7 of the Best Day Trips from London

“Though London offers an array of exciting attractions and experiences on its own, sometimes it’s nice to take a break from the city and enjoy a change of scenery. Fortunately, London is within a short drive or train ride from charming towns, spectacular pebble beaches and unforgettable attractions. Take a look at 7 of the best day trips from London to plan your trip.

1. Whitstable
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The charming seaside town of Whitstable boasts an array of shops, activities, art venues and other fun-filled offerings. Just under 90 minutes by train, Whitstable is a quick journey from London and with its fresh air, beach huts and quaint shops overlooking the sea, it’s perfect for a day of sightseeing and relaxation. While you’re there, be sure to try the fresh seafood in one of the family-owned restaurants, take a stroll on the delightful pebble beach and wander through independent galleries to see local artwork on display.

2. Brighton
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If you’re looking for a fun night out on the town, Brighton is a trendy and exciting city with a thriving arts scene and fascinating culture. Just over an hour by train, Brighton has an array of interesting attractions and experiences to explore, such as tours of the Royal Pavilion, games and concessions at Palace Pier and shopping in the Lanes. If you want some dancing and cocktails, Churchill Square, Western Road and North Laine have a rich mix of alternative bars, live music venues, gastropubs, rooftop bars and multi-level clubs.

3. Canterbury
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The cathedral city of Canterbury can be reached by train from London in an hour and is the ideal day trip for history buffs. The intriguing city was once a pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages and holds ancient fortresses, defence walls and timber-framed homes on cobbled streets. You’ll find plenty of must-see landmarks in the city, such as the ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey, the Norman Castle and the King’s School. You could also learn more about the history of the city in places like the Roman Museum and the Canterbury Heritage Museum.

4. Surrey Hills
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Located an hour and a half outside of London by train, Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is the perfect spot for a day trip in nature. Surrey Hills is a popular place for outdoor enthusiasts to hike and bike, and there are numerous places to explore that boast stunning beauty and historic significance. You could visit the Polesden Lacey, a historic estate with an opulent mansion and manicured gardens, or Painshill, a landscaped garden with follies. The Royal Horticultural Society Garden Wisley is also popular for visitors.

5. Rye
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The medieval town of Rye in East Sussex offers a labyrinth of winding cobblestone paths and quirky shops for a unique day trip. Located just over an hour away by train, you could spend a day in Rye exploring the Rye Nature Reserve and its wildlife, unwinding on the golden beach by the water or enjoying a craft beer or two in the historic pubs throughout the town. If you like to shop for antiques, Rye has plenty of independent antique and vintage shops near Mermaid Street to peruse.

6.Guildford
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If you’re looking for a quick day trip, Guildford is only 40 minutes by train and just over an hour by car. There’s plenty to see and do in Guildford, such as the medieval Guildford Castle and the 17th-century Guildford House, a historic townhome with a gallery and rotating art exhibitions. You could also explore the Watts Gallery – Artist’s Village, an open gallery with Victorian paintings and sculpture. You’ll find numerous historic homes, gardens and parks in Guildford, such as the Clandon Park House & Garden, Hatchlands Park and St Nicolas Church.

7. Cambridge
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Located under an hour from London by train, the university city of Cambridge offers sightseeing and outdoor fun for a relaxing day trip from the city. You could spend your day exploring the colleges, such as King’s and its Gothic chapel, or wander the university museums for a fascinating peek into local and world history. One of the best museums in Cambridge is the Fitzwilliam Museum, which holds a collection of antique and modern art and artefacts. You could also unwind with a walk around the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a vast heritage garden with unique flora and fauna.

Ready to plan your trip?
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London has a lot to see and do on its own, but its location makes it ideal as a base camp to enjoy the wonders of nearby cities and towns. If you’re planning a trip to London, be sure to put some of these day trips on your itinerary and browse London holidays from Expedia to save on your adventure!”