6 best day trips from London – Kingfisher Visitor Guides

The capital can sometimes feel overwhelming, so if you want to take a well-deserved break, check out our list of the best day trips from London.

The New Forest

Explore the beauty of The New Forest

Only an hour and a half away by train from Waterloo, the New Forest boasts some of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes. It’s also home to the infamous wild ponies who have grazed over the well-known lavender heaths for thousands of years. For city dwellers, this location is perfect for autumnal day trips.

Bath

Discover the rich history and heritage behind the city of Bath

One of the most calming and relaxing city’s in the UK, and only an hour and a half by train from London Paddington, Bath is a picture-perfect town to escape the capital. Day trips to Bath are not complete without visiting the inaugural Roman baths and Thermae Bath Spa.

Brighton

Brighton is one of the quirkiest cities in the UK

Arguably one of the trendiest places the UK has to offer, Brighton is the perfect escape for those who are wanting to shake up their social scene. Just an hour by train from most of London’s main stations, Brighton is an assault on the senses. Make sure you head to the famous Palace Pier, then check out all the cool independent eateries and boutiques along the front.

Cambridge

Experience world-famous punting in Cambridge

No trip to Cambridge is complete without having a punt down the river, followed by afternoon tea in one of their many quaint tea rooms. Try Scudamore’s who have been offering punting trips along the Cam since 1910. Cambridge is a perfect day of rest and relaxation, and it’s only 45 minutes from Kings Cross London.

Oxford

Oxford is home to over 40 colleges, why not see how many you can spot?

Why not take a stroll through some of the vast and opulent colleges? There are also many excellent art galleries and museums on offer, including the Ashmolean Museum, which is known for being Britain’s first-ever public museum. Only an hour from Paddington, Oxford is a great day out.

Mersea Island

Mersea Island is the most easterly inhabited island in the UK

A causeway off the mainland, Mersea Island is known for The Company Shed, which serves the yummiest seafood platters. Only an hour by train followed by a 45-minute bus, this place is a must for soaking up the sea air.