I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – there is so much more to England than just London! And here you’ll be able to discover a few yourself with the very best day trips from London (and even one bonus non-England London day trip, just for fun).
Better yet, no car is necessary! Here’s a guide to my best London day trips using public transport.
London’s a city where the hustle and bustle can be as exhilarating as it is exhausting. While I love visiting the capital, I must admit after a day or two, I’m ready to head back into the countryside that I love so much more – give me fairytale villages over high-rise buildings any day of the week!
Now, you might be thinking that’s all well and good, but aren’t those places far away? Think again! What if I told you that some of the most stunning and enriching experiences lie just a short journey from this urban jungle? That’s right, London’s location is a gateway to an array of picturesque and historic destinations, each offering a unique escape from the capital’s pace.
In this guide, let’s meander through the English countryside, explore historic towns, and maybe even dip our toes in the sea. From the scholarly air of Oxford to the regal elegance of Windsor Castle, and the seaside charm of Brighton, this guide is your ticket to uncovering the hidden gems that lie within easy reach of London by train or bus.
Whether you’re a local seeking a brief respite from city life or a visitor looking to expand your English adventure, these day trips promise experiences that, for me, unveil the “real England. So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and embark on a journey through some of England’s most captivating destinations, just a stone’s throw from London (and accessible by public transport!).
Staying in London? Check out these guides to help plan your trip:
Best Day Trips From London
1. Oxford
Oxford looks like a chapter out of a fairytale: timeworn cobblestones and centuries-old stonework give way to spires looming overhead. It’s a classic day trip from London and with so much history to explore, Oxford always feels studious — the world’s oldest journal, Philosophical Transactions, was first printed here in 1665; Tolkien lived and worked here; generations of Nobel Prize laureates, Oscar winners and world leaders have ‘studied’ here — yet the city is also vibrant, featuring a calendar of art and musical events throughout the year. One can’t help but feel a sense of being in the company of history’s greatest minds while walking past the college buildings, nearly all of them with roots in the 13th century.
Funnily enough, I grew up very close to Oxford so it’s a city I know and love very well, here are some interesting facts about Oxford that you might now know:
- Oxford University is old, very old. It’s older than the Aztec empire by about 300 years!
- Oxford has more published authors per square mile than anywhere else in the world! Famous authors tied to Oxford include JRR Tolkien (The Lord of the Rings), Lewis Carroll (Alice in Wonderland), and CS Lewis (The Chronicles of Narnia).
- The first ever cups of coffee in England were served in The Grand Café in Oxford.
- Alice from Alice in Wonderland is a real child who was from Oxford, the stories of Alice in Wonderland were made to entertain her as they explored the botanical gardens (the oldest botanical gardens in the world).
- The Eagle and Child pub dates back to 1650 and was a meeting spot for The Inklings, a group of academics including Tolkien and CS Lewis – it’s currently up for rent if you’d like to own it!
- On the subject of Tolkien, he’s buried at Wolvercote cemetery alongside his wife, Edith. If you visit their graves you’ll see an engraving of Beren and Lúthien from the Silmarillion.
Getting there:
Getting from London to Oxford is quite straightforward and offers a couple of options depending on your preference, I’ve tried and tested both over the years and do often lean towards the bus as it’s so much cheaper!
Train – Services frequently run from London Paddington station and the journey typically takes about an hour. Train fares vary, but they generally range from £30 to £70, so it’s a good idea to book in advance for the best deals.
Bus – Stagecoach Oxfordshire operates buses from London Victoria Green Line Coach Station to St Aldates in Oxford every 20 minutes. The bus journey is a bit longer, taking about 2 hours, but it can be a way more economical choice with tickets costing between £13 and £18.
Must-See Attractions:
- Radcliffe Camera: A beacon of Oxford’s architectural prowess, the Radcliffe Camera, with its neoclassical dome, is a sight to behold. Though entry isn’t permitted (as it’s a university building!) its exterior and surroundings are a marvel in themselves.
- University Church of St Mary the Virgin: Situated right in front of the Radcliffe camera described above, climbing the bell tower of this gorgeous church offers the best views of Oxford!
- Christ Church College: Step into the world of Harry Potter with a visit to Christ Church College, famous for its connections to the beloved film series. The Great Hall and the iconic staircase are must-see highlights for Potter enthusiasts.
- Pitt Rivers Museum: For a touch of the prehistoric and the peculiar, this museum is quite the hidden gem! Hidden away at the back of the Museum of Natural History, here you’ll find a collection of.. well… just about anything.
Where to Eat:
- The Handle Bar: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at The Handle Bar, a hidden gem behind a bike shop that offers a full English breakfast to fuel your explorations.
- Covered Market: For lunch, meander through Oxford’s historic Covered Market. Here, you’ll find an array of local eateries, including Sasi’s Thai for an authentic culinary experience and Ben’s Cookies for a sweet treat.
- The Grand Cafe: Indulge in the quintessentially English tradition of afternoon tea at The Grand Cafe, a historic establishment that claims the title of England’s first coffee house.
Activities:
- Punting on the River: Glide along the serene waters of Oxford’s rivers with a punting experience. It’s a delightful way to see the city from a different perspective, with options for both self-punting and chauffeured experiences (I’d recommend self-punting if you’re up for a laugh!).
- Stroll in University Parks: For a peaceful respite, the University Parks offer lush greenery and tranquil paths, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
2. The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds, are a place where time seems to be content to pass at its own unhurried pace. A place from a storybook – slow-rolling hills, thatched roofs, and green and gold meadows. A place where things pass at a slower speed than the world of everyday bustle. A place to escape. It’s really hard to convey just how alluring strolling in the villages of The Cotswolds can be!
Every hamlet seems to tell its own story; a place where you’d find the perfect scone in a tea room, where an antiques shop would reveal a treasure trove of characterful possibility. It might be down to the architecture — it is, after all, the distinctly ‘honey’ colour of the buildings that is the first thing most people notice. But it is also a weight of history and tradition, a sense of something genuinely precious saturating the air that is so unique to the area.
As a local who doesn’t drive, the Cotswolds can definitely be visited from London using public transport and makes for a fantastic day trip! If you’d like to avoid the hassle of organising everything yourself there are of course plenty of tour options too.
The Journey from London:
The Cotswolds are a very rural area so you may find buses few and far between, however it is DEFINITELY possible to see my public transport. To reach the Cotswolds from London, you have a couple of options:
- Guided Tours: To be honest, if you don’t have a car, this is probably your easiest option. These tours often include transportation and guided visits to key attractions, providing a hassle-free way to explore the area.
- Trains and buses: As I mentioned it’s definitely possible, I grew up in the area and I don’t drive! Start by taking a train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh, a journey that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From Moreton-in-Marsh, local buses connect you to picturesque villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Chipping Campden. Bus services like Pulhams Coaches and Stagecoach run routes through the region, making it possible to explore the Cotswolds without a car. Planning ahead is recommended and there’s a route planner I’ve used many times on the Stagecoach website.
Enchanting Villages and Towns:
- Burford: Known as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds,” Burford has a historic high street lined with 17th and 18th-century homes. Don’t miss the Tolsey Museum and the Mad Hatters Bookshop, and for a quaint tea experience, Huffkins tearoom is a must-visit.
- Bourton-on-the-Water: Often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” this village is celebrated for its picturesque bridges crossing the River Windrush. Attractions include Birdland Park and Gardens and the Model Village.
- Stow-on-the-Wold and Bibury: These towns offer a glimpse into traditional Cotswold life. Stroll through Stow-on-the-Wold’s pretty streets and admire Bibury’s renowned Arlington Row, a row of historic stone cottages.
- Upper and Lower Slaughter: Despite their unusual names, these villages are among the prettiest in the Cotswolds. Explore the charming streets, the old Parish of St. Mary, and the Lower Slaughter Museum.
- Castle Combe: Often hailed as ‘the prettiest village in England’, a captivating snapshot of old-world charm nestled in the Cotswolds.
- Broadway: Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” is a charming village known for its picturesque High Street lined with honey-coloured stone buildings, quaint shops, and cosy tea rooms. Don’t miss visiting Broadway tower while you’re here!
Recommended Cotswolds Tours
- Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour: Includes a visit to Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water & Stow on the Wold. (£84 for a full-day tour)
- Small Group Cotswolds Villages Tour: Includes a visit to the honey-coloured cottages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Burford. (£105 for a full-day tour)
- Full-Day Cotswolds Tour with Lunch: Includes a visit to Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold with lunch included. (£118 for a full-day tour)
3. Bath
Bath, with its Georgian architecture and ancient Roman roots, is like stepping into a page from a Jane Austen novel. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the rolling hills of Somerset that exudes a charm both elegant and warmly inviting. Its cobbled streets lead you through a tapestry of historical treasures, from the famed Roman Baths to the majestic Bath Abbey. The essence of Bath isn’t just in its remarkable history; it’s in the strolls along the River Avon, the cosy afternoons in quaint cafes, and the artful blend of past and present.
Up until recently, I was living in Bath – I went to uni there and sort of stuck around for 6 years afterwards and I love it SO much so it’s very clear why I think it’s one of the best day trips from London!
Getting there
Getting to Bath is easy and I’d recommend taking the train if you’re looking to do a day trip from London, it’s faster than you’d think!
- By Train: The most common and convenient way to travel to Bath from London is by train. Services run from London’s Paddington Station directly to Bath Spa Railway Station. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Trains leave approximately every 30 minutes, making it a flexible day-tripper option.
- By Bus: For a more budget-friendly option, consider taking a coach. National Express operates comfortable coaches from London Victoria Coach Station to Bath. While this mode of travel is usually cheaper than the train, it takes longer – about 3 to 4 hours for a one-way journey.
Key Attractions in Bath:
- Royal Crescent: Start exploring the Royal Crescent, a striking example of Georgian architecture. Visit No. 1 Royal Crescent to delve into Georgian history, or indulge in a luxurious spa session at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. Don’t miss the famous yellow door, a symbol of individuality amidst the traditional white doors of the Crescent.
- The Circus: A short stroll from the Royal Crescent is The Circus, known for its unique curved architecture. This area offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to admire the intricate carvings and sculptures on the houses.
- Roman Baths: A visit to Bath is incomplete without exploring the Roman Baths. Although you can’t bathe in these historic waters, you can marvel at the ancient bathhouse and enjoy a sip of the mineral-rich water in the Pump Room Restaurant. To avoid crowds, it’s advisable to visit early in the day.
- Pulteney Bridge: This is one of the few bridges in the world with shops built into it. Wander across the bridge, explore the shops and cafes, and capture beautiful views of the River Avon and the iconic Pulteney Weir.
Read more on the best things to do with one day in Bath.
4. White Cliffs of Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover – there’s something truly magical about them. Standing atop these iconic chalky cliffs, you’re greeted with a view that’s nothing short of breathtaking. The vast expanse of the English Channel stretches out before you, with the distant shores of France occasionally visible on a clear day. These cliffs aren’t just a feast for the eyes; they’re steeped in history. They’ve stood as silent witnesses to wars and have been a symbol of hope and resilience to many. Walking along the cliff tops, with the sound of the waves crashing below and the sea breeze around you, it’s easy to feel a deep connection to the past and a serene escape from the present. Note – not to be confused with the Seven Sisters!
If you’re looking to see some gorgeous nature, the White Cliffs of Dover will make the perfect day trip from London.
Getting to the White Cliffs of Dover
- By Train: The fastest and one of the most popular ways to reach the White Cliffs of Dover is by train. Trains leave from London Victoria, London St Pancras International, and London Bridge stations, heading to Dover Priory Station. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with fares starting from around £25. Once you arrive at Dover Priory Station, a 12-minute taxi ride, costing approximately £13, will get you to the White Cliffs of Dover.
- By Coach: A more economical option is travelling by coach. National Express operates services from London Victoria Coach Station to Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre). The journey by coach takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, with fares starting from £26. You can take a 15-minute taxi ride from Dover Station to the White Cliffs, which will cost around £15.
- By Tour: For a hassle-free experience, consider joining a guided tour. Tours often combine visits to the White Cliffs of Dover with other attractions in Kent, such as the cathedral city of Canterbury (see some great tour options below!).
Exploring the White Cliffs of Dover
- Scenic Coastal Walk: A highlight of the trip is the scenic walk along the cliff tops, offering spectacular views of the English Channel and, on clear days, even a glimpse of France. The South Foreland Walk from the visitor centre to St. Margaret’s Bay is a popular route, providing a mix of coastal vistas, wildlife, and historical sites.
- Fan Bay Deep Shelter: Delve into history with a guided tour of the Fan Bay Deep Shelter, a network of WWII tunnels hidden beneath the cliffs.
- South Foreland Lighthouse: Visit this 18th-century lighthouse and enjoy a break at Mrs Knott’s Tearoom, located right outside the lighthouse, offering a unique 1950s vibe and delicious homemade cakes.
- Dover Castle & War Tunnels: Don’t miss Dover Castle, England’s largest castle, which offers vividly recreated medieval rooms and a view into the past. The War Tunnels further along are also a significant historical attraction.
Recommended Tours
- Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs: Join a day trip from London by bus to Kent, the Garden of England. Stop to visit Canterbury Cathedral, see the White Cliffs of Dover, and take a tour of Dover Castle, the country’s largest castle. (£105 for a full-day tour)
- White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day-Trip: Join this day tour from London and walk along the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover with spectacular coastal views. Explore the city of Canterbury on a walking tour and visit the majestic cathedral. (£85 for a full-day tour)
- Canterbury & White Cliffs of Dover Tour: Embark on a small-group tour of Kent from London. Spend a day exploring the 2 most iconic locations in the region: the cathedral city of Canterbury and the White Cliffs of Dover. (£89 for a full-day tour)
5. Windsor Castle
Any impression of stepping back in time is only enhanced by being at Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. As a monument to architecture and British history, what Roland Hill’s book Windsor Castle (1992) described as ‘a world in itself’, this working royal residence tells a story through the ages – each step a reminder that monarchs have lived and ceremonies started, baths bathed and battles fought here since King Henry I built a royal residence on the site in the late 11th century. To visit Windsor Castle, in short, is to walk in the Royal Family’s footsteps as they have done, by and large, for almost 1,000 years.
How to get there
- By Train: The most popular method to travel to Windsor Castle from London is by train. Two main routes cater to this journey:
- From London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central: This route requires a change at Slough. The entire journey typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
- From London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside: This is a direct route with a journey time of around 50 to 60 minutes.
- By Bus: Alternatively, you can opt for a bus journey. National Express operates services from London Victoria Coach Station to Windsor. Although more economical, the bus journey takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Top Attractions at Windsor Castle:
- State Apartments: These opulent apartments, renovated in the 17th and 19th centuries, display stunning gilded plaster ceilings, paintings by famous artists, and lavish furnishings. The rooms were restored after a fire in 1992, making them a testament to both history and resilience.
- Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: This large, intricate dollhouse, built for Queen Mary in the early 1920s, is a marvel of craftsmanship, featuring detailed miniatures and running water and electricity.
- St. George’s Chapel: This chapel is a site of significant historical importance, housing the tombs of 11 monarchs, including the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II. The chapel is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and an active place of worship.
- The Moat Room: Your visit starts with the Moat Room, where you can pick up a multimedia guide and view a bronze model of Windsor Castle as it appeared in 1377, along with a timeline of the castle’s history.
- The Semi-State Rooms: Available for viewing from autumn to spring, these rooms are the private apartments of George IV, known for their lavish decorations.
- The Changing of the Guard: This iconic ceremony takes place on select days and is a spectacular display of royal tradition.
Recommended Tours
- Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Bath, Lacock & Pub Lunch: Take a day trip to the West of England and explore the mysterious standing stones of Stonehenge, the royal castle at Windsor, and the historic city of Bath. (£119 for a full-day tour)
- Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: Escape central London and enjoy a half-day tour of Windsor. Journey by coach to the historic town, and benefit from entrance to Windsor Castle. See one of the royal family’s palaces and get some free time to explore the castle and grounds. (£75 for a half-day tour)
- Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Day Trip: Enjoy an exclusive opportunity to visit Stonehenge’s Inner Circle outside normal opening hours on a day trip from London. Choose to explore the historic market town of Windsor or visit Windsor Castle. (£145 for a full-day tour)
6. Brighton
Ah, Brighton! This seaside haven is a mosaic of vibrant culture, historic charm, and beachside bliss. It’s where the energy of city life seamlessly blends with the laid-back rhythm of the coast. Strolling along the iconic Brighton Palace Pier, you can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia mixed with the excitement of modern attractions. The sound of seagulls, the smell of salt in the air, and the sight of the endless sea horizon – it’s quintessentially British.
How to get there:
To get to Brighton from London, you have two main options: train or bus. By train, the journey typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are numerous trains per day, and tickets start from around £6 when booked in advance.
Alternatively, you can travel by bus. National Express operates coaches from London to Brighton, with the journey taking about 2 hours. Coaches leave from London Victoria Coach Station and run up to 19 times a day.
Must-Visit Attractions in Brighton:
- Brighton Palace Pier: Experience the quintessential British seaside at the iconic Brighton Palace Pier. Enjoy arcade games, fair rides, and classic seaside treats like ice cream and fish and chips.
- Brighton Beach: Spend some leisurely time on Brighton’s famous pebbly beach. Relax with a drink as you take in the scenic views of the coastline.
- The Royal Pavilion: Explore the Royal Pavilion, an architectural marvel with a rich history and stunning Indian and Chinese-inspired design. Inside, you’ll find beautifully decorated rooms such as the Banqueting Room and the Music Room.
- British Airways i360: For breathtaking views, ascend the British Airways i360 observation tower. At 162 metres high, it offers panoramic vistas of the city, the English Channel, and the South Downs.
- Brighton Lanes: Wander through the Brighton Lanes, a maze of narrow alleyways filled with boutique shops, cafes, and historic charm. The area is perfect for souvenir shopping and exploring local eateries.
- Hove Beach Huts: Take a stroll to the nearby town of Hove to see the colourful beach huts, a charming and Instagram-worthy sight along the seafront.
Where to Eat:
- Marine Tavern: For a taste of traditional British pub food, head to Marine Tavern, known for its Sunday roasts and cosy atmosphere.
- Sunbirds Deli: This Mediterranean deli on London Road offers delicious breakfasts, mezze plates, and sandwiches, perfect for a lunch stop.
- Manju’s: Indulge in authentic Indian cuisine at Manju’s, renowned for its diverse menu of curries, thalis, and chaat.
Evening Activities:
Brighton’s nightlife is vibrant and eclectic. Enjoy a drink at Brighton Rocks, a local favourite cocktail bar, or visit The Prince Albert near the train station for craft beer and a bohemian vibe. The Prince Albert is also known for its impressive mural.
7. Kew Gardens
Just a short journey from the heart of London, Kew Gardens is a world away from the hustle and bustle. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a botanical paradise, home to over 50,000 living plants. Wander through the iconic Palm House, where tropical plants flourish, or climb the Treetop Walkway for a bird’s-eye view of the gardens. Don’t miss the Waterlily House, with its giant lily pads, and the serene Japanese Garden, which offers a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or simply looking to relax, Kew Gardens provides a rejuvenating escape that feels miles away from the city.
Getting There: Kew Gardens is easily accessible by public transport. The closest Tube station is Kew Gardens (District Line), just a 5-minute walk from the main entrance. Alternatively, you can take the Overground to Kew Bridge Station, followed by a short walk.
Must-See Attractions:
- Palm House: Explore this Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic plants from tropical climates.
- Treetop Walkway: Take in the stunning views from 18 meters above ground level.
- Temperate House: The world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, home to rare and endangered plants.
- Kew Palace: Visit the former royal residence and its beautiful gardens.
Where to Eat:
- The Orangery: Enjoy a light lunch or afternoon tea in this stunning 18th-century building.
- Victoria Plaza Café: A great spot for sandwiches, salads, and hot drinks.
8. York
York as a day trip from London might sound ambitious, but with modern high-speed trains, it’s completely possible. York, a city with Roman roots and Viking history, is one of the most charming destinations you could hope to explore. Start your day by walking along the historic city walls, followed by a visit to York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. Take a stroll down the Shambles, a medieval street lined with picturesque shops and timber-framed buildings that feel like stepping into another era.
Getting There: The train from London Kings Cross to York takes just under 2 hours. Trains are frequent, making a day trip entirely feasible.
Must-See Attractions:
York Minster: One of the finest cathedrals in the world, York Minster is a testament to Gothic architecture at its best.
The Shambles: Walk down this iconic medieval street for an unforgettable glimpse of the past.
City Walls: Walk along York’s city walls, which offer panoramic views of the city and a unique perspective on its history.
Jorvik Viking Museum: Step back in time to explore the sights, sounds, and smells of the Viking era at this immersive museum.
Where to Eat:
Bettys Café Tea Rooms: A classic spot for afternoon tea or a delicious light lunch.
Guy Fawkes Inn: Enjoy a traditional pub meal at this historic inn, the birthplace of Guy Fawkes.
Shambles Food Market: For a more casual option, head to Shambles Food Market, where you’ll find a variety of street food vendors offering everything from local specialities to international cuisine.
Bonus: Paris!
I know I know I sound crazy, Paris as a day trip from London? What?
While a day trip to Paris might sound ambitious, the Eurostar makes it possible to experience the magic of the French capital in a single day. From the moment you step off the train at Gare du Nord, Paris enchants with its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine. Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, then stroll along the Seine, taking in the sights of Notre-Dame and the Louvre. If time permits, indulge in some shopping at the Champs-Élysées or relax in the tranquil Luxembourg Gardens. Paris in a day is a whirlwind, but it’s an unforgettable experience that’s well worth the trip.
Getting There: The Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord takes just over 2 hours. Trains run frequently, making it easy to plan a day trip.
Must-See Attractions:
- Eiffel Tower: No visit to Paris is complete without seeing this iconic landmark.
- Louvre Museum: Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece with stunning architecture.
- Sainte-Chapelle: Admire the breathtaking stained glass windows.
Where to Eat:
- Le Comptoir du Relais: A quintessential Parisian bistro known for its French classics.
- Café de Flore: One of the oldest coffeehouses in Paris, perfect for people-watching.
In conclusion, whether you’re seeking the tranquil beauty of the countryside or the cultural allure of nearby cities, these day trips from London offer something for every traveller. From the enchanting villages of the Cotswolds to the vibrant streets of Paris, each destination provides a unique escape from the bustling city life. So, hop on a train, and within just a few hours, you’ll find yourself immersed in new experiences, making memories that last long after your return to London.
