The Best Places to Visit and Day Tours From London (UK)

Disclosure Notice of Everything Zany

Looking for the best day trips from London? London has a lot to offer for everyone, being one of the world’s most visited cities, things to do are incalculable, from strolling in remarkable establishments and historical sites to exquisite dining and dazzling street night party.

Numerous day trips from London are just 1 to 2-hour travel. The mode of transportation in hopping out of London is by car or train. Many of the best UK villages, castles, famous landmarks and cities are outside London (though London’s charm will always be unique).

Add a little detour from the bustling metro of the United Kingdom’s capital and head to these marvellous day trips from London.

The Best Day Tours and Places to visit near London

1. Brighton

Brighton is a city in England located on the south coast. The scenery in Brighton is considered one of the best places to visit near London. It is known for its quirky view due to the vibrant bright coloured buildings, houses and other establishments (Banksy art is everywhere!).

Brighton Pier in Brighton UK

Since it is by the coast, beachgoers are hyped to fill up their vitamin-sea cravings (I am one of them tho), nearby you will find the most magnificent limestone cliffs on UK’s south coast- the Seven Sisters.

This is an amazing place to amble outside London’s busy streets. Read through the article I wrote about the Best Things to Do in Brighton (UK) For Fun Weekend Breaks and the London to Brighton detailed transport guide.

Read More: Best UK Travel Itinerary for 2 Weeks

2. Portsmouth

The vibrant, dynamic, historical city of Portsmouth is the naval base of England on the south coast and the United Kingdom’s premier destination for Naval History. The historic dockyard and ships are packed with many historical attractions. Some of the original Naval artefacts from the 1800s and WWI are still on display, open to the public. This evocative visit is a must in your detour from London.

HMS Victory in Portsmouth

Are thinking about where to go near London and considering a short break by the sea? Well, Portsmouth is less than 2 hours of travel by train from London. I wrote another article about the Best Things to do in Portsmouth and London to Portsmouth transport guide, I encourage you to read it to help you with your visit. So what are you waiting for? Let’s go!

Read More: Visiting the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard for a Weekend Break (UK)

3. Windsor

Visiting Windsor is one of the best train trips from London that is not to be missed. Windsor is widely known as the historical site of Windsor Castle and one of the official residences of the British Royal Family (Hello Royal Family!). Several monarchs have lived in the huge Windsor Castle since it was built. The castle is the largest inhabited castle with 500+ people working and even living in it.

Windsor Castle in Windsor, Berkshire
Photo Credit: Jean-Marc Astesana | CC BY-SA 2.0

Do not miss the museums, parks and cultural ventures in Windsor, there are bountiful of activities waiting for you in this town. Sling up your backpacks and hit the roadway to this exquisite town in England.

I wrote a London to Windsor Castle transport guide, I’m sure you will find it helpful when you are planning to visit Windsor.

Read More: Beautiful Castles and Palaces to Visit in the UK (England, Scotland and Wales)

4. Canterbury

An hour’s drive from London, Canterbury and its amusing view can totally bring you to the yesteryears of England. Canterbury is a cathedral city and a UNESCO World Heritage site in the UK.

The Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597 AD and rebuilt by the Saxons, and Normans over the years. The iconic cathedral also has impressive medieval stained glass windows and upscale ceilings. Canterbury has a perfect blend of city sight, coast and greenery, ensuring to spoilt your various interest.

Enjoy the beautiful coastline, countryside and breathtaking heritage, culture of Canterbury. Tick this detour in your best day trips from the London UK list. I wrote another article here about the Best Things to Do in Kent, have a read through it to see other attractions to visit in this beautiful English county.

If you are planning to visit Canterbury, I wrote a transport guide from London to Canterbury to help you visit this place in a breeze.

5. Hastings 

Hastings is home to the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in the whole of Europe. This working fishing port town is packed with hilly natural parks, incredible museums, art galleries, antique shops and other English historical settlements.

Hastings East Sussex

One of the most crucial events in English history happened here, the Battle of Hastings, where the Anglo-Saxons were defeated by William of Normandy and the Norman Conquest began. The ruins and abbey of the battle are now a tourist attraction.

The stretch of Hastings’s coastal line will definitely make your visit one of a kind. Consider Hasting as the most lovable weekend trip from London. I wrote a transport guide that will help you to travel from London to Hastings.

Read More: The Most Beautiful Historic Castles in England That You Must Visit

6. Oxford 

Oxford tour from London is an hour’s ride from the train (the best quick sneak out from the streets of London). This county town of Oxfordshire is one of the largest cities and fastest growing populations in the United Kingdom. Home of the famous and oldest university in the English-speaking world- the University of Oxford.

I wrote an article on how to get from London to Oxford University, go check it out if you want to visit this historic English university.

Blenheim Palace in Oxford

Historical heritage is also in the area, the Blenheim Palace, with an English Baroque architectural approach, this is also the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Having a tour in Oxford is an unforgettable experience, so look for that online booking button and zoom ahead for these marvellous spots!

7. Harry Potter Studios

“Wingardium Leviosa”, for sure you will definitely fly in happiness when you pay a visit to the Harry Potter Studious in Watford.

Chamber of Secrets door

The studio has authentic, beautifully crafted props that are used in the film series (check out the glasses of potions! So cool!), original costumes (try the robes of Harry, Hermoine, and Ron) that feel like being a student wizard, and the breathtaking sets (the Hogwarts Express locomotive is so legit) that will perfectly put you in the wizard mood.

Being a wizard for a day in the Harry Potter Studios in Watford is one of the premium tours in London. If you fancy visiting this enchanting attraction, I wrote a helpful transport guide from London to Harry Potter Studios London.

8. Cambridge

Universitas Cantabrigiensis is the Latin of the University of Cambridge, the world’s fourth-oldest surviving university and the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world (next to Oxford University).

Art Cambridge University and Kings College Chapel
Art Cambridge University and Kings College Chapel

This prestigious university is a collegiate public research ground (free admission in their nice, huge library) that caters to over 100 academic departments and 30+ constituent colleges, annually they have 20,000 students admitted. The environment on the campus is inspiring and nurturing for both students and tourists.

Being amazed at Cambridge University’s jaw-dropping medieval style that will never let your camera stop clicking, is one of the best day trips from London. I wrote a handy transportation guide from London to Cambridge here.

9. Ascot 

Ascot Race is located in Ascot, Berkshire, England and it is the most notable, valuable race meeting for the Brits. It attracts many of the world’s finest and well-trained racehorses to compete for a prize of millions of pounds. The Ascot Racecourse was founded by Queen Anne in 1711.

Royal Procession At Ascot Racecourse in the UK
ASCOT, ENGLAND – JUNE 14: The Prince of Wales with The Duchess of Cornwall are seen in the royal procession as they enter the parade ring during Royal Ascot 2022 at Ascot Racecourse on June 14, 2022 in Ascot, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Royal Ascot is the prominent piece of the Ascot Race, where the British Royal Family arrive via horse-drawn carriage taking a Royal procession towards the venue.  Call your mates and have a blast on this day trip from London. Just make sure your royal outfits and bets are ready for the race!

I wrote a transport guide about Ways How to Get from London to Ascot (UK). I’m sure you will find it useful in planning for your trip to attend the races.

Read more: 5 Ways How to Get from London to Highclere Castle (UK)

10. Salisbury 

Salisbury- “the city in the countryside”, encompassed a picturesque of natural landscape that looks like paradise. This is where the world-famous and one of the most iconic man-made structures is situated- the sandstone and bluestone of Stonehenge which will bring you to the Neolithic era.

Another amazing spot in Salisbury is the Early English Gothic-style Salisbury Cathedral also known as the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The church’s spire is the tallest in the United Kingdom. 

The quintessential culture, landscape, and history of Salisbury should not be missed in your premium tour out of London! I wrote a London to Stonehenge transport guide, to help you find your way to this ancient landmark in the most convenient way possible.

Top Activities in the UK

 

More posts about the United Kingdom

If you are looking for travel inspiration read this post – Best Places to Visit in the UK

🇬🇧 UNITED KINGDOM TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for my UK trip?
YES – If you’re traveling to the UK, securing travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is essential for your peace of mind; I recommend Safety Wing Travel Insurance, which is renowned for its reliability. (READ MORE)


💧 Can I drink tap water in the UK?
YES – You can confidently drink tap water in the UK—just run it for a bit first—and use a Hydro Flask travel bottle, it is a great eco-friendly companion to keep you hydrated while touring the UK attractions.


🚗 Is it safe to rent a car in the UK?
YES – Renting a car in the UK is one of the best ways to see the country. I recommend Discover Cars, to check for the best car rental deals that suit your budget. See my UK driving tips here.


📲 Will my phone work in the UK?
POSSIBLY. Always check with your home mobile provider. If it won’t work or is too expensive, I recommend using Airlo E-Sim for data packages to stay connected online.


🔌 What adapter should I use in the UK?
TYPE G – In the UK, you’ll need a type G plug travel adapter with three rectangular pins arranged in a triangle to power your devices, and the electrical system runs on a 230V supply voltage at 50Hz. (READ MORE)


✈️ What is the best site to buy UK flights?
For finding affordable UK flights, I recommend using Skyscanner. You can always compare the prices that suit your budget.


🛏️ What is the best way to book accommodations in the UK?
My go-to for UK accommodations is Booking.com. I recommend to always check hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.


💷 What currency do I need for my UK trip?
Sterling Pounds – I suggest getting a Wise Travel Card for your hassle-free forex and contactless spending while in the UK. (READ MORE)


🧳 What do I pack for the UK trip?
Depending on the season – You can check my article about the best time to visit the UK.


🛂 Do I need a visa for the UK?
Likely Not – US, Canada, AU, NZ, and EU passport holders do not need a visit visa to the UK. If ever you need one, read more on how to apply for a UK visit visa. Visit iVisa.com to help you with your visa travel documentation needs.

Best day tours and places to visit near London
The Best Places to Visit and Day Tours From London (UK)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Everything Zany Dual Citizen Travel Blog

Everything Zany

Travel Blog

Everything Zany Travel Blog exploring the UK and beyond. Sharing travel guides, tips, history, and culture. Our travel media brand is founded by travel and hotel industry expert – Ryazan Tristram, a Dual Citizen (British–Filipina) based in Birmingham, UK. Everything Zany is a reputable and award-winning travel blog. Our work and contributions have been featured in the Huffington Post, CNBC, Discovery Channel, GMA, Readers Digest, and Lonely Planet. Our mission is to build a great travel community and resource of travel tips, visas, and travel guides for travelers. Join us as we travel around the UK and beyond with a mission to share the best of the world.

Leave a comment