Best Day Trips From London
London is an exciting city to visit with so many cultural and historical attractions to see. You can spend days wandering around the city’s gardens, museums, and monuments, but sometimes it’s worth taking a day trip to explore other nearby towns. Academic cities like Oxford and Cambridge, the ancient mystery of Stonehenge or the seaside town of Brighton, are all a day trip from London worth doing. So many of these incredible places can be seen with just a short drive or train ride away.
This article is here to guide you through everything you need to plan the best day trips from London, including travel times, must-see attractions, and helpful tips. From a cultural getaway to a nature-filled escape, we will help you plan your one-day trip from London.
THE BEST DAY TRIPS
FROM LONDON
London has so many attractions right in the heart of the city, but sometimes you need a short escape to the countryside. Thanks to the efficient railway system and organised day tours from London, you can easily explore nearby towns and attractions.
Oxford
Oxford is best known for the world-renowned University of Oxford. It has breathtaking architecture, old traditions, and vital academic importance. It’s also a must-visit for literary fans, with connections to J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll. Explore iconic colleges in Oxford, such as Christ Church, which inspired Harry Potter’s Hogwarts Great Hall. Entry is £17 and is open daily. Bodleian Library is another must-see, as one of Europe’s oldest libraries. Prices are reasonable at £9 for guided tours, but we highly recommend pre-booking in advance.
You can get to Oxford from London via train from London Paddington Station or London Marylebone Station. It takes about an hour and tickets are around £6. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Victoria Station. The trip takes about 1.5 hours and costs £18 with return.
Bath
Famous for its Roman history, Georgian architecture, and natural hot springs, Bath is a must-visit for anyone interested in England’s past.
Top attractions
Roman Baths: Discover the best-preserved ancient baths in Britain. £22 for entry, and includes an audio guide.
Bath Abbey: A beautiful cathedral with breathtaking stained-glass windows.
The Royal Crescent: A row of 30 Georgian townhouses, a great spot for history lovers and photographers.
Thermae Bath Spa: The only place in the UK where you can bathe in naturally heated spring water. Entry is £40 for a two-hour spa session.
Get here by train from London Paddington Station. The trip takes about 1.5 hours and costs £15.
Cambridge
Cambridge is famous for its beauty, historic colleges, and its River Cam. From exploring the city’s history, and architecture, or enjoying a relaxing boat ride, Cambridge offers a perfect one-day trip from London. You can easily get here by train from London’s King’s Cross Station or Liverpool Street Station. The trip takes about an hour and costs between £8-£10.
Brighton
A must-see for coastal lovers, Brighton offers a vibrant mix of seaside charm, art scene, and historic landmarks. It’s the perfect place to escape for fresh sea air, great food, and relaxed beach vibes.
You can get here from London Victoria or London Bridge Stations. The train ride takes only an hour and is £5.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is not only one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world, but it is also one of the most mysterious. It dates back over 5,000 years and while its exact purpose remains unknown, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting. While you can arrive on your own by taking a train to Salisbury, although getting to the site requires additional transport. For an easier experience, we recommend booking an organised tour, which provides direct travel. There are several tour operators offering half-day and full-day trips from London, with prices starting at £60.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour
If you are a big Harry Potter fan, nothing compares to stepping into the magical world of Hogwarts. At the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, you can visit the real sets, and see costumes, and props from the iconic films.
You can arrive by train from London Euston to Watford Junction and then take a shuttle bus to the studio. This costs about £13 in total. Alternatively, there are tour operators who provide direct coach tours with guides to accompany you along the way.
The best time to visit and things to do on a day trip from London
The best time for a day trip from London depends on your destination and travel preferences. The spring (March-May) is the perfect time for walking tours. Gardens are in full bloom and the mild weather makes places like Cambridge, Bath, and Oxford especially beautiful. The summer (June-August) is great for seaside escapes to Brighton or for exploring Stonehenge. Although, we must warn that this time of year is high tourist season, so expect larger crowds. Autumn (September-November) offers fewer tourists and stunning fall colours, while winter (December-February) is ideal for indoor attractions such as the Warner Bros. Studio Tour or Bath’s festive Christmas markets.
To avoid issues or disappointment, make sure to reserve entrance for attractions and book train tickets in advance for the best fares. If you prefer a hassle-free expereince, then taking a guided tour might be best suited for you, especially to remote sites like Stonehenge. Make sure to check attraction opening times, as many places close earlier in winter. Lastly, wear comfortable shoes since most places require a good amount of walking.
Book your perfect day trip from London
With so many incredible destinations just a short trip away, planning a day trip from London has never been easier. From exploring historic towns the stunning countryside, to seaside escapes, now is the perfect time to start organizing your getaway. So, book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to explore both London and the amazing destinations beyond.
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable place to stay during your trip, Urban Retreat Apartments offers premium serviced accommodations in the heart of the city. With modern amenities and a prime location, it’s the perfect base for your holiday. Discover our apartments today and make your London experience even more unforgettable.