There’s something magical about stepping onto a train in London and, within a couple of hours, arriving at a windswept beach, a medieval castle, or a cosy café in a historic town.
Whether you’re a local looking for a change of scene or a visitor eager to explore more of Europe, train travel opens the door to some of the UK and Europe’s most beautiful, fascinating, and easy-to-reach destinations — without the need for a car.
This guide rounds up 42 incredible day trips you can take by train, from coastal getaways and countryside rambles to castle tours and cultural cities. Every destination is grouped by theme, so it’s easy to find one that fits your mood.
👇 Scroll down or use the Table of Contents to jump straight to the kind of day trip that inspires you — and start planning your next train adventure.
Related: Popular UK Train Journeys
🏰 Castles and Palaces
Step off the train and straight into a storybook. These castles and palaces — from riverside fortresses to grand Tudor homes — offer a glimpse into Britain’s royal past without needing a car. Expect towering turrets, lavish rooms, sweeping gardens, and plenty of history. All are easy day trips from London, perfect for anyone craving a little majesty with their countryside escape.
1. Arundel Castle
Overview
Tucked away in the heart of West Sussex, Arundel Castle rises dramatically above the River Arun like something out of a medieval storybook. With nearly a thousand years of history, it’s one of the most complete and best-preserved castles in England, home to the Dukes of Norfolk and still privately occupied today.
Inside, you’ll find lavish state rooms, a grand staircase hall, armoury collections, and priceless artworks. Outside, the views from the keep stretch across the South Downs, and the formal gardens, especially the rose garden and quirky stumpery, are a joy to explore.
The town of Arundel itself is equally charming, full of antique shops, cafés, and riverside walks.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Victoria → Arundel
- Journey time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Transfer: 10–15 minute walk from the station to the castle
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Explore the grand interiors and climb the castle keep
- Wander through the Collector Earl’s Garden and rose garden
- Browse Arundel’s independent shops or walk along the river
🍽️ Food Tip
Stop at The Moathouse Café for homemade cakes, or book The Parsons Table for a more refined lunch.
📸 Travel Tip
Spring and summer are stunning for the gardens. Check ahead for seasonal closures. The castle is usually open from April to October.
2. Hampton Court Palace
Overview
Just 35 minutes from central London, Hampton Court Palace offers one of the easiest — and most rewarding — day trips for history lovers. This grand riverside palace was once the pride of King Henry VIII, and it still dazzles with its mix of Tudor drama and Baroque elegance.
You’ll walk through Henry’s Great Hall, complete with hammer-beam ceiling and stained glass, and stroll the same courtyards that echoed with whispers of palace intrigue.
Don’t miss the more opulent later additions by William III and Mary II, the beautifully restored Georgian kitchens, and the sprawling 60-acre gardens.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Waterloo → Hampton Court
- Journey time: ~35 minutes
- Transfer: 5-minute walk across the bridge from the station to the palace gates
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Tour the Tudor kitchens and the vast Great Hall
- Wander the formal gardens and get lost in the world’s oldest hedge maze
- Explore the Baroque apartments of William & Mary
🍽️ Food Tip
The on-site Tiltyard Café serves hot lunches, cakes, and cream teas. For a riverside pub lunch, try The Mute Swan across the road.
📸 Travel Tip
Weekdays are quieter, especially outside school holidays. Combine your visit with a riverside walk or boat ride along the Thames.
3. Hever Castle
Overview
Set in the Kent countryside, Hever Castle is best known as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s ill-fated second wife. But this storybook moated castle is more than just a footnote in Tudor history — it’s a destination full of atmosphere, charm, and quiet beauty.
The interiors are richly furnished and intimate, with wood-panelled rooms, antique tapestries, and a genuinely lived-in feel. Outside, the 125-acre grounds are a highlight in their own right, with Italianate gardens, a giant yew maze, and a picturesque lake walk.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Bridge → Edenbridge Town
- Journey time: ~45–55 minutes
- Transfer: 5-minute taxi or ~30-minute walk from Edenbridge Town station (taxis recommended)
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Walk through Anne Boleyn’s bedroom and Tudor-era rooms
- Explore the award-winning gardens, maze, and lake walk
- Visit the miniature model houses and military museum
🍽️ Food Tip
The castle has two cafés serving light lunches and cakes. For something more local, The King’s Arms pub in nearby Westerham is a cosy detour.
📸 Travel Tip
Spring and summer offer the best garden displays. Try to arrive early — the grounds are magical when they’re quiet.
4. Leeds Castle
Overview
Often called “the loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle lives up to the title with its picture-perfect setting on two islands in the middle of a lake. Though it shares a name with the northern city, it’s actually located in the Kent countryside, just over an hour from London.
The castle’s story stretches back over 900 years, with stints as a Norman stronghold, a royal palace for six medieval queens, and a luxurious retreat in the 20th century.
Today, it blends historic grandeur with family-friendly attractions: think falconry displays, a charming moat-side café, a fun hedge maze, and even punting on the lake.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Victoria → Bearsted
- Journey time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
- Transfer: 10-minute taxi or shuttle bus to the castle (check seasonal schedules)
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Tour the elegant castle interiors and learn about its royal and socialite past
- Get lost in the maze and underground grotto
- Watch a birds-of-prey show or take a boat ride on the moat
🍽️ Food Tip
The Castle View Restaurant offers lakeside lunches with great views, or grab a picnic from the café to enjoy in the grounds.
📸 Travel Tip
Leeds Castle often hosts seasonal events — like flower shows and summer concerts — so check the calendar before you go.
5. Warwick Castle
Overview
If you’re looking for drama, grandeur, and a full-on medieval experience, Warwick Castle delivers in spades. Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068, this riverside fortress has evolved into one of Britain’s most action-packed historic attractions.
You can climb the ramparts, explore the atmospheric dungeons (if you dare), and watch live jousting tournaments or falconry displays depending on the season.
Though now owned by the Merlin Group (who also operate Madame Tussauds and the London Eye), Warwick manages to strike a balance between immersive storytelling and historical substance.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Marylebone → Warwick
- Journey time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Transfer: ~15-minute walk from the station to the castle
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Walk the castle walls and climb Guy’s Tower for panoramic views
- Explore the Great Hall and lavish 17th-century interiors
- Catch live shows like archery displays, birds of prey, or jousting (seasonal)
🍽️ Food Tip
On-site cafés and food stalls offer quick bites, but for something local, head into Warwick town to The Rose & Crown, a welcoming pub just a short stroll away.
📸 Travel Tip
Book ahead for discounted tickets and timed entry to the dungeons — they’re popular and not for the faint of heart!
6. Windsor Castle
Overview
As the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle is still very much a working royal residence — and that’s part of what makes it so special.
Just a short train ride from London, it’s the ideal place to dive into royal history, with opulent State Apartments, the stunning St George’s Chapel (final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip), and the beautifully kept grounds of the Upper Ward.
You might even catch the Changing of the Guard, which happens several times a week.
Beyond the castle, the town of Windsor has cobbled streets, traditional pubs, and riverside walks along the Thames.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Paddington or Waterloo → Windsor & Eton Central or Riverside
- Journey time: ~50 minutes (with a change at Slough if coming from Paddington)
- Transfer: 5-minute walk from either station to the castle
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Tour the State Apartments and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
- Visit St George’s Chapel and pay respects at the royal tombs
- Watch the Changing of the Guard (check schedule in advance)
🍽️ Food Tip
Try The Duchess of Cambridge pub for hearty classics, or head to Cinnamon Café in the old station for a casual brunch or cream tea.
📸 Travel Tip
Arrive early — this is one of the UK’s most popular attractions, especially in summer. Weekdays tend to be quieter.
Cultural & Historic Cities
Historic cathedrals, cobbled streets, and grand old universities — these cities bring Britain’s past to life in the most walkable, welcoming way. Take a morning train from London and you could be strolling Roman baths, exploring medieval centres, or soaking up the atmosphere in a cosy tearoom by lunchtime.
7. Bath
Overview
Few cities blend history and elegance quite like Bath. With its creamy Georgian terraces, Roman baths, and Jane Austen connections, this UNESCO World Heritage city feels both grand and intimate — perfect for wandering.
Fans of Bridgerton will recognise the sweeping crescents and honey-coloured streets that stood in for Regency-era London — the city has become a filming favourite for its perfectly preserved period charm.
Highlights include the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and the Assembly Rooms, all within easy reach of each other. Whether you’re here for the history, the architecture, or a freshly baked Bath bun at Sally Lunn’s, Bath makes for a refined, cinematic escape that’s just over an hour from London.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Paddington → Bath Spa
- Journey time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
- Transfer: No transfer needed — the city centre is just a few minutes’ walk from the station
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Explore the Roman Baths and take in the steam rising from the hot springs
- See the Royal Crescent and walk through Bridgerton-famous streets and squares
- Visit Bath Abbey or relax at the rooftop Thermae Bath Spa
🍽️ Food Tip
Don’t miss Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House — part museum, part restaurant, and home to the original Bath bun. Or try The Scallop Shell for excellent fish and chips.
📸 Travel Tip
Visit on a weekday for a calmer experience. The light at golden hour on the Royal Crescent is ideal for photos — Bridgerton fans, bring your camera.
8. Cambridge
Overview
Compact, cultured, and built for strolling, Cambridge is a timeless university town where history and student life blend in a way that’s both peaceful and alive. As you wander along the River Cam, you’ll pass Gothic chapels, manicured lawns, and quiet courtyards that have inspired centuries of poets, scientists, and philosophers.
The highlight is King’s College Chapel, with its soaring fan-vaulted ceiling and world-famous choir, but there’s plenty more to explore — like the Fitzwilliam Museum, the view from Great St Mary’s tower, or a guided punting trip with tales of student pranks and royal visits.
With most sights within walking distance, Cambridge makes for a relaxed and rewarding day trip — and a chance to soak up one of England’s most iconic academic settings.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London King’s Cross or Liverpool Street → Cambridge
- Journey time: ~50 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes
- Transfer: About a 20-minute walk or short bus ride from the station to the historic centre
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Visit King’s College Chapel and catch a choral service if you can
- Float down the River Cam on a punting tour, or try steering one yourself
- Explore the Fitzwilliam Museum and peek inside the university’s famous colleges
🍽️ Food Tip
Stop by Fitzbillies for a sticky Chelsea bun — a local legend — or grab lunch at The Eagle, where DNA’s double helix was first announced over a pint.
📸 Travel Tip
Weekdays and off-season visits are best for avoiding crowds. Head to The Backs in the late afternoon for golden light and postcard-perfect photos.
9. Oxford
Overview
A day in Oxford is like walking through the pages of a British history book — or a Harry Potter film set. With its golden-hued college buildings, hidden courtyards, and narrow lanes, Oxford is both a working university and a living museum.
You’ll find grand libraries, dreaming spires, and centuries of tradition at every turn. Pop into Christ Church College, which inspired everything from Alice in Wonderland to Hogwarts’ Great Hall, or climb the tower of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin for sweeping city views.
The whole city is easily walkable, and perfect for a slow, curious ramble. Whether you’re into literature, architecture, or just a good wander, Oxford offers an inspiring escape from London — with plenty of character (and characters) to discover.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Paddington → Oxford (or Marylebone → Oxford via Chiltern Railways)
- Journey time: ~1 hour
- Transfer: A 10–15 minute walk from the station to the historic centre
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Visit Christ Church College and Cathedral
- Climb the tower at St Mary’s for the best views of the city
- Stroll through the Bodleian Library and the Radcliffe Camera area
🍽️ Food Tip
Try Vaults & Garden Café for a cosy lunch with a view of Radcliffe Square, or grab a drink at The Turf Tavern, a classic Oxford student haunt tucked down an alleyway.
📸 Travel Tip
Visit outside of term time for a quieter feel and better access to college grounds. Bring comfy shoes — this is a city made for walking.
10. Canterbury
Overview
Steeped in medieval history and full of crooked lanes and timber-framed houses, Canterbury is one of England’s most atmospheric small cities — and an easy escape from London.
At its heart stands Canterbury Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and a place of pilgrimage for centuries (thanks in part to Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales).
But there’s more here than just the cathedral: explore the quiet ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey, take a peaceful boat tour along the River Stour, or simply wander the old streets lined with shops, tea rooms, and pubs. It’s compact, charming, and very walkable — the kind of place where history is never more than a step away.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London St Pancras International → Canterbury West (fastest) or London Victoria → Canterbury East
- Journey time: ~55 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes depending on route
- Transfer: 5–10 minute walk from either station to the city centre and cathedral
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Tour Canterbury Cathedral and learn about the murder of Thomas Becket
- Walk the city walls and explore the ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey
- Take a historic river tour by boat through the centre of town
🍽️ Food Tip
Stop at Tiny Tim’s Tearoom for a classic cream tea or try The Goods Shed, a farmers’ market and restaurant beside Canterbury West station.
📸 Travel Tip
For a peaceful visit, arrive early and explore the cathedral before the tour groups arrive. The riverside gardens are especially pretty in spring and summer.
11. Salisbury
Overview
A graceful cathedral city surrounded by rolling Wiltshire countryside, Salisbury combines medieval charm with a laid-back, village-like feel.
Its centrepiece is the stunning Salisbury Cathedral, home to the tallest church spire in England and one of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta.
The Market Place is filled with traditional pubs and shops, and the riverside walks along the Avon are a peaceful contrast to London’s busy pace.
Salisbury also makes the perfect jumping-off point for a visit to nearby Stonehenge, with shuttle buses running from the city centre. See the entry for Stonehenge further down for more details.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Waterloo → Salisbury
- Journey time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Transfer: Easy 10-minute walk from the station to the cathedral; shuttle buses to Stonehenge leave from the city centre
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Visit Salisbury Cathedral and see the Magna Carta
- Stroll the riverside path through Queen Elizabeth Gardens
- Take a short bus trip to Stonehenge and its visitor centre
🍽️ Food Tip
The Chapter House is a cosy pub with a warm welcome and hearty meals. For tea and cake with a view, try The Refectory café by the cathedral.
📸 Travel Tip
Climb the cathedral tower (book ahead!) for panoramic views — and arrive early if you plan to include Stonehenge in your day.
12. Winchester
Overview
Once the capital of Anglo-Saxon England, Winchester is a small city with a big historical footprint. Its star attraction is the magnificent Winchester Cathedral, where Jane Austen is buried, but there’s plenty more tucked along its medieval streets.
Visit the Great Hall, home to the legendary Round Table, stroll the peaceful Water Meadows that inspired poet Keats, or explore the ruins of Wolvesey Castle.
The compact centre is perfect for walking, and the blend of history, greenery, and old-world charm gives Winchester a gentle, reflective feel. It’s ideal for travellers looking to slow down, explore a true English town, and soak in over a thousand years of stories — all within easy reach of London.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Waterloo → Winchester
- Journey time: ~1 hour
- Transfer: 10–15 minute walk from the station to the cathedral and historic centre
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Visit Winchester Cathedral and Jane Austen’s grave
- See the medieval Round Table at the Great Hall
- Walk the riverside Water Meadows and climb up to St Catherine’s Hill
🍽️ Food Tip
Stop by Forte Kitchen for a laid-back brunch or The Wykeham Arms for a classic pub lunch tucked between the cathedral and the college.
📸 Travel Tip
Visit in spring or autumn for colourful walks along the river. The Christmas market at the cathedral is one of the best in the UK.
13. St Albans
Overview
Just north of London, St Albans offers a fascinating blend of Roman ruins, medieval streets, and cosy market-town atmosphere — all wrapped up in one very doable day trip.
Once a major Roman settlement known as Verulamium, today it’s a walkable, characterful city with a stunning cathedral, lively weekly market, and a surprising amount of ancient history. You can explore the remains of the Roman theatre, walk through parkland dotted with mosaics, and even visit a museum with recreated Roman rooms.
The city centre is full of independent shops and welcoming pubs, making it a great spot for a gentle escape from the capital. Easy to reach, easy to love.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London St Pancras → St Albans City
- Journey time: ~20 minutes
- Transfer: 10-minute walk into the city centre and cathedral area
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Visit St Albans Cathedral, one of the oldest sites of continuous Christian worship in Britain
- Explore Verulamium Park and the Roman ruins and museum
- Browse the local market (Wednesdays and Saturdays)
🍽️ Food Tip
The Pudding Stop is a must for dessert lovers, while Ye Olde Fighting Cocks claims to be England’s oldest pub — great for a pint and lunch in a low-beamed room.
📸 Travel Tip
Don’t skip Verulamium Park — it’s a peaceful green space with Roman history hiding under the grass.
14. York
Overview
With its medieval walls, half-timbered houses, and Viking roots, York feels like a city pulled straight from a historical novel — and it’s absolutely worth the longer train ride from London.
At its heart is the soaring York Minster, one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe, but every cobbled street here tells a story.
You can walk the full circuit of the old city walls, explore the atmospheric Shambles (a jumble of overhanging buildings that inspired Diagon Alley), or dive into the city’s Norse past at the JORVIK Viking Centre.
The city is compact enough for a full day of exploring, but rich enough that many visitors wish they’d stayed longer. Still, with fast trains and a good plan, it’s absolutely doable — and unforgettable — as a long day trip.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London King’s Cross → York
- Journey time: ~1 hour 50 minutes (direct)
- Transfer: A 10-minute walk from the station to the city walls and centre
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Visit York Minster and climb the tower for panoramic views
- Walk the city walls and explore the medieval gateways (Bars)
- Stroll the Shambles and pop into the JORVIK Viking Centre
🍽️ Food Tip
Head to Bettys Café Tea Rooms for a traditional Yorkshire tea or try The Star Inn The City for riverside dining with a modern British menu.
📸 Travel Tip
Get an early train to make the most of your day — and aim to finish with a walk along the River Ouse or a sunset view from the walls.
15. Cardiff
Overview
Just across the border in Wales, Cardiff makes for a surprising and satisfying day trip from London — especially if you’re curious about Welsh culture, castles, and coastal city life.
The capital is compact and easy to explore on foot, with Cardiff Castle right in the centre and a blend of ancient Roman walls, Victorian Gothic towers, and quirky interiors designed by a 19th-century eccentric.
Beyond the castle, stroll through Bute Park, explore the National Museum, or head to the redeveloped Cardiff Bay for waterfront views, modern architecture, and the striking Wales Millennium Centre.
Cardiff offers a taste of a different country, language, and identity — and all just two hours from London by train.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Paddington → Cardiff Central
- Journey time: ~1 hour 50 minutes
- Transfer: 5–10 minute walk from the station to the city centre and Cardiff Castle
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Visit Cardiff Castle and climb the Norman keep
- Walk through Bute Park or along the River Taff
- Explore Cardiff Bay and the Wales Millennium Centre
🍽️ Food Tip
Try Madame Fromage in the Castle Arcade for Welsh rarebit and local cheeses, or head to The Potted Pig for modern Welsh-British fare in a converted bank vault.
📸 Travel Tip
Learn a few words of Welsh for fun — even a cheerful diolch (thank you) will get a smile. Trains run back late, so you can hang about into the evening.
16. Stratford-upon-Avon
Overview
Best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon offers more than just literary heritage — it’s a postcard-perfect town of timber-framed houses, riverside walks, and old English charm.
You can visit Shakespeare’s childhood home, see a play by the Royal Shakespeare Company, or wander through Anne Hathaway’s thatched cottage just outside town. The River Avon adds a peaceful, pastoral touch, with rowing boats for hire and weeping willows lining the banks.
Stratford is popular, especially in summer, but its appeal is timeless: history, theatre, and a slower pace, all wrapped up in Tudor beams and local storytelling.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Marylebone → Stratford-upon-Avon (with a change at Leamington Spa or Banbury)
- Journey time: ~2 hours
- Transfer: The station is about a 10–15 minute walk to the town centre and Shakespeare’s Birthplace
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Tour Shakespeare’s Birthplace and other Shakespeare family homes
- See a play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre (matinees are ideal for day trippers)
- Enjoy a riverside walk or a boat ride on the Avon
🍽️ Food Tip
The Opposition (known locally as “The Oppo”) serves reliable bistro fare right near the theatre. For cream tea, try Hathaway Tea Rooms in a 17th-century building.
📸 Travel Tip
Visit on a weekday to skip the coach crowds. If you’re seeing a show, plan an early dinner — most matinees start around 1 or 2pm.
Coastal Escapes
These seaside towns offer fresh air, salty breezes, and a complete change of scenery — all easy to reach by train. Whether you’re after fish and chips on the pier, a beachside stroll, or dramatic clifftop views, these coastal getaways deliver classic British charm and a breath of sea air in just a day.
17. Brighton
Overview
A long-time favourite for Londoners looking to escape the city, Brighton is the classic British seaside day trip — with a quirky, creative twist. You’ll find pebble beaches, a retro pier with arcade games and rides, and enough fish and chips to feed a small army.
But Brighton is more than just its seafront. The city buzzes with independent shops, lively pubs, and colourful street art, especially around The Lanes and North Laine.
Don’t miss the wildly eccentric Royal Pavilion, a former royal palace that looks like it belongs in India rather than on the English coast. Brighton is bold, bohemian, and full of character — and it’s just an hour from London by train.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Victoria or London Bridge → Brighton
- Journey time: ~1 hour
- Transfer: The seafront and town centre are a 10-minute walk from the station
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Stroll along Brighton Pier and the beach promenade
- Explore The Lanes and North Laine for vintage shops and cafés
- Visit the Royal Pavilion and its exotic domes and gardens
🍽️ Food Tip
Grab fish and chips at Bardsley’s (a local favourite), or try The Flour Pot Bakery for pastries and coffee. For a fun lunch, Food for Friends offers excellent vegetarian dishes.
📸 Travel Tip
Brighton gets busy in summer — arrive early for quieter beach views, or visit off-season for a calmer, artsy vibe with fewer crowds.
18. Whitstable
Overview
Charming, low-key, and full of seaside character, Whitstable is a coastal escape that feels more like a favourite local secret than a tourist trap. This Kentish fishing town is famous for its oysters, colourful beach huts, and relaxed pace.
You can stroll along the pebbly beach, browse indie galleries and antique shops, or sit by the harbour with a paper plate of seafood and a sea breeze in your hair.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London St Pancras or Victoria → Whitstable
- Journey time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
- Transfer: A 10-minute walk from the station to the beach and town centre
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Sample local oysters by the harbour (especially at Wheelers or The Lobster Shack)
- Walk the beach trail to Seasalter for quieter views and birdlife
- Browse Whitstable’s independent shops, galleries, and vintage stores
🍽️ Food Tip
The Lobster Shack is a laid-back seafront spot for fresh seafood. For a cosy sit-down meal, try Samphire — seasonal, local, and excellent.
📸 Travel Tip
Visit at high tide for the prettiest beach views. The annual Oyster Festival (July) is lively but book ahead — it gets busy.
19. Eastbourne
Overview
Often overshadowed by nearby Brighton, Eastbourne is a quieter, more traditional seaside town — and that’s exactly its charm. Think Victorian promenade, striped deckchairs, and ice cream by the pier.
But what really sets Eastbourne apart is its proximity to the Seven Sisters Cliffs, one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in southern England. Walk along the seafront or hop on a bus to Beachy Head, where chalk cliffs tower over the sea and coastal paths wind through rolling hills.
Whether you’re in the mood for a bracing cliff-top hike or a lazy beach afternoon, Eastbourne offers a satisfying dose of sea air — without the crowds.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Victoria → Eastbourne
- Journey time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Transfer: The beach and pier are a 10–15 minute walk from the station
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Walk the seafront to Eastbourne Pier and the Italian Gardens
- Take a local bus or hike to Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters cliffs
- Visit the Towner Eastbourne gallery for contemporary art and coastal views
🍽️ Food Tip
Try The Beach Kitchen for brunch near the promenade, or The Pilot Inn for a pub lunch after a cliff walk.
📸 Travel Tip
Bring sturdy shoes if you’re walking the cliffs — the views are breathtaking, but the trails can be steep and exposed.
20. Rye & Camber Sands
Overview
Few day trips offer such a striking contrast in atmosphere as Rye and Camber Sands. Just a short taxi or bus ride apart, these two spots make a great twin adventure: Rye is a beautifully preserved medieval hilltop town, all cobbled streets, crooked houses, and ancient inns. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.
Head downhill and just a few miles away is Camber Sands, one of southern England’s rare sandy beaches — a vast stretch of dunes and space that feels like another world. Together, they offer the best of both: history and sea air, pub lunches and sandcastle views.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London St Pancras → Rye (change at Ashford International)
- Journey time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Transfer: ~10-minute taxi or bus from Rye to Camber Sands
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Wander Mermaid Street and climb the tower of St Mary’s Church in Rye
- Explore antique shops and stop for a drink at The Mermaid Inn, dating back to the 12th century
- Relax or walk for miles along the golden sands of Camber
🍽️ Food Tip
The Globe Inn Marsh in Rye is a cosy gastropub with a modern twist. For seaside fish and chips, head to The Owl at Camber.
📸 Travel Tip
Combine your visit with sunset at Camber Sands — the low light across the dunes is stunning, especially with a camera in hand.
21. Dover
Overview
Best known for its iconic White Cliffs, Dover is more than just a postcard view — it’s a fascinating mix of natural beauty and military history. The star attraction is Dover Castle, perched high above the Channel and packed with centuries of stories, from Roman lighthouses to World War II command tunnels.
But the real magic happens along the clifftop paths, where you can walk for miles with sweeping views of the sea — and, on a clear day, catch a glimpse of France. It’s a more rugged coastal day out, ideal for travellers who enjoy history, hiking, or just standing on the edge of England.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London St Pancras → Dover Priory
- Journey time: ~1 hour
- Transfer: ~20-minute uphill walk or short taxi to the castle; clifftop walks begin near the visitor centre
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Explore Dover Castle and its WWII-era secret tunnels
- Walk the White Cliffs to South Foreland Lighthouse or just enjoy the views
- Visit the Roman Painted House or take a short walk along the seafront
🍽️ Food Tip
For a casual lunch with views, try the National Trust café at the cliffs. In town, The White Horse Inn is a cosy pub with a mountaineering history twist.
📸 Travel Tip
Wear sturdy shoes and bring layers — cliff walks are exposed, even in summer. The cliffs are especially beautiful in late afternoon light.
22. Portsmouth
Overview
Rich in naval history and surprisingly full of variety, Portsmouth is a coastal city that offers more than just sea views. Home to the Historic Dockyard, it’s where you can step aboard legendary warships like HMS Victory and HMS Warrior, or explore the interactive Mary Rose Museum — showcasing Henry VIII’s recovered flagship.
Beyond the docks, there’s a modern side too: stroll the shops and restaurants of Gunwharf Quays, or ride to the top of the Spinnaker Tower for panoramic views over the Solent.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Waterloo → Portsmouth Harbour
- Journey time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Transfer: The Historic Dockyard is a 2-minute walk from the station
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Explore the Historic Dockyard and climb aboard HMS Victory
- Visit the Mary Rose Museum for a glimpse into Tudor naval life
- Ride the lift to the top of the Spinnaker Tower for sweeping coastal views
🍽️ Food Tip
Try Abarbistro for seafood with a harbour view, or stop by The Canteen in the Hotwalls Studios for something more relaxed by the sea.
📸 Travel Tip
Allow time for the dockyard — there’s more to see than you might expect. If it’s sunny, time your visit to the Spinnaker Tower around sunset.
23. Bournemouth
Overview
If you’re after golden sand, a traditional pier, and a full-on beach day, Bournemouth is a top choice. This classic south coast resort town is known for its long stretch of beach, gently shelving waters, and sunny microclimate.
It’s livelier than some of the quieter seaside towns, but that’s part of the fun — think colourful beach huts, cliff-top walks, gardens, arcades, and ice cream by the sea. You can stroll from pier to pier, take the cliff lift for sweeping views, or walk all the way to Sandbanks if you’re feeling ambitious.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Waterloo → Bournemouth
- Journey time: ~1 hour 50 minutes
- Transfer: A 15–20 minute walk or short bus/taxi to the beach and pier
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Relax on Bournemouth’s wide sandy beach or rent a deckchair
- Walk the promenade or ride the Victorian cliff lift for coastal views
- Explore the Lower Gardens or take a boat trip along the coast
🍽️ Food Tip
Urban Reef offers beachfront dining with great views and a laid-back vibe. For classic seaside fish and chips, try Harry Ramsden by the pier, or if you’ve ventured further along the coast, Chez Fred in Westbourne.
📸 Travel Tip
For fewer crowds and better light, head down early or visit on a weekday. The view from the East Cliff at sunset is a great spot.
Countryside & Villages
Swap city streets for quiet lanes and timeless charm. These day trips take you to some of the prettiest villages and greenest corners of the countryside — all easy to reach by train, and perfect for a slower, more scenic kind of escape.
24. The Cotswolds
Overview
Rolling hills, golden-stone cottages, and villages that look frozen in time — the Cotswolds are the English countryside at its most idyllic.
Moreton-in-Marsh and Kingham are among the easiest to reach by train and make excellent gateways to classic villages like Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Bibury. Think antique shops, tearooms, and gentle walks past sheep-dotted fields. It’s peaceful, pretty, and practically made for a slow afternoon and a long lunch.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Paddington → Moreton-in-Marsh or Kingham
- Journey time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Transfer: Taxi or local bus needed to reach surrounding villages — plan ahead or consider a guided day tour
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Wander through Bourton-on-the-Water and picnic by the stream
- Visit Bibury, often called England’s prettiest village
- Explore antique shops and pubs in Stow-on-the-Wold
🍽️ Food Tip
The Wild Rabbit in Kingham offers upscale rustic dining, or try Bakery on the Water in Bourton for fresh pastries and riverside views.
📸 Travel Tip
If you’re not renting a car, it’s worth booking a small-group tour from Moreton or Oxford to see more than one village in a day.
25. Seven Sisters / Seaford
Overview
For fresh air and jaw-dropping views, it’s hard to beat a walk along the Seven Sisters Cliffs. These gleaming white chalk cliffs stretch along the Sussex coast and offer one of the most iconic landscapes in southern England.
The best way to experience them on a day trip is from Seaford, a quiet seaside town that marks the start of the clifftop trail toward Cuckmere Haven and beyond. You’ll pass winding river valleys, grazing sheep, and that postcard-perfect view of the cliffs rising sharply above the sea. It’s wild, windswept, and wonderfully peaceful — a proper escape into nature.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Victoria → Seaford (change at Lewes)
- Journey time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Transfer: Trail access begins about a 10–15 minute walk from Seaford station
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Hike the trail from Seaford to Cuckmere Haven (or further toward Birling Gap)
- Relax on the quiet pebble beach with views of the cliffs
- Visit the Seaford Museum inside an old Martello tower
🍽️ Food Tip
Stock up on snacks before your walk or try Front Room café in Seaford for coffee and homemade cakes.
📸 Travel Tip
Bring walking shoes and layers — the cliff path is exposed but breathtaking. Late afternoon light makes the chalk glow brilliantly.
26. Box Hill
Overview
Just an hour from London, Box Hill offers a breath of fresh air and sweeping views of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s a favourite among walkers, cyclists, and picnickers.
But it’s also a peaceful escape for anyone craving green space and gentle trails. Choose a short circular route through woods and meadows, or take on a steeper climb to the summit for panoramic views across the valley. It’s easy to reach, easy to love, and makes for a rewarding day in the countryside without venturing far from the city.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Victoria or Waterloo → Box Hill & Westhumble
- Journey time: ~50 minutes
- Transfer: Trails start right near the station — National Trust signs will guide you
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Hike the Box Hill Circular Walk for views and woodland trails
- Visit the National Trust café and information point at the summit
- Stop at the Stepping Stones over the River Mole
🍽️ Food Tip
The Box Hill café at the top is ideal for tea and a slice of cake. For a post-hike pub meal, The Stepping Stones is a short stroll from the station.
📸 Travel Tip
Come midweek for quiet trails. In spring and summer, wildflowers fill the meadows and the views stretch for miles.
27. Richmond
Overview
Leafy, elegant, and set on a bend of the River Thames, Richmond offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxed charm — all just a short train ride from central London.
The main draw is Richmond Park, a vast royal deer park where you can walk for hours through open fields and woodlands. But Richmond town itself is just as lovely, with riverside pubs, indie shops, and even a few Ted Lasso filming spots for fans.
Whether you’re picnicking by the water, strolling through the terraced gardens, or spotting deer in the mist, Richmond feels like a countryside escape without ever truly leaving the city.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Waterloo → Richmond
- Journey time: ~20 minutes (or take the District Line on the Tube)
- Transfer: The park and riverside are both a short walk from the station
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Walk or cycle through Richmond Park and look for free-roaming deer
- Explore the riverside and pop into Ham House, a 17th-century National Trust mansion
- Catch the view from Richmond Hill, one of London’s most famous landscapes
🍽️ Food Tip
Stop by The White Cross for riverside pub fare, or grab a treat from Gail’s Bakery for a picnic in the park.
📸 Travel Tip
Visit at sunset for soft light over the river and deer-studded fields — especially lovely in autumn.
28. The New Forest
Overview
With wild ponies grazing by the roadside and ancient oak woods stretching for miles, The New Forest feels like another world — yet it’s within easy reach of London by train.
This former royal hunting ground turned national park is ideal for walking, cycling, or simply breathing deeply and slowing down.
The best starting point for a car-free visit is Brockenhurst, a charming village right on the main train line, with direct access to scenic walking and bike trails. From there, you can explore quiet glades, open heathland, and maybe even spot a deer or two.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Waterloo → Brockenhurst
- Journey time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Transfer: Trails and bike rentals are available right in the village — no car needed
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Hire a bike and follow the trails through forest and heath
- Spot New Forest ponies, donkeys, and even cattle wandering freely
- Visit Beaulieu Abbey and the National Motor Museum (reachable by local bus or taxi)
🍽️ Food Tip
The Pig in Brockenhurst is a destination in its own right — book ahead for rustic-chic dining with garden-grown ingredients. For something casual, try The Buttery for cream teas and sandwiches.
📸 Travel Tip
Pack comfortable shoes and layers — even in summer, the weather can change quickly. Morning light through the trees is especially magical.
29. Royal Tunbridge Wells
Overview
With its Georgian colonnades, leafy parks, and refined air, Royal Tunbridge Wells offers a more polished kind of countryside escape. Once a fashionable spa town for London’s elite, it still carries that genteel charm — think boutique shops, antique markets, and long, leisurely lunches.
Start your day with a stroll along The Pantiles, a historic colonnaded walkway full of cafés and galleries, then head to Dunorlan Park for a peaceful wander around the lake. It’s not wild and rugged like the New Forest or the Cotswolds — but it’s beautifully kept, pleasantly slow, and makes for a very lovely day out.
🗺️ How to Get There
- Train from London: London Charing Cross or London Bridge → Tunbridge Wells
- Journey time: ~1 hour
- Transfer: A short walk into the town centre and The Pantiles
🎟️ Top Things to Do
- Stroll The Pantiles and stop for tea or a browse through galleries
- Visit Tunbridge Wells Museum or relax in Dunorlan Park
- Take the heritage Spa Valley Railway for a short steam train ride into the countryside
🍽️ Food Tip
Juliet’s is a beloved local spot for coffee, brunch, and homemade cakes. For something special, The Ivy Royal Tunbridge Wells offers polished dining in a pretty setting.
📸 Travel Tip
Visit on a Saturday for the local food and craft market on The Pantiles — or check ahead for jazz nights and seasonal events.
Main Train Stations In London
London, a major hub for rail travel in the UK, is served by several key train stations, each catering to different regions and destinations:
London King’s Cross
Famous for its association with the Harry Potter series, it serves the East Coast Main Line with routes to the North East and Scotland, including cities like Leeds, York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh.
London Victoria
A major station for routes to the South and South East, including Brighton, Canterbury, and Dover. It’s also the terminal for the Gatwick Express airport service.
London Waterloo
The busiest railway station in the UK, Waterloo serves destinations in South West England, including Southampton, Bournemouth, and Portsmouth, as well as suburban and commuter lines.
London Paddington
The starting point for services to West England and Wales, including destinations like Oxford, Bristol, Bath, Cardiff, and the Heathrow Express to Heathrow Airport.
London Euston
The southern terminus for the West Coast Main Line with services to the Midlands, North West England, North Wales, and Scotland, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, and Glasgow.
London St Pancras International
Known for its stunning Victorian architecture, it’s the main station for international Eurostar services to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. It also serves domestic routes, including the Midlands and East Midlands.
London Liverpool Street
Serves the East of England, with routes to destinations like Cambridge, Norwich, and Stansted Airport.
London Charing Cross
Provides services to South East England, including suburban and commuter routes to Kent and East Sussex.
London Bridge
A major commuter station for destinations in South East London and parts of South East England, including routes to Gatwick Airport and Brighton.
London Marylebone
The smallest of the central London terminals, with services to the West Midlands, Oxfordshire, and Buckinghamshire.
London Fenchurch Street
This smaller station serves destinations in East London and South Essex, including Southend and Shoeburyness.
