The 7 Best Day Trips from London: Where to Go Beyond the City

London is a fantastic city full of history, culture, and endless things to do, but sometimes, a break from the hustle and bustle is just what you need. Luckily, London’s excellent transport connections make it easy to escape for a day and explore picturesque countryside, historic towns, and stunning coastal landscapes. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or charming English villages, there’s a perfect day trip waiting for you.

Here are some of the best destinations to visit beyond London that make the best day trips from London.

1. Windsor – A Royal Retreat

Travel time from London: 30-40 minutes by train

If you’re a fan of British history and the royal family, Windsor is an excellent choice for a day trip. The highlight is Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of King Charles III and the oldest inhabited castle in the world. You can explore the lavish State Apartments, see the Changing of the Guard, and visit St George’s Chapel, the burial site of many monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II—one of the Best Day Trips from London.

Beyond the castle, take a stroll along the Long Walk in Windsor Great Park, explore the charming streets filled with boutique shops and cafés, or take a boat trip on the River Thames.

Top things to do in Windsor:

Visit Windsor Castle

Explore St George’s Chapel

Walk along the Long Walk

Take a boat trip on the Thames

Visit nearby Eton College

2. Oxford – The City of Dreaming Spires

Travel time from London: 1 hour by train

Oxford is home to the world-famous University of Oxford, one of the oldest universities in the world. Walking through the city feels like stepping into a Harry Potter film, as many scenes were filmed in its historic colleges. Visit Christ Church College, explore the Bodleian Library, and climb the University Church of St Mary the Virgin for incredible views of the city- One of the Best Day Trips from London.

If you love books, don’t miss Blackwell’s Bookshop, one of the largest and most historic bookstores in the UK. You can also take a peaceful punting trip on the River Cherwell, a must-do Oxford experience.

Top things to do in Oxford:

Visit Christ Church College (filming location for Harry Potter)

Explore the Bodleian Library

Climb the University Church tower

Go punting on the River Cherwell

Browse books at Blackwell’s Bookshop

3. Cambridge – A Riverside University Town

Travel time from London: 1 hour by train

Much like Oxford, Cambridge is a historic university town known for its beautiful colleges and academic excellence. A visit to King’s College Chapel, with its stunning Gothic architecture and impressive stained glass windows, is a must. One of the Best Day Trips from London

The best way to experience Cambridge is by punting on the River Cam, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the college buildings. You can also visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, which has an incredible collection of art and antiquities.

Top things to do in Cambridge:

Visit King’s College Chapel

Take a punting tour on the River Cam

Explore the Fitzwilliam Museum

Walk through the Cambridge University Botanic Garden

Climb the Great St Mary’s Church tower for panoramic views

4. Bath – Roman History & Georgian Beauty

Travel time from London: 1.5 hours by train

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in England, famous for its well-preserved Roman Baths and elegant Georgian architecture. Start your day at the Roman Baths, where you can see ancient hot springs and learn about Roman history. Next, visit Bath Abbey and take in the breathtaking views from its tower. One of the Best Day Trips from London

A walk along Royal Crescent and The Circus showcases Bath’s magnificent Georgian townhouses, and if you’re a Jane Austen fan, don’t miss the Jane Austen Centre. End your day with a relaxing dip in the Thermae Bath Spa, where you can soak in natural hot springs with a rooftop view of the city.

Top things to do in Bath:

Visit the Roman Baths

Explore Bath Abbey

Walk along Royal Crescent

Visit the Jane Austen Centre

Relax in the Thermae Bath Spa

5. Brighton – A Seaside Escape

Travel time from London: 1 hour by train

If you’re looking for a coastal getaway, Brighton is the perfect destination. This vibrant seaside town is famous for its quirky atmosphere, independent shops, and artistic vibe. Spend time at Brighton Pier, where you can enjoy arcade games, fish and chips, and stunning sea views. One of the Best Day Trips from London.

A visit to the Royal Pavilion, a former royal palace with exotic architecture, is a must. The Lanes, Brighton’s famous maze of narrow streets, is great for shopping, especially if you love vintage finds and independent boutiques. If the weather is good, relax on Brighton Beach and enjoy the fresh sea air.

Top things to do in Brighton:

Walk along Brighton Pier

Visit the Royal Pavilion

Explore The Lanes for shopping

Relax on Brighton Beach

Ride the British Airways i360 for panoramic views

6. Canterbury – A Journey Through Medieval England

Travel time from London: 1 hour by train

Canterbury is best known for its stunning Canterbury Cathedral, one of the most important religious sites in England and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, you can admire its beautiful stained glass windows and learn about the infamous murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket-One of the Best Day Trips from London.

Wander through Canterbury’s medieval streets, visit the Canterbury Tales attraction to experience Chaucer’s famous stories, and take a scenic boat tour along the River Stour.

Top things to do in Canterbury:

Visit Canterbury Cathedral

Walk along the historic city streets

Explore the Canterbury Tales attraction

Take a boat tour on the River Stour

Visit St Augustine’s Abbey

7. The Cotswolds – Idyllic English Countryside

Travel time from London: 2 hours by train and bus

If you dream of rolling hills, thatched cottages, and charming villages, the Cotswolds is the ideal day trip. The region is filled with beautiful villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” and Bibury, home to the famous Arlington Row cottages. One of the Best Day Trips from London.

Take a scenic walk, enjoy a traditional afternoon tea, and soak up the peaceful countryside. The Cotswolds are perfect for photography and getting a taste of rural England.

Top things to do in the Cotswolds:

Visit Bourton-on-the-Water

Explore Bibury and Arlington Row

Walk through Stow-on-the-Wold

Enjoy afternoon tea in a quaint tearoom

Take a scenic country walk

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from London

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or seaside fun, there are plenty of fantastic day trips from London to suit every taste. From exploring ancient castles to punting on the river or relaxing in a countryside village, these destinations offer a refreshing escape from the capital while still being easily accessible.