7 Best Day Trips from London | How to Reach by Train & Bus

Looking to escape the London buzz and explore some of England’s most picturesque destinations? From historical treasures to coastal escapes, this guide will take you through five must-visit Day trips from London that blend natural beauty, medieval charm, and a taste of adventure. Whether you’re hopping on a quick train ride or taking a scenic bus journey, each spot offers a unique experience, whether wandering through ancient cathedrals, enjoying breathtaking seaside views, or indulging in an academic stroll through some of the world’s top university towns.

We have created a budget-friendly and affordable list for you with our personal experiences and not only this but also you will get to know How to reach these destinations, best places to eat, Public transport options including train and bus routes and much more. Here are the best day trips from London.

1. Day trip to Canterbury

This is the place where the modern charm meets the history, located in the heart of Kent this city is a treasure of history, culture, and unique natural beauty. Additionally, this city is home to 3 UNESCO heritage sites. If you are planning a perfect gateway from the hustle of London City, you are just one hour and a few minutes away.

Things to do

1. I recommend visiting the Canterbury Cathedral, which is in the heart of the city and is a part of its identity. It is one of the oldest Christian structures in England and a gothic architectural masterpiece. For more instagarmmable paces follow our guide to the Top 10 Instagrammable Places in London for perfect shots.

2. You can witness the skyline of this town from the Bell Harry Tower in the cathedral. The magnificent stained glass windows will take your heart out with their beauty and will take you to the living canvas of divine artistry.

3. Westgate Garden – The place you must have seen in the reels the Instagrammable spot of the town. It is a riverside Oasis, nestled at the river bank of Stour you can walk or take a boat tour to observe the charm.

The lush lawn, colorful flower bed, and ancient trees create a serene environment for a perfect stroll you can even choose a picturesque spot and relax picnicking along the gently flowing river, and pack yourself some tasty meals.

4. Blean Woods nature reserve – For those who crave a deeper connection with nature, you can visit here a short bus ride from the city center for some ancient woodland, hiking, and birdwatching.

Places to Eat in Canterbury

Budget-Friendly & Must-Try Spots

1. For Traditional British Food:

• Tiny Tim’s Tearoom – This is a cozy tearoom serving traditional british afternoon tea & homemade scones.

2. For Quick Bites & Budget Meals:

• The Lady Luck – A budget – friendly pub with great vegan & meat dishes.
• Zorba Meze Grill – Highly-rated, affordable Greek and Mediterranean food spot.

• Google Maps Link: Tiny Tim’s Tearoom , The Lady Luck , Zorba Meze Grill
• Instagram Accounts: Tiny Tim’s Tearoom , The Lady Luck , Zorba Meze Grill

How to Reach Canterbury from London by train ?

2. Day trip to Bath

I would say this place is for a history buff this is a medieval beauty you can enjoy the elegant tearooms and cozy cafes here ( some of my favorites are mentioned below ).

Things to Do

1. Famous Roman baths – We are going to start our day with the most famous Roman baths which this city is known for, they were built in 70 AD and are one of the most significant and well-preserved Roman sites in the world.

They are famous for their natural hot springs which the Romans believed had healing properties and eventually, this place became a religious space for them, you will witness the Great Bath a most iconic complex, and a massive open-air pool surrounded by a colonnade and statues.

2. Bath Abbey the iconic church of the city a living monument to its rich heritage it’s a must-visit place. Another crown jewel of this abbey is the East Window the towering masterpiece of stained glass that dominates the channel, it’s a visual narrative of the life of Jesus Christ.

3. Now let’s go to the hidden part of the abbey The Tower (212 narrow steps are worth the view)once you climb up the tower you will be greeted with panoramic views of the city and its countryside.

4. To end your beautiful day in the medieval city visit the Pulteney Bridge for some Instagram posts as it’s the most photographed location in the city.

For more budget-friendly ideas, see our guide to London for Free: 10 Amazing Things To Do. Make sure you view it from the Parade Garden or the Riverbank for the best views. This is how you can beautifully spend your day in a bath and enjoy this exceptional beauty which makes it one of the best day trips from London.

Places to Eat in Bath

For a local Experience:

• Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House – It offers historic georgian atmosphere and famous Bath Bun.

For Budget – Friendly & Quick Eats:

• The Green Bird Cafe – A cheap but high-quality brunch spot.
• Colonna & small’s – One of the best coffee shop in bath.

• Google Maps Link: Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House, The Green Bird Cafe, Colonna & small’s
• Instagram Accounts: Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House, The Green Bird Cafe, Colonna & small’s

How to Reach Bath from London by train?

Fastest Route: Take the train from London Paddington (1 hr 20 min).
Cheapest Option: National Express bus (£10 if booked in advance).

3. Day trip to Seven Sister Cliff

If you are craving an unforgettable and jaw-dropping view experience just 90 minutes from London with some fresh English coastal air and a dash of adventure Seven Sister Cliff is the best place for you, this gigantic cliff walk is above the English Channel and one of the best adventure and science beauty in England for an escape. Now, if you want to experience the real beauty, start from Seaford a 14-mile walk (I know it sounds Tiring but the views you get from here are worth every step). This route will take you to a rolling hill, the hidden beaches, and cliff edges. There is another shorter way from Cuckmere Haven if you don’t want to walk that long.

Things to Do

1. Visit the Seaford Museum inside the Martello Tower if you want to look at the area’s history and marine life. after completing this there will be a 1-hour walk from Seaford’s head to Cuckmore Haven towards the first sister cliff.

2. The Cuckmere Haven Beach is the meeting point of the river Cuckmere the sea, it’s an ideal point to relax and have your brunch at this place. Don’t forget to check out our recommendation for 5 Must-Try Cheap Eats in London Under £15.

3. As we move ahead we will now be walking towards Brass Point which is cliff number 4 the highest cliff from here you will witness the dramatic fall and panoramic views of the English  Channel and the cliffs(be careful it is a steep walk at this sister cliff)here you will have a beach again waiting for you but you have to take a staircase to enjoy the amazing view with food at National trust café with the beach rock pools.

What to pack for hike at Seven Sister Cliffs?

Here’s a list of what all items to pack for Seven sister Cliffs.

• 1. Sturdy walking or hiking shoes with a good grip as the surface is uneven and steep there.
• 2. Layered clothing – a breathable fleece and a waterproof jacket is a must because weather is unpredictable at the cliffs.
• 3. Scarf and gloves ( for colder months )
• 4. A water bottle , because at the top there’s no shops for food and water.
• 5. A first Aid kit
• 6. Binoculars will be helpful in spotting birds and wildlife.

Places to Eat in Seven Sister Cliffs

For a Coffee Stop Before/After the Hike:

• Saltmarsh Farmhouse Café (Cuckmere Haven) – Known for its homemade cakes & coffee.

For a Budget Meal Nearby:

• The Grumpy Chef (Seaford) – A small cafe that offers fresh sandwiches & English breakfast.
• Pomegranate Café (Eastbourne) – Famous for veggie sandwiches & light meals.

• Google Maps Link: Saltmarsh Farmhouse Café, The Grumpy Chef (Seaford), Pomegranate Café
• Instagram Accounts: Saltmarsh Farmhouse Café, The Grumpy Chef (Seaford), Pomegranate Café

How to reach Seven Sister Cliffs from London by train ?

4. Day trip to Oxford

There might be a chance that most of us have dreamt of studying at the world-famous University of Oxford wandering around those ancient walls sipping tea in the grand libraries and bragging in every conversation about the time when you were in Oxford, Nothing to worry if this did not work out, budget wanderers will make you live this dream, you will not leave with a degree but will leave with a lot of memories as a one-day oxford scholar so get ready to dive in the historic city of oxford.

Things to Do

1. Cornmarket Street – Start your day from here it’s an affordable pedestrian shopping hub setting up a lively atmosphere for the city, as you walk down this street have a look at the Michael Northgate a charming church dating back to the 11^th century you can enjoy the panoramic views of the city from this place.

From here saunter over the fancy high street of Oxford the place where the Oxfordshire magic begins. Picture yourself walking past University College pretending in deep thought and make sure you take the legendary selfie at the Radcliffe Camera.

Places to Eat in Oxford

For Traditional British Food:

• Turf Tavern– Known for its affordable pies & ales and also one of the most famous pubs in oxford.

For Quick & Budget Bites:

• The Missing Bean– amazing coffee & sandwich shop.
• The White Rabbit – best wood-fired pizza places in Oxford.

• Google Maps Link: Turf Tavern, The Missing Bean, The White Rabbit
• Instagram Accounts: Turf Tavern, The Missing Bean, The white Rabbit

How to reach Oxford from London by train ?

5. Day trip to Cambridge

A place where history, academia, and beauty collide in the most Instagrammable way. If you ever dreamt of being next to Stephen Hawkins or roaming around the scenic literary and scenic giants Cambridge is the city for you. Pretend you entered a Victorian novel.

Things to Do

1. Start your day by punting on the River Cam (no trip to Cambridge is complete without this).Sit in a long, flat-bottomed boat relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery, including the famous backs of the stretch where college gardens meet the river.

2. After this, you can wander through the world-famous University of Cambridge. Start with the King’s College the place where the fan-vaulted ceiling and medieval-stained glasses scream luxury. 

3. Now you can head towards the Fitzwilliam Museum a treasure trove of art and antiques here you will find everything from Egyptian artifacts to impressive works by Monet and Rembrandt.

By now probably you will be craving some good snacks for that I would recommend you to visit the Market Square you can get everything here from local craft to global street food.

The best moment in Cambridge will be to grab food from here and chill in a picnic set up near the river. If you are planning to visit nearby cities check out our guide to 1 Day in Birmingham: Top Places to Visit and Things to Do.

Don’t forget to enjoy a pint at The famous Eagle Pub . This historic watering hole is famous for being the place where scientists Watson and Crick announced they had discovered the structure of DNA.

Places to Eat in Cambridge

For a Classic Local Meal:

• Fitzbillies – popular for their legendary Chelsea Buns & Coffee.

For Budget Bites & Quick Lunch:

• Michaelhouse Café – Offers delicious quiches & soups.
• Butch Annie’s – A budget-friendly burger place with gourmet options.

• Google Maps Link: Fitzbillies, Michaelhouse Café, Butch Annie’s
• Instagram Accounts: Fitzbillies, Michaelhouse Café, Butch Annie’s

How to Reach Cambridge from London by train ?

6. Day trip to Brighton

Brighton falls under one of the best seaside day trips from London, known for its iconic Brighton Pier, indie shopping lanes, and stunning seaside views, it offers a mix of historic landmarks and vibrant culture. if you are person who loves to relax by the coast this is a perfect destination for you.

Things to Do

1. Take a walk along Brighton Palace Pier

This place is the heart of the city and offers traditional British amusements, arcade games, and stunning views of the coastline. Try classic fish and chips.

2. Explore the famous Shopping street

Here you will get to see vintage stores, boutique shops, and cute cafes, This lane is a must-visit. This lane is occupied by independent retailers, record stores, and hidden gems.

3. Take instagrammable pictures at Royal Pavilion

This is an architectural masterpiece that was built as a royal treat for King George IV. Consists of a beautiful and massive dome with lavish mind-blowing interiors which makes it a top attraction in Brighton.

4. Views from Brighton i360

Ride the Brighton i360 a futuristic observation tower, tower that takes you 138 meters high for breathtaking views of the coastline and the beautiful city.

Places to Eat in Brighton

For a Local Seafood Experience:

• Regency Restaurant – Best fish & chips place by the beach.

For Budget-Friendly Bites:

• The Flour Pot Bakery – Amazing coffee and brunch spot.
• The Chilli Pickle – Highly-rate Indian street food in Brighton.

• Google Maps Link: Regency Restaurant, The Flour Pot Bakery, The Chilli Pickle
• Instagram Accounts: Regency Restaurant, The Flour Pot Bakery, The Chilli Pickle

How to reach Brighton from London by train ?

By Train:

• Fastest Option: London Victoria → Brighton (Gatwick Express, 1 hour)
• Cheapest Option: Off-peak Southern/Thameslink trains start at £10 if booked early.

By Bus:

• Cheapest Option: FlixBus, but has fewer departures
• Best for Flexibility: National Express runs buses every hour
• Longer but Budget-Friendly: Buses take twice as long as trains but cost less.

7. Windsor

Windsor is one of the most popular and also the easiest day trips from london, famous for Windsor Castle, the Thames riverside, and quaint british streets. it’s a must visit.

Things to Do

1. Visit the Windsor Castle – It is world’s largest inhabited castle, and official residence of King Charles III. i recommend to book the tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Explore St George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry wedding took place. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony ( check the schedule before visiting here). The Castle’s entrance fee is £30.00 (Adults) , opening hours – 10am to 4pm.

2. Explore Eton College where Prince William & Prince completed their education.

3. Take a Thames River Cruise – Get a boat ride, you can choose between short 40 minutes cruise to a longer one that serves lunch and dinner as well. Take photo of the castle from the water. You can book them Online.

Places to Eat in Windsor

Budget Picks:

• Cinnamon Café – A local cafe known for its fresh pastries, amazing coffee and sausage rolls.
• The Chip Box – Visit here for classic fish and chips at affordable prices.
• Nimia’s cafe – I woud say this is a hidden gem for freshly made sandwiches and paninis.

Best for Traditional dining:

• The Boatman – Only riverside pub in Windsor, have meals with scenic views.
• The Two Brewers – Known for its cozy ambiance, homemade pies, local ales.

• Google Maps Link: Cinnamon Café, Nimia’s cafe, The Boatman, The Two Brewers

How to reach Windsor from London by train ?

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to experience unreal British charm, these destinations offer something for every kind of traveler. From Canterbury’s timeless cathedral and Bath’s Roman heritage to the awe-inspiring cliffs of Seven Sisters and the scholarly air of Oxford and Cambridge, these day trips promise unforgettable experiences and plenty of Top 10 Instagrammable Places in London for Perfect shots.