11 Best Day Trips from London by Train
I absolutely love London, but sometimes, a break from the city’s lively energy and constant movement can sometimes be overwhelming, making a break what you need. You feel like going for a day tour. The great thing about London? Its incredible rail network makes it easy to escape for a day and explore charming towns, historic cities, and breathtaking landscapes.
This article highlights some of the best day trips from London by train at a cheap price and shares touring tips. These trips offer a mix of coastal air, historic castles, and picturesque countryside for a refreshing escape.
1. Oxford – The City of Pride
Oxford stands as a city that transports visitors back in time. The University of Oxford showcases stunning architecture, with centuries-old colleges and libraries that create a breathtaking atmosphere. You and your family can visit the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest in Europe, followed by a walk past the iconic Radcliffe Camera and Christ Church College, offering a glimpse into its rich academic history.
Transport: A train journey from Paddington or Marylebone takes about 1 hour, with frequent services available throughout the day.
Food & Drink: The Covered Market offers a variety of local boutiques and delicious treats, while Blackwell’s remains a must-visit for book lovers. The Eagle and Child, a historic pub, once served as a gathering place for Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. For an upscale dining experience, The Old Parsonage provides refined British cuisine in a charming setting.
Things to Do: The Ashmolean Museum, the world’s first public museum, presents an extensive collection of art and history. A scenic boat trip along the River Thames offers a peaceful escape from the city. For those with extra time, Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, awaits just outside Oxford.
2. Cambridge – Punting and History
Cambridge offers a blend of history and relaxation, with its world-famous university at the heart of the city. Punting on the River Cam provides a unique way to admire the picturesque college buildings.
Transport: Frequent train services from King’s Cross and Liverpool Street take around 50 minutes.
Food & Drink: The renowned Fitzbillies bakery serves delicious Chelsea buns, while The Orchard Tea Garden in Grantchester offers a classic afternoon tea experience. The Eagle, a historic pub with ties to the discovery of DNA, remains a popular spot for visitors.
Things to Do: The breathtaking King’s College Chapel and the grand Trinity College Library, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, showcase Cambridge’s architectural brilliance. At the Fitzwilliam Museum, an extensive collection of antiquities and artworks awaits exploration.
3. Brighton – Seaside Wind
Brighton stands as an ideal coastal retreat, known for its vibrant arts scene, quirky shopping streets, and fresh sea air.
Transport: Trains from London Victoria reach Brighton in about 1 hour.
Food & Drink: Traditional fish and chips at The Regency Restaurant remain a favorite, while The Lanes provide an eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants. Boho Gelato serves delicious handmade gelato, perfect for a seaside stroll.
Things to Do: The Brighton Pier offers a lively atmosphere with amusements and stunning sea views. At North Laine, vintage shops and independent boutiques create a unique shopping experience. For a relaxed visit, the Royal Pavilion and its exotic architecture provide an elegant escape.
4. Bath – Roman Baths and Georgian Elegance
Bath remains a city steeped in history, elegance, and relaxation. The city’s Georgian architecture and ancient Roman Baths offer a glimpse into its rich past.
Transport: Trains from Paddington take about 1.5 hours, with frequent services throughout the day.
Food & Drink: A visit to Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House allows for a taste of the famous Sally Lunn’s bun. For a refined afternoon tea experience, The Pump Room offers an elegant setting. Those looking for fresh seafood will find excellent options at The Scallop Shell.
Things to Do: A walk along the Royal Crescent provides stunning views of Bath’s Georgian architecture. The Jane Austen Centre offers insight into the life of one of England’s most famous authors. At the Thermae Bath Spa, visitors can unwind in the modern rooftop thermal pool, overlooking the historic city.
5. Windsor – A Royal Retreat
Windsor stands as the home of Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the King, making it a must-visit destination for history lovers.
Transport: Trains from Waterloo reach Windsor in around 50 minutes.
Food & Drink: A meal at The Two Brewers, a charming pub, offers a taste of traditional British fare. Afternoon tea at The Duchess of Cambridge Tea Rooms provides a delightful and elegant experience.
Things to Do: The State Apartments inside Windsor Castle showcase impressive royal collections. St. George’s Chapel, known for its Gothic architecture, remains one of the castle’s main highlights. A leisurely walk along The Long Walk, a three-mile tree-lined avenue, provides breathtaking views of the castle. Across the river, Eton College, one of the world’s most prestigious schools, welcomes visitors to explore its historic grounds.
6. Stratford-upon-Avon – Shakespeare’s Birthplace
Stratford-upon-Avon holds a special place in English literary history as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
Transport: Trains from Marylebone take about 2 hours.
Food & Drink: The historic Garrick Inn, one of the oldest pubs in town, serves traditional British meals in a Tudor-style setting. A visit to Hathaway Tea Rooms provides a cozy environment for enjoying classic English tea and cakes.
Things to Do: Shakespeare’s Birthplace, a well-preserved half-timbered house, gives insight into the playwright’s early life. The charming Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, located just outside the town center, showcases beautiful gardens and Shakespearean history. A performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre offers an immersive experience into the world of Shakespearean drama. A stroll along the River Avon completes the experience with picturesque views.
7. Salisbury & Stonehenge – Ancient Wonders
Salisbury provides a gateway to one of England’s most mysterious ancient landmarks, Stonehenge, while also boasting one of the country’s finest cathedrals.
Transport: Trains from Waterloo take 1.5 hours to Salisbury, followed by a 30-minute bus ride to Stonehenge.
Food & Drink: The historic Haunch of Venison offers traditional British cuisine in a medieval setting. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Boston Tea Party serves excellent coffee and locally sourced brunch options.
Things to Do: The towering Salisbury Cathedral, home to the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta, remains a highlight of the city. At Stonehenge, the prehistoric stone circle continues to intrigue historians and visitors alike. The Stonehenge Visitor Centre provides deeper insights into the monument’s history and its mysterious origins.
8. St. Albans – Roman History and Market Town Charm
St. Albans combines medieval and Roman history with a charming market town atmosphere.
Transport: Trains from St Pancras take just 20 minutes to St Albans City Station.
Food & Drink: The Pudding Stop remains a local favorite for handmade desserts, while Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, one of England’s oldest pubs, serves hearty meals in a historic setting.
Things to Do: The magnificent St Albans Cathedral, known for having the longest nave in England, dominates the city’s skyline. At the Verulamium Museum, Roman artifacts and mosaics tell the story of the town’s ancient past. The nearby Roman Theatre of Verulamium, one of the only remaining Roman theatres in Britain, provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s former life as a Roman settlement.
9. Dover – White Cliffs and a Historic Castle
Dover remains famous for its striking White Cliffs and its medieval castle overlooking the English Channel.
Transport: Trains from St Pancras take 1 hour to Dover Priory Station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the cliffs and castle.
Food & Drink: The White Horse, a cozy pub known for its fresh seafood, provides a great meal option. Afternoon tea at Blakes of Dover offers a more relaxed dining experience.
Things to Do: A walk along the White Cliffs of Dover provides breathtaking views of the coastline. At Dover Castle, one of England’s largest fortresses, visitors can explore centuries of history, including the Secret Wartime Tunnels, which played a key role in World War II.
10. Canterbury – Cathedral City Charm
Canterbury holds a special place in English history as the seat of Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Transport: Trains from St Pancras take about 1 hour to Canterbury West Station.
Food & Drink: The Goods Shed, a farmer’s market and restaurant, serves fresh, locally sourced dishes. For a traditional afternoon tea experience, Tiny Tim’s Tearoom offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Things to Do: The towering Canterbury Cathedral, one of the most significant religious sites in England, stands as the city’s main attraction. The medieval streets of the King’s Mile create a charming backdrop for exploring local shops and cafes. At the Canterbury Tales Attraction, Chaucer’s famous stories are brought to life through interactive exhibits. A boat tour along the Great Stour River provides a unique perspective of the city.
11. Seven Sisters Cliffs – Dramatic Coastal Views
The Seven Sisters Cliffs, a series of striking white chalk cliffs along the Sussex coast, remain one of England’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Transport: Trains from London Victoria to Seaford take about 1.5 hours. A short walk from the station leads to Seaford Head, the best viewpoint for the cliffs.
Food & Drink: The Cuckmere Inn, a charming riverside pub, offers traditional British dishes alongside stunning countryside views. A picnic along the cliffside remains a popular choice for visitors wanting to enjoy the scenery.
Things to Do: The hike from Seaford Head to Birling Gap provides some of the most dramatic coastal views in England. Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers will find plenty of opportunities to capture the stunning landscape. The surrounding South Downs National Park offers additional walking trails for those looking to extend their outdoor adventure.
Conclusion
These day trips prove that you don’t have to travel far to experience something magical. With easy train connections from London, you can explore history, nature, and seaside adventures in just a few hours. So, which one are you adding to your list?
