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Best Day Trips from Leicester

I recently stayed in the beautiful English city of Leicester – mainly because I wanted to see the Cathedral and grave of Richard III (you might like to read my blog about the Churches in Leicester ). It’s such a beautiful historical and multicultural UK city. As there are some fantastic day trips from Leicester, it’s worth staying for an extra few days to explore the castles and historical towns and cities nearby. Today’s blog is all about the best day trips and places to visit near Leicester.

Best Places to visit near Leicester

If you are based in Leicester long term, it’s possible to take day trips from Leicester to some of the most famous cities in England including Oxford and Cambridge .

Melton Mowbray

Melton Mowbray is an archetypal English market town built on a solid tradition of farming and fox hunting. This is the quickest and easiest of the day trips from Leicester and will give you a taste of true England.

Famous for its fine food and drink, the Borough has become the centre of fineness for local food producers. Famous for its pork pies and Stilton Cheese, the town of Melton Mowbray is home to a fantastic number of food and drink festivals that take place through the year. These include the Melton Mowbray Food Festival, ChocFest, the UK’s PieFest and the largest Artisan Cheese Fair in the country. It is no wonder that Melton Mowbray is renowned as the ‘Rural Capital of Food’.

Day trips from Leicester - Melton Mowbray

However, there’s more to Melton Mowbray than food. Twinlakes Park offers a great day out for the family with water rides, animals and picnic areas to enjoy. The local Carnegie Museum is an interactive centre where children can enjoy learning about the local area and see exhibits such as the two-headed calf! The town itself is steeped in history and there is a walking heritage trail that explains the heritage of the town

Belvoir Castle

Belvoir Castle is an imposing castle that stands to the North East of Leicestershire, commanding outstanding views from where its name derives from the meaning `beautiful view’- now pronounced Beaver the castle remains as one of the most magnificent and beautiful Regency houses in England. The castle was designed by James Wyatt it was built in the early 1800 for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland and is the fourth castle to stand on the site. It is always with Great pleasure that the Duke and Duchess invite you to their home to enjoy and share its many grand and unique rooms and layers of history, as well as numerous paintings and treasures that have been collected by the family for nearly 1,000 years.

Famously the home county of William Shakespeare, who hailed from Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire is crammed with historic sites, castles and the beautifully green rolling fields and forests of the English countryside. Warwick is one of the most popular day trips from Leicester.

In the town of Warwick itself you’ll be able to explore some inspiring historic sites, from the medieval Collegiate Church of St Mary to the magnificent Warwick Castle. Dating all the way back to 1068, Warwick Castle has been a part of British history for nearly a thousand years. It’s been besieged, captured, and repelled enemy attackers on many occasions, so it’s seen its fair share of action! Today this strikingly kept castle makes for a great day out, staging exhilarating medieval events like falconry and jousting, and some cool immersive experiences like the castle dungeon. This 15 th century Collegiate Church of St Mary’s is the centrepiece of the historic town of Warwick and considered to be one of the supreme examples of English Gothic architecture in Britain. Parts of the church date back even further back, to the 12 th century. Explore this beautiful testimony to the skills of the medieval craftsmen who built it

One of the best day trips from Leicester is Shrewsbury. Shrewsbury is full of exciting things waiting to be discovered during your visit – a blockbuster in a Tudor cinema, a sell-out Folk Festival and the world’s oldest Flower Show. By boat or by foot, the River Severn is a must see, as is the café culture, the churches and the castle that dominate Shrewsbury’s well-known skyline.

Shrewsbury Castle is home to remarkable collections of pictures, uniforms weapons and other memorabilia from the 1700’s to the present day, seen in the Shropshire Regimental Museum in the castle.

Shrewsbury Art Gallery and Museum has short-term exhibitions by cutting edge artists, work inspired by Charles Darwin who was born in the town and Roman artefacts and work discovered at nearby Wroxeter. The Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery also has a permanent exhibition of pre-history and a roman gallery.

Finally, St Chads Church planned by George Stuart (who also planned Attingham Park), is where where lies the grave of Ebenezer Scrooge – a prop left over from the filming of ‘A Christmas Carol’ and where Charles Darwin was christened in 1809.

Leamington Spa

Well-heeled riverside spa town, Leamington Spa is renowned for its stunning white Regency architecture and lush parks and gardens, has a quirkier side with a vibrant and creative independent scene. You will find vegan cafes, boutiques, art galleries and a Farrow & Ball. Jephson Gardens is a gorgeous formal Victorian park right in the centre of Leamington Spa. It’s the ideal place for a family picnic or relaxing stroll. Lots of colourful flowerbeds and interesting sculptures make for a great day out as well as the indoor tropical house. There are also some great traditional English pubs in Leamington Spa !

Another attraction is Victoria Park. Victoria Park was opened in 1899 to mark the Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee and offer more recreation space for the growing town. Throughout the 19th century it was the venue for galas, military parades, flower shows and circuses.

A riverside path had originally been created along the south bank of the River Leam in the early 1860s. Finally, The Royal Pump Rooms is home to Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Leamington Library, Visitor Information Centre, the Royal Spa Centre’s Box Office, together with a Café and Assembly Rooms. The building initially encompassed Royal Leamington Spa’s finest spa baths and assembly rooms but was then renovated in the late 1990s to become a centre for tourism and culture.

Stratford Upon Avon

Uncover the historic town and the birthplace of Shakespeare when finding the finest things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. The Royal Shakespeare Company has a total of three theatres in Stratford. The performing arts centre named The Other Place is in town, while two have a cool riverside location: the flagship Royal Shakespeare Theatre where you can see many of the Bard’s well-known works, and the more cherished Swan Theatre that stages plays regularly by Shakespeare’s colleagues and later writers.

The MAD museum is also a popular attraction. This art/design museum is the only permanent venue for this type of art in the country. Sourced from artists and inventors all around the world, the interactive sculptures – or ‘kinetic art’ – include marble runs, 3D faces and flying mechanical birds. Finally, for fans of William Shakespeare, go to visit his birthplace. This house is somewhat of a shrine as it is where the renowned bard was born and grew up.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace welcomed visitors for over 250 years. Go and see the rooms where he dreamt up all those world-famous plays and where he spent the first five years with Anne Hathaway of married life. There are costumed guides, exhibitions, live performances, gift shop, café and a garden. It’s one of the best day trips from Leicester.

Up there with the UK’s best towns for quality of life, Grantham in southwest Lincolnshire is most famous for producing a colossal historical figure.

Sir Isaac Newton was born not far away in a tiny hamlet and was a pupil at Grantham’s King’s School. With the sixth highest spire in the country, St Wulfram’s Church is a parish church with the scale of a cathedral. The origins of this building are Saxon, but most of the stonework is from the 13th to the 16th centuries.

The first of many stately homes within striking distance of Grantham, Belton House is often considered the archetypal English country house and is maintained by the National Trust. The architecture is in the opulent Restoration style, dating to the 1680s, and was refined with each generation as the resident Brownlow family rose in social status. The tour will take you through a series of sumptuous halls and rooms, decorated with 18th-century Mortlake tapestries, an Aubusson carpet, intricate plasterwork and marble fireplaces.

With plenty of attractions and history right in the middle of the city and its surroundings, Nottingham is a fantastic place for a day out. Nottingham has a famous Rock scene and is excellent for alternative shopping. It also has a very famous campus style university.

Newstead Abbey

For another relaxed day out, why not pay a visit to Newstead Abbey, a stunning 12th-century house, situated on 300 acres of beautiful grounds packed with waterfalls and lakes. Newstead Abbey was home to the much-admired romantic poet Lord Byron from 1808-1814. The Abbey crowds an assembly of portraits, letters and even the very desk at which Byron wrote much of his work. It’s not all love and romance, though, as the site acts as host to a variety of events including an outdoor theatre, food festivals and more, so there are loads of reasons to pay Newstead Abbey a visit. The grounds and cafe are open every day, while the house is only open during weekends and school holidays.

Annoyingly, to get the train to Oxford from Leicester you have to change in London, which is a bit of a pain and can take over two and a half hours. However, if you have the luxury of access to a car, you can drive from Leicester to Oxford in about 1 hour 40 mins, making it more doable as a day trip from Leicester.

Oxford has impressive spires and picture-postcard cobbles that little cities can match. The University of Oxford tour is a behind-the-scenes tour of the city’s architecturally splendid university, led by guides who know its colleges, quads and hidden corners best. It’s a world-leader in terms of research, but you don’t need to wade heavily into this to simply appreciate this. It is a beautiful thing to look at.

Next, the Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum are the UK’s oldest botanic garden and a stunning 130 acres of woodland for you to escape the busy city and recharge in. On their own, Oxford’s botanic gardens would be enough to celebrate. The scientifically important grounds and glasshouses contain more than 6,000 types of plant.

The university also manages the Harcourt Arboretum, a short 10 minutes’ drive from the centre. Bonus points if you plan your trip at the right time to see the bluebell wood in its full, blooming glory.

Finally, Pitt Rivers Museum is oxford’s world-famous museum of archaeology and ethnography where you can expand your brain looking at some very, very tiny heads. It’s not often people genuinely get excited about a museum.

Although there is a lot to see in Oxford, it is possible to spend just one day in Oxford and cover a lot of ground.

It’s possible to get the train from Leicester to Cambridge in around 2 hours – slightly less than that if you have a car. There are plenty of things to do and see in Cambridgeshire, including the Fitzwilliam Museum, Milton Country Park and more.

Punting is the national pastime of Cambridge and one of the best ways to see the city. To get within sniffing distance of Cambridge and not go punting is like going to Pisa and not seeing the leaning tower. The brave and the skilled do the stick-bit themselves, but if you’re a first timer book a gondolier-like guide to navigate the River Cam for you.

Next, the Botanic Gardens are 40 acres of gorgeously green (and pink and yellow and red) gardens owned by Cambridge University, where you can earnestly study horticulture or snooze on the lawn. Cambridge’s botanic gardens are an Arcadian paradise hidden behind a fairly nondescript entrance at the station end of town. What make them different from other city gardens is the woodland vibe they give off. Lose yourself in a maze of lush foliage and leave all your troubles behind.

Finally, the University tour provides a student’s eye view of the world-famous university, giving visitors an insider’s introduction to its most beautiful nooks and crannies.

As a city, Cambridge is pleasantly condensed and simple to navigate on foot. The same is true of the university, which dominates the centre. Take a walk through the institution with real-life Cambridge students who know it best as a guide.

What do you think are the best day trips from Leicester? If you have any ideas please comment on our blog below.

Templeseeker

Hi, I'm Amy and I have over 25 years of travel experience. I love seeking out temples, Churches and other religious and historical buildings. My BA (Religions and Theology) and MA (South Asian Studies) were gained from the University of Manchester. When I'm not blogging about Europe, Asia and the Middle East you will find me at home in Liverpool with my husband and Blake the Patterdale terrier! Come and join me on my templeseeking journey around the world!

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7 Incredible Day Trips From Leicester

Updated: Sep 3, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I have personally used and would recommend.

Recently, I spent a few days exploring the city of Leicester, learning all about its unique history and what makes it such a special place to visit. Apart from the city itself, I found that there were a lot of incredible day trips from Leicester to choose from, which varied from historical points of interest to nature walks. The only problem I had with our trip was trying to narrow down which day trips from Leicester to actually go on, because there were more than a couple of castles that caught my eye in the area!

Leicester is located in the East Midlands, in the landlocked county of Leicestershire, which is just over a two hour drive north of London. Chances are if you've heard of Leicester before, you probably associate it with football, cheese, or pies - but it has a lot more to offer than that! There are some great things to do in Leicester's city centre , but I found that some of my favourite attractions were located outside of the city. With a history dating back to at least the time of the Romans in the 1st century AD, you can just imagine how many unique places in Leicestershire there are to discover. Here are my top picks for the best day trips from Leicester:

1. Bradgate Park

A lone deer with antlers standing between greenery staring at the camera.

One of the most popular days out in Leicester that you can go on is to Bradgate Park . It's an absolutely massive park to walk around which is steeped in history. For me, the main points of interest in Bradgate Park were Old John Tower , which was built in the 18th century and sits on top of the highest hill in the park, and the ruins of Bradgate House . The house dates back to the 16th century and was where Lady Jane Grey, who was queen for only 9 days, spent her childhood. The bricks used to build the house would have been similar to those found at Hampton Court, and at the time it would have been one of the largest unfortified houses in England. Bradgate Park has also been a deer park since the medieval period, so you'll be able to see hundreds of deer freely roaming around during your visit. If you're short on time, Bradgate Park is a great option for a day trip from Leicester as it's only a 20 minute drive from the centre. It's also completely free to enter (minus the parking charges)!

2. 1620's House and Garden

View of a medieval brick countryhouse between the hedges and flowers of a garden.

If you're interested in unique day trips from Leicester, why not check out the 1620's House and Garden ? This historical manor house can be found in Donington le Heath which is just over a 20 minute drive from Leicester. The house has been beautifully restored and is fully furnished inside, so you can gain a better understanding of what this 17th century house would have looked like and functioned as. The house was originally built in the 13th century, but was modernized in the 17th century, and has strong ties to a member of the infamous Gunpowder Plot. After you make your way through the house, you can take a stroll through the very well maintained gardens and grab a light snack at the on-site cafe. Tickets cost just £5.95 and are valid for the whole year.

3. Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre

A red sign for the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre on the left side of a street leading up to a park.

If you know anything about Leicester and Richard III, Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre is a great option for a day trip from Leicester. The battlefield is one of the most popular days out in Leicestershire, taking only 30 minutes by car to get to from Leicester, and is only a short drive from the 1620's House too. I would highly recommend checking out their exhibition so that you can learn more about the build up to the battle, what happened during it, and the consequences of its outcome. It's a very interactive exhibition which is ideal if you're travelling with kids. After walking through the exhibition, you can take a stroll through the Bosworth Battlefield Country Park and look out over the fields where the battle took place. A ticket to the exhibition costs £8.95 which is valid for the whole year (unlimited reentry), and the country park is free to walk around. They also have the option of adding a guided walk to your ticket for £4.50 .

4. Rockingham Castle

A tree-lined stone path leading up to a country house style castle.

There are plenty of interesting places near Leicester to visit, and one of these places sits just over the county border in Northamptonshire. Rockingham Castle is located 50 minutes from Leicester, and was originally built in the 11th century on the orders of William the Conqueror. The castle's elevated position overlooking the countryside made it an ideal location to build a defensive castle, which is why it was used throughout the medieval period as well. Today you can go on a self-guided tour of the castle and take a stroll around the gardens for just £12.50 . The castle also plays host to a number of events throughout the year such as picnics, artisan fairs, and outdoors cinemas, so make sure you check out the schedule on their website before visiting. If you love castles, this is the perfect day trip from Leicester for you to go on.

5. Foxton Locks

A boat locks system in the middle of the countryside.

There are a large number of places one hour away from Leicester to travel to. Foxton Locks is one of these places. Here is where you'll find the longest and steepest staircase of locks in the country, and they are still very much in use today. We saw quite a few canal boats passing through the locks when we visited, and it was interesting to see how people were still manually raising and lowering the water levels to get the boats through. The locks date back to the early 19th century, and today are a very popular tourist attraction in Leicestershire. Foxton Locks are free to visit and walk around, but you will need to pay for parking.

6. Market Harborough

Centre of an old village with a medieval hut and a tall church tower.

A short 10 minute drive from Foxton Locks is the charming town of Market Harborough . It's a lovely place to visit near Leicester if you happen to be visiting the locks and other nearby areas. We stopped here for a quick snack and took a stroll around the main street, where there are surprisingly a lot of shops and restaurants to choose from. This market town was established during the Anglo-Saxon period, and was later used by Oliver Cromwell as the front line in the English Civil War of 1645. Market Harborough also grew in prominence in the 19th century as a centre for fox hunting. While there aren't too many things to do in Market Harborough, I would recommend a short stop here if you're in the area.

7. Belvoir Castle

View of a 19th century castle that resembles Windsor Castle with its rounded towers.

Castles in Leicestershire don't come much better than Belvoir Castle . The castle originally dates back to the time of William the Conqueror, and since then there have been four castles that have stood on this site. The castle you see today was built in the 19th century, and was designed by the man who made improvements to Windsor Castle, so you may see some resemblance between the two. Belvoir Castle is one of the most popular places to visit near Leicester, and is also a popular filming location. If you're a fan of historical dramas, you may recognize it from The Crown where it was used in place of Windsor Castle, or from The Young Victoria.

We took a guided tour of the castle before taking a walk through its large gardens and woodlands, which I would highly recommend doing so you can learn about the castle's history and get some fun facts from the guide as well. When you're finished at the castle, you can also visit the Engine Yard , which is the castle's retail village and a great place to grab something to eat. Belvoir Castle was by far one of my favourite day trips from Leicester that we went on and is well worth the 50 minute drive to get to. Castle and garden entry tickets cost £18 , and you can also upgrade that ticket to include afternoon tea at the castle.

There are many more days out near Leicester to choose from, but sadly we didn't have enough time in our schedule to visit them all. Although Leicestershire is very much a rural county in England, there are some phenomenal points of interest that you can add to your itinerary if you're thinking of touring around the East Midlands. There's definitely no shortage of historical places to see in Leicestershire that's for sure. I can't wait to head back to this part of the country and find even more incredible day trips from Leicester to add to my list!

Have you been to Leicestershire before? I'd love to hear what you thought of the county and if I missed any day trips from Leicester that you would recommend. If you're planning a trip around England, you should check out York , Burnley , and Manchester too! Don't forget to follow my travels on Instagram for more photos from my visit to Leicester and the surrounding area!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This post contains affiliate links. If you book something through one, we may earn a small commission but this is at no extra cost to you.

Paddington Bear at Paddington Station in London

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

Have you got your railcard?

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

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

Here are the most popular ones:

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

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

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

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

Day trips with kids?

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

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

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

Day trips from London by Train (Towns and Cities)

Submitted by Erin from Traveling Thru History

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Bath by train

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

The Roman Baths in Bath

Submitted by Nichola from Globalmouse Travels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Bristol by train

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

View of Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol

Submitted by Paul from Anywhere We Roam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Cambridge by train

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

Punting in Cambridge

Submitted by Sarah from A SocialNomad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Colchester by train

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

Colchester Castle

Submitted by Jenni Fielding from Choose Veganism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Hastings by train

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

Hastings Pier at sunset

Submmitted by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Leicester by train

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

Prince Rupert Gateway leading to Leicester Castle

Submitted by Alex from Lincoln and Beyond

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

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

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

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

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

London to Lincoln by train

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

View of Lincoln Cathedral from Lincoln Castle

Submitted by Sheree from Winging the World

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Norwich by train

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

Quayside Street in Norwich

Submitted by Emilie from London City Calling

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Oxford by train

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

The Radcliffe Camera at Oxford University

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Rye by train

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

Mermaid Street in Rye

Submitted by Ucman from BrownBoy Travels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Salisbury by train

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

View from the top of Salisbury Cathedral

Stratford upon Avon

Submitted by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Stratford upon Avon by train

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Tring by train

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

Large animal specimens at the Tring Natural History Museum

Submitted by Tracy from UK Travel Planning

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Warwick by train

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

View of Warwick Castle

Submitted by Kat from Wandering Bird

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Winchester by train

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

Winchester Cathedral

Submitted by Joanna from The World in my Pocket

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Windsor by train

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

Windsor Castle

Submitted by Maja from Away With Maja

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to York by train

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

View of York Minster in York

Other day trips from London by train

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

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

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

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

Day trips from London by Train – Beaches

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

Submitted by Erica from Travels with Erica

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Brighton by train

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

Brighton Pier in Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Margate by train

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

Antony Gormley Another Time statue at low tide

Southend-on-Sea

Submitted by Kylie from Essex Explored

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Southend by train

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

Adventure Island at Southend-on-Sea

Other seaside day trips from London by train

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

Whitstable – great for local seafood.

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

Dover – for Dover Castle and the white cliffs.

Day trips from London by Train – Attractions

Leeds castle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Leeds Castle by train

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

Autumn colours at Leeds Castle in Kent

Other attractions near London

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

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

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

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

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

Day trips from London by Train – International

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

Submitted by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Brussels by train

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

The Grand Place in Brussels

Submitted by Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London to Paris by train

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

View of the Eiffel Tower at dusk

Disneyland Paris

Submitted by Elisa from World in Paris

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

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

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

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

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

See here for 1 Day Disneyland Paris tickets .

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

London to Disneyland Paris by train

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

See here for great deals on Disneyland Paris tickets .

Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Paris

Looking for more ideas for trips from London?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Find your ideal day trip break today

It can be difficult to decide on the best way to spend your summer. Whether you’re planning the perfect family day out, catching up with friends or just looking for your own little adventure, we can help make it something special.

That's why we’ve put together a guide to some of our favourite days out across the country, easily reached on our coaches at an affordable price.

Don't take our word for it

Thinking about a trip to Chester Zoo with National Express? Now you can hear all about it at the popular LeedsDad.com blog. How did this brave dad fare on the coach with two small children? You'll have to read on to find out...

Adventure days

Need a break from the everyday?

See our favourite adventure days out…

Motor Safari, Cheshire

Ever fancied hurtling through stunning countryside on a quad bike or 4x4? Now's your chance!

Here's where you can learn to ride, before relaxing in accommodation ranging from bushcraft-style lodges to a five-star hotel.

Centre Parcs, UK-wide

Often billed as ‘the ultimate UK family adventure break’, Centre Parcs blends the best of both fun and relaxation for the whole family’s perfect break.

A thrilling mix of outdoor activities, action challenges and watersports are complimented by relaxing saunas and spas, set in five beautiful locations across the UK, including Bedfordshire, Wiltshire, Suffolk, Nottinghamshire and Cumbria.

Go Ape, UK-wide

Get in touch with your inner Tarzan! If you're looking to live life a little more on the wild side, this is the break for you.

With 28 Go Ape adventures dotted around England's spectacular forests, all your friends and family can enjoy Tree Top Adventures, Forest Segway Safaris and a forest-wide Zip Trekking Adventure.

Coastal getaways

There’s nothing quite like the fresh air, scenic views and traditional tranquility of the English coast to help you hit the reset button and feel your best.

Check out our favourite coastal locations...

English Riviera, Devon

Nestling along 22 miles of English Riviera coastline are 20 breathtaking beaches and coves. This unique corner of the UK is home to naturally-growing palm trees, thanks to a Gulf Stream which brings a mild climate.

With an award-winning mixture of white sand and pebble beaches, you can feel refreshed again in no time. Plus, each beach is a short stroll from classic British resorts such as Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, some of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations.

Weston Super Mare, Somerset

Boasting eleven beautiful beaches, Weston Super Mare is a popular UK day trip destination with a fantastic reputation for family fun.

A wide range of attractions are nearby, including the Sea Aquarium, Wookey Hole Caves and Grand Pier. We’re sure you'll be guaranteed a great day no matter who you bring along.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Lancashire

One of the most famous holiday destinations in the UK, with good reason too! Blackpool offers so much more than a traditional beach escape, and is a must-visit location for anyone looking for a traditional taste of British holiday fun.

Miles of golden sands with donkey rides and Punch and Judy shows sit next to one of the world's wildest theme parks, Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Full of rides for thrill-seekers, as well as cafes, shops and play areas, it’s ideal for those looking for a classic English trip.

Theme parks & zoos

Send your adrenaline pumping with every loop of England's finest rollercoasters, or take a gentle stroll to see your favourites from the animal kingdom.

Take a look at our top parks and zoos…

Drayton Manor, Tamworth, Staffordshire

This is one of Europe's most popular theme parks, with rides suitable for everyone from toddlers to thrill-seekers. But if big rides aren’t your thing, don’t worry; it's easy to relax with a stroll around these 280-acre grounds of lakes and parkland.

There's also no shortage of choice when it comes to dining, with fast food outlets and restaurants dotted throughout the site.

Chessington World of Adventures, Surrey

Not just a theme park but also a wild journey! Take a safari truck expedition into the mysterious African Kingdom with Zufari, the first ever theme park adventure with live animals including white rhino, giraffes and zebra.

The zoo boasts more than 1000 animals, from the exotic to the endangered, at a venue that guarantees a day out with a difference.

Thorpe Park, Surrey

Thorpe Park offers you some of the most extreme and exciting rides in the whole of Europe - it's a thrilling day out for adrenaline junkies.

From the UK's tallest log flume to Europe's highest and fastest launch rollercoaster, there are loads of unique attractions at this ever-popular theme park.

Chester Zoo, Chester

From baby tiger cubs to 110 acres of award-winning gardens, Chester Zoo is a perfect summer day out for all the family.

There are always opportunities for you to join in on festivities as the zoo celebrates big events like World Rhino Day, Summer Stampede and Wildlife Connections Festival.

City breaks

Want to spend some time where all the action happens in the hustle and bustle of city life?

Explore our most popular city destinations…

In the vibrant heart of the country sits Birmingham, England's second capital city. And it’s just one comfortable coach journey away with our fantastic Day Return deals.

If you're looking to experience authentic British tradition, culture, shopping and entertainment, there's really no better place to visit than this lively, diverse city.

Discover more on our Birmingham webpage .

Packed with award-winning city centre attractions, breathtaking coast and countryside, plus a cultural scene to rival the capital, you won't be short of things to do in Liverpool.

A haven for shoppers, music fans and families seeking fun, Liverpool is a friendly city that welcomes millions of tourists each year.

Plan your trip on our Liverpool webpage .

As one of the most visited cities in the world, London needs little introduction. With such a wealth of attractions; from art and history to food and culture, you'll be spoiled for choice as to how to spend your time here.

From historic buildings such as Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge and attractions like the London Eye and Madame Tussauds, London is a city that offers a memorable experience to any visitor.

Find out more on our London webpage .

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath invites you to explore its unique mix of stunning architecture, rich heritage and rolling countryside.

From relaxing, natural spa's to high-octane family fun, acres of Royal gardens and picturesque coastlines and beaches, Bath offers the perfect break for visitors, no matter what you're looking for.

Explore your options on our Bath webpage.

Steeped in history, Oxford is a perfect city to stroll around and take in all it has to offer. If you're looking for something a little more adventurous then take a trip down the River Cherwell in a traditional Oxford punt boat.

Worth a note, the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse offers punts, rowing boats and pedalos for hire for a classically English day out.

Get inspired on our Oxford webpage .

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Your Open Dated Return is valid for 3 months from your outbound journey. To guarantee your seat on your return you need to confirm your ticket before you travel on www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call 0371 781 8181.

Open Dated Return Information

If your return date is not yet known, open return tickets provide flexibility. When travelling within the UK, the return journey can be made within 3 months of the outward date of travel. To guarantee your seat on your return journey you need to confirm your ticket before you travel by visiting www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call us on 03717 81 81 81. Lines open 7 days a week, 8am - 8pm (calls to this number are charged at local rate). Valid on any day throughout the year.

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The majority of stops along the routes listed below are accessible to wheelchair users but are subject to change. Please call us to check the latest situation before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

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Should be booked as Children. If they are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance, please call our Assisted Travel Helpline.

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Children aged between approximately 4-11 years old, or up to 150cm tall, may use booster seats. We carry a limited number onboard most coaches.

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Children aged between approximately 4 years and 11 years or up to 150cm tall may use booster seats, we carry a limited number onboard most coaches along with our comfort fit seat belts.

Disabled children should be booked as children rather than 'Disabled'. If they are travelling in a wheelchair or you wish to book assistance with travel please call our Assisted Travel Helpline before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

You can find a list of accessible coach stops on our Accessibility page .

Please call us 36 hours prior to travelling to check the latest status.

If you are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance we recommend that you contact us on the following local rate telephone number: 03717 81 81 81 (lines open 8am - 8pm 7 days a week) 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

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Children aged 12 or under travelling on any European service must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

Unaccompanied children will not be carried

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Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel on any European service unless accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

Young persons aged 16 or 17 years can travel alone on European services but only if they have a letter of authority from a parent or guardian.

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Passengers aged 60 and over are entitled to receive a small discount on European journeys. On European journeys a 50% discount is given to carers, please call us on 08717 818177 to book.

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Adult fares are applicable to all passengers aged 2+. Adults under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel alone on any European service unless accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over or they have a letter of authority from a parent or guardian.

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Our day trips.

Embark on unforgettable day trips that will leave you craving for more. Discover hidden wonders, indulge in thrilling adventures, and create lasting memories. Our carefully curated selection of short and sweet escapes guarantees maximum fun in minimum time. Whether you prefer a quick adrenaline rush or a serene exploration of nature’s beauty, our day trips offer something for everyone. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to embrace the magic of these short journeys. Unveil the extraordinary in just a few hours and return with memories that will stay with you forever.

Upcoming Trips

Pickup region:, 2024-05-05 00:00, day trip leicestershire, statfold country park, 2024-05-19 00:00, bakewell market & ashbourne, 2024-05-20 00:00, london theatre: sister act, 2024-05-25 00:00, chester zoo, 2024-05-28 00:00, wentworth garden centre & historic gardens, 2024-06-04 00:00, introducing....

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I've been to more than 30 countries, but I'll always think this European city is the best destination for children of any age

Of all the countries I've been to, I think London is the best place for kids of any age.
My husband and I took our son to the city when he was a baby, a preteen, and a teenager.
The city has many museums, parks, and other activities to entertain kids of all ages.

As a travel writer, one of my greatest loves is experiencing a new country , region, or city with my son. But one place has always been our favorite: London.

The city, which is projected to be the top summer travel destination in 2024 , is popular among tourists due to its iconic sites, gardens, and history. But if you ask me, London is also the best spot to bring your kids, especially if they range in age.

I've been to over 30 countries, and out of all of them, London is the place we chose to bring our child when he was a baby, a preteen, and a teenager.

From the city's amazing architecture to its bustling museums , there are plenty of activities to catch any kid's attention. Here's why I'll always believe London is a terrific destination for children of any age.

Transportation in London is usually a breeze

In my experience, arriving in and getting around London is pretty easy. The Heathrow Express, an airport rail link operating from London Heathrow Airport, can transport passengers to Paddington Station in 15 minutes or less.

Once in the city, we take the Tube, a rapid underground transit system, to get to the big sights. Children under 11 travel for free when accompanied by an adult, and discounts are available for older kids.

When my son was 11, he loved the Hop-On, Hop-Off bus, a touristy but fun experience that takes passengers to major city sights like Big Ben and the Tower of London. Passengers can get off the open-top double-decker vehicle anytime, take a tour, grab a bite to eat, and then continue their journey when the next bus comes.

I recommend getting a 48-hour pass because you can get a great city overview on the first day and then dig deeper into certain spots on the second.

Finally, in an emergency like an infant meltdown or a toddler tantrum, Ubers are almost always accessible.

The city is full of parks for children to play in

London has incredible green space for such a large city. Many of the city's parks are free to the public and are wonderful spots for kids to picnic, sightsee, and burn off energy.

Regent's Park has gorgeous gardens, a playground, and a lake. At Hyde Park, families with two adults and up to four children can swim in the Serpentine Lido for only £15, or about $19.

There's no need to worry about a language barrier

I'm a seasoned traveler, but language barriers can still throw me for a loop. I always try to learn a few simple phrases, but not understanding a language and juggling a kid can cause a lot of stress.

In London, there's no need to worry about a language barrier. Though over 300 languages are spoken in the city, most people know English.

There might be different words for various objects — like "nappy" or "diaper" — but I've easily communicated with the people around us in London.

London is full of kid-friendly eateries

Each time we've traveled to London, I've seen terrific restaurant options for palates of all ages. For example, Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen offers a deal so children 8 and under dine for free when ordering off the kids' menu.

Delicious international foods , such as Italian, Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian cuisine, are also available all over London. Fast-food chains like Simit Sarayi and Yo! Sushi are also located throughout the city.

We loved taking our son to sample sweets at Harrods' Food Halls and enjoy sandwiches and scones at St. Martin-in-the-Fields' Café in the Crypt in Trafalgar Square.

There are tons of entertaining museums that offer free admission

London offers nearly 200 museums for patrons to soak up the city's culture and history. They're the perfect places to seek shelter from rain or serve as quiet, interesting respites for a napping baby.

On our first family trip, we strolled our then 8-month-old son through several wings of The British Museum as he peacefully slept. When he was 11, we hit The British Library to marvel at the Magna Carta and checked out the artwork at the National Portrait Gallery.

On our most recent excursion, we watched as our 16-year-old perused the masterpieces at Tate Modern. Most of these museums offer free admission, great kids' activities, hands-on exhibitions, and terrific gift shops.

London is close to tons of easy day-trip options

If you're a traveler who needs a change of pace or scenery every few days, London is a gateway to several day-trip destinations. Places like Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, Birmingham, and Brighton are only a bus ride away.

Visiting cities like Paris , Brussels, and even Amsterdam in a single day is doable thanks to the Eurostar train, which runs through several Western European countries.

The bottom line: London's fun, full of great transportation options, and offers endless activities to entertain the entire family. It's truly a winner for kids of all ages.

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Rooftops view of Turin on a sunny winter day.

My four-day rail and ferry adventure from the UK to Albania

From London to Tirana, via Chambéry’s medieval streets, bustling Bari and Albania’s dynamic capital, this trip across Europe has treats at every turn

M y overriding memories of crossing countries by train, on a trip from London to Albania, are of half-empty carriages and countryside sweeping past windows bathed in the soft orange glow of sunset. I remember cypress trees, red-roofed villages with square churches, farmland in neat strips and row upon row of vineyards.

On my London-Paris-Chambéry-Turin-Bari-Tirana journey over land and sea, there was, for long stretches, little to do. The wifi was patchy. It took a while to adapt to having so much time to simply watch the world go by, travelling through landscapes without having to navigate them.

The biggest stress happened long before I set off, when a landslide not far from the French border with Italy blocked the rail line between Chambéry and Turin, forcing a closure that continues today. Byway, the no-fly operator I had booked with, offered to reroute me through Nice and on to Turin via the Vermenagna valley (with changes in Tende and Cuneo), or book me on the FlixBus service over part of the Mont Blanc massif. I was keen to see Chambéry and the Alps, so I chose the bus.

The writer leans out of the train door. She is wearing a long denim coat and sandals and looks excited.

People seemed surprised when I told them I was travelling overland to Albania. As I gushed about the romance of slow travel by train and sleeper ferry, and my excitement about Tirana, I got comments about being “brave”. I didn’t feel especially brave: all the planning, tickets and hotel bookings were done for me, and friendly help was a WhatsApp call away if needed.

I just had to download the Rail Planner app for my Interrail pass and make sure I was at the right station at the right time (Turin was the biggest challenge: it has four main railway stations and taxis scream between them bearing anxious-looking passengers).

The entire journey took four days. If I did it all again, I’d stay longer in Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot – and remember to buy my Paris Métro ticket from the cafe on the Eurostar.

Day one: London to Chamb éry

A street with pale pink classical buildings and a statue on a plinth.

First to Paris’s Gare du Nord, then the metro to Gare de Lyon, where I make a beeline for a cafe opposite the station. Noise pervades the pavement tables of Café Terminus, but the cacophony is delightful – an atmospheric place for a citron pressé .

I’m in plenty of time for the train to Chambéry and, excitingly, am on the upper deck. Soon, we break free from the suburbs to trace huge stands of forest. Beyond Lyon begins a ripple of hills, lazy rivers and thickly forested slopes. As evening approaches, it’s all Alpine scenery. I arrive at an almost-empty station and walk to the boutique Hotel des Princes in Chambéry’s old town.

Chambéry has an Italian feel – it was the seat of the House of Savoy before the dynasty moved on to Turin – and its medieval alleys, cathedral and pastel-coloured townhouses are quietly impressive. The 1838 Fontaine des Éléphants sits in the middle of the closest square to the old town, and peeking from the end of every street are the Bauges and Chartreuse mountain ranges. My stay is peaceful and easy.

Day two: Chamb éry to Turin

From Chambéry, the train to Turin would take about 2½ hours, but the bus takes double this. I’m on the top deck again, which is worth it for the sight of misty fingers of early morning light breaking across the mountain ridge. Snoozing backpackers rouse themselves to snap pictures of remote Mont Blanc peaks, before slumbering once more through the tunnel to Italy. In Turin there’s perfume in the air from the blossom-covered trees.

Turin’s grid of long, straight boulevards is testament to its development by the Romans – the redbrick Palatine Gate is another Roman relic – and its grand piazzas, royal palaces and graffitied colonnades date from the city’s Savoy heyday in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the number one attraction is the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum).

My favourite moments? Ricotta and fig ice-cream on Piazza San Carlo, an aperitivo on off-the-beaten-path Via Sant’Agostino and the towering neoclassical Mole Antonelliana (national museum of cinema). I eat Turin’s famous doughy pizza al padellino (pan pizza) and spend a comfortable night in the eaves of Hotel Urbani in 19th-century residential streets close to the grand Porta Nuova train station.

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Day three: Turin to Bari

A rolling mountain range with cumulus clouds in the sky.

The views from my next train are of cinematic Tuscan scenes. Scorched fields, vines and Italian cypress trees. Neat red roofs and shabby-chic farmhouses. Fluffy clouds cling to hills that Google Maps tells me are the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. After hours of soothing golden landscapes, the opal-blue Adriatic wallops into view just north of Ancona. Beach bars whip by and cypress trees are replaced with palm trees: I’ve arrived in the south of Italy.

Bari is hands down my favourite stop. The noise, heat and energy as we step off the train in the early evening are joyous. After Chambéry and Turin, Bari feels brash, a little rough around the edges even; a proper port city. The labyrinthine alleyways of the whitewashed old town are almost cliched in their cuteness. Despite the troupes of tightly packed headphone-wearing Americans following guided tours, it somehow manages to retain a tranquil atmosphere.

An elegant old building presides over the port, with its little fishing boats, on a sunny day.

Old ladies yawn from the shade as tourists surreptitiously snap pictures and laundry flutters from balconies. I could stay for ever, but after 24 hours (which includes a lot of pasta, a stroll along the posh promenade to the not-so-posh city beach and a night in an elegant aparthotel, Residence Zodiacus , halfway between the station and the old town), it’s time to board the night ferry to Albania.

Day (and night) four: Bari to Tirana

The mosque is lit in evening sunlight, with mountains in the background.

I arrive at the ferry on foot and am escorted through the car deck to jokes about going in the wrong direction (to Albania, instead of from it). In the early morning I spot a pink sky through the cracked window of my comfy en suite cabin, and head to the top deck to see the sun rise over the distant outline of Albania. Disembarking in the port of Durrës is a bit of a scrum and there’s a bus to the capital waiting, but I opt instead for a five-minute taxi ride to the centre of town and breakfast of pastries and espresso on a dazzling white road lined with boutiques and palm trees. I later regret this though, as the aircon on the grubby public bus I eventually take to Tirana is more tired than I am, and drops me in an urban sprawl miles from the centre.

Tirana itself is a revelation. My hotel, Padam Boutique , is a grand villa with handsome rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, and there’s striking new skyward architecture on every nearby street. A short stroll away is the landmark Pyramid of Tirana , which stands as a symbol and monument to change (and is fun to climb at sunset). Skanderbeg Square – a jumble of buildings erected on a roundabout at the time of the celebrations to mark the fall of communism in 1992 – is now a pedestrianised, glossy public space. There are nods to Albania’s recent, wretched history behind the iron curtain, of course – the Bunk’Art and Bunk’Art 2 museums, in nuclear bunkers are unmissable – but Tirana and the country are more than just the last century. My journey is done, but it feels like Tirana is just getting into its stride.

The trip was provided by Byway , which offers sustainable travel and accommodation packages across the UK and Europe. Its Alps to Albania trip costs from £679pp

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10 of the Best Day Trips from Leicester 2024
For a day trip from Leicester to the seaside, head east to West Norfolk. The regal town of King's Lynn, just over two hours from Leicester by train, is known for its royal charm ... Registered address: 3rd floor, 120 Holborn, London EC1N 2TD, United Kingdom. VAT number: 791 7261 06. ...
10 Best Day Trips from Leicester (All Within 1 Hour)
Fill your bag up with snacks for the kids, and put on your best walking shoes; these are the 10 best day trips from Leicester. 1. Check out Market Harborough. Distance: 40 minutes by car, or around 45 minutes by bus. Market Harborough is a great place for a short day trip as it's not far from the city. It's also one of the best day trips ...
Leicester to London
East Midlands Railways operates a train from Leicester to London St Pancras Intl every 20 minutes. Tickets cost $40-60 and the journey takes 1h 5m. Alternatively, National Express operates a bus from Leicester to Marble Arch hourly. Tickets cost $25-35 and the journey takes 3h 16m. FlixBus also services this route 4 times a day.
Train tickets from Leicester to London
The average journey time by train from Leicester to London takes 1 hour 12 minutes. Journey times may be slightly longer at weekends and on Bank Holidays. Check journey times on your travel dates with our online journey planner or download a train timetable .
Coach travel from Leicester to London Victoria
Our fastest coach from Leicester to London will get you there in 2 hours 5 mins (to our Golders Green stop), giving you more time to explore this spectacular capital city. With coaches to London from Leicester running throughout the day from £6.90 one-way* you can travel in style for less.
Trains from Leicester to London St Pancras International
It takes an average of 1h 37m to travel from Leicester to London St Pancras International by train, over a distance of around 87 miles (140 km). There are normally 117 trains per day travelling from Leicester to London St Pancras International and tickets for this journey start from £15.20 when you book in advance. First train. 03:40. Last train.
Leicester to London train tickets from £4
View timetable. Distance. 143 km. Cheap train tickets from Leicester to London start from £33 with an average ticket price of £49. The fastest train from Leicester to London takes 1 h 3 m in comparison to an average duration of 1 h 8 m and covers a distance of 143 km. 6 trains leave Leicester for London every day with 6 travelling directly.
Leicester to London from $5 (€4)
Available travel modes. Bus. Fastest mode. Bus • $22 (€18) • 2 h 56 min. Popular travel companies. Megabus. Travel 89 miles (143 km) by bus from Leicester to London. Megabus is the main travel company operating this route. Travelers can even take a direct bus from Leicester to London.
Leicester to London Coach
There are 124 intercity coaches per day from Leicester to London. Traveling by coach from Leicester to London usually takes around 3 hours and 21 minutes, but the fastest Megabus coach can make the trip in 45 minutes. Distance. 89 mi (143 km)
Best Day Trips from Leicester
Warwick is one of the most popular day trips from Leicester. Warwick. In the town of Warwick itself you'll be able to explore some inspiring historic sites, from the medieval Collegiate Church of St Mary to the magnificent Warwick Castle. Dating all the way back to 1068, Warwick Castle has been a part of British history for nearly a thousand ...
ClickTrips
ClickTrips are family-run, offering day trips by coach from Leicester. Booking is easy and within a few clicks you can be heading to your destination. ClickTrips are family-run, offering day trips by coach from Leicester. ... even though we were only on a day trip. Made it more personal than just a driver.nI would certainly use your service ...
7 Incredible Day Trips From Leicester
Here are my top picks for the best day trips from Leicester: 1. Bradgate Park. Deer in Bradgate Park. One of the most popular days out in Leicester that you can go on is to Bradgate Park. It's an absolutely massive park to walk around which is steeped in history. For me, the main points of interest in Bradgate Park were Old John Tower, which ...
London to Leicester
East Midlands Railways operates a train from London St Pancras Intl to Leicester every 20 minutes. Tickets cost $40-60 and the journey takes 1h 3m. Alternatively, National Express operates a bus from Marble Arch to Leicester hourly. Tickets cost $25-35 and the journey takes 3h 17m. FlixBus also services this route 3 times a day.
Leicester to London bus from £4
Of the 62 buses that leave Leicester for London every day 57 travel direct so it's quite easy to avoid journeys where you'll have to change along the way. These direct buses cover the 143 km distance in an average of 2 h 56 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 45 m .
Bus from Leicester to London with megabus
Travel by bus from Leicester to London in as little as 2 hours 15 minutes. With over 7 buses a day from 03:15 to 20:00 with free Wi-Fi, plan your perfect trip today with megabus.
London to Leicester train
London to Leicester Train Time: Daily Departures. During weekdays, there are normally about 70 trains departing each day between the hours of about 05:30 and 23:35. There are slightly fewer trains on Saturdays, around 68, leaving between 00:15 and 22:30.
London to Leicester from $8 (€7)
The average frequency per day from London to Leicester is: 25 buses per day. Around 51 trains per day. However, we recommend checking specific travel dates for your journey between London and Leicester as scheduled services by train or bus can vary by season or day of the week.
25 Best Day Trips From London By Train (In +/- 2 Hours)
Leicester lies in the East Midlands, close to the geographical centre of England. Leicester is an easy day trip from London by train with around 89 trains a day from London to Leicester. Leicester is one of the oldest cities in England with evidence of Roman settlement in the form of Roman baths that can be seen at Jewry Wall.
Days Out with National Express
Thorpe Park, Surrey. Thorpe Park offers you some of the most extreme and exciting rides in the whole of Europe - it's a thrilling day out for adrenaline junkies. From the UK's tallest log flume to Europe's highest and fastest launch rollercoaster, there are loads of unique attractions at this ever-popular theme park. Chester Zoo, Chester.
Day Trips
Our Day Trips. Embark on unforgettable day trips that will leave you craving for more. ... London Theatre: Sister Act. 2024-05-25 00:00. 2024-05-25 00:00. Day Trip Leicestershire. Chester Zoo. ... Company details. 0116 216 6676; [email protected]; 19 Wentworth Road, Fleckney, Leicester Leicestershire LE8 8TS; Company reg. 14027761; VAT No ...
Train tickets from London to Leicester
The average journey time by train from London to Leicester takes 1 hour 11 minutes. Journey times may be slightly longer at weekends and on Bank Holidays. Check journey times on your travel dates with our online journey planner or download a train timetable .
Transportation in London is usually a breeze
London is close to tons of easy day-trip options. When my son was 11, we took a day trip to Oxford.
My four-day rail and ferry adventure from the UK to Albania
From London to Tirana, via Chambéry's medieval streets, bustling Bari and Albania's dynamic capital, this trip across Europe has treats at every turn Rachel Mills Sat 27 Apr 2024 06.00 EDT