8 Best Day Trips from London

London is one of the best locations to be based as there are so many options for day trips from London. This is due to the vast connections with other cities and countries. Not only can you take day trips within the country, you can also venture out to nearby countries for the day. How cool is that? If you are visiting England or the UK, these are some of the best day trips from London both locally and internationally. These destination are some of the best day trips from London by train as all but two of them only require train travel.

I have included clickable links for the tours, activities and accommodation to make planning your trip even easier!

1. ARUNDEL

Arundel is a historic market town close to London. The main sight here are Arundel Castle and Arundel Cathedral.

How to get here: 1.5hr train from London Victoria

Best time to visit: In July for the Annual International Jousting competition and in April for the Arundel Tulip Festival

Highlights: Arundel Castle Gardens. The castle has quite a few gardens, but my absolute favourite is the Stew Ponds & Water Gardens pictured above

2. OXFORD

It does not get more iconic than Oxford, which might be a little scandalous to say seeing as Cambridge is also on this list, butttt let’s continue! Oxford was one of the first places I visited outside London and I can assure you it’s one of the best day trips from London. Oxford is famous for its world-class university and colleges. When you are in the city, be sure to visit at least two of the colleges, as well as the Duke Humphrey Library. Oxford is also famous due to some Harry Potter scenes being filmed there. Definitely add a day trip to Oxford from London if you have some spare time.

How to get here: 50mins train ride from Paddington

Best time to visit: All year round

Highlights: Visits to Magdalen and Christ Church Colleges and self-guided Harry Potter tour of Oxford. Try to catch and Evensong, gospel choir in St Mary’s chapel

3. CANTERBURY

Famous for its incredible Cathedral and the Canterbury Tales, Canterbury is a medieval city south of London. Step back in time by joining a punt on the River Stour, learning about the history of the city. Stop over in Old Weavers House for a traditional meal in a very unique setting with delicious food.

How to get here: 1hr train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West

Best time to visit: In the summer for perfect punting and walking weather. For fewer crowds, opt for a trip in the autumn months when the weather is still ideal

Highlights: Punting on River Stour

4. CAMBRIDGE

day trip to cambridge from london

cambridge day trip from london

How to get here: 1hr train from St Pancras International

Best time to visit: Cambridge is beautiful year round, but for a nice punt on River Cam, be sure to visit in summer

Highlights: Punting on River Cam and exploring the Fitzwilliams Museum

5. COTSWOLDS

cotswolds day trip from london

day trips from london by car

day trip to cotswolds from london

cotswolds day trip

How to get here: Best to drive (rent a car) or use an official tour bus

Best time to visit: Autumn is a great time to see the villages in a moody atmosphere, indulge in some traditional afternoon tea and enjoy exploring in cooler weather. In July, visit the Lavender and Wildflower fields for a colourful day out in nature.

Highlights: Visit Bibury, the most beautiful village in England

INTERNATIONAL DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON

6. PARIS, FRANCE

A day trip from London to Paris is the ultimate London day trip! Enjoy a day in the French capital indulging in tasty pastries, escargots and exploring incredible museums including the Petit Palais and Musée d’Orsay. If you’re visiting England and want to visit multiple countries, then the Paris day trip from London is the one for you!

How to get here: 2.5hr Eurostar train from London to Paris

Best time to visit: Paris is a dream every month of the year. However my favourite and the best time to visit Paris is in September and October. The weather is enjoyable to walk in and there are (considerably) fewer crowds.

Highlights: Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle from the top of the Arc de Triomphe

7. BRUGES, BELGIUM

Bruges is my absolute favourite city in Europe! It has a fairytale feel with its beautiful canals, cobblestone streets, medieval houses and bell tower in the market centre. When in Bruges, indulge in a tasty waffle from Lizzie’s Wafels House or take a chocolate making class. Every corner in bruges is beautiful, so be sure to walk around and take it in.

How to get here: 2.5hr Eurostar train from London to Brussels and then 30 min from Brussels to Bruges

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Bruges is in winter. Bruges has a fairytale feel and that is increased by the winter weather. Easter is also a great time to go as you will find specialty chocolateries selling very unique chocolates.

Highlights: Enjoy the centruries-old picturesque view of the Rozenhoedkaai on a canal cruise

8. MILAN, ITALY

Milan is the perfect day tip from London if you are looking for a short Italian getaway. For some luxury shopping, head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele after visiting the Duomo. If you want a more relaxed day, the QC Termemilano spa in the heart of Milan is popular for its thunderstorm shower room.

How to get here: 2hr flight from London’s main airports to Milan Bergamo or Malpensa

Highlights: Climb the steps to the top of the landmark Duomo di Milano or enjoy an aperitif overlooking the cathedral from one of the adjacent balconies