We all know that London is a vibrant melting pot where rich history and culture meet a modern way of living, with endless attractions for tourists and locals alike. However, England doesn’t start and end with its excellent capital city - there’s so much more to see and do. Whether it’s the serene countryside, a bevvy of stunning landmarks, or countless coastal escapes, there are so many destinations just a stone’s throw away from London!
Taking the train across the UK is one of the most convenient ways to explore the UK from the “big smoke.” Given that London has the most train stations in England (by quite a sizeable margin), these well-connected rail networks and regular departures allow you to effortlessly travel to charming towns, historic cities, and scenic landscapes and return on the same day.
In this guide, we’re highlighting ten of our favourite day trips from London that we think deserve your attention, covering everything from seaside getaways to cultural havens. And the great news is that, with Trip.com, tickets are just a few steps away! Take a look for yourself below:
Brighton: The classic seaside escape
Brighton Beach
If you’re a beach person, Brighton is an ideal escape. Often referred to as “London by the Sea,” it’s a place where you can enjoy the mix of seaside charm, cultural richness, and urban energy, and it is located only about an hour south of London. Its iconic Brighton Pier features traditional fairground rides, arcade games, and food stalls - who wouldn’t love the iconic fish and chips?
We recommend checking out The Lanes, a great place for quirky shopping and dining experiences with narrow, cobblestoned streets, independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cosy cafes.
There’s also the famous Brighton Beach, where you can hop into one of the legendary striped deckchairs to enjoy the fresh sea breeze - the perfect spot for unwinding. For breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding areas, we suggest the British Airways i360 observation platform.
Another landmark you won’t want to miss is the Royal Pavilion. This breathtaking palace looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale with its stunning domes and spires inspired by Indian architecture. Inside, there are luxurious rooms decorated in lavish Chinese style, making it one of the most unique royal residences in the world.
Trains from London to Brighton run frequently from different stations and offer stunning coastal views. During peak hours, they arrive at Brighton Station every 10-20 minutes. The journey time is around 1 hour.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London Victoria | Brighton | ~1 hour | Southern, Gatwick Express, | From £7 | Every 10-20 minutes (5:00–23:30) | London Victoria to Brighton > |
| London Bridge | Brighton, London Road (Brighton) | ~1 hour | Southern, Thameslink | From £7 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:30–23:00) | London Bridge to Brighton > |
| St Pancras International | Brighton | ~1 hour 15 minutes | Thameslink | From £10.50 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:00–23:00) | St Pancras International to Brighton > |
| Clapham Junction | Brighton | ~1 hour | Southern | From £7 | Every 10-20 minutes (5:10–23:20) | Clapham Junction to Brighton > |
| Blackfriars | Brighton | ~1 hour 30 minutes | Thameslink | From £22.60 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:15–23:10) | Blackfriars to Brighton > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type.
Cambridge: A scholar’s paradise
King's College
Located just an hour from London, Cambridge is a historic city renowned for its tranquil landscapes and intellectual heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of academic brilliance. Kick off your visit with a walk through the world-famous University of Cambridge, where you can explore iconic colleges like King’s College (and its famous Gothic chapel) and Trinity College.
Punting on the River Cam is another popular activity in Cambridge. Glide along the water and pass by stunning university buildings, green spaces, and historic bridges while learning fascinating stories about the city’s past. If you’re a history enthusiast, the Fitzwilliam Museum is also a must-visit due to its extensive collection of art and antiquities, such as Monet, Vecellio and Harmensz.
Besides these activities, the beautiful old town of Cambridge is full of quaint streets boutique shops, local cafes, and traditional pubs to get lost in. A trip to Cambridge makes for an unforgettable one-day trip from London for all types of travellers.
Trains from London to Cambridge provide a picturesque journey through the English countryside. Departing from stations like London King’s Cross and Liverpool Street with frequent services, the journey is perfect for day-trippers seeking a mix of history and nature.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London King’s Cross | Cambridge | ~50 minutes | Great Northern | From £11.20 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:30–23:30) | London King’s Cross to Cambridge > |
| London Liverpool Street | Cambridge | ~1 hour 10 minutes | Greater Anglia, Great Northern | From £8 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:00–23:00) | London Liverpool Street to Cambridge > |
| Tottenham Hale | Cambridge | ~1 hour | Greater Anglia | From £7.50 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:20–23:20) | Tottenham Hale to Cambridge > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type.
Oxford: The city of dreaming spires
We think Oxford offers one of the most exciting day trips from London for travellers who love a blend of academic excellence with rich cultural heritage. This historic city is located just an hour from London and is home to the University of Oxford, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious institutions.
A visit to Christ Church College is a must—not only for its stunning architecture but also for its connections to pop culture. The college has inspired works like Alice in Wonderland and served as a filming location for the Harry Potter series, making it a treat for literature enthusiasts and budding magicians (or muggles) alike.
Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum stands as the oldest public museum in the UK and houses an extraordinary collection of art and artifacts, ranging from ancient Egyptian relics to contemporary masterpieces, covering everything from Rachel Ruysch to ceremonial suits of armour for a samurai.
For a more relaxed experience, explore the Covered Market, a treasure trove of local delicacies, artisanal products, and unique crafts. Or, unwind with a peaceful stroll along the River Thames and through the University Parks, where you can soak in the tranquil beauty of Oxford’s green spaces. The city's harmonious blend of intellectual legacy, striking architecture, and cultural gems make it an unmissable destination.
Getting to Oxford is both convenient and scenic. Trains depart from London Paddington and Marylebone stations every 15 to 30 minutes, with journey times of 50 to 70 minutes. Sit back and enjoy the picturesque English countryside as you head to this iconic city. Trains from London to Oxford offer a scenic journey through the charming English countryside. Departing every 15 to 30 minutes from Paddington and Marylebone stations, they reach Oxford in 50-70 minutes.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London Paddington | Oxford | ~50 minutes | Great Western Railway | From £5 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:30–23:30) | London Paddington to Oxford > |
| London Marylebone | Oxford | ~1 hour 10 minutes | Chiltern Railways, Great Western Railway | From £5.40 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:00–23:00) | London Marylebone to Oxford > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type.
Bath: Roman elegance and Georgian charm
Roman Baths
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage that combines Roman history, Georgian elegance, and a vibrant culture. The ancient city, however, is most famous for its Roman Baths, which provide a fascinating insight into ancient life. A tour around the remarkably preserved bathing complex will not teach you a lot about the city’s history as a spa destination.
But don’t let this overshadow the other equally stunning sites Bath has to offer, such as its Georgian architecture with landmarks like the Royal Crescent and the Circus showcasing the city’s grandeur, or the Gothic church named Bath Abbey found in the centre which offers great views from its tower.
If you’re a literary enthusiast, we recommend the Jane Austen Centre to celebrate the life and works of one of England’s most beloved authors who called Bath home for several years. Don’t forget to indulge in the rejuvenating waters of the Thermae Bath Spa (sadly you can’t dip into the Roman Baths, but this is a great second option), where you can enjoy modern spa treatments alongside views of the city.
You can enjoy a scenic journey through the countryside and historic towns on Trains from London to Bath. Departing from London Paddington, they reach Bath Spa in about 1.5 hours.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London Paddington | Bath Spa | ~1 hour 20 minutes | Great Western Railway | From £20 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:00–23:30) | London Paddington to Bath Spa > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type
Windsor: Royal heritage
Windsor Castle
A short train ride from London takes you to Windsor, a town synonymous with British royalty and history. It also just happens to be one of the most convenient places to visit outside London by train, with frequent trains operating from London every hour.
The town’s major attraction is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world: Windsor Castle, the official residence of the British monarch and offers visitors a chance to explore its grounds, State Apartments, and St George’s Chapel.
If possible, we recommend timing your visit to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. After exploring the castle, you can stroll along the streets of Windsor, lined with boutique shops and cafes, or you may want to hop on a boat ride along the Thames.
Just across the river is home to the prestigious Eton College, which has educated many of the global notable figures. But it’s important to note that you don’t have to be a history or royal enthusiast to enjoy Windsor, with picturesque escape for all types of travellers never too far away.
Enjoy a short scenic journey on Trains from London to Windsor, perfect for day trips to Windsor Castle. Frequent train services make it easy to explore the major attractions of this royal town in a day.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London Waterloo | Windsor & Eton Riverside | ~1 hour | South Western Railway | From £8.50 | Every 20-30 minutes (5:00–23:00) | London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside > |
| London Paddington | Windsor & Eton Central | ~1 hour | Great Western Railway, South Western Railway | From £8.50 | Every 15-30 minutes (5:00–23:30) | London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Riverside > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type
Canterbury: A pilgrim’s retreat
Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury, a historic city located in Kent County, is a centuries-old pilgrimage site that’s as captivating today as it was back then. The Canterbury Cathedral, located at the heart of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest and most significant Christian structures in the UK. The cathedral offers stunning Gothic architecture and a peek into years of rich history, including its association with the martyrdom of Thomas Becket.
Beyond the cathedral, there is the historic Old Town that allures visitors with its ancient streets, local shops, and cafes; the famous stories of Geoffrey Chaucer brought to life through immersive exhibits; or, if you’re a nature lover, peaceful walks along the River Stour, which flows through the city and offers views that shouldn’t be missed.
Trains from London to Canterbury connect these two historic cities in under an hour via St Pancras International (high-speed) or up to 1.5 hours via Victoria. Depending on what ticket you purchased, you can board off from Canterbury West or East.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London St Pancras | Canterbury West | ~55 minutes | Southeastern | From £12.90 | Every 20-30 minutes (6:00–22:30) | London St Pancras International to Canterbury West > |
| London Victoria | Canterbury East | ~1 hour 30 minutes | Southeastern | From £14.10 | Every 30 minutes (5:30–23:00) | London Victoria to Canterbury East > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type
Margate: Coastal creativity
Margate, a seaside town in Kent is most known as the home to Dreamland, a vintage amusement park offering nostalgic rides, live music, and family-friendly entertainment. In recent years, the town has undergone a cultural renaissance, becoming one of the most exciting places to visit outside London by train for visitors looking to relive retro charm.
If you’re an art lover, you’ll appreciate the Turner Contemporary, a modern art gallery inspired by the works of J.M.W. Turner. You may also have an interest in the old town’s many antique shops, independent boutiques, and cafes for leisurely exploration.
If you love the traditional seaside experience, Margate’s sandy beaches are the ideal setting for a stroll or a dip in the sea. It blends artistic innovation and classic coastal appeal and offers a delightful escape from the bustle of city life.
Direct trains from London to Margate run frequently and offer a scenic journey to travelers. Departing from London St Pancras International (high-speed) or Victoria, they arrive at Margate in 1.5-2 hours.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London St Pancras | Margate | ~1 hour 30 minutes | Southeastern (High-Speed) | From £11.50 | Every 30 minutes (6:00–22:30) | London St Pancras International to Margate > |
| London Victoria | Margate | ~2 hours | Southeastern | From £13.50 | Every 30 minutes (5:30–23:00) | London Victoria to Margate > |
| London Bridge | Margate | ~1 hour 45 minutes | Southeastern | From £13.50 | Every 30 minutes (6:00–23:00) | London Bridge to Margate > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type
York: A step back in time
York Shambles
York is another perfect destination for a one-day trip from London as not only is it only two hours away from the capital, but the walled city offers a rich blend of history and culture to make your journey well worth it. It’s home to York Minster, one of the largest and most magnificent cathedrals in Europe, as well as the medieval Shambles, known for its timber-framed buildings and charming shops.
If you’re curious about England’s Norse history, the JORVIK Viking Centre transports you back to the Viking Age with interactive exhibits and remarkable archaeological finds from York, once a thriving Viking settlement. Furthermore, train enthusiasts can explore the National Railway Museum which boasts an impressive collection of locomotives and railway memorabilia.
Departing from London King’s Cross frequently, trains from London to York offer a fast and comfortable journey.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London King’s Cross | York | ~1 hour 50 minutes | LNER | From £10.50 | Every 30 minutes (5:30–22:30) | London King’s Cross to York > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type
Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespeare’s birthplace
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
If you love the works of Shakespeare, a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon should be high on your must visit list. The birthplace of the Bard is a literary haven that celebrates the life and works of the Bard, such as a tour of Shakespeare’s Birthplace, a well-preserved 16th-century house, and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the home of his wife. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre also offers world-class performances and an insight into the legacy of Shakespeare’s plays.
For a peaceful break, take a stroll along the riverside or hop on a boat ride. The town consists of Tudor-style buildings, cosy tea rooms, and quaint shops that complement its historic charm. It’s a great day-trip destination from London if you appreciate English history and literature.
Trains from London to Stratford-upon-Avon depart frequently from Marylebone every 1-2 hours. The two-and-a-half-hour journey offers a scenic experience through the English countryside and nature.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London Marylebone | Stratford-upon-Avon | ~2 hours 10 minutes | Chiltern Railways | From £6.40 | Every 1-2 hours (6:00–22:00) | London Marylebone to Stratford-upon-Avon Parkway > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type
Stonehenge and Salisbury: Mystical and historic
Stonehenge, one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, attracting visitors from all around the world, is a perfect day trip from London if you’re fascinated by pre-historic monuments. The iconic stone circle is located near Salisbury and is thought to date back over 4,000 years. Book a guided tour or listen to audio guides for insights into the theories surrounding its construction and purpose.
After exploring Stonehenge, head to the nearby city of Salisbury. Considered a masterpiece of Early English Gothic architecture, Salisbury Cathedral houses one of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta and has the tallest spire in England. On top of that, the city of Salisbury offers medieval streets, independent shops, and pubs.
If you’re a history buff, trains from London to Salisbury offer a great way to explore ancient history and charming countryside. Departing from London Waterloo, they reach Salisbury in an hour and a half. From Salisbury Station, a short bus ride connects you to the iconic Stonehenge.
| Departing Station | Arriving Station | Train Duration | Train Operator | Single Fare | Timetable (Approx.) | Tickets |
| London Waterloo | Salisbury | ~1 hour 30 minutes | South Western Railway | From £8 | Every 30 minutes (5:00–23:00) | London Waterloo to Salisbury > |
*Fares and timetables are approximate and can vary based on booking time, peak hours, and ticket type
Ready to go?
There are countless incredible places to visit outside London by train, offering unique experiences just a short ride away. To make the most of your day trips from London, book your tickets early for the best prices, and check train schedules.
Be prepared for plenty of walking to explore these destinations - pack light, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for an adventure! Also, keep an eye on the weather and dress appropriately. We all know London is amazing but, if you have time, why not hop on a train and discover these hidden gems nearby?