Local’s Guide: Best Day Trips from London by Train in 2025
Thinking about a day trip from London but not sure which ones are actually worth it? We’ve taken over 40 by train and put together a locals’ list of favourites, all under two hours away!
After living in London for more than nine years, hopping on a train for the day has become part of our routine. Some places are ideal for a relaxed afternoon with a pub lunch, while others offer enough to fill a full day without needing to plan every detail in advance.
Over the years, we’ve tried the classic day trip spots and a fair few unexpected ones too. Some were fantastic and left us wanting to go back. Others looked promising but didn’t quite deliver once we arrived. A handful just didn’t feel worth the effort.
That’s why we’ve narrowed it down to the best day trips from London by train that are easy to plan and genuinely enjoyable. Each one is under two hours from the city and offers a solid mix of sights, atmosphere, and good food. Whether you live in London or you’re visiting, these are the ones we’d actually recommend to friends.
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Short on time?
Here are our top picks for day trips from London by train (all under 2 hours):
Under 1 Hour from London
Not every day trip needs to take hours. These are our favourite day trips; you can reach them by train from London in under 60 minutes. They’re quick to get to, but still feel like a proper escape.
If you’re after history, riverside views or a bit of royal drama, these are all solid choices. A short train journey makes them especially appealing if you don’t fancy an early start.
Windsor Castle in Windsor
Best for: Royal history, scenic riverside walks and a proper British castle experience
Journey time: 40 minutes from London Paddington (via Slough, change once)
Top thing not to miss: The State Apartments inside the castle grounds
Windsor is an easy trip from London and offers a rare chance to explore a working royal residence. We absolutely love castles and have seen many all over the world, yet Windsor is still one of our favourites.
The castle is enormous, full of historical detail, and still used for state occasions.
Inside, the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel are the real highlights, especially if you’re into royal history.
If you can, see the Changing of the Guard around 11am on a Thursday or Saturday. Just double-check the schedule before you go, as it can vary.
Did you know? Windsor Castle is the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle. It was originally built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror.
Windsor itself is pleasant but compact. You can walk the Long Walk for big castle views, pop over the bridge to see Eton College, or browse a few independent shops before heading to Windsor Great Park for a bit of greenery.
It’s not packed with things to do, but the mix of history and calm makes it a solid choice for a slower-paced day out.
Canterbury
Best for: Cathedral lovers, medieval streets, and a peaceful change of pace
Journey time: 55 minutes from London St Pancras (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: A guided walking tour of Canterbury
Canterbury is a relaxed, walkable city with layers of history everywhere you look. We’ve been more than once, and it still feels like a proper escape from London, especially if you go midweek when things are a bit quieter.
The main attraction is Canterbury Cathedral, known for its Gothic architecture and long history. You don’t need to be religious to appreciate the atmosphere inside.
Our top tip: The standard ticket for Canterbury Cathedral doesn’t include an audio guide, but it’s definitely worth paying extra for! We got far more from the visit with it than we would have done on our own.
Beyond the cathedral, the medieval city walls and Westgate Gardens are ideal for a gentle walk, particularly along the River Stour.
You’ll also find guided walks around the city if you want a bit more context as you explore. We did this walking tour and truly enjoyed it!
If there’s time, climb up the Westgate Towers for a rooftop view or head to the cemetery near St Martin’s Church. It’s a peaceful spot with direct links to Canterbury’s Roman past.
Did you know? Canterbury was originally a Roman settlement called Durovernum Cantiacorum. Some parts of the old Roman walls are still visible today.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour (aka Harry Potter Studio Tour) in Watford
Best for: Film lovers, behind-the-scenes magic and one-of-a-kind costumes
Journey time: 45 minutes from London Euston to Watford Junction (including a 15-minute shuttle bus)
Top thing not to miss: Walking through the Great Hall where the films began
If you’re even slightly into Harry Potter, the studio tour makes for a perfect day trip. It’s not a theme park. It’s packed with original sets, props, concept art and behind-the-scenes detail.
Did you know? The Studio Tour is built on the site of the real Leavesden Studios, where all eight Harry Potter films were shot over a ten-year period.
The experience itself is self-guided, so you can take your time through the Great Hall, the Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley.
The on-site café is decent for a quick stop, and there’s butterbeer if you fancy trying it. Just be warned: it’s very sweet.
Our top tip: If you’d rather not sort out separate train, shuttle and entry tickets, an organised day trip to Warner Bros. Studio is a great option! It includes everything in one go and saves you from having to plan the logistics. It’s especially useful if you’re short on time, or just want a smoother way to experience the tour without the extra steps.
Getting there is quite straightforward. There are direct trains from London Euston to Watford Junction, followed by a short shuttle bus that drops you off at the entrance.
Eltham Palace in Greenwich
Best for: Art Deco interiors, medieval-meets-modern architecture and a crowd-free palace experience
Journey time: 35 minutes from London Bridge (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: The circular Art Deco entrance hall
Eltham Palace is unlike any other place we’ve visited near London. It’s part medieval royal residence and part 1930s Art Deco home. The combination might sound unusual, but it works beautifully.
The Great Hall dates back to the 1470s and was once used by Henry VIII.
The rest of the building was reimagined when the Courtaulds moved in and added modern touches with a lot of style. They even brought a pet lemur who had his own centrally heated room.
The palace is far more peaceful than busy spots like the Tower of London. The audio guide is genuinely good, and a short film at the start gives a clear overview of the site’s history.
Highlights include the Courtaulds’ luxurious bathroom, the circular entrance hall, a wartime bunker, the medieval hall, and gardens ideal for a relaxed walk afterwards.
Did you know? Henry VIII spent much of his childhood at Eltham Palace. It was a key royal residence well before Greenwich and Whitehall became more prominent.
St Albans
Best for: Roman ruins, a stunning cathedral and a proper pub lunch
Journey time: 20 minutes from London St Pancras (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: The Roman mosaic floor in Verulamium Park
St Albans is one of the quickest and most rewarding day trips from London. It’s a small city with a big history.
Once a major Roman settlement, it’s now best known for its cathedral, which is free to enter and genuinely impressive. Inside, you’ll find a mix of architectural styles and the longest nave in England.
We like how easy it is to get around. The city centre is compact, and everything is within a short walk.
You can go from Roman ruins in Verulamium Park to the lively market square to one of the oldest pubs in the country, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, all within a 15-minute walk.
There’s also a Saturday market that’s worth checking out, and George Street is great for a coffee stop or a browse after lunch.
Did you know? St Albans was once known as Verulamium, the third-largest city in Roman Britain.
Hampton Court Palace in Richmond
Best for: Tudor drama, gorgeous gardens and a quieter alternative to the Tower of London
Journey time: 45 minutes from London Waterloo (direct train to Hampton Court station, then a 5-minute walk)
Top thing not to miss: The Tudor Great Hall
So many visitors skip Hampton Court because it’s not in central London, but if you’re interested in palaces, towers and royal drama, this is the one we’d choose. To be honest, we prefer it over the Tower of London.
The combination of Tudor and Baroque architecture gives you two palaces in one, and the atmosphere feels more immersive and less like a museum.
The audio guide, which is included in your ticket, is genuinely helpful for navigating the palace and understanding what you’re looking at.
Did you know? Cardinal Wolsey originally built Hampton Court Palace, but Henry VIII took it for himself when Wolsey fell out of favour.
From Henry VIII’s enormous kitchens to William III’s Baroque apartments, it’s all there. The Great Hall is our favourite part, especially with the soaring hammerbeam ceiling and stained glass windows.
The grounds are a highlight, too. You’ll find riverside paths, formal gardens, and even a hedge maze.
We’ve been at least six times, in every season. There’s an ice rink and festive market in winter, food festivals in summer and plenty of space to enjoy all year.
1-2 Hours from London
Some of the best day trips from London need a slightly longer train ride, but they’re still easy day trips to plan. These spots offer more to explore, whether you’re after culture, coast or countryside.
Each one feels like a proper getaway without the hassle of an overnight stay. These are the best day trips we’ve taken when we’ve wanted more than just a quick break.
Cambridge
Best for: Iconic colleges, academic atmosphere and relaxing punting tours
Journey time: 1 hour from London King’s Cross (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: Alumni-led walking tour of the University of Cambridge
Cambridge is our top pick for a well-rounded day trip. It’s compact, looks great in every season and has centuries of academic legacy built into its streets.
Visit colleges like King’s, Trinity and Queens’, each with a different feel. If you only have time for one, we’d say go for an alumni-led tour of the college buildings (we did this one). It’s a brilliant way to get a real sense of student life there.
Did you know? Cambridge is home to 31 individual colleges, each one operating independently like its own mini university.
Time by the River Cam is essential. Yes, punting is touristy, but it’s also one of the best things to do in Cambridge. We booked a guided punting tour that took us past seven historic colleges. It was calm, scenic and a great way to see a lot without rushing.
And if museums are more your thing, the Fitzwilliam Museum is free to enter and full of art, history, and unexpected finds.
Brighton
Best for: Seaside fun, indie shops and royal flair
Journey time: 1 hour 5 minutes from London Bridge or Victoria (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: Brighton’s iconic Royal Pavilion (part palace, part fantasy)
Brighton is one of our favourite seaside escapes from London. It’s fun, easy to get around and always full of energy, without feeling overwhelming.
Start with a walk along Brighton Pier, grab some fish and chips and take in the views from the pebble beach. Then head into the Lanes, where you’ll find vintage shops, street art and cafés tucked into narrow alleys.
The Royal Pavilion is the real standout. It’s an extravagant former palace that looks more like something from India or China than a typical British royal residence. The interiors are just as bold, and the gardens are a peaceful spot for a mid-afternoon break.
For the best panoramic views across Brighton and the Sussex coast, take a ride on Brighton i360, which ascends 138 metres (450 feet) into the sky.
Our top tip: About 13 kilometres (8 miles) west of Brighton are the seven magnificent chalk cliffs, known as the Seven Sisters. To witness some of England’s breathtaking nature, we recommend joining a Seven Sisters boat tour from Brighton for an exclusive perspective of these incredible formations.
If you’re keen to see more of Brighton, take a look at our post with 30 captivating pictures of Brighton to help you decide if it’s the perfect city for you.
Margate
Best for: Coastal creativity, vintage shops and a quick seaside reset
Journey time: 1 hour 40 minutes from London St Pancras (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: A stroll along the harbour arm
Margate has had a bit of a glow-up in recent years, but it hasn’t lost its scruffy charm. The beach is wide and sandy, perfect for a summer paddle, while the old town is packed with vintage shops, second-hand bookshops and independent galleries.
We like starting with a coffee by the harbour, browsing the high street and stopping into the Turner Contemporary, which always has something thought-provoking.
Did you know? Margate was one of the first seaside resorts in England. Londoners have been coming here to “take the sea air” since the 18th century
For lunch, Peter’s Fish Factory is a solid shout. Grab your food and eat on the steps by the sea if the weather holds. If it doesn’t, head to Dreamland amusement park instead. It’s full of retro rides, indoor arcades and a proper dose of kitsch.
Oxford
Best for: Historic colleges, student energy and iconic architecture
Journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes from London Marylebone (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: A student-led walking tour of the college buildings
Oxford is a brilliant choice if you’re after historic sites, beautiful buildings and a bit of bustle. The city centre is easy to explore and full of college buildings, cosy pubs and little surprises hidden between the quads.
We joined this walking tour and genuinely enjoyed it. It’s the best way to see inside the colleges, understand how the university functions and often includes a look at the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera.
Christ Church College was one of our highlights. The dining hall inspired the one in Harry Potter, and parts of the films were shot around the city.
If you’re a fan, there are tours that focus on Harry Potter filming locations and Oxford’s literary history, including nods to Alice in Wonderland.
Did you know? The University of Oxford is one of the 15 oldest universities in continuous operation worldwide, alongside other prestigious institutions like the Jagiellonian University in Poland and the University of Cambridge in the UK.
Away from the colleges, Oxford is simply a lovely place to spend a few hours. The Covered Market is great for lunch, and a walk along the River Cherwell is a peaceful way to finish the day before heading back to the station.
Hever Castle in Kent
Best for: Tudor history and a hidden-gem feel
Journey time: 1 hour 5 minutes from London Bridge (direct train to Edenbridge Town, then a 25-minute walk across fields or a short taxi ride)
Top thing not to miss: The interior of the castle, especially Anne Boleyn’s rooms
Hever Castle feels like a true hidden gem – literally! It’s not the easiest place to reach, especially if you walk from the station, but crossing a sheep-dotted meadow makes it feel like a real escape into the English countryside.
But if you’re into Tudor history, this is an excellent option for a quieter, more atmospheric castle experience.
The castle is smaller than places like Hampton Court, but that’s part of what makes it special. It’s surrounded by a moat, packed with personality and once home to Anne Boleyn.
Inside, you’ll find her prayer books, period artefacts and richly decorated rooms that feel more lived-in than palatial. The grounds are peaceful, with a lake, a maze and seasonal gardens that are worth taking your time over.
Did you know? Hever Castle was restored in the early 1900s by William Waldorf Astor, who transformed it from a near-ruin into the romantic retreat you see today.
Rye
Best for: Cobbled charm, antique shops and slow-paced exploring
Journey time: 1 hour 10 minutes from London St Pancras (direct train to Ashford International, then change)
Top thing not to miss: Climbing the tower of St Mary’s Church for panoramic town views
Rye is the kind of place that feels like it belongs in a storybook. It’s small, easy to get around and packed with crooked lanes, old inns and timber-framed houses.
Mermaid Street is the most photographed part of town, and for good reason, but the whole place is a great place to explore slowly. We enjoyed browsing the antique shops near Strand Quay, and for something sweet, The Fig or Rye Bakery are both good picks.
If you’re interested in a bit of history, Lamb House gives a glimpse into the life of writer Henry James, while the town’s ties to smuggling and coastal defence add something extra. It’s a place where you don’t need a plan. Just take your time and enjoy it as it comes.
Did you know? Rye used to be a coastal port, but the sea has since receded. It now sits several miles inland, surrounded by marshland.
Bristol
Best for: Indie culture, maritime history and brilliant street art
Journey time: 1 hour 35 minutes from London Paddington (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: A guided street art tour to see Banksy’s early work and explore the city’s creative side
Bristol has a different energy from the other cities on this list. It’s more creative, a bit scruffy in parts and full of character.
We always recommend joining a street art tour when visiting Bristol. It’s the best way to see some of Banksy’s original pieces, get a feel for the city’s rebellious spirit and learn about other local icons like Brunel and Blackbeard. We really enjoyed this walking tour!
Start your day by the harbourside, where the SS Great Britain is docked. It’s a fully restored Victorian ship and one of the best interactive museums we’ve visited.
Across the water, the M Shed offers a great introduction to the city’s industrial and maritime past. To round off your visit, head up to Clifton for views from the suspension bridge and a coffee overlooking the Avon Gorge.
Bristol makes a great day trip if you want a city with a strong sense of identity and a creative edge.
Did you know? Bristol was named the World Vegan Capital in 2020, thanks to its thriving plant-based food scene.
Blenheim Palace in Woodstock
Best for: Grand interiors, sprawling gardens and behind-the-scenes history
Journey time: 1 hour 40 minutes from London Marylebone (train to Oxford Parkway, then 20-minute bus or short taxi ride)
Top thing not to miss: The Downstairs Tour for a look at life beyond the staterooms
Blenheim is big… really big. It’s one of the largest stately homes in the UK, and even with a full day, you won’t see everything. That’s part of what makes it such a great day out.
The state rooms are impressive, but we especially enjoyed the Downstairs Tour. It takes you through the servant corridors and behind-the-scenes spaces, giving a completely different feel from the grandeur upstairs.
The tour costs extra on top of your entry ticket, but it’s absolutely worth it for the added depth and contrast.
Did you know? Blenheim is the only non-royal country house in England with the title of palace. It’s also the birthplace of Winston Churchill.
If you’ve watched Bridgerton, parts of the palace might look familiar. Blenheim has been used as a filming location and definitely has that lavish period drama feel.
The grounds are just as striking, with formal gardens, fountains, a huge lake and one very recognisable tree from the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix duel scene.
Bring good shoes if you want to explore properly. The wider park is vast, with miles of walking paths through Capability Brown-designed landscapes.
Bath
Best for: Roman ruins, Georgian architecture and an easy mix of culture and calm
Journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes from London Paddington (direct train)
Top thing not to miss: The Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the UK
Bath is beautiful, compact, and made for aimless wandering. The main draw is the Roman Baths, a remarkably preserved complex built around natural thermal springs that have been in use for more than 2,000 years.
You can’t swim here, but the museum experience gives you a sense of the city’s spa-town identity and deep roots.
The rest of Bath is just as easy to enjoy. The Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey all sit within easy walking distance.
If you’re visiting in summer, a boat ride along the River Avon is a relaxing way to see the city from a different angle. And if you fancy something indulgent, afternoon tea at one of the city’s historic spots is always a good idea.
Did you know? Jane Austen lived in Bath from 1801 to 1806 and set parts of Northanger Abbey and Persuasion in the city.
Fans of Bridgerton will recognise several filming locations (you should definitely go on a walking tour of Bridgerton locations then!), and Jane Austen fans will appreciate how much of her world is still visible here.
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great choice if you’re after a slower pace and a bit of elegance for the day.
Interactive Map: Must-Do Day Trips from London
Want to see exactly where each of these destinations is? We’ve created an interactive map with all the day trips mentioned in this guide, from coastal towns to historic castles. It’s a useful way to get a sense of distance, compare journey times and plan your route more easily.
How to use this map: Access the list of locations by clicking on the top left corner of the map. For a larger view, open the map in a new tab by clicking on the top right corner. Alternatively, save our map to your Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map title.
What We’d Skip (And Why)
Not every destination lives up to the hype, especially when your time is limited. These are places we’ve tried as day trips from London and wouldn’t recommend unless you have a very specific reason for going. They’re either too far for what’s on offer, feel too similar to places we prefer or just didn’t give us enough to do for a full day.
Dover
The castle is worth seeing, but it didn’t leave a strong impression compared to others in this guide. The town itself felt like it had seen better days.
Apart from the White Cliffs of Dover and a quick view of the English Channel, there wasn’t much that made us want to stay. It’s a pretty long way for something that doesn’t feel especially memorable.
Stonehenge
We get the appeal. It’s iconic and instantly recognisable. But we found it a bit underwhelming. The stones looked bigger in photos, the whole area felt overly managed, and the experience was more like visiting a theme park than a historic site. You can’t get very close, and it’s expensive for what it is.
York
We absolutely love York! It’s a great city and one of our favourites in the UK. But we wouldn’t recommend it as a day trip from London.
The train takes two hours each way, and there’s too much to see to make it worthwhile in a single visit. You’ll need more time to enjoy it properly.
Paris
Paris always shows up in day trip guides, but it doesn’t really work. The train may be fast, but with border checks and early arrivals, your day feels rushed before it begins.
You’ll spend more time queuing and clock-watching than enjoying the Eiffel Tower or the streets around it. It’s better saved for a weekend.
Brussels
It’s quick to reach from London, but Brussels didn’t charm us like other European capitals. The city has highlights, like the Comics Art Museum, which is great if you’re into street art or graphic novels. But if it’s your first visit to Belgium, we’d suggest somewhere like Bruges or Antwerp instead.
Milton Keynes
We’ve seen Milton Keynes pop up in day trip lists now and then, and a friend had recommended it to us. But after visiting, we just didn’t find much to do from a tourist perspective. It’s mostly modern shopping centres and roundabouts (over 130 of them!).
If you’ve got a specific reason to go, go for it. But as a leisure day trip, there are plenty of places with more charm and character.
FAQ: Planning Day Trips from London by Train
Not sure when to book, what kind of ticket to get or which trips are doable in a day? This section answers the most common questions we get about planning train trips from London. It’s the easiest way to avoid the usual travel hiccups and make the most of your day out.
Where’s the best place to book train tickets?
We usually use Trainline or National Rail. Both are straightforward and show live train times and platform information. It’s the easiest way to compare options and avoid last-minute faffing.
When should I book?
If you’re heading somewhere further out, like Bath or Cambridge, it’s worth booking in advance to save money. For closer destinations, contactless tap-in works on many routes, but always double-check before you travel.
Can I use my Oyster card or contactless?
Yes, for most places within and just outside London, like Windsor, Hampton Court or St Albans. For anything further, you’ll need a paper or mobile ticket.
Where can I go by train from London in under 1 hour?
Windsor, Hampton Court, Eltham Palace, St Albans, Canterbury and the Harry Potter Studio Tour are all within an hour by train.
What is the best day trip from London by train?
Cambridge is our top pick. It’s scenic, packed with history and easy to explore in a day.
What is the quickest day trip from London?
St Albans takes just 20 minutes from London St Pancras International. It has Roman ruins, a stunning cathedral and some brilliant pubs.
What is the most beautiful town near London by train?
Rye is one of the most picturesque. Cobbled streets, timber-framed houses and a peaceful pace make it an easy favourite.
What is the best coastal day trip from London?
Brighton is the easiest and most popular option. For something smaller and more low-key, Margate and Rye are both excellent choices.
Can you go to the Cotswolds on a day trip from London?
You can, but it’s tricky without a car. Some villages are reachable by train and taxi, but to really enjoy the Cotswolds, a guided tour or an overnight stay works better.
Can I do a day trip to Paris from London?
Technically, yes. But between passport checks, travel time and queues, it’s a long day that doesn’t feel worth it. We’d save Paris for a weekend trip.
Final Thoughts
You can take dozens of day trips from London by train, but not all of them are worth the effort. We’ve done a lot over the years simply because we enjoy getting out of the city. The places in this guide are the ones we’ve genuinely enjoyed and would happily return to.
Pick the one that suits your mood, book in advance if it’s somewhere popular, and don’t overthink it.
And for more London inspo, check out these guides:
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