So whether you live in London and fancy a perfect day trip by train or car, or you’re visiting and want to take a break, you have plenty of nearby destinations to discover. Let’s take a look at some of the best day trips you can take from London.
Our five favourite day trips from London include
- Rye
- Brighton
- Windsor
- Stonehenge
- Lewes
Keen to know more? Discover how to spend a day at any of these destinations when you go on reading this guide!
Seaside spots close(ish) to the capital
Rye
The charming town of Rye is a bit of a hidden gem. Complete with mock Tudor buildings, plenty of green space and gorgeous boutiques and independent stores, there is plenty to occupy you in the town. But don’t forget about the beautiful coastline. Take a walk along the beach or visit a seafood restaurant for a taste of the local catch. The Fish Café serves up delicious whelks, cockles, and fresh-caught herring!
Getting there: Trains to Rye run regularly from St Pancras.
Brighton
Londoners regularly head to Brighton for bohemian seaside charm. Expect plenty of independent cafes and shops in the pedestrianised Laines (both North and South are worth a browse). Pick up a milkshake in almost any flavour imaginable at the original Shakeaway or grab some fish and chips from the seaside huts. In summer you can have a drink on the cobble beach; in winter enjoy an open fire and quirky Brighton charm at the White Rabbit.
Getting there: Trains from Victoria leave regularly and take just over an hour.
Day trips for architecture enthusiasts
Windsor
Visit the quaint town of Windsor and view the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. Members of the British Royal Family regularly spend time here. You can visit the stunning State Apartments, which are furnished with some of the most delicate art in the Royal Collection. Or see Queen Mary’s impressive dollhouse, thought to be the largest in the world.
Getting there: Regular trains run from London Paddington.
Stonehenge
If you don’t mind a slightly longer trip, head to world-famous Stonehenge, the man-made rock circle thought to date back to Neolithic times and said to hold sacred powers. Be warned, people generally find Stonehenge smaller than they imagined!
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Salisbury, whose beautiful cathedral houses an original copy of the Magna Carta. If you get hungry, stop in at Charter 1227, which serves seasonally-inspired food and overlooks the historic market.
Getting there: Trains run to Salisbury from London.
Day trips bursting with British charm
Lewes
Close to Brighton, Lewes offers laid-back Sussex charm amid the rolling hills. Think gorgeous cafes, boutiques, and Old English style. The town is known for its arty side, and you can pick up plenty of gifts made by local craftsmen. Nature lovers will enjoy heading out of the centre on some stunning walks.
Lewes Castle overlooks the town and is a great place to enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape. Stay for dinner at the sublime Limetree Restaurant that serves creative dishes made with local produce, and then jump on a train from the station just a few metres away.
Getting there: Frequent trains from London Victoria that take just over an hour.
Whether you’re planning day trips from London by train or by car, you can discover your perfect city centre base when you browse Accor accommodation. We have lots of Novotel hotels in London, perfect for family or business trips. Explore our collection and choose the comfortable spot that’s perfect for you.
