Once you’ve arrived in London and found your way to the city centre from the airport, you’ll find there’s more than enough to do in London. But once you’ve got to know all of London’s top spots and hidden gems (including plenty of free activities), you can take a break from the busy city and head out to beautiful seaside villages and historic towns. With most being 1 to 2 hours from the city, you can easily pack plenty into these day trips from London. You can make the journey by car or by train, which is made even easier with our car hire and train search tools.
Cultural day trips from London
These trips immerse you in the history that shaped the English countryside. From a 5th-century cathedral to echoes of the Norman Conquest, whichever era interests you, you can dig deeper with just a one-day trip from London.
Hastings
Distance from London: 1h 30min by train from St Pancras or 1h 40min by car.
What to bring: Wrap up warm and bring a raincoat if you’re visiting in winter.
Expert Tip: Keep an eye out for ‘twittens’, narrow winding streets lined with picturesque houses.
For most, the name of this town instantly brings to mind the 1066 Battle of Hastings, when William the Conqueror defeated King Harold and took the English crown. Start your day with a trip up the East Hill Lift funicular railway; you’ll get great views of both the town and the English Channel. Head back down and make your way through the Old Town. Grab an early lunch at The First In Last Out before heading to the West Hill Lift. This is where you’ll find William the Conqueror’s Hastings Castle. Usually open between March and October, its stone ruins stand as a testament to the town’s history. While you’re on West Hill, check out Smugglers Adventure, especially if you’re travelling with kids. It’s a fun, interactive way to learn about the history of smuggling in Hastings.
Canterbury Cathedral
Distance from London: 1h 15min by train from St Pancras or 2 hours by car.
Price: around £15.50 entry fee.
Expert Tip: After visiting the cathedral, try a Canterbury River Cruise to get an overview of the best sites in the town.
When visiting Canterbury Cathedral, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of pilgrims from the Middle Ages. The detail and colour of its stunning façade and interiors underwent extensive restoration in recent years and, as the scaffolding comes down, visitors can appreciate this iconic building in all its glory. If you drive to Canterbury, you can park in the Watling Street Car Park, around 5 minutes from the Cathedral. The train arrives at Canterbury West, which is just over 10 minutes from the Cathedral.
The best seaside destinations within 2 hours of London
London in summer is packed with fun activities. And, with the coastal region of Kent to the east, there are numerous seaside destinations that you can quickly reach from central London.
Margate
Distance from London: 1h 50min by train or 1h 40min by car.
What to bring: Swimwear and sunscreen if you’re visiting in summer.
Price: All-day parking at Dreamland is around £9
Expert Tip: Margate is close to other Kent towns like Broadstairs and Ramsgate. Consider hopping on a bus or hiring a car to pack visiting two towns into one day.
This coastal getaway is home to Dreamland, a vintage amusement park based on traditional seaside funfairs. The Scenic Railway is the oldest wooden rollercoaster in the UK. Treat yourself to some classic carnival fare at one of their candy floss or ice cream trucks. If funfairs aren’t your thing, there’s plenty more on offer in this seaside town. Head to Margate Old Town by the harbour, where historic buildings gather around a central Georgian Square. Main Sands is, as the name suggests, the main beach in Margate. If you’re visiting on a warm day, this is the spot to roll out a beach towel and take a dip in the tidal pool. Margate is also home to one of the UK’s best-hidden gems: The Margate Shell Grotto. This underground passageway is intricately lined with beautiful seashells and its origins remain a mystery.
Brighton
Distance from London: 1 hour by train from Victoria Station or 1h 30min by car.
What to bring: You’ll want flip-flops or other beach shoes at Brighton’s pebble beach.
Expert Tip: An all-day bus pass is £5 and makes it easy to get around.
You can pick up a range of knick-knacks and vintage goodies at the shops along North Laine. Brighton’s bright colours give its city streets their signature look. You’ll find plenty of eye-catching street art as you stroll through town, particularly at Dukes Lane, where art lovers can also find prints by contemporary artists at They Made This.
If you’re after that classic Brighton picture of colourful houses, two popular spots are Blaker Street and Albion Hill. At the top of Albion Hill, you can grab a drink or a bite to eat at The Independent Taproom or you can pop in for a coffee at Wild Cherry, a charming deli/café. Finally, of course, there’s the beach itself, home to colourful beach boxes and plenty of activities, including beach volleyball, kayaking and bike hire. Feeling brave? Check out Brighton’s nude beach — the UK’s first official nudist beach.
The most beautiful hikes to do in one day from London
While London is home to acres of green spaces, sometimes you just want to immerse yourself in the fresh country air. These walks will keep you on solid ground, but the UK is also home to some fantastic wild swimming spots.
Thanet Coastal Path, Kent
Distance from London: 1h 50min by train or 1h 40min by car.
What to wear: Good walking shoes are essential.
Expert Tip: From Ramsgate, consider taking a 15-minute bus to Pegwell Bay, where many bird species gather to breed in spring.
Kent’s coastline offers scenic views and plenty of charming villages. The Thanet Coastal Path takes you along England’s longest continuous stretch of chalk coastline, from Margate to Broadstairs, ending in Ramsgate. You’ll find information boards along the way on each area’s geological features and wildlife. Bird lovers will want to keep their eyes peeled, particularly in autumn and winter when turnstones flock to the region in large numbers. Stop for lunch in Broadstairs, at Sardinia, close to the waterfront. In Ramsgate, the waterfront is beautiful at sunset. Mariners Bar offers a small amount of outdoor seating with views of the marina.
Epping Forest
Distance from London: 1h 15min by train from Liverpool Street or 1h 20min by car.
Price: £10 for the zoo.
Expert Tip: Visit in the summer months to see longhorn cattle grazing in the forest.
Just outside of London, Epping Forest has several marked trails you can spend a day exploring. With acres of woodland to explore for free, this is an excellent choice for those looking for cheap day trips from London by train. There’s also a small zoo in the heart of the forest, just off Epping Road. There are snakes, turtles, squirrel monkeys and more, but the real highlight here is the staff. They’re always helpful and can help you hold some of the animals in your arms. Grab dinner near Theydon Bois Station, at Queen Victoria Pub or near the Knighton Lane car park, at Toby Carvery.
The Rollright Stones, The Cotswolds
Distance from London: 2h 10min by train or 2 hours by car
Expert Tip: Refuel after your walk at the Blue Boar pub in Chipping Norton.
The Cotswolds has plenty of excellent walks and hikes on offer, but this is one of the most interesting. It will take you past monuments and stone circles dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age eras. It takes about three hours so you’ll also have time to explore the lovely town of Chipping Norton where the trail starts and ends.
The most delicious day trips from London
These day trips will delight those looking to enjoy tasty treats near London. When you’re back in the city, don’t forget to try our favourite meals in London.
Deal’s restaurants and parlours
Distance from London: 1h 25min by train from St Pancras or 2h 30min by car.
Price: Between £60-£90 for a meal at Frog and Scot.
Expert Tip: If you don’t need to drive, Taphouse Beer Café has a wide selection of beers and friendly staff.
An underrated gem of the Kent area, Deal is the perfect weekend getaway for foodies. On a summer’s day, Deal Beach Parlour is a traditional ice cream parlour with views of the pier, where you can get cones, sundaes and milkshakes. At Little Harriett’s Tea Room, you can enjoy cake and tea in a cosy, charming atmosphere. For dinner, visit Frog and Scot. It serves small plates with unique meals made using locally sourced ingredients. The wine list is well curated, and they also have a set menu available (reservations recommended).
The Hand and Flowers
Distance from London: 20min by bus or 30min by car.
Price: The à la carte and Sunday Lunch menus start at £155 per person. Monday to Thursday set lunch is £45-£50 per person.
Expert Tip: Try the ale from Rebellion Brewery, a local Marlow institution.
Warm and welcoming, The Hand and Flowers is the only pub in the UK with two Michelin stars. Chef Owner Tom Kerridge and Head Chef Tom de Keyser offer classic pub fare at an exceptional level. Fish and chips, roast pork and toffee tart are just a few of the menu’s highlights. Bring the whole family out for Sunday lunch and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and friendly service.
Whitstable in September
Distance from London: 1h 20min by train from St Pancras or London Victoria or 1h 55min by car.
Price: Free to attend but certain events are ticketed.
What to wear: If you take an oyster farm tour, you’ll usually be given waders to wear, so wear something fitted and make sure you have socks for the built-in boots.
Expert Tip: If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love the treasure hunt at Whitstable Castle.
In the middle of September, Whitstable celebrates Kent’s oyster farming tradition with the Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival. Previous years have seen the festival kick off with the “Landing of the Oysters”. The oysters are blessed on the beach before being given to the local restaurants. Whitstable’s Tankerton Slopes usually hosts a food fair where you can grab some craft beer and cider to wash down your oysters. Be sure to take an oyster farm tour to learn more about how these delicious sea creatures make their way to your plate.
Castle day trips from London
Buckingham Palace may be right on your doorstep, but there are a number of other castles close to London that can be visited as a day trip.
Blenheim Palace
Distance from London: 2h 20min by train or car.
Price: Around £35 entry fee.
Expert Tip: Wednesday through Sunday you can enjoy Clementines on the Lawn for afternoon tea.
This gorgeous estate surrounded by lakes and lush greenery is the private residence of the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough. With audio tours, you can get insight from the experts on Blenheim Palace as you explore. A pass will give you access to the State Rooms with stunning Baroque architecture, furniture and paintings. There are several other cafés and restaurants open daily, including the cosy Stable Cafe in the West Courtyard. The Upstairs Tour and Downstairs Tour cost a little extra, but they offer fascinating insights into the daily lives of the residents of the past.
Windsor Castle
Distance from London: 1 hour by train or car.
What to bring: You’ll need to walk up a steep hill, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Price: From £28 if you book in advance and £30 on the day.
Expert Tip: Windsor Castle is a functioning royal castle, so make sure to double-check the closure dates before planning your trip.
One of the UK’s most well-known castles, you can easily spend a day exploring Windsor Castle. The historic State Apartments have beautiful, painted ceilings and Queen Mary’s dollhouse is an incredible artistic feat, constructed by over 1,500 artists for Elizabeth II’s mother. Don’t miss the changing of the guard. Visitors can usually watch it on Thursdays and Saturdays at 11 am. With the direct service from Waterloo taking only about an hour, this is one of the best day trips from London by train.
Best day trips from London for families with kids
Within 2 hours of London, you can find excellent day trips for kids. These are our favourite spots for a calm day out in the forest or a day full of fun-filled adrenaline rushes.
New Forest
Distance from London: 1h 30min by train or 1h 40min by car.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
Expert Tip: Visit between July and August to see New Forest Lavender Farm in bloom.
New Forest is one of the best day trips from London for families. It’s home to New Forest National Park, where acres of forest glades and misty moors are home to thriving wildlife populations. You can explore it all along the clearly marked walking trails or hire a bike and cycle between New Forest’s charming villages. Stop for a bite in the heart of New Forest at the dog-friendly Bell Inn pub and have a proper afternoon tea at Eddy’s Café in Exbury Gardens. Exbury Gardens is one of the most beautiful spots in the New Forest area, on the banks of the Beaulieu River, with carefully landscaped bushes of rhododendrons and azaleas. If the kids tire of walking, they’ll enjoy the opportunity to relax by taking the steam train through the garden’s most beautiful areas.
Thorpe Park
Distance from London: 1h 15min by train from Waterloo or 1h 20min by car.
Price: Starting at £35.
What to wear: Comfortable clothes that can withstand speeds of up to 80 mph.
Expert Tip: Buy your tickets online to get discounted prices and free entry for those under 1.2 metres tall (too small for the rides).
Thorpe Park has plenty of rides to thrill kids and adults alike. It’s home to the UK’s fastest rollercoaster, Stealth, which goes from 0 to 80 mph in less than 2 seconds. The Vortex makes 15 rotations every 60 seconds and reaches heights of up to 65 feet. Those who prefer a psychological thrill can take the Walking Dead ride or the Ghost Train. Quantum offers moderate thrills, perfect for the whole family.
European cities to visit on a one-day trip from London
The Eurostar can help get you from London to some of Europe’s most popular destinations in 2-3 hours. You’ll probably need to have an early start and a late finish, but the experience is easily worth it. Check times and prices through KAYAK.
Paris
Distance from London: 2h 20min on the Eurostar from St Pancras International.
Price: Return Eurostar tickets usually cost £50-£90.
Expert Tip: The Paris metro makes it easier to get between attractions quickly. A Navigo day pass gives you unlimited trips.
Packing the best of Paris into one day is tricky but doable. You can shave some time off top attractions by getting into the Louvre via the Carousel du Louvre Underground entrance and getting a Paris Museum Pass, which lets you skip the line at attractions like the Centre Pompidou (modern art), Musée d’Orsay (impressionist art) and Conciergerie (Paris’ first Royal Palace). Many of Paris’ best attractions are packed together. Finish your trip with a visit to Sacre Coeur and Montmartre. It’s gorgeous around sunset and just a roughly 10-minute walk from Gare du Nord. You can also get dinner at Montmartre at the cosy La Maison Rose. Reservations are essential at this iconic pink restaurant, once frequented by French celebrities such as Alain Delon and Albert Camus. The last Eurostar of the day leaves at 10:13 pm and you’ll be back in London a little after midnight.
Brussels
Distance from London: 2h 20min on the Eurostar from St Pancras International.
Price: Return Eurostar tickets usually cost around £100.
Expert Tip: One way to make sure you pack in everything you want is to organise a guided tour.
You’ll arrive in the city centre where you can grab breakfast at one of Brussels’ lovely cafés. A unique option that’s sure to fuel you up is Oats Day Long, a porridge restaurant. Head to the Grand Palace, a beautiful building that’s worth visiting even if you don’t have time to go inside. If you can, plan your trip for a time when a festival is hosted in the nearby square. From here, head to the Royal Passages. These shopping arcades are the best place to find chocolates and other souvenirs. Afterwards, you could head up the Mont des Arts, admire the Brussels Cathedral or visit the Royal Palace of Brussels (free from late July to late August). Get dinner at Brasserie de la Madeleine, before heading to Momade Cupcakes to buy dessert for the train trip back to London.
Amsterdam
Distance from London: 3h 47min on the Eurostar from St Pancras International.
Price: Return Eurostar tickets usually cost around £110.
Expert tip: Amsterdam’s metro makes it quicker to get around, but many hotspots are packed close together, so consider using your time to stroll the canals instead.
You’ll need to get up bright and early to make a day trip to Amsterdam, but the stroopwaffels alone are worth the trip. You’ll take the Eurostar at 6:16 am and arrive in Amsterdam by 11:15 am. We recommend using the train journey to eat, either your own food or something from the station. Then you can dive straight into Damrak, the busy avenue that runs from Amsterdam Central Station. It’s lined with beautiful historic buildings and takes you to Dam Square and Amsterdam’s Royal Palace. Stop for a quick lunch at Seth Takeout before heading to the Floating Flower Market, where you can buy fresh flowers or bulbs. Finally, visit the Museumplein, where you can choose to visit the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum and Moco Museum. If you have time, explore the independent boutiques along the Nine Streets. Ramen Kingdom is a great spot to grab dinner before catching the 6:47 pm Eurostar back to London.
The perfect day trip from London, by Katherine
- Take the train from St Pancras Station to Margate at 8:20 am.
- 1h 40min on the train plus a 5-minute walk
- Arrive in Margate’s Old Town.
- 2 hours exploring the shops and Georgian Square.
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Buoy and Oyster Seafood Restaurant.
- Walk 1h 45min or drive around 23 minutes along the Thanet Coastal Path to Broadstairs.
- Visit the Dickens House Museum.
- Have dinner at Jetty Broadstairs.
- Take the 8:25 pm train back to London.
- Arrive just after 10 pm in London.
Conclusion
With so many destinations and activities within a few hours of London, it makes a fantastic base for day trips. Whether you’ve only got a day to spare or you’re looking to see everything this part of the UK has to offer, you can put your itinerary together with this guide. If you’re looking for more unique destinations, discover the best city break alternatives in England, Europe and beyond.
FAQs on day trips from London
Get the answers to your frequently asked questions about day trips from London.
What cities are 2 hours away from London?
Cities 2 hours or less away from London that haven’t been mentioned above include Bath, Oxford, Cambridge and Dover. There are also several Areas of Natural Beauty, including North Wessex Downs, High Weald and Surrey Hills.
Is it possible to do a day trip from London to Edinburgh?
Unfortunately, it isn’t really possible to do a day trip from London to Edinburgh. The fastest trains from London to Edinburgh take roughly 4h 30min. You could certainly consider a short weekend trip instead.
Are day trips from London worth it?
Day trips from London are certainly worth the effort, with a wealth of charming towns, historical attractions and fun activities less than 2 hours from London. You can immerse yourself in an entirely new experience and still be back in London for bed.
What countries are a day trip from London?
Your top choices for a day trip in neighbouring to London countries are:
- France: Lille, Paris and the French Alps are popular destinations.
- Belgium: Head to Bruges or Brussels.
- Wales: Cardiff is just under 2 hours away on the GWR.
- The Netherlands.
