Canterbury
Canterbury has always played a pivotal role in British society - once a destination for many a pilgrimage in the past, the city is now home to a legion of students who give it a real buzz. Your Canterbury tale can involve a visit to the Beaney House of Art, a jaunt around England’s first cathedral and a leisurely stroll down the King’s Mile, where you’ll find boutiques aplenty. If you want to start planning your day trip itinerary, check out our Things to Do in Canterbury guide.
How to get there; One hour by train from London St Pancras, around one hour 30 minutes by car.
Best time to visit; March to September.
Bath
If you’re after romantic day trips from London, you really can’t go wrong with the idyllic Bath. Fall in love at first sight with the honey-hued Georgian architecture, before stepping into the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s Roman Baths, built around thermal springs. Meander around the magnificent Abbey, Circus and Royal Crescent, and then stop for a sweet treat at Sally Lunn’s. To delve deeper into the city, read our guide of Things to Do in Bath.
How to get there; One hour 30 minutes from London Paddington, approximately two hours 30 minutes by car.
Best time to visit; June to September.
Visit to Roman Baths with Afternoon Tea at the 5* Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa for Two
Treat yourselves to a day in one of the UK’s most historic towns with a visit to the Roman Baths and Afternoon Tea at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. Explore one of the world’s oldest religious spas; bear witness to the Sacred Spring, discover the Roman Temple, and marvel at the Roman Baths as you wander through centuries of history.
Find out more
Windsor
Windsor is a great autumn day trip from London, the perfect distance to enjoy when daylight hours are limited. Equally, the town comes into its own in the spring and summer months when the Thames sparkles and the streets are filled with locals and tourists alike. Windsor Castle has been home to the Royal Family for 900 years and is a great way to explore Royal history. But there’s far more to Windsor than just the castle itself - walk around the expansive Great Park, test your skills kayaking on the Thames or indulge in an afternoon tea feast fit for Royalty.
How to get there; 50 minutes from London Paddington, approximately one hour by car.
Best time to visit; April to September.
Box Hill
When it comes to spring day trips from London, few stand out more than Surrey’s Box Hill. Making up part of the North Downs, Box Hill is a mecca for cycling enthusiasts who race up and down the hill where the London 2012 Olympic cycling race was held. On summer weekends, expect the hill to be full of people picnicking and catching the epic sunsets. Grab a slice of cake from the National Trust café, and save space for lunch at The Tree.
How to get there; One hour 10 minutes from London Victoria or 2 hours by bike.
Best time to visit; Spring.
Oxford
The City of Dreaming Spires, Oxford is an easy day out from London and is brimming with things to do. While the prestigious university is what placed Oxford on the map, there’s a wealth of other attractions on offer from. These include the Oxford Botanic garden, Arboretum, high street and so much more.
Potterheads will be delighted to know there’s even a Harry Potter film location tour.
How to get there; 50 minutes from London Paddington or one hour 30 minutes by car.
Best time to visit; April to August
Stratford-upon-Avon
The birthplace of William Shakespeare is obviously the biggest draw to Warwickshire’s Stratford-upon-Avon. While there’s no denying that the Bard’s house, Anne Hathaway’s cottage and numerous theatres are a must-visit, the town has plenty more to offer. Sightsee from the waterways with a river cruise, hole up in a pub for a pint or two and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this quaint town.
How to get there; 2 hours 15 minutes from Marylebone Station, around 2 hours by car.
Best time to visit; July to September
Henley-on-Thames
For a little calm and reset, Henley on Thames is one of England’s most alluring market towns. The best way to experience the city is with a self-guided tour; there are also a number of cool little pubs for you to stop for a break in. To really see the town thriving, you’ll want to time your visit with the annual Royal Regatta, a highlight of both the summer sporting calendar and social season.
How to get there; 50 minutes by train from London Paddington, around one hour 30 minutes by car.
Best time to visit; Late June to late August with the regatta typically taking place early July.
Brighton
With an iconic pier and pebbly beach, day trips from London Bridge don’t get much better for topping up those Vitamin Sea levels than Brighton. The Lanes burst at the seams with vintage shops and the imposing Brighton Pavilion stands as a testament to the city’s colourful past. Navigate your way around the wonderful city with our guide of Things to Do in Brighton.
How to get there; One hour by train from London Bridge, around 2 hours 20 minutes by car.
Best time to visit; May to September.
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is the kind of England you find on postcards - rolling green hills, cottages in golden hues, and scones with cream and jam for afternoon tea. There’s a reason this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty finds itself on many a day trip itinerary. While many will argue Bourton-on-the-Water is the prettiest village in England, Burford and Moreton-in-Marsh are also well worth a visit.
How to get there; One hour 30 minutes from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh, around 2 hours by car.
Best time to visit; July and August but if you want to avoid the tourists, autumn’s your best bet.
Margate
Margate’s renaissance has been a marvel to behold. Its hipster revolution was spearheaded by the opening of the Turner Contemporary gallery. Add to that the assortment of quirky shops, a gorgeous tidal pool and, of course, the golden sandy beach, and you’ll see why it’s so charming. To help inspire your trip, read our comprehensive guide of Things to Do in Margate.
How to get there; One hour 20 minutes from St Pancras International, around 2 hours by car.
Best time to visit; April, June and September.
Manchester
Manchester may be a small city, but it certainly packs a punch. A cultural hub, this city gem is a breath of fresh air. There’s something for everyone; but football fans in particular will be in heaven, as Manchester is home to two of the most successful football teams in the Premier League. If it’s day trips from London in winter you’re after, this is definitely the city for you, as Manchester likes to make a pretty big deal out of Christmas with unrivalled markets to browse.
How to get there? Two hours 20 minutes from Euston, around 4 hours by car.
Best time to visit? June to August or November and December for festive vibes.
Manchester United Football Club Stadium Tour for Two Adults
Get up close to the magic of Old Trafford with this fascinating museum and stadium tour. Immerse yourself in its incredible history, experience the magnificent trophy room, test your skills on interactive screens and soak up the atmosphere inside the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ – this is a day to remember.
Find out more
Bristol
Londoners are flocking to Bristol at an impressive rate - and after one taste of the city’s chilled out and easygoing vibe, you’ll understand why. A hive of street art and independent cafes, the city has fostered a quirky culture over the years. If foodie day trips from London are the name of the game, you’ll want to sample Bristol’s alfresco dining and growing list of award-winning eateries.
How to get there; One hour 30 minutes from London Paddington or 2 hours 30 minutes by car.
Best time to visit; Late spring and early to midsummer months
