Looking for an epic day trip from London by train to escape the noise, fog and chaos of the city. Then look no further, I’ve listed 30 of the coolest day trips from London by train to be had.
From frolicking in the countryside, deserted beaches, castles and seaside piers there’s a day trip here for every traveller. The transportation links from London to other parts of the UK and even nearby cities in Europe are fast, easy and reasonably priced (aka cheap as chips).
Like myself, most Londoners don’t own a car (the transport system is actually really good in London, even the furnace that is the Central Line during rush hour).
So the day trips from London I’ve recommended range from 60 minutes to 5 hours train journey from London.
If you are planning on doing any of these day trips from London by train, specifically on Sundays make sure you check the station you are travelling through as most railway works are done on weekends and are the worst on Sundays.
Also booking your ticket in advance will help you save on train tickets. Below I’ve listed some of the coolest London day trips which will make your vacation to the UK an unforgettable experience. Now here’s what to do outside London.
Discover More Amazing London Day Trips Here
1. Day Trip To Bath From London
Travelling to Bath is an easy day out from London. Arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, the Georgian city was founded by the Romans, who created a spa retreat from the thermal springs in the area.
The city is celebrated for its preserved Roman baths and Georgian architecture making Bath one of the most popular day trips from London. It is widely considered one of the best places to visit outside London by train.
How to Get There:
Embarking on a trip to Bath from London by train is nice and straightforward. You can get to Bath from London by taking a direct train from London Paddington.The train leaves twice an hour and the trip is about 90 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Bath:
Start your adventure with a visit to the Roman Baths (this is a no-brainer) complex, which will take you through the Bath House, the Roman Temple, the museum and the Sacred Spring.
Next, stroll around the 15th century Bath Abbey, a medieval church and former monastery. Lastly, visit the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge: two Georgian gems in the city.
Check here for the best day trips from London to Bath tour:
Don’t forget to check this awesome Bath tour from London.
READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO BATH
2. Brighton Day Trip From London
Brighton you pebbly beach goodness! Many have referred to it as “London-by-the-Sea” and for a good reason.
Brighton has been a picturesque beach destination for over 100 years with a buzzing live music scene, chic-bohemian flare and a vibrant LGBTQ community. You can’t visit Brighton without having a good time, you just can’t — it’s just not possible.
Its pebbled beachside makes the city a great day trip from London if you’re visiting UK’s capital in the summer months (it’s not the best in winter as its a bit cold, wet, grey and miserable and being hungover on a pebbled beach in winter is no fun — trust me).
But even if the UK’S weather is anything but perfect, you will find lots of attractions and things to do in Brighton. You can get there by using any of the regular direct trains that take off every 15 minutes from London Bridge and London Victoria. Trip time from London to Brighton takes about an hour.
Book in advance for cheaper tickets if you want to take the bus. However, it is a cheap train journey from London.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Brighton:
In addition to its beautiful beachside, Brighton has a fantastic array of independent cafes, pubs, and theatres. Start off with a trip to the North Laine for some local cuisine. Wander The Lanes fame for doing a spot of shopping and don’t forget to dip into one of the many cool bars and restaurants you’ll find.
For something eccentric visit the Royal Pavilion Palace (paid museum inside – tickets £13.50 buy here in advance) and Edwardian-style Preston Manor or travel 500 feet above the seafront on the BAi3600 to round off your cool day trip from London to Brighton. Brighton is one of the best places to visit in the UK.
Activities to try in Brighton:
3. Day Trip To Cambridge From London
Only about an hour away from London, Cambridge is home to one of the oldest universities in the world. The city is filled with jaw-dropping architecture and tons of green space. Cambridge is a walkable city and a great escape from the chaos of London if you’re seeking a little tranquillity.
I don’t think there is anything not to love about Cambridge, even if you’re not the academic type. My Cambridge day trip is one of the best London day trips, hands down. Especially if you’re looking for one of the best places to go by train from London.
How to Get There:
There are frequent direct trains from London Kings Cross to Cambridge, and the trip time is about 45 minutes.
For more inspiration read my guide on Cities close to London
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Cambridge:
Cambridge is one of the many cities near London. The Cambridge University colleges are the top pick of the bunch when it comes to things to see in Cambridge. And the most popular locations here include King’s College, Clare College, Christ’s College and Corpus Christi.
A walking tour of the University is a must to do while you’re there (and if you read the blog regularly enough, you know I am a huge fan of walking tours. Think they are one of the best ways to see a city, plus they’ll help combat all those fish and chips you’ll have had).
But University is not all there is in Cambridge, the city is also known for punting along The River Cam. It’s a relaxing way of seeing the University town. Cambridge is one of the top London day tours.
Check here for the best day trips from London to Cambridge tour:
4. Stonehenge Day Trip From London
Now yes, I know this is touristy and cliche. But so what! It’s a really cool site to visit. I took a coach tour to visit Stonehenge and loved it. I learnt a ton about the prehistoric stone circle and its construction.
So, the legendary Stonehenge is an absolute must-visit for anyone looking to take a day trip from London. The prehistoric stone circle and one of the best-known prehistoric monuments in Europe is believed to have been constructed some 5,000 years ago.
Some say Stonehenge was a site of pagan worship to a burial ground, several mysteries and questions surround Stonehenge. Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site of significance and owned by the Crown (bet you didn’t know that).
Due to all this mystery and speculation, it is hardly surprising that Stonehenge attracts a large number of visitors; so, it’s best to pre-book your slot to tour this historic site, so you do not end up disappointed. Stonehenge is one of the quirkiest day trips from London.
The Best Stonehenge, Windsor and Bath: Day Trip From London
How to Get There:
Trains leave from London Waterloo to Salisbury twice every hour, and the trip time lasts about 90 minutes. When you get to Salisbury, take a Stonehenge Tour Bus directly to the city’s prehistoric monument.
Top Things to Do and See in Stonehenge:
Though you cannot touch the stones (to protect them from erosion), you can take a stroll around them through the alleyways. There is an interactive session at the visitor centre where you can sit amongst the historic stones throughout the seasons.
If you are spending a few days in London and want to make the most of it by visiting several sites in a day, then you can do a full-day tour of Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour. Yes, it’s a lot, but it’s the most popular day trip from London to do.
You can even explore the best of the southwest of England on a tour from London. By seeing the prehistoric stones of Stonehenge, Roman Baths and driving along the fabled Jurassic Coast in Dorset.
Top Stonehenge Day trip from London Tours:
5. Day Trip From London To Cotswolds
Are you in search of a quintessential English village with something beautiful at every corner? Then a day trip to the Cotswolds from London should be at the top of your list for day tours from London.
The Cotswolds might be less known to many visitors outside the UK, but these tranquil villages, beautiful gardens and whirling green hills are steadily gaining popularity for visitors into London seeking more than just a quick holiday snap in front of Buckingham Palace.
The Cotswolds comprise beautiful little villages, and I would recommend staying in for a weekend or overnight to really explore the area.
But if a day is all you have, these are some of the best day tours of the Cotswolds as the area is a bit tricky to explore without a car. Exploring The Cotswolds is at the top of my list for countryside day trips near London.
How to Get There:
Trains run from London Paddington Station to the Cotswolds.
Top 3 Things to Do in the Cotswolds:
Wander the famous National Trail. The trail offers loads of panoramic countryside views, running from Bath to Campden, but there are lots of shorter walks within the trail if you don’t want to go the distance.
Visit Lower Slaughter – home to Britain’s most romantic street (as voted by the people in 2011). Here you will find beautiful stone cottages and lush green trees in the incredibly charming village.
Do not miss out on the opportunity to learn about the history of bread making or the Manor Gardens’ five acres of landscape.
Spending some part of your time at a chocolate box village (picture-perfect English country villages), is one of the absolute must-dos during your day trip from London to the Cotswolds.
Read How To Do A Cotswolds Day Trip From London
6. Day Trip to Bristol From London
Often referred to as the happiest city in England, Bristol is home to many top attractions, festivals and live music. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the city’s unique bars, markets, restaurants and water sports at the Harbourside development, which was a former port in Bristol.
READ More 2 Days In Bristol Itinerary
You can combine a tour of Bristol with a tour of Bath if you have limited time as they are just 30 minutes apart.
How to Get There:
Direct trains run from London Paddington Station to the famous Bristol Temple Meads several times during the day, and the trip time is about 1 hour 35 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Bristol:
The Banksy Walking Tour introduced by famous street artist Banksy is one you shouldn’t miss. Banksy grew up in Bristol so you can be sure to enjoy one of the most unique street art walking tours in the world.
If you are an art lover, visit attractions like the Royal West of England Academy and Arnolfini. History and architecture enthusiasts are not left out as Bristol is home to historic destinations like the Charles Wesley’s House and the Architecture Center.
Cool Bristol activities:
Bristol Like a Local: Customized Private Tour
7. Day Trip To Edinburgh From London
Scotland’s capital city is an excellent destination if you’re planning a family day out from London.
Filled with historical sites and amazing photo opportunities, visiting Edinburgh is one of the best things to do outside of London. This city definitely has its own personality, and you need to check it out for yourself.
I took the Coach from London Victoria when I visited Edinburgh as it was cheaper than fighting there and I was still a poor graduate and didn’t mind the 5-hour bus ride. It was actually fun as I got to see so many different sights on the journey to Edinburgh.
How to Get There:
The average journey time from London to Edinburgh is around 5 hours, 34 minutes by train. On average, 31 trains run from London to Edinburgh, so it would be ideal for checking the train timetables to decide on your best travel time.
Top 3 Things to Do in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh Castle should be your first port of call once you arrive. The castle is one of the most iconic attractions in the UK, grandiosely seated atop the city’s other extinct volcano.
Get your ticket and go for a distillery tour around Edinburgh. A city guided walking whisky tour gives you the chance to visit some of the best bars in Edinburgh, to wet your whistle. Famous for its unique whisky tastings, a visit to one of the distilleries in the city will allow you to get an in-depth view of the creation process of the booze.
Visit Summerhall, it’s home to art exhibitions, workshops, films, gigs, and lots more. Summerhall even has its microbrewery where the refreshing Barney’s Beer is produced.
8. Day Trip To Oxford From London
The Radcliffe Camera, a symbol of the city and the University of Oxford. Another very popular day trip from London is to visit nearby Oxford University City. Oxford is a compact and historically rich University City filled with prestige and a magnificent architectural legacy. I could visit Oxford a hundred times and more, just for the architecture, no lie the builds are something to behold.
Explore the University’s history by visiting some of its 44 colleges (yes 44 colleges — there’s a whole process as to why there are 44 colleges).
Do a walking tour to learn why and also learn about why there is a fierce rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge and where it still stands today.
You only need to watch University Challenge, a famous academic quiz show, hosted by Jeremy Paxman, to see this effect. It’s brutal. A visit to Oxford is one of the best cheap day trips from London.
How to Get There:
Trains run from London Paddington and London Marylebone to Oxford, and the trip time is about an hour.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Oxford:
A tour of Oxford University is an absolute must-do, but the city still has loads to offer. History enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the Bodleian Library and Ashmolean Museum. Other top attractions in Oxford include the Radcliffe Camera, Oxford Castle, and the Pitt Rivers Museum.
Harry Potter fans rejoice as there are tours that will take you to different locations in Oxford where some of the movies were shot.
READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO OXFORD
9. Day Trip To Canterbury From London
You might have read about Canterbury from “Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer, or you probably heard about the city as home to one of the world’s famous cathedrals (Canterbury Cathedral, a Unesco World Heritage Site).
Only an hour away from London via train, Canterbury is unusually attractive, with its narrow passageways following the original street plan.
This is one of the many places near London worth a day trip to Canterbury.
How to Get There:
Every hour, trains depart from London St Pancras, and the trip lasts about an hour. There are also slower trains that take off from London Charing Cross and London Victoria, and the trip lasts about 90 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Canterbury:
A visit to the Canterbury Cathedral is an absolute must, people make pilgrimages to see it. Pilgrimages!
It is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury (he is always on the telly at Christmas) and an important Christian site. Other top attractions at Canterbury include a boat trip on the River Stour and a trip to Beaney House of Art and Knowledge.
Epic Canterbury day trip from London:
10. Day Trip to Guildford From London
This is one of the shortest train day trips from London on my list. Guildford is a large and vibrant town in Surrey filled with cobblestone streets, 17th-century facades and a vibrant student scene.
It is a hub for a variety of amazing stuff including a lively student population, sport and science. Guildford is one of the top places to visit if you are looking for great days out near London.
How to Get There:
Train from London to Guildford takes off at the London Waterloo, and the trip lasts about 30 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Guildford:
If the weather is sunny, you can take a dip in the fantastic Dapdune Wharf waters. Visit Guildford Castle and Bailey fortress, the Guilford Castle was the residence of Henry III. Lastly, you could also hop on a train for a tour of the Hogs Back Brewery. Guildford is one of the many incredible places outside London.
11. Day Trip To Windsor From London
I have a friend that lives in Slough but tells everyone she lives in Windsor next to the Queen (but I keep telling her – stop lying girl you live in Slough, not Windsor). Windsor is considered a really posh area because it’s the residence of the Royal family. Slough on the other hand – let’s just say no ever admits to living there.
Windsor Castle is the draw for many people who make the trip here. The castle has hosted many royal weddings, and the Queen spends most of her time there. Windsor is one of the most beautiful places near London.
How to Get There:
Trains from London to Windsor run twice every hour from London Waterloo, and the trip time is about an hour.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Windsor:
Visiting Windsor Castle is an absolute must for a day trip from London. You can better appreciate your visit here if you go through the Long Walk. Though you could spend a few days exploring the castle in all of its glory, must-sees include the State Apartments, Albert Memorial Chapel, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
Eton, a pretty little village, looks up just across the river. When you’ve had your fill at Windsor Castle, strolling down to the town will be well worth it.
READ MY GUIDE ON A DAY TRIP TO WINDSOR
You’ll probably have heard the name Eton before as in Eton College (an all-boys college), is basically where all the 1% and super posh people send their kids and where some of the most famous/notorious UK politicians went to school.
Top tours to Windsor from London:
12. Day Trip To Kent From London
Also known as the Garden of England, Kent is a breathtaking countryside with famous attractions, amazing coastline and delicious cuisines.
Stunning locations are waiting to be discovered upon your arrival. Kent and its surrounding towns are another of the short trips from London, you do.
How to Get There:
Trains run from London Victoria to Kent, and the average journey time is 1 hour 1 minute.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Kent:
Visit Shell Grotto for a feel of the walking experiences in the subterranean spaces.
Stop by at the impressive Chartwell House to view the books, photographs and personal effects of Winston Churchill.
Lastly, head to Margate Dreamland – the historic amusement park where you’ll find lots of cool events.
13. Day Trip To Rye From London
Home to antique shops and seemingly cluttered cobbled streets lined with medieval, half-timbered houses. Rye is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in England. It’s one of the best towns to visit near London.
How to Get There:
By train in 1 hour 10 minutes from London St Pancras International.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Rye:
Explore the pretty patchwork of woods, grassland and salt marsh by visiting Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
Visit the pictures lanes dotted around Rye, these quaint streets will transport you back through centuries to storybook times.
Take a trip to Camber Sands. With sand dunes and salty air all around, you would be forgiven for thinking you’ve left England. Rye is one of the several day trip places to go outside London.
14. Day Trip To Whitstable From London
As seaside day trips from London go, Whitstable is up there with the best of them. This fantastic stretch of Kentish coastline is well known for seafood – fresh oysters being the top go-to.
Seafood doesn’t get any fresher as you can get fresh oysters from the Whitstable harbour and there are some of the best seafood restaurants in the Whitstable Fish Market. This is one of the many places to visit 2 hours from London.
How to Get There:
Trains run from London Victoria and St Pancras International to Whitstable daily, and the average trip time is about 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 10 minutes respectively.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Whitstable:
Visit Tankerton Beach; it’s perfect for windsurfers Rockpool. At low tide, you can even enjoy what is called “The Street,” where a natural path is made on the beach, and you can walk out into the sea (think Moses when he parted the Red Sea). Is that cool or what?
Next, head to the Whitstable Cycle Hire to rent a bike and pedal along the 7-mile Crab and Winkle Way trail.
If you are a history buff, you will have a great time visiting the Whitstable Castle which was set up in the 1790s with beautiful gardens and magnificent scenery.
READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO WHITSTABLE
15. Day Trip To Deal From London
Smaller than Whitstable and not so much of the hipster mecca like Margate, Deal still has the makings of a great day trip from London. For those with a pendant for Georgian houses, quaint streets and slow travel.
Deal is for you, it’s in Kent and one of the great places to go near London. This unique seaside spot is where you head to recharge your batteries from hectic city life.
How to Get There:
Trains run from London St Pancras International to Deal, and the trip time lasts about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Deal:
Start off with a visit to Deal Castle, built by Henry VII as a fortress designed to ward off Catholic Europe invasion. Next, stop by 81 Beach Street for some fresh and delicious seafood with an amazing seafront view just ahead.
Lastly, head to Deal beach, this pristine coastline is dotted with wooden fishing boats or wander along the 1950s pier.
16. Day Trip To Margate From London
Hanging out on the sandy beach always feels like the perfect idea, but there’s much more to Margate than the seaside. Margate was resurrected from the dead in 2011 after it became home to the Turner Contemporary art gallery, which initiated a widespread refresh of the Margate.
The streets are lined with unique attractions, independent cafes shops, and thanks to the influx of hipsters from the city — hipster hangouts, vintage shops and galleries.
Margate has now been dubbed ‘Shoreditch-on-Sea’. Obviously, this name was made up by a hipster that couldn’t afford a flat in actual Shoreditch (that was too funny not to mention), due to the regeneration of the area. Margate is another one of those fabulous short trips from London to consider for day-trippers.
How to Get There:
Margate is some 76 miles away from London. You can reach there by train from London St Pancras International.
Top 3 Things to Do in Margate:
Millions of pounds were invested into the historic Dreamland (Margate’s theme park). The Scenic Railway (UK’s oldest working roller coaster), a growing collection of fair-ground-style rides and a Ferris wheel makes Dreamland a perfect location for families or oversize child adults (like myself).
Next, visit Margate Main Sands for some English seaside fun. The beach has an endless array of seafood stalls, shops, pubs and restaurants.
Lastly, head to the famous Turner Contemporary art museum for an opportunity to view Kent’s most significant visual arts venue up close.
17. Day trip to Dungeness
Often referred to as Britain’s only desert, Dungeness is a shipwreck-dotted beach with lighthouses, the ‘acoustic mirrors’, of concrete oddities and the largest expanse of shingle in Europe.
There is something that’s just otherworldly about Dungeness. It’s also a national nature reserve, for all you nature lovers. There is something that’s just otherworldly about Dungeness. It’s also a national nature reserve, for all you nature lovers.
How to Get There:
A day visit to Dungeness is one of the many train trips from London that I highly recommend. Dungeness is 86 miles away from London and can be reached by train from London St Pancras International. Trip time by train is around 1 hour.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Dungeness:
Visit the RSPB Nature Reserve – home to an impressive variety of birds, including domestic and migratory species. The reserve also has several nature trails spanning across several miles overlooking the wetland areas and shingle. For avid railway enthusiasts visit the RHDR Mini Railway, known as ‘Kent’s Mainline in Miniature’.
For the past 90 years, the railway’s one-third of full-size steam locomotives, the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway has been offering visitors a magical way to see some of the country’s most beautiful countryside.
Visit Dungeness Lighthouse. It is a historical place that was constructed using over 3 million bricks. Head atop the lighthouse for amazing views of the flat Romney Marshland and the English Channel.
18. Day Trip To Mersea Island From London
When you think of day trips to the UK – Think Mersea Island. Mersea Island is a small estuary island and promises to be the perfect day trip from London for seafood lovers and families looking to relax.
Covering approximately 7 square miles, you’ll never get bored by the island’s beautiful scenery. Mersea Island is a charming day trip from London.
How to Get There:
You can get to Mersea Island from London by taking the train from London Liverpool Street to Colchester, which lasts around 1 hour, before boarding a bus to Mersea Island for another 45 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Mersea Island:
Mersea Island’s biggest attraction is The Company Shed where seafood platters draw crowds from different parts of the UK. If you make your day trip with children, exploring the myriad creeks scurrying over the boardwalks connecting the marshes is definitely a great idea.
Historic buffs can go discover the appeal of connecting with the Romans’ viticulture legacy. Nearby Colchester was the administrative capital of the Romans in Britain, and they planted vineyards on the fertile land of Mersea Island, even introducing oysters into the island’s waters.
19. Isle of Wight day trip from London
Isle of Wight is one of England’s top tourist destinations, and this is for a good reason. With its golden sands and candy-coloured beach huts. It is also the largest and second most populated island in England. It’s also the site for the famous Isle of Wight festival.
Though the island is about 3 hours away from London, your travel time will be well worth it as there are lots of unique and amazing attractions to appeal to just nearly everyone.
How to Get There
Getting to the Isle of Wight is pretty easy, and once you arrive, you won’t want to leave. There are about 200 ferries that operate from Lymington, Portsmouth and Southampton to the Isle of Wight. Trips by ferry last around 2 hours.
You can also get to the Isle of Wight by train since there are excellent rail connections that link the Isle of Wight ferry ports. Trip time from London train stations to most of the island’s ports is around 2 hours.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in the Isle of Wight:
Head to the magnificent cliffs at the south-facing beaches for incredible 360-degree views.
The pastel-coloured beach huts are great for relaxation, but the sea views give you a unique perspective of the island. The Isle of Wight is a great day trip from London if you are into watersports as you can go sailing, paddle boarding and even surfing there.
Visit the St Catherine’s Oratory (locally known as Pepperpot), it’s the last remaining Medieval lighthouse in England.
Top Isle of Wight Day Trip from London Tour: Isle of Wight Day Trip from London Tour
20. Day Trip to Box Hill by Train From London
Box Hill is your perfect destination when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of London. It allows you to get out in nature with lots of green space for walks (there are several walking trails), cycling, wildlife viewing and loads of fresh air.
Making it a perfect option for those seeking family day trips from London. Box Hill was also a part of the 2012 Olympic road-cycling route, so you too can feel like an Olympian.
How to Get There:
Trains travel from London Waterloo to Box Hill daily, and the average trip time is 46 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Box Hill:
Box Hill Juniper walk, starting at the top of Box Hill with stunning views as far as South Downs. You follow the trail enjoying bluebells in spring and the changing scenery of the magical woods.
Or you can go on the butterfly route to see one of the richest areas for butterflies in Britain with over 40 species occurring annually.
Box Hill Happy Valley walk this trail takes you into Box Hill’s hidden woodland and Broadwood’s Tower, down into Happy Valley. It’s a quaint little way of seeing the English countryside and staying active on holiday.
21. Day Trip to Chichester by Train From London
Sitting at the foot of South Downs, Chichester is a cathedral city surrounded by fishing villages, sandy beaches, historical attractions and beautiful countryside. Visiting the Chichester and the South Downs is another great day trip out of London to add to your growing bucket list.
How to Get There:
Chichester is 80 miles away from London and can be reached by train in 1 hour 30 minutes from London Victoria. Trip time lasts around 2 hours by car, and making the trip via this mode of transport is said to be the best as it allows you to explore.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Chichester:
Visit Chichester Cathedral. Established in 1075, the architecture of this cathedral is unlike any other you’ll see in England. Next, head to Pallant House Gallery to observe one of the best collections of modern British art with works by Frank Auerbach, Tracey Emin and Peter Blake.
Visit Fishbourne Roman Palace. Famous for its age (dating back to AD 75), the Fishbourne Roman Palace is the largest Roman residence unearthed in England.
22. Day Trip To The Lake District From London
Also known as the Lakes of Lakeland, Lake District is a popular holiday destination, known for its lakes, charming villages, massive glacial ribbon lakes, and stunning views.
While these are the main draws, the area has other attractions that make it an excellent option for an easy day trip from London.
How to Get There:
You can get to the Lake District from London by train in about 3 hours 10 minutes. The Lake District is one of the best day trips from London by train.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in the Lake District:
First, stop by Rydal Mount. The late William Wordsworth left his poetry mark all over the Lake District. Wander the poet’s ‘writing hut’ and stunning gardens he landscaped, and get up close with his personal possessions and library.
Visit Hill Top, the incredibly charming former home of Beatrix Potter. Upon her death, the children’s author bequeathed (bequeath I’m fancy like that -maybe not), her apartment to the National Trust, along with her personal effects.
When you visit, you’ll see her paintings, photos, furniture, and even get the chance to wander her famous garden.
Lastly, head to the Lakes Distillery. Though the distillery just opened as recently as 2014, it is quickly becoming a choice destination in the Lake District. Tours and tastings are allowed daily, and if you visit at the weekend, you stand a chance to meet their resident alpacas.
Top tours the Lake District from London:
23. Day Trip To Cardiff From London
Cardiff is the commercial nerve of Wales and the UK’s eleventh largest city. Although it is famous for being an industrial city, Cardiff has increasingly become a top tourist destination, in addition to its spectacular city centre.
The green city hosts large festivals and is home to top shopping destinations and pop-up dining events.
How to Get There:
Trains run from London Paddington to Cardiff Central once every hour daily, and the journey time is around 2 hours on average.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Cardiff:
First, head to Cardiff Castle to see the interactive exhibits, impressive grounds and bomb shelters that were used during the second world war. Next, head to the 2,500-capacity Wales Millennium Center to see any of the activities on display, including contemporary dance, opera and the latest rock and pop musicians.
The building is made entirely of wood, metal, slate and glass sourced in the country itself. How impressive is that?
Head to Cardiff Bay to treat yourself to fabulous views as you speed over Europe’s most extensive waterfront development.
Top tours to Cardiff from London:
24. Day Trip To Birmingham From London
A manufacturing powerhouse in the 18th century After London, Birmingham is the UK’s second-most populated city; so, it is hardly surprising that the city is home to an unrivalled diverse culture, magnificent attractions, delicious dining areas and amazing shopping centres.
With lots of action to keep a visitor for weeks, you’d be tempted to take up a chance to see all of Birmingham in a day.
How to Get There:
Trains from London to Birmingham depart from Marylebone or Euston, depending on your preferred station. On average, 142 trains travel from London to Birmingham, and the average travel time is between 1 hour 21 minutes and 1 hour 58 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Birmingham:
Visit Birmingham Museum, and Art Gallery houses the most extensive collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings in the world should not be missed. Visit one of the many curry houses in Birmingham to draw inspiration from the vast array of museums and attractions.
Lastly, you could unwind on a boat trip via one of Birmingham’s amazing canals or just wander by foot around the canal quarter.
25. Stratford-Upon-Avon Day Trip From London
Stratford-upon-Avon is synonymous with William Shakespeare, but you don’t have to be a big fan of his to really enjoy the city’s attractions and history. Let’s be honest, ‘A Midsummer’s Night Dream,’ was confusing as hell and I think ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ cute and all but it’s a bit too dramatic for my cynical, cold black heart.
I think I am not a fan of these two pieces just due to the sheer amount of times I was forced to re-enact them at school.
Now my favourite ‘Macbeth,’ is something I could re-read all the time. That’s real drama — it’s like watching UK politics unfold in real life.
How to Get There:
Stratford-upon-Avon is 104 miles away from London and can be reached within 2 hours 15 minutes by train from London Marylebone. Travelling by car takes around 2 hours.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Stratford-upon-Avon:
Visit the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, where you’ll have the opportunity to catch many of Bard’s famous works. There’s really no better place to watch Shakespeare’s plays than his hometown. You should also visit Anne Hathaway’s (Shakespeare wife’s) cottage if you just can’t get enough of the writer.
Next, visit the MAD Museum to observe the successful marriage between science and technology and art and design. Lastly, pay a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly farm to stroll through the exotic plants, gurgling waterfalls.
26. The New Forest
One of England’s most extensive areas of open pasture land, a day trip from London to New Forest is about the closest you can get to going on safari without boarding a plane. The New Forest is an extensive area of picturesque towns, villages, parklands, clifftop pathways, and moors on Britain’s south coast.
The forest is famous for its wild horses. The New Forest Lavender Farm is renowned during the lavender season (June to September). This is where every dead hard Instagrammer will make their pilgrimage. Undeterred by hay fever, they will descend upon the farm like a swarm of bees.
To get their first shots of the lavender farm, with a flowing summer dress and wide brim straw hat in tow. With the usual pose – back to the photographer, face to the sky. Waiting for the light flow from the heavens (there goes my sarcasm again).
How to Get There:
The journey time is about 1 hour 30 minutes by train from London Waterloo to Brockenhurst.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in The New Forest:
First, stop by at the New Forest National Park, which is located at the heart of the area.
The park is a paradise for nature lovers, and you can go hiking, cycling or horseback riding your way around the hundreds of kilometres of land.
Next, visit Hurst Castle. The castle is an artillery fortress that was built by Henry VIII in the 1500s. It has now been modernised and open to the public, so you too can visit and enjoy the views atop the castle or even hire one of the boats in the Hurst Marine Fleet.
Lastly, head to Beaulieu in South Hampshire. Beaulieu is a beauty to behold, and a fantastic family-friendly attraction. You could hang around to see the river or even navigate through it by canoe.
27. Day Trips To Paris From London
Paris is one of the fastest destinations to reach from London and that being said, A day trip to Paris from London has to be on your bucket list European destinations to visit. Pais is just a no-brainer for a day trip.
There are famous attractions like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and shopping on Avenue des Champs Elysees. But it also has terrific neighbourhoods and great foods to try.
Since you can’t possibly explore every nook and cranny of the French capital on your day trip, you can still make the best of it to see some of the city’s highlights.
How to Get There:
Trains run from London to Paris from 06:43 to 21:13, and the average quickest route lasts around 2 hours 17 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Paris:
Visit the Eiffel Tower (very obvious, but why not). Your trip to the French capital will be incomplete without savouring the thrilling experience that Eiffel Tower offers. Wander the Champs-Elysees, one of the world’s and most recognisable streets and an exceptional shopping destination. Best to visit during the sales to bag a bargain.
Head to Arc de Triomphe which sits just atop Champs-Elysees to get the best views of Paris.
Top tours to Paris from London:
Paris Day Trip from London with Eurostar and Metro Card
28. Brussels Day Trip From London
Brussels is the seat of the European Union, so it is expectedly a place with a big attitude.
It is a compact historic city with lots of beautiful parks, music venues, squares, unique art and excellent transport, making it easy to get around.
How to Get There:
The Eurostar runs from London St Pancras International to Brussels daily. Though only 3 run direct to Brussels, you would waste no time in changing along the way, and the average journey time is 2 hours 30 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Brussels:
Visit the Grand Place, a 15th-century city hall and a UNESCO Heritage Site. For my sweet tooth friends, explore the museum dedicated to Coca and speciality chocolate shops. Go on a beer tasting tour and discover thousands of Belgian beers.
READ MORE | BRUSSELS DAY TRIP FROM LONDON
29. Day trip to Lille
Home to gabled brick houses, tall belfries and the traditional beer culture, Lille is a fantastic blend of French and Flemish.
Long before its integration into France in 1667, Lille was a powerful Flemish town, and since it was elected the European City of Culture in 2004, it has increasingly become a dream day-trip destination and one of the best day trips from London to Europe.
How to Get There:
Fast direct trains travel to Lille from London, and the average journey time is 1 hour 22 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Lille:
Visit Place De Charles de Gaulle to do some people-watching.
Head to the 17th century Book Market on Vieille Bourse to view the amazing architecture and even join in and play chess if you get there in the afternoon.
Lastly, visit Opera De Lille to view the impressive building façade. The house is one of the typical landmarks in Lille due to its history.
READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO LILLE FRANCE
30. Bruges Day Trip From London
Bruges is the crown jewel of Belgium. Though relatively small, packed with fascinating attractions, fun sights and great restaurants.
It is said to be one of the most photogenic cities in the world so why not visit and find out for yourself.
READ MORE | BRUGES DAY TRIP FROM LONDON
How to Get There:
There are no direct trains from London to Bruges, but travelling through the Eurotunnel makes the trip really easy. Journey time ranges from 3 hours, 47 minutes to 4 hours 7 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Bruges:
Visit the Belfry Tower, a medieval bell tower at the heart of the city centre. Since only a few people are allowed to climb all 366 steps up the tower at a time. You will have to wait if there are lots of people already climbing the tower.
Sorry, had to do it – grab a Belgian waffle while you’re there. Visit The Canal. Cruising the waterways by boat is the best way to see Bruges on your day trip from London.
31. Ghent Day Trip From London
Dubbed the “gem of Belgium”, there are many things to love about Ghent. The city is home to great art, fantastic food, and even while it is relatively small compared to other European cities, it is a great day-trip destination.
READ MORE | DAY TRIP TO GHENT FROM LONDON
How to Get There:
Travel with Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Brussels then changes to a local train to complete your trip. The average journey time by train is around 2 hours 52 minutes.
Top 3 Things to Do and See in Gent:
Visit the 12th-century Gravensteen to observe the beauty and uniqueness of the castle.
Visit St Bavo’s Cathedral & The Ghent Altarpiece, this Gothic building is Gent’s most recognisable landmark and is filled with religious artefacts.