At this time I wish to carry you my information to the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. There’s no scarcity of enjoyable locations to go to close to the UK capital. Whether or not you’re into cities, coastal escapes, or the countryside, there are locations within the UK and Europe that can suit your journey type. In the event you’re in search of your subsequent day journey from London by practice, bus, or tour, my listing will enable you to select the proper vacation spot. I’ve included an interactive map as properly.
Greatest Day Journeys from London With no Automotive
My listing of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive covers a spread of locations you may go to in a short while. Whether or not you dream of escaping to the English countryside or the seaside, a well-known European metropolis or a quintessential village, there’s a brief break for you.
I’ve been to each place on my listing (lots of them a number of instances), so I can guarantee you ways worthwhile they’re from private expertise. There’s extra about day journeys within the e book Escape London: Days Out inside Simple Attain of London, too. You may get it on Amazon right here.
You are able to do these journeys independently by practice or bus, or on a guided tour. In the event you choose the previous, my information to UK practice journey may also help. If you wish to do the latter, you may take a look at excursions and e book one right here.
1. Tub
Tub is among the most stunning cities in England, and it deserves a spot on my listing of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. Recognized for its stone buildings and heritage structure, it’s a straightforward practice journey from London.
The traditional Roman Baths are price a particular journey, and town’s Jane Austen connections draw literature lovers from throughout the globe. Add to that the Royal Crescent and The Circus, and there’s magnificence throughout.
There are many impartial outlets and eating places that make for an pleasing day journey to Tub, too. From bookstores to cafes, there’s sufficient to even fill a complete weekend in Tub.
In the event you’re all for a guided day tour, you may see among the space round Tub, too. From fairly villages to well-known landmarks like Stonehenge, there are many choices.
It’s notably enjoyable to discover Tub and the Cotswolds in a single journey. You’ll get to see among the prettiest villages in Wiltshire and different counties.
If that sounds good, you may see a spread of excursions and e book one right here. There are many choices, so that you’re certain to search out one that matches your pursuits and journey type.
2. Oxford
If you wish to go to one of the crucial well-known college cities within the UK, Oxford is among the finest day journeys from London with out a automotive. It’s solely an hour from London by practice and it’s served by a number of rail companies each hour. It’s among the best locations to go to within the UK.
Oxford is just not solely identified for teachers, but additionally structure. From Christ Church to Magdalen and St John’s, there are well-known faculty buildings in all places you look inside the college. You are able to do my self-guided strolling tour of Oxford to see the perfect of them.
Past the universities, town is stuffed with historic pubs, markets, and museums. Oxford can be in style for its Alice in Wonderland connections and Harry Potter filming places.
In the event you’re all for a guided day tour, you may see locations round Oxford as properly. From fairly villages to well-known filming places, there’s a lot to find.
It’s at all times a deal with to discover Oxford and the Cotswolds in a single journey. You’ll get to see among the prettiest Cotswolds villages and locations the place Downtown Abbey was filmed.
If that sounds good, you may see a spread of excursions and e book one right here. There are many choices, so that you’re certain to search out one that matches your pursuits and journey preferences.
3. Cambridge
Oxford’s rival Cambridge is one other of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. Not solely is it simple to get to by practice from a number of London stations, but it surely’s additionally lower than an hour’s journey from the capital should you take a quick service.
Cambridge is just not solely stunning, but additionally an vital heart of British teachers and heritage. Add to that gorgeous structure, wealthy historical past, and fairly streets, and Cambridge is difficult to beat for a day trip from London.
In the event you’re happening a Cambridge day journey, you may see the highlights and expertise the perfect issues to do. From touring the universities to attending evensong at King’s School Chapel, there’s so much to maintain guests entertained.
When you’re right here, you are able to do my self-guided strolling tour of Cambridge. It can present you the large sights and hidden aspect streets along with the universities.
Considered one of my favourite issues to do in Cambridge is go punting on the river behind the universities. It’s an idyllic—to not point out quintessentially English—strategy to spend a sunny afternoon.
In the event you choose a guided tour, you may see choices and e book one right here. There are many excursions to select from, so that you’re certain to search out one that matches your journey type and preferences.
4. Brighton
On the south coast, Brighton is one other of my favourite day journeys from London with out a automotive. It’s a straightforward journey from the UK capital by rail. Trains go away from a number of stations within the metropolis, and the journey takes an hour or much less usually.
There’s so much you are able to do on a day journey to Brighton. From the opulent 18th-century pleasure palace to the amusement park on the pier, large seashores, and little lanes with outlets, Brighton has one thing for each traveler.
Brighton is just not solely one in every of my go-to seaside day journeys from London, but additionally one in every of my favourite locations to go to in East Sussex. In case you have time, it’s price spending 2 days in Brighton.
Whereas visiting this well-known seaside city you may see every thing from the English Channel to the sightseeing sights and avenue artwork. In the event you keep late, you may expertise town’s well-known nightlife scene as properly.
If you wish to see extra of the coast, you may take a guided tour. There are many stunning areas round Brighton, from the chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters to seashores and extra.
If that appeals, you may see a spread of decisions and e book one right here. There’s all kinds to select from, so that you’re certain to search out one that features the locations you’re all for seeing most.
5. Canterbury & Dover
In Kent, Canterbury and Dover make for an incredible day journey from London with out a automotive. The previous is among the most well-known cathedral cities in England, and the latter is understood for its hilltop fort and white cliffs.
The cathedral is the primary occasion in Canterbury, and it’s price a particular journey whether or not you’re non secular or not. It’s huge, stunning, and galvanizing, and when you’ve seen the within there are gardens and cloisters to tour outdoors.
However it’s not simply the cathedral that pulls guests to Canterbury. The encircling streets are full of retailers, cafes, and hidden surprises to find. It’s among the best locations to go to in Kent.
Dover is famend for its fort, which is stuffed with historical past. It’s residence to an historic Roman lighthouse, an Anglo-Saxon church, and Napoleonic Struggle-era tunnels that had been used as an Allied command heart in World Struggle II. Which is to say nothing of the views throughout the channel to France.
It’s simple to see each Canterbury and Dover on someday journey from London. Guided excursions will choose you up from the center of town and whisk you off to Kent. It’s an effective way to see two locations in someday.
If that sounds good, you may see quite a lot of choices and e book one right here. There’s various them to select from, so that you’re certain to search out one that matches your journey type.
6. Hampton Court docket Palace
Hampton Court docket Palace is subsequent on my listing of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. It’s a brief practice journey from town heart (or a scenic boat journey), leaving you loads of time to discover the interiors, gardens, and grounds.
There’s so much to see on a day journey to Hampton Court docket Palace. From the State Flats and personal rooms of William III and Mary II to the gardens, kitchens, and courtyards, there’s a lot to maintain you entertained.
And that’s to say nothing of the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze and the centuries-old Nice Vine. The latter is the most important grapevine on the earth, and it’s price seeing.
In the event you can time your go to to coincide with the annual Hampton Court docket Backyard Competition, you’ll be in for much more of a deal with. It’s a enjoyable annual occasion each summer season, and it makes this among the best backyard day journeys from London.
If all that sounds good, you may e book your entry ticket right here. If you wish to go by boat, you may e book a ticket right here. Whether or not you go from Westminster, Richmond, or elsewhere, it’s a enjoyable strategy to get to the palace.
You can too take a tour whilst you’re right here. There are every kind of guided excursions on provide, together with ones that function afternoon tea at Hampton Court docket Palace. And if you wish to see two royal residences in someday, you may take a tour of Hampton Court docket and Windsor Fort. You’ll be able to e book tickets right here.
7. The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is one other day journey you may take from London with out a automotive. This Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence is unfold over a number of counties, and it has lots of villages, gardens, countryside, and landmarks dotted all through.
Whereas it’s potential go to the Cotswolds by practice, it’s troublesome to get round by public transport when you arrive. Taking a day tour makes it so much simpler. Not solely will it mean you can see extra of the highlights, however it’ll prevent time making an attempt to navigate by yourself.
It’s just below a 2-hour drive from London to the Cotswolds, and as soon as there your tour will present you locations like Burford, Bibury, Higher Slaughter, Decrease Slaughter, Painswick, and/or different locations.
If that appeals, you may see choices and e book a Cotswolds day tour right here. Along with those I’ve already talked about that embody Tub and Oxford, there are many Cotswolds day excursions that spend the entire time within the Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence.
In the event you don’t wish to go on a guided tour, I’ve written about 5 simple methods to go to the Cotswolds with out a automotive. Whether or not you wish to take a rustic stroll or see one of the crucial stunning villages close to London by practice, my information will enable you to do it.
In the event you go, remember the fact that there’s much more to see right here than you may match into someday. It’s a good suggestion to plan forward and map out the place you wish to go so you will get to in all places you wish to see. Ensure that to pre-book taxis properly prematurely and lookup native bus schedules, as not all companies run day by day.
8. Warner Bros Studio Tour
The Warner Bros Studio Tour is one other of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. That is the place the Harry Potter motion pictures had been filmed, and you may see all of the units from his magical world of wizardry whilst you’re right here.
From the Gryffindor frequent room at Hogwarts to Diagon Alley, Gringotts Wizarding Financial institution, and Dumbledore’s workplace, guests can stand up near the highlights and discover all of the interactive displays.
Positioned simply outdoors of London, you will get to the Warner Bros Studio Tour by a mix of practice and shuttle from town heart.
It’s a 15-20 minute journey from Euston station to Watford Junction, from the place common shuttles make the 15-minute journey to the studio.
You can too go to by taking a tour from London by coach or bus. It can make it a better journey because you’ll be on the identical automobile complete means. If that appeals, you may see choices and e book one right here.
I’ve accomplished this earlier than and I cherished how simple it was. The bus takes you proper to the doorway, and you may discover by yourself all day earlier than taking it again to London on the finish.`
9. Windsor Fort
Windsor Fort is one other of my favourite day journeys from London with out a automotive. One of the well-known castles in England, it’s an incredible place to get into all issues royal.
There’s so much to see on a day journey to Windsor Fort. Most guests tour the State Flats and St George’s Chapel to soak up the historic and ceremonial highlights. You’ll be able to e book tickets right here.
There’s extra past the fortified partitions, too. Windsor and Eton are full of retailers, historic buildings, and inexperienced areas. It’s simple to spend an hour or two exploring them after you tour the fort.
Then there’s Windsor Nice Park. This large inexperienced house is price discovering, not least as a result of it’s a wonderful place to stroll. The traditional Royal panorama options forests, grasslands, lakes, and gardens.
If that sounds good, Windsor is shut sufficient to the UK capital that it’s solely a 40-minute practice journey from Paddington station. It’s so shut you may even do it as a half-day journey from London.
You can too come right here on a guided tour. You’ll be able to e book one right here. You’ll be able to even mix it with different locations like Stonehenge, Tub, and/or Hampton Court docket. You’ll be able to see choices and e book a tour right here.
10. Rye
In East Sussex, Rye is a kind of day journeys from London with out a automotive that I maintain taking repeatedly. Severely, it’s so stunning right here.
Filled with cobbled streets, haunted inns, half-timbered facades, and quaint cottages, Rye is among the prettiest cities in Britain.
When you’re visiting, there are lots of enjoyable issues to do in Rye. From climbing the bell tower of the church to touring the house of author Henry James, the city has so much to see irrespective of your pursuits.
Rye can be a straightforward stroll from Camber Fort, a historic fortress with connections to Henry VIII. It’s among the best castles close to London, and it’s price a particular journey you probably have time.
And that’s to say nothing of the city’s location close to Camber Sands, among the best seashores in East Sussex. In the event you pre-book a taxi you may head out to the coast for a part of the day.
No matter you resolve to do, Rye is a straightforward practice journey from London. It’s definitely worth the rail journey to get right here and uncover among the best cities close to the UK capital.
11. Margate
Margate is one other of the highest day journeys from London with out a automotive. Also known as Shoreditch-on-Sea, Margate brings cool East Finish London type to the waterfront in Kent.
A Margate day journey is an effective way to play hipster on the seaside close to London. If that’s not your factor, Margate has a world-class artwork gallery, loads of fairly historic homes, and nice cafes.
There’s an enormous seashore in Margate with a lighthouse within the distance, too. The seafront is backed by colourful buildings and the well-known Turner Up to date.
The Dreamland Margate amusement park is close to the waterfront, too. It’s a well-known place to have enjoyable within the solar on the seaside.
Margate’s classic clothes outlets, cafes, and eating places spherical out the scene, which is to remain nothing of the Sixteenth-century Tudor Home and streets like Love Lane.
This seaside city in Kent is definitely accessible from London by practice. Over on the Kentish coast, it’s round an hour and a half from town, and it’s conveniently served by a few London stations.
12. Winchester
Winchester is one other of my favourite day journeys from London with out a automotive. It’s an hour or much less by rail from the capital, and the city’s practice station is a fast and simple stroll from the center of town.
As soon as on a day journey to Winchester, there’s a wealth of heritage websites and different enjoyable locations to discover. The cathedral is gorgeous, and it’s price a particular journey. Jane Austen and different notables are buried right here.
You’ll additionally discover King Arthur’s spherical desk and the ruins of a medieval bishop’s palace on the town. They’re each price seeing for his or her distinctive historic significance.
Add to that the bucolic river stroll and gardens of the Hospital of St Cross, and it’s laborious to wish to take the practice residence from Winchester.
In the event you’re feeling formidable, you may take a day journey to Winchester and Chawton to see the home the place Jane Austen as soon as lived. It’s price a visit should you’re a fan of her work.
If you’d like some steering whilst you’re right here, you may take a tour. There are a lot to select from, together with historic excursions and ghost walks. You’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here. With so many good decisions, you’re certain to search out one you like.
13. Hastings
Hastings is one other of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. This seaside city in East Sussex is understood for its Norman historical past, however its seashores are what draw the vast majority of guests.
There’s no scarcity of them, both. Rock-A-Nore Seashore is known for having steep cliffs behind it. Hastings Seashore encompasses a large apron of pebble shoreline. It’s additionally residence to Hastings Pier, which has iconic striped seashore huts on it.
The Stade, a shingle seashore, is lined by colourful fishing boats, nets, and stalls promoting recent fish and seafood.
The waterfront in Hastings is full of historic web huts, carnival rides, and full of life eating places. Behind them you’ll discover a pleasant maze of streets with heritage homes and two funiculars.
Then comes the clifftop fortress. Hastings Fort was established by William the Conqueror in 1066 whereas he was making his means from Normandy to Battle firstly of the Norman Conquest. It developed over time to be a stone fortress of strategic significance.
Taking a Hastings day journey is easy and easy by rail, as there are direct companies from London to the center of city. It’s one of many best seaside day journeys from London by practice.
14. Bristol
Out west, Bristol is one other of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. Lower than 1.5 hours from the capital by rail, this metropolis on and across the River Avon is straightforward to get to, and it makes for an incredible day trip.
Bristol has so much for guests to see and do, from museums to enjoyable outlets and cafes. There are well-known bridges, colourful homes, and slender lanes to discover, to not point out a world-class zoo (the crimson pandas are lovely!).
The town is understood for its impartial spirit, pupil inhabitants, and riverside sights. Transformed Nineteenth-century riverfront warehouses shelter cool eating places, outlets, and galleries.
Harbourside is residence to the up to date M Shed museum, which explores Bristol’s industrial and social heritage. Clifton is stuffed with elegant crescents, Georgian townhouses, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It’s a enjoyable place to take photographs and movies.
Bristol can be well-known for its Banksy connections. Many guests get pleasure from taking excursions to see his iconic avenue artwork across the metropolis. In the event you’re , you may e book one right here.
Different enjoyable excursions embody the St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour. If you wish to see extra, you will discover a spread of excursions and e book one right here. There are many choices, so that you’re certain to search out one that matches your pursuits and journey type.
15. Whitstable
One other coastal spotlight, Whitstable is among the finest day journeys from London with out a automotive. It’s served by a couple of London station and the quickest companies attain the city in lower than an hour and 1 / 4.
Whitstable is known for its seafood, and for the annual oyster pageant that it hosts every year. However it’s an incredible place to go to at different instances for its scrumptious recent catches, fairly seashores, and candy excessive avenue full of retailers.
In the event you’d choose to go to on a guided tour, you may e book one right here. It’s an effective way to see this a part of the Kentish coast with an knowledgeable.
16. Deal
Additionally on the seaside in Kent, Deal is one other of my favourite day journeys from London with out a automotive. Positioned the place the North Sea meets the English Channel, this historic city has large pebble seashores and a protracted pier.
Deal is most well-known for what lies behind the seashore, although. The seafront Deal Fort is famous. Established by Henry VIII, it’s one in every of seven forts constructed to defend ships in Kent and guard in opposition to enemy invaders from France and different elements of Europe.
Moreover, the pastel homes and historic pubs on Center Avenue are each eye-catching and steeped in smuggling lore. There’s nice purchasing right here, too.
In the event you’re up for a stroll, you may see Walmer Fort whilst you’re visiting Deal. Like Deal Fort, it’s one of many seven forts constructed by Henry VIII between 1539 and 1540. It’s absolutely furnished inside and options lush gardens outdoors.
There’s a practice station in Cope with direct companies to London, so it’s simple to take a day journey to Deal if you wish to journey by rail.
In the event you choose a guided tour, there are excursions of Kent with stops in Deal. They’re nice methods to see issues just like the White Cliffs of Dover, Canterbury, and different highlights in someday. You’ll be able to e book a tour right here.
17. St Albans
St Albans is among the finest day journeys from London with out a automotive as a result of it’s so near town. Lower than 20 minutes by practice from some London stations, it’s an incredible alternative should you don’t wish to spend an excessive amount of time in transit.
St Albans has lots of Roman historical past, and it’s a super place to go to should you like Roman ruins. However it has a recent aspect, too, with outlets, avenue markets, and eating places on the town.
It additionally has one thing in between with St Albans Cathedral, which dates again to Norman instances, and the Ye Olde Preventing Cocks, a pub that claims to be the oldest in England. It doesn’t matter what you’re into there are many issues to do in St Albans you’ll love.
18. Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is one other enjoyable day journey from London with out a automotive. Positioned in Warwickshire, this historic city is understood for its Shakespeare connections.
Stratford is stuffed with homes The Bard and his household lived in, theaters displaying his performs, and historic streets and riverside pubs excellent for ingesting and eating.
A day journey to Stratford-upon-Avon offers you ample time to go to the Shakespeare homes, go to a play, and discover the historic streets, outlets, and riverfront.
If this quick break sounds good to your internal journey lover, there are many excursions you may take. From open-top buses to walks, there’s one thing for each traveler. You’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here.
You can too take a guided tour from London to see Stratford and different highlights close by. There are many nice ones to select from, together with excursions that cowl the Cotswolds. You’ll be able to see a spread and e book right here.
I’ve even taken a tour that took me to Stratford, Warwick Fort, the Cotswolds, and Oxford in someday. It was a busy journey, however I loved seeing so many highlights in a brief period of time. You’ll be able to e book it right here.
19. Bletchley Park
Simply north of town, Bletchley Park is one other simple day journey from London. This World Struggle II codebreaking heart is so near the UK capital you may attain it on a 35-minute practice journey from Euston station.
Positioned in Buckinghamshire, Bletchley Park is known for being the top-secret office of codebreakers like Alan Turing. It’s additionally thought of the birthplace of recent computing.
A day journey to Bletchley Park is a enjoyable strategy to be taught in regards to the vital work that was accomplished right here in the course of the warfare. If you’d like a completely guided tour, you may e book one right here.
20. Ely
In Cambridgeshire, Ely is one other of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. This well-known cathedral metropolis within the UK is commonly missed, but it surely’s price a particular practice journey to get right here.
That’s not least as a result of Ely Cathedral traces its origins to 672, and its historic interiors are gorgeous. Considered one of England’s largest cathedrals, it’s identified domestically because the ‘Ship of the Fens’.
Away from the church, there are much more issues to do in Ely. The town has a fairly riverfront space and wealthy historical past. It’s brimming with historic streets, nice outlets, and bustling markets. It even has a home that was as soon as lived in by Oliver Cromwell.
If you wish to, you may go on a guided tour to see Cambridge and Ely in a single journey. It’s an incredible day trip, and a enjoyable strategy to see two well-known cities in someday. You’ll be able to e book tickets right here.
21. Rochester
Subsequent on my listing of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive is Rochester. This beautiful metropolis in Kent is known for its fort, cathedral, and Charles Dickens connections.
I fell in love with Rochester the primary time I noticed its fortress from the practice. It took just a few extra years to go to, however after I did I discovered a city filled with fairly streets and basic English environment.
The fort and cathedral are highlights of a day journey, however there are a lot extra issues to do in Rochester. The city has nice bookshops, cafes, and parks to discover.
Rochester is known for its Charles Dickens connections as a result of he lived right here. Lots of the buildings on the excessive avenue are named after characters from his books and life. Actually, extra locations in Rochester function in his writing than another a part of Britain in addition to London.
If that appeals, there are many excursions you may take whilst you’re right here. From walks to arts excursions and costumed excursions, there’s a spread to select from. You’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here.
If you wish to see extra of the realm round Rochester in your day journey, there are guided excursions that can take you throughout Kent. From Dover Fort to the white cliffs, you’ll see the highlights. You’ll be able to e book a tour right here.
22. Lewes
Lewes is one other of my favourite day journeys from London with out a automotive. This city is among the finest locations to go to in East Sussex as a result of it’s full of gorgeous streets, a historic fort, and impartial outlets.
Lewes is an hour from London by practice, which implies you’ll have loads of time to discover. There are many issues to do in Lewes, together with visiting the priory ruins, seeing the historic houses, and taking within the views from the city’s hills.
There’s even a legendary fortress right here. Lewis Fort is a Norman quantity that was constructed by supporters of William the Conqueror after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. You’ll be able to tour it if you wish to see it up shut.
23. Stonehenge
Stonehenge is among the hottest day journeys from London with out a automotive. Its historical past and thriller draw guests from all throughout the globe to see the stones and picture how and why they made their means right here. It’s one of the crucial magical locations within the UK.
In the event you take a day journey to Stonehenge, you may e book tickets prematurely to avoid wasting time while you arrive. As soon as right here, there’s an audio tour that can information you across the web site. There are additionally Neolithic homes, a digital tour, and exhibitions that carry the place to life.
Touring by a mix of practice and bus to Stonehenge takes some time, so I like to recommend visiting on a guided tour. There are tons that mix the stones with visits to different locations. You’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here. With so many to select from, you’re certain to search out one which appeals.
24. Ramsgate
Ramsgate is subsequent on my listing of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. Out in Kent, it’s a seaside city identified for its huge sandy seashore, heritage structure, and royal harbor.
Ramsgate is among the finest seashore day journeys from London as a result of there’s an enormous stretch of sand right here. It’s an incredible place to go to on a sunny summer season day.
Past the sand, there are many issues to do in Ramsgate. The city is understood for every thing from outlets to seafood eating places.
The aspect streets are enjoyable to discover, too. There are many fairly homes and particulars to soak up right here. And that’s to say nothing of the views of the boats from the hill.
Then there’s the Pugin structure. Augustus Pugin designed the Homes of Parliament in London, and he lived in Ramsgate. His work will be seen at St Augustine’s Church on the town.
There’s a railway station in Ramsgate with direct companies to London, making it a straightforward day journey from the UK capital by practice.
25. Norwich
In Norfolk, Norwich is one in every of my high picks for day journeys from London by practice. With a wonderful historic metropolis heart and charming cobbled streets, this place is price a particular journey.
There are many enjoyable issues to do in Norwich, together with exploring the cathedral, strolling across the market sq., seeing the hilltop fort, and discovering the hidden courtyards.
Elm Hill is affected by Tudor buildings, and Norwich Market is among the oldest and largest out of doors markets in Britain. Add to {that a} smattering of colourful homes, and there’s so much to like about this place.
There are many enjoyable issues to do should you like being lively, too. From stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking and canoeing, there are many actions on provide on the Norfolk Broads. You’ll be able to see a spread and e book one right here.
26. Henley-on-Thames
In Oxfordshire, Henley-on-Thames is one other nice day journey from London with out a automotive. With its historic church, picturesque City Corridor, market sq., and impartial outlets, there’s so much to like about it.
It’s enjoyable to time a visit to coincide with the annual Henley Royal Regatta, however even on quieter days this riverside city is the proper place for afternoon tea and a wander alongside the water.
Rail companies function from London to Henley-on-Thames (with one change en route), making it a straightforward day journey from the capital by practice.
27. Battle
Battle is one other of my high picks for day journeys from London by rail. This city within the Excessive Weald in East Sussex is known for its historic abbey, however there are many different issues to do in Battle that make it price spending a day exploring.
Battle is understood for being the location of the Battle of Hastings in 1066. William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, defeated the English military of King Harold right here.
His victory kicked off the Norman conquest of England, making the battle one of the crucial vital army occasions in British historical past.
The preventing occurred in a area within the present-day city of Battle. After his victory, William the Conqueror based an abbey on the location.
Remnants of each the battle and the abbey nonetheless stay, and so they’re what draw most guests to the city right now.
Whereas right here you may stroll the battlefield and take within the abbey ruins, to not point out uncover the excessive avenue and aspect streets and tour the Battle Museum of Native Historical past.
28. Broadstairs
Broadstairs is one other of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. This seaside city on the Isle of Thanet in Kent is full of sandy seashores, chalk cliffs, and scenic shoreline. From Botany Bay to Joss Bay and Viking Bay, there’s tons to like in regards to the waterfront right here.
There are many nice issues to do in Broadstairs past the seashore, too. From purchasing to consuming fish and chips, the city has no scarcity of issues to supply guests.
Add to that Charles Dickens connections, full of life pubs, ice cream outlets, and scenic paths just like the Viking Coastal Path, and there’s so much to get pleasure from on this place.
29. Amersham
Amersham is subsequent on my listing of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. Positioned simply outdoors town, it’s so shut you may attain it on the tube. It’s one of the crucial stunning villages close to London, too.
Amersham is understood for the heritage homes and historic buildings on and across the excessive avenue in Outdated Amersham. From houses that date again to 1450 to the Market Corridor and the Thirteenth-century St Mary’s Church, there’s so much to see on the town.
Outdated Amersham is round a 20-minute stroll from the tube station. The route goes via stunning woodland, and it’s a picturesque strategy to arrive on the town.
Talking of which, this place can be identified for walks close to London by practice, because it’s situated within the Chiltern Hills Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence. If you wish to do a mix of a village go to and a rustic ramble, it’s simply the spot.
An Amersham day journey is good should you’re all for happening a straightforward journey from London with as little time in transit as potential.
It’s additionally an incredible choice should you’re on a funds, because it’s among the best low cost days out from town.
30. Greenwich
A few of the finest day journeys from London are locations in London itself. Greenwich is a chief instance of this, not least as a result of it’s so fast and simple to get right here by public transport from town heart.
As soon as on a Greenwich day journey, there’s a wealth of issues to do. That is notably true in the case of the realm’s historic gems. Every thing from the Nationwide Maritime Museum to the Queen’s Home is right here.
Strolling via the grounds of the Outdated Royal Naval School to soak up the gorgeous historic buildings is enjoyable, and climbing the hill in Greenwich Park to soak up the gorgeous views from the highest is definitely worth the journey.
Greenwich Market can be a deal with to browse. There are nice meals stalls, to not point out distributors promoting every kind of artwork, handicrafts, and different items.
I’ve created a free self-guided Greenwich strolling tour that can allow you to discover extra of the realm and its aspect streets, too.
If you’d like a guided tour or an extended day trip, there are many choices. I’ve accomplished one which goes to Leeds Fort, Dover, Canterbury, and Greenwich. It’s an enormous journey, but it surely’s nice to see so many locations in a single go should you’re pressed for time. You’ll be able to e book it right here.
31. York
Subsequent on my listing of day journeys is York. It may appear a great distance from London, however I found how simple it was to take a day journey from the UK capital by practice various years in the past. It’s 2 hours every means, so it’s doable should you get an early begin.
On my first day journey to York I used to be gained over by every thing from York Minster cathedral to the tiny Snickelway lanes and the half-timbered facades that line them.
The eating places and cafes are glorious, and York is residence to among the prettiest historic buildings within the UK.
On my second go to I traveled to York on what I contemplate among the best Christmas day journeys from London.
Annually, the annual Christmas markets take over the streets and squares and switch town right into a winter wonderland. It was superb to see all of them and take within the seasonal spirit in York.
No matter time of 12 months you go to, there are many enjoyable issues to do right here. If you’d like some steering, you may take a river cruise, go on a Harry Potter strolling tour, or journey the ghost tour bus. You’ll be able to see a spread of choices and e book one right here.
32. Paris
Paris is one in every of my favourite day journeys from London to Europe with out a automotive. There are direct trains from London, and the Metropolis of Mild is simply over 2 hours and quarter-hour away. That leaves you lots of time to see the sights should you get an early begin.
The French capital is understood for every thing from tradition to delicacies. It has museums for artwork aficionados, trend for purchasing lovers, and delightful streets for many who wish to wander.
Whereas Paris is finest visited over the higher a part of every week (or extra), you may see the highlights in a single lengthy day if that’s all you’ve got.
In the event you use the metro, you’ll have the ability to go to Paris landmarks just like the Eiffel Tower, stroll round neighborhoods like Montmartre, and take within the scene on the Seine.
You’ll be able to be taught extra in my information to taking a day journey to Paris from London. It can present you all of the issues you are able to do within the French capital in a day.
If you’d like steering, there are excursions you may take as properly. You’ll be able to see a spread of choices and e book one right here. Whether or not you’d wish to go comparatively independently or have lunch on the Eiffel Tower, there’s one that can suit your preferences.
33. Brussels
Brussels is one other of the best day journeys from London to Europe with out a automotive. Just like the French capital, the Belgian capital advantages from direct rail companies from the UK capital. You may get right here in just below 2 hours, leaving you with loads of time to see the sights.
Brussels is underrated so far as European capital cities go. I spent a summer season dwelling and dealing right here after faculty, and I discovered no scarcity of locations to like.
From the attractive buildings within the Grand Place (it’s among the best metropolis squares in Europe) to the slender streets lined with eating places and delightful purchasing arcades, there’s so much to see.
And that’s to say nothing of the museums, avenue artwork, Artwork Nouveau structure, and scrumptious meals (suppose waffles, fries, chocolate, and mussels).
It’s simple to spend 1 day in Brussels, as many of the sightseeing highlights are in a compact space close to the Grand Place and central practice station.
If you’d like some steering, there are excursions you may take while you arrive. You’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here. Whether or not you’d wish to go on a hop on, hop off bus tour or a guided stroll via town streets, there’s one that can suit your type.
34. Lille
Lille is subsequent on my listing of the perfect day journeys from London with out a automotive. Considered one of my favourite under-the-radar cities in France, this northern gem advantages from direct rail companies from London.
Lille is reachable in simply over 1 hour and 20 minutes from the UK capital, which means you may see so much in a day.
And there’s so much to see. Like Brussels, the primary Lille sightseeing highlights are pretty concentrated in a single space. They’re all conveniently situated in strolling distance of the practice station you’ll arrive into as properly.
From the Place du Normal de Gaulle with its stunning historic buildings to the scrumptious pastries within the patisseries, there’s so much to like about Lille.
The purchasing is sweet as properly. If you wish to discover the perfect French clothes boutiques with out going all the best way to Paris, there are many outlets you’ll get pleasure from looking right here.
In the event you’d like some steering, there are excursions you may go on while you get right here. You’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here. Whether or not you’d wish to go on a guided stroll via the previous city, a meals tour, or a journey in a classic Citroen, there’s one that can suit your pursuits.
35. Bruges
Bruges is one other of the perfect day journeys from London to Europe with out a automotive. Whereas there aren’t any direct trains from London to Bruges, you may take a practice to Brussels and alter there for persevering with rail companies to Flanders.
Bruges is full of waterways and wanderlust-worthy lanes. This medieval metropolis in Belgium charms guests with its enticing squares, bell towers, and well-preserved previous city.
Being in Bruges looks like stepping again in time. Every thing from the bridges to the waterfront homes is postcard-pretty.
In the event you want steering, there are excursions you may go on while you arrive on the town. You’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here. Whether or not you’d wish to go on a ship tour, a guided stroll, or do a waffle-making workshop, there’s one that can suit your tastes.
Map of Day Journeys from London
As promised, I created an interactive Google map of all of the locations I coated on this weblog submit. You’ll be able to see it right here. In the event you click on on the pins, you will discover extra info and my weblog posts about each. I hope it helps you intend a fast getaway!
Greatest Day Journeys from London With no Automotive
I hope you’ve got an incredible day trip and that this submit has helped you uncover some thrilling new day journeys from London. Whether or not you wish to journey by rail or on a guided tour, they’ll present you among the finest locations close to town.
In the event you’re in search of seasonal journeys, you may check out my guides to spring, summer season, autumn, and winter day journeys from London for concepts.
And you probably have extra time, you may try my weblog posts about 2-day journeys from London, 3-day journeys from London, and 4-day journeys from London. My information to the perfect weekend journeys from London by practice may also help, too.
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