guided tour that includes Oxford and the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio . Or, you can book a  private tour from London to Oxford .

Have you been on a London day trip to Rye? It’s this adorable ancient town by the sea that’s got cool antique shops and quirky bookstores. The poet Patric Dickinson once said it’s like a “beautifully jeweled brooch worn at South England’s throat.”

Rye has a rich history. It’s been around since medieval times. But that’s not all there is to it.

There are some seriously amazing restaurants, eclectic shops, and these super cute cobbled lanes that wind all over the place. It’s like stepping back in time, but with a modern twist.

What To Do In Rye:

Mermaid Street : This cobbled lane dates from the 10th century. It’s the street of your English dreams and a visual delight. It’s full of crooked half timbered houses and ivy covered walls.

Church of St. Mary : This church has a nave that dates to the 12th century and beautiful stained glass. You can climb the narrow spiraling steps to the bell tower for sweeping views of Rye and the countryside. If you’re lucky, you’ll see swaths of yellow rapeseed flowers.

Camber Castle : This is a Henry VIII fort right outside Rye. It lies in ruins. You can’t go inside, but you can admire the atmospheric exterior.

Rye Castle Museum : The museum consists of two sites: the Ypres Tower and the East Street Museum. Henry III built the tower for defense and it once served as a women’s prison. The museum gives you an overview of the history of Rye.

For more information, here’s my complete one day in beautiful Rye itinerary .

How To Get To Rye:

• By train : From St. Pancras Station, it’s a just over an hour train ride.

26. Stonehenge

If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss Stonehenge , one of the most important Neolithic landmarks in Europe. It’s even older than the impressive Egyptian pyramids – and still shrouded in mystery.

This awe-inspiring site was constructed nearly 5,000 years ago and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But the real head-scratcher is why our ancient ancestors went to all the trouble to build it in the first place.

Experts think that the alignment of the stones may have been used to track the movement of the sun and the changing seasons. Even though we may never know for sure, we’re still uncovering new secrets every day.

For instance, a recent laser survey revealed some previously undiscovered Bronze Age carvings on the stones.

Here’s my guide to whether Stonehenge is worth visiting .

How To Get To Stonehenge:

• By car : It’s easy to reach Stonehenge by car. It’s around a 2 hour drive from London. There’s a car park is near the visitor center. 
• By train : The nearest train to Stonehenge is Salisbury, which is around 12 miles away. From the station, you can taxi or catch the public  Stonehenge Tour bus .

You definitely have to plan in advance to visit Sotnehenge. You should book a timed entry ticket for Stonehenge in advance.

Having been to Stonehenge a couple times now, I think it’s best to visit on a guided early morning tour from London or a guided evening tour from London . That way, you can avoid the omnipresent crowds and walk into the inner stones.

Otherwise, you can book a 6 hour private tour from London to Stonehenge or an 11 hour guided tour from London with Stonehenge Windsor Castle & Bath .

Another option is to book a  guided tour that combines Stonehenge and Avebury , which is another ancient stone circle that’s less commercialized than Stonehenge.

27. Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is one of those market towns that simply oozes charm and history. It’s no surprise it’s one of the most popular day trips from London.

But what really makes it stand out, though, is that it’s the birthplace of none other than William Shakespeare himself. And who doesn’t love a good dose of Shakespeare?

Of course, the highlight of any visit to Stratford-upon-Avon is the chance to step inside the very house where the master-genius was born. So, if you’re a fan of literature or just love to soak up history, then Stratford-upon-Avon is the perfect place to go.

For the complete scoop, you can check out my guide on how to spend one day in Stratford on a day trip from London .

What To Do In Stratford Upon Avon:

Shakespeare’s Birthplace:

Shakespeare’s Birthplace Museum is where it all began. This is the 16th century half timbered home in which Shakespeare was born. It’s been passed through the Bard’s descendants and is now a museum.

It’s a charming and well restored half timber house and garden. The museum even holds Shakespeare’s crib. You can pre-book a skip the line ticket .

Ann Hathaway’s House: This is a 12 room thatched roof cottage that was the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife Ann Hathaway. It’s over 500 years old and you can see original period furnishings.

Royal Shakespeare Company : No visit to Stratford-upon-Avon would be complete without taking in a matinee or evening performance of a Shakespeare play.

Holy Trinity Church : This 13th century church on the banks of the Avon River is where Shakespeare was baptized and is buried. It’s been an active parish for over 1,000 years. Inside, there’s an impressive chancel with stained glass.

Riverside : When visiting, you should definitely take a stroll on the riverside promenade to see the famous swans. You can also rent a boat and have a good paddle.

How To Get To Stratford Upon Avon:

• By car : 1:45 to 2 hour drive
• By train : From London’s Marylebone Station, the ride is about 2 to 2.5 hours. Not all trains are direct.
• By bus : From Victoria Station, it takes about 2.5 hours to arrive in Stratford-upon-Avon.

You have quite a few options for guided day trips from London to Stratford, including:

• guided day tour to Stratford-upon-Avon from London  led by a Shakespearean actor
• guided tour option that includes a visit to both Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds .
• guided tour of Stratford, the Cotswolds, and Oxford .

28. Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is a must do day trip from London if you’re a history buff or just love castles. It’s got all the classic castle features, like moats, turrets, and even dungeons. You can really feel the weight of 900 years of history when you step inside.

This place has played a huge role in British history, from being built by a king to housing the infamous Duke of Warwick, Richard “the Kingmaker” Neville.

The castle has been the backdrop to some of the most famous dynasties and conflicts in England, from the Wars of the Roses to the English Civil War.

Nowadays, you can experience what life was like in a medieval castle through the castle’s reenactments. It’s a great way to get a glimpse of the past and appreciate the legacy that Warwick Castle has left behind.

Among other things, there’s a medieval dungeon, state apartments, towers to climb, a trebuchet show, archery tournaments, and a maze.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Warwick Castle . Click  here  to pre-book a skip the line entrance ticket to castle.

How To Get To Warwick Castle:

• By car : If you’re driving, it’s just an 18-20 minute day trip from London. Warwick Castle has 3 different parking areas. 
• By train : There’s a direct train service to Warwick from London Marylebone (1:45) or Birmingham Snow Hill (40 mins). Warwick Railway Station is approximately one mile from the Castle. It’s a 15 minute walk.
• By guided tour : From London, you can book a  self guided tour that includes train and entry tickets . You can also book a  private guided tour from London . 

Wells is the smallest cathedral city in England, with a population of just 10,000. The ecclesiastic precinct is a well preserved wonder.

What To Do In Wells:

Vicars Close: This is the oldest purely residential street in England. It’s flanked with intact medieval buildings. The 14th century homes were for the priests serving the cathedral and are adorned with coats of arms.

Bishop’s Palace : The palace is the seat of the Bishops of Bath and Wells. The palace has a chapel and the ruins of a 13th century great hall.

Wells Cathedral:

The cathedral was built in stages between 1180 and 1508. It showcases several Gothic styles. 

The most notable feature is the West Front, decorated with more than 300 carved figures. Though eroded, they are one of the finest collections of medieval sculpture in Europe.

Other highlights of Wells Cathedral are the elegant Lady Chapel, the fan-vaulted Chapter House, and the celebrated Chained Library. 

Mendip Hills : These pretty hills are right outside Wells. They provide a spectacular view over Wells and its cathedral.

How To Get To Wells:

• By car : It’s a 2.5 hour drive from London to Wells and this is the best way to get there.
• By train : The train takes 1:20.

30. Whitstable

Whitstable is a posh seaside town in the southeastern corner of England in Kent.

This is the place to come on a day trip from London if you love colorful clapboard houses and seafood (especially oysters). The best place to sample the goods is Wheelers Oyster bar.

Whitstable’s historic center is laced with thin alleys, which all lead to the water. Stroll down High Street and Harbour Street for boutiques, shops, and restaurants. You’ll even find a Michelin starred restaurants in the tiny town.

Whitstable Castle is a vast Neo-Gothic home built in the 1790s. This is a good place to have afternoon tea.

Before or after sightseeing, you can hit the pebbly beach. It’s a beautiful spot despite the lack of sand. You can relax in a beach hut or grab a pint at the Neptune Pub.

How To Get To Whitstable:

By car : 70-80 minute drive By train : From Victoria Station, trains run to Whitstable twice an hour and take 1:20. By bus : You can take the bus from Victoria Coach Station, but it will take you over 3 hours to get to Whitstable.

31. Winchester

Pilgrim have long traveled to the city of Winchester to admire its stunning cathedral. But Winchester isn’t a one hit wonder. It’s filled with culture, heritage, and beautiful architecture.

The old town is full of independent shops and stores. You’ll find hip boutiques, trendy bakeries, bookshops, and myriad boozers.

What To Do in Winchester:

Winchester Cathedral :

The history of this enormously long Gothic cathedral dates back to 642. Inside, you find stunning vaulted ceilings, the illuminated Winchester Bible, 12th century frescos, and medieval carvings.

The church offers free tours. Check the website for times.

Ruins of Wolvesey Castle : This castle dates from the 10th century. It was torn down during the English Civil War and is in ruins. But you can still see how the grand the palace would have been in the Middle Ages.

Winchester College : This beautiful medieval red brick school has been around since 1382. You can only visit on a guided tour. You’ll see the Gothic Chapel, the Chamber Court, College Hall, and the Scholars’ Dining Room.

Great Hall : This is a remaining scrap of Winchester Castle. Dating from the early 13th century, the Great Hall is one of England’s best medieval halls. It’s now a museum. The thing you can’t miss is the Arthurian round table.

How To Get To Winchester:

By car : 1 hour drive By train : Trains depart from Waterloo Station every 30 minutes for Winchester and take 1:10. By bus : You can take the bus from Victoria Coach Station, but it’s over 3 hours to get to Winchester.

32. Windsor

Windsor is a picturesque Berkshire town mostly known for its iconic castle that’s a royal residence. The castle is the very symbol of English royalty.

Aside from the castle, Windsor has a cute village built up around it and it’s pedestrianized.

What To Do In Windsor:

Windsor Castle :

The 1,000 year old Windsor Castle is a striking 11th century castle that’s the official home of the Queen. The palace is the longest occupied royal residence in the world.

It’s home to some of the finest and most famous paintings in the British Royal Collection . You should check out Queen Mary’s Dolls House, St. George’s Hall, the State Rooms, and the Waterloo Chamber.

You may want to pre-book a skip the line ticket .

Changing of the Guard : The changing of the guard usually takes place at 11:00 am on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The famously stoic guards are clothed in the same red tunics and bearskin that they sport at Buckingham Palace.

St. George’s Chapel : St. George’s Chapel is a stunning medieval chapel in the Perpendicular Gothic style of architecture. The chapel holds a number of famous royal tombs. This is where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married in 2018.

Legoland Windsor : Legoland is a family theme park with ride and attractions made out of legos. It’s just 2 miles from Windsor. You can pre-book a ticket online .

Windsor Village : A small village is built up around the castle. It’s full of lovely shops, restaurants, and pubs. Be sure to wander down High Street, Thames Street, and the pedestrianized Peascod Street.

Ascot Race Course : Just 7 miles southwest of Windsor is the town of Ascot. It’s famous for its royally owned race track, one of the most famous racing venues in the world. The Royal Ascot races are usually the first week in June.

How To Get To Windsor:

• By car : 50 minute drive
• By train : The train from Paddington Waterloo stations takes about 2 hours. It’s a 5-10 minute walk from Windsor Station to the castle.
• By guided tour : You can book a guided half day tour to Windsor or a  private guided tour from London . You can also visit Windsor on a  guided day tour that includes Oxford and Stonehenge . 

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the 30+ best day trips from London. You may enjoy these other travel guides and resources:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Hidden Gems in London
• Tourist Traps To Avoid in London
• Best Museums in London
• Harry Potter Places in London
• Guide to the Tower of London
• Guide to the Churchill War Rooms
• Guide to Westminster Abbey
• Guide to St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Guide To the National Gallery of Art

If you’d like to take some day trips from London, pin it for later 

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Last Updated on April 4, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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England , Europe , Travel

Perfect london itinerary.

This is the perfect London itinerary for a week in London. See all the main sites and a few unique ones as well. 

The perfect one week in london itinerary.

This post contains affiliate links.

I’ve spent a lot of time in London over the last few years, and countless hours organizing itineraries to London for friends and families who visit. London is one of those places that you could live your whole life in and still not behold all its wonders. The best things to do in London England are not simply the main sites, but the hidden gems as well. 

I’ve tried my best to create this itinerary for one week in London for the first time visitor that will cover a broad range of interests while seeing the most iconic sites in London along with some lesser-known, more quirky sites. I’ve also included some of my favorite spots to eat. This itinerary for one week in London should allow you to walk everywhere you go, depending on where you are staying. You can arrange these however you want.

Here's a Short Cut

Where to Stay in London

Need more london inspiration, before you go to london, easy london itinerary, interactive london itinerary map, click here for the map, 1. full english breakfast at regency cafe, 2. westminster abbey, 4. london eye, 5. afternoon tea at the library lounge, 6. south bank, 1.  juice & public, 2. leicester square, 3. trafalgar square, 4. the wolsely, 5. buckingham palace and horseguards, 6. 10 downing street, 7. covent garden dinner, 8. catch a show, click here for map, 1. pret a manger, 2. kensington palace, 3. eat at wagamama for lunch, 4. victoria & albert museum, 6. wander through hyde park, 7. dishoom indian food, click here for map 1. simply tasty cafe & kitchen, 2. tower of london, 3. tower bridge, 4. lunch borough market, 5. shakespeare’s globe theater, 6. st paul’s, 7. rules.

•  1. Daylesford Organic

2. Notting Hill

2. portabello road.

• Click Here for MapHarry Potter Tour:

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios

1. biegel bake or cereal killer cafe, 2. explore brick lane, 3. dickens museum and/or british museum, 4. fryer’s delight, 5. piccadilly circus, 6. tea at the ritz.

If you’re planning your stay for a week in London and you want to minimize your traveling time, it’s important to stay in a good location. We have a few favorite places that we have stayed in, but it really depends on your group size and interests. 

We stayed in this beautiful house in London over Christmas and it was perfect for our family. 

Here is a list of some amazing and affordable apartment rentals in London

If you’re looking for more information on London, don’t miss my other great articles about my favorite city!

London Travel Guide London Transportation Guide: How to Get Around London 115 Amazing things to do in London A Guide to London with Kids Harry Potter London Vacation Paddington’s Guide to London The Best Day Trips from London Christmas in London

Before you go to London, you’ll want to purchase the London Pass. This will save you tons of money! It includes entry to over 80 attractions, including:

• Tower of London • Hop on Hop off Bus Tour • Thames River Cruise • Windsor Castle • Westminster Abbey • London Bridge Experience and London Tombs • Tower Bridge Exhibition • London Zoo • Kensington Palace & The Orangery • Hampton Court Palace • ArcelorMittal Orbit • Arsenal FC Stadium (Emirates Stadium) • Apsley House • Banqueting House • Beefeater Gin Distillery Tour • Benjamin Franklin House • Best LDN Walks tour around Royal London • Cartoon Museum • Chelsea Cinema • Chelsea FC Stadium Tour • Chelsea Physic Garden • Chislehurst Caves • Churchill Museum & Cabinet War Rooms • City Cruises • The Courtauld Gallery • Curzon Mayfair Cinema • Curzon Soho Cinema • Eltham Palace • Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art • Eton College • Fan Museum • Foundling Museum • Guards Museum • Handel House Museum • Household Cavalry Museum • HMS Belfast • Imperial War Museum London • Jason’s Canal Boat Trip • Jewel Tower • Kew Gardens • KIA Oval • London Bicycle Tour Company • London Canal Museum • London Motor Museum • London Museum of Water and Steam • London Legends Walk • London Transport Museum • London Wetland Centre • Lord’s Cricket Ground • Monument • Museum of Brands, Packaging, and Advertising • Museum of London Docklands (with guidebook) • Museum of Rugby • National Gallery • National Theatre Backstage Tours • Old Operating Theatre Museum • Pollocks Toy Museum • Queen’s Gallery • Queen’s Ice & Bowl • Renoir Cinema • Royal Albert Hall • Royal Mews • Royal Observatory Greenwich • Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre • The British Museum (entry to one exhibition)  • The Postal Museum • Tour & Exhibition • Southwark Cathedral • Tate Britain • Tate Modern • Wellington Arch • Wembley Stadium Tours • Wernher Collection at Ranger’s House • Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum • Wimbledon Tour Experience

If you’re looking for an easy, stress-free way to plan your trip to London, this itinerary is a must! It walks you through what to do each day and provides interactive maps and detailed information along with tour and accommodation recommendations. This guide has helped thousands of people plan trips to London with ease.

I’ve created this interactive map for you to use. There are 7 layers or “routes,” with every day being a separate layer. You can open this up on your phone into Google Maps. 

Day 1: London’s Main Sights

Day 1 of this London itinerary will show you around London’s main sites so that you can be sure you see all the important things from the beginning! You may be tired and jet-lagged today, but it’s important to push through! If you sadly, only have one day in London, I recommend starting with this day’s itinerary and then fitting in as much as you can from day 2. 

It’s your first day in London, be sure to start it off right with a full English breakfast. What’s that you may ask? Well, besides a walking heart attack, it’s usually bacon, sausage, eggs, beans, tomatoes, mushroom and toast, and no one dishes out a great no-frills full English like the Regency Cafe.

After you’ve gorged yourself, you’ll have a half-mile to walk to Westminster Abbey. So much history is found here. If you are interested in British history or literature at all, you will love this!

Walk around the corner just one block away. There’s not a more iconic sight in London than Big Ben! “Big Ben” is actually the name of the bell inside the tower and the tower is called the Elizabeth Tower. But everyone lovingly refers to this part of the houses of parliament as “Big Ben” and it’s one of those iconic pieces of architecture that does not disappoint in real life. The best views are found on Westminster Bridge. Watch out for selfie sticks!

NOTE: Poor Ben is covered in scaffolding for the next 2 years! It’s expected that renovations will be finished in 2021, making this a 5 year project! 

Time to walk across the Westminster Bridge to the London Eye. You’ll get a fantastic view of the city from the top of this 443-foot tall Ferris wheel on London’s Southbank.

Just behind the London Eye you’ll find the Library Lounge in the beautiful Marriott County Hall. Enjoy a filling afternoon tea with fantastic views of the London Eye and Houses of Parliament.

Southbank is a fun area near the London Eye along the Thames with a  roller rink called BUMP, a skate park (seen on Sherlock) and a hot chocolate stand called Beltane & Pop (they “adult” hot chocolates too). You also get the lovely view of the London Eye and Big Ben across Westminster Bridge all lit up at night!

If you’d like the help of a local seeing the main sites of London, consider booking a tour with a true Londoner! 

Day 2: More Main Sights & a Show

After indulging on your Full English Breakfast yesterday, it might be time for something a bit healthier. Try a smoothie or juice at Juice & Public.

Then head over the short distance to Leicester (pronounced Lester) Square, where you’ll find tons of movie theaters, awesome street performers, the cheap theater tickets booth (stop here for tonight’s tickets), the M&M Store and more!

Head on over to Trafalgar Square and hang out with the pigeons in Trafalgar Square and don’t miss the world’s smallest police station!

Stop into the Wolsely for a fancy lunch at this iconic restaurant.

Walk off your delicious lunch to visit the queen at Buckingham Palace. If you time it right you can catch the changing of the guard. You can check the times here . If you’re lucky enough to be in London during the months of August or September, you can tour the staterooms of the palace. 

BOOK TICKETS HERE

Ever wonder the exact address of the Prime Minister? Walk by his front door here.

Walk to Covent Garden to take in the performers and ambiance. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from here. Hang out here until it’s time for your show.

Most of the theaters will be around this area. Be sure to get your cheap tickets in the morning at Leicester Square. SEE WHAT’S PLAYING HERE

Day 3: Palaces, Parks, Museums

Start your day off at Pret A Manger, which you can find all over the city and offer juices, smoothies, sandwiches, and prepackaged healthy food.

Immerse yourself in British history with this interactive Palace turned museum. You can try on Victoria era clothing and play a game of cards!

This modern Japanese inspired food will be a nice change to all the meat pies and fish and chips you’ll be eating this week. CHECK THE MENU HERE

Walk down the road to the world’s largest mueum of decorative arts and design. The best part? It’s free! If that’s not for you, try out the Natural History Museum or the Science Museum across the street.

Take a little shopping break at this luxury department store. Be sure to head downstairs to the grocery section for snacks. If you go at Christmas time this place is an expensive wonderland.

Wander through Hyde Park and work up an appetite on your way to dinner on the other side of the park.

Indian food is a staple in London. Hit Dishoom London for some beautiful and authentic Indian food! 

If you have time, take this Hidden London Tour with my friend Fabian. Learn interesting history of this amazing city. 

Day 4: Ancient History

It might be time for another full English breakfast, or try something new. This traditional shop serves breakfa st all day, so don’t worry if you get up late.

The Tower of London is not to be missed. See the crown jewels and hang out with the beefeaters! They’re not just tour guides, but decorated veterans and all-around awesome people!

This is one of the best views of Tower Bridge so be sure to get a picture when you’re done at the tower. You can also go to the top of Tower Bridge, which is really amazing. There is a glass floor where you can look down at the River Thames. My kids love this! 

Cross the river either on Tower Bridge or London Bridge next door and wander on over to Borough Market to grab some lunch! There are so many options here, you may have a hard time not trying them all! If you have time, take a market tour with a local and learn about all the amazing food in London! 

After filling up on tasties from Borough Market, waddle on over to Shakespeare’s Globe Theater. You’ll need to take a tour to see the inside of the Globe, or, even better, see a show if you’re there from April-October.

There has been a St. Paul’s church at this site since 300 AD. The church has been burned and rebuilt 3 different times. The current St. Paul’s was the tallest building in London for over 200 years. You can pay to go inside or just walk around the outside, either choice is impressive!

After a one mile walk, treat yourself to a fine meal at London’s oldest restaurant, Rule’s, established in 1798 and frequented by the likes of Charles Dickens and Charlie Chaplin. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance. BOOK HERE

Day 5: Notting  Hill

  1. daylesford organic.

If you’re looking for a healthy, organic breakfast, this place is fantastic! SEE MENU HERE

This affluent West London district will make you wish you could move into one of the adorable pastel terraced victorian houses and never leave. Wander the streets and take the perfect Instagram picture until you get hungry again. I recommend taking a fun photo tour that will show you all the most beautiful places in Notting Hill! 

Day 6: Harry Potter 

Day 6 of this London itinerary is ALL about Harry Potter! If you’re not a Potterhead, feel free to skip this day, but you’ll honestly still enjoy the tour even if you’re not. The guides discuss a lot of the connections between London and Harry Potter, but you’ll also get a lot of interesting history and information. 

If you’re really into Harry Potter, you may want to add an extra HP day to your London itinerary. Definitely read my guide to Harry Potter London! 

Click Here for Map Harry Potter Tour :

Today is ALL about Harry Potter! If you’re not a fan, you can skip this day, but you’ll still be seeing some awesome sights. Alternately, you can book a Harry Potter walking tour here . 

• Westminster Tube (Closest tube to the Ministry of Magic as seen in The Order of the Phoenix)
• Downing Street (Muggle Prime Minister’s Office and location of communication between the Muggle PM and the wizarding world)
• Horseguards Avenue (Ministry of Magic Staff Entrance as seen in Deathly Hallows Part 1)
• Scotland Yard Place/Horse Guards Avenue (Ministry of Magic Visitors entrance as seen in the Order of the Phoenix and Deathly Hallows Part 1)
• Trafalgar Square (Location of the final Harry Potter film premiere)
• Cecil’s Court (aka Diagon Alley)
• Godwin’s Court (aka Knockturn Alley)
• The Palace Theatre (home to the ‘The Cursed Child’ – the 8th story in the Harry Potter franchise)
• St. Paul’s ( Geometrical Staircase as seen in the Prisoner of Azkaban)
• Millennium Bridge (Rebuilt after the attack by the Death Eaters! (then a walk past Shakespeare’s globe)
• Leadenhall Market
• Finish your day off at King’s Cross Station for Platform 9 3/4 and the Harry Potter Shop . I you want to take pictures pushing your trolley through Platform 9 3/4, I HIGHLY recommend buying the VIP photopass, which will mean you can skip the long photo lines while also pre-paying for your photos. I think it’s so much fun and totally worth a stop on your London itinerary. 

Alternatively, you can also take a visit just outside London to the Harry Potter Studios where you’ll be treated to Butterbeer and be able to see some amazing things from the set of the movies! It’s a special place for sure! 

Day 7: Shopping & High Tea

Start your day off in Brick Lane. Once associated with slums and the scene of the crime for the Jack the Ripper murders, Brick Lane is now an edgy and artistic area. Start your day off with breakfast from either Biegel Bake (most amazing bagels ever) or if you’ve got a sweet tooth, head to Cereal Killer Cafe and have your pick from hundreds of cereals from around the world in any kind of combination you like. Or have both, I won’t judge!

After you’ve gorged yourself on bagels and cereal, wander around Brick Lane and do some shopping. You never know what you’ll find. Be sure to stop in at Dark Sugars, for some seriously amazing and different chocolate!

It’s up to you if you’d like to do both or just one. Both of these museums are fantastic. If you’re a major Dickens fan, go to the Dickens Museum. It’s small and will only take you about an hour.

This is a no frills chippy, but the fish is good and the chips are crisp!

The Times Square of London, Picadilly Circus is the crossroads of London.

If you want to finish off your trip to London with a bang, book yourself an afternoon tea at the Ritz London, where you’ll be treated like royalty! Make reservations ASAP as they book out quickly! Plan on this for dinner, because those little delicious sandwiches are endless! BOOK HERE

I hope this is the perfect London itinerary for you and that you fall in love with this city as much as I have! What else would you add to this to make it perfect? Email me at [email protected] and let me know!

Be sure to follow my London Pinterest Board for more ideas!

Wanderlust Crew

11 thoughts on “ perfect london itinerary ”.

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London's Ultimate Day Trip Guide

Experience the charm of london's iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture..

22 April 2023

Lucie Collins

UK Travel Writer

As a tourist, a trip to London, United Kingdom is an unforgettable journey into the heart of British culture, history, and innovation. From iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye to spectacular museums, galleries, and theaters, there's something for everyone in this diverse and vibrant city. With world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife, London is an experience not to be missed by any traveler.

Day trip plan

London in a whirlwind.

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Breakfast Club, a quirky cafe with a retro vibe and delicious food options.
• Take a stroll down Oxford Street, known as one of the world's busiest shopping destinations, and pop into Selfridges for some high-end retail therapy.
• Head over to the South Bank and indulge in some street food from the famous Borough Market. Try everything from fresh oysters to artisanal cheese, washed down with a glass of local craft beer.
• Visit the iconic London Eye for stunning views of the city and the River Thames.
• For dinner, head to Dishoom for a modern take on classic Indian cuisine. The restaurant boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a menu full of delicious dishes.
• End your whirlwind day by enjoying a play or musical at the West End. From classic shows like Phantom of the Opera to new hits like Hamilton, there's something for everyone.

Outbound Fri, 23 Aug 2023

Return sun, 25 aug 2023, length of stay, type of trip, how to get there.

The best way to get to London by plane is to fly into London Heathrow Airport, which is one of the major airports in the city. Other good options include London Gatwick Airport and London City Airport.

Driving to London is possible too, but you will need to consider the heavy traffic and parking issues in the city. The best way to get there by car is to take the M25 motorway, which circles around the city, and follow directions to the city center.

If you prefer to travel by train, the best option is to take the Eurostar from Paris to London, which arrives at London St. Pancras International Station.

There are no direct boat services to London, but you can take a ferry or cruise to a nearby port and then take a train or bus to the city. Southampton port is the closest port to London that has good transport links.

To reach London by bus, you can take the National Express coach service, which operates from various cities throughout the UK and arrives at Victoria Coach Station in London.

Destination

Welcome to a city where the weather is a mystery and so is the pronunciation of Leicester Square. Get ready to experience a land of accent confusion and tea obsession – welcome to London!

Number of days

More travel plans.

Romantic London Getaway: 3-Day Luxe Itinerary

London, United Kingdom is a perfect destination for a romantic trip, filled with world-famous sights and experiences. Take a stroll along the River Thames, gaze at the iconic Big Ben or visit the Tower of London. Indulge in high tea, explore the city's numerous museums and immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of this cosmopolitan city.

4 Days in London: Big Ben, Royals & Hipster Heaven

Exploring London on a limited budget is entirely possible with proper planning and research. To save money, opt for budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or Airbnbs and take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation system, which will allow you to visit major attractions like the British Museum, Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey. Additionally, indulge in some street food and visit local markets for delicious and affordable meals.

London in 2 Days: Explore, Eat, Repeat!

A trip to London, United Kingdom as a tourist is an exciting and thrilling experience. From visiting historical landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, to exploring famous museums like the British Museum and the Tate Modern, there is always something to do in this vibrant city. Additionally, experiencing London’s famous cuisine and nightlife is a must for any tourist visiting the capital city.

London in Love: A 2-Day Romantic Getaway

A romantic trip to London, United Kingdom would be an unforgettable experience for any couple. The trip would be full of romantic walks along the Thames, visiting iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Tower Bridge, and indulging in the city's charming cuisine and vibrant nightlife. With its beautiful parks and elegant architecture, London sets the perfect scene for a romantic getaway.

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Day trip from London - weekend day or Friday better? - London Forum

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Day trip from London - weekend day or Friday better?

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8 replies to this topic

Saturdays can be very busy and not everything will be open on Sundays, so I would think Friday might be more enjoyable.

If the weather is good, Cambridge can be very beautiful.

I think trains are more busy on Friday, but it won’t really make that much difference since it doesn’t sound like you will be doing things for school age kids.

The cheaper off peak fares on the trains are available all day at weekends and on bank holidays, in most cases off peak fares are available after 9.30am on weekdays.

On the whole train services are bit more frequent on weekdays but I suspect that this will not be the deciding factor. It depends on your choice of location . For example you may find that a town has a big farmers or general market in the town centre on a Saturday which may add interest to your visit.

As a rule of thumb Mondays are the day when museums are closed in a number of towns but check on things like that when you make your decision.

I'd recommend Friday just because trains can sometimes be replaced with buses on weekends.

First I check to see what day things are open where I want to go. Then I check train prices and times for weekends and weekdays. Trains are off peak all day on weekends so early am trains are cheaper but they are often less frequent on weekends and they do work on the lines more often on weekends so you're more likely to have a deviation or cancellation on weekends. Although I don't think they usually change once the schedule is posted, they just delay posting the schedule until they know what's happening with works.

When in late May?

The last week of May has a public holiday on the 27th the Monday and many schools have a half term holiday that week. So if your trip is over that weekend then the Friday would probably be best, the Monday may be disrupted by it being a holiday.

Edit: possible dates are May 31, June 1 or 2. Thanks kindly for your replies. I appreciate the opinions. I haven't determined what or where yet.

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London to Liverpool: A 4-Day Cultural Journey

by Caroline

April 17, 2024 · 3 min read

Begin your 4-day cultural journey in the bustling city of London. On Day 1, immerse yourself in history and art with a full day at The British Museum, followed by an inspiring visit to The National Gallery. Day 2 offers a panoramic view of the city from the London Eye, then takes you through the iconic Big Ben, the solemn Westminster Abbey, and the regal Buckingham Palace. Day 3 continues with spiritual awe at St. Paul's Cathedral, modern marvels at The Shard, the historic Tower Bridge, and the legendary Tower of London. The final day transports you to Liverpool, where The Beatles Story Exhibition awaits to take you on a nostalgic trip. Stroll through the Royal Albert Dock, explore the Museum of Liverpool, and feel the energy at Anfield. This itinerary is designed to create a tapestry of experiences, from the grandeur of London's architecture to the musical heartbeat of Liverpool.

• Day 1: Diving into History and Art in London

The British Museum

Begin your London adventure with a day at The British Museum, a treasure trove of world history nestled in the heart of the city. As the first stop on your itinerary, this iconic institution invites you to journey through time, exploring an extensive collection that spans over two million years of human history. Marvel at the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the mummies of Ancient Egypt, all housed within the museum's grand architectural masterpiece on Great Russell Street.

Attraction Info

• Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
• Open from 01/01-12/23,Mon-Thu, Sat-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 01/01-12/23,Fri,10:00am-8:30pm;Closed from 12/24-12/26;Open 10:00am-8:30pm on 12/27,Fri;Open from 12/28-12/31,10:00am-5:00pm;Closed during Christmas Eve,Christmas

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

The National Gallery

After immersing yourself in the ancient world, step into the realm of European art at The National Gallery. A short stroll from The British Museum, this art gallery is a perfect continuation of your cultural exploration. With a stay time of around two hours, you'll have the opportunity to admire masterpieces by Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner. Located at Trafalgar Square, The National Gallery is not just a feast for the eyes but also a pivotal piece of London's artistic heritage.

• Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open from 01/01-12/31,Mon-Thu, Sat-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 01/01-12/31,Fri,10:00am-9:00pm，Closed 24–26 December and 1 January。

Where to Stay Tonight

Cityspace leicester square, page8, page hotels.

• Day 2: Iconic Landmarks of London

Begin your second day in London with a ride on the magnificent London Eye. As the first stop of the day, this iconic Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city's skyline, setting the stage for an unforgettable day. Located along the River Thames, the London Eye stands as a modern marvel, providing a unique perspective of the capital. A 30-minute rotation is enough to spot many of London's famous landmarks from a bird's eye view, making it a must-visit attraction to kickstart your morning.

• Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Closed all day on 12/25;Open from 12/26-12/30,10:00am-8:30pm;Open 10:00am-3:00pm on 12/31;Open from 01/01-01/07,Mon-Tue, Sat-Sun,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 01/01-01/07,Wed-Fri,11:00am-6:00pm;Closed from 01/08-02/04;Open from 02/05-02/09,Mon-Fri,11:00am-6:00pm;Open from 02/10-02/18,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 02/19-02/28,Mon-Fri,11:00am-6:00pm;Open from 02/24-02/25,Sat-Sun,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 03/01-03/22,Mon-Fri,11:00am-6:00pm;Open from 03/01-03/24,Sat-Sun,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 03/25-03/28,Mon-Thu,11:00am-6:00pm;Open from 03/29-04/14,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 04/15-04/28,Mon-Fri,11:00am-6:00pm;Open from 04/15-04/28,Sat-Sun,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 04/29-05/26,Mon-Fri,11:00am-6:00pm;Open from 05/01-05/26,Sat-Sun,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 05/27-09/01,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 09/02-10/27,Mon-Fri,11:00am-6:00pm;Open from 09/02-10/27,Sat-Sun,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 10/28-11/03,10:00am-8:45pm;Open from 11/04-12/19,Mon-Fri,11:00am-6:00pm;Open from 11/04-12/19,Sat-Sun,10:00am-8:30pm;Open from 12/20-12/23,Mon, Fri-Sun,10:00am-8:30pm;Open 10:00am-5:30pm on 12/24

Next, take a short stroll along the South Bank to reach the emblematic Big Ben, the towering timepiece that's synonymous with London. Standing proudly at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben is actually the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock but has come to represent the clock and the tower as a whole. Spend an hour marveling at this quintessential symbol of British democracy and architectural ingenuity, and don't forget to capture the moment as the clock chimes on the hour.

• London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1-1.5 hour
• Open on Mon;Open on Tue-Sun,8:00am-8:00pm，Outside viewing is admitted for whole day.

Westminster Abbey

A stone's throw away from Big Ben lies the historic Westminster Abbey, your third destination. This Gothic church is not only a place of worship but also a site of royal ceremonies and burials. With over a thousand years of history, Westminster Abbey invites you to explore its ornate chapels and the many stories of the monarchs, poets, and scientists who are commemorated within its walls. Dedicate an hour to wander through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history and spirituality intertwine.

• Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 01/01-04/24,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm;Open from 01/01-04/24,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Closed from 01/01-04/24,Sun;Closed all day on 04/25;Open 1:00pm-3:30pm on 05/08;Open 9:30am-12:00pm on 05/15;Open 9:30am-1:00pm on 06/18;Closed from 04/26-05/07,Sun;Open from 04/26-05/07,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm;Open from 04/26-05/07,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Closed from 05/09-05/14,Sun;Open from 05/09-05/14,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Open from 05/09-05/14,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm;Closed from 05/16-06/17,Sun;Open from 05/16-06/17,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Open from 05/16-06/17,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm;Closed from 06/19-12/31,Sun;Open from 06/19-12/31,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Open from 06/19-12/31,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm

Buckingham Palace

Conclude your day's journey with a visit to the majestic Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Queen. As the fourth and final stop, the palace's grandeur is a testament to the British monarchy's enduring legacy. Spend an hour admiring the iconic façade, the famous balcony, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony if your timing aligns. The palace's stately rooms and the splendid royal collection are a fitting end to a day spent immersed in London's regal splendor.

• London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
• Open from 07/11-08/31,9:30am-7:30pm;Open from 09/01-09/29,9:30am-6:30pm;Closed from 09/30-07/10，Opening hours may be subject to change, please refer to the official website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace#book_tickets

Altido Elegant 2-Bed Mews Flat Near Buckingham Palace

The resident victoria.

• Day 3: Historic Heights and Modern Sights

St. Paul's Cathedral

Kicking off the third day with divine inspiration, St. Paul's Cathedral stands as a beacon of faith and history in the heart of London. With its iconic dome dominating the skyline, this architectural masterpiece invites visitors to explore its awe-inspiring interior. Spend an hour under the whispering gallery's unique acoustics or climb up to the Golden Gallery for panoramic views of the city.

• St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open on Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat,8:30am-4:30pm;Open on Wed,10:00am-4:30pm;Closed on Sun，Opening and closing times are subject to change, so it is recommended to visit the official website to check the dates you will be attending.

Next on the agenda is The Shard, a crystalline spire that redefines London's skyline. Just a short journey from the spiritual tranquility of St. Paul's, The Shard offers a contrasting experience with its modern architecture and cutting-edge design. Allocate an hour to ascend to the viewing platforms, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas stretching up to 40 miles on a clear day.

• 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom
• Open from 01/01-03/28,Mon-Thu, Sun,11:00am-7:00pm;Open from 01/01-05/25,Fri-Sat,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 12:00pm-8:00pm on 03/31;Open from 04/01-04/15,Mon-Thu, Sun,1:00pm-9:00pm;Open 9:00am-4:30pm on 04/16;Open from 04/17-04/23,Mon-Thu, Sun,1:00pm-9:00pm;Open 9:00am-5:00pm on 04/24;Open from 04/25-05/26,Mon-Thu, Sun,1:00pm-9:00pm;Open from 05/27-05/29,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 1:00pm-9:00pm on 05/30;Open from 05/31-07/10,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 9:00am-4:30pm on 07/11;Open from 07/12-08/31,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 12:00pm-8:00pm on 09/01;Open 9:00am-2:00pm on 09/02;Open from 09/03-09/30,Mon-Thu, Sun,12:00pm-8:00pm;Open from 09/06-12/14,Fri-Sat,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 10/01-11/11,Mon-Thu, Sun,11:00am-7:00pm;Open 9:00am-4:30pm on 11/12;Open from 11/13-12/19,Mon-Thu, Sun,11:00am-7:00pm;Open from 12/20-12/23,11:00am-7:00pm;Closed from 12/24-12/26;Open from 12/27-12/28,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 12/29-12/31,11:00am-7:00pm

Tower Bridge

Continuing the journey through London's architectural marvels, Tower Bridge is the next stop. This iconic bascule bridge isn't just a crossing point over the River Thames; it's a testament to Victorian engineering. Within an hour, you can witness the bridge's operational magic and enjoy the glass floor walkway, offering a unique perspective of the bustling river below.

• Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, United Kingdom
• Open from 9:30am-6:00pm，The scenic area is closed during Christmas from December 24 to 26 each year.

Tower of London

Concluding the day's exploration is the historic Tower of London. A mere stone's throw from Tower Bridge, this former royal palace, fortress, and prison spans nearly a millennium of British history. Spend three hours delving into the tales of intrigue, power, and treachery that echo through its walls. Don't miss the Crown Jewels and the stoic Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who bring the Tower's rich past to life.

• St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB
• Suggested tour duration: 3-5 hour
• Open from 01/06-02/09,Mon, Sun,10:00am-4:30pm;Open from 01/06-02/09,Tue-Sat,9:00am-4:30pm;Open from 02/10-02/18,9:00am-4:30pm;Open from 02/19-02/29,Mon, Sun,10:00am-4:30pm;Open from 02/19-02/29,Tue-Sat,9:00am-4:30pm;Open from 03/01-03/28,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 03/01-03/28,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 03/29-04/14,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 04/15-05/05,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 04/15-05/05,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Open 9:00am-5:30pm on 05/06;Open from 05/07-05/24,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 05/07-05/24,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 05/25-06/02,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 06/03-07/19,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 06/03-07/19,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 07/20-09/01,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 09/02-09/30,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 09/02-09/30,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm

The Tower Hotel

Citizenm tower of london.

• Day 4: A Fab Finale in Liverpool with The Beatles and More

The Beatles Story Exhibition/Museum

Begin your final day with a magical mystery tour at The Beatles Story Exhibition, a must-visit for music lovers and pop culture enthusiasts. Nestled in the Britannia Vaults of the Royal Albert Dock, this immersive museum takes you on a two-hour journey through the lives of the Fab Four. With meticulously recreated scenes from their career, rare memorabilia, and exclusive interviews, the exhibition offers an intimate look at the band that changed the music world forever.

• Britannia Vaults, Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD, UK
• Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Royal Albert Dock Liverpool

Next, step outside to explore the Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, a vibrant heart of the city's waterfront. Just a short stroll from The Beatles Story, the dock encapsulates the spirit of Liverpool with its stunning architecture and bustling atmosphere. Spend an hour wandering through the elegant complex of dock buildings and warehouses, now repurposed as chic restaurants, shops, and exhibition spaces, all while soaking in the historic ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Liverpool L3 4AD, United Kingdom
• Open 24 hours

Museum of Liverpool

Continue your cultural exploration at the Museum of Liverpool, located at the iconic Pier Head. This modern museum, a short walk from the Royal Albert Dock, dedicates about an hour to showcase the city's rich history, from its industrial roots to its sporting triumphs. Interactive displays, engaging exhibits, and a collection of artifacts tell the story of Liverpool's past, present, and future, making it an enlightening stop for history buffs and curious minds alike.

• Pier Head, Mann Island, Liverpool L3 1DG, United Kingdom
• Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm

Conclude your Liverpool journey with a visit to Anfield, the hallowed ground for football fans. As the home of Liverpool FC, Anfield isn't just a gym but a temple for the sport's devotees. Spend an hour on a pilgrimage to this iconic stadium, where you can sense the passion and glory that resonate through its stands. Whether you're a die-hard Reds supporter or simply appreciate the game's heritage, Anfield offers a fitting finale to your unforgettable four-day adventure.

• Anfield Rd, Anfield, Liverpool L4 0TH, United Kingdom

Soccer Suite

Tco luxury house.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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London Marathon 2024 travel guide: Start times, route and celebration spots

Spectators can watch runners race through the capital on 21 april, article bookmarked.

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The London Marathon 2024 will weave through the streets of the capital from Greenwich to Westminster on Sunday 21 April, and thousands of spectators are going to be lining the route for a glimpse of their running friends.

Over 50,000 people are expected to take on the mammoth two-foot tour of London landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Cutty Sark and Tower Bridge.

Since the inaugural 26.2 mile event in 1981, the fundraising race has raised millions for charities each year, and, with sunshine on the forecast for now, celebrations of the charitable and physical feat will take place across the city.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan the day if you’re running  or  supporting this year’s London Marathon.

London Marathon 2024 start time and date

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The London Marathon 2024 will take place on Sunday 21 April.

Exact timings for this year’s races are yet to be confirmed but staggered start times from around 8.30am are the norm, with the masses setting off in waves at 10am and all start lines closed from 11.30am.

The finish line on The Mall closes at 7.30pm and is then moved to St James’ Park until midnight.

London Marathon route

Largely unchanged since 1981, the start line for the race is in Blackheath at the top of Greenwich Park .

From here, a leg to Woolwich, jog past the Cutty Sark and stretch around Bermondsey takes runners to cross the river over Tower Bridge .

After a ring around the Isle of Dogs, it’s a relatively straight stretch along the Thames through the City of London to the Westminster finish line on The Mall.

Will there be train and tube strikes?

There is a planned overtime ban for Aslef members working for LNER on Friday 19 and Sunday 21 April (marathon day), as well as strikes on Saturday 20 April, so those travelling into London from the northeast will likely face cancellations.

Substantial road closures across the capital to make way for the race mean spectators should travel on foot or by tube – roads will reopen as and when all runners have cleared the area.

Marathon participants will receive free travel home up to 6.30pm on marathon day on the London Underground and Overground, buses and DLR.

TfL said that a modified DLR service will start at 5.30am from Tower Gateway to Lewisham so runners arrive on time to the start line.

Rail services out of London to the midlands and the northwest are also expected to be extremely busy from 6pm due to an FA Cup semi-final taking place at Wembley Stadium.

The best spots to watch the London Marathon in person

If the live BBC coverage won’t cut it and you’re coming to support from the sidelines, spectators can watch along most parts of the route, including The Highway in Wapping, where runners will pass twice.

To be in the heart of the action, the halfway point of Tower Bridge at mile 13, and the finish line at The Mall are bound to be exciting but busy. For a quieter spot to cheer, stay east and line up in Deptford or the Isle of Dogs.

Track friends and family taking part using their marathon number on the TCS London Marathon app to best position yourself to catch them on the go.

Marathon organisers advise that some areas, including those by the Cutty Sark and St James’ Park, are likely to be very busy on the day.

Five accessible viewing areas also dot the course for those with disabilities: in Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, Rainbow Row, Tower Hill and Victoria Embankment.

Where to celebrate along the route

London has plenty of pubs and bars to quench the post-marathon thirst, whether you’ve been running or cheering.

In Greenwich, The Gipsy Moth has Cutty Sark views, The Angel in Bermondsey sits on the Thames and halfway pub, the Tower Bridge Arms, raises pints of IPA to passers-by.

Wet your palette in Wapping’s local Turner’s Old Star, ride the high at Pergola on the Wharf for city views, or refuel at Hung, Drawn & Quartered in Tower Hill with pies and ales.

At Victoria Embankment, board pub boat Tattershall Castle to cheer runners on for the final mile and savour a cold one at The Westminster Arms just before the finish line.

Once the race has been run, Inn the Park restaurant in St James’ Park is ideal for a light bite or head into Mercato Mayfair for a street food party in a restored church.

How to sign up for the London Marathon 2025

After a  record number of entries  signed up for the 26.2-mile race in 2024 – 578,374 applicants according to event organisers – next year’s London Marathon is bound to be another popular event.

To take on the challenge, entry is available through a ballot, international tour operators, charity spaces and athletics clubs.

The public ballot for the 2025 TCS London Marathon will open on Saturday 20 April and close the following Friday (26 April). Winners will be drawn at random and emailed in July ahead of the 27 April 2025 marathon.

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London Marathon 2024: Where to watch, route, start time, rail strikes and celebrities to look out for

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Swap your sambas for sneakers and get warming up that cheer voice. Britain’s biggest marathon, the London Marathon , returns to the streets of central London this weekend and it’s set to be the greatest yet. More than half a million people are set to take on the world-famous 26.2-mile course — a new record (the previous was set in 2019) — and many thousands more are set to turn out to cheer them on.

If you managed to secure a place in the running equivalent of Glastonbury, you should probably buy a lottery ticket and watch out for lightning (apparently just four per cent of applicants actually get a place, according to new data). If you weren’t lucky enough to nab a spot this year, you can still revel in the buzz and drama of race day. Bonus: no blisters. Folding bike brand Brompton is offering free bike hire to anyone supporting so you can whizz to as many cheer spots as possible. Just head to the brand’s hire stations at East India, Broadgate and Regents Place.

From the hottest support spots and celebrities to look out for, to free food and Brockwell Lido dips for finishers, here’s everything you need to know.

When is the 2024 London marathon?

Sunday is race day and conditions are looking good, with mild temperatures, gentle winds (finally!) and lots of sunshine.

The elite and wheelchair races start from 08:30am, and the mass participation waves will kick off between 10:00am until 11:30am.

Where to watch

For cheer-squad novices, there are two rules for supporting: download the official London marathon app so you can track your runner, and plan ahead. The route starts in Blackheath and winds its way past many of the capital’s most iconic sights before ending on The Mall, so prepare yourself for some shoulder-barging if you want to see your runner (and your runner to see you).

The most popular cheer spots are at the Cutty Sark (mile 6), Tower Bridge (mile 12), Canary Wharf (mile 18), the Tower of London (mile 22), the London Eye and Big Ben (mile 25) and Buckingham Palace (mile 26), but you might have a better chance of wiggling your way to the front of the crowd if you pick a different spot. Miles 9 to 12 around Rotherhithe and Bermondsey are a good option if you want to give your runner a much-needed pick-me-up early-on, and miles 14 to 21 around Limehouse and Canary Wharf are a great base if you want to see your runner multiple times without having to walk too far.

That said, you might not need to walk at all. Thanks to Brompton’s special marathon day treat, supporters can bag themselves a free folding bike for getting around town. Just email [email protected] with your runner’s bib number and you’ll receive a special code. The three hire stations with access to the race route are East India Station, Broadgate, and Regents Place. For those with disabilities, the accessible cheer points can be found at Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, Rainbow Row (Butcher Row), Tower Hill and Victoria Embankment.

See above for a map of the route on Strava. And here’s our list of the best pubs, bars and restaurants along the full 26.2-mile route.

Will rail strikes affect the London marathon 2024?

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No self-respecting British event would be complete without a train strike. Mercifully, there are no Tube strikes planned for Sunday, but if you’re taking part and have friends or family travelling into London from the Midlands or the north, they’ll need to plan ahead.

Strike action will affect the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) network with no service on Saturday 20 April, the day before the race, and reduced service on the day itself. Although strike action shouldn’t affect London trains, do note that there are planned engineering works and closures on the Elizabeth line, Waterloo & City line and the London tram on race day itself.

How to watch on TV and live stream

If you can’t make it into the capital for race day (or fancy a lie-in), you can still enjoy the excitement on TV.

The BBC will be broadcasting the whole thing, with live coverage on BBC One from 08:30 to 14:15, before moving to BBC Two from 14:15 until 15:00. If you miss it, you can watch highlights on BBC Two from 18:00-19:00 and online on BBC iPlayer.

Which celebrities are taking part?

There’s something ever so slightly satisfying about watching your favourite celebrity grinding it out for 26.2 miles, looking a little less polished than they do on Instagram.

The race always attracts big names, with this year’s stars including the comedian Romesh Ranganathan, who’s running for suicide prevention charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM); The Woman in the Wall actress Ruth Wilson MBE, who’s running for Alzheimer’s Research UK; and ex-Doctor Who actor Christopher Eccleston, who’s running to raise awareness for charity The Big Issue.

Special mention goes to Eastenders stars Emma Barton and Jamie Borthwick, who’ll be running as their characters, Honey and Jay, for a special episode of the soap. The storyline will follow the fictional pair as they run the marathon in memory of Jay’s wife, Lola, who died of a brain tumour in 2023. If you spot them, make sure you’re smiling: you could just make your debut as an extra in the background of the show.

Who are the other stars of the amateur race?

Fancy dress is a quintessential part of the London marathon. Remember the guy who spent five days completing the course dressed in a deep sea diving suit?

Conservation charity Save the Rhino claim to have pioneered the whole thing, when a runner completed the race wearing a 12kg rhino costume in 1992, and this year it’s debuting a new first: the marathon’s first ever rhino wheelchair costume, which will be worn by member of Wales Rugby League wheelchair team, Martin Turner.

You might also spot Dave 'the Running Telephone', who’ll be running his 25th marathon in aid of this year’s race charity, Samaritans, dressed in a telephone costume.

This year’s oldest competitor is 91-year-old David Picksley from Croydon, who has run an impressive 13 marathons to date. He’ll be walking the 26.2 mile route to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK in memory of his sister, who he lost to the disease in 1974.

Where to go after

If you’ve got any energy left to celebrate after the finish line, fitness studio Barry’s Bootcamp will be hosting a marathon after-party at its SW1 studio. Think live music, refreshments, and free protein shakes for anyone who shows their medal. It's free to join, but you do need to sign up in advance.

They’re not the only ones handing out freebies for medal-holders. Greene King is offering a free drink of Guinness (or Guinness 0.0%), G&Ts and soft drinks to all finishers who show a medal at one of its London pubs between Sunday and Tuesday; Lush is offering medallists its all-new Cold Water Soother Epsom salt cube (worth £6) and Wiccy Magic Muscles solid massage oil (worth £8); and Franco Manca, Bills, Meatliquor and The Real Greek are among those handing out free food.

Recovery-wise, Fusion Lifestyle is offering all finishers a free swim at Brockwell Lido or North London Park Road Leisure, and online yoga site Live Yoga Teachers is offering free livestreamed recovery classes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday after the race. Just send in a picture of you at the finish line with your medal and they’ll send you a voucher.

Deliveroo and Boots have also teamed up to launch a ‘ Marathon Roo-covery’ hub featuring everything from bath salts and Compeed blister plasters to protein bars. Just use the code ROOCOVERY10 for £10 off all Boots products on Deliveroo.

When does the ballot open for next year?

If you find yourself getting sucked in by the joy of the event (don’t say we didn’t warn you), there’s not long to wait until you can try your luck for a coveted place.

The London marathon 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, April 27, and the ballot opens this Saturday, April 20, the day before this year’s race. It’ll close on Friday, April 26, so you have just under a week to throw your name into the ring. Here’s to making it into that lucky four per cent.

• Map shows London Marathon route map and road closures for 2024

Thousands of people will be making their way into the capital today for this year’s London Marathon.

Crowds of people will be supporting the runners as they take on the 26.2 mile course through the city.

The course will set off in Blackheath and will take the runners past such sites as the Cutty Sark in Greenwich, Canary Wharf, The Shard and Tower Bridge, before finishing up at St James’s Park.

There will of course be travel disruptions and road closures today, so read on to find out where you can expect them and from what time.

Which roads will be closed for London Marathon 2024 and at what times?

Which roads are closed for the marathon.

Here are the closures to be mindful of:

• Charlton Way, Greenwich: 4am to 1pm
• Shooters Hill Road: 4am to 1pm
• St John’s Park: 7am to 1pm
• Charlton Park Road: 7am to 1pm
• Old Dover Road: 7am to 1pm
• Little Heath: 7am to 1pm
• Charlton Park Lane: 7am to 1pm
• Artillery Place: 7am to 1pm
• John Wilson Street: 7am to 1pm
• Woolwich Church Street: 7am to 2pm
• Woolwich Road: 7am to 2pm
• Trafalgar Road: 7am to 3pm
• Creek Road: 7am to 3pm
• Evelyn Street: 8am to 4pm
• Surrey Quays Road: 8am to 4pm
• Salter Road: 8am to 4pm
• Brunel Road: 8am to 4pm
• Jamaica Road: 8am to 4pm
• Tower Bridge: 8am to 7pm
• The Highway (south side): 8am to 7pm
• Narrow Street: 8am to 7pm
• Westferry Road: 8am to 7pm
• East Ferry Road: 8am to 7pm
• Marsh Wall: 8am to 7pm
• North Colonnade: 8am to 7pm
• Poplar High Street: 8am to 7pm
• Commercial Road: 8am to 7pm
• The Highway (north side): 8am to 7pm
• Byward Street: 7.30am to 8.30pm
• Upper Thames Street: 7.30am to 8.30pm
• Victoria Embankment: 7.30am to 8.30pm
• Birdcage Walk (westbound): 6am on April 21 to May 18
• Birdcage Walk (eastbound): 7.30am on April 22 to May 18

There will be closures right across the route of the London Marathon occurring at separate times throughout the day.

For more information on road closures, download the official guide from the  TCS London Marathon website .

London Underground on marathon day

The  London Underground , London Overground and Docklands Light Railway are running extra services throughout marathon day and are recommended as the best way to get around to keep up with the race action.

Due to the nature of the day, expect services to be busy with crowds of spectators along the route.

Stops near the Marathon route are likely to be very busy, especially the Jubilee, Circle and District lines, and the DLR.

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Transport for London is encouraging everyone to plan their journeys in advance and check the  TfL website  or TfL Go app for the latest travel information.

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Buses on marathon day

Bus routes along the route of the marathon will either be diverted or will not run the length of their usual journey until the roads are back open.

If travelling by bus on the day, visit  tfl.gov.uk/bus/status  to see if your bus route is affected.

What time does the London Marathon start?

The race will kick off at around 8.30am with professional athletes leading the way.

The rest of the runners will then set off in waves from rom 10am to 11.30am, with gaps in between to allow the course ahead to clear. All start lines will be closed by 11.30am. 

Start waves and times are allocated based on runners’ predicted finish time, which will have been given to organisers ahead of time.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

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