cheapest international trips from london

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Cheap flights from London

Popular trips from london.

These suggestions are based on the cheapest fares to popular destinations in the next six months.

Prices include required taxes + fees for 1 adult. Optional charges and bag fees may apply.

• Hong Kong RUB 42,052 May 2 — May 8 1 stop 20 hr China Southern
• Lisbon RUB 6,224 May 11 — May 17 Nonstop 2 hr 55 min Wizz Air
• New York RUB 38,328 Apr 19 — Apr 25 Nonstop 7 hr 50 min Norse Atlantic UK
• Dubai RUB 36,538 May 5 — May 13 1 stop 21 hr 40 min Wizz Air
• İstanbul RUB 6,023 Jun 3 — Jun 11 Nonstop 4 hr 5 min Wizz Air
• Paris RUB 6,224 May 31 — Jun 6 Nonstop 1 hr 20 min Vueling

Find flights from London to anywhere

Popular airports near london.

• London Stansted Airport (STN) London 1 hr 4 min 48 km
• Heathrow Airport (LHR) London 45 min 23 km
• London Gatwick Airport (LGW) London 1 hr 23 min 40 km
• London Luton Airport (LTN) London 1 hr 6 min 44 km

Frequently asked questions about flying from London

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Find cheap flights from London to Europe from £23

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from london to europe departing on 31/5. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to europe.

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Cheapest return prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know - Cheap tickets from London to Europe

Faqs - booking europe flights, are there any hotels i can stay at before departing from london airports.

If you have an early flight to catch, or should you just not want to be in a rush, you can stay at an airport hotel before take-off. For example, at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) there is the Aerotel, at Stansted Airport (STN) and London City Airport (LCY) you can stay at the Holiday Inn Express, while at Luton Airport (LTN) and Gatwick Airport (LGW) you can opt for the Courtyard by Marriott.

Is there any children’s entertainment at London Airports?

Ahead of your departure from London Airports, you can keep your kids occupied at some of the great entertainment venues. For example, at Heathrow (LHR) they can use the Stay and Play areas, which are in all the terminals. Meanwhile, at Gatwick Airport (LGW) there are children’s play areas, which are opposite InMotion in the North Terminal and opposite WHSmith in the South Terminal.

Can I lower the amount of CO2 associated with my flight from London to Europe?

No matter where you’re flying, you can use the KAYAK search filter to find flights that release lower levels of CO2. For instance, if you were flying to Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris, you could take a British Airways flight from Heathrow Airport (LHR). This operates the route releasing about 95% less CO2 than the industry average. Therefore, instead of 522 kg CO2 being emitted per passenger, this airline releases about 26 kg CO2.

Which European cities can I fly to with Business Class seating?

There are many Business Class flights operating from London to Europe. You can fly with Lufthansa from London City Airport (LCY) to Frankfurt Airport (FRA), with Air France from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) to Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris, or with KLM from LHR to Amsterdam Airport (AMS).

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from London to Europe?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from London to Europe.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from London to Europe?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Europe from London is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from London to Europe?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to Europe with an airline and back to London with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from London to Europe?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Europe from London up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from London to Europe

• Morning departure is around 3% more expensive than an evening flight, on average*.
• London has five main airports that operate regular flights to Europe. If you live in the north of the city, London Stansted Airport (STN) and London Luton Airport (LTN) are the most convenient. Whereas, from the south of the city, London Gatwick Airport (LGW) tends to be the best option.
• If you want some winter sun in Europe, there are many locations you can fly to direct from London. For instance, you can fly with British Airways from Heathrow to Faro Airport (FAO) in Portugal, with Ryanair from Luton Airport (LTN) to Malta Airport (MLA), or with Jet2 from Stansted Airport (STN) to Tenerife South Airport (TFS).
• Whilst all London Airports have modern facilities, London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the busiest of the terminals and provides you with the most amenities, such as restaurants, lounges, and shops.
• If you’re looking for cheap flights from London Airports, you should consider flying from Stansted Airport, which is Ryanair’s largest hub. This means you’ll benefit from lots of low-cost, direct routes to cities across Europe such as Madrid, Vilnius, and Verona.
• If you want to relax ahead of your flight from London to Europe, you can make use of a range of lounges at the terminal building. For example, you can use the No.1 Lounge at both Gatwick Airport (LGW) and Heathrow Airport (LHR), the Escape Lounge at Stansted Airport (STN), or the Aspire Lounge at Luton Airport (LTN).

Top 5 airlines serving from London to Europe

3 hr flight from Barcelona to Gran Canaria. Ŵent according to plan No issues with staff oŕ flight. Many people includiñg us could not get luggage self checķ in termìnals to work. Had to wait in check in line.

Boarding was very poor as the flight was initially delayed. We were told the flight would be at 21:40. We were with our 10 month baby who was sleeping. I received an email from Kayak which said the flight was now due to take off at 21:04. When we checked the screens at Gatwick we were told the gate was closed. The lack of communication was extremely poor and we had to run with our baby and there were many other passengers, including elderly people, also running to the gate. When we got to the gate, the staff had no reasons for the poor communication.

We got to the airport 2 hours before the flight. We waited in a line to check our bags onto the flight for an hour, even despite having checked in online, as there weren't enough self check terminals allocated to Vueling (yet loads of empty BA ones right next to them). There also weren't enough staff, making them stressed and rude. We had to try and rush through security to get to our gate, which they announced as gate 35 at first and then changed it after ten minutes with no announcement to anyone in the airport that it had changed. So we then had to rush to the correct gate to arrive just as boarding started. It was a thoroughly stressful process and one travelling couple almost missed boarding because of it. The flight boarding and the flight itself werre fine, the staff were polite, but I was dehydrated due to the airport and had to buy a bottle of water as they didn't offer free drinks.

You have couple of KG's grace on checked luggage

Nous sommes parties de Copenhague avec plus de 2h de retard. L'avion n'a pas pu atterrir à Paris et après avoir encore perdu du temps en vol, a atterri à Bruxelles. Une navette devait nous prendre en charge pour nous ramener à Paris mais personne ne nous a renseignés, on a tourné en rond dans l'aéroport durant plus de 2h, sans trouver de solution pour rentrer (pas de train, pas de voiture de location...). Nous avons fini par monter dans un car affrété par une autre compagnie et qui nous a déposés à CDG. Ensuite il fallu prendre un Uber (il était plus de 2h du matin) pour rentrer, qui a couté presque 90 €. Donc non, je ne suis pas satisfaite des services de la compagnie Vueling.

I liked the regular updates and appreciated the automatic online checkin which didn’t work for our Vueling flight so I had to do this myself.

The baggage policy is pathetic. We paid for our carry-on bags online. Said if we don't remove the wheels of our carry-ons it's not considered a carry-on. We all measured our bags according to the website beforehand. We were not refunded for our bags and were obligated to buy it as checked in bags for over $70 online or $90 over the counter. First and last time I travel with this airline.

Very pleasant crew, working hard on a full plane. Delay by a broken seat. However crew made back 60% of the delay.

Delayed and then further delayed with no announcement made so that all the passengers (who were standing in the jetty) could hear. We stood there for well over 20 minutes. We were further delayed through weather but no one explained that to us until the pilot made an announcement when finally on board

easyJet need to ensure that whether pre-booking seats or not children aren’t split from their parents the crew spent the majority of boarding asking passengers to move to accommodate two families. Surely the system identifies minors on a booking !!!!! It was all very frustrating to watch and caused delays which I’m sure cost easyJet more in the long run rather that automatically allocating families with minors seats together automatically.

As you would expect from a budget airline Left and arrived on time, no frills, not even a glass of water offered But you get what you pay for

I had an emergency escape seat. The attendant gave the extrA briefing to my side of the aisle but didnt direct it at all to the other where my wife was sitting

Boarding great. Didn’t eat or drink so can not comment.

Total jobs worths over carry on bags, charged £96 extra for bags that were clearly hand luggage

3 hours delayed Don’t understand why when you have paid for ‘speedy boarding’ they call you forward to then make you stand fir another 20 minutes in a confined space before boarding the plane.

The pilot did everything possible to make up the 35 minute delay. His communications were honest, prompt and positive throughout.

Delayed and ketone runway. Was told some nonsense about thunderstorms slowing down flights. Why not just come out and tell customers NATO and BRITISH FORCES were doing defence exercises and were in control of AIR SPACE.

Very unpleasant staff, disgusting service, ignoring requests, refusal to help

Late again rude staff at gate bullying passengers made us stand in the cold 3degrees for 40 mins before they let us board

The usual average Ryanair flight, but we landed 20 min before due time, which was very good.

Enjoyed our flight with Ryanair to Arrecife. Flight boarded pretty much on time, crew were welcoming and very good. Generally good for a frequent low cost flight, Seats could however have been more comfortable.

I wouldn't like to fly with them anymore, I don't like their service, you can hardly take carry-on luggage because they charge you for everything, you can't ask for a glass of water, and the flight attendant tells you that they don't have any, that you have to Paying 3 euros for a bottle of water horrible, I don't recommend it, and they don't have anything low cost, because the plane ticket may not be expensive but what they charge you later for the rest, the flight becomes more expensive, it's the only airline that I don't like it so far, and I traveled a lot.

Staff were friendly and flight was on time. Free drink and snacks would have been appreciated.

The boarding process was fast and easy , but the airport sign was not up on the board, so it was hard to know the correct gate , on the airplane there was NO Snacks and NO water …. Everything needs to be purchase …. It’s not worthy for the price we paid !

Booked through you used Kiwi who did not complete checking in until 24 hrs before departure when the check in was available 48 hrs before hence we sat separately. I will not be using you again.

Not enough trash pickups throughout the flight. Everything else was great.

Overall good, the gluten free food is very hit/miss though and you must tell them you have an allergy days in advance.

All was good. The headphones they supply are of poor quality. The food is good but too much dairy.

Lost my belongings, Crew fail to follow safety and regulatory requirements in 2nd leg of flight from London Heathrow to Copenhagen.

Seating space was crowded and I am a very small woman.

Updates from pilots about delays would make them less frustrating.

When bussing people to/from the gate, don't pack everyone in like a can of sardines and don't send the bus on its way if the plane isn't ready. Waited for about 40 minutes packed in this bus...both ways!

This was a late night flight but the lights was on all the time and kids were screaming and many people were so loud. I was expecting to have a little rest on the plane considering it is late night but this way I couldn't. I think if at least the light would've been off / lower then people could feel they should be quieter.

Everything was great - but then had to wait one hour for my luggage in Verona…

I sat in the last row of seats. On an 8 hour flight they allowed folks to stand and talk and drink in the back area near the toilets the whole time. They were at times loud and in the way. It was a little annoying. The crew on this trip were pretty mediocre and the plane was littered with trash when we disembarked.

The flight was delayed 5 hours and I'm and invalid,I wan a refund for this

The cabin crew on that flight were super fantastic and super helpful. They were so polite and considerate that i felt i travelled with a 5star airline.

Delayed delayed delayed - always with Wizzair. Staff were friendly and well mannered but clearly the company is unorganized and the aircrafts are outdated.

It's a budget airline. Great for short flight. Smooth landing.

4 hr delay and only told less than 2hrs before. Only given water and nuts on the flight as complimentary service. Left to wait in rain before boarding.

To be honest I did not like anything. Communication to why my flight was cancelled mid air 2 and half hours into my flight. Customer service desk were not helpful with providing information or a solution on what can be done.

I have been treated unacceptably by WizzAir aircraft crew in a previous flight, they threatened me and abused me, and I received an OFFICIAL written apology, but only two (2) months later. This flight had no such unacceptable behaviour, but it's not nice to be left waiting in the walkway (from gate to aircraft) for a long time, just so that the 'boarding' appears to be early, even if actual departure is not.

What I liked new airplane Sitting was extremely uncomfortable! Crew not smiley at all Always chewing gum

The flight was cancelled just 4 hours before the take off...

No food on board. Not comfortable. Had to move seats was delayed more than 3 hours.

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Cheapest flights to Europe from London found in 2024

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Europe Tours & Trips from London

Find your perfect adventure! We have 433 tours of Europe that start in London, England. The most popular month is June, and tour lengths range between 1 and 61 days.

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250+ europe tour packages from london with 8,480 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural

England, Scotland and Ireland end Dublin

Our tour was London, Glasgow, Belfast, Dublin, Liverpool, London. This was a bi-lingual tour with emphasis on Spanish - we are bi-lingual so not that much of a bother but non-Spanish speaking tourists would likely not enjoy this aspect. The English of the guides varied widely with the London guide Richard being beautifully fluent and knowledgeable in both languages. It's important to understand you will have multiple guides. We walked an average of 7 miles a day and covered nearly 1,500 miles by luxury coach. This kind of travel can be exhausting if you are not prepared. The first two days the buses arrived 2 hours late due to the Rail Strike in London. Now for the upside: The tour guides were great and kept everything on-task. They knew the areas pretty well and they were accommodating despite their challenged English. The hotels were way better than expected and included excellent breakfasts with lots of options - I would say 3.5 to 4.0 stars. Yes UK hotels can be quirky - like you might not have a huge bed and the shower faucet make take some time to figure out but they were excellently located. I cannot say enough about the general courtesy and service of the UK citizens - they generally put the USA to shame. From servers to museum guides everyone seemed genuinely happy to be working and accommodating of tourists. The food everywhere we went was great and well priced -- more affordable than expected. Still hard to find Coke on ice though! haha. The tour itself was comprehensive and the stops were breathtaking. The two ferry trips were a blast -- these are really mini-cruise ships. We came home exhausted but completely satisfied. We saw attractions we would have never seen like Alnwick and Caerfornan castles on our own that were incredible. Being able to stop in Liverpool was a real highlight and we paid on our own to do the Beatles sites and it was well worth it. (So was the Beatles museum). We would likely use Europamundo again, even if it was bi-lingual because they were so efficient and a great value.

• Coach / Bus

Essential Britain & Ireland

Covered alot of ground and very busy of course with never enough time, but that was expected. Great driver, found tour director somewhat unenthusiastic - would have liked more concise info on how each day was going to progress and a little more interaction with the group. Hotel Metropole was so hot and too noisy to have window open - most of the hotel rooms were so hot all night. Holiday Inn York room was rather well tread and dirty. Other than that a great trip with excellent meals except the dinner at Holiday Inn York.

Europe Taster

Overall the trip was well coordinated. There were minor glitches that were easily resolved

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Walking Adventure
• Sightseeing

European Discovery (Summer, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

United Kingdom and Ireland ( 10 days )

Classic Europe

Our guide, Antonio, and driver, Ishti, made it a wonderful tour. They kept us safe (particularly on the lookout for pickpockets). We walked a LOT so recommend a reasonable level of fitness (though we had lots of Seniors in our group) and comfortable shoes!! The itinerary showed a taste of all the other things you can do. Overall a wonderful experience.

• Photography

European Discovery (Summer, Start Amsterdam, Classic, 12 Days)

European Experience (12 Days)

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

My experience was of the highest ever. Everything went very smoothly and our guide Mike was so professional. He was very thoughtful and predicted situations before they happened. The tour was so informative and well organised. Lots of information about all the locations we visited. He was very good at giving us the history and background. The accommodation was great and a good standard.Our driver Ricki was very professional and such a clever driver he made us feels safe. What a wonderful time we had. Thank you.

Get Social: Central & Eastern Europe

Be prepared to be independent. Topdeck shows you how to navigate cities and spaces, and will very often allow for absolute freedom to make the experience your own.

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Play & Pause: Central Europe Highlights

Seven Countries, Venice & Paris with London

George our Tour guide and Paulo our Bus driver were really awesome and made the holiday very enjoyable for our family.

Best of Britain (11 Days)

this tour exceeding our expectations, the Guide ( Jacquline Green )and Bus ( Lee ) driver went over and above to make sure every member of tour was included, comfortable and made this trip to UK even more memorable. The Guide gave us plenty of information regarding history and was extremely informative on every location we passed and stopped at. we loved the local treats supplied by the Guide as well. The bus was comfortable, the intinerary was perfect and kept us busy including as much as possible. The accommodation was excellent. I would definitely recommend this company and way of travel to others. and we would use Trafalgar again in the future.

European Encounter (Summer, Start London, 16 Days)

The trip was really good organised and planned. Our tour guide Rob and driver Rasto both made this trip unforgettable. This has been such an amazing way to see a lot of places in a fairly short time, with great people <3 I'm excited to book again with Contiki!

European Whirl (Start London, Classic, 18 Days)

What people love about europe tours from london.

As the one year anniversary approaches, I wish I could do this trip again!

Very nice itinerary ... jam packed days and evenings. I chose not to do any of the extra evening excursions that were offered so I was able to use the time to explore every overnight stop on my own. The tour guide was amazing... so full of knowledge about all the countries/areas we visited.

Tours starting from London

• London to London tours (253)
• London to Rome tours (37)
• London to Paris tours (35)
• London to Edinburgh tours (28)
• London to Amsterdam tours (17)
• London to Athens tours (9)
• London to Barcelona tours (7)
• London to Dublin tours (6)
• Explorer from London (332)
• Family from London (275)
• Coach / Bus from London (194)
• In-depth Cultural from London (177)
• Self-Guided from London (24)
• Private from London (24)
• Train & Rail from London (20)
• Active from London (10)
• Romantic from London (9)
• Festival & Events from London (7)
• Best 3 Weeks Europe Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• 10 Best Luxury River Cruises & Lines 2022
• Hiking in Europe in February
• Hiking in Europe in January
• Hiking in Europe in March
• Hiking in Europe in April
• Hiking in Europe in May
• Hiking in Europe in June
• Hiking in Europe in July
• Hiking in Europe in August
• Hiking in Europe in September
• Hiking in Europe in October
• Hiking in Europe in December

International Versions

• English: Europe Tours & Trips from London
• Deutsch: Europa Rundreisen ab London
• Français: Circuits Europe au départ de Londres
• Español: Circuitos por Europa desde Londres
• Nederlands: Europa Rondreizen die starten in Londen

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11 Dream International Vacations That Are Surprisingly Affordable

From Portugal to Panama, here’s where you can get the most bang for your buck.

As the world becomes more connected by air travel, international vacations are increasingly affordable — but you have to know where to look and when to book. Typically, if you're hoping to save money, you should plan your trip around a destination's off-season. As a bonus, you're bound to have a better travel experience when you don't have to jostle your way through crowds to get to the top attractions.

Whether you're dreaming of a vacation as far from the U.S. as Australia or as close as Toronto, the actual cost could surprise you (in a good way). Using data from the booking platform Kayak , we've compiled a list of 11 international destinations where your dollar will go the furthest, plus when to book for the cheapest airfare and accommodation.

Toronto, Canada

Just north of the U.S. border is a growing city bursting with culture, a diverse culinary scene, and activities catering to a range of age groups and interests. Often mistaken for the Canadian capital, Toronto is sometimes known as "Hollywood North" for its wealth of celebrity residents. Foodies will want to make stops in Little Italy, one of several Chinatowns, and Little Portugal for a gastronomic jaunt around the world. Tourists may also be inclined to catch a hockey game, sample craft beer, and take a trip to the famous CN Tower to get unmatched views of the city.

Kayak data indicates that Toronto's low season runs from October to March, with the exception of December because of holiday travel. The cheapest flights can be found for about $180 from New York's JFK Airport in October. A direct flight from JFK to Toronto takes less than two hours.

Hotels downtown seem to be cheapest in January and February, when you can expect to pay as little as $33 per night for three-star accommodation. They're most expensive in September, going for an average of $371 per night.

Grand Est, France

The area formerly known as Alsace (now officially part of the larger Grand Est region) is beloved by French travelers. It doesn't attract nearly as many visitors as Paris or the Cote d'Azur, so you'll get a quieter experience. Kaysersberg, once featured on the TV program Le Village Préféré des Français as the French's favorite village, exemplifies many of the characteristics that have endeared Alsace to locals. It's got architecture that dates back to the 13th century, world-renowned wine cellars, and hearty Alsatian cuisine.

Fly to Strasbourg, the capital of Grand Est, in February or March for the best price. From New York City, round-trip flights can be found for less than $700, and you can stay in a three-star hotel for as low as $89 per night in the off-season. Kayak says the cheapest months for accommodation in Grand Est are August (an anomaly) and October.

Armenia attracts tourists with its rich arts scene, upscale shopping, and history museums packed with treasures. Though the capital, Yerevan, is a popular destination, no trip to this Asian country is complete without stepping into the gorgeous and rugged countryside. Head out to Khor Virap, a monastery first established during the 600s, for mountainside views and ancient architecture about 45 minutes away from Yerevan. It's worth the additional hour it takes to drive out to Garni Gorge, topped by a Roman temple, along the way.

Winter is Armenia's low season. The cheapest month to fly from NYC to Yerevan is November ($838 for a round trip, on average), though flights from January through March aren't much more expensive. Three-star hotels average $90 per night in January, the cheapest month for accommodation.

Brisbane, Australia

The capital of Queensland on Australia's east coast is arguably the country's design capital. Drop by the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (colloquially called QAGOMA , one entity) or the Institute of Modern Art ( IMA ) to get a sense of Asian-Pacific art. Go shopping in the Fortitude Valley district, where you'll be able to pick up pieces from local and international designers. And, of course, because it's Australia, it's easy to get in touch with the local wildlife. Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , just about 20 minutes from the city, to hang out with more than 100 critters (not just koalas, either).

In general, Australia doesn't exactly fit the bill of "budget travel" for Americans, considering the absolute cheapest round-trip flight from NYC to Brisbane on Kayak costs almost $1,000. However, relative to other Australian destinations, this waterfront city is one of the more affordable entry points. The cheapest month to book a flight to Brisbane is September, the first month of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. Three-star hotel stays average in the $150 range from April through July, then spike in August.

Madeira, Portugal

It's been 600 years since the Portuguese colonized Madeira, and the archipelago continues to astound visitors with its natural beauty. Trek along miles of rugged coast to see the Atlantic at its most paradisiacal. The capital of Funchal is home to a number of hotels offering glamour, glitz, and stiff cocktails. Speaking of drinks — be sure to check out the famous fortified wine named after the island where it was made.

Typically, a round-trip flight from NYC to Funchal will set you back anywhere from $650 to $1,100, with the lowest prices offered November and January to May. Hotel prices fluctuate on a similar schedule and range from about $150 to $330 per night for a three-star property.

If you're looking for a cheaper Mediterranean vacation , hop to the sea's southern side and try out Tunisia. The country has history (with a Roman colosseum — the Amphitheatre of El Jem — some say is even better than Rome's), miles of beautiful, sandy beaches, and bazaars with carpets, ceramics, and metalwork.

Kayak data indicates that the cheapest time to fly from NYC to Tunis , Tunisia's capital, is November (about $560), then September to October and January to May ($608 to $768). Prices for a night in a three-star Tunis hotel range from around $100 to $200, with the cheapest months on Kayak being September and December through March.

Etyek, Hungary

Budapest gets the majority of Hungary's visitors, but if you want to delve deeper into the country's culture, drive 18 miles west of the capital to Etyek, often called the "vineyards of Budapest." This area has been producing grapes since the 18th century and has been likened to Champagne for its excellence of crisp wines like chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. The town is also a pilgrimage for film buffs, with huge movies like "Blade Runner 2049" and "The Martian" having been shot there.

Etyek is about a 30-minute drive from Budapest. September through November and January through April are the cheapest times to fly to the Hungarian capital from NYC, according to Kayak data . Outside of the busy summer season, round-trip flights can be found for $524 to $620.

While September is a cheap time to fly to Hungary, it happens to be the most expensive month for accommodation. Book your trip in January, February, or March to snag a three-star hotel for $160 a night or less.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

That St. Vincent and the Grenadines were the last of the British colonies in the Caribbean to gain their independence (only in 1979) could be a reason why the islands have lagged behind other big players in drawing tourists. The upside of that, however, is the lack of crowds at beaches and on trails leading through lush rainforest to dormant volcanoes.

Visitors will fly into St. Vincent's Argyle International Airport, open only since 2017, and ferry over to the smaller islands of the Grenadines. The route is run several times a day from Kingstown.

Round-trip flights from NYC can be found for under $600 in March, May, and November. Hotels on St. Vincent remain surprisingly cheap throughout the year, showing the same sporadicity as flight prices. Go in January, May, June, August, or December for average nightly prices under $200 for three-star properties. The cheapest month for accommodation is December, when you can find a good hotel for about $50 a night.

Panama City, Panama

Meander through Panama City's old quarter where Spanish-style houses line cobblestone streets. Eat your way through Panamanian cuisine — yuca, plantains, empanadas, sancocho de gallina (chicken stew), and fish soup are among the most-loved dishes — and then top it all off with a tour of the city's thriving cocktail scene. The rainforest is easily accessible from Panama City if you're eager to swap the urban jungle for real jungle scenery.

Even though Panama is located in the Northern Hemisphere, its seasons — of which there are only two — are opposite of the U.S.'s. "Winter" (aka the wet season) lasts from around May to December and "summer" (the dry season) lasts from December to May. It's cheaper to go during the wet season, when the climate is least comfortable.

Prices for a round-trip flight from NYC to Panama City's Tocumen International Airport range from $339 to $659, with the cheapest times being April to June and September to October. The most expensive flights are in December. You can often stay in a three-star property for under $130 per night if you go between June and September.

Nicholas Schmidt/Travel + Leisure

Guatemala is consistently ranked a Travel + Leisure reader favorite for its combination of natural beauty and historic wonders. Visitors can wander through ancient Mayan ruins, hike the mountains and jungles, or explore the historic streets of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Antigua. Guatemala also boasts a thriving arts scene, perfectly preserved Spanish architecture, and unique cuisine like chuchitos (Guatemala-style tamales).

Book a trip for May or September for the cheapest flights ($269 to $344) on Kayak . Three-star hotels during that time should cost in the $120- to $140-per night range, while stays during August — the cheapest month for accommodation — cost, on average, $108 nightly.

Hanoi, Vietnam

You get a little bit of everything from a trip to Hanoi: vibrant culture, thousand-year-old history, a food scene that spans world-famous street carts to Michelin-starred restaurants, and a touch of jungle evidently seeping from the outskirts into the city. With $1 USD converting to about 25,000 Vietnamese dong, roughly the cost of a delicious banh mi , you should find it easy to stick to your budget and still live indulgently in this bustling capital.

Round-trip flights from NYC to Hanoi cost about $870 at their cheapest, from September through November, which is Vietnam's transitional period from the hot and humid wet season to the dry (and touristy) season. During this time, three-star properties go for about $125 to $150 a night.

A month-by-month guide to the cheapest flights to international destinations

Airfare prices change regularly throughout the year, but if you know where to look, it's possible to find a bargain to even the most popular destinations — especially if you're able to be flexible with your travel dates.

TPG reached out to Skyscanner to trawl through their vast amount of airfare data and give you a comprehensive look at the destinations around the world that typically cost less to fly to. Whether you're looking to depart from the United States or from the United Kingdom, plenty of sweet spots can be found.

Below are destinations that are consistently priced low throughout the year and destinations that regularly pop up with cheaper airfares during specific months.

*All pricing taken from economy class, round-trip bookings made on Skyscanner for travel in 2022.

Related: Best credit cards for booking airfare

Which destinations are the cheapest to fly to year-round?

While certain destinations can be cheaper on average throughout the whole year, others fluctuate, and not always in the ways you might think.

For example, if you're based in the U.S. and dream of flying to Europe for your next vacation, the best prices for most European locations were in April, May and June, according to Skyscanner's data on the average cost of a return economy flight. This is true, according to that data, even though this time is normally considered a peak travel time for the region and coincides with the U.K. school holidays.

However, while you may be able to pick up cheaper airfare during this time, prices for hotels and attractions may be higher during these periods.

Meanwhile, the average return flights to London were at their lowest at the beginning of the year, between January and March. Note this can be a notoriously drizzly and cold time to visit the U.K. capital (though, let's face it, England isn't really known for its great weather at the best of times).

The next cheapest period to visit London from the U.S. was perhaps surprisingly between October and December. Again, this is during the colder months, but still great news for those looking for a potential Christmas escape to take advantage of some of the Thanksgiving and fall breaks in the U.S.

For travelers based in the U.K., we found airfares to destinations in Italy to be consistently among the top 10 cheapest throughout the year. Despite its popularity among British travelers, Greece didn't break the top 10 once for the cheapest average airfares.

Related: These are the best times to book airfare

Cheapest places to fly from January through March

Traveling from the us.

January through March saw the lowest average prices of the year for flights departing the U.S. to London and Paris, with the French capital coming in a smidgen cheaper to get to. If you take advantage of the convenient Eurostar links between these two European cities, you could easily hit both of these destinations during this period for less than you'd pay any other time.

Related: The best hotels in London

If you decide to do both, we suggest returning to the U.S. from Paris to avoid the U.K.'s notoriously high fees and taxes on airfares.

Average airfare prices to Puerto Rico from the U.S. were among the cheapest during these months in 2022. January is also an ideal time to visit Puerto Rico, thanks to the dryer winter months with moderate temperatures and far less rainfall than you'll see during other times in the year.

Closer to home, this period is also a great time to visit Mexico , where you can enjoy much dryer and cooler temperatures.

Traveling from the UK

If you don't mind wrapping up to stay warm, you can bag plenty of great deals to Europe departing the U.K., but be warned that some places can be chilly during the winter months.

For example, Eindhoven, the Netherlands, can see temperatures dropping as low as 34 Fahrenheit (1.3 Celsius) in January and only just peaking over 50 Fahrenheit (10 Celsius) in March.

Riga, Latvia, sees even lower temperatures, regularly plummetting to around 24 Fahrenheit (-5 Celsius) between January and February and peaking at around 33 Fahrenheit (1 Celsius) in March.

If you're looking for sun, Palma, Mallorca, is your best bet. The first months of the year generally still see days filled with sunshine. It won't necessarily be hot enough to top up your tan and enjoy a beach break, though — temperatures mainly float around the 61 Fahrenheit (16 Celsius) mark.

Cheapest places to fly from April through June

If you're considering a European vacation , these months pulled up cheaper airfares than any other, according to Skyscanner data, with good average prices for Spain, France, Portugal and the U.K. While each of these locations will begin seeing sunnier weather throughout June, you can still expect blues skies and bouts of sunshine during April too.

It is, however, worth doing some research before you book — U.K. schools break for Easter in the first half of April and again at the beginning of June for the summer half-term break. During these times, you can expect many European locations to be busy with family vacations and often see soaring accommodation prices. If you can, we'd recommend booking outside of these weeks to save on both money and time spent queuing due to increased numbers of other tourists.

Looking for something more far-flung? Tokyo has great average airfare prices during the spring, and if you time it properly, you could also witness Japan's beautiful cherry blossom season, which typically peaks in early April.

This is one of the prime times to visit Italy and take in the sights before its summer hits full throttle in July, bringing with it almost prohibitively high temperatures. Visits between April and June are perfect for soaking up the sun, alfresco dining and diving into this country's rich history.

Sicily, in particular, is excellent at this time of the year. However, note that it might get a little too hot for some as June approaches, especially if this year's wildfires and extreme weather are anything to go by.

If Dubrovnik, Croatia, has been on your list for some time but now feels a little too in vogue and expensive, you could also get good prices on flights to Zadar . This charming seaside city is situated on the Dalmatian Coast and is known for its fantastic restaurant and dining scene, with an array of stunning nearby national parks.

Related: 13 of the most beautiful villages and towns in Sicily

Cheapest places to fly from July through September

For those yearning to visit Canada outside of its harsh winter periods, July through September can be an ideal time to enjoy a summer vacation. Toronto bursts to life during the Toronto Jazz Festival and Toronto Fringe Festival in July — perfect for culture vultures.

You can get good prices on flights to Mexico between July and September. While these months bring slightly cooler and more comfortable temperatures, they also mark Mexico's rainy season, typically from late August to September.

Conversely, if you've always had Peru on your bucket list, this can be a great time to visit.

It's the country's driest season — fantastic conditions if you plan to hike to Machu Picchu. According to Skyscanner's data, you can typically find good prices on flights to Peru during these months. However, note that if you plan to travel to Machu Picchu from Lima, you must either get a connecting flight to Cusco or take a long bus ride.

September can be one of the best periods to visit Ireland during its shoulder season. Along with good deals on airfare, you'll also typically see cheaper accommodation costs and fewer crowds. The weather can also be fairly mild during these months with good dry spells, though it likely won't be shorts and T-shirt weather.

Mid-August through to September also sees much milder weather in Italy and can be a preferable month to visit than July and August, which are the hottest months of the year and the most crowded with tourists.

Elsewhere in Europe, July onward is a great time to take advantage of good weather in France.

According to Skyscanner data, Rodez, France, is one of the cheapest places on average to fly to from the U.K. during these months. It also sees high temperatures and lots of sunshine. The mercury is typically around 77 Fahrenheit (25 Celsius) in July and August before dropping off to a more manageable 69.8 Fahrenheit (21 Celsius) average in September.

Cheapest places to fly from October through December

There are great prices on airfares to Mexico from October through December, and these months are also a particularly intriguing time to visit.

Mexico's Day of the Dead celebrations typically take place Nov. 1-2. The festival is an opportunity to honor deceased family members, and there is a wide array of celebrations throughout Mexico, making this a memorable and enlightening time to visit and learn about Mexican traditions.

If you keep your eyes peeled, it's also possible to get low-priced airfares to Iceland, allowing for a festive visit to Reykavik to take in the snow alongside a healthy jolt of Christmas spirit.

Visit London to see the city decorated for the festivities as it gears up for the holidays and New Year celebrations. Sure, it'll be cold and the weather occasionally unwieldy, but it's a magical time to visit the U.K. capital.

Related: These are the best Christmas markets in Europe

For U.K. travelers looking for an affordable winter getaway, cast your eyes toward Italy, where the weather, though much milder than in the earlier months of the year, is still quite the contrast to the climate at home if you pick the right destination.

For example, Sicily will feel much closer to the U.K. spring weather. Other areas, such as Milan or Venice, won't be quite as warm but still make for great locations for romantic winter getaways on the continent.

Bottom line

While airfare prices fluctuate, they don't always follow the expected patterns you might guess. Based on Skyscanner's data from last year, you might be surprised by how much cheaper certain destinations in some months compared to others — especially airfares to Europe from the United States during summer when one might expect higher costs.

Similarly, from the U.K., Italy is generally fairly cheap to fly to if you look in the right places. By looking further afield to places like Rodez, France, or Zadar in Croatia, you might even visit somewhere that's commonly overlooked by other tourists wishing to visit better-known cities such as Paris or Dubrovnik.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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Where can I fly from London?

Flights from london - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from london to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., which are the most popular places to fly to from london, ontario, based on kayak flight searches, the most popular place to fly from london is calgary (21% of total searches). the next most popular destinations are vancouver (17%) and abbotsford (8%)., what are the most popular international flights out of london, ontario, there are many international destinations you can fly to from london, ontario. the most popular international destinations among kayak users are las vegas , cancún and orlando ., what are the most popular countries to fly to from london, ontario, based on kayak flight searches, the most countries to fly to from london, ontario is canada (93% of total searches). the next most popular destinations are mexico (5%) and united states (1%)., which cities can i fly to direct from london, ontario, there are loads of places you can fly direct to from london, ontario. the most popular destinations for direct flights among kayak users are calgary , vancouver and halifax . on average, the cheapest of these destinations on kayak over the last 2 weeks for a return flight was halifax at c$ 140, while the most expensive was calgary , at c$ 187., what is the longest direct flight from london, ontario, the longest direct flight you can take from london, ontario is to vancouver intl airport, with a duration of 5h 05m. the next longest is cancún at 4h 25m, followed by a flight to calgary at 4h 07m., good to know, faqs for booking flights out of london, what is london also known as.

London Airport’s airport code is YXU. It can also be referred to as London, London Intl.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from London?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from London.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from London?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight from London is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from London?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to your destination with an airline and back to London with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from London?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying from London up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight out of London

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found tickets from London to the following destinations at these prices or less: Cancún C$ 242 one-way - C$ 222 round-trip; Calgary C$ 288 one-way - C$ 453 round-trip; Toronto C$ 410 one-way - C$ 658 round-trip
• Morning departure is around 51% more expensive than an evening flight, on average*.

Top 5 airlines serving from London to Anywhere

The connecting flight lay over was 4.00 hours, the gate agent booked me on the next flight which was about to depart at no extra cost.

The ticket price was reasonable, food was okay, not the best. I would use the service again.

Actually the flight was on time. New plane, food was okay but not great.

Old plane, hard seats, 1.30 hours delay, while seating on the plane waiting for departure.

Boarding was a little chaotic but it was a very large flight. It just wasn’t fast. And there was no noticeable difference between zones boarding.

Crew was pleasant. Aircraft was very dated and uncomfortable for our nearly 4 hour flight. We were in row 17 and they ran out of purchasable food by the time they got to us.

We were lucky enough to arrive at the right time. The staff at YYZ did our complete check in and luggage tags for us. Even made sure we knew where we were to head next and how to get there. It truly was one of the best and easiest check inside. Thanks team.

Compagnie efficace et bons prix. Les sièges en classe club pourraient être plus confortables.

Lisbon, make sure to get food , coffee prior to going to boarding gates as there is no food being served after. Only vending machines. A lot of check points to get to the boarding gates. Not enough seating for passengers waiting to board. Crew was very courteous and kind.

I think as another discount flyer they stepped up the bar. I think they should stay around for awhile

I wish that seats closer to the front of the plan were available, but when I booked the flight the seats were VERY expensive so I did not book seats at that time. The day before flying only seats at the back of the plane were available. It takes so long to board the plane and empty the plane on arrival due to SO many roller bags.

Crew was rude.didn’t even say hi or welcome to board

Nothing special. Unacceptable wait for baggage on arriving in Calgary

Departure delay on a late night flight. Made us even later. Tired but got home.

Westjet forced me to put my carry-on baggage in check-in probably because I was assigned seat 23A (the last row seat), which had no cabin space, which is unfair. I wanted to carry on my luggage so that I don't have to wait at the airport for my luggage. Also, because there was no cabin space, I was forced to keep my laptop bag under the seat, which I didn't want to as I was carrying 2 laptops and charger. The airline should basically tell people that if you are assigned a last row seat, then you are not allowed a cabin baggage or a personal item.

Easy processing, flight time was quick and staff was professional and kind.

It was delayed by two ours very full no room to move

They seem to have squeezed out a little more legroom in these planes! It was very nice to not have to fold in half to fit in the seats!

Flight late …60 minutes No food No wifi No entertainment system A disaster!!!

No real issues just wasnt able to hear / understand any announcements flight attendant was making but everything else was really good- ended up checking my carry on case for free which made deboarding quicker. I would fly West Jet for all my flights.

Once again my complaint is how close the seats are together. Also, the bathrooms were not very clean by the second half of the flight.

Excellent in flight service, perhaps the best we've ever had. Business class feels tired and needs improvement to compete with other airlines. The food looked good but tasted terrible. Check in was quick, the flight arrived early and our luggage was on our flight with us.

Food could be better, lie flat seats could be a little more cushioned. The business class dinner before the flight is excellent at Toronto airport

Food could be better, lie flat seats could be a little more cushioned

The staff were so kind and helpful. We flew back from NY with another airline and it was horrible. We will always stick with Air Canada as everything was far better!

The boarding was fine , staff nice. Seats are always so awful on every plane. They need to make more room for passengers. Although Air north does not have televisions,, every airline should model the experience of flying with them. . Small meal , drinks, and a warm cookie. It’s a lovely airline with very friendly staff and I always look forward to flying with them.

The boarding process in Toronto bad as they share space with domestic flights and when those domestic flights come in you are locked out behind closed doors until they are done and then its a mad rush to get your boarding gates and board. This is not so much due to Air Canada but with the GTAA, but Air Canada could use different gates especially early morning in order to prevent such travel angst.

Bye portaction for cancelation , when you want to change date, you have to cancel And pay 20% as cancelation. To lose as cancelation!!! Upsell airline!!!!!!!!!!!

Terrible quality wifi and they charge a lot for it. They nickel and dime you for everything.

The flight is very short, may be a little snack can be offered

Flight was good and staff was efficient and friendly. Being a discount airline, they charge for carry on, food and beverages. I did not partake, but your survey doesn't have a n/a button. My only thing was that it felt like I was sitting on a cement block. My behind was sore after a couple of hours. I was not able to check in on line, so very thankful that the linecat the airport moved quickly. I think I will use Swoop in future if I just need to get somewhere and don't need to bring carry on bags.

Bring your own water, do not expect and comfort on the plan, and over priced gross processed food. Drinks were could (paid for) and saw we needed to bring our own water for a 5 hour flight. Kinda shitty you have to pay for carry on- same price and stowaway luggage. The luggage cost more than 2 round trips from Toronto to Victoria bc. Shocked at that

Airline did Not inform us is further delays to an already cancelled flight. Big chaos prior to boarding.

I would take swoop for a 1, maybe 2 hour flight MAX. Every thing is an up charge, even water. The seats don’t recline so it makes it very tough sitting in that small space. The crew was amazing though, they went above and beyond to try and make the experience comfortable. Also, we were delayed a total of 4 times - 5 hours.

I've flown with swoop a few times and always had a good experience. The crew are pleasant and helpful. Thanks

It’s a no frills airline, professional and gets the job done well.

Nothing at all. The flight attendants couldn’t care less about the passengers. Overheard 2 complaint about being “too tired to bother or care about anything”. Complaining about working 2 jobs and was even too tired to care about returning a lost pair of glasses that they just threw away. Never flying this crappy airline again.

Really nice flight barring a one hour delay, which was already informed. Staff at abbottsford check in counter was very friendly and helpful. Her name was Robin.

Lack of staff Airplane (even with upgraded seats) was not comfortable Boarding took extremely long, no system in place Inconsistent messaging on reason for delay

I sat near a man who continually took his mask off. He was told to put it on 3 different times. He would say “ oh sorry” then remove it as soon as they walked away. By the end of the flight they had given up and they all walked by him “maskless” and didn’t say anything. He coughed and sneezed throughout the flight

Of all the countries I've flown to and airlines from around the world, I have never had such a dismissive an arrogant employee during boarding. After waiting in line for 20 minutes to board, I was sent to a second line for Passport verification. Natalie from Flair, repeatedly tried to scan my passport which didn't work for some reason but was too lazy to input my information manually. Bar code scanners aren't 100% reliable as we all know. She asked me my birthdate 3 times, made me wait to be the last person aboard and then smugly threatened me that my only bag could be charged for (same backpack I used as on my arrival as carry on). Natalie working in Ft. Lauderdale and the was the epitome of lobotomized tiktok brain with the charm of junk mail.

Food selection is very poor and sears are very uncomfortable.

Flight was 3 hrs late and another 2 hrs wait for baggage to arrive on carousel and a $7.00 food voucher that arrived as we were boarding our flight.

Seat rows so close together no one dares to put their seats back. Knees pressed against the seat in front, had to find a position putting my legs under the seat in front. But for 6 hours keeping that one position was ridiculous. All savings on the purchase price are taken back through charge backs for luggage $200 each way, Seat selection $44 per seat or you are seated by a computer randomly. Wife sat 5 rows away. Would avoid Flair in the future

The flight was safe (priority). Everything else is low-cost: too hard, delays, mediocre boarding, cost for carry-on and checked luggage.

Flair flight was 4 hours late due to not having a crew and the plane was filthy. Just water service Terrible experience flight 1513

Flair did not notify you when they changed gate number!

Can't be happy with a 5 hour delay. Only given $10 voucher for food and still EVERYTHING was an upcharge during the flight.

TThe first time I have ever flown with flare and both ways sucked

There was no entertainment There was no food or beverage service , not even a glass of water The plane door could not be opened upon arrival

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The 21 Best Day Trips From London

By Condé Nast Traveller and Anna Prendergast

London ’s hustle and bustle can become overwhelming, even for the most dedicated locals—but its handy location means that day trips from London are easy for anyone who needs a quick escape, whether it be for a country walk, a seaside jaunt, or a cultural getaway. Most of our selection of the best day trips from London can be reached by train , within less than two hours—and many couldn’t be further from the busy streets and crammed schedules of the capital. Whether you’re looking for fresh air, delicious eateries or a new selection of shops, these easy-to-plan day trips should slot nicely into your schedule.

Below are 21 of our favorite day trips from London, in no particular order.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Canterbury, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a colorful, food-fuelled history lesson in the garden of England How to get there from London: The direct train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West can take as little as 53 minutes

Prehistoric settlements have been uncovered in this corner of Kent, and it was a popular haunt of the Romans, who surrounded the early city by constructing an earth bank and fortified walls around 130 acres of land. The story of Canterbury that schoolchildren learn, however, comes from the medieval period, courtesy of Chaucer.

The city is home to one of the UK’s most spectacular cathedrals. Pilgrims have navigated the route to this ethereal site for many centuries, and it’s here that Thomas Becket was infamously slaughtered at the order of Henry II–although this series of events has been contested by countless historians. From the cathedral, scan the selection of novels through the crooked door of the Catching Lives Charity Bookshop, before soaking up the sun in one of the city’s hidden pub gardens–The Dolphin and The Parrot are some of our favorites.

Stroll along the remnant of the ancient wall that is still accessible, or settle in for a lazy afternoon on the colorful banks of the River Stour after collecting treats from The Goods Shed. Historic river tours of the river are touristy but not overly expensive, so well worth booking ahead of a visit to uncover the secrets of these romantic, cobblestone streets.– Connor Sturges

If you decide to stay over: Parts of The Falstaff Hotel date to the 13th century, and original features such as fireplaces and oak beams are a nod to the city’s medieval history. The city’s main attractions are within walking distance, and comfortable beds, craft cocktails, and a signature afternoon tea await once you are back in the cosy setting.

Elmley Nature Reserve

The best day trip from London for:  getting fully immersed in nature How to get there from London:  The train from London St Pancras International to Swale takes 1 hour 50 minutes and then it’s a short taxi ride to Elmley Nature Reserve

Think of day trips to Kent and you’ll probably skip straight over the Isle of Sheppey. Just off the northern coast of Kent next to the Thames Estuary, Sheppey is an unglamorous largely industrial island that initially lacks the tourist appeal of some of its Kentish neighbours. But there’s a secret gem here right off the mainland–the bucolic Elmley Nature Reserve, 3,300 acres of wetlands and wilderness. This family-run estate is a true wildlife conservation haven and is the perfect trip for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With over forty varieties of birds raising their young at Elmley each year, there are some beautiful walking trails to spot them all, plus the other resident hares, frogs, dragonflies, cows, voles, bees and more. As soon as your taxi turns onto the long entry drive, it’s easy to see elegant birds such as egrets, lapwings and redshank happily frolicking on the flat marshlands and that’s before you’ve even started exploring. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the entry fee is £6 and that gets you access to the beautiful open landscape for a self-guided wander (although you have to stay on the paths!); they also arrange organised tours at dusk and dawn for £29.50 if you want an expert to help you spot marsh harriers, long-eared owls, sparrowhawk and peregrine falcons. It might be only 40 miles from London but it feels like another world. As well as an incredible place for a day out in nature, there’s also a lovely barn restaurant to get cosy in for toasties at lunch and more hearty evening meals, plus an impressive range of smart places to stay dotted across the reserve if you want to extend your visit.– Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  From decked-out shepherd’s huts with outside baths to four poster beds in the grand 18th-century main house, there’s a wide range of places to stay – all with stunning views over the nature reserve.

Great Garden Escape, The Newt in Somerset

The best day trip from London for: a VIP experience How to get there: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 25 minutes

If you’re not the planning type, The Newt in Somerset’s Great Garden Escape is a fun-filled organized day trip that shows off the best of the British countryside and its charming traditions. With a jam-packed schedule starting at Paddington station, day trippers travel First Class with breakfast served on-board. On arrival, they’ll be given a tour of the gardens at The Newt, which have been landscaped over hundreds of years and are now home to wildlife including deer and newts–of course. There's even an opportunity to explore the grounds with experts, along with a dive into the history and traditions of Somerset. Plus, a stopover at the incredible Roman Villa Experience.

Lunch leads into a cider tasting, made on-site using apples grown in local orchards, where you’ll undoubtedly be swayed into picking up a bottle or two to take home. When you’ve breathed in just enough country air, the train journey home serves up afternoon tea, depositing you back in the city just in time for sundowners. The whirlwind tour is the ideal tonic for shaking off burnout and reminding yourself of the beauty on your doorstep.– Abigail Malbon

If you decide to stay over : Should you choose to forego the train ride home in favor of waking up somewhere new, The Newt is a Jane Austen dream, whether you choose a room in the Georgian house or the converted outbuildings, barns and stables. Bedrooms are simple and beautiful, with a focus on relaxation, but those with a view are truly exceptional. In the morning, wake up early and treat yourself to a swim in the spa pool as the sun comes up – you’ll return to London feeling like a new person.

Clifton, Bristol

The best day trip from London for : packing a lot in How to get there from London: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 35 minutes.

After hopping off the train at Bristol Temple Meads, take a stroll to Clifton–the city’s most beautiful leafy suburb. Quiet residential streets are lined with pretty Georgian townhouses, spots of greenery to wander through off the cobbled streets and an eclectic mix of independent cafés, restaurants and shops.

Start with a gander around Clifton Arcade in the heart of Clifton Village, where the 17 boutiques are filled with knick-knacks and intriguing antiques. It’s not a true shopping experience without a pit stop for coffee and cake – try one of Bristol’s top coffee spots, Spicer + Cole, or–for a 100-per-cent plant-based menu–refuel with a slice of rose and vanilla loaf and a superfood latte at East Village Café.

Pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables from the local greengrocers and head to Clifton bridge for fabulous views across the River Avon. It's one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. Learn about its history at the Visitor Centre, stopping off for a pint of traditional Somerset cider at the White Lion by its side. Continue the historical tour by walking up to Clifton Observatory, which has a museum featuring a Victorian-era Camera Obscura and a mythical Giant’s Cave, alongside its own rooftop café serving up breathtaking views. And don’t miss out on a walk down Royal York Crescent–one of the most expensive streets in Bristol, which was also once reputed to be the longest terrace in Europe.

Next, spend time at Bristol Lido, a restored Victorian swimming bath from the 1800s surrounded by a spa and poolside bar for the ultimate in pampering. Round off the day with a cozy pub meal at The Albion, an Indian fine-dining experience at Nutmeg or a hearty pizza at Bosco around the corner on Whiteladies Road.– Cordelia Aspinall

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the recently refurbished Number 38 boutique hotel for a peaceful stay overlooking the Clifton Downs, perfect for your morning stroll.

Olivia Morelli

Stacey Lastoe

Maresa Manara

Bath, Somerset

The best day trip from London for: soaking up history How to get there from London: The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Bath is known for its history, but among the buttery-hued Georgian architecture and ancient thermal springs there’s a fresh independent spirit. When the weather is good, there are a couple of brilliant walking routes to try: the six-mile Bath Skyline, for example, is a short stroll from the city centre and tramps through woodland, meadows and orchards with views of the buildings below.

The Somerset city’s literary heritage is well documented–Jane Austen is probably the most famous one-time resident–and there’s still a thriving network of bookshops and literature festivals here, including at bookworm magnet Topping and Company, which stocks more than 55,000 titles. Restaurants are driven by excellent local produce and seasonal ingredients. Grab a traditional lunch at The Circus (we recommend the Wiltshire lamb two ways) or order bun cha at Vietnamese spot Noya’s Kitchen. After a bite, shop at clever concept stores such as Nām, which sells antique furniture and homeware curated by owner Sharan Kaur, and Found, where you can buy clothes from niche global brands, or spend an afternoon at wine bar Corkage, where about 70 bottles are available to sample by the glass.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Small hotel Eight lives up to its name; there are just eight rooms, and the ground-floor restaurant always has eight dishes on the menu.

Read more about the best things to do in Bath, Somerset

The New Forest, Hampshire

The best day trip from London for : woodland walks and long pub lunches How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo usually takes about 1 hour 45 minutes

With its purple carpets of heather, ancient woodland and England-of-yore villages, the New Forest has long been a release valve for Londoners eager to clear the cobwebs and the cortisol. The apex of its beauty has to be autumn, when its rich hues cut through morning mists and dazzle in the afternoon sun. It's best enjoyed during a long ramble, where you’re likely to meet free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle and even pigs, followed by a hearty pub lunch with local ale and a warming log fire.

Take the train from Waterloo to Beaulieu Road station and fuel your hike with a pint of real ale at the Drift Inn. If independent shops, cafés and beaches are on the agenda, it’s best to head to Lymington instead, as this one-and-a-half-hour loop around the pub on the edge of the New Forest is blissfully rugged and remote. Having traipsed through a mixed mosaic of woodland and absorbed the silence and sweeping views across the heathland, hunker down at the Drift Inn for a Hampshire beef burger, ale-battered haddock or the pie of the day (invariably something along the lines of mud pie with mash and gravy).– Rosalyn Wikeley

If you decide to stay over : Those seeking the quintessential heather-and-wild-ponies New Forest should bed down at The Pig hotel in Brockenhurst or Limewood near Lyndhurst (about five minutes from the Drift Inn). However, the trusted favorite among New Forest devotees, Chewton Glen continues to lure weary urbanites with its coveted position – wedged between woodland and the coast – and commitment to the good, old-fashioned service and comforts of a country club. You’ll find few zeitgeisty design details or next-gen touches here. Instead, antiques, thick carpets and mahogany furniture keep this 18th-century manor house sure of its identity – save a few fun treehouse bedrooms, should privacy or the 21st century fall into your criteria. Don’t miss the fresh salads and fish lunches once you’ve been pummeled in the spa or worked up an appetite in the Grecian-style pool. The gardens are also glorious for afternoon tea after visiting Highcliffe beach.

Hertford, Hertfordshire

The best day trip from London for : pub-crawling and country walks How to get there from London: The train from Finsbury Park takes 35 minutes

With its higgledy-piggledy, pastel-colored buildings and cobbled streets, this county town serves up a slice of English antiquity that’s postcard-pretty enough to satisfy both shiny-eyed visitors from further afield and weary Londoners searching for fresher air, shorter queues and somewhere different to look at for the day. With trains running every half hour, it’s possible to find yourself marching around its 15th-century castle grounds (check ahead for cinema screenings, talks and events), net fishing from a sandy cove in Hartham Common or wandering about its dinky museum within the hour. Alternatively, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can cycle from London along the River Lea towpath.

On arrival, dip into its handful of local shops – The Women's Society Boutique has an imposing exterior but is a real treasure trove–before stopping at one of the many independent cafés and restaurants. Popular deli-bar Giambrone’s serves authentic Italian plates, while Hertford Coffee Lab makes for a cool pit-stop, and Georgian townhouse and B&B Number One Port Hill hosts occasional pop-up suppers. Plus, the artsy Dog and Whistle, once a pop-up café, has blossomed into a hipster foodie pub and music venue with rooms. Indeed, Hertford – quiet market town by day and more bustling nightspot come evening – specializes in pubs, particularly old-world ones. There's The Salisbury Arms Hotel, said to have been the place where Oliver Cromwell stayed during the Civil War and home to a number of ghosts; the 16th-century White Horse; the 17th-century Blackbirds; and the riverside Old Barge (exact age unknown, but 'old' is part of the name…). If you have time, go on the three-mile walk to Ware alongside the River Lea towpath–the neighboring town also has a plethora of pubs – and catch the train back to London from there.– Becky Lucas

If you decide to stay over: Hertford House Hotel took over the former local newspaper’s offices in pretty Parliament Square in 2006 and hasn’t stopped evolving since, with its latest restaurant and bar renovation completed in autumn 2020. Don’t miss out on brunch in the secret garden, a locally sourced roast in the restaurant and a pint in smart sister pub The Quiet Man.

The best day trip from London for: an under-the-radar getaway How to get there from London: The fast train from St Pancras International takes 1 hour 22 minutes

This hillside scribble of Georgian streets tucked behind the Kent coast really hit our radar in 2018. Nicknamed ‘Margate’s little sister’, it’s a much cosier, countryside version of its arty neighbour. And that’s exactly its appeal. Deal is less shouty than Margate, but there’s still an exciting slew of shops, cafés and galleries that have arrived over the past few years. The Saturday Market stalls are worth a rummage, but it’s the food that brings the locals back each weekend. For more of a sit-down lunch we love Frog and Scot where the chef, previously of The Sportsman in Seasalter, cooks up a daily changing menu based on hyper-local produce. Founder of Smugglers Records Will Greenham (ex singer and guitarist of the band Cocos Lovers, who’ve supported Mumford & Sons on tour) is at the heart of the town’s music scene, and in terms of art, Linden Hall Studio is a contemporary gallery in a converted chapel that wouldn’t look out of place in Mayfair.– Tabitha Joyce

If you decide to stay over: The Rose was revamped in 2018 and now there are eight cute bedrooms splashed in bold colors and filled with vintage finds. The restaurant is looked after by Rachel O’Sullivan (previously of East London’s Towpath Café) who dishes up Scandi-inspired breakfast plates of smoked salmon, avocado, soft-boiled egg, dill and whipped cream cheese.

Read more about Deal, Kent

Whitstable, Kent

The best day trip from London for: oysters on the beach How to get there from London : The train from from St Pancras takes 1hr 13 minutes

This little town on the north Kent coast isn’t quite the sort-of-secret it was back in the 1990s, when DFLs (local jargon for Londoners) rediscovered it, arriving at weekends for seafood at Wheelers on the high street and pints of Kentish ale at the beach-side Old Neptune pub. But it’s still an atmospheric place to head for a hit of vitamin B12 – via a dozen or so oysters – then a scrunch along the shingle shore, spotting Second World War sea forts across the waves and seals in the harbour. There are plenty of places to eat: avoid the overpriced Royal Native Oyster Stores and head instead to JoJo’s, just down the road in Tankerton, for mackerel fillets and Med-inspired small plates. Or Samphire, a Whitstable bistro with cuttlefish risotto and Romney Marsh lamb on the menu. There’s also a thriving micropub scene here, with The Handsome Sam, The Black Dog, and the larger Twelve Taps for hoppy experimentation. But our favorite pastime is picking up a pot of cockles and whelks from the quayside, or fish and chips and oysters from The Forge shack, and devouring them in the shade of a wooden groyne on the beach, preferably with a bottle of English fizz to hand.– Rick Jordan

If you decide to stay over: The Victorian fisherman’s huts on the beach are the best place in which to hole up, the sound of waves and boat masts jangling in the wind outside, and can be booked via Hotel Continental. Along the coast in Seasalter is the Driftwood Beach House B&B .

Rye, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : a bracingly fresh seaside getaway How to get there from London: The train from St Pancras International takes about 1 hour 10 minutes with a change at Ashford International.

Rye is home to what might just be Britain’s prettiest (and most prettily named) street, and a wave of newcomers have moved in alongside the quaint old-timers in Mermaid Street and beyond, opening smart interiors stores and artisan bakeries next to unironically vintage tea rooms and souvenir shops. After breakfast at Whitehouse Rye–order the halloumi hash–pick up a new read at The Tiny Book Store (the clue’s in the name) and window shop for that fantasy mansion at striking antiques shop Strand House Interiors. The blustery dunes and invigorating waters of Camber Sands, one of the best beach near London , are a 15 minute ride away on the local bus, but head back in time for a rustic supper at Tuscan Rye, where fresh pasta (ricotta ravioli with brown-butter sauce, potato and thyme tortellini in a rich ragu) draws loyal locals.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the lively George in Rye , which welcomes A-list guests (George Clooney and Helena Bonham Carter have both checked in for sleepovers) and smart locals in the same breath.

These are our favourite things to do in Rye

Margate, Kent

The best day trip from London for : a cultural day out How to get there from London: the fast train from London St Pancras takes 1 hour 25 minutes.

It’s no secret that this Victorian seaside town has had quite the hipster renaissance in recent years, sparked mostly by the arrival of the Turner Contemporary gallery in 2011 and spurred on by a slew of new openings and a wave of Londoners upping sticks and moving down to the Kent coast. For a cultural outing, the waterside Turner Contemporary is still a must. Entry is free so it’s worth popping in even if you’ve never heard of the artists on show, and the shop has some nice local products. For more contemporary art head to Crate, an artist-led project space in an old printworks. If you’d prefer something older–much older–wander over to the most ancient building in town, the Tudor House, a Grade II-listed 16th-century timber-framed house on King Street. It’s on your route from the seafront to the mysterious Shell Grotto, a spooky set of underground tunnels covered in more than four million shells.

A trip to Margate isn’t complete without a few hours in Dreamland, whether it’s for some spins on the rides or to see one of the amusement park’s impressive line-up of gigs in the evenings. Do take a stroll around town to hit up the vintage shops selling retro clothes, furniture and homewares, where you can still find some decent bargains. And don’t forget to head over to Cliff Terrace to visit the flagship store of cult natural skincare brand Haeckels, which makes divine-smelling beauty products using seaweed gathered on the beach nearby. Speaking of the beach, if you want to go swimming walk along the coast to Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, a man-made sea lagoon where you can find calm waters and steps for easier access. If you arrive early (or stay the night), tuck into cracking breakfast at Storeroom coffee shop or at Cliffs, where there’s also a record shop, a hair salon and a yoga studio. In fact, the whole up-and-coming area of Cliftonville is worth exploring. After all that roaming, great seafood can be found for dinner at either Angela’s or Hantverk & Found–reserve a table in advance though, as both get booked up. – Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over: The best beds in town are at The Reading Rooms , a boutique b&b in a restored Georgian townhouse a few minutes’ walk from the seafront. Be sure you don’t have to rush off in the morning as they’ll bring breakfast to your room so you can eat it overlooking the leafy square.

Read more about Margate's best things to do

Eastbourne, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : fair-weather walkers How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 30 minutes.

Eastbourne is an old-timey British seaside town with a Victorian pier, a pebble beach, and a much-loved bandstand where tribute acts reign: ‘Queen’, ‘ABBA’, ‘Frank Sinatra’ and ‘Lady Gaga’ have all played. You could spend the day taking in the town’s thriving art galleries, with plenty of opportunities for refueling stops along the way (our favorite is the stripped-back-trendy Nelson Coffee Co opposite the station) but the real draw here is enjoying the great outdoors at Beachy Head, where you’ll find the famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. A hike with seriously impressive views out to sea runs across the top. Wander all the way along to neighboring Seaford or make one of the secret beaches tucked away at the foot of the cliffs your way point. It’s a steep climb down, but Falling Sands Beach is quiet and sandy and well worth the adventure. Eastbourne often makes the list of the sunniest places in the UK, so don’t forget your sunglasses.– Olivia Holborow

If you decide to stay over: Book into the Beachy Head holiday cottages –there’s a choice of 8, all set around a rambling walled garden with fruit and vegetables you can help yourself to.

An insider guide to the South Downs

Brighton, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : blasting the cobwebs away by the sea How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 34 minutes.

Brighton is a brilliant mish-mash of retro, seaside fun and progressive culture. Book in advance and you can get return tickets from London for as little as £10. A maze of bunting-lined streets, The Lanes bursts at the seams with vintage shops–don’t miss Beyond Retro and Dirty Harry, and our two favorite independent boutiques, Our Daily Edit and Peggs & Son, as well as retro memorabilia (navigate the turnstile at Snoopers Paradise for collectors’ items, vinyl, and furniture). Time your day trip to include breakfast at Kensingtons – grab a table on the balcony for giant plates piled high with eggs, toast and beans. It’s not the easiest spot to find, so look out for a shop called Artemis on Kensington Gardens, which overflows with sheepskin rugs and pelts – the café is on the left; follow the smell of bacon up the stairs. Later, reserve a table at Food for Friends, a superb veggie restaurant with award-winning flavours and presentation. A short walk away is the huge 8km pebbly beach–the section near the Palace Pier is dotted with stripy deckchairs and usually buzzing from spring to autumn (and often absolutely crammed in summer). There’s something terribly British about layering up and enjoying a windswept walk in the winter months, too. Reward yourself with a bag of hot, sugary donuts from the pier.

If you decide to stay over : Walk along the seafront to The Ginger Pig, a restaurant-with-rooms with pre-mixed cocktails in the minibars and Cowshed bottles by the standalone bathtubs.

The best restaurants in Brighton

Lewes, Sussex

The best day trip from London for : history buffs and vintage hunters How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes just over 1 hour.

Lewes: the market town in the South Downs that sits against a backdrop of chalk hills and green peaks. Cobblestoned 'twittens' (narrow streets), hand-painted shop signs and crumbling tiles from the 1960s make it feel like a town time forgot, and its slower rhythm makes for a reinvigorating gear-change. The Needlemakers on West Street is home to a range of small, independent shops that sell local craftsmanship, from jewelry to books–Alexis Dove is a favorite for delicate silverware and Susie Petrou has an eye for vintage blouses and Romanian embroidery. There’s an incongruous well at the bottom by the vintage shops – throw in a penny for good luck before you start hunting through piles of clothes and bags. Lewes Flea Market is an alluring source for antique furniture and quirky homeware, and is open daily (not to be confused with the outdoor Sunday market, which is also worth a visit). At the other end of town, at the bottom of Cliffe High Street, you can find Bill Collison’s very first Bill’s restaurant, a European deli-turned-eatery, where you can get hearty dishes such as pumpkin, fig and chestnut roast, or a beef, bacon and camembert burger. After lunch, ponder the paperbacks at the Fifteenth Century Bookshop, which has been carefully restored in recent years but remains as much of a landmark as Lewes Castle. Finish the day with a pint; Harvey’s Brewery is the only independent brewery in Sussex and provides the John Harvey Tavern over the road with local cask ales (download the self-titled app to find out where you can get it in London).

If you decide to stay over : Head to Firle for a night at The Ram Inn , and enjoy crisp linen and generous breakfasts served by an open fire.

Folkestone, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a coastal up-and-comer How to get there from London : The fast train from London St Pancras to Ashford takes 40 minutes, where you can change for Folkestone Central.

The seaside town of Folkestone is mid-makeover, which is the ideal time to visit – before everything gets priced up and the place’s quirks glossed over. The appeal of Sunny Sands beach is self-explanatory – this tiny, windswept slip of sand is one of the best beaches in Kent and the ideal spot to kick off your day (unsurprisingly, it fills up with families wielding buckets and spades, sticky with sunscreen, too). A trio of swashbuckling pubs and restaurants–The Ship Inn, The Mariner, and The Captain’s Table–lines the seafront, but the real treasure can be found in the Creative Quarter. At the bottom of The Old High Street is Bounce Vintage, an open space with rails full of retro sportswear, French chore jackets and Aloha shirts. If you exchange smiles and pleasantries with the rosy-cheeked owners, they might just offer you an espresso on the house. Failing that, further up the road, Steep Street sells specialty coffee, homemade cake and books . Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall shelves of hardbacks tower over fat leather armchairs and blackboard tables that you can doodle on in chalk. There are endless places to eat and drink around town: Rocksalt for a smart menu and sea views; Papas for old-fashioned fish’n’chips ; Beano’s for veggies; La Casa Del Bello Gelato for ice cream Follies for pizza and The Pullman for pints. The Harbour Arm, though, is where Folkestone’s own folk go – the Champagne bar hidden in the lighthouse at the end is rustic, romantic, and completely charming.

If you decide to stay over : Book a room at the Linen Shed , a dove-grey, weatherboarded house on the old Roman road to Canterbury.

The best restaurants in Kent

Oxford, Oxfordshire

The best day trip from London for : a traditional slice of British culture How to get there from London : The Oxford Tube coach service takes 1 hour 30 minutes and runs until 3am; trains also run from Paddington and Marylebone stations and take 1 hour.

In one of the most quintessentially English cities in the UK (and the most expensive to live in outside London), cream tea is not just a rite of passage – it’s a requirement. And there’s only one place to take it – The Vaults & Garden Café, signposted by the presence of an antique bicycle with a flowerbed in its basket, is a gorgeous 14th-century building surrounded by colleges (Oriel, Brasenose, Murton, All Souls), where scones come loaded with clotted cream and seasonal homemade jam (the café has serious sustainability credentials, too). Architecture is a major draw in Oxford ; the libraries, bridges and even cinemas feature Palladian domes, Norman design, ziggurat influences and listed buildings which make this a city to see on foot (Radcliffe Square is a must, and it’s worth paying £4 to climb the tower at the Church of St Mary The Virgin for the best view of Oxford). If you’re taking kids, the Pitt Rivers Museum is packed with bizarre artefacts and stories they’ll tell their friends about, and The Story Museum welcomes you through a wardrobe into Narnia and other fictional worlds of wonder. If you booked a babysitter, however, grab a drink at the brilliant Freud bar in Jericho–a stained-glass church-turned-cool-cocktail-bar that is grown-up enough to feel sophisticated but student-y enough to have plenty of atmosphere and frivolity in the air (or perhaps it’s something in the drinks).

If you decide to stay over : There are plenty of lovely hotels in the Cotswolds , such as The Wild Rabbit –the latest outpost from eco-queen Carole Bamford of Daylesford Organic fame.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The best day trip from London for : people-watching and scenery How to get there from London : The train from London King’s Cross takes 45 minutes.

Like cycling in Amsterdam or taking trams in San Francisco , punting really is the most sophisticated way to see the city of Cambridge and the university grounds. Scudamore’s is the oldest ‘chauffeur’ company and offers a more traditional tour, but board a boat from the Garret Hostel Bridge for a younger, more humorous experience (ask your punter why the GHB is also known as Orgasm Bridge). For lunch, foodPark is a top hawker convoy of Sri Lankan curries, wood-fired pizza and open-wide burgers that sets up from 12pm until 2pm in varying locations around Cambridge from Wednesday to Friday. For something more upscale, book one of Galleria’s terrace tables on the south side of the Magdalene Bridge, with British fusion food and views of the River Cam (your gluten- and dairy-free friends will thank you, as there are two separate menus specifically catering to their diets). In the autumn, the leaf-covered colleges are particularly picturesque as they turn red and rust, and in spring, Parker’s Piece is a scenic stretch of greenery from which to navigate (spot the lamppost that supposedly inspired the post in CS Lewis’ Narnia). From here, find eccentric English shop Bowes & Co, Fitzbillies for iced buns, Aromi for Italian nibbles, Kettle’s Yard art gallery and G David for antique books. Finish your day with the choral evensong at King’s College Chapel around 5.30pm: goosebumps guaranteed. For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in Cambridge .

If you decide to stay over : It doesn’t get much better than the iconic University Arms hotel , reopened in 2018 after a serious reboot.

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for: welly-wielding outdoorsy types How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour to East Grinstead (a 15-minute drive from Forest Row).

AA Milne famously wrote the stories of Winnie the Pooh while living just north of Ashdown Forest. Known as 100 Acre Wood in Pooh’s world, the forest is home to the spellbinding stories and is an enchanting place to stretch your legs for a day, easily accessible via East Grinstead station. Stretches of open heathland give way to leafy walkways and carpets of bluebells in spring, where the woods teem with wildlife (spot fallow deer, badgers and the odd friendly pheasant–no honey-eating bears, though), and the only noise is birdsong. You can even visit Pooh Bridge (for a game of Poohsticks, naturally), but be warned, it’s a prominent tourist spot. Pooh was a big fan of having ‘a little smackerel of something’, and nearby village Forest Row has plenty of places for elevenses. Taffels deli is a family-run café and much-loved lunch spot (there is nothing skinny about the skinny chips; they are double-fried and divine) and caters to all dietary requirements, while Java & Jazz serves huge hot chocolates cakes and crispy-crusted pizza. For proper pub food, the cosy Hatch Inn (one of our favorite country pubs near London) is known for roasts with all the trimmings and offers plenty of dog-patting opportunities. If you’re not in a hurry to get home, head to Linton’s car park–locally known as ‘the viewpoint’–for sunset.

If you decide to stay over : Gravetye Manor is a very English Elizabethan country-house classic and one of our favorite weekend breaks in the UK .

Dungeness, Kent

The best day trip from London for : nature enthusiasts How to get there from London : The drive to Romney Marsh via the A20 and M20 takes 2 hours.

Arriving in Dungeness from London feels a little like stepping out of a Tardis into a different time zone, where a recent apocalypse has left the landscape barren, the wildlife overrun, the buildings flattened, and the population dramatically compromised (in fact, the Dungeness Power Station appeared in Doctor Who in 1971). Unofficially known as ‘Britain’s only desert’, Dungeness has a unique environment–single-story buildings appear to have been swallowed by the shingle and plants let loose with little regard for human-imposed order. The beach resembles a mass shipwreck; abandoned fishing boats, crumbling shacks, winches and forgotten tractors coated in decades of rust sit, untouched, unmoved and as mysterious as a Russell T Davies plot. There’s not a whole lot to do here – but there’s so much to see, and so much to pique your curiosity that you’ll spend the journey back Googling the area. Kids will love the sheer strangeness of it all, and it’s impossible to resist the childlike urge to climb and run and play. Few places so close to London feel like such an adventure; the journey can take less than two hours and, if you time it right, you can order the catch of the day for lunch from roadside hut the Snack Shack, which does the freshest fish, lobster rolls and ice-cold cans of San Pellegrino.

If you decide to stay over : You’ll have to venture out of Dungeness–try The Rose in Deal , a grown-up bolthole splashed with bold colors and covetable vintage finds.

The best day trip from London for : switching off How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo to Dorking takes 50 minutes.

Surrey’s proximity to London makes the journey a breeze–and it’s an especially astute pick if you’re likely to be coming with a car full of little ones. At Henry VIII’s home Hampton Court Palace, there are family-friendly events such as beast quests and ghost tours, as well as the famous giant hedge maze, where adventurous kids can lead the troops. In winter, an ice rink is set against the historic backdrop of the palace, a building whose grandiose architecture is shaped by both the Tudor and Baroque periods. If you’re escaping the city (and the kids), however, check in at Grayshott Health Spa, a traditional country home with cutting-edge treatments. Surrounded by 47 acres of flowering gardens, it’s a peaceful place to step back and take stock. Connect with nature at Kew, too, where the Royal Botanic Gardens are open to the public all year round. The winter light show is particularly mesmerizing, when the sun starts to sink earlier and earlier. Be sure to take cash for mince pies and mulled wine as you wander through the grounds. Having been awarded a Michelin star, Steve Drake’s restaurant Sorrel in Dorking (a market town with chocolate-box charm) is currently the county’s hottest restaurant with the most exciting ‘discovery menu’.

If you decide to stay over : Surrey is home to some of the best spas near London, such as Grayshott, where the Manor House rooms offer faded charm.

Hastings and St Leonards

The best day trip from London for:  old-school seaside charm How to get there from London:  The fast train from London St Pancras International takes 1 hour 32 minutes with a change at Ashford International

There’s almost too much to fit into a one-day visit to Hastings, especially if you want to pop over to the neighbouring town of St Leonards. Over the last few years, these two East Sussex enclaves have become a popular bolthole for burnt-out Londoners looking for a bohemian seaside escape. To see what all the fuss is about, head straight to explore Hasting’s quaint Old Town, a picturesque maze of streets sandwiched between two dramatic cliffs. Pedestrianised scenic George Street is where most of the action happens, with a thrum of cafés, shops and pubs, but it’s worth wandering the surrounding streets too. Seek out AG Hendy & Co on the High Street for well-curated vintage homewares and stop into The Crown for cozy pub grub made with excellent local produce. If you’re up for a wander, get the funicular up and walk along to the cliff to Fairlight Glen, a beautiful secluded beach where clothing is optional. Or if that sounds a bit much, stay in the Old Town and explore the dramatic black fisherman’s huts on Rock-A-Nore beach where there’s Hastings Contemporary art gallery, a tiny shipwreck museum, fresh seafood stalls and a very cute miniature railway. Next up, take the 40-minute amble along the beach past the pier to St Leonards and stop off for food at the fabulous seafront café, Goat Ledge. It’s worth the trip for their crispy panko fish baps and katsu curry sauce chips alone. Nearby, there are great independent shops selling everything from candles to kimonos on Norman Road and King’s Road where you can easily spend a few hours happily browsing and café hopping before settling into dinner at Michelin-recommended pub The Royal.  Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  Book into  The Old Rectory , a bijou  b&b  in Hasting’s Old Town with treatment rooms and a walled garden.

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10 Perfect Day Trips From London To Europe

Day trips to europe from london (or overnight stays).

Living in London or the surrounding counties? Fancy a day trip abroad to brighten up your week? We’ve put together a shortlist of perfect day trips from London to Europe, suggested by savvy travellers who describe the delights of their favourite destinations, what to do and see, and how to get there and back without wasting any time.

Although we’re focusing on days out from London, you’ll love staying in these places a little longer too – ideal for weekend trips from London to Europe , the majority are also accessible from anywhere in Britain by plane.

24 hours in Alicante (Spain)

You’ll have 24 hours of non-stop fun discovering this lively Mediterranean City, a sun-lapped day on the beach and a delicious evening of wining and dining by the sea makes Alicante the perfect day trip from London.

Planes leave London’s main airports around-the-clock for Alicante on the Costa Blanca, one of the world’s top holiday spots. Look out for a low-cost flight that leaves early and returns really late to make the most of your day – in summertime especially, you can party or chill on a terrace all night and come back home in the morning (current Covid restrictions permitting)!

Board the hourly airport bus straight into the city (or get a taxi), it’s only 10 minutes! Have breakfast on the seafront Esplanade – typically start your day with a thick hot chocolate drink with dunking ‘churros’ (long twisted donutty pastries) or a freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee and croissants.

Walk along the palm-lined promenade to the city’s main beach, Playa Postiguet for a morning lazing under a sun umbrella on the sands and a dip in the warm, habitually calm Mediterranean Sea.

Alternatively, take the TRAM to San Juan Beach just around Alicante bay, kilometres of wide sands which never seem to be busy – there’s lots of space for beach games, loads of traditional restaurants and ‘chiringuito’ beach bars open until really late.

Amble into Alicante ‘old town’ for lunch, a maze of mainly pedestrianized side streets and shady avenues where you can get ‘tapas’ to eat with a glass of local wine, cool lager or sparkling cava – the choice of tasty Spanish aperitifs is infinite. Or you could try a ‘plate of the day’ in a gastro bar mixing authentic recipes with fusion cuisine. Sit outside in a tree-lined square or if you prefer, enjoy a seafood platter or saffron paella at one of the beach-front cafeterias.

Spend the afternoon back at the beach, unless you fancy delving into Alicante’s history with a visit to Santa Barbara Castle, the Medieval Basilica or Alicante Archaeological Museum, for example. For dinner, it’s a personal choice and really depends on what (and how much!) you had for lunch. To recap, traditional Spanish or gastro cuisine, fish and seafood, paella and similar rice dishes, freshly picked Mediterranean vegetables and fruits, as well as international food.

A stroll along the leisure harbour past the fancy yachts brings you to the nightlife zone. Cocktails bars and terraces bordering the waters, Costa Blanca Casino, beach clubs with chillouts and infinity pools. Sip something cool under the starlight and relax to the sound of the sea. Dust the sand from your toes, rinse the salt water from your hair, dab on the deo, change into your travel clothes, and board your plane back to London after an exciting day in Alicante!

How to get to Alicante from London By plane : There are several direct flights to Alicante every day from London heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton, as well as from other major and regional airports in the UK. Flight time from London to Alicante is approxi,ately 2 hours 30 minutes.

If you are looking for perpetual sunshine head over to the Spanish Canary Islands, a four-and-a-half-hour flight and the perfect place for a weekend trip from London to Europe or a longer holiday.

A day trip to Cardiff (Wales)

Cardiff is an easy and ideal day trip from London and you get to visit a new country within the UK (no passports or vaccination visas needed)! There’s lots to do in Cardiff , while small, the city is packed with historical landmarks and beautiful places to see both in the historic centre and on the outskirts. If you’re going to Cardiff on a day trip from London, the first thing to do is to get yourself some warm, homemade Welsh cakes for breakfast from Cardiff Market in the city centre.

While at the market, get local produce for a picnic which you can enjoy in one of the city’s many green parks, such as Bute Park or Roath Park Lake (where you can also hire kayaks and take a picture with the large white lighthouse). Be sure to get a pint in one of the local pubs and even try some of the Welsh-speaking-only pubs if you’re brave enough!

For a historical activity, visit Cardiff Castle right in the centre of town and the stone animals that line the walls adjacent to the castle. For a more beautiful castle, head 20 minutes outside of Cardiff (and on the way back to London) to Castell Coch which will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale, and explore the surrounding woodlands called Fforest Fawr.

When you’re ready to head back to London, go and get some more of those lush Welsh cakes for the way home!

How to Get to Cardiff from London The fastest way to get to Cardiff from London is by train. By rail: Direct train from London Paddington to Cardiff Central Station which takes 1h 50 min. By car: Take the M4 which runs from London to Cardiff and is a straightforward drive taking about 3 hours (150 miles); By bus : National Express from Victoria Coach station to Cardiff Coach Station, or the Megabus which takes 3h 45 min.

Suggested by Shireen Ahmed from The Happy Days Travel s

Catch a plane to Guernsey (Channel Islands)

The nearby island of Guernsey makes for an easy and unique day trip from London. One of the legendary Channel Islands, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. With plenty of rural sights in the middle of the island and stunning vistas along the coastal paths, Saint Peter Port is the place to see if you’re only visiting for the day.

Guernsey’s quaint capital is a pretty seaside town with beautiful views and a fascinating maritime history, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up some culture. The narrow passageways of the old town hide listed buildings from Elizabethan and Victorian times, the ancient parish church (1250), stone towers and turrets. The steep cobbled streets are made for strolling and window shopping, sprinkled with amazing bakeries and fun souvenir stores. 

Castle Cornet overlooks the entrance to St. Peter’s Port, a large fortress built right on the coast in the 1800’s to defend the city, just walk along the breakwater to get there. The castle offers various tours and activities for history seekers. The waterfront restaurants are the perfect way to experience what Guernsey has to offer in a short amount of time. Enjoy fresh seafood and other specialties, sample some local wine, and enjoy the gorgeous views of the marina and Castle Cornet. It’s so peaceful and beautiful, you might not want to come away!

Visiting the Channel Islands for more than a day? Then combine your trip to Guernsey with a holiday in Jersey .

How to get to Guernsey from London By plane : Travel to Guernsey by plane from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) – the flight time is approximately 1 hour. If in central London, get the Gatwick Express train from Victoria Station to the airport (30 minute ride). Guernsey Airport (GCI) is very small, so once you arrive it doesn’t take much time to collect your bags and head out to catch a taxi St. Peter Port which is only 10 minutes away. Leaving London early in the morning and returning in the evening gives ample time to escape to this hidden gem of an island.

Suggested by Olivia from the Girl With Blue Sails

One day in Paris (France)

When you are looking for ideas to take a day trip from London, leaving the country is probably not your first intention. But did you know that Paris is only a short 2-hour train ride away from London, St Pancras. Thanks to the Eurostar train, you are in France’s capital in no time and, because the train station is conveniently located, you can start your one day in Paris sightseeing programme right away. 

Closest to your arrival point lays the beautiful Montmartre artists’ quarter, a hill in the north of Paris with the famous Sacre Coeur cathedral on top of it. Isn’t enjoying the view over Paris a great way to start your daytrip from London? Montmartre is also a great place to take a late breakfast. It’s packed with cute cafés and bakeries, and perfect for trying a fresh French croissant and a café au lait!

Now head straight to Châtelet, the heart of Paris! From here you have some of the most iconic quarters within walking distance: the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint Germain, as well as the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral and Pont-Neuf. Due to the fire incident in 2018, it is unfortunately still not possible to visit Notre Dame, but the cathedral is nevertheless still a nice photo stop.

The centre of Paris is also a good spot to find a place to sit down and enjoy lunch. However, try to avoid the cheap eateries around Saint Michel, it’s very touristic and the quality is not as good as it should be. If you want to save time, you also can have lunch the Parisian way: grab a jambon/beurre from the nearest bakery – a half baguette with ham and butter. 

After a nice walk through Paris’ historic quarter, board a river cruise boat and take a tour on the River Seine. The panoramic cruises are a great occasion to see Paris from a different perspective and you will have the best Eiffel Tower views ! 

If you have a bit of time left after this exciting day, you can cross the Seine to see the Pyramid of the Louvre light up at dusk. It’s just a short walk from Pont-Neuf and you can check another Paris highlight off your bucket list. To see the museum inside you’ll need another day at least, so consider staying overnight or longer to see the many wonders of Paris.

How to get to Paris from London The easiest and cheapest way to get from London to Paris is by train (taking into account travel connections to the city centres); By rail: Get the Eurostar Train from London St Pancras to Paris which takes 2 hours 15 minutes; By Plane: Flights depart London Heathrow to Paris Charles de Gaulle or from London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted to Paris Orly. Flight time 1 hour 10 minutes.

Suggested by Lena from Salut From Paris

A shopping spree in Lille (France)

Lille is a wonderful French city with a variety of cultural sights, as well as some great shops! If you arrive by train, you’ll see the Euralille commercial centre right next door to the station, so you can start your shopping spree right away. However, I much prefer the little stores in the centre of Lille, so you might want to start there first.

The Old Town is truly pretty, with gorgeous architecture like the Grand Place, the Town Hall with its majestic belfry and the Old Stock Exchange. You can also visit Charles de Gaulle’s birthplace if you’re so inclined.

One of my favourite things to do in Lille, however, is stuff my face with all kinds of delicacies. I love visiting anything from farmer’s markets to really fancy locations like the Meert shop (they sell the most amazing waffles!).

If you happen to visit during the holiday season, it’s good to come prepared with plenty of extra luggage space as Lille has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe .

The city is magical at this time of the year and besides seasonal markets, Lille’s shops will lure you in starting with their awesomely decorated windows and chic merchandise. But honestly, Lille makes for a great trip any time of the year. So enjoy!

How to get to Lille from London By rail : The easy and quickest way to get from London to Lille is by train. Eurostar takes you from the centre of London to the centre of Lille in under 1 hour and a half. Just keep in mind that you’ll need 30 minutes to clear customs and security before you get on board, so make sure you arrive at St Pancras International train station with plenty of time in advance. Also, keep in mind that your Eurostar ticket grants you 2 x 1 access to Lille’s top museums and galleries.

Suggested by Laura from Travelers Universe

Visit Brussels for a day (Belgium)

A day trip from London to Brussels is the perfect opportunity to explore the land of chocolate, beer, and waffles! Upon arriving in Brussels, begin your morning at the opulent Grand Place. The Grand Place, or Grote Markt, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is said to be one of the most spectacular squares in all of Europe. Several important buildings grace this lovely square including the Town Hall and the King’s House (now home to the Brussels City Museum).

From the Grand Place, head to the nearby Maison Dandoy to sample some of the best Belgian waffles in the city. Grab a waffle to go and enjoy it while soaking in the gorgeous views of the main square. Next, take the metro to one of the most famous landmarks in Brussels: the Atomium. You can purchase tickets to go inside the structure, or you can marvel at it from the lounge chairs in the surrounding park. After visiting the Atomium, head over to the European Union Administrative Centre for a walk around the area. Be sure to check out the Triumphal Arch, which is located just a short distance away. This monumental triple arch serves as the gateway into a sprawling urban park that also features a number of museums worth visiting at its east end. End your day by admiring the Royal Palace before making your descent to the Mont Des Arts Gardens. This elevated urban park offers the most beautiful view of Brussels and is extra magical to see during sunset! Ideally, stayover for a couple of nights and do a day trip from Brussels to Bruges – it only takes an hour by train.

How to get to Brussels from London By rail: The heart of Brussels can be easily reached from London via a 2 hour 15 minute train ride on the Eurostar, this is the easiest option if you are going for a day trip; By plane : Direct flights from London Heathrow to Brussels with a flight time of 1 hour 10 minutes.

Suggested by Olivia from Inspired by Croatia

A day out in Antwerp (Belgium)

Antwerp is the perfect day trip from London if you love history, beautiful shops, and great food. The capital of fashion is well-known for its famous fashion designers, Belgian beers, diamonds, and beautiful architecture.

When arriving in Antwerp central  by train, you will immediately fall in love with the memorizing building. Antwerp has the most beautiful train station in Europe, so don’t rush out of the station to go out and explore, take the time to walk around and absorb the architectural beauty.

Antwerp is a relatively small city and can easily be discovered on foot. Make sure to visit the ‘Oude Markt’ where you will find the beautiful 450 year old city hall. During summer many restaurants and bars will have terraces, where you can enjoy a drink in one of the most beautiful squares in town. The MAS museum is situated only 10 minutes from the Oude Markt and is definitely worth a visit.

Enjoy a beautiful stroll beside the city river Scheldt to get there. In the Museum you will find encounters and exchanges between people from all over the world for several centuries. Take the escalator to the 10th floor and enjoy the best view over the town. Don’t forget to buy one of the world’s most famous Belgian chocolates as a souvenir! Neuhaus is one of the best chocolates you simply need to buy!

How to get to Antwerp from London By rail : It takes 2.5 hours to get from St Pancras International London to Antwerp, you can book a ticket with Eurostar Trains. There is free WIFI access, and you can buy snacks, meals or drinks in the onboard Café Metropole. The Eurostar train will get you to Brussels-Midi/Zuid, from there you can take the next train to Antwerp with no additional costs.

Suggested by Stéphanie from Bey Of Travel

A walk through medieval Bruges (Belgium)

If you’re looking to visit somewhere in Europe for the day from London, there aren’t many better places than Bruges. This city in Belgium is an ideal place to visit if you want to get away from the big smoke for the day. Bruges isn’t the biggest city in the world, but there’s plenty to do there.

If you’ve seen the film In Bruges, you’ll be familiar with the city. It’s medieval in nature, with a variety of interesting spots to check out. The main attraction is the Belfry of Bruges which towers above the city. Walking into the city, you can see it from a distance. You can pay a small fee to enter and climb the 366 steps to the top where you’ll be presented with a fantastic view of the city and the surrounding area.

Bruges is built around canals and this is a great way to explore and see the city. Multiple canal tours take place every day and this allows you to see the city from a different perspective as well as learn more about its fascinating past. To learn even more about this past, you should check out the Bruges Historium. Here you’ll learn that Bruges used to be a major trading centre in days gone by, an age the Historium recreates, referring to it as Bruges’ ‘Golden Age.’

You can’t visit Bruges , or Belgium for that matter, without trying some Belgian beer and chocolate. This is easy enough as you have your pick of bars and chocolate stores to choose from. They’re everywhere in Bruges. A beer or two and some chocolate to take home with you is a good memento from the trip.

How to get to Bruges from London By plane : You can either fly from Gatwick, Stansted or London City airport which takes around 50 minutes; By rail : Via the Eurostar train which takes just over 3 hours; By car : You can drive via the Eurotunnel. You’ll have to drive from London to Folkestone and then from Calais to Bruges, but this takes about 5 hours one way depending on traffic.

Suggested by Tom Stevenson from The Travelling Tom

Fly over to Amsterdam for the day

Amsterdam is known worldwide as a lively city full of culture and history, and since it is only a short hop over the pond from London, it makes for a great destination for a day trip! When you visit Amsterdam, use this Amsterdam bucket list to guide you to the best sights and activities in the city.

Nicknamed ‘ Venice of the North’, your first stop in Amsterdam should be the canals. The best way to get to know the canals is literally on them. Rent a boat for a few hours and navigate the maze of canals to the Singel, Herengracht, Spiegelgracht and the Amstel River.

Then go for a stroll through De Wallen, Amsterdams ‘Red Light District’. You might instantly associate this district with prostitution, but during the day it is actually a very charming and lively neighbourhood full of little bars and boutique shops.

You can’t visit Amsterdam without having visited at least one museum. Luckily it doesn’t really matter what kind of museums you’re into, because Amsterdam has them all. For masterpieces from painters like Rembrandt and Vermeer visit the Rijksmuseum, located in one of the city’s most beautiful buildings.

For modern art pieces from current day legends like Banksy, visit the Moco Museum, for some culture and local history visit the Anne Frank House. Visit Madame Tussauds for freakishly lifelike wax statues of celebrities and for something completely different check out the Nemo Science Museum, which is located in a building shaped after captain Nemo’s boat, The Nautilus.

When you feel a bit tuckered out, head to the Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s big city park to relax for a bit, or dive into the city’s food scene and grab something to eat. Opt for something truly Dutch like bitterballen or Dutch Old Amsterdam cheese, or take your pick from one of the world-class restaurants, like Bord’Eau, Blauw, De Kas or Stork.

End the perfext day with a cocktail in one of Amsterdam’s rooftop bars as the city lights up at the golden hour and the sun sets on the horizon.

How to get to Amsterdam from London By plane : The quickest and easiest way to get to Amsterdam is by plane. British Airways and KLM both fly multiple times a day between London Heathrow Airport and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and flight time is less than an hour.

Suggested by Tom & Zi from Craving Adventure

A day discovering the beauty of Copenhagen (Denmark)

Not often mentioned as a day trip from London, Copenhagen is the right place within a less than 2 hours flight. To be honest it is also one of the cheapest solutions for an amazing 24 hours away from London.

The Danish capital is beautiful and the city centre completely walkable, which is a plus planning a day trip from London. However, walking distances can be one of the obstacles of spending a single day in Copenhagen . Instead of using efficient public transport, you can explore more in less time.

You should visit Rosenborg Castle, one of the most suggestive palaces in the city. The Danish Royal Family still lives here. If you are lucky enough and arrive at the Palace Courtyard before 10 am, you can see the Change of Guard. It is not as impressive as the one at Buckingham Palace but still very suggestive. Other incredible spots to discover in Copenhagen are the Round Tower, the highest point of the city, the amusement Tivoli Park, and the walk along the Nyhavn.

While exploring Copenhagen you might also visit Amalienborg Palace, another awesome building in the Danish Capital, with a completely different style compared to Rosenborg Palace. Not too far away there is the Little Mermaid, the statue symbol of Copenhagen, which welcomes sailors and boats to Copenhagen Harbour. The statue was inspired by the Danish author Hans Christian Anderson.

As you can see Copenhagen is the ideal city to explore in a day out from London. It doesn’t matter which season you are travelling, Copenhagen can welcome tourists and offer the perfect winter escape, but also a relaxing summer. Also, you can consider Copenhagen just as a day trip before moving on the other side, exploring Malmoe, in Sweden just crossing the beautiful Øresund Bridge.

How to get to Copenhagen from London By plane : Copenhagen has daily connections from London Heathrow Airport and Stansted, and the flight takes just under 2 hours. The ticket is not expensive and purchasing it in advance can make the difference.

Suggested by Alessia & Toti from Italian Trip Abroad

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8 Comments:

I love how close London is to so many beautiful places!! I’ve added Guernsey to my to-visit list!!

I lived in London as a kid and never got bored, we were always going on day trips to interesting places! Didn’t get to the Channel Islands though, so Guernsey is still on my wishlist!

That’s a great list of suggestions!! I would have never thought of Alicante! Thanks for this :-)

We live near Alicante and love it here!

Fantastic article. Love these recommendations!

There are some lovely places to see near London!

Love all of these day trip ideas! I can’t believe how easy it is to reach so many places from London :)

That’s the joy of living in London or the majority of capital cities around the world, there are so many interesting places to visit within easy reach!

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European Cities You Can Visit from London by Train

Fancy a European city break, but want to reduce your carbon footprint ? Luckily it’s easy, fast and relatively cheap to get to major cities and lesser-known destinations across Europe by rail, departing from London.

With the merger of Eurostar and Thalys, there could be easier train travel to more European destinations across France, the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium in future. But there’s a fair few cities within easy reach already.

If you’re planning on visiting more than one city you can likely save money with an unlimited train travel Eurail Pass. The Eurail “Global” pass includes unlimited travel to 33 countries around Europe for as little as £ 242.26 . There’s also country specific Eurail passes for France and Germany.

Most of the cities listed here can be reached within five hours travel time of central London, perfect for a weekend getaway or short city break. Plus, you’ll leave and arrive in the city centre—there are no airport transfers adding to your travel time. Check the time you have left on your passport before setting off, as all non-EU nationals should hold passports issued within the past 10 years, and be valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU country you’re visiting. Also from 2024 British travellers will need to pay a 7 Euro visa-waiver fee before travelling to the EU – check the EU ETIAS website for details.

Bonus tip: As with train travel within the UK , remember to book in advance (around six weeks) to get the best deals. All Eurostar train tickets are now flexible , so you can change your booking with no exchange fee up to 7 days before your departure date, you’ll just have to pay the difference in fare. Happy travels!

1. Paris via Eurostar

• Train: Eurostar (around 16 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: 2 hrs 30 mins

Eurostar has been a game-changer for weekend breaks from London. Hopping on a train from St Pancras can take you directly to Paris, Lille Brussels, Bruges, Rotterdam and Amsterdam. But let’s go to Paris first.

Paris is the perfect size for a weekend away. Jump on a train on Thursday or Friday, and head back on Sunday afternoon. Even two days in Paris should give you enough time to do a mix of touristy things (we recommend a night-time trip up the Eiffel Tower) and city wandering.

The high season in Paris is June to mid-September, and then again in mid- to late December. Autumn and spring are generally cheaper and less crowded, and the weather should still be decent enough for exploring neighbourhoods like Montmartre (18th arrondissement) with its beautiful views from the Sacré-Coeur and dreamy, winding streets. If the weather is good, take a stroll around the Canal Saint-Martin neighbourhood (10th arrondissement) for refreshments at its many hip bars and cafés, like Le Comptoir General—so cool it’s hidden down an alley.

Note: If you’re going to tourist spots, it’s worth booking things like the Louvre in advance, as it will save a lot of queuing time.

Like London, accommodation in Paris can be pricey. But there are lots of budget hotels — check out the quirky ReMix Hotel , Mama Shelter or Hotel Villa Boheme – and Airbnb rooms, plus look out for hotel + train deals from Eurostar which might save you a few euros.

2. Lille via Eurostar

• Train: Eurostar (7 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: 1 hr 22 mins

Lille is a medieval city close to the border with Belgium. It’s much smaller than Paris, perfect if you want a French city break without the crowds and (not-so-cheap) prices of the capital – and at 1 hour, 22 minutes travel from St Pancras, it’s even closer than Paris.

Getting there involves a pleasant train ride through the French countryside. You’ll arrive at Lille Europe Station, which is just 10 minutes’ walk from the city centre. Once you’ve dropped off your stuff, getting around is easy. A 24-hour public transport pass costs about €5, which you can use to hop on the metro (two lines), tram or bus. Alternatively, you can rent a bike from V’Lille.

However, it’s actually a pretty walkable city; many of its main landmarks and attractions are close to each other. It’s also a very picturesque place, with beautiful architecture. Wander around The Grand Place, a large square lined with 17th and 20th-century architecture. Your Eurostar ticket gets you 2-for-1 entry into some of Lille’s top museums and galleries too—like Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest museums in France.

Obviously, eating and drinking is one of the most important parts of any trip—and Lille has plenty to feast on, even on a budget. Head to the backstreet of Rue des Bouchers, which is filled with small bistros like Ripaille where you can get two courses from €19. For food on the go, grab edible treats at the covered food hall in the market of Wazemmes.

Accommodation-wise, you’re looking at a mix of budget hotels like Ibis and Best Western or Cheapo-friendly Eklo Hotel , hostels, and Airbnb from around £ 25.00 per night.

3. Brussels via Eurostar

• Train: Eurostar (up to 9 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: 1 hr 53 mins
• Cost: Average £ 78.00 return

Hop on the Eurostar and head to Belgium’s capital for culture, politics, art and – of course – waffles.

It’s a pretty city for wandering, with lots of Art Nouveau; Brussels was home to architect Victor Horta , one of the movement’s founders. His four townhouses – Atelier Horta, Hôtel Tassel, Hôtel Solvay and Hôtel van Eetveld – are all Unesco World Heritage Sites.

The city dates back to 949 AD, so you can visit medieval landmarks like the Grand Place and the ruins of Coudenberg Palace, then bring things up to date with a visit to the European Parliament.

Unlike some other capital cities you can visit plenty of art galleries and museums without time-sapping queues. Don’t miss the Magritte Museum and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, where you can see work by famous Flemish artists like Reubens and Marcel Broodthaers. There’s plenty of colourful street art to check out too, including bright Tintin murals.

Brussels is also filled with beautiful landscaped parks like Jardin du Petit Sablon. For classic Belgian food and drink, sample the waffles at Mokafe (close to the Grand Place), moules-frites at Chez Leon, or the many offerings on foodie street Rue de Flandre. Belgian beer flows wherever you go—including the old-school A La Mort Subite, Bier Circus, and puppet-filled Poechenellekelder (try saying that five times in a row after a few lambics).

Accommodation-wise, there are budget hotels like Hotel Bloom , and the Latroupe Grand Place , or self-catering apartments with RentByNight and Airbnb , as well as hostels.

4. Bruges via Eurostar

• Train: Eurostar (5 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: 3 hrs 25 minutes

Anyone who’s seen the film In Bruges knows it’s a very photogenic city. Even though a lot of grim stuff kicks off in the film, it does a better job of showing off the place than most tourist boards. In fact, Bruges is so popular with people flocking to see its Gothic buildings, canals and medieval streets, that the tourist board stopped adverts for day trips there to avoid overtourism!

We recommend going in late autumn or winter to avoid the peak season—you’ll be able to enjoy atmospheric wandering, hot chocolate and the Christmas markets. It might be easier to climb the Belfry of Bruge in cooler weather too; that’s the medieval tower with 366 narrow steps to the top, giving you a 360-degree view of the city.

Quite a lot of top sights feature in In Bruges , and this handy map will help you wend your way around them, including the Belfry, the Basilica of the Holy Blood and The Inner Court Gruuthuse Museum.

Visiting Bruges during winter means you also hit festival season (late November to early January), which includes a lot of Belgian chocolate and a rather cool ice sculpture festival.

You might want to rest your feet for a bit, and see Old Bruges at a leisurely pace from a canal tour, which you can pick up from one of five boat landings around the centre. After a day of sightseeing, grab drinks at Bar Des Amis, close to the market, or some grub at Gruuthuse Hof—one of the city’s oldest restaurants.

Bruges is full of budget hotels like Ibis Brugge Centrum or the Braamberg B&B , which are both near the historic centre of Bruges, close to the main sights.

5. Amsterdam via Eurostar

• Train: Eurostar (9 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: 4 hrs 38 minutes
• Cost: Average £ 0.00 return

One of the newer cities added to the Eurostar service is Amsterdam. You can be in the canal city in roughly the same time it takes to get to Edinburgh . It’ll probably cost you less, too.

If you’re going for the weekend, it might be worth grabbing an I amsterdam City Card , which gets you access to public transport, as well as over 70 attractions and museums like Anne Frank’s House, Rembrandt House, and Muiderslot Castle. It’s €90 for 48 hours or €110 for 72 hrs, and you get to skip the lines.

Watch out for cyclists in Amsterdam—they’re everywhere, and they move fast! Of course, you can easily join them and rent a bike (also included with the City Card) to zip around the pretty streets of Jordaan, past colourful townhouses in De 9 Straatjes (The Nine Streets), and around the pretty flowerbed-lined Vondelpark to catch free outdoor concerts if you’re visiting between June and September.

Head to Musemplein for major museums including the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. It’s worth seeing the city from the canal too, so factor in a short tour.

For food, head to De Culinaire Werkplaats Restaurant, which offers a mix of set menus, and occasionally a pay-what-you-want option. There are many Dutch pancakes places to try too, including The Pancake Boat.

If you want to stay in the city centre, there are budget options like XO Hotels Couture and Ambassade Hotel , Airbnb and plenty of hostels.

6. Lyon, France Via Eurostar

• Train: Eurostar (24 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: Around 5 hrs (including 1 change at Paris)

Arguably all of France is great for foodies, but the pretty, pastel-hued city of Lyon in the south-east is known as the ‘gastronomic capital of the world’. A bold claim, yes, but with 20 Michelin-starred restaurants and more restaurants per head than any other city in France, it’s a fair one. The location helps; situated between Paris and the Mediterranean, it’s a hub for agricultural produce.

The Halles market is a great place to start. Close to the La Part-Dieu central station, it’s a great place to pick up bread and cheese for lunch on the go. Alternatively, stop off at one of the restaurants such as Chez Lyon if you’re into seafood.

It’s not just about the food (although that’s a legit reason to visit any city); there are historic and cultural things to explore too, including the relatively new Musée des Confluences which is a science and anthropological museum. The Confluence district is also home to some interesting contemporary architecture.

Lyon has been an important city since Roman times and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its ancient streets and architecture and appreciate French fine art at the Musée des Beaux Arts, situated in a former 17th century convent. Once you’re done wandering, enjoy l’heure de apéro for a pre-dinner drink and snack at sunset before, of course, more Lyonnaise food.

Cool, affordable accommodation includes Hotel Silky , Hotel Des Artistes or the Hotel Victoria , plus there is a Mama Shelter here too.

7. Nantes, France, Via Eurostar and TGV trainline

• Train: Eurostar (14 trains a day)

Nantes is a university city and apparently one of the greenest in France. It’s the capital of the Pays de la Loire region in the west and is home to medieval architecture, a thriving art scene, beautiful scenery and great food.

Like the best cities, the old and new co-exist in Nantes. One of its more modern attractions is the Les Machines de l’Île which is a sort of arty theme park around the old shipyards where you’ll encounter a giant elephant and other interesting creations inspired by the works of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci. You can get a Nantes pass for either 1, 2 or 3 days from €25 for access to public transport and several attractions.

There’s plenty to see and do for free too, including wandering around the ramparts of the 13th Century Château des ducs de Bretagne or taking a stroll through the beautiful Jardin des Plantes Nantes botanical gardens.

There are plenty of places to stay which won’t break the bank; both Aparthotel Adagio Nantes Centre and Hotel Seven Urban Suites Nantes Centre are conveniently located, with rooms complete with flat-screen TVs, fridges and aircon.

8. Rotterdam, Netherlands Via Eurostar

• Train: Eurostar (4 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: Around 3 and half hours direct
• Cost: From £ 70.00 – £ 100.00 return

Rotterdam is pretty close to Amsterdam and they’re on the same Eurostar route, so it’s easy to visit both cities on a short holiday; however, it’s an interesting city for a weekend or mini-break in its own right. It’s the Netherlands’ second biggest city, known for ultra-modern, award-winning architecture. Although it dates back to 1270, much of the city was destroyed during World War II so it looks very different to the more traditional Dutch cities.

It’s a great place to explore with a camera; for city views, head to the top of the Euromast Tower which is about 180 metres tall, the tallest building in the city. On street level, head to the Markthal, a shiny, futuristic looking building filled with over 100 market stalls, bars and places to eat, and a great place to look up at the ceiling which is covered by the biggest artwork in the country.

For interesting perspectives and angles visit the Cube Houses (Kijk-Kubus), some of the city’s most famous contemporary buildings. They’re vibrant yellow, and tilted at a 45-degree angle; you can peek inside the show cube for €3. For a history fix, visit the Old Harbour to see restored historic boats and visit the Maritime Museum, or take a stroll through the Delfshaven, one of the few areas of Rotterdam that survived the destruction of World War II.

Accommodation is happily affordable, from hostel/hotel hybrids such as CityHub to those with a more boutique vibe, like The James .

9. Utrecht, Netherlands Via Eurostar and Regional Train

• Train: Eurostar (13 trains a day) + local transfer
• Travel time from London: Around 5 hours (including a change at Rotterdam – around £ 20.00 return)

Although you can’t travel directly to Utrecht from London via the Eurostar it’s still pretty easy to get to, in a travel time of around 4 hours 40 mins. Take the Eurostar to Rotterdam Centraal and change for the short train journey to Utrecht Centraal. It’s a canal city, but unlike the capital it’s a lot less crowded.

Utrecht is over 2000 years old so there are plenty of historic sites to explore, including city centre buildings from the middle ages. The city is also home to Dom Tower – the tallest tower in the Netherlands.

It’s a pretty city just to wander in and, with fewer tourists, you can visit places like Molen Rijn en Zon windmill and the picturesque Lange Rozendaal area at a leisurely pace. There are a few museums and galleries too, including The Miffy Museum and Sonnenborgh Observatory. During summer and autumn the city hosts music festivals, including Ultrasonic in July and Le Guess Who? in November, and is also home to the annual Netherlands Film Festival held over 9 days in September and October.

Much like nearby Rotterdam, you can stay in a budget pod hostel/hotel like Bunk Utrecht or splash a tiny bit more cash and opt for The Leonardo Hotel or a good old Ibis .

10. Marseille, France via Eurostar

• Train: Eurostar (10 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: 6 hrs 55 min (change at Paris)

If you fancy a quick getaway to somewhere with year-round sunshine, then hop on a train to Marseille. It’s a port city and the gateway to the French Riviera – so you can have a city break and beach holiday in one. Marseille was founded in 600 BC, making it one of Europe’s oldest cities, and there’s lots to explore.

For the heart of the old town, take a wander to Le Vieux Port, the old port. Walk around the old streets, watch boats go by. If you’ve got the time, take the 20-minute boat trip to Château d’If – it’s famous for being the setting for Alexandre Dumas’ novel The Count of Monte Cristo.

Old and new are well integrated in Marseille. For something more contemporary explore the colorful areas of La Panier, known for its street art and cafés, and Cours Julien, which is also art-filled and home to several markets. The city also has lots of museums and galleries, including Musée des Beaux-Arts and MuCEM (Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean) – which is a great place to find out more about the city’s Mediterranean history. For some coastal downtime take a boat out to Calanques, a stretch of coast between Marseille and Cassis.

If you’d like to stay near the old port but still have cash to play with while you’re there, we like the Staycity Aparthotels , Marseille, Centre Vieux Port; rooms have a kitchen so you can make the most of the local markets and free wi-fi. Alternatively, hotels don’t get any closer to the train station than the Ibis Marseille Centre Gare Saint-Charles.

11. Avignon, France via Eurostar & local connection

• Train: Eurostar (20 trains a day)
• Travel time from London: 8hrs 35 mins (change at Paris)

Avignon is a medieval walled city in Provence. You can get there by train for a few days of history, architecture and your fill of fabulous local produce and wine. One of the city’s main attractions is the Gothic palace Palais des Papes. It’s a huge 14th-century fortress that was home to a bunch of Popes (not the official collective noun) when things were kicking off in Rome.

Now it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with huge art collections, including several Italian masterpieces. Take a stroll around the city’s 4.3 km stone ramparts for great views and photo opportunities, then watch the sunset along waterside Rue des Teinturiers.

Thre are also some lovely, inexpensive places to stay: try Terre de Provence Hotel & Spa, Le Magnan Hotel or Logis Hôtel la Ferme if you’re looking for a quiet countryside retreat.

Ghent, Belgium Via Eurostar & local connection

• Train: Eurostar (9 trains a day) & local connection
• Travel time from London: 2hrs 49 mins (change at Brussels)
• Cost: From £ 100.00 return

It might not have the same level of tourism as Bruges but, for a less-crowded, beautiful medieval Belgian city break, put Ghent on your itinerary. The University city is actually only 30 minutes from Brussels, so you could easily combine both. But with historic sites, street art, independent breweries and a celebrated food scene – it’s great for a city break in its own right.

One of the city’s landmarks is 12th Century Gravensteen, although the faint hearted may want to just visit the exterior. It’s got a pretty gruesome history which you can find out about for €10. For more medieval history, minus the torture devices, head to the Gothic St Bavo’s Cathedral & The Ghent Alterpiece and The Belfry Tower for beautiful architecture and stunning views.

Back down at street level, head to Patershol, a colourful, cobbled former leather trade district which is now a haven for foodies. Its winding laneways are home to restaurants including Karel de Stoute, modern European spot Roots, and Le Baan Thai.

Ghent is also the city of beer, so hop your way around breweries like Hal 16, Gruut and Brouwbar for craft beer and micro-brewery tastings. Other things to check out include vintage shopping at St Jacob’s flea market as well as street art and plenty of galleries. As you might expect from the city that produced electronic band Soulwax/2ManyDjs – there’s plenty do at night too. Head to Bar Lume for gigs, and Kompass or Charlatan for club nights.

The Ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort hotel is centrally-located and good value.

Cologne, Germany Via Eurostar / Thalys (11 trains a day)

• Train: Eurostar & Thalys
• Travel time from London: 6hrs 13 min (change at Brussels Midi)

Germany is now accessible from London by train , with more routes expected to open in the not too distant future. But you can head to Cologne for a city break right now, with a change at Brussels Midi. Cologne is one of the biggest cities in Germany, famous for its Gothic Cathedral, beer culture, Roman history and progressive atmosphere – it’s home to one of the biggest Pride parades in Europe.

Cologne Cathedral aside, the city isn’t renowned for its architecture; at least not its modern architecture, as it was heavily bombed during World War II. But there’s plenty of interesting things to see and do on a city break. Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and you can find remnants of its Roman history in the city centre and at the Romano-Germanic Museum. If you’re visiting in spring, take a stroll to the beautiful botanical garden close to the left bank of the Rhine.

For a glimpse of some surviving pre-war architecture, check out the Art Nouveau buildings in the Belgian Quarter. It’s also a fun area to hang out in, filled with street art, cafés, restaurants, clubs and bars. Venture a little out of the city centre to Jack In the Box – a strange multi-purpose space made up of old freight containers that hosts everything from street food festivals and flea markets to gigs.

Reasonably-priced accommodation includes the Urban Loft and the Ibis Budget Köln Messe .

While we do our best to ensure it is correct, information is subject to change. This article was originally published in July 2020. Most recent update: Feb 25th 2024.

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This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to london departing on 10/1. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to london.

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Flights to london - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to london to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest flight to london.

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight to London was $127 for a one-way ticket from New York and $358 for a round-trip. The most popular route searched for by our users was for flights from Los Angeles to London and the best round-trip deal found in the last 3 days was $400.

How much is a flight to London?

On average, a flight to london costs $681. the cheapest price found on kayak in the last 2 weeks cost $122 and departed from miami. the most popular routes on kayak are los angeles to london which costs $855 on average, and new york to london, which costs $669 on average., see prices from:, what is the cheapest day to fly to london, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to london is wednesday where tickets can be as cheap as $821. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is saturday, where prices are $895 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to london, the cheapest month for flights to london is january, where tickets cost $558 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are june and july, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $995 and $922 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is january with an average price of $535., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to london, the cheapest time of day to fly to london is generally in the evening, when flights cost $593 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to london is generally in the morning, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $671., what is a good deal for flights to london, if you’re looking for cheap airfare to london, 25% of our users found tickets to london for the following prices or less: from new york john f kennedy intl airport $314 one-way - $552 round-trip, from los angeles $345 one-way - $601 round-trip, from chicago o'hare intl airport $467 one-way - $697 round-trip., how far in advance should i book a flight to london, to get a below average price, you should book around 2 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 87 days before departure., which is the cheapest airport to fly into in london, prices will differ depending on the departure airport, but generally, the cheapest airport to fly to in london is london southend airport, with an average flight price of $73., which airlines fly to london, airlines flying the most to london from united states are british airways, american airlines and virgin atlantic. see the amount of flights per week for popular airlines flying to london., which airline offers the most flights to london, of the 6 airlines that fly to london, british airways offers the most flights, with around 467 per week, followed by easyjet with 311 flights per week., how many airports are there in london, there are 6 airports in london: london heathrow airport (lhr), london gatwick airport (lgw), london stansted airport (stn), london luton airport (ltn), london city airport (lcy) and london southend airport (sen). the busiest airport is london heathrow airport (lhr), with 50% of all flights arriving there., how long is the flight to london, the duration of your flight to london depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to london on kayak are from boston , which takes 6h 20m, new york , which takes 6h 45m, miami , which takes 8h 45m, and san francisco , which takes 10h 19m., how many direct flights to london are there each day, there are around 225 direct flights from within united states to london every day. most flights depart in the evening, with 6:00 pm the most common departure time and 56% of flights departing in the evening., how many direct flights to london are there each week, each week there are around 1,569 direct flights from within united states to london. the most common day for departures is friday, with 15% of flights taking off on this day., how many long-haul flights are there to london each week, each week there are around 2,830 long-haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration), 1,205 medium-haul (3-6 hour flight duration) and 7,931 short-haul (up to 3 hour flight duration) flights to london. the most long-haul flights depart from new york., how many cities have direct flights to london, from the united states, there are direct flights to london from 30 cities. the city with the most direct flights is new york, with 365 direct flights each week., good to know, when to book flights to london, faqs - booking london flights, how many terminals does heathrow airport have.

Heathrow Airport (LHR) has four terminals: Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. Travelers can walk through the pedestrian underpass from terminals 2 to 3 and vice versa. You can use the free shuttle trains or underground London services when connecting to other terminals. Moving from one airport terminal to another takes about 20 minutes.

Which airport is closest to Buckingham Palace?

Buckingham Palace is recognized worldwide as home to the royal family. The state rooms are open to the public for ten weeks during the summer and selected days during winter and spring. London City Airport (LCY) is the closest to the palace, 9.2 miles away. Heathrow Airport (LHR) is 15 miles, London Gatwick Airport (GBR) is 34 miles, London Luton Airport (GBR) is 34.3 miles, and London Stansted Airport (STN) is 39.5 miles from the palace.

How do I get to the city from London City Airport (LCY)?

There are various ways to get into the city from London City Airport (LCY). First, you can take a public bus which takes 50 minutes to the city and will cost £5 (about $6). A Taxi ride costs £41 ($50) and takes 15 minutes. A train ride costs £5 (about $6) and takes 21 minutes and lastly, a shuttle ride costs £58 (about $50) and will take you 21 minutes.

What services are there for business travelers in Heathrow?

Heathrow has bookable meeting rooms, such as its Regus Express business lounge, which can be rented by the hour. Along with their premium lounges, business travelers can also rent cell phones and pre-order foreign currency in advance, ensuring that the required currency will be available upon arrival. These services further enhance the convenience for business travelers.

Which London airport is closest to downtown?

London City Airport (LCY) is the closest in terms of physical proximity to the downtown area and can be reached via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and city buses. However, most of its flights are short hauls to mainland Europe. If your flight to London originated across the Atlantic, chances are that Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the best airport option for quick access to the city.

Which London airport offers good services for families traveling with children?

Both Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick Airport (GBR) have excellent facilities for families and children. Heathrow’s Stay & Play is available in Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 and features slides, play spots, and separate areas for babies and young children. At Gatwick, there are Kids zones in both the North and South Terminals, both of which provide play areas and free TV for young travelers.

Can I store my luggage at Heathrow Airport (LHR)?

Layovers are frequent at Heathrow Airport (LHR). The airport has excellent luggage storage facilities managed by Excess Baggage Company, where storage duration determines charges. Baggage and luggage can be stored for a few hours or up to 90 days. 0-3 hours will cost you £7.50 and 3-24 hours will cost you £12.50.

Are there good restaurants in Heathrow?

Heathrow Airport (LHR) has an expansive restaurant selection, ranging from fine dining to quick bites. Additionally, you can even order your food in advance from participating restaurants via the LHR London Heathrow Airport app. Furthermore, many restaurants in Heathrow offer 15-minute menus, as they understand that every minute counts during your travels.

Which London airport is closest to central London?

Out of the 6 airports in London, London City is the nearest to the city center (8 miles). You'll travel 14 miles to reach the center of London if you land in London Heathrow Airport, 24 miles if you land in London Gatwick Airport, and 28 miles if you arrive in London Luton Airport.

On average, a flight to London costs $681. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $122 and departed from Miami Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to London?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to London.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to London?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to London is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to London?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to London with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to London?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to London up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to London

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest London flight deals.
• Landing at any of the six international airports in London guarantees an excellent travel experience. These airports have passenger assistants to help travelers navigate through the airports and special assistance programs for those who require extra help. Programs such as the Sunflower Lanyard at London Luton Airport (GBR) and London Southend Airport (SEN), as well as the Blue Badge scheme at Heathrow Airport (LHR), assist airport employees in identifying travelers who may need additional assistance.
• Inter-terminal movements are often unavoidable at Heathrow Airport (LHR). If you land at the airport, you will need to obtain a free inter-terminal ticket from one of the machines at the station in order to use the airport shuttles. However, if you have a connecting flight at Heathrow, you won't need to use the shuttles. The airport provides frequent flight connections and buses to take you to the next terminal without leaving the passenger-only area.
• Flights to London can land you in any number of airports serving the greater London area . Six international airports service London and, in terms of number of passengers served, they rank as follows: Heathrow Airport (LHR), London Gatwick Airport (GBR), London Stansted Airport (STN), London Luton Airport (GBR), London City Airport (LCY) and London Southend Airport (SEN). Lucky travelers flying to London have a plethora of options.
• The most popular airport, Heathrow Airport (LHR) easily connects to the London Underground and can be reached via the Piccadilly Line. Travel time should be under an hour and a single-way fare will be upwards of £6 (around USD $8.00). Heathrow has three separate stations on the London Underground: one for terminals 2 and 3 and one each for terminals 4 and 5.
• Landing at London Gatwick Airport (GBR)? There are several popular ways to reach the city from the airport. Trains run to London Bridge and Victoria, and many locations around the city are reachable from London Blackfriars. As if that weren't enough, coaches and shuttle buses also offer services to numerous other locations across the city.
• When traveling with a lot of luggage and flying to Heathrow Airport (LHR), you can request porter services available at the airport. You can hail a porter in the baggage halls, and they will assist you with your luggage. Porters charge £30 for 1-8 bags and operate from 6 am to 9 pm.
• If you love animal therapy, you should consider landing at London Southend Airport (SEN). The airport has partnered with Essex Therapy Dogs to provide therapy dogs. These dogs roam around the airport's terminals seeking to ease the anxiety and stress travelers face.
• The No1 Lounge at Heathrow Terminal 3 is a serene refuge in one of the world's busiest airports, perfect for travelers on long layovers . It features snack machines, cozy seating, and complimentary buffet-style food options. The fully stocked bar offers a wide selection of premium beverages. The lounge provides various seating areas, including a mini cinema, a bistro with high tables for work and snacks, a lounge area with comfortable sofas, and private meeting spaces.
• Are you landing at Heathrow Airport (LHR)? If you would like a quiet place to meditate , take advantage of the multi-faith prayer rooms available. You can find the rooms at Terminal 2 Gate A21, Terminal 3 Gate 24, Terminal 4 Mezzanine Level, Terminal 4 Gate4, and Terminal 5 Gates A8, B34, and C52. The prayer rooms are open from 7 am to 7 pm.
• If duty-free shopping is one of the perks you enjoy while traveling, then Heathrow Airport (LHR) is definitely the airport to visit. Not only do they offer an extensive range of luxury stores and products, but you can also save time by pre-ordering purchases a day in advance, allowing you to skip the lines. Additionally, Heathrow Reward members earn points with every purchase, which can later be redeemed for miles and various other perks.

Prefer to fly non-stop to London?

Find which airlines fly direct to London, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to London

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +120 more

ANA, AccesRail, +121 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +121 more

ANA, AccesRail, +122 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +122 more

ANA, AccesRail, +123 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +118 more

ANA, AccesRail, +119 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +124 more

ANA, AccesRail, +125 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +123 more

ANA, AccesRail, +124 more

Nonstop returns

London to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to london.

Carly the flight attendant was extremely helpful and very accommodating to passengers on the flight from what I noticed. Couldn't be more satisfied with the service and assistance from Delta's flight attendant, Thanks again Carly!!

I didn’t not like that I could not select my seat and ended up with the worse seat.

I didn’t like that I could not select my seat and was assigned a seat when I checked in at LAX

Delta did an awful job w logistics at DTW. Missed connection. We were there an hour early. SUCKED

Inflight entertainment stopped working as we taxi to runway and never worked again until landing and taxi to gate. Grrrr

Had to run to make it only to have the flight delayed to wait for all the late connectors Second drink service skipped up

Boarding was a sh!t show. JFK BOARDING was awful. The agent called three sections at a time Clogging the area then yelling at people to not block the walk way. How are you going to call delta one , premium select and comfort plus at once and the yell at highest paying passengers. Need to do a lot better and the flight attendants in the galley need to understand that their voices travel. They were talking about others and everyone in the cabin heard them

Uncomfortable seats on 14 hour flight. Mediocre food. On time and great crew.

Please see my lengthy description on MSP to Atlanta survey. Tailbone is killing me from old hard seats. Seat would not recline and were not near exit row. Entertainment did not work properly and couldn’t use. No audio and touch screen failed. 3 plus hours of discomfort in narrower seats than previous flight not in comfort plus. Very dissatisfied and deserve comfort plus charges refunds, at the very least, for both my wife and I. The plane needs to be retired. Please feel free to contact me directly for further details.

MSP to Atlanta was much better than Atlanta to St. Kitts. Paid $180 each for myself and wife for Delta comfort from Atlanta to St. Kitts. Seats were more narrow and obviously old and worn out. Tailbone is killing me. Seat would not recline. Seats behind reclined and we were not an exit row or in front of an exit row. Entertainment did not work in that the movie jumped forward and back and there was no audio. The plug in the arm rest was loose. Flight attendant tried “resetting” the video for my seat but no good. She never checked back. Someone else near me had the same issue. Touch screen was unresponsive. No where near as comfortable as MSP to Atlanta flight. 3 plus hrs. flight time without the basic amenities and not even remotely close to comfortable but paid for Comfort plus. I will be very disappointed if I have the same on my return “Comfort Plus” flight St. Kitts to Atlanta. At the very least my wife and I should be refunded for round trip “Comfort Plus” charges. Please feel free to contact me directly for more details.

Staff didn’t check cabin well for landing seemed more interested in chatting to each other. Food was poor and differed from pre order.

We were in the last group to be called to the flight - which was 30 minutes late taking off. While we were lucky enough to have been given bulkhead seats (due to a medical condition I’d told them about beforehand) the seats weren’t particularly comfortable. A crying baby for the whole trip made things worse, so the crew managed very well with coping. The final thing I’d say was that there wasn’t enough food served during the flight.

Very good. Glad we had Premium for the flight out.

From the start everything was perfectly fine. First meal was fantastic. Breakfast needs a lot of work and food was overcooked and not very nice for breakfast. Staff were fantastic friendly nice they came round and check we need anything else to eat or drink

From the start everything was perfectly fine. First meal was fantastic. Breakfast needs a lot of work and food was overcooked and not very nice for breakfast. Staff for a fantastic friendly nice we came round and check we need anything else to eat or drink

From the start everything was perfectly fine. First meeting was fantastic. Breakfast needs a lot of work and food was overcooked and not very nice for breakfast.

We originally had a window seat. Our seats were changed to the center isle between 2 bathrooms. This was a red eye flight and we were traveling with an infant. Due to the light from the bathroom doors opening and closing throughout the night our infant would not sleep and cried the whole night which kept us awake and everyone around us. It was a very unpleasant experience for everyone trying to sleep.

Tai-City to Atlanta :Lots of legroom on the flight. No interaction from the staff at all on the plane. They only attended to the First Class passengers. There was no entertainment. Security I was body scanned even though I hadn't set off an alarm, my father-in-law in his 80s, was stopped and subjected to a through body search, told that they would have to place their hands in intimate places. There were several border guards present, and as we walked off we could hear the TWA officer talk about the procedure as if he was training. My father-in-law was a little upset about the whole process. A kind explanation that training was taking place would have been more acceptable, and it felt dehumanizing to him. Atlanta to London: Check in was difficult we had been unable to do this online for 2 of the family members on the same booking both in their mid to late-80s. No seats had been allocated for them and we were all travelling Premium Economy. After several phone calls to the booking agent and conversations with Delta staff at TriCites airport, we were told that seats would be allocated at the gate in Atlanta. When we arrived at Atlanta, and spoke to a member of the boarding staff at the gate, he was curt and repeated back exactly what we had just told him, that only one of us was checked in. I explained that we had been unable to check-in online for the 2 family members (I had tried twice). He again repeated back that we needed to check-in. As we were in transit, I was at a loss at what he wanted us to do, but he kept repeating that we needed to do this. I asked where we should do this. No answer. In fact all he did throughout was look at his screen. He told us that there were no seats in Premium Economy, and that he could offer my parents-in-law 'two seats at the back'. I asked if he meant at the back of Premium Economy, and he replied, 'No, at the back of the plane'. At this point, myself and my father-in-law pointed out that they had paid for Premium Economy tickets and expected seats there. He never took his eyes off the screen once. Then he hit a button and it printed out two boarding passes for my parents-in-law. The seats were directly across from my seat. He had gone from saying there were no seats to somehow finding two together. No explanation, no eye contact, nothing. The flight: As we boarded, our first introduction to the flight was the stewardess at the entrance addressing a passenger with an annoyed and loud voice about a bag that belonged to them. That was not promising. The seats were good, and so were all the accessories. The food, etc.: we had flown with Virgin on our outward journey and I could not fault it. The service and food was excellent, the stewards very helpful, offering additional drinks and snacks. The toilets were more accessible than Delta, which were in the economy area and were told in no uncertain terms that we should not use the First Class toilets, even though they were much closer to our section of the plane. We had a menu for both flights, yet when I asked for the chicken dish on Delta, I was told that there was none left and that there was another chicken dish with mashed potatoes and that 'it was fine'. This was almost pushed on me before I could answer. I was sitting 3 rows from the front of the section, so I was surprised that they had already run out. I repeated that I would like the chicken dish on the menu, and asked whether she would be able to get one from her colleague who was serving in the other aisle. The stewardess replied 'No, that's not how it works!' It always has on previous flights, so I was a bit confused. I accepted that I would have to opt for the pasta option (no choice), but was a little perturbed by her response. Minutes later she returns and hands me the chicken dish I had originally asked for. I had already started eating the other one, but was told curtly that I could have both. This was the same stewardess who was shouting at a passenger as we boarded the plane. The food was very poor in the end, nowhere near as good as Virgin's. Unlike Virgin, there was no starter, no bread roll, just a main and a brownie served in a cardboard container. Virgin had provided real china and glass. Unlike Virgin, they did not return to ask if we wanted more drinks, and there was no tea or coffee served after the meal. The breakfast that was served later was equally poor and inedible, apart from the fruit. At the time, the stewardess, a different one, completely walked past my mother-in-law and did not offer her a hot drink. Both my parents-in-law are in their mid to late 80s, they have been world travellers in their time and had decided that this would be the last flight that they ever take. They have health problems, including memory issues. I feel that overall the journey back to London was pretty unpleasant for them especially, and that they were treated badly, especially by the ground staff. We have lived on two continents and are used to long haul flights, and I have to say that this is up there in the worst flight category. Bearing in mind that we had paid extra money expecting comfort and additional attention, it was extremely disappointing. I would fly Virgin again, but never Delta. The two flights were incomparable.

Lots of legroom on the flight. No interaction from the staff at all on the plane. They only attended to the First Class passengers. There was no entertainment. Security I was body scanned even though I hadn't set off an alarm, my father-in-law in his 80s, was stopped and subjected to a through body search, told that they would have to place their hands in intimate places. There were several border guards present, and as we walked off we could hear the TWA officer talk about the procedure as if he was training. My father-in-law was a little upset about the whole process. A kind explanation would have been more acceptable, and it felt dehumanizing to him.

Needed a 6 hour lay over in Atlanta. How can this be avoided ?

Was flying in premium eco and there were around 5-6 movies I wanted to watch and none of those could I play for some reasons. Not just me we checked w the person sitting next to me. Few of the movies were only playable :( Also that was not great that we couldn't upgrade to business however tried to, many times before the flight :(

You cancelled my flight by email then made it very difficult to get in contact with you. Then put me in a flight with a long layover in Mexico returning to the wrong airport in uk. Mind blowing my stressful. I missed see my grand dad because of you.

This was not the BA business class it used to be. Mediocre food, attendants seemed stretched thin. All the little luxuries that used to make BA business fun were missing. Flight delayed and the explanation given was they forgot to pick up crew - I hope I misheard! Transfer in LHR “sticky” - we thought we had way too much time at 3hours but it was needed. Next time will try different route.

Always getting updates by email very easy to check in on line. There was plenty of checking in staff to get you all through. It was nice that the flight attendants took time to talk to you and were interested in your holiday.

Flight from Phoenix to London was very quiet. Excellent space available for comfort, couldn't fault

Food was very average. And top up drinks offer was absent. For a 11 hour long flight that should be the minimum. The crew didn't want to be there. I understand it was new year day but given they had signed up for it

It was my fault choosing the seat nearest the entrance but it was ok.

It was good, the staff was friendly and it was a typical flight to Europe.

My flight was a little marred by poorly fuctioning / loose headphone sockets meaning I had to move twice. The meals were good and the staff are always amazing, attentive and friendly. My bag was lost on my previos trip with BA for 15 days of my 18 day trip, however I experienced no such issues this time despite my fears. Overall ok but aircraft need better looking after.

I was placed in a seat assignment that I was unable to change prior to the boarding day. I showed up hours before boarding and prior to boarding I asked if I could be moved to sit next to my children. Without even looking or checking, I was immediately told that it was not possible to move anyone. I went ahead and waited until boarding at which time I sat down next to my children anyways. When the passenger that was supposed to be sitting next to my children showed up, he was very understanding, and immediately asked me if I was sitting next to family, to which I replied “yes,” after which he said “it’s okay” to let me know that I can continue sitting in his seat, while he takes my seat. However, in a very contrasting and rude manner, the very person that I asked earlier, if I could be moved, that was sitting at the gate prior to boarding the airplane, showed up across the other side of the aisle, and started screaming across the airplane, where everyone could hear, to have me move out of the seat I was currently sat in, or else she would remove me from the plane, during which time the other passenger told her (the American Airlines worker in charge) that it was okay, and he doesn’t mind that I was in his seat, making her aware that I was next to family, which is where I belonged. There was no complaint at any given time by anyone, including the passenger whose seat I was in, but my safety and my children’s safety was now in danger because of an American Airlines worker, that has no regard to her surroundings or the situation that she was actually facing. The importance and clarity that was predominant in her mind, was for me not to sit in any other seat, other than the one that I was assigned, not next to my children, even though the flight was booked for all of us at the same time. I understand it isn’t always possible to make certain seat assignments together, but when a passenger with the assigned seat next to my family is OK with me switching out with him, I would think the American Airlines worker in charge should not care, unless she considered a threat, but if I was a threat, I should have been removed from the airplane at the first sign. I was aggressive, I never raised my voice, but I did for a few seconds delay, my calculated response when I was asked to move. The passengers surrounding us were in awe of the way that the American Airlines worker in charge handled this situation, and pointed out that many other passengers in that very same airplane, just prior to our “event” had switched out their seats assigned, but I was singled out, possibly because I had requested this prior to boarding the plane. This made me wonder what kind of company American Airlines really is, and has since altered my newfound opinion of this company as a recent. I am very disappointed with American Airlines due to this event that has happened during boarding and prior to flying out on a trip I booked for my daughter that just turned 16 years of age, and her first time flying at the age of emancipation with her father.

Fare was much lower with a layover in London as I was able avoid numerous landing fees that would have been added to the ticket price had I booked a direct flight to Amsterdam.

We have business class seats from Los Angeles to London. The crew is friendly and provided great service. The flight was very comfortable and very smooth. Will use this airlines again in the future.

The flight was delayed numerous times with inconsistent updates and very ambiguous information. When it was finally cancelled the logistics of handing out vouchers and rebooking was extremely chaotic. Meal vouchers were completely inadequate for the airport restaurants, and not even accepted at some. All-in-all, it was a very disappointing experience.

Terrible. The flight from Islamabad to London took 3 hours more then previously planned, I missed my connection to Chicago, and instead had to go New York, spend an extra day before arriving at my final destination. The return leg of the journey was similar. The connection time in Qatar was shrinked to less then an hour unannounced, I had to scramble to barely make it to my flight to Islamabad. Terrible experience, never using British airways again.

The crew on this flight were attentive, efficient and friendly. It really made for an enjoyable flight.

They canceled my flight , they put me on a different flight that was delayed and the connection was lost . They lost my luggage. And now I’m stuck with any of my belongings.

British Airways canceled our plane and gave us a new flight scheduled to leave in only three hours, so we had to drop everything and rush to the airport. The new itinerary only left us a one hour layover in Madrid, which was too short because the plane landed late and so we missed our connecting flight. We were then booked onto a flight scheduled to take off 8 hours later, and were not given any compensation or remedial measures.

Seat layout, flight/club attendant service, food variety and quality could have been better. Business class Standard is visibly low compared with 6 other airlines that we have traveled for the past two years.

Despite many attempts to work out a change, neither British Airways nor Kayak nor Chatdeal would allow us to cancel or change this flight so we lost all of the payments when we were not able to fly. Absolutely terrible customer service. We will never use either of the services again.

It said that there was wifi. During the flight there was no wifi and while waiting at the gate the phone services already got cut off so I wasn’t able to say I am taxiing from the gate to my husband. This left me with an uncomfortable feeling. So I was waiting on the WiFi connection during flight and that never happened.

I loved the ability to upgrade my seat which was worth it. The large seat and ability to recline made it comfortable to fall asleep. My only two complaints were entertainment (movie selections were old) and approx 30 mins before landing the crew started to collect the blankets despite the cabin air temperature remaining cold. Maybe wait for passengers to get off the plane before collecting the blankets.

Excellent! Although it stinks to pay extra for leg room and then have no screen option.

Very much dislike: Airline requires check-in at the Airport Airline does not work with TSA PreCheck

Overall a great experience. Only complaint was the movie selection was pretty limited, but that's pretty minor in the grand scheme of things and easy to overcome.

The crew was unfriendly front check-in. The filth in the plane was so disappointing. I could smell dirt and looked up and there was literally dirt that was blowing in through the air. Old food on the seat back tray in front of me so I didn’t use it. No toilet paper in the bathroom and scum/old dirt next to the seats.

No blanket pillow headphones, not even a water or snack makes for a very uncomfortable flight. There are too many extra fees that should be basic and standard included.

There was no communication about the check-in process, even the fact that Norse doesn’t do online check-in! And once we were at the Los Angeles airport (LAX), there was no signage or assistance about where to check in. I kept Googling for 3rd party information until I finally found on the airport website that we had to check in at Terminal 1 and be bussed back to Terminal B, the international terminal. How were we supposed to know that?! Otherwise, the flight itself was comfortable and the attendants were helpful and friendly. I just feel like we were lucky to have managed the check-in and boarding process on our own - why keep it a secret??

The flight was comfortable, smooth, hardly any bumps even though we encountered some jetstream. The onboard entertainment could be jazzed up a little, the TV shows were old ans not much variety. The movies we ok. The staff was pleasant. The Orlando ground crew was excellent, they were pleasantand friendly. My kids and I were seated separately but the Orlando crew was able to reassign us together. The ground crew at Gatwick, UK need some work on attitude, they were not so sociable. All in all wonderful flight to and from England. I will be definitely traveling with Norse again. Ps...Norse need to work on an app for both Android and iOS.

Crew at airport who completed boarding were incredibly and blatantly rude and unhelpful. 0/10 customer service. I was going to upgrade my seat to first class and upon asking, I was met with an awful attitude so I changed my mind.

Boarding was a disaster. 2 hours in line to get boarding passes and we had no luggage to check in. Coffee was $4 so is water. 11 and a half hour’s flight and food was not included. You could purchase the food but it was complete garbage, This is worse than spirit airline. Never again

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20 best budget day trips from london.

We all know London can be an expensive city – if you don’t know how to see it like a local that is – but what about getting out of the capital to discover some fabulous places around?

Well, just like the locals know how to do London cheaply, so they also know the best places to visit from the capital in a day… and how to get to them cheaply too.

So after my recent pitstop back in my old stomping ground, I decided to uncover exactly what they were by asking friends and family for their top London day trips and then following their advice!

Unlike a lot of London day trip articles I read when researching where to go, these day trips really are day trips from London!

They won’t take you to Edinburgh or Paris or Liverpool because, quite frankly, while you can get to those places and back in a day from London, it’ll barely leave you enough time to grab 1 quick snap before you have to turn around!

In my opinion therefore, these places really aren’t London day trips – they are just places you can get to in a day from London!

On the other hand (*clears throat*), the following top 20 London day trips are places you can easily reach within 2 hours from the capital, making them both time and budget-friendly brilliant options!

So I won’t leave you hanging any longer!

Here are the top 20 day trips from London if you’re travelling on a budget…

Related Posts

• 21 Free Things to Do in London the Locals Love
• Top 12 Tips When Renting a Car in the UK
• 10 Best Places for a Walk in London, Local Style!

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

#1 Bath, Somerset

Located in the county of Somerset, Bath is a long, but very rewarding day trip from London – and it’s easily doable on a budget if you book your train tickets in advance.

With tons of insta-worthy cobbled streets, character-filled bars and old buildings, you don’t have to spend a lot when you’re here, with many places to snap and wander for free… including along the river!

Check out the UNESCO World Heritage Bath Abbey and the famous Royal Crescent from outside for free and save your money for the Roman Baths, which truly are worth the splurge as you can lose yourself there for a good few hours.

Discover more about the best things to see and do in this city in my perfect Bath day trip itinerary .

#2 Stonehenge & Salisbury, Wiltshire

It’s a double classic and an absolute family favourite, there’s no question the combination of Stonehenge and Salisbury is on my list of the top London day trips to make on a budget.

Because yes, despite being a perennial and popular winner, taking a trip here can be surprisingly cost-effective, especially if you use the Stonehenge Tour Bus and / or you’re an English Heritage or National Trust member!

Catch the train to Salisbury and see Stonehenge, Old Sarum, the Cathedral and an original copy of the Manga Carta in a day to tick 4 UNESCO giants off your list!

You can easily drive here and explore the area independently, or take an arranged day trip from London too.

All these options are explored in my article about how to travel from London to Stonehenge .

Or, learn about all the different sorts of Stonehenge tickets there are, which are most cost-effective, and which you should buy, in this article I wrote.

However you get there and whichever way you visit this 5 thousand-year-old Stone Circle however, just make sure you do!

#3 Seven Sisters, East Sussex

If you didn’t think England had any wild and dramatic landscapes, then think again, because the cliffs of the Seven Sisters are about to prove you wrong!

Located down in East Sussex, and part of the impressive South Downs National Park, these towering chalk cliffs (similar to Dover but different!) are set between the town of Eastbourne and Seaford.

Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Great Britain, is situated along here and, to the west of that, a series of beautiful walks will take you through the national park and along the cliff edges to cute villages and pebbly coves like that of Cuckmere Haven.

This is a great day trip for those who want to take in huge gulps of fresh sea air and get their stomp on too!

Either you can drive here, arrive by public transport, or take a tour from London , all of which are reasonably priced.

Learn more about all these options, plus everything you need to know about visiting the Seven Sisters, in this full guide I wrote about the place.

#4 Oxford, Oxfordshire

Is this the most famous university city in the world?

And you know what, it’s no less amazing for it!

One of the best day trips from London without question, the best way to get to Oxford on a budget is by bus – either the good old National Express or the Megabus if you’re especially skint!

Wander the picture-perfect university halls of this ancient city or head to the more trendy Cowley Road to experience a bit of Oxford’s more alternative side.

For a small city, Oxford has a lot going on and wonderfully combines historical attractions with beautiful parks and green spaces.

Of all the best budget day trips from London on this list, Oxford has to rank as one of my favourites, so don’t miss it!

Check out this guide I wrote about how to enjoy the perfect Oxford day trip if you want to learn more.

#5 Whitstable, Kent

Whitstable, on the Kent coast, is a fantastic seaside day out form London if you’re looking to get your vitamin sea fix!

A quaint and quirky place full of great independent shops, cafe, art galleries and antique stores, there’s also some wonderful coastal walking and cycle tracks that lead from here, as well as some of the best oysters and / or fish and chips you can get in England!

But best of all is Whitstable Beach – a shingle stretch of coastline that boasts amazing paddling potential, pints on the pebbles and kayaking / SUP-ing opps, as well as one of the best ocean sunsets in the UK.

Learn more in my complete guide visiting Whitstable or, if you’re looking to explore other places in this county, read my post about how best to travel from London to Kent.

#6 Box Hill, Surrey

If it’s country views, rather than coastal views, that you’re after however, then you really can’t go wrong with a budget London day trip to Box Hill.

Located in Surrey, just south of the capital, this is a very easy and quick one to access either via public transport or in a vehicle.

A famous National Trust area known for its beautiful sweeping views, the elevated nature of Box Hill and the wonderful nature around it, makes it ideal for those who want to get out of the city for a good walk and some fresh air.

Check out my list of the 6 best Box Hill walks here – they’re all free!

#7 Battle & Hastings, East Sussex

But now we’re back to the coast for this double day trip whammy that brings the best of history and British seaside splendour to the fore.

Site of the famous Battle of Hastings – there’s no question the small town of the same name down in Sussex is a worth a few hours of your time to explore and learn about this incredible event that shaped the country’s history forever.

Then, just a few stops on via the train, you get to the seaside escape of Hastings – a wonderfully vintage and kitsch coastal destination complete with a heritage-feel old town, traditional fishing port, stunning pier, sweeping promenade and some great mini coves and clifftop views to take.

Combining these 2 destinations, which are really close together, is an ideal London day trip and totally accessible to those on a budget thanks to very cheap train fares.

Learn more in this post I wrote all about my favourite things to do in and around Hastings .

#8 Thames Path, Oxfordshire

There’s miles of the Thames Path to explore, and pretty much all the stretches of it make great London day trips on a budget – after all, walking along the peaceful banks of this world-famous river, via a well-marked trail which runs from the Cotswolds to Henley, won’t cost you a penny!

You can learn about completing the whole length of the Thames Path in 6 days here , otherwise, pick a section and head out from London to explore the gentle surrounds of the city at their best.

One of my favourite stretches has to be between from Goring in Oxfordshire through to Pangbourne in Berkshire, where there’s plenty of lovely places to swim in the river or relax on the banks as you trundle along.

#9 Canterbury + White Cliffs of Dover, Kent

Absolutely one of the best places to visit in Kent , and a very famous and easy day trip from London, is heading to the historic city of Canterbury – a site of pilgrimage since the Middle Ages and home to one of the oldest religious buildings in England.

UNESCO-listed and up there with St Pauls , Westminster Abbey and Salisbury Cathedral , this is a very cheap London day trip thanks to the well-priced train fares and quick, direct access.

You can also combine visiting Canterbury with some other sites in Kents, including the White Cliffs of Dover or Leeds Castle (yes confusingly it’s in Kent, I know!) either as part of your own independent itinerary or an organised day trip from London .

#10 Rye and Camber Sands, East Sussex

One of my favourite London day trips on a budget, because it combines one of England’s prettiest historic towns with one of its most gorgeous stretches of coastline, what really makes this one a winner for me is the fact it allows you to get a walk in aswell!

Catch the train to Rye from either London Bridge or St Pancras and in under 2 hours you can be in this Instagram fav, where the Medieval streets and quaint buildings will have you feeling like you’re walking through a real-life museum.

Once you’ve had your fill of cobbles and cuteness, it’s then time to set out for the beach, with a delightful 3 mile trail leading you straight to this gorgeous sandy strip.

Spend the afternoon here on the sand, enjoying the sea views, before retracing your steps and ticking this brilliant budget London day trip off your list with aplomb.

Learn all about how to plan and enjoy a top London day trip to Rye and Camber Sands here .

#11 Chiltern Hills, Hertfordshire & Buckinghamshire

Everyone knows walking is a great free activity when you travel, and one of the best day trips out of London for a good old stroll is the Chiltern Hills.

Trains take as little as 30 minutes from Central London (most depart from London Euston) and will transport you to any number of picturesque market towns such as Hitchin, Henley-on-Thames, Pangbourne, Berkhamsted or Tring where you’ll find rolling green countryside, quintessential pubs and historic sites.

Some Chiltern towns, such as Amersham, are even accessible using the London Underground, making them super cheap to get to as you can use your Oyster or Contactless cards.

Once in the Chiltern Hills you can enjoy riverside walks along the Thames Path, strolls around the charming towns or even bigger hikes into the surrounding rolling countryside if you’re feeling energetic!

Wonderful gastro-pubs, cafes and restaurants can be found in all the main towns here, as well as along the canals and scattered around the countryside, making the Chiltern Hills a great spot for a day trip or longer!

#12 Margate, Kent

One of my all time favourite day trips from London, Margate is a faded seaside town making a serious revival!

Its vintage, quirky feel is very distinct and at it oozes a seriously cool vibe at some seriously cool prices!

Going out for dinner or drinks here will cost you around half of what it costs in London and you’ll do it all to the sound of the sea.

With the Turner Contemporary art gallery here free to enter and loads of great cafes (both authentic greasy spoons and hipster, vegan hangouts) not only does Margate make for a great budget day trip from London, but also a super great weekend trip too.

Learn exactly how to travel from London to Margate here .

#13 Saffron Walden & Cambridge, Essex & Cambridgeshire

Booking your bus ticket in advance to get to Cambridge cheaply and easily from London definitely makes this one of the best city day trips on a budget.

Once in this iconic University city, why not stroll the historic streets of this famous destination, take a guided tour with a university graduate or punt along the river instead.

There’s also some amazing bookshops to get lost in too!

It’s worth knowing that both the Fitzwilliam Museum and the University Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology are free to enter in this city and you can visit some of the Cambridge Colleges for a reasonable price too.

Check out my list of the top 10 things to do in Cambridge here .

If you’re driving to Cambridge, then don’t miss a stop in the historic market town of Saffron Walden on the way – parts of it have been around since 1141!

It’s also useful to know that this town has a number of trails you can follow to discover its history – download the information and steps to follow in advance here .

If you’re looking to explore elsewhere in Essex beyond Saffron Walden, then it’s hard to go past the amazing coastal spot of Mersea Island – known for its golden sandy sweeps and cute beach huts.

Learn more in this guide I wrote to visiting Mersea Island.

#14 Tunbridge Wells, Kent

A charming old spa town situated in Kent, and a short and cheap journey by train from London Charing Cross, you can score some real bargains on getting to Tunbridge Wells if you book your ticket a day or 2 in advance.

And once you get to Tunbridge Wells enjoy cosy cafes, lovely parks and a stroll to the historic part of this “Royal” town known as The Pantiles .

Here, independent shops and cobbled streets give a very charming feel to this historically renowned town, which was once favoured by Queen Victoria for its clean air and the healing properties of its waters.

#15 Brighton, East Sussex

If a seaside sojourn is what you’re looking for, then it really is hard to beat Brighton as one of the top London day trips.

If you head here on the train from London Bridge it will be a lot cheaper than getting on the train from London Victoria, so take this budget tip and enjoy the short hour and 15 minute journey for less!

Once in Brighton, you can’t miss a walk on the pier, playing the arcades and strolling the cobbled Laines (north and south!) to discover quirky shops like Snooper’s Paradise where you can pick up a real bargain piece of treasure!

The Vegan Pizza joint, Purezza Brighton , in Kemp Town is a firm locals’ favourite for its delicious healthy dinners!

And if getting some fresh air is for more your thing, then hitting the pebbly beach in Brighton, or heading out to the South Downs National Park, which lies on the city’s doorstep, is a must.

#16 Winchester, Hampshire

And if you want to access the huge South Downs National Park from the other end – perhaps to begin a good walk or multi-day hike here, then there’s no better to place to head than the city of Winchester.

Also home to a famous Cathedral, if you’re coming to this city as part of a day trip from London, then picking a nice circular walk just outside of the city, and combining this with some wandering of the historic streets here, makes for the perfect combination.

Otherwise, you can make Winchester your first stop in a longer trip that either tackles some of the South Downs Way or takes you deeper into Hampshire or perhaps even on to Dorset or Somerset.

Check out my list of the top 13 things to do in Winchester here .

#17 Windsor, Berkshire

Windsor is a great budget day trip from London because it’s so close!

Once there however, you’ll feel anything like you’re on the cheap, with the chance to visit several places with very Royal connections.

Top of the list has to be Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world.

There’s also Frogmore House and Dorney Court to check out too – both of which have very regal connections, as well as the Windsor Great Park which is a lovely place to relax, picnic and spot deer!

And then, of course, there’s also Eton College where Prince William and Harry went to school.

Amble past Eton as part of the Heritage Walking Trail – a free route which takes in many of Windsor’s best sites, including the Castle, the Thames and the winding, cobbled streets of the town itself.

Otherwise, why not explore the amazing Windsor Long Walk ?

This 2+mile straight avenue from Snow Hill down to Windsor Castle is certainly something you won’t forget in a while!

#18 Chichester & Bognor Regis, West Sussex

Situated in East Sussex, Chichester isn’t the cheapest to get to on this best budget day trips from London list.

It does, however, have a stack of free things to do once you get there and, situated on the coast, is a very beautiful spot indeed.

Top of the list when it comes to free things to do in Chichester is visit the famous Cathedral, the child-friendly Novium Museum and the Grade-I listed Pallant House Gallery.

There’s also lots to do out in nature, including the 9km Centurian Way, which is perfect for cyclists and walkers, and West Witterings Beach – a long sandy stretch with plenty of water sports, strolling, sunbathing or swimming to choose from.

With its origins dating back to Roman times, there’s no doubt Chichester has withstood the test of time as one of the UK’s most charming cities, so head on over and see why!

And, if you needed another reason then, just down the road, the sandy beach town of Bognor Regis can’t be overlooked if you’re visiting in the summer.

One of the best spots for a paddle in this part of the UK, it’s a seaside fav!

#19 Hampton Court, Surrey

Just on the outskirts of London, this historic gem (part of the Royal Palaces collection) is an absolute beauty, and what you save on the low transport costs to get here, you can splurge on the entrance fee!

Located within the borough of Richmond, despite its close location to the capital, if you’re not already in the southwest of London it can take a while to get to Hampton Court.

Plus, there’s much to do when you are here, that this place really deserves a day trip all on its own.

From mazes to strolls along the Thames, visiting the Palace of Henry VII to The Gardens and The Wilderness of this beautiful property, it’s a great day out for all the family and a London day trip classic!

#20 Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire

And finally, we come to number 20 on this list of the best London day trips on a budget and also the furthest one away from London.

Yes situated in the West Midlands, Stratford-Upon-Avon does take a while to get to, but it’s such a popular day trip from the capital, especially for those literary fans, that I couldn’t not include it here!

An 800-year old market town and the birthplace of William Shakespeare, this charming town, spread along the banks of the River Avon, is a must for all fans of the Bard!

Don’t miss a performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company if you come here independently or combine a trip to this town with a visit to the Cotswolds and Oxford as part of this great organised London day trip .

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Top 4 Budget Tips for London Travel

Premier Inn and Travelodge offer excellent budget hotel accommodation within London and regularly run special deals.

Otherwise, when it comes to hostel accommodation, you can’t go wrong with the amazingly named Barmy Badger Backpackers !

For something with some hipster vibes, try Kingsland Locke in Shoreditch – the heart of East London. This gorgeous design hotel is perfect for those wanting a trendy stay in the centre of London’s coolest district… and yes, I live just down the road so I am biased!

Getting to London from elsewhere in UK is cheapest via the Megabus .

Otherwise, if you want to catch the train, I always use Trainline to find the best rail deals across the UK thanks to their split-fare technology.

Coming to London from further afield, budget airlines EasyJet and Ryanair offer cheap European air connections.

Use Skyscanner to look for flights to cheap London airports, such as Luton or Stanstead, and then use public transport to get to the city centre.

When in London, or any other UK cities, buy cheap snacks and lunch options at supermarkets such as Sainburys, or shops such as Boots.

Within London, peruse the local markets at places like Brixton or Dalston for great groceries and street eats during the day.

For dinner, head to Brick Lane for delicious, cheap curry or to Kingsland Road for well-priced and excellent Vietnamese fare.

Attractions

If you want to tick off a lot of bucket list stuff in London in a short amount of time, then a great money-saving option is to invest in a London Pass .

This offers discounted entry at stacks of attractions around the city as well as fast track entry!

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, my list of the best budget day trips from London.

How many have you visited?

And which one are you going to next?

Do tell me all in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

2 thoughts on “ 20 Best Budget Day Trips from London ”

As a part-time Bath resident, I love that it’s at the top! Totally agree with Oxford, Cambridge and Chichester too.. thanks for the tips on the others to investigate!

Woo hoo Sarah, big up the Bath crew! Love your city and glad you agree with the others on the list too. So many nice places to explore in the UK – I always forget to appreciate what’s on my doorstep!

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