12 Best Day Trips From London (By Train & By Car)

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Looking for the best day trips from London? Here’s where to escape to for the day!

Living in London has taught me two things: how to make the most of a sunny day and when it’s time to leave the city behind. Over the years, I’ve taken countless day trips from London – heading to the coast, the countryside, and characterful market towns that offer a much-needed break from the chaos.

This guide covers my favourite easy day trips from London, whether you’re travelling by train or hiring a car. From seaside towns like Brighton and Hastings to historic cities like Oxford and Bath, these are all places I’ve personally visited and would genuinely recommend for a one-day adventure.

If you’re still planning your trip, you might also find my full London travel planning guide helpful before mapping out your day trips.

Best Day Trips at a Glance!

Short on time? The easiest day trips from London by train are Oxford, Windsor, and Cambridge. If you’re hiring a car, Stonehenge and the Cotswolds offer more flexibility and countryside scenery. If you’re after some seaside charm, Hastings is your best bet – especially in the summer! Here is a breakdown of my favourite one-day escapes:

Destination	Best For	By Train or Car	Travel Time	Why It’s Special
Bath	History & Georgian architecture	Train	1 hr 30	Roman Baths, Royal Crescent, spa culture
Hastings & St Leonards	Seaside charm & creative energy	Train	1 hr 45	Old Town, fishing huts, independent shops
Cambridge	Punting & academic history	Train	1–1.5 hrs	Colleges, River Cam, Fitzwilliam Museum
Oxford	Historic colleges & Harry Potter	Train	1 hr	Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera
Rye	Cobbled streets & cosy pubs	Train	1 hr 10	Mermaid Street, antique shops
Margate	Indie seaside & modern art	Train	1 hr 30	Turner Contemporary, Dreamland
Windsor	Royal history	Train	1 hr	Windsor Castle, Long Walk
Brighton	Lively beach town & shopping	Train	1 hr 15	The Lanes, Royal Pavilion
Bristol	Street art & cool town vibe	Train	1 hr 40	Clifton Suspension Bridge, Banksy art
Canterbury	Medieval charm & cathedral history	Train	55 min	Canterbury Cathedral, historic lanes
Whitstable	Oysters & relaxed seaside	Train	1 hr 20	Harbour, seafood spots, beach huts
Seven Sisters	Coastal hikes & dramatic cliffs	Train + bus	1 hr 30	White cliffs, South Downs views
Stratford-upon-Avon	Shakespeare & Tudor streets	Train	2 hrs	Shakespeare’s birthplace, River Avon
Stonehenge	Ancient history	Car (or tour)	2 hrs	Iconic prehistoric stone circle
Hever Castle	Tudor history & gardens	Car	1 hr 30	Anne Boleyn’s childhood home
The Cotswolds	Countryside villages	Car (or tour)	2–2.5 hrs	Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury
Paris	Iconic European escape	Train (Eurostar)	2 hrs 20	Eiffel Tower, Louvre

Best Day Trips From London by Train

In my opinion, the best day trips are ones you can do by train – no car hire, no driving stress, just sitting back and enjoying the journey. It’s such an easy way to see more of the UK, and the routes often pass through very pretty English countryside that’s almost worth the ride alone!

🎫 Book your train tickets in advance here – if you’re unsure where to book your train tickets, I recommend using Omio. It’s easy to use and my go-to for comparing times, routes, and prices. Plus, it’s partnered with Eurostar and all the major UK rail companies.

1. Bath, Somerset

Best day trip from London for: history lovers, Georgian architecture, and spa breaks!
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage city, known for its beautiful Georgian architecture and well-preserved Roman history. It’s a must-visit for Jane Austen fans and perfect if you’re after a day that combines culture and lots of walking through charming Georgian streets.

How to get from London to Bath

There are frequent direct trains from London Paddington to Bath Spa, taking around 1.5 hours. The last train back is usually around 11 pm, so you’ll have plenty of time there.

What to do in Bath

You have to visit the Roman Baths and take a stroll along the Royal Crescent to admire the grand Georgian terraces. If you fancy a bit of pampering, the rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa is a must. I once came to Bath for a hen do that involved the spa, a Jane Austen–themed high tea at The Jane Austen Centre, and a night out. It was perfect!

If you’re keen to see Stonehenge while you’re in Somerset, it’s doable, but you’ll need a car to get between the two. I recommend saving that for a separate trip or joining a guided tour that combines both. You’ll find Stonehenge further down this list under day trips by car.

2. Hastings and St Leonards, East Sussex

Best day trip from London for: seaside charm, creative energy and fish and chips!
I might be biased, as Hastings is my hometown, but this is definitely the best seaside day trip from London! With the historic Old Town, bold art scene, independent shops and Victorian seaside charm, Hastings and neighbouring St Leonards offer a unique coastal experience that feels a world away from London.

How to get from London to Hastings and St Leonards

There’s a direct train from London Charing Cross or London Bridge to Hastings, which takes around 1 hour 45 minutes. St Leonards is just one stop back from Hastings, or a 15-minute walk along the seafront!

What to do in Hastings and St Leonards

You have to visit Hastings Old Town and wander down George Street and the High Street, both filled with vintage shops, independent cafés and historic pubs. The fishing huts on the beach make for a great photo stop, and nearby Hastings Contemporary is a must. Grab lunch or a bag of chips from The Dolphin and eat them on the seafront!

If you’ve got energy to burn, you can walk up to Hastings Castle or along the clifftop in Hastings Country Park for lovely sea views. Don’t forget St Leonards, full of artist-run galleries, cool shops and amazing food. My go-to places are Half Man Half Burger and Heist Market for cocktails and street food. If you’re around for dinner, Thai Bookshop in the Old Town is a gem – make sure you book a table in advance!

If you want to make the most of your day, I’ve put together a full Hastings day trip itinerary with all the details, from the best cafés and shops to walks along the cliffs and the seafront.

3. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Best day trip for: scenic walks, punting on the river, and academic history and charm.
Cambridge feels like it’s stepped straight out of a storybook. Home to one of the world’s most famous universities, it’s full of grand colleges, peaceful courtyards and winding lanes to explore. It’s ideal for a relaxed day of wandering and soaking up centuries of history.

How to get from London to Cambridge

Trains run frequently from London King’s Cross or Liverpool Street to Cambridge, taking between 1 and 1.5 hours depending on the route. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the station to the city centre.

What to do in Cambridge

Start your day with a wander through the historic colleges – King’s College Chapel is a must-see – and then head to the River Cam for a spot of punting (either DIY or guided, depending on your energy levels and balance!). There are loads of cute cafés, bookshops, and green spaces to relax in and I’d also recommend popping into the Fitzwilliam Museum.

When I last visited, I stopped at Michaelhouse Café, which is set inside a beautiful former church and serves delicious homemade lunches and cakes. It’s a peaceful spot to refuel and soak up the atmosphere of the city without the crowds.

4. Oxford, Oxfordshire

Best day trip for: historic pubs, grand architecture, and Harry Potter fans!
Oxford is one of the most iconic cities in England, known for its prestigious university, centuries-old architecture, and charming cobbled streets. It feels instantly historic, yet lively and cool thanks to the student culture. If you’re planning a dedicated visit, check out my full Oxford day trip guide here.

How to get from London to Oxford

Trains from London Paddington or Marylebone to Oxford take around 1 hour and run frequently. There’s also the Oxford Tube coach, which departs from Victoria Coach Station and other central London stops. It takes about 1 hour 40 minutes and is a bit cheaper.

What to do in Oxford

I only visited for the first time a few months ago and absolutely loved it. My friend and I had lunch at the Handle Bar Café and Kitchen, which I’d really recommend – it’s tucked just next to a bike shop and has a cool, laid-back vibe. We sat outside in the sun and the food was delicious.

After lunch, we wandered around the colleges, slipping into a couple for free by accident with a tour group! I really liked New College, especially the peaceful gardens and the cloisters, which you might recognise from Harry Potter. St Edmund Hall felt like a hidden oasis, with a quiet, flower-filled courtyard that was perfect for a slow wander in the sunshine.

If you have more time, check out the Bodleian Library, climb the tower at the University Church of St Mary the Virgin for views over the city, or take a ride along the river if the weather’s nice. Bicester Village (luxury designer outlet) is only a short bus ride away, and Blenheim Palace (Winston Churchill’s birthplace) is just 20 minutes by bus from Oxford.

5. Rye, East Sussex

Best day trip for: cobbled streets, cosy pubs and windswept landscapes.
Tucked away in the East Sussex countryside, Rye is one of the loveliest small towns in England. Think winding lanes, crooked old buildings, and views over the marshes that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a period drama. It’s tiny, charming, and perfect for a slow day – and if you’re up for a bit more exploring, Dungeness is just down the road.

How to get from London to Rye

Trains run from London St Pancras to Rye in just over an hour, with a quick change at Ashford International. It’s an easy journey for somewhere that feels so far removed from the city.

What to do in Rye

Start with a stroll down Mermaid Street, one of the most photographed streets in the country. You have to stop in at the Mermaid Inn, which has been serving pints (and ghosts, supposedly) since the 12th century. The town’s packed with antique shops, little galleries, and independent bookshops, ideal for a lazy browse. There are also some cracking pubs if you fancy a proper lunch or a pint by the fire.

If you’ve got the time, make your way out to Dungeness – a totally unique stretch of shingle beach that feels more like the edge of the world than the south coast. Expect wide skies, driftwood huts, a miniature railway, and some of the strangest scenery you’ll find in the UK.

6. Margate, Kent

Best day trip for: seaside nostalgia, modern art, and indie shopping.
Margate’s had a bit of a glow-up in recent years, transforming from a dilapidated seaside town into one of the coolest spots on the Kent coast. It’s a quirky mix of old-school arcades, sandy beaches, and a thriving creative scene.

How to get from London to Margate

Direct trains run regularly from London St Pancras or Victoria to Margate and take around 1.5 hours. The station’s right by the seafront, so you can be on the beach in minutes.

What to do in Margate

Start at the Turner Contemporary gallery, perched right on the seafront and full of thought-provoking exhibitions and sea views that inspired Turner himself. Then wander through the Old Town, where you’ll find independent shops, galleries, and some great vintage shops!

Curve Coffee – Cafe & Store is my go-to for lunch. It’s stylish, relaxed, and has great local vibes. Once you’ve had your fill, head down to the main sands for a paddle, or channel your inner child with a spin through Dreamland – Margate’s retro theme park with vintage rides and roller discos.

7. Windsor, Berkshire

Best day trip from London for: royal history, old and new!
Windsor does just feel quintessentially British. It’s the cobbled streets, cute tearooms and the castle that still occasionally hosts the royal family. You may even spot a royal (wishful thinking, but you never know!).

How to get from London to Windsor

You can travel from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside in just under an hour by train and the station is only a short walk from the castle and town centre. You can now also take the Elizabeth line to Slough, change and travel one stop, which takes 6 minutes, to Windsor & Eton Central.

What to do in Windsor

The star attraction is, obviously, Windsor Castle. It’s the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and is full of fascinating royal history. Don’t miss St George’s Chapel (where Harry and Meghan got married) and the lavish State Apartments.

Afterwards, stroll down the Long Walk, a scenic tree-lined avenue that stretches from the castle gates to the Copper Horse statue. It’s one of my favourite parts of Windsor. You can also cross the bridge into Eton (home to the famous college), where the high street is full of charming independent shops and old-school pubs. And if the weather’s good, a boat trip along the Thames is a lovely way to see the best part of the river.

8. Brighton, East Sussex

Best day trip for: seaside fun and independent shopping.
I used to come to Brighton as a teenager for high street shopping and nights out! These days, I go for the sea air, vintage shops and the food scene. It’s one of the easiest and liveliest day trips from London – just over an hour by train and you’re at the beach.

How to get from London to Brighton

Trains run regularly from Victoria, London Bridge or Blackfriars to Brighton and take around 1 hour 15 minutes. Brighton station is right in the new town.

What to do in Brighton

Wander The Lanes for vintage shops and record stores, stroll up the pier with chips in hand, and dip into North Laine for colourful streets and independent cafés. The new town around Churchill Square isn’t much to write home about, but the rest of Brighton more than makes up for it. I’d also recommend a visit to Brighton Pavilion, a seaside pleasure palace built for King George IV!

If you’re visiting in early November, try to catch Lewes Bonfire Night nearby. It’s one of the most dramatic and historic firework displays in the UK, and well worth the short detour. You won’t have seen anything like it!

9. Bristol, Somerset

Best day trip for street art, harbourside hangouts and young energy.
Bristol has such a unique character – creative, laid-back and beautiful. It’s the birthplace of Banksy, home to colourful Georgian terraces, and packed with independent cafés and bars. It’s a slightly longer train ride than other day trips from London, but well worth the journey if you want to experience a different side of the UK.

How to get from London to Bristol

Trains run frequently from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads and take around 1 hour 40 minutes. From the station, it’s an easy walk or bus ride into the centre.

What to do in Bristol

Start by exploring the Harbourside, where you can walk or cycle along the water, stopping off at independent spots like Watershed or Arnolfini for a drink or exhibition. Wander up to Clifton to see the famous suspension bridge and pretty houses, then head down Gloucester Road for vintage shops and some of the city’s best street art. If you’re into music or nightlife, Bristol always has something going on. There’s a big focus on local, sustainable food here, so it’s a great place to try something new.

Day Trips From London By Car

Some destinations are just easier to reach by car, especially if you want to explore rural spots, picturesque villages, or multiple stops in one day. Driving gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and see hidden gems that aren’t easily accessible by public transport.

🚗 Book your rental in advance here – If you need to hire a car, I recommend using DiscoverCars. It’s my favourite site for comparing prices across multiple providers and finding the best deal.

10. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Best day trip for: ancient history and iconic British landmarks.
There’s something undeniably magical about Stonehenge. It’s one of the UK’s most famous prehistoric sites, and while no one’s completely sure how or why it was built, that mystery is part of the magic. I used to drive past Stonehenge regularly on my way to university in Cornwall, and even after seeing it so many times, it hasn’t stopped feeling special.

How to get from London to Stonehenge

Stonehenge is best reached by car. It takes around two hours from London. Public transport is possible but a bit of a faff, involving a train to Salisbury and then a shuttle or local bus. There are also lots of tours to Stonehenge if you value a stress-free option.

What to do in Stonehenge

Head to the visitor centre first, where you’ll find exhibitions, a café, and a shuttle bus to the stone circle if you don’t fancy the 30-minute walk. The landscape is dotted with burial mounds and ancient pathways, so it’s worth exploring the surrounding area too. As you have a car, you can explore more of Wiltshire too. Marlborough is particularly beautiful, as you can see from the picture above!

If you’re torn between Stonehenge and Avebury, here’s what I think: Stonehenge is iconic and well-organised, while Avebury is more relaxed. You can actually walk among the stones and grab a pint in the village pub. Both are brilliant in their own way, so do both if you get the chance!

11. Hever Castle, Kent

Best day trip for: Tudor history and castle enthusiasts!
Hever Castle is my favourite castle in the UK. It was Anne Boleyn’s childhood home and is steeped in Tudor history. I’m lucky my grandma lives nearby, so I visit Hever quite often. It’s beautiful year-round, but especially magical in autumn when the Boston ivy turns a rich red.

How to get from London to Hever Castle

The easiest way is to drive, which takes about 1.5 hours from London. You can also take a train to Edenbridge Town and then a taxi ride to the castle but it’s definitely easier by car and it gives you the option to tie in a visit to Royal Tonbridge Wells too.

What to do at Hever Castle

Of course, exploring the impressive castle is a must – the rooms are filled with Tudor furniture and you’ll learn fascinating stories about Anne Boleyn’s childhood. But my favourite part is wandering the beautiful gardens. The grounds are a peaceful escape, with colourful flowerbeds, a charming Tudor-style gatehouse and an orchard.

There’s a lovely café for lunch, but if the weather’s nice, I’d highly recommend bringing a picnic and spreading out on the castle lawn. Sitting there, surrounded by historic walls and vibrant greenery, is one of the most relaxing ways to soak up the castle’s charm.

12. The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire & Oxfordshire

Best day trip for: countryside charm, cosy pubs and picture-perfect villages.
The Cotswolds are pure English countryside magic. It’s a dreamy escape from London, perfect for experiencing cosy, English villages and traditional pubs.

How to get from London to the Cotswolds

The best way to visit the Cotswolds for a day is by car. It takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on where you start. If you’d rather not drive, there are plenty of organised day tours from London that cover several Cotswold highlights in one go.

What to do in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are all about charming villages, rolling hills, and pretty stone cottages. With a car, you can comfortably visit two or three spots in a day. Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury are popular, while some tours also include hidden gems like Snowshill, Upper Slaughter, or Castle Combe.

If you’ve got time, stretch your legs on a section of the Cotswold Way, a scenic walking trail through peaceful countryside. Even a short walk near Broadway Tower or Painswick Beacon gives you a real taste of the landscape.

13. Bonus: London to Paris Day Trip!

Best day trip for: iconic landmarks, French food, and a taste of the City of Light.
Yes, you really can do Paris as a day trip from London! It’s a whirlwind, but it’s worth it if you’re short on time and want to experience a little bit of France. Think croissants, the Eiffel Tower, and a stroll along the Seine – all without needing an overnight stay.

How to get from London to Paris

The fastest and easiest way is by Eurostar, which takes about 2 hours 20 minutes. Trains run from early morning to late evening, so you can leave London at sunrise and be back the same night. If you’d rather skip the logistics, booking a guided Paris day tour from London can be a great low-stress option, as everything from train tickets to sightseeing is organised for you.

What to do in Paris

With just one day in Paris, focus on the highlights – the Eiffel Tower, a stroll along the Champs-Élysées, and a wander through the Louvre. If you have time, add a walk along the Seine or a quick coffee stop in Saint-Germain. It’s fast-paced, but an unforgettable way to spend a day.

If you’d like a step-by-step plan, I’ve shared my full London to Paris day trip itinerary here.

Where to Stay in London

If you’re planning a day trip from London, staying somewhere central, ideally near your departure station, will save you time and stress. I’ve shared my full guide to the best areas and hotels to stay in London if you’re still deciding where to base yourself.

If you want somewhere especially convenient, King’s Cross is a great base, with easy access to multiple Tube lines and major train stations.

• Budget Option: The Mentone Hotel offers excellent value for money, especially given the central location. It has high reviews on Booking.com and makes a great base.
• Mid-Range Option: The Standard is seriously cool and probably my top pick from this list! I’ve been to the bar and rooftop here and the views of St. Pancras are spectacular. It’s a trendy, modern hotel with unbeatable connections.
• Luxury Option: If you’re looking to splash out, you can’t beat the iconic St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel. Grand, historic, and right above the station—it’s a proper treat.

FAQs

Got questions about planning your perfect London day trip? Whether you’re figuring out where to go, how to get there, or if squeezing one in is worth it (spoiler: it 100% is), these quick answers will help you feel prepped and ready to go.

1. What is the best day trip from London?

It really depends on what you’re after, but Oxford is a great all-rounder, full history and beautiful colleges to explore. If you’re craving the seaside then Hastings and St Leonard’s is my top pick!

2. Can you do the Cotswolds as a day trip from London?

Yes, but it’s best done by car or with a tour, as the villages are quite spread out. If you can, go midweek as it’s much quieter and even more magical. It’s also amazing in the winter!

3. What are the best day trips from London within 1 hour?

Windsor, Cambridge and Oxford are all reachable in under an hour by train and offer plenty to see and do. If you fancy some countryside, check out Box Hill or Epping Forest.

Round Up: 12 Best Day Trips from London

Whether you’re craving a seaside stroll, a countryside hike, or a wander through a historic city, there’s no shortage of amazing places just a short train ride from London. These day trips have been some of my favourite escapes over the years – little resets that make the city feel exciting again when you return.

I hope this list helps you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a spontaneous Saturday trip or something to look forward to. Let me know where you end up! 💫