30 Best Day Trips from London (2025)

Planning a trip to London? Keep reading for a guide to 30 of the best day trips from London, England!

London is an incredible city – you could spend weeks there and find something new to do each day.

After awhile, though, it can be nice to escape the hustle and bustle of things and find a change of scenery.

If you’re going to be visiting London for more than a couple of days, consider taking a day trip from London to one (or more) of the amazing cities, towns, and sights that England has to offer.

With the help of some of my fellow travel bloggers, I have put together a round-up of some of the best day trips from London.

This is one of the most comprehensive guides to day trips from London that you’ll find!

These day trips are all traveler-recommended and perfect for both newbie and experienced travelers. They’re not just the typical day trip suggestions, either – in this guide, you’ll find both popular day trip destinations as well as more off-the-beaten-path London day trips.

Whether you’re into beautiful British castles, beaches, unique cities, or quaint English villages, there is a perfect day trip on this list for you!

No car? No worries! These destinations can be easily reached via public transportation from London.

If you’d rather leave the planning to the experts, many of them can also be done on a guided tour. If you go this route, they’ll likely organize your transportation, visits to attractions, and maybe even lunch, so that you can stick to enjoying your trip without having to worry about the logistics.

If you do happen to have a car, many of these trips are perfect to add to your UK road trip itinerary.

Are you ready to plan an unforgettable day trip from London? Keep reading for a list of unforgettable day trips, including how to get there, what to do, where to eat, and more!

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Best Day Trips from London

1. Stonehenge & Bath Combo Day Trip

Stonehenge is a bucket list item for so many travelers, and I had to fit it into my itinerary when I visited London.

After doing some research, I decided to take a day trip to Stonehenge and Bath from London. Since they’re close together, it’s the perfect combination for an escape from the hustle and bustle of London!

You can easily reach Stonehenge and Bath via public transportation from London, and there are also lots of guided tour options to visit Stonehenge and Bath.

I decided to do the day trip pretty last-minute, so I ended up going with a guided tour of Stonehenge and Bath from London in order to minimize the amount of planning required.

After boarding the bus, the tour departed London for a nearly 2-hour drive to Stonehenge.

After arriving at the Stonehenge Visitor Center, we were given about an hour and a half to explore the Stone Circle and the excellent museum at the visitor center.

This was plenty of time to explore, though I could have used a little more time to see the museum’s exhibits in more depth.

Seeing Stonehenge for the first time was definitely a bucket-list-worthy experience.

I had always heard that many travelers found Stonehenge to be underwhelming, but I didn’t find this to be true at all. It was surreal to finally be seeing such a historic monument in person rather than in a history book!

Though you can’t walk right up to the stones (if you want to get up-close-and-personal, head to the nearby Avebury Stone Circle), it was still incredible to see them from afar.

If you’re visiting Stonehenge on a DIY-day trip from London, you can pre-book your Stonehenge entry tickets online.

After our time at Stonehenge, we boarded the coach and had lunch on the go before arriving in Bath.

Upon arriving in Bath, we took a quick walking tour of the city. Our excellent guide showed us some of the city’s top sights while teaching us about the history of Bath and its beautiful architecture.

After our walking tour, we visited the city’s namesake and most important attraction: The Roman Baths. If you’re visiting Bath, this is an unmissable attraction!

Other must-dos in Bath include visiting the incredible Bath Abbey and trying a Cornish pasty, a traditional English food. The ones from The Cornish Bakery are delicious!

Stonehenge & Bath Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Stonehenge from London: If you’d prefer using public transportation, take the South Western Railway from London Waterloo to Salisbury. From Salisbury, take the Stonehenge Tour Bus to Stonehenge.

Make sure to book your Stonehenge admission ticket in advance of your day trip.

Getting to Bath from Stonehenge: Take the Stonehenge Tour Bus (all tickets are round-trip) back to Salisbury. From there, take a 53-minute train ride to Bath. When you’re ready to return to London, take the train from Bath to London Paddington.

Visiting Stonehenge & Bath on a Guided Tour from London: If you’re going to be traveling at peak times, guided tours from London to Stonehenge and Bath may actually be cheaper and more convenient than taking public transportation.

Plan your route in advance to check prices and times so that you can compare them to prices of the guided tours and determine which option is best for you and your budget.

Here are some of the most popular Stonehenge and Bath combo day tours from London – some even visit other day trip sites along the way like Windsor Castle!

• Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London – my #1 pick, more than 1600 5-star reviews
• Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London
• Stonehenge Inner Circle and Bath Tour from London – see Stonehenge up close with an Inner Circle tour

2. Windsor and Windsor Castle

Contributed by Nancy Roberts from Mapandfamily.com

Windsor, on the outskirts of London, is famous for its beautiful castle, the favorite home of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Almost 1000 years old, Windsor Castle is still a working royal palace, and parts of it are open to the public making it a popular day or half-day tour from London.

It was here that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married in 2018 at St George’s Chapel on the grounds of the castle, and it’s also where Queen Elizabeth II is buried. On both occasions, a Royal Procession passed along the formal Long Walk through Windsor Great Park to the castle gates.

The Windsor Long Walk is a path that runs straight as an arrow from the castle and through the royal park to a statue on the top of Snow Hill, two and a half miles away. Walking the Long Walk is one of the best things to do in Windsor, and it’s completely free.

The Walk is flanked by a grand avenue of trees, first planted in the 17th century, and runs through a deer park which was once the hunting ground of Henry VIII.

The path slopes up to Snow Hill which is topped by a bronze statue of King George III on horseback. When you reach the statue you have an amazing bird’s eye view of the park and the Walk, with Windsor Castle in the distance.

If you plan to do the complete walk, it’s more than five miles in total, so take water and sunscreen as there’s little shade and no cafés en route. Or you could just walk part of the way and enjoy the peace and quiet, sense of history, and great views.

After exploring, pop into the Two Brewer Pub at the entrance to the Walk for a hearty pub lunch. Or walk back into town to find more quintessential British pubs and some lovely places for afternoon tea like the historic Castle Hotel.

Then, head to Eton Bridge to watch the swans swim by on the River Thames.

Windsor Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Windsor from London: Windsor is less than an hour from London, making it one of the easiest and most popular day trips from the city.

The easiest way to get to Windsor from London is by train. There’s a direct service from Waterloo station in London to Eton Riverside, just a few minutes walk from the town center.

If London’s Paddington station is more convenient, trains run to Windsor and Eton Central station, also very close to the castle, with one change at Slough.

In both cases, the journey takes under an hour. Tickets are required to visit the castle; you can book your Windsor Castle entry tickets here.

Being such a popular day trip destination, there are also countless guided day trips to Windsor and Windsor Castle from London.

If you really want to maximize your sightseeing on your day trip, choose one of the combination day tours that visit Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath.

3. Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter

Contributed by Manouk of Groetjes uit Verweggistan

If you’re a true Harry Potter fan, this is something you don’t want to miss: a visit to the original filming location of all eight Harry Potter films.

The Harry Potter Studios are located in Leavesden, which is easy to reach from London.

After taking a 20-minute train journey from London Euston station to Watford Junction, you cannot miss the signs directing you to the shuttle bus. The shuttle ride takes another 15 minutes and drops you off in front of the entrance. Then, the magic begins!

As you enter you are welcomed in as a group, but after your first magical visit to the Great Hall, you get to wander around the sets by yourself at your own pace.

Marvel at all the wonderful props, stroll around Diagon Alley, and take thousands of pictures. I had a very magical day and I am sure you will too!

The Studio Tour features a lot of different film sets and especially a lot of props. There are even recreations of famous sets, like the Forbidden Forest and Gringotts Wizarding Bank.

The studio hosts special events throughout the year, such as during Christmastime. They incorporate the theme into the experience, so you will see Christmas cards, Christmas dinner, and Hogwarts in the snow if you come during the winter months.

In addition to Christmas, they have many more of these special themes throughout the year.

Don’t forget to take a break from all the exploring and try some of the famous butterbeer.

You can only get this in a few places in the world, such as the theme parks in the United States and at the Studio Tour. Make sure you don’t miss it!

It doesn’t contain any alcohol and is family-friendly – I highly recommend trying some of this sweet, delicious drink!

Warner Bros. Studios Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Warner Bros. Studios from London: Take a short train ride from London Euston Station to Watford Junction. From there, follow the signs to the shuttle bus that takes you to the studios.

Tickets are required for the studio tour. They must be booked in advance and tend to sell out – you can book them here.

You can also book a tour of the studios that includes the studio tour ticket and transportation from London.

PRO TIP: Sometimes, you can still book tours even if regular tickets to the studios are sold out.

This is the perfect way to visit the studios if you don’t want the hassle of planning the day trip yourself, or if you procrastinated and didn’t book advance tickets in time!

4. Cambridge

Contributed by Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

Cambridge may be best known for being home to the famous University, but it is so much more than that.

It’s a picturesque city that has something for everyone whether you are interested in history, art, or adventure.

Cambridge University was founded back in 1209 and is made up of 31 colleges. It’s the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world!

Most colleges allow visitors, although access may be limited during the school term. I suggest you try to visit at least one. My favorites are King’s College, St. John’s, and Trinity College (check the visitor’s center for prices).

The King’s College Chapel has some of the most amazing stained glass you will ever see. At Trinity College, don’t miss the Wren Library, designed by Christopher Wren.

Additionally, the University has eight museums that are open to the public. You should definitely visit the Fitzwilliam Museum and the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology, which are always free.

If it’s nice weather, you must try punting on the Cam River.

Punting uses a boat similar to a gondola, where you stand on the back to paddle, but you use a pole instead of an oar.

If you’re not brave enough to try it on your own, you can hire someone else to do the punting or go on a punting tour through the lovely area known as The Backs.

It is easy to do a Cambridge day trip from London. The train ride from London to Cambridge is only an hour and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of the train station.

Cambridge Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Cambridge from London: Take the Great Northern Railway train from London Kings Cross Station to Cambridge. The train ride takes about an hour.

Guided tours of Cambridge from London: You can also opt to take a guided tour of Cambridge from London, which includes transportation from London as well as a local guide who takes you around Cambridge’s top sites.

This Cambridge day tour from London is one of the top-rated tours.

You can also combine Cambridge with another famous university town on a day trip to Cambridge and Oxford from London.

5. Oxford

Contributed by Laura of What’s Hot Blog

Oxford is just over an hour away from London and is one of the best places to visit on a day trip.

It is both a city in its own right and home to the world-famous Oxford University making it a very popular destination for tourists. You can explore the university colleges (38 in total!), museums and open spaces.

Start with the most famous Oxford college, Christ Church (check the official website for ticket prices as they change by season), also known as the “Harry Potter” college.

It’s one of the oldest and largest colleges and there are a number of Harry Potter filming locations dotted around too.

Then, head to the Ashmolean Museum (free except for special exhibitions), where they host an impressive permanent collection of Egyptian artifacts as well as contemporary art.

Make sure you take a wander around Radcliffe Square in the center of Oxford where you will see the iconic Radcliffe Camera, an enormous round library.

What a lot of people don’t know is that Oxford is also a little haven for foodies. There are tons of cute coffee shops and cafes serving up a mean brunch in Oxford 

I’d recommend ducking your head into either Turl Street Kitchen, Handle Bar Cafe, or George Street Social during your Oxford day trip.

Oxford Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Oxford from London: Get to Oxford via the Oxford Tube (which is actually a bus!) or hop on the train at London Paddington.

Bus tickets cost about £20 for a return trip and take you to the center of Oxford.

A return train ticket can cost as little as £7 if you book in advance, but the station is a 15-20 minute walk outside of the Oxford city center.

Rather have the day trip planned for you? Consider booking a guided tour including transportation from London to Oxford and the Cotswolds.

6. White Cliffs of Dover

Contributed by Sophie and Adam from We Dream of Travel

If you’re looking for a day trip from London to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the White Cliffs of Dover is a perfect option.

An iconic part of the UK, the white chalk cliffs stretch for over 16 miles along the south coast of England and provide a variety of walking trails for all abilities.

The most popular trail is the 2-mile South Foreland Lighthouse trail.  This easy trail meanders across the cliffs through chalk grassland, where you can appreciate the grandeur of these mighty 350-foot-high cliffs.

Along the way you can admire sweeping views of the English Channel, even catching a glimpse of France in the distance on a clear day.

At the end of the trail, you can stop at Mrs Knott’s Tea Room for a bite to eat.  Alternatively, pack a picnic to enjoy.

To make the most of your day trip, consider including a visit to nearby Dover Castle.  The 11th-century castle is the largest castle in England, set impressively atop the cliffs overlooking to town and ocean.

White Cliffs of Dover Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Dover from London: It is easy to reach the White Cliffs of Dover from London by train or car.

If visiting by car, the drive is a little under 2 hours and parking costs £5 at the National Trust car park.

For those planning to visit by train, the closest station is Dover Priory which takes just over an hour from St. Pancras or just under two hours from Victoria or Charing Cross. 

You can then walk or take a taxi from the station to the cliffs.

There are also a number of great day tour options to Dover from London. One of the top-rated tours includes a guided visit to the White Cliffs of Dover as well as Canterbury and Leeds Castle.

7. Manchester

Contributed by Danila of Traveling Dany

Not many people know that Manchester, also known as “Cottonopolis”, in reference to the predominance of the cotton industry there, is only 2 hours away from London by train.

The easy-to-use trains and the Metroshuttle, free buses that will allow you to explore Manchester City, make it the perfect budget day trip from London, for every kind of traveler!

Manchester is the music capital of England, where amazing bands like Oasis, The Smiths, Simply Red, The Bee Gees, and many others have started singing.

If you’re a music lover, you can map an itinerary and go through the iconic studios and venues where your favorite bands have been playing!

Those who are on a tight budget will be pleased to know that museums in Manchester are completely free.

There’s something from everyone, from a super-cool Museum of Science and Industry to the often controversial exhibits at the Manchester Art Gallery.

They even have a National Football Museum, though it’s not free unless you’re a Manchester resident. Buy your tickets here!

Manchester is also home to two stunning libraries. The first one is Chetham’s Library, which is included in the list of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It was founded in 1653 and also houses a music school.

The other one is known as the “Real life Hogwarts”. Walking inside the John Rylands Library will in fact make you feel like stepping inside the world created by J.K. Rowling.

This Victorian neo-Gothic building, located on Deansgate in Manchester, with its imposing columns and high ceilings, is also one of the most Instagrammable spots in town!

The best thing of all is that both libraries can be visited for free!

Wear comfortable shoes and leave London early in the morning if you want to make the best out of your trip to Manchester. This beautiful Northern city won’t disappoint!

Manchester Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Manchester from London: For your Manchester day trip, take the train from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly. The trip will take about 2 hours.

After arriving in Manchester, you can ride the free Metroshuttle buses around the explore the city.

8. Stratford-upon-Avon

Contributed by Maria of In Between Lattes

Stratford-upon-Avon is a lovely medieval town located along the banks of the River Avon. Among other things, it is a popular destination for being Shakespeare’s birthplace.

For an in-depth understanding of Shakespeare’s fascinating personal life, I highly recommend purchasing the Shakespeare’s Story Ticket, which gives you access to 3 family homes and gardens at a steep discount (and you get to skip the lines!).

The highlight will definitely be stepping into the house where he was born and spent his early childhood years. After the Shakespeare tour, take a stroll along the beautiful canal – you’ll find lots of photogenic different birds, ducks, and swans.

If you fancy a bite before heading back to London, I definitely recommend called El Greco. The restaurant is run by a Greek and British couple and serves authentic Greek cuisine.

Another interesting stop in the town center is the small boutique called The Nutcracker Christmas Shop. It specializes in Christmas decoration items in all shapes and forms. It’s the perfect place to grab a handmade souvenir!

If you’re looking for a day trip from London that mixes history & nature, you’ll absolutely love Stratford-upon-Avon!

Stratford-upon-Avon Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Stratford-upon-Avon from London: At this time, there are no direct trains or buses from London to Stratford-upon-Avon.

The quickest train journey takes about 2.5-3 hours and requires you to transfer to Birmingham.

Because of this, the easiest way to visit Stratford-upon-Avon on a day trip from London is by guided tour.

Guided tours depart London early in the morning, transporting you directly to Stratford-upon-Avon and taking you around to all of the sights.

There are several tours to choose from, but this is one of the highest-rated Stratford-upon-Avon tours from London.

9. The Cotswolds

Contributed by Jyoti and Nirmal of Story at Every Corner

If you’re looking for a quintessential English countryside experience close to London, the Cotswolds are the place to go.

The easiest day to visit the Cotswolds on a day trip is by taking a guided tour from London, but you can also self-drive.

On a guided tour, you’ll visit the Cotswolds in a van small enough to navigate the narrow streets of the region.

Many tours include visits to Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford in addition to the Cotswolds. This is great if you’re short on time and want to see a lot in one day.

You can also book a guided tour that only visits the Cotswolds, so that you’ll have more time to explore this beautiful region.

A visit to the Cotswolds would be perfect for a weekend or an overnight stay at one of the many boutique hotels or bed & breakfasts.

Don’t miss a stop at the famous Huffkins Tea Room for a snack and a cup of tea. Huffkins is located in the market square in Cheltenham along with many boutique shops and an old pub which in itself could take a few hours to explore.

Another must-stop is Bibury. With its beautiful restaurants and picture-perfect cottages, it lends itself to amazing photography.

Cotswolds Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to the Cotswolds from London: The easiest way to visit the Cotswolds on a day trip from London is by taking a guided tour.

There are several different day trips to choose from, including dedicated Cotswolds tours and tours that visit other popular day trip spots like Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon.

Here are some of the top-rated guided day tours of the Cotswolds from London:

• Small-Group Cotswolds Tour from London – visit Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold in one day
• Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages from London – visit Oxford and the Cotswolds villages of Burford and Bibury
• Oxford, Stratford, Cotswolds, & Warwick Castle from London – see it all on this day tour

10. York

Contributed by Sinead from York Travel Expert

The historic City of York is just under two hours by a direct fast train from London Kings Cross.

York city center is a 10-minute walk from the rail station and, as York is a small compact city, you can visit all your day trip to York attractions on foot.

Grab a coffee from Brew & Brownie before arriving at York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe. If the weather is good, climb the 275 winding steps to the top of the central tower for a 360-degree view of York.

Live like a local and walk York city walls – the longest city walls in England – which date back to the medieval era.

Leave the walls at Bootham Bar, one of the city’s medieval gateways, and walk past the Tudor and Victorian buildings on Petergate and Stonegate to reach the city center.

Pick up a street food lunch from the diverse Shambles Market before exploring the adjacent Shambles, a short cobbled medieval-era street said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies.

Spend your afternoon visiting one of the city’s world-class museums such as the Jorvik Viking Centre, the York Castle Museum, or the National Railway Museum.

Alternatively, explore a historic house such as the Victorian Mansion House (home of the Lord Mayor of York) or the Georgian Fairfax House.

Pick up a Fat Rascal bun from Betty’s, York’s iconic tearooms before taking a boat trip on the River Ouse.

Before catching your train back to London, stop for dinner and a pint of craft beer at The House of Trembling Madness on Stonegate. This lively, medieval ale house encourages guests to sit together on long benches, so you are sure to make new friends before departing the City of York.

York Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to York from London: York is an easy train ride from London that takes around 2 hours.

Direct trains to York depart from Kings Cross Station in London throughout the day.

Pro York Travel Tip: The York City Pass is a great value if you want to maximize your York sightseeing on your day trip.

For one price, the York City Pass includes admission to 20 of York’s top attractions that you’d want to see on your day trip including York Minster, various historic houses, and museums like the Jorvik Viking Centre and the National Railway Museum (among others).

It even includes a York City Cruise, which is one of the best things to do in the city.

11. Southampton

Contributed by Alice from Adventures of Alice

Located, as you might imagine, along England’s south coast, Southampton is a fantastic place to visit from London.

It’s one of the most historic places to visit in southern England with old-fashioned houses, crumbling old walls, and ruins of once-spectacular abbeys nearby.

There are several ways to get to Southampton from London, including by car or train.

When you get to the city, there is plenty to keep you busy. If you love history, head straight to the old Tudor Houses in the city center.

Tudor House and Garden is a fantastic 15th-century building in St. Michael’s Square, and the nearby Medieval Merchant’s house is also worth a visit.

Then, you can walk along the city walls, visit the SeaCity Museum to learn about the Titanic, and explore Bargate, the former defensive structure in the Old Town.

The ill-fated Titanic departed from Southampton for her first and last journey. If you want to learn more about the ship’s history, there’s also a highly-rated Titanic walking tour of Southampton.

For food, head to the Quay, where you’ll find a range of great restaurants.

Southampton Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Southampton from London: When planning your Southampton day trip, you can choose between driving or taking the train.

Driving will take between 1 hour 50 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes depending on the route you take and the traffic that day. If you avoid rush hour, you’ll probably be closer to the former on time.

There are direct trains from London Waterloo and London Victoria to Southampton Central, and they both take 1 hour and 30 minutes or less.

It’s safe to say that the train is definitely both the easier and quicker option because you also won’t have to worry about where to park when you arrive in Southampton. 

12. Salisbury

Contributed by Sarah from Slow Travel

Salisbury is a really easy day trip from London – a direct train from Waterloo takes you to the heart of the Wiltshire countryside in just 90 minutes. It is only a further five-minute walk to the center of the medieval city and all of its attractions.

The beautiful 800-year-old Salisbury Cathedral dominates the city. It’s a major attraction for visitors and is home to the tallest spire in the country, the largest cloisters, and the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta, the document from 1215 which was the blueprint for the US Constitution.

A tour up the tower is a unique opportunity to see inside the spire and to step out onto the parapet with wide-reaching views over the city to the hills beyond.

Both the Cathedral Close and the city are home to countless medieval buildings, many of which are open to the public – why not eat a meal in the timber-framed Prezzo with its wooden fireplace, or watch a film in the medieval Odeon cinema?

St. Thomas’s Church, built for the cathedral’s builders, is home to the largest and best-preserved Doom Painting in the UK.

The nearby Roman fort of Old Sarum has exceptional views over the city and the surrounding countryside, or you could follow in the footsteps of artist John Constable and take a wander down the River Avon through the ancient Harnham Water Meadows.

Salisbury is not all about heritage and nature though. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from, both chains and independently owned, as well as a thriving theatre and Arts Center.

Everywhere is accessible by foot, and at the end of a busy day, it is just a quick walk back to the station to catch one of the many trains an hour back to the capital.

Salisbury Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Salisbury from London: Salisbury is easily reached from London by train.

Direct trains depart from London Waterloo Station frequently throughout the day, taking you to Salisbury in just 1.5 hours.

If you’d prefer to take a guided tour, there are a few options to choose from. Most tours combine Salisbury with a visit to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle since Stonehenge is near Salisbury and Windsor Castle is on the way from London.

These tours primarily focus on Salisbury Cathedral though, so if you want to explore more parts of the city you’ll be better off planning your own day trip by train.

13. Coventry

Contributed by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Coventry makes for a fun, unique, and convenient day trip from London, and is just over an hour away from London Euston on the fast train.

You can pack a lot into one day in Coventry, a charming city that often goes under the radar in favor of its neighbors, Birmingham and Stratford-Upon-Avon.

Coventry is steeped in history, offering lots of intriguing hidden gems. About 900 years back, Lady Godiva made her legendary protest by riding naked through Coventry’s streets on horseback, against her husband’s imposed tax.

You’ll spot the iconic Lady Godiva statue proudly astride her horse in the city center, along with the intriguing ‘Peeping Tom’ bust, caught in the act of gazing at her!

Other fun things to do in Coventry include a visit to the iconic Coventry Cathedral – one of England’s renowned Cathedrals.

During World War II, Coventry experienced some of the most intense bombings in the UK, surpassing even London in its intensity. In the midst of the Blitz, the medieval Coventry Cathedral faced complete destruction.

Today, you can explore the ruins of the Old Cathedral, a poignant reminder of the past, and visit the adjacent New Cathedral, both equally striking in the daytime and beautifully illuminated in the evening.

Coventry has plenty of shops too if you wish to do some retail therapy and last-minute shopping!

It is also one of the UK’s most exciting food destinations so there are many places to visit for lunch or dinner.

If you are keen to experience a British pub then head to The Flying Standard, an atmospheric pub in the center of town, for some great English pub food at very affordable prices!

Coventry Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Coventry from London: It’s super easy to get to Coventry from London via train.

Direct trains depart from London Euston Station. The duration of the trip depends on which operator is running the train.

Avanti West Coast trains get to Coventry from London in just an hour, while London Northeastern Railway trains take nearly 2 hours. Make sure to book an Avanti West Coast train for the quickest trip!

14. Legoland Windsor

Contributed by Chris of England Explore

It’s sometimes tough to keep kids happy on a trip – even to somewhere as packed with things to do as London.

That’s the situation we found ourselves in a couple of months ago, and so we decided to check out Legoland Windsor.

Legoland is located about 20 miles away from London down the M4 in the historic town of Windsor, which itself is a great place to visit. The park is well-signposted from the motorway.

If you’d prefer not to drive, you can take the Elizabeth line from London Paddington to Slough, then hop on the #703 bus that takes you right to the Legoland entrance.

Follow the attraction’s advice and book your tickets online beforehand so that you can bypass the ticket queues at the park.

Legoland is really two parks in one. There’s a fantastic range of Lego builds – everything from London landmarks to Star Wars characters – and a range of more regular theme park rides such as a haunted house and rapids ride called Land of the Vikings.

We were all more impressed with the Lego models. They use over 2 million bricks to create whole cities and characters and are seriously impressive.

The rides, although fun, were not as spectacular as in some more traditional theme parks, like the nearby Thorpe Park. The rides also attracted long queues – the shortest wait time was 45 minutes.

Overall this was a great day out for the whole family. Legoland is recommended for anyone with children – especially between 5 and 12 – and for big kids too. It’s the perfect day trip to take from London with kids!

Legoland Windsor Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Legoland from London: Legoland Windsor is just a 40-minute drive from central London. If you don’t have a car though, you can get there via train and bus in a little more than an hour.

First, hop on the Elizabeth Line at Paddington Station (or any other London station with a stop on the Elizabeth Line). Go towards Reading, getting off at Slough.

From Slough, you’ll have a short walk to Wellington Street Bus Stop H, where you’ll board the line #703 bus for a 30-minute ride to the Legoland entrance.

Purchasing Legoland Windsor Tickets: For the best value, make sure to purchase your Legoland Windsor admission tickets in advance of your visit.

15. Leeds Castle

Contributed by Karen from Forever Karen

Located in Maidstone, Kent, it takes a little over an hour to drive to Leeds Castle estate from London. Alternatively, the journey by train from Victoria Station to Bearstead takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.

It’s the quintessential fairytale castle, surrounded by a moat and hundreds of acres of land.

Often called the “loveliest castle in the world,” the estate oozes romance. So, it’s not surprising it hosts many weddings and other events.

Expect to spend the day touring the extensive castle and grounds. While the tickets are pricey, they’ll give you access to the castle for one year.

The Kent castle offers an interesting history. It was rebuilt several times, used as a hospital during the war, and home to six queens.

The interior offers a mix of Tudor and medieval elements. Don’t miss the ornate ceiling in the Heraldry Room and the palatial Queen’s Bathroom. Outside the castle, the “dog collar museum” provides an unusual display with some barbaric examples.

The parklands invite visitors to stroll, and the area around the lake makes for a great picnic spot. Behind the castle lies a favorite site for families. The fantastic hedge maze tests their skill at reaching the center and exiting through an intriguing shell-lined grotto.

Nearby, the Birds of Prey Centre runs a falconry show every weekday afternoon in the summer. Here, you can see a mix of owl species, hawks, eagles, and goshawks.

If you haven’t packed a picnic, the Castle View Restaurant has a great selection of meals and snack food, which you can enjoy in an oak-beamed dining space.

Leeds Castle Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Leeds Castle from London: You can easily visit Leeds Castle on a day trip from London by car or train. The castle is about an hour’s drive from London.

If you’re taking public transportation, the easiest way to get to Leeds Castle is by taking the train from London Victoria Station to Bearsted, which takes a little over an hour. From there, you can take the Leeds Castle shuttle, a short taxi ride, or even walk to the Castle.

Don’t want to deal with the hassle of a rental car or navigating public transportation on your own? You can take a guided day trip to Leeds Castle from London, which also includes visits to the White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury.

Purchasing Tickets to Leeds Castle: Tickets are required to visit Leeds Castle. You can pre-book your tickets here. These tickets include admission to the castle itself, the gardens, and the attractions around the grounds.

16. Liverpool

Contributed by Kenny of Knycx Journeying

While many tourists may visit York, Manchester, or Leeds as an excursion from London, consider taking a day trip to Liverpool.

The coastal city is the birthplace of The Beatles and is the fifth-largest metropolitan area in the UK.

The urban area of the city is small enough that it can be easily explored on foot.

It takes about 2.5 to get to Liverpool from London’s Euston railway station and takes about 20 minutes to reach the city’s waterfront from Liverpool’s Lime Street Station.

Enjoy lunch in one of the many restaurants at the Royal Albert Dock. The area is packed with interesting attractions and landmarks including the Museum of Liverpool, Tate Museum, and Merseyside Maritime Museum.

Hop on the Wheel of Liverpool and catch a panoramic view of the city and beyond.

The Museum of Liverpool is a piece of modern architecture that features stories of Liverpool and its people in the past.

Make sure to learn about the lives and music of The Beatles, one of the greatest and most influential bands of all time, at The Beatles Story.

Before hopping on a train back to London, walk through the Chinatown and stop by the Liverpool Cathedral – it is the largest cathedral and religious building in the UK and one of the largest cathedrals in the world. The west stained glass windows are really something to see!

Liverpool Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Liverpool from London: Direct trains run hourly from London Euston Station to Liverpool Lime Street Station. The trip takes about 2.5 hours.

Although there are buses between London and Liverpool, they aren’t an option for a day trip as the journey is over 5 hours each way.

Don’t want to deal with the hassle of public transportation? Take a guided day tour of Liverpool including transportation from London.

17. Arundel Castle

Contributed by Hannah from Art Distance

Visiting Arundel Castle is one of the best day trips from London, yet it’s little known among tourists.

Arundel Castle is a vast estate with medieval structures and more modern additions to the home, where the Duke of Norfolk resides.

The gardens are the main attraction to Arundel, with the springtime tulip festival bursting to life with tens of thousands of tulips across the grounds. This includes the wonderful tulip labyrinth, with flowers arranged in an intricate maze pattern.

Arundel Castle is one of the best gardens in South East England, especially at this time of year. For garden lovers, mid to late April is the best time to visit Arundel.

Aside from spring flowers, there are historical reenactments, lush gardens in all seasons, and exciting glimpses into the castle and its history.

Located in the charming town of Arundel, the Castle is easy to reach by train from central London as regular trains run to Arundel from Victoria Station and take about 90 minutes.

The town of Arundel is equally fun to visit on a day trip from London. It is full of historic architecture and beautiful tearooms which offer light lunches and afternoon teas.

There are a good number of houseware and antique shops in Arundel, so it’s good for a bit of shopping as well.

The stunning Arundel cathedral provides a dramatic backdrop to the garden, and it’s possible to visit inside to get a closer look at its grand architecture.

Arundel makes for a unique day trip from London that is off the beaten path for many travelers.

Arundel Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Arundel from London: Getting to Arundel from London is very easy. Direct trains depart throughout the day from London Victoria Station and will take you to Arundel in about 1.5 hours.

18. Brighton

Contributed by Danni of Live in 10 Countries

Served by a high-speed train from Victoria, Brighton is the classic seaside day trip – you only have to watch Quadrophenia to know that!

If you want a bit of sun on your back, a deckchair on the beach, and a group of eclectic things to do, this is where you come. And Brighton is LGBTQ+ traveler central, too!

So, what’s on the day’s to-do list?

The beach is unmissable and the section by Hove Lawns has a nice cafe with seating, so go get an ice cream or play some ping pong as you people watch.

Nearby is Hove Lagoons, where you can have a go at kayaking if you fancy. If you walk along the front for about half an hour and head north, you’ll reach the iconic

Royal Pavilion (free to view and snap, paid museum inside – buy advance tickets here). Stay north and you’re in The Lanes – home to some of the most eccentric shopping you’ll ever find!

If you get peckish, go the Brighton way and try a vegan meal – there’s a vegan Sunday Roast at The Marlborough which locals love.

Or, go the other way and have fish and chips at The Regency Restaurant with the seagulls for company.

The city’s food is very affordable and there are lots of street food vendors near the main train station if you’re tempted by a snack.

Brighton Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Brighton from London: Brighton is just an hour-long train ride from London. There are several direct trains departing each day from London Victoria Station and St. Pancras Station.

Don’t want to plan your own Brighton day trip? Book this Brighton & Seven Sisters Small Group tour from London.

Not only will you get to have free time exploring the city of Brighton, but you’ll also get to see the famous Seven Sisters cliffs.

19. Bristol

Contributed by Danny of What’s Danny Doing?

Bristol should be on the radar for anyone looking to take a day trip from London!

It’s only two hours down the motorway and provides a whole host of activities for anyone wanting a break from the Big Smoke.

This bustling city of Bristol straddles the River Avon and is jam-packed with fun stuff to see and do.

There are great public transport links to and from Bristol. Hop on a train and you’ll be taken right into the center of town.

From there, you have direct access to the masses of attractions in the city!

Some favorite spots include the hustle of Stokes Croft (and the masses of bars and restaurants there), the grandeur of Clifton, and the chilled vibes of the riverfront.

A highlight of a visit to Bristol is the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge. Be sure to walk across it and take the obligatory selfie, before wandering back down into town.

Stokes Croft is a definite must-see as well, packed with atmosphere and a cool, alternative, politically active crowd.

From there, head along to the riverfront for a chill-out. You could go to the We The Curious science museum, or visit the SS Great Britain– the incredible decommissioned passenger steamship that’s moored there.

One of the best spots to eat in Bristol is a restaurant at the harborside called The Stable.

It’s nothing fancy – just pizza, pies, and cider. But the atmosphere’s always pumping, there’s live music on the weekends, the food is top-notch, and there’s a huge range of ciders to choose from!

My advice? Don’t limit yourself to just one day trip to Bristol. You’ll be wanting to come back sometime soon!

Bristol Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Bristol from London: The quickest and easiest way to travel to Bristol from London is via train.

Direct trains depart London Paddington Station hourly, arriving at Bristol Temple Meads Station after about 1.5 hours.

20. Canterbury

Contributed by Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Canterbury has been a popular destination among tourists and pilgrims for close to 1,000 years.

The Canterbury Cathedral, built in 1077 AD, became a place of pilgrimage after Thomas Becket was murdered here in 1170.

Ever heard of The Canterbury Tales? It’s a collection of stories that a group of pilgrims told each other while they were traveling together from London to Canterbury, in a kind of medieval storytelling contest.

The majestic Cathedral is worth the trip just on its own. You’ll be stretching your neck to marvel at the tall vaulted arches that stretch up to the ceiling.

Don’t miss the underground crypt with its frescoed chapel, or the peacefully quiet cloister. And be sure to come back at night to see the façade lit up.

In addition to the Cathedral, other sights worth seeking out include the Westgate Tower, St. Martin’s Church, and the ruins of St. Augustine’s Abbey.

A wander through the farmer’s market at The Goods Shed is a fun way to spend an hour or two.

You could either have lunch there or grab a bite at one of the local pubs. My personal favorite is The Lady Luck, which has plenty of options for vegan visitors to Canterbury as well as more traditional pub grub.

Canterbury Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Canterbury from London: The quickest option to get to Canterbury from London is to take the train directly from London St. Pancras station to Canterbury West. The trip will take about an hour.

If you’re short on time and want to visit Canterbury Cathedral along with other top day trip destinations in just one day, then book a combo day tour of Canterbury, Leeds Castle, and the White Cliffs of Dover from London.

This is a great way to maximize your day trip when you’re short on time.

21. Rye and Camber Sands

Contributed by Annabel of Smudged Postcard

Rye in East Sussex is a popular weekend escape from London. It’s just an hour by train (or two hours by car) but feels like a million miles away.

Rye was an important port in medieval times and has a strong history of smuggling.

The town’s steep cobblestone streets with their timber-framed buildings are very atmospheric on a misty night and it’s easy to imagine smugglers sneaking from one inn to another under the cover of darkness.

Rye has an excellent little museum, Ypres Tower, which gives a good overview of the town’s history. It also affords great views over the marshland below.

A short bus or drive away from Rye is the vast expanse of Camber Sands.

This huge beach is equally delightful in both summer and wintertime: the sunsets are magnificent and the sea is inviting (if a little chilly!).

Backed by sand dunes, the beach is popular with dog walkers and families, it’s perfect for sandcastle-building and collecting shells.

Rye and Camber Sands Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Rye from London: Take the South Eastern Train from London St. Pancras International to Ashford International. There, you’ll transfer to a Southern Railway train which will take you to Rye. The total journey, including the transfer, takes about an hour.

Getting to Camber Sands from Rye: Getting from Rye to Camber Sands is very easy and affordable. Just take a Stagecoach Bus (£2-£4 each way, 11 minutes, runs hourly) from Rye Station to Camber Sands.

Getting back to London from Camber Sands: When you’re ready to head back to London at the end of your day trip, you’ll follow the above directions but in reverse.

Take the bus from Camber Sands to Rye, then take the train from Rye to Ashford International. There, you’ll switch and head back to London St. Pancras.

22. Margate

Contributed by Aimee from Our Salt Souls

Margate is a seaside town located 1 hour and 20 minutes from London making it the perfect place for a day at the seaside.

Margate is known for its sandy beaches and its artsy vibe giving you lots to explore on your next day trip from London.

The fastest way to get to Margate is by train. The trains leave from London Victoria or St Pancras International and take around 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach Margate.

Once you arrive in Margate it is around a 5-minute walk from the train station into the town center.

To drive from London to Margate it would take you between 2 and 2.5 hours depending on traffic when leaving London.

While in Margate, you can spend some time wandering through the Turner Gallery, showcasing a rotation of local art alongside its own locally-run cafe on site. They also run several workshops for adults and children throughout the year.

Opposite the Turner Gallery is the Old Kent Market which is home to several local stalls that share the space inside what was once an old cinema.

Dreamland is one of the main attractions to Margate, this amusement park pulls a crowd. They also have a range of music concerts and other events throughout the year as well as their in-house artwork from Banksy.

Make sure not to miss a visit to Curve Coffee and end your time in Margate with an ice cream from Ramsay & Williams Ice Cream Bar.

Margate Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Margate from London: Margate is very easy to reach from London by train.

Direct trains depart London St Pancras and London Victoria Stations throughout the day, getting you to Margate in about an hour and a half.

You can also drive from London to Margate. Depending on traffic around London, and what part of London you’re leaving from, the drive can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

23. Ramsgate

Contributed by Bradley of Dream Big, Travel Far

Ramsgate is easily one of the best day trips you can take from London.

Compared to the built-up, hectic nature of London, Ramsgate is a much more scenic and relaxing place to be.

Here you will find a wonderful mix of breathtaking walks, peaceful beaches, and a typical British seaside town complete with pubs, bars, cafes, and arcade machines. There are even World War II tunnels for you to explore!

It is probably best to drive to Ramsgate, as you can then venture more easily to other nearby beaches as a part of your trip down to this part of Kent.

If you don’t have a car, then no problem! It is entirely possible to get a train all the way to Ramsgate from London.

Overall, I like Ramsgate so much as it is a wonderful English seaside resort. I grew up in northern Kent, and have frequently traveled to many nearby seaside towns. Ramsgate is easily one of my favorites.

I don’t have a specific restaurant to recommend, but what I do suggest you do is pick up some freshly cooked fish and chips and eat them right on the beach. You don’t get much more British than that!

Ramsgate Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Ramsgate from London: The easiest way to travel to Ramsgate from London is by train.

Trains depart London St. Pancras every 30 minutes, taking you directly to Ramsgate in about 1.5 hours.

24. Bury St Edmunds

Contributed by Couple Travel the World

One of the best day trips from London is without a doubt Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk.

It takes around 1.5 hours by car or around 2 hours by train to reach Bury St Edmunds from London. It is an easy journey by rail with one change only.

There are lots of fun things to do in Bury St Edmunds. It is a small town so one day is enough to see most of the main attractions.

Aside from exploring the quaint laneways brimming with restaurants, shops, and colorful houses, one of the biggest draws of the town is The Nutshell pub, which holds the Guinness Book of Records title as the smallest pub in England.

Opening in 1867, it has some quirky features inside including a mummified cat hanging from the bar ceiling. This cat was found in the bar walls as 4-500 years ago live cats were bricked into houses in the area to ward off evil spirits.

Some other fun activities to do in Bury St Edmunds include visiting the beautiful Abbey Gardens, (which was once one of the most powerful Benedictine monasteries in England) and admiring one of Suffolk’s treasures, the St. Edmundsbury Cathedral.

There is no shortage of good options for lunch including Voujon Indian Cuisine for a delicious curry or Maison Bleue Restaurant for more upmarket dining. If you want to feel like a local, get some take away fish and chips from Bury Fish and Chips and have a picnic in the park.

Finish the day with cream tea at Harriet’s Cafe and Tea Rooms, which has some of the best scones in England, or go on a brewery tour at the Greene King Brewery.

Bury St Edmunds Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Bury St Edmunds from London: Bury St Edmunds is pretty easy to get to from London by train. You’ll just need to transfer once.

The easiest and quickest journey typically involves taking a train from Kings Cross Station in London to Ely, which takes about an hour. In Ely, you’ll transfer to a train that takes you to Bury St Edmunds in about 30 minutes.

25. Lincoln

Contributed by Abigail from The Novelsphere

Lincoln is the perfect city to spend a day trip from London and it’s only 2 hours away by train on the LNER. If you love history, gothic-style buildings, and spooky stories then visiting Lincoln is a day trip that you wouldn’t want to overlook!

The historic city is adorned with a Gothic-style cathedral, its most notable tourist attraction.

Lincoln Cathedral has interestingly been used as a filming location for films such as The Da Vinci Code, where it posed as Westminster Abbey, and the Netflix original film, The King. So, the beautiful interior of Lincoln Cathedral is a sight you wouldn’t want to miss!

Across from Lincoln Cathedral is Lincoln Castle. This medieval castle has walls where you can walk on while taking in the amazing views of the city and surrounding countryside.

It includes information points explaining the history of Lincoln and its landmarks such as the Westgate Water tower that still supplies water to the people in Lincoln today!

Within the castle, there is also a Victorian prison where you can immerse yourself in the lives of the convicts, Governors, Matrons, Chaplains, and surgeons of the 19th century. Afterward, you can discover one of the four surviving Magna Cartas in the castle too!

To end the perfect day trip in Lincoln on a spooky note, go on the Lincoln Ghost Walk to explore more of the city’s supernatural past.

It only costs £7.50 for adults and £5 for children. You won’t even need to book it in advance either! Just arrive at the Tourist Information Center in Castle Walk at 7 PM any day between Wednesday to Saturday when the tour starts.

Lincoln Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Lincoln from London: There are direct trains between Lincoln and London that depart a few times each day from Kings Cross Station. The trip takes about 2 hours on the LNER.

26. Portsmouth

Contributed by Tom from Trekking the Dream

Portsmouth is a perfect day trip from London with excellent road and rail links. Trains leave from London Waterloo and London Victoria Stations and take around 2 hours while traveling by car will take around 1 hour 40 minutes.

Commonly known by its nickname ‘Pompey’, Portsmouth is home to one of the UK’s oldest and most important Naval Bases.

Visiting the Historic Dockyard is a must for anyone who loves naval history and ships or simply wants a fantastic, informative day out!

Perhaps the most famous warship in the world, the Tudor-built Mary Rose, can be found in its own state-of-the-art museum. Visitors can get up close to the wreck and learn all about the men who crewed her and the battles they fought.

There are several other historic vessels on display that are still afloat including HMS Victory (1759) and HMS Warrior (1860) and a tour of these is highly recommended.

Portsmouth though, is much more than just a Naval city. For those who are looking for a bit of culture, you’ll find old theatres such as the Kings Theatre in Southsea as well as various art galleries and museums.

Cafés, restaurants, and coffee shops are plentiful ranging from the more traditional artisan style to bang-up-to-date modern. You can even have breakfast 105 meters up in the Spinnaker Tower’s Clouds Café.

Shoppers will not be disappointed either. Gunwharf Quays has a large waterfront Designer Outlet complex where you can buy everything from perfume and jewelry to jeans and trainers, all at discounted prices.

Southsea Common is famous for its many festivals held on the large, open expanse of grass. It is a perfect setting on a warm summer evening for listening to up-and-coming bands or simply enjoying a picnic.

Portsmouth Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Portsmouth from London: You can get to Portsmouth via a direct train from both London Waterloo and London Victoria stations.

No matter which London station you depart from, the trip to Portsmouth will take right around 2 hours.

27. Seven Sisters at Cuckmere Haven

Contributed by Kristin from Scotland Less Explored

The white cliffs at Seven Sisters are between Seaford and Eastbourne on the south coast of England.

The easiest way to get to the cliffs is from Seaford which is about 1.5 hours by train from Victoria Station in London.

From the station, it takes one hour to walk the nearly 4.5 kilometers to Seven Sisters.

Walking along the seafront and through Seaford Head Nature Reserve gives you fabulous views of the white cliffs.

The shortest route is to return the way you came. For a longer walk continue on to Eastbourne along the cliffs. But be warned that it is 22.5 kilometers between these two towns.

When walking through the nature reserve you pass Cuckmere Haven beach. From here you can look up at the cliffs. This is best at low tide when a pebble beach runs below the cliffs.

Anyone walking along here should keep an eye on tide levels. Make sure you return before the tide turns.

After a walk along the beach climb up to the top of the white cliffs for a different perspective. A path runs all the way along the cliffs to Eastbourne. Walk as far as you want before turning back.

On the way back the views over Cuckmere Haven beach reveal the amazing turquoise waters. This is a water color you normally find on the beaches in Scotland, not in England.

There is nowhere to eat along the cliffs or close to the beach so it is best to bring a picnic. In Seaford go to the Sub-Station and pick up a sandwich to bring with you on your walk.

Seven Sisters Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Seven Sisters from London: Seven Sisters and Cuckmere Haven are accessible from London via train.

You’ll need to take the train from London Victoria Station to Seaford, which requires a transfer in either Lewes or Brighton.

From there, you’ll need to take the scenic trail from Seaford to the cliffs themselves, which takes about an hour.

You can continue on the trail and walk to Eastbourne, but remember that this is a 22.5-kilometer (14-mile) walk. This might not be the best day trip to choose if you’re unable to walk long distances.

If you have access to a car, you can also drive to Seven Sisters, giving you the freedom to explore the area without having to walk long distances.

28. Cardiff, Wales

Contributed by Steph from Book It Let’s Go!

When in the UK, it is easy to take a day trip to Cardiff from London and visit the capital city of Wales.

Cardiff is a lovely, compact city that is easy to walk around, and getting there takes less than 2 hours by train from London Paddington Station to Cardiff Central.

Arriving by train puts you in the heart of Cardiff city which is perfect to start exploring.

Cardiff has its own castle so a great starting point on a day trip from London is a castle tour which takes a couple of hours to see the 11th-century keep, the castle house, the castle walls, and the beautiful clock tower.

After touring the castle, take a short walk into Bute Park and stroll through the champion trees to the arboretum where you can sit and enjoy the colorful landscaped gardens.

In Bute Park, you can also take a cruise along the River Taff to Cardiff Bay and take in the historical sites along the way.

Cardiff Bay has some of the best places to eat and lots of shops to wander around. However, the best shopping experience in Cardiff is the Victorian Arcades which are small, covered shopping areas, and Cardiff market where you will find Bakestones.

Bakestones is a local family-owned bakery that has been making the best Welsh cakes in Cardiff for almost 20 years!

Cardiff Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Cardiff from London: The easiest way to get to Cardiff from London is by train.

Trains to Cardiff depart London Paddington Station hourly, getting you to Cardiff in just under 2 hours.

You can also book a guided day trip to Cardiff from London, which includes bus transportation to and from Cardiff, a knowledgeable guide, and entry fees.

29. Paris, France

Contributed by Elisa from World in Paris

Want to visit another country on your day trip? It’s possible to visit Paris on a day trip from London.

Eurostar trains leave London St. Pancras train station to Gare du Nord in Paris every half hour. The journey takes just 2 hours and 15 minutes.

You could spend weeks exploring Paris and still discover new things every day. However, it is possible to have a glimpse of what the city has to offer in just one day.

Start by walking along the Seine River from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower on the Right Bank.

At Gare du Nord, metro line 4 will take you directly to Cité, the closest metro station to Notre Dame.

After admiring Notre Dame’s main façade, head to the Seine’s Right Bank and start walking downstream (to the west).

Along this Seine Walk, it is possible to see some of Paris’s main tourist attractions such as the Conciergerie, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Alexander Bridge, the Grand Palais, and of course, the Eiffel Tower.

Since you only have one day in Paris, grab a sandwich at Cité or stop in a café at Tuileries Garden for a quick lunch.

You can finish your day in Paris by visiting the Eiffel Tower, but only if you booked your skip-the-line tickets in advance!

READ MORE: The Perfect Paris Bucket List

Paris Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Paris from London: Take the Eurostar train from London St. Pancras Station to Paris Gare du Nord. The journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Eurostar tickets must be booked in advance – you can book them online here.

To maximize your time in the city, consider leaving London on the earliest train and leaving Paris on the latest train.

Additionally, plan your day trip to Paris on a weekday when the trains depart London earlier and depart Paris later. For the most accurate timetables, check the official Eurostar website.

For a stress-free day trip, book a pre-planned London to Paris day trip.

30. Lille, France

Contributed by Paul D’Souza from Paulmarina

Lille is an inconspicuous city in Northern France that makes for a great day trip from London.

From London, travel to Lille within 90 minutes with the Eurostar train. Lille has long been known for its unique Flemish culture in France, as it is situated right next to the Belgian border.

You will start your journey in the Vieux-Lille, which is the old town.

Colorful brick houses add to the aesthetics of Lille and new architectural marvels, such as the Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral, add a special visual touch to the city landscape.

Head over to the Grand Place square and look out for the picture-perfect Belfry Tower and the old stock exchange building.

Take a break and enjoy a regional meal such as a Welsh, Poulet au maroilles, and Carbonnade Flamand with Fries at the Estaminet Chez La Vieille restaurant. Stock up on specialties from the region, such as apple cider and cheese, at the Watzmann market.

If you are an art lover, head over to the Palais des Beaux-Arts, an art history museum known for masterpieces by Picasso, Monet, and Donatello.

Families will enjoy an afternoon at the Natural History Museum, where you can spend some time with your kids enjoying the zoological and geological collections.

Discover more fantastic attractions in Lille and visit this lively French city anytime in the year.

Lille Day Trip from London: Things to Know

Getting to Lille from London: Most people know of Eurostar as being the train that can take you to Paris from London, but you can also use it to get to other French destinations, including Lille.

Eurostar tickets must be booked in advance – you can book them online here.

The trip takes just under 1.5 hours. To maximize your time, plan to depart London on the earliest train and head back from Lille on one of the latest trains.

Best Day Trips from London: Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are TONS of amazing choices when planning your day trips from London.

You can explore the beautiful English countryside, visit a historic city, or even head to a new country!

No matter which day trip from London you choose, you’re sure to have an amazing time filled with culture, food, and fun!

Have you taken any day trips from London? Which one is your favorite?

Check out these other great posts to help plan your trip to England:

• The Ultimate London Bucket List
• Safestay Holland Park: The Best Hostel in London?
• Review: Stonehenge & Bath with Golden Tours
• The Best Places to Stay in London: Accommodation Choices for Every Budget