Best Day Trips from London – Your Complete Guide in 2024
Ah, London – a city that never ceases to amaze with its vibrant energy, quintessential charm, and rich history. From the London Eye and endless museums to wonders like Hampton Court Palace and afternoon tea in the many cafes and restaurants, there’s so much to see and do. But while we’re all about losing ourselves to such a blessed city, sometimes, you might find yourself itching to explore what lies beyond the hustle and bustle of London’s exciting streets. Luckily, there are some amazing destinations to be discovered with a day trip from London!
12 Amazing Day Trips from London
This guide highlights the best day trips with London as your starting point, allowing you to discover beautiful towns, iconic attractions, and captivating destinations steeped in cultural and historical lore. Get ready to embark on a journey entire of unforgettable experiences as we explore the uncharted territories beyond London’s boundaries. Let’s begin!
-
01
Day Trip to Windsor from London
Day Trip in Windsor
Nestled in the serene arms of Berkshire, about an hour out from London, the town of Windsor seamlessly blends royal heritage with lively entertainment for a perfect day trip, easily reachable via train or by taking a local bus.
At the heart of Windsor lies its crown jewel, Windsor Castle. As the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, it stands as a monumental testament to British history and royal culture.
-
02
Day Trip to Oxford from London
Day Trip in Oxford
Oxford, often lauded as the ‚city of dreaming spires‘, boasts a mesmerising amalgamation of history, culture, and academia, all just a short direct train away. The town is renowned for its illustrious Oxford University, but there’s more to explore:
- Radcliffe Camera: An iconic Oxford landmark representing the epitome of English Palladian architecture.
- Ashmolean Museum: Behold a world-class collection of art and archaeology.
- Bodleian Libraries: Experience the literary glory of one of the world’s oldest libraries.
- Christ Church: A hallowed institution, also appearing in the Harry Potter films.
-
03
Stonehenge
Monument in Salisbury
Stonehenge, an iconic symbol and famous stone circle of Britain’s rich historical heritage, has stood tall in the plains of Wiltshire for over 5,000 years. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it attracts visitors from all over the globe who come to marvel at its ancient stone structures and rolling hills.
The mysterious circle of upright stones is a testament to the engineering capabilities of Neolithic and Bronze Age people. The specific purpose of this monument is still unknown, adding to its intrigue and charm.
-
04
Day Trip to the Harry Potter Studios
Movie Location in Watford
The Harry Potter Studios welcomes all wizards, witches, and muggles for an enchanting experience. Officially called the “Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter,” this magical tour takes visitors behind the scenes of the beloved movie series. Highlights of the tour include:
- Exploring iconic sets, such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Platform 9 3/4
- Appreciating intricate costumes and special effects
- Discovering secrets from the filmmakers, like green screen technology and animatronics
- Sipping Butterbeer and devouring magical treats
-
05
Trip to Bath from London
Day Trip in Bath
Bath is a significant cultural hub celebrated for its Roman-built baths and distinct Georgian architecture. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, symbolising its remarkable contribution to human history.
Bath’s natural thermal springs have drawn people to its medicinal waters for over 2,000 years, marking its importance over the centuries.
-
06
Day Trip to Brighton from London
Day Trip in Brighton & Hove
Brighton is a vibrant, eclectic seaside town, more like a coastal city, known for its creative energy and liberal spirit. It’s an ideal day-trip from London destination because:
- Proximity: Easily accessible from London by train in under an hour.
- Diverse Attractions: Offers a variety of attractions — from beachfront fun to cultural experiences.
- Food and Shopping: Bursting with independent shops and a food scene to cater to all tastes.
-
07
Day Trip to Cotswolds from London
Day Trip in Cotswolds
The Cotswolds encapsulates the quintessential charm of the British countryside. Rolling green hills, honey-coloured stone cottages, quaint tea shops, and picture-perfect villages create a scenic panorama that’s unparalleled.
-
08
Day Trip to Dover
Day Trip in Dover
Dover, famously known for its gleaming white cliffs, is a port town rich in history and natural beauty. What makes Dover an exciting day trip destination includes:
- Diverse Historical Attractions: From an ancient Roman lighthouse to Victorian-era fortifications, Dover’s history is clear in its landscapes.
- Natural Beauty: The iconic white cliffs and Dover’s coastline offer stunning views.
- Accessibility: Dover is two hours away from London, which makes it perfect for a day trip.
-
09
Day Trip to Paris from London
Day Trip in Paris
That’s right, Paris is easily accessible from London for a day trip. Sure, you’ll have to leave early, perhaps stay in London the night before, and get back quite late, but it’s an incredible adventure with a ton of potential.
And as a side note, you don’t even need to go to Paris. Callais, Lille, and more are all within reach by train and the many train stations from London in less than a few hours.
-
10
Day Trip to Canterbury from London
Day Trip in Canterbury
By far one of the best day trips from London, Canterbury, a picturesque city and market town harbouring over 2,000 years of history, allures visitors with its tales of famous figures like Thomas Becket and Geoffrey Chaucer.
Its cobbled streets, medieval city walls, and stunning architecture whisper of a storied past, all available with a drive of just over two hours.
-
11
Day Trip from London to Cambridge
Day Trip in Cambridge
Cambridge, synonymous with its prestigious university, is an enchanting fusion of historic colleges with state-of-the-art innovation. Its beautiful classical architecture coexists with cutting-edge scientific discoveries, making it an extraordinary picturesque town, all just a train ride away.
-
12
Day Trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon from London
Day Trip in Stratford-Upon-Avon
Deeply intertwined with the life of the world’s most famous playwright, William Shakespeare, Stratford-Upon-Avon is a haven for literature lovers and history enthusiasts, nestled within England’s verdant heartland.
Is it worth taking a day trip from London?
As you can see, there are plenty of London day trips that offer a refreshing excursion from the hustle and bustle of capital city life. Destinations such as these enrich the exploratory spirit. They inspire, entertain, and offer a deeper understanding of the tapestry of English and European history and culture.
They give you and your family the chance to escape, have some adventure, and make some loving memories, all just a stone’s throw from London.
Start exploring these fantastic day trip destinations from London! There are stories to uncover, memories to forge, and unending experiences to gain.
The best destinations to visit on a day trip from London on a map
More ideas for your London trip
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from Facebook. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
More Information