While London has much to offer within its city limits, sometimes you just need to escape all the bustle of Big Ben and the double decker buses to explore further afield. From the ancient monuments of Stonehenge to a quick jaunt across the English channel to Paris, these are the top 6 best day trips from London.
Brighton
Also known as “London-by-the-sea,” Brighton is one of the best day trips from London due to its close proximity to the capital city. Located about an hour by train from London, Brighton is one of the most famous seaside town’s along England’s south coast.
Check out the impressive Victorian-era Brighton Pier with amusement rides and attractions along the seaside. The Royal Pavillion is another must-see in Brighton. The construction on this former royal residence began in 1787. The impeccably-preserved Royal Pavillion features Indo-Saracenic style architecture, the same style prevalent in India from Britain’s reign over the subcontinent.
Bath
Less than two hours away by train, the Georgian city of Bath is one of the best day trips from London — especially for history lovers. Full of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the city gets its name from the well-preserved ancient Roman Baths found here. The Roman Baths are geothermal hot springs that were used for public bathing dating back to the 1st century A.D. Adjacent to the Roman Baths is the Grand Pump Room, a historic building built in the 18th century A.D. as a gathering place for high society and has several design features styled after ancient Greek architecture.
Paris
Accessible via a two-hour Eurostar train ride, Paris is another popular day trip from London. While you may not be able to see all Paris has to offer in a day, it is a great way to see the City of Light if you are pressed for time. The Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre are all within reach on a day trip to Paris from London.
Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour
Located just outside of London in Leavesden, this behind the scenes studio tour is the ultimate experience for Harry Potter fans and the perfect day trip from London. Fans can explore Diagon Alley and Dumbledore’s office and much more at the Harry Potter Warner Brothers Studio Tour.
Stonehenge
Less than a two-hour drive from the capital in Wiltshire county is the prehistoric Stonehenge monument, making it the ideal day trip from London. The best time to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site is during the summer.
Isle of Wight
A three-hour drive and quick ferry ride gets you to the Isle of Wight, one of England’s top destinations as well as a great day trip from London. The picturesque island in the English Channel features a Medieval castle and lighthouse and its sandy beaches are a popular spot for hunting for dinosaur fossils. At low tide, actual dinosaur footprints are visible at Brook Bay.
