18 Day Trips From London By Train (+ Practical Tips)

London is our hometown and one of the world’s truly great cities, but part of its appeal lies in how easily you can escape the urban energy for a memorable day out. Thanks to an excellent and extensive rail network, exploring the diverse towns, countryside, and coastline surrounding the capital is often quicker, easier, and more relaxing than driving.

Within just an hour by train from central London, you could be standing inside Windsor Castle or wandering the hallowed quadrangles of Oxford or Cambridge universities.

Extend your journey slightly, and you could find yourself savouring fresh oysters by the sea in Whitstable, gazing at the dramatic white cliffs of the Seven Sisters, or exploring the historic grandeur of Bath or Salisbury Cathedral.

This guide focuses specifically on our favourite day trips from London that are achievable entirely by train.

We’ve selected destinations offering a fantastic variety, all directly accessible via the UK’s rail network or via a straightforward train-and-bus connection.

For each destination, we have provided practical details on the best train routes from London, typical journey times, and station proximity to the main attractions.

DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON: UNDER 1 HOUR

1. WINDSOR CASTLE

30 minutes by train from London

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, serving as a royal residence for over 1,000 years. Just 30 minutes by train, it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from London.

The castle was built in the 11th century after the Norman invasion of England and blends medieval motte-and-bailey defenses with ornate state apartments.

Inside the grounds, St George’s Chapel is one of England’s finest examples of Gothic architecture. This historic site has hosted royal weddings and is the final resting place of 11 British monarchs.

Beyond the castle walls, Windsor Great Park is one of our favourite walks outside London and something Paul and I do almost every Boxing Day. We have covered it on our best walks near London guide.

GETTING THERE

From London Paddington – This is often the fastest route (30-55 minutes). Take the train to Windsor & Eton Central, changing at Slough. The station is located directly outside the castle entrance.

From London Waterloo –  This is also a direct route, but it takes slightly longer (55-60 minutes). Take the train to Windsor & Eton Riverside station, then walk (slightly uphill) for about 5-10 minutes through the town to reach the castle entrance.

2. HENLEY-ON-THAMES

40 minutes by train from London

Henley is a pretty market town perched on the edge of the River Thames under the flanks of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Henley has held the Royal Regatta – the most prestigious rowing event in the world – since 1839. This annual event, along with the riverside location, fills the town with traditional English culture.

Wander the independent shops on the market square. Have a pint in a cosy pub while rowing boats glide down the river.

Visit the Grade II listed Town Hall where scenes from Midsomer Murders were filmed.

One of our favourite walks near London is the Henley-Hambleden hike. The trail follows the river along to the beautiful village of Hambleden before returning to Henley.

GETTING THERE

From London Paddington – Take any mainline train towards Reading or Oxford and change at Twford Station for Henley-on-Thames. The journey takes around 40 minutes, and the station is in the town centre.

3. CAMBRIDGE

50 minutes by train from London

Founded in 1209, Cambridge University has been a center of learning and discovery for over 800 years. Some of the world’s most groundbreaking innovations—IVF, Artificial Intelligence, and even football—trace their roots back to this historic city.

Its alumni include Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking, and Ali G, making Cambridge both an intellectual and cultural icon.

With late-Gothic architecture, cobbled streets, and pristine college greens, Cambridge is postcard-perfect.

We’ve been there many times and for us, it’s quite simply the most beautiful city in England.

For a deeper dive, check out our full guide to visiting Cambridge on a day trip.

GETTING THERE

From London King’s Cross – This is generally the fastest and most frequent route (45-55 minutes on fast services).

From London Liverpool Street – This route is slower (75-90 minutes) but can sometimes be cheaper or more convenient depending on your starting point in London.

Getting to the centre – It takes around 30 minutes to walk from the station along Station Road and then Hills Road/Regent Street to the centre. Otherwise, there is a local bus or taxi rank out front.

4. CANTERBURY

50 minutes by train from London

Canterbury has been attracting visitors for centuries. St Augustine put it on the map in the 6th century when he made it the first base for Christianity in England.

Six centuries later, Thomas Becket’s murder on the orders of King Henry II made it the most important pilgrimage site in England.

Today, this UNESCO-listed city is a charming medieval escape. Its half-timbered buildings, atmospheric pubs, and hidden gardens make it one of the most beautiful historic towns in England.

For a detailed 1-day itinerary, read our Canterbury day trip guide.

GETTING THERE

From London St Pancras International – This is the fastest route (50-60 minutes). Trains arrive at Canterbury West station, which is a short walk (around 10 minutes) from the Cathedral and city centre.

From London Victoria or London Charing Cross – These are slower, direct routes (90 minutes to 2 hours). Trains generally arrive at Canterbury East station, which is a slightly longer walk (around 15-20 minutes) to the main attractions.

5. OXFORD

55 minutes by train from London

The University of Oxford is one of the most prestigious in the world. Founded in the 12th century, it has educated 57 British prime ministers, 2 US presidents and 12 saints.

Nicknamed the “City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford is a stunning blend of cobbled laneways, golden-hued architecture, and historic charm.

Its remarkable buildings have inspired generations of writers—from J.R.R. Tolkien to J.K. Rowling—with their gothic towers and intricately decorated interiors.

But Oxford isn’t just about tradition. The city has a lively atmosphere, excellent pubs, and a thriving café scene. While you could easily spend days exploring, a day trip is perfect for taking in the highlights.

We have a detailed 1-day Oxford itinerary, which includes important information about what to book ahead.

GETTING THERE

From London Paddington – This is the fastest route (45-60 minutes). Oxford Station is located on the western edge of the city centre, an easy 10-15 minute walk to the main colleges and attractions.

From London Marylebone – A slightly slower but scenic option (1 hour), it can sometimes offer cheaper fares, so it’s worth comparing. Trains from Marylebone also arrive at Oxford Station.

DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON: AROUND 1 HOUR

6. BRIGHTON

1 hour by train from London

Brighton combines the nostalgia of the Victorian seaside town with a youthful vibe.

Its pier is packed with amusement arcades, fairground rides, and food stalls. The pebble beach is backed by Victorian and Georgian facades and a quirky former royal residence built in the 19th century.

However, underlying these signs of yesteryear is a modern city. Narrow lanes and alleyways hide independent shops and cafes. Bohemian neighbourhoods house record stores, vintage emporiums, and art spaces.

Brighton is also a very inclusive place. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, feminist bookshops, and numerous gay bars and clubs. Brighton Pride (held in August) is one of the biggest in the country.

We have a separate guide all about visiting Brighton on a day trip from London, which includes a handy walking route to help you see everything.

GETTING THERE

From London Victoria – Frequent direct services run to Brighton station, typically taking approximately 60 minutes. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the station to the town centre.

From London Bridge – Frequent direct Thameslink services also run to Brighton station. The journey time is similar, around 60 minutes.

From London Blackfriars / Farringdon / St Pancras International – Thameslink services also run from these central London stations directly to Brighton. Journey times are slightly longer from these stations (70-80 minutes).

7. HARRY POTTER

1 hour by train & bus from London

Step into the magic of the Wizarding World at Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. This self-guided experience takes you behind the scenes of the films, where you can explore the original sets, props, and costumes used in production.

Wander through the Great Hall, board the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 ¾, and peek inside Professor Sprout’s Greenhouse.

Marvel at nearly 900 memory vials, 950 potion jars, and life-size animatronic versions of Buckbeak and Aragog.

We took Paul’s niece and nephew recently, and it’s safe to say it was a massive hit, although we couldn’t quite justify the £30 for a wand.

The studio is in Leavesden, just outside London. Advance booking is essential, especially during peak season, as tickets sell out quickly.

GETTING THERE

Trains from London Euston – Take a fast train (20 mins) from London Euston to Watford Junction.

Bus from Watford Junction – From Watford Junction, you need to take a bus to the studios. There is an official Studio Tour shuttle bus (clearly marked) which runs every 30 minutes. The bus takes 10-15 minutes and costs £3 for a return journey.

Local Bus – Alternatively, local buses (numbers 9, 10, or 20) run from Watford Junction station.

8. RYE

1 hour, 10 minutes by train from London

In medieval times, Rye supplied ships to the Crown in exchange for certain privileges. Those privileges made Rye wealthy, and walls, gates, and towers were built to defend the town.

As time went by, Rye’s harbour steadily silted up and lacked strategic importance. What remains is one of the finest and unspoilt medieval towns in England.

Perched on top of a hill, its tiny, cobbled alleyways, enchanting inns, and half-timbered houses are well-preserved. The remnants of its fortifications include grand gates and defensive towers. 

Rye is a great choice for a day trip from London. We were there recently and put together this guide on the best things to do in Rye. It has tips for what to book ahead of time and what else to see in the area.

GETTING THERE

From London St Pancras – This is the fastest route (1 hour 10 minutes). Take the high-speed train to Ashford International, then change to a Southern Rail service to Rye. The station is just a 5-minute walk from the town centre.

9. WHITSTABLE

1 hour, 10 minutes by train from London

In the Middle Ages, Whitstable served as a port for pilgrims making their way to Canterbury. Today, it’s the best place to go within reasonable proximity from London for fresh seafood.

Relaxed, rustic shacks serve oysters and lobster straight from the water while Michelin-starred restaurants elevate Whitstable’s prized seafood with refined dining experiences.

Pair it with a pint of local ale in a traditional pub, where the pebbly beach provides the perfect backdrop.

There’s a lot more to do, such as strolling the independent shops and taking a boat trip out to spot seals. But it’s also great if you just want a nice day out on the coast with some great food.

For more details, read our Whitstable day trip guide.

GETTING THERE

From London St Pancras International – The journey typically takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to Whitstable Station. The station is a 10-15 minute walk from the harbour and the main high street.

From London Victoria – There is also a direct route from London Victoria, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.  

10. BATH

1 hour, 20 minutes by train from London

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is famous for its remarkably well-preserved Roman Baths, offering a fascinating glimpse into life nearly 2,000 years ago.

Nearby, Bath Abbey dominates the skyline with its intricate Gothic details.

Beyond these major sites, Bath is a great city to wander around. Explore grand Georgian streets like the Royal Crescent, discover independent shops tucked away in medieval lanes, or relax in a modern thermal spa.

Read our Bath day trip guide, which includes an itinerary to help you see all the main sights.

GETTING THERE

From London Paddington – Frequent, direct services run to Bath Spa station, taking 1 hour and 20 minutes. Bath Spa station is very centrally located, just a short, flat walk (5-10 minutes) to the Roman Baths, the Abbey, and the main shopping areas.

DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON: AROUND 1.5 HOURS

11. SEVEN SISTERS

1 hour, 20 minutes by train from London

The Seven Sisters cliffs is the best coastal scenery you can get on a day trip from London.

This iconic stretch of undulating white chalk cliffs runs along the English Channel between Seaford and Eastbourne in the South Downs National Park.

Reaching heights of up to 200 metres, they offer some of the most dramatic and beautiful coastal views in the UK.

The best way to experience the Seven Sisters is by walking along the coastal path, which forms part of the South Downs Way.

While the full cliff-top walk is quite long (around 18km / 11 miles end-to-end), even shorter sections, particularly around the Cuckmere Haven viewpoint near Seaford, provide stunning photo opportunities.

All the details about the walk are in our Seven Sisters guide.

GETTING THERE

From London Victoria – Services run frequently to Seaford Station (some services are direct, while others may require a change, often at Lewes). The journey typically takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

To reach the start of the walk –  It’s a 10-minute walk from the train station to the Seaford Esplanade car park to start the walk.

12. MARGATE

1 hour, 25 minutes by train from London

Twenty years ago, Margate was another English seaside town struggling to compete with cheap flights and foreign sun. However, over the last decade, it has been undergoing a regeneration, evolving into a creative coastal escape.

The small Old Town is now home to cute boutiques, quirky stores, and some good brunch spots.

In 2011, the Turner Contemporary art gallery opened on the seafront, showcasing exhibitions that connect to J.M.W. Turner, who famously painted Margate’s dramatic skies.

The beach has always been an excellent swathe of golden sand, and that hasn’t changed.

It’s a great day trip for an alternative seaside escape with a cool, independent vibe.

GETTING THERE

From London St Pancras International – This is the fastest route, with the journey typically taking approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes to Margate Station. The station is located very close to the main beach and a short walk (around 10-15 minutes) to the Old Town and Turner Contemporary. 

From London Victoria – This is a slower but still direct service with more stops. It takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach Margate Station.

13. ARUNDEL

1 hour, 25 minutes by train from London

Arundel has everything you need for a great day trip – a mighty medieval castle, a charming market town, a riverside pub, and landscaped gardens ideal for a leisurely stroll.

Dominating the skyline, Arundel Castle is one of England’s largest and most impressive fortresses, with nearly 1,000 years of history.

The High Street is lined with independent shops, cozy cafes, and a monthly farmers’ market (every third Saturday).

Set on the River Arun, there are riverside pubs, perfect for a sunny afternoon.

A great way to see it all is to combine the visit to the castle with a half-day hike through its landscaped gardens and then along the river Arun. You can find all the details on our best walks near London guide.

GETTING THERE

From London Victoria – Direct services run frequently to Arundel station. The journey typically takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. Arundel station is a 10-15-minute walk (partly uphill) from the main High Street and the entrance to Arundel Castle.

14. SAILSBURY & STONEHENGE

1 hour, 30 minutes by train from London (+30 minutes bus to Stonehenge)

Famous for its magnificent medieval cathedral and its proximity to the iconic Stonehenge, Salisbury makes an excellent day trip destination.

The jewel of Salisbury is its stunning Cathedral. It has the tallest church spire in Britain, and it’s a masterpiece of Early English Gothic architecture.

Inside, you can see one of the best-preserved original copies of the Magna Carta (1215) housed within the Chapter House.

From Salisbury, Stonehenge is just a short bus ride away. 

A prehistoric wonder and British cultural icon, Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous and mysterious ancient monuments.

There are two ways to experience Stonehenge:

• General Admission – Walk around the Stone Circle at your own pace with a downloadable audio guide.
• Stone Circle Experience – Step inside the Inner Circle, an exclusive experience limited to just 30 visitors per session. These tickets sell out months in advance.

GETTING THERE

From London Waterloo – Frequent services run direct to Salisbury Station. The journey typically takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. The station is a short walk (around 10-15 minutes) to the city centre and Cathedral Close.

Sailsbury to Stonehenge – The Stonehenge Tour Bus departs regularly from directly outside Salisbury train station and also stops in the city centre near the Cathedral. It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Stonehenge.

15. BLENHEIM PALACE

Around 1.5 hours by train from London

Blenheim Palace is a monumental country house located in Woodstock, on the edge of the Cotswolds.

Built between 1705 and 1724 as a gift to the 1st Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim is set within over 2,000 acres of beautiful parkland.

Its impressive Baroque architecture and lavish interiors have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. It’s also the only non-royal, non-episcopal house in England officially titled a ‘Palace’.

Beyond its architectural significance, Blenheim Palace holds historical importance as the birthplace and ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill. It has also served as a filming location for productions like Harry Potter and The Crown.

It’s a great day out for families. In addition to the main house and garden, Blenheim has a large hedge maze, a butterfly house, and adventure play areas.

GETTING THERE

Train from London Paddington – Frequent services run to Oxford Station. The journey typically takes approximately 60 minutes.

Bus from Oxford Station – At Oxford station, look for the Stagecoach S7 bus stop. The S7 bus runs directly to Blenheim Palace. The bus takes approximately 40-45 minutes.

16. MORETON-IN-MARSH

Around 1 hour and 30 minutes by train from London

Moreton-in-Marsh is a town in the Cotswolds with its own mainline train station. So, it’s one of the few Cotswolds villages you can feasibly visit without a car on a day trip.

Moreton has a genuine, lived-in market town feel. Its long, wide High Street is its defining feature, lined with handsome, historic buildings crafted from that signature golden Cotswold stone.

You’ll find a great mix of independent shops, traditional pubs, cosy cafes, and galleries to explore.

Moreton-in-Marsh is known for its excellent antique shops, and it has the largest street market in the Cotswolds. Every Tuesday, the high street is transformed with stalls selling everything from local produce and cheeses to gifts and antiques.

GETTING THERE

From London Paddington – Direct trains run regularly to Moreton-in-March. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

LONDON DAY TRIPS: OVER 2 HOURS

17. YORK

2 hours by train from London

York has many strings to its bow. Originally a Roman settlement, it transformed into a walled medieval city and later a lively cultural hub. Today, it’s a fantastic blend of old and new.

Ancient and medieval buildings sit side by side with smart restaurants and buzzing bars.

York is home to one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe and boasts the 2nd largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe—York Minster.

There’s also a wide range of museums to explore. Experience York’s Viking heritage at the Jorvik Viking Centre or delve into its darker past at the York Dungeon.

Though over 200 miles from London, York is well-connected by the fast East Coast mainline, making it possible to visit in just 2 hours. It’s a long day, but definitely a rewarding one.

All the details are in our York day trip post.

GETTING THERE

From London King’s Cross – There are fast direct services to York Station with a journey time of around 1 hour 50 minutes (on the fastest trains). York station is around a 10-15 minute walk into the historic heart of the city.

18. PARIS

2 hours, 15 minutes by train from London

Paris deserves more than a day, but at 2 hours and 15 minutes on the Eurostar, it’s a feasible day trip from London.

There are so many things to do in Paris; it’s difficult to work out what to fit in.

You could pick out one of the days from our 3-day Paris itinerary. Any of them could work well as a 1-day itinerary as each day focuses on a particular area.

A good overview of all that is great in Paris is day 1, which includes the Jardin du Palais Royal, the Louvre and the beautiful Sainte Chappelle. After a lovely stroll along the Seine, you’ll visit the Shakespeare Book Company, Notre Dame and finish up in the Le Marais.

This is a great way to see the best of Paris. However, you may want to skip the Louvre if you are a big fan of art as you could easily spend the whole day there. Save it for your next trip.

GETTING THERE

From London St Pancras International – Eurostar services run directly to Paris Gare du Nord. The journey takes approximately 2 hours 15 minutes. Paris Gare du Nord is a major hub with connections to the Paris Métro, allowing easy access to various parts of the city.

Eurostar Tickets –  Eurostar tickets must be booked well in advance for the best prices and availability. You need to check in 45-60 minutes before your departure with passport control at both ends.

MORE DAY TRIPS

• Pick from one of our 20 curated day trips from London.
• See the achievable highlights on our 1-day Cambridge itinerary.
• Enjoy a medieval weekend break with our Rye day trip.
• Hit the beach on a relaxing day out in Brighton.
• Explore the rich history on our Canterbury day trip from London.
• Scoff the freshest oysters with our Whitstable day trip.
• Enjoy the regal side of life with our Bath day trip itinerary.
• Pick from one of our 10 Cotswolds day trip ideas.
• Hike the white cliffs on our Seven Sisters day trip.