22 Best Places To Visit Outside London For Day Trips
Are you looking for the best places to visit outside London for a break from the UK capital’s hustle and bustle? Maybe you want to experience more of what England offers, beyond the bright lights of London? I’ve got you covered with some absolute gems that you are going to love!
From magnificent castles and charming historic cities to picturesque beaches, and a dreamy island paradise, there’s something for everyone just a short distance from London.
Whether you’re interested in soaking up some culture or want to relax in beautiful surroundings, these best places to visit outside London will not disappoint.
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Best Places to Visit Outside London on a Day Trip
While I’m a Brit, and I’ve explored England extensively, for this article, I’ve asked travel blogging friends to share some of their personal recommendations for the best places to visit outside London. For each place recommended, they have shared the top things to see and do, and exactly how to get to each location to make the most of your time.
Are you ready to get started?
1. The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty located in southwest England. It stretches across five counties, including Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire and is one of the best places to visit outside London.
With miles of rolling hills, honey-coloured villages, and lush green countryside, it’s easy to see why the Cotswolds is so popular with tourists worldwide.
From quaint stone cottages to elegant manor houses, there are plenty of things to explore in the Cotswolds. The charming towns and villages like Chipping Campden, Stow on the Wold, and Bourton on the Water, are some of the most picturesque places in the UK.
TIP: Admire Arlington Row in Bibury, stop by Cirencester, the largest town in the Cotswolds that was once an important Roman settlement, take a picture with the church door that inspired Tolkien’s “Doors of Durin” in Stow-on-the-Wold, or search for the filming locations of the famous Downton Abbey TV series.
Practical Information
While few great train or public transportation connections exist, the Cotswolds are easily reached from London by car. The journey time is less than 2 hours each way. ➡️ You can check the best car rental rates here.
This charming suggestion for a day trip from London was submitted by Ingrid from Ingrid Zen Moments
2. Coventry, West Midlands
Coventry is a fun, convenient and unique day trip from London, where you can see a lot in one day. It’s a charming city often overlooked by its neighbours of Birmingham and Stratford-Upon-Avon.
See the famous Lady Godiva Statue, as well as one of England’s most famous Cathedrals, and visit the Transport Museum – a significant museum, seeing as Coventry was one of the car manufacturing capitals of the world until not long ago!
Coventry is full of history and unique hidden gems and was also named the UK City of Culture in 2021. Around 900 years ago, Lady Godiva rode naked on a horse through the streets of Coventry to protest a tax her husband had imposed.
You’ll find the statue of her riding the horse in the town centre and the bust of ‘Peeping Tom’ who was caught looking at her!
During World War II, Coventry was one of the most bombed places in the UK (yes – even more so than London!). In the Blitz, medieval Coventry Cathedral was completely destroyed. You can visit this Old Cathedral: the ruins still remain today, so you can walk around them and visit the New Cathedral adjacent to it. Both look fantastic during the day and when lit up in the evening.
Practical Information
The best way to travel to Coventry from London is by train. The journey takes just over an hour on the fast service. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Catrina from 24 Hours Layover recommends Coventry as one of the best places to visit from London on a day trip.
3. Paris, France
No list of the best places to visit outside London would be complete without mentioning Paris – it’s a very easy train ride from London to tick this incredible French city off your bucket list.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must-do for most visitors (I highly recommend climbing the stairs to the second floor – it’s very fun being on the staircase inside the legs of the tower).
Beyond that, it really depends on your interests. The Louvre is a great choice if you’re into world-class museums. You really want 2-3 hours in the Louvre to see some highlights.
Otherwise, you could stop by the Rodin Museum for sculptures, the L’Orangerie for Monet’s Water Lilies, or the Musée d’Orsay for impressionist art.
If you prefer exploring the parks and gardens of Paris, then stop by the Jardin de Tuileries and Jardin de Luxembourg. These are two of the city’s most famous and popular gardens, and have greenspace, plenty of park chairs, stunning flower displays, basins and fountains, and sculptures galore.
Or perhaps visiting Montmartre is more your vibe, with the gleaming white Sacre Coeur basilica and the artsy, bohemian neighbourhood around it.
If you prefer a little bit of everything, I’d start with the Eiffel Tower, then visit the Louvre, the Jardin de Tuileries, walk part of the Champs Elysees, and end at the Arc de Triomphe. Most of these sites are in a straight line and make for a good sampling of Paris’ top attractions.
How to get to Paris
The fastest and easiest way to travel to Paris from London is by train. The journey takes 2 hours and 15 minutes on the Eurostar train via the Channel Tunnel. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
While you’re in the city, this guided tour of Paris includes the Opera House, Champs-Elysees, and the Arc de Triomphe, with a 1-hour river cruise on the Seine for memorable views of Notre Dame Cathedral. There’s also free time for you to shop or stop for a delicious meal.
Submitted by Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast
4. Winchester, Hampshire
Winchester is best known for its Gothic cathedral and Jane Austin connections. Frequent direct trains make this cathedral city one of the easiest and best day trips from London without a car.
Walking from the train station into the city centre, you pass one of the impressive gates remaining from the Roman wall that once surrounded Winchester.
Good to know: Large parts of the wall remain, and the best place to see it is on the southern side of the cathedral, close to King’s Gate.
After exploring the narrow streets around King’s Gate, stroll along the river past Winchester City Mill back to High Street.
Save a visit to the cathedral for last. It is 900 years old and has long been associated with the British Royal family. It was where ‘Bloody’ Queen Mary got married, and more recently, it was featured in the Netflix show The Crown.
It is also where Jane Austin is buried. While she lived most of her life in the small village of Chewton, she died in Winchester. The house where she lived most of her life is now a museum.
Winchester is also great for shopping, and the side streets off High Street are full of cosy cafes and restaurants. For coffee, cake, or a light lunch, go to the Project Store & Kitchen.
💡 Top Tip: The Black Rat is the best place to eat in Winchester. Make sure you book a table well in advance.
Practical Information
The best way to travel to Winchester from London is by train from Paddington station. The journey takes just over an hour on the fast service. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Submitted by Kristin from Scotland Explored
READ ALSO: Amazing Things To Do in the South Downs
5. Brighton, East Sussex
Vibrant and colourful, Brighton is a vibrant and colourful seaside town and one of the most popular day trips from London by train.
The famous pebble beach is perfect for strolling, sunbathing, or enjoying a refreshing dip in the sea, while the iconic Brighton Pier offers fun activities, including arcade games, amusement park rides, and classic seaside treats like fish and chips and ice cream.
Beyond the beach, Brighton also offers a range of cultural and historical attractions. The Royal Pavilion is a stunning palace that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of British royalty in the 19th century.
An exhilarating 5-star rated powerboat trip from Brighton is a great option if you want some sea air and views of the iconic Seven Sisters Cliffs. Alternatively, a skip-the-line ticket to the Brighton i360 will whisk you up 138 meters in a futuristic glass viewing pod to take in the panoramic views of Brighton and the South Coast.
Practical Information
Brighton is easy to visit from London. Trains depart from Victoria Station and London Bridge Station throughout the day, and the comfortable journey offers stunning countryside views. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Submitted by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
6. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
Cambridge makes for a great day trip from London in the summer, as it’s the best season to visit this historic university city.
Going for a boat ride in the sun and admiring the beautiful architecture is one of the best things to do in Cambridge.
But, boat tours in Cambridge are not on just any boat but on a Punt – a long, flat-bottomed boat propelled with a long pole. You get some amazing views while going down the river!
After your batting trip, a walking tour is the best way to learn about the world-famous University of Cambridge and its many colleges.
Top Tip: You will get the best view of the stunning Gothic university buildings from the tower of Great St. Mary’s church.
Practical Information
Getting to Cambridge takes just over one hour, with trains departing from London’s Kings Cross Station or Liverpool Street regularly throughout the day. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Submitted by Tina from Veganderlust
7. Leeds Castle, Kent
Nestled in the picturesque county of Kent, Leeds Castle is a stunning example of a fairy-tale castle. Dubbed the “loveliest castle in the world,” it is a popular destination for visitors looking for a romantic day trip from London.
TIP: Whether you travel by car or train, expect to spend most of the day touring the estate. If your budget allows, you can extend your visit by staying in one of the Courthouse Stable bedrooms.
The castle dates back 900 years and was once a royal residence, home to six queens and King Henry VIII himself. During World War II, the castle served as a military hospital. After the war, Lady Baillie, the last owner, spent much of her fortune restoring the residence to its former glory.
Upon her death, Lady Baillie bequeathed the estate to a trust, and the Leeds Castle Foundation maintains the estate. Today, visitors can explore Lady Braille’s renovated rooms, including her bedroom, seminar room, and library, while other parts of the castle remain untouched.
Beyond the castle walls, the 500 acres of grounds include breathtaking landscapes, a serene lake, and a thrilling hedge maze made of over 2,000 yew trees.
TIP: Consider a Segway tour if you’re seeking a unique way to explore the grounds.
Practical Information
The easiest way to visit Leeds Castle from London in just one day is on a guided tour. Here are a couple of great “skip the line” tour options:
- Private Tour: Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover Castle
- Small Group Tour: Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich – a ‘skip-the-line’ tour, so you won’t get stuck in long queues!
Good to know: If you prefer to travel independently, hourly trains depart from London’s Victoria Station to Bearsted for Leeds Castle, with a journey time of just over one hour.
Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio, and pre-book your entrance tickets for the castle here to save time when you arrive 🙂
Submitted by Karen from Forever Karen
8. Leeds, West Yorkshire
If you’re looking for a day trip outside London with a bit of a difference, Leeds is the perfect destination. The rich history and culture in this vibrant West Yorkshire city attracts visitors from all over the world.
To start your day right, head straight to one of Europe’s largest indoor markets- Kirkgate Market – for everything from fresh produce to vintage clothing and unique souvenirs. Wander through the stalls and soak up the atmosphere of this bustling marketplace.
Next, go to Leeds Art Gallery, where you’ll find an impressive collection of British art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so check their website beforehand to see what’s on display.
After immersing yourself in art, grab a water taxi from Leeds station and check out the Royal Armouries Museum, which houses the National Collection of Arms and Armoury. Don’t miss the incredible “Hall of Steel” display – it’s one of my favourite places in Leeds!
For lunch, head back into town for delicious street food at Trinity Kitchen. This trendy food hall features rotating vendors, so there’s always something new and exciting to try. Grab a bite to eat before heading off again on your adventure!
Kirkstall Abbey is an impressive ruined Cistercian monastery dating back almost 900 years! It’s one of the most iconic places in Leeds. Explore its beautiful grounds before heading back into town for drinks at one of Leeds’ many bars, such as North Bar or The Maven Cocktail Bar.
READ MORE: 1 Day In Leeds Itinerary
Practical Information
Leeds is one of the best places to visit outside London, with a journey time of just over two hours from London Kings Cross Station. Check train prices on Trainline and Omio.
9. Bletchley Park, Buckinghamshire
At Bletchley Park, home of the WWII Codebreakers, you can immerse yourself in the world where the Allies intercepted and decoded German messages.
This is where about 10,000 people carried on their vital work. Though shrouded in secrecy for decades after the war, Bletchley Park is now partially restored and open to the public.
At this heritage attraction, you can enjoy films, interactive displays, museum collections, recreated working huts, and the main mansion used for administration.
Learn about the brilliant thinkers who figured out how to decode the complicated German Enigma machines.
An early computer developed here called a “bombe” runs so you can see how it worked. Even though these bombes were destroyed after the war, this one was rebuilt from existing plans. It was used in the movie “The Imitation Game,” set at Bletchley Park.
A highlight of your tour will be the recently restored Teleprinter Building. The exhibition is called “D-Day: Interception, Intelligence, Invasion.” This will give you a more filled-out view of the codebreakers’ role during this Day of Days.
A visit to Bletchley Park will open your eyes to the vital work performed here and the global impact the codebreakers had on the outcome of WWII.
Practical Information
Bletchley Park is easy to reach from London, around one hour from London’s Euston Station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Submitted by Sharon Oldegaard of Exploring Our World
10. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is famous for its beautiful Art Deco buildings at La Grand Place, the Atomium, and the peculiar statues of Jeanneke and Manneke Pis.
The best way to explore Brussels is by visiting the above-mentioned highlights on arrival and picking one of Brussels’s cool neighbourhoods to explore in the afternoon.
Antique lovers can indulge in vintage shopping in the Marollen, which is known for its antique shops and the famous daily flea market at het Vossenplein.
The best area to visit in Brussels for a bit of luxury is Louiza. You can window-shop at high-end boutique stores and enjoy gastronomic diners at restaurants housed in marvellous Belle Epoque buildings.
If you’re a plant-based foodie, one of the best vegan restaurants in Brussels, Humus x Hortense, is in this area and recently received a Michelin Star.
One of the best neighbourhoods in Brussels for a quick day trip is Dansaert and St. Catherine. With its avant-garde vibe, you’ll experience a great mix of old and new, traditional yet experimental.
Discover trendy stores from local designers, hip coffee shops, and typical Belgian brown pubs and vintage stores. Brussels Beer Project is a Belgian Brewery located in this part of the city that you can visit from Thursday to Sunday.
TIP: Don’t forget to try other typical Belgian delicacies like chocolate and Belgian waffles!
Practical Information
The fastest and easiest way to travel to Brussels from London is by train. The journey takes just 2 hours on the Eurostar train from London’s St Pancras Station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
By Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers
11. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
Warwick is a medieval castle extended from the original Norman fort, built by William the Conqueror in 1068.
The facade opposite the town was refortified during the Hundred Years War (1337–1453) to create one of the most recognisable examples of 14th-century military architecture.
The castle remained in use as a stronghold until early in the 17th century. At that point, James I granted the castle to Sir Fulke Greville whose family converted it to a country house and lived in the castle until 1978. Today, Warwick Castle is owned and operated by the Tussauds Group.
Warwick Castle is one of the best places to visit outside London for families, as there are plenty of things for all ages to do. You can expect to spend several hours exploring, including getting lost in a maze, strolling the courtyard, or taking a history tour.
Practical Information
A guided tour is the most relaxing way to visit Warwick Castle on a day trip from London, as there are no trains direct to the castle. This popular day trip from London includes visits to Oxford, Stratford, the Cotswolds, and Warwick Castle.
Good to know: If you prefer to travel by train, the total journey time is just over 2 hours; however, you will need to transfer to a bus from Coventry train station, and there’s a 10-15 minute walk to the castle from the bus stop.
You can compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio, and pre-book your entrance tickets for the castle here to save time when you arrive 🙂
Shared by Brittney from A Mom Well Traveled
12. Dover, Kent
London to Dover is one of the most popular day trips from London, and it’s no wonder why. With its stunning views of the English Channel, historical sites such as Dover Castle, and various activities to do in the area, it’s a great destination for anyone looking for an exciting day out in England.
Whether you’re looking to explore the countryside and hike the White Cliffs of Dover or relax on a beach, there are plenty of amazing things to do.
Dover Castle, located in the southeastern county of Kent, is one of England’s most iconic and historically significant 12th-century castles. It has been a key fortification throughout its long history, playing an important role in defending Britain against foreign invasions.
Today, visitors can explore the castle’s many features and learn more about its fascinating past.
A day trip from London to Dover is a great way to experience the beauty of England’s countryside and a historic World War II site.
Practical Information
➡️ This highly-rated tour from London to Dover includes a visit to Canterbury Cathedral as well as the White Cliffs of Dover.
If you prefer to travel by train, the journey takes from 1 hour and 30 minutes. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio
TIP: Don’t forget to pre-book your entrance tickets for Dover Castle to save time when you arrive 🙂
Submitted by Paulina from UK Everyday
13. Cardiff, Wales
Cardiff, the Welsh capital, is a great city to explore on an easy day trip from London to Cardiff.
Cardiff Castle is one of the best attractions to visit. Take a few hours to explore the castle rooms, grounds, walls and museum and learn about the uses of the castle over the years.
While the weather in Cardiff can be rainy, you can make the best of the city by exploring the small covered arcades (shopping areas) packed with boutique shops and independent restaurants.
TIP: Visit Coffee Barker for delicious homemade cakes and luxury hot chocolate.
In Cardiff market, you’ll discover lovely local businesses, crafts and food to try, including traditional Welsh cakes from Bakestones. Welsh cakes are a sweet local treat similar to a scone, with many different flavours.
If the weather is nice, head to Bute Park in the heart of the city and enjoy the beautiful gardens and champion trees in the park.
Practical Information
Multiple trains operate from London to Cardiff daily, as well as coach tours. If you prefer to travel by train, the journey takes 2 hours from London’s Paddington Station. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Recommended by Steph from Book It Let’s Go!
14. Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Lincoln is one of the most underrated gems in the UK and the perfect day trip from London if you love the Gothic style and history. Best of all, it’s only a direct LNER train from King’s Cross!
Lincoln Cathedral is the most famous landmark in this historic city. Its Gothic design, stunning interior and colourful stained glass windows make it a must-see when visiting!
Fun Fact: Lincoln Cathedral was the filming location for Westminster Abbey in The Da Vinci Code, Young Victoria and The King!
Take the Medieval Wall Walk along the castle’s walls for the best views of Lincoln Cathedral and the city. The one-hour walk has information points about the city’s history and views of landmarks such as the Wastegate Water Tower, which still supplies water to the people of Lincoln to this day.
Just across from the Cathedral, you’ll find Lincoln Castle. For a real sneak peek of what 19th century Lincoln was like, head over to the Castle’s Victorian Prison and discover the history and lives of prisoners, guards, governors, matrons and priests.
Good to know: If you’re interested in the history of UK politics, you can see one of the four remaining original copies of the Magna Carta in the castle too!
To end your day trip to Lincoln on a spooky note, head to the Lincoln Ghost Walk, where you’ll find out about Lincoln’s ghost hauntings and supernatural history!
Practical Information
Trains from London to Lincoln take 2 and a half hours from London’s Kings Cross station. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Practical Information
Trains from London to Lincoln take 2 and a half hours from London’s Kings Cross station. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Abigail from The Novelsphere recommended Lincoln as one of the best places to visit outside London for a day trip.
15. Salisbury & Stonehenge, Wiltshire
Salisbury and Stonehenge are the perfect places for a day trip from London – a quick journey on a direct train from Waterloo takes you straight to the heart of the medieval city of Salisbury.
Take the Stonehenge Tour bus from outside the train station and enjoy a morning at the prehistoric stones. You can walk around them and visit the exhibition gallery with a fantastic 360-degree surround of the stones through the centuries.
Walk around the chalk landscape of Salisbury Plain, visiting neolithic barrows, the ancient Cursus and Woodhenge, which was built around the same time as Stonehenge.
The bus back to Salisbury takes you via Old Sarum, the ancient Roman fort with fantastic views over the countryside.
Salisbury city centre is filled with medieval timber buildings, museums, fantastic shops and restaurants and, of course, the famous Salisbury Cathedral, which has the largest spire in the UK.
Top Tip: To see something special and off the usual tourist trail, visit medieval St Thomas’ Church for the country’s largest and best-preserved Doom Painting.
Discover Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral the easy way on this highly-rated tour direct from central London. Visits to the historic city of Bath and Windsor Castle are included!
16. Arundel, West Sussex
Arundel on the River Arun in West Sussex is one of the most picturesque towns in England and one of the top easy day trips from London.
The town is best known for Arundel Castle, the home of the Duke of Norfolk. Part of the castle is open to the public, and it’s one of the most visited castles in England.
But Arundel is not only about the Castle. The Victorian and Georgian architecture, charming streets filled with pubs, restaurants, and galleries, and location on the lovely Arun River make Arundel one of the most beautiful places in England.
For lunch, head to one of Arundel’s many cosy restaurants. The Parsons Table is known for serving the best British food (which is among the most popular food in the world!) Its relaxing atmosphere makes the entire dining experience even more enjoyable.
After lunch, consider exploring this historic town on a guided walking tour. If you are a fan of museums, you will love visiting Arundel Museum.
However, the green paths along River Arun are perfect for exploring if you are a nature enthusiast.
But that’s not all!
Many day trippers to Arundel choose kayaking or hiring a motorboat for cruising the River Arun.
TIP: Head to one of the many lively pubs for the end of your day in Arundel. The famous and historic Black Rabbit pub is fabulous!
Practical Information
The fastest way to reach Arundel is by train; however, driving to Arundel from London does not take much longer than a train ride. Trains from London’s Victoria station take 90 minutes to reach Arundel. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio
Submitted by Milijana of World Travel Connector
17. Bath, Somerset
Famous for its Roman-built baths, the city of Bath was founded in the 7th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While it’s a compact city, there are plenty of things to do in Bath. It’s consistently rated as one of the best places to visit outside London.
Notable landmarks include the two universities, 250-year-old Pulteney Bridge, spas, canals, and the 7th-century church known as Bath Abbey. These old structures and buildings are fine examples of Roman and Georgian architecture.
Good to know: The best time to visit the spa and baths is in the morning, as they will be less crowded, so you can avoid long queues 🙂
TIP: Early and late summer (June and September) is the best season to visit Bath, although it’s well worth visiting the city during the off-season (from November to February), as you will find fewer crowds.
Good to know: Bath is easy to explore on foot on a walking tour – just remember to wear comfortable walking shoes!
Best Walking Tour of Bath (Rating 4.9/5)
👣 This top-rated guided walking tour includes skip-the-line entry to the Roman Baths. You’ll also discover Jane Austin’s role in the city, Bridgerton filming locations, Bath Abbey and the Pump Room!
Submitted by Raksha of Solopassport
18. Hampton Court, Greater London (Richmond upon Thames)
Hampton Court is one of the best places to visit outside London if you appreciate British history and culture. It’s an extravagant 16th-century palace on the River Thames with vast halls, enormous kitchens, and impressive gardens.
Located less than 15 miles southwest of Central London, visiting Hampton Court is like stepping back into the turbulent reign of King Henry VIII.
Henry VIII moved into the palace with Anne Boleyn (the second of his six wives and mother to the future Queen Elizabeth I). During his time at the palace, the vast halls hosted up to 800 courtiers, and 1600 meals per day could be prepared in the Great Kitchen.
After the deaths of Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I, King James I took up residence at Hampton Court. Under his reign, the palace hosted performances of William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and “Macbeth”, and a conference that produced the King James Bible in 1611.
Sir Christopher Wren (famed English architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral) completed more renovations during the rule of King William III and Queen Mary, including the Garden Maze and the Chocolate Kitchens. At the time, chocolate was a rare luxury, and it demonstrated the opulence and novelty of their reign.
TIP: If you visit in the spring, make sure to visit the Wilderness Garden which has some of the prettiest cherry blossoms in London.
Each summer, two festivals showcase the history and art of Hampton Court. There is a Music Festival in June and a Garden Festival in July.
Practical Information
Visiting Hampton Court Palace is quick and easy, with a journey time of less than an hour from London’s Victoria Station. ➡️ Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Submitted by Audra from The Nerd Traveler
19. Windsor (+ Windsor Castle), Berkshire
Windsor Castle is the main attraction when you visit Windsor for the day. This Royal Residence has over 900 years of history and makes a fascinating visit.
Top Tip: Buy your ticket online and tick the “donation box”. The ticket will be valid for an entire year – a great budget saver if you plan to return to Windsor. (Admission charges include a free audio guide covering the palace’s history and notable art pieces).
The Long Walk extends from the gates of the palace for three kilometres to the Copper Horse Statue. Is a nice relaxing walk through the deer park where you can spot friendly red deer as well as ancient oak trees.
There are plenty of other things to do in Windsor besides visiting the castle. Find the crooked house and learn its naughty legends, and make sure to have a drink at the Prince Harry pub, which displays a photo of the Royal Couple on one of their upstairs windows.
Practical Information
➡️ The most popular way to visit Windsor Castle is on a guided tour, with everything organised for you. This popular one-day tour from London includes Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath.
Direct trains from Waterloo take about an hour to reach Windsor’s two train stations,- Windsor and Eton Riverside are the most central.
➡️ Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Submitted by Joanne from The World In My Pocket
20. Harry Potter Studio Tour, Hertfordshire
For a great day trip from London for all ages, head to Leavesden for the Harry Potter Studio Tour!
The studio is a magical place. The costumes and sets from the movies are perfectly preserved and displayed in a way that every Harry Potter fan can enjoy and appreciate.
This includes transportation to and from London on a cool Harry Potter-themed double-decker bus and a ticket to enter the studio. Once you’re inside the studio, it’s all self-guided.
Good to know: It takes roughly 3.5 hours to see the entire studio. About halfway through the tour, food and butterbeer are available (which shouldn’t be missed)!
Best time to visit: The Harry Potter Studios is amazing at any time of year. During Halloween and Christmas, the experience is spell-binding, as holiday decorations from the Harry Potter movies are displayed and the Great Hall looks incredible!
Practical Information
A hassle-free way to visit the studio is on an organised tour from London.
➡️ Booking this Harry Potter tour is also a great idea since tickets on the studio’s website frequently sell out. The tour includes transportation to and from London on a cool Harry Potter-themed double-decker bus and a ticket to enter the studio. Once you’re inside the studio, it’s all self-guided, so you’re free to explore at your own pace.
Enjoy your visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour!
Submitted by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels
21. York, North Yorkshire
If you love history, York is one of the best places to visit outside London by train, as London to York trains take just over 2 hours.
While in the ancient city of York, you’ll want to visit York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe. Take the York Minster Tower challenge if you’re fit and healthy – it’s a 10-minute climb up 275 narrow, winding steps to the top, but the view is incredible!
Alternatively, stroll through the Shambles – the most complete medieval street in Europe, walk the medieval York city walls, or step back to the days when York was a Viking settlement at Yorvik.
Some of the best ways to see York include guided walking tours, riverboat cruises, or (my favourite) spooky ghost tours.
READ MORE: Discover the Best Ghost Tours in York
Practical Information
The best way to travel to York from London is by train from London’s Kings Cross station. The journey takes just over two hours on the fast service. Book your tickets on Trainline and Omio.
22. Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Stratford upon Avon is located so centrally in England’s midlands, that it makes for a perfect day trip from any major city in the UK, including day trips from London.
Known as Shakespeare Country, Stratford Upon Avon was the home of the famous playwright and poet. On a guided tour you can see as many as six of the houses connected to Shakespeare (also known as “The bard of Stratford”).
These include Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Gardens, Nash’s House and New Place, Mary Arden’s Farm and Hall’s Croft, or book your favourite play at Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre.
But, there’s more to Stratford upon Avon than Shakespeare. The historic half-timbered houses and buzzing Bancroft Gardens are well worth visiting.
Alternatively, try to spot all of the sculptures around the city centre or rent a boat and potter about on the River Avon. Whether you are a literary buff or not, a day trip to Stratford upon Avon is totally worth it.
Practical Information
The best way to travel to Stratford Upon Avon from London is by train from London’s Euston station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio.
Submitted by Anu from Country Hopping Couple
FAQs: The Best Places to Visit Outside London
What countries are a day trip from London?
Some of the easiest countries to visit on a day trip from London include France (for Paris), Belgium (for Brussels), and Jersey, although Ireland is also only a short flight from London
What locations are just outside of London?
London has many options for day trips beyond the city centre. The suggestions in this post are a good starting point when looking for the best places to visit outside London.
In conclusion, there is no shortage of incredible places to visit outside London – by car or by train. From the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds to stunning coastal towns like Brighton and some of England’s most fascinating castles, each day trip from London offers its unique charm and appeal.
Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks, natural beauty, or vibrant city life, there is something for everyone just a short distance from London.
So why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and plan some day trips from London by car to explore everything these fantastic locations offer? You won’t be disappointed!
More UK travel inspiration:
Visiting England for the First Time? 25 Best Tips From a Local
- London: Top Things To Do in London & Nerdy Things To Do In London
- York: Best Things To Do in York & Unusual Things to Do in York
- Leeds: Day Trips From Leeds & 1 Day In Leeds Itinerary
- Durham: Best Things to Do In Durham & Best Day Trips From Durham
- South Downs: Best Things To Do in the South Downs & What To Do In Winchester
- Shropshire & Welsh Borders: What To Do In Ellesmere & What To Do At Pontcyscyllte Aqueduct
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