London is amazing, but sometimes you need a break. Soak up some fresh air and stunning scenery on these day trips from London. This list has something for everyone – whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker. Get ready to explore!
A Glimpse into England’s Past
Did you know there are other amazing places to visit in England besides London? These day trips are packed with history, offering a glimpse into the past.
Step back in time at the Roman Baths in Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The opulent Blenheim Palace, another UNESCO-listed gem, boasts over 300 years of history. Wander through Avebury, the UK’s other famous stone circle, and delve into the Battle of Hastings at Battle Abbey. Discover the oldest pub in Britain, The Royal Standard of England, and raise a glass to its long history!
Nature’s Playground: Escape to the Outdoors
London’s a bustling city, but just beyond its limits lies a vast expanse of breathtaking nature. Discover England’s stunning national parks, where you can ramble through The Cotswolds, cycle along the South Downs Way, and marvel at the majesty of the High Weald.
Get closer to nature by making friends with butterflies at Holtspur Bottom Reserve, striving through Swinley Forest, or catching an explosion of color at RHS Wisley. Brave the weather to see the Burnham Beeches, get lost in the magnificent Chislehurst Caves, or amble through The New Forest. Stroll around the Surrey Hills or take an excursion to Elmley National Nature Reserve.
Foodie Adventures: A Feast for the Senses
These day trips are not just about sightseeing; they are also about indulging your taste buds!
Indulge in high-quality cuisine at The Fat Duck, Heston Blumenthal’s revered restaurant. Dine at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Raymond Blanc’s idyllic hideaway. Sample fine dining at The Latymer in Pennyhill Park. Try The Hand and Flowers, a two-star Michelin pub run by Tom Kerridge. After all, a food coma is a worthy reward after a day of exploration!
Picture-Perfect Villages: Instagram-Worthy Charm
Looking for those perfect Instagram shots? These charming villages are full of character and beauty.
Snap pictures of the medieval town of Lavenham, home to Harry Potter’s house! Amble through Castle Combe, a star of many films and TV shows. Wander through the enchanting village of Arundel, voted the most relaxing place in England! Have a gander at Cookham, where “Wind in the Willows” was penned. Visit Chichester and head to the renowned theatre. Explore Shere, a favorite filming location. See East Bergholt, set amidst the landscape that inspired John Constable.
Royal Delights: Castles and Palaces
Step into a fairytale at one of these captivating castles!
Framlingham Castle is famous as the “Castle on the Hill” from Ed Sheeran’s song. Leeds Castle, confusingly located in Kent, not Leeds, is a breathtaking sight. Warwick Castle, home to an awesome Medieval trebuchet, is ready to transport you back in time. Carisbrooke Castle once held Charles I as a prisoner. Delve into the history of Dover Castle, a fortress with a rich past.
Literary Delights: Where Words Come Alive
Embrace your inner bookworm by taking a trip to some of the most iconic literary landmarks.
Tour Jane Austen’s house in Chawton. Explore Bateman’s, the former home of Rudyard Kipling. Follow the footsteps of Virginia Woolf around Monk’s House. These literary homes offer a glimpse into the lives and works of some of the world’s greatest authors.
Opulent Estates: Magnificent Manor Houses
Prepare to be amazed by these grand estates, full of history and beauty.
Explore Hughenden, the former home of Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. Fall in love with the chateaurrific Waddesdon Manor. Check out the artwork at Petworth House. See Chartwell, the family home of Winston Churchill. Get house envy at the stunning Ightham Mote. Wander amongst the flowers of Cliveden. Admire the amazing views from Leith Hill Tower, where on clear days, you can even see the London skyline! Visit Runnymede, the site where the Magna Carta was sealed. Walk amongst the bluebells of Winkworth Arboretum.
Coastal Escapes: Sea and Sand Await
Escape to the coast for some fresh sea air and stunning views.
Gaze out to sea from Beachy Head, one of the UK’s most beautiful spots. Walk the sandy beach of Great Yarmouth and go on the rides at Pleasure Beach. Feel the wind in your hair at Broadstairs. Eat seafood as fresh as you can get it in Whitstable. Get a taste of “Shoreditch-on-Sea” in Margate. Get away from the crowds on the Isle of Wight. Explore Mersea Island, but don’t get cut off by the tide!
Family Fun: Adventures for Kids of All Ages
Looking for fun activities for the little ones? These attractions will keep everyone entertained.
Explore Kent’s beautiful countryside on this heritage railway line from Tunbridge Well to Eridge with your little ones. Let your kids explore The Tudor Kitchens at Hampton Court Palace. Visit the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, just 30 minutes away from London with your kids.
Unique Adventures: Beyond the Ordinary
Go beyond the expected with these exciting and unconventional experiences.
Feel like a giant in Bekonscot Model Village, the world’s oldest such place. Take to the skies in a microlight flight across Kent. See lions, tigers, and cheetahs at The Big Cat Sanctuary. Get high with a rope course challenge. Witness an exhilarating race at the Brands Hatch circuit. Hit the slopes at The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead. Row like an Olympian on Dorney Lake. Get up close to wild animals at Woburn Safari Park. Take the steam train along the Watercress Line. Explore the New Forest on horseback.
Action-Packed Excitement: Thrills and Thrills
These day trips will get your pulse racing!
Be bowled over by Wormsley, the most beautiful cricket ground in England. Visit Cowdray Park to enjoy the highlight of the polo calendar, the Gold Cup. Start your engines for the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Escape London and Explore!
From historic castles and bustling markets to charming villages and stunning landscapes, these day trips from London offer something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!
