coach tour from london

Coach / Bus Tours & Trips from London

See the best Coach / Bus trips from London, England. We have 192 adventures that range from 2 days up to 45 days in length. The most popular time for tours leaving London is June.

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192 coach / bus tour packages from london with 6,565 reviews.

• Coach / Bus

Europe Taster

Knowledgeable people behind our group! Outstanding

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

We had an awesome experience, made possible by our tour director Damian and driver Dave. Damian’s knowledge was exceptional and Dave was an amazing driver.

Classic Europe

The Classic Europe tour with Expat was amazing. Everything was very convenient and well organised. Adam our tour guide and Florin our driver did wondeful jobs to make sure we saw and did everything on schedule and gave us special treats with some extra free times to enjoy the places where they could. We had such a great time with the tour itself and the people we met in the tour group were very lovely and we kept in touch. This tour sets such a high standard for our next trips! Definitely 5 stars service and we will definitely join Expat tour again in future.

Essential Britain & Ireland

Covered alot of ground and very busy of course with never enough time, but that was expected. Great driver, found tour director somewhat unenthusiastic - would have liked more concise info on how each day was going to progress and a little more interaction with the group. Hotel Metropole was so hot and too noisy to have window open - most of the hotel rooms were so hot all night. Holiday Inn York room was rather well tread and dirty. Other than that a great trip with excellent meals except the dinner at Holiday Inn York.

• Walking Adventure
• Sightseeing

European Discovery (Summer, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Grand Tour of Britain & Ireland

We felt there was too many places and not enough time Plymouth was a waste of time and Cardiff.we didnt see any thing of Fort William or Inverness and as for Hadrians wall what a joke !! Group photos at Anne Hathaway cottage but no time to see cottage or gardens .then dropped off at shakespeares birthplace for shops !! Long way to Culloden not to have time to go into the museum. Too many hours at Blarney on a wet day in the woolen mill. But apart from that Rosemary was fantastic Julian great driver took a while to warm... enjoyed our holiday but not one of our better cosmos experiences.

• Photography
• Christmas & New Year

European Discovery (Winter, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

London to Rome Highlights (8 Days)

The tour was good but to much personal opinions were given. He put down the Italian people quite badly

England, Scotland & Wales

The coach bus was comfortable although I was not expecting to spend so much time riding in it (I should have known because we covered so much ground on this tour!); I would have like to have been more active. The drivers were outstanding! All of the hotels were reasonably comfortable - except one - that one was horrible! England is not a country that is noted for its food and I knew this ahead of time; I did not expect the food to be amazing and it was not but that is not a reflection on the tour. The guide was very knowledgeable, kind, and helpful.

United Kingdom and Ireland ( 10 days )

Best of Britain (11 Days)

this tour exceeding our expectations, the Guide ( Jacquline Green )and Bus ( Lee ) driver went over and above to make sure every member of tour was included, comfortable and made this trip to UK even more memorable. The Guide gave us plenty of information regarding history and was extremely informative on every location we passed and stopped at. we loved the local treats supplied by the Guide as well. The bus was comfortable, the intinerary was perfect and kept us busy including as much as possible. The accommodation was excellent. I would definitely recommend this company and way of travel to others. and we would use Trafalgar again in the future.

London and Paris Explorer (Summer, 9 Days)

Traveling from London to Paris was too long and it took one day of trip, being in bus for over 8 hours it was killing. It could be done by fast train and not only we could save some time also it wasn’t make me extremely tired.

3-Day Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast Small-Group Tour from London

John was a very good host.Sam also was very good. We enjoyed the sites and agenda. We will use the tour company again.

Northern Route

Such a great trip, one of my favorite. The guide was excellent and the best part is I met some fantastic people!

Get Social: Europe Express 2024-25 (including Heidelberg)

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Coach / Bus Tours from London

Loved everything thankyou to whole Expat team was amazing our tour guide Gabi has given us excellent service giving clear helpfull instructions very friendly flexible helpfull n supportive throughout the whole tour been amazing n the driver was great too excellent driving skills drove really safely n smoothly the whole journey has been awesome adventurous filled with fun laugh was really good experience for all three of us food hotels places we been to was all top class would love to do another tour again with ExpaT team in near future n I would recommend ExpaT to everyone thankyou once again from bottom of my heart for giving us wonderful precious memories Gurung FaMiLy from UK (Born in Hongkong n from Nepal Lots of Love)

I really enjoyed the trip

Travel Styles

Coach / bus from london.

• to London (120)
• to Rome (20)
• to Paris (14)
• to Edinburgh (7)
• to Barcelona (6)
• to Amsterdam (5)
• England Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Coach & Bus Companies (with Reviews)

Day tours from London

UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEYS INTO BRITISH HERITAGE

• Evan Evans Tours
• Day Tours From London

DAY TOURS FROM LONDON

A day tour from London by coach is the perfect way to venture beyond the capital and explore fascinating destinations that are a bit further afield. Our crafted itineraries are created with your preferences in mind, allowing you to either include entrances to destinations such as Windsor ,  Stonehenge , and  Bath , or enjoy free time to yourself and explore charming local areas at your own pace. 

Amongst insights and tales, our amazing and dedicated expert guides have so much to say. That’s why we’re the only tour operator that provides personal and digital audio headsets to all our guests. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of each destination, learning intriguing facts and anecdotes to impress your friends and family back home. Join us for a day of exploration, discovery, and unforgettable memories beyond London's bustling streets.

DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON

Why not choose from a selection of our most popular day tours from London?

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Our immersive and guided day tour to the impressive official Royal residence Windsor Castle, the world's top neolithic site, Stonehenge, and the beautiful Georgian city of Bath.

NEW - Rochester, Dover Castle and the White Cliffs

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford

Stonehenge and Bath Tours

Oxford & Cambridge Universities

Warwick Castle, Shakespeare's Birthplace & Oxford

Leeds Castle, Canterbury & Dover

Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & The Cotswolds

Stonehenge 'Inner Circle Access' & Windsor

NEW - Stonehenge & Windsor Tour

Recommended day trips from london, stonehenge & bath.

From £95.00

Visit two of England's UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this fantastic Stonehenge and Bath tour from London. Explore the beautiful Georgian city of Bath and visit Stonehenge, where you will decipher the mystery surrounding its construction over 5,000 years ago.

From £79.00

Explore the ancestral home of the British monarchy and largest occupied castle in the world before heading off to discover the mysterious Neolithic site at Stonehenge and the beautiful university city of Oxford.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?

As experts in sightseeing and driven by service, we're passionate about creating memories which will last our guests a lifetime.

EVAN EVANS PEACE OF MIND

You can book with us reassured that we have put numerous new hygiene measures in place, and be confident that your money is in safe hands with our flexible booking terms.

COMMITTED TO YOUR WELL-BEING

Book with confidence, make travel matter.

This is our goal. We recognize our responsibility to ensure our impact on the planet we call home, the people we visit, and the wildlife we find there, is a positive one. We take steps to address our impact in two ways; through our sustainability strategy, How We Tread Right, and through our TreadRight Foundation.

Small group guided tours of England and the UK from London

Small groups.

#1 rated small group day tours from London. See the best of England with a family run company, and tour on a luxury bus with an expert guide. 

The Cotswolds, Oxford & Stratford upon Avon

Canterbury, dover castle and cliffs & kent villages, great guides, stonehenge, bath & a secret place ®, one day tours..

Make the most of your time in London with a guided tour of England’s must see destinations. Our bus tours take the back roads, with a great guide in a small group on our award winning day trips from London. Visit Stonehenge, Cotswolds, Oxford, Bath, Canterbury, Stratford-upon-Avon, Dover, Bruges & more. Don’t get lost in the crowd. Join The English Bus for the best tour experience.

Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place ®

The cotswolds, oxford & stratford upon avon, canterbury, dover castle and cliffs & kent villages, a cotswolds village, bath and stonehenge, warner bros. studio tour london - the making of harry potter & oxford, winter solstice sunrise tour at stonehenge 2024, belgium – a day in beautiful bruges.

#theenglishbus on Instagram

" We already had high expectations for this tour, but the English Bus managed to exceed them. "Johny," our guide/driver, struck a perfect balance between professionalism and humor. The 'secret place' was the icing on the cake. " Christopher, Massachusetts, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

"Lilly was absolutely LOVELY! She was enthusiastic and humorous and very well-informed! The English Bus has mastered the day tour! Thank you Lilly for one of the best days of our vacation." Karen, San Diego, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

"Our tour guide, Lilly was wonderful. She mixed history, culture, and enthusiasm in a way that brought the whole experience alive! The tour group size was perfect, small, but enough people to interact." Daniel, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

• London Walks
• Museums and Galleries
• Day Tours From London
• Overnight Tours
• Stonehenge Tours
• Military Tours
• Rambling Tours
• Virtual Tours of Britain
• Paris Day Tours
• Day Tours from Paris
• Overnight Tours of France
• Normandy Tours
• Airport Transfers
• Rome Day Tours
• Day Tours from Rome
• Overnight Tours of Italy
• Special Interest Tours

Day Tours from London

See the best sights from London with your personal tour guide such as Bath, Salisbury, Oxford, the Cotswolds, Stonehenge & Windsor Castle, as well as many of England's wonderful Stately Homes, Castles & Gardens. Or why not pop over to Paris and Brussels for the day

Stately Homes, Castles & Gardens

Althorp, where Diana, Princess of Wales, was born and is buried and home of her brother the Earl of Spencer.Arundel Castle, still the family home of the Dukes of Norfolk built in the 11th century ...

Oxford Tour

Shakespeare's stratford.

A wonderful day in Rome with your guide ... the highpoint of our trip

Why choose us.

Because you insist on the longest-established and most experienced service available in Britain. Founded in 1958, British Tours is still under the same management. About Us

Who is your Guide?

Our guides are personable educated men and women, chosen for their knowledge, special interests, backgrounds and personality. They will collect you by car from any central London location and guide you inside places of historic importance

Follow us on our journey

London is an incredible city with a wealth of attractions, but sometimes we all need a change of scenery. Luckily, the United Kingdom boasts an impressive transportation network, making it easy to go on exciting day trips from London. Whether you prefer the convenience of a bus or the comfort of a train, we’ve curated a list of 14 amazing destinations that will capture your imagination.

Best coach day trips from London

1 – oxford.

Hop on a comfortable bus from London to Oxford and immerse yourself in the city’s prestigious academic atmosphere. The journey takes around 1h10 and costs an average of £15. Explore the stunning architecture of the University of Oxford, visit the famous Bodleian Library, and take a peaceful stroll along the idyllic River Cherwell. Tickets from London to Oxford from £13

2 – Cambridge

Catch a bus from London to Cambridge, which takes approximately 1h15 and costs about £15. Admire the exquisite college buildings, go punting on the River Cam, and be captivated by the charm of this picturesque city. Don’t forget to visit the world-renowned King’s College Chapel, a true architectural masterpiece.

Buses from London to Cambridge from £5

3 – Bath

Take a relaxing ride from London to Bath, lasting around 2h40 hours and priced at around £30. Uncover the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage city by exploring the Roman Baths and the elegant Georgian architecture. Make sure to indulge in a rejuvenating soak at the Thermae Bath Spa, Britain’s only natural thermal spa.

Buses from London to Bath from £6

4 – Brighton

Board a coach from London to Brighton and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze on a journey that takes roughly 1 hour and costs as little as £4. Stroll along the famous pebble beach, wander through the charming streets of The Lanes, and take a ride on the iconic Brighton Palace Pier. Don’t miss the Royal Pavilion, an exotic architectural gem.

Buses from London to Brighton from £4

5 – Canterbury

Embark on a bus journey from London to Canterbury, lasting around  hour and priced at approximately £10. Explore the captivating Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and meander through the medieval streets lined with timber-framed houses. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this enchanting city.

Buses from London to Canterbury from £6

6 – Stratford-upon-Avon

Take a scenic train journey from London to Stratford-upon-Avon, lasting approximately 2 hours and priced at around £21. Immerse yourself in the world of William Shakespeare as you explore his birthplace, visit his family homes, and watch a performance by the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company. Enjoy the delightful charm of this historic market town.

Bus from London to Stratford-upon-Avon from £21

7 – Salisbury

The journey from London to Salisbury takes approximately 1.5 hours and costs around £25. Visit the iconic Salisbury Cathedral, home to the tallest spire in Britain, and explore the charming medieval streets. Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at the mysterious prehistoric site of Old Sarum, a hill fort with a rich history.

Bus from London to Salisbury from £9

8 – Bournemouth

Relax on the sandy beaches, take a stroll through the beautiful Lower Gardens, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bournemouth. With its seaside beauty, Bournemouth is the perfect escape from city life. The price for the 2h bus ride starts at £8, while you can find train tickets from £23, with the ride lasting about 1h45.

Find your tickets to Bournemouth.

9 – Bristol

Immerse yourself in the vibrant street art scene of Bristol’s famous Stokes Croft area, visit the SS Great Britain, and take a leisurely boat trip on the River Avon. Embrace Bristol’s artistic and nautical delights. Traveling from London to Bristol by bus takes about 2h15, with bus ticket prices starting at only £2 on Busbud. You can also get there by train, with the rail tickets costing about £37 and the trip lasting 1h13.

Book your coach tickets to Bristol

10 – Cardiff

Experience the Welsh culture in Cardiff and explore the beautiful Cardiff Castle. Take a relaxing stroll through Bute Park and visit the National Museum Cardiff. Traveling from London to Cardiff by bus takes from 2h10 to 3h30 depending on the bus you choose, with tickets priced at approximately £16 on Busbud. You can also take the train to Cardiff, with fares starting at £53 for the 1h48 journey.

Book your bus tickets to Cardiff here.

11 – Manchester

Discover Manchester’s rich industrial heritage at the Science and Industry Museum, explore the vibrant Northern Quarter, and enjoy the diverse culinary scene. This dynamic city has something for everyone! Traveling from London to Manchester by train takes about 2 hours, with tickets priced at approximately £34 on Busbud.

Train tickets from London to Manchester from £34

12 – Dover 

Visit the breathtaking White Cliffs of Dover and the Dover Castle, and take a calming walk along the coastal paths. Dover’s natural beauty and historic landmarks will leave you in awe. Traveling from London to Dover by bus takes about 2 hours, with tickets priced at starting at £6 on Busbud.

Book tickets from London to Dover from £6

13 – Colchester

Discover Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain, boasting impressive Roman ruins such as the Roman Walls and the Colchester Castle. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Castle Gardens for a perfect day trip from London. The travel time from London is about 2h, with tickets starting at £9.

Book tickets from London to Colchester from £9

14 – Whitstable

Indulge in the finest oysters and experience the laid-back charm of Whitstable. Stroll along the beachfront, explore the quaint alleys, and savor the fresh sea breeze. With bus tickets starting at £6 and the journey lasting from 55m to 1h35, Whitstable promises a delightful coastal escape!

Book coach tickets from London to Whistable from £6

Finding the best bus and train tickets using Busbud

Busbud is the go-to place to find the best bus and train tickets to travel around the UK, but also to explore over 80 countries around the world. Here are some of the best tips to find affordable tickets for your great adventures.

• Plan in advance: Booking your tickets early can often help you secure the best prices and availability.
• Use Busbud’s website or app: Busbud provides a user-friendly platform to search for bus and train tickets, compare prices, and find the most convenient routes.
• Be flexible with travel dates: Some days and times may offer cheaper fares, so consider adjusting your schedule if possible.
• Consider different departure points: Depending on your location in London, you may have multiple departure points available, allowing you to choose the most convenient option.
• Keep an eye out for promotions: Busbud frequently offers promotions and discounts, so make sure to check their website or subscribe to their newsletter to stay informed.

Embarking on day trips from London is a fantastic way to explore the diverse beauty and rich history of the United Kingdom. Whether you choose to hop on a bus or board a train, you’ll be treated to captivating destinations, from the scholarly ambiance of Oxford to the sun-soaked charm of Brighton.

Remember to plan ahead, compare prices on Busbud, and take advantage of any discounts or promotions available. Get ready to embark on unforgettable adventures and create lasting memories as you explore these incredible day trip destinations. 

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Absolutely, I agree with the sentiments expressed. London’s charm and array of tourist spots are certainly captivating, but it’s true that sometimes a change of environment is refreshing. Luckily, the United Kingdom offers a comprehensive transportation system that makes embarking on exciting day trips from London a seamless experience. Regardless of whether you opt for a bus or train, the list of 14 remarkable destinations mentioned in the text promises to ignite your imagination.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that these day trips provide wonderful opportunities to break away from the routine and explore new places, allowing for unique experiences. This curated list appears to cater to a diverse range of interests among travelers.

Nice Article this is very helpful content.

Thank you for producing such a fascinating essay on this subject. This has sparked a lot of thought in me, and I’m looking forward to reading more.

The means of transport that I often take, but the route to wonderful places like this, I don’t know. Thank you for the article it has made me more knowledgeable

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• Best Tours from London >

Multi-Day Tours from London

2 or 3 Day Edinburgh Tour from London

2-Day Windsor, Bath, Stonehenge & Oxford Tour

3 Day Isle of Wight Tour from London

3 Day Stonehenge, Dorset, Devon & Bath Tour

5 Day Devon & Cornwall Tour from London

5 Day England, Wales & Yorkshire Tour from London

9 Day London & Paris Tour

10 Day England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland Tour

10 Day England & Scotland Tour

Our guide to the best multi day tours from London. Choose from 2-day, 3-day, 5-day and 10-day package tours departing from London. See the heart of England on small group tours, including visits to Stonehenge, Cotswolds, South West England, York and more. Alternatively, go on a multi-day package tour to Paris or Edinburgh. All trips include a professional guide and luxury transportation and are the perfect way to explore a large number of attractions in a short space of time.

Paris from London – 2-Day & 3-Day Tours

Visit Paris on a 2-day or 3-day tour from London. Travel from London to Paris on the Eurostar train, and choose from a multi-day package. Our packages include accommodation in a 4* hotel, as well as a panoramic city tour and a cruise along the River Seine. Visit the Eiffel Tower and enjoy plenty of free time for shopping, food and sightseeing. Our Paris tours are ideal if you are using London as a base during your time in Europe and want to enjoy a few days in Paris during your stay.

More details: See here

2 Day Cotswolds, Bath & Oxford:

This two day tour goes to some of the most popular places in England and includes overnight accommodation in the pretty Cotswolds. The tour is available throughout the week departing from Central London. A typical package includes:

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site at Avebury and discover the ancient neolithic stone circles
• Head to some of the typical Cotswolds villages with their thatched roofed cottages and honey coloured stone buildings
• Visit Bath, one of the prettiest cities in England. Visit the Roman Baths, the Abbey and discover the typical Georgian architecture
• Head to Oxford, an ancient university town. See Christ Church College which was famously used in the Harry Potter movies.

More Details:   See here

3 Day Scotland Tour from London:

Spend 3 days exploring Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands on our multi day tour from London that operates every Friday. Travel by train from London to Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland where you’ll stay for two nights. Highlights of our Scotland package include:

• Reserved seating on a high-speed train to Edinburgh
• Spend a day sightseeing in Edinburgh, passing the castle, palace and Royal Mile
• Spend the evening in a historic Scottish pub
• Take a day tour from Edinburgh to Loch Ness, and take in the breathtaking Scottish countryside
• Visit a whisky distillery and learn how it’s made, as well as sampling some for yourself.

3 Day Stonehenge, Dorset, Devon, Exeter & Bath:

This multi-day tour from London is offered with departures every Wednesday from Central London. It goes to some of England’s most famous landmarks in Southern England and includes two nights accommodation in the ancient Roman city of Exeter. A typical package includes:

• Visit Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient stone circles
• Explore the Jurassic Coastline with its beautiful bays, cliffs and coves
• Head to Dartmoor, an area of outstanding natural beauty with a rugged and boggy landscape
• Admire sweeping views of the English countryside from Glastonbury Tor
• Discover the charming city of Bath, and enter the UNESCO Roman Baths.

More details:  See here

3 Day Southern England:

This Southern England multi-day tour from London takes you into the heart of the English countryside. Discover the region of Kent, with its historic castles and beautiful coastline. The tour includes two nights accommodation in the historic town of Canterbury.

• Visit Leeds Castle, one Britain’s most impressive medieval fortresses with towers, ramparts, a moat and magnificent gardens
• See the White Cliffs of Dover, an iconic British landmark that looks out onto the English channel
• Go wine tasting in the oldest commercial winery in the region and tour the vineyards
• Visit some of the typical towns and villages in the area including Whitstable, Walmer, Smarden and Deal

More details:  3 Day Southern England Tour

5 Day England & Wales:

This multi-day tour from London takes you into the heart of England and Wales and gives you a true taste of the British countryside. Starting every Friday, the 5 day tour of England and Wales includes 4 nights accommodation in places such as Shrewsbury and York. A typical package looks like this:

• Visit Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare and an iconic Cotswolds town
• Travel to Conwy Castle, one of Britain’s most famous medieval fortresses
• Drive into the Snowdonia National Park and discover the amazing Welsh landscape
• Head to Shrewsbury, a medieval town that was the birthplace of Charles Darwin
• Discover York, one of the beautiful cities in England. Take trip into the rugged Yorkshire countryside
• Visit Chatsworth House, an impressive country estate and home of the Duke of Devonshire
• Head to Cambridge, a charming university town and visit Kings College Chapel

More details:  Click here

5 Day Devon & Cornwall:

This multi-day tour from London heads to the southwest of England to two of its most beautiful counties. Discover Devon and Cornwall on this five day tour including overnight accommodation in Exeter and Falmouth

• Visit Winchester, a former capital of medieval England
• Head to Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient stone circles
• Drive into the rugged Dartmoor countryside and visit the famous Clapper Bridge
• Explore the bustling market town of Tavistock
• Learn about the legends of King Arthur at Tintagel Castle
• See the wonderful coastal scenery at Lands End and Minack Theatre
• Explore the old town of Glastonbury and climb Glastonbury Tor for stunning views over the English countryside

More details:  5 Day Devon & Cornwall Tour

10 Day England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland tour

This 10 day multi-day tour from London touches all corners of the British island with visits to England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland. You’ll travel in a combination of coach and rail, with two ferry crossings to reach the island of Ireland.

• Visit several important towns and cities in England including London, Stratford-upon-Avon, York and Bath as well as a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Stonehenge and the incredible landscapes of the Lake District
• Cross into Scotland, and stay 2 nights in Glasgow. Spend a day exploring Edinburgh
• Take a ferry across to Northern Island with a visit to Belfast
• Stay in the capital city of the Irish Republic – Dublin, and visit some famous local sites including Kilkenny Castle and the Waterford Crytal
• Take a ferry back into the British Isles, and head to Cardiff, the capital city of Wales.

More details: England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland Tour

10-Day England & Scotland Tour

Spend 10 days exploring the best of England and Scotland. This package tour will take you to major cities and breathtaking countryside. Departing from London, it includes accommodation, breakfasts and transportation.

• Visit London and Edinburgh , the capitals of England and Scotland. Explore Edinburgh with a local specialist and get a feel for the incredible atmosphere of this city
• Discover Shakespeare’s country with a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon and stay overnight in the medieval city of York. Explore the Roman and Viking history that is connected to York.
• Take in the magnificent scenery in the Scottish Highlands and English Lake District.
• Soak up the history of the Beatles in Liverpool, and explore the Neolithic stone circle at Stonehenge
• Learn about English culture with experiences such as enjoying lunch with a local farmer and watching a Scottish show with traditional food and bagpipes

More details: 10-Day England & Scotland Tour

To view all of our multi-day tours check out our England Vacation Packages guide

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The 21 Best Day Trips From London

By Condé Nast Traveller and Anna Prendergast

London ’s hustle and bustle can become overwhelming, even for the most dedicated locals—but its handy location means that day trips from London are easy for anyone who needs a quick escape, whether it be for a country walk, a seaside jaunt, or a cultural getaway. Most of our selection of the best day trips from London can be reached by train , within less than two hours—and many couldn’t be further from the busy streets and crammed schedules of the capital. Whether you’re looking for fresh air, delicious eateries or a new selection of shops, these easy-to-plan day trips should slot nicely into your schedule.

Below are 21 of our favorite day trips from London, in no particular order.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Canterbury, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a colorful, food-fuelled history lesson in the garden of England How to get there from London: The direct train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West can take as little as 53 minutes

Prehistoric settlements have been uncovered in this corner of Kent, and it was a popular haunt of the Romans, who surrounded the early city by constructing an earth bank and fortified walls around 130 acres of land. The story of Canterbury that schoolchildren learn, however, comes from the medieval period, courtesy of Chaucer.

The city is home to one of the UK’s most spectacular cathedrals. Pilgrims have navigated the route to this ethereal site for many centuries, and it’s here that Thomas Becket was infamously slaughtered at the order of Henry II–although this series of events has been contested by countless historians. From the cathedral, scan the selection of novels through the crooked door of the Catching Lives Charity Bookshop, before soaking up the sun in one of the city’s hidden pub gardens–The Dolphin and The Parrot are some of our favorites.

Stroll along the remnant of the ancient wall that is still accessible, or settle in for a lazy afternoon on the colorful banks of the River Stour after collecting treats from The Goods Shed. Historic river tours of the river are touristy but not overly expensive, so well worth booking ahead of a visit to uncover the secrets of these romantic, cobblestone streets.– Connor Sturges

If you decide to stay over: Parts of The Falstaff Hotel date to the 13th century, and original features such as fireplaces and oak beams are a nod to the city’s medieval history. The city’s main attractions are within walking distance, and comfortable beds, craft cocktails, and a signature afternoon tea await once you are back in the cosy setting.

Elmley Nature Reserve

The best day trip from London for:  getting fully immersed in nature How to get there from London:  The train from London St Pancras International to Swale takes 1 hour 50 minutes and then it’s a short taxi ride to Elmley Nature Reserve

Think of day trips to Kent and you’ll probably skip straight over the Isle of Sheppey. Just off the northern coast of Kent next to the Thames Estuary, Sheppey is an unglamorous largely industrial island that initially lacks the tourist appeal of some of its Kentish neighbours. But there’s a secret gem here right off the mainland–the bucolic Elmley Nature Reserve, 3,300 acres of wetlands and wilderness. This family-run estate is a true wildlife conservation haven and is the perfect trip for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With over forty varieties of birds raising their young at Elmley each year, there are some beautiful walking trails to spot them all, plus the other resident hares, frogs, dragonflies, cows, voles, bees and more. As soon as your taxi turns onto the long entry drive, it’s easy to see elegant birds such as egrets, lapwings and redshank happily frolicking on the flat marshlands and that’s before you’ve even started exploring. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the entry fee is £6 and that gets you access to the beautiful open landscape for a self-guided wander (although you have to stay on the paths!); they also arrange organised tours at dusk and dawn for £29.50 if you want an expert to help you spot marsh harriers, long-eared owls, sparrowhawk and peregrine falcons. It might be only 40 miles from London but it feels like another world. As well as an incredible place for a day out in nature, there’s also a lovely barn restaurant to get cosy in for toasties at lunch and more hearty evening meals, plus an impressive range of smart places to stay dotted across the reserve if you want to extend your visit.– Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  From decked-out shepherd’s huts with outside baths to four poster beds in the grand 18th-century main house, there’s a wide range of places to stay – all with stunning views over the nature reserve.

Great Garden Escape, The Newt in Somerset

The best day trip from London for: a VIP experience How to get there: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 25 minutes

If you’re not the planning type, The Newt in Somerset’s Great Garden Escape is a fun-filled organized day trip that shows off the best of the British countryside and its charming traditions. With a jam-packed schedule starting at Paddington station, day trippers travel First Class with breakfast served on-board. On arrival, they’ll be given a tour of the gardens at The Newt, which have been landscaped over hundreds of years and are now home to wildlife including deer and newts–of course. There's even an opportunity to explore the grounds with experts, along with a dive into the history and traditions of Somerset. Plus, a stopover at the incredible Roman Villa Experience.

Lunch leads into a cider tasting, made on-site using apples grown in local orchards, where you’ll undoubtedly be swayed into picking up a bottle or two to take home. When you’ve breathed in just enough country air, the train journey home serves up afternoon tea, depositing you back in the city just in time for sundowners. The whirlwind tour is the ideal tonic for shaking off burnout and reminding yourself of the beauty on your doorstep.– Abigail Malbon

If you decide to stay over : Should you choose to forego the train ride home in favor of waking up somewhere new, The Newt is a Jane Austen dream, whether you choose a room in the Georgian house or the converted outbuildings, barns and stables. Bedrooms are simple and beautiful, with a focus on relaxation, but those with a view are truly exceptional. In the morning, wake up early and treat yourself to a swim in the spa pool as the sun comes up – you’ll return to London feeling like a new person.

Clifton, Bristol

The best day trip from London for : packing a lot in How to get there from London: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 35 minutes.

After hopping off the train at Bristol Temple Meads, take a stroll to Clifton–the city’s most beautiful leafy suburb. Quiet residential streets are lined with pretty Georgian townhouses, spots of greenery to wander through off the cobbled streets and an eclectic mix of independent cafés, restaurants and shops.

Start with a gander around Clifton Arcade in the heart of Clifton Village, where the 17 boutiques are filled with knick-knacks and intriguing antiques. It’s not a true shopping experience without a pit stop for coffee and cake – try one of Bristol’s top coffee spots, Spicer + Cole, or–for a 100-per-cent plant-based menu–refuel with a slice of rose and vanilla loaf and a superfood latte at East Village Café.

Pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables from the local greengrocers and head to Clifton bridge for fabulous views across the River Avon. It's one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. Learn about its history at the Visitor Centre, stopping off for a pint of traditional Somerset cider at the White Lion by its side. Continue the historical tour by walking up to Clifton Observatory, which has a museum featuring a Victorian-era Camera Obscura and a mythical Giant’s Cave, alongside its own rooftop café serving up breathtaking views. And don’t miss out on a walk down Royal York Crescent–one of the most expensive streets in Bristol, which was also once reputed to be the longest terrace in Europe.

Next, spend time at Bristol Lido, a restored Victorian swimming bath from the 1800s surrounded by a spa and poolside bar for the ultimate in pampering. Round off the day with a cozy pub meal at The Albion, an Indian fine-dining experience at Nutmeg or a hearty pizza at Bosco around the corner on Whiteladies Road.– Cordelia Aspinall

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the recently refurbished Number 38 boutique hotel for a peaceful stay overlooking the Clifton Downs, perfect for your morning stroll.

Jessica Puckett

Megan Spurrell

Claire Trageser

Bath, Somerset

The best day trip from London for: soaking up history How to get there from London: The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Bath is known for its history, but among the buttery-hued Georgian architecture and ancient thermal springs there’s a fresh independent spirit. When the weather is good, there are a couple of brilliant walking routes to try: the six-mile Bath Skyline, for example, is a short stroll from the city centre and tramps through woodland, meadows and orchards with views of the buildings below.

The Somerset city’s literary heritage is well documented–Jane Austen is probably the most famous one-time resident–and there’s still a thriving network of bookshops and literature festivals here, including at bookworm magnet Topping and Company, which stocks more than 55,000 titles. Restaurants are driven by excellent local produce and seasonal ingredients. Grab a traditional lunch at The Circus (we recommend the Wiltshire lamb two ways) or order bun cha at Vietnamese spot Noya’s Kitchen. After a bite, shop at clever concept stores such as Nām, which sells antique furniture and homeware curated by owner Sharan Kaur, and Found, where you can buy clothes from niche global brands, or spend an afternoon at wine bar Corkage, where about 70 bottles are available to sample by the glass.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Small hotel Eight lives up to its name; there are just eight rooms, and the ground-floor restaurant always has eight dishes on the menu.

Read more about the best things to do in Bath, Somerset

The New Forest, Hampshire

The best day trip from London for : woodland walks and long pub lunches How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo usually takes about 1 hour 45 minutes

With its purple carpets of heather, ancient woodland and England-of-yore villages, the New Forest has long been a release valve for Londoners eager to clear the cobwebs and the cortisol. The apex of its beauty has to be autumn, when its rich hues cut through morning mists and dazzle in the afternoon sun. It's best enjoyed during a long ramble, where you’re likely to meet free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle and even pigs, followed by a hearty pub lunch with local ale and a warming log fire.

Take the train from Waterloo to Beaulieu Road station and fuel your hike with a pint of real ale at the Drift Inn. If independent shops, cafés and beaches are on the agenda, it’s best to head to Lymington instead, as this one-and-a-half-hour loop around the pub on the edge of the New Forest is blissfully rugged and remote. Having traipsed through a mixed mosaic of woodland and absorbed the silence and sweeping views across the heathland, hunker down at the Drift Inn for a Hampshire beef burger, ale-battered haddock or the pie of the day (invariably something along the lines of mud pie with mash and gravy).– Rosalyn Wikeley

If you decide to stay over : Those seeking the quintessential heather-and-wild-ponies New Forest should bed down at The Pig hotel in Brockenhurst or Limewood near Lyndhurst (about five minutes from the Drift Inn). However, the trusted favorite among New Forest devotees, Chewton Glen continues to lure weary urbanites with its coveted position – wedged between woodland and the coast – and commitment to the good, old-fashioned service and comforts of a country club. You’ll find few zeitgeisty design details or next-gen touches here. Instead, antiques, thick carpets and mahogany furniture keep this 18th-century manor house sure of its identity – save a few fun treehouse bedrooms, should privacy or the 21st century fall into your criteria. Don’t miss the fresh salads and fish lunches once you’ve been pummeled in the spa or worked up an appetite in the Grecian-style pool. The gardens are also glorious for afternoon tea after visiting Highcliffe beach.

Hertford, Hertfordshire

The best day trip from London for : pub-crawling and country walks How to get there from London: The train from Finsbury Park takes 35 minutes

With its higgledy-piggledy, pastel-colored buildings and cobbled streets, this county town serves up a slice of English antiquity that’s postcard-pretty enough to satisfy both shiny-eyed visitors from further afield and weary Londoners searching for fresher air, shorter queues and somewhere different to look at for the day. With trains running every half hour, it’s possible to find yourself marching around its 15th-century castle grounds (check ahead for cinema screenings, talks and events), net fishing from a sandy cove in Hartham Common or wandering about its dinky museum within the hour. Alternatively, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can cycle from London along the River Lea towpath.

On arrival, dip into its handful of local shops – The Women's Society Boutique has an imposing exterior but is a real treasure trove–before stopping at one of the many independent cafés and restaurants. Popular deli-bar Giambrone’s serves authentic Italian plates, while Hertford Coffee Lab makes for a cool pit-stop, and Georgian townhouse and B&B Number One Port Hill hosts occasional pop-up suppers. Plus, the artsy Dog and Whistle, once a pop-up café, has blossomed into a hipster foodie pub and music venue with rooms. Indeed, Hertford – quiet market town by day and more bustling nightspot come evening – specializes in pubs, particularly old-world ones. There's The Salisbury Arms Hotel, said to have been the place where Oliver Cromwell stayed during the Civil War and home to a number of ghosts; the 16th-century White Horse; the 17th-century Blackbirds; and the riverside Old Barge (exact age unknown, but 'old' is part of the name…). If you have time, go on the three-mile walk to Ware alongside the River Lea towpath–the neighboring town also has a plethora of pubs – and catch the train back to London from there.– Becky Lucas

If you decide to stay over: Hertford House Hotel took over the former local newspaper’s offices in pretty Parliament Square in 2006 and hasn’t stopped evolving since, with its latest restaurant and bar renovation completed in autumn 2020. Don’t miss out on brunch in the secret garden, a locally sourced roast in the restaurant and a pint in smart sister pub The Quiet Man.

The best day trip from London for: an under-the-radar getaway How to get there from London: The fast train from St Pancras International takes 1 hour 22 minutes

This hillside scribble of Georgian streets tucked behind the Kent coast really hit our radar in 2018. Nicknamed ‘Margate’s little sister’, it’s a much cosier, countryside version of its arty neighbour. And that’s exactly its appeal. Deal is less shouty than Margate, but there’s still an exciting slew of shops, cafés and galleries that have arrived over the past few years. The Saturday Market stalls are worth a rummage, but it’s the food that brings the locals back each weekend. For more of a sit-down lunch we love Frog and Scot where the chef, previously of The Sportsman in Seasalter, cooks up a daily changing menu based on hyper-local produce. Founder of Smugglers Records Will Greenham (ex singer and guitarist of the band Cocos Lovers, who’ve supported Mumford & Sons on tour) is at the heart of the town’s music scene, and in terms of art, Linden Hall Studio is a contemporary gallery in a converted chapel that wouldn’t look out of place in Mayfair.– Tabitha Joyce

If you decide to stay over: The Rose was revamped in 2018 and now there are eight cute bedrooms splashed in bold colors and filled with vintage finds. The restaurant is looked after by Rachel O’Sullivan (previously of East London’s Towpath Café) who dishes up Scandi-inspired breakfast plates of smoked salmon, avocado, soft-boiled egg, dill and whipped cream cheese.

Read more about Deal, Kent

Whitstable, Kent

The best day trip from London for: oysters on the beach How to get there from London : The train from from St Pancras takes 1hr 13 minutes

This little town on the north Kent coast isn’t quite the sort-of-secret it was back in the 1990s, when DFLs (local jargon for Londoners) rediscovered it, arriving at weekends for seafood at Wheelers on the high street and pints of Kentish ale at the beach-side Old Neptune pub. But it’s still an atmospheric place to head for a hit of vitamin B12 – via a dozen or so oysters – then a scrunch along the shingle shore, spotting Second World War sea forts across the waves and seals in the harbour. There are plenty of places to eat: avoid the overpriced Royal Native Oyster Stores and head instead to JoJo’s, just down the road in Tankerton, for mackerel fillets and Med-inspired small plates. Or Samphire, a Whitstable bistro with cuttlefish risotto and Romney Marsh lamb on the menu. There’s also a thriving micropub scene here, with The Handsome Sam, The Black Dog, and the larger Twelve Taps for hoppy experimentation. But our favorite pastime is picking up a pot of cockles and whelks from the quayside, or fish and chips and oysters from The Forge shack, and devouring them in the shade of a wooden groyne on the beach, preferably with a bottle of English fizz to hand.– Rick Jordan

If you decide to stay over: The Victorian fisherman’s huts on the beach are the best place in which to hole up, the sound of waves and boat masts jangling in the wind outside, and can be booked via Hotel Continental. Along the coast in Seasalter is the Driftwood Beach House B&B .

Rye, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : a bracingly fresh seaside getaway How to get there from London: The train from St Pancras International takes about 1 hour 10 minutes with a change at Ashford International.

Rye is home to what might just be Britain’s prettiest (and most prettily named) street, and a wave of newcomers have moved in alongside the quaint old-timers in Mermaid Street and beyond, opening smart interiors stores and artisan bakeries next to unironically vintage tea rooms and souvenir shops. After breakfast at Whitehouse Rye–order the halloumi hash–pick up a new read at The Tiny Book Store (the clue’s in the name) and window shop for that fantasy mansion at striking antiques shop Strand House Interiors. The blustery dunes and invigorating waters of Camber Sands, one of the best beach near London , are a 15 minute ride away on the local bus, but head back in time for a rustic supper at Tuscan Rye, where fresh pasta (ricotta ravioli with brown-butter sauce, potato and thyme tortellini in a rich ragu) draws loyal locals.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the lively George in Rye , which welcomes A-list guests (George Clooney and Helena Bonham Carter have both checked in for sleepovers) and smart locals in the same breath.

These are our favourite things to do in Rye

Margate, Kent

The best day trip from London for : a cultural day out How to get there from London: the fast train from London St Pancras takes 1 hour 25 minutes.

It’s no secret that this Victorian seaside town has had quite the hipster renaissance in recent years, sparked mostly by the arrival of the Turner Contemporary gallery in 2011 and spurred on by a slew of new openings and a wave of Londoners upping sticks and moving down to the Kent coast. For a cultural outing, the waterside Turner Contemporary is still a must. Entry is free so it’s worth popping in even if you’ve never heard of the artists on show, and the shop has some nice local products. For more contemporary art head to Crate, an artist-led project space in an old printworks. If you’d prefer something older–much older–wander over to the most ancient building in town, the Tudor House, a Grade II-listed 16th-century timber-framed house on King Street. It’s on your route from the seafront to the mysterious Shell Grotto, a spooky set of underground tunnels covered in more than four million shells.

A trip to Margate isn’t complete without a few hours in Dreamland, whether it’s for some spins on the rides or to see one of the amusement park’s impressive line-up of gigs in the evenings. Do take a stroll around town to hit up the vintage shops selling retro clothes, furniture and homewares, where you can still find some decent bargains. And don’t forget to head over to Cliff Terrace to visit the flagship store of cult natural skincare brand Haeckels, which makes divine-smelling beauty products using seaweed gathered on the beach nearby. Speaking of the beach, if you want to go swimming walk along the coast to Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, a man-made sea lagoon where you can find calm waters and steps for easier access. If you arrive early (or stay the night), tuck into cracking breakfast at Storeroom coffee shop or at Cliffs, where there’s also a record shop, a hair salon and a yoga studio. In fact, the whole up-and-coming area of Cliftonville is worth exploring. After all that roaming, great seafood can be found for dinner at either Angela’s or Hantverk & Found–reserve a table in advance though, as both get booked up. – Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over: The best beds in town are at The Reading Rooms , a boutique b&b in a restored Georgian townhouse a few minutes’ walk from the seafront. Be sure you don’t have to rush off in the morning as they’ll bring breakfast to your room so you can eat it overlooking the leafy square.

Read more about Margate's best things to do

Eastbourne, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : fair-weather walkers How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 30 minutes.

Eastbourne is an old-timey British seaside town with a Victorian pier, a pebble beach, and a much-loved bandstand where tribute acts reign: ‘Queen’, ‘ABBA’, ‘Frank Sinatra’ and ‘Lady Gaga’ have all played. You could spend the day taking in the town’s thriving art galleries, with plenty of opportunities for refueling stops along the way (our favorite is the stripped-back-trendy Nelson Coffee Co opposite the station) but the real draw here is enjoying the great outdoors at Beachy Head, where you’ll find the famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. A hike with seriously impressive views out to sea runs across the top. Wander all the way along to neighboring Seaford or make one of the secret beaches tucked away at the foot of the cliffs your way point. It’s a steep climb down, but Falling Sands Beach is quiet and sandy and well worth the adventure. Eastbourne often makes the list of the sunniest places in the UK, so don’t forget your sunglasses.– Olivia Holborow

If you decide to stay over: Book into the Beachy Head holiday cottages –there’s a choice of 8, all set around a rambling walled garden with fruit and vegetables you can help yourself to.

An insider guide to the South Downs

Brighton, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : blasting the cobwebs away by the sea How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 34 minutes.

Brighton is a brilliant mish-mash of retro, seaside fun and progressive culture. Book in advance and you can get return tickets from London for as little as £10. A maze of bunting-lined streets, The Lanes bursts at the seams with vintage shops–don’t miss Beyond Retro and Dirty Harry, and our two favorite independent boutiques, Our Daily Edit and Peggs & Son, as well as retro memorabilia (navigate the turnstile at Snoopers Paradise for collectors’ items, vinyl, and furniture). Time your day trip to include breakfast at Kensingtons – grab a table on the balcony for giant plates piled high with eggs, toast and beans. It’s not the easiest spot to find, so look out for a shop called Artemis on Kensington Gardens, which overflows with sheepskin rugs and pelts – the café is on the left; follow the smell of bacon up the stairs. Later, reserve a table at Food for Friends, a superb veggie restaurant with award-winning flavours and presentation. A short walk away is the huge 8km pebbly beach–the section near the Palace Pier is dotted with stripy deckchairs and usually buzzing from spring to autumn (and often absolutely crammed in summer). There’s something terribly British about layering up and enjoying a windswept walk in the winter months, too. Reward yourself with a bag of hot, sugary donuts from the pier.

If you decide to stay over : Walk along the seafront to The Ginger Pig, a restaurant-with-rooms with pre-mixed cocktails in the minibars and Cowshed bottles by the standalone bathtubs.

The best restaurants in Brighton

Lewes, Sussex

The best day trip from London for : history buffs and vintage hunters How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes just over 1 hour.

Lewes: the market town in the South Downs that sits against a backdrop of chalk hills and green peaks. Cobblestoned 'twittens' (narrow streets), hand-painted shop signs and crumbling tiles from the 1960s make it feel like a town time forgot, and its slower rhythm makes for a reinvigorating gear-change. The Needlemakers on West Street is home to a range of small, independent shops that sell local craftsmanship, from jewelry to books–Alexis Dove is a favorite for delicate silverware and Susie Petrou has an eye for vintage blouses and Romanian embroidery. There’s an incongruous well at the bottom by the vintage shops – throw in a penny for good luck before you start hunting through piles of clothes and bags. Lewes Flea Market is an alluring source for antique furniture and quirky homeware, and is open daily (not to be confused with the outdoor Sunday market, which is also worth a visit). At the other end of town, at the bottom of Cliffe High Street, you can find Bill Collison’s very first Bill’s restaurant, a European deli-turned-eatery, where you can get hearty dishes such as pumpkin, fig and chestnut roast, or a beef, bacon and camembert burger. After lunch, ponder the paperbacks at the Fifteenth Century Bookshop, which has been carefully restored in recent years but remains as much of a landmark as Lewes Castle. Finish the day with a pint; Harvey’s Brewery is the only independent brewery in Sussex and provides the John Harvey Tavern over the road with local cask ales (download the self-titled app to find out where you can get it in London).

If you decide to stay over : Head to Firle for a night at The Ram Inn , and enjoy crisp linen and generous breakfasts served by an open fire.

Folkestone, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a coastal up-and-comer How to get there from London : The fast train from London St Pancras to Ashford takes 40 minutes, where you can change for Folkestone Central.

The seaside town of Folkestone is mid-makeover, which is the ideal time to visit – before everything gets priced up and the place’s quirks glossed over. The appeal of Sunny Sands beach is self-explanatory – this tiny, windswept slip of sand is one of the best beaches in Kent and the ideal spot to kick off your day (unsurprisingly, it fills up with families wielding buckets and spades, sticky with sunscreen, too). A trio of swashbuckling pubs and restaurants–The Ship Inn, The Mariner, and The Captain’s Table–lines the seafront, but the real treasure can be found in the Creative Quarter. At the bottom of The Old High Street is Bounce Vintage, an open space with rails full of retro sportswear, French chore jackets and Aloha shirts. If you exchange smiles and pleasantries with the rosy-cheeked owners, they might just offer you an espresso on the house. Failing that, further up the road, Steep Street sells specialty coffee, homemade cake and books . Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall shelves of hardbacks tower over fat leather armchairs and blackboard tables that you can doodle on in chalk. There are endless places to eat and drink around town: Rocksalt for a smart menu and sea views; Papas for old-fashioned fish’n’chips ; Beano’s for veggies; La Casa Del Bello Gelato for ice cream Follies for pizza and The Pullman for pints. The Harbour Arm, though, is where Folkestone’s own folk go – the Champagne bar hidden in the lighthouse at the end is rustic, romantic, and completely charming.

If you decide to stay over : Book a room at the Linen Shed , a dove-grey, weatherboarded house on the old Roman road to Canterbury.

The best restaurants in Kent

Oxford, Oxfordshire

The best day trip from London for : a traditional slice of British culture How to get there from London : The Oxford Tube coach service takes 1 hour 30 minutes and runs until 3am; trains also run from Paddington and Marylebone stations and take 1 hour.

In one of the most quintessentially English cities in the UK (and the most expensive to live in outside London), cream tea is not just a rite of passage – it’s a requirement. And there’s only one place to take it – The Vaults & Garden Café, signposted by the presence of an antique bicycle with a flowerbed in its basket, is a gorgeous 14th-century building surrounded by colleges (Oriel, Brasenose, Murton, All Souls), where scones come loaded with clotted cream and seasonal homemade jam (the café has serious sustainability credentials, too). Architecture is a major draw in Oxford ; the libraries, bridges and even cinemas feature Palladian domes, Norman design, ziggurat influences and listed buildings which make this a city to see on foot (Radcliffe Square is a must, and it’s worth paying £4 to climb the tower at the Church of St Mary The Virgin for the best view of Oxford). If you’re taking kids, the Pitt Rivers Museum is packed with bizarre artefacts and stories they’ll tell their friends about, and The Story Museum welcomes you through a wardrobe into Narnia and other fictional worlds of wonder. If you booked a babysitter, however, grab a drink at the brilliant Freud bar in Jericho–a stained-glass church-turned-cool-cocktail-bar that is grown-up enough to feel sophisticated but student-y enough to have plenty of atmosphere and frivolity in the air (or perhaps it’s something in the drinks).

If you decide to stay over : There are plenty of lovely hotels in the Cotswolds , such as The Wild Rabbit –the latest outpost from eco-queen Carole Bamford of Daylesford Organic fame.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The best day trip from London for : people-watching and scenery How to get there from London : The train from London King’s Cross takes 45 minutes.

Like cycling in Amsterdam or taking trams in San Francisco , punting really is the most sophisticated way to see the city of Cambridge and the university grounds. Scudamore’s is the oldest ‘chauffeur’ company and offers a more traditional tour, but board a boat from the Garret Hostel Bridge for a younger, more humorous experience (ask your punter why the GHB is also known as Orgasm Bridge). For lunch, foodPark is a top hawker convoy of Sri Lankan curries, wood-fired pizza and open-wide burgers that sets up from 12pm until 2pm in varying locations around Cambridge from Wednesday to Friday. For something more upscale, book one of Galleria’s terrace tables on the south side of the Magdalene Bridge, with British fusion food and views of the River Cam (your gluten- and dairy-free friends will thank you, as there are two separate menus specifically catering to their diets). In the autumn, the leaf-covered colleges are particularly picturesque as they turn red and rust, and in spring, Parker’s Piece is a scenic stretch of greenery from which to navigate (spot the lamppost that supposedly inspired the post in CS Lewis’ Narnia). From here, find eccentric English shop Bowes & Co, Fitzbillies for iced buns, Aromi for Italian nibbles, Kettle’s Yard art gallery and G David for antique books. Finish your day with the choral evensong at King’s College Chapel around 5.30pm: goosebumps guaranteed. For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in Cambridge .

If you decide to stay over : It doesn’t get much better than the iconic University Arms hotel , reopened in 2018 after a serious reboot.

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for: welly-wielding outdoorsy types How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour to East Grinstead (a 15-minute drive from Forest Row).

AA Milne famously wrote the stories of Winnie the Pooh while living just north of Ashdown Forest. Known as 100 Acre Wood in Pooh’s world, the forest is home to the spellbinding stories and is an enchanting place to stretch your legs for a day, easily accessible via East Grinstead station. Stretches of open heathland give way to leafy walkways and carpets of bluebells in spring, where the woods teem with wildlife (spot fallow deer, badgers and the odd friendly pheasant–no honey-eating bears, though), and the only noise is birdsong. You can even visit Pooh Bridge (for a game of Poohsticks, naturally), but be warned, it’s a prominent tourist spot. Pooh was a big fan of having ‘a little smackerel of something’, and nearby village Forest Row has plenty of places for elevenses. Taffels deli is a family-run café and much-loved lunch spot (there is nothing skinny about the skinny chips; they are double-fried and divine) and caters to all dietary requirements, while Java & Jazz serves huge hot chocolates cakes and crispy-crusted pizza. For proper pub food, the cosy Hatch Inn (one of our favorite country pubs near London) is known for roasts with all the trimmings and offers plenty of dog-patting opportunities. If you’re not in a hurry to get home, head to Linton’s car park–locally known as ‘the viewpoint’–for sunset.

If you decide to stay over : Gravetye Manor is a very English Elizabethan country-house classic and one of our favorite weekend breaks in the UK .

Dungeness, Kent

The best day trip from London for : nature enthusiasts How to get there from London : The drive to Romney Marsh via the A20 and M20 takes 2 hours.

Arriving in Dungeness from London feels a little like stepping out of a Tardis into a different time zone, where a recent apocalypse has left the landscape barren, the wildlife overrun, the buildings flattened, and the population dramatically compromised (in fact, the Dungeness Power Station appeared in Doctor Who in 1971). Unofficially known as ‘Britain’s only desert’, Dungeness has a unique environment–single-story buildings appear to have been swallowed by the shingle and plants let loose with little regard for human-imposed order. The beach resembles a mass shipwreck; abandoned fishing boats, crumbling shacks, winches and forgotten tractors coated in decades of rust sit, untouched, unmoved and as mysterious as a Russell T Davies plot. There’s not a whole lot to do here – but there’s so much to see, and so much to pique your curiosity that you’ll spend the journey back Googling the area. Kids will love the sheer strangeness of it all, and it’s impossible to resist the childlike urge to climb and run and play. Few places so close to London feel like such an adventure; the journey can take less than two hours and, if you time it right, you can order the catch of the day for lunch from roadside hut the Snack Shack, which does the freshest fish, lobster rolls and ice-cold cans of San Pellegrino.

If you decide to stay over : You’ll have to venture out of Dungeness–try The Rose in Deal , a grown-up bolthole splashed with bold colors and covetable vintage finds.

The best day trip from London for : switching off How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo to Dorking takes 50 minutes.

Surrey’s proximity to London makes the journey a breeze–and it’s an especially astute pick if you’re likely to be coming with a car full of little ones. At Henry VIII’s home Hampton Court Palace, there are family-friendly events such as beast quests and ghost tours, as well as the famous giant hedge maze, where adventurous kids can lead the troops. In winter, an ice rink is set against the historic backdrop of the palace, a building whose grandiose architecture is shaped by both the Tudor and Baroque periods. If you’re escaping the city (and the kids), however, check in at Grayshott Health Spa, a traditional country home with cutting-edge treatments. Surrounded by 47 acres of flowering gardens, it’s a peaceful place to step back and take stock. Connect with nature at Kew, too, where the Royal Botanic Gardens are open to the public all year round. The winter light show is particularly mesmerizing, when the sun starts to sink earlier and earlier. Be sure to take cash for mince pies and mulled wine as you wander through the grounds. Having been awarded a Michelin star, Steve Drake’s restaurant Sorrel in Dorking (a market town with chocolate-box charm) is currently the county’s hottest restaurant with the most exciting ‘discovery menu’.

If you decide to stay over : Surrey is home to some of the best spas near London, such as Grayshott, where the Manor House rooms offer faded charm.

Hastings and St Leonards

The best day trip from London for:  old-school seaside charm How to get there from London:  The fast train from London St Pancras International takes 1 hour 32 minutes with a change at Ashford International

There’s almost too much to fit into a one-day visit to Hastings, especially if you want to pop over to the neighbouring town of St Leonards. Over the last few years, these two East Sussex enclaves have become a popular bolthole for burnt-out Londoners looking for a bohemian seaside escape. To see what all the fuss is about, head straight to explore Hasting’s quaint Old Town, a picturesque maze of streets sandwiched between two dramatic cliffs. Pedestrianised scenic George Street is where most of the action happens, with a thrum of cafés, shops and pubs, but it’s worth wandering the surrounding streets too. Seek out AG Hendy & Co on the High Street for well-curated vintage homewares and stop into The Crown for cozy pub grub made with excellent local produce. If you’re up for a wander, get the funicular up and walk along to the cliff to Fairlight Glen, a beautiful secluded beach where clothing is optional. Or if that sounds a bit much, stay in the Old Town and explore the dramatic black fisherman’s huts on Rock-A-Nore beach where there’s Hastings Contemporary art gallery, a tiny shipwreck museum, fresh seafood stalls and a very cute miniature railway. Next up, take the 40-minute amble along the beach past the pier to St Leonards and stop off for food at the fabulous seafront café, Goat Ledge. It’s worth the trip for their crispy panko fish baps and katsu curry sauce chips alone. Nearby, there are great independent shops selling everything from candles to kimonos on Norman Road and King’s Road where you can easily spend a few hours happily browsing and café hopping before settling into dinner at Michelin-recommended pub The Royal.  Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  Book into  The Old Rectory , a bijou  b&b  in Hasting’s Old Town with treatment rooms and a walled garden.

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From london: day trip to the cotswolds, the cotswolds guided day tour from london.

Get ready to head out of London for the day to the delightful Cotswolds region! What's included? • Live commentary on board • Professional guide • Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points • Air-conditioned vehicle

The Cotswolds Guided Day Tour

A Day in Quintessential England The Cotswolds are known for their traditional, English, countryside villages with buildings made from distinctive gold-coloured Cotswold limestone and for their gorgeous rolling hills. The Cotswolds has been designated the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England. The 2 villages that we always visit are Burford & Stow on the Wold, with likely visits to other Cotswolds' villages too, subject to timing, the size of the group & other changeable factors. The town of Burford is known as the southern gateway to The Cotswolds. Here you will have time to explore the town including the main street that slopes gently to the River Windrush lined with shops on either side that has not changed much since the 1500s & the Burford Parish Church of St John the Baptist, where hundreds of Levellers (a group fighting for equality and democracy) were imprisoned - and some executed - during the English Civil War. Stow on the Wold is a pretty market town and a good place to grab some lunch. Here you can explore the old church featuring its iconic door with two trees growing around the sides. Visit the Porch House, the 'oldest pub in Britain'', that was once part of Evesham Abbey plus there is a traditional village 'stocks' and plenty of Civil War history too.

Historic Landmarks

Discover a much-loved region of the English countryside with its quaint villages full of stone cottages, quirky shops & cafes.

Guided Tour

Enjoy the day with one of our friendly, knowledgeable tour guides, helping you to fully experience the beauty and heritage of the sites.

An Unique Experience

We have crafted & refined our tours with a personal touch over the past 25+ years to offer you an extraordinary day out.

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We use our own luxury minibuses & coaches, which are designed with your comfort and safety in mind.

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We accept most major card types for online payments. We also accept payment by card over the phone or cash to our central London office.

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From London: Tour the Stone Circles of Avebury and Stonehenge

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Tour from London: The Cotswolds and Broadway Tower with Cream Tea

Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge Guided Day Tour from London

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Devon & Cornwall 5 day tour

Connect with England’s noble past and spirituality, as well as the legends of King Arthur.

Tour Highlights

Winchester - An ancient city dominated by the statue of Alfred the Great and an impressive Norman cathedral.

Stonehenge* - Witness the iconic Neolithic stone structure of the standing stones and gaze in awe at the capabilities of our ancestors.

Dartmoor - Admire this distinctive craggy landscape and take a glimpse at the Dartmoor ponies grazing in the shadow of the granite outcrops.

Exeter - Stroll through this ancient Roman city, from the magnificence of its gothic cathedral to the city’s medieval underground passages.

Boscastle - One of the last remaining unspoilt harbour villages in the British Isles, the medieval harbour and its charming fishing boats are a joy to see.

Tintagel Castle - This ruined castle full of Arthurian legend is perched on cliffs above an immense cave full of magic.

Land's End - Cruise through this iconic location lined with coastal paths and cliff trails.

St Michael's Mount - Gaze upon this photogenic tidal island that was the perfect retreat for monks in the 11th century.

St Ives - An artists’ haven for over 100 years, with galleries on narrow streets and a beach that’s a surfers’ paradise.

Glastonbury - A significant religious and spiritual site infused with stories of early Christianity, Arthurian legend, and pagan culture.

Your journey

You can understand why this land is full of folklore.

The fossils on the beaches resembled King Arthur’s slayed dragons.The stones of Stonehenge looked like they could have been moved by giants. And who could have known what beasts lurked the in misty, craggy climes of Dartmoor.

On this tour, we enliven your imagination and take you to all of Devon and Cornwall’s mystic landscapes and hidden-away alcoves.

You experience Norman Cathedrals, Roman towns, harbour villages, beautiful beaches, ruined castles, and more.

But watch out; because spend enough time here, and you may start to believe some of the mythical tales yourself.

Tour Details

Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old)

• Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
• Some attraction tickets can be purchased in advance when you book your tour. You’ll have the option to add at check-out. Other attractions will not be available to book beforehand, instead you can purchase those while on tour.
• Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
• Air conditioning as standard
• The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
• Tour accommodation
• Attraction entry tickets
• Explore the ancient Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex, the epicentre of England’s most enduring myths and legends
• Gaze in wonder at Stonehenge*, the powerful stone circle tribute to our ancestors’ beliefs

Leaving central London, you travel through Wessex, one of England’s ancient kingdoms.

You pass through this millennia-old setting on the way to the historic city of Winchester. The former capital of Anglo-Saxon England is synonymous with Alfred the Great and boasts a magnificent cathedral and the Norman Great Hall.

From this bustling city, you head to a quieter but equally profound place: the standing stone circles of Stonehenge. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Stonehenge site has been skilfully preserved.

At the award-winning visitor centre, you can view the exhibition of hundreds of prehistoric items from the Stonehenge collection. By joining the land train shuttle, you make your way to the world-famous stone circles.

You then travel to Exeter, an important fortified settlement in Roman times and your base for two nights.

*Please note that Stonehenge is closed to visitors on 21st June 2024 due to Summer Solstice. We apologise for the inconvenience.

• Explore the beauty of the remote wilderness at Dartmoor, where wild ponies graze in the shadow of hilltop granite outcrops
• Delve into Tavistock, birthplace of Sir Francis Drake, the famed British maritime explorer
• Cross the time-trodden slabs of the medieval miner’s Clapper Bridge

Explore the remote windswept magnificence of Dartmoor, where you can see strings of the native ponies grazing close to the striking rock formations.

Dartmoor is also home to an immense diversity of flora and fauna, so enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the moor’s isolated beauty.

You cross the ancient Clapper Bridge at Postbridge before heading to Tavistock, the historic market town and birthplace of Sir Francis Drake.

Arriving back in Exeter* in the early afternoon gives you a chance to explore the city’s ancient riches at a leisurely pace. The city walls, the Norman cathedral, the Royal Albert Memorial, and the Quayside all await you.

• Rove into the heart of Arthurian legend and the Celtic Kingdom of Cornwall.
• Relax in the charming Elizabethan fishing village of Boscastle
• Wander the cliff top ruins of Tintagel Castle, legendary birthplace of King Arthur

Arthurian legend mixes with genuine Celtic history in Cornwall, England’s most western county.

You head west to the North Cornish coast and the Elizabethan fishing village of Boscastle. Indulge in a cream tea, take a stroll out to the dramatic headland, or learn a spell or two in the Museum of Witchcraft.

You travel to the village of Tintagel and the ruins of its headland Castle, whose romantic cliff top setting is purportedly the birthplace of King Arthur. After lunch, you head to Port Isaac where you can get your Doc Martin’s fix and fall in love with this picturesque fishing village. You then head south to the bustling port town of Falmouth for the next two nights.

• Learn about the outdoor Minack Theatre*, carved from a granite cliff face overlooking the sea
• Stand at the most westerly point of Great Britain at the iconic Land’s End

Today, we explore the most westerly tip of England. We take a brief stop to look at the island community of St Michael’s Mount.

We then travel onwards to the unique setting of the Minack Theatre* perched above a thundering ocean and the beautiful National Trust beach at Porthcurno. Due to availability, you may be unable to visit this theatre. Your guide will let you know as you go. 

You visit Land’s End before following a landscape dotted with the relics of the Cornish tin mining heritage, and now a filming location for the Poldark series. St Ives is the final stop of the day with its plethora of artists’ galleries in the maze of narrow, harbour-side streets.

You return to Falmouth for the night.

*Please note that Minack Theatre is now closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during winter (reopening to 7 days a week around Easter). This means that tours departing on either Fridays or Saturdays will be unable to visit the attraction. We apologise for the inconvenience.

• Plunge to the heart of Bodmin Moor, famous for its feared Beast, Arthurian legends, and the smugglers of Jamaica Inn
• Explore the world famous site of Glastonbury, known for its association with King Arthur and the annual music festival

This morning, you say farewell to Cornwall and travel across Bodmin Moor, a wild moorland that’s designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty.

We’ll take a break before leaving Cornwall and continuing to Glastonbury. Here you can visit the ruins of 7th century Abbey, relax over some lunch or scale Glastonbury Tor for the views across five counties.

From here, you travel back to London, a busy city far removed from the experiences you’ve enjoyed in the magical counties of Devon and Cornwall.

Attractions

Tour Attractions

You are able to pre-purchase entrance tickets to the following attractions at the time of booking:

• Tintagel Castle

Other attractions may be booked and paid locally during the tour.

Accommodation

Where does this tour stay overnight.

You stay two nights in the historic Roman city of Exeter and two nights in the Cornish coastal town of Falmouth.

* Please be aware that Falmouth is busy. You may need to be flexible with rooms we're able to reserve for you here. If you'd prefer to find your own accommodation for this location, please choose the 'book your own accommodation' option when you book your tour. Hotels may be more expensive in Falmouth. 

How can I book accommodation?

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour. To book accommodation, there are two options: either Rabbie’s Tours can book it for you, or you can book your own. For information on how to do this, please see the ‘Accommodation’ tab on FAQ page HERE .

Alternatively, please email us your questions at [email protected] or call us on +44(0)131 226 3133.

Information you can find on the FAQ page, under the ‘Accommodation’ tab : types of accommodation, room types, the booking process, getting to and from your accommodation, and cancellation terms.

How much will the accommodation cost?

We book accommodation with third-party providers on your behalf and each property sets their own rates. Rates vary considerably depending on the accommodation standard, facilities, location, and local demand. We therefore can’t tell you exactly how much your accommodation will cost until your request has been allocated to a specific property.

As a guide, you can expect to pay the following prices,  per person per night :

NOTE: Prices quoted are for guidance only and may be higher on some occasions, especially for last-minute bookings and when demand is high (E.g. peak season, weekends, holidays, special events etc)

Breakfast will be included unless otherwise noted. The type of breakfast provided will vary from place to place so you may receive either a full cooked breakfast, a continental style breakfast (E.g., toast, fruit, cereal), or a packed breakfast bag or tray (E.g., porridge pot, fruit, granola bar).

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure

For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure

For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.

If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.

To cancel your booking, email [email protected] as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Click here to view terms and conditions

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email [email protected] , or check out our full FAQs .

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Children under 14 years of age are not permitted to travel without being accompanied throughout the journey by a responsible person aged 16 years or over. Children aged 14 - 15 years old may travel unaccompanied, as from 5am, arriving at their booked destination no later than 10pm. Unaccompanied children will be asked for proof of age or a signed letter of permission from their parent/guardian. (sms or chat based messages are not permissible)

One infant aged 0-2 travels free when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket. Additional infants aged 0-2 must be paid for. If you are travelling with more than 1 infant aged 0-2, please book the additional infant as 'Children (3-15).

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Read our blog Let our blog inspire your next visit with insights into London's iconic sights, hidden gems, and must-see destinations

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Routes from London

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Things to do in London

London’s top attractions go beyond Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the London Eye. One trip to the capital and you’ll soon see it holds much more than you imagined.

Where to eat

Munch on pie and mash

A must for any foodie visiting London is trying one of its most-famous delicacies: pie and mash. From Rules in Covent Garden to Pieminister in Farringdon, you’ve got plenty of choice – just remember to save room for the big serving of traditional liquor that’ll be poured over the top.

Sip on afternoon tea at the British Museum

If you’re going to travel to London, you can’t leave without enjoying a spot of afternoon tea. Book yourself a table in the British Museum’s Great Court Restaurant. Situated under the iconic glass roof, it’s definitely one of the most memorable ways to eat scones, jam and clotted cream.

Take the family to the Rainforest Café

With its dazzling waterfalls, epic special effects and mass of animatronic animals, one minute you’ll be walking around London, the next you’ll feel like you’re in the jungle. Perfect for a family meal, the menu comprises a mix of American and international cuisine. Sample dishes such as steak, ribs, burgers, pastas and salads before trying one of the mouth-watering desserts.

Where to drink

The trendy bars of East London

A favourite amongst East London locals, Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes is a bar, event space, nightclub and gallery all rolled into a neon ball of fun. Plus, with plenty of quirky cocktails and specialist food nights, you'll be well fuelled for the party. If you’re partial to a spot of board-gaming, take your friends to Draughts, the board game café in Haggerston that turns into a lively bar at night. Perhaps you’re in the mood for a big night, in which case bars such as The Book Club and Queen of Hoxton are always buzzing with hip locals.

The edgy underground bars of Soho

The streets of Soho may be full of revellers, but you’ll find just as much going on underground. A top choice is Cahoots, the retro Tube-themed bar with an extensive drinks list that makes for a memorable night. Other favourites include the Experimental Cocktail Club, a speakeasy-style club hidden in Chinatown, and the range of gay pubs and bars that guarantee to deliver a fun, friendly atmosphere.

The big names in clubbing

Want to experience the giants of London’s club scene? Following the revival of Fabric, the capital’s premier venue for electronic music, there are tons of great nights to choose from at this superclub. For options south of the river, Ministry of Sound in Vauxhall and Corsica Studios in Elephant and Castle are much smaller, but home to an equally exciting mix of up-and-coming DJ and live music nights.

Where to shop

Camden Passage, Islington

Camden Passage is overflowing with cute cafés, independent boutiques and vintage shops. Pick up everything from exquisite one-offs to fun party outfits before browsing the antiques market for affordable furniture, curios, war memorabilia and various bric-a-brac.

Spitalfields Market

Lovers of fashion and food will feel right at home here. Situated in an area that’s long been associated with traders’ markets, Spitalfields’ heritage as a place to unearth the best bargains sets it apart from most markets in London. Brilliant for a day’s browsing, haggling or just enjoying the amazing variety of food options.

Westfield Stratford

Shopaholics are also well catered to, with the options at Westfield’s two London shopping centres in Stratford and White City just as good as Oxford or Regent Street. All the big brand high street stores are available alongside luxury retailers, while the mall also has an events calendar that’s sure to keep you entertained regardless of what you’re into.

London Designer Outlet

Offering some of the world's biggest brands, London Designer Outlet is the ideal place to find a hidden gem for less. Plus, with it being sat right next to Wembley Stadium, if you book event travel to Wembley with us you'll get an extra 10% discount at LDO. The savings have started already!

Other tourist attractions

Buckingham Palace

Just a short walk from Victoria Coach Station, Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and the official London residence of the Royals. It’s also one of the best spots to take a winning photo. Try to get there in time for the daily Changing of the Guard, one of the capital’s must-see spectacles – it starts around 11.30am and lasts 45 minutes.

Trafalgar Square

Here you can spot a variety of famous landmarks, including Nelson’s Column, King George IV statue, St. Martins-in-the-Fields church and the fountains, while the more curious among you should pop in to the nearby National Gallery to find a world of exhibits ready to explore. If you’re walking from the station, there are plenty of places to enjoy a bite to eat along the way.

Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and more

It takes less than half an hour to walk from Victoria Coach Station to the iconic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. You’ll be right next to the London Eye too, where you can take in views of the capital as far as the eye can see. There’s also Westminster Abbey, Winston Churchill’s statue, Downing Street and St James’s Park, all within walking distance.

Things to do for kids

Take them deer spotting in Richmond Park

Anyone who thinks of London as an urban jungle hasn’t explored the range of beautiful parks dotted around the city which are full of stunning wildlife. If the weather’s on your side, take your little ones for a day out in Richmond Park – it’s just a 16-minute train from Waterloo, and you may even spot a deer or three.

Let them loose in an interactive indoor city

The perfect rainy day activity, KidZania is like stepping into a whole new world – a world that’s run by children. Blending learning and fun, this indoor city in Westfield London lets kids try their hand at more than 60 real-life activities – one minute they could be mastering the art of chocolate-making in the factory, and the next assembling a car at the engineering centre.

Culture them with a range of family-friendly exhibitions

If museums are what you’re after, then we’ve got three that offer the ideal mix of education and family fun. In under half an hour’s walk from Victoria Station, you could be introducing your kids to the world’s greatest art and design collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum, enjoying high-tech interactive displays and games at the Natural History Museum, or getting lost in a wealth of exhibits that are sure to excite and inspire all ages at the Science Museum.

London in one day

Hidden gems.

St Dunstan in the East

This church in the City of London was bombed in The Blitz, but rather than being restored, the ruins were turned into a free public garden. Today, the stunning space is open to the public daily and is ideal for a picnic and, of course, some fantastic photographs.

Kyoto Garden

Holland Park is beautiful in itself, but venture a little deeper and you’ll stumble across Kyoto Garden, gorgeous Japanese-style gardens full of exotic flowers, waterfalls and lanterns. Perfect for those looking for more tranquil weekend attractions.

Wilton’s is said to be the oldest music hall in London and still holds performances to this day. It may look slightly worn and weathered, but this only adds to the charm and beauty of the hall; a must-see for music fans and history buffs alike.

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Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

O ne of the world's greatest cities, London is packed with tourist attractions so impressive that you'll want to add them all to your itinerary. From the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace to the Churchill War Rooms, the list of unmissable landmarks seems endless. Don't worry, though -- it's possible to visit most of them in just a two-day trip . When you're on a tight schedule, it's important to avoid time- and money-wasting tourist traps in favor of visiting sites that are worthy of your attention. 

Whether it's an overrated and overpriced wax museum, a kitschy dungeon experience, or a super crowded viewpoint, there are many places to avoid visiting in the U.K.'s heady capital. The confusing part? Some of them top multiple lists of must-see attractions. That's where we come in. 

As someone who lived in this captivating English city for six years, I have first-hand knowledge of the biggest tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London. Plus, I can offer more impressive (and often less costly) destinations to visit instead. Don't want to take my word for it? No problem. I combined my first-hand knowledge with reviews and suggestions from other locals to create this list.

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

Skip Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours And Ride A London Bus

While hop-on hop-off bus tours can be a convenient way to explore a big city, they often come with a hefty price tag. If the tour is based in London, you can expect to pay over $50 per adult for a one-day pass. Instead, board a London bus, which will cost less than $7 for a day of travel. Bus fare for one ride is about $2 and the daily cap is under $7. To pay for their ride, visitors must use a contactless card or an Oyster Card, the visitor's version of which can be purchased online and mailed to your home before you leave.

Double-decker London buses offer spectacular city views, with many routes passing right by London's landmark attractions. One of our faves is the historic Routemaster Bus 15, which we suggest boarding at the Tower of London. Hop on at Great Tower Street (Stop TT) and ride west to Charing Cross Station. Be sure to sit up top for the best views along this heritage route -– you can't miss St. Paul's Cathedral and Trafalgar Square. 

Bus 24 is another great option for sightseers. Hop on at Victoria Station and ride it to Camden High Street. Along the way, you'll pass Westminster Abbey, the Horse Guard's Parade, Trafalgar Square, and Downing Street. Grab a bite at Camden Market when you disembark or stay on until you reach Hampstead Heath where you can catch unbeatable views of the city.

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

It may tout itself as a top London attraction, but Madame Tussauds would be more honest if they said they were the top rip-off site. Booking in advance will save some money -- the standard online rate for an adult begins at just over $47 versus the walk-up price, which begins at almost $60. But that's still a lot of quid to dish out for wandering around an overcrowded and noisy space filled with okay-ish wax replicas of A- and B-list celebs. Yes, it's fun to take photos with the royal family and fool friends into thinking you met them IRL, but is it worth it? We don't think so.

Instead, we suggest visiting Buckingham Palace for a potential King Charles III sighting. Realistically, you probably won't spy a royal outside the palace, but at least you'll see a historic monument up close. Celebrities more your thing? Book a reservation at one of the city's most popular restaurants. Chiltern Firehouse has hosted acting greats Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper as well as soccer superstar David Beckham. 34 Mayfair is another good bet for great food and celeb spotting. Imelda Staunton and royal family members have all eaten here.

Skip Changing Of The Guard And Visit The Queen's Gallery

While you should add Buckingham Palace to your list of must-see London tourist attractions, you may want to avoid a visit during the Changing of the Guard. This formal ceremony marks the change between the old guard (on-duty soldiers) and new guard (soldiers taking over duty) for the royal palaces. Marching with a band from Wellington Barracks to the Palace, the new guard will arrive at the palace at about 10:45 a.m. A well-known event, this is a big tourist draw, which means you can expect hefty crowds queuing up an hour or more in advance, as well as pickpockets who arrive to take advantage of the chaotic atmosphere. This tourist trap, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, is one you'll be happy to miss. Sadly, watching this famed ceremony these days feels more like witnessing an overhyped marching band than it does an esteemed historic ritual.

Instead, ditch the crowds and glimpse art from the Royal Collection in the Queen's Gallery or visit the Royal Mews , where you can see the royal stables and the 260-year-old Gold State Coach used at King Charles III's Coronation. The Mews are open Thursday through Monday from early March to early November. Neighboring St. James Park is another interesting place to visit. One of London's famed Royal Parks, it is bordered by three palaces and boasts a fabulous view of Buckingham Palace in particular.

Skip Platform 9 ¾ At King's Cross Station And Visit Warner Brothers Studio Tour London

If you're traveling with a Harry Potter-obsessed kid, you may want to visit Platform 9 ¾ at King's Cross Station. But if you're alone, or with other adults who couldn't care less, we advise you to skip this overrated tourist trap. If you're already planning to be in King's Cross Station and have time to scope out this attraction, that's one thing; but if you're traveling there with the sole purpose of visiting this site, think twice. 

Set between platforms 9 and 10 (obvs) this point of interest includes nothing but a brick wall denoted with a sign. Stuck into the wall is part of a trolley loaded with fake suitcases and an empty owl cage. Those hoping for a quick photo and to score some Potter swag will be pleased;  the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is open daily, even on bank holidays, and it sells everything from wands to clothes to makeup. 

For those who'd rather have an unforgettable and truly magical Harry Potter experience, though, head to Warner Brothers Studio Tour London -- The Making of Harry Potter in nearby Leavesden. Instead of merely looking at a wall, visitors can board the Hogwarts Express, "fly" on a broomstick, walk through the Great Hall, and explore the Forbidden Forest. Step foot in Diagon Alley, try a Butterbeer, or check out some of the film's famous props and costumes. You won't be sorry you visited.

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

No matter how much the kids beg you to visit the London Dungeon, stay strong and just say "no." This kitschy tourist trap is a waste of your hard-earned money (tickets start at over $37 for adults) and it's so hokey you'll roll your eyes more times than you can count on both hands. This pitiful attraction is peppered with costume-clad actors who like to scream and cackle and its two rides (the Drop Dead: Drop Ride and the Tyrant Boat Ride) will make you wish you were at Walt Disney World; even "It's a Small World" would be more enjoyable. An escape room has also been added to increase the venue's income stream –- it costs $153 for a private game for six people.

Want a historic experience with a side of chills? Head to the Tower of London instead. There, you can tour the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, where you can get up close and personal with the stretching machine (a.k.a. the rack) and other ancient torture devices in the Lower Wakefield Tower. The Bloody Tower is another point of interest you won't want to miss. The most infamous prison on the grounds, this is where you'll learn about the alleged murder of two young princes -– Edward V and his little brother Richard –- by their uncle, Richard III.

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

Looking for a good spooking? Do yourself a favor and skip The London Bridge Experience. A tourist trap designed to bring the city's macabre history to life with the help of actors with a penchant for jump scares, you can expect to meet zombie-like versions of ghastly heavyweights Jack the Ripper and William Wallace during your visit. Tickets cost about $37 for the experience, which takes anywhere between 35 and 50 minutes. That means you could be spending more than $1 a minute. Entry fees also include a trip to the London Tombs, deemed the U.K.'s "best scare attraction," according to their site . Zombified dentists, doctors, and creepy clowns await visitors in the lower vaults of this venue, ready to pounce and scream in your face.

Instead, we suggest visiting the Churchill War Rooms. Also located underground, this fascinating historic facility is part of the Imperial War Museums. Located in the basement of Whitehall, this once-secret complex was used by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, top government ministers, and military planners to conduct meetings and develop plans during the country's war effort during World War II. Known as the Cabinet War Rooms, this clandestine spot was used daily during the war, until August 16, 1945. Or experience that stomach drop feeling by walking the glass floors at Tower Bridge. Set nearly 138 feet above the Thames, the views are both terrifying and impressive. Tickets cost under $16 per adult. 

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

We don't recommend visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum unless you have a detective-obsessed kid who doesn't realize that the famed character is fictional. Set inside a Georgian townhouse at 221B Baker Street in Marylebone, this four-story museum has been open since 1990. Inside lie antique furnishings mentioned in the books and pretty creepy-looking mannequins. Tickets cost over $21 which isn't exorbitant, especially for London, but considering you won't be there long (the museum's quite small), this seems a bit of a waste.

Instead, head to The Sherlock Holmes  in St James. Self-described as a "Victorian-themed public house," this watering hole features a recreated version of the famed fictional detective's apartment upstairs. The entire pub is dotted with references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved books, making it easy to feel as if you're within the pages. Plus, there's a beer garden –- the museum certainly doesn't have one of those.

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

You'll find everything you'd expect to see at the SEA Life London Aquarium. From penguins to sharks to turtles, they're all there. And as far as aquariums go, this is a pretty good one. But when you're in one of the world's greatest cities that lies on the banks of a river, not an ocean, there are plenty of better things to see. Standard tickets to the Sea Life London Aquarium cost $24 online or $51 at the door. Again, that's pretty on par for London attractions, however, it's a steep price to pay for a tourist trap. 

Instead, visit London Zoo in Regent's Park. The oldest scientific zoo in the world, this family-friendly attraction was opened in 1828 for fellows of the Zoological Society of London. In 1847, the public was invited to visit. Today, the zoo is home to 14,0000 animals including a giant, 425-pound silverback gorilla, Sumatran tigers, and Linne's two-toed sloths. While tickets aren't cheap (an adult will cost about $40 to visit on a weekday), it's easy to spend a whole day here. Or, if you aren't willing to part with that much cash, visit the smaller, and lesser-known, Battersea Park Children's Zoo . Adult tickets are more reasonably priced, at $16. There are over 100 animals at this little zoo, including wallabies, meerkats, otters, and lemurs, and plenty of opportunities to interact with animals like coatis, donkeys, and goats.

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

There's no denying that The Shard is impressive. In fact, it's one of the most spectacular buildings in the world . The viewing platform was opened by the queen on February 1, 2013, with the main restaurants (Aqua, Oblix, and Hutong) following suit that summer. Set across the Thames from another bucket-list-worthy London building, the Gherkin, this engineering masterpiece towers 1,016 feet above the city and boasts 11,000 glass panels. 

Dubbed a "vertical city," there's plenty to do inside, like spend serious coin on a meal with a view, or zip up one of the 44 elevators to the viewing platform. That 360-degree view will cost you, though -- about $36, or more if you add a glass of champagne. And if you visit on a day that's rainy or misty (honestly, London is often both of those things), you're basically paying for a ride in a lift.

Instead, head to Level 10 at Tate Modern, where you can enjoy a drink or snack (including sandwiches and salads) while ogling the impressive view of the Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral, the BT Tower, and Blackfriar's Bridge. You won't have to pay a thing unless you choose to grab a bite or a warm cuppa. The Skygarden at 20 Fenchurch Street is another must-visit for a free skyline vista. The highest public garden in London, this leafy space is as stunning as its views are remarkable.

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

We are well aware that some of you will disagree with this addition to our list of tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London, but hear us out. Yes, the London Eye is iconic. Yes, it offers fantastic views of the city. And yes, it's deemed a top London attraction you won't want to miss . That said, visiting this popular landmark can cause more headaches than enjoyment. First created as a temporary point of interest, this 443-foot-tall, "cantilevered observation wheel" is the largest of its kind in the world, according to its website . And if you catch a ride on one of its 32 pods on a sunny day, you can see up to 25 miles in all directions. The problem is that thousands of others have the same idea, which means you could stand in line for more than two hours on a particularly busy day. Standard tickets start at over $32 online or more than $57 for a walk-up.

Instead, visit Hampstead Heath for a unique city view you probably never knew existed. Parliament Hill stands over 321 feet tall, making it one of the highest natural points in the city. If the weather is ideal, you can see to the Gherkin, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament. Speaking of the Gherkin, it's another great spot to enjoy unparalleled views. Grab a drink and snack at Iris Bar at Searcys at the Gherkin , then relax with a side order of stunning vistas.

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

Harrods is to London as the Colosseum is to Rome -– a historic icon that's become synonymous with the city. The world's most famous luxury department store, this Knightsbridge institution is impossible to miss -– it's eight floors tall and an entire block long, not to mention over one million square feet in size. Inside, you'll find 20 restaurants, a beauty salon, a bank, and 300 separate departments selling over 5,000 brands. You'll also see price tags so high you might suffer sticker shock. Due to its notoriety, Harrods is often packed with tourists, making it difficult to enjoy the plush interior.

If you're hoping to shop during your London holiday, there are plenty of excellent places to visit instead. Sloane Square is home to the Peter Jones & Partners department store. Owned by John Lewis, this vast shop is filled with enough enticing merchandise that you'll find it tough to leave empty-handed. Grab a bite at The Top Floor Restaurant (on the 6 th floor) for captivating views of Chelsea and beyond.

Liberty is another recognizable landmark located on Regent Street. A heritage-listed building; this stunning Tudor-style store is as beautiful outside as it is indoors. Built between 1922 and 1924, it is worth a visit, if only to admire the impressive architectural features (the price tags here are also quite shocking).

Our Ranking Methodology

Having lived in London for six years with two young children, I visited pretty much every tourist attraction the city has. From renowned points of interest like the Tower of London to remarkable museums, I've seen the top sightseeing destinations multiple times, including many kitschy tourist traps I wish I'd skipped. To create this list, I used my experiences at these attractions to determine which locales are tourist traps that should be avoided and I included alternatives that are more than worthy of your time and money. I also consulted reviews from other locals and travelers, as well as their tips, to ensure the list is solid.

Read the original article on Explore .

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Coach service offers journeys across the UK for knockdown price of £2 each way

Hundreds of cut-price, sustainable intercity journeys are on special offer this week for trips across England, Scotland and Wales

A transport company is offering £2 tickets for coach trips across the UK to be taken up to May 12. With a £1 service fee, that means travellers planning journeys can book long-distance tickets from £3 on the FlixBus website or app.

In England there is a government-backed scheme capping local bus tickets at £2 until December 2024, but this offer opens up longer routes and also applies to journeys into and around Wales and Scotland, where the £2 cap doesn’t exist. So, if you fancy a trip through the blossoming valleys from Bristol to Swansea, or from Glasgow to Inverness via the Cairngorms, now is the time to book. The deal is available until Sunday 21 April.

The international travel tech company is celebrating three years of business in the UK. It runs in partnership with local coach companies using green, branded vehicles. Earlier this year FlixBus launched the first direct electric coach service between London Victoria station and Newport in south Wales two of around 75 UK destinations currently covered by the network.

FlixBus began as a German startup in 2013 and has grown exponentially since then to cover thousands of routes in more than 40 countries, entering the UK market in 2020. Last summer it launched the first ever regular routes from several UK cities, including Leeds and Cambridge, direct to Amsterdam. The buses aim to be cheap, sustainable, easy to book and comfortable, with free wifi and charging points on board.

The lowest-priced journeys include direct routes such as Manchester to Edinburgh, London to Bridgend, Bristol to Newcastle and hundreds more intercity connections. The whole FlixBus Scottish network is part of the £2 scheme with Inverness added as a new destination this month. In Scotland, National Entitlement Card and Young Scot cardholders can get free travel.

Andreas Schörling, managing director of FlixBus UK, said the network offers affordable tickets and “comfortable, modern vehicles” and is celebrating its third anniversary with “£2 travel around the vibrant cities and towns of the UK”. The company aims to “become the best-loved coach brand in the country”, he added, offering “reliable services to as many passengers as possible”.

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