london day trips in winter

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9 brrrilliant winter day trips from London

From majestic light shows to new steam-train rides, here are the best winter day trips from London

While there are always more than enough fun things to do in London  on any given week, sometimes we all need a little break from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Away from the noise, smog, crowded commuter trains and tourist hordes.

Feel in dire need of some crisp country air, a stiff walk or a serene spa day ? Here are our fave day trips from London to enjoy this winter, all under two hours from Zone 1.

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from London

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9 cool winter day trips from London

1.  For frustrated commuters

Is there anything more magical than a train journey? Okay commuters, let’s rephrase that. Is there anything more magical than an old-fashioned steam locomotive? There are steam-powered train routes across the country, and one of the closest and most charming is the Kent & East Sussex Railway – a route which runs from picture-perfect Tenterden to the small village of Bodiam. All aboard! 

Kent and East Sussex Railway .  Tenterden, Kent. Trains only run on select dates during the winter months, so be sure to c heck the website for details of departures before setting off.

Get there: 57 minutes by train from London Bridge to Headcorn, then 20 minutes by bus.

2.  For the fuzzy-headed

If walking is your thing, make the trip to Oxford for this gorgeous stroll over ancient meadows. Spot ponies, wildflowers and the River Thames looking pretty on this tranquil stretch of common land. And city folk relax: it’s reassuringly close to civilisation and the quaint streets of the university city. After stretching your legs and admiring the views, find a spot by the fire at The Perch, at seventeenth-century thatch-roofed pub framed by an old willow tree. Their mulled cider is worth the trip alone. 

Port Meadow , Oxford. Free.

Get there: Around one hour by train from Paddington Station to Oxford. 

3.  For dedicated drinkers

Warming your toes by a proper fire is one of the best things to do in the chillier months, and nowhere does roaring blazes better than a country pub. Spend an afternoon hopping from one cosy boozer to another along Rye’s cobbled streets. Grab a log-side seat and a Sussex real ale in The George (High Street) before heading to the Globe Inn Marsh (Military Road) for a toasty hour or two with a warming glass of red in hand. As the temperature plummets, trot back into town and pull up a chair beside the ancient Mermaid Inn’s enormous fireplace (Mermaid Street). Fun fact: it comes complete with priest’s hole (no sniggering, please) and is where local smugglers used to hang out in the 1700s.

Rye , East Sussex.

Get there : around one hour 30 minutes by train from London St Pancras International; around two hours 30 minutes by car.

4.  For the always-peckish

We’d have to concede that here aren’t many British winemakers who can hold a candle (or a flute?) to our cousins across the Channel, but the fizz fanatics at Chapel Down are a celebrated exception. Skip the trip to Bordeaux and instead head out on a tour of this Kentish vineyard to whet your appetite, before settling down for a tutored wine tasting. Each glass of vino will be paired with an English cheese – we’re talking hard, full-flavoured rounds and seriously strong blue stuff with grapes and crackers. Be sure to chuck on your stretchiest trousers. 

Chapel Down Cheese and Wine Pairing . Tenterden, Kent. Various dates. £65 per person.

Get there: 55 minutes by train from London Bridge to Headcorn then taxi; around one hour 45 minutes by car.

5.  For the bold and the brave

Stripping down to your swimmers might not seem like an obvious wintertime activity, but Thames Lido is a real delight, whatever the season. Brave the chill in the air to spend a softly lit evening in this whimsical, Grade II-listed stunner. The pool, heated to around 23 degrees, might feel a little fresh, but you’ll soon warm up after a turn in the open-air hot tub and colourful sauna. Your post-swim reward is a festive two-course dinner in the twinkly poolside restaurant. Who said lidos are just for summer?

Swim . Reading, Berkshire. Starts at £20.

Get there : 25 minutes by train from London Paddington to Reading; around one hour 15 minutes by car.

6.  For Dry January conquerors

Reckon you deserve a special treat after making it through the whole of Dry January? Brush up on your cocktail-mixing skills at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery, where you can  earn all about the gin-making process and explore its botanical glasshouses. Take an hour-long tutored cocktail masterclass to learn how to shake up (and then sample) fruity blends and perfect gin martinis.

Cocktail-making masterclass . Whitchurch, Hampshire. £45.

Get there: 55 minutes by train from London Waterloo to Overton, then bus; around one hour 30 minutes by car. 

7.  For burnt out art lovers

A windswept seaside town might not be an obvious choice of destination during the coldest months of the year, but there’s nothing quite like a bracing stroll across an empty beach to jolt you out of a winter slump. Combine it with a trip to one of the UK’s best contemporary art galleries, which is usually blissfully quiet at this time of year (just take note of its Wednesday to Sunday opening hours.) Afterwards, head to nearby restaurant  Buoy & Oyster to feast on fish and chips while staring out over the starkly beautiful winter seascape, or grab a warming pint of real ale at cosy, CAMRA-lauded micropub The Two Halves.

Turner Contemporary Gallery . Margate, Kent. Free.

Get there : One hour 56 minutes by train from London Victoria to Margate; around two hrs 40 minutes by car. 

8.  For crowd haters

When the crowds in central London get too much, ditch Zone 1 for a field in the middle of nowhere. For a day of wintry repose, head to the Cotswolds and stride across some frosty fields. The village of Broadway, with its honey-coloured cottages, sweet shopfronts and rustic pubs, is an excellent place to start. Earn a pub lunch by strolling up to the grand turrets of Broadway Tower and admiring the view or, if you’re feeling energetic, hike part of the bucolic Cotswolds Way from Broadway to pretty market town Chipping Campden. Last one to the pub gets the first round in, yeah?

Broadway ,  Worcestershire.

Get there : One hour 35 minutes by train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh then bus to Broadway; around two hours by car.

9.  For washing-up avoiders

Home cooks beware: a trip to this humble pub will put your roast dinner to shame. It’s worth it though, just to say you’ve been to the only pub in the UK with two Michelin stars: Tom Kerridge’s The Hand and Flowers. There’s no dry Sunday roast here, more like loin of Cotswold venison with maple-roast pumpkin or beer-roast chicken with salt-baked celeriac. And if all that sounds catastrophically out of your budget, pull up a stool at Kerridge’s pub The Butcher’s Tap, scoff a pork pie and take on the locals at the weekly pub quiz. 

The Hand and Flowers.  Marlow, Buckinghamshire.

Get there: One hour 30 minutes from Paddington to Marlow, changing at Slough and Maidenhead; one hour 20 minutes by car.

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25 best things to do in london in winter [2024 guide].

In my honest opinion ... there is no better time to visit London than in Winter!

Peak tourist season for London definitely hits in the summer.

Which is understandable, due to better weather and longer daylight.

However, there's just something about the crisp cold air, beautiful lights and festive markets that brings pure joy to all London visitors in the colder months.

I am a lover of all things festive and have lived in London for a while now.

So I think that makes me a seasoned expert in all things London in winter! 

Below are my top tips on, not just what to do, but also how to have an amazing visit in general.

Let’s start with …

Travellerspoint

London weather in winter time

The only slight downside to visiting London in winter is the weather … 

But I promise it's not that bad! 

While it might feel cold, London’s winter temperature averages between five and nine degrees celsius and rarely dips below freezing. 

January and February are London’s coldest months and we occasionally even get a light dusting of snow! 

While the rainfall isn't at the highest in winter, it is still the UK so you will always want an umbrella to hand.

For more information on your upcoming visit, check out this useful guide on London’s weather.

Best things to do in London in Winter

1. spend the evening at the winter lights festival.

Location: Battersea and Canary Wharf

Budget: Free

When to go: Open mid-January until March, 8am until 11pm daily but they are best enjoyed after sunset! 

London takes the festive spirit to new levels and while the Christmas lights brighten up the city over the Christmas period, the illuminations don't stop in the new year ! 

Every year you can find various winter lights festivals scattered around the city, livening up those dark evenings. 

2023 was the first year of the Battersea Winter Lights Festival and due to its popularity, I bet it will make an annual appearance from now on! 

The festival itself featured eight incredible light installations curated by the Light Art Collection inside the power station and around the grounds.

All of which had signs next to them detailing the artist, the installation and the message behind the art which were really interesting to have a read of. One of the most memorable is the giant plug surrounded by water, bringing light to how much water is wasted in the UK every year. 

The lights festival is completely free to enter as is entry to Battersea Power Station which is one of my favourite free things to do in London ! During the festival, a lot of the food vendors and bars nearby have special deals so be sure to stay for some of the amazing street food nearby. 

2. Escape the rain at The Natural History Museum

Location: South Kensington

How to book: Online here  

Opening times: Open Monday-Sunday 10.00-17.50 (last entry 17.30) but is closed 24-26 December

Unfortunately, the weather in London during winter can be pretty grim so you might be looking for some indoor activities to escape the rain and cold during your visit. 

London is home to endless museums to enjoy, most of which are completely free to enter so are ideal for things to do in winter. 

One of my all-time favourites though is The Natural History Museum ! It is located in South Kensington, a beautiful area in London that is also home to both the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum so if you give yourself enough time, you can do all three in one day. 

The Natural History Museum is set in a stunning museum and it only gets more impressive on the inside! The dinosaur gallery is a fan favourite featuring the first T Rex skeleton discovered whilst the Mammal gallery has life-sized models of mammoths, hippos and whales! 

The museum is free to enter, but if you are visiting on a weekend or during the school holidays, you might want to book your ticket online to ensure your entry! 

3. Meet Santa at Hamleys

Location: Regent street

When to go: The Grotto is usually open from mid-November until Christmas eve.  

If you are heading for a winter vacation in London with kids, they will absolutely love Hamleys ! 

Hamleys is a famous toy store with a few locations across the UK but their store on Regent Street is by far the best! It spans over seven floors, has every toy you could probably ever think of and has heaps of interactive activities and demonstrations! 

I made my parents take me here every time I visited London as a child and I still love going to this day! 

If you are visiting London over the festival period and want to treat your kids to an extra special experience, I would highly recommend booking a meeting with Santa! 

Their Santa’s grotto setup is a magical experience , personalised for your children from the moment you enter! You will be greeted by the elves and taken over to meet Santa Claus himself and receive a gift to take home. 

It is a very popular activity for children in London so I would recommend booking as far in advance as you can . Remember that each ticket is valid for three people and if you are coming with extra people, you will need to add them to your booking. 

4. Experience Hogwarts in the Snow

Location: Watford 

How to book: Online here

When to go: Hogwarts in the Snow usually runs from mid-November until mid-January. 

Warner Brother’s Studio Tour The Making of Harry Potter is one of the best things to do in London all year round and if you are at all a fan of the movies, I highly recommend you visit! 

However, in winter, they put on their incredible Hogwarts in the Snow , which in my opinion is the best time to go . They fully deck out the whole tour in the festive spirit with the grand hall decorated in gold lights being the main attraction. 

Popular sets like the forbidden forest and Diagon Alley are also covered in a blanket of snow as well as the model of Hogwarts castle. 

They run a few extra demonstrations that aren't on during the rest of the year like non-burning fire and non-melting ice that were used in the making of the Harry Potter movies. 

The Warner Brothers studios are slightly outside of London so I would recommend booking a tour that includes coach transfers from Victoria Station, to save yourself the stress of getting there on your magical day! 

5. Winter Wonderland

Location: Hyde Park 

When to go: Winter Wonderland usually starts around and continues until 

Winter Wonderland is a HUGE Christmas festival that has run every year in London for the last 15 years. It takes up the whole of Hyde Park and is an absolute must-visit if you are staying in London over the holidays! 

Go ice skating, play fairground games, visit the ice bar, warm up next to the fire in a teepee, visit the carousel bar, ride a rollercoaster, dance along to the live band, visit an ice bar, the list goes on and on! Winter Wonderland really has something for everyone and you will not be disappointed! 

The festival itself is so large that I really would recommend setting aside a whole day to explore it so you don't miss out! You might see a lot of people complaining about the extortionate prices of the rides and food options at the park but there are some ways to do it on the cheap! 

Have a look at the park map and buy your tickets for attractions there before you go along with your ticket and you will find it works out quite a bit cheaper! I would recommend buying a ride pass for three rides and either the ice bar or ice skating before you get there as you’ll save on money and queuing time! 

6. See the Christmas lights

Location: All across London 

Budget: £-££

One of my favourite things about London in Winter is just how stunning it looks at night when the whole city is lit up with Christmas lights ! 

The best streets have to be the main shopping ones of Oxford Street and Regent Street but I personally think that the lights around Carnaby Street and Soho are by far the most impressive! 

You can explore most of London’s Christmas lights on foot, but be warned, around this time the best streets get crazy busy with tourists and shoppers so you might have to fight through the crowds for some good photos! 

To get the best views of the lights, book an open-top bus Christmas lights tour that will take you around all the best displays on a famous London-style bus. You go past all the iconic spots like Harrods, Selfridges and straight down Oxford Street where, thanks to the traffic, you'll have plenty of time to soak up the views! 

Taking a tour is the best way to see all of the lights without having to battle the crowds and navigate your own way through the city. 

7. See a West End show

Location: The West End

How to book: London Theatre Direct or TodayTix

For a rainy evening in London, there is nothing better than spending a few hours inside watching some of the best theatre performances in the world ! 

Although West End shows run all year around, there is something for me that feels very wintery about them! This is mainly because England gets dark so early in the colder months that you will want to find some things to do after sunset. 

A few of London’s most famous theatres make up the West End so you will have a good few shows to take your pick from! I have never seen a show I haven't enjoyed so unless there is one you want to see in particular, why not check TodayTix during your visit to find the best deals at short notice? 

If you are looking to see some of the more famous shows like The Lion King, Matilda, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child or Hamilton, book up really quickly, especially in January time as they are popular Christmas gifts, so you may need to book further in advance! 

8. See the New Year's Eve Fireworks

Location: Southbank 

Budget: £-£££

If you are lucky enough to be bringing in the new year in London, you are in for a treat! 

Every year, the city puts on a huge world-famous firework display next to the London E ye ! Since 2014, you need to pre-purchase a ticket to get the best views of the display by watching on Southbank and the nearby bridges. 

If you do want to visit for free though, I highly recommend grabbing some drinks and heading to somewhere like Primrose Hill where you will be able to watch the fireworks over the city from a distance, just be sure to get there early to snag a good spot! 

For a more fancy evening, why not take a dinner cruise and see the new year's fireworks from the River Thames, or grab a ticket to one of London’s many lavish parties that occur annually! 

9. Book a spa day

Location: All across London

Budget: ££-£££

How to book: Check for deals here

Unwind from the chaos of the city by booking into one of London’s many luxury spas ! 

There are tonnes to choose from so you are best looking into which ones have facilities and treatments you will enjoy best! 

I personally find thermal baths the most relaxing in winter so the underground spa in Covent Gardens called Aire Ancient Baths is at the top of my wish list for this year! 

Some other extra boujee spas in London include ESPA Life Spa at the Corinthia Hotel , The Four Seasons Hotel Spa and The St Pancras Spa , all perfect for special occasions or just a treat yourself day! 

There are some affordable options though like K West Hotel and Spa where non-guests can enjoy the facilities for only £30! I also would recommend looking at Virgin Experience Days as they often have some great spa days and spa break deals in London and the surrounding areas! 

10. Find a cosy London pub

‍ Location: All across London

Us Londoners look for any excuse for a pint and as soon as the grey clouds start to form on a winter's day, everyone heads to the nearest pub for shelter and comfort!  

Most of the pubs in the UK you will find are welcoming to families and dogs and do great food so they usually fill up around meal times. 

There really is a pub on every corner in London so you will not struggle to find one but here are some of my favourite pubs in central London that are cosy enough for you to warm up in on a winter's day! 

• ‍ The Wrestlers in Highgate does (in my opinion) one of the best Sunday roasts in London and has a classic English local pub vibe, complete with wooden chairs, a log-burning fire and plenty of candles!  ‍
• Smokehouse in Islington is definitely on the fancier end of the pub scale but definitely still has that cosy atmosphere you’re looking for! They specialise in wood-fired cooking, and amazing food and have over 20 local beers on tap.  ‍
• The Churchill Arms is one of my all-time favourite pubs in London! Not only is the exterior absolutely stunning with its lights in winter and blooming flowers in spring but the interior is also really cool! They are also known for their amazing authentic Thai food which I am yet to try! 

11. Go Christmas shopping

When to go: Not Christmas eve! 

If you are visiting London in the lead up to Christmas, it is an awesome opportunity to do a spot of Christmas shopping ! 

Not only is London home to some of the best department stores in the world but it also has tons of cute little boutique shops where you can get some great prezzies for a loved one! 

If you are after some more luxurious gifts, Selfridges, Harrods and Liberty are great places to start but you can find all kinds of designer stores in places like Covent Gardens, Sloane Street, Mayfair and Bond Street. 

For some more personalised gifts, I would recommend looking in some smaller shops in areas like Camden, Brick Lane, Notting Hill and down Cecil Court which has some beautiful bookshops . 

My one recommendation though would be to never try to attempt doing your Christmas shopping on the 23rd or 24th as I make that mistake every year and it is far from an enjoyable experience! 

12. Kew Gardens 

Location: Richmond

When to go: Christmas at Kew runs from mid-November until early January between 4pm and 10pm. 

Kew Gardens is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site, home to over 50,000 living plants, and is only a train ride away from central London! 

It is by far one of the best things to do in London no matter the time of year but Christmas at Kew Gardens gets a spot on every Londoner’s calendar ! As it starts in November, it's an epic start to the festive period and makes a great evening out. 

The botanical gardens are lit up throughout with twinkling lights and there is a trail mapped out throughout for you to wander around including huge light displays which reflect in the lake, through tunnels of lights and beneath the sparkling trees. 

They have a few street food vendors open in the evenings so it's a great opportunity to warm up with a mulled wine and some festive snacks after your walk around. 

This is a great option for things to do in winter as a family as children absolutely love the lights and there's even an opportunity to spot Father Christmas along the way! This one does book up fast so make sure you book your tickets in advance to be sure you don't miss out! 

13. Go for a winter stroll in the park

Location: All over the city

Wrap up warm and go for a winter walk in one of London's many beautiful parks! 

Grabbing a coffee from one of the nearby independent cafes and taking a long walk in the park is best done in the morning when there aren't so many people around and there is still a fresh layer of frost over the grass. 

During the colder months, you are still likely to see a lot of British wildlife including deer, squirrels, ducks and robbins and even pelicans if you visit St James’s Park ! 

We were lucky enough to get some snow during the winter months this year which provided a magical winter backdrop across every park in the city! 

If you aren't a fan of walking, London has bikes to rent all over the city and you can cycle through most of London’s parks. 

14. Snuggle up in an igloo

Location: Southbank

Igloo pods seem to be all the range nowadays and you will find them scattered all over the city in the winter months! 

For some reason in London, we love eating, drinking and socialising outside, come rain or shine, so the invention of plastic igloos is a dream! 

They come in all kinds of shapes and sizes and levels of bougie-ness but some of my favourites have to be in the pop-up bars along Southbank! You get all the fun of watching the boats go down the river without losing your fingers and toes to frostbite. 

You cant pre-book so you might have to wait a little while to snag one but they are way worth it! Most of them have blankets inside and a great winter menu to match, serving things like mulled cider and cheese fondues. 

15. Visit an art gallery

Location: All across the city

With London’s unpredictable weather, you might just be looking for somewhere to go to escape the chill and luckily, London is home to some incredible art galleries, most of which are completely free to enter! 

• ‍ The Tate Modern - A famous modern art gallery sitting alongside the Thames River on Southbank is completely free to enter and has so much to see you could literally spend a whole day here! It’s a great one to visit with kids, especially during the school holidays as they have pop-up exhibitions and it's a bit more child-friendly than your more traditional art gallery. 
• ‍ The National Gallery   - An absolute classic that should be on everyone’s London bucket list. The National Gallery is conveniently located in Trafalgar Square and is home to one of the greatest collections of art in the entire world!  ‍
• Tea Gallery - If you are looking for more of an indie option, The Tea Gallery on Carnaby Street is a beautiful small gallery featuring the art of Sophie Tea. What appears to be an adorable little tea room is actually an immersive modern art gallery where everyone is welcome! 

16. Take a bus tour

An activity that is ideal no matter the weather in London, is to take a bus tour! 

If you are only visiting London for a few days over the winter period, you might want to see as much as possible and as quickly as possible and a bus tour is an ideal way to do that. 

If the weather is looking unpleasant, a walking tour in your rain mac might not be very appetising, so why not hop on a bus and have a guide point out all of the top attractions in the city? These tours will also allow you to hop off and explore whenever you please. 

I personally always recommend this Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus tour as I think it has the best routes and stops for only £36 per person for the day! Maybe just opt for a seat on the bottom deck if it's raining. 

17. Go to the Southbank winter market

When to go: The winter market runs annually from early November until the 26th of December from 11am until late. 

The Winter Market at Southbank is a really popular Christmas market in London for many reasons but mainly for its accessibility. Being so central and only a stone's throw away from Waterloo train station, it's an ideal stop to pick up a festive bite to eat after work. 

It's definitely not the largest of London’s Christmas markets but it has a lot of charm with its alpine-style chalets for stalls, selling everything from festive street food to homemade gifts and souvenirs! 

Southbank itself makes a beautiful festive walk on a cold evening so why not pick up some mulled wine and a Christmas burger and take a stroll along the river bank?

18. Warm up with a mulled wine in Covent Garden

Location: Covent Garden

Covent Garden is an area that really shines in the winter period. The twinkling lights mixed with the cobbled streets, luxury stores, incredible eateries and intimate bars, make for a great day out, whatever you fancy!

In 2022, Covent Gardens hosted an amazing winter warmer mulled wine festival for a few weeks over the winter months where a few of the bars, restaurants and bars offered their own take on the classic mulled wine (or Glögg ) for great prices! 

It was so popular, I can't see it not continuing year after year, which is something I am very happy about! 

The highlight was definitely the fact that you could smell the incredible mulled spices from a mile away and the drinks themselves definitely lived up to expectations! 

One of my main tips for getting around London though is to try and avoid the Covent Gardens tube stop if you can as it's always overcrowded. Why not enjoy even more of the Christmas displays and walk from either Piccadilly Circus or Leicester Square? 

19. Go to the pantomime 

Location: All across London but the London Palladium is the most famous!  

How to book: Check here

By far one of the best things to do with kids in London in winter is to go see a panto! 

Practice your ‘boos’, ‘cheers’ and ‘he's behind yous’ and watch all of the tales you know and love like Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Dick Whittington, Aladdin and many more with a bit of classic London panto flair and fun! 

Shows, actors and locations change every year so I would recommend checking Big Panto Guide before your visit. Luckily, pantos continue right through January so you will not miss out even if you visit after Christmas! 

20. The London Dungeons 

Location: Waterloo 

Opening times: Weekdays 11am until 4pm, Saturdays 10am until 6pm and Sundays 10am until 4pm. 

The spooky vibes in London aren't limited to Halloween, thanks to London Dungeons being open all year round! 

London is a hella OLD city meaning it has its fair share of weird, scary and interesting dark history. It is described as a “thrilling attraction that will whisk you way back to the capital's most perilous past” but if you ask me, it's terrifying, although I am a bit of a wimp! 

Go underground in the city and enjoy an immersive experience of old-time London, including Guy Fawkes’s gunpowder plot, the plague, executions and the torture chamber, Jack the Ripper and much more! 

London Dungeons is an attraction that's suitable and fun for kids but do note that it is dark, loud and scary in places so it's definitely not for everyone! That being said, it's great fun and a great way to escape the outdoors if it's a rainy day in London. 

21. Go ice skating

In the winter months, ice rinks seem to pop up all over the city and they are a very popular date idea or things to do as a family in London! 

We absolutely love ice skating so are sure to make sure we go at least once in the colder months! More and more arrive every year but here are some of the most popular. 

The Natural History Museum

By far one of the most beautiful ice rinks in London, every year The Natural History hosts a huge ice rink and it’s open to visitors in the winter months. Complete with a huge Christmas tree, food stalls and a cafe bar, it's the perfect winter activity ! Unfortunately, it has been reported that it might be closed for 2023, but due to its popularity, everyone is hoping it will be making an appearance again in future years! 

Somerset House

The ice rink at Somerset House is one of the most popular things to do in winter for Londoners ! Open every year from November until January, the ice rink is in a beautiful setting and welcomes first-timers with their skate lessons during the day and party-goers with their light show and DJ sets at night! 

Winter Wonderland

Every year, the amazing Winter Wonderland takes over Hyde Park with its Christmas market, funfair rides, food stalls and a massive ice rink! This is one I personally do every year, it's great fun, in a beautiful setting and just adds to a fun-filled day at Winter Wonderland! 

22. Get a luxury hot chocolate

I don't think there is anything better on a chilly day in London than warming up with a nice cup of hot chocolate! 

Luckily, there are a good few options for you so whether you want an impressive toasted marshmallow insta-worthy cup of goodness or an elegant dark chocolate delight, there will be the place for you! 

Christmas markets are a great place to pick up an amazing hot chocolate if you are on the go with many offering a shot of Baileys or rum if hot chocolate alone isn't warming enough for you. 

Chin Chins is an epic ice cream stall located in both Soho and Camden and known for its impressive desserts, and more recently hot chocolate! It's a bit sickly for me but there's no denying how awesome their drinks are! 

A silky cup of hot chocolate topped with a massive dollop of marshmallow which they then blow torch right in front of you. It is messy and drips gooey goodness over the side, but don't worry, you get a spoon and a bowl with it! 

23. Trafalgar Square Christmas tree

Location: Westminster

One of the most iconic locations in London to visit at Christmas time has to be Trafalgar Square . 

Trafalgar Square is beautiful all year around, but in the Christmas period, it's extra special! 

Every year since 1947, Norway gifts a Christmas tree to the UK to be displayed at Trafalgar Square, as a thank you for the part they played in helping them in World War II. 

I will admit, in recent years, it hasn't been the most impressive looking tree in London, and we locals regularly joke about whether we might have upset Norway, but it is still iconic and a lovely annual gift! 

Don't worry though, the tree isn't the only thing to see in Trafalgar Square as they have tonnes of festivities including market stalls, street performers, a nativity scene, carollers and impressive lights, all adding to the festive cheer! 

24. Fuel up at Borough Market

Location: London Bridge

When to go: Borough Market is open weekdays 10am until 5pm, Saturdays 8am until 5pm and Sundays 10am until 3pm. 

London is home to many incredible food markets , but by far one of my favourites has to be Borough Market, especially in the winter months! 

Borough Market has now been open for 1000 years, making it one of London’s oldest and most famous markets , frequently visited by tourists and locals alike. 

Not only is Borough Market a great place to pick up some yummy cheap eats , but it is also really nice to walk around and soak up the atmosphere on a busy day. 

In December and January, it's a great place to stop for some classic winter treats like mulled wine, hot chocolate and homemade mince pies! 

It can get especially busy on weekends, but by far the best time to go in my opinion is on a weekday just before the lunch rush. That is the perfect time to pick up some free testers and browse the stalls before the hustle and bustle starts! 

25. Try your hand at some indoor games

If you are just looking to escape the cold and have a jolly good time during winter in London, why not enjoy some indoor sports ? 

There seem to be new indoor activity-themed bars popping up pretty much daily in London at the moment so you will have your pick of the bunch! But here are a couple that I have tried and tested! 

Located in Canary Wharf, Fairgame is an adults-only inside funfair with heaps of games to keep you occupied! It's one of my favourite date nights in London and if you pair a few fun competitive games like skee ball and whack a mole with a fancy cocktail and a giant pizza and you have yourself the perfect winter's evening! 

Flight Club  

Whether you are a pro or have never thrown a dart before in your life, you will absolutely love a game of social darts at Flight Club ! They have a few bars scattered around the city, so grab some friends and book a couple of rounds of darts where you can track your scores on their interactive leaderboards. 

Indoor Cricket at Sixers

In a similar fashion, if you’ve never swung a cricket bat before then don’t worry because it’s so easy. We went to the Sixers bar in Fulham and had an absolute blast. You have to book in advance as it’s so popular and only costs £9.50 per person!! 

Once you get there you’ll have time to get a quick round of drinks in before being led to the batting cage. For each person, you can select one of five difficulties, from beginner to world-class. To score points you have to hit the ball into one of the sensors which displays how much each is worth. You’ll know when to hit the ball as they’ll be a graphic of a bowler bowling at you. It ended up being a great laugh and something you absolutely should do at least once! 

Top tips for visiting London in Winter time

Dress appropriately.

If you visit London in winter, you must be prepared for the weathe r! The temperature in winter averages between 5 (41F) and 9 (48F) degrees celsius so it is not warm and the temperature can sometimes slip below freezing! 

I have a full guide for what to pack for London but here are a few extras you will definitely need for London in winter! 

• Extra socks 
• Thick jumpers

Visiting in January and February 

December is one of the most expensive months to visit Londo n, so if you are visiting London on a budget , you might want to opt for visiting in January and February instead! 

Although there are heaps of reasons to visit in December, don't worry, there are still plenty of winter activities that don't revolve around Christmas. 

In the months of January and February, you will find both hotel and flight prices are significantly cheaper than in December! I recommend checking SkyScanner and Booking.com to find the best deals. 

Book in advance

One of my top tips for tourists visiting London is to always try to book things far in advance ! 

London is a busy city all year around and things like theatre tickets, hotels, tours and activities book up pretty quickly, especially near Christmas! 

Not only will booking in advance ensure you don't miss out, but it also means you have time to do your research and make sure you are getting the best deals. 

Stay central 

What area you stay in London will likely depend on your budget, but if it's your first time visiting, I highly recommend staying as central as possible! 

London has some awesome areas slightly out of the centre which is great to explore if you have enough time but for a short winter city break, I would recommend opting for around Zone 1 or Zone 2. 

Not only will it mean you are closer to all of London's top attractions, but you will also save a lot of time travelling on public transport, especially when the weather isn't the best! 

Get a City Pass 

One of the most cost-effective ways to visit a lot of London's main attractions is to buy a London City Pass . 

With this pass, you will have access to over 90 of London’s attractions, many of which are best done in winter, like a bus tour, London Dungeons and Kew Gardens! 

Are you visiting London this winter?

Thanks for reading my run-down of the best things to do in London in winter! 

Hopefully you found it insightful and helpful for your upcoming trip.

London is an incredible city to visit all year round, but hopefully, this post has inspired you to check it out in the colder months! 

Now over to you …

Do you have any other recommendations for what to get up to in London at winter time?

Or perhaps have some questions about one of my tips above?

Just let me know in the comments below.

If you are planning on visiting London soon, do check out some of my other guides! 

• Best places to stay in London
• How to visit London on a budget
• Best London travel tips

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5 million people can't be wrong

10 wonderful winter day trips from London

By Emma Love

CANTERBURY, KENT

Reason to go: to see Britain’s most famous cathedral Train time from London: one hour 40 minutes

The winding, medieval streets that surround Canterbury Cathedral are not just preposterously picturesque – they also hide smart restaurants, boutiques and a smattering of lovely pubs to wait out chilly afternoons by the fire. Surrounded by city walls, Canterbury has been drawing pilgrims for centuries. Now it’s a hub for history-loving travellers, with even more making the journey following the opening of The Pig at Bridge Place . This smart, red-brick hotel set in five rolling acres is Kent’s most coveted hideout.

CASTLE COMBE, COTSWOLDS

Reason to go: for wintry walks Train time from London: two hours 30 minutes

Randomly pick out a spot on a map and you’ll be hard-pressed to happen upon a village in the Cotswolds that isn’t a chocolate-box delight in the winter. But sleepy Castle Combe is one of the loveliest of them all. The cobblestone streets run alongside the Bybrook River and there’s a bracing five-and-a-half-mile walking route for tramping across the countryside in muddy wellingtons. The town even appears as a backdrop for period dramas including Downton Abbey and War Horse .

YORK, YORKSHIRE

Reason to go: to discover this old-meets-new city of the north Train time from London: one hour 52 minutes

York is one of those cities that somehow manages to balance its historic past with of-the-moment independent vintage fashion boutiques, cool neighbourhood coffee shops and interesting art galleries, all within its 13th-century walls. Stroll through narrow streets such as The Shambles, lined with over-hanging timber-framed buildings and gawp at the stained glass windows in the magnificent Gothic York Minster cathedral. And no visit is complete without sitting down for proper afternoon tea at the institution that is Bettys.

BRUTON, SOMERSET

**Reason to go:**this is the coolest corner of Somerset Train time from London: two hours nine minutes – more like two hours 30 minutes

The West Country home of art venue Hauser & Wirth is also the location of The Newt , a hotel on an extraordinary restored estate. Visiting after all the excitement of the summer season means you’re more likely to have all those glorious woodland paths, still ponds and apple orchards to yourself (plus, imagine the pretty Narnia-like landscapes, all dusted in snow). Warm up over lunch in the restaurant (menus are dictated by produce from the garden) or for world-class art , head to the Hauser & Wirth gallery a 10-minute drive down the road.

RYE, EAST SUSSEX

Reason to go: curio hunting in bric-a-brac shops Train time from London: one hour six minutes

This pretty town is ridiculously charming, all cobbled streets and wonky timbered medieval houses. And there’s nothing more satisfying than a few hours spent rootling through the quirky bric-a-brac shops and interior stores (McCully and Crane, The Confit Pot) for one-off finds before settling down for an afternoon film in the timber-clad former Victorian school turned two-screen Kino Cinema. A 15-minute bus ride away, Camber Sands is the seaside spot for a blustery coastal walk besides crashing waves.

BATH, SOMERSET

Reason to go: for a dip in the thermal baths Train time from London: one hour 30 minutes

The entire city of Bath is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which goes some way to explaining its sheer charm. Even in winter, the swathes of honeyed-limestone buildings stacked neatly into crescents are lovely to wander along on a bundled-up stroll. Warm up afterwards with a dip in one of the city’s natural hot springs, which were developed by the Romans thousands of years ago – most have been given slick makeovers and are now surrounded by concrete and glass. We particularly like Thermae Bath Spa for its heated rooftop pool.

WINCHESTER, HAMPSHIRE

Reason to go: for a spin around the ice-rink Train time from London: 57 minutes

Sure, there are plenty of pop-up ice skating rinks in London to entice skaters each winter but none has a backdrop quite as special as Winchester Cathedral. Set up in Cathedral Close, surrounded by one of the best Christmas markets in the UK , the rink is decorated with festive strings of white festoon lights and a huge bauble-and-bow-laden tree in the centre. There’s a clear roof too, so you can lace up your skates for a whirl around the ice whatever the weather. Pre-booking is essential, especially at weekends.

STRATFORD, WARWICKSHIRE

Reason to go: to watch new plays in the Bard’s home town Train time from London: two hours three minutes

Swap children’s panto for the Royal Shakespeare Company with a jaunt to Stratford-upon-Avon . The town has three theatres, including The Swan, by the river. While you’re there, be sure to visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, family home and the gorgeous 500-year-old thatched cottage where his wife, Anne Hathaway, grew up. There’s a sculpture trail and nine acres of woodland gardens, too.

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

MARGATE, KENT

Reason to go: nothing beats a day by the sea Train time from London: one hour 28 minutes

Margate is a seaside town that promises fun, fun, fun (even in dreary mid-winter) whether you fancy the retro roller disco at Dreamland amusement park or renting a bicycle to pedal breezily along the promenade. For out-of-the-ordinary gifts check out Mor, which sells cherry-picked homeware and Haeckels, known for its natural skincare products. Down by the harbour, don’t miss the Turner Contemporary art gallery or Peter’s Fish factory, which serves up the best cod-and-chip takeaway in town.

OXFORD, OXFORDSHIRE

Reason to go: the atmospheric architecture and rainy-day museums Train time from London: one hour

When the fog rolls in and the church bells peal, wandering along Oxford’s narrow alleyways surrounded by golden stone buildings and soaring spires feels like stepping into a Dickensian novel. As well as the university colleges and the Bodleian Library (one of the oldest in Europe ), the biggest draw is the museums. First up is the Ashmolean, where art and archaeological treasures range from Islamic lamps to Egyptian mummies and an original, well-preserved Stradivarius violin; then there’s the Pitt Rivers Museum, stuffed with South American shrunken heads, Mexican masks and Nigerian headdresses.

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Best Winter Day Trips from London You Simply HAVE to Take!

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

No matter what time of year you visit London I think a day trip is an essential part of your London itinerary.  But what are the best day trips from London in winter to take? In this guide we round up the best Winter day trips from London including the best day trips from London in December to get into the festive spirit to day trips that work even in the snow or in the rain to make sure your trip to London in Winter is a fantastic one. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

If you are looking at doing some London Winter day trips be sure to check out our London Winter Packing List . 

Table of Contents

Best Winter Day Trips from London 

Harry potter studio tour – one of the best winter day trips from london.

If you are travelling to London with kids then you are bound to have a Harry Potter fan in your group. London is a great place to visit for the Harry Potter fan and top of any fan’s London bucket list is likely doing the Harry Potter studio tour. 

If you are doing a day trip from London in Winter – particularly in the period from Late November to early January you will be visiting the studio during the period they call Hogwarts in the Snow. This is meant to be the most magical time of year to visit the Studio as the whole place is transformed into a Winter Wonderland.

From the large model of Hogwarts you see upon entering that is for this limited period covered in snow, to the Great Hall being decorated in the same manner as the Yule Ball from the fourth film in the franchise – The Goblet of Fire, to Christmas trees roaring fireplaces, festive feasts and of course fake snow across the whole of the studio. This is sure to transport you to Harry Potter winter. It truly is one of the best winter day trips from London you can take.

It is always essential to book your studio tour months in advance but Hogwarts in Winter is particularly popular so do be sure to book the tickets in advance. 

To find out availability and book your tickets online CLICK HERE! 

Windsor in Winter

Windsor Day Trip from London – one of the best winter day trips from london

Whenever we would have guests from out of town when we were living in London and we would ask them what day trip they wanted to do nine times out of ten they would answer Windsor. Windsor is one of the best day trips from London in winter especially. During the summer months Windsor is usually heaving with tourists and there are queues all around the town – especially at the castle – the main draw for tourists visiting the town. However in Winter the crowds have faded away making it easier and more pleasant to visit Windsor in Winter. 

As an added bonus if you are visiting the Windsor castle in the run up to Christmas you will find the castle decorated for the season with beautiful Christmas trees. It is a great place to see a traditional British Christmas setting. 

How to get to Windsor in Winter: 

By Train : You catch the train from either Waterloo or Paddington dependent on where in the city you are staying. Both of these trains are direct which means you don’t have to navigate any changes. Of the two the Paddington train is the quickest but factor in the added time it will take you to get there if you are closer to Waterloo. 

By Car:  We have once travelled to Windsor by car rather than train and it is doable but if you plan to take the car then you will need to arrive at Windsor very early as there is limited parking near the town centre and this fills up very early. It is easier to get to Windsor by car in Winter as opposed to summer but for most I would still recommend taking the train from London.

From The Airport :  If you have a short stopover in Heathrow (enough time to leave the airport) then you could consider visiting Windsor. However be sure to factor in  enough time to get through customs, leave the airport, explore, travel back and check in with enough time. 

For a full guide on visiting Windsor on a day trip from London click here! 

Hampton court Palace – one of the best day trips from London in december

Hampton Court is one of my favourite places in the UK full stop  but it is one of the best day trips from London in December due to the wealth of festive activities on offer. 

Hampton Court Palace was the favourite palace of Henry VIII having seized the palace from Cardinal Wolsey. It is a great place to learn about the history of the Tudor King. Highlights of a visit to the palace include stepping inside the Tudor kitchens where you can see how feasts on the time we’re prepared. It is extra special at Christmas when these events take on a festive touch. 

Next Read : Things to do on a Hampton Court Palace Day Trip

On top of the live Christmas cooking demonstrations the palace also have special events including carolling, Christmas markets and one of the best ice rinks in all of London. 

How to get to Hampton Court Palace in Winter  :

Getting to Hampton Court Palace from central London is easy and best done by train. There is a direct train from Waterloo Station. 

We recommend buying your tickets online in advance to save queuing on arrival!

Kew Gardens –

Although in London this is out at the end of the District Line and really deserves one whole day of your London itinerary to do it probably but for those with limited time you could just spend half a day there or if you are travelling in Winter before Christmas travel for the evening to see the absolutely spectacular Kew Gardens Illuminated. 

This special pre Christmas even involves laser projections, light shows singing Holly Buses, Christmas markets and spectacular light displays on the Palm House. This will delight even if you are taking a winter holiday with a baby or are visiting London with a toddler . 

Tickets for this event are timed so be sure to book your tickets well in advance to be sure to get your desired time slot.

If you want to visit in the day there is no need to worry that there won’t be much to see in the gardens as no matter what time of year there is something to see in the Gardens. Be warned even in the Winter the Kew Garden palm houses get hot. 

For more details on what to do at Kew Gardens check out this post! 

Another of the iconic London day trips, Stonehenge seems to be on many people’s UK bucket lists. Visiting Stonehenge in summer can be a bit of a battle, the roads to it have single file traffic and can get easily congested especially when you are battling with summer holiday tourists but in Winter the journey will be much easier and there will be far fewer crowds at this UNESCO World Heritage site itself. 

Stonehenge dates back to Neolithic times and to this day it is not full understood why they were built and by whom. Depending on your ticket will depend on how close you can get to the stones but it is possible to get quite close although of course no touching is allowed. 

If you are worried about how much there is to do on site, there is also a museum and a reconstructed neolithic village which means you can easily spend a few hours to half a day on site depending on your interests. If you want a full Winter day trip rather than a half day trip from London then there are lots of tours that combine a visit to Stonehenge with nearby attractions or alternatively you could head into the nearby beautiful town of Salisbury. 

How to Get to Stonehenge in Winter : 

It is possible to reach Stone henge via public transport. You can take a train from Waterloo to Salisbury and from there you transfer to a bus that will take you directly to the site. In my opinion out of all the day trips listed in this guide this is my least favourite to do via public transport. The alternatives are driving or taking an organised excursion. 

By car: It is a relatively easy drive from London out to Stonehenge and there is parking nearby. 

If you don’t fancy hiring a car to do a day trip then there are plenty of tours from London that just do Stonehenge or that combine Stonehenge with other attractions such as: 

• Stonehenge Day Tour
• Stonehenge and Bath
• Stonehenge, Windsor and Bath
• Oxford, Windsor and Stonehenge 

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle – Best Winter Day Trip from London – day trips from london in december

Another great day trip for castle fans. Leeds castle is often called the Prettiest Castle in the world and take one look at it and it is easy to see why. Again, the castle is brilliant to visit whatever time of year you are travelling to London but the castle really goes to town in the run up to Christmas.

The last time we visited was at Christmas and in each room we entered in the castle had a differently and very ornately decorated Christmas tree. I love that the Christmas celebration here are quite traditional and not the commercialised Christmas you see elsewhere.

For a full review of Leeds Castle at Christmas click here!  

How to get to Leeds Castle in Winter: 

To get to Leeds Castle from London you take the train  from London Victoria Station to Bearsted and then take a private transfer to the castle itself. 

Oxford is a great city to visit on a Winter day trip from London and in fact is a place that suits visiting in Winter over summer. Summer is exceptionally crowded in the city and even in the shoulder seasons the town is busy with both tourists and students but the Winter period tends of be more quiet. 

Highlights of a an Oxford Winter day from London include: 

• Visiting the Oxford University Colleges – depending on the day you are visiting will depend on what colleges are open to the public. Our favourites include Christ College, New College and Magdalen College. 
• Walking around the Oxford University Botanic Gardens – even in Winter these botanic gardens are a treat 
• Enjoying one of the many many Oxford museums which make this perfect for a rainy day day trip from London. 

How to get to Oxford in Winter : You can catch the train from both Paddington and Marylebone stations but check before boarding whether your train goes direct or if you will need to change trains at Reading. 

There is also a bus service that does transfers to and from Oxford and for those that wish to visit Oxford via car I would recommend using the very efficient park and ride service. 

York Winter Day Trip from London

My favourite city in the whole of the UK.  If you have time in your itinerary then I would recommend visiting York for a weekend but it is totally doable in one day if that is all the time your London itinerary allow s for. 

York is a beautiful city in Winter as there are usually great Christmas markets, an ice sculpture festival and even some amazing Christmas illuminations at the York Museum Gardens. 

The mix of great indoor activities (such as the National Railway Museum, York Museum and the Castle Museum and of course the stunning York Minster) alongside great outdoor activities means that this day trip is great whatever the weather. Other favourite places to visit in Winter especially if you are visiting York with kids is the York Chocolate Story which tells the story (and gives samples) of York’s history with chocolate and no visit to the city is complete without learning about the city’s Viking history at the Jorvik Viking Centre which kids will adore. 

My favourite thing to do in York is to visit the historic shopping street the Shambles. In Summer this street is heaving with tourists but in Winter the street is far quieter and much more enjoyable and is a great place to pick up souvenirs and Christmas gifts.

How to Get to York in Winter:  The easiest way to get to York from London whatever time of year you are travelling is via train. The trains to York run regularly from London King’s Cross Station and take around two hours. 

Manchester – best day trip from London in December

Manchester is the England’s second city and is a vibrant city full of culture and should definitely be on your UK Bucket List.  Winter is out favourite time to visit Manchester as in our opinion it has some of the best Christmas Markets in the whole of the UK (You can read our full Manchester Christmas market review here ).

Manchester is also a great city for those that love both sport and music and no matter what time of year you visit there is sure to be an event on. And if football is your bag then be sure to stop oil the UKs only football museum. 

Other great museums in the city include the MOSI (Science Museum), the Manchester Art Gallery and the People’s History Museum. 

How to get to Manchester From London: 

The easiest way to get to Manchester from London is by train. Trains depart from Euston station every 20 minutes to 30 minutes throughout the day. It will take roughly 2 hours each way. We recommend buying your tickets as early as possible as tickets get more and more expensive the closer you get to the travel date. 

Canterbury Day Trip From London 

The historic city of Canterbury is a great place to visit in Winter, especially if you want to go inside Canterbuty Cathedral as in December all Christmas preparations are underway and the Cathedral is dressed for Christmas. We loved learning about the history of the cathedral especially learning about the martyrdom of Thomas Beckett. With the size of the cathedral and the tour options it is very easy to spend half a day in the Cathedral itself. 

But the city of Canterbury is much more than just the Cathedral though and the streets are filled with great and unique shops and boutiques that make it a great place to go shopping for souvenirs and Christmas gifts. 

Have you taken a Winter Day Trip From London? What is your favourite day trip to take from London in Winter?  We’d love to hear in the comments?

Best Winter Day Trips to Take from London! Best day trips to take from london in winter

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Best Day Trips from London in Winter (Cities and Castles!)

Are you looking for the best day trips from London in winter? Here’s a full list!

The charming city of London has so much to offer tourists, whatever the season.

Enjoy attractions like Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the incredible London Eye, where you can take in panoramic vistas of the city centre. 

Plus, London at Christmas is really something special.

However, there are plenty of winter day trips to take from London as well.

From historic cities like Bath, Oxford and Exeter to the UK’s most epic castles, this blog post lists all of the best day trips from London that you can take in the cooler months!

You could even take a hop across the channel and visit the French capital, Paris! Here’s my list of the best. 

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from London in Winter

This is one of the best winter day trips that you can take from London.

Not only does it have lots of indoor attractions like the Thermae Bath Spa and the Jane Austen Museum , but the glorious cobblestone streets are incredibly charming to walk around in the cooler months. 

Plus, Bath is the only spa town in the country with natural warm waters. Bath Thermae Spa is the ideal space to soak in after a day’s exploring in the cold! 

There are also many charming historic pubs to enjoy a pint in at the end of the day. 

And, if you’re visiting during the festive period, Bath Christmas market is one of the best in the UK.

You can easily reach Bath Spa Railway Station from London Paddington Station, or there are National Express coaches. 

Alternatively, you can click here to book a day tour that takes you from London to Stonehenge and then to Bath!

While Bristol isn’t as well known as nearby Bath, the British city is still a great day trip in both the winter and summer months. 

There are so many things to do in Bristol in the winter, including the SS Great Britain boat which was made in the city, the world-famous Clifton Suspension Bridge and the outdoor art gallery of street art at Stokes Croft and Southville. 

As some of Bristol’s attractions are outside, you might want to wrap up in a warm coat to explore, but this is very feasible throughout the winter!

If the weather isn’t so kind, there are hundreds of incredible pubs, cafes and restaurants in Bristol – I’m a bit biased (I lived there for six years and it’s my favourite city),  but I think it has the best food scene in the UK. 

At Christmas, there’s a festive market in Cabot Circus, with lots of stalls selling local handicrafts and food vendors.

To get to Bristol from London, you can take a train from London Paddington Station. It takes around one hour 45 minutes. 

The charming Cotswold villages are what spring to many people’s minds when they think of the UK. 

While they are popular in the summer, they’re especially charming in the winter months. 

Imagine gorgeous chocolate-box villages sprinkled with a dusting of frost, with charming pubs and boutique stores. 

There are so many amazing villages to visit in the Cotswolds.

Enjoy Stow on the Wold with a charming Medieval church built into a tree, Tetbury which is the home of HRH Prince Charles and the charming canals of Bourton on the Water. 

Public transport isn’t great in the Costwolds.

The best way to visit the region is either to drive yourself or book a tour. You can browse tours here.

Hever Castle

Hever Castle is one of my favourite London day trips, and it’s open throughout the winter. 

It was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife. After she was executed, it came under the control of Henry VIII, and eventually was owned by his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves!

Nowadays, you can enjoy a water maze, a normal maze and landscaped gardens which were created by a Victorian botanist.

To reach it, you can take a train from London Bridge directly to Hever and then either walk for 20 minutes or take a local taxi. Here’s a local taxi number . 

Windsor Castle

This is another incredible castle to visit near London – and as it’s open all year round, it’s perfect to add to your itinerary for London in winter !

Windsor Castle is the Queen’s current residence, and it’s the oldest inhabited castle in the world! 

There are so many incredible spots in Windsor Castle. Explore the State Rooms, see St George’s Chapel where Meghan Markle and Prince Harry got married. 

It’s also worth wrapping up warm and walking down the long walk, where you can get an epic vista of the castle, and in the deer park. 

You can purchase your ticket to Windsor Castle here.

Windsor town is also worth walking around – don’t miss Queen Charlotte Street, which is just 52 metres long and is apparently the shortest street in England!

You can take a direct train to Windsor from London Waterloo Station. 

The beautiful city of Oxford is one of the best places in the country to visit on a day trip. While in warmer weather you can go punting on the river, there’s still plenty to do in Oxford in winter too. 

It’s home to one of the oldest universities in the world, which dates back to 1096. 

For starters, walk around the town centre and admire the University of Oxford ‘s buildings like the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library.

You can do a creepy tour around Oxford Prison (the perfect winter activity when the nights are dark!) or explore the many museums, including the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology . 

When you get cold, drop into some of Oxford’s cosy cafes and historical pubs like the Turf Tavern , which dates back to 1381. 

Just out of town, you’ll find Blenheim Palace, which is the only non-royal palace in the country. It was where Winston Churchill, one of Britain’s most famous and controversial prime ministers was born.

Home to beautiful gardens and magnificent rooms, it’s a snapshot of Britain’s historical country estate culture. 

You can easily take a train from Oxford to London Paddington. The cities are also connected by the Oxford Tube, a regular bus that takes around 90 minutes. To reach Blenheim Palace without a car, you can take the number 7 bus from central Oxford. 

Oxford’s rival university town, the ancient city of Cambridge is an alternative day trip.

Like Oxford, it has a historic university spread over the city centre, and you can go on campus tours to learn all about its history. 

Other attractions include the Fitzwilliam Museum , which is an art gallery, and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology . 

Like Oxford, there are also plenty of historic pubs to shelter in if the weather isn’t so kind when you visit! Try The Eagle, which dates back to the 14th century. 

To reach Cambridge, take a train from King’s Cross. There are also National Express coaches available. 

It’s potentially the most loved coastal town near London – but is it worth visiting in the winter months? Absolutely yes! 

While the seaside is a lot chillier – and I doubt you’ll be taking a dip in the sea – you can explore areas like the Brighton Laines, see the beautiful Brighton Pavilion, take in coastal views and take in its incredible food scene. 

Somewhere I really want to visit (and a must if you’re veggie) is the No Catch vegan fish and chip restaurant there. The reviews are incredible!

Of course, if you eat fish, there are plenty of fish and chip restaurants (we call them “chippys” in the UK) that are open year-round. 

To reach Brighton, it’s an easy train journey from either London Bridge or London Victoria. Coach routes are also available. 

Other seaside towns close to London include Eastbourne, Margate and Herne Bay. 

Harry Potter Warner Bros

The Harry Potter Studios are a must-visit day trip, and because they’re all indoors, they’re great for the winter season! 

In fact, the studios have themes throughout the year – if you’re visiting during the festive months, don’t miss Hogwarts at Christmas for epic decorations. 

You’ll see the classic settings like Gryffindor Common Room, the Forbidden Forest and Gringotts Bank. There’s so much to explore here!

You have to book your ticket in advance before heading to the studio tours – if you can’t get them in time, you can book a tour which includes transport from London.  Click here to read more about this.

Plus, if you’re a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss seeing platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross and doing a Harry Potter tour around the famous sights of London! 

Stonehenge 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stonehenge is a bucket list destination in Wiltshire. 

The ancient stone circle has Pagan traditions, and nobody’s completely sure how they actually got there, as they came a few hundred miles away in Wales. 

Nowadays, it’s potentially the most popular attraction in England outside of London, and if there’s one place that you can’t miss in the country, it’s here! 

While it is open year-round, it’s located on a plain, and in bad weather it can be quite inhospitable. We went on the 2nd January last year and it was freezing!

However, it would be lovely on a crisp winters day.

You can get to Stonehenge by driving, but if you don’t have a car, the best way to go is by taking a tour. You can book these on Get Your Guide.  Click here to read more about it.

Most people think that Exeter is a bit too far to go for a day trip from London, but it’s actually only 2 hours 10 minutes on the train. 

I live down the road in Exmouth and all my family live in London, so I take this journey a lot ! 

I think Exeter is a really underrated city, and there’s plenty to offer in the winter months as well. 

If you like Cathedrals, Exeter’s is one of the most impressive in the country, with the longest uninterrupted Medieval gothic vaulting in the world. 

There’s also a fantastic museum called the RAMM, and Gandy Street which is said to be part of JK Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley. 

Plus, if it’s dry, Exeter Quay is lovely to walk around. (And if it starts raining, pop into Exeter Quayside Distillery and try some of their gins!). 

You can easily take a train from London Paddington to Exeter. The coach option might be a little too long for a day trip (it can take four hours). 

Leeds Castle

Once said to be “the most beautiful castle in the world”, Leeds Castle is, contrary to popular belief, not in Leeds but in Kent!

 The castle was first built as a Norman fortification and was then owned by queens in Medieval times. 

It fell into the ownership of Henry VIII for a while, and was lived in by him and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. 

As well as taking in the historical features of the castle, you can walk around the gorgeous gardens and kids will love the playground. The castle and gardens are open year-round, with slightly shorter hours. 

To reach Leeds Castle, take a train from London Victoria Station to Hollingbourne. Then, connect by bus 13 to Penfold Hill, from which is a six minute walk to the castle. 

Canterbury 

Canterbury is another incredible city to visit from London, and as it’s located in Kent (a county that neighbours the capital), it’s super easy to get to!

Attraction-wise, Canterbury Cathedral has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries, ever since Thomas Beckett was murdered there. 

There’s also St Augustine’s Abbey, St Martin’s Church and Westgate Towers Museum. You can also see remnants of the city walls. 

You can reach Canterbury by taking a train from St Pancras International, or there are National Express buses available. It’s called the 007 bus, which James Bond was named after!

Stratford on Avon

Stratford on Avon is the perfect day trip if you’re a fan of literature; it’s the birthplace of Shakespeare! 

Unsurprisingly, the best attraction is Shakespeare’s House . There’s also the Anne Hathaway Cottage (she was Shakespeare’s wife!). 

Stratford on Avon is a pleasant enough town, but there’s not a crazy amount of things to do otherwise. So I’d recommend combining a day trip here with a tour around the Cotswolds. You can either self drive or check out this tour. 

Highclere Castle

If you’re a Downton Abbey fan, this day trip is a must! 

Highclere Castle is Downton Abbey, the family stately home that features in the episodes and films. 

The castle isn’t open year-round, and in the winter, you need to visit on a guided tour over Christmas and the wintertime. 

You need to book these tickets way in advance – the castle has always been popular, but it’s even more so after the last movie was released! 

It’s around a two-hour drive to Highclere Castle, or you can take a bus or taxi from Newbury. 

Bicester Village

If you want to shop while you’re in London, head to Bicester Village, an outlet park that offers some incredible designer products at bargain prices. 

It’s located in the county of Oxfordshire, a short train ride from the capital. 

There’s not a huge amount of other things to do in the direct area, so if you don’t have a car you will be going to Bicester just to shop and then return.

However, it’s worth visiting if you want to check out some of the bargain brands! 

You can either travel their independently or do a tour like this one.

This is one of the best UK day trips in November or December when you’re doing your Christmas shopping!

Hampton Court Palace 

Hampton Court Palace sits just on the outskirts of London, but it’s another castle that is well worth visiting when you’re in the capital.

In fact, this is potentially the most historically significant one in London, the perfect day trip for any history fans!

Hampton Court Palace was the residence of Henry VIII, and nowadays you can explore Henry VIII’s apartments, the Tudor Kitchens and the Chapel Royal. 

Plus, it’s open all year round and it’s easy to get to by public transportation. 

La Belle Paris! It’s entirely possible to hop across the channel for a day and enjoy a winter day trip to the French capital. 

You can do this by hopping on the Eurostar from London St Pancras, which takes you right to the Gare du Nord in Paris. 

In the winter season, tickets can be very cheap and the journey time is just 2 hours 17 minutes. So you can literally hop on the first train of the day and be in the French capital enjoying pastries for breakfast by 9am!

The main tourist sites of France don’t need an introduction, but most of them, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay are all open in the winter. 

Packing list for London winter day trips

Wherever you are going from London, make sure that you bring these items!

Prepare for winter weather, which in the UK is anything from freezing to around 10 ° C (50 ° F) – or possibly a little warmer.

Snow is rare in England in winter , but make sure that you have a thick coat , gloves and a scarf . 

Also, don’t forget a water bottle – I love my chillies bottle which keeps cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot! Tap water is usually drinkable in the UK. 

Pack a battery pack to ensure that your phone stays charged all day. 

Last tips for taking a wintery London day trip

• Book train tickets in advance if you can – this will ensure that you get the lowest price. You can use the National Rail website or Trainline. 
• If you’re taking the coach (which is often a much more economical choice), it’s also a good deal to buy these in advance for the cheapest prices! 
• If you want to save money, there’s no better lunch in the UK than a meal deal . These are on offer at all supermarkets (such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Co-op and others!). You can get a sandwich/ salad/ pasta, a snack and a drink for just £3!
• Wetherspoons pubs also do great budget meals.

From the charming historical cities of Oxford and Bath some of England’s best castles, these are without a doubt the best winter day trips from London. There’s so much on offer just a drive or train ride away, so make sure you factor some of these into your winter trip to the capital!

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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These are the 10 Best Day Trips from London in Winter

In London and in need of an escape? We’ve got you covered. As much as we love London, we do love a day trip. Sometimes you just need to get out of the city, explore the countryside, or find your way meandering around cobblestone walkways in a new city or town. And when it comes to winter day trips from London, you might be surprised by how many great adventures there are to be had not too far from the city. So with that, these are the 10 best day trips from London in winter.

The best day trips from London in Winter

1. rye, east sussex.

Reason to go:  cobble lanes Train time from London:  roughly four hours

In the winter months, we all want to cozy up by a roaring fire, with a glass of wine (or a pint) in hand and a competitive game of backgammon at our disposal. Alas! Rye in East Sussex is the perfect location to experience all of the above. Whether you’re tucked up in a pub or walking your way around the cobbled streets, Rye is full of hidden treasures. Start with an ale at The George (High Street) before making your way down the street to pop in and out of cozy cafes, wine bars and the occasional boutique.

2. Canterbury, Kent

Reason to go:  for a step back in time Train time from London:  one hour and 30 minutes

If it is history and a walk through time you are after, then look no further than Canterbury. This city has Medieval architecture on overdrive and if there’s anywhere you are going to feel as if you have stepped back in time, this is it. A city of churches and cathedrals, you can’t miss out on visiting the Canterbury Cathedral with its imposing bell tower, offering a great opportunity to get your bearings. From there, make your way through the centre of town and be sure to check out Blackwell’s Book Shop, followed up with a visit to Bramley’s cocktail bar in the early evening.

3. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Reason to go:  cozy wine bars and tasty taverns Train time from London:  one hour

If it is wine bars with a cozy atmosphere you are after, then it should come at no surprise that you will find all that and more in the University town of Cambridge in Cambridgeshire. If you’re looking for a one stop shop, pull up a chair at The Wine Rooms Cambridge, where you’ll be spoiled for choice with a selection of wines from various regions. Nearby Cambridge wine merchants can help with a bottle for the road, while Parker’s Tavern is the perfect pit stop for dinner.

4. Oxford, Oxfordshire

Reason to go:  for a magical time Train time from London:  one hour

If you prefer your university towns with a hint of Harry Potter flair, then you can’t miss the opportunity to visit Oxford on a day trip from London. Oxford is the first town I ever visited as a day trip from London and I can still say after a handful of visits under my belt, it is still my top pick. There are many reasons to visit during winter, including the charm and allure of the cozy countryside, matched with endless boutiques and university libraries to duck into and escape the cold.

5. Castle Comb, The Cotswolds

Reason to go:  for wintry walks Train time from London:  two hours 30 minutes

There are simply too many charming towns and villages in the Cotswolds to visit them all, but as far as choosing just one for a day visit goes, you can’t go wrong in Castle Comb. This town might just be the most quaint of them all, with a cozy wintry walk on offer running alongside the Bybrook River. Think Downtown Abbey in present times, as this town has been used as a filming location for the hit show.

Read more: These are the best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds for a weekend away

6. Bath , Somerset

Reason to go:  to warm up in a bathhouse Train time from London:  one hour and 20 minutes

If there’s one place in all of England you can count on to warm you up in winter, it is Bath. The city is quite literally named after the Roman era bathhouses of which you can still visit to this day, even though the original ones are not in use. But fear not! There are many public bathhouses you can visit, as well as some private oasis’ to be found in the city, such as the day spa at The Gainsborough hotel in the centre of town. Plus you will find endless cafes, wine bars, taverns and pubs to cozy up inside of and when you’re in need of something to do for date night (with someone else or just your fine self), make your way to Tivoli Cinema for one of the best film-watching experiences on the continent.

7. Windsor and Windsor Castle

Reason to go:  for royal history and culture Train time from London: around 30 minutes

Fancy a royal walk through history? You will find all that and more by making your way to Windsor, home to Windsor Castle and enough royal souvenier stores to have you leave feeling like a royal yourself. Stepping inside Windsor Castle is a great way to spend a day trip from London, learning the history of the House of Windsor.

8. Stratford, Warwickshire

Reason to go:  inspiration good enough for Shakespeare Train time from London:  2 hours

With romanticized Tudor architecture and enough history and heritage to have been the inspiration for William Shakespeare (or at least his birthplace), Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire is a fablous day trip from London. Theatre culture is alive and well in the town, making this a great place to enjoy slowing down during the day, with a festive evening at a local theatre show to see out the evening.

9. York, Yorkshire

Reason to go:  over-indulge in York chocolate Train time from London:  2 hours and 30 minutes

As the home of chocolate for England and the birthplace of Kit Kat, Smarties and many other internationally known chocolate brands, York is a sweet escape from London and great for a winter day trip. If you fancy indulging in the finer things in life, chocolate is on overdrive in this city. But there are many reasons to make a day trip to York during winter, including quaint streets to wander around, epic landscapes on the train journey there, cozy taverns and English pubs.

10. Hastings, East Sussex

Reason to go:  great fish and chips Train time from London:  1 hour and 40 minutes

As far as the best day trips from London in winter go, you might not first think of Hastings in East Sussex. But if you’re craving fish and chips in the dark of winter in London, you won’t find a better day trip or weekend road trip than making your way to Hastings. Enjoy!

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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17+ Things to Do in London in the Winter: a must-read guide (2024)

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Ah, London in the winter.

The time of year where we all complain that it gets dark at 3:30pm and it rains too much.

Also, the most festive time of the year.

Traveling to London in the winter can be a fantastic option for people who want to save money, have lower crowds, and get in on the Christmas lights action.

⭐️ Editor’s choice! ⭐️

The best thing to do in London in the winter is this magical open-top Christmas lights bus tour . (4.8 out of 5 ⭐️, 120 + reviews)

>>Click here to book in advance (recommended)

But preparing for winter in London is the first step to enjoying your trip.

As someone who has spent 5+ years figuring out things to do in London in the winter and the best London winter activities, I feel suitably qualified to bring you this ultimate guide to visiting this UK city in the winter months.

The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

• 😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
• 🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
• 🚕 Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
• 🚉 Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
• 🔌 Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Check out the YouTube channel for more London tips

What No One Tells You About London in the Winter

First of all, let’s start with some basic top tips that I feel we need to tell our visitors more often, in addition to these London mistakes tourists make year-round.

We’ll get to these things in more detail below, but here’s the cheat sheet for what’s in store for you (spoiler alert: you can leave your shorts at home).

GET A FREE LONDON INTRO GUIDE and ACCESS TO MY FB GROUP

Start your planning with this “Intro to London” guide and access to my London planning Facebook group!

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Sunset is at Like, Noon

Okay, I exaggerate.

Sunset in London in the winter isn’t noon, but on the darkest day of the year (December 21st), the sun will have set by about 3:50pm.

Goodbye, sun. See you later.

This does mean you get to see lots of London lit up at night, which is gorgeous, but don’t come expecting to get your Vitamin D in because it won’t happen.

In fact, I recommend taking Vitamin D pills like the ones in this London packing list while in London in the winter because they’re very helpful for keeping your mood up and getting you the nutrients you need.

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in London?

My favorite hotel in London for all visitors is the Strand Palace ( click here to check prices ). ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Christmas Starts in November

If you’re coming with the hopes that you get to see a festive London in the winter, plan your trip from mid-November to the end of December.

Christmas lights go up in London the last couple of weeks of November, as there’s no Thanksgiving to put a stop to the Christmas train!

You’ll also find London Christmas markets starting at about that time, and the official opening of Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, a London Christmas staple, is open from about the third week of November.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

It’s Cold and Rains a Lot

If you’re from say, Minnesota, you’ll probably find that London winters are mild compared to what you’re used to.

But this isn’t a tropical paradise.

London is cold in the winter for most people, and it’s a damp cold brought on by lots and lots of drizzly, dark days where nothing quite dries out.

This doesn’t stop London from functioning, of course, because nothing says British people like “Keep calm and ignore the weather,” but just to give you a head’s up.

How to Pack for London in the Winter

For a full London winter packing guide, check out this post for the all-season’s packing list I’ve put together (including the exact adaptors and converters I recommend).

For those of you coming in the winter, though, I do want to take a moment to recommend some of my favorite London winter gear and talk about what you might need.

All of these are going to be clothing and accessories, because the other London packing list doesn’t change in the winter (you still need your passport no matter the season, my friends!)

Waterproof Shoes or Boots

I don’t care what you’re wearing on your legs – the most important part is what you’ve got covering your feet that are able to potentially get really damp, whether that’s walking through slush or just soggy streets!

I do NOT recommend rainboots in London – they’re not great to walk in long distances, and most people don’t wear them.

Instead, I would recommend a pair of waterproof sneakers like these or a pair of waterproof boots like these .

You don’t necessarily need waterproof to the max like you’re about to go on a ten day hike in the elements, but a pair of warm and waterproof shoes will really help make a difference in your travels.

A Winter Coat

Particularly for people coming from warmer climates, do not forget that winter coat!

Even if you step on the plane in Florida where it’s 80 degrees, you’re going to wish you had something to wrap up warm with when you get to London.

I prefer peacoats like this or you could go for a sportier look with a jacket like this , but make sure you have an actual winter coat instead of just a summer rainjacket or a hoodie by itself.

Clothes You Can Layer

Even when it’s cold outside, you’d be surprised how much your temperature can change when you’re walking a lot and then taking the tube.

The mornings and evenings, too, will be colder than the day, so you don’t want to be just choosing one layer to wear in the mornings.

Instead, I recommend bringing clothes like light sweaters ( love these ones ) that you can layer and cardigans like these that you can pull out when necessary depending on your outfit.

Just make sure you are able to take off some kind of layers if you heat up, as it’s very uncomfortable to be sweating your face off on the Central Line while it’s like 20 degrees outside.

An Adorable Winter Hat

London in the winter was made for adorable winter hats.

Londoners love a hat, you love a hat, we all love a hat (or maybe you don’t, but you should consider trying it if you haven’t yet).

I like comfy beanies like this one , or you could go for a tighter fit like these ones if that’s more your style.

You lose a lot of heat through your head, and particularly in the damp and cold, a hat does an excellent job of keeping you warm in London in the winter.

Gloves with TouchScreen Capability

Now, I know that gloves with smartphone touch capability are not the most fashionable gloves out there sometimes, but just hear me out.

You’re in London, it’s cold, you want something on your hands to keep them warm because they’re freezing and wet, but suddenly, you need to look up directions on your phone.

Or take a picture.

Or call to make a reservation.

Or post on Facebook to show all of your Facebook friends that you’re living your best live while they’re at home in rural Idaho (no offense to rural Idaho, that’s just where I imagine they’re stuck).

You don’t want to have to deal with taking your gloves on and off and dropping them in a ditch somewhere.

Instead, get a pair of ones that work with touchscreens like these so you can transition easily between using your phone and enjoying London.

Warm Scarves

I love a scarf for completing my outfit and really keeping my neck warm in the winter.

They’re very popular in London as a way to add a something extra to your look and also being practical.

Try these ones if you want the subdued London look , or this one if you don’t mind more of a drop of color .

Vitamin D supplements

Okay, I sort of fibbed – there is one non-clothing item I would recommend, and that is Vitamin D supplements .

We use these ones , and they’re just so helpful for making sure you have enough Vitamin D in your system that you’re definitely not getting from the sunshine!

If you’re coming to London, you’ll also appreciate some of our other London guides, including… x The Ultimate London Packing List for All Seasons x London’s Most Iconic Attractions to Add to Your Bucketlist x A Dummy’s Guide to Getting Around London

How to Get to London in the Winter

Getting to London in the winter isn’t much different than the rest of the year, as luckily it doesn’t snow that much to cut off your exits and entrances.

You can fly into any of London’s airports: London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stanstead, or London City.

If you want to learn more about my recommended way to get from the airport to your hotel, check out my full online guide to planning a trip to London .

If you’re traveling from Europe by train, you can catch the Eurostar to London from Paris that runs every day into London’s St. Pancras Station.

One thing I would say to keep in mind about getting to London in the winter is to keep in mind that even if London doesn’t have snow, you may want to build in extra time for your travels in case your flight is delayed due to deicing or dealing with weather impacts in other parts of the UK or Europe.

Getting Around London in the Winter

You can leave your snowshoes at home and opt for the tube instead.

Getting around London in the winter is, again, similar to how you would get around London all year, though I would say that particularly when the weather is particularly dreary, you may find more people taking the tube and buses rather than walking.

I still do think you should walk as often as possible in London, but there’s no denying that when it’s pouring down rain, you’re going to want to have a back-up option.

London’s underground system, known as the “Tube,” is going to be your saving grace for traveling around London in the winter, and you can read all about how to navigate the tube , as well as my guide to London tube etiquette.

Another fantastic option are London buses, which allow you to see more of the city and let you ride a double-decker bus for little money, which, for many people, is a dream come true!

London top tip : you can’t use cash on London buses, so make sure you’ve read my guide on Oyster cards and contactless payment cards!

I wouldn’t recommend using a bicycle, even the cool rental ones, to get around London in the winter.

The darkness, the dampness, and the rest of the cyclists on the road also dealing with the darkness and dampness does not make it a nice place for tourists to be.

Oh, and one final, important note for those of you spending Christmas or Boxing Day (the 26th of December) in London – most public transportation is completely shut on Christmas Day, including buses and the tube, and there is a reduced service that runs on Boxing Day.

I’ll talk more about what to do on Christmas in London below, but factor this into your plans by planning to walk or take a London taxi.

Best Things to Do in London in the Winter

Whether you’re coming to London in December, London in January, or spending February in London, these London winter activities should be moved to the top of your list, in addition to the iconic London attractions that you also don’t want to miss.

1. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland

Ready to walk in a winter wonderland, but for real?

This Christmas market and festive area and all-around cheerful event is one of London’s most popular Christmas destinations.

It’s located in Hyde Park, which is a good thing as the market is massive and Hyde Park has the space for it.

Opening in late November until early January, you’ll find ice skating rinks, places to eat, Christmas markets, a Christmas circus, and shows like Paddington on Ice and a Winter Wonderland Comedy Club.

It doesn’t cost anything to enter Winter Wonderland, though you will want to prebook if you are interested in any of the shows or events.

Click here to learn more about Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland .

2. Ice Skating through History

You can’t come to London during the holiday season without ice skating!

Okay, so it’s not Rockefeller Center – it’s better.

Choose to skate in the moat of the Tower of London , glide your way across the ice under the towering presence of the Natural History Museum, or head out somewhere like Hampton Court Palace for a unique ice skating rink with colorful projections onto the palace behind you .

You can rent skates from whichever option you choose, and this is another one that I highly recommend booking in advance as places do fill up.

Also, keep in mind these are outdoor rinks, so don’t forget the cozy winter wear mentioned above.

3. Southbank Christmas Market

Head to Southbank, the stretch of the Thames River near the London Eye , and appreciate a wonderfully festive world of Christmas markets.

These are fantastic Christmas markets to explore at any point in your winter stay, as they’re super central and make for an easy detour.

Enjoy warm cups of hot chocolate as you peruse the stalls, take a moment to see the twinkling lights above the river, and soak in the festive atmosphere that London in the winter is so known for.

Christmas at Southbank runs from early November until early January.

4. Kew Gardens Christmas

Head down to Kew Gardens for a Christmas light display, Christmas market, and unique Christmas inspired botanics in a way you’ve never seen them before.

Kew Gardens is London’s premier botanic gardens, and at Christmas, they open up to visitors with prebooked tickets in the evening hours, once dusk settles, to enjoy the atmosphere and wander through their Christmas trails.

This is an incredibly popular London event and sells out quickly.

Very quickly.

You’ll want to check here for tickets to see if there are any during your stay as soon as you can if this sounds like something you’d be interested in.

5. See a Panto

Short for “pantomime,” a panto is a classic British Christmas tradition.

Think of it like a school play, but put on by experienced actors, who are trying to be cheesy.

Pantos aren’t supposed to be the best play you’ve ever seen, but they are supposed to make you laugh and there are various interactive antics that involve the crowd shouting things back at the actors.

It doesn’t get more authentically British than this, so if you’re in the mood for something a bit different when you’re in London in the winter, just search for “London panto” and you’ll come up with the offerings at various theatres during your trip.

6. New Year’s Eve Fireworks

In all of the Christmas festivities, the New Year’s Eve fireworks shouldn’t be forgotten.

If you’re in London on New Year’s Eve, you should know that the city does official fireworks over the river.

You do need to purchase tickets in advance in order to get into the actual official event, but there are also viewing parties held throughout the city and in other areas, including the Southbank.

New Year’s Eve in London is absolutely packed, but if you go in knowing that, you’ll have a great time.

The tube also runs for free on New Year’s Eve night late into the next morning to help people get home safely.

7. Watch Festive-Themed Theatre

Sure, you should see the classic London West End shows like Matilda, The Lion King, Wicked, and more, but if you’re traveling to London in November and December, you should also see if you can get yourself tickets to a festive show!

Popular ones include A Christmas Carol , which is playing at the Old Vic in 2022.

There are also frequent visits by ballet companies putting on the Nutcracker if this is part of your winter tradition.

Another popular British Christmas musical is called “Nativity!” and is a charming show within a show about a group of kids and their schoolteacher who put on a Christmas production – of course with a romcom part for the adults as well.

Finally, do a search for showings of “The Snowman” – this very classic British tale has music that is so beautiful it’s almost melancholy (I know, I’m not really selling it), and this is a great choice for families to see together.

8. Have Christmas Themed Afternoon Tea

Oh yes, you heard that right.

Festive afternoon tea.

Not just your grandma’s tea and scones!

There are quite a few options for Christmas themed afternoon tea in London , but I love the one aboard the Brigid’s Bakery Bus.

You can enjoy the Christmas afternoon tea while looking at Christmas lights, and that just seems like the best thing since London winter sliced bread.

Check out more about the Christmas afternoon tea bus tour here.

9. Listen to Christmas Music at the Skygarden

You’ve heard me talk about London’s Skygarden in various posts ( like this one where I encourage you to see the London view from here instead of the Shard!), but it also comes alive in December with Christmas music nights in the evening.

You can purchase tickets ahead of time and get a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie to go with it, or you can take your chances as a walk-up after 6pm.

Live music, beautiful views of London, drinks, and the company of your travel companions?

Yes, please.

10. Christmas Carols at the Royal Albert Hall

London’s Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington is one of the most beautiful venues in the entire city, often playing host to classical music concerts such as during the summer with the BBC Proms.

For those of you who want some festive events in November and January at this stunning venue, your wish has come true!

They have a number of Christmas concerts and carol events, ranging from singalongs to modern Christmas carols to more traditional evenings.

Click here to see what’s playing at the Royal Albert Hall for the holiday season.

11. Coppa Club Tower Bridge

Ever dreamed of spending your winter in an igloo?

At London’s Coppa Club , you can book out one of these awesome igloo-inspired riverside dining experiences that come complete with warm blankets.

Smell the evergreen smells as you lounge on the cozy couches and look at the gorgeous views of Tower Bridge in the background.

They have a set menu for Christmas events, as well as regular menus that includes brunch.

Because I love brunch, and London does too.

12. Experience Christmas at Harrod’s

London’s most famous department store, Harrod’s , is located in Knightsbridge and really does it up with the Christmas decorations and section.

Visit at any time of day to wander through the rows and rows of Christmas themed shopping and take the chance to purchase a gift for someone from home (despite Harrod’s expensive reputation, not everything there is going to cost you your first born child).

13. Take the Kids to Hamley’s

You know in Home Alone 2, when Kevin lives all of his toy store dreams while he’s trying to come up with ways to booby trap the place for the bad guys?

Hamley’s is London’s best toy store for kids , and there aren’t even any bad guys that you have to worry about.

Kids and adults alike will love a Christmas visit to Hamley’s, which is decorated for the holidays.

But there’s no promise that they’re not going to come out asking for everything in there, so proceed with caution.

14. Enjoy the Lights on Oxford Street, Regent’s Street, and Carnaby Street

The major Christmas lights go up in London on Oxford Street, Regent’s Street which intersects Oxford Street, and Carnaby Street in Soho which is also walking distance from the main hub of lights.

While you should keep in mind that this area can be extremely busy, it can be a fun festive night out to walk along these streets and do some shopping or dining along the way as you soak in the true fast-paced London life.

Also, there’s a Disney store on Oxford Street, in case any fellow Disney fans need some British-themed Mickey Mouse gear to make an appearance in their lives over the holiday season.

Things to Do in London on Christmas Day

Christmas Day in London is a wonderful time to spend with your family, snuggled up in your hotel room or walking the empty streets of London.

The streets are quiet, giving you space and time to really soak up the architecture and wander across and around streets that normally would be filled with cars and bars.

You should know that London is a city that likes to shut down on Christmas Day, so you need to plan your day carefully.

Most attractions, and many restaurants, are closed, as well as many pubs (particularly in the evening) and theatres.

Even Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, the main Christmas market in London, is shut on the day.

London top tip: Christmas Day is the main day of Christmas celebration in the UK (unlike in some European countries where Christmas Eve is more important), but you should still check schedules on Christmas Eve as well, as attractions may be closed or close early.

If you’re around London on Christmas Day, here are my favorite things to do in London on Christmas Day to still feel all holly and jolly.

15. Take a Christmas Bus Tour

Imagine a bus tour which has to deal with little traffic, giving you the best views of London, complete with a mission to show you the best Christmas lights in London?

On Christmas Day, you can take this Christmas lights bus tour to enjoy the sights of London decked out for the holidays.

It’s a bit more expensive than a normal bus tour in London , but given how much doesn’t run on Christmas, I’d be happy it’s running at all and take them up on it!

Click here to check out tickets for the Christmas lights bus tour.

16. Book Yourself a Pub Lunch

If you want to book Christmas lunch for you and your family, make sure to book ahead of time because you can’t normally walk into most restaurants in London on Christmas Day and be seated.

Most will be serving a Christmas special that can range anywhere from £40 per person to £150 per person and upwards.

You can also find places that will let you order off the la carte menu, but make sure to check with the restaurant ahead of time what the options are.

I like to use OpenTable to find out what restaurants are open near me on Christmas day.

17. Go for a Walk through the Royal Parks

London’s parks are open on Christmas Day, which makes for a nice stroll before you enjoy your meal.

As the light fades early on Christmas Day, I recommend doing this as a first port of call in the morning after presents.

Then, enjoy your lunch or late lunch, and then finish with the Christmas lights tour and some evening Christmas light looking either by foot or by London taxi!

Weather in London in Winter

As mentioned, the winter weather in London is more mild than you would expect further north in places like Norway, but you’re not going to get the beautiful 75 degree winters like southern Spain.

It ranges from about 30-50 degrees depending on the month, and the winter is one of London’s rainiest seasons.

I’ve compiled information on the weather in London in each winter month so you can see what you might be in for.

London’s Weather in December

The last month of the year brings an average high of 45 and an average low of 37 – not as cold as January, but starting to frost up cars and the grass at times, particularly outside of London in the countryside.

The average number of days with rain stays steady at 17 and overall December (and winter) is rainy.

The daylight hours drop further to just about 8 per day, with the darkest day of the year at the end of the month with the winter solstice.

You can expect sunset before 4:00pm in December – a very unusual thing for people who are used to more steady daylight hours.

Weather in London in January

The average high in January is 43 F and the average low is 37 F .

January can be a bitterly cold month, and while it doesn’t snow in London frequently, January is one of the strong contenders if it does happen.

It’s, on average, the coldest month in London.

As far as rain, it wins the title for rainiest month when it comes to the days it rains, and it’s also up there in terms of how much actual rain it gets (regardless of what days this rain falls).

January also ties December for the lowest amount of daylight hours at around 8 per day – it can start getting dark in the late afternoon and by “evening” it’s pitch black.

London Weather in February

The average high in February is 45 and the average low is 37 .

It’s just marginally warmer than January, but not by much.

This is another contender for snow and snow in February wouldn’t be unusual (though a massive snowstorm is rare).

For rain, it has fewer rainy days on average than January (about 16) and the actual rain levels are also lower, but it’s still rainier than March and April.

The average daylight hours in February go up to 9 per day – better than December and January, but it’s still very much winter, after all.

March London Weather

The average high in March is 50 and the low is 49 – a pretty big jump from the month before.

March is one of those months in the UK that can be very iffy – it wouldn’t be unusual for snow, but you also could have some freak hot days.

In terms of rain, you’re looking at about an average of 16 rainy days per March, but overall the precipitation levels are some of the lowest of the whole year (on average – again, this is just based on past weather, not a guaranteed forecast).

The average daylight hours in March jump to 11 hours per day and will start to increase more rapidly from this point until the summer solstice.

London usually feels still like winter in March, but with a hint of excitement in the air for Spring starting at the end of the month.

Best Day Trips from London in Winter

You shouldn’t shy away from taking day trips from London in the winter, but equally you should be aware of some of the best London winter day trips to make sure you go somewhere that will be suitable for winter entertainment.

There’s no point in going to some of the UK’s most hopping summer seaside towns when all you’ll find in the winter is maybe a sad playground and some aggressive waves.

Here are my picks for the best London day trips in the winter months, in no particular order!

Oxford is small enough to be mostly walkable for a day trip , but with plenty of places to dip inside, including museums, cafes, and shopping.

They’ve also got their fair share of Christmas festivities, and you’ll encounter lower crowds in certain parts of the winter as students will have gone home for their own holidays.

Go for a walk under the covered market, explore the hallowed halls of the Bodleian Library, and visit the many Harry Potter filming locations around the city.

I recommend heading to Oxford from London by using the Oxford Tube, a bus that runs from Victoria Coach Station directly into Oxford.

You can find out more about Oxford Tube tickets here.

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, one of the Royal Family’s favorite residences, is open during the winter months and has plenty of rooms to explore inside, out of the elements.

There is also an outdoor component, but if the weather truly turns, you can explore the other shops in Windsor which are filled with knick knacks and souvenirs.

You can also stop for a pub dinner to warm up before heading back to London.

I recommend getting to Windsor from London by direct train.

You can look up train routes at Omio .

The Cotswolds

If you’re looking for foggy and atmospheric countryside rather than towns, you’ll enjoy the Cotswolds as a day trip from London in the winter.

These charming villages are filled with thatched roofs, lots of walking trails, and roaring fires which all adds to the winter atmosphere.

To get to the Cotswolds, I recommend taking a guided tour like this one , as you’ll want to have car/bus access to explore as easily as possible.

Best Tours in London in Winter

In addition to the Christmas lights tour that you can find here and I talk about more in the Christmas section, there are certain tours that I particularly recommend in the winter.

London top tip: in the winter months, don’t get your heart set on an open top bus tour. Sometimes, the best place you can be is behind glass, enjoying the sights and sounds with a little bit of a wind and cold barrier!

The Ultimate Harry Potter Walk

I absolutely love this Harry Potter tour – it’s the best one in London, and you can go on it year round.

It takes you through some of London’s most important Harry Potter filming locations, and many people dress up in their robes and wands (though it’s not all all mandatory or the majority, so don’t feel awkward if you’re in your muggle clothes!).

It is a mostly outdoor tour, so dress for the elements.

Harry Potter Studio Tour

While the previous tour is one around London, the Harry Potter Studio Tour is a self-guided tour that takes place in a town called Watford, at the studios where all of the Harry Potter series were filmed.

In Christmas, the sets get dressed up for the holidays and you can see the Hogwarts display in the snow, which is a truly magical experience for any Harry Potter fan.

Click here to see how to get there , including transfers to Central London, to the Harry Potter Studio tour.

Jack the Ripper Walking Tour

What’s better for a murder mystery tour than it getting dark super early and everyone being dressed up in black coats and hats?

This Jack the Ripper walking tour in London’s East End is both cheap and a London must-do.

Where to Stay in London in the Winter

In my opinion, figuring out where to stay in London in the winter revolves around making sure you feel cozy and are in the heart of the action so you don’t need to walk miles in the cold to get back to your hotel.

Enjoy this list of the best places to stay in London in the winter, broken down by budget and feel (because some of us are splurging on a once in a lifetime trip, and others of us are just trying to not have to sleep in a tent – something for everyone!)

London’s Best Luxury Hotels in the Winter

Whether you want fine dining or a bit of luxury in your cushions or just the all-around best experience, these London luxury hotels are great for those of you who are wanting the best of the best in London accommodation .

And even if you’re not sure if that’s you, don’t be afraid to check the prices and see what can work for your budget!

London Marriott Hotel County Hall

If you want to be in the thick of the action, this is the London winter hotel for you.

Not only is it a five star hotel with five star service, but the Southbank Christmas markets are right on your doorstep, as well as Big Ben, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and more.

The rooms are immaculate with cozy, but sophisticated designs and flat screen televisions for catching up on the festive British shows.

Truly, this is a hotel like no other and if you can afford it, your decision has been made.

C lick here to learn more about the Marriott County Hall hotel.

The Westbury Mayfair

If the name alone sounds fancy, that’s because it is.

Mayfair is one of the most beautiful and luxurious areas of London, and – good news for you winter travelers – it’s just a short walk from Oxford Street for you to get your Christmas light – viewing on.

The marble bathrooms make you feel like you’re living like royalty, while the chic hotel bar is a great place to get some drinks pre-exploring.

Earth tones in the room go a long way towards making these beautifully decorated suites feel warm, and the breakfast is one of the best around.

Click here to learn more about and check prices for the Westbury Mayfair.

London’s Best Mid-Range Hotels in Winter

If you want to explore London at Christmas, but don’t want to splash all the cash, here are my picks for more affordable hotels in London.

These aren’t the most budget options, but they are somewhere in between budget and luxury (and all perfect for London winter).

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London – Marble Arch

Situated right at one end of Oxford Street so it’s still amazing for exploring the Christmas lights, the DoubleTree Marble Arch is mid-range in price, but goes above and beyond in service and amenities.

The rooms are clean and comfortable with pictures of London, and there is an Indian restaurant downstairs that comes highly recommended.

They’ve also got a wide range of room types, including for single travelers, those wanting twin beds, and those wanting one large bed.

Click here to check out prices for the DoubleTree Marble Arch .

Thistle Bloomsbury Park

I love the Thistle hotels in London.

The rooms are spacious enough that you don’t feel like you’re in a cramped London hotel room, the staff is friendly, the amenities are modern, and they’re in great locations.

I specifically recommend the Thistle Bloomsbury Park for the winter for people who want to have all of the festivities within easy reach, but want it to be a bit quieter around their immediate hotel.

I know for me, I prefer to have a few minute walk back to my hotel in a more local-friendly area than have the hustle and bustle of the city right out my window, and if that’s you, you’ll enjoy the Thistle Bloomsbury Park.

The rooms are plenty nice, the price is good for London, and you’ve got Covent Garden, the West End, and the British Museum all in easy walking distance, as well as the Russell Square tube station just a five minute walk away which will get you to the rest of the city.

Click here to check out prices for Thistle Bloomsbury Park.

Best Budget Places to Stay in London in Winter

If you’re on a tight budget and looking for where to stay in London, I really recommend sticking to either well-known budget hotel chains ( click here for my favorite location of the Premier Inn , a trusted budget brand) or if you’re up for one of the best hostels in London , staying at the London Generator Hostel who also do private rooms.

You can also check out Airbnbs, of course (check out my tips for Airbnbs here).

I would not recommend staying in the cheapest hotels you can find, otherwise, as there can be some dirty and sketchy places that are cheap, but come with bad reviews and not great stories from past travelers.

Does it Snow in London in the Winter?

Yes, but not often.

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, go to Lapland instead.

London is in the south of England, which isn’t particularly prone to snow in the first place, but mix in the heat of the hustle and bustle of a giant city and you’ve got a recipe for snow having a hard time sticking.

It does snow in London, don’t get me wrong, but usually there’s only a significant snowfall every couple of years, and maybe a light dusting in the others.

When it does snow, London gets a bit chaotic as it doesn’t snow often enough for the infrastructure to be there to handle it.

Think closed train lines, people slipping all over the place, and general weather havoc.

That being said, snow is more common in the colder months of January and February, so if you’re traveling around those times and want to see some of the white stuff, I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you (and for me. Who doesn’t love a snow day?)

What else should I not miss in London?

If you’re visiting London soon, here’s a very brief rundown of a few of my other favorites to make sure you don’t miss anything!

• Hidden London Walking Tour – this tour is the absolute best if you want to see London in a different light and uncover hidden nooks, crannies, and histories that you won’t get on your normal, run-of-the-mill London walking tour. Click here to check prices and book.
• Historical Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms – if you’re a history buff or even mildly interested in all of the insane things that have happened in London, particular during the wars, you have to book this tour which is an absolute bargain for the tour + entry to the Churchill War Rooms (basically two must-dos in one). Click here to check prices and book .
• Cutest London Afternoon Tea on a Bus – want to see the sights and enjoy afternoon tea at the same time on the upper deck? Yes, absolutely you do. This afternoon tea is a real delight and helps you get out and about while also putting your pinkies up. Click here to check prices and book.

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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12 Best Things to Do in London in Winter

October 24, 2023 //  by  Follow Me Away //   2 Comments

Visiting London in winter is a magical and memorable experience you won’t soon forget!

The weather during winter in London will be a bit cold but with averages in the mid-40s Fahrenheit, it is not that bad. There is a low chance of snow and fewer crowds.

Winter in London is generally defined as December to February, but months such as November and March can experience winter weather as well.

If you are wondering what to do in London in the winter, there are many options. Admire Christmas decorations, go ice skating, and eat tasty Valentine’s Day treats.

We have visited London during winter a couple of times and had wonderful trips! I adore the festive atmosphere and pretty lights decorating the streets!

With a few tips and this handy guide by your side, you will be off to an enjoyable trip to quintessential London during the winter months!

Make sure to check out my complete guide to where to stay in London , too!

Explore London By Bike

Santander Cycles, London’s public bike-sharing scheme, is available 24/7, 365 days a year.

You can rent bikes for a small fee and use them as long as you like. Biking is a wonderful way to explore the city, even in winter!

Make sure you are dressed in warm, windproof clothing. Wear gloves to keep your hands warm and a hat.

You can also ride your bike across town and drop it off at one of the 750 different docking stations and simply take the Tube home if the weather gets bad!

You can also take a guided bike tour if you are not sure where to start!

Book Here: London Christmas Lights Bike Tour

Explore the Victoria And Albert Museum

If the weather of winter in London gets too dreary, consider spending a day exploring the V&A Museum, the world’s largest museum of arts and design.

What better way to spend a rainy afternoon in winter in London than wandering the halls of this historical museum? It was founded in 1852, and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

The Victoria and Albert Museum is the home of over 2 million objects from 2,000 years of art history.

As in all national museums in London, entrance is free of charge, though a voluntary donation is suggested.

This is one of the best things to do in the South Kensington neighborhood.

Go Skating at the Natural History Museum Ice Rink

Located just across the street from the V&A Museum, the Natural History Museum is another of the top museums in London.

During winter, the open-air ice rink here is a magical way to spend a day. Ice skating is one of the best winter activities in London the whole family will love!

At night during the Christmas season, the rink is surrounded by thousands of twinkling fairy lights and overlooked by a 30-foot-tall Christmas tree.

Make sure to bundle up with knit caps, gloves, scarves, and thick socks to wear inside your skates.

You can also visit the museum’s alpine-style cafe for something warm to drink after your chilly ice-skating adventure and enjoy a view of the skaters and twinkle lights.

Want more ice skating in London? Head to the rink at Somerset House.

Enjoy a Shopping Spree at Harrods

Whether you’re spending summer or winter in London, you really need to make time for a trip to London’s world-famous store, Harrods.

The rainy winter weather may be the perfect reason to head indoors! There are lots of things to do inside Harrods.

If you love upscale shopping, this is one of the best places to visit in London in December. Some of the designer stores found here include Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Cartier, Rolex, and more.

You can also find inexpensive souvenirs to buy such as delicious chocolates, a Harrods Christmas bear, or a Harrods Advent calendar.

Even if you do not buy anything, it is fun to just soak in the festive atmosphere!

Make sure to dress a little posh if you wish to have afternoon tea at the Harrods Tea Rooms!

Harrods also has some of the prettiest Christmas lights in London !

See a West End Show

West End is renowned for some of the best live performances in the world! When spending winter in London, stay warm and dry while enjoying a show here.

If you want an excuse to dress up a little, going to see a musical in quintessential old London is the perfect idea!

There are several different theaters to choose from, all within fairly close distance of each other.

Depending on when your trip is, you can choose from many different famed musicals such as Wicked , The Lion King , Mama Mia , and Phantom of the Opera .

This is what to do in London in February when the nights are dark and cold.

Wander a London Christmas Market

Feel like you have stepped right into a Dickens novel by visiting one of the many charming Christmas markets in London .

If you want to enjoy one of the best things to do in London in December, make sure to schedule a trip to a Christmas market in Europe .

Follow the lights to Hyde Park where you will find the Winter Wonderland Christmas Market, one of the biggest Christmas markets in London.

If you’re looking for stunning views, try checking out Christmas By The River at London Bridge City. There is a spectacular view of the Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

Explore Covent Garden

London goes all-out during late November and December with lights and decorations for Christmas. Covent Garden is a perfect place to view them!

You can get lots of Christmas shopping done while in a wintry, festive atmosphere.

Regardless of whether your wintry London visit takes place around Christmastime, there are all kinds of shops to visit, delicious food to try, and sights to see at Covent Garden in the winter.

Make sure to give yourself at least two hours when visiting, as you may very well get sidetracked between shops to watch the amazing street performers!

Covent Garden is easily one of the most Instagramable places in London during Christmas!

Sip Mulled Wine at the Borough Market

The Borough Market is a tasty place to visit any time of the year with a ton of food vendors. In winter, breathe in the scent of fresh baked goods and festive spices.

As you wander the stalls full of food and artisan items, sip on a cup of mulled wine. This is sure to warm you up and put you in the holiday spirit.

Pick up some cookies and other treats for a holiday party. You can also buy handmade decor such as wreaths and ornaments.

Book Here: London: Guided Winter Markets Food Tour

Discover the Best Street Light Displays

One of the best things to do in London during Christmas is wander the streets with dazzling light displays. Many of the best streets are interconnected in the Mairfair and SoHo neighborhoods.

Most displays go up around the first or second week of November and stay up until the new year. You’ll be amazed by giant angels, dangling stars, and balls of light that seem to float down the street.

Some of the most famously decked-out Christmas streets in London include Oxford, Regent, Carnaby, New Bond, and South Moulton Streets.

Book Here: London: Christmas Lights by Night Open-Top Bus Tour

Attend Christmas at Kew

For another amazing light display, head to Kew Gardens for one of the best winter events in London!

Christmas at Kew runs from mid-November through the first week of January. If you want London winter activities the whole family will enjoy, this is it!

Wander the illuminated paths and discover light arches and fascinating installations. There is a fire garden, fun projections, and a chance to spot Father Christmas.

At the Palm House, there is an amazing show that utilizes lights, music, and water. It is a beautiful experience!

After exploring the gardens, grab a meal to warm you up such as kebabs or cheese toasties.

This is definitely one of the top things to do in London in the winter!

Visit Hogwarts in the Snow

If you are a Harry Potter fan, you have to visit Hogwarts in the Snow at the Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour. This is one of the best day trips from London in winter.

From mid-November through mid-January, the magic is heightened with festive decor throughout the exhibits.

In the Great Hall, take a picture with the Christmas tree. There is powdery snow on the massive Hogwarts model, in the Forbidden Forest, and dusting Diagon Alley.

You will have a fun time learning about how these iconic movies were made and taking pictures of the sets and props. Make sure to order some warm butterbeer!

This is one of the best things to do in London in January after a lot of the holiday crowds have died down.

Book Here: From London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour

Get a Birds-Eye-View from the London Eye

Though slightly on the expensive side, you don’t want to pass up the chance for a stunning view of London’s Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament, and the Thames River.

The London Eye isn’t just any ordinary Ferris wheel. It offers a magical view of the old city that you can’t get anywhere else unless you are Mary Poppins.

Make sure to check your dates if you are planning your trip in January because the London Eye annually closes for maintenance for a couple of weeks every January.

Book Here: London: The London Eye Entry Ticket

Winter Weather and Temperatures in London

The average winter weather in London is a bit rainy and chilly. On rare occasions, usually in midwinter, you might find a bit of snowfall.

December weather in London is actually more on the rainy and warmer side, so there is less chance of snow because it is too warm and wet for the snow to form. Even if it does snow in London, it is usually just a dusting.

The sun sets quite early during the winter. Expect the sun to set around 4:00 p.m. While you have less daylight, that just means more time to see the city lit up at night. It is especially pretty during Christmas in London.

If winter is the only time you have to visit London, just remember that the average London winter weather isn’t all that bad. It is quite doable with the proper packing and planning!

The temperature of London in the winter is actually relatively reasonable, especially for a northern city.

On average, the temperatures range from about 37 to 43 degrees Fahrenheit.

You won’t show up to your London winter trip and be shocked by the temperature change, especially if you already live in a place that experiences winter.

We are from Florida and have visited London during the winter twice and survived just fine. If we can do it, you certainly can!

Average London Winter Temperatures:

November: 50°F high and 43°F low

December: 45°F high and 37°F low

January: 43°F high and 37°F low

February: 45°F high and 37°F low

March: 50°F high and 39°F low

Make sure to check out our guide on the best time to visit London for more info!

How To Get Around London In Winter

Public transportation is the best way to get around London during winter.

The Underground, or Tube, system is very extensive and easy to use. You will be able to get warm and toasty while you quickly travel from spot to spot.

The iconic red, double-decker buses are another option. They run on a regular schedule and you can watch the city go by.

Keep in mind, though, that public transport can get very crowded around Christmas.

What To Pack For London In Winter

If you are heading to London in the winter, there are a few packing tips I suggest! Winter is a magical time to visit, but you need to stay warm and dry.

Dressing in layers is key! If you get too warm or too cold, simply add or take away a layer until you feel better.

Both times we have visited London in winter, we packed our entire wardrobe in carry-on luggage! If you want to pack in a carry-on, it is totally doable!

If you want to bring a checked bag, that is even better as you will have more space!

• Fleece-lined Leggings .  These are perfect for your winter packing list for London because they don’t take up much space and keep you warm under slacks, jeans, or dresses!
• Warm Winter Dresses. Thick dresses will keep you comfy and stylish on the streets of London!
• Thin Long Sleeve Thermal Tops . These are perfect for layers and pack up super small.
• Comfy Knit Hat . These keep you warm and protect your ears from the wind.
• Waterproof Boots/Shoes . Waterproof footwear is essential for rainy days during a London winter.
• A Winter Jacket. Do not think that you can visit London in the winter and NOT bring a winter jacket . Bonus points if that winter jacket is waterproof!
• Warm Gloves . These are essential to keep your hands warm. Try touch-screen gloves for snapping photos with your phone.
• A Balaclava . An alternative to a scarf that won’t blow in the wind while keeping your neck warm.
• Dark Denim Jeans . These are easy to style and can be worn over fleece-lined leggings
• Pull-Over Sweaters . Again, easy to style and layer.

There is so much to see and do when visiting London in winter!

If you have any questions about planning your winter London vacation, make sure to let us know in the comments and we will try and answer the best we can!

Next, check out my suggested 4-day London itinerary !

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February 3, 2020 at 6:19 pm

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Visiting London in winter (Ultimate guide + practical tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: November 23, 2023

Discover the very best things to do and see if you are visiting London in winter. Our ultimate guide contains everything you need to know including where to stay and practical tips to plan your perfect itinerary for a winter visit to London.

London… undoubtedly one of the best cities in the world. Am I biased? Yes. But this wonderful UK city is so jam-packed with sights, incredible places to eat, and world-class museums that even in the gloom of English winter there’s still so much to see and do!

Of course, London is extremely popular year-round, yet there’s something about visiting during the winter months. Maybe it’s the Christmas cheer, maybe it’s the fact that there are way fewer crowds, but there’s no doubt in my mind that the festive atmosphere adds something special that would make it a truly unforgettable winter trip!

Not only will you be able to experience the amazing winter festivities and Christmas things to do in London such as festive markets and outdoor ice skating, but the winter weather (fingers crossed for snow!) transforms the city into a true winter wonderland! I can’t think of a better way to explore London than being surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights , a belly stuffed with delicious food, and a hot chocolate in hand!

In this article discover all of the best (and unmissable) things to do in London in winter . We have included practical tips to help you to plan your own London winter wonderland adventure plus links to any recommended tours and events.

Remember to book tickets early to festive events – these are very popular and can be booked well in advance. (Staying for New Year? Read our guide to things to do in London on New Year’s Eve )

1. Take in a show (or a pantomime)

2. hit the shops for some retail therapy, 3. enjoy afternoon tea , 4. cosy up in a london pub, rooftop bar, or riverside igloo, 5. visit some of the museums and art galleries, 6. enjoy views of the city and london landmarks.

• 7. Visit London's top attractions

POPULAR LONDON ATTRACTIONS – ADVANCE PURCHASE AND/OR FAST-TRACK TICKETS

8. experience hogwarts in the snow.

• 9. Take a stroll through London's parks and gardens

10. Join a themed tour of London

11. visiting london in december , what is the weather like in london in winter, what should i wear if i am visiting london in winter, how to get around london in winter.

• London luxury hotels ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

London mid-range hotels

London budget and family friendly hotels, best apartments for your london stay, plan your trip to london, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), best things to do in london in winter.

Nothing says Christmas time more to me than being in a room full of strangers shouting “HE’S BEHIND YOU!”. Spoiler Alert for those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, but this is a UK Christmas tradition that perfectly sums up what going to see a pantomime is all about.

Laughter, fun, and lots of noise! Pantoland at the Palladium is showing this winter, and if you want to experience the story of Aladdin in a whole new world light, I highly recommend giving it a watch.

Pantomimes aside, one of the most popular reasons to visit London is to catch a show at the West End. There are so many great shows to see, you’ll be spoiled for choice, but make sure to book your tickets in advance so you don’t miss out!

Some of my favourite shows are Wicked , Mamma Mia , and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One & Two . Now, if you really want to feel that Christmas cheer, watching Frozen – the Musical may be the let it go, I mean… way to go (last musical pun, I promise).

While you’re in London’s West End, you just have to snap a photo at Piccadilly Circus. This is the London equivalent of New York’s Times Square, plus you’ll be right next to Shaftsbury Avenue where all the best West End Theatres are located so you can easily get to your show afterwards.

Shows we recommend

• Matilda: The Musical – Roald Dahl’s beloved childhood story comes to life on stage.  Matilda  tickets are sure to please the whole family. Click for tickets
• Back to the Future : The Musical – based on the 1980s film following Marty McFly who travels back to 1955 in Doc Brown’s invention, a time machine based on a DeLorean car. Click for tickets
• Mary Poppins – a stage adaptation of the Disney film following the story of a magical nanny who looks after 2 children in Edwardian London. Click for tickets
• T he Book of Mormon – a satirical musical that follows two young Mormon missionaries sent to a remote village in northern Uganda. Click for tickets

Click to book tickets with London Theatre Direct

No winter trip is complete without some Christmas shopping. Many people visit London for the incredible shopping, which is just as good in the winter months (if not better).

Some of the most well-known shopping destinations in the city are Oxford Street, Regent’s Street, Bond Street, and Selfridges.

For some real Christmas cheer, head to Harrods at night to admire their Christmas lights and visit Santa at his grotto. Don’t forget to go to Covent Garden too and get a peep of their spectacular Christmas tree, decorations, and ogle at the Christmas windows that have been specially decorated for the holiday season!

Covent Garden is also a top spot for entertainment, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the world’s best street performers, plus there are always plenty of pop-up events and exhibitions throughout the year, including winter.

Now onto the real reason us shopaholics would visit London in winter… you guessed it. The SALES! The Boxing Day sales are the most well-known of course, and all over the country, people get up bright and early to battle for those mega-discounts!

However, there are great sales all the way through January too so if you would rather spend December 26th lying around walking off that Christmas Day turkey, you won’t be missing out too much!

Is afternoon tea possibly the best meal of the day?! I think so, and I also think that heading indoors for a spot of afternoon tea is the perfect way to stay warm during the winter weather. What’s more, you can even find yourself a festive afternoon tea to attend!

Imagine all your afternoon tea favourites but with a holiday twist, all with a beautiful Christmas table spread.

Don’t fret if you find yourself visiting London after Christmas, because there are plenty of themed afternoon teas year-round too. You can find a Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley , as well as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Peter Pan themes.

If you really want to experience afternoon tea at its finest, then you have to go to the Ritz . It is so fancy, there are even 18 different types of tea to choose from – loose leaf of course.

Other options we recommend include:

• Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour of London – Have a unique afternoon tea experience and soak in London’s best sights on a classic double-decker bus tour. Enjoy amazing views on the bus as you indulge in sweet and savoury treats, including a glass of Prosecco. Check out our guide to the best London bus tours!
• Royal Tour with Afternoon Tea at the Rubens – Enjoy a panoramic drive through London with your expert tour guide followed by a traditional afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace.
• Afternoon Tea Cruise on the River Thames – Indulge in one of England’s best traditions and enjoy a 1.5-hour Afternoon Tea cruise along the River Thames, seeing some of the city’s most historic buildings, while enjoying a pot of tea, served alongside a selection of delicate sandwiches and cakes.

When you get tired of your London sightseeing, such as strolling across Tower Bridge or riding on the London Eye, warming up in true UK fashion normally involves a cosy pub, a roaring fire, and a good old pint.

Some of my go-to places for some top-notch pub grub (and to stay warm) are Ye Old Cheshire Cheese , Jerusalem Tavern, and Old Coffee House in Soho. If this sounds like heaven to you, then consider going on a pub tour and visiting some of London’s oldest/best pubs.

Something a little more up-market and with better views for sure are London’s rooftop bars. Don’t think that being in London in winter means you can’t enjoy your drinks whilst admiring the city skyline with its iconic landmarks like the London Eye and the Shard.

These bars come well prepared for the winter weather with heaters and blankets. The Coppa Club will even have you seated in your own glass igloo!

Another top establishment to check out is the Trafalgar in St. James . The sun sets earlier in the winter months, so you may want to bear this in mind when planning your visit!

Remember when I said earlier that London has some of the best museums in the world? What makes them even more special is that they are FREE! If you are looking for budget-friendly things to do in London the museums should definitely make your itinerary.

There are a number to choose from. If you are visiting London with kids the museum to visit is the Natural History Museum.

I have loved the Natural History Museum since I first visited it as a child in the 1970s and have returned numerous times with my own daughter, I recommend that anyone planning to visit London gives it a visit (with or without kids! If not to escape the rain, then to check out the world-famous Dinosaur Gallery and the EPIC crystal room or, as the curators like to call it, the Mineralogy collections…

Another favourite is the Science Museum. What more can I say other than it’s “sciencey”, it’s cool, and you should definitely consider a visit!

The Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum are also must-sees.

For all you art lovers out there, London also has top galleries like the Tate Modern, the National Gallery, and Somerset House. The Tate Modern houses works from some ridiculously talented contemporary artists so if contemporary art is your thing, head on over!

Just because you’ve found yourself in London in winter doesn’t mean that you can’t still take in the city’s iconic sites, landmarks, and views . Just make sure to pack some winter wear to stay nice and toasty!

To name a few, The Shard , Sky Garden , and Canary Wharf should be at the top of your list, and for bonus points, hop on the London Eye for unbeatable views of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.

Another fun way to view the city is to take a boat ride along the Th ames River.

This is a bit of an out-of-the-box London attraction, but if you’re into art, then taking a stroll through Camden or Shoreditch will show you some of the city’s most vibrant and colourful street art , including some works by the street art king himself, Banksy!

7. Visit London’s top attractions

London’s top attractions , like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London, not to mention seeing the Crown Jewels themselves with your very own eyes, are not to be missed, of course.

In fact, London in winter might actually be the best time to see these beauties… the city often has fewer crowds over winter, particularly over January and February.

Aside from seeing famous landmarks like Big Ben in the flesh, a little wander around London will reveal all sorts of hidden gems, especially if you throw caution to the wind and explore areas outside of the usual tourist trail. I highly recommend this if you have time as you never know what you will find!

The hop-on hop-off bus is a great way to get around the cities main sights especially when its a little chilly.

🎡 London Eye – Ride with fantastic views over London. (Skip-the-line tickets available)

🏙 The Shard – The tallest building in the UK with commanding views over London.

⛪️ Westminster Abbey – Gothic abbey where coronations and royal weddings are held.

💎 Tower of London – Infamous prison and mighty fortress. The Crown Jewels are on display too.

⚔ Madame Tussauds – Get up close and personal with over 250 waxworks of famous people.

⛓ London Dungeon – Enjoy a recreation of some of London’s goriest and macabre historical events.

🐧 London Zoo – World’s oldest scientific zoo and a popular attraction for families.

👑 Hampton Court Palace – King Henry VIII’s favourite palace.

As a die-hard Harry Potter fan, this suggestion hits extremely close to home for me. Take a day trip from London to Warner Bros studio to escape the mundane muggle world and get your hands on some Butter Beer.

For other giant HP fans, a side trip to King’s Cross Station and Platform 9 ¾ itself will complete your fantasies of being a Hogwarts attendee. I’m STILL waiting for my acceptance letter TBH. Darn owl post…

Okay, okay, I fully acknowledge that not everyone out there is a huge Potterhead. The good news is there are plenty of other great day trips to take from London in winter, like going to Oxford or Canterbury !

Click here for tickets t o Harry Potter Studios

9. Take a stroll through London’s parks and gardens

So you might be thinking: they’re seriously suggesting that I take a walk in a park?! In London?! In winter?!! Yes, that is exactly what I’m suggesting. Like the rest of London, the park and gardens get a serious winter makeover.

Not just from a dusting of light snow and fallen leaves either, some of these places get seriously lit up with beautiful Christmas lights.

Some well-known favourites are Kew Gardens , Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, and Green Park. These are beautiful places to visit and some even host special winter events (more on that later).

London has some fantastic themed tours , and London in winter makes some of these tours even more special! Sometimes the stars align, and the cold, early winter nights can enhance the atmosphere and ambience of your tour, or the cold weather mist can make things seems just that little bit more spooky.

We suggest the Jack the Ripper Tour or a Ghost Walk and Spooky River Thames Boat Ride ! Taking a street art tour can also be a fun way to spend an afternoon or morning.

So this whole article I’ve been trying to convince you why London in winter is the one, but let me now tell you why you should visit London specifically in December . This is a particularly special (and hella festive) time as you’ll be practically drowning in Christmas cheer and pretty lights, and have more Christmas activities than you’ll know what to do with!

• For an epic Christmas light switch-on, go to Borough Market and enjoy the festivities and shopping at the Christmas market!
• Some of THE most beautiful trees to visit are definitely the Christmas tree at Leicester Square, or like I mentioned before, Covent Garden.
• Christmas decorations – December is also the best time to see the city’s Christmas decorations in all their glory. Walking down any of London’s famous shopping streets will give you first class access to some of the most impressive Christmas decor in the world.
• Ice skating – Strap on your skates (or rent some) and go all winter Olympics on your friends at one of the city’s many ice skating rinks ! Some of the most magical places to go ice skating outdoors are Hampton Court Palace, and Somerset House. If you’re not Tonya Harding, don’t think that means you have to miss ice skating, as these places are also beginner-friendly!

Read – 22 Best Christmas Tours to take in London

• Christmas markets – If you feel inspired and want to get a festive souvenir from your trip, head to any of London’s Christmas markets for the best selection of Christmas ornaments, and get some delicious food while you’re at it. I absolutely love visiting Southbank Centre, but the Christmas market at Leicester Square is really something special and is not to be missed.
• Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park – For the holy trinity of all things Christmas, Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park will give you insane Christmas lights, a magical Christmas tree, AND has the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink! Mega bonus points for the Christmas market there too.
• Indoor Christmas markets – Okay, so what if you have the most rotten luck and it’s raining the whole time you’re in London, then what? Then, you simply head to an indoor Christmas market. Greenwich and Borough Market are fantastic options for some festive shopping, all while being covered from the English weather!
• Take the holiday spirit a step further and warm up with a piping-hot glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate. Christmas markets have got to be one of the top reasons why anyone would visit London in winter.
• You’ll find your usual street food fare plus some festive food options (think gingerbread, candy canes, and rum truffles!). They really are the central hub of activity during December and are the highlight of many people’s winter vacation, trousers with an expanding waistline are highly recommended…

Discover more things to do and see in London in December

Visiting London in winter – FAQs

Surprisingly, London in winter only has a few more rainy days on average than the rest of the year, there’s also the chance of snow too so that more than makes up for the cold in my books!

From November to February you can expect things to be a little bit chilly with freezing temperatures (brrrr) on some days. The average temperature during these months are highs of around 8 degrees and lows of just over 2 degrees.

January just about wins first prize for the coldest month with an average temperature between 2 and 7 degrees. So make sure you wrap up warm!

Over the winter months, the sun sets earlier and you’ll have fewer daylight hours, but, that all just adds to the festive feeling, don’t you think?? The sun will set earliest around mid-December just before 4 pm and the shortest day (the Winter Solstice) will be on December 21st.

With pretty low average winter temperatures, the absolute KEY to surviving winter in London, much like the key to the perfect Christmas trifle, is all in the layers. On top of your normal outfit, you’ve got to pop on some winter wear like a good coat, scarf, gloves, and a hat!

Going indoors or taking the underground will feel like a sauna after you’ve been out in the frosty air, so you’ll want to be able to strip it all off and easily put it all back on again before you head back outside!

A good pair of comfortable waterproof boots are essential too.

Normally, I am a strong advocate for the London Underground, but right around Christmas (especially around Oxford and Regent’s Street), the tube can be PACKED. I am talking sardines in a tin packed. And, even if you did take my advice and layer up, taking off those layers may be tricky to pull off without elbowing a stranger or two!

Luckily there are loads of other great public transport options such as the bus, tram-link, or even the Thames river taxi (getting where you need to go AND a view? Sign me up please).

Where to stay in London in winter?

We always recommend staying in central London – this is truly not the time of year you want to spend hours travelling back and forwards to your accommodation though hotel prices may feel prohibitive. It may be tempting to book cheaper accommodation if you are on a budget but spending that little extra in London is worth it.

Below I have recommended my pick of 3 luxury, mid-range, family-friendly and apartment options for your perfect stay in London.

London luxury hotels ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

One aldwych.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Centrally located in Covent Garden, One Aldwych offers 5-star luxury accommodations, superb restaurants and a health club.

This English Heritage Edwardian property is a 5-minute walk from Covent Garden Underground Station.

The Langham London

Located at the top of Regent Street, the prestigious Langham offers an award-winning glamorous bar, Artesian, and a stylish restaurant, Roux at the Landau.

Free WiFi is available and Oxford Circus tube station is just a 5-minute walk away. Numerous shops, theatres and restaurants are located in the local area.

Shangri-La The Shard

Occupying levels 34-52, the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London offers 5-star luxury and breathtaking views of the capital and beyond. It features an exquisite restaurant and serves cocktails until late at the highest bar in London.

Fielding Hotel

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

The Fielding Hotel is located opposite the Royal Opera House in the heart of Central London. With free WiFi, this 19th-century hotel is 5-minute walk from the famous Covent Garden Market.

The Trafalgar St. James

The Trafalgar St. James, London Curio Collection by Hilton is 400 m from Charing Cross Tube and Rail Station. Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus are just a 10-minute walk away, while the West End theatres are less than a kilometre from the hotel.

The Bloomsbury Hotel

The Bloomsbury Hotel is located in the heart of the theater district, within walking distance of most London shows. Tottenham Court Road tube station and The British Museum are just 200 m from the hotel.

More options – Best mid-range hotels in London

London Marriott Hotel County Hall

With fantastic views of Big Ben and the River Thames, this historic 5-star Marriott hotel features a swimming pool and relaxing sauna. Its spacious rooms include luxurious bathrobes and Egyptian cotton sheets. Guests get free Wi-Fi in public areas.

The Z Hotel Covent Garden

Z Covent Garden offers a 113 bedroom hotel in the heart of London’s West End. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel including within the reception and cafe areas which are located on the ground floor.

The Royal Horseguards

Between the River Thames and Trafalgar Square, this beautiful 5-star hotel has a luxurious mix of history and modern style. It has a restaurant, a gym and river views.

More options – Best London hotels for families

Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity Covent Garden

Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity Covent Garden is located on the Strand in the heart of the West End theatre district and is just a few minutes stroll from Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square.

Cheval Thorney Court at Hyde Park

Ideally located in the heart of Kensington, Cheval Thorney Court offers self-catered accommodations with free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre and a 24-hour front desk. The property is set within a 1-minute walk from famous Hyde Park.

Cheval Three Quays at The Tower of London

Located next to the Tower of London, and overlooking the Thames River, Cheval Three Quays features modern apartments with free Wi-Fi and an on-site fitness centre.

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London in winter travel guide – things to do and where to stay

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

Are you planning a trip to London in winter? Get your woolly hat and gloves ready, it’s a lot of fun.

Having lived in the city for many years we can assure you that London is a city that embraces its cold and brisk weather patterns. So there are plenty of things to do in London in winter even on the greyest of days.

What's in this article

Things to do in London in winter

Visiting london in december, where to stay in london in winter, london winter weather, further reading for your winter trip to london.

We wont lie, visiting London in December, January and February provides some unique challenges. The days are cold and darkness sets in early and you will probably want to spend a lot of time indoors. But you might be surprised to learn there are some fun outdoor attractions too.

So get creative and plan out a London winter itinerary with these activities.

Catch a show in London’s West End

In winter, Londoners head to the theater and so should you. Apart from being a classic British tradition, many new shows are launched in winter. From classics like Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera to the latest productions starring world famous actors there is a show for everyone playing in London’s West End. 

Check Time Out for up to date lists of what’s on and find discount and last minute ticket deals on the Theatre Tickets Direct website for what’s showing in London this winter.

Top London theatre shows 2022 / 2023

• Les Miserables – London’s longest running show (since 1985) and favourite tale of love, loss and redemption set in the Paris commune – click for ticket info
• Mamma Mia  – All your favourite ABBA songs in a feel good musical
• The Book of Mormon  – Cheeky satire about the Mormon faith that ultimately endorses love and service
• Wicked  – Take a journey to the Land of Oz to meet unlikely friends, witches Glinda and Elphaba 

Want our popular London itinerary as a printable document? Click here!

Find a cosy London pub

Nothing could be cosier and more English than an open fire roaring inside a quaint pub. Stay warm and cosy with a pint of ale or glass of wine by the fire. 

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese   at 145 Fleet Street is one of London’s oldest pubs, dating from just after the Great Fire of London. This pub has a coal fire burning in the bar and a fascinating history. Apparently Charles Dickens and Mark Twain once drank there.

If you like the sound of that, here is a list of pubs in London with an open fireplace or if you’d prefer a guided experience you might like to join a fabulous walking tour of the city’s historic pubs where you uncover the hidden stories behind each watering hole > click here for tour information

READ: Read our guide to London after dark if you’re looking for activities to do at night in London

Visit London’s museums and galleries

Many of the city’s museums and galleries are free to visit, so they are always a popular winter activity in London. We love visiting the British Museum in all seasons but this visitor favourite can fill a whole rainy London day.

The ever popular Natural History Museum , Science Museum and V&A in Kensington are always extremely busy. And for good reason. They are a treasure trove of interactive exhibits suitable for all ages and interests. We recommend visiting these museums early (before midday) to avoid the crowds.

TIP: We would often go to South Kensington tube station and have breakfast so we can enter as soon as they open at 10:00 am. Here is a list of popular London eateries that can be found nearby.

In Covent Garden, the London Transport Museum takes you on a journey through London’s fascinating transport history – from double decker buses to the first underground lines. There are some useful play spaces there if you are visiting with kids and need a more active indoor activity.

To avoid the main tourist traffic go to Greenwich where there are several fascinating museums including the Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory and Meridian Line and National Maritime Museum. You could easily spend a day in Greenwich enjoying the museums with a break for lunch in the famous covered market. 

Art galleries

There is a London gallery for all art lovers – from modern art at the Tate Modern to Old Masters and Renaissance glory at the National Gallery . Many of the galleries offer free admission to their permanent collections and have cosy cafes to warm up in with a hot chocolate after your dose of culture.

Enjoy a mid shopping trip culture fix at the Wallace Collection near Selfridges. This museum is free to enter and has severam impressive galleries including paintings by Dutch Masters and beautifully curated collections of armour, porcelain and furniture.

READ: our round-up of the best art galleries in London

Afternoon tea indulgence

The British tradition of afternoon tea is a must do each time you visit London. You can have the poshest of teas at The Ritz or take your tea on a vintage London bus as you tour the sights of the city. If you fancy a stylish and modern tea, we recently enjoyed an indulgent afternoon tea with a spectacular view of the Tower of London at Aqua Shard .

READ: I love tea so much I made my own round-up of favourite places in London for afternoon tea

Now afternoon tea can be taken at many unique venues across London but I think the most fabulous tea is at the iconic Houses of Parliament – a truly unique London activity. 

TIP: Join a VIP tour of the Houses of Parliament followed by afternoon tea on the House of Lords terraces with TakeWalks – one of our favorite tour companies. They’ll tell you stories of one of the most famous buildings in London and you’ll sip your tea as Big Ben tolls close by.

Shop till you drop

Shopping in London in winter is lots of fun. You can stay warm in the famous Burlington, Piccadilly and Royal arcades you’ll find on Piccadilly. The historic malls are the perfect spot to browse luxury treats from iconic British and international brands. At Christmas time they are decorated in classic style and are a great place for photos.

While you’re in the area pop into Fortnum and Mason and browse their range of high end food stuffs – perfect for souvenirs or treats.

If you’ve come to shop at some of the biggest flagship stores in the world, duck in and out of the stores along Oxford and Regent Street for high street bargains and luxury finds. 

Make sure you drop by Liberty of London at  and enjoy one of my favourite activities > shopping for scarves! At Christmastime you must go to the top floor where there are all the tree baubles you could dream of in Liberty of London’s Christmas shop.

If you like markets and artisan made goods head to Spitalfields for a uniquely London experience and fun offerings from small designers.

TIP: Post Christmas sales are fantastic in London and you are likely to find some great deals. Even the lead up to Christmas can uncover some very tempting bargains.

Take a stroll in a park

Before you settle in for a cosy afternoon at a pub or enjoy your afternoon tea, take a brisk walk in one of London’s famous parks and gardens. Though the leaves have dropped, you can still appreciate the grandeur of these open spaces. 

Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park are popular choices close to the main attractions. Admire the Albert Memorial and say hello to the ducks and swans on the Serpentine. If you’re visiting in December, Hyde Park is transformed into a winter playground known as Winter Wonderland with Christmas activities, rides and stalls. And of course Santa!

December is the best month to visit London in winter. The city is magical and decorated beautifully during the Christmas season.

There is nothing more festive than  shopping in central London at Christmastime soaking up the atmosphere, and enjoying Christmas windows and decorations around Covent Garden and New Bond Street.

Christmas Markets in London

The Southbank Christmas Markets are a fun way to spend an afternoon. Sip on mulled wine as you browse the craft stalls for gifts and ride the carousel. The market and Christmas activities stretch from outside the Tate Modern to near the London Eye.

Right in the heart of Soho, there is a lovely Christmas market at Leicester Square. This one gets very busy with shoppers and visitors so visit earlier in the day if you want to avoid the crowds.

London winter ice skating rinks

Try ice skating at Somerset House or at the Natural History Museum. You can even skate in front of the Tower of London. This is one of our favourite Christmas traditions.  For some reason the ice skating rinks close after the Christmas season which is a real shame – it’s so much fun!

TIP: Book tickets early for ice skating especially if you are visiting closer to Christmas. It is a very popular activity with both Londoners and tourists.

Don’t forget to visit London’s famous fun fair Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Open from November to January, there are fairground rides, a market to browse and an opportunity to meet Santa of course.

When it is cold outside, we think it is important to stay somewhere lovely and cosy. Find a hotel in a central location with all the creature comforts and you have the ultimate mid winter treat. 

Our pick of London’s luxury hotels

The Goring  is close to Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey for sightseeing and Sloane Square for shopping.

This elegant hotel is a haven from the fast pace of the city and is renowned for impeccable service and hospitality. Staying here is such a treat > click here for latest prices

Across town at the Rosewood London in Holborn the atmosphere is equally tranquil. Close to the theatres of Covent Garden and shopping on Oxford Street, the hotel is in an historic building that captures the essence of London’s grandeur.

I have enjoyed many meals at the Holborn Dining Room within the hotel and always recommend visitors dine there when in London > click here for the latest prices

READ: Our complete accommodation guide for London

Cosy London hotels

Right in the heart of London, the Piccadilly London West End is the perfect base for theatre lovers and shoppers. Guests enjoy complimentary luxury toiletries and fluffy bathrobes at this modern and stylish hotel > click here to check latest prices

Close to the Tate Modern, Borough Market and action on the Southbank, citizenM London Bankside is a modern hip hotel in a great location. Guests love the artwork and modern style > click here for latest prices

Want the latest London hotel deals? Click here to browse Booking.com

London apartment rental

Depending on how you travel and who you travel with, staying in a well appointed apartment may be a better accommodation option. You can find thousands listed on Booking.com  and AirBnB but definitely checking out the Plum Guide . They’ve done all the hard work in selecting only the very best apartments at different price points for your 

We recommend you choose areas that are close to transport and activities to make the most of your trip:

• Soho, Oxford Street, West End

READ: Our guide to finding the best apartments and houses for short term rental online and find your perfect London winter base.

Winter runs from December to January in London. Days are short and nights are long – the sun sets around 4 pm and rises again after 8 am.

Temperatures in winter stay well below 10°C / 50°F but rarely dip below freezing. Snow is rare in London but it is a magical sight to behold. There’s nothing quite like seeing the city’s iconic monuments blanketed in snow.

Make sure to bring a warm coat, hat and gloves so you can enjoy your trip to London outdoors as well as inside. 

READ: Our London packing guide

How long is winter in London?

It can be bitterly cold in London until April. We had the dubious pleasure of walking straight into a horizontal sleet storm over Easter one year.  Londoners excitedly wait for the Spring and Summer when the blossoms are out.

During those seasons the living is all about lazy days in the gorgeous parks and gardens and a long afternoon pub garden lunches. In the meantime, there is much to appreciate about London in winter.

What’s the weather in London? Click to here check

If you want to hit all the classic sights and only have limited time in London, you might like to check out our 3 day London itinerary. Over three days you can visit everything you love about London – the history, pubs, parks and shopping – even in winter!

More useful posts for your trip to London:

• what to pack for your trip to London
• our favourite  list of apps I recommend for visitors to London – updated regularly
• afternoon tea at the Houses of Parliament
• some uniquely London souvenir ideas
• spend the day in glorious Greenwich
• our guide to visiting London with kids

The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels , Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.

Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy

10 ways to get out of London and into the countryside for the day

Mar 12, 2024 • 11 min read

Brighton Beach is just a short train journey from London © Klaus Vedfelt / Shutterstock

Since London is a world unto itself, it’s only natural that many travelers never look beyond the confines of the city limits for a fulfilling trip.

But when you’ve made the most of free entry to the city’s best museums  and wandered through its many vast parks and green spaces , you might be ready for a day trip to explore the towns, historic sites and coastline that lie just beyond the capital.

Many of the most famous attractions in England  are just a short train ride away from London . While road trips are also a great option farther afield, in and around London, traffic and exorbitant parking fees mean escaping the city by train (or bus) is usually your best bet. For the cheapest rates, try to book rail tickets at least three months in advance. 

Then set out on one of these great itineraries, the 10 best day trips from London.

1. Explore royal Windsor and nearby Eton 

Travel time: 1 hour

Most people who visit Windsor do so to see Windsor Castle , the location for many a royal wedding  and the place where Queen Elizabeth II (and many other monarchs before her) spent much of her life and is now resting in peace. Along with its towers and beautiful chapels, you can also see the Changing of the Guard , a ceremony packed with music and pageantry.

The best way to appreciate the full majesty of Windsor Castle is to approach via the aptly named Long Walk. This arrow-straight road cuts through Windsor Great Park . (There are no cars, but you might see some deer.) While the castle could keep you busy for days, must-sees include Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House , the Albert Memorial Chapel and the State Apartments. Across the river, Eton is a pretty little town that's quieter than Windsor and worth a stroll.

How to get to Windsor from London: Trains run from London Paddington and London Waterloo twice an hour; the journey takes between 40 and 60 minutes and the Paddington line requires a change at Slough. It’s around a 45-minute drive, and there are parking lots near the town center and at the base of the castle.

2. Enjoy art and amusements in Margate

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Its long curve of golden sand made Margate a  top seaside destination for the Victorians, only to fall out of town with holidaymakers in the late 20th century. Recent investment has brought many day-trippers back to enjoy its retro charm.

Leading the way with this regeneration is art gallery  Turner Contemporary , one of the top attractions in the area, which showcases world-class art exhibits with superb views of the harbor and beyond. The skies off the coast here captivated the great painter JMW Turner; linger in the gallery yourself to take in the light out on and off the sea. Internationally renowned artist Tracey Emin has also opened a studio and exhibition space in Cliftonville. 

If you like your day to be sprinkled with a bit of mystery, then book a ticket to tour the intriguing  Shell Grotto  (is it an ancient site or a 19th-century hoax?), while  Dreamland  is the town's famous amusement park and a great day out for the family, with many different classic rides. Once you've got your fill of the windswept beach, artworks and rides, warm up with a hot chocolate at one of the independent cafes in the rejuvenated old town before browsing or buying in the many vintage stores.

How to get to Margate from London: Trains run to Margate station, right on the beach, from London St Pancras International (1 hour 30 minutes) and Victoria (1 hour 40 minutes). It takes around two hours to drive from London to Margate, and you should expect to pay upward of £10 to park all day in town.

3. Spot Harry Potter fans in Oxford

Best known for its world-famous university and forest of ocher spires, Oxford is a grand old place steeped in privilege and prestige. Though it’s hard to escape the history of this storied town, the large student population keeps the atmosphere young and fresh, and there’s plenty for visitors to do. Highlights include several museums, punting along the River Isis and the 30 colleges that make up the university, the most famous of which are Christ Church and Magdalen . You could easily spend more than a day in Oxford.

A tour of the university colleges is a must. (Harry Potter fans will recognize various locations used in the movies.)  Blenheim Palace , a monumental 18th-century country house and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, is a short bus ride or drive from the city.

How to get to Oxford from London: Trains from London Marylebone and London Paddington to Oxford run several times an hour, and the journey time is about an hour. If you’re on a tight budget, consider taking the Oxford Tube , a coach that departs from several locations in London. Driving time is around two hours, but you’ll have to park outside town and catch a shuttle bus for the last leg.

4. Visit the country’s most important cathedral in Canterbury

Canterbury is one of England’s most attractive and important cathedral cities, with its star building considered one of the finest in Europe. The town itself is almost absurdly quaint, with narrow alleyways following the original medieval street plan and the River Stour idling past Tudor facades.

Visiting  Canterbury Cathedral , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an absolute must. As the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the Church of England, it’s the most important Christian site in the country. Just outside, you can see the ruins of the 6th-century St Augustine’s Abbey .

Other highlights include the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge  and boating trips  on the River Stour. On these peaceful jaunts in a flat-bottomed punt, knowledgeable guides share stories of the city as they expertly navigate the boat under bridges with barely any headroom. For a traditional English tearoom experience, visit  Tiny Tim’s Tearoom . 

How to get to Canterbury from London: Fast trains from London St Pancras International depart once an hour, with the journey taking about an hour. Slower trains (1 hour 30 minutes) run from London Victoria and London Charing Cross. The drive takes around an hour and a half.

5. Head into nature in the New Forest

Designated a  national park  in 2005, the New Forest dates all the way back to 1079. So it’s anything but ”new.” And it’s not even really a forest.

Comprising woodland, bog, marshland, heathland and coast, with many quaint villages in between, the area is home to free-roaming animals, including pigs, cattle and the famed ponies. You can easily spend more than a day in the New Forest, and while there are fantastic cycling routes and hiking trails, to make the most of the region as a whole, it’s best to explore by car.

If you’re in the New Forest for just the day, focus your attention on one activity, whether that’s visiting a historic site, such as Buckler's Hard, Hurst Castle  or Beaulieu ; or following a walking trail, where you’ll be drawn in by the beautiful colors of the landscapes. Many people come to the area simply to dine at The Pig  in Brockenhurst, which celebrates home-grown and local produce (book well in advance).

How to get to the New Forest from London:  The region is slightly under a two-hour drive from central London. If traveling by train (1 hour 30 minutes from London Waterloo to Brockenhurst), consider renting bikes and following trails that take you beyond the town.

6. Step back in time in Winchester

Travel time: 1 hour

Its fabulous cathedral officially makes  Winchester  a city – though it has more of the feel of a friendly small town. The city served as England’s capital about 1000 years ago and was the home of King Alfred the Great; today, it boasts a variety of excellent pubs, countryside walks and lively streets.

At the top of the high street is an imitation of King Arthur’s Round Table hanging in the Great Hall . Just off the high street through a short alleyway is Winchester Cathedral , a stunning building with the longest nave of any Gothic cathedral in Europe. Back on the high street, head past the statue of Alfred the Great to the River Itchen, then follow it to get to Winchester College .

How to get to Winchester from London: Trains leave London Waterloo several times an hour, and the journey time is about an hour. The drive from central London takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, and Winchester’s city center has several parking options.

7. Marvel at Roman ruins and Regency streetscapes in Bath

Bath might be Britain ’s most beautiful city. Founded by the Romans, who used the area’s thermal springs to create a spa retreat, it’s now the premier tourist attraction of southwest England . It’s also celebrated for its magnificent Georgian architecture, with grand squares and felicitous crescents defining the city.

Start at the beginning with the Roman Baths complex, which is divided into four main parts: the Bath House, the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple and the museum, displaying fascinating finds from the ruins. Next, have a wander around Bath Abbey , a huge medieval church that you can climb to the top of. Fuel up with the substantial gastropub fare at  Marlborough Tavern .

If you have time, it's worth staying in Bath for the full weekend. Wander the streets and enjoy the architecture, including ulteney Bridge and the  Royal Crescent , two of the city’s Georgian masterpieces – then take time to relax in Thermae Bath Spa .

How to get to Bath from London: Direct trains leave London Paddington twice an hour; the journey time is 1 hour 30 minutes. Driving takes around 2 hours 30 minutes, but traffic around the city is often heavy, with parking very limited and expensive.

8. Soak up Brighton’s indie attitude

Stuffed with independent businesses and creative spirit, Brighton is often referred to as London-on-Sea – though these days that’s more a nod to property prices than a reference to its character. This city has a personality all its own – grungy, creative and bohemian – and it's one of the UK's most LGBTIQ+ friendly cities.

There’s no shortage of things to do  in Brighton. Start in the North Laine neighborhood, packed with pubs, cafes and theaters, before going shopping in The Lanes a little farther south. Make a visit to the eccentric Royal Pavilion – built by King George IV in 1787 as a seaside retreat – and take a walk along the pier while checking out the amusements and swimmers at the beach. Brighton teems with great bars and restaurants:  Food for Friends offers excellent vegan dishes and is a great spot for lunch, while the Walrus pub is a good place to grab a beer.

How to get to Brighton from London:  Get on one of the frequent direct trains from London Victoria or London Bridge. The journey time is about an hour. Since it takes about two hours to drive from London to Brighton, and parking is both hard to find and expensive, the train is generally a better option.

9. Tour the colleges and go punting in Cambridge

With its world-class university, clutch of ancient colleges and love for punting (river rowing), Cambridge shares many similarities with its Oxfordshire counterpart. But with more green space and less traffic, this city is a more tranquil affair. A walking tour of the university is a must: the university colleges are the highlight, with Corpus Christi, Clare College, King’s College and Christ’s College being the most popular.

Once you’ve had your fill of academia, a punting trip along the River Cam is a lovely way to see the city. On a summer’s day, a picnic on the Backs is highly enjoyable.

How to get to Cambridge from London: Trains from London Kings Cross run several times an hour, with a journey time of about 50 minutes. It takes about 90 minutes to drive to Cambridge from central London.

10. Ponder the mystery of Stonehenge

Travel time: 2 hours

Stonehenge  is like an amazing magic trick – it boggles the mind, but you don’t really want to know how it happened. Which is convenient, because no one’s fully figured it out yet . Here’s what we do know: this massive, prehistoric stone circle is believed to have been constructed around 5000 years ago, making it older than the Pyramids of Giza. The largest stones weigh 25 tons and stand 9m (30ft) tall. 

Although you can’t touch the stones (to protect them), you can stroll around them on paths. The visitor center has an interactive presentation that allows you to experience among the stones as the seasons change. If you have your own ride, you could drive north to Avebury, home to another famous prehistoric circle – whose stones you can touch.

How to get to Stonehenge from London: Trains from London Waterloo to Salisbury depart twice an hour, taking just over an hour and a half. From Salisbury, hop on the Stonehenge Tour Bus , which takes you directly to the visitor center in just over 30 minutes. Alternatively, the drive takes around two hours from central London (traffic depending), and parking is available at the site.

This article was first published May 2019 and updated March 2024

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15 Festive Things To Do When Visiting London In The Winter

Please note that some of the links may be affiliate links , and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products & companies I love and use, and the income goes back into making this little blog successful!

London in the winter, especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas, is a brilliant place! I spent all of December in London with my family last year, and while the weather was frosty and the days were short, the vibe was festive, and the pubs, theaters, and museums were warm and cozy. It even snowed once – not enough for the winter wonderland I was hoping for, but beggars can’t be choosers with London weather.

In short, I loved it, and I highly recommend spending at least a week in the city, especially in the winter off-season months and especially in December. To be clear, it’s still a busy city, but I think there are fewer tourists because most people spend their holidays at home. This means you get a more local Britt attitude ( which is sassy; I’ve never heard more elegant cursing in my life! ). 🫢

Here’s a quick look at my favorite things to do in London in winter:

✅ Hit up the Christmas Markets in London – they are amazing , especially Southbank Market and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland . Think ice skating rinks, German-style Christmas villages, mulled wine, and ice sculpting! ✅ Go shopping at Covent Garden – it explodes with Christmas lights and is a great place for finding gifts and Instagram pictures. ✅ Visit the best museums in the world for free – the National Gallery is one of my favorites. ✅ Date night at the theater – London’s theater scene is in high season all winter. The shows compete with New York’s, and tickets are cheaper than in the States. ( I use London Theater Direct to shop for cheap last-minute tickets !) ✅ Indulge in the pub life. When the weather is shit and the days are short, the pubs are warm and cozy. I love Sunday feasts at The Cleveland Arms .

Let’s jump into all of the best things to do and my tips for visiting London in the winter . I’ll include some of my favorite pubs , where my favorite Christmas markets are located, what to pack for the blistering cold, how to get around , and a few quick-hitter logistical FAQs at the end.

Table of Contents

Best London Christmas Markets

There are tons of winter markets in London, but there are a few standouts for me. I would recommend allotting at least half a day to each market because they are quite large and there are tons of things to do, shop, and eat at each place. Here are my favorites:

• Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – Open until January 2nd, this is one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe! There’s an ice rink, carnival wheel, ice sculpting, Christmas parties, and a whole bunch of other stuff that will bring your jolly spirit through the roof. Note that you will need to book an entry slot on their website.
• Southbank Center Winter Market – Open until December 26, this market is on the south bank of the River Thames, which I don’t usually venture to often. The reason I love this market is because of the cute little German-looking huts selling goodies like handpainted Christmas ornaments, small toys, and stocking stuffers.

• Covent Garden Christmas Village – The holy grail of Christmas meets capitalism. I spent way too much time shopping in Covent Garden last Christmas, walking around the festive stores and sampling the roasted chestnuts and mulled wine stalls. There’s also a giant lit-up Christmas Tree in the middle and more lights than you can imagine.

15 Best Things To Do In London In The Winter

I’ll be upfront that this is NOT an exhaustive list of all the things you can do in London. While researching for my trip, I came across blogs with 100+ things to do in the city, and while they were on point, those lists exhausted me. Instead, these are my favorite winter-specific things to do in London . This means November to March. Hell, I’ll even throw in April as a winter month, considering the weather! 🫠

1. Book A Fun Holiday Tour

Here are some of the best city tours which I think are great for a London winter day. Remember, bundle up; these are not for fair-weather fans!

2. Hit Up The Christmas Markets

I already outlined my favorite above, but in short, I was blown away by the Christmas markets in London. It was like walking into a holiday postcard. Every market has its own personality, with vintage vibes and gourmet goodies. This is the perfect spot to grab one-of-a-kind gifts and treat yourself to some seriously good mulled wine.

One of my favorites is Hyde Park Winter Wonderland . It’s open until January 2nd, and is one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe! There’s an ice rink, carnival wheel, ice sculpting, Christmas parties, and a bunch of cute stuff to bring your jolly spirit through the roof. Note that you must book a slot to attend, but it’s easy; just go to their website.

Another great Christmas I love is the Southbank Center Winter Market . Open until December 26, this market is on the south bank of the River Thames, which I don’t usually venture to often. I love this market because of the cute little wooden houses selling goodies like handpainted Christmas ornaments, small toys, and stocking stuffers.

3. Ice Skating in Somerset House

This is by far one of the more iconic things to do in London in the winter. Ice skating at Somerset House is like gliding into a winter dream. The setting is epic – think a grand historical building meets an icy wonderland. After showing off your moves (or clinging to the sides, no judgment!), you can chill at the rink-side bar like I did. 🤠

4. Christmas Lights at Covent Garden

You can’t go to London in the Winter without visiting Covent Garden – it takes Christmas lights to a whole new level. It’s not just about the lights; it’s the atmosphere buzzing with festive energy, the shopping during the day, the lights, and the market at night. The area is decked out in the most stunning decorations, and there’s always something happening, from music to performances.

Did you know? Covent Garden often features giant mistletoe chandeliers – super romantic and totally Instagram-worthy.

5. See a Pantomime Play (& Enjoy British Tradition)

If you can, try to catch a pantomime play , which is a classic British holiday tradition. It’s a mix of slapstick comedy, musical numbers, and audience participation ( oh yes, you’ll be shouting at the stage! ). Panto is fun, family-friendly (so bring the kids), and a great way to experience British humor at its best.

Here’s a quirky fact: Pantomimes often feature a male actor in a leading female role, known as the ‘Pantomime Dame’, which adds to the hilarity! 🎭

6. Holiday Shopping in SOHO

SOHO during the holidays is like the ultimate shopping spree with a festive twist. The streets are super decorated, the shops range from funky boutiques to high-end brands, and the whole area just oozes Christmas. It’s the perfect place to find luxury gifts or treat yourself because SOHO has some of the quirkiest little shops around – you can find everything from vintage records to artisan chocolates.

The streets to hit up for shopping near SOHO include Regent Street, Bond Street, and Carnaby Street.

7. Enjoy An Afternoon Tea Experience

I went to an afternoon tea at the Ritz on another trip to London in the fall, and in winter, it’s even more special. Think cozy tea rooms, warm scones, delicate sandwiches, and a selection of teas. Many places offer a festive twist on their menu during winter.

Cost Expectations : I will mention that Afternoon Tea is not the cheapest thing to do. I paid about $80 for the set menu “tasting” without a champagne pairing. I still think it was worth it for the experience – at least once.

8. Enjoy Hyde Parks Winter Wonderland

Most of the time when I’m in London, I’m staying at my friend’s place near Hyde Park while she’s off traveling the world herself. And how amazing it was this past December because Hyde Park in winter transforms into this massive, festive playground called Winter Wonderland. It’s got everything: ice skating, festive markets, fairground rides, and loads of food stalls. It’s a great spot for all ages, but especially kids, and a perfect way to spend a winter evening.

Fun Fact: Winter Wonderland includes a giant carnival wheel, giving you stunning views of the park and the city all lit up.

9. Mulled Wine & Carolling at Trafalgar Square

There’s nothing like warming up with mulled wine while listening to carol singers in Trafalgar Square. It’s a real community vibe, with local choirs performing and everyone getting into the holiday spirit. Plus, the square’s Christmas tree is a sight to behold.

➡️ Love this Small-Group Walking Tour with a Local Guide (Mulled Wine & Christmas Markets) ⬅️

Fun fact: The Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square is an annual gift from Norway to the UK, a tradition that’s been going on since 1947.

10. Go To The London Theaters

London’s theater scene is legendary, and winter is a great time to catch a show. From blockbuster musicals to classic plays, you have to go. I highly recommend the Tina Turner Musical and catching an opera at the Royal Opera House. See if you can grab last-minute tickets here .

The theaters themselves, all decked out for the holidays, are worth the visit alone. In fact, many theaters in London are centuries old, full of history and stories, adding an extra layer of magic to your theater experience.

11. Indulge In The Pub Life

Diving into London’s pub scene is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket but with a pint (or multiple) in hand. Each pub has its own character, from historic, wood-paneled nooks to modern gastropubs serving up gourmet foods. It’s the perfect way to experience British culture, especially on a chilly winter day.

Here are some of my favorites around London – I love that some of these pubs are centuries old!

• The Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden (oldest)
• The Cleveland Arms in Hyde Park (my fave)
• The White Haus (upscale, lodge-feel)

12. Club It Up at Carwash Nightclub

Carwash Nightclub is your spot if you’re up for a night of retro fun. I went with a bunch of old college friends, and we had a blast! The multi-level club is known for its throwback tunes and funky, disco vibe – think 70s and 80s classics that’ll have you dancing all night. It’s a total blast from the past and a great way to heat up those cold London nights.

Also, Carwash has been dubbed Europe’s longest-running disco and funk club, so you’re in for a wild-ass night! And don’t worry, they have a coat check!

13. A Day At The Museums

London’s museums are not just about escaping the cold; they’re treasure troves of art, history, and science that the English stole, cheated, borrowed and bought from around the world. The top museums to visit are the Natural History Museum, The British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Don’t forget the quirky ones like the Sherlock Holmes Museum!

And the best part? Many of them are free to enter.

14. The Harry Potter Studios Tour

We didn’t personally do the tour, but we regret it because the guide takes you to all the best filming locations from the movies, as well as Platform 9 3/4. Imagine strolling through the Great Hall, peeking into Dumbledore’s office, and even wandering down Diagon Alley with a fun fellow Harry Potter fan, discussing movie versus book, fan theories, and actual London history.

➡️ This is the Best Harry Potter Tour for Families ! ⬅️

And during winter, it’s all extra special with the Hogwarts in the Snow feature, where the sets are dusted with snow – it’s like stepping right into a wintry wizarding world. Plus, you get to see how they make movie snow!

15. Visit Buckingham Palace

I had to put some royal things on the list, but truly, checking out Buckingham Palace in winter has its charm. The crowds are thinner, so you can get a good look at the iconic façade and maybe even catch the Changing of the Guard without too much jostling. While the State Rooms are closed to the public in winter, the exterior is impressive enough for some royal photo ops.

Did you know? The Palace has 775 rooms, and the balcony where the royal family appears for major events is a globally recognized symbol of the British monarchy. 🏰

Places To Visit Near London In Winter

There are a couple of places about an hour’s train ride from London that are festive during the winter, both of which I’ve been to and can attest to the cuteness factor – Windsor and Bath. I’ve included a tour I went on, which I thought was great because it took care of the transportation and had the added perk of a personal tour guide. I’ve also included some notes on how to get to Windsor and Bath by train on your own and what to see.

➡️ Small Group Day Trip To Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath ⬅️

Note: It will be a full-ass day on a mini-bus, but I prefer the tour because it’s more bang for your buck, and if it’s your first time, the tour guide is super informative.

Just a short train ride from London, Windsor in winter is like stepping into a Royal Christmas card. The main draw is Windsor Castle, which usually hosts special holiday tours. The town itself is super quaint, with lovely shops and cafes all decked out for the holidays. To get there, hop on a train from London Paddington or Waterloo, and you’ll be there in under an hour.

Bath is like a little slice of historical heaven, especially in winter. The Christmas market here is super nice, set against the backdrop of stunning Georgian architecture. You’ve also got the Roman Baths and the Bath Abbey, which look even more magical with a bit of frost. Trains from London Paddington will get you there in about 90 minutes. During Christmas, the whole city of Bath feels like a festive wonderland, with twinkling lights and seasonal cheer around every corner.

Quick Tips for Visiting London In The Winter

Here are my few quick hitter tips for folks who have never visited London in the winter or have zero clue what to expect of British cheer during the holiday season.

➡️ London is cold and wet in the winter. Mostly rainy, but some snow too! Either way, you should pack a heavy jacket, waterproof boots, hats, gloves, and scarves. While it’s cold outside, it’s warm indoors, so layers are key. I included a full packing guide at the bottom of this post.

➡️ Stay central when booking lodging – around SOHO, Covent Garden, or Mayfair areas . It will suck to walk when the weather is bad, and it’s expensive to grab one of those iconic London taxis.

➡️ Public transport is modern and contactless, so you don’t need to buy a pass or tickets. You can just tap your card on the scanner at the front of any of the big, red, double-decker buses or any Tube Station (Underground Metro). I use Google Maps to navigate the bus and metro.

➡️ Don’t rent a car. It’s not worth it. If you want to do day trips, grab yourself a tour that handles the transportation, entry tickets, and the lovely little tour guide.

➡️ Most of London’s best sights are free – like the famous museums and parks, and visiting the iconic churches, Buckingham Palace, etc. Hit those up; they are warm in the winter.

➡️ Seasonal-themed walking tours have popped up, and are super cute in the winter – book them! My favorites include food & drinks, caroling, and Charles Dickens.

➡️ January and February are an undervalued but fantastic time to visit London . This is when prices are lowest, after holiday sales pop up, and a lot of the same things to do in London for winter apply.

London In The Winter Weather

The weather in London during the winter is chilly, sometimes a bit damp, but it’s not like you’re stepping into a freezer. Temperatures usually hover between 2°C and 8°C. For my American friends, that’s in the range of 35-45°F.

Snow? Yeah, it happens, but it’s more of a light dusting than a full-on winter wonderland situation. It’s rare to see the city covered in a thick blanket of snow. Mostly, you’ll get those crisp, cold days where you can see your breath in the air – perfect for wrapping up in your coziest scarf and exploring. And if it does snow, it’s pretty magical, but don’t expect it to stick around for too long.

Set your expectations to a classic British winter – a bit chilly, sometimes wet, but totally manageable. 🌨️🧣

Packing Guide for a London Winter

Packing for a winter trip to London is all about staying warm and comfy while still being ready for those classic British drizzles.

Here’s my go-to list:

• Warm Layers : Think thermals or long-sleeve tees for your base layer. Add a cozy sweater or fleece on top – layers are key because indoor places like pubs can be quite warm.
• Sturdy Outerwear : A good, warm coat is a must. Waterproof if you can, because you never know when that London drizzle will hit.
• Waterproof Shoes : Comfortable for walking and waterproof, preferably a nice boot. You’ll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, and nobody likes soggy socks.
• Accessories : Scarves, gloves, and a hat. They’re not just stylish – they’ll keep you toasty.
• Umbrella : Go for a sturdy one that can handle a bit of wind. London’s rain can be sneaky.
• Travel Adapter : If you’re coming from outside the UK, you’ll need a UK power adapter for your devices. You can always grab one for cheap in London, but it’s definitely a must.
• Moisturizer and Lip Balm : The cold can be harsh on your skin, so keep it hydrated.
• A Day Pack : For carrying your essentials while you’re out and about. A backpack or crossbody bag works great. All the Londoners are sporting one, too, so you’ll fit right in.
• Reusable Water Bottle : Stay hydrated while you’re on the go – I put hot tea in mine. Plus, it’s eco-friendly!

Remember, London’s style is quite chic, so if you’re into fashion, this is your chance to rock those cool winter looks. But comfort is key, especially with all the walking around. Happy packing!

FAQ: Winter In London

Here are a few questions I get from people wanting to visit London in the winter.

Is it worth visiting London in winter?

Absolutely! Winter in London is one of those things that I think should be on everyone’s bucket list. London, especially at Christmas, is as iconic as NYC, and the Christmas markets are even cuter because they have this European vibe.

Also, January is the least visited month in London, but it’s a great time to see the city without any tourists. There are a bunch of after-holiday sales, and you’ll have all the iconic hot spots to yourself. The only catch is that it’s cold AF. But London is cold all winter long, so why not take a trip in January when there are virtually no tourists and the prices are the lowest?

What is a London winter like?

In the winter, London is pretty cold, usually hovering between 2°C and 8°C. For my American friends, that’s in the range of 30-40°F. You’ll get a bit of rain and maybe some snow if you’re lucky, which honestly makes the city look like a postcard. The days are also shorter, so you get that cozy, early evening vibe when you should be heading to the nearest pub or theater for a nightcap and culture.

What’s more, the city totally decks itself out for the holidays. We’re talking twinkling lights everywhere, those cute Christmas markets with all the crafts and hot drinks ( hello, mulled wine! ), and there’s always something going on, like festive shows or New Year’s parties. It’s like the whole city’s buzzing with the holiday spirit.

If it’s too cold for you to be outside, the museums and galleries are top-notch, and a lot of them are free, which is awesome. Plus, the theatre scene is on fire in winter – you’ve got to catch a musical if you can.

My last little observation I want to share is that London does get a bit crowded in December, especially during the holidays, but that’s part of the fun. Just remember to layer up, pack waterproof boots and a big coat, and keep yourself toasty.

Is it worth going to London at Christmas?

London during Christmas is a must at least once in your life! It’s like stepping into your very own holiday movie ( Love Actually ? The Holiday ?!) The city lights up with incredible Christmas lights and decorations that turn the streets into twinkling wonderland. There’s this amazing festive buzz everywhere, with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and loads of holiday events.

Plus, the vibe in London at Christmas – with cozy pubs, hearty food, and all the classic British traditions – it’s just unbeatable. It’s the kind of experience that’ll leave you with stories and memories to share for years. 🎄✨

How do you get around London in the winter?

Getting around London in winter is pretty easy. The Tube (that’s the London Underground) is your best friend – it’s like the veins of the city, getting you close to pretty much anywhere you want to go. Buses are great too, especially for seeing the city’s sights from up top on a double-decker. Payment is contactless, so just tap your card on and off everywhere.

If it’s super chilly or a bit wet, you can always grab a black cab or use Uber – a bit pricier, but hey, it’s warm and dry! Just bundle up, keep an eye on the weather, and you’re all set to zip around London like a local!

Is December a good time to visit London?

December in London is magical. The whole place is lit up like a Christmas tree, and there’s this electric holiday vibe in the air. You’ve got the festive markets, twinkling lights, and all those cozy pubs to duck into when you need a break from the chill. Sure, it’s a lot of frosty air and a bit crowded, but that’s all part of the fun. It’s the perfect time to see London in full festive swing and really soak up that classic British holiday charm. .

What is the cheapest month to travel to London?

If you’re looking to save some cash and still have a blast in London, aim for January or February. After all the holiday hoopla in December, things chill out a bit for the next months (literally and figuratively).

Fewer tourists mean hotels often drop their prices to attract visitors, so you can snag some decent deals on accommodation. Plus, flights tend to be cheaper post-holiday season. Sure, it’s a bit cold and a lot rainy, but hey, that’s what those cozy British pubs are for, right? Just bundle up, enjoy the quieter streets, and hey, maybe even catch a winter sale or two while you’re at it! 💷🧣🇬🇧

Are winters harsh in London? Does it snow?

Define harsh. 🥲 They’re more nippy than harsh, really. We’re talking chilly, sometimes a bit damp, but it’s not like you’re stepping into a freezer.

Snow? Yeah, it happens, but it’s more of a light dusting than a full-on winter wonderland situation. It’s rare to see the city covered in a thick blanket of snow. Mostly, you’ll get those crisp, cold days where you can see your breath in the air – perfect for wrapping up in your coziest scarf and exploring. And if it does snow, it’s pretty magical, but don’t expect it to stick around for too long. So, harsh? Nah. It’s more like a classic British winter – a bit chilly, sometimes wet, but totally manageable.

Conclusion: London In The Winter is Magical

London is busiest in the weeks leading up to Christmas, so expect crowds at that time. This is also the time when all the lights are up, festivity, markets, and Love Actually cheer is in the air!

Christmas time in London is one of those things you have to do once in your life, just like visiting NYC! Here are my recommended things to do:

• The Christmas Markets in London , especially Southbank Market . Some even have ice skating rinks and a Christmas carnival for the kids, like the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland .
• Covent Garden explodes with Christmas lights and is a great place for shopping and mulled wine.
• The best museums in the world are in London, and most are free . The National Gallery (free) is one of my favorites.
• London’s theater scene is in high season all winter. The shows compete with New York’s in both range and options, and tickets are usually cheaper in London than in the States.
• Pub life is the best life in London . The weather is shit, and the days are short, but the pubs are warm and cozy.

My last little bit of insider travel advice is to NOT be afraid to travel to London in January or February. The weather is similar to December in London, but the city has no tourists, and the airfare and hotel prices are at their lowest all year. Happy travels!

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

10 London in Winter Tips For How To Enjoy It & Prepare For It!

Categories London

Should you visit London in Winter?? Yes! Just because you have heard that Winter in London is wet and cold, firstly it doesn’t mean that it’s like this all through the wintertime in London, and secondly, that isn’t a bad thing and doesn’t have to ruin your trip!

There are lots of things to do in London in winter, lots of things to do when it rains in London , and visiting London in December for Christmas in London is particularly amazing.

In this London blog post, I’m going to go through my top tips for London in Winter after living in London for a few years!

These London in Winter tips will be particularly helpful if you are travelling from overseas to the UK, but also if you live in the UK and are on a winter trip to London!

London in Winter Tips!

If you’re visiting London from elsewhere in the U.K or flying into London. Be sure to check The Train Line to find the best deals on train tickets to London and London’s Airports! I use The Train Line all the time to compare the best times, routes and prices!

1 – Embrace the Things To Do in London in Winter.

First off, the best tip for London is to work out what to do in London in winter.

This will depend on the weather during the London winter months of course because if the weather is nice with chilly but blue skies you can do everything you would do in London any other time of the year like in Autumn and Spring in London but when it’s wet and grey in London in Winter, you’ll want winter activities.

Things to do in London inside

Staying inside and visiting some of London’s museums would be a top recommendation for many when it comes to things to do in London in Winter, but to see more of the city than the inside of the museum I suggest sightseeing inside .

For example, you can take a boat ride along the River Thames and you will be able to see London from the inside of the boat and pop outside if the weather is ok.

You can even make this a whole event by going for Afternoon Tea on the Thames , or you can simply jump on a Hop on Hop Off Boat Tour like this .

And what about the streets of London? You can see them from a bus too, I went out for Afternoon Tea on a Double Becker Bus in the summer, it started raining despite being August and it made me think how cosy it would be for a Winter activity in London. The food was great and it was an easy way to see the streets of London.

For the best view of London, you need to be inside anyway, so that’s ok if it’s winter. Whether you go on the London Eye , to the top of The Shard , or if you’re on a budget in London, head to the Sky Garden and Tate Modern Museum which offer free viewpoints in London, you will be sure to stay dry and warm whilst appreciating London’s incredible skyline!

If you’re visiting London when it rains, here’s another blog post of mine with things to do when it rains in London which will, in turn, give you even more ideas of winter things to do in London!

London Pass in Winter!

The London Pass offers access into 80+ of the top London attractions . If you plan on going on the London Eye, taking Boat Trips, going into Tower Bridge and St Pauls Cathedral and even plan on going outside of London to Windsor Castle or Hampton Court Palace, it would be cheaper to buy the London Pass so you save money on entrance fee’s and get fast track entry , perfect for if you only have a few days in London!

The London Pass is valid for 2 years once purchased and you can buy a 1, 2, 3, 6 or 10 day pass so you can visit so many of London’s best attractions in the cheapest possible way !

Click here to look into the options and to buy your pass now while you’re thinking about it!

2 – Find Places to Eat & Drink Inside in London.

Another way to enjoy London during wintertime is to make sure you plan your meals and drinks inside!

The seasons in London  offer different places to go for a meal and drink, there’s nothing worse than being outside in freezing temperatures trying to eat and drink!

Luckily, London becomes really cosy in Winter.

Winter rooftop bars in London

There are lots of Winter rooftop bars in London like The Trafalgar in St James , Golden Bee in Shoreditch , Pergola in Paddington and FEST in Camden . These London rooftop bars will keep you warm with blankets and outdoor heaters so they are perfect bars in London to visit during the day and in the evening.

Indoor food markets in London

There are also plenty of food markets in London . Some will be London winter markets that are set up purely for winter and Christmas specifically like Covent Garden, Leicester Square and the Southbank Christmas market. Other markets will be open all year round.

Some markets in London are better than others in winter, for example, Camden Food Market is not a good market to go to in winter in London because it’s all outside with limited indoor areas whereas Borough Market, Greenwich Market and cool food markets like Dinerama and are indoor with indoor seating.

These are my 5 favourite street food markets in London !

3 – Visit London at Christmas.

Visiting London in December is the best month to visit London I think because the whole city lights up and there are so many things to do in London at Christmas!

London Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is the most visited and most popular place to visit in London in December. Winter Wonderland London is full of rides, food stalls, shops and bars.

Christmas Markets in London

London in December also comes alive with more Christmas markets than any other city I think. On top of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, head down to the Southbank for the Southbank Christmas Markets , Leicester Square and Covent Garden Christmas Market.

Here’s my post on how to see the best Christmas lights and Christmas markets in London  to help you see them all in one day in London!

Other things to do in London in December include ice-skating in the many rinks that are put up around the city and Christmas shows in the theatre.

4 – What to Wear in London in Winter.

They say that there is no bad weather, only bad outfits and I agree. It can be hard to plan your London winter outfits because it’s not always really cold, some days during the London winter time the weather can be quite mild.

Clothes for London in Winter

When it comes to what to wear in London winter I’d say that layers are key so you can take them off and put them on. Jeans are the best trousers to wear to keep you warm, I even wear tights under my jeans sometimes in winter, especially in January and February. Boots are needed too whether they are walking boots or Chelsea boots.

Wear a tank top or t-shirt with a jumper, a warm coat on top and a hat and scarf.

If you’re struggling with Winter in London what to wear then know that all the London winter clothes you need can be purchased when you get to London.

I suggest heading to Oxford Street first if you need to go winter clothes shopping in London and go to the high street stores like Primark, H&M, Newlook, Next, Marks and Spencers and Uniqlo.

Another reason layers are best is because it may be cold outside but as soon as you get inside a cafe or restaurant, you’ll quickly warm up due to the central heating, and as soon as you reach the tube platform and get on the London tube, especially if it’s busy, you’ll be sweating in no time!

5 – Use London’s Public Transport.

On the note of the London tube, use it because it really is the best way to get around London and especially in London Winter weather!

The London underground may seem scary or hard to navigate if it’s your first time in London but it really isn’t. The coloured lines are easy to work out and the platforms and trains provide well-needed warmth from London’s winter weather. In fact, you may even get too hot on the tube even if it’s 0c outside!

Another way to get around London is on the buses, these are regular so you won’t have to wait outside at the bus stops for long and they are a great way to see the city of London as you get from A to B rather than going underground.

I’d suggest downloading the app City Mapper to help you work out which buses and trains to get in London.

Related Post: What to see in London in 2 Days | London Itinerary!

6 – Winter Day Trips from London.

London is great but it’s also a great place to base yourself and see more of England from!

Generally, the further south you go in England, the warmer and drier it is. London is of course already pretty Southern but you can go a little bit further down for chances of slightly better weather.

Winter day trips from London I’d recommend would be to the coast, for example,  Brighton or Hastings, or to Kent.  Even though they’ll have a sea breeze, they are still nice places to visit in Winter in England.

Other day trips from London in Winter could be the popular places to visit in England like Stonehenge, Oxford, Cambridge and the Cotswolds. Here are some great options with high reviews from Get Your Guide which is a reputable online tour provider in the UK.

Here’s my post on 12 Day Trips From London in Winter To Explore And Get Cosy in!

7 – Be Prepared for all Weather.

I’ve mentioned this briefly already but I’ll say it again because this is an important London travel tip! If you’re wondering ‘what is the weather like in London in winter?’, there is no definite answer because the weather in London changes a lot !

London Winter Months

We have had extremely mild December’s in the last few years whilst March, which is technically Spring in London, has been freezing!

On your London packing list, I would add a small packable travel umbrella in case it rains, but if it doesn’t you can carry it lightly and easily. A packable rain jacket so you can keep exploring London when it rains. And layers like vest tops, t-shirts, jumpers, a coat, hat and scarf, so you can take them off and add them on when needed!

These are 20 items I always pack in my case and will help you on your London trip too!

8 – Stay in a Central London Location.

London is a big city and although the tube and buses make getting around London easy, the average journey time is about 40 minutes. There is an abundance of accommodation in London including hotels, hostels and Airbnb properties!

If it’s cold and wet when you visit London, you don’t want to have to deal with an hour journey just to get back to your accommodation. Therefore I recommend the best area of London to stay in as being in Zone 1 or 2, which still gives you plenty of flexibility.

HOTELS AND HOSTELS IN LONDON

If you want a hostel in London , the YHA Hostels are good, so is  Clink78 Hostel  and Wombat’s London Hostel .

For cool hotels in London in a good location, have a look CitizenM in Tower Bridge,   CitizenM in Shoreditch , Ace Hotel London  and The Hoxton Shoreditch .

AIRBNB IN LONDON

London has some great Airbnb options like this which will make you feel like a local! To get £25.00 /  $30.00 off your Airbnb stay (which is a good saving in London!),  open a new account using this promo code  and search for your London Airbnb below now as the good ones book out quickly!

9 – Be Flexible with When you Visit.

If you’re flexible with when you can visit London and you’re looking for the best month to visit London in winter, I would suggest December as the best time to visit London because of the buzz of Christmas and all of the Winter activities London.

Best time to visit London

I’d also recommend October and November to catch the end of Autumn in London, these months are when the weather is getting colder, the nights are getting darker but it’s not getting too cold and grey and instead, London is a beautiful golden colour.

March and late February are also great months to visit London as winter is slowly coming to a close, although it can still snow in March and has done in the last few years, but, slowly nature is coming back alive too which makes London very pretty.

London in January

January in London can be pretty bleak to be honest, so if you are flexible this is the one month I would probably recommend not visiting London because Londoners are getting over Christmas and New Year, saving money by not going out and staying in on the coldest and darkest evenings and this will affect your trip to London as a visitor I think!

10 – Note how Dark it will be!

Talking of dark nights you may be surprised by how early it gets dark in the UK during winter and what time the sunrises in London in winter!

In January, the sunrises in London at about 8:00 am and the sunsets at about 16:00 pm which doesn’t give you that many hours of daylight for sightseeing.

This isn’t a major problem as there are many winter activities in London that you can do in the dark and London is an amazing city in the dark.

Walking along the Thames is one of the best things to do in London at night. London is also very safe in the dark, but if you want to visit the best parks in London in winter, go on a London winter run, see some of London’s viewpoints, make sure you do this whilst it’s still light!

Also, we get some amazing winter sunsets in London !

Now you will be all set to visit London in Winter with these Winter in London Tips!

• For more of my London posts and guides see:
• 2 Day London Itinerary!
• 3 Day London Itinerary!
• Your Complete Guide To Camden Town in London!
• Best Places To Visit in Shoreditch!
• 10 Things To Do in London When it Rains!

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What to do in London in Winter – 20 Fun Activities

Updated January 4, 2023

// By Margherita

Wondering what to do in London in winter? This evergreen article is the result of 11 years of living in London (between the two of us) and 8 more travelling back and forth! We’ll share 20 awesome things to do in and around London in December, January and February, plus practical info on winter weather in London and how to get around!

I’ve always loved London in winter. True, the city is amazing at all times of the year – in spring , when the first daffodils start to bloom, in summer when everyone gets out to enjoy those (rare) warm days, in autumn when London’s parks and gardens turn multicoloured.

But there’s no time like winter. London is one of the most amazing cities on the planet around Christmas – between Christmas lights, markets and displays in the shop windows, Christmas in London has always warmed our hearts , even though we had to spend the festivities away from our families.

Winter is also the time for ice skating, winter festivals, cozy pop-up cafes and rooftop bars.

Weather in London in Winter

Yes, but how bad is the weather in London in winter , you may be asking. To be honest, in all the years I spent in the city, I never found London winters to be harsh – on the other hand, I hated summers, since there usually were two weeks of nice weather followed by three months of rain.

Fellow immigrants coming from warmer countries usually wanted to get away – but to be honest, I loved the roaring fires, hot cups of eggnog and comfort food, and generally speaking the winter atmosphere in the city.

Before we start talking about winter weather in London, we need a quick clarification. Winter in London ‘officially’ lasts from December to February, but it’s common to be find winter weather also in November and March.

London isn’t as cold as places like Berlin or Helsinki in winter – temperatures are usually between 5 and 10 degrees during the day, dipping close to freezing at night. Rain is common in London throughout the year , but the months of February and March are usually quite dry.

Winter days in London are usually quite short. December and January are the darkest months – the sun is up from 8 am to 4 pm, and by 4.30 it’s already pitch black. Days start to get longer after the Winter Solstice on December 21st – in February, the sun sets after 5 pm, and in March around 6 pm.

London in winter is often windy, but London is just beautiful on those blue sky winter days , when the wind blows all the clouds away – if you’re lucky with the weather, you may also consider to go on some day trips, to Stonehenge for example!

Below you’ll find a quick recap of average temperatures in London during the winter months, from November to March: 

November London Temperature: high 12°C (53°F), low 7°C (44°F)

December London Temperature: high 9°C (48°F), low 5°C (41°F) 

January London Temperature: high 9°C (48°F), low 4°C (39°F) 

February London Temperature: high 9°C (48°F), low 5°C (41°F)

March London Temperature: high 12°C (53°F), low 7°C (44°F)

Here’s our evergreen guide of what to do in London in winter – 20 fun activities to help you enjoy the city even in the coldest months, making the most of the festive atmosphere.

Things to do in London in December

1) ice skating.

You know it’s almost Christmas in London when ice-skating rinks start popping up. Every winter there are new openings all through the city, and spending an afternoon skating at an ice rink is something you simply cannot miss when visiting London in winter.

You can take your pick between rinks located near London’s most famous landmarks, in parks or in the ‘Winter Villages’ like Winterville or Winter Wonderland .

Our favourite London ice rinks are the Somerset House, National History Museum and Tower of London ones –  prices usually range between £10 and £15, and rinks normally remain open from late November until early January.

If you’re afraid of catching a cold, why not head to the ice rink in Canary Wharf , the only covered rink in the city, open until late February.

2) Christmas Markets in London

The Christmas Market Mania sweeping all over the world didn’t spare London! Every December, a number of Christmas Markets open in London , with an array of wooden cabins selling gifts, hot wine and street food, as well as winter-themed activities for the whole family, including ice skating.

The ‘daddy’ of them all is Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park , a mammoth of a Christmas Market with over 200 huts, more than 100 rides and a Santa village. It’s fun, but it gets super crowded – I prefer heading to Wintertime in Southbank or Winterville in Clapham Common, which also have the added benefit of feeling less ‘package’ and have a little more local flair.

Other Christmas markets to visit in London are the Japanese-themed Hyper Japan Christmas market in Wapping and the Christmas Fair at the Chelsea Physic Gardens . If you’re in London in December, try to visit at least one Christmas market – or even better, join this London Christmas Markets Tour with a local!

Are you planning to head to Northern Ireland? Here’s our 16 Best Things to do in Belfast guide !

3) The Best Christmas Windows

Another thing I love doing in London at Christmas time is looking at the Christmas displays in the windows of the most famous department stores in town. Harrods, Selfridges, Fortnum and Mason’s and Harvey Nichols (which is where Nick and I met, did you know?) usually set up stunning Christmas windows.

Definitely worth the detour, even of you’re not buying anything!

Looking for the best Christmas displays? Check out these London Christmas tours!

• London Christmas Walking Tour
• Explore London with a Local at Christmas
• London Christmas Lights Bike Tour

4) Winter at Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is another wonderful place to visit at Christmas time . You may be thinking why, since plants don’t usually show their best in winter – but the clever folks at Kew Gardens decided to make up for the lack of flowers with some truly spectacular lighting displays.

Think tunnels with a million twinkling fairy lights, light displays over the greenhouses, and light and sound installations over the trees and lakes, turning the garden into a true winter wonderland.

In 2017 there was also a Christmas tree decorated with wooden sledges, and in 2018 there were huge dandelions covered in fairy lights – I wonder what future Christmases will bring? 

This is simply a must visit if you’re in London in December or January – just don’t forget to book your Kew Garden tickets in advance as they often sell out in winter!

Things to do in London in January/February

5) lumiere festival.

If you’re visiting London around the end of January , you’re in for a treat! The last two years, there’s been a brand-new winter festival – Lumiere London , a series of light installations by contemporary artists all over the city.

This year, the festival took place in six locations – King’s Cross , where there was a stunning water-themed installation by Dutch artist Daan Roosegaarde, nearby Fitzrovia , the West End, Mayfair, Westminster and Waterloo .

The displays are visible from about 5.30 pm until late night – don’t miss them, if you happen to be visiting at the right time! Try to time your January visit to London to catch this!

6) Chinese New Year

The dates of Chinese New Year celebrations vary between late January and early/mid February, depending on the year. If you find yourself in London around the same time, don’t miss visiting – London’s Chinese New Year celebrations are the largest outside Asia!

The heart of celebrations is Chinatown near Soho , especially Gerrard Street, the main drag. On New Year’s Day there’s usually a huge street parade with drum performances, lion and dragon dances, and lots of street food stalls. If you miss New Year’s Day, fear not – 15 days later the Lantern Festival takes place, and at night the streets are illuminated by hundreds of red lanterns.

You have to go if you’re in London between January and February – in 2021, Chinese New Year will fall on February 12th, and in 2020 it will be on Feb 1st.

Things to do in London all Winter

7) wildlife photographer of the year exhibition.

This is a true London winter tradition for us! The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is held every year at the Natural History Museum, and it’s open from October to May – so theoretically, you don’t have to visit in winter, but we’ve decided to include since we’ve visited this exhibition either in November or December for the last 15 years!

If you’re a photography and nature lover , this exhibition is absolutely unmissable. You can even submit your own shots and hope to be featured, but competition is pretty high, with some of the best nature photographers participating every year. Our favourite London winter activity, don’t miss it!

8) Visit a Pop-Up Winter Bar, Café or Restaurant

Londoners have a real knack for making the most of winter , with pop-up bars and restaurants opening up all over the city, from the riverbank to the rooftops. Every winter there are new places to choose from, so this list will never be an exhaustive one – here are some of our favourite locations from winter 2017/18, who knows, maybe they’ll be around next year as well?

• Coppa – bubble-shaped ‘igloos’ on the riverbank with views over Tower Bridge, perfect for afternoon tea (and for the wow effect, of course)
• Hot Gin Roof at Ham Yard Hote l – hot gin on a Piccadilly rooftop. Need I say more?
• Queen of Hoxton – every winter there’s a new pop up on this Shoreditch rooftop. 
• The Candlelight Club – this 1920’s speakeasy-themed supper club hosts candlelit events all over London year round… but the idea of a candlelit dinner is just so wintery, isn’t it?

9) Tour London’s Best Pubs

A pub is just a great place to be in London in winter – especially if it’s not just any old Weatherspoon’s, but a real, cozy pub, with comfort food and a roaring fire.

Finding a pub in London is not a problem, finding a good one is a whole different story – the pub panorama of the city is dominated by chains, and most pubs end up having a very ‘fake’ feel. Some of our favourite pubs in the city include the following:

• The Churchill Arms near Notting Hill, famous for its flowery façade and Thai cuisine,
• Historic pubs in the Docklands like the Grapes , opened over 500 years ago,
• The Pride of Spitalfields , famous for its resident cat Lenny (and for the beers, of course)

Check out some of London’s best pub crawls here!

• Seven Deadly Sins Pub Tour
• Shoreditch Pub Crawl
• Camden Pub Crawl
• Historic Pubs Walking Tour

10) Head to a Cat Cafe for Tea and Cuddles

Who doesn’t love a cat cafe? When it’s freezing outside there’s nothing better than a slice of cake and a warm drink with furry friends to warm up your soul.

There are surprisingly few cat cafes in London, but luckily there’s a great one – Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium in Shoreditch, named after the cat in Alice in Wonderland!

All the cats at Lady Dinah’s are rescue cats, and some are periodically up for adoption. Bookings are essential – you can opt for the Entry, Cats and a Cuppa formula for £10, or choose to have high tea for £25. You’re allowed to play with the cats for 90 minutes, but please don’t forget to be respectful!

11) Enjoy Afternoon Tea

No, I’m not just talking about a cup of milky English breakfast with sugar – afternoon tea in London is a serious event , with restaurants, hotels and teahouses around the city serving up hot brews accompanied by trays of delicious mini-sandwiches, scones and other sweet and savoury finger food. Can you imagine a better way to warm up on a chilly London winter afternoon?

A good tea experience can be pricey, with charges for the full works usually starting around £50, but it’s worth doing at least once – and it’s a good idea to do so in winter , since tea o’clock is 5, when it gets dark and chilly. There are literally hundreds of places to choose from to enjoy afternoon tea in London, but here are some great options:

• The Ritz – this is English tradition at its best! You need to dress up, as jeans, trainers and sportswear are not allowed, but the setting in the Palm Court is out of this world
• The Gallery at Sketch – a creative tea menu in a stunning pink tea room, with a vague retro feel
• Sosharu – the best pick in town for a Japanese tea experience
• Sunborn Afternoon Tea – this hotel in a luxury yacht located near Canary Wharf offers afternoon tea in collaboration with Hummingbird Bakery, one of my favourite bakeries in London!

Check out some of the best London tours including afternoon tea!

• London Waldorf Hilton Champagne Afternoon Tea
• Westminster Abbey and Afternoon Tea
• Buckingham Palace Royal Walking Tour and Afternoon tea

12) Go on a Food Tour

If you’re one of those people that think food in London is bad, I’m sorry, we can’t be friends! The gastronomic scene in London is second to none , and a food tour is a great way to get to know about it, especially if it’s your first time in town!

During our visit to London last winter we headed on a street food tour around Brick Lane and Shoreditch , including British classics like fish and chips and bacon butties, as well as samples like curry and bagels, reflecting the multicultural history of the area. There are also excellent food tours being held around Soho, Brixton and more, vegan tours, carnivore tours, and even a cupcake and macaron tour – something we have to try very soon!

Check out some of London’s best street food tours here

• 3 Hour Secret British Food Tour
• International Food of Soho Half-Day Tour
• London East End Food Tour

13) Find the Best Street Art in London

In recent years, London has also become a great street art destination . If you’re visiting London in winter, there are street art tours you can take, or you can simply make your own way to some of the best street art hotspots in town and create your own tour – places like Shoreditch, Hackney and Brick Lane all have great pieces to be found, as does Camden Town , which is a must for all Amy Winehouse fans!

London street art changes frequently , so some of the pics you see here may be gone by the time you visit – this is one of our favourites, and it can be found in Miller Street , Camden Town! This was spotted in January/February 2018 – let us know in the comments if you’ve found any new pieces!

Here are some of the best street art tours in London!

• East End Street Art Tour
• Shoreditch Half-Day Street Art Tour
• London Street Art Tour and Workshop

14) Go on a Winter Walk

Winter is a wonderful time to walk around London. The city’s outdoor spaces are overrun with visitors as soon as a little bit of sun and warmth come out – walking around on a chilly, misty winter day may not sound like your idea of fun, but you’ll be pretty much guaranteed there won’t be many people about. The atmosphere of London in winter is always magical, even if the weather is not the greatest!

Hampstead Heath is my favourite destination for a winter walk in London – make sure you walk all the way up the hill to see London from above, and end your winter walk at Kenwood House , a villa turned art gallery, where you can enjoy a hot drink.

Other wonderful places for a winter walk in London are Regent’s Canal , heading west from Camden Town all the way to Little Venice,  Highgate Cemetery , London’t best and final resting place for Karl Marx and many other, and Alexandra Park close to the famous ‘Ally Pally’, where you can get awesome London views too! Definitely one of the top things to do in London in winter!

15) Visit a Rooftop Garden

Yes, I can hear you – walking in the cold is not fun. I accept that. So, if you find yourself in London in winter looking for nature  in December, January or February but don’t want to deal with freezing temperatures, I have the perfect solution for you – the Sky Garden!

Sky Garden is a rooftop garden located on the top of 20 Fenchurch Street, the city skyscraper also known as the Walkie Talkie . Access to the gardens is free with prior reservation, and you’ll get to enjoy amazing London views as an added bonus!

Try to book at least a week in advance if you want to be sure to visit Sky Garden – if you can’t find an available slot you can always opt for plan B, and book a table at one of Sky Garden’s restaurants and bars!

16) Go to a West End Show

Going to a show in London’s West End is a must do year round, not just in winter! All around Piccadilly Circus and Shaftesbury Avenue you’ll find the highest concentration of theatres in the city, with shows to please everyone. Just take your pick!

Musicals are probably the most popular – iconic West End shows include the Lion King at Lyceum Theatre, Wicked at Apollo Victoria Theatre, Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty’s Theatre, and Mamma Mia at Novello Theatre. 

Another cool idea is going to see The Mousetrap , a murder mystery play by Agatha Christie. It was the longest running show in London, held non stop from 1952 to 2020 at St Martin’s Theatre.

Shows are currently on hold due to COVID-19, but they will be resumed as soon as theatres are allowed to open again.

17) Visit a Museum – for FREE!

One of the most amazing things about London is that it has some of the world’s best museums, and they are always FREE to visit!

I’ve spent many, many winter days visiting the Tate Modern, the British Museum and many others – this is definitely a London winter activity not to be missed , especially when it rains (and it will!)

Here are the top London museums you can visit for free!

• British Museum –  artefacts from all over the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon friezes
• National Gallery – the premier art gallery in town, with over 2000 paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century
• Tate Modern –  contemporary art gallery in a striking post-industrial building
• Tate Britain – best of British art from the 16th century to today
• Royal Academy of Arts –  temporary exhibitions from the archives of the Academy
• Science Museum –  dedicated to science with lots of hands on exhibits
• Natural History Museum – exhibits from the natural world, including dinosaur skeletons and a stuffed dodo
• Victoria and Albert Museum – vast collection of art and design objects, with sections dedicated to fashion, furniture, sculpture, photography, jewellery and more.

18) Enjoy Views from the Shard

Do you like viewpoints? Then you have to visit the Shard during your London winter visit! 

The Shard was opened in 2012, and at 306 meters (1000 ft) it’s the tallest building in London. The name ‘Shard’ is in reference to the shape of a building, looking like a shard of glass sticking out from the London skyline, more than double the height of surrounding buildings. 

The Shard is 96 storeys high, and you can choose between different viewing platforms – an indoor one at level 68/69, perfect if you’re in London in winter, and an outdoor one at level 72 – the highest observation deck in the city. 

Tickets are free for children up to 4 years old, and cost £35 for adults. Make sure you book ahead!

19) Visit the Tower of London

Another amazing thing to do in London in winter is visiting the Tower of London , a must for all history buffs!

The Tower of London is a complex of 20 Medieval buildings, some of which are almost 1000 years old. The Tower was the royal residence until the 17th century, and some of the coolest things to see inside include the Bloody Tower, where prisoners used to be kept, the White Tower, the oldest part of the complex, and naturally the Crown Jewels. 

We’ve put together a full guide about the Tower of London , including how to get tickets – perfect to skip the lines in winter!

20) Ride on the London Eye

Am I really old if I still remember when the London Eye used to be called Millennium Wheel? 

Jokes aside, London’s great Ferris wheel was opened in 2000 , and at 135 meters (443 ft) tall, it used to be the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. Now, it’s been surpassed by a few other panoramic wheels, but riding it remains one of the best things to do in London , especially in winter if it’s sunny or snowing!

The London Eye is located in Westminster , and from its top you get a stunning view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the River Thames and surrounds. Adult tickets start from £25 – worth every penny!

How to Get Around London in Winter 

By Tube –  the London Underground, affectionately called ‘Tube’, is the best way to get around London , in winter and in all the other seasons! The Tube covers most of the city, and some lines even run 24/7.

We recommend getting a pay-as-you-go Oyster card , and topping it up with about £10 for every day of your stay – the cost for your rides will be deducted automatically, until you reach the daily cap limit. Alternatively, you can also use your contactless debit or credit card. 

There are only two drawbacks to using the Tube – it does get super busy during rush hour (7/9 am and 5/7 pm on weekdays), and many Tube stops only have stairs , no escalators or lifts. Try to use the Tube during non-rush hour (the fares are also cheaper that way).

If you have issues walking or climbing stairs, avoid the Tube – use taxis or Uber instead. 

By Bus – buses are also a great way to get around London in winter. Naturally, they take longer than the Tube since London traffic in winter is always a nightmare, but they are also considerably cheaper , plus they reach every corner of the city, including areas the Tube doesn’t go to. 

You can also use your Oyster card or contactless bank card on London buses. Cash payments are also accepted – one ride is £1.50 per adult, but you must have exact change. 

If you are planning to use buses or the Tube to get around London in winter, be warned that delays and closures are common , and the service may be halted altogether in case of severe weather storms.

-By Taxi/Uber:  it’s also possible to use taxis (cabs) or ride share services such as Uber to get around London. When talking about cabs, there are two different kinds – black cabs , the official ones you hail off the streets (very cool but very expensive) and minicabs , private hire vehicles with a driver that must be pre-booked in advance. 

-On Foot:  if you can, walking is a great way to get around London in winter. Even though the weather may be chilly and maybe a little rainy, the winter atmosphere should make up for it! 

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10 Best Day Trips from London in the Winter

London is one of my favorite cities in the world, but there is much more to the United Kingdom than just London.  That’s why I encourage you to do at least one day trip to get a better sense of the country.

In the winter, when it’s cold, you may be tempted to stay in London and visit some of the museums. That’s not the only option.  There are some fabulous winter day trips from London that are worth the extra travel time.

In this post, I will share a little more about winters in London and details of the ten best day trips from London in the winter.  The hardest thing may be choosing only one.

Note: This post contains affiliate links.  Please see the disclosure for more information.

Winter Weather in London

#1 day trip to windsor in the winter, #2 day trip to cambridge in the winter, #3 day trip to bath in the winter, #4 day trip to hampton court in the winter, #5 day trip to the harry potter studio in the winter, #6 day trip to oxford in the winter, #7 day trip to manchester in the winter, #8 day trip to york in the winter, #9 day trip to birmingham in the winter, #10 day trip to winchester in the winter, day trip to stonehenge in the winter, day trip from london to the beach in the winter, should you do a day trip from london in the winter, is a winter day trip from london worth it, expert tips for day trips from london in the winter.

In general, I prefer warm climates, so the weather in London during the winter leaves much to be desired.  It can be cold, gray, windy, and wet. On the bright side, snow is rare.

The other thing you need to keep in mind is that it does get dark early in England during the winter.  Once it starts getting dark it does get colder.  For the most part, the weather shouldn’t stop you from seeing places as long as you dress appropriately for the cold weather.

The Best Winter Day Trips from London

There are lots of day trips within easy reach of London.   Since it is the hub of the rail network, you can get to a lot of places fast.  Keep in mind, train tickets can be expensive so you will want to book in advance and buy a specific train time.

In the winter, you do need to think about the weather when deciding where to go for a day trip.  Most of the places on this list of day trips from London to do in the winter have indoor attractions.

While England may not have Christmas Markets that are as iconic as ones in Germany and other parts of Europe, there are definitely a few that are worth visiting.  I have included those on this list.

In general, since Winter is not the peak tourist season in England, attractions will be less crowded so it’s a great opportunity to see more.  Christmas markets are the exception to this rule. Expect them to be busy, especially on weekends.

Also, most of these winter day trips have day tour options.  Those are perfect for people who don’t want to deal with public transportation on their own.  If you are tight on time, check out these half day trips from London .

If you are interested in art, history, or the Royal Family, then a visit to Windsor is a must.  Unlike Buckingham Palace , which is only open for a few months each year, Windsor Castle, where Queen Elizabeth spends most of her weekends, is open year around.  It’s a perfect day trip for the winter because you can spend most of your time inside the Castle.

Make sure to get your ticket in advance though.  Otherwise, you will be waiting in a long line outside in the cold.  If you are planning on doing a day trip to Windsor to see the castle, consider getting the London Pass.   It includes both admission to Windsor Castle and your train ticket from London to Windsor.  Click here to learn more about the London Pass.  

If you don’t have the London Pass, click here to buy your ticket to Windsor Castle in advance .

Things to do during a Winter Day Trip to Windsor

• Arrive early to catch the changing of the guard at 11:00 am. 
• Do the audio tour (included in your admission price) of Windsor Castle.  It will guide you through the Castle including the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel.  During December, the castle is all decked out for Christmas.
• If you have time after touring Windsor Castle, check out the Windsor Royal Shopping Center , an old Victorian train station now filled with shops and restaurants.  It’s nice they still kept many original features including the Jubilee arch, the cobbled stones, and Queen Victoria’s Royal Waiting Room.  

How to Get to Windsor from London

It’s easy to get to Windsor from London.  It’s a little more than an hour on the train from London Waterloo station.  Buy your train ticket in advance to get the best deal. Click here to check the pricing and schedule.

For those that don’t want to venture to Windsor on their own, there are several guided tour options:

• Half-day Windsor Castle tour from London
• Windsor Castle Tour and Traditional Lunch
• London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour
• Windsor, Oxford and Stonehenge Day Tour from London

Cambridge is a beautiful city that has lots to offer in both the winter and summer.  Of course, there is the famous university, but there is much more to see when you visit Cambridge for a day .

What to do on a Winter Day Trip to Cambridge

• Go punting on the Cam .  In case you haven’t heard the term “punting” before, it is similar to boating on a gondola but with a pole (called a punt) rather than a stick.  While you may think of punting in Cambridge as a summer activity, it is actually offered all year. If you do one of the punting tours , they will provide blankets.
• Tour one of the colleges.   Some of the most popular are King’s College, St. John’s College, and Trinity College (don’t miss the Wren Library).  You could also take a tour of the university led by a graduate like this one .
• Visit one of the beautiful churches.  The stained glass and ceiling of King’s College Chapel are breathtaking.  
• Check out one of the interesting museums in Cambridge.  The Fitzwilliam is the most popular but there are other smaller museums for archeology, art, and history.  All the museums are free to visit.

How to Get from London to Cambridge

To get to Cambridge from London, take the train from either London’s King Cross or Liverpool Street Stations.  It takes about an hour to get there. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

If you want a cheaper transportation option, there are National Express buses that leave from the London Victoria Coach Station and take about two hours.  Get more information about the buses to Cambridge here.

If you don’t want to venture to Cambridge on your own, there are some guided tours like this one .

Bath is one of the most popular day trips from London.  The city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its Roman ruins, the 18th-century architecture, hot springs, and landscape setting.

What to do on a Winter Day Trip to Bath

• You can’t say you have visited Bath without going to see the Roman Baths, so start your day trip to Bath there. 
• Book lovers will also want to visit the Jane Austen Centre to learn more about the author who lived in Bath.  
• It’s also worth visiting the Bath Abbey which is more like a cathedral.  This church dates back to the 11th century, but it’s not in ruins like other English abbeys (i.e. Whitby and Fountains Abbey ).  
• Take a boat ride in a traditional 1960’s small river cruiser.  Get more info here .
• Architecture fans should make sure to also see the Royal Crescent which was completed in 1767.
• In addition to the historic sites, Bath has a popular Christmas Market, it is one of the best Christmas markets in England .  The city is even prettier in the winter with all the Christmas decorations.  You can also go ice skating at the rink in Royal Victoria Park .

How to Get from London to Bath

To get to Bath from London, the train from Paddington Station will be your fastest option.  It only takes an hour and a half. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

If you are looking for a cheaper way to get to Bath, then there is the National Express bus from Victoria station, but that will take three hours.  Get more information about the buses to Bath here .

If you prefer, there are many guided Bath day trip tours.  There are several options that include visits to other popular attractions like Stonehenge, Avebury , Windsor Castle, and Lacock:

• London: Stonehenge and Bath Full-Day Tour
• London: Stonehenge, Bath & West Country Day Trip
• Bath, Avebury & Lacock Village Small Group Day Tour from London

Hampton Court was one of Henry VIII’s favorite residences, and it’s definitely worth a visit at any time of the year.  It’s the best place to learn more about one of England’s most influential kings. 

Be sure to get your tickets to Hampton Court in advance.  You can save money by purchasing a family ticket (if appropriate) here .

Hampton Court Palace is also included on the London Pass.  Click here for more information on the London Pass .

What to Do on a Winter Day Trip to Hampton Court

• Tour the Palace – highlights include the lavish State Rooms, Great Hall, and the Tudor Kitchen.
• Visit the Hampton Court gardens, which are open in the winter.  If you dress warmly, you can still enjoy the famous hedge-maze which is the oldest surviving one in the world.
• During the Christmas season, the Palace has an ice skating rink, Christmas Fayre, and evening carol singing.

How to Get from London to Hampton Court

It’s not far to travel to Hampton Court from London.  From London Waterloo station, it’s less than an hour on the train and then a short walk to the palace.  Click here to check pricing and schedules .

If you prefer there are private tours to Hampton Court that include transportation and also a visit to Windsor Castle.  Click here for more information .

The Harry Potter Studio tour is a must for any serious Potterhead.  You get to go behind-the-scenes of the Harry Potter films including visiting the sets for the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s Office, and Diagon Alley.  

During the winter season, the Studio is transformed into what is called “ Hogwarts in the Snow .”  All the famous movie sets are decorated for the season – fires roar in the fireplaces, the Gryffindor common room is filled with Christmas treats, and the Hogwarts castle model is covered in a blanket of snow.

Like other Harry Potter attractions, the Studio Tour is popular, so it’s best to buy your tickets in advance here .  Also, Harry Potter fans should consider doing a Harry Potter walking tour while in London . 

What to do on a Harry Potter Studio Winter Day Trip

• Climb aboard the original Hogwarts Express, learn about the effects and animatronics, and fly on a broomstick. 
• Drink some delicious Butterbeer .
• Don’t miss the glittering Christmas trees and flaming Christmas puddings in the Great Hall.  
• Learn how different types of artificial snow, ice, and fires were created and used in the films!

How to Get to the Harry Potter Studios from London

Take the train from London Euston Station 20 minutes to Watford Junction where regular shuttle buses will take you directly to the Studio. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

If don’t want to take the train to Watford, check out these tour option from Kings Cross Station here or from Victoria Station here .  Both include a bus to the Harry Potter Studios.

You could also do this tour that combines your visit to the Harry Potter Studios with a visit to Oxford.

Oxford is the city of dreaming spires and is worth visiting all year around.  Like Cambridge, Oxford is home to a famous university and world-class museums so there are several options if you want to be inside.  However, unlike Cambridge, they do not offer punting in December or January.

What to do on a Winter Day Trip to Oxford

• Tour one or more of the colleges.  Harry Potter fans will want to visit Christ Church College where a few scenes from the movies were filmed.  To learn more about the university’s history, a guided tour like this one is ideal.
• The most popular museum in Oxford is the Ashmolean .  It’s free to visit and has an interesting mix of everything.  
• You could also visit the Bodleian libraries (the second largest in the UK).
• Stop in at the world-famous The Eagle and The Child a favorite spot for the Inklings, who were an informal group of writers, including C.S. Lewis (the author of the Chronicles of Narnia children’s books), J.R.R. Tolkien (who wrote Lord of the Rings), Charles Williams, and Hugo Dyson.
• While Oxford is not considered a top Christmas destination, they do have a small Christmas market or you could probably find some unique gifts at the Covered Market .

How to Get from London to Oxford

To get to Oxford, you can take trains from either London Paddington or Marylebone. It takes around an hour.  Check the train schedules and pricing here.   

National Express provides 24-hour service to Oxford from London Victoria Station. Check schedules and pricing with National Express here . 

There is also a bus service called the Oxford Tube, which runs frequently from Victoria Station and has a few other stops in London. Find more information about the Oxford Tube here .

You can also visit Oxford on a tour from London.  There are several options, some of which include other popular attractions nearby as well:

• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds: Day Trip from London

Manchester is one of the biggest cities in the UK.  You will find plenty to do on a day trip whether it is winter or summer.  It is also a fun place to celebrate the Christmas season, New Year’s Eve, and the Chinese New Year.

What to do on a Winter Day Trip to Manchester

• Football (soccer) fans will be in heaven as Manchester is home to two of the most iconic teams in the English Premier League .  You can visit the National Football Museum or tour either of the team’s stadiums (book a Manchester City Stadium Tour here or a tour of Old Trafford, Manchester United’s Stadium here ).  
• If you want to attend one of the football games, you will need to plan ahead as games are always sold out.  Don’t attempt to buy tickets from a third-party unless they are licensed. Stubhub could be a good option, since they offer a guarantee, but tickets are not cheap.
• If you are interested in art, be sure to visit the Manchester Art Gallery or the Whitworth Art Gallery .  Near the Whitworth, you will find the Manchester Museum , which is known for its Egyptian collection. (Those interested in learning more about ancient Egypt should be sure to visit the British Museum in London too.)  All these museums offer free entry.
• In Manchester, they make a big deal out of Christmas.  The season kicks off with a Lights Switch-On event complete with fireworks.  The Christmas Markets have more than 300 stalls throughout the city center. They also have a big fireworks display on New Year’s Eve. 
• Since Manchester has the largest Chinatown in Europe, they also make a big deal out of the Chinese New Year.  There is a huge, three-day Chinese New Year festival across much of the city center with food and craft fairs, plenty of noise, and a big dragon parade.

How to Get from London to Manchester

To get to Manchester from London for a day trip you will need to either take a train or fly.  The train leaves from London Euston Station and takes a little more than two hours to get to Manchester Piccadilly Station.  Check the pricing and schedules here .  

You can fly from Heathrow to Manchester airport on British Airways in about an hour but it will be more expensive and also not as environmentally friendly.  There are buses from London Victoria which would be your cheapest option but it will take 4 ½ – 6 ½ hours so it is not practical for a day trip.

In my opinion, York is the prettiest city in England and I wouldn’t want to let the cold weather stop you from seeing it. I feel like I have gone back in time walking around some of the streets in York.

What to Do on a Winter Day Trip to York

• Spend some of the day inside at the York Minster , the National Railway Museum , the York Castle Museum , the York Dungeon , or the York Chocolate Story .  If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, you can probably save money by purchasing the York Pass. Get more info about the York Pass here .
• If you plan ahead, you could have afternoon tea at Betty’s .
• Don’t miss the Shambles, it’s arguably the prettiest street in England.  
• If the weather isn’t too bad, do the city wall walk.  You can also visit St. Mary’s Abbey which is now in ruins and climb up Clifford’s Tower for some amazing views.  Note: Clifford’s Tower is an English Heritage Site.  English Heritage members and those with the English Heritage Visitor’s Pass can visit for free.
• If you happen to be visiting in December during the St.Nicholas Christmas Market , then plan on spending some time there.  When you need a break from shopping, step inside Thor’s Teepee for some warm drinks.  York is even prettier during the Christmas season, the city goes all out with the decorations.

How to Get from London to York

To get to York from London, take the East Coast Main Line train from King’s Cross.  After about two hours, you will arrive at York Station. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

There are buses from London Victoria to York but they take over five hours, so it’s not practical for a day trip.

Birmingham is often overlooked as a place to visit in England, but during Christmas time it is one of the best places to be.  The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest Christmas market found outside Germany and Austria.

What to Do on a Winter Day Trip to Birmingham

• At the Christmas Market, there is plenty of German food, mulled wine, and Christmas Carols.  Don’t miss the singing Christmas moose (known as Chris Moose) who is located in front of the Council House entrance. The Christmas Market opens in early November and runs until December 23rd.
• The Birmingham Library is a stunning work of modern architecture.  It is worth a visit to see the largest collection of Shakespeare’s works in the UK and also the outdoor garden which has impressive views over the city. 
• A short walk from the library is the Birmingham Museum .  The art gallery has the largest public Pre-Raphaelite collection in the world.  There is also a dedicated gallery for the Staffordshire Hoard, the largest find of Anglo-Saxon gold ever.

How to Get to Birmingham from London

The best way to get from London to Birmingham is to take the train.  There are frequent trains from London Euston and London Marylebone to Birmingham New Street Station.  The journey takes about an hour and a half. Click here to check prices and schedule.

There is also a bus option but it takes around three hours.  Not sure that is a good idea if you are only doing a day trip.

Winchester is one of those quintessential picturesque English cities, which seems fitting for a city that was the first capital of England.  In addition to the historic sites which can be visited all year, in December the city hosts a popular Christmas Market.

What to Do on a Winter Day Trip to Winchester

• A visit to Winchester would not be complete without stopping inside Winchester Cathedral .  You can see Jane Austen’s grave and the Winchester Bible, the largest 12th-century English bible.  In the crypt, you will find an interesting modern sculpture from Antony Gormley.  
• It’s also worth visiting the Great Hall , which is the only building remaining of Winchester Castle.  You can see the famous Round Table, Gates commemorating the marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and a statue of Queen Victoria.
• Visit the Christmas Market in the Cathedral Close.  Take a picture by nativity scene in the British Craft Villages. You can also go ice skating.

How to Get From London to Winchester

To get to Winchester, catch the direct train from London Waterloo station.  After approximately an hour, you will arrive at Winchester Station. Click here to check pricing and schedules .  

You can also take a bus from Victoria Station which will be cheaper than the train but takes an hour and a half.  Click here to check pricing and schedules.

Other London Winter Day Trips to Consider

If you don’t mind being outside in the cold in the winter, there are a few other days trips to consider:

Stonehenge needs no introduction, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in England and open year round.  During the winter months, Stonehenge is far less crowded.  I hesitate to say that it is one of the best winter day trips to London because the attraction is pretty much all outside.  

Many people just visit the stone circle but to truly appreciate the site, you need to see at least some of the other Neolithic sites in the area, which requires a bit of walking, which could be uncomfortable depending on the weather.  However, on the Winter Solstice , it might be worth visiting because it is free, but keep in mind there will be bigger crowds.

If you are not visiting on the Solstice, you should book your ticket in advance here .  If you are an English Heritage or National Trust Member, you can visit Stonehenge for free.  For overseas visitors, it is also included in both the English Heritage Visitor’s Pass and the National Trust Touring Pass .

How to Get to Stonehenge from London

Stonehenge is not the easiest place to get to from London on public transportation.  If you can, consider driving to Stonehenge since there is so much to see in the area that tours won’t take you.

If you are not driving, then take the train from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury, which will take about an hour and a half.  ( Click here to check pricing and schedules ). From the Salisbury Train Station, you will need to catch the Stonehenge Tour bus. The bus to Stonehenge runs hourly during the winter and takes about 40 minutes. 

You can buy tickets for the Stonehenge Tour Bus online in advance or on the bus.  If you decide to go this route, I recommend that you also buy your Stonehenge admission with your bus ticket.  Tickets bought with the bus fare are not subject to the timed entry. That way even if there are train or bus delays you don’t have to worry about missing your time slot.  It’s also slightly cheaper than paying for the bus and Stonehenge tickets separately.

For those not comfortable navigating to Stonehenge independently or wanting to save time, there are plenty of tours to Stonehenge to choose from like these:

• London: Stonehenge Half-Day Morning or Afternoon Tour
• Stonehenge Express Half-Day Tour from London

England may not be known as a beach destination but there are plenty of beautiful beaches not too far from London.

The beaches will be less crowded.  The water will be too cold to swim, but in my opinion, it’s too cold to swim even in the summer.  Keep in mind, some local businesses (i.e. shops and restaurants) may close for the off-season.

Some beach options that can be easily reached by train from London are:

Brighton – In addition to the beach, be sure to visit the famous pier.  To get to Brighton, take the train from London Bridge or London Victoria.  It takes about an hour to get to Brighton.

Whitstable – Known for its seafood and its beaches.  It takes about 1.5 hours to get to Whitstable. You can catch the train from London St Pancras, Cannon Street, or Victoria Stations

Bournemouth – The beach here is eleven miles long and you will also find shops, gardens, hotels, and restaurants.  To get to Bournemouth, take the train from Waterloo. In about two hours you will arrive in Bournemouth.

Eastbourne – A favorite Victorian seaside retreat with a historic pier.  To get to Eastbourne, take the train from London Bridge or London Victoria.  It takes about an hour and a half to get to Eastbourne.

Camber Sands – Regularly voted as one of the best beaches in England, it’s even been featured in Hollywood films.  To get to Camber Sands, take the train from London St Pancras to Rye – it will take about an hour.

If you choose one of these options, be sure to check out my ultimate packing list for the beach for ideas on what to bring along.

Yes.  It’s a great way to see more of England, don’t let the weather stop you since you can spend most of the day inside.

As I mentioned there are countless places to visit around London in winter.  If a destination did not make my list, it does not mean it’s a bad choice.  However, there are a few things you should take into consideration when deciding if you should do the day trip from London in the Winter.

Will the main attractions be open?

Since winter is the low season for tourism in England some attraction do close for the season.  For example, the Deep Fan Bay Shelter at the Dover Cliffs closes for the season and Dover Castle is only open on the weekends during the winter.  A day trip to Dover in the winter doesn’t make much sense.

How long does it take to get there from London? 

Some attractions in England aren’t very easy to get to.  When you only have one day you need to make sure the travel time is reasonable.  For me, I like to keep it to around two hours or less. 

How Much Time Will You Spend Outside?

I know some people like the cold weather, but not me.  During the winter, I tend to prefer indoor attractions. 

When it is cold it is easy to want to lay low and take it easy.  That being said, the winter weather shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying a day trip from London.  There are plenty of winter day trip options where you can spend most of your time inside. 

England has a lot to offer outside of London, so take advantage of your time here.  Winter can be a good time to see top attractions with less crowds.  Trust me, a winter day trip from London is worth it.

Which day trip from London would you like to do during the winter?

Pin for Later

• Make sure to dress according to the weather so that you will be comfortable when you are out.
• While crowds will be less than the summer months, there are still some attractions for which you should buy the tickets in advance (i.e. Windsor Castle and Harry Potter Studios)
• If you will be traveling by train, be sure to book your train tickets in advance and choose specific train times to get the best price.
• If you purchase the London Pass, your admission to Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle are included.  Get more information about the London Pass here.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means we will receive a small commission for some purchases made using links in our blog with no additional cost to you.  Please be assured we would not promote any product unless we believe that our readers will also benefit.  The commission does not influence the editorial content of this site.

Last Updated on May 3, 2023

About the Author

Anisa  

Anisa is an experienced international traveler with extra pages in her passport and stamps from 41 different countries across 5 continents (and counting). She was born and raised in Texas. After a 13 year stint in NYC, she moved to England to live with her husband.

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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.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

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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Posted on Published: 10th November 2022  - Last updated: 5th December 2022 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

28 Brilliant Day Trips from London

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We all love London… but the UK is full of wonderful spots that are ripe for exploration. Planning your next adventure? Here are 28 cool day trips from London to get you started.

London is a great city – but there’s so much more to the UK to explore.

Hop on a train or into your car and you can go on an adventure around some of the UK’s historic sites and beautiful landscapes.

In need of some inspiration? Check out this guide to the best day trips from London by train and by car.

Sneak a peek at the day trip destinations in this video to see what they look like in action!

Day Trips from London by Train

Planning your day trip from London? We love using Omio for finding the best deals when it comes to train travel around the UK. They work with over 1000 major travel companies to bring you the best deals (including many major airlines if you’re looking to travel a little bit further). 

Better yet, download the Omio App and you can store all of your travel tickets in one place. This means that you can spend less time organising your tickets and more time planning an adventure. Yes, please!

Oxford, the city of the dreaming spires is an easy day out from London. It’s only an hour on the train and trains run frequently until the early hours.

We might be biased, but we really think that it’s one of the best places to visit in the UK – a gorgeous city that’s brimming with history and cool things to do.

While there’s a lot to see in the city, its small size means that a lot of the biggest Oxford attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

From the iconic Radcliffe Camera to the world-famous Ashmolean Museum, you certainly have your work cut out when it comes to seeing Oxford in a day – but it is possible. Start with this 24 Hours in Oxford guide .

Train departs from: London Paddington and London Marylebone

Average journey duration: 1 hour

Hassle-free option: Book this Oxford day trip from London

Read more: The Best Things to do in Oxford Finding Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations

Canterbury has always been an important place to visit in the UK – it was the destination for many a pilgrimage in times past (hence its role in Chaucer’s famous Canterbury Tales). It still deserves to be at the top of your list of days out from London today.

What’s there to see? How about one of England’s great cathedrals, ye olde English pubs and quaint little streets that look like they’ve been plucked straight from medieval times? Add to that a selection of cool museums and some scenic walks and you’ve got an excellent day trip in the making.

Train departs from: London Victoria and St Pancras International

Average journey duration: 1 hour from St Pancras, 1.5 hours from Victoria

Hassle-free option: Book this day trip to Canterbury and the White Cliffs of Dover

Read more: One Day in Canterbury Itinerary

Cambridge is beautiful. This world-famous university town is another popular day trip outside London – and for good reason.

Visiting impressive colleges such as Trinity College and King’s College (whose chapel you simply must see) would be enough to fill your day alone. But you should also take time to visit some of Cambridge’s other landmarks – The Fitzwilliam Museum and Botanical Gardens among them.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months be sure to hire a punt and indulge in the traditional pastime of gliding down the River Cam. Bonus points to you if you don’t fall in or lose your pole along the way.

Train departs from: Kings Cross and Liverpool Street

Average journey duration: 50 minutes from Kings Cross, 1 hour 20 minutes from Liverpool Street

Hassle-free option: Book this London to Cambridge Day Trip

We think that Brighton is South East England’s coolest beach destination. 

First thing’s first – the beach is pebble – so don’t get your hopes up with dreams of golden sands. It’s still perfectly good for plumping down on your towel and soaking a few rays of the rare British sun.

Away from the beach, Brighton’s history as the seaside escape for the UK’s rich and famous has left its mark.

Long rows of Regency houses, the long-standing Pier, not to mention the out-and-out fabulous Brighton Pavillion stand as testament to Brighton’s colourful past.

There’s a thriving dining and drinking scene – and a number of cool little independent shops clustered in The Lanes area. Just be sure not to have so much fun that you miss the last train home (this has totally happened to me).

Train departs from: St Pancras International (also stops at Farringdon, Blackfriars and London Bridge) and London Victoria

Hassle-free option: Book a bike tour of Brighton (doesn’t include transport to Brighton)

Read Next: 21 Brilliant Beaches Near London

Hampton Court

Hampton Court is one of the easiest day trips from London – easy transport connections and short travel time make it perfect for an impromptu trip.

Hampton is pretty much all about the palace – which was first built by the ill-fated Cardinal Wolsey before being pinched by Henry VIII.

All six of Henry’s wives lived here at some point or another, before it passed through a number of hands and was finally opened to the public during the Victorian times.

Wonderful as Hampton Court’s interiors are, we would recommend visiting during the summer months when the gardens are at their best (avoid the summer holidays if you can though, when it’s always busy). Don’t miss the maze, which is the oldest surviving hedge maze in the world.

Train departs from: London Waterloo

Average journey duration: 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: Buy your Hampton Court tickets in advance

A trip to the Georgian spa town of Bath is like stepping straight into the pages of a Jane Austen novel (not surprising, seeing as she set so many of them there).

Jaunt around town, checking out the city’s many historical sites. Start with the immersive experience of the Roman Baths (unfortunately you’re not actually allowed to bathe there any more) and the Pump Room.

You can even “take the water” at the Pump Room – sipping on the supposedly restorative waters in the fashion of the hoi polloi of old.

We should warn you that the water tastes absolutely gross though.

Just across the road, Bath Abbey is one of the UK’s most beautiful cathedrals – make sure that you take a look inside too, it’s just as spectacular.

Small but entertaining, The Fashion Museum walks you through the catwalk of British fashion through the centuries.

Don’t think that Bath’s spa heritage is dead and gone – it’s still home to more than its fair share of spas that are perfect for a spot of pampering.

The reasonably-priced Thermae Bath Spa is a popular option thanks to its rooftop pool and indulgent massages, while the high-end Gainsborough Bath Spa is the place to go when you really want to push the boat out.

Train departs from: London Paddington

Average journey time: 1hr 30 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book this Bath & Stonehenge Day Trip

The fact that it’s the home of the royal residence Windsor Castle means that Windsor’s many other charms often get overlooked.

Windsor is well-known as one of the best day trips from London. Even so, many visitors disembark from the train, make a beeline for Windsor Castle, have a nose around and then head straight back home. It’s a shame as Windsor is a rather charming riverside town that merits your attention.

Sure, you should start your visit with a look at the castle, which just so happens to be the oldest inhabited castle in the world. The State Rooms and beautiful grounds take some time to explore.

However, you shouldn’t make the mistake of dashing home the moment that you are finished. Stick around to visit the Royal Windsor Racecourse and its more famous counterpart Royal Ascot Racecourse next door.

Or why not walk around the expansive Windsor Great Park then test your skills on the water rowing or kayaking along the Thames?

Train departs from: London Waterloo and Paddington Station

Average journey time: 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: Half-Day Windsor Day Trip and Tour

Read More: 15 Must-Visit Castles Near London

The Lake District

The Lake District is a long day trip from London but it’s just about doable and worth the effort if you’re short on time and can’t stay overnight.

With its gorgeous green pastures, towering fells and chocolate-box villages, it’s no surprise that the Lake District tops the list of Britain’s beautiful regions. The fastest train to the Lake District takes around 2.5 hours to Oxenholme, so is easiest to tackle on a day trip from London.

Luckily, the area surrounding Oxenholme is ripe for exploration.

There are frequent buses to Kendal, a pretty Lakeland town with lots of cute shops and tea rooms. You can also catch a local train (or taxi) to Windermere – the most famous of the Lakes – the walks around the lake are superb.

As we have already mentioned – The Lake District is not close to London, so you will need to start early and come back late to make it worth the effort.

Don’t even think about doing it by car either – you can just about do it by train but you’re really much better off staying overnight if you want to drive. Or you can go the full mile and head off on a road trip to a few British national parks .

Train departs from: Euston

Average journey time: 2 hrs 45mins

Hassle-free option: A 10 lake day tour

Read more: Walking in the Lake District

Despite being pretty far from London, York is actually not a difficult day trip.

Trains take just a smidge under two hours and run frequently enough that you can just turn up and go.

The walled city is best-known for the Gothic masterpiece that is York Minster but, with more attractions per square mile than any other UK city, there’s a lot to see here.

It’s tough to cover it all in one day – start with York Minster, the fascinating Yorkshire Museum and York Castle Museum (which comes complete with a restored street of Victorian shops) then add in a few other spots if time allows.

Chocolate-lovers will want to head to Chocolate Story – where you can learn about York’s important role in the history of British chocolate and, more importantly, gorge yourself on your own handmade chocolate bar.

Train departs from: King’s Cross

Average journey time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: See the best sights on foot

Lewes (pronounced Lewis ) often sits in the shadow of nearby Brighton, but there’s a lot to charm in the county town of East Sussex on a one day trip from London.

The town itself is pretty, with a few spots like Lewes Castle, the remains of Lewes Priory and the timber-framed Anne of Cleves House to lure you in for an hour or two.

A surprising number of Lewes’ medieval buildings have survived the test of time – there’s history around every corner.

Personally, we think the spectacular walks in the area surrounding Lewes are also worth the trip. We recommend the six-mile walk to Glynde – there are a couple of steep hills but each step comes with views out over the South Downs.

You can extend the walk to Southease and back to Lewes if you’re feeling really energetic – then quench your thirst with a locally-brewed pint of Harvey’s when you’re finished.

Train departs from: London Victoria

Average journey time: 1 hour

Hassle-free option: This is a DIY trip – but it’s really easy

Read More: Fantastic Hikes Near London You Shouldn’t Miss

Colchester is Britain’s oldest recorded town. With a long history that dates back beyond the Roman times, it was a Roman city and traces of that heritage can still be found dotted all over Colchester today.

Walking in the footsteps of the Romans, visit the remains of the Roman wall, as well as the Roman Circus – the only verified Roman chariot-racing track still standing.

Move onto Colchester Castle, which while not Roman itself, displays a few Roman mosaics and many Roman artifacts in the large Norman keep.

The castle is actually the largest Norman keep in Europe – testament to the fact that you can pretty much spy architecture from every single period in British history in Colchester.

Away from the past Colchester also happens to be the home of some very good tea shops. It would be rude not to indulge in a cream tea before you hop on the train back home again.

Train departs from: Liverpool Street

Hassle-free option: Book onto one of the frequent tours run by Visit Colchester

There haven’t been nearly enough seaside towns in this guide to day trips around London – time to fix that. Where better to head to than Whitstable with its picturesque, cobbled streets and famous oyster eateries?

There’s not a tonne to do in Whitstable – you can visit Whitstable Castle, but really, most of the appeal is wandering around the gorgeous town, seafront and harbour.

Seafood-lovers will be in their element – there’s no better place to tuck into a pint of fresh prawns or guzzle down half-a-dozen oysters.

If you’re really keen, time your visit for the annual knees up that is the Whitstable Oyster Festival .

Not only can you eat all the oysters you can ever dream of (20 is our personal best), but there’s live music and markets selling local wares and wine.

Train departs from: St Pancras International, London Bridge and London Victoria

Average journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Hassle-free option: None – but it’s a really easy trip

Henley on Thames

More than just the annual regatta that sees it burst into life, Henley on Thames is one of England’s traditional market towns.

The best way to explore Henley on Thames is on a self-guided walking tour – be sure to stop by the River & Rowing Museum for a walk through the history of the famous sport.

It contains an immersive Wind in the Willows experience that’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids – you’re led through the eccentric world of Mr Toad, Badger, Ratty and Mole.

Henley also used to hold the dubious title of having more pubs per head than any other town in the south east. While those days are gone, the upshot is that there are still a number of cool little pubs for you to explore.

Train departs from: London Paddington, change at Twyford

Average journey time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Hassle-free option: Just hop on a train and go and explore

Margate’s renaissance has been a marvel to behold. Once the darling of the British seaside, it had a bit of a slump before transforming itself into one of the UK’s coolest seaside spots.

That transformation is complete – these days you’re more likely to hear Margate being compared with Copenhagen than with any shoddy seaside town.

There’s the Turner Contemporary of course, which turned heads when it opened in 2011 and is still doing so several years later.

Add to that an assortment of chic independent shops, contemporary restaurants and even a gorgeous tidal pool for a quick dip and you’ll start to understand why it charms the pants off of so many people.

Average journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Hassle-free option: Check out the Thanet Tourist Board’s Page for Inspiration

Manchester is the small city that packs a big punch. With a strong culture and identity (think the Industrial Revolution and Oasis and you’re on the right track) a visit to Manchester is a breath of fresh air.

There’s too much to see in one day – Manchester Art Gallery, Imperial War Museum North, a guided tour of the BBC, the Museum of Science & History among them. If you’re a footie fan, a visit to Old Trafford is a must.

Seeing as you’re short on time, we recommend stopping off at a few museums, visiting Manchester Cathedral and fuelling up from one of the city’s cool eateries. Then, if you’re so inclined, stay for a taste of Manchester’s legendary nightlife before you head back home.

Average journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Hassle-free option:  Book a private tour with a local (transport to Manchester not included)

Bristol is one of our favourite cities. The chilled-out, easygoing city (which just so happens to be the largest in the southwest) is a brilliant day trip from London.

Bristol is a city of contrast – on the one hand, there are plenty of big landmarks to see – the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the SS Great Britain being two. On the other hand, a lot of the city’s appeal is the cool and quirky culture it’s fostered over the years.

A hive of street art, indie cafes (where you can guarantee you’ll get a great flat white) and alternative music venues – Bristol is just so damned cool.

It’s perhaps no surprise that one of the city’s biggest claims to fame is that the street artist Banksy hails from there.

Hassle-free option: Book this Self Guided Tour

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Lincoln (@visitlincoln)

Although it was previously a bit far for a day trip, LNER has launched new trains to Lincoln after the success of their Lincoln Experience event, which was part of a Visit Lincoln week celebrating the city. 

This is big news. It means that in just two hours you can escape London and make your way to the city steeped in Roman history.

The day trip alone is worth it for Lincoln castle and the picturesque grounds surrounding it, but you’ve also got plenty of shops, cafes, and pubs to make your way through in the city centre between museum hopping.  

Train departs from: London King’s Cross

Average journey time: 2 hours 19 minutes

Hassle-free option Book a guided walking tour of the city

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stonehenge (@stonehenge)

As one of the strangest day trips from London, a visit to the mysterious Stonehenge is a must for everyone. This is a rock formation that has puzzled historians for centuries.

How did the stones get there? Nobody is quite sure, but experts reckon that they were carried for over 160 miles, so they must be pretty special. 

We highly recommend booking a guided tour of the site, so you get to hear about all the interesting theories surrounding the mystical Stonehenge – and you can ask any burning questions (trust me, you’ll have a few).

Bear in mind that post-lockdown you need to book your entry time slot for Stonehenge well in advance, and remember to bring your booking confirmation with you.

Train departs from: Waterloo

Average journey time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: A morning tour of Stonehenge with London transfers

Harry Potter Studios

From the mystical to the pure magical – if you haven’t visited the Harry Potter Studios yet, what are you waiting for? 

This is one of the best family days out near London and whether you’re a Potterhead or not, it’s so fun to go behind the scenes of arguably the most popular franchise to ever exist.

If the idea of heading to a city and wandering aimlessly doesn’t appeal to you, book yourself a ticket to the studios and experience Hogwarts for yourself.

If you want the full lowdown on the studio tour, including how to get there, tickets, and what to expect when you arrive, check out this article.

Train departs from: London Euston

Average journey time: 30 minutes

Hassle-free option: Entry tickets and London transfers all rolled into one

This old spa town is one of the prettiest in Gloucestershire and can be reached in around 2 hours from London. Cheltenham boasts Regency buildings in abundance, including the Pittville pump room which was incredibly important in Cheltenham’s spa town history. 

Famed for hosting both the Cheltenham Horse Racing Festival and the Jazz Festival, this historic town is incredibly lively during the summer months. 

Don’t get us wrong, it’s equally beautiful in winter – but there’s just something so magical about hanging out in Montpellier Gardens in the sunshine.

Make sure to visit The Wilson Museum for fine art and catch a movie at the Everyman Theatre – the ornate Victorian ceiling is divine.

Average journey time: 2 hours

Hassle-free option: Take a self-guided tour

Explore two capitals in one day by taking a day trip to Cardiff. It’s surprisingly easy thanks to the high speed train from London Paddington, and Cardiff Castle is beautiful and well worth the journey alone.

Other things to do in Cardiff include taking a trip to the famous Wales Millenium Centre – an arts centre which hosts plenty of live performances and workshops – and exploring the harbour nearby, as well as trying a famous Welsh Cake. Fabulous Welshcakes (opposite the castle) is our top pick for the best.

Hassle-free option: Take a day trip tour from London

Guildford is a picturesque medieval town with a castle at its heart. It’s a surprisingly quick day trip here from London and one we implore you to make – after all, it’s one of our favourite places to visit outside London.

Nestled in the Surrey countryside, it may be small but this town certainly packs a punch when it comes to things to do. Not to mention it’s filled with plenty of brilliant pubs for a well-deserved pint.

What to do? Our top picks include Guildford House, a 17th-century townhouse gallery with rotating exhibitions, hikes along dapdune walk, and a visit to the hilltop cathedral that boasts views of the town.

Hassle-free option: Take a walking tour

Day Trips from London by Car

Easy as it is to hop out of London on a train, some places are more suited to day trips from London by car.

The Cotswolds

It’s a rare event indeed when the words picture-perfect and Cotswolds aren’t mentioned in the same breath.

The Cotswolds is the kind of England you find on the postcards – twee villages with thatched cottages in golden hues, rolling green hills, steaming piles of scones piled high with jam and clotted cream for your afternoon tea.

If it all sounds perfectly lovely, it is.

There’s a reason that the Cotswolds find themselves on many a travel itinerary. Bibury and Burford are two of the prettiest villages- be sure to visit them during your trip.

If you want to see as many villages as possible, I’d recommend starting in Burford and finishing in Winchcombe, meandering through Northleach, Lower and Upper Slaughter, Moreton-in-Marsh and Chipping Camden along the way.

It’s an easy drive, but it means you don’t get much time any one spot.

Alternatively, you can narrow it down to a couple of villages and add in a long walk and some afternoon tea for a much more relaxed trip.

Average driving time from central London: 2 hours

Hassle-free option: Book this full-day Cotswolds four-village tour

Read Next: Pretty Spots You Have to Visit in the Cotswolds

Stratford Upon Avon

Stratford Upon Avon – the birthplace of Britain’s famous bard, Shakespeare and a twee little Tudor town set around the River Avon.

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s Theatre dominates the town – rightly so. There’s always something fantastic to see on one of its several stages.

Away from the theatre, Stratford Upon Avon’s Tudor architecture offers a glimpse into days of yore. You can visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, as well as the home that he retired to after the bright lights of London proved too much.

His final resting place, Holy Trinity Church is said to be the most visited parish church in the country.

But Stratford isn’t just Shakespeare – hop onto a boat and row along the Avon, go on a river walk out of town, hole up in an old pub for a pint or two and appreciate the sleepy appeal of this quaint little town.

Seven Sisters Country Park

There are few landscapes as striking as the sight of the chalk faces of the Seven Sisters rising up from the coast.

These gorgeous cliffs form the focal point of the larger Seven Sisters Country Park, part of the South Downs National Park.

Strap on your hiking boots and set off on a walk along the Sisters for a refreshing day out from London. Park at the Visitor Centre (where you can also pop in to learn about the history of the country park) and take the path to Seaford Head View Point for the classic view of the cliffs.

Alternatively, why not tackle the part of the South Downs Way that runs through the country park and over the sisters themselves.

Hassle-free option: Seven Sisters and South Downs day trip

The New Forest

The New Forest might be less than 100 miles outside of London but it feels like a world away. It’s the largest stretch of unenclosed pasture land and forest in the country and is famous for the wild ponies that roam across its lands.

In terms of attractions, The New Forest has surprisingly varied arsenal of things to see. Beaulieu, a vintage car museum, stately home and medieval monastery rolled into one is one such destination and worth seeing if you’re not a complete petrolhead.

Still, a lot of the appeal is in getting outdoors and onto the many walking trails that crisscross the region. Be sure to wear some comfortable shoes.

Hassle-free option: Train to Lymington or Brockenhurst and hop onto the New Forest tour bus

Leeds Castle

London has plenty of castles nearby that make for great day trips, and, despite its name, Leeds Castle is actually in Kent.

This castle is no stranger to royalty with 6 medieval queens previously residing here, and Queen Elizabeth I was even imprisoned at the castle before her coronation. If you fancy stretching the day trip into an overnight experience and live the life of a royal yourself (who wouldn’t?) you can even book a place to sleep in the Maiden’s Tower.

Humbly labelling itself as the “loveliest castle in the world”, you’ve got over 900 years of history to uncover at Leeds Castle – if you can make it past the moat!

Tickets cost £28 for adults and £19.50 for kids, but you get a better deal if there’s a group of you, which is definitely worth looking into.

Average driving time from central London: 1 hour 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: Tour Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover with transfers from London

Highclere Castle

Yes, this is the Downton Abbey Castle. I can’t guarantee that you’ll run into any of the Crawley family while you’re there, but I can promise you a brilliant day trip from London at Highclere Castle .

Take a walk around the grounds and make sure to snap some all-important insta pics of the Jacobethan facade, before you enter the castle and soak in all the history.

Admission tickets cost £24 for adults and £14 for children but check out the website as they host plenty of special events throughout the year, including Downton Abbey Tours and quaint Afternoon Teas.

Average driving time from central London: 1 hour 30 minutes Hassle-free option: Combine Highclere Castle with Oxford

Cirencester

Looking for the best day trip from London? Technically Cirencester is in the Cotswolds, but we think it’s so nice that it’s worth us raving about it separately. It has, like many other English cities, a distinctive Roman history that you can explore in the Corinium Museum.

Cirencester is also great when it comes to shopping – it boasts plenty of independent boutiques and dreamy bookshops that you could spend an entire day exploring alone. 

Cirencester Park is the perfect place to spend an hour or two if the sun decides to make a much-welcomed appearance. You might just catch a game of Polo here, too.

Average driving time from central London: 2 hours 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: There isn’t one – though this is an easy DIY

So, there we are – 28 day trips outside London. We hope that you have found more than a few things to inspire your next jaunt out of the city.

PS: Looking for a longer trip? You’ll want to scope out our guide to Weekend Getaways from London .

Practical Tips for Planning Day Trips Out of London

• It’s always worth checking your train times but you should be sure to do so if you are planning to do your day trip on a Sunday. Sunday train service is notoriously bad – with rail replacement buses, less frequent services or indirect connections often popping up to mess up your travel plans.
• If you are travelling by train, try and book your tickets as far ahead as possible for the best prices. You should also consider whether it’s worth purchasing one of the many railcards available if there are a few of you travelling or you plan to do several excursions within a short period of time.

Best London Day Trips: Map

Discover More Day Trips From London Guides

• 2 8 Fabulous Beaches Near London
• National Parks Near London for a Weekend Break
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24 Hours in Oxford – insidersoxford.com

Wednesday 5th of May 2021

[…] looking for a short break or escape in the United Kingdom within easy reach of London, Oxford is a perfect day trip. Even if you aren’t, you should go […]

Wednesday 27th of May 2020

Juliana - thank you for all of your posts. We have one weekend left in London coming up before returning to the US. We've been here 3 months and enjoyed exploring London by foot and the city cycles.

I'd love a recommendation on a day trip knowing we have to take the train and that we are still in lock down (somewhat).

In the last weeks we visited Cambridge, Hastings, Greenwich and Seven Sisters. Prior to lock down we have visited the Cotswalds and the Lake District and Oxford.

I look forward to your reply! Beth

Julianna Barnaby

Thursday 28th of May 2020

A total pleasure Beth - sounds like you've been exploring a lot! If you haven't been to Bath, I'd normally recommend a trip there - it's very pretty but obviously destinations like the Roman Baths and the Pump Rooms will be closed. I would say the city is pretty enough to more than justify a trip to spend some time walking around. That said, I think the official guidance is only to use transport for necessary journeys, so I'd check that before you book anything.

Sunday 3rd of February 2019

What a great assortment of day trips! I've bookmarked this post for when I'm visiting London later this year - so handy. Thanks very much!

Tuesday 5th of February 2019

Thanks Lesley - I hope you get to head on at least a couple of the day trips while you're in London. Have an awesome trip!

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Cotswold District & London in 5 Days: A Cultured Journey

April 18, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 5-day adventure through the historic and cultural heart of London before unwinding in the picturesque Cotswold District. Begin your journey at The British Museum, a treasure trove of world artifacts, and then soak in the artistic masterpieces at The National Gallery. Day 2 is a blend of the old and the new with visits to St. Paul's Cathedral, the modern marvel of The Shard, the iconic Tower Bridge, and the historic Tower of London. The third day takes you on a scenic Thames River Sightseeing boat trip, followed by the grandeur of Big Ben, the spiritual serenity of Westminster Abbey, and the royal Buckingham Palace. Day 4 offers a tranquil retreat to Hyde Park and a fascinating exploration of the Natural History Museum. Conclude your trip with a serene day in the Cotswold District, wandering through the quaint streets of Bibury and the beautiful villages that define the area's charm. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of London's vibrant city life and the tranquil beauty of the English countryside.

• Day 1: Cultural Treasures and Artistic Wonders of London

The British Museum

Begin your London adventure with a visit to the iconic British Museum, a treasure trove of human history and culture. Nestled in the heart of the city on Great Russell Street, this museum offers a full day's exploration of its vast collection. From the Rosetta Stone to the Elgin Marbles, immerse yourself in the ancient artifacts and timeless art that span over two million years of history. The British Museum is not just a window into the past; it's a journey across civilizations, all under one magnificent roof.

Attraction Info

• Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
• Open from 01/01-12/23,Mon-Thu, Sat-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 01/01-12/23,Fri,10:00am-8:30pm;Closed from 12/24-12/26;Open 10:00am-8:30pm on 12/27,Fri;Open from 12/28-12/31,10:00am-5:00pm;Closed during Christmas Eve,Christmas

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

The National Gallery

After delving into the historical depths of the British Museum, take a leisurely stroll to The National Gallery, located at the pulsing center of Trafalgar Square. Spend a couple of hours surrounded by the masterpieces of European painting. This art gallery is a visual feast, showcasing works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. With every brushstroke and color palette, The National Gallery tells a story, making it a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

• Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open from 01/01-12/31,Mon-Thu, Sat-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 01/01-12/31,Fri,10:00am-9:00pm，Closed 24–26 December and 1 January。

Where to Stay Tonight

Cityspace leicester square, page8, page hotels.

• Day 2: Historic Splendors and Modern Marvels in London

St. Paul's Cathedral

Kicking off the second day of our Cotswold District adventure, we begin with a visit to the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral. Nestled in the heart of London, this architectural masterpiece is not just a church but a symbol of resilience and beauty. With its awe-inspiring dome, one of the world's largest, and its intricate interiors, visitors can expect to spend an enlightening hour exploring the rich history and spiritual significance that has been woven into the fabric of the city for centuries.

• St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open on Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat,8:30am-4:30pm;Open on Wed,10:00am-4:30pm;Closed on Sun，Opening and closing times are subject to change, so it is recommended to visit the official website to check the dates you will be attending.

Next on our London journey is The Shard, a testament to cutting-edge design and soaring ambition. Standing tall as a shard of glass, this modern architectural wonder offers breathtaking views of the cityscape. During our hour-long stay, we'll immerse ourselves in the panoramic vistas from the observation deck and marvel at the ingenuity that makes The Shard a shining beacon of contemporary London.

• 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 01/01-03/28,Mon-Thu, Sun,11:00am-7:00pm;Open from 01/01-05/25,Fri-Sat,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 12:00pm-8:00pm on 03/31;Open from 04/01-04/15,Mon-Thu, Sun,1:00pm-9:00pm;Open 9:00am-4:30pm on 04/16;Open from 04/17-04/23,Mon-Thu, Sun,1:00pm-9:00pm;Open 9:00am-5:00pm on 04/24;Open from 04/25-05/26,Mon-Thu, Sun,1:00pm-9:00pm;Open from 05/27-05/29,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 1:00pm-9:00pm on 05/30;Open from 05/31-07/10,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 9:00am-4:30pm on 07/11;Open from 07/12-08/31,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 12:00pm-8:00pm on 09/01;Open 9:00am-2:00pm on 09/02;Open from 09/03-09/30,Mon-Thu, Sun,12:00pm-8:00pm;Open from 09/06-12/14,Fri-Sat,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 10/01-11/11,Mon-Thu, Sun,11:00am-7:00pm;Open 9:00am-4:30pm on 11/12;Open from 11/13-12/19,Mon-Thu, Sun,11:00am-7:00pm;Open from 12/20-12/23,11:00am-7:00pm;Closed from 12/24-12/26;Open from 12/27-12/28,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 12/29-12/31,11:00am-7:00pm

Tower Bridge

Continuing our exploration, we'll traverse the historic and picturesque Tower Bridge. More than just a means to cross the River Thames, this bridge is an engineering marvel and a beloved London landmark. In the hour we spend here, we can witness the bridge's majestic towers, the Victorian engine rooms, and perhaps even catch the magic of its lifting bascules, a sight that has been stopping traffic for over a century.

• Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, United Kingdom
• Open from 9:30am-6:00pm，The scenic area is closed during Christmas from December 24 to 26 each year.

Tower of London

Our final stop of the day will be the formidable Tower of London. As a castle that has stood the test of time, it offers a three-hour journey through the annals of history. From serving as a royal palace to a prison, the Tower holds countless stories within its walls. Visitors can gaze upon the Crown Jewels, meet the Yeoman Warders, and feel the echoes of the past in this UNESCO World Heritage site that continues to captivate the imaginations of all who walk its grounds.

• St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB
• Suggested tour duration: 3-5 hour
• Open from 01/06-02/09,Mon, Sun,10:00am-4:30pm;Open from 01/06-02/09,Tue-Sat,9:00am-4:30pm;Open from 02/10-02/18,9:00am-4:30pm;Open from 02/19-02/29,Mon, Sun,10:00am-4:30pm;Open from 02/19-02/29,Tue-Sat,9:00am-4:30pm;Open from 03/01-03/28,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 03/01-03/28,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 03/29-04/14,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 04/15-05/05,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 04/15-05/05,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Open 9:00am-5:30pm on 05/06;Open from 05/07-05/24,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 05/07-05/24,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 05/25-06/02,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 06/03-07/19,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 06/03-07/19,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 07/20-09/01,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 09/02-09/30,Mon, Sun,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 09/02-09/30,Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm

The Tower Hotel

Citizenm tower of london.

• Day 3: Majestic River to Royal Residences

Thames River Sightseeing

Embark on a serene Thames River Sightseeing voyage as you kick off the third day of your Cotswold District adventure. Glide along the historic waters for an enchanting 1.5-hour boat trip, departing from Westminster Pier. As you sail, capture the essence of London's riverside landmarks, feeling the pulse of the city from a unique vantage point on the Thames.

• Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London SW1A 2JH, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1.5-3 hour
• Open from 10:00am-6:00pm

Next, step ashore and find yourself in the shadow of the iconic Big Ben, the emblematic historic clock tower that stands at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. Spend an hour marveling at this quintessential symbol of London, appreciating its intricate Gothic architecture and the resonating chimes that have echoed through the streets of London for over 150 years.

• London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1-1.5 hour
• Open on Mon;Open on Tue-Sun,8:00am-8:00pm，Outside viewing is admitted for whole day.

Westminster Abbey

A short stroll away is the venerable Westminster Abbey, your third stop. Dedicate an hour to explore this majestic church, a site of coronations and royal weddings. Its stunning Gothic structure and storied past, spanning over a thousand years, offer a profound glimpse into the spiritual heart of the United Kingdom.

• Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom
• Open from 01/01-04/24,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm;Open from 01/01-04/24,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Closed from 01/01-04/24,Sun;Closed all day on 04/25;Open 1:00pm-3:30pm on 05/08;Open 9:30am-12:00pm on 05/15;Open 9:30am-1:00pm on 06/18;Closed from 04/26-05/07,Sun;Open from 04/26-05/07,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm;Open from 04/26-05/07,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Closed from 05/09-05/14,Sun;Open from 05/09-05/14,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Open from 05/09-05/14,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm;Closed from 05/16-06/17,Sun;Open from 05/16-06/17,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Open from 05/16-06/17,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm;Closed from 06/19-12/31,Sun;Open from 06/19-12/31,Sat,9:00am-3:00pm;Open from 06/19-12/31,Mon-Fri,9:30am-3:30pm，As Westminster Abbey is a working church, it may sometimes be necessary to close certain areas to the public and reduce opening hours.

Buckingham Palace

Conclude your day with a visit to the grand Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the monarchy. Within an hour, immerse yourself in the splendor of royal traditions and the palace's stately rooms. Witness the Changing of the Guard or stroll through the surrounding gardens, embracing the regal atmosphere that envelops this historic palace.

• London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
• Open from 07/11-08/31,9:30am-7:30pm;Open from 09/01-09/29,9:30am-6:30pm;Closed from 09/30-07/10，Opening hours may be subject to change, please refer to the official website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace#book_tickets

Altido Elegant 2-Bed Mews Flat Near Buckingham Palace

The resident victoria.

• Day 4: Serene Greens and Historical Scenes in London

Begin your fourth day with a refreshing stroll through the verdant expanses of Hyde Park, London's famous city park. As the morning sun filters through the canopy of ancient trees, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the harmonious blend of nature and urbanity. This sprawling green haven is perfect for a leisurely hour-long walk, where you can admire the Serpentine Lake, the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, and perhaps even catch a spirited debate at the renowned Speaker's Corner.

• London, United Kingdom
• Open from 5:00am-11:59pm，A number of pedestrian paths around the Parade Ground are temporarily closed while Winter Wonderland is taken down, and the grass is re-turfed for the new year. Please see local signs for closure dates and times.

Natural History Museum

After recharging in the peaceful embrace of Hyde Park, step into a world of wonders at the Natural History Museum. Just a short journey from the park, this iconic institution invites you to spend the day exploring the mysteries of the natural world. From the colossal blue whale skeleton suspended in the Hintze Hall to the fascinating dinosaur exhibits, the museum offers an unparalleled journey through Earth's history. With its grand architecture and an extensive collection that captivates both young and old, the Natural History Museum is a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be discovered.

• Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom
• Open from 10:00am-5:50pm

Modern Apartments Near Harrods and the Science Museum

Gainsborough hotel.

• Day 5: Quintessential Cotswolds - Bibury and Beyond

Begin your final day with a visit to the picturesque town of Bibury, often described as the most beautiful village in England. Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bibury is the perfect starting point for a day immersed in quintessential English charm. Stroll along the iconic Arlington Row, a set of cottages that date back to the 14th century, and let the serene ambiance of the River Coln soothe your spirit. With a full day to explore, you'll have ample time to appreciate the town's honey-colored stone houses and tranquil countryside.

• Cirencester, UK
• Open 24 hours

Cotswold District

Continue your journey through the Cotswold District, where each village seems more enchanting than the last. Spend your day meandering through the rolling hills and lush meadows that define this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Discover hidden gems among the thatched-roof cottages and historic market towns. As you soak in the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds, reflect on the memories made over the past five days, knowing that the serene landscapes and warm hospitality of this region will call you back again.

• United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 days

The Swan Hotel

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 20 Lovely Day Trips from London

One of the most common questions I get asked is “what are the best day trips from London?”. I’ve written about the subject before , but today I want to bring you new locations and A Lady in London’s guide to choosing the right day out for your travel style and personal taste.

Day Trips from London

Below are day trips from London that cover a range of geographies and cater to a variety of interests. I’ve visited all of the destinations, and can personally vouch for how good they are.

There’s more about day trips in the beautiful book Escape London: Days Out within Easy Reach of London , too. You can get it here .

Unique Day Trips from London

I’ve also included day trips that are perfect for specific seasons and trips that are best for traveling via bus, car, or train. If you’re interested in those, make sure to read to the end of this post.

1. Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle was one of my first day trips from London when I moved to the UK. It was just as magical as I remembered it from a childhood visit, and I loved everything from the decadent interiors to the fascinating history.

There are great tours you can take of the castle, and you can see everything from the State Apartments to St George’s Chapel. If you’re lucky, you can catch the Changing the Guard ceremony at Windsor Castle, too.

It’s worth staying to see some of the town as well. Windsor has great shops and pretty streets to explore, not to mention a huge park to walk in.

Nearby Eton is home to one of England’s most famous schools, and it’s easy to walk there from Windsor. The architecture in Eton is stunning, and there are great restaurants if you want to stop for lunch.

Windsor Castle is close to London, so it makes for a good day trip if you love all things royal or are pressed for time.

2. Winchester

I’ve taken several day trips to Winchester over the years, and every time I go I fall more in love with the city’s pretty streets, secret gardens, and bucolic riverside walks.

From King Arthur’s Round Table to the burial place of Jane Austen, Winchester has a lot going for it. Winchester Cathedral is one of the most famous places in the city, and there are also historic ruins and cute cafes to explore.

The Hospital of St Cross, a medieval almshouse with stunning walled gardens, is also beautiful. It’s a short walk from the city center and is well worth a visit. It’s been a filming location for series like Wolf Hall , so you may recognize it.

Winchester is the perfect day trip for history lovers and cathedral fans.

3. Stamford and Burghley House

Friends introduced me to Stamford and Burghley House in Lincolnshire.

I loved the beautiful streets in Stamford and enjoyed walking around to take in the heritage buildings. It’s easy to explore on foot and has pretty scenery along the River Welland, too.

And that’s to say nothing of the rooms and grounds at Burghley House. This 16th-century English country house is a prime example of Elizabethan architecture.

With lavish interiors and expansive gardens, this country mansion is one of the most impressive stately homes in England .

The combination of Stamford and Burghley House is a great day trip if you like historic houses and English towns with rich heritage.

4. Hever Castle Day Trips from London

I visited Hever Castle , Anne Boleyn’s childhood home, on a day trip to Kent with friends. The castle and moat were stuff of fairy tales, and it was amazing to see the rooms where Anne spent her childhood.

Hever Castle is unique in that it’s surrounded by a double moat. Dating back to the 13th century, it has layers of history to explore both inside and out.

I adored how the gardens were huge and bursting with color. There was everything from seasonal blooms to fountains and footbridges to discover. The topiary hedges were fun, too.

This is the ideal day trip if you’re a castle fan or garden lover.

5. Petworth

Down in West Sussex, I once went to Petworth with friends for a day out. From cobbled streets to cozy pubs, the town itself is a gem. I loved the shops, half-timbered facades, and colorful doors.

The incredible art and gardens at Petworth House thoroughly impressed me, too. The stately home had a great collection of paintings by everyone from Thomas Gainsborough to Anthony van Dyck.

Its grounds were designed by renowned landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, too.

Petworth is one of the perfect day trips from London for art lovers and country house enthusiasts. Given Petworth House is right in town, the combination of exploring the streets and seeing the stately home is a great one.

York might seem a long way from London, but I discovered how easy it was to take a day trip from London by train a number of years ago. Since then I’ve done it again.

On my first day trip to York I was won over by everything from York Minster cathedral to the tiny Snickelway lanes lined with half-timbered facades.

The restaurants and cafes were excellent, too. York has some of the prettiest historic buildings in the UK, and I couldn’t stop taking pictures while I was there.

On my second visit I traveled to York on what I consider one of the best day trips from London at Christmas.

Each year, the annual Christmas markets take over the streets and squares and turn the city into a winter wonderland. It was amazing to see them all and take in the seasonal spirit in York.

York is your ideal destination if you love historic streets and magical atmosphere.

7. Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Back in Kent, I discovered the beauty of writer Vita Sackville-West’s Sissinghurst Castle Garden my first year in London.

The flower beds and bluebell woods were spectacular, and the backdrop of the castle and oasts rounded out the idyllic scene.

It was fun to get to the castle by train and walk back to the station afterwards. My friends and I stopped at a local pub for a pint on the way, turning the trip into a country walk at the end.

Sissinghurst is one of the perfect day trips from London for garden lovers and literary types.

8. Margate Day Trips from London

I took a day trip to Margate —aka “ Shoreditch -on-Sea”—and enjoyed soaking up this hipster paradise on the Kentish coast.

With an amusement park, vintage shops, a contemporary art gallery, and charming streets, this town has a lot of variety.

Margate is also home to the Turner Contemporary, a renowned art gallery and museum with an impressive permanent collection and great temporary exhibitions.

Margate is one of the top day trips from London for hipsters and seaside lovers alike.

9. Birmingham

I discovered Birmingham a few years ago when I took a day trip from London to visit the city’s famous Christmas markets .

I’ve been back since and found a place full of creative spaces, beautiful architecture, and amazing museums.

There are historic shopping arcades to wander through, pedestrianized streets to walk down, vibrant markets to explore, and lots of beautiful roads to stroll along.

I love the contemporary design of the library, which has great views over the city center. And that’s to say nothing of the important Pre-Raphaelite art collection in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

This is one of the best day trips from London if you love art and exploring cities.

10. Rochester

I fell in love with Rochester as soon as I saw its famous castle from the train. It took a few more years to visit, but when I did I found a gorgeous town full of pretty streets and classic English atmosphere.

The castle and cathedral are highlights of a day trip to Rochester, but there are a lot of great bookshops, cafes, and parks to explore as well.

Rochester is also famous for its Charles Dickens connections. He lived here and many of the buildings on the high street are named after characters from his books and life.

In fact, more places in Rochester feature in his writing than any other part of Britain besides London.

Rochester is for you if you love a Norman castle and places with literary connections.

11. Leicester

Leicester surprised me. Perhaps the most underrated city in Britain , I arrived with low expectations and left overwhelmed by the city’s rich history, great cafes, and stunning architecture.

From Richard III’s burial site to impressive Victorian buildings and a Roman Wall, Leicester has layers of history to discover. It’s also home to the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery, which has a great Arts and Crafts Movement collection.

This is one of the best day trips from London if Shakespeare, history, and unexpected treasures get your heart pumping.

12. Leeds Castle Day Trips from London

I’ve visited Leeds Castle twice, and both times I fell for its historic charm, striking moat, and vast grounds.

Over 900 years old, this fortress has colorful interiors, an extensive hedge maze, and activities like falconry to entertain guests of all ages throughout the year.

Speaking of which, on my first visit I went for a Leeds Castle falconry experience. It was fun to fly the birds of prey around the gardens.

On my second day trip to Leeds Castle I enjoyed touring the castle’s rooms, which are beautiful to see. The Lady Baillie Bedroom and Dressing Room were particularly appealing with their sumptuous decor.

There’s even a unique Dog Collar Museum with a collection of historic canine collars. It’s the largest on public display in the world.

Leeds Castle is one of the best day trips from London if you love a legendary fortress with a storied past.

13. Cheltenham

Out in the Cotswolds , I adored the pretty spa town of Cheltenham as soon as I saw it. Since then I’ve been back several times to explore its colonnaded streets, eat at its acclaimed restaurants, and visit its impressive art gallery.

I love the Arts and Crafts Movement collection at the The Wilson. It’s one of the most important and impressive collections in the country, and it’s great to see all the furniture and design work.

I’ve also been to Cheltenham for the horse racing. There’s a famous racetrack just outside the town center, and it’s an exciting place to spend a day with friends.

Cheltenham is one of the top day trips from London if you love Regency buildings, the Arts and Crafts Movement, or the thrill of the races.

14. Newcastle

Newcastle is another city I thought was too far to visit in a day. But again the train proved me wrong. My first visit to the city was a day packed with Victorian streets, stunning bridges, and great art museums.

I loved walking across the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, seeing the exhibitions in the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, and looking across the River Tyne to the silver curves of the Sage Gateshead.

Since then I’ve been back to see more of Newcastle. I’ve discovered historic pubs, amazing views, and some of the most entertaining nightlife in the UK.

If urban exploration is your idea of a good time, Newcastle is one of the best day trips from London.

15. Dover Day Trips from London

The iconic white cliffs first drew me to Dover , and I stayed for the castle and its secret World War II tunnels.

Dover Castle is one of the most impressive historic fortresses in England, and it’s worth visiting for its rich history and clifftop views. There’s even a lighthouse that dates back to Roman times.

On subsequent day trips to Dover I explored the waterfront and enjoyed views across the English Channel. I even did a country walk from Folkestone to Dover once. It was great to take in the seaside landscapes and see more of the area.

I’ve also done a Canterbury and Dover day trip that combined two of the most famous places in Kent into one day out.

However you do it, Dover is one of the best day trips from London if you like military history and intrigue.

Leeds was another city that caught me unaware and thoroughly delighted me.

I arrived not knowing what to expect, but I quickly became enamored with its Victorian shopping arcades, the interior of its Corn Exchange, and its cool cafes.

I’ve been back a number of times since then, and I always love the bustling shopping streets and heritage buildings. The County Arcade might just have the prettiest interior I’ve ever seen, and I love that there’s a Harvey Nichols in Leeds.

Leeds is the ideal day trip from London if you love a bit of retail therapy.

17. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace wowed me from the moment I arrived. The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and an impressive building in its own right, I found the palace and gardens stunning.

The main residence of the Dukes of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace is the the only non-royal, non-episcopal stately home in England to be called a palace.

Easily twinned with a trip to nearby Oxford , the palace is a great place to spend a day exploring.

This is one of the ideal day trips from London if you love stately homes and want to see one of Britain’s finest.

Underrated Ely is another of the best day trips from London. Ely is a famous cathedral city in the UK . Ely Cathedral traces its origins to 672, and its historic interiors are stunning.

Away from the church, there are a lot of great things to do in Ely . The city has a pretty riverfront area and rich history. It’s brimming with historic streets, great shops, and bustling markets. It even has a house that was once lived in by Oliver Cromwell.

19. Amersham

Just outside London, Amersham is one of the easiest day trips from London. Located in Buckinghamshire, the town is so close to the UK capital you can reach it on the tube.

Amersham is particularly famous for the historic houses and buildings on the high street in Old Amersham. It’s also known for country walks, as it’s located in the Chiltern Hills. An Amersham day trip is a great way to see the highlights.

20. Bletchley Park

Just north of the city, Bletchley Park is another easy day trip from London. This World War II codebreaking center in Buckinghamshire is so close to the UK capital you can reach it on a 35-minute train ride from Euston station.

Bletchley Park is famous for being the top-secret workplace of codebreakers like Alan Turing, and it’s considered the birthplace of modern computing.

A day trip to Bletchley Park is a fun way to learn about the important work that was done here during the war.

Seasonal London Day Trips

In addition to the ones above, I’ve also written about London day trips in various seasons.

My summer day trips post will help you find the top days out from London in the warmer months.

Since the days are longer, you can go farther and see more of the places that come alive when the legendary English gardens are at their finest. Summer is great for beach day trips from London , too.

My day trips from London in winter post will show you the best places to go when the days are short and the weather lends itself to being indoors.

My spring day trips post reveals the best places to go near London when the weather starts warming up and the seasonal flowers start to bloom.

My autumn day trips from London post will help you find the top destinations near the UK capital for beautiful foliage and seasonal colors.

Day Trips from London by Bus, Train, and Car

If you’re looking to take one of the best day trips from London using a specific mode of transport, I’ve written all about those, too.

My day trips from London by train blog post has information on the easiest places to travel near London by rail. It’s amazing how many locations you can get to by train in the UK.

My day trips from London by car post will help you find the top days out if you want to drive. There are a lot of great underrated day trips from London that you can get to if you have your own car.

I’ve also written about specific day trips from London by bus. My favorite is one to Oxford and the Cotswolds , but there are a lot more to discover, too.

I’ve even written about cheap day trips from London . They’re great options if you’re on a budget but want to see more of England beyond the capital.

I hope this guide has helps you choose the perfect place for your travel style. Happy travels!

Have you taken any exciting day trips from London? What were they?

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21 Comments on Lady’s 20 Lovely Day Trips from London

Great selection of places, Julie. It’s hard to pick a favourite there, since they’re all really good. But if I had to, I’d choose Blenheim Palace, Leeds Castle and York. See, it’s so hard that I had to pick three. 🙂

Good choices! I always have a hard time choosing, too.

This is a great reference for future trips. And I would think you can use this list and add it to the previous articles you’ve posted regarding day trips from London that include some of the more famous day trips like Bath, Cambridge, Oxford, Rye, and Brighton? You mentioned this article was more for trips that aren’t as obvious as the more traditional ones, which makes sense. I would think the average person wouldn’t be aware they could do a day trip to Durham or Newcastle from London! Thanks again!

Yeah, it’s definitely a good supplement to my other posts about day trips. I love how many places there are within reach of London!

Hi, just want to say Thank you for this amazing blog about London. It is really a big help for people who wants to explore this amazing city. London is on the top of my travel list and I know it is a hard job to plan A itinerary that includes all of its features. I like your blog style and the image quality, I wonder if you are a photographer :). I did some research on London for my future travel and found some people are talking about HMS Belfast and the Shard, I didn’t find much information about these two places, do you think they are good to be included in a three days trip in London? Thanks again for your work and hope you can keep it up!

Thanks! They’re both great, so if you’re interested in visiting you definitely should.

Nice list! I would not go to Durham or Leicester with thr kiddies for the day, but very much love the closer gems like Windsor castle & Bleinheim palace.

That’s great!

Love these, will check them out! Thanks for the list! Maybe you could add Highclere Castle to the list:)

Yeah, that’s a great one! Thanks for sharing.

Love this list! I have to say though that I didn’t know you can actually go to York as a day trip, I’ve been trying to arrange a weekend there but the hotel prices are too expensive. I might as well just do a day tour instead. 🙂

Yeah, it definitely works as a day trip if you leave early. It’s good to go when the days are long so you can maximize your daylight hours there.

Champions of England for 2015-2016 and gorgeous old city centre – Leicester really does surprise 🙂

Hi Julie! From your list, I would choose Leeds Castle first! 🙂 I hope you are having a great week! 🙂

Thanks, Mike! That’s a great choice.

Wow, that sounds like a great day trip. Thanks for sharing!

I was so happy you included the wonderful town of Leicester! I lived there for over a year while attending the University and discovered so many amazing historical sights and gorgeous green pastures with sheep! So many cultural events and great shopping as well. I loved the restaurants and tea rooms and the friendly people. I went to London frequently by train and bus. Terrific. I’m a California girl too!

That’s great you got so spend so much time there! It’s such a great city.

Brill post with some great ideas, as usual! I love the look of all the castles, few of which I have been too. Love how you can get to these places quite easily from London.

Thanks, Rachel! I love that, too. It’s amazing how many places are within a day’s reach of London.

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