As much as we all love a good staycation—or even a romantic staycation tucked away in a cosy corner of the city—there’s something about the humble day trip that never loses its charm. A quick escape, a change of scenery, and the feeling of leaving the hustle behind (if only for a few hours) can be surprisingly refreshing.
Luckily, some of the best London day trips are just a short journey away, offering everything from grand filming locations to breezy seaside spots with oysters on ice. Whether you’re craving quiet countryside wanders or a touch of coastal calm, these easy escapes deliver just the right dose of reset.
Our Guide To The Best Day Trips From London
1. Woodstock: 1 hr 40 min drive and 1 hr 50 min train journey
No, we're not talking about the legendary festival, but the edge of the Cotswolds. An area of natural beauty and home of Blenheim Palace, this great green space is well worth a visit. Check out The Orangery at Blenheim Palace, where an Italian-style garden welcomes you for alfresco suppers and spritzes in specially created marquee pods.
Cameras at the ready for this beaut.
2. Dungeness: 1 hr 55 min drive and 1 hr 30 min train journey
Did you know there’s an actual desert in the UK? Well, prepare to have your mind blown. Located on the Kent coastline, Dungeness is one seriously stunning place to take a trip. As well as boasting an impressive natural landscape, the area’s architecture of fishing houses and various other dwellings have been used on album and book covers due to their mysterious charm, acting as a stark reminder of the location's historical and cultural value.
The UK's only desert can be found on Kent's coastline.
3. Painshill Park: 53 min drive and 31 min train journey
There aren't many places that can offer you a gorgeous 18th-century garden, a Gothic tower and a crystal grotto all rolled up in one… in fact, we believe that’s exclusive to Painshill Park. Located a short drive away outside of London in Surrey, the estate features winding paths that’ll take you through impressive gardens, a ruined abbey and Gothic temple, plus a Turkish tent. To top it off? Spend some time in a natural hall of mirrors - aka the crystal grotto.
Looking for the best day trips from London by train? A natural hall of mirrors meets a gorgeous garden at this quirky destination.
4. Chislehurst Caves: 52 min drive and 33 min train journey
Taking life in London for granite? Ok, that was a stretch but we got your attention at least. Head on over to Chislehurst Caves and you can let out your inner explorer while getting well into the historical know-how of this rock formation. Complete with spooky mannequins, impressive artwork and all the geological facts you could possibly need, this is a one day trip you definitely will not regret leaving the comfort of city life for.
Escape city life by going down under(ground).
5. Runnymede and Ankerwycke: 43 min drive and 1 hr 16 min train journey
Runnymede is home to some beautiful countryside ideal for those romantic day trips for couples in the UK. Within its grounds lie twelve bronze chairs known as The Jurors that stand tall on an ancient meadow. It symbolises the concept of law and key movements in the struggle for freedom and equal rights, namely the significance of the Magna Carta (one of the earliest written documents), which was signed on these grounds.
One of the best day trips from London UK is this historical destination where the Magna Carta was signed.
6. Scotney Castle: 1 hr 23 min drive and 1 hr train journey
If you want to know how the other half live(d), book a trip to Scotney Castle in Kent which features a scenic garden, a stunning mansion and castle ruins. Spread over an impressive 770 acres, the landscape is made up of parkland, woodland and hop gardens, perfect if you like your botany. As well as this, there’s the chance to catch a glimpse of the 14th century moated castle and the Victorian country house.
Explore the grounds of Scotney Castle at this quirky day trip from London.
7. Drayton House: 2 hr drive and 2 hr 51 min train journey
If you're not familiar with the film Saltburn by now, then where have you been? This disturbing thriller is known for its demonic twists, witty one-liners and Barry Keoghan being incredible (as per usual). If you're wanting to visit the real stately home featured in the film, then Drayton House is just a two-hour drive outside of London. You should also pop into The Peacock Inn for a cheeky pint or a bite to eat while you're in the area.
The Saltburn house is only a two-hour drive from London.
8. Highclere Castle: 1 hr 30 min drive and 40 min train journey
Take a drive up to Berkshire and pay a visit to Highclere Castle, a country house built in the 17th century. It's the perfect spot for lovers of long walks, history buffs and fans of ITV's hit period drama Downton Abbey. The show was filmed on the grounds, so you'll be able to place your favourite scenes whilst taking a relaxing stroll. You can even go into the castle itself for a guided tour.
Explore the grounds of one of the most popular TV shows of all time.
9. Petworth: 1 hr 40 mins drive and 1 hr 15 min train journey
Leave city life behind and go for an explore in Petworth, West Sussex. This beautiful little market town has picturesque cobbled streets, a deer park and Petworth House - also seen in the hit Netflix show Bridgerton. Plus, it's a brilliant place to go antique hunting (so take a big bag). The Welldiggers Arms is a great spot for a bev and a bite to eat, overlooking the calming countryside. And if you want to extend your stay, book into one of their hotel rooms for a weekend getaway.
Visit Petworth, one of the best places to visit outside London by train on a day trip.
10. Surrey Hills: 1 hr 15 mins drive and 52 min train journey
On the scout out for some cheap day trips from London? Well, get those hiking boots on a head down to Surrey Hills to experience some seriously stunning countryside views. Three long-distance walks run through the area: the North Downs Way, Greensand Way and Pilgrims Way - you'll definitely get your steps in. You can also do the eight-mile trek around Box Hill, passing beautiful greenery and pubs. And if you get thirsty after all that walking, stop off at The Whitehorse, an award-winning countryside pub, for a well-earned refreshment.
One of the most tranquil day trips from London by car.
11. Whitstable: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 25 min train journey
Along the north coast of Kent, you'll find Whitstable. This idyllic little seaside town is the perfect escape from the city, showcasing everything from the best vintage shops, pastel beach huts (perfect for Insta) and an array of fresh seafood spots. It's the number one hub for oysters, with fishermen harvesting the popular shellfish here since Roman times.
If you're after 2 day trips from London, Whitstable is just the ticket. Trust us.
12. Rye: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 5 min train journey
In the heart of East Sussex sits Rye, notably one of the prettiest towns. Take a trip down Mermaid Street (one of the most photographed areas in all of England), before popping into one of its many coffee shops and bistros. Travel over to Rye Nature Reserve if you want to see wildflowers and woodland, or head down to one of England's most sought-after beaches, Camber Sands. You might even spot a seal on your travels.
This coastal town will make you question whether the city life is for you.
13. Margate: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 45 min train journey
Some say Margate is the new Brighton, and it's one to keep on your radar. It's a brilliant place to visit for those wanting something a little quirkier than your regular seaside break. There's a Crab Museum, Dreamland amusement park full of vintage rides, and a shell grotto that was discovered in 1835. It's also great for lounging around on the sandy beach with a cocktail in hand.
Looking for one of the best day trips from London without a car? The train to Margate takes just over an hour.
14. Cambridge: 2 hr drive and 45 min train journey
Known for its world-class university and vast amount of swans, Cambridge is definitely one of the prettiest cities. Being just a 45 minute train journey from King's Cross, this idyllic location has so much to offer, with everything from punting along The River Cam to exploring the famous Fitzwilliam Museum. After a day of exploring, grab a well-deserved drink at The Roof Terrace at the Varsity Hotel to take in the incredible views of the city.
Explore this historic city for the day by seeing the sights from a rooftop bar, or punting along The River Cam.
15. Chichester: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 30 min train journey
Take a trip to the Roman cathedral city of Chichester in West Sussex for a peaceful day out of the Big Smoke. A visit to the Novium Museum is a must, especially as it's free to enter and offers some of the best views of Chichester Cathedral - it's also built on the remains of a Roman bathhouse. There are also some fabulous walks around Priory Park and Bishop's Palace Gardens, so be sure to pack a picnic.
Chichester is the only city in West Sussex - and it's a great one to put on your list.
16. St Leonards-on-Sea: 2hr 30 min drive and 1 hr 18 min train journey
Originally a town built for royalty, St Leonards-on-Sea makes for the perfect seaside retreat (even if your last name isn't Windsor). It's full of amazing foodie spots along the coast and vast areas of greenery such as Warrior Square Gardens and St Leonards Gardens. It was also voted the coolest place to move to in the UK earlier this year, so if you're looking for a place to purchase a holiday home (after a lottery win, of course) then definitely consider this place.
Princess Victoria stayed here with her mother back in the 1830s - it's certainly a place fit for royalty.
17. Brighton: 2hr drive and 1 hr train journey
Brighton is a classic beach destination that sees hordes of Londoners travel down when the weather rises above 20 degrees - and for good reason. Although the beach is pebbly, it still makes for a great sunbathing spot. The pier is also a famous hotspot where you can try out different rides, challenge your friends on some old-school arcade games, or just pop in for a bite to eat. Plus the fish and chips along the South Coast are unmatched, trust us. It's a great place for those wanting to stay amongst the hustle and bustle.
Brighton beach is a classic destination only a stone's throw away from London.
18. Bath: 2 hr drive and 30 min train journey
You can't go on a day out to Bath without visiting the Roman baths (it's a must). Not only is this place steeped in history, it's also home to plenty of foodie hotspots such as Edesia Restaurant and Lounge. Literature lovers can also walk in the footsteps of Jane Austen, who lived there during the early 1800s - there's even a museum dedicated to the writer. The city itself is an architectural beauty, so be sure to bring your Polaroid because the backdrops are sensational. For views galore and to experience Britain's original natural spa for yourself, check out Thermae Bath Spa too.
Bath's historical sites boast so much beauty.
19. Moreton-in-Marsh, Cotswolds: 2 hr drive and 1 hr 23 min train
Visiting the Cotswolds by car gives you far more flexibility, with countless wonderful country pubs and storybook towns just 90 minutes from London. However, if you’re travelling by train, Moreton-in-Marsh is your best bet, as it's home to a convenient station and reachable in around the same time as driving, making it an easy getaway.
From here, you can spend the day exploring scenic riverside walking routes, browsing the high street’s independent shops, and sampling artisan flavours at The Cotswold Cheese Company. For lunch, we recommend popping into The Manor House for a delicious bite. For a breath of fresh country air, escape to Batsford Arboretum to explore 60 acres of rare trees and stunning greenery, and round things off with a visit to nearby Batsford House.
You could spend all day exploring the home and grounds of Batsford House and the nearby Batsford Arboretum.
If you're looking for more beaches to visit near London, check out this guide here.
