10 Best Day Trips from London

As much as the whole world can be found in London, there are times when an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle does appeal. Especially given the historic sites, fresh air, quaint villages, delicious eateries and selection of shops selling interesting goodies that can be found just beyond the capital.

England’s compact size makes it an easy country to tour and there’s an excellent network of roads and railway lines, most of which either start in London or pass close by. For some day trips, curated guided tours can add an extra dimension to the experience, as well as ease logistics. Either way, venturing out of London for the day could bring you country walks, seaside jaunts, rolling hills and beautiful countryside, of which these options are our favourites.

The BusinessClass.com guide to the ten Best Day Trips from London:

1. Stonehenge

Stonehenge on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire is thought to be over 5000 years old and has been marvelled over for centuries. A prehistoric stone circle monument, there is no clear evidence as to the structure’s intended purpose. Some presume it was built to hold religious services or as an expression of wealth and authority by the chieftains, aristocrats, and priests who (may have) commissioned it. Others believe the sacred archaeological site follows the Sun and the Moon and was constructed to guide early-day farmers. 

Whichever it is, all the mystery only adds to the appeal. It’s an enchanting and memorable place with rugged, wildly beautiful scenery all around. One of the most recognised structures in the world, Stonehenge draws crowds to celebrate the summer solstice, and mark the midwinter sunset and is where deep connections with the ancestors are made. 

** Stonehenge is about 140 kilometres from London and can be reached by car, guided tours, or a combination of rail and bus.

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2. Brighton

Brighton is a gorgeous seaside resort in the county of East Sussex that has long been dedicated to leisure and lifestyle. The much-photographed Brighton Palace Pier with its fluttering Union Jacks is easily recognisable and lights up each evening, inviting visitors onto the wooden boardwalk to enjoy the carnival atmosphere. 

Built as a getaway for the Prince of Wales in the 1800s, the Pavilion is one of the more exotic royal residences with its Taj-like domes and sandstone spires. Popular for entertaining his friends at the time, this classic British seaside town on England’s southern coast has long been a sought-after destination. Archaeological evidence has settlements dating back to the Bronze Age, Roman and Anglo-Saxon periods.

While in Brighton enjoy a relaxed walk through the quirky shopping areas, soak up some of the vibrant music and arts scene, indulge in a good meal and relax in this popular multi-cultural community.

** Brighton is about 90 kilometres away and the train from London takes an hour.

Where to stay in London

3. Windsor

Windsor is on the River Thames in southeast England, just west of London. Best known as home to Windsor Castle and where Queen Elisabeth II spent much of her time, it is one of the primary residences of the British Royal Family and the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. Built by William The Conqueror in the 11th century, the castle has been extensively remodelled by subsequent Kings and Queens. It’s well worth booking a tour which will take you into the State Apartments to see the opulent furnishings and paintings from the royal art collection. 

Windsor is steeped in pageantry and history. Surround by the Royal Berkshire countryside, there’s a lively town with great shopping and a glorious riverside with excellent restaurants. Tour ancient Eton College, where Prince William and Harry went to school. For something a little different and if travelling with children, the theme park LEGOLAND® Windsor is great fun.

** About 40 kilometres west of London, you can get there by train in around 30 minutes. 

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4. Hampton Court 

Hampton Court is a royal palace in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, upstream of central London. Known as Henry VIII's ‘pleasure palace’, a visit offers insight into the infamous life of Henry VIII with details about his six wives and many children who once resided there. Highlights include the Baroque Palace and private apartments built for William III and Mary II, as well as the Great Hall – one of the grandest medieval rooms in British royal history, adorned with tapestries and intricately carved beams. Wander the Haunted Gallery that’s lined with Tudor portraits. It's alleged the ghost of Catherine Howard, Henry VIII’s fifth wife, has been seen here.

The Tudor Kitchens are a must-see too. The 24 hectares of grounds include formal landscaped gardens and wild meadows, and the world’s oldest puzzle maze. During Henry VIII's era, he turned the grounds and homes into entertainment focussed feasting, hunting and jousting. Each summer, the palace hosts the Hampton Court Garden. 

** About 20 kilometres southwest and upstream of London and easily reached by train.

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5. Oxford

Oxford in Oxfordshire northwest of London is best known for its namesake university and the 900-plus years of academic excellence it takes pride in. Steeped in history and energised by the resident students, the charm and grandeur of Oxford can be enjoyed on a day trip. Walk the narrow alleys and ancient town squares of the historic centre and admire the many architectural marvels, some of which have been featured in movies. 

The university and by default Oxford itself was born when King Henry II banned English students from attending the University of Paris in 1167. Forced to a quiet town surrounded by green fields, this is where they were to complete their education. The students thrived and King Henry III granted the university a royal charter in 1248. Drawing the crème de la crème of academia,  Oxford has seen prime ministers, US presidents, celebrated writers, poets and scientists move through its doors over the years. Beyond the university, seek out the gothic chapels, exquisite libraries, classic English pubs and fine dining. In a conveniently compact city, most of the attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

** Journeys between London and Oxford take around 1 hour, and the distance is around 80 kilometres.

Where to stay in London

6. Bath – Roman Baths

The Roman Baths are in the centre of Bath in the West of England. Constructed as a grand bathing and socialising complex, they are one of the best-preserved Roman bath complexes remaining in the world, with 1,170,000 litres of steaming spring water that reaches temperatures of 46°C, filling the baths daily. In the first few decades of Roman Britain, a temple had been constructed here which led to the development of a small Roman settlement known as Aquae Sulis. In around 60-70 AD, a bath complex was added. 

Archaeological evidence shows that the site of the main spring was treated as a shrine and dedicated to the Goddess Sulis, whom the Romans called Minerva. After the retreat of the Romans in the 5th century, the baths fell into disrepair but were eventually rediscovered and restored. A visit will take you back to Roman times and the lives of the Aquae Sulis people. Walk on ancient pavements, and explore chambers that housed changing rooms and warm pools. There are four main parts to the complex today: the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, the Roman Bath House, and the museum. 

**Bath is about 160 kilometres west of London and is best reached by car or train.

Where to stay in London

7. Cambridge 

Cambridge is a city on the River Cam in eastern England that’s home to the prestigious University of Cambridge. Dating to 1209, the 31 colleges which make up the iconic institution represent about half of all the buildings in the city centre where cobbled streets lead to traditional stores and eateries. Many of the Cambridge University colleges back onto the River Cam, referred to as The Backs. Cambridge is the perfect place for a punting experience – the most iconic of river transports in English university towns and a great way to see the beautiful old buildings of King’s College, Trinity College, and St John’s College. 

Beyond punting, the bicycle is the preferred method of getting around, so you might want to hire one. Cambridge Market Square has been a place of trading since the Middle Ages and remains the spot to buy anything from fresh food to second-hand clothing. The Sunday market has more of an artisanal feel to it. Either way, there are photo opportunities down almost every street, with the whole of Cambridge a delight. 

**Just on 100 kilometres from London and reached by car or train, with buses from Cambridge Station.

Where to stay in London

8. Canterbury

Canterbury is a cathedral city in southeast England that was made famous by Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Home to some of England’s finest medieval architecture, and one of its oldest cathedrals, it was a pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages and remains a place of significance in the UK today. Ancient walls, originally built by the Romans, encircle its ancient centre where cobbled streets are lined by timber-framed houses. 

Here you’ll find the Canterbury Cathedral which was established in 597 A.D. and is the headquarters of the Church of England and Anglican Communion. Designed to incorporate Gothic and Romanesque elements, it has intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained-glass windows. With its old English pubs, interesting museums, unique architecture and numerous scenic walks, it makes for an excellent day trip. 

** About 90 kilometres from London, it is reached by road or train.

Where to stay in London

9. Stratford Upon Avon

Stratford Upon Avon is a market town with a difference. The birthplace of William Shakespeare sits scenically on both sides of the River Avon. It’s the right place to learn more about Shakespeare, and life in the Tudor period in general. See Shakespeare’s Birthplace, the half-timbered house where he was born and gain insight into his childhood. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre originally opened in 1879 and with its two sister theatres – The Swan and The Other Place – is the lifeblood of the town. 

Make taking in a show a priority, with the theatre offering the finest productions from Hamlet to Midsummer Night's Dream and Macbeth. The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust oversees five properties associated with him, including a garden and museum at New Place which can be visited. Beyond this theme though, the town has some glorious buildings, fine walks and really good restaurants.

** From London to Stratford-upon-Avon is about a 2-hour train journey.

Where to stay in London

10. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds may just be one of the most scenic parts of England. Running through the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire and Somerset, it covers an area of about 2000 square kilometres and is made up of a collection of 113 towns and villages that guarantee a slower pace in an idyllic setting. Castle Combe is said to be the prettiest village in England and is an essential stop.

Other must-see villages include Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Camden. The area has typically English landscapes of rolling green pastures hills, stone walls and woodland. Quaint villages and market towns – each holding a list of attractions. The sandy yellow Cotswold Stone built home makes the whole area highly attractive. Have a pint in an ancient pub and see some of Britain’s most beautifully preserved medieval churches. This area is picture-postcard England at its best. Mostly though, allow plenty of time to explore. 

**From London it’s about a 1-1.5 hours train journey. A guided tour of the area is recommended.

Where to stay in London

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