Living in or visiting London undoubtedly offers a vibrant and captivating experience. But sometimes, we all crave a change of scenery, a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Fortunately, London’s excellent transportation system makes it a perfect hub for exciting day trips to charming towns, historical landmarks, and natural wonders nearby. In this blog post, we’ll unveil the top day trips from London that will transport you to enchanting destinations, all within a comfortable journey from the capital.
Bath
Venture back in time and immerse yourself in the Roman heritage by visiting Bath. Stroll along its elegant streets, marvel at the impressive Bath Abbey, and, of course, visit the iconic Roman Baths. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the charming city and indulge in a relaxing soak at the Thermae Bath Spa.
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How to Get There: Hop on a direct train from London Paddington to Bath Spa Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by train!
If you decide to extend your visit, consider staying at The Gainsborough Bath Spa. Its luxurious amenities and central location make it an ideal choice for a memorable stay. Check out this guide for the perfect weekend in Bath!
Oxford
Renowned for its prestigious university, Oxford boasts a rich academic history and stunning architecture. Take a guided tour of the historic colleges, visit the Bodleian Library, and meander through the idyllic Botanic Garden. Don’t forget to explore the charming covered market for unique souvenirs and delightful eateries.
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How to Get There: Catch a direct train from London Paddington to Oxford Station. Around 1 hour by train!
For a delightful overnight stay, The Randolph Hotel is a classic choice. Located in the heart of Oxford, it offers elegant rooms and excellent service.
Cambridge
Indulge in the academic atmosphere of Cambridge, another esteemed university town. Punt along the serene River Cam, marvel at the architectural wonders of King’s College Chapel, and visit the Fitzwilliam Museum for its impressive art collection. Don’t miss the chance to explore the charming streets and enjoy a quintessential English afternoon tea.
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How to Get There: Board a direct train from London King’s Cross to Cambridge Station. Roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes by train!
Extend your Cambridge adventure by checking in at The Varsity Hotel & Spa. With its rooftop terrace and stunning views, it’s a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Brighton
Escape to the vibrant coastal city of Brighton, known for its pebble beaches and lively atmosphere. This is for sure one of the best summer day trips from London! Explore the iconic Brighton Pier, wander through the quirky North Laine neighborhood, and take a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Don’t forget to visit the extravagant Royal Pavilion, a remarkable architectural gem.
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How to Get There: Catch a direct train from London Victoria to Brighton Station. Approximately 1 hour by train.
When visiting Brighton, consider staying at Hotel Una for a cozy and stylish experience. Its convenient location near the seafront makes it a great base for your seaside getaway.
Canterbury
Embark on a journey to Canterbury, a city steeped in history and home to the famous Canterbury Cathedral. Take a guided tour of this magnificent structure, wander through the charming streets of the old town, and learn about the tales of Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. If you’re after day trips from London that involve beautiful gardens, this one is also for you!
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How to Get There: Board a direct train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West Station. Takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes by train!
For an authentic stay in Canterbury, The Canterbury Hotel offers charming rooms and a warm ambiance, perfect for immersing yourself in the city’s historic atmosphere.
Stratford-upon-Avon
Immerse yourself in the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon. Visit Shakespeare’s birthplace and explore the historical streets where the iconic playwright once walked. Don’t miss a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Gardens, a picturesque Tudor house surrounded by enchanting gardens.
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How to Get There: Catch a direct train from London Marylebone to Stratford-upon-Avon Station. Approximately 2 hours by train!
Extend your visit to Stratford-upon-Avon by choosing The Arden Hotel, a charming boutique hotel located near the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Windsor
Experience the regal charm of Windsor with a visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Explore the State Apartments and admire the stunning St. George’s Chapel. Take a leisurely walk along the Long Walk and enjoy the picturesque views of the castle.
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How to Get There: Take a direct train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central Station. Around 30 minutes by train!
Make the most of your time in Windsor by staying at the Sir Christopher Wren Hotel and Spa, a riverside retreat that combines history and relaxation.
Stonehenge
Uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the ancient stone circle and ponder its purpose and significance. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of this iconic prehistoric monument.
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How to Get There: Take a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury, then catch a bus to Stonehenge. Approximately 2 hours by train and bus.
If you wish to explore Stonehenge further, the Chapter Hotel offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to the iconic landmark.
Cotswolds
Step into a picturesque postcard as you explore the idyllic villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds. Wander through the enchanting streets of Bibury, visit the stunning Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, and soak in the tranquility of the countryside. Indulge in delicious local cuisine and embrace the timeless beauty of this quintessential English region.
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How to Get There: Take a train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh, then transfer to a local bus. Around 1 hour and 30 minutes by train and bus
To fully immerse yourself in the charm of the Cotswolds, consider staying at The Lygon Arms, a historic inn with elegant rooms and a delightful ambiance.
Blenheim Palace
Discover the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Explore the opulent State Rooms, stroll through the stunning gardens, and enjoy boat rides on the picturesque lake. Don’t miss the fascinating exhibitions that showcase the palace’s rich history and heritage.
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How to Get There: Take a train from London Paddington to Oxford, then catch a bus to Blenheim Palace. Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by train and bus
If you’re planning an overnight visit to Blenheim Palace, The Feathers Hotel in Woodstock offers a comfortable and convenient stay near the palace grounds.
Greenwich
Embark on a journey to Greenwich, a historic district that marks the prime meridian and is steeped in maritime heritage. Visit the iconic Cutty Sark, a magnificent tea clipper ship, and explore the fascinating National Maritime Museum. Take a leisurely stroll in Greenwich Park and enjoy stunning views of the city from the Royal Observatory.
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How to Get There: Take a train or DLR from central London to Greenwich Station. Around 30 minutes by train or DLR (Docklands Light Railway).
For a comfortable stay in Greenwich, consider DoubleTree by Hilton London-Greenwich, which is just a 15-minutes’ stroll away to the historic Cutty Sark and National Maritime Museum.
Hampton Court Palace
Immerse yourself in the royal history of Hampton Court Palace, once the residence of King Henry VIII. Explore the opulent State Apartments, get lost in the famous Hampton Court Maze, and stroll through the beautiful gardens. Attend a live historical reenactment or enjoy a picnic by the riverside for a truly memorable day trip.
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How to Get There: Take a direct train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court Station. Around 35 minutes by train.
For a convenient stay near Hampton Court Palace, consider The Mitre Hotel, located on the banks of the River Thames.
The Harry Potter Studio Tour
Calling all Potterheads! Embark on a magical journey to the Harry Potter Studio Tour and delve into the world of wizardry. Explore the iconic sets, admire the intricate costumes, and even take a ride on a broomstick! Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Harry Potter and create unforgettable memories.
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How to Get There: Take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, then catch a shuttle bus to the Harry Potter Studio Tour. Around 1 hour by train and bus.
While the Harry Potter Studio Tour is a day trip, if you wish to stay overnight, consider The Grove, a luxurious hotel and spa located near Watford.
Book Day Trips from London
These are just a few of the incredible day trips from London that offer a delightful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you crave history, culture, nature, or adventure, these destinations provide a diverse range of experiences. So, pack your bags, hop on a train, and embark on an unforgettable day trip from London to explore the wonders that await you just a short journey away. Book your day trips from London below!
