weekend trips from london by train

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Lady’s 17 Weekend Trips from London by Train

Today I want to bring you my list of the best weekend trips from London by train. The UK has a great rail network, which makes it easy to get around Britain (and beyond) using trains. If you’re looking for an exciting weekend break from London, my list will help you find the perfect getaway for your style. I’ve included a map, too.

Weekend Trips from London by Train

My guide to weekend trips from London by train features a range of travel destinations. Whether you love the English countryside or the British seaside, the best cities or the prettiest towns, there’s a short break for you.

From England to Scotland and Wales, these trips will take you to some of the best places to visit in the UK . I’ve included a few getaways to Europe, too.

If you’re not familiar with taking rail journeys in Britain, you can read my guide to train travel in the UK . It will help you avoid the mistakes I made when I first moved to London.

I’ve been to all the places on my list (a lot of them more than once), and I can personally say they’re worthwhile spots to visit. There are a lot more ideas in the book 52 Great British Weekends , too. You can get it on Amazon here .

1. Weekend in Edinburgh

I’ll start my list of the best weekend trips from London by train with Edinburgh . The Scottish capital is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK , and the train ride from London passes through stunning countryside, cities, and coastal areas.

Edinburgh is famous for its hilltop castle, historic streets, and village-like areas. The views from the Scott Monument and Calton Hill are stunning, the food scene is world-class, and the Royal Mile has amazing history.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Edinburgh here . I’ve stayed in the city many times and my favorite is the Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh . It’s in a great location right by Edinburgh Castle. You can book a room here .

2. Weekend in St Ives

Next on my list of weekend trips from London by train is St Ives in Cornwall. This town in southwest England is one of the best places to go to the seaside in the UK. With great coastline, delicious food, and pretty beaches, it’s hard to beat.

I did a weekend trip to St Ives by sleeper train once. It was great to experience an overnight train journey from London , and waking up to the sunrise in Cornwall was incredible.

St Ives is famous for its art, too. From the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden to Tate St Ives and lots of local galleries, it’s a great place to channel your inner art lover (and collector).

If you want to take this trip, you can book accommodation in St Ives here . From cottages to hotels, there are lots of fun places to stay.

3. Weekend in Brighton

Down on the south coast, Brighton is another of the best weekend trips from London by rail. Just an hour by train from the UK capital, this seaside city is famous for its beaches, pier, Royal Pavilion, and narrow streets filled with shops and restaurants.

With 2 days in Brighton you can see everything from the English Channel to the shopping streets and beyond. You’ll have time to hit the big attractions and take in the city’s legendary nightlife and street art scenes, too.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Brighton here . I’ve stayed at the Brighton Harbour Hotel and Spa and I love its seaside decor and location right on the waterfront. You can book a room here .

4. Weekend in Bristol

Next on my list of the best weekend getaways from London by train is Bristol. It’s an easy rail journey from the UK capital, and with 2 days in Bristol you can see all the highlights.

Located in southwest England, Bristol is known for its independent spirit and riverside attractions. The Harbourside area is home to the contemporary M Shed museum, which explores the city’s industrial and social heritage.

Converted 19th-century waterfront warehouses shelter fun restaurants, shops, and art galleries, and Clifton is full of Georgian townhouses, elegant crescents, and the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Bristol here . I’ve stayed at the Hotel du Vin and I like its spacious rooms and central location. You can book a room here .

5. Weekend in Kent

Next on my list of weekend trips from London is Kent . This county in southeast England is teeming with places to escape to for a couple days.

If you like the coast, Kent has some of the best places to go to the seaside near London .

From oyster-famous Whitstable to pretty Rochester , hip Margate , lovely Deal , beachfront Broadstairs , harborside Ramsgate , underrated Folkestone , and castle-renowned Dover , there are plenty of places you can get to by train for a weekend getaway from London.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Kent here . I’ve stayed at The Bay Tree in Broadstairs and The Relish in Folkestone, and I recommend both.

6. Weekend in Bath

Bath is one of the best cities in England , and it more than deserves a place on my list of weekend trips from London by train. Known for its beautiful stone buildings and rich history, it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Britain.

The Roman Baths are amazing to see, and the Jane Austen connections offer another historic draw. That’s to say nothing of The Circus and the Royal Crescent, where the curves and columns are a photographer’s dream.

There are also a lot of independent restaurants and shops in Bath that make the city worth visiting. From bookstores to cute cafes, there’s enough on offer to fill a weekend in Bath .

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Bath here . I’ve stayed at The Yard in Bath and I love its stylish interiors. You can book a room here .

7. Weekend in Cambridge

Next on my list of weekend trips from London by train is Cambridge. One of the best university cities in the UK , Cambridge is not only beautiful, but also an important center of history and learning.

With 48 hours in Cambridge you can see the city and experience the main activities and attractions. From admiring the colleges to punting on the River Cam and going to evensong at King’s College Chapel, there’s a lot to do here.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Cambridge here . I’ve stayed at the Clayton Hotel and I love its contemporary decor and proximity to the train station. You can book a room here .

8. Weekend in Eastbourne

Back on the south coast, Eastbourne is a great weekend trip from London by rail. If you love the seaside, you’ll be spoiled for choice here. There are great beaches all around, and a fun pleasure pier to boot.

Spending a weekend in Eastbourne will allow you to explore this resort town and soak up the sun on its seafront at a leisurely pace.

If you visit during the high season, you can enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants on the beach followed by a waterfront concert at the bandstand.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Eastbourne here . I’ve stayed at The Lansdowne Hotel and I love its waterfront location. You can book a room here .

9. Weekend in The Cotswolds

It’s hard to beat the Cotswolds when it comes to scenery, which is why I can’t help including it on my list of weekend trips from London.

With picture-pretty villages, bucolic landscapes, and great towns, it’s worth visiting this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

There are several train stations in the Cotswolds, including places like Kingham, Moreton-in-Marsh, and Kemble. You can learn more about getting here in my blog post about visiting the Cotswolds without a car .

Once in the area, you can base yourself in one of the towns with a station and explore the local surroundings. I’ve written about a great Moreton-in-Marsh walk and an overnight stay in Kingham that can give you inspiration.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in the Cotswolds here . There are lots of great places to stay in the area.

10. Weekend in Yorkshire

Yorkshire is another fun place to take a weekend trip from London by train. This region in the north of England is full of beautiful cities, pretty towns, and stunning countryside.

York is the perfect place to visit if you love urban escapes. It has some of the most photogenic streets in England, as well as lots of good shopping. York Minster makes it one of the most important cathedral cities in England , too.

The historic spa town of Harrogate is another great place to spend a weekend in Yorkshire. It’s full of heritage architecture and pretty parks.

I combined it with a trip to Leeds , and I had a great time exploring the shopping arcades and going to the theater with friends.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Yorkshire here . I’ve stayed at a number of places in the area, and my favorite is The Lawrance in Harrogate. You can book a room here .

11. Weekend in Glasgow

Back in Scotland, Glasgow is another of my favorite weekend trips from London by train. My grandmother grew up here and I’ve been visiting all my life.

This spirited city features an eye-catching mix of historic and contemporary architecture, an amazing food scene, and great nightlife.

Add to that friendly locals, a botanical garden, lively markets, street art, and enough museums to keep one entertained for a lifetime, and there’s a lot to do in Glasgow .

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Glasgow here . I’ve stayed at the Grand Central and I like the convenient location by the train station. You can book a room here .

12. Weekend in Rye

Next on my list of the best weekend trips from London by train is Rye . This gem of a town in East Sussex is full of cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, haunted inns, and postcard-perfect cottages. It’s one of the prettiest towns in England .

Rye was once home to writer Henry James, and his house and garden are open to the public now. Touring them is one of the best things to do in Rye .

The town is also in walking distance of Camber Castle, a historic fortress with Henry VIII connections. It’s one of the best castles near London .

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Rye here . If you want something unique, the Mermaid Inn is said to be haunted. You can book a room here .

13. Weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is another of the best weekend trips from London by train. This town in Warwickshire is famous for its Shakespeare connections. Not only is it full of houses he lived in and theaters showing his plays, but also historic streets and pubs.

Spending a weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon will allow you to visit all the Shakespeare houses, see a play in the evening, and explore the historic streets.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Stratford here . There are lots of good places to stay.

14. Weekend in Leicester

Next on my list of weekend trips from London by train is Leicester. This city in the Midlands flies under the radar, but it’s worth a visit for a number of reasons.

First, the Richard III connections are fascinating. The former king died here, and there’s a museum dedicated to him in the city center. He’s buried in the impressive cathedral, too.

Next, Leicester is one of the best Arts and Crafts Movement places to visit in Britain. The Leicester Museum and Art Gallery houses an important collection, and leading figures like architect-designer Ernest Gimson were born here.

If that’s not enough, the city has stunning historic architecture to admire. If you look up as you walk around during your weekend in Leicester , you’ll be impressed. There are even ancient Roman ruins here.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Leicester here . I’ve stayed at St Martins Lodge , which is housed in a beautifully renovated Grade II-listed building in the heart of the city. You can book a room here .

15. Weekend in Paris

Outside the UK, Paris is my top pick for a weekend trip from London by train. The City of Light makes a great 2-day escape from the UK capital.

There’s a lot to do here, including world-class museums, great shopping and dining, fun nightlife, and stunning Paris landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s worth spending a weekend in Paris to see the highlights.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Paris here . I’ve also written about the best areas to stay in Paris if you want specific recommendations.

16. Weekend in Brussels

Also on the continent, Brussels is another great weekend getaway from London by rail. The Belgian capital is underrated as far as European cities go, but I spent a summer living and working here and I can vouch for its worthiness.

Brussels has everything from delicious food and drinks to great museums, colorful street art, beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, and fun markets. The Grand Place is one of the most photogenic city squares in Europe, too.

If you want to spend a weekend in Brussels , you can book a hotel in the city here . I’ve visited many times, and my favorite place to stay is the Hilton Brussels Grand Place . You can book a room here .

17. Weekend in Amsterdam

With direct rail services between London and Holland, Amsterdam is another of the top weekend trips from London by train. This city in the Netherlands is known for its unique canals, skinny houses, abundance of museums, and fun nightlife.

Two days in Amsterdam is enough time to walk around the streets, visit the markets, take a canal boat ride, and cycle into the countryside. If it’s spring, you can visit the famous Keukenhof Gardens , too.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Amsterdam here . I’ve visited several times, and my favorite place to stay is the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel . You can book a room here .

Map of Weekend Trips from London

Below is a map of all the places I mentioned in this blog post. If you click on the blue pins, you can find more information about each one.

Best Weekend Trips from London by Train

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the best weekend trips from London by train, and that it’s helped you discover new places to travel for a couple days.

If you want more ideas, you can take a look at my blog posts about weekend getaways from London , the best weekend trips in the UK , weekends in Wales , weekends in Scotland , and romantic weekend getaways to Europe . Happy travels!

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The best short breaks from London are just two hours by train

Sep 15, 2021 • 8 min read

The Unesco World Heritage city of Bath in Somerset is 1 hour and 20 minutes from central London by train © Gary Rayner / 500px

Traveling by train can be the ideal stress-free weekend getaway. With a new London to Edinburgh high-speed train service  being launched, Lonely Planet looks at the best short breaks by train from London . Be inspired to take a spa day in Bath, spend time on the river in Cambridge, or hunt out Bristol's best street art. Here are the best weekend breaks that are less than two hours from London by direct train.

Best for a busy weekend by the sea

The seaside city of Brighton is the classic weekend getaway from London and has been since the railway opened in the 1840s.

Do:  Head downhill from the station towards the sea via the Lanes, Brighton's premier spot for independent stores. Admire the opulent Royal Pavilion , a Regency-era party palace for the royals, and get on board with the seaside kitsch of Brighton Pier , packed with amusements and arcade games. 

Eat: Brighton is one of the top places in the UK for vegan and vegetarian food: try plant-based pizza at Purezza  or quality veggie cuisine at Terre à Terre . For classic fish and chips on the seafront visit The Regency . 

Stay:  Several large chain hotels line the seafront. If you'd prefer a highly-rated independent boutique hotel, stay at  Hotel Una near the West Pier.  Legends Hotel is one of Brighton's top gay-friendly places to stay in Kemptown, the hub of the city's LGBTQ+ scene.

Best for a peaceful city break

45 minutes to an hour from King’s Cross Station

The university city of Cambridge  is full of ancient colleges with striking architecture that are best viewed from the water.

Do:  Punting is the ultimate Cambridge experience. Book a spot with one of the many punting companies that ply their trade along the River Cam, and enjoy a tour through the picturesque "Backs" in a flat-bottomed boat piloted by a knowledgeable guide. Once you've got the lay of the land, explore the city's cobbled passages and ancient pubs further on foot.

Eat: If you’ve got cash to flash, pay for the best of British at Midsummer House . If you’re on more of a student budget, fill your boots at Pint Shop .

Stay: Spending a night at immaculately designed Clayton Hotel  will make you feel like a Cambridge scholar from yesteryear, one that was bankrolled to stay in the fanciest halls, anyway.

Best for street art

1 hour 40 minutes from Paddington Station to Bristol Temple Meads

Bristol’s cobbled streets are flanked by red-brick buildings often adorned with vibrant art.

Do:  Take yourself on a street art walking tour and see how many Banksy works you can spy. In the evening, book a music or comedy gig in Bristol Beacon  (formerly called Colston Hall after slave-trader Edward Colston, and renamed in 2020 following the city's Black Lives Matter protests) or get your theater on in Bristol Old Vic , the longest continuously running theater in the English-speaking world.

Eat: Riverstation combines a stunning waterside location with top-notch grub; think pan-fried turbot with squid-ink sauce, or rum and coconut panna cotta with mango sorbet. 

Stay:  For a bit of luxury, stay at the 18th-century Hotel du Vin . If you're looking for something a bit more budget, the Ibis Temple Meads Quay , near the train station has basic but well-appointed rooms. 

Read more:  Bristol through the eyes of city poet Vanessa Kisuule

Best for a city spa break

1 hour 20 minutes from Paddington to Bath Spa

Bath is one of Britain's most lovely cities. The huge semicircle terrace of town houses, the  Royal Crescent , built between 1767 and 1775, is a dazzling example of the grand Georgian architecture that the city is known for. 

Do: Visit  No1 Royal Crescent , which has been restored with original materials to give visitors a sense of what life was like in Georgian Bath. One of the city's most popular sights is the  Roman Baths , an elaborate spa complex dating from 70 AD surrounded by 18th- and 19th-century buildings. You can't swim in the waters here, but you can (and should) spend a day at Thermae Bath Spa , with gentle whirlpools, various therapy rooms, and best of all, a rooftop pool with views over the city and surrounding countryside.

Eat: Bath has many quality places to eat from delightful historic tea rooms like  Sally Lunn's , to gastropubs, such as the Marlborough Tavern .

Stay:  There are lots of independent accommodations, as well as a few hostels in the city. Grays  boutique B&B is a Victorian building with a blend of modern designs, or stay in the luxurious Three Abbey Green , a spacious family-run Georgian town house.

Best for medieval history

1 hour 50 minutes from London King's Cross

Further from London than Leeds , Liverpool and  Manchester , yet served by faster trains, the medieval city of  York  has a rich heritage to explore.

Do: Follow the city's 13th-century walls, which enclose a spider's web of narrow streets, including the atmospheric Shambles . The city's heart is the huge York Minster , a beautiful Gothic cathedral. The undercroft has displays on the cathedral's history, but to learn about the city itself before the cathedral became its center, go to Jorvik Viking Centre , which takes you on an interactive journey back to when Viking settled in York around 1000 years ago.

Eat: Choose from the myriad restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs throughout the city. There's an eclectic and frequently changing British menu at Skosh , or if you're looking for a lunchtime light bite on the move, all kinds of street food is on offer at Shambles Food Court.

Stay:  The central Grade-I-listed  Grays Court , with direct access to the city walls, has luxurious rooms each with their own individual design. More budget centrally-located options include St Raphael guesthouse and dorm rooms in Safestay York hostel.

Read more:  48 hours in historic York – 2000 years in two days

Best for live music and nightlife

1 hour 50 minutes from Paddington Station to Cardiff Central

You might be drawn to Wales' capital by an event at the Principality Stadium , but you should stay for its history, thriving nightlife, and the Welsh cakes.

Do: Admire the opulent interiors of the impressive Cardiff Castle . This was once the site of a Roman fort, then a Norman castle, and later became home to the aristocratic Bute family, one of the richest families in the world. Take a walk in the nearby Bute Park and Arboretum , a lovely green space along with Taff River, and stop-off at the tiny Pettigrew Tea Rooms , which serves up some of the city’s best Welsh cakes (a small, circular sweet bread) as well as tea by the pot-load. As the sun goes down, join the crowds funnelling into live-music venues like  The Moon or – local nightlife institution – Clwb Ifor Bachin .

Eat: Both herbivores and carnivores will be well served at Indian restaurant Mint & Mustard . Alternatively, Cardiff Bay’s  Mermaid Quay  has around 30 different waterfront restaurants and bars to choose from.

Stay: Hotel Indigo is a pretty slick, central option which also boasts a rooftop  Marco Pierre White restaurant .

Best for wildlife and nature

1 hour 35 minutes from Waterloo Station to Brockenhurst

Visiting a national park without a car isn't usually an easy thing to do, but with good rail connections to the charming village of Brockenhurst in the New Forest, you could be lacing up your hiking boots on the train.

Do:  If you’re visiting in autumn you may see roaming pigs released to hoover up the fallen acorns and fatten up, as well as cows and the eponymous ponies. This sprawling national park is pretty flat with a network of smooth roads throughout, so hire a bike or book a horseback tour and see the area from the perspective of its most famous residents.  

Eat:  Brockenhurst has many cafes, bakeries, restaurants and pubs to choose from. A bike ride away is Burley Manor , with an extensive menu of locally sourced ingredients, making it a lovely pit stop in a day packed with outdoor activities.

Stay: The towns such as Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst and Beaulieu are good places to base yourself with many B&Bs, boutique hotels and cottages for rent. If you're looking for something a little more special book well in advance for a unique room at The Pig  in Brockenhurst.

Broadstairs

Best for a family-friendly sandy beach

1 hour 20 minutes from St Pancras International, 1 hour 40 minutes from London Victoria

The charming seaside town of Broadstairs is one of Kent's top beach destinations, perfect for a family weekend away from the city.

Do:  If you're traveling with little ones, most of your weekend could be spent on the beach hut-lined sands of Viking Bay. In peak season there are deck chairs for rent, with swings and bouncy castles on the beach. On the clifftop at one end of the beach is Bleak House where Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield . A refreshing walk along the coastal path offers great views out to sea and leads to various nearby coves.

Eat: Take your pick of the cluster of family-friendly pubs along Harbour Street. A stone's throw from the beach, Wyatt & Jones serve the freshest, drool-inducing seafood, including locally-sourced Whitstable Native oysters. 

Stay: Dog- and family-friendly Cintra B&B near Viking Bay welcomes children of all ages. Boutique B&B Belvidere Place  is ideal for couples, providing stylish, comfy accommodation with a warm welcome. The breakfast is also sublime, and if you end up staying indoors here all weekend, it would still be time well spent.

You might also like: Top 10 day trips from London    Sleeper trains are back on track in Europe with exciting new routes to travel Top 9 road trips in England    

This article was originally published on November 6, 2019.

This article was first published November 2019 and updated September 2021

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9 Spectacular Train Trips You Can Take From London

Ride the rails in search of adventure with these epic train trips in the UK and further afield too – including Berlin, Vienna and even Venice!

Table Of Contents

Train trips from London to UK destinations

Train trips from london to europe.

There’s something nostalgic and romantic about riding the rails and heading off for pastures new. Plus, with the continuing rise of the ‘flight-shame’ movement, railway travel is coming back in fashion in a big way, especially in Europe. Overnight train trips let you snooze your way to adventure – and they’re slightly more exciting than falling asleep on the Night Tube to Morden – whilst you can also strike out for Europe on grand railway journeys. Here are some lovely train trips from London we’re just itching to try!

Fair England and friends have a wealth of exciting destinations to get to – like Edinburgh for around just £25! – but for truly special train trips, try one of these on for size.

1. Caledonian Sleeper , Euston to Fort William

The renovated Caledonian Sleeper is the longest night train journey in the UK, departing from Euston by night and rolling into Scotland before sunrise. There are two routes, one heading to Glasgow and Edinburgh that arrives just after 7am, and another that skips the major duo and heads for Aberdeen, Stirling, and Inverness.

On the latter, one could hop off for a round of golf at Gleneagles, skip out at Aviemore to ski, or, as we’d do, stay in bed until the overnight train rolls into Fort William at 10am. This leaves you well placed to climb Ben Nevis, explore Loch Ness, or if you’re really train-mad, ride the rails to Mallaig aboard steam train service The Jacobite , which takes you over the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by Harry Potter . Read our review of it here.

2. Night Riviera Sleeper, Paddington to Penzance

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Nestled right down in the southwestern corner of England, Penzance and the surrounding areas are well worth the trek. Sure, you could fly , but there’s a more relaxing way – hop on The Night Riviera sleeper from Paddington, and you’ll hopefully be drifting off by the time the train departs at 11:45pm. By the time the clock strikes 6am, you’ll have crossed the Tamar Bridge into Cornwall, and by 7.50am, the train will pull into Penzance. From here, strike out for St. Ives, explore Land’s End, or make a pilgrimage across the shifting sands to beautiful St. Michael’s Mount, which watches benignly over Mount’s Bay. More info here .

3. The Cumbrian Mountain Express, Euston-Carlise-Euston

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The last of our UK train journeys is actually a day trip, one which leaves the capital just after 7am to whisk you up to Carlisle, skirting the edge of the Lake District on the way. Once you’ve arrived at Carlisle and had a little wander, you’ll depart on a steam train, which takes a scenic route along the Cumbrian coastline, including the sights of Grange-over-Sands and the Kent Viaduct before stopping at the charming market town of Carnforth. From there, you’ll pick up the fast service back to Euston, arriving back at 10.30am and presumably heading straight to bed. Find out more here .

These train trips require a little more dedication – and, crucially, the ability to entertain oneself on long journeys – since you won’t be able to sleep the whole way there. However, waiting at the end of these trips are some of the most exciting cities in Europe, and you can get there without feeling the guilt of having caught a polluting flight!

4. Eurostar, St. Pancras to Amsterdam

Cards on the table, the Eurostar is going to be the starting point for a lot of the more ambitious train trips coming up now – but for now, here’s our favourite of the direct Eurostar routes. Since 2020, trains have run from St. Pancras ( Europe’s favourite station , dontcha know) directly to Amsterdam and back , eschewing the need to change trains at Brussels on the return leg (though this isn’t necessarily guaranteed).

The Dutch capital offers myriad delights (yes, that too), but a wander along the canals, a visit to the Rijksmuseum, and scoffing your face with everything in sight at Foodhallen should make for an excellent start. Though there aren’t deals currently running, this is something that often changes depending on the time of year. Learn more here .

You’d better be quick with this one though – rumour has it that this one is being suspended next year (2024) – thanks Brexit – so time’s running out if you want to make use of this bad boy!

5. Nightjet, St. Pancras to Vienna

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Technically, once you’ve reached Brussels on the Eurostar, the Nightjet can take you to a whole variety of destinations across Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy overnight. Still, we’ve opted to snore our way to historic Vienna, for a tour of its coffee houses, a ride on the Riesenrad, and lessons in history from the Jewish Museum, and in psychology from the Sigmund Freud Museum.

The Nightjet, which is run by Austria’s state railway service ÖBB, departs Brussels around 6pm – Vienna waits for you at 8.30am, although Frankfurt and Cologne are earlier stops. It’s a pretty brilliant way to city-hop across the continent without spending on accommodation, as overnight trains to Rome , Venice, and Berlin also run from Vienna. With typical Germanic efficiency, they’re frighteningly on-time too. Find out more here .

6. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Victoria to Venice

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As the Nightjet proves, there are other trains to Venice, but none will get you there with quite as much style as this route. It begins at Victoria station, as you hop aboard a gorgeous vintage Belmond Pullman train – a welcome brunch and Bellini being the icing on the cake. Once you’ve crossed the English Channel, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is waiting at Calais, complete with 1920s sleeping cars. You get a French-inspired , four-course dinner aboard this one, and winning views of the Alpine scenery before crossing the Venetian Lagoon around dusk. At a bare minimum of £3,353 per person, though, it’s one for when you’re feeling extravagant and pulling out all the stops!

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Seriously though, it’s bloody fancy. See more here .

7. Multiple routes, St. Pancras to Istanbul

Oof, time to settle yourself in for a long one. First up, Eurostar to Paris (standard fare for you by this point), before you catch the TGV from Paris to Munich. You’ve got options from here to Istanbul, either taking an arguably more scenic route via Budapest and Bucharest, or following the more traditional route of the old Orient Express via Belgrade and Sofia. Both lovely, both requiring a commitment of about four days, but it’ll make for one hell of an adventure. Once in Istanbul, start with Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, and then explore from there! Check out The Man in Seat 61 for details.

8. St. Pancras to Malmö

An intriguing new option was revealed recently, with the Swedish government unveiling plans to launch an overnight train from Malmö to Cologne. Assuming the reverse is true, and knowing that Cologne is reachable in a matter of hours thanks to the Eurostar and a connecting train, this means London-Malmö is a distinct possibility, with a journey time of around seventeen or eighteen hours. That might get cut even further if future plans to connect Malmö to Brussels via overnight trains come to fruition. The earliest we could see these trains is later this year, but it’s an exciting start for sure. Read all about it here .

9. The European Sleeper, St. Pancras to Berlin

Rounding off this list of the best train trips from London Town is this humdinger, which takes you all the way from the English capital to Eastern Germany and the capital of cool Berlin. Lasting just 16 hours and with only one stop in between , this development is a godsend for those looking to catch more views out of train windows across Europe, or decrease their air miles in the new year.

Our route was handily mapped out for us by The Man In Seat 61 back in January of this year, who said that from May of 2023, you can jump on the Eurostar to Brussels at 3:04pm, before hopping over to the European Sleeper Service to Berlin at 7:22pm. You’ll glide into the German capital at 6:48am – primed for a day of exploring after your cosy snooze and (free) breakfast. Find out more about this epic new route here.

So there you have it – a roundup of the best train trips from London. So if you’re looking to leave the big smoke on a national or international tour, then this list should have given you some inspiration!

Also published on Medium .

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11 Best Weekend Trips from London by Train

Last updated on April 3rd, 2024

Planning to explore the UK? Here are 11 of the best weekend trips from London by train . 

While London is quite the adventure, several surrounding areas are also well worth the visit. And if you’re going anyway, you may as well explore where you can. 

As someone who loves a good weekend trip (and England), I’m giving you the best weekend getaways in the UK. 

From Edinburgh to Amsterdam, this list includes some of the best short trips from London by train. 

Why travel by train? Not only is it a more affordable means of transport in the UK, but you also get to see Britain’s beautiful countryside. It’s a win all around. 

This post is all about the best weekend trips from London by train .  

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure  for more information.

Best Weekend Trips from London by Train

1. cambridge.

Cambridge is the first destination on the list of best weekend getaways in the UK. In just over an hour, you can be in one of Great Britain’s top destinations. 

This historic town is a trip back in time with its gothic architecture and centuries-old colleges and churches. And with the gorgeous greenery, Cambridge makes a great, quiet spot for a romantic getaway. 

Quick tips : Train tickets to Cambridge are roughly £10. 

2. Edindurbgh

One of my favorite destinations in the UK is Edinburgh! While Scotland’s capital city is small, it is full of adventure and excitement. 

Unbelievable architecture, ancient history, DELICIOUS food, and gorgeous views. So, there is so much to see and do in Edinburgh. 

The commute : Edinburgh is roughly 4 hours away from London by train. And it’s one of the cheapest weekend trips from London; train tickets cost anywhere from £31-75, depending on when you book your ticket.

3. Brighton

Another easy trip from London by train is Brighton. This coastal town is a nice break from the city life of London. 

Brighton is the perfect place to spend a weekend, whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach or treasure-hunting for unique souvenirs. 

The town is also known for its fun, quirky people. So, get prepared to meet a lot of interesting folks!

The commute : The ride from London to Brighton is 1.5 to 2 hours long, and tickets can run as low as £10.  

Next on the list of best weekend trips from London by train is Kent. 

Kent is an underrated gem you don’t want to miss out on. From the famous White Cliffs of Dover, epic castles, and sandy beaches, Kent is an excellent choice for a weekend trip.

The town is perfect for solo travelers, couples wanting a romantic getaway or even family looking to enjoy a nice trip. 

Historic sites, outdoor activities, gorgeous nature views …I mean, what more can you ask for?

The commute : Kent is a little over an hour’s train ride from London. You can expect to spend anywhere from £15 to £20 on a ticket. 

Bath is another excellent destination for a weekend getaway. The city is famous for its Roman baths, where the city’s name originates. 

Besides the baths, famous landmarks like The Royal Cresent and The King’s Circus attract travelers every year. Both of these iconic structures date back to the 18th century and showcase unique Georgian architecture. 

The gorgeous landscape and historical streets make Bath a top choice for a relaxing weekend away from London. 

The commute : Bath is a quick 1.5 hour away from London, and tickets are roughly £23. 

*** Bath is where Netflix’s hit show, Bridgerton , was filmed. So, if you’re a fan of the show, make sure to visit all the popular filming sites! ***

6. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are the next destination to make a perfect weekend trip from London by train. It only takes 1.5 to 2 hours to travel from London. You could make it a day trip. 

The Cotswolds are one of the most famous destinations in rural England. The countryside views are truly out of this world, so it’s no wonder why so many people enjoy visiting. It is definitely a nice change from the city. 

Why should you visit? Despite the Cotswolds being in a rural area, it has some of the best food in the world. Probably because everything is locally grown.  

Another reason to visit is because it’s full of history, as is much of England. Some top places to see are Sudeley Castle , the Avebury Ring, and Blenheim Palace . 

The commute : It takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the Cotswolds from London; tickets range from £70 – £130. 

7. Yorkshire

Next up is the beautiful Yorkshire. You simply can’t visit England without stopping in Yorkshire. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing weekend away, this is the perfect spot.

Yorkshire is home to 3 National Parks: The Yorkshire Dales, The North York Moors National Park, and The Peak District National Park. So, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities & simply being in the nature.

Besides all the outdoor adventures available, Yorkshire is full of traditional pubs where you can get ale and some famous Yorkshire pudding. 

Yummy food & adventure.. sign me up . 

The commute : Travel time from London to Yorkshire can take 3.5 to 4 hours. Tickets range from £90 – £150. 

8. Glasglow

A little further down the road, so to speak, is Glasglow, Scotland. This port city is a popular destination in the UK, known for its gorgeous terrain, castles, and fantastic shopping. 

Glasgow also has an excellent live music and entertainment scene, so you can expect festivals and events all year round.  Music lovers and creatives alike will have a great time vibing with the locals!

The city is also home to some of the world’s top museums and galleries. Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum , Riverside Museum , and the Hunterian Art Gallery are just a few you don’t want to miss. 

There is so much to see and do in Glasglow. And with some of the friendliest people in the world, you’ll be bummed to say goodbye. 

The commute : Glasgow is roughly five and a half hours from London by train, perfect for a weekend trip. Tickets are around £90. 

Next up is one of my favorite destinations in the world, Paris! 

Paris is one of the best weekend trips from London by train. And it is closer to London than some of the other UK destinations on this list. 

So why visit Paris? Why not is the better question.  

Paris is an unforgettable city you MUST visit at least once in your lifetime. Famous landmarks and museums like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre , and more are some of the city’s iconic sites visitors travel miles to experience. 

If that’s not enough, the cuisine is delicious. From 5-star restaurants to corner cafes, there is something for everyone. If you’re like me, you need to try it all 😝.  

Whether you’re strolling the ancient streets or spending the day exploring museums, there is plenty to do in Paris. 

The commute: Paris is just under 2 and a half hours away from London by train. So, it’s close enough to make it a day trip. Train tickets are about £100. 

10. Brussels

Another short trip from London by train is the beautiful Brussels. The capital city of Belgium is another European destination you don’t want to miss. 

The gorgeous architecture, museums galore, and delicious chocolate are just a few reasons to visit. 

Additionally, the city is super old, so there is plenty of history to explore. Walking the streets of Brussels is almost like time traveling; it’s a world away from the modern world. 

Brussels is also considered a ‘global city’ as the European Union headquarters are located there. So naturally, it’s one of the more political cities in Europe. 

Brussels is the place to be if you want to experience something a little different than England. 

The commute : Brussels is just a little over two hours away from London by train. Tickets are about £100. 

11. Amsterdam

And lastly, another destination I’m pretty fond of is Amsterdam, and even better, it’s not that far from London. 

Amsterdam is a city unlike any other. Beautiful historic sites, bikes everywhere, canals, and much more. So, as you can see, there are many ways to explore Amsterdam. I definitely recommend renting a bike to ride through the streets. AND booking a boat trip on the canal! 

Other things to do in Amsterdam include shopping at the Albert Cuyp Markt, beer tasting, and exploring the city’s neighborhoods.  There are also several excellent museums like the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum . 

Whatever you choose to do, you’re in for a real treat!

The commute : The quickest train ride to Amsterdam from London is just under 4 hours. Tickets cost around £150. 

As you can see, there are several weekend trips from London by train. There are enough to keep you busy for a while!

Let me know in the comments below which is your favorite destination. 

Wishing you safe & happy travels. 

XOXO ~ Jacquelyn

This post is all about the best weekend trips from London by train .

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Jacquelyn is the owner of La Vie de Jacquelyn, a travel blog that helps people make the most of their traveling experiences. When she isn’t exploring the world or writing blog posts, she’s loving on God & His people.

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17 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from London

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Feb 15, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley has visited England many times, including an eight week trip in the spring of 2022.

Whether you're visiting London or living here, it serves as an ideal point from which to enjoy a seemingly endless choice of fun weekend getaways. Not only are weekend trips from London easy to organize, but thanks to great rail and numerous flight connections , there are plenty of places to visit for those seeking a memorable weekend getaway.

Fancy a trip to Paris? Easy! Take the fast Eurostar train through the Channel Tunnel or hop aboard a short flight from one of London's five airports. On a tight budget? You can even hop aboard a coach or bus for the journey to the French capital, a trip that only takes a few hours and often involves only bargain basement pricing.

Looking for something a little closer? Again, no problem: London's a major transportation hub that serves pretty much all of the UK. For somewhere quick and easy to get to, consider the delightful old market town of Windsor. Just 25 miles west of the center of London, Windsor offers a variety of short breaks worth looking into, including stays at historic bed-and-breakfasts and the chance to tour historic Windsor Castle.

Whether you're on the hunt for a cheap weekend getaway, a romantic couple's break , or even an exciting last-minute city stopover in the UK or Europe, be sure to read our list of the top weekend getaways from London.

1. Paris, France

2. bath, somerset, england, 3. amsterdam, the netherlands, 4. canterbury, kent, england, 5. edinburgh, scotland, 6. york, north yorkshire, 7. cardiff, wales, 8. birmingham, west midlands , england, 9. dublin, ireland, 10. brighton, east sussex, england, 11. the channel islands, england, 12. cambridge, cambridgeshire, england, 13. berlin, germany, 14. bournemouth, dorset, england, 15. zurich, switzerland, 16. windsor, england, 17. oslo, norway.

Few travel destinations fuel the imagination quite like Paris. Just a 2.5-hour rail journey or an hour by plane from London, the "City of Lights" offers no end of things to do during an exciting European weekend break.

Topping the list for couples seeking a romantic getaway is visiting such iconic locations as the Eiffel Tower , perhaps the world's most romantic couples' selfie spot, as well as the Louvre , home to the famed portrait, the Mona Lisa .

In addition to its many fine-dining restaurants and pleasant street-side cafés, visitors should also spend time exploring the city's many markets. Tucked away down quaint old streets and alleys, it's here you'll quite literally get a true taste of Paris, the authentic Paris known and loved by those who live and work here.

Notable neighborhoods to explore on foot include the Latin Quarter , with some of its oldest buildings dating as far back as medieval times. Then, of course, there's magnificent Montmartre , famous for its connections to the city's vibrant art and literary scene, both past and present.

Paris also boasts a wide variety of accommodation options, from opulent 5-star luxury hotels to reputable hostels perfect for backpackers.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

The historic town of Bath in Somerset is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small cities in England. And as such, it's another destination that's a lot of fun to visit for couples seeking a romantic weekend getaway. An easy 1.5-hour train journey east of London , this charming destination is perhaps best known for the historic Roman Baths after which it's named.

Given the fact that over six million tourists visit Bath, with many of them stopping at the site of these ancient Roman baths each year, you'd do well to plan your trip for a quieter time of year if you can be flexible. Christmas is, in fact, a wonderful time to arrive.

Not only are there fewer line-ups and crowds to deal with at the baths and other top Bath attractions , there's also the opportunity to shop for locally made gifts and crafts in the popular Christmas Market , one of the largest in England.

The elegant old homes of the Royal Crescent neighborhood are also worth checking out. Royal Crescent's beautiful architecture has been attracting visitors to the city since Georgian times. If you've got time, be sure to explore the historic No.1 Royal Crescent , built in the late 18th century. It's not difficult picturing yourself and your partner living as the gentry of the time in so opulent a setting.

Long considered one of the leading city breaks Europe has to offer, the city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands is an easy one-hour flight from London. And thanks to the Channel Tunnel, it's also now extrememly easy to get to by train, too.

You'll find plenty of fun attractions and things to do in Amsterdam , from gallery hopping in the magnificent Rijksmuseum , with its classic artworks by such greats as Rembrandt, to hopping aboard a tour boat for a cruise along the city's famous canals.

Amsterdam is where you'll find the historic location where the young Anne Frank wrote her famous diaries, a sobering reminder of the horrors of war and hatred. It's also home to the stunning Van Gogh Museum , with its vast collection of art and memorabilia relating to this most revered of painters, and the impressive Royal Palace , residence of the Dutch Royal Family since 1648.

A favorite for history buffs, the cathedral city of Canterbury in Kent is an easy one-hour rail ride from central London. Getting to Canterbury from London is also easy by road and bus.

For a truly unique weekend getaway, book a stay in the excellent Canterbury Cathedral Lodge , located in the grounds of the cathedral. You'll be rewarded not just with an extremely comfortable place to stay but also some memorable views over the gardens and the cathedral. A stay here also includes privileges such as direct access to areas in the Cathedral Precincts.

You're also just steps away from exploring the interior of the cathedral itself. A great way to get the most out of this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site is to book a guided tour, taking in such features as the spot where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered—possibly by order of the King—back in 1170. You'll also find yourself in the heart of plenty of great shopping, dining, and walking experiences.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Canterbury

Just over an hour's flight north of London is another capital city worth exploring: Edinburgh. While driving or taking the train from London to Edinburgh is also possible, the five-plus hour journey will mean less time to explore the top points of interest in the Scottish capital.

Topping your list of must-see attractions is majestic Edinburgh Castle , which is easy to get to on foot from most centrally located hotels and B&Bs. You can expect to spend the best part of a day exploring the castle, and longer if you plan on seeing the many displays of historic artifacts, such as the impressive collection of crown jewels.

Within easy reach of the castle and the old part of the city is the Royal Mile . This stretch of historic old townhomes and shopfronts, as well as the New Town area, is a delight to explore on foot. In addition to the many fine old hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses sprinkled about this pleasant Georgian-era neighborhood, you'll have access to Princes Street with its excellent dining and shopping experiences.

If you're able, try to time your weekend getaway to coincide with some of the city's best-known events and festivals. These include the Edinburgh International Book Festival, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, or the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh

The unofficial "capital" of northern England, the cathedral city of York in North Yorkshire makes for an excellent choice of weekend getaway from London. With frequent train connections between London and York , getting here is fast and easy, especially if taking the train—a less than two-hour journey.

Fun things to do include visiting the Shambles, a pedestrian-only shopping and entertainment area that can trace its roots back to medieval times, and taking a sightseeing tour of York Minster . England's biggest medieval church dates from the 13th century, featuring an amazing collection of stained glass windows and a rich treasury with displays of priceless religious artifacts.

Other top activities include walking the city's two miles of medieval city walls, visiting the National Railway Museum, and taking a cruise along the River Ouse.

Where to stay in York? While York has no shortage of luxury hotels, a favorite among travelers from London is the recently renovated Principal York . In addition to having its own access from York railway station, this historic luxury hotel is located an easy 10-minute walk from the city's top attractions. If available, be sure to request a room with a view of York Minster.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in York, England

The capital of Wales, Cardiff, is another great UK weekend destination to explore. Easily accessed by car and only a tad under two hours by train from London, this world-class city offers everything from luxury stays in grand old hotels to cheap breaks in modest accommodations. Wherever you stay, though, expect to have fun.

Not only are the Welsh among the friendliest of people, they're known for their handiwork and craftsmanship. This can easily be experienced by taking a fun self-guided walking tour of the city's pleasant Victorian arcades with their boutiques and galleries.

While there are a number of these old shopping areas open to the public, the best is the Royal Arcade . Built in 1858, here you'll enjoy a pleasant stroll while getting the chance to explore numerous shops selling a variety of Welsh-made goods. Be sure to also spend time exploring Cardiff Castle, too.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Wales

Fresh from its stint hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games , the city of Birmingham in England's West Midlands has found its mojo.

Once shunned by domestic and international travelers alike, this former industrial city has successfully reinvented itself as one of the top places to visit in England for those seeking a fun-packed getaway from London. Just 90 minutes away from the capital by train, Birmingham is certainly a lot of fun, whatever your interests.

Those seeking great shopping experiences will want to spend time exploring the Bullring & Grand Central shopping district. This revitalized section of the city center is home to an endless variety of big-brand stores and unique boutique shops as well as entertainment including an endless stream of very talented buskers.

Birmingham has also earned a reputation as a leading center for great dining experiences. Favorites for foodies include the excellent Fazenda , popular for its authentic gaúcho meat dishes; chic Fumo Birmingham featuring fine Italian dining experiences; and Chapter, an independent neighborhood restaurant offering delicious dishes served indoors and out.

Looking for the perfect place to stay while in Birmingham? You can't get any closer to the downtown action than checking in to Staying Cool at Rotunda . Boasting views of the Bullring and Grand Central station area, this tall historic building features fully furnished apartments with kitchens, huge windows, and a surprisingly quiet sleep given its central location.

Read more: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Birmingham

An easy one-hour flight from London, the Irish city of Dublin makes for a great weekend getaway for families and couples alike. As well as having numerous fun attractions geared towards specific interests, there are plenty of great places to stay, whatever your budget.

When it comes to choosing where to stay, be sure to give serious consideration to the city's downtown core. It's here you'll find most of the best tourist attractions in Dublin along with the best hotels. Highlights include touring the splendid Trinity College , with its magnificent grounds and gardens, and the popular Grafton Street area.

In addition to its great shopping, here you'll find plenty of entertainment opportunities, much of it provided by musicians busking on the sidewalks. Dublin also makes for a great base from which to explore nearby attractions such as the attractive Wicklow Hills.

The attractive seaside resort town of Brighton is easy to get to from London . An hour by train due south of the nation's capital, this picturesque city provides an authentic British seaside weekend getaway experience with access to some of the best beaches in East Sussex .

When it comes to accommodations, choose from the numerous fine hotels and B&Bs set in the old townhomes that overlook the beach.

Once settled in, head straight for the promenade. Here, you can walk for hours as you take in the views over the English Channel, the old Regency-era architecture that lines the streets, the many pleasant gardens and parks, and its two most recognizable landmarks, the Palace Pier and Royal Pavilion .

If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with the Brighton Festival . Held each May, this fun festival features a riot of cultural events as diverse as classical concerts and pop performances, comedy and film shows, and top venues, including the majestic Royal Pavilion.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brighton

Often overlooked by visitors to the UK, the charming Channel Islands are only an hour's flight from the capital. This chain of islands off the coast of France includes the smaller islands of Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and tiny Hern, but it's in Jersey, the biggest, that you'll want to begin your adventure...and possibly finish, depending on the length of your stay.

In addition to incredible views from almost every vantage point, you'll be rewarded with a relaxing break spent exploring seemingly endless walking and hiking trails. It's also fun exploring major attractions such as the quaint streets and fortifications of St. Helier, as well as sites such as the popular Durrell Wildlife Park .

If you can squeeze in a visit to one other island, make it Guernsey . Accessible by ferry, it's equally pretty and also popular as a hiking destination, particularly along its striking cliff-lined shoreline. Especially suited to long weekend breaks, the Channel Islands should definitely be on your bucket list.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

The university city of Cambridge is another easy-to-get-to weekend getaway from London for those who don't want to travel too far. An easy hour by car or rail from the center of London, this beautiful old city has much to recommend it.

Try to set up shop as close to the heart of the old city as possible, as Cambridge was made to be explored on foot. There are many luxury hotels, as well as cheaper B&B options located here, too.

Save time to explore at least one or two of the old colleges, some of which even offer short-term stays in student accommodations for tourists. Other fun things to do here include attending cool events, such as the 800-year-old Midsummer Fair or the Cambridge Folk Festival; both are great ways to anchor a memorable weekend getaway.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cambridge, England

Most visitors to London are surprised to learn that they can fly to so many other European capital cities in under two hours. Take Berlin, for example. Just 1.5 hours away by plane, it's the perfect excuse to take a weekend break Europe-style.

There are also a surprising amount of good quality, affordable hotels near the city center. Many of the best are within an easy walk of such top destinations as the iconic Brandenburg Gate , the magnificent Museum Island area, and the remnant of the Berlin Wall .

Also worth checking out is the city's burgeoning food scene, the many war memorials here, as well as its many parks and green spaces.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Berlin

Another great seaside destination in the UK that's relatively easy to get to is Bournemouth in Dorset. Under two hours by train, Bournemouth is perhaps the classiest of the country's coastal towns. Here, you'll have plenty of great luxury hotels to choose from, along with elegant B&Bs and historic old inns, most of them within an easy walk of what the town is best known for: its beaches.

Bournemouth's beaches stretch some 17 kilometers, connecting Hengistbury Head all the way past Bournemouth to neighboring Poole. If visiting in summer, you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd arrived in the warmer parts of the Mediterranean.

You'll find lush vegetation in its green parks, copious quantities of people strolling the streets and promenades, and sunbathers on the beach, not to mention many excellent opportunities to dine alfresco.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Bournemouth, Dorset

Just a 1.5-hour flight from London, the city of Zurich offers one of the best city breaks in all of Europe. Switzerland's biggest city has moved mountains to create an extremely pedestrian-friendly experience for visitors, who flock here to shop for luxury goods like Swiss watches as well as to soak up the culture and ambience of the Old Town.

After disembarking the fast and efficient airport train, you'll find yourself in the heart of a multi-million-dollar redevelopment that offers wide streets for pedestrians, with few if any cars anywhere to be seen. It's here you'll find trendy hotels and chic restaurants, superlative shopping experiences, and, just a few minutes away, one of the most romantic city centers to be seen anywhere.

In the Old Town, pull up at a table alongside the Limmat river and simply enjoy the ambience of the medieval quarter. Better still, do this on a Saturday night and you'll be rewarded with the remarkable experience of hearing the peals of bells from city churches, ringing in the night and reminding residents and visitors alike that Sunday is a church day.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Zürich

One of the top weekend getaways for those seeking short city breaks from London is to head to the town of Windsor. Just 30 minutes away by train , it's an easy trip that will drop you off in the midst of one of the most impressive old towns in the country, and just a few steps away from one of its most iconic landmarks: Windsor Castle .

A home to the British Royal Family for over 950 years, this spectacular attraction can easily consume at least a day or more as you explore its many nooks and crannies. And there are a lot of them! So many, in fact, you should consider joining an organized tour, guaranteeing you'll see highlights such as the State Apartments and St. George's chapel. Be sure to also allow some time afterwards to wander the Great Park.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Windsor

Oslo, the capital city of Norway, is only a two-hour flight away from London. While not a cheap weekend away, as Norway is considered one of the most expensive travel destinations in Europe, Oslo offers many fun things to do .

If you can check into one of the city center hotels, do so. You'll enjoy access to one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities to be found anywhere. Start with a walk to the stunning Opera House , then head to the large Akershus Fortress , a military complex that guarded the city and its harbor for centuries. From here, it's a bit of a haul to the Royal Palace , but it's worth it.

Finally, no trip to Oslo is complete without spending a few hours exploring the spectacular Vigeland Sculpture Park , a sprawling area that's home to 650 sculptures created by Norway's Gustav Vigeland.

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Posted on 21st November 2023 Categories Things to do

By: Author Lotte Reford

19 Delightful Weekend Getaways from London for Your Next Break

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Let’s face it, we’re all in need of a break. Although the city at the weekend is a fabulous place, these cheeky weekend trips away from London are the perfect spots to unwind, take time out and discover a new destination. 

Think about it, when’s the last time you got out of the city? That’s right, you deserve a little holiday. So, here’s a guide to the best weekend getaway spots accessible from London. 

Some are perfect for city breaks, others just right for getting some much needed time outdoors, not to mention a few luxurious spa escapes . We’ve even included a few overnight trips from London that seem built for romance (I’m not blushing – you’re blushing). 

Get your overnight bag ready my friends, you’re going on a mini break!

The Best Weekend Getaways from London 

Oxford .

Perfect for: History, art, and culture. Oxford is also pretty romantic, so a good couple’s retreat. 

Oxford is like something out of a picture book, all cobbled streets, dreaming spires, and pubs with literary pedigrees. Which is probably why it’s such a popular choice for a weekend trip from London.

If you’re an arty type, you can visit the world famous Ashmolean museum and wander the streets taking in the architecture. But the real joy of Oxford is that whatever you do there, it feels intellectual. We mean, even a trip to the pub takes on another meaning when you realise it’s CS Lewis and JRR Tolkein’s favourite boozer.

How to get there: Oxford is a tight 53 minutes from Paddington station on the train, with no changes. 

Where to stay: Malmaison Oxford isn’t your typical boutique hotel. For one thing, it’s housed in a converted prison. Rooms normally start at £195, check out rates and availability .

Perfect for: Exploring independent coffee shops, slow fashion boutiques, and independent eateries. A city break that remains relaxing. 

Bristol is undeniably cool. In fact, the Montpellier area of the city was recently judged the UK’s coolest neighbourhood.

Ever a hub of activism, Bristol was named the country’s first Cycling City in 2008 so if you enjoy life on two wheels then bring your bike on the train with you. 

Popular attractions in Bristol include Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain, but if wonders of Victorian engineering aren’t your idea of fun you can spend your weekend in the city’s excellent independent record shops, coffee shops and bars instead. 

How to get there: The train takes 1 hour 44 minutes from Paddington.

Where to stay: With amazing freestanding baths in every room and a spa, the Harbour Hotel is the best place to stay in Bristol for full-on relaxation. Rooms start at £195, but rates vary have a look at prices and availability . 

Perfect for: Spontaneous summer beach weekends. 

Many people would rank Brighton as the best weekend escape from the city, ourselves included. In fact, it’s so close you can easily hop to the beach for a cheeky one-night getaway from the capital.

There are many sides of Brighton, from Victorian terraces to donuts on the pier to LGBTQ+ venues to rival London. Brighton’s thriving foodie scene means you have drinking and dining options galore – we’d recommend Burnt Orange for its wood-fired mediterranean treats.

But, of course, the main draw is the beach! It’s pebbles rather than sand, but that doesn’t stop Brighton residents and visitors alike from enjoying it.

How to get there: Brighton is 1 hour from London Bridge by train.

Where to stay: The Artist Residence Brighton offers gorgeous, period rooms with a modern twist from £174 a night. Check rates and availability here . 

North Norfolk

Perfect for: The seaside, but wild. 

North Norfolk is a fantastic weekend getaway that feels as though it should be much further from the city than it is. 

The salt flats of North Norfolk are breathtaking, and offer long, windswept walks out to desolate beaches. 

You’ll also be impressed by the seafood, cheese, and even the railway. Seriously, the Poppy Line runs from Sheringham to Holt, with Victorian carriages and the option of afternoon tea. 

How to get there: You can reach Sheringham in 3 hours from Liverpool Street by train, changing at Norwich. 

Where to stay: Dales is a gorgeous English country house hotel set on 4 acres of National Trust parkland. Prices start at £179 a night but check rates and availability .

Perfect for: A beach holiday with a little culture and history thrown in. The Kent countryside is also lovely, though. 

Margate has long been an overlooked gem but things have really changed in the past decade. This seaside town’s beach rivals Brighton’s (and it’s sandy!) and the seafront is all Georgian townhouses, so the view is amazing in every direction! 

Londoners have been day tripping to Margate for a while now, but why not make that day trip into a weekend getaway? 

There’s more to Margate than beaches and “Kiss-me-Quick’ hats – for a start there’s the Turner Contemporary gallery, then spend some time browsing vintage shops, frequenting cute cafes and finding irresistible seafood spots.

How to get there: Margate is about 1.5 hours from St Pancras or Victoria by train. 

Where to stay: Located just a minute from the Winter Gardens and a few more from Margate’s seafront, The Victoria Hotel is exceedingly convenient for all this Kent seaside town has to offer. The period rooms start at £204 a night. Why not check out availability now?

Perfect for: Long walks and wildlife, with the option of town comforts. 

The Cotswolds is a great destination if you want to spend some serious time outdoors. 

You have two options for staying in the Cotswolds if you’re travelling mostly by train. You can go to Cheltenham and enjoy a balance of town and country life, including a lovely 1930s lido in the summer, or make your way to Moreton-in-Marsh and keep things rural. 

Whatever you choose, you’re sure to be charmed by the area’s rolling green countryside. Especially after the hustle and bustle of London. 

How to get there: Cheltenham is 2 and a half hours from London, changing in Bristol. Morton-in-Marsh is 1 and a half hours from London, changing in Oxford. 

Where to stay: Cheltenham is an old spa town, with all the regency romance you would expect from one. Stay at No. 38 the Park for a real taste of period luxury. Rooms start at £145 per night.

The Gower Peninsula

Perfect for: Getting back to nature and exploring historical sites. 

This wild slice of Wales probably doesn’t leap to many people’s minds when they’re considering weekend getaways from London, but do you know what? Wales is closer than you think!

This southwestern corner of the country also has the honour of being the UK’s first area of outstanding natural beauty, which presumably means it’s the absolute best looking part of the UK. 

How to get there: The train to Swansea is 2 hours and 45 minutes, and to get to Oxwich Bay or Gower you’ll need to take local buses from there. The drive from London is around 4 hours. 

Where to stay: Stradey Park Hotel and Spa in Llanelli is a converted Edwardian country house right on the coast. Rooms usually start at £150 per night, but you should check rates and availability . 

Perfect for: History and culture by the sea. 

Rye is probably the cutest town in East Sussex, and that’s really saying something.

Lost in the steep, twisting, cobbled lanes it’s easy to imagine Rye back in the 1800s when it was full of smugglers. Now, though, you’ll find more art galleries and boutiques than swarthy sea dogs. 

There’s still the beach, of course, which is another fantastic place to wander thoughtfully as you enjoy your cheeky getaway from London. Speaking of beaches, if you’re in the area, definitely visit Camber Sands, a beautiful and unspoiled expanse of sand – get the 102 bus from Rye, which departs hourly.

How to get there: Rye is about an hour from St Pancras, with a change at Ashford International. 

Where to stay: Jeake’s House on Mermaid Street is a quirky, and slightly over the top seaside B&B. Rooms start at £146 per night. Check rates and availability. 

Perfect for: Both historical city breaks and access to the Yorkshire Moors. 

Known for its Minster, cute alleyways and 13th Century pubs, York is a city that shouts Britishness from the rooftops. 

That’s probably why it’s so popular with international tourists, and yet it’s often overlooked as a London weekend getaway location.

The old town within the city walls is a historical experience, but you’re also only 45 minutes from the Moors when you’re in York. Why not plan a city-break, walking-break combo when you choose York for the weekend?

How to get there: Amazingly, York is just 1 hour and 52 minutes from King’s Cross by train. 

Where to stay: Grays Court Hotel sits right by York Minster, and offers views over the city walls. The historic property also has a 2-Rosette restaurant with popular tasting Rooms start at £200 check rates and availability.  

Perfect for: Picturesque city breaks with plenty of art and culture. 

Scotland’s capital city is one of the most beautiful urban areas in the UK. It’s also on the coast, stuffed full of museums, galleries and parks, an entertainment powerhouse, and it has a literal mountain in the middle of it!

Of course, people flock to Edinburgh for the Fringe every summer, or almost every summer at least, but the city has plenty to offer year round. In fact their Hogmanay (New Year) celebrations are world famous. 

How to get there: From King’s Cross, Edinburgh is a 4 hour and 46 minute fast train away. 

Where to stay: If you don’t mind splashing some cash on your big international weekend trip from London, then try The Witchery By The Castle , which drips with Gothic Scottish glamour. Rooms are available from £395 per night, but prices vary by season and suite. Why not check rates and availability now?

Perfect for: Romantic weekend getaways, relaxation and a touch of history. 

An extremely convenient weekend getaway from London, Bath combines regency spa town, southwest cool (being right next to Bristol) and Roman history.

You can visit the Roman baths themselves if you’re visiting for pure relaxation, or simply wander the grand centre of town and imagine yourself to be a lady or gentleman there to take the waters.

There’s an abundance of independent tea rooms, coffee shops, pubs, and arty boutiques dotted around Bath too, so it’s an easy place to while away a weekend. 

Where to stay: Number 15 Great Pulteney Hotel and Spa offers boutique townhouse accommodation in the heart of Bath. Rooms start at £235 per night. Check prices and availability.  

Perfect for: Exploring the historical town, or enjoying nature in the Mendips. 

Frome (hint: rhymes with ‘room’) is a lovely market town in East Somerset, an area often ignored when it comes to weekend trips from London.

Sitting on the edge of the Mendips, Frome is hilly and elevated and offers both a great town centre for weekending and access to the hills. 

You’ll find mediaeval buildings and independent shops and eateries in Frome all year, but why not time your visit for the Frome Festival or, even better, the annual Agriculture and Cheese Show! A weekend built around cheese sounds like a pretty good use of your break from London to us!

How to get there: Frome is 3 hours and 8 minutes from Paddington, with a change in Westbury. 

Where to stay: If you’re in a mediaeval town, why not stay at a mediaeval inn? The Archangel is just that, with a history as accommodation dating back to 1311. Rooms start from £95 per night, though you should check dates and prices before booking. 

Perfect for: Romance and rambling. 

Visit Brockenhurst in the New Forest for a weekend of rambling. Walks are unlikely to run out, with 140 miles of trails to explore including a secret coast and miles and miles of ancient forest.

And if you do manage to get tired of the forest? Well, the village of Brockenhurst itself is quaint, historical, and a lovely place to spend a day. 

As a complete contrast the New Forest is also home to the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu (pronounced ‘Bewlee”), with a collection of over 280 vehicles spanning over 120 years.

How to get there: From Waterloo, Brockenhurst is 1 hour and 32 minutes on the train. 

Where to stay: There are plenty of country house hotels around Brockenhurst, but our favourite is Careys Manor Hotel and Spa. Rooms start at £200 per night, but do check prices and availability .

South Downs

Perfect for: Enjoying nature.

The South Downs National Park stretches from Winchester, England’s first capital city, all the way to the cliffs of Eastbourne. Of course, even if you’re a seasoned walker you’re unlikely to cover it all in one weekend getaway from London, but that just means you can keep coming back.

Winchester is the easiest entrance point for the South Downs, but it’s also a destination in itself. So, when you’ve got tired feet from exploring bronze age burial mounds and rolling hills, you can relocate to the town centre, take a look at the cathedral, and grab yourself a bite to eat. 

How to get there: Trains from Waterloo and Victoria reach Winchester in just under 1 hour. 

Where to stay: The Old Vine, a historic inn in Winchester, is a great base for a trip to the South Downs. You’ll be able to reach the park easily, but still come home to a great pub dinner. Rooms start at £170, but do check rates and availability .

Perfect for: History, culture, or a romantic city break. 

Cardiff Bay has been made pretty famous over the last couple of decades through its starring role in BBC vehicles like Doctor Who, but there’s more to the city than the Bay’s modernist monoliths and that statue of Captain Scott that looks a little melted.

As Wales’ biggest city, Cardiff plays host to some great gigs, shows and exhibitions, and has an up and coming food scene. Central Market is a great place to browse, and if you’re feeling historical you can add a trip to Cardiff Castle to the itinerary. 

How to get there: The train to Cardiff takes just under 2 hours from Paddington Station. 

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Cardiff is a modern hotel with a terrace and fitness centre located right in the middle of the city. It’s part of the IHG group, but retains a boutique feel. Rooms start at £107 per night, but rates vary so do check prices and availability . 

Perfect for: Long walks, enjoying the outdoors and getting back to nature.

Dartmoor must be inspiring, because it’s the setting for Hound of the Baskervilles and War Horse . 

It’s easy to see how the area’s desolate beauty led to such dark and intense literature, but hopefully a weekend break to Dartmoor should turn out more relaxing than terrifying.

Dartmoor is a fantastic place for genuinely outdoorsy activities like fishing, cycling, horse riding and multi-day walks. It’s also abutted by Devon’s two main cities, Exeter and Plymouth, so you don’t have to keep things entirely rural. 

How to get there: With the train journey to Dartmoor clocking in at 5 hours and 50 minutes, this is one weekend getaway location you’ll need to either plan to visit on a bank holiday weekend, or drive to. The drive is a more reasonable 4 hours. 

Where to stay: If you want to be close to Dartmoor, Chagford is a fantastic option. Plus, it was voted the best place to live in the UK! Try the Mill End Hotel, which offers modern decor and classic farmhouse beams for £185 per night. Prices vary, so check rates and availability before booking. 

Peak District

Perfect for: Exploring nature. 

When people think about a walking holiday, the Peak District often comes to mind. Walks range from the challenging trails of the Dark Peak to the more gentle rambles of the White and Southwest Peaks. 

Whatever part of the Peak District you choose to explore, views are dramatic and breathtaking. There’s also a whole lot of history to get stuck into in the area, from castle ruins to old mill towns. 

The Peaks are pretty easily accessible from Sheffield, which is an arty, charming town in its own right. 

How to get there: From King’s Cross, you can be in Sheffield in 2 hours and 14 minutes. From there, it’s about another half hour on local buses to the Peak District national park. 

Where to stay: Brocco on the Park in Sheffield is a boutique, 4-star hotel with all mod cons and just a little period elegance. It makes a great base for forays into the Peaks. Rooms start at £135 a night, but do check rates and availability for your planned visit. 

Perfect for: This is the ultimate weekend city break accessible from London.

When you want to go on a weekend trip from London, but you still want to be in one of the UK’s most exciting cities there’s only one obvious contender. You’re going to Manchester for the weekend!

Manchester is an exciting clash of old and new, with Victorian architecture up against state of the art modern buildings. The Northern Quarter is the place to be for food, booze and alternative shopping options, but in Manchester you can throw a stone and hit a great night out or a coffee shop you’ll never forget. 

How to get there: Trains from Euston to Manchester take 2 hours and 6 minutes. 

Where to stay: The large, stylish, purpose-built Dakota Manchester offers high-spec accommodation in the heart of the action. Rooms start from £126, but check prices and availability before you make any booking decisions. 

Canterbury 

Perfect for: History and country walks

This historic city boasts beautiful streets, houses in the mediaeval style and some seriously good pubs. Star of the show though, has to be the Cathedral. Founded by Augustine in 597, the cathedral is the oldest, and probably most impressive of Britain’s Christian structures. 

Want to get out of the city? There are plenty of country walks that can be taken without needing to hop in a car or use public transport. Just follow the city’s river and you’ll find yourself stomping through the delightful Kentish countryside feeling a million miles from civilization. 

How to get there: Trains from St. Pancras take just over an hour.

Where to stay: The Corner House is slap bang in the middle of the city only 400m from the cathedral. They have comfortable rooms starting from £120 per night and lay on a complimentary continental breakfast for all their guests. See availability here .

Whitstable 

Perfect for: Good eating by the sea and quiet walks around the bay. 

If you’d like a bit of seaside with your getaway, consider heading down to Whitstable. The town is known for its rows of multicoloured beach huts, some great local beer and a reputation for good oysters. 

As such there are some great restaurants you should check out while you’re in town, Whitstable Oyster Company and The Lobster Shac k being two of them. When you’re not busy eating your way through fantastic seafood restaurants head out of town for walks along the seaside and Herne Bay. 

How to get there: Trains from St. Pancras take just over an hour. 

Where to stay: The Marine offers classic grandeur on the seafront at a very reasonable price. It also offers some great sea views from both the rooms and the restaurant and complimentary breakfast for all guests. Check rates here .

Weekend Trips from London: Map

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20 of the best weekend breaks from London

Fridays are made for escaping the city; whether you crave wide-open spaces, blustery beaches or cocktails and culture, there’s a weekend getaway to suit.

P ress pause on the hustle and bustle soundtrack of the capital and make the most of all of the incredible places within a few hours’ train journey. Get some fresh air and cycle around the pony-filled New Forest or go back in time with a wander around the cobbled streets of York before refuelling with afternoon tea at Bettys. If you want something closer to home, you can punt your way along around the Cam in Cambridge, relax in a thermal spa in Bath or leave dry land entirely with a trip to the Isle of Wight where hundreds of walking trails await.

Main photo: Bournemouth beach huts (Getty Images)

1. Abergavenny

The gateway to the Brecon Beacons National Park, Aber is perfect for a foodie weekend; pick up picnic treats in the bustling Saturday market and enjoy wine tastings and tours in the Sugar Loaf Vineyard. The nearby River Usk offers some of the best salmon-fishing in Wales and you can hike up the volcano-shaped Sugar Loaf mountain for panoramic views over South Wales. Don’t miss the chance to pop into Abergavenny Castle either — it’s one of the best-preserved motte-and-bailey castles in the UK — and stroll through the castle meadows which roll out beside the Usk.

Distance from London 2hr 40 mins by train Where to stay Rhona’s Cottage, a cosy house sleeping six within striking distance of the centre

Quaintly pretty, Rye is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in England , with cobbled streets dotted with art galleries and craft shops. Rye Castle Museum gives insight into the town’s history, while Lamb House — once the home of American novelist Henry James — focuses on its literary connections. Birdwatchers and wildlife-lovers should head to Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, with over 280 bird species spotted in the area, along with the occasional seal.

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Distance from London 1hr 10 mins by train Where to stay The Gallivant, a sophisticated boutique B&B at nearby Camber Sands

Steeped in history, Oxford also has an edgy, contemporary side, thanks to its huge student population. Get an insight into university life with a tour of Magdalen college and a visit to the Ashmolean Museum, before hiring a punt to glide along the Cherwell. Dip into the vibrant Covered Market, which combines arts and crafts with foodie treats; then in the evening, head to the Jericho neighbourhood to find the city’s hippest bars.

Distance from London 1hr by train Where to stay The Old Parsonage is a sleek luxury hotel in the centre of the city

Best hotels in Oxford

4. Brighton

Begin in the nine streets of the North Laine area; a mix of boutiques, plant-based cafés and ethnic shops that sum up the city’s boho-chic vibe. Spend an hour beneath the iconic domes of the Brighton Pavilion and browse the jewellers and designer boutiques in the Lanes, a lattice of alleyways that were once home to fishermen’s cottages. Families will love the Sea Life Aquarium and the Palace Pier; a 15-minute walk along the Prom brings you to the more genteel Hove Lawns and the elegant Bandstand Café.

Distance from London 1hr by train Where to stay Artist Residence is a hip, art-themed boutique hotel on an elegant Regency square

Best hotels in Brighton

Best things to do in Brighton

5. New Forest

Ideal for an outdoorsy break from London, you can explore the New Forest on foot, bike or horseback. Stroll beneath the spectacular trees dotted along the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive, visit beautiful Exbury Gardens or take the kids to the Moors Valley Country Park, which has two fantastic adventure play areas. Petrol-heads should visit the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu; afterwards hire bikes to cycle the Beaulieu river, or glide down the estuary in a kayak or canoe.

Distance from London 2hr 30 mins by train Where to stay Lime Wood is a chic spa hotel with an Angela Hartnett restaurant

Best hotels in the New Forest

6. Broadway, Cotswolds

Arguably the most beautiful of all the Cotswolds villages, Broadway’s picturesque High Street is dotted with antique shops and boutiques — perfect for a morning’s browse. Pop into the Broadway Museum and Art Gallery to discover the villages’ rich artistic history and lace up your walking boots for a hike up to the Broadway Tower, an 18th-century tower on the top of the Cotswold escarpment with views stretching across 16 counties.

Distance from London 2hr 20 mins by car Where to stay Dormy House is a luxury country house hotel just outside the village

dormyhouse.co.uk

One of the UK’s most elegant cities, the Georgian streets of Bath are ideal for a romantic weekend break. Book a treatment at the Thermae Bath Spa — and take a dip in the outdoor pool on the roof, which has wonderful views of the city rooftops. Visit the Jane Austen Centre for an insight into life in the city in the early 19th century, and refuel at Sally Lunn’s, home of the famous Bath Bun since the 1480s.

Distance from London 1hr 20mins by train Where to stay No 15 Great Pulteney, a classic Georgian townhouse with 21st-century design

8. Isle of Wight

Pack your walking boots for a weekend getaway across the Solent; the island has 500 miles of walking trails, with the West Wight boasting truly dramatic scenery. Walk up Tennyson Down for a spectacular view of the Needles, or kick back in a waterfront café in Cowes, where yachts and sailboats whisk across the water. Visit Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s beloved holiday home, and take the kids to Blackgang Chine, a charmingly old-fashioned activity park.

Distance from London 1hr 30 mins by train, 50 mins ferry Where to stay The Garlic Farm, which has luxury yurts sleeping up to six, alongside a garlic-themed shop and restaurant

9. Burnham Market, Norfolk

Norfolk’s most picturesque village, with a charming High Street, Burnham Market is a great base for exploring the spectacular beaches of the north Norfolk coast. The vast swathe of sand at Holkham is nearby, along with 18th-century Holkham Hall, and the Norfolk Coast Path offers vast skies and plenty of birdwatching opportunities. Nearby, Wells-next-the-Sea is a pretty harbour town with a good mix of shops and cafés on Staithe Street.

Distance from London 2hrs 20 mins by car Where to stay The Chequers Inn for crackling fires and freestanding bath tubs to soak in after a day of exploring

thompsonchequers.co.uk

10. Dedham, Essex

Made famous by the paintings of John Constable, Dedham Vale is an unspoiled swathe of countryside with a picturesque village at its heart. Browse the gift shops and Arts & Crafts Centre on Dedham’s picturesque High Street before visiting Flatford Mill, the inspiration for many of Constable’s paintings. Relax on a boat trip up the river Stour, or discover the region’s artistic history by bike, on the Painter’s Trail, a 69-mile circular route, split into shorter sections.

Distance from London 1hr 40 mins by train Where to stay Talbooth House, a boutique hotel and spa on the banks of the Stour

milsomhotels.com/talbooth-house-spa

11. Wells, Somerset

The smallest city in England, Wells punches above its weight in terms of attractions, with the glorious 13th-century cathedral and 800-year-old Bishop’s Palace the two biggest draws. The city is an ideal base for exploring the nearby Mendip Hills and the spectacular cave system at Wookey Hole. Foodies will find much to fawn over, with a high number of trattoria and gelaterias, run by descendants of some of those interred at the Italian POW camp, set up just outside the city in the Second World War.

Distance from London 2hrs 50 mins by train Where to stay Lord Poulett Arms, a country pub with fancy food and cosy rooms that dates back to the 17th century

Best luxury hotels in Somerset

12. Bristol

Art and food compete for prominence in Bristol ; visit St Nicholas Market to sample the best local produce, or dip into the Harbourside Food Market to browse arts and crafts stalls as well as food. Pack a swimming costume for a dip in the outdoor pool at the elegantly-restored Lido, and take time to visit the iconic Suspension Bridge. Stokes Croft — one of the city’s hippest roads — is famous for its street art, and the lively bars and cafés nearby, many of which host regular live music nights.

Distance from London 1hr 40 mins by train Where to stay No 38 Clifton is a stylish, 12-room boutique hotel in the fashionable Clifton neighbourhood

Best things to do in Bristol

There are myriad ways to explore this hugely picturesque cathedral city; walk the Roman city walls or take a river cruise up the Ouse to see the Millennium Bridge and 14th-century Clifford’s Tower from the water. Discover the city’s Scandi past at the Jorvik Viking Centre, and dip into world-famous York Minster – an architectural marvel dating back to medieval times. Reward yourself with afternoon tea at Betty’s, a York favourite since 1936.

Distance from London 1hr 50 mins by train Where to stay The five-star Principal is set in quiet gardens overlooking York Minster

Best hotels in York

14. Windermere

A weekend in the Lake District gives a real feeling of escape; base yourself on the banks of Lake Windermere and explore the waterside towns and attractions by using the network of boats that criss-cross the water. Kids (and parents) will love the World of Beatrix Potter, while the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is a relaxing way to take in the stunning landscapes. At Fell Foot Park, kayaks and rowing boats are available for hire.

Distance from London 2hrs 40 mins (Oxenholme station) Where to stay Linthwaite House, a relaxing country house hotel with wonderful views over Windermere

Best hotels in the Lake District

15. Hope Valley, Derbyshire

One of the most beautiful areas of the Peak District National Park, the Hope Valley is home to spectacular scenery both above and below ground. The Castleton Caves are some of the best show caverns in the country, while the Heights of Abraham site combines an underground tour with a cable car ride high above the countryside. Walkers are spoilt for choice, with the spectacular ridge of Mam Tor and Winnats Pass.

Distance from London 3hrs by car Where to stay Cotton Cottage is a cosy, three-bedroom house in Hope village

16. Lincoln

An under-the-radar gem, Lincoln is a charming cathedral city with its own copy of Magna Carta on view at Lincoln Castle, works by Turner and Lowry at the newly opened Collection gallery, and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country. Take a wander up Steep Hill, a historic street home to retro and vintage boutiques and antique shops, and walk the medieval walls, built in the time of William the Conqueror.

Distance from London 2hrs by train Where to stay Windmill Cottage is a charming house, sleeping four, walking distance from Lincoln’s main historic sites

hotels.uk.com/uk/lincolnshire/hotels-in-lincoln/windmill-cottage.ln1-3jj

17. Bournemouth

Blast away city ennui with a seaside weekend; pick from Durley Chine, Southbourne or Bournemouth’s main beach for sandy strolls and hot chips by the water. Up the cultural factor with a visit to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery, the former home of two Victorian travellers and collectors, or check out the cute penguins at the Oceanarium. To escape the crowds, hop on the ferry to Brownsea Island, a nature reserve rich in wildlife.

Distance from London 2hrs 40 mins by train Where to stay The Green House, an eco-friendly boutique hotel five minutes’ stroll from the beach

A city break in the north’s cultural capital is a whirlwind of cocktails and shopping, art galleries and leafy parks. Pack the credit card for a spree in the elegant Victorian shopping arcades, now home to designer boutiques, and pop into the Corn Exchange, which combines foodie stalls with local arts and crafts. Discover the rich Leeds art scene, with a visit to The Tetley gallery and grab some peace and fresh air in the lush, tree-lined space of Roundhay Park.

Distance from London 2hrs 10 mins by train Where to stay 42 The Calls, Leeds’ first boutique hotel and still one of the city’s best

42thecallshotel.com

Best hotels in Leeds

19. Arundel

Dominated by the spectacular Norman castle, Arundel is the ideal weekend getaway for those who want to slow the pace. The River Arun flows through the town; hire a boat to explore further into the Downland countryside, or follow the riverbank walk to the lovely Black Rabbit pub. Dip into the galleries and boutiques on Tarrant Street, and make the 15-minute journey to walk the sand dunes at West Beach, a protected site and one of the last undeveloped stretches of coast in the southeast.

Distance from London 1hr 25 mins by train Where to stay Bridles Park Place is a cosy three-bedroom cottage that welcomes dogs

20. Cambridge

Drift along the Cam in a punt, take afternoon tea at the waterside Orchard Tea Garden and explore the stunning architecture of Kings’ College on a pint-sized city break. Cambridge is easily explored on foot; explore the art and artefacts at the Fitzwilliam Museum, stroll through the University’s charming Botanic Garden, or drop in at the Cambridge Gin Laboratory to mix your own spirit.

Distance from London 50 mins by train Where to stay The University Arms is a literary-themed boutique hotel in the heart of the city

Best hotels in Cambridge

Best city breaks in the UK

Best UK city breaks

Best city breaks in Europe

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Easy Weekend Trips from London by Train

We know trains are great for European city breaks . But there are plenty of great destinations in the UK where you can easily escape to for a couple of days. Whether you’re looking for dreamy scenery, a city break or a coastal retreat – here are some of our favourite easy weekend trips from London by train. All the destinations in this guide are within two to three hours of travel time from central London, and you won’t need a car at the other end.

Shere, Surrey – Country walks, cosy pubs and pretty views

One of the closest and easiest country retreats from London is Shere, between Guildford and Dorking in Surrey. Hop on a train from Waterloo, and just over an hour later you’ll be greeted by a picturesque, ‘chocolate box’ village. If it looks familiar, that’s because it’s the rom-com location capital of the UK, as featured in The Holiday, The Wedding Date, Four Weddings and Funeral and Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason.

But there’s more to Shere than romantic comedies; it’s a lovely place for going on long walks. The village is close to Surrey Hills, and you can take the Shere Trail, a 5KM heritage walk that takes in the village itself, a stroll through some fields and plenty of other pretty sights along the way.

While you’re there, you can also visit the Silent Pool Distillers to sample local gin, have lunch or afternoon tea at The Dabbling Duck café-bar or Hilly’s Tea Shop, and enjoy some refreshments at old English pubs like The William Bray or The White Horse.

Where to Stay in Shere

As it’s a village, your options are limited to one of two BnBs:

The Rookery Nook costs £ 160.00 per night for double occupancy or £ 150.00 per night over three nights or more, and £ 110.00 for single occupancy, reduced to £ 100.00 for three nights or more. Book on the website or Tripadvisor.

Rates are similar at Vaughns BnB and both look like cosy, delightful places to stay with lovely views. But, if you’re out of luck in the village itself and don’t need a room with a view, there are more budget options in nearby Guildford.

Getting there: Approx 1hr 15 mins From Waterloo to Guildford (then No.32 bus) / Gomshall – 1 mile walk or short taxi ride. From Victoria to Dorking , then No. 32 bus Costs: From £ 24.00 (Off Peak open return to Gomshall)

Manchester – UK city break, great music scene

If you want a UK city break, head north to Manchester for culture, food, exploring neighbourhoods and gigs. Manchester is not renowned for great weather, so pack a brolly, but there are interesting things to do all year round, although be warned: this is a big football city, so it might be worth checking if Manchester United or Manchester City are playing at home before you plan a trip.

Train fares are pricey if you go at short notice. ( £ 98.10 for an off peak return). But there are a few hacks for getting cheaper tickets , including booking up to 12 weeks in advance.

Once there, there’s plenty to explore, but a good place to start is the Northern Quarter. It’s one of the city’s coolest and most creative neighbourhoods, known for independent shops, cafés, street art, historic buildings and music venues. Once you’ve done wandering, grab a coffee from Ezra & Gil or stop for lunch at Mackie Mayor, a large food hall in a Victorian Grade II listed market. The area is great for live music too, with venues including Band on the Wall and Night and Day.

Culture wise, there are some great galleries and museums including The Lowry , which is situated in a former quay building near Salford, The Whitworth and The People’s History Museum . Manchester also has plenty of historic sights including the Science & Industry Museum if you want to find out more about the city’s industrial past. Manchester Art Gallery is free to visit too, as is Manchester Central Library.

And if architecture is your thing, you can also check out the beautiful, neo-gothic John Rylands Library , the Victorian Barton Arcade, and the newly-opened Mayfield Park — which is the first central park in the city for over 100 years. It’s a pretty walkable city, but if you need to use public transport, there are plenty of buses and trams if you’re going a little further out to areas like Salford.

Where to Stay in Manchester

There are great accommodation options in Manchester from budget hotels and hostels like EasyHotel and Holiday Inn Express which cost around £ 40.00 – £ 60.00 per night to boutique and luxury hotels like The Cow Hollow which has double rooms from £ 100.00 per night, and theHotel Dakota, which has double rooms from £ 150.00 per night.

Getting there: Approx 2 hrs 12 minutes London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly Costs: From £ 53.00 (advance fare, based on two single journeys)

York – Historic walled city

For historic sights, cobbled streets and atmospheric city walks, head to York for the weekend. The ancient walled city was established by the Romans in AD71 and is the county town of Yorkshire. There are still Roman walls in York, as well as Viking remains, Tudor buildings and the largest Gothic cathedral in England, so you can find influences from centuries of British history within its walls.

One York’s most famous landmarks is York Minster, a 7th-century cathedral (the word cathedral wasn’t used until the Norman Conquest in the 11th century). Head to the top of the central tower for panoramic views from the highest point in York. Other historic and cultural sights include Clifford’s Tower, JORVIK Viking Centre and Treasurers’ House, entry is around £ 10.00 – £ 13.00 for each attraction.

Yorkshire Museum Gardens are beautiful to visit, especially during spring and autumn; they’re free to visit too if you fancy a wander through Roman ruins and seeing a 19th Century observatory. It’s also great just to spend time wandering through York, especially the medieval wall walk – which is a great way to get your bearings in the city centre too.

Food wise, there are plenty of decent spots from cheap eats to more fancy fayre including Botanist on Stonegate, Italian restaurant Delrios, cosy bistro Ate O’Clock. And if you’re looking for somewhere for traditional afternoon tea, pay a visit to Betty’s Tea Room , one of five cafés which are a Yorkshire institution. You’ll also find plenty of decent pubs too including the excellently-named The House of Trembling Madness, The Blue Bell, and Craft Beer Mansion.

Accommodation wise, the Astor York is a great budget option, situated 15 minutes walk from the train station and close to the city centre. It’s a hostel, but private rooms all have en-suites and cost around £ 65.00 per night. Otherwise there is a good mix of chain hotels, BnBs and boutique hotels.

Getting there: Approx 2 hrs 15 minutes London King’s Cross to York Costs: From £ 43.00 (advance fare, based on two single journeys)

Margate, Ramsgate, Broadstairs – East Kent coast getaway

We’ve been enthused about the Kent coast as great places for beach day trips , and if you’re going for the weekend, you can easily base yourself in Margate, Ramsgate or Broadstairs with enough time to explore all three. Whitstable is also close by, but is much smaller, so it might be better to tack that on if you’re away for an extended weekend, or pop back for a day trip another time.

The East Kent coast is one of the closest and easiest weekend trips from London (aside from Brighton, but Kent has sandy beaches). Each of these towns has its own charm, and you can walk between all three either along the cliff tops or along the beaches at low tide — the total distance is around 10 miles.

If you’re looking for somewhere more lively, base yourself in Margate (dubbed Shoreditch-on-Sea) and explore the other places at your leisure. Margate has two main beaches, the retro theme park Dreamland and the Turner New Contemporary gallery. The Shell Grotto is Margate’s strangest attractions, and is home to over 4 million shells.

Although it has a beautiful harbour, one of the most interesting sights in Ramsgate is below ground. Ramsgate Tunnels is the UK’s largest civilian wartime network of tunnels, and you can take atmospheric tours which take around 1hr 20 minutes. It’s also just a nice town to pottter about in, checking out vintage finds in markets under arches, exploring pretty side streets and checking out the 19th Century Gothic Revival buildings designed by architect Augustus Pugin.

Broadstairs is perhaps the most old-school British seaside destination of the three and it’s got seven sandy beaches. As well as the beaches, you can also play mini golf, visit Charles Dickens House, and check out the independent galleries and shops around Harbour Street and Albion Street. Seaside towns are also home to excellent charity shops, so pop in for some second-hand bargains .

Both Ramsgate and Margate are decent foodie destinations. In Margate, restaurants range from classic seaside fare like fish and chips at Peter’s Fish Factory in the old town to contemporary places like Bajan-cuisine infused brasserie Mullins. Over in Ramsgate, foodie favourites include Indian restaurant Flavours by Kumar, Italian restaurant Il Tricolore and Kyoto Sushi.

Where to stay along the East Kent Coast

Accommodation in Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate is a mix of budget hotels, self-catering flats/air bnb, classic BnBs and boutique hotels. In Margate, the cheapest option is the Premier Inn (around £ 50.00 per nights) but if you’re looking for something a bit nicer, check in at the Crescent Victoria or Botany Bay hotel for around £ 80.00 per night)

But wherever you stay, you’ll be close to the seafronts and walking trails of any of the three towns.

Getting There: Approx 90 minutes from London London St Pancras to Margate (1 hr 30 min) London St Pancras to Broadstairs (1 hr 40 mins) London St Pancras to Ramsgate (1hr 36 mins)

Cost: Around £ 41.60 standard return (all three)

While we do our best to ensure it is correct, information is subject to change. This article was originally published in December 2022.

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18 Best Weekend Trips from London

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Dec 25, 2023 | London and UK Live Work and Play

Are you after suggestions for some great weekend trips from London? Then you are in luck as there are some pretty amazing places to visit outside of London. If you are living and working in London or even visiting for a few days, you may feel like getting out of London on a weekend escape. There are so many wonderful destinations to visit in Britain . Whether you are looking for somewhere to discover solo, on a romantic weekend or travelling with the family, there are plenty of London weekend getaways. And to help you decide where to go on your London weekend escape, here are 18 of the best London weekend getaways to enjoy. Where will you go on your weekend trip from London?

Table of Contents

18 of the Best Weekend Getaways from London

The following weekend getaways near London are in no particular order. So scroll through until you find one of the short breaks from London, which is just perfect for you!

Southampton

Favourite weekend getaway from London of Jenni from Cruise Mummy . 

Bargate, Southampton

Southampton is a fantastic place to spend a weekend away from London. Located on the South Coast of England, it’s easy to get to and from London via train or car. Southampton is the main cruise port for the UK. If you’re taking a cruise then I recommend you spend a couple of days here before or after your cruise to make the most of your time in this wonderful city.

Southampton is a historic maritime city. It has a great mix of old and new, with lots to see and do during your weekend away from London. Take a walk along the city’s walls before visiting the historical sights of the Old Town. Then head to the waterfront to take a look at the cruise ships that are in port.

If you like shopping then the Westquay shopping centre is well worth a visit. You’ll find some great places to eat there as well. If you visit in the summertime, then Mayflower Park is the best place to stop and enjoy a picnic with a view of the ocean. There’s also a lovely playground here so it’s a great place to visit if you have kids.

For a night out, head to Ocean Village. Here you’ll find the city’s tallest buildings, mooring for luxury yachts and lots of places to eat and drink, many of which have outside terraces.

Click here to check out where to stay in Southampton .

Yorkshire Dales

Favourite London weekend getaway of Ada of Beyond the Yellow Brick Road: A Travel Blog

Fountains Abbey in the Yorkshire Dale s

While you can’t catch the Hogwarts Express at London’s King’s Cross Station , a less than three-hour train ride from the station gets you to Leeds. The doorstep of an equally magical English destination, the Yorkshire Dales. Despite its close proximity to London, you’re officially in the “north” of England here. This hilly region of England known for its heather covered moors has a rural vibe all its own, making it the perfect London getaway.  

During your visit, be sure to hit up little hillside hamlets like Haworth – the hometown of the Bronte sisters. For a larger town experience, visit the ancient spa town of Harrogate. Don’t forget to stock up on cakes from Bettys Café Tea Rooms as well as toffee from Farrah’s of Harrogate before departing. Not to worry, a visit to Yorkshire isn’t just about sweet stuff. You can stretch your legs on the over 1600 miles of hiking trails crisscrossing the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Take a ramble through the stunning ruins of Fountains Abbey. This 12 th century Cistercian abbey is located outside of Ripon is an absolute Yorkshire Dales must.

Although not officially in the Yorkshire Dales, consider a visit to the city that gives the region its name, York. Known for its spectacular minster, this cathedral town is one of the oldest cities in England. The Shambles, a twisting medieval street, is said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.  

Click here to book some accommodation options in Leeds so you can explore the Yorkshire Dales on your London weekend escape .

Best getaway from London by Annie of Into the Bold

Brighton Pavillion

The nearest seaside resort to London is Brighton, making it the perfect place to get away for a day or weekend from the city. The town is full of vibrant street art and an off-beat energy! From King George IV’s Oriental palace, the Royal Pavilion, to the narrow alleys of the Lanes, I loved exploring this quirky spot.

The Royal Pavilion is the most popular attraction in Brighton. You can tour the interior for a look into the life of George IV and his eclectic taste. The Brighton Dome, once George IV’s stables, has been turned into a major arts venue. You can catch a show at Brighton’s Theatre Royal, where many plays show before making their way to London’s West End.

The Brighton Palace Pier is one of my personal favourites, offering amusements for kids of all ages! Visit the Paradox Place House of Illusions allows you to be part of the interactive illusions. Then stop at the Brighton Toy and Model Museum to wonder at the world of fun they’ve created!

Wandering the narrow alleys of the Lanes, the oldest part of the city, is one of my favourite ways to spend an afternoon! It is sure to delight you with some of the best shopping and dining you can find. There are plenty of cafes, pubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from. Whether you want a day trip or weekend away from London of relaxation or entertainment, Brighton has something for everyone.

Book your accommodation for your weekend stay in Brighton here .

Seven Sisters

A favourite London escape of Pauline of UK Everyday

Seven Sisters White Cliffs

There are plenty of places to see white cliffs in England . However, Seven Sisters was always my favourite place to visit when I lived in London. Seven different hills form stunning scenery in the south coast of the UK. Also, it is a popular filming location well known from the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire movie.

  The cliffs are slowly being eroded so don’t miss out the opportunity to see this natural beauty. Particularly between Eastbourn and Cuckmere Haven beach. You can get there in just 2 hours 20 minutes from London so it is a great spot for a one day trip or London weekend getaway.

Leave your car at Seven Sisters Car Park and walk by the Cuckmere River. Next to Cuckmere Haven beach you will see dramatic cliffs. It is easy and definitely worth it climbing Seven Sisters cliffs, because the views are breathtaking.

  Infinite views of white chalk cliffs and green hills will offer you unforgettable experience. Hiking over Seven Sisters cliffs is a wonderful way to spend a day. If you would like to spend a weekend there, it is located only 15 minutes drive from Eastbourne where you can find some good accomodations.

Book your accommodation here in Eastbourne to see the fabulous Seven Sisters .

Favourite weekend escape from London of Kenny of Knycx Journeying

Overlooking Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle

Venerable, dramatic Edinburgh is a historic, cultured and cosmopolitan city , regularly topping polls as the most desirable place to live in the UK. It takes about 4.5 hours by train from London and it’s a perfect location for a short getaway and a change of scenery.

The Waverley Station is at the heart of Edinburgh that straddles the Princes Street Gardens. Along with its beauty, Edinburgh is blessed by its brevity, a wonderfully compact city built for navigation on foot. Medieval Old Town of Edinburgh is packed with key landmarks with a deep connection to the Scottish past. These include the Royal Scottish Academy, Scottish National Gallery, the Writers’ Museum, and the Edinburgh Castle.  

Among Edinburgh’s many museums, the exciting National Museum of Scotland houses ten thousand of Scotland’s most precious artifacts. Don’t forget to check out the business district on Holyrood Road, and New Street, just off the Royal Mile. Calton Hill is the best spot offering a view overlooking the city. The National Monument of Scotland is a Greek-style unfinished monument dedicated to the Scottish soldiers and sailors who died fighting in the Napoleonic Wars. It was considered a disgrace because of the incompletion of the build due to lack of funding.

In August, more than a million visitors flock to the city for the Edinburgh Festival. On a less elevated theme, the city’s vast array of distinctive pubs, allied to its brewing and distilling traditions, make it an unrivalled drinking city. All great reasons making Edinburgh a wonderful place for a London getaway. Get a full list of things to do and see in Edinburgh here and where to stay in Edinburgh here .

South Downs, Hampshire

A favourite spot of Annabel of Smudged Postcard for a London getaway

Mean Valley Trail, South Downs, Hampshire

A brilliant destination for escaping the big smoke and just a short journey from London is the South Downs in Hampshire . This national park stretches across several counties in southern England. In Hampshire there are wonderful hills to climb, far reaching views and stunning scenery.

If you’re looking for a weekend away from London, there are several charming villages in the South Downs and plenty of excellent gastropubs to dine in. There is an excellent walk – or cycle route – along a former railway line called the Meon Valley Trail. This route takes walkers and cyclists through some of the most enjoyable countryside in the region. Passing charming villages on route with plenty of great places to stop for lunch. The Shoe Inn at Exton is a good choice – ensure you book ahead.  The trail is 10 miles long running between the villages of West Meon and Wickham.

The South Downs is brilliant at any time of year but the scenery is particularly special in spring. This is when the woodlands are filled with bluebells, and in autumn when the changing colours are particularly vivid.

By road, the South Downs National Park is under an hour away from London. If travelling by train, the medieval city of Winchester on the edge of the Downs is an hour from London Waterloo. From there it’s worth hiring a car for the weekend in order to explore the region fully. Check out this full list of accommodation available for your weekend escape in Winchester .

Jurassic Coast

Favourite weekend getaway from London of Stefanie of Open Road Odysseys

Durdle Door, Jurassic Coast

Less than 3 hours from London is the beautiful Jurassic Coast. Stretching 95 miles from Exmouth to Swanage, this breathtaking region is the only natural World Heritage Site in England.

The Jurassic Coast is a hiker’s paradise. The South West Coast Path traverses nearly every section of the coastline, allowing hikers of every skill level to enjoy the stunning views and landscapes. Some of the most popular landmarks include Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Chesil Beach, and Old Harry Rocks.

There’s more to do here than just hiking. Fossil hunting is a popular activity, and the best places to search are Charmouth and Lyme Regis, although you can find fossils anywhere along the coast. There are also the ruins of Corfe Castle to wander, and a ride on the Swanage Railway is a unique and fun way to spend a day.

And don’t be discouraged by bad weather. There are lots of museums to explore on a rainy day, such as the Etches Collection and Dorset County Museum. There’s also an aquarium in Lyme Regis, and the Beer Quarry Caves is a fun place to explore.

No matter your interests, there is something for everyone along the Jurassic Coast. Whether you’re on a weekend road trip or just visiting for the day, I guarantee you’ll want to come back for more! Click here to check out accommodation where in to stay in Exmouth, near the Jurassic Coast .

Favourite weekend escape near London of Joanna of The World in My Pocket

Windsor Castle with its beautiful gardens

Home to one of the royal residences of the Queen of the United Kingdom, Windsor makes a perfect day trip from London. As well as experiencing the English countryside, the main attraction in Windsor is the mighty Windsor Castle, which is open to the public, even when the Queen is home. It is highly recommended to book tickets to the castle ahead of time, as currently they are timed. Plan to spend between two and three hours visiting the Castle and the State Apartments, which display many of the Royal collections, including Henry VIII’s armour garniture for the field and tilt.

Another nice thing to do on a day trip to Windsor is walk the mile. This is a long path that connects the castle with the Copper Horse Statue, in Windsor Great Park. The path is actually three miles long. It passes through the deer park, which is home to around 500 red deer. You don’t have to search too long for deer, as they are used to people and roam relatively closely to the path.

Windsor is a lovely town on the shores of River Thames. After you finished exploring the town’s cobbled streets, jump on a boat for a short cruise, to see the castle from a different perspective. For somewhere to stay during your weekend in Windsor, check out these accommodation options .

A favourite weekend escape from London by Coralie from Grey Globetrotters

Shop till you drop at Victoria Gate

The vibrant city of Leeds in West Yorkshire is an exciting place for a day trip from London. And it’s only 2 hours away by train. Whether you’re looking for impressive historical sights, fabulous food, top-quality shopping, or to discover miles and miles of glorious Yorkshire countryside on its doorstep, Leeds has something to delight every visitor.

Moments away from the train station, you’ll find the beautiful Victorian Corn Exchange. It is packed with quirky independent shops and eateries. Then there’s the bustling historic Leeds City Markets, home of the original Marks & Spencer “penny bazaar” store. In complete contrast, Victoria Leeds is where you’ll find top stores like Harvey Nichols and John Lewis and luxury brands. There’s also the gorgeous shopping arcades in the historic Victoria Quarter, filled with high-end boutiques to browse.

The unmissable Royal Armouries Museum, with its eight storeys ”Wall of Steel”, contains the UK’s national collection of arms and armour. Still, suppose you prefer something more quirky. In that case, the Thackray Museum of Medicine takes you on the story of medicine through the grimy streets of Victorian Leeds. Fancy watching pretty gruesome operations in the 19th-century operating theatre! Kids love it! Alternatively, hop on a bus and head for the best-preserved Cistercian monastery in Britain – 12th century Kirkstall Abbey. Or perhaps spend the day exploring  Harewood House. Then head back to the city for a curry or a drink in the bars of Boar Lane, before checking into your pre-booked Leeds accommodation – check out accommodation options here .

A favourite weekend spot away from London of Milijana of World Travel Connecto r

Arundel Castle – waiting to be explored

Want to visit one of the loveliest places in England with one the most incredible castles in England on a day trip from London? Check out Arundel and Arundel Castle in the West Sussex.  

Picturesque Arundel on the River Arun is one of the prettiest places in England. Beautiful Arundel is famous for its Georgian buildings and Arundel Caste. The streets of this charming Sussex town are not full only of history but of fun sites as well. Arundel has plenty of classy restaurants, cozy pubs, lovely cafes, independent boutiques, art galleries, and antique markets to make Arundel a perfect day trip from London. If you want to learn about the history of Arundel, join an Arundel historic walking tour and visit Arundel Museum. Hire a motorboat at the Arundel Boatyard and cruise the river if you feel somewhat romantic. And, if you want to eat some of the best foods in Britain , reserve your table at The Parsons Table, a Michelin-star restaurant in Arundel.  

But the landmark of Arundel and a must-visit in Arundel is medieval Arundel Castle. The castle is one of the most magnificent Victorian buildings in England.  

The majestic Arundel castle was a filming location for several films and series, among which Doctor Who (Silver Nemesis), The Young Victoria, The Madness of King George and Wonder Woman are probably best known.

Arundel Castle is a private manor and the seat of the Duke of Norfolk for the past 900 years. One part of the castle is open to the public. So, when in Arundel, don’t miss out on visiting this magnificent castle.  

Arundel is only about 2 hours away from London. Remember, Arundel is one of the best weekend trips from London to treat yourself! Click here to check out where to stay in Arundel.

A favourite weekend escape to another capital city from London of Cath of Wales with Kids

Wales Millennium Centre

Cardiff is the Welsh capital and is a vibrant city that is easily visited from London, be it for a day trip or weekend. Just 2 hours by train from London Paddington and less than 3 hours from Central London by car, it’s ideal for a short getaway. Day trips can be done if you take an early morning train and leave Cardiff in the evening.

Cardiff has lots to offer visitors including Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, Cardiff Bay and St Fagans on the outskirts. The Castle is located in the centre of the city and visitors can see inside the Castle Apartments, wonder at the Norman Keep and discover the secrets hidden in the battlements. It might be a bit noisy and frightening at first but worth going inside them. Prepare to be amazed.

Just behind the castle is Bute Park, a lovely park that is a quiet haven in the middle of a bustling city. It is especially lovely in autumn when the leaves are crunching under your feet. And for those who haven’t gotten their fill of history in the castle, the National Museum is located just across the road.

For those who love retail therapy, the entire high street in the city centre is pedestrianised and filled with all the high street shops you could need. St David’s and St David’s 2 shopping centres have even more opportunities for shopping. Music to my ears.

Foodies should head to Mill Lane, Trinity Street or the Hayes. There are also plenty of restaurants in Cardiff Bay where you will find the Senedd Building (Welsh Parliament), the Wales Millennium Centre and the Norwegian Church, all very photo-worthy buildings.

For those staying for the weekend, St Fagans, the Welsh Museum of History is a must. Visitors can step back in time and imagine life in Wales centuries ago through the various buildings on-site that have been transported brick-by-brick. Buildings date back almost one thousand years.

Cardiff is a city that I have visited many times, both while living in South Wales and while in Portugal and it never fails to bring a smile to my face. Whether it is shopping, getting my fill of history or seeing friends, a visit to the city never disappoints. Click here to see accommodation options in Cardiff for your weekend getaway .

One of the best weekend getaways from London of Natasha of Planes, Trains and Karcz

Get the best views of York from the top of the York Minster

York, located in northeast England, is a breathtaking city brimming with gothic architecture, a lively pub scene and eclectic shops. Being a four hour train ride away from the heart of London, York makes for a perfect weekend getaway. You experience the same lively buzz of the big city, but with its own unique and cultural spin.

Begin your visit to York with a walk upon its signature stone walls, of which there’s over 3.5km of preserved circuit to cover. This serves as a great way to first orient yourself with the layout of the city. From there, take a stroll down the most picturesque street in Britain, The Shambles. It can only be described as real-life Diagon Alley (for all you Harry Potter fans out there!). It features tall, slouching timber-framed buildings dating back as early as the 1300’s. And don’t forget to pop into one of York’s many pubs. York literally has more pubs than there are days per yea r , so there’ll be no shortage to stop in at and have a pint!

Lastly, my absolute favourite stop…the York Minster. No visit to York would be complete without a climb up the renowned York Minster. It provides none other than the town’s best view. Even seeing as far as Scotland on a clear day! Needless to say, regardless of how you spend your time in York, you’re bound to be met with jaw dropping beauty and historical significance around every corner. Click here to get a full list of York accommodation options .

The Cotswolds

Favourite weekend spot of Shireen of The Happy Days Travels

One of the beautiful villages in the Cotswolds to visit

A beautiful area of the South-Central English countryside is a cluster of villages, rolling hills and canals that make up The Cotswolds. Just 2 hours from London, making it an ideal day trip from London. In 1966 it was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and covers 787 square miles of land.

The Cotswolds is a special place to visit. It’s full of the quintessential English houses, classic British pubs and honesty boxes where you can purchase books, and locally-produced honey, jam and chocolate. Many TV shows and movies have used The Cotswolds as filming locations. Bridget Jones’s Diary and Harry Potter to name a couple. It can get overwhelming deciding which places to go so research the best villages in The Cotswolds and plan your route for your day trip or weekend away from London.

Some of the top things to do include trying Cotswold Cheese and visiting Arlington Row said to be the prettiest street in England and which is featured on the British passport. Also visiting Blenheim Palace to see where Winston Churchill was born. And maybe having a spa day in the Roman baths in the city Bath.

When looking for somewhere to stay in The Cotswolds consider the largest town in the area, Cirencester. Click here to check out accommodation options in Cirencester .

Favourite weekend escape from London of Sinead of York with Kids

Durham Cathedral

The historic city of Durham is often overlooked in favour of other UK cities or simply passed by on a trip from London to Edinburgh. But the city is a great destination for a day or weekend trip from London. Durham can be reached by train from London in approximately 3 ½ hours. This may sound like a long journey but, once you leave London, it is a scenic journey through the English countryside and the time will pass quickly. Plus, Durham’s rail station is a short ten-minute walk from the city centre so you will not need to use public transport during your visit.  

Start your day in Durham at the UNESCO World Heritage cathedral which towers over the city. The 12th century cathedral is an interesting mix of Romanesque and Norman architectural styles and is worth visiting just for its stained glass. The cathedral holds the relics of two saints and its cloisters featured as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies. Climb the north west tower for a fantastic view of the city. On the cathedral quadrant, Palace Green, you can visit Palace Green Library, the Durham Museum and Heritage Centre or, by a pre-arranged tour, Durham Castle.  

Once the history part of your trip is over, wander Durham’s cobbled pedestrianised lanes which are lined with cafes and independent shops. Browse the market stalls in the indoor Victorian market or explore St. Nicholas Church and the Victorian town hall. Take a break from the city with a tranquil walk along the River Wear. Durham is a lively, charming city and unlike other UK destinations it rarely feels overrun with tourists. Click here to check out accommodation options for your visit to Durham .

Weekend from London favourite spot by Cristina of My Little World of Travelling

Explore cobbled streets with old brick buildings

Lincoln, located in Lincolnshire (East Midlands), is a perfect city to visit for a day or short weekend away from London. This charming city has many things to offer – from outstanding historic buildings and museums to cosy afternoon tea rooms and unique local independent shops.

Lincoln Castle is an unmissable attraction. Here you can find one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta, an international document of high importance that represents liberty and freedom. Walking on the castle walls is also a great experience as you get breathtaking views of the city.

Another historic building that is worth visiting is Lincoln Cathedral. Not only does it have impressive architecture on the outside, but on the inside too. Its stained-glass windows are to admire. You cannot miss is the rooftop tour in which you can enjoy incredible views of the city and discover some secret spots inside the cathedral.

Last but not least, wandering around the town centre is an experience. Steep Hill is the most famous street in Lincoln where you will find many quaint tea rooms like Bunty’s Tea Room. I spent two days in Lincoln , and I had a great time. Before visiting Lincoln, I hadn’t heard much about it, but I am very glad I visit it because it is a true gem destination.”

Click here to book your accommodation in Lincoln .

Favourite London weekend escape of Izzy of The Gap Decaders

River Wensum winds through Norwich

Norwich in Norfolk is the perfect destination for a short break from London. Just a few hours from London it’s surrounded by gentle Norfolk countryside and with the unique Norfolk Broads on the doorstep, Norwich is the perfect place for a quintessentially British break.

The only city in Norfolk, Norwich is the most complete medieval city in the United Kingdom today. Home to historic architecture, cobbled streets, ancient buildings, half-timbered houses and twisting medieval lanes. And don’t forget the pretty winding River Wensum that flows through the city centre. Norwich is a feast of history and architecture.

Alongside the flourishing growing food scene, the city has a strong focus on culture, the arts and literature. Plus has a lively independent shopping scene. Spend a weekend in Norwich exploring the rich history, enjoying top class dining and soaking up the atmosphere of this lively and welcoming city.

Within a few miles of the city are the vast beaches of the glorious North Norfolk Coast, perfect for a Sunday morning stroll. And the lazy rivers of the Norfolk Broads, ideal for a boating adventure. If that feels like too much hard work, find one of Norfolk’s excellent country inns . Where you can settle in for a glass of something chilled over a fine lunch of locally sourced ingredients.

Contributed by Sydney of A World in Reach

Standing tall in a field on its own – Stonehenge

Stonehenge is on the bucket list of many travellers, and it can easily be visited on a day trip from London. It is a prehistoric monument full of mystery and the questions surrounding its existence have captivated travellers for ages. Believed to have been built during the Bronze Age, there are dozens of theories to the purpose of the stone circle.

The monument is located in Wiltshire, just 1 hour and 45 minutes away from London by car or 2 hours and 15 minutes by public transport. When you arrive at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, take some time to explore the exhibitions. They detail the history of Stonehenge and what life was like during the years of its construction. After learning a bit about the monument’s history, hop on the complimentary shuttle bus to the Stone Circle. Before leaving, stop back in the visitor’s centre to find answers to questions you might have after viewing the stones or enjoy a lunch at the Stonehenge café. You could even have a picnic if you’d like!

To get to Stonehenge from London on public transportation, take the South Western Railway from Waterloo Station to Salisbury. From there, purchase a ticket on the Stonehenge Tour Bus to take you directly to the visitor centre. If you’re short on time, consider taking a guided tour of Stonehenge from London – you could even add in stops at Bath or Windsor Castle!

There is no accommodation at Stonehenge itself, so you will need to stay in one of the nearby towns – perhaps Salisbury – click here for accommodation options .

Favourite weekend getaway from London of Victoria of Guide Your Travel

A day at the beach

Brighton is the perfect weekend getaway from London. It’s easy to reach, not too far away and has lots of things to do and see. By train, it takes just over an hour to get to the little beach town from London and the trip is easy and convenient. Brighton is especially beautiful during the summer when you can relax on the beach and maybe even go for a swim if the weather is nice. A walk along Brighton Pier is absolutely mandatory and especially fun in the early evening.

There are food stalls and rides to try so make sure you plan to spend some time here. The Lanes are another great place to stop by. Grab lunch or sit in a little cafe and watch people pass you by. This is one of the oldest parts of Brighton and also one of the most beautiful. If you’re looking for more shopping opportunities you should head to North Laine. This is a great place to shop for clothes or really anything you might need. Finally, the Royal Pavilion is a beautiful photo location and one of the most popular places in Brighton.

Click here for Brighton accommodation options .

When to take a Weekend Getaway from London

In my opinion, anytime is a good time to go on a weekend getaway from London. What are you waiting for?

How to Take your Weekend Getaway

Having a car is a great way to get around the UK. If you don’t have one you can easily rent one. Check out these hire car options through DiscoverCars . Having a car makes any day or weekend getaway easy as you can go where you want, when you want. However, the train and bus systems in the UK are extensive. They literally will take you to wherever you need to go.

Where will you stay on your London Weekend Getaway

If you are extending your day trip from London to be a weekend getaway, or a little longer, you will require accommodation for night. Lucky the UK has plenty of hostels , hotels and B&Bs at your service. It is preferable to book in advance to ensure you have somewhere to stay.

London Staycation

I hope these suggestions of London weekend getaways have inspired you to getaway yourself. But if you can’t get out of London, consider a London Staycation . There are plenty of hotels in the centre of London where you could pamper yourself overnight or for longer. Why not enjoy a show at theatre in the   West End or simply walk around and enjoy everything London has to offer. And don’t forget to stop into a nice cafe for a cuppa! I’d love to hear about your favourite London day or weekend getaway in the comments following.

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18 Comments

Brighton and the Seven Sisters would be my first choices for a day trip from London – those cliffs are breathtaking, even in a photo!

Yes, Brighton, the Seven Sisters and the Jurassic Coast are top of my list too.

Edinburgh, the Cotswold, London and all are long overdue on my travel list

I hope you can get to them soon.

The Cotswolds looks so enchanting! I need to make sure I hit it next time!

Seven Sisters – oh my! What incredible landscape. That would be where I would head to first.

There are some incredible places to see in the UK – The Seven Sisters being one of them.

A lot of these definitely need longer than a weekend let alone a day ut some good and varied suggestions of places to visit in the UK! York, the Cotswolds and the Yorkshire Dales are some of my favourites!

I am supposed to visit London this summer and I will have time for a day trip. These suggestions are really helpful. Windsor and Stonehenge look especially interesting.

The Jurassic Coast is so pretty! I’m all about hiking so I’d love to go there someday. The Cotswolds would be really cool to check out as well!

I’m super impressed with the Jurassic Coast myself. I lived in the UK for 4 years and never heard of it, so I am looking forward to getting back there to see it for myself.

I literally didn’t even know some of these places existed! Definitely going to carve out time on my next trip to london to leave the city and explore!

It’s amazing how many places are so close to London — even ones in Wales and Scotland! Ah, some day I hope to explore that corner of the world!

Absolutely – the UK is quite small compared to some countries and you are right, weekend trips to Wales and Scotland, even Ireland can be done.

I love the UK! I can’t wait until I can travel there again. I have been to a few places on your list, but so many more to visit. I have never heard of Lincoln, but it does sound like a charming place to visit. I love towns or small cities where you can just wander around.

I LOVE THIS GREAT LIST! We’ve only been to London once for a 8 hour layover and made the BEST out of it. Now I know there’s more to London and all the day trips! Thank you!

I’d love to visit the white cliffs! I’ve never been over to that part of England.

I never knew how many picturesque and fun places there were to explore near London! I’d love to try a few of these weekend trips from London some day. Thanks for sharing!

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8 easy must-do weekend trips from London

London is one of the most historic and vibrant cities in the world. Anyone living or visiting there has an enviable number of cultural, culinary, and recreational activities at their fingertips every day. But the hustle and bustle of a city like London can be a lot. Needing to get out of the big city is a natural feeling, so going on a weekend getaway to the country, a national park, or a charming smaller town, known colloquially as city breaks, just makes sense.

Don’t worry. All the spoils of the capital city aren’t going anywhere. Once you’re out in the open on a hike or touring historic villages, you won’t worry about missing out on what’s going on in London. Planning the perfect weekend trip involves a little research and preparation. You’ll want to book lodging, you’ll need to plan how you’ll get there, you might need to find luggage storage in London , and you’ll want to plan what you’ll be doing. But first, you need to decide where you’ll be going.

Here are the best weekend trips from London:

Bath, Somerset 

Widely regarded as one of England’s most charming towns, Bath is a beautiful little village famed (and named) for its well-preserved Roman baths . There are many boutique inns and hotels, making it ideal for a romantic getaway. 

Distance from London 

It only takes about 90 minutes by train to reach this historic town. It’s definitely possible to make a day trip out of your visit, but there’s enough to do and see in Bath that staying a few days during weekend breaks is definitely worth it.

Our activity recommendations

The “Bath experience” is fairly simple. It’s a quaint and quiet town, with lots of older houses and buildings. Visiting from London or the US, it’ll feel somewhat like stepping out from a time machine and into an 18th-century English market town. Most of the city’s architecture dates back to the Georgian era. Look into tours and museums while staying here. You can also just take it easy and try to “live like a local” while in town. It’ll be a relaxing and enjoyable experience away from the chaos of London 

Best season to visit 

Bath is one of the most popular travel destinations in the UK, especially during the summer. While it’s a charming town and extremely walkable, there’s nothing here that demands a high-season visit. Going between October and April has its advantages. For one, you’ll avoid the hordes of tourists. It’s also an idyllic place when it’s not overrun with crowds; the quintessential Bath experience is when it’s quiet. You can also stumble upon one of the largest Christmas Markets in England if you visit during the holidays.

Brighton, Sussex

Hitting the beach is probably the last activity non-Britons will ever associate with England. But along the southern shores of England is one of Europe’s most underrated beach towns. Brighton is perfect for summer weekend trips when you want to take a dip in the English Channel, relax on the beach, and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze. There are also pubs because there are always pubs!

Distance from London

It’s an hour's train ride and a 90-minute drive directly south of London. Depending on what you’re trying to do in and around Brighton, it could be better to take a car. 

There are plenty of vacation rentals, B&Bs, and hotels to stay in, but you’ll want something close to the promenade. This stretch has the best views of the English Channel and is lined with charming restaurants, shops, pubs, and landmarks. 

Brighton frequently hosts theater performances, film screenings, concerts, and comedy at its many venues, the Royal Pavilion being the most prominent. Having a plan B for when the weather isn’t great is a good idea because Brighton may be beautiful, but you’re still in England.

Brighton is one of the best Beach towns in England, so it’s safe to say that summer is the ideal time of year to visit. Really, when the weather is right, it's one of the best London weekend trips. The pubs will be more lively, and the boardwalk will have more action as well. Booking lodging and making reservations for dinner well ahead of time is the best way to plan around the crowds of other visitors.

If you’re looking to get out of the big city, but want all the cultural offerings of London, then Bristol is your best bet. With a well-preserved Old Town, foodie-favorite restaurants, cool bars, street art, cafés, and music venues, Bristol appeals to just about everyone. It's the quintessential destination for a city break and one of the best weekend getaways for hipsters and young creatives.

The drive (including traffic) is about two and a half hours. The train to Bristol takes between 90 minutes and two hours from Paddington Station in London. There’s also a VERY inexpensive coach from Victoria Station for budget-minded travelers. 

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is a legitimately impressive architectural marvel and the most notable landmark in Bristol. It’s a nice hike that will get you out in the brisk air, and the views of Bristol's historic city center are wonderful. After your hike, head to Stokes Croft for a bit of culture. There are wonderful shops, bars, restaurants, and music venues here. The nightlife scene in Bristol is surprisingly vibrant, if a little more relaxed than Lobdon’s. 

Bristol’s main draw is its culture, restaurants, and nightlife, so just about any time of year will do for weekend getaways.  

Canterbury, Kent 

Anyone who’s taken a high school English class will doubtless have read Geoffrey Chaucer’s classic, Canterbury Tales . While the content of the book doesn’t quite resemble weekend trips from London, Canterbury is the perfect place to visit to appreciate a well-preserved historic town.

Canterbury is extremely close to London, so the drive should take about 90 minutes, potentially more with traffic. The train line runs slightly longer, at about a three-hour ride from central London. 

Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which makes it a must-visit landmark for curious travelers. Taking a tour of the grounds and cathedral is a great way to learn a few things before you inevitably explore the town’s many quaint restaurants, pubs, shops, and cafés. Simply walking around Canterbury’s cobbled streets is an experience. 

UNESCO World Heritage sites aren’t weather dependent, so making the short trek for a weekend getaway can happen any time of year.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are almost more of an idea than a single place. Historically, this region consists of land in Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Somerset , Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, and Wiltshire. That probably means little to non-Britons, but it’ll tell you that it could take you a few weekend trips from London to fully explore the Cotswolds. This bit of countryside is famed for its outstanding natural beauty, with rolling hills, winding streams, and fields that will redefine your idea of the color green. There are stone cottages, tiny villages, and countryside mansions dotting the landscape. It’s a picturesque and idyllic place to enjoy a long weekend, and it is quintessentially British. 

The train to the Moreton-in-Marsh train station from London Paddington only takes about 90 minutes. It’s a bit longer to drive, taking two and a half hours, but getting around the Cotswolds is more convenient when you have a car.  

Pick a village with an inn or vacation rental that appeals to you, and plan your weekend trip around that. There are hunting and recreation clubs like the Cotswold Clay Club for clay pigeon shooting, golf clubs with some of the finest courses in England, and there are lakes and rivers to rent a boat on. Of course, there are quaint towns with delightful pubs to get cozy in as well. 

If you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors, which is entirely the point of visiting the Cotswolds, you’ll want to visit during the warmer months. Late spring and early fall are great times to go because there will be smaller crowds. 

Home to, perhaps, the world's most famous and renowned university, Oxford is one of the best London weekend getaways. Anyone looking for fun restaurants, bars, cafés, and a vibrant performing arts scene should look no further than this cultural hub. 

The train from London Paddington takes only an hour and lands you right in the middle of Oxford, where all the shops, bars, restaurants, and hotels are. The drive is only 90 minutes, but parking can be a challenge in a smaller town like Oxford. 

While Oxford’s historic campus is one of the main draws, this is far from a college town. A vibrant culture has sprung up around the university to make Oxford a fun place for people in their 20s and 30s to visit. Great vintage stores, trendy bars, charming cafés, and eclectic restaurants line the cobbled streets. There’s also a lively music scene, with up-and-coming bands playing venues across the city. 

Oxford is a lovely destination for weekend trips in any season. The crowds will be largest in the summer when school is out, however. Going in the winter is a great way to save on lodging, and the pubs are perfectly cozy. 

Peak District National Park

The best weekend trips from London aren’t always in quaint little villages. Peak District National Park is one of the best outdoor recreation areas in the UK. With miles upon miles of winding hills, this is the ideal weekend getaway for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. There are a few small towns in the district where you can find lodging and pubs. If getting to Peak District isn't an option, South Downs National Park is another option for outdoor recreation and outstanding natural beauty.

From Kings Cross or St. Pancras stations in London, it takes about two and a half hours by train to get to Peak District. You’ll have to get a connector from Derby, but it’ll land you in the middle of the park. Coach and driving both take three hours from central London.

Hiking the rolling (and sometimes steep) hills of Peak District National Park is the rather obvious first choice for spending your time here. One way to efficiently see all the best sights is to rent a bike from Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire, or you can bring your own from London. After you explore the hills, relax with a pint at one of the many historic pubs. Devonshire Arms and The Peacock are the most popular places for real ale and superb traditional pub fare. 

Best season to visit  

Visiting Peak District is all about hiking and enjoying the natural beauty, so it’s best to visit during the summer. Weekend getaways during winter are inadvisable, but spring and fall are certainly doable if the weather cooperates. 

Winchester, Hampshire 

While Winchester was never the go-to weekend getaway for Londoners, the city has seen a jump in tourism in recent years. Perhaps it’s Jane Austen ’s enduring legacy as one of England’s great voices or the restoration of the town’s historic cathedral. Either way, visitors are heading to Winchester in droves.

Trips from London Waterloo take about an hour to get to Winchester. Driving takes just under two hours but does allow for more flexibility. 

Winchester is one of those smaller UK cities that has a fantastic food scene. Hoxton Bakehouse is legitimately excellent and would be on lists of London's best places to eat. There are also vineyards like Humbledon, along with a number of perfectly serviceable pubs. Literary (and history) buffs will absolutely want to check out Jane Austen’s house, which offers tours of the legendary author’s home. 

Visiting Winchester is based entirely around cultural and historical activities, so any time of year will do. 

With so many national parks and quaint towns nearby, you’re never short of options for weekend trips from London. If you’re short on time, there are always some exciting day trips you can take from the capital city. Many people who visit spend a jam-packed 3 days in London , but if you want to get away for a long weekend and refresh and recharge (or go on grueling hikes), you’ll be sure to find the perfect destination. 

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33 easy day trips from london by train.

Are you looking for the best day trips from London by train?

Then you’ve come to the right place. I’m a Londoner born and bred and am excited to share my favourite places to visit from London by train.

Whether you want to breathe in a lungful of sea air or explore more of England’s history, here are some fabulous London day trips by train.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

Best Day Trips Within a 1 Hour Train Journey from London

Are you looking for the best short trips from London by train? Here is my pick of the best destinations that are less than an hour from London.

1. Cambridge

• Fastest journey time: 50 minutes via Great Northern
• From London Kings Cross

Cambridge may be best known as home to the famous university, but it has much more to offer. And as the train ride from London to Cambridge is under 1 hour, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of the train station, it is one of the easiest day trips from London by train.

Cambridge University was founded in 1209 and has 31 colleges. It’s the second oldest university in the English-speaking world.

Try to visit at least one college if you can. Better still, join a walking tour of the colleges led by a former student. My favourites are King’s College, St. John’s, and Trinity College.  

King’s College Chapel  has some of the most beautiful stained glass you will ever see. At  Trinity College , don’t miss the  Wren Library , designed by Christopher Wren, who also designed St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Additionally, the University has eight museums that are free and open to the public. 

My favourites are the  Fitzwilliam  and the  Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology . The Fitzwilliam reminds me of a smaller version of the British Museum in London because it has a diverse collection.

If the weather behaves during your  day trip to Cambridge , try  punting on the Cam River .

Punting uses a boat similar to a gondola, where you stand on the back to paddle, but you use a pole instead of an oar. If you’re not brave enough to try it on your own, you can hire someone else to do the punting or go on a punting tour through the lovely area known as  The Backs .

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A CAMBRIDGE PUNTING TOUR

By Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

• Fastest journey time: 50 minutes via Great Western Railway
• From London Paddington

An  Oxford day trip  from London is perfect for history and literature buffs.

Oxford is best known for the  university  that shares its name.

Walk in the footsteps of greats like  C. S. Lewis  and  J. R. R. Tolkien and start your day by exploring Oxford’s colleges. You’ll be able to see where masterworks like Alice in Wonderland were written and the inspiration for the Narnia books, not to mention some of the Harry Potter film locations.

Its landmarks include the  Bridge of Sigh s and  Radcliff Camera . Once you’ve had your fill of the colleges there’s still plenty left to do.

Oxford is home to a number of first-rate museums like the  Natural History Museum , the  Ashmolean  and the  Pitt Rivers Museum,  which is unique in that it catalogues its items by item type as opposed to age or geography.

Make sure to stop by the  Oxford Covered Market  for some local goods, and to climb to the top of the  University Church of St Mary the Virgin  for a panoramic view of Oxford.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK AN OXFORD UNIVERSITY & CITY WALKING TOUR

By Liliane of My Toronto, My World

3. St. Albans

• Fastest journey time: 20 minutes via Thameslink
• From London St. Pancras International

If you are looking for a historic day trip outside London, visit  St Albans , a charming city located northwest of London. It’s less than 20 minutes by train from London.

Its crown jewel is St. Albans Cathedral , a architectural marvel with a rich a history spanning over a thousand years. Beyond the cathedral, there are many beautiful medieval buildings, cute cafes and a market, where you can buy local homemade produce.

Verulamium is situated in Verulamium Park, close to the city centre. Albans. These well-preserved Roman ruins include the city walls, hypocaust (underfloor heating system), mosaics and the Roman theatre.

If you have a bit more time, before going back to London, visit Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, the  oldest pub in Great Britain . A very British way to finish your day out.

By Darek of DarekandGosia

4. Colchester

• Fastest journey time: 45 minutes via Greater Anglia
• From London Liverpool St.

Colchester is another excellent day trip from London by train for history buffs.

This is England’s oldest recorded town and is the site of the  only Roman circus in England . It is home to a host of other Roman remains, including one of the most intact Roman walls in the country. There’s even a pub (the Hole in the Wall) built into part of it!

Colchester Castle ‘s keep dates from 1076, but the dungeons of the castle contain the foundations of the Roman temple of Claudius.

The museum here is well worth a visit as it contains a number of key finds, including a Roman treasure hoard that was excavated during renovations of a department store on the high street. There’s also an 11 th  Century Augustine priory,  St Botolphs , that is free to visit.

There are several  free walking tours to take in Colchester . All of these are downloadable with maps; some have audio guides.

When you’re ready for a break you should head to the  Tiptree Jam Tea Room . Tiptree Jam is local to Colchester but is famous the world over.

By Sarah of ASocialNomad

5. Hampton Court

• Fastest direct journey time: 35 minutes via South Western Railway
• From London Waterloo

Hampton Court is one of  the great buildings of England . Most people visit to look around the palace of  King Henry VIII , the most notorious English monarch of all, who had a penchant for chopping off his spouses’ heads. But this is only the half of it.

Henry’s palace is magnificent, one of the high points of Tudor architecture. This was among the very last Gothic buildings in England, and the  Great Hall  is hugely impressive.

It’s also possible to look around the  State Apartments  and  Haunted Gallery , where Catherine Howard’s ghost is said to run screaming for mercy, knowing that execution was likely to be her fate.

Hampton Court has a superb  Baroque palace and gardens , added by King William III and Mary who reigned from 1689 to 1702. This is one of the finest Baroque buildings in England, along with the likes of St Paul’s Cathedral in the centre of London.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR FAST-TRACK TICKET

By David of Delve Into Europe

6. Harry Potter Studios

• Fastest journey time: 15 minutes to Watford Junction Station via West Midlands Railway and then a shuttle bus to the studio
• From London Euston

Calling all Potterheads! If you are a Muggle craving to discover the world of  Harry Potter in London , take a day trip to the Harry Potter Studios.

Harry Potter was mainly filmed at the Warner Bros Studios in Watford. Hop on a train from Euston or Victoria to Watford Junction. From the station, the Harry Potter shuttle bus will take you straight to the studios.

When you  buy your ticket , you will have to choose a slot. I recommend you book the first one available.

Once you are in the studios, you are free to stay as long as you want so the earlier you get there, the longer you can stay. On average, visitors stay four hours.

You will see many sets such as the dining hall, the Gryffindor common room and the Gringott bank, in addition to many costumes. More importantly, you will discover how the movies were made. Everything from training animals to prosthetic makeup.

There are a couple of restaurants on site. You can even buy butterbeer!

The Warner Bros studios are a truly magical experience (whether you are a Harry Potter fan or not). The best day trip from London by train for all you Muggles out there!

If you want someone to take care of all of the arrangements for you, why not buy your skip-the-line ticket with a transfer from London? Click here to book.

By Pauline of BeeLoved City

7. Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

• Fastest journey time: 40 minutes to Newbury station via Great Western Railway and then a 15-minute taxi ride to Highclere Castle

Downton Abbey  fans will delight at the opportunity to visit the famous Highclere Castle where the series was filmed.

The castle was established in 749 and rebuilt in the 17th century when it was purchased by the grandfather of the current Earl of Carnarvon (who still resides there with his wife). Just as in the  Downton Abbey  series, Highclere Castle served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during World War I. During World War II, it was home to evacuees.

Due to popularity,  Highclere Castle entrance tickets  can be challenging to secure so be sure to book well ahead if you’re visiting independently.  Alternatively, plan to spend the night nearby and arrive bright and early for first dibs on tickets.

An easier option is to visit Highclere Castle on an organised day trip  from London as the admission ticket will be included.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

By Chris of  Explore Now or Never

8. Rochester

• Fastest journey time: 40 minutes via Southeastern
• From London Victoria (services also leave from London St. Pancras International)

Rochester in Kent is one of the easiest places to visit near London by train as well as one of the most rewarding.

The majestic  Rochester Cathedral  is the second oldest medieval church and also the second most visited pilgrimage site in England.

Charles Dickens  lived in nearby Higham and based many of his novels in the area. Stop by the friendly Tourist Information Office and pick up a Charles Dickens trail map for a small fee. Information boards marking key sights on this self-guided walk will also point the way.

Finally, don’t leave town before visiting  Rochester Castle . Although just the carcass of the original building remains, the castle’s 12 th  Century stone tower is reputed to be one of the best-preserved in England and there are great views from the top.

• Fastest journey time: 30 minutes via Great Western Railway
• From London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central (change at Slough)

As the favourite weekend home of the late Queen Elizabeth II, Windsor is one of the best-known cities in the UK and is one of  Europe’s most stunning palaces .

The city of Windsor was established by  William the Conqueror  in the 11th Century and is home to just under 1,000 residents. Situated just 25 minutes from the capital, this historic town is one of the easiest day trips by train from London.

But there is more to see in Windsor than its castle and  St. George’s Chapel . Explore  Windsor Great Park , the former private royal hunting ground, or Guildhall , where Charles and Camilla wed. There’s St. John the Baptist Church , originally built in the 12th Century and reconstructed in 1810.

Runnymede , where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215, is nearby. Cliveden House , a three-story Italianate mansion, just 15 minutes north of Windsor, is where the works of Charles Barry reside.

Finally, there’s the  Royal Windsor Horse Show that is held each May.

If you’re uncertain of what to see or where to go, there are various day tours of both the city and river to give an overall view of the beautiful sites to be found in Windsor.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET

By Erin of  Traveling Thru History

10. Winchester

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour via South Western Railway

Visit Winchester for a fun-filled day trip by train from London. Winchester station is roughly a five-minute walk to the town centre (downhill on the way there; ten minutes uphill on the way back!).

This historic city is one of the oldest in the UK and has picturesque cobbled streets, historic buildings and one of the most famous cathedrals in the country.

Some of the best things to do in Winchester include:

• Winchester Cathedral . Some very famous people are buried here- including Jane Austen. You can also see one of the oldest Bibles in the world
• Shopping! Winchester has some great shops on and around the high street.
• Mizmaze . On the outskirts of Winchester is a very old turf maze that you can try and navigate. Well worth a visit if you have time
• Visit the  Christmas market . If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in November or December, you must go to the  Winchester Christmas Market . There are hundreds of stalls and even an ice rink.

By Kat of Wandering Bird

11. Bletchley Park

• Fastest journey time: 30 minutes (to Milton Keynes Central) via Avanti West Coast

Bletchley Park , the home of the  WWII code breakers , is a fascinating glimpse into the work of these heroes and of the early days of computers. See the iconic code-breaker huts and learn more about the work of  Alan Turing  and his group of code-breakers who cracked the German’s  Enigma code machine , instrumental in winning the war for the British and Allied troops.

The estate comprises some 581 acres and the house on the site contained many WWII secrets whilst pretending to be a luxury getaway for some of Britain’s most brilliant minds. In the house are displays of the rooms just as they were used during the war and it feels like the people just left that day.

You can tour the huts that Turing and the code-breakers used and see how they broke Enigma.

Within the estate is the  National Museum of Computing  where you can try your hand at code-breaking puzzles and explore how computers have changed the world. 

Take a picnic and enjoy the grounds and the small lake where children can feed the ducks. And for adults? You can have a gin and tonic in the sunshine and dance to some retro 1940s or jazz-age music on the lawns in front of the house.

By Faith of XYU And Beyond

12. Canterbury

• Fastest journey time: 55 minutes (to Canterbury West) via Southeastern
• From London St Pancras International

Travelling from London to Canterbury is certainly not a new idea. Londoners have been making the trip for the past 1,000 years or so, although it wasn’t always possible as a day trip.

Originally,  Christian pilgrims  made the arduous journey on foot to  Canterbury Cathedral , more specifically to the spot inside the Cathedral where  Thomas Becket  was murdered. This popular journey was the inspiration for Chaucer’s  Canterbury Tales , one of the greatest works of English literature.

Nowadays, you can hop on a train in London and be in Canterbury in less than 1 hour. One thing that hasn’t changed much, though, is the imposing Cathedral.

Whilst it is the city’s main attraction, it’s not the only thing to see while you’re in Canterbury.  St. Martin’s Church  and  St. Augustine’s Abbey  are two other historic religious buildings that are also worth a visit.

A good option for lunch is the Lady Luck, which bills itself as a “rock ‘n’ roll pub”. They offer vegan as well as meaty versions of traditional pub grub, so it’s a great choice for  vegan visitors to Canterbury .

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

13. Brighton

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour via the Gatwick Express. However, this is more expensive than the service run by Thameslink which takes 1 hour 10 minutes.
• From London Victoria, London Blackfriars or London Bridge

Brighton, on England’s south coast, is one of the most popular train trips from London.

Home to the UK’s largest Jedi population (!), Brighton is blessed with a broad shingle beach, a cool bohemian air and one extraordinary building.

The  Royal Pavilion  is the opulent Victorian pleasure palace of Prince George, later Prince Regent and then King George IV. Indian on the outside and Chinese on the inside, it is as extravagant and eccentric as its first occupant and seems oddly out of place in an English seaside town. You can grab your skip-the-line ticket here .

Brighton Pier  is a prime example of an Edwardian pier. Take a stroll along its length, fill your face with candy floss and try your luck in one of its amusement arcades.

Finally, Brighton is a first-class shopping destination.  The Lanes  are home to independent shops, including some good antique shops, jewellery shops and boutiques.

14. Epping Forest

Are you looking for another destination near London to get closer to nature?

Located on the northeastern outskirts of London,  Epping Forest  is a fabulous walking destination at any time of year. However, it is at its best in autumn when its plants and trees are transformed into multi-colour works of art.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or something more vigorous, Epping Forest’s 8,000 acres offer a dizzying choice of  walking trails , nine of which are waymarked circular trails. These range in distance between 1.25 and 6.6 miles, and most start close to parking and train stations.

To reach these  ancient woodlands  take the Overground train from Liverpool Street to Chingford or London Underground’s Central Line to Chigwell, Roding Valley, Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, Debden, Theydon Bois or Epping.

READ THIS NEXT: Easy Epping Forest Walks

15. Mayfield Lavender Farm

On the outskirts of the capital lies South London’s purple paradise.

Instagram heaven, Mayfield Lavender Farm is a full-blown assault on the senses but in a good way. Wander through a sprawling field of purple flowers, the air perfumed with the soporific scent of lavender.

If you are feeling peckish, treat yourself to a lavender-themed afternoon tea overlooking a sea of purple.

Thirsty? This is your opportunity to sample lavender cider.

For a tasteful gift, pick up homemade lavender products, including soaps and jams, at the gift shop.

Lavender blooming season runs from June through to late August, with peak bloom around mid-July. Check  Mayfield Lavender ’s website for flower updates and opening hours.

To reach Mayfield Lavender Farm, take a train from London Victoria to West Croydon and then hop on the 166 bus to the farm. A note of caution though; this route can get very busy at weekends (I walked back one stop to make sure I was able to board the bus).

Alternatively, catch a train from London Victoria to Sutton or Cheam and then take a cab/minicab to the farm (this is the fastest route but more expensive).

More Easy Day Trips from London by Train

Whether you are looking for a day at the seaside or want to explore one of England’s cool cities, here are some more fabulous places near London. Many of my favourites are here, including Rye, Liverpool (also a fabulous weekend break) and lovely Brockenhurst in the New Forest.

Most of these destinations are within two hours of London by train.

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 15 minutes via Great Western Railway

Bath is one of the most charming cities in England, filled with beautiful architecture, ancient buildings, culture and interesting places to eat and drink. Once you arrive at Bath Spa station you are only a five-minute walk from the centre of Bath itself.

This UNESCO -listed city is filled with beautiful  Georgian buildings  made of pale golden limestone. They blend perfectly with the  Roman Baths and Temple , which are a must-see.

As the queues can be long, it is better to book ahead. You can choose to join a free walking guide around the baths or go at your own pace with an audioguide. For a treat, visit the  Pump Rooms  next door for a bite to eat.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET WITH WALKING TOUR

Right next to the Roman Baths is  Bath Abbey , an imposing Gothic building that towers over the city. You can take a guided tour that includes the 212-step climb to the roof to take in the view.

Pultney Bridge and views over the River Avon are a short walk from the Abbey. The bridge has quaint shops and restaurants on top of its three arches.

For an afternoon treat, head to Sally Lunns Buns for one of their delicious cinnamon buns and a look around the living museum. Other museums are the  Holbourne Museum  in Great Pultney Street or the Fashion Museum in the Assembly Rooms on Bennett Street.

If you want to combine Bath with a visit to Stonehenge and Windsor, take a look at this excellent day tour that bundles them into one neat package.

By Larch of  The Silver Nomad

17. Bristol

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes via Great Western Railway

Sitting in Castle Park on a Monday morning, sipping coffee in a boutique café and watching commuters go about their unhurried business with a smile on their face, you can’t help but feel the harmony of Bristol.

For the consumer, you can shop at  Cabot Circus  which is also home to a good range of chain restaurants. You can walk in the parks, explore Queen’s Square and maybe grab a cider at one of the boat pubs.

There are the  renovated docks  and the  M Shed museum . Walking down the river, you can visit the famous SS Great Britain ship. Those who enjoy religious places should see the  Bristol Cathedral  or  St Mary Redcliffe .

Or you can climb the steps of Cabot Tower, perched at the top of Brandon Hill for views over Bristol. Slightly further out is the  Clifton Suspension Bridge  and the Observatory nearby. Or head out to the Ashton Court Estate.

The family will enjoy the  Bristol Zoo Gardens or the Aquarium down by the docks.

By Dave of  Dave Chant

• Fastest journey time: 2 hours 10 minutes via London North Eastern Railway

Spend  a day in Leeds  to understand why people rave about this city.

The train station is right in the city centre. But if you’re looking to explore the suburbs, the bus system is cheap and easy to navigate.

Situated in West Yorkshire in the north of England, a huge draw for visitors to Leeds is the huge amount of  vintage shopping  you can do. From kilogram sales to the numerous vintage, second hand and thrift stores in the city, you’ll struggle to come away empty-handed, and all for way less than you’d pay in London.

If you’re in the mood for some culture, you won’t have to look far.  Kirkstall Abbey , the ruins of a monastery founded in 1152, is fascinating and free to explore. The  Royal Armouries Museum , which displays the national collection of arms and armour, is one of the top things to do in Leeds and could keep you occupied for hours.

By Ella of Many More Maps

Say overnight in Leeds to see more of the city and to explore the surrounding area. For a centrally-located budget choice, check in to Premier Inn Leeds City Centre .

19. Liverpool

• Fastest journey time: 2 hours 20 minutes via Avanti West Coast

With its rich maritime heritage, striking architecture and buzzy cultural scene, there are more than a few reasons to visit Liverpool . And let’s not forget the stamp that the Fab Four have left on the city.

But did you know that it’s a breeze to visit Liverpool on a day trip from London?

Hop on a train at London Euston station, and two and a half hours later you’ll find yourself on the steps of Lime Street station. And as Liverpool is compact, it’s easy to explore on foot.

Make your way to the buzzy Albert Dock with its restaurants, bars and cultural attractions, including Tate Liverpool (the sister museum to the London Tate Galleries ) and the superb International Slavery Museum . If you want to pay homage to Liverpool’s favourite sons, pop into The Beatles Story , the award-winning museum that charts John, Paul, George and Ringo’s rise to global superstardom.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET FOR THE BEATLES STORY

Visit nearby Pier Head for The Three Graces, the iconic buildings that define Liverpool’s skyline, and to take your photo with the sculpture of The Beatles.

Finally, for the ultimate view of Liverpool’s waterfront, take a ferry across the Mersey. The easiest way to do this is to join a 50-minute  River Explorer Cruise (book your ticket here )

READ THIS NEXT: 13 Reasons to Spend a Weekend in Liverpool: The Best Things to Do

20. Manchester

• Fastest journey time: 2 hours 10 minutes via Avanti West Coast

Most travellers make a beeline for London without considering Manchester. But with its rich history, vibrant culture and friendly locals, this northern powerhouse is 100% worth the direct train journey from London.

After arriving at the train station, grab one of the free city buses to  Manchester Cathedral , which dates from 700AD.

Next, walk down to  The John Rylands Library , a must-see in Manchester. It is like taking a step into Hogwarts for the day. Go up to the gorgeous Reading Room and be wowed by the glorious Gothic architecture.

Walk across to  Cloud 23 in the Hilton Hotel for sweeping views of the city below, with a pot of tea, a coffee or even an early cocktail.

Before you head back to the train station, don’t miss exploring the  Northern Quarter , Manchester’s hipster neighbourhood. From Arcade game bars to vintage shops, striking street art to even cat cafes, it’s worth a wander.

Finally, stop by  Mackie Mayor , a gorgeous indoor food market. Visit even just to appreciate this stunning building.

By Bisola of  Bis To The World

Read my review of Avanti West Coast First-class to decide whether it’s worth upgrading your journey

21. Norwich

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes via Greater Anglia

Norwich is one of England’s true gems.

Less than two hours by direct train from London, this beautiful city was once more important than the nation’s capital. With winding lanes brimming with independent cafés and shops, museums, historic churches, restaurants serving both traditional and modern food, and dozens of authentic English pubs, there’s no end of  things to do in Norwich .

The city’s  cathedral , with its sprawling grounds and stone walls, is almost nine hundred years old and the second tallest in the country.

Norwich’s  marketplace , sitting just outside the city hall, is even older and visitors still go there to buy goods, foodstuffs and souvenirs. And if you want to be super British, you can grab some fish ’n’ chips – one of the most  iconic British foods  – from the national award-winning  Grosvenor Fish Bar  in Norwich’s Lanes.

By Dagney & Jeremy of Cultura Obscura

22. Shrewsbury

• Fastest journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes via Avanti West Coast (change trains at Birmingham International)

If you are looking to escape the bustle of London, Shrewsbury provides an idyllic slower-paced destination, filled to the brim with beauty and history. The buildings are so varied in their ornateness and style that they rival the narrow, wonky passageways and steep streets for charm.

Shrewsbury has 660 listed buildings, the oldest of which was constructed in the 15th Century. Older still is  Shrewsbury Castle . Dating back to 1074, this is home to the Shropshire Regimental Museum and is set amongst beautiful grounds.

You can follow a  Charles Darwin trail  or tour and learn about the great man and his early life in the town of his birth. If you’re a fan of the other famous Charles, you can still see a headstone with the name Ebenezer Scrooge in the churchyard of St Chad’s.

To clear your head after these big doses of history and architecture, why not try a walk at  The Quarry ? This 29-acre park offers riverbank walks, regular festivals and events and even a sunken garden called The Dingle, which was masterminded by Blue Peter ’s Percy Thrower.

By Dan of Horo Travel Memories

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 50 minutes via London North Eastern Railway

Do you want to immerse yourself in almost 2,000 years of history in just a day? If so, York is the perfect place to do just that.

On arrival at York station, grab a coffee and stroll along the  City Walls . The walls run 3.4km around the old city and are the most complete example of medieval walls in England.

Travel back in time to the age of the Vikings at the  Jorvik Viking Centre.  This world-class centre is also an active archaeological site and is home to interactive displays about Viking life, history, and the importance of York to the Vikings.

Lunchtime. If the sun is out, stop for lunch at any one of the cafes and restaurants along the  River Ouse .

After lunch, amble down York’s most famous laneway –  The Shambles . Fun fact: It was an inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.

This 14th-century laneway is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in the world. From here, wander past Clifford’s Tower, the remains of  York Castle  built by William the Conqueror, and on to York Minster.

York Minster  is simply magnificent. Join a Hidden Minster Tour to explore the areas not open to the public.

Finally, end your day in York by ascending the 275 stairs of the tower to take in the spectacular views of York and beyond.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A YORK WALKING TOUR

By Melissa of  Meet Me at the Pyramid Stage

24. Stonehenge

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes to Salisbury via South Western Railway , then Stonehenge tour bus from the railway station.

Few destinations in England fire the imagination like Stonehenge.

Shrouded in mystery, this iconic megalithic stone circle may have been a Neolithic burial site. Folklore variously attributes Stonehenge to Merlin, the Arthurian wizard, invading Danes or Ancient Romans. Some believe the stone circle has extra-terrestrial origins.

Your first port of call is the site’s Visitor Centre where there is an exhibition. see how our ancient ancestors lived by visiting the reconstructed Neolithic houses next to the centre.

Frequent free shuttle buses make the ten-minute journey from the Visitor Centre to the stones.

As this is one of the UK’s biggest tourist attractions, I recommend booking your timed-entrance ticket in advance. Although entry is free if you are a member of English Heritage or the National Trust, you still need to book your time slot.

Although you can visit Stonehenge independently from London, this is one destination where it may be more time efficient to join a day tour , particularly if you want to also visit Bath, Windsor or Oxford. Here are a few options to consider.

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour

Although Stonehenge is one of the most popular day trips from London, it is not the easiest place to reach by public transport, requiring a train and bus/taxi journey. This half-day tour includes a return transfer and an audio guide.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

Three top destinations are bundled into one neat package here. You can choose to visit the interior of Windsor Castle and will benefit from a live guide.

Stonehenge, Windsor & Bath Tour

This guided full-day tour includes Windsor and Bath in addition to Stonehenge. Admission to the Roman Baths is optional.

25. Dover 

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 5 minutes to Dover Priory via Southeastern

Dover is one of the  best seaside towns in Kent , is rich in English history and is home to some of  Kent’s most popular attractions .

Over three million tourists per year visit both the White Cliffs of Dover and Dover Castle on a day trip from London. Dover is a great escape from the city for the day and is surrounded by the beautiful English countryside.

Once you arrive at Dover Priory Station, make your way to the  White Cliffs of Dover  for a scenic walk on the path that runs along the cliffs. Take in the view over the English Channel from the top of the cliffs; on a clear day, you can see France.

Next up on your day trip is a visit to  Dover Castle , which is conveniently located near the White Cliffs. With a history stretching over 800 years, this is one of Britain’s finest and most important castles. Inside, there are rooms furnished with beautiful medieval decorations and a panoramic view awaits you at the top of the great tower.

You can book your Dover Castle ticket here .

By Ann of The Road is Life

26. Rye and Camber Sands

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 10 minutes via Southeastern
• From London St. Pancras International to Rye (change trains at Ashford International)

Spend  a day in Rye and Camber Sands  to sample two fabulous destinations for the price of one.

History buffs will adore the medieval town of  Rye  with its Georgian townhouses and timber-framed Tudor houses. Steep cobbled streets are dotted with haunted inns that will set your imagination on fire. There’s even a castle.

To burn off decadent cake calories consumed in one of the town’s excellent cafes, climb the tower of the 12 th  Century  St Mary’s Church.

Don’t leave Rye before checking out its  shops and galleries . The town has an impressive selection of small independent shops and a handful of galleries displaying work by local artists.

When you have finished exploring Rye, head to  Camber Sands  by taking the signposted National Cycle Network Route 2, a three-mile walk.  Alternatively, jump on bus #102 which runs between Rye from Camber Sands every hour.

With its seven miles of golden sand and rolling dunes, Camber Sands has a beach to rival any in the Caribbean. Paddle in the rock pools, collect seashells or embrace your inner child by building sandcastles. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can try your hand at kitesurfing.

READ THIS NEXT : Rye and Camber Sands Beach: An Easy Day Trip from London

27. Whitstable

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes via Southeastern
• From London St. Pancras International or London Victoria

Whitstable is a charming fishing and harbour town located on the north coast of Kent, southeast of London, and is a super easy day trip from London by train.

Famed for its seafood scene, Whitstable is a great spot for foodies and has many oyster shacks in the harbour. The town also holds a popular two-day  oyster festival  every July, featuring hundreds of food stalls, live music and a parade.

Other  things you can do in Whitstable  include taking a walk along the coast, which is lined with colourful beach huts, or visiting the main high street which is filled with boutique shops, galleries and cafes.

End your day trip with a drink at the  Old Neptune,  which is one of the most popular pubs in town. It is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy a delicious pint of locally brewed beer with a beautiful sea view.

By Caroline of CK Travels

28. Bourton-on-the-Water (The Cotswolds)

• Fastest journey time: 2 hour s 10 minutes to Moreton-in-Marsh via Great Western Railway (change at Charlbury) for local bus #801 to Bourton-on-the-Water

Known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most  beautiful Cotswolds villages  and a perfect day trip from London by rail.

This quintessential English village is famous for its golden stone buildings and arched bridges. Other than roaming around the quaint streets of the village, the best things to do in a day include exploring the  Cotswold Motoring Museum , the  Birdland Parks and Gardens and the famous  model village.

For the perfect souvenir, visit the Cotswold Perfumery  (you can also take part in one of their fragrance courses).

Finally, if you are feeling peckish, head to one of the many pubs in the village such as the Duke of Wellington, which has a great beer garden.

By Roshni of The Wanderlust Within

Thanks to less-than-stellar bus services, it’s fair to say that visiting the Cotswolds isn’t the easiest day trip from London by public transport. Joining a day tour is an excellent way for you to see a few more beautiful Cotswold villages and you will benefit from the knowledge of a local guide. Take a look at this day tour of the Cotswolds from London, which includes Bourton-on-the-Water.

29. Brockenhurst

• Fastest journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes via South Western Railway

Beautiful Brockenhurst is one of the best day trips from London by train for nature lovers. The town is easily reached by train from Waterloo.

The area is famous for its great  cycling  network. You can transport your bikes on the train, but it is also possible to rent bikes next to Brockenhurst train station. You will find several bike-friendly cafes and pubs in town.

In the nearby fields, it is common to spot  wild horses  roaming free. Some local stables offer  horse-riding tours  and lessons. Complete beginners and children are also welcome.

If you want to go  hiking near London , this is also a good region for that. There are many paths nearby with hidden wild swimming spots. A popular place for a picnic and swim is by the  Lymington River  in Brockenhurst. Children especially love the rope swings hung up by locals.

By Eniko of Travel Hacker Girl

30. Saffron Walden

• Fastest journey time: 50 minutes to Audley End via Greater Anglia . From here, take a taxi or bus to Saffron Walden.

Saffron Walden was once a Suffolk market town, but now it is a picturesque village filled with boutique-style shops, charming cafes and restaurants.

Here are the best places to visit during a day trip to Saffron Walden from London

Bridge End Garden   – Bridge End Garden is best visited when it isn’t raining as the gardens are beautiful. However, the highlight here is the maze, which will keep you amused for hours.

Saffron Grange Vineyard  – The Vineyard is a little out of the town centre, approximately 1.7 miles away. If you book online before arriving, you can join the vineyard tour and tasting. Wine tasting is perfect at any time of the year.

Audley End House and Gardens  – For a small entrance fee, you can explore this grand Estate.

Saffron Walden Town Centre  – Explore the town centre (at weekends you will find great little markets right in the centre). This is a great spot to have lunch or afternoon tea. The restaurants and pubs all serve deliciously fresh food, so you are spoilt for choices. A great little town to explore.

By Paula of  Truly Expat

Best Eurostar Train Trips from London

Day trips from London by train are not confined to England. Thanks to Eurostar, some cities in mainland Europe can be reached from London in under two and a half hours.

>>> Read my review of Eurostar Standard Premier to decide whether it’s worth upgrading your journey

• Journey time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Take an early train from London St. Pancras International Station and you are set for a wonderful day in Paris. Trains arrive at Paris Gare du Nord train station, from where you can travel around on the Paris Metro.

What to do during a day in Paris? If this is your first time in the French capital, you should  go up the Eiffel Tower  for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

>>> SKIP THE LINE & BUY YOUR EIFFEL TOWER SUMMIT TICKET HERE

Then, I suggest spending your time in one district so you don’t waste time navigating the city on public transport.

I recommend  Ile de la Cité , the island in the middle of the Seine River, where most of the historical buildings are located. Visit  Notre Dame  (from outside), the  Sainte-Chapelle  and the  Conciergerie.

Also, you can wander around the medieval streets of this island and watch the typical  Bateaux Mouches  sail by.

By Elisa of World in Paris

• Journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Lille is one of the most underrated cities in France and an easy day trip from London by train.

Located close to the Belgian border – the so-called capital of French Flanders – Lille feels more Flemish than French, from its architecture to its food.

Due to its compact city centre, it’s a breeze to  explore Lille on a self-guided walking tour .

Walk through its series of large cobblestoned squares lined with extravagant Flemish Baroque buildings. Browse the book market in the Renaissance  La Veille Bourse , formerly the city’s stock exchange, a collection of small houses arranged around a porticoed courtyard.

Pay your respects at the  Notre Dame de la Treille , Lille’s spiritual beating heart and an intoxicating mix of Gothic meets contemporary.

If time permits, stop by the  Palais des Beaux-Arts , a fine art gallery that is second only to the Louvre in France for size and stature.

Finally, don’t leave town before trying  merveilleux , little cakes of light meringue smothered in fresh cream and chocolate shavings.

READ THIS NEXT : One Day in Lille, France: A Free Walking Tour

33. Brussels

• Journey time: 2 hours

Courtesy of Eurostar, a day trip to Brussels from London is both easy and affordable. Take a morning train from London St. Pancras International and in just over two hours you can be munching on waffles in the Grand Place.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the  Grand Place  is the core of Brussels’ medieval city centre and is lined with ornate, late Medieval buildings. This is also home to the city’s  Christmas markets .

For a stark contrast to Brussels’ historic centre, head over to the city’s east side.  Ancient architecture is replaced by sleek skyscrapers, including the headquarters of the  European Union .

For something completely different, take a  comic trail  to discover just how many cartoons were created in Brussels. From The Smurfs to Tintin, Blake and Mortimer to Marsupilami, watch out for the comic

Finally, don’t leave Brussels before sampling one of the excellent Belgian beers and, of course, chocolate.

>>> JOIN A 1-HOUR CHOCOLATE-MAKING WORKSHOP HERE

READ THIS NEXT : One Day in Brussels: Itinerary and Best Things to Do  

Map of Places to Visit Near London by Train

If you find it helpful to map it out, here’s one I made earlier. To take a closer look at these beautiful places near London, simply click here or on the map itself.

Tips for Day Trips by Train from London

• As many Londoners do not own a car (myself included), expect services to be much busier at the weekend, especially to popular destinations like Brighton. To avoid the crowds, if possible try to visit on a weekday.
• However, rail improvement works tend to take place on a weekend, particularly on Sundays. Therefore check for  travel disruptions  before you set out. Trust me, a rail replacement bus is not a joy.
• Rail travel in England can be expensive but buying your ticket in advance will often save you money. For example, if I wanted to travel to Bath today, a return ticket would cost me in excess of £69 (and this would not be the most expensive ticket on this route!). However, the same ticket booked a month in advance is only £23.
• Consider booking two one-way tickets instead of a return ticket as this can sometimes be cheaper.
• A railcard can also save you money on train travel. A 16-25 Railcard, 26-30 Railcard, Senior Railcard, Family & Friends Railcard, Two Together and Network Railcard (London and SE only) save you ⅓ on eligible fares.

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• 40 Famous London Landmarks
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About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a Londoner who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

16 weekend trips from London that are less than an hour away

Grab your weekender and head for the country

London might be the place where everything's happening but it's also great to get out of the capital once in a while and nothing says 'escape' like weekend trips from London that remind us of how beautiful Britain's coast and country really are.

While the Lake District , Scottish Highlands and Cornwall are some of the loveliest places for a staycation , there are wonderful locations and hotels outside London that are close to town but feel a world away, offering natural scenery, fresh air and plenty of space to breathe.

Cambridge and Oxford are excellent options for weekend trips near London if you're after a city, break while Surrey is home to an array of country house retreats .

With UK breaks that allow us to fully get away from it all in mind, we've picked a few of the best places for weekend breaks from London that take less than an hour to reach by car or train.

So, grab your weekend bag and head for the hills (or beach , or riverbanks ) to these beautiful staycation spots for a fabulous weekend away from London. Check out our pick of the top weekend trips from London for 2024.

Mitre Hotel, Surrey - 40 minutes from Waterloo by train

This charming hotel that sits on the banks of the River Thames might only be 40 minutes from London but it feels a world away. You'll feel your stresses melt away from the moment you step through the Mitre's doors as you snuggle up with a whisky from the honesty bar in the cosy Library or head for the chic 1665 Riverside Brasserie to feast on oysters and steak. On a sunny day, you'll feel like you're somewhere as glamorous as St Tropez, and if it rains, the in-room roll-top bathtubs call your name.

If you're after an elegant yet homely place to stay for a weekend trip from London, The Mitre is as warm and stylish as they come. Here, everyone's welcome (including the dog!) and it's jam-packed with history (Hampton Court Palace is just opposite), while providing everything you could require when escaping from the city: top-notch dining, beautiful spaces (don't miss the sun-drenched terrace in summer) and friendly faces.

Artist Residence Brighton, East Sussex - 55 minutes from Victoria by train

Soak up the epic views of Brighton's coastline from this cool townhouse in iconic Regency Square. Just under an hour away, this coastal city is the perfect weekend trip from London.

Nestled directly opposite the old pier and i360 tower, Artist Residence Brighton is complete with quirks and unexpected surprises. Some rooms have been decorated by local artists, while others have been designed in-house using rustic vintage furniture.

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Boys Hall, Kent - 59 minutes from St Pancras by train

A 59-minute train journey from London St Pancras, Boys Hall on the leafy outskirts of Ashford is a glorious place for a weekend escape from the Smoke, especially if you have an epicurean bent. Enjoy a glass of local fizz on the sunny terrace, lose yourself around the scented wild English garden or get cosy over a game of Scrabble and a spicy Margarita in the oak-panelled lounge.

However, it's worth getting on that train just for the food. Showcasing the very best produce from the Garden of England, dine out on zesty delights such as burrata with garden peas, mint, lemon oil and broad beans or charred cod with butter curry, mango and chilli salsa, or maybe try a rare breeds T-bone pork chop cooked on an asado-style grill, all served with local Kent wines in the beamed dining room in the 17th-century Manor House. After dinner, hunker down in one of nine heavenly suites. Words: Tracey Davies

Cliveden House, Berkshire - 45 minutes from Ealing by car

It might have hosted royalty but you don't need to be a duke or duchess to spend the night at the opulent Cliveden House. Ideal for splurging on a luxury weekend away from London, this unique country house is set in 376 glorious acres of formal gardens and woodland.

It's wonderful for a royal-inspired short break, with the most glamorous and decadent spaces imaginable. Don't miss the sanctuary that is the Cliveden Spa, which offers the ultimate escape - think indoor and outdoor pools with beautiful settings. And when it's sunny, you must enjoy a dip in the outdoor pool or a long soak in the hot tubs overlooked by Cliveden's stunning clocktower.

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Converted Barn House, Surrey - 40 minutes from Heathrow by car

A traditional barn in the woodlands of the Surrey Hills near the market town of Dorking, where only walkers and horse riders make up the traffic, this is a fabulous home from home outside of London.

A pool table for entertainment, three bedrooms and beautiful features, like the exposed beams and picturesque garden, make this one place you'll love for a weekend getaway with friends or family.

Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, Oxfordshire - 45 minutes from Marylebone by train

When it comes to foodie weekend trips from London, the utterly lush Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons sure knows how to deliver. Brought to us lucky gourmands by the legend that is Raymond Blanc, this dream-like hotel close to the village of Great Milton in Oxfordshire is a paradise for those who love dining, cooking and learning about food.

The seven-course tasting menu at the restaurant is a must, if you want to experience the Michelin-starred chef's incredible French cuisine in a thoroughly British setting. Many of the seasonal ingredients are plucked straight from Le Manoir's sprawling kitchen garden, which you can enjoy strolling during your stay.

Then there's the Raymond Blanc Cookery School, which offers one of the most memorable cooking experiences you'll ever have. Here, you'll learn from chefs who work closely with Raymond Blanc with Le Manoir's kitchen staff working next door.

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The Flint House, Buckinghamshire - 36 minutes by car from Hammersmith

Sleeping 15 people, this beautiful detached farmhouse in Beaconsfield is ideal for a group girls' holiday or family weekend. Think art deco meets country glamour in the gorgeous retreat set in 2,000 acres of farm and woodland.

Beyond its imposing façade, there’s a drawing room with a lavish fireplace, a kitchen (the hub of the house) and spacious dining room, perfect for long lazy meals. The Chiltern Hills offer miles of walking paths for when you want to get out and about.

Sopwell House, Hertfordshire - 42 minutes from St Pancras by train and bus

A stunning Georgian manor house in St. Albans' lush countryside, Sopwell House makes for the perfect weekend break from London. With two restaurants, an elegant cocktail lounge and conservatory bar, all of which look out on 12 acres of beautiful gardens, you have plenty of spaces to soak up the views.

Cottonmill, its spa, has its own garden featuring private hot tubs and a fire pit, along with a panoramic sauna, salt and botanical steam rooms and dining.

Hotel Du Vin Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire - One hour from Paddington by train

There are few more idyllic locations for a hotel than this: nestled in the Chilterns, in the heart of the 12th century market town anda stone’s throw from the banks of the River Thames. Hotel Du Vin Henley-on-Thames is a reincarnation of a 300-year-old brewery, successfully blending Georgian period detail with stylish contemporary furnishings.

Drinks and alfresco meals in the courtyard are a highlight, as are the walks, boutiques and boating experiences available on your doorstep.

Pennyhill Park, Surrey - One hour from Waterloo by car

The luxurious Pennyhill Park sits in a grand 18th-century manor, with a spa and a four AA Rosette restaurant headed by Michelin-starred chef Steve Smith. You can swim to the sound of underwater music in one of the spa’s eight pools, and sip Champagne in the outdoor tub -waiters are on hand to serve drinks in and around the pools.

You'll also want to enjoy a superb dinner in The Latymer restaurant and learn about the provenance of the artistically presented dishes

Castle Hotel, Windsor - 35 minutes from Paddington by train

The perfect place for a royal-inspired mini-break, Windsor is where you can explore the amazing Windsor Castle and see the red deer of Windsor Great Park. At the Castle Hotel, you can watch the Changing the Guard and relax in a fantastic location opposite Windsor Castle.

When you're not soaking up the royal sites, the boutique hotel steeped in history has afternoon tea created in honour of Captain Sir Tom Moore and restaurant Leaf, where you can feast on dishes inspired by nature. There's an alfresco terrace for sipping cocktails in the sun, too.

The Dundas Arms, Berkshire - 55 minutes from Paddington by train

Perched in the charming town of Kintbury, this 18th century Grade II listed inn is an idyllic retreat for a weekend by the river. The pub with rooms has just eight rooms decorated in a gorgeous country house style.

Many of the bedrooms come with their own private terrace overlooking the canal, where you can sit back and enjoy breakfast the next morning or a sundowner in the early evening.

University Arms, Cambridge - 55 minutes from King's Cross by train

The city of punting and ancient colleges, Cambridge makes for a splendid mini-break if you're looking to get out of London without escaping to somewhere totally remote.

At landmark hotel University Arms, there are views over Parker’s Piece and historic Regent Street from your city centre location. Inside, you'll find playfully designed rooms, a destination restaurant and stylish bar to complete your romantic weekend away.

Rocksalt Rooms, Folkestone - 54 minutes from St Pancras by train

For a weekend away from London by the sea , head to Folkestone in Kent and reward yourself with a meal at Rocksalt , an acclaimed restaurant that helpfully has rooms attached. The restaurant is right by the harbour, so you can enjoy views of the Channel while you dine on dishes such as Rye Bay scallops with apple and celery beurre blanc, Folkestone crab with sherry caramel, and baked mussels with Kent cider. There’s a terrace to enjoy during the summer – and since you’ll be in one of the sunniest parts of England, the chances of good weather are in your favour.

The Grove, Hertfordshire - 20 minutes by train from London Euston

So close to the capital that you barely have to leave it, the Grove is in Chandler’s Cross in Hertfordshire, reached via a 20-minute rail journey from Euston to Watford Junction and a swift taxi ride. You can also travel to Rickmansworth from London Marylebone. The proximity doesn’t mean it’s suburban, though – instead, it has its own ‘beach’, by the pool in the expansive (by which we mean 300-acre) grounds. The hotel, in the former seat of the Earls of Clarendon, is popular with actors filming in nearby Elstree Studios. We’re sure they’re fans of the Bamford spa, championship golf course and assorted restaurants.

Monkey Island Estate, Berkshire - 29 minutes by train from London Paddington

The Home Counties provide lots of opportunities for easy weekending from London – and if you want to feel worlds away from the capital, this riverside Berkshire retreat is an excellent choice. Your total transit time might even be shorter than a Tube journey: hop on a train out of Paddington to Maidenhead and you’ll be a 10-minute cab ride from Monkey Island Estate . The hotel is on an island on the River Thames, close to fine-dining enclave Bray, the Royal Windsor Racecourse and Windsor itself. The seven-acre estate has private residences for groups or families, along with the main hunting lodge, which has a serious roll call of famous former guests, including Edward Elgar, HG Wells and Siegfried Sassoon.

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26 Day Trips from London By Train! Ideas For Cities, Beaches & Europe!

Categories England , London , U.K

Whether you live in London or you are visiting London, the huge amount of day trips from London by train that are available is the best thing about London! London is great but it’s also good to leave it once in a while right?

Train is the best and quickest option to leave the big smoke because the train system in the UK, and to and from London, is usually pretty reliable and there are so many train routes on offer! So take advantage of this and do more day trips from London by train!

I asked my fellow travel bloggers what London day trips by train they love, so below in this London travel blog, we have many suggestions for the best day trips from London by train that are easy for you to do too and some travel tips to help your day go smoothly.

Best Day Trips from London By Train

Train Travel Tips for the UK

1 – The Train Line is the best platform to book your trains on because it will search all London train stations and enables you to see all of the costs, times and different routes available so you can get the best option!

2 – Train travel in the UK can get expensive! For the cheapest train tickets in the UK for your day trips out of London by train, it’s best to book in advance and avoid commuting times . The Train Line lets you sign up for notifications in advance to help you get the lowest price!

Because we have so many ideas for easy day trips from London by train, I have broken the sections down into 4 – Cities, Beaches, Countryside & Europe so use the table of contents below to pick what you’d like, otherwise keep scrolling down for all the best places to visit from London by train!

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Day Trips from London by Train to Cities

One of the best day trips from London is without doubt Oxford, known for its spectacular architecture, the oldest university in the UK and more recently, its Harry Potter history. Once you arrive, you can explore the whole city on foot.

With a day in Oxford, for ideas of things to do in Oxford , you can check out the iconic buildings like the Radcliffe Camera, the carved heads on the Sheldonian Theatre and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Pay £1 to admire the elaborate ceiling of the Divinity Schools, a location used to film Hogwarts school balls. For the best birds-eye-view in town, climb St Mary’s tower.

For lunch, visit the quirky Covered Market. Eat delicious salads and nachos at colourful Georgina’s Cafe or authentic, cheap Thai food at Sasi’s Thai. Don’t miss the flagship store of Ben’s Cookies found in the market.

For the afternoon, head inside a few charming Oxford colleges. Harry Potter fanatics will want to include Christ Church college to see the staircase and dining hall used in filming. For more information about visiting Oxford colleges , check out this guide ready for your Oxford from London day trip.

How to do a day trip from London to Oxford by train?

London to Oxford Train: London Paddington Station to Oxford Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Oxford train route.

London to Oxford Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Where Goes Rose

Recommended Oxford Tours

Book a  walking tour in Oxford around the universities or tickets for the Oxford Hop on Hop off bus so you can see more of the city in just one day!

2. Cambridge

One of the most popular train trips from London is to the historic university town of Cambridge. A Cambridge day trip from London is one of the easiest to do as it’s only a short distance from the capital and is small enough to be able to see all of the highlights in one day.

There are plenty of interesting things to do in Cambridge, including visiting some of the historic university colleges such as Kings College or Trinity College, watching the people punting along the River Cam (or having a go yourself!) or enjoying the number of green spaces available in the city.

There are also numerous walking tours in the city that are run by local students which make for a great way to learn about the history of the city as well as helping you get a better understanding of what daily life is like in the university town for residents.

How to do a day trip from London to Cambridge by train?

London to Cambridge Train: London Kings Cross Station to Cambridge Station in 50 minutes is the quickest London to Cambridge train route.

London to Cambridge Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: The World Was Here First

Recommended Cambridge Tours

Book a Cambridge university walking tour or a guided punt which is what Camrbridge is so popular for so you can see more of the city in just one day!

Norwich is the perfect escape from the hustle of the capital. Not only does it offer a much slower pace of life but it is also hugely historical, featuring colourful houses, medieval cobbled streets, quaint beer gardens and lush green spaces.

Owing to the city’s size, it is easily walkable and there is plenty to do depending on your interests. Visitors should not miss an  underground Norwich tour  where you can explore a medieval undercroft. This tour will give you plenty of information about the city’s history as well as some of the local legends.

Norwich is one of the few cities in the UK to have two cathedrals, both of which are worth a visit. History buffs will also want to pencil in a trip to Norwich Castle. This impressive build is the focal point of the city and holds some fascinating history.

The River Wensum runs through the city and on a nice day, it is great to rent a canoe and explore the waterways. This is best arranged online in advance during the summer months.

Elm Hill is one of the most picturesque parts of the city and on this one street, it is possible to see more medieval buildings than in the whole of the City of London!

Before you depart, don’t miss the opportunity to grab a meal and a cold beer in the Adam & Eve, Norwich’s oldest pub. There are claims that this public house has been serving the patrons of Norwich since 1249!

Bear in mind that the city of Norwich is a short walk away from the train station. The walk takes around 15 minutes but if you prefer, buses also head to Castle Meadow in the centre every 5 minutes.

How to do a day trip from London to Norwich by train?

London to Norwich Train: London Liverpool Street Station to Norwich Station in 1 hour 50 minutes is the quickest London to Norwich train route.

London to Norwich Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Winging The World

A great place to visit on a day trip from London is Cardiff. The centre of Cardiff is not very big and the main train station in Cardiff is less than 10 minutes’ walk to the pedestrianised high street area. Everything in the centre is walkable so there’s no need for taxis or buses on your Cardiff day trip from London.

Shop till you drop in St David’s and the newer St David’s 2 where you’ll find the biggest John Lewis outside of London. There are shops galore and plenty of places to eat. Wander a bit further from the shops and you can discover some of Cardiff’s history in Cardiff Castle, while still being in the centre of the city. There is a Norman Keep, Castle Apartments and battlements which hold a secret. I won’t spoil it for you.

Behind Cardiff Castle is Bute Park, a peaceful haven in the middle of a bustling city. And just across the road, you can find the National Museum of Cardiff (which is free) and the Museum of Cardiff is also a great place to visit to learn more about the city you are visiting and it’s also free.

Any sporting fans should try and pay a visit to the Principality Stadium, known to many as the Millennium Stadium. Take a tour of the home of Welsh football, visit the team dressing rooms and stand in awe pitch-side and imagine the roars of fans on match day.

Whether you are visiting the city as a solo traveller, couple or visiting Cardiff with family , you won’t be sort of ideas on how to enjoy the Welsh capital.

How to do a day trip from London to Cardiff by train?

London to Cardiff Train: London Paddington Station to Cardiff Central Station in 1 hour 50 minutes is the quickest London to Cardiff train route.

London to Cardiff Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Passports and Adventures

Recommended Cardiff Tours

Book tickets for the Cardiff Hop on Hop off Bus or a Doctor Who walking tour of Cardiff so you can see more of the city in just one day!

5. Canterbury

Canterbury has been a popular destination for Londoners for nearly 1,000 years, although it wasn’t always accessible as a day trip from London like it is now. Pilgrims once travelled on foot to see the place where Thomas Becket was murdered inside the Canterbury Cathedral. This long voyage inspired the Canterbury Tales, one of the greatest literary works written in the English language. The book is comprised of a series of short stories that the pilgrims told to entertain each other during their travels.

Still today, the Cathedral is the main highlight of a trip to Canterbury, though it’s certainly not the city’s only attraction. When you’re done gazing up at the tall vaulted ceiling, don’t forget to head down into the underground crypt to see the frescoes there.

St. Martin’s Church, St. Augustine’s Abbey and the last remaining tower of the city’s medieval fortifications are also worthy of your time and are all easily explored on foot, as the historical city centre is quite compact. For lunch, head to the Lady Luck, a rock ‘n’ roll pub that offers both meaty and vegan versions of typical pub food. The Goods Shed, an indoor farmer’s market, is also a great place to eat in Canterbury .

How to do a day trip from London to Canterbury by train?

London to Canterbury Train: London Victoria Station to Canterbury West Station in 1 hour 15 minutes is the quickest London to Canterbury train route.

London to Canterbury Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: The Nomadic Vegan

Bath is a charming English city that be visited on an easy day trip from London. The city is perfect to visit on a day trip as it is small and walkable.

Bath is best known for its namesake: the historic Roman Baths. The Roman Baths date back to around 60 AD, when they were used for public bathing up until the 5th century. You can’t enter the water when visiting the Baths; however, you can tour the historic site and taste the spa water – it doesn’t taste very good, but it’s said to have healing properties. If you’d like to take a dip in hot spa water, check out the Thermae Bath Spa that is located next door.

Another must-see attraction in Bath is Bath Abbey, the city’s beautiful parish church. The Gothic church is made of golden Bath stone, along with most other buildings in Bath. After exploring the Abbey, spend some time wandering around the city to admire its gorgeous architecture. The Bath Circus is a unique, historic street full of townhouses made of Bath stone and is a classic example of Georgian architecture.

Bath is a gorgeous city that is worth visiting on a day trip from London. If you’re short on time, you can even do a combined Bath and Stonehenge day trip !

How to do a day trip from London to Bath by train?

London to Bath Train: London Paddington Station to Bath Station in 1 hour 20 minutes is the quickest London to Bath train route.

London to Bath Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: A World in Reach

7. Birmingham

Birmingham is ideal for a quick train trip from London to explore.  Despite being England’s second-largest city, Birmingham can be overlooked as a destination but it has so much to offer for a variety of interests and needs.

With frequent and affordable train tickets to get you there, lots to do and see, it might just surprise you and become a more regular choice for eating, drinking and sightseeing from London.

Arguably the best train station in the UK, Birmingham New Street is modern, functional, a stunning work of architecture and right in the centre, making the entire city accessible on foot from the moment you step off the train. In fact ‘The Bullring’ is one of the places recommended to visit on the itinerary of any day trip to Birmingham; three levels of food court and retail stores is handy and fun to wander around but by no means the extent of the trip. 

Head out to find boutique stores as well as cafes and restaurants with servings as delicious as they are instagrammable. Foodies will have heard of the Michelin famed restaurants, but shouldn’t fail to drop into the more affordable spots, often family-run with fresh and inspiring menus – a firm favourite of locals and visitors being the cafe Faculty . 

For those with a cultural bent, the city centre’s architecture is diverse. While making a beeline for the canal, don’t miss the Library of Birmingham for its striking modern theme right by the classical, art deco structures of Centenary Square, in turn, a short stroll from the landmark Victorian construction now home to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

How to do a day trip from London to Birmingham by train?

London to Birmingham Train: London Euston Station to Birmingham New Street Station in 1 hour 20 minutes is the quickest London to Birmingham train route.

London to Birmingham Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Generation Avocado

The historic city of Durham  is one of the great day trips from London by train. Don’t be put off by the 3-hour journey – the East Coast mainline is a scenic route, passing through rolling countryside and the historic city of York en route to Durham.

Once in Durham, there is no further need for transport as the train drops you right to the edge of the city centre. Start your visit at the 11th century, UNESCO World Heritage Durham Cathedral whose exteriors cloisters were used as a location for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies. The cathedral is a mix of Norman and Romanesque architecture and has splendid stained glass windows. Opposite the cathedral is the multi-angular Durham Castle. Tours of the Castle are by pre-booking only.

Descend the cobbled, pedestrianised lanes lined with boutique shops into the small city’s main square and visit the Victorian indoor market or St Nicolas Church. If you have time, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the River Wear before heading back to the station for your relaxing train ride back to London.

How to do a day trip from London to Durham by train?

London to Durham Train: London Kings Cross Station to Durham Station in 3 hours is the quickest London to Durham train route.

London to Durham Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Best in York Guide

Hop on the train in central London and get off two hours later in the historic city of York . Wander the cobbled lanes that inspired Joanne K Rowling’s famous Harry Potter books, indulge in York’s sweet, chocolatey history and immerse yourself in medieval architecture.

It is easy to see the best of York in one day, but make sure you arrive early to maximise your time in the city. The train station is just outside the medieval city wall and from the station it is just a 5-minute walk to Micklegate – one of the four main gates to enter the Old Town of York.

The first order of the day: climb the city wall at Micklegate. You can walk the entire circumference of the wall, but the section north of Micklegate is particularly beautiful. Soon after you cross the River Ouse, descend into the city to visit York Minster, an iconic Gothic cathedral with vast stained glass windows.

From there, make your way through the maze of York’s cobbled lanes. Don’t miss addresses like Stonegate, Coffee Yard and Davygate. Stop at Betty’s Tea Rooms to treat yourself to their famous fondant fancies. But the best is yet to come: York’s famous Shambles, a lane filled with quirky shops, that is said to be the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

One of my favourite things to do in York is a tour at York’s Chocolate Story – a museum dedicated to York’s history as the chocolate capital of England. Of course, there are also plenty of tasters available and you will be able to make your own chocolate lolly at the end of the tour.

Make your way back to the city wall to continue your walk back towards Micklegate and the train station.

How to do a day trip from London to York by train?

London to York Train: London Kings Cross Station to York Station in 1 hour  50 minutes is the quickest London to York train route.

London to York Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Watch Me See

Recommended York Tours

Book a York River Sightseeing Cruise or River Lunch Cruise so you can see more of the city in just one day!

10. Winchester

Winchester is a charming historic city, England’s ancient capital where King Alfred the Great resided. Today, Winchester is one of the most desirable places to live in England and the house prices dually reflect that.

The city is situated in Hampshire, only an hour away from London on a train. The city’s most prominent landmark is 11th century Winchester Cathedral, which is one of the largest in Europe! When you’re in Winchester, make sure you visit the Winchester College, the oldest public school in England and a place where Harry Potter and Les Miserables were filmed! Have you heard about King Arthur and his knights? Well, the Great Hall in Winchester housed his Round Table for 700 years.

Winchester has many great, traditional English pubs where you can have a pint of a locally brewed beer to accompany a mouth-watering roast dinner. And if you’re a fan of nature, Winchester offers very picturesque riverside walks.

A perfect time to visit Winchester is before Christmas when the city is bustling with Christmas markets selling quality crafts, and there is an impressive ice ring next to the Cathedral, making Winchester one of the best day trips from London by train in winter.

How to do a day trip from London to Winchester by train?

London to Winchester Train: London Waterloo Station to Winchester Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Winchester train route.

London to Winchester Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Raw Mal Roams

11. St Albans

St Albans is a charming English city which can be easily reached by rail meaning it’s one the quick train trips from London on offer.

The main point creating the panorama of the city is the city’s cathedral The Cathedral and Abbey Church of Saint Alban, whose architecture is a mixture of many different eras. Its large tower was built of bricks from the ruins of the Roman city located in the past in the area of today’s St. Albans.

St Albans stands out not only because of the beautiful city cathedral. The rich history of this city can also be seen in beautiful medieval architecture.

In addition, numerous green areas, parks and water reservoirs are a great place for an afternoon walk, and the bike paths around the town definitely encourage active leisure. There is also Ye Olde Fighting Cocks – the oldest pub in Great Britain!

How to do a day trip from London to St Albans by train?

London to St Albans Train: London St Pancras Station to St Albans City Station in 17 minutes is the quickest London to St Albans train route.

London to St Albans  Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Darek and Gosia

12. Manchester

If you are looking to discover a whole new side of England, Manchester will be the perfect place and a London to Manchester day trip is easy to do!

There are free walking tours running every day at 11:00 am. The tour lasts 3 hours and is the perfect way to discover the city. Manchester is the third biggest city in the UK however the city centre itself is quite small and easily navigable.

On the walking tour, you will get to discover the history of Manchester, the gay village, the cathedral, Alan Turing Memorial, the story of Vimto and plenty more!

If you want to grab a drink or see some amazing murals, head to Northern Quarter! This hipster neighbourhood is to Manchester what Shoreditch is to London! You will find many bars, restaurants and pubs. If you walk around, you will also get to discover the best of Manchester’s street art.

Manchester was mainly built during the Industrial Revolution. There are still many warehouses all around the city which is why it’s very often chosen as a movie filming location. Some parts of Peaky Blinders, for example, were filmed by the canals in the city centre!

How to do a day trip from London to Manchester by train?

London to Manchester Train: London Euston Station to Manchester Picadilly Station in 2 hours 5 minutes is the quickest London to Manchester train route.

London to Manchester Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Bee Loved City

Recommended Manchester Tours

Book tickets to Manchester Football Museum or a City River Cruise so you can see more of the city in just one day!

13. Coventry

Coventry is one of the most historically significant cities in the United Kingdom. With so much history, as well as a wealth of cafés, restaurants, shops and parks, Coventry is an excellent day trip from London for both adults and children alike.

During the industrial revolution, Coventry stood at the forefront of both invention and creation for the British travel industry. Britain’s first bicycle factory, the inventor of the jet engine and London’s famous black cabs are all the products of Coventry, and they are extensively covered in the exemplary Coventry Transport Museum.

Coventry was also one of the most bombed cities in England during World War 2. Because of this, many of the buildings that stand today are only 80 years old, though many were built as replicas of the ones that were destroyed in the blitz. As you wander amongst the streets, one of the fun things to do in Coventry is to try and guess which Victoria-era building is new and which is historic!

One of the main losses to the German Luftwaffe was the original Coventry Cathedral – only the spire and the outer shell. Following its reconstruction, visitors to the cathedral grounds can walk amongst the ruins of the original building, and enjoy the multicoloured, avant-garde architecture of the newly constructed main building. Those energetic enough can also ascend the 180+ spiral stairs to the top of the old bell tower and be rewarded with a commanding view of the city.

How to do a day trip from London to Coventry by train?

London to Coventry Train: London Euston Station to Coventry Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Coventry train route.

London to Coventry Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Cultura Obscura

14. Windsor

The historic royal town of Windsor is one of the best places to spend a day outside of London absorbed by its history and heritage.

Of course, you cannot ever visit Windsor without visiting the castle. Tickets are priced around £21 but valid for a full 12 months so you can always return as many times as you like before the expiry date. When the Royal Standard flag is flying then that indicates the Queen is in residence. Visiting the castle is very rewarding in itself to visit the various ornately decorated rooms of the Upper Ward.

What is also very interesting is to see a room dedicated to all sorts of pottery and ceramics bearing the royal arms and those that were gifts to the House of Windsor from abroad. Other rooms like the armoury room are also fascinating to see historical metal knight suits from centuries ago.

Further into the town of Windsor itself feels like one of those great snapshots of old England exploring glorious narrow cobbled streets that play host to some delightful stores such as the Crooked House which is one of many great places for a glorious afternoon tea. Taking a stroll over the bridge to the other side of the Thames is the neighbouring town of Eton, most famous for one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious boarding schools.

On the other side of Windsor, there is nothing more rewarding than a long walk through the Long Walk (no pun intended, surely?) that marks the boundaries of Windsor Great Park. This is one of the best places you will ever see hundreds of mostly red deer roaming along the grass.

Standing proudly on the end is the statue of King George III on horseback and here the path intersects into different sections of the park such as the Savill Garden (tickets needed for this) but also the nature reserve by Virginia Water and its instantly recognisable Totem Pole and also Valley Gardens where the azaleas and rhododendrons bloom beautifully in the Spring.

How to do a day trip from London to Windsor by train?

London to Windsor Train: London Paddington Station to Windsor and Eton Riverside Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Windsor train route.

London to Windsor Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Journey Maxx

Recommended Windsor Tours

Book tickets for Windsor Castle in advance and the Windsor Hop on Hop off Bus so you can see more of the city in just one day!

Day Trips from London by Train to Beaches

15. brighton.

Not every city has a nice central station, but Brighton does and it’s a nice stroll from the beach, with a network of smaller local stations taking you to the city’s other suburbs too (Portslade, Brighton London Road etc are all local stations). It couldn’t be easier to get around and is much easier than trying to get a parking spot which is why a London to Brighton day trip by train is ideal.

Perfect for a sunny day by the seaside, for things to do in Brighton , you can have a lot of retro fun on the pier, and, if the weather isn’t in your favour, the Lanes are an awesome place to shop. There’s no better place to hunt for antiques, kitsch and unique items or vintage . A sky-high ride in the British Airways i360 also gives you a bird’s eye view of the whole city.

The other thing that makes this a perfect day trip from London is the beautiful Pavilion, also centrally located to the south of the Lanes and close to some great restaurants. Its gardens are a lovely place for a walk, inside is a well-presented museum and you can take some fabulous photos here.

How to do a day trip from London to Brighton by train?

London to Brighton Train: London Victoria Station to Brighton Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Brighton train route.

London to Brighton Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Live in 10 Countries

Recommended Brighton Tours

Book tickets for the Brighton i360 in advance or the City Hop on Hop off Bus a so you can see more of the city in just one day!

16. Margate

When you’re in the heart of London, with all the people and traffic and concrete, it’s easy to forget that the coast is just a short train ride away. And one of the easiest and best places to get to is Margate from London by train .

Despite being so close, it’s much quieter and less well-known than places like Brighton and Eastbourne. Being so small, the train station is only about two minutes’ walk from the beach, and it’s really easy to explore on foot for a few hours or a day out.

As well as being convenient, Margate is also really cute, with loads of pretty streets full of pastel-painted houses and vintage shops. There’s a thriving artistic community producing unique fashion, art or furniture designs for you to buy or just simply browse.

The beach is enormous and has actual sand! And there are loads of independent boutiques and cafés to chill out in. So wait for a sunny day, pack your sun cream and hat, hop on the train and enjoy some fresh sea air and traditional fish’n’chips on the beach before you return to London.

How to do a day trip from London to Margate by train?

London to Margate Train: London St Pancras Station to Margate Station in 1 hour 30 minutes is the quickest London to Margate train route.

London to Margate Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Passport and Pixels

17. Eastbourne

If you are looking to leave the city and escape to the English coast for the day, Eastbourne is definitely a town to check out. This resort town is known for its historic pier, a charming boardwalk, long pebble beach, and numerous days of sunshine each year! There is actually quite a bit to do in Eastbourne over the course of a day – much of it on the “relaxed” side.

Among them, a stroll along the waterfront is a great place to start. Here, Victorian-style hotels line the boardwalk. You can even grab a drink with a view if you choose. The boardwalk is often lined with small vendors selling arts and crafts, antiques, and even food. If you are lucky, you might catch a performance at the beachside Bandstand which was built back in the 1930s!

Of course, the famous Eastbourne Pier is also worth a visit. Built back in the late 1800s, the historic pier is free to enter and you’ll find food, souvenirs, and great views all around. Back on shore, the beach itself is also great. The tiny stones are surprisingly comfortable. If you bring a bathing suit, you can go for a dip in the water between the wooden wave breakers (called groynes). Of course, if you are in Eastbourne, you could also head just outside town for a hike along the famous white chalk cliffs known as the “Seven Sisters”.

Overall, it’s very simple to get to Eastbourne by train – just head south from London Victoria Station. Once you arrive in Eastbourne, the train station is located at the northwest end of the city centre. You can walk through the main pedestrian mall and past the restaurants all the way to the beloved boardwalk and pier in about 15 minutes!

How to do a day trip from London to Eastbourne by train?

London to Eastbourne Train: London Victoria Station to Eastbourne Station in 1 hour 20 minutes is the quickest London to Eastbourne train route.

London to Eastbourne Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Penguin and Pia

18. Whitstable

The small but charming harbour town of Whitstable is located on the north coast of Kent and is an easy day trip from London by train. The town itself is fairly compact so can easily be explored in a day by foot, and the train station is just a short walk to all the main sights.

Whitstable is very famous for its incredible seafood scene and is a great spot for foodies. You’ll find several small oyster shacks down by the harbour and along the beachfront, or for a more indulgent lunch, head to the Lobster Shack restaurant for an amazing shellfish platter feast!

After indulging in all the seafood delights make your way over to the Old Neptune which is one of the most popular pubs in town. It is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy a delicious pint of locally brewed beer with a beautiful sea view.

Other things you can do in Whitstable include taking a walk along the coast which is lined with colourful beach huts or visit the main high street which is filled with cute boutique shops, galleries and cafes.

How to do a day trip from London to Whitstable by train?

London to Whitstable Train: London St Pancras Station to Whitstable Station in 1 hour 15 minutes is the quickest London to Whitstable train route.

London to Whitstable Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: CK Travels

Dover is a coastal town and home to an impressive hilltop castle and iconic white cliffs.

The first place you will want to stop during your London to Dover day trip is Dover Castle. One of Britain’s most stunning fortresses, Dover Castle was originally built as a fortification in the 11th century. Here you can watch a jousting tournament, spend some time at the Great Tower and take a walk through the medieval tunnels.

Make sure to climb the spiral staircase to the very top of the Great Tower where you can enjoy some epic views across the channel to France. Visiting the Great Tower is the highlight of any day trip to Dover!

After leaving the Castle, you may go for a scenic walk and look up at the white chalk cliffs that make up the White Cliffs of Dover . The eight-mile stretch offers a gorgeous view of the Channel from the top and sandy beaches from the bottom. If you have some time on your hands, consider visiting Fan Bay Deep Shelter, South Foreland Lighthouse, and Mrs Knotts Tearoom. These attractions can provide the most exciting travel experience in Dover.

How to do a day trip from London to Dover by train?

London to Dover Train: London St Pancras Station to Dover Priory Station in 1 hour 30 minutes is the quickest London to Dover train route.

London to Dover Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Mind The Travel

Recommended Dover Tours

Book Dover Castle tickets in advance or a day trip to the White Cliffs of Dover so you can see more of the city in just one day!

20. Seven Sisters

The Seven Sisters are a chain of chalk cliffs stretching from Cuckmere Haven to Birling Gap in East Sussex, England. The best way to experience this natural wonder is by walking the 21.9 km coastal trail from Seaford to Eastbourne in East Sussex which can be done in one day from London.

When you arrive at the Seaford train station, head directly to the sea. Follow the seaside promenade to the eastern end of the beach. From here, locate the coastal trail ascending ever so gently in the direction of Cuckmere Haven. As you progress, the views of the Seven Sisters unfold marvellously.

The Seven Sisters cliffs path is very straightforward, hugging the coast almost the whole time. The only time you depart the coast is when you walk inland along the Cuckmere River to Cuckmere Inn, in order to cross the water safely during high tide.

Check out the map in this Seven Sisters Cliffs trail guide for a visual overview of the trail and tips on where to eat.

How to do a day trip from London to Seven Sisters Cliffs by train?

London to Seaford Train: London Victoria Station to Seaford Sussex Station in 1 hour 25 minutes is the quickest London to Seaford train route.

London to Seaford Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Moon & Honey Travel

Day Trips from London by Train to Cities to the Countryside

21. peak district.

The UK’s first National Park, the Peak District, is a perfect place to visit from London by train.

The journey from London to Sheffield is only two hours followed by another half an hour to Hope station and from there it is a 5-minute taxi journey to the beautiful  village of Castleton .  If you start your day early this gives you enough time to experience everything the village has to offer.

Start by hiking the famous “Shivering Mountain” also known as Mam Tor, and enjoy incredible vistas of most of the National Park from the Great Ridge. Then explore Speedwell Cavern, one the best show caves in the UK, or try your hand at rock climbing or mountain biking around the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.

End the day by wandering around the charming village of Castleton, admiring the quaint stone houses and satisfy your appetite by stopping at one of the traditional tea rooms or local pubs for a traditional British meal.

How to do a day trip from London to the Peak District by train?

London to Peak District Train: London St Pancras Station to Hope (Derbyshire) Station in 2 hours 33 minutes is the quickest London to Peak District train route.

London to Peak District Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: The Wanderlust Within

22. New Forest

The New Forest National Park is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the capital.

If you want to go hiking near London , there are several trails in the area that offer scenic routes. Spotting wild horses, deers and jays on them is also a common occurrence. Brockenhurst is a great base as it has good public transport links, campsites, cycle hire facilities, horse riding schools and pubs and cafes. The area is very bike-friendly with good infrastructure.

At the outskirts of Brockenhurst, you can find the Lymington River, which is great for wild swimming. In the summer it is a popular picnic spot among families, as the shallow river provides a safe place for the children to splash around. The locals also put up rope swings at many places to have fun making this one of the great day trips from London by train in Summer.

The area provides many different activities for all ages. If you enjoy spending your time outdoors and get close to nature, then this place is for you!

How to do a day trip from London to New Forest by train?

London to New Forest Train: London Waterloo Station to Brockenhurst Station in 1 hour 30 minutes is the quickest London to New Forst train route.

London to New Forest Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Travel Hacker Girl

23. Box Hill

Box Hill is a rural area and National Trust site, and though it is so easy to reach from London, it has a real countryside feel. While it may be a bit busier than nature spaces further afield, it’s stalwart when it comes to finding somewhere calm and beautiful just a stone’s throw from the city.

Part of the Surrey Hills, Box Hill is popular with hikers, cyclists, trail runners and motorbikers, as well as those just wanting to enjoy a picnic and a fantastic view of a green, undulating landscape.

There is a fantastic 8 mile circular walk which is signposted all the way and easy to follow. The terrain can be challenging, with steep hills, uneven ground, and lots of steps. However, you will be rewarded with woodland replete with wildlife, and some stunning pastoral views.

There are several pubs around for a hearty hot meal; a highlight is The Stepping Stones which has a wide selection of food and a big beer garden.

If you’re not a big hiker, Box Hill is also popular with Jane Austen fans. The author was very fond of the area, which featured in her novel ‘Emma’ so you might be happier sitting on the top of the hill with a book and a glass of fizz.

For centuries, Londoners have been using Box Hill as a place for respite from the city, and today is no different. Jump on the train and discover what this bucolic patch of Surrey has to offer.

How to do a day trip from London to Box Hill by train?

London to Box Hill Train: London Waterloo Station to Box Hill & Westhumble Station in 50 minutes is the quickest London to Box Hill train route.

London to Box Hill Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Seannas World

Day Trips from London by Train to Europe

I know, visiting Paris as a day trip sounds insane, but hear me out. I’d never recommend visiting the City of Lights for just a few hours if it’s your first visit, but if you’ve been to Paris before, and you have a day to spare from London, do consider going back because Paris works as one of the few Eurostar day trips from London.

I’m sure you’ve seen the landmarks, so head to the unexplored neighbourhoods, as Belleville. You’ll find amazing street art, cosy cafés, and cool aperitif spots. Don’t miss Belvédère de Belleville to get incredible views of Paris, including a surprising open view of the Eiffel Tower.

Even if you’ve already wandered around Montmartre, go back during your day trip to Paris from London to get lost in the little alleyways, and do some people watching from a wine bar. Or explore a bit more of Le Marais and stop to recharge in one of its famous creperies.

You can even take a class to learn some French specialities! From croissants to macarons, you can eat the day away. You’ll find plenty of options around the Latin Quarter.

Paris hides many treasures, and a quick day devoted to living like a Parisian (instead of running around checking landmarks off a list) will allow you to discover one or two and makes it an enjoyable day trip to Europe from London.

How to do a day trip from London to Paris by train?

London to Paris Train: London St Pancras Station to Paris Gare Du Nord Station in 2 hours 15 minutes is the quickest London to Paris train route.

London to Paris Train Tickets: Buy Eurostar tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Experiencing the Globe

Recommended Paris Tours

Book Fast Track tickets to the Louvre and a  1 hour River Seine Cruise so you can see more of the city in just one day!

25. Brussels

A day trip to Brussels in Belgium from London? Well, this might be surprising to you, but we assure you that it is doable.

Brussels is a popular Eurostar day trip from London because you can easily reach Brussels within two hours, which gives you one day to experience the Belgian capital to the fullest  – meaning eating lots of fries, drinking good beer and finishing off with the sweetest waffles you ever had in your life.

Brussels is great for a day trip as it has both, a beautiful old town with cute cobblestoned alleys and a picturesque square and a modern part, where important political institutions such as the EU is based. Apart from that, the restaurant scene in Brussels is simply stunning.

Not only has Brussels some of the best beer in the world, but it has also a great density of restaurants and food stalls that can easily be tested one after another.

Eurostar day trips from London by train

How to do a day trip from London to Brussels by train?

London to Brussels Train: London St Pancras to Bruxelles-Midi Station in 2 hours is the quickest London to Brussels train route.

London to Brussels Train Tickets: Buy Eurostar tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Travellers Archive

Recommended Brussels Tours

Book a Chocolate Tasting Tour in Brussels and the Mini Europe Admission ticket in advance so you can see more of the city in just one day!

Lille in France is a great destination to visit on a day trip from London by train. Despite this is an international trip, a London to Lille day trip is only a 1.5 hour-ride with Eurostar trains making it one of the quickest Eurostar day trips from London by train.

Lille is the capital of the region Hauts-de –France, and it is a cultural and lively city very easy to explore on a day trip.

Lille and its surrounding area are quite different from the picture we all have of France. For many centuries, Lille was a prosperous merchant town of the County of Flanders, that’s why the city’s architecture is similar to the architecture of cities like Brussels or Amsterdam.

Lille’s train station is quite central so from there you can get around on foot. Admire the elegant Grand Place, with its 17th-century brick houses, this is Vieux Lille’s beating heart. Then wander around the cobbled streets to get the essence of this beautiful city, and stop at a café-terrace for brunch while watching life go by.

Later, you can walk up to the Citadel designed by Vauban for more beautiful architecture and green spaces before taking the train back to London.

How to do a day trip from London to Lille by train?

London to Lille Train: London St Pancras Station to Lille EuropeStation in 1 hour 20 minutes is the quickest London to Lille train route.

London to Lille Train Tickets: Buy Eurostar tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: World in Paris

Recommended Lille Tours

Book a Lille City Tour and Lille Town Hall tickets in advance so you can see more of the city in just one day!

You should now have so many ideas for train trips from London, hopefully, you can take as many adventures from London now and see more of the UK without needing to hire a car!

• For more ideas on where to visit in and around London see:
• The Best Alternative Day Trips from London
• All my London Posts
• All my UK Posts

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13 BEST Day Trips from London by Train

From the roman city of bath to the wilds of the new forest, there are so many amazing day trips from london by train to discover.

Honestly, when I’m in London, I am 100% not using a car. Whether it’s riding on the Tube, hailing a taxi, or just wandering around the city centre, driving is not something I’m likely to do.

So, when I want to get outside of the city for the day, I rely on the train. Over the years, I’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from London by train. Maybe you want to hit the beach? Perhaps you want to dive into history? Or maybe you want to check out a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Within a couple of hours’ ride from London, you can do all of that!

Some of my favourite train trips from London include heading into the picturesque Cotswolds regions, hiking the Seven Sisters near Dover, and even casting a spell or two at the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

The best part? You can hop on a train, enjoy the scenic journey through the English countryside, and be back in London in time for a West End show or a late-night stroll along the Thames. The accessibility of these day trips is what makes them truly special—it’s like having a variety of mini adventures right at your doorstep.

So, with that in mind, let’s check out the best train trips from London. Hopefully this blog post will help you with planning your next day trip.

Day trips from London by train

Hampton court palace.

Looking to check out the palace where King Henry VIII used to reign supreme? This London day trip favourite is always popular with history buffs visiting the capital thanks to the beautiful architecture, art, and knowledgeable guides. It’s also a super easy train ride from the centre of London. 

In fact, it’s just a 45-minute ride from London Waterloo Station directly to Hampton Court Palace train station and from there, it’s only around a five-minute walk to the palace gates. Day trips from London by train don’t come much easier than this!

If you’re heading to Hampton Court, you can pick up your tickets here beforehand.

Harry Potter Studio Tours

Want to experience the magic in front of and behind the camera? Well then, a visit to the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford is a must. Filled with memorabilia, props, sets, and costumes from the films, it’s every fan’s dream. 

To get to the studios, you’ll journey for about 20 minutes from London Euston Station to Watford Junction, and then jump on the 15-minute shuttle to the studio. The bonus is that the shuttle is actually designed like the famous Knight Bus, so the experience starts before you even arrive. All aboard!

This legendary Roman city is a beautiful train trip from London as it’s only 90 minutes from London Paddington Station. Home to the Roman Baths UNESCO World Heritage Site, stunning architecture, and the home of the iconic author, Jane Austen, there’s certainly a little something for everyone on a day trip to Bath.

You can easily spend a full weekend here, but with the regular train routes back to the capital that run relatively late, you can definitely enjoy a full day running around this historic city.

The Seven Sisters

As one of the UK’s most iconic sights, the Seven Sisters white chalky cliffs near Dover are an easy train trip from London. You can travel from London Victoria Station and get off at Eastbourne, allowing you to wander along the coastline and see the Seven Sisters in all their glory. 

Trains to Eastbourne take around an hour and 25 minutes from London, and then you can enjoy a stunning coastal hike to your final destination!

Windsor Castle

Love royal history or are you just a fan of insanely old castles? Well, Windsor Castle is one of the King’s royal residences and is over 900 years old. This impressive palace has played host to royal weddings, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s.

Windsor Castle is super popular at pretty much any time of the year, so I definitely recommend getting your tickets in advance . This will also let you know when the royal family are in residence, as you might not be able to access the full castle and grounds. Travel-wise, Windsor Castle is around an hour from London Waterloo station. 

If you’re looking to check out another bustling city, journey between one and a half to two hours from London Paddington Station to Bristol. Home to the impressive Clifton Suspension Bridge, a bustling independent food and drink scene, and a fun and thriving waterfront, Bristol is an ideal day trip from London by train. 

Make sure you take time to check out all the street art around the city, after all, the city is the hometown of famous artist, Banksy!

Leeds Castle

This next train trip from London is a little more complicated to get to, but if you’re visiting Kent, you can’t leave without checking out Leeds Castle . Get the 50-minute train from London Bridge to Maidstone and then jump on a short 20-minute bus ride to the gates of Leeds Castle.

With a super cool hedge maze, museum, lake, and more, this Norman Castle is a popular day trip for a good reason. Again, I’d recommend booking your ticket in advance , especially during the school holidays.   

Looking for a fun day at the seaside? Well, you’ll be hard-pushed to find a better day trip than Brighton . Located on the south coast around an hour from either London Victoria Station or London Bridge Station, Brighton is always bustling with things to do.

From the opulent and historic Brighton Palace Pier to the popular waterfront and beach to the dozens of independent boutiques and restaurants, you’re really spoiled for choice here!

Warwick Castle

If you’re looking for a train trip from London that’s a little further north, jump on the train to Warwick Castle. You can get a one hour and 45-minute train from London Marylebone to Warwick and then walk to the castle gates.

With the original parts of the castle stemming back to 1068, Warwick Castle has seen a lot of bloody battles, royalty, and history along the way. Nowadays, you can experience archery, falconry shows, renactments of medieval battles, and many more. It’s the perfect family-friendly day trip, but again, book way in advance !

As one of the academic heartlands of England, Oxford is a beautiful and architecturally stunning city to visit. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan who wants to visit the real Great Hall or you’re in love with the His Dark Materials series, Oxford has inspired a lot of writers and academics over the years.

Oxford is actually really easy to get to on a day trip from London by train. Depending on which is closer or more convenient, you can get a train from either from Marylebone Station or Paddington Station, and both routes are around an hour. 

The New Forest

Need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get back to the nature? Well, a day trip to the New Forest is going to be right up your street. You can get a 90-minute train from London Waterloo station to Brockenhurst, in the heart of the New Forest.

With tons of wildlife, walking routes, and museums in the area, you can easily have a fun-filled day surrounded by tranquil greenery.  Keep in mind that the National Park is huge and spreads all the way down to the coastline, so make a plan of the areas you want to visit first!

When you think of quintessential English towns and villages, the image that comes up is probably of the Cotswolds . Located just an hour and 40 minutes from London Paddington Station, the Cotswolds is the perfect quaint escape from the city. With chocolate box cottages, hiking and walking routes and plenty of cosy pubs to warm up in, it’s an amazing day out for the whole family.

In fact, the Cotswolds is actually an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you might want to bring your camera with you! It’s also rumoured that parts of the Cotswolds inspired J.R.R Tolkien when he was writing The Lord of the Rings!

Stratford-Upon-Avon

If you’re a literature lover then you have to carve out time in your itinerary to visit Stratford-Upon-Avon. This small town in the Midlands is known for basically one thing and that’s being the home of the iconic playwright, William Shakespeare.

Located around two and a half hours from London Marylebone Station, Stratford-Upon-Avon is home to the Royal Shakespeare Company who perform works of the Bard all year round. It’s a prestigious theatre and has featured actors like Dame Judi Dench, Sir Ian McKellen, and David Tennant to name just a few! Check out the RSC website ahead of time to find out what’s on while you’re in the area!

So, there you have it, the 13 best day trips from London by train. Where are your favourite day trips from London without a car? Let me know in the comments below!

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12 Best Day trips from London by train (+logistics, tips & maps)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 13, 2023

Are you planning to take some day trips from London by train but unsure where to go? Discover 12 of the very best places to visit by rail including practical tips, logistics, and things to do and see in each destination.

What better way to explore some of the most beautiful cities , towns, landmarks and attractions of England than to hop on a train from London for a day trip? While there are lots of sights and places to keep you busy in London we recommend (if you have time) adding some of these day trips into your itinerary.

With numerous destinations and places to go by train from London, how do you pick the right one/s for you?

In this guide, we have chosen 12 of the very best places to visit on a day trip by train from London. These are our top picks of the best tourist destinations, landmarks and sights you can visit on a one day trip from London.

If you prefer to avoid public transport discover our choice of the best day trips you can take from London on a tour.

To help plan your day we have included logistics and practical information about how to travel to each destination – which London station to depart from, the length of the journey, and the very best things to do and see in one day at each of the places.

You will also find a helpful map showing the location of each destination and route of each of these London day trips by train.

Good to know – if you plan to make multiple train trips from London it may be cost-effective to purchase a BritRail London Plus Pass which is valid on rail services in the South East of England. The BritRail London Plus pass is ideal for short journeys outside of London. Click here for more information about BritRail passes.

If you are pushed for time or nervous about travelling outside of London by train the best option for you may be to take a tour. Tours often visit several places so you can see more and make the most of your time especially if you have a limited number of days.

Find out more in our guide to the best day tours from London which includes the most popular tourist and sightseeing destinations including how to visit Harry Potter Studios from London .

Guide to UK Train Travel

Quick picks – summary of train trips from london.

• One day in Oxford (Must see Oxford attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Oxford by train

• One day in Cambridge (Must see Cambridge attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Cambridge by train

One day in the cotswolds (must-see cotswold attractions), logistics – how to get from london to moreton-in-marsh by train.

• One day in Winchester (Must see Winchester attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Winchester by train

• One day in Windsor (Must see Windsor attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Windsor by train

• One day in St Albans (Must see St Albans attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to St Albans by train

• One day in Brighton (Must see Brighton attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Brighton by train

• One day in Bath (Must see Bath attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Bath by train

• One day in Bristol (Must see Bristol attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Bristol by train

• One day in Salisbury (Must see Salisbury attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Salisbury by train

• One day in Canterbury (Must see Canterbury attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Canterbury by train

• One day in Stratford-upon-Avon (Must see Stratford attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Stratford by train

Guide to uk train travel, how can i save money on train travel in the uk, more train travel suggestions for the uk, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks).

Are you excited but nervous about travelling by train in the UK? We have written a book to help you!

Our guide includes practical tips and information to ensure you make the most of your UK rail adventure (including where and how to buy tickets, information for your day of travel and 12 ‘done for you’ UK rail itineraries.)

You can read more about our ebook here.

Good for – History | Architecture | Harry Potter fans

A journey time of just over an hour makes Oxford the perfect destination for an easy one-day train trip from London.

Once in Oxford, you will find the main attractions all located in the compact and very walkable city centre. Known as the “City of Spires” due to its beautiful skyline enjoy the beautiful architecture and fascinating history on your day trip to Oxford.

One day in Oxford ( Must see Oxford attractions )

• Oxford University

Founded in the 13th century Oxford University is one of the most famous universities in the world. Alumni include numerous international heads of state including 26 British Prime Ministers,  Nobel prize winners, famous authors, and many well-known actors.

I recommend exploring the colleges on a walking tour to soak in the scholarly atmosphere of this famous seat of learning.

Oxford University is comprised of 38 colleges varying in size from the larger Magdelen and Christ Church Colleges to the smaller colleges such as Corpus Christi and Trinity.

Fans of Harry Potter movies may recognise some of the colleges which were used as film locations for many famous scenes.

• Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest in Europe and the second-largest in the UK. It contains a collection of 12 million items – in fact, every book that has ever been printed in the UK and Ireland is located in the library!

Good to know – Most of Oxford’s walking tours include a visit to this famous library.

• Radcliffe Camera

The interestingly named Radcliffe Camera houses Oxford University’s Science Library. This neo-classical style building was built between 1737 and 1749 and is beautiful both inside and out. It comprises part of the larger Bodleian Library.

• The Covered Market 

Opened in 1774 the market houses lots of shops and stalls to browse as well as a great choice of eateries. This is the place to stop for a coffee break or a bite to eat before resuming your exploration of Oxford.

• Blenheim Palace

If you decide to spend a little longer in the city (Oxford is popular for weekend trips from London by train) I would highly recommend including a trip to Blenheim Palace in your itinerary. A short ride from Oxford by bus the palace was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is owned by the Duke of Marlborough.

Read more – Oxford Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour
• Leave from: London Paddington Station / London Marylebone

Good for – History | Architecture | A day on the river

The location of another famous university (and Oxford’s rival in the boat race each year) Cambridge is also only an hour by direct trains from London.

Cambridge is a compact city that is perfect for exploring on foot. We recommend taking a historical walking tour of the city with a University graduate where you can visit some of the most famous colleges in Cambridge and learn more about student life at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

One day in Cambridge ( Must see Cambridge attractions )

Take a punt along the River Cam. A great way to see the city and even better you can hire someone to do the punting for you so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views.

• King’s College Chapel

Home of the largest vault ceiling in the world King’s College Chapel is an absolute must-see in Cambridge.

Of particular note is the Rood Screen (a large wooden screen that separates the nave from the altar) which Henry VIII gave his 2nd bride Anne Boleyn.

• St John’s College, King’s College, Trinity College

Cambridge University like its main rival Oxford is also comprised of a number of colleges (31 to be exact)

St John’s, King’s, and Trinity College are just some of the colleges worth exploring.

Read more – Cambridge Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 49 miles / 79 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 17 mins
• Leave from: London King’s Cross/London Liverpool Street Train Station

The Cotswolds

Good for – Pretty villages | Countryside | Afternoon tea | Thatched cottages

The Cotswolds are not one place but actually an area stretching over 2000 km so if you are planning to visit from London I would recommend hiring a car and taking a road trip.

Tours of the Cotswolds are also available which include visits to most of the most picturesque and quaint towns and villages (plus include other attractions such as Oxford and Windsor on the way)

However, if you prefer to travel to what many consider England’s prettiest towns and villages independently it is possible to see some of the area by train.

The easiest destination to travel to by train from London is the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh which is located in the heart of the Cotswolds.

There are so many things to do and places to see in the Cotswolds it will be difficult to fit them all into one day. However, these are my recommendations if you arrive at Moreton-in-Marsh.

• Market Day (Tuesday)

Arrive on a Tuesday and the town will be bustling with its weekly market. Enjoy a stroll through the market and purchase a souvenir or gift in one of the many shops before partaking in tea and cake at one of the many quaint cafes and teahouses.

• Batsford Arboretum

Located 1.5 miles west of the town the arboretum is full of rare and endangered species from around the world. Tip – if you are visiting the area in spring don’t miss the Japanese cherry blossoms.

• Chipping Campden

Located a short bus ride from Moreton is the pretty medieval Cotswold town of Chipping Campden. If honey-coloured buildings spring to mind when you think of the Cotswolds you will find them in abundance here. The famous Cotswolds Way also stretches for 100 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath but you will need a week to do that!

Read more – Cotswold Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 90 miles / 140 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 40 mins
• Leave from: London Paddington Train Station

Good for – Architecture | History | Monuments | Literary connections

Winchester is home to one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Founded in 1079 the structure has been remodelled over the centuries and has Romanesque and Gothic styles throughout.

Winchester Cathedral is also famously the resting place of Jane Austen.

There is a lot to see in the cathedral including the crypt, home to Anthony Gormley’s famous sculpture Sound II, visiting Jane Austen’s grave, and admiring the Winchester Bible an 800- year-old manuscript.

One day in Winchester ( Must see Winchester attractions )

• Winchester Cathedral

As I mentioned above there is a lot to see in Winchester cathedral. I would recommend taking one of the tours to learn all about the history as it is so interesting. After his successful invasion of England William the Conquerer was crowned king in Winchester Cathedral in 1066.

Don’t miss Anthony Gormley’s sculpture Sound II in the crypt. If you are a fan of the novelist Jane Austen , who lived in Winchester, you will find her grave within the cathedral.

• The Great Hall

The Great Hall is a 13th-century aisled hall that contains one of the most iconic symbols linked to the legends of King Arthur – the Round Table.

Read more – Winchester Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 60 miles / 96 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 14 mins
• Leave from: London Waterloo

• Windsor Castle

Good for – History lovers | Fans of the Royal Family

One of the most popular destinations for visitors to London and the UK is Windsor Castle. It is one of seven magnificent castles near London which are worth a visit.

A visit to Windsor Castle is also included in many organised day tours too. If you are pushed for time and wish to combine other destinations such as Oxford and the Cotswolds we recommend booking a tour such as this one.

One day in Windsor ( Must see Windsor attractions )

Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of the Queen and also the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Look for the Royal Standard flying above the castle – it indicates that the Queen is at home.

St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle is where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wed in 2018.

Plan to spend 2 hours to visit the castle.

• Frogmore House and Gardens

This grand country house is located within the grounds of Home Park in Windsor half a mile from the castle. The house and has belonged to the royal family since the 16th century.

Many members of the Royal family including Queen Victoria are buried in at Frogmore.

The house and grounds are open to the public on certain days of the year.

Frogmore Cottage located on the grounds is the English home of Prince Harry and Meghan and is a private residence and not open to the public.

• Distance from London: 21 miles / 34 km
• Time taken by train: 55 mins 
• Leave from: London Waterloo to Eton Riverside Station 

Good for – History lovers

The market town of St Albans in Hertfordshire is the closest city to London.

St Albans is only minutes from the capital (a 20-minute train ride from London St Pancras to be exact) which makes it an easy day trip if you want to only spend a few hours out of the capital.

St Albans was the site of the Roman settlement of Verulamium and remains which can be seen today include a Roman wall, theatre and impressive mosaics.

One day in St Albans ( Must see St Albans attractions )

• St Albans Cathedral

St Albans Cathedral was built in 1077 and is the second largest cathedral in England (after Winchester) It is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in England.

Located in the cathedral is the shrine of St Alban after whom the city is named. Look for the medieval wall paintings that adorn the walls which are amongst the oldest in existence.

• Verulamium Museum

If you have an interest in Roman history visiting the Verulamium Museum is a must. Filled with an extensive collection of ancient treasures and fine mosaics you can immerse yourself in Roman life as it was in England over 2000 years ago.

• Distance from London: 19 miles / 30 km
• Time taken by train: 30 mins 
• Leave from: London St Pancras International

Good for – Shopping | History | Architecture | Art | Street art | Foodies | Seaside

Brighton is the closest city to London located on the south coast of the UK . It has buckets of charm and character and is home to the fascinating and ostentatiously beautiful Brighton Pavilion .

This is one of the most popular train rides from London especially during the summer months when city dwellers head to the coast.

Plan a full day – enjoy the sights and take a break in one of the many bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from in Brighton.

A trip to enjoy the Seven Sisters Cliffs in the South Downs National Park is popular for visitors heading to the south coast – take a tour from Brighton to see these beautiful white cliffs.

One day in Brighton ( Must see Brighton attractions )

• The Brighton Pavilion

Do not miss the chance to visit the Brighton Pavilion . Built by King George IV (during his time as Prince Regent) at a considerable cost the pavilion is opulently decorated and filled to the brim with exquisite furnishings.

Packed with plenty of restaurants, tea rooms, pubs, and shops the narrow alleyways that make up The Lanes are a shopper’s paradise.

• Brighton Palace Pier

Opened in 1899 the famous pier is 525 metres long, Grade II listed, and an iconic symbol of Brighton.

Read more – Brighton Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 47 miles / 75 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 22 mins
• Leave from: London Blackfriars/ London Victoria

Good for – Romantics | Architecture | History lovers

Although a little further away from London than some of the other day-trip destinations suggested in this post (taking on average 2 and a half hours by train) Bath is a n immensely popular destination , World Heritage Site and absolutely worth a day trip (at the very least).

Bath is also a city included in our 14-day train trip itinerary around Great Britain.

One day in Bath ( Must see Bath attractions )

• Visit the Roman Baths

Built over 2000 years ago the Roman Baths are one of England’s most popular tourist attractions. Plan at least 2 hours to explore the Roman Temple, Bath House, Sacred Spring, and museum.

The Grand Pump Room next to the Roman Baths serves refreshments including afternoon tea (book in advance)

• Admire the Royal Crescent

This row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape is officially known as the Royal Crescent . Built between 1767 and 1774 the houses are a beautiful example of Georgian architecture.

Whilst some of the houses are private residences No.1 Royal Crescent is a museum and No. 16 is the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa.

Afterwards, take a boat ride along the River Avon to admire the shop-lined Poultney Bridge.

Read more – Bath in one day (complete itinerary)

• Distance from London: 94 miles / 152 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 28 mins
• Leave from: London Paddington

Good for – Museums | Art | Street Art | Architecture

Bristol is synonymous with 2 very different famous figures – one is Isambard Kingdom Brunel who was of the most prolific mechanical and civil engineers in history and the other is the street artist and political activist known as Banksy .

One day in Bristol ( Must see Bristol attractions )

• Clifton Suspension Bridge

Designed by Brunel this 150-year-old suspension bridge is a toll bridge linking Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.   

• Bristol Shopping Quarter

Visit the Bristol Shopping Quarte r home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes, and attractions – shop, eat, drink and enjoy!

• Take a walking tour of Banksy’s art 

If you are a fan of Banksy’s work I highly recommend doing one of 3 great free walking tours written by some Bristol locals to guide you around the work. Bristol’s city walls are covered in murals too.

Read more – Bristol Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 104 miles / 167 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 49 mins

Salisbury & Stonehenge

Good for – Architecture | Stonehenge | History lovers | Market

If you are planning a London day trip by train to visit the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge your first destination will be beautiful Salisbury.

This cathedral city has a market day every Tuesday held in the city centre. Salisbury Charter Market is held outdoors in all weathers throughout the year.

One day in Salisbury ( Must see Salisbury attractions )

• Salisbury Cathedral

Not only a beautiful cathedral in its own right but also the home of one of only four Magna Carta documents in the world Salisbury Cathedral is a must-visit if you are in the city. Don’t miss the spire which is the tallest church spire in the UK.

Not far from Salisbury is one of England’s most famous and popular tourist attractions – Stonehenge . The ancient stone circle dates back thousands of years and is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments.

Good to know – There are no direct trains from London to Stonehenge. Once you arrive in Salisbury jump onto the Stonehenge Tour Bus at the train station for the transfer to Stonehenge.

Read more – A complete guide to visiting Stonehenge (and Salisbury)

• Distance from London: 79 miles / 126 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 33 mins

Good for – History |Museums | Tudor buildings

UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canterbury Cathedral was a place of Christian pilgrimage during the Middle Ages following the murder of Thomas Becket within its walls.

Founded in 597 AD Canterbury Cathedral is the headquarters of the Anglican Church .

Associated with the works of Middle Ages English poet and author Geoffrey Chaucer whose Canterbury Tales are a collection of 24 stories recounted by 30 pilgrims as they make their way to Canterbury.

One day in Canterbury ( Must see Canterbury attractions )

• Visit Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral has a long and interesting history including surviving the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII and an extensive bombing campaign during WWII.

The Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Anglican community worldwide and the Archbishop of Canterbury presides at its head.

• Stroll the medieval centre of Canterbury

The medieval centre of Canterbury is surrounded by ancient walls which were originally built by the Romans. Stroll through the medieval centre and admire its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses.

Read more – Canterbury Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 54 miles / 87 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 47 mins
• Leave from: London Charing Cross/ London St Pancras International

Stratford-upon-Avon

Good for – History | Architecture | Theatre | Lovers of Shakespeare

Stratford-upon -Avon is famous as the birthplace and home of William Shakespeare (1564-1616 )

Good to know – For those interested to learn more about Shakespeare’s connections with the town we recommend taking the hop-on-hop-off bus tour .

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon ( Must see Stratford attractions )

• Shakespeare’s birthplace

Visit the house where Shakespeare was born and raised. Located on Henley Street this is the home in which John and Mary Shakespeare raised 8 children!

• Anne Hathaway’s Cottage 

The beautiful thatched cottage was the home of Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway . Located about a mile from Stratford it is included in the hop-on-hop-off bus routes around Stratford.

• Church of the Holy Trinity

To see Shakespeare final resting place head to the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Read more – Stratford-upon-Avon Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 83 miles / 133 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 27 mins
• Leave from: London Euston/ London Marylebone

FAQs & Tips for train travel in the UK

If this is your first time travelling by train in the UK we recommend that you read our complete guide to rail travel in the UK which contains practical, no-nonsense advice.

In it, you will find the answers to some of the commonly asked questions such as:

• How and where do I purchase train tickets in the UK?
• How do I know what platform the train leaves from?
• How do I find my train carriage and seat?
• How accessible are trains in the UK?
• How will I know where to alight the train?

The guide was written by Doug Collins (one of the founders of this website) who worked in the UK rail industry for 25 years and travelled on nearly every line across the network.

Our guides to getting around London on public transport plus an article about the 9 main train stations in London (such as Kings Cross Station, Paddington Station and St Pancras International) and our complete guide to transportation options in the UK are also recommended reading.

Purchase a rail pass

Although train travel in the UK is not cheap there is a range of train passes and railcards and options available to make it more affordable for both visitors and UK residents.

Read more about the various train passes available for overseas visitors to the UK – read more about BritRail Passes here.

Purchase tickets in advance

Buy tickets as far in advance as possible as prices tend to rise near to the date of travel. Always check that there are no last-minute changes (such as train works*) on your day of travel.

I recommend buying train tickets for the UK from the trainline . They s ell tickets for all the rail companies in the UK and Europe (unlike Europe the rail network in the UK is privatised so there are numerous companies who organise trains across the UK.)

* During public holidays essential rail maintenance is completed so check before you book/ travel in case of any delays. Often the rail service is replaced by buses and this could add considerably to your travel time.

You can find more train travel inspiration for the UK in our guide to the top 10 rail journeys to take in Britain!

If you are a history lover you may also wish to visit some of the beautiful castles located near London including Windsor Castle, Warwick Castle , Dover Castle (why not see Dover’s famous white cliffs too?) or Sudeley Castle in the Cotswolds .

If you are adventurous it is possible to visit Paris (and see the Eiffel Tower or take a stroll along the Seine) from London for a day trip. This is one of the Eurostar day trips from London to consider (Amsterdam and Brussels are also possible) and while it is tiring I would say DO IT!

You can find out more about organising a trip to Paris from London in our guide here.

We also have more information about travelling on the Eurostar too.

Train strikes in April and May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, also mean some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

Thursday 11 April 2024 08:46, UK

Drivers at 16 rail companies have started a fresh wave of strikes, plus overtime bans, causing disruption to the rail network.

Update: All rail strikes have now concluded

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay and will take place across April and May.

Tube strikes planned for April and May have been called off.

In an "entirely separate dispute", ASLEF members will also strike and refuse to do overtime at LNER on specific dates in April "because of the company's failure to adhere to the agreed bargaining machinery", the union said.

LNER's alleged failure to adhere to bargaining machinery refers to it using managers to drive trains on strike days.

People are advised to check before they travel.

Here's what's happening when:

Rail strike dates

Friday 5 April

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, and CrossCountry.

Saturday 6 April

Strikes will affect Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern, and TransPennine Trains.

Monday 8 April

Strikes will affect Greater Anglia, c2c, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express, South Western Railway main line and depot drivers, and SWR Island Line.

Overtime ban dates

Thursday 4 April

Tuesday 9 April

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

LNER action dates

Members will strike on Saturday 20 April and refuse to work non-contractual overtime from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 April .

Why are the strikes happening?

ASLEF says the LNER strikes are because of "the company's persistent failure to comply with existing agreements".

Nigel Roebuck, an ASLEF organiser in the northeast, said the operator had been trying to get "every driver manager and driver instructor to work on strike days".

A spokesperson said: "LNER has used managers - paid £500 a shift - to drive trains on strike days and, after the expiry of the last non-contractual overtime agreement, on most days of the week now.

"There is no agreement in place for management to drive services on mainline infrastructure.

"It results in branch line services - such as Lincoln, Skipton, and Harrogate - being cancelled because of a lack of route knowledge and means virtually no driver training is being done."

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Mick Whelan, ASLEF general secretary, said of the rail strikes : "Last month, when we announced renewed mandates for industrial action, because under the Tories' draconian anti-union laws we have to ballot our members every six months, we called on the train companies, and the government, to come to the table for meaningful talks to negotiate a new pay deal for train drivers who have not had an increase in salary since 2019.

"Our members voted overwhelmingly - yet again - for strike action."

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A Rail Delivery Group spokesperson said: "Nobody wins when industrial action impacts people's lives and livelihoods, and we will work hard to minimise any disruption to our passengers.

"We want to resolve this dispute, but the ASLEF leadership need to recognise that hard-pressed taxpayers are continuing to contribute an extra £54m a week just to keep services running post-COVID.

"We continue to seek an agreement with the ASLEF leadership and remain open to talks to find a solution to this dispute."

When the strikes on the London Underground were announced, Finn Brennan, ASLEF's full-time organiser on the network, said in a statement: "ASLEF Tube train drivers will strike in April and May in a long-running dispute over London Underground's failure to give assurances that changes to our members' terms and conditions will not be imposed without agreement and that all existing agreements will be honoured.

"Despite a previous commitment to withdraw plans for massive changes to drivers' working conditions, London Underground management has established a full-time team of managers preparing to impose their plans.

Sadiq Khan said they had been called off after "talking and engaging with transport staff and trade unions rather than working against them".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes

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How to get around London during this week’s train strikes

Thousands of ASLEF drivers are striking this month over three dates – here’s everything you need to know about navigating the capital

Spring may have sprung but the train strikes aren’t letting up any time soon. It’s another month, another round of industrial action coming our way.

This April ASLEF train drivers will walk out for three days, affecting many national rail services in the capital.

Worried about getting around the capital during this period of industrial action? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to get around London on April’s strike days. 

RECOMMENDED: Everything we know about the London train and tube strikes

When are the April 2024 train strikes?

ASLEF train drivers at 16 rail companies will strike on  April 5, 6 and 8 , while there will also be an overtime ban on April 4-6 and 8-9 .

More than 2,000 London Underground drivers who are ASLEF members were walk out on   April 8 and May 4. This action has been called off. 

How to travel around London during the train strikes

During the rail strikes on April 5 and 6 the tube, Overground, DLR, Elizabeth line and London buses should be running as usual. 

The ASLEF strikes typically affect 16 train companies, some of which operate services in and out of London. These are all the lines that will be affected:

• Avanti West Coast
• CrossCountry
• East Midlands Railway
• Great Western Railway
• TransPennine Express
• Greater Anglia
• GTR (Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Southern, Thameslink)
• Southeastern
• South Western Railway
• Chiltern Railways
• Northern Trains
• West Midlands Railway

Read more here to find out which services will be affected on which days. 

What about the tube strikes?

The action on April 8 and May 4 was called off yesterday (April 4). There are currently no strikes planned for the London Underground.

London train and tube strikes April and May 2024: everything you need to know .

Plus: When is the next train strike? Dates and affected lines in April and May 2024 .

Listen to Time Out’s brilliant podcast ‘Love Thy Neighbourhood’:   the newest episode with Milton Jones in Richmond is out now .

Stay in the loop: sign up to our   free Time Out London newsletter   for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.

• India Lawrence Contributing writer

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Rail passengers face rolling strikes but London Underground action called off

Aslef members start three days of 24-hour strikes from Friday but tube driver action cancelled

Rail passengers are bracing for travel disruption as train drivers bring some routes on the national network to a halt in a wave of strikes, but two days of similar action on the London Underground have been called off.

On Friday, members of the union Aslef start the first of three 24-hour strikes that will affect 16 rail operating companies in England as part of its 20-month dispute over pay.

However, on Thursday Aslef called off two daylong tube strikes planned for the following Monday and Saturday 4 May after receiving a proposal from Transport for London that it said resolved the key issues in the dispute.

The run of single-day national network strikes starts on Friday with drivers working for Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, London Northwestern Railway and CrossCountry. All five operators will run no services on the day.

On Saturday, strikes will take place on Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern and TransPennine, while on Monday services on Greater Anglia, GTR’s Great Northern, Thameslink and Southern/Gatwick Express, Southeastern, South Western Railway and SWR Island Line will be cancelled.

Passengers have been warned by operators to expect significant disruption, with most trains cancelled on the strike days. Services on the days before and after the strikes could also be affected. Drivers in Scotland and Wales are not on strike but cross-border rail services will be disrupted.

The strikes coincide with an overtime ban by the union for all operators, which runs from 4 to 6 April, and then 8 to 9 April. It is expected that it will make short-notice cancellations and disruption more likely when travelling on these days.

Announcing the cancellation of the London Underground strikes, an Aslef official said: “Management have confirmed that they have disbanded their ‘trains modernisation’ team and will not be implementing their plans to change drivers’ working arrangements without agreement. They have also agreed to reinstate annual refresher training stopped during the pandemic.”

Train drivers have already held 13 one-day strikes since the dispute started in 2022.

Speaking after the vote last month , Aslef’s general secretary, Mick Whelan, said: “Our members voted overwhelmingly – yet again – for strike action.

“Those votes show – yet again – a clear rejection by train drivers of the ridiculous offer put to us in April last year by [the train operators’ body] the Rail Delivery Group, which knew that offer would be rejected because a land grab for all the terms and conditions we have negotiated over the years would never be accepted by our members.”

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Aslef has said it would continue to strike for a better pay deal after the union rejected an 8% offer last spring.

A spokesperson for the Rail Delivery Group said: “We are sorry that this round of strikes called by the Aslef leadership risks disrupting journeys.

“While we are doing all we can to keep trains running and we will work with our industry partners to keep as many trains running as possible, unfortunately there will be reduced services between Thursday 4 April to Tuesday 9 April. Our advice is to check before you travel and follow the latest travel information.”

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Aslef is the only rail union continuing to strike … Having resolved disputes with all other rail unions, the transport secretary and rail minister have ensured that a pay offer is on the table – taking train drivers’ average salaries from £60,000 up to £65,000.”

• Rail strikes
• Rail industry
• London Underground
• Rail transport
• Trade unions

More on this story

Aslef’s final strike day disrupts rail services in south and east England

Aslef says more train strikes likely as drivers’ pay row continues

Network Rail to spend £2.8bn to cope with effects of climate crisis

New train services between London and Scotland get go-ahead

Train drivers at Northern and LNER to strike in March, Aslef union announces

Siemens to invest £100m in Chippenham rail factory site in Wiltshire

UK ministers look to install highly paid boss to spearhead rail reform plan

Weekend rail strikes: travel disrupted across Great Britain

£140m rail plan to tackle Elizabeth line and Great Western problems

Train drivers will keep striking to ‘raise profile’ of pay dispute, says Aslef boss

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Aslef union rail strikes: Which lines are affected and what is the travel advice?

• rail strikes
• Friday 5 April 2024 at 1:57pm

Which train services are striking and when? ITV News reporter Nick Smith explains

Rail passengers are facing significant disruption this weekend because of a fresh strike by drivers in a long-running pay dispute.

Members of train drivers' union, Aslef, walked out on Friday in the first of three days of rolling strikes.

The action is due to ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions.

There will be no service on any of the lines, and passengers are advised not to attempt to travel.

Friday 5 April

Avanti West Coast

CrossCountry

East Midlands Railway

London Northwestern Railway

West Midlands railway

Saturday 6 April

Chiltern Railways

Great Western Railway

Heathrow Express

TransPennine Express

Monday 8 April

Gatwick Express

Greater Anglia (including Stansted Express)

Great Northern

Southeastern

South Western Railway

The train operators will also have an overtime ban from Thursday 4 April to Saturday 6 April, and from Monday 8 April to Tuesday 9 April which could also significantly alter the timetable of trains that are running.

A law is now in place aimed at ensuring a minimum level of service during rail strikes but none of the operators involved in the Aslef dispute have applied to use it.

Why are Aslef members striking?

The union’s general secretary, Mick Whelan, said strike action was necessary because “we haven’t had a pay rise for half a decade”.

He said the union’s primary issues were with the “bad faith” train operators who refuse to negotiate because of “political dogma” and the government who “don’t care”.

The union rejected an 8% offer last spring, with 96% of Aslef members voting to take strike action last month.

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Aslef is the only rail union continuing to strike, targeting passengers and preventing their own members from voting on the pay offer that remains on the table.

“Having resolved disputes with all other rail unions, the Transport Secretary and rail minister have ensured that a pay offer is on the table – taking train drivers’ average salaries from £60,000 up to £65,000.”

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