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14 Cities Close to London To Visit By Train [2024]

Are you planning a short trip to England and want to explore  cities close to London ? Look no further!

This Londoner has you covered whether you’re an experienced traveller or new to exploring the UK, there is plenty of great days trips from London within easy reach.

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best dat trip from tour is this  Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour with a near-perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating.

From quaint cobbled streets and lively markets, these destinations offer unique experiences that take in all the culture, beauty, and history of these historic English towns, villages and cities close to London by train.

14 Cities Close to London – Outside UK

Here’s a look at some of the  best places near London  to explore— all within 2 hours away by train or car.

1. St Albans – 25 Minutes Away By Train

Just 25 minutes away from London, St Albans is the closest city to London by train. St Albans has plenty of history for visitors to explore. It was once a major Roman settlement and its cathedral dates back 1,400 years.

Visit Verulamium Park, which lies on the site of what was once one of the largest cities in Roman Britain. Tour the beautiful 11th-century St Albans Cathedral or visit the Verulamium Museum, filled with fascinating ancient artefacts and some of the most breathtaking mosaics you’ll find outside of the Mediterranean.

For more inspiration read my guide on  things to do in St Albans one of the cities nearest to london?

2. Chelmsford – 30 Minutes Away By Train

This city is located just 30 minutes away from London by train. Chelmsford was granted city status on 1 June 2012 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

This small city is filled with exciting attractions such as Hylands House and Park—a Grade 11 Neo-classical mansion surrounded by parkland.

The Chelmsford Museum offers interactive exhibits about the history of Chelmsford and Essex and Central Park, which is home to several outdoor events throughout the year in one of the top cities around London.

3. Brighton (England) – 1 Hour By Train

Brighton is one of England’s most popular seaside resorts just an hour away from London by train.

This quaint yet modern seaside escape from London has been a beloved bathing sea resort since the 18th century and is well known for its iconic Royal Pavilion.

Built by King George IV between 1787 and 1822, visitors marvel at the exotic palace constructed of Indian-style domes and minarets accented with lavish decorations. 

Additionally, tourists flock from all around to take strolls and take in sights along Brighton Palace Pier, a 1,722ft long Victorian pier located near downtown Brighton.

If you’re feeling adventurous, float up to 450ft in the spacious glass viewing pod of Brighton i360 for 360 views of the South Downs and the surrounding.

Last but not least, be sure to visit Brighton Museum & Art Gallery with its rotating collection of contemporary art exhibits and historical artefacts. They are so many things to do in Brighton!

4. Cambridge England – 1 Hour By Train

Cambridge, England is a bustling university city and county town located in Cambridgeshire. Cambridge is one of my favourite cities in the United Kingdom to visit, with so much to explore and things to do in Cambridge . Why don’t you start your visit by seeing Trinity College or the free-to-enter Fitzwilliam Museum.

Why not climb the 123 steps of the University Church tower of the Great St Mary’s Church and get a 360-degree view of the market square and the Colleges from above.

For a unique experience, why not take a punting tour along the river Cam and take in the beautiful views of the college “Backs”.

For more inspiration read my guide on  the best photo spots in Cambridge

While punting, keep your eyes peeled for the famous Mathematical Bridge too. Built in 1749 by James Essex (the Younger) and designed by William Etheridge, this architectural wonder stretches across the river Cam connecting Queens’ College with other colleges.

Check out King College Chapel, one of Cambridge’s most iconic buildings.

And if that wasn’t enough for you, take a stroll around Cambridge University Botanical Garden or join an exciting 90-minute Cambridge tour led by a past Cambridge student for firsthand insight into the prestige University.

A Cambridge day trip from London by train is easy from St Pancras train station with a journey time of within one hour.

Cambridge Uni Tour Led By Alumni w/ Optional Kings College

Come take a walk with one of Cambridge University’s graduate students and tour some of the most popular colleges, like King’s College, Clare College, and Trinity College.

⭐ RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars (710+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | BOOK NOW

5. Winchester – 1 Hour By Train

Winchester is a charming Cathedral city in Hampshire, England. The ancient walls of the cathedral had stood since 1093 when William the Conqueror was in charge, and its Great Hall has King Arthur’s Round Table pride of place. This is a must-see city for those looking to transport themselves back in time.

Many centuries’ worth of history can be explored throughout the city, from Winchester Cathedral to the magnificent remains of Winchester Castle, which still stands strong in the form of its Great Hall.

There’s also the Hospital of St Cross founded in 1132 one of the oldest charities in Great Britain with Grade I listed buildings.

Don’t forget the Royal Armouries either – Fort Nelson hosts an unbelievable collection of artillery that you won’t want to miss out on.

And if that isn’t enough? Then you can experience victory through the Exercise Hockley Viaduct Way; this historic railway dates back to 1891.

For those seeking a guided experience, take a stroll around Winchester with a guided walking tour.

6. Canterbury – 1 hr 30 Minutes By Train

Canterbury is another excellent destination for those looking to escape from London for a day trip . Located an hour and a half away by train, this ancient city offers plenty of attractions such as Canterbury Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

The mother church of Anglicanism has sections that date back to the 11th Century, the Anglo-Gothic and Romanesque structure has been the site of major historical events.

The Canterbury Roman Museum is the perfect place to travel back in time. With its original Roman pavement mosaic, you can explore what the town would have been like 100 years ago.

Discover the history behind England’s largest medieval gateway at the Westgate Towers Museum and Viewpoint. Learn about how it was used to defend the city while enjoying spectacular views of Canterbury. Then, take a walk through the beautifully kept Westgate Gardens nearby.

However, one of the top things to do in Canterbury is to do a Canterbury river tour.

London: Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs

From London, take a day trip by mini-bus to Kent, known as the Garden of England. Visit Canterbury Cathedral, see the fantastic White Cliffs of Dover, and tour Dover Castle – the largest castle in the country!

⭐ RATING:  4.3 out of 5 Stars (186+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10.5 hours | BOOK NOW

7. Oxford 1 hr 30 Minutes By Train

Located just an hour and a half away by train, Oxford is another great destination for those looking to explore England’s past. Oxford is also one of the major cities in the United Kingdom.

If you have just a short amount of time to explore Oxford, let me offer you the perfect sightseeing itinerary. Start with the University of Oxford it’s an absolute must-see. Here are a few things you can do in Oxford:

Take a stroll along its grounds, admire its magnificent architecture, and peek into some of its famous lecture halls. From there, head straight to Christ Church College, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Oxford , UK and known worldwide for its connection with Alice in Wonderland.

Keep your eyes peeled for the Radcliffe Camera. This stunning Thematic Library is a perfect symbol of Oxford’s architectural heritage. Its eye-catching 18th-century baroque-style design is renowned for its morning sunlight and striking shadow patterns – it’s a sight you won’t forget.

Home to over 200,000 rare books from the 16th, 17th and 18 centuries, Radcliffe Camera Oxford also showcases impressive displays like the exhibit of John Selden’s legacy.

After that jaw-dropping experience, make your way to Pitt Rivers Museum, where you’ll find fascinating collections from many cultures, postcards from all around Great Britain, and incredible exhibitions on anthropology and archaeology from all over the world.

Bridge of Sighs is  one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. This beautiful footbridge will transport you back in time as you meander over its Gothic arches, connecting two quadrangles at Hertford College.

The bridge provides spectacular views of wooded gardens and meadows that are simply not seen elsewhere in Oxford, making it well worth a few moments of your time if you’re fortunate enough to make it there during sunset.

Finally, top off your visit with a scenic boat ride along the River Thames. Just don’t forget your camera—this picturesque view is one for the ages.

Oxford: University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide

Take a walking tour of Oxford University with one of its current students, who will provide extensive knowledge about the school, and take you to a filming location for Harry Potter.

⭐ RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars (1397+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | BOOK NOW

8. Bath 1 hours 30 Minutes By Train

Bath, England, has so much to offer! If you want to learn more about the history of this beautiful city, visit the Roman Baths and explore Bath’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Bath is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage cities near London.

Once you’re done there, head over to Thermae Bath Spa and soak in some of their natural hot spring water. And don’t forget to check out The Holburne Museum, where you can experience a bit of Bath’s culture. Then relive the Georgian era with a tour of No.1 Royal Crescent.

For more inspiration read my guide on things to do in Bath UK

After that why not stroll through the Fashion Museum and take in some of the beauty and style of Bath.

For those up for an adventure, climb the 154 steps to get a magnificent view from the top of Beckford’s Tower located on Lansdown Hill.

Finally, visit The Jane Austen Centre and let it transport you back in time as you explore Austen’s time spent living here in Bath, UK. Believe us when we say it doesn’t stop there – pop into Sally Lunn’s for their legendary Bath bun or enjoy some high tea at one of the local establishments for a real taste of English culture.

Bath: 1.5-Hour Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide

Let a professional tour guide, guide you through this UNESCO World Heritage City, its major landmarks of Bath and its captivating history.

⭐ RATING:  4.9 out of 5 Stars (567+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | BOOK NOW

9. Bristol 1 hr 35 Minutes By Train

Located just an hour and a half from London, this vibrant city has plenty of things to see and do, including excellent shopping in The Galleries, exploring Bristol Cathedral, or taking a stroll along the picturesque Harbourside.

For more inspiration read my guide on  things to do in Bristol UK

While you’re in town, visit the Bristol Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world, or take a day trip to the nearby Bath. You won’t miss out on this charming city with its fascinating history, elegant architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Bristol: Tootbus Bristol Discovery Hop-on Hop-off Tour

This open-top bus tour of Bristol’s major attractions gives you 14 different stops to hop off and explore the parks and attractions in a leisurely manner.

⭐ RATING:  4.4 out of 5 Stars (44+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Day | BOOK NOW

It’s one of the large cities easy to travel to London Paddington with a journey time from London to Bristol Temple Meads of one and half hours from  London Paddington.

10. Norwich 1 hr 50 Minutes By Train

If you are looking for an exciting day trip outside of London, consider visiting Norwich, UK.

You’re in for a real treat when you travel to Norwich, this beautiful cathedral city located in Norfolk, England.

It was the first UNESCO City of Literature in England to receive the title award in May 2012. There’s so much you can do while in Norwich like:

Visit the famous Norwich Castle, which has stood since 1067, and explore the Roman ruins at Venta Icenorum – the remains of a once-thriving ancient town.

See the spectacular Norman architecture of Norwich Cathedral, built nearly 900 years ago in 1096-1145, this impressive structure is an unmissable part of the city’s skyline.

Better yet, catch up on local history by heading to the Museum of Norwich at The Bridewell.

Go shopping at Castle Mall or Chapelfield Mall, admire the beauty of St John the Baptist Cathedral or take in stunning views of part of the Norfolk Broads National Park.

You’ll never forget your time in this delightful city with its wealth of fascinating history and you’ll see why is is in the to 10 UK cities closest to London.

11. Salisbury England – 2 Hours By Train

This cathedral city is located in Wiltshire in the UK, where the rivers Avon, Nadder, and Bourne meet. The sights here are sure to take your breath away.

In the heart of it, all is Salisbury Cathedral – one of England’s four original Magna Carta manuscripts has its home there dating back to 1215AD.

Further exploring can be had at nearby Cathedral Close, where attractions like Arundells, Mompesson House, The Rifles Military Museum and Salisbury Museum await in the 10 cities closest to London.

And don’t forget to check out the traditional Charter Market in the Market Place when you’re in town.

12. Chichester 2 Hours By Train

Chichester in West Sussex has a rich Roman past. In fact, there is historical evidence of Roman settlement within the city. Examples of this can be found in the remarkable Roman baths and the Georgian wall that replaced the old city walls.

The Chichester Cathedral stands tall and proud as an impressive testament to the city’s past – having been constructed in the 11th century, it replaced an additional cathedral founded in 681 at Selsey.

If you want to learn more about what Chichester City Centre has to offer, then check out The Novium Museum. You can go on a fascinating learning tour there, as it’s free to enter. Plus, here is a fun fact – it was built on the remains of a Roman bathhouse.

Then take a stroll through Bishops Palace Gardens to appreciate nature’s beauty while taking in some spectacular views. What are you waiting for

13. Manchester 2 Hours By Train

If you’re looking to explore Manchester, England, you’ll have no shortage of things to see and do. Manchester is one of the major cities near London worth visiting.

The Manchester Opera House and Palace Theatre in the city centre is a great first stop.

Visit the Manchester Cathedral not only was it built almost 800 years ago, in 1421, but this historically significant UK landmark also features beautiful remnants of old English Gothic architecture, such as its unique two-toned masonry work.

The cathedral houses the world’s largest stained glass window in a three-part design called ‘The Good Samaritan’, which is worth taking a few moments to admire.

If you’re a sports fan, then be sure to check out Old Trafford while you’re there.

RHS Garden Bridgewater is worth a visit to experience something extra special. Reviving the gardens of the historic 156-acre Worsley New Hall estate has created an idyllic landscape everyone should see at least once.

For a unique tour of Manchester, try one of the river cruises or take in all Manchester United has to offer with its museum and stadium tour.

Don’t forget there’s plenty more beyond just Manchester, like the beautiful countryside, including the Lake District and Peak District, and cosmopolitan cities such as Chester, Leeds, Liverpool and Newcastle.

Old Trafford: Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour

Visit Manchester United and get a rare look at the dressing room, tunnel, players’ dugout, and other exclusive areas.

⭐ RATING:  4.7 out of 5 Stars (1900+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | BOOK NOW

14. Liverpool 2 Hours By Train

If you’re looking for a truly iconic and quintessentially British experience, then look no further than Liverpool one of the cities closest to London.

Pay a visit to the Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and relive its industrial heritage, or wander through the Beatles Story Experience to feel the electrifying force of 1960s counterculture.

To learn about Liverpool’s literary and artistic past, explore Liverpool Cathedral and the Walker Art Gallery.

Why not check out the British Music Experience if music is more your thing? Its interactive galleries will have you rocking around the clock!

Sports lovers should head to Anfield Stadium to witness Liverpool F.C. in action or take a 360-degree tour of the Royal Liver Building, one of Liverpool’s most iconic landmarks.

History buffs can explore the Georgian Quarter, where centuries-old architecture stands proud.

Immerse yourself in independent culture in the Baltic Triangle, one of Europe’s most cutting-edge creative hubs. However you choose to experience it, Liverpool has something to offer everyone.

Cities Near London FAQs

What towns are close to London?

The towns close to London are Maidenhead, Windsor, Hampstead and Richmond-upon-Thames and are less than an hour away from London city. Maidenhead  is just a short 34-minute drive to the West of London. This picturesque town offers quaint little cafes and lovely scenic walks and is perfect for a day trip excursion or even a weekend staycation . Windsor  is another great town to explore, just a 25-minute drive out of London. Wander through its beautiful castle or discover the many shops and restaurants in the stunning high street.

Hampstead  is also just a short 15-minute drive outside of London. Hampstead is the perfect place to relax and unwind with its charming village vibe and beautiful parks and gardens.

Greenwich  is a great option too, just 20 minutes downriver by boat and packed with historic sites such as the Cutty Sark , The National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory.

Richmond-upon-Thames  is a 40-minute drive from London and offers great hiking trails and beautiful green spaces.

For those who fancy something further away, Folkestone in Kent is well worth checking out; it is famed for its beachfront promenade along the coast, where you can enjoy some of the best views of The White Cliffs of Dover . 

I have tried to select towns 30 minutes from London or within an hour from London.

What cities are 1 hour away from London?

These are the top cities within just one hour’s drive of London like St Albans, Chelmsford, Winchester, Brighton and Cambridge these are amongst the 10 closest cities to London.

What are the 2 cities in London?

London isn’t just one city; it’s actually two: the City of London and the City of Westminster . The City of London is a smaller area consisting primarily of the financial district, while the City of Westminster is made up of a variety of neighbourhoods and boroughs on both sides of the River Thames and takes in prominent landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses Of Parliament and Trafalgar Square.

 UK Cities Closest to London Conclusion| City Near London

These cities near London are some of the best places to visit if you’re looking for an escape from London but don’t want to travel too far, then these cities are perfect for you.

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45 Spectacular Cities Close to London for an Easy Escape 

London can be overwhelming, and we all need an escape from time to time. But sometimes you don’t want to go to the countryside – you still want a city escape, just to a smaller city.

Here’s my ultimate list of cities close to London where there’s still lots to do and see, but they’re not as overwhelming and busy as London.  

Everything on this list is easily accessible by train, and I’ve sorted them from shortest train journey to longest train journey. 

I’ve also categorized them into what you’re in the mood for: 1) large cities , 2) historic cities , 3) cities with castles , and 4) seaside cities .

Grab your National Railcard and let’s go (I’ve put stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ next to my faves you help you choose).

🏙️ Largest Cities Close to London

Looking to get out of the biggest city in the UK and head to a smaller one? Every city in the UK is smaller than London by comparison, but here are the 10 next biggest.

It’ll feel like a small town in comparison! 

A city in the East Midlands of England, Leicester is known for its significant role in English history. King Richard III’s remains were discovered here in 2012, under a car park of all places!

• 1 hour 10 minute direct train from Kings Cross St. Pancras

Peaky Blinders fans, this one’s for you. Birmingham is known for its industrial heritage, cool cultural scene, and Tommy Shelby. Attractions include the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the historic Jewellery Quarter, and that industrial atmospheric vibe that’s great for Instagram.

• 101 miles 
• 1 hour 15 minutes by direct train from Euston 

Looking for cities near London that have a totally different vibe? Bristol is famous for its chill alternative arts and dining scene, but still has cool architecture like the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It’s also known for the SS Great Britain and street art by Banksy.

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train from Paddington

Stoke-on-Trent 

Known as the world capital of ceramics, with attractions like the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and Trentham Gardens.

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train from Euston 

Cities close to London for football fans, or Ted Lasso fans ? It’s gotta be Manchester (football is life). Famous for its influential music scene, sports culture ( especially football ), and rich industrial history. The Manchester Museum, Science and Industry Museum, and great nightlife are just a few of the highlights.

• 2 hours direct train from Euston

⭐️ Bournemouth & Poole

Want a stunning beach getaway, but not to a small town? Renowned for their stunning beaches, these cute coastal towns (right next to each other) offer a relaxing getaway with more to do than your standard coastal destination. 

• 2 hour direct train from Waterloo

⭐️ Leeds 

Known for its Victorian architecture and great shopping districts, this is one of the best cities near London for an urban experience without the overwhelm. Key attractions are the Royal Armouries Museum and Leeds Art Gallery, but there’s lots to explore here!

• 2 hour 30 minute direct train from Kings Cross St. Pancras

Renowned for its maritime history, The Beatles, and cultural landmarks. Highlights include The Beatles Story museum, Liverpool Cathedral, and the historic Albert Dock. 

• 2 hour 45 minute direct train from Euston

Celebrated for its industrial past and green spaces. The city offers attractions like the Millennium Gallery and the nearby Peak District National Park , which is breathtaking. 

• 2 hour 45 minute direct train from Kings Cross St Pancras

Teesside/Middlesbrough 

An industrial region in the northeast, known for its heritage in steelmaking. Explore Tees Barrage, historic towns, and the beautiful North York Moors nearby. Most central station is Middlesborough. 

• 4 hour direct train from Kings Cross St Pancras

🔔 Villages & Cities Near London for History & Architecture

Let’s move on to cities near London that are a bit smaller.

Some of these are towns, some are more like villages, but they all have incredible history, architecture, and cool things to see and do. 

⭐️ St Albans 

Very close cities to London with small-town charm? St Albans is it. This historic city is known for its Roman past and magnificent cathedral, and it’s just a short train ride from London.

• 20 minute direct train from St. Pancras

A large town in Berkshire, known for the Reading Festival, historical sites like Reading Abbey, and its proximity to the River Thames.

• 25 minute direct train from Paddington

Today it’s known for the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, this London suburb is also stepped in ancient history. Wander the historic Wimbledon Common, and check out the remains of an Iron-age fortress. 

• 30 minute direct train from Waterloo

Chelmsford 

A city in Essex, known for its history and beautiful parks. It’s home to the 15th-century Chelmsford Cathedral and Hylands House, set in vast parkland.

• 30 miles 
• 30 minute train from Liverpool Street 

Tonbridge 

Renowned for its impressive 11th-century Tonbridge Castle, scenic River Medway, and charming high street, making it a great destination for history lovers and quaint English townscapes.

• 40 minute direct train from London Bridge 

⭐️ Oxford 

Harry Potter come to life ? That’s Oxford (many parts of the films were shot here). Like Cambridge, Oxford is known for its prestigious university. It boasts beautiful colleges, the historic Bodleian Library, and many cool museums.

• 45 minute train from Paddington

⭐️ Canterbury 

A historic city (Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, anyone?), Canterbury is famous for its stunning cathedral and medieval buildings. It’s a great place to experience English heritage and history, and is simply one of the coolest historic cities near London. 

• 51 miles 
• 1 hour direct train from London Bridge 

An ancient city with a rich history, Winchester is known for its magnificent cathedral and medieval buildings. It was once the capital of England! 

• 1 hour direct train from Waterloo

⭐️ Cambridge

Famous for its university, Cambridge is a picturesque city with stunning architecture, museums, and the iconic River Cam, where you can try punting (just don’t do it with an eager toddler like I did , who tried to jump in 1.2 million times). 

• 1 hour 10 minute direct train from Liverpool Street or St. Pancras

⭐️ Bath 

Known for its Roman-built baths, Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s also famous for its Georgian architecture and the Bath Abbey. This is an English destination not to miss. 

• 1 hr 15 minute direct train from Paddington

A small, enchanting town in East Sussex, Rye is known for its medieval and Georgian buildings, cobbled streets, and historic charm.

• 1 hour 15 minute train with transfers from St. Pancras

Northampton

A town in the East Midlands known for its historical buildings and market square. Northampton is also famous for its shoe-making heritage, which is just one part of its cool historic past. 

• 1 hour 15 minute direct train from Euston

A small city in Cambridgeshire, Ely is famous for its magnificent cathedral, known as the ‘Ship of the Fens’, and its historic town center.

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train from Liverpool Street 

Chichester 

A compact city in West Sussex, noted for its well-preserved Roman walls and the Chichester Cathedral. It’s also close to the South Downs National Park.

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train from Victoria

Famous for its stunning 13th-century cathedral, Salisbury is a medieval city with a well-preserved town center, just a short distance from Stonehenge. It also has the tallest church spire in the UK! 

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train from Waterloo

A city in Norfolk, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Norwich Cathedral, and a bustling market.

• 1 hour 45 minute direct train from Liverpool Street 

A city in the gorgeous Cotswolds, known for its medieval Gloucester Cathedral, historic docks, and the Gloucester Waterways Museum

• 2 hour direct train from Paddington

⭐️ Stratford-upon-Avon 

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, this town offers cultural insights into the life of the famous playwright, with historic houses and theaters. It’s a bit more of a trek from London, but it’s worth it. 

• 2.5 hour train with transfers, from Paddington or Euston 

🏰 Close Cities to London that Have Castles 

Who doesn’t want to explore a castle close to London? Here’s a list of cities near London that have castles, so you can be a knight at the round table while also exploring a cool cityscape. 

This picturesque town has cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a beautiful cathedral, and Guildford Castle, nestled in the Surrey Hills. It’s a fairytale come to life. 

• 35 minute direct train from Waterloo

Windsor 

Home to Windsor Castle, the town of Windsor is steeped in royal history. It’s also close to the Legoland Windsor Resort, which is fun for families.

• 50 minutes including tube to train transfer (from Waterloo)

Lewes 

This town in East Sussex is known for its Norman castle, medieval streets, and as the site of the famous Lewes Bonfire celebrations.

• 1 hour direct train from Victoria Station

Redhill is known as a commuter town, but it’s not without historic charms. It has a rich local history, with nearby attractions such as Reigate Castle and the breathtaking scenery of the North Downs. 

• 1 hour 20 minute direct train from London Bridge 

⭐️ Leeds Castle

Near the town of Maidstone in Kent, Leeds Castle is set on two islands in a lake and is surrounded by beautiful parklands. It’s magical! 

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train to Maidstone, then bus (from Victoria Station)

Known as Britain’s oldest recorded town, Colchester has a rich history, a Norman castle, and Roman ruins.

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train from Liverpool Street

🌊 Cities to Visit Close to London for Seaside & Riverside Escapes

Need a seaside break? Or a calming river stroll? Here’s some cities close to London that are on the water. 

This lovely little village was the inspiration for “The Wind in the Willows,” so picture that storybook in your mind…and then step right into it. This Thameside village is perfect for a day out. 

• 30 minute direct train from Paddington

Henley-on-Thames 

Famous for the Henley Royal Regatta, this town offers a picturesque setting along the River Thames, with lovely walks, a quaint high street, and traditional pubs.

• 43 minute direct train from Paddington 

⭐️ Brighton 

A vibrant seaside town, Brighton is known for its beach, the Brighton Pier, and a trendy arts scene. It’s a great place for shopping and dining too. This is a fun atmosphere; totally the opposite of London but only an hour away. 

Southend-on-Sea

A popular seaside resort in Essex, known for its long pier, beaches, and seafront attractions including Adventure Island theme park.

• 1 hour direct train from Fenchurch Street 

⭐️ Folkestone 

A port town on the English Channel, with a cool art scene, lovely promenade, and the Leas Cliff Hall, a famous venue for music and theater. You can actually see France from Folkestone on a clear day! 

• 1 hour direct train from Kings Cross St. Pancras

A historic town in Suffolk, known for its waterfront, museums, and cultural venues. It’s also close to the beautiful Suffolk countryside.

• 1 hour 10 minute direct train from Liverpool Street 

Southampton

 A major port city on the south coast, famous for its maritime history and as the departure point for the Titanic. Titanic obsessed like me? The Titanic museum alone is worth the trip from London.

• 1 hour 15 minute direct train from Waterloo

Eastbourne 

A resort town on the Sussex coast, known for its Victorian seafront and pier, the nearby Beachy Head chalk cliff, and cultural events like the Eastbourne International tennis tournament.

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train from Victoria 

Margate & Ramsgate 

Coastal towns in Kent, known for sandy beaches, the Turner Contemporary art gallery in Margate, and the Ramsgate Maritime Museum. This is a kitschy and cool area that can be a bit touristy, but it’s still a nice spot to visit for the weekend. 

• 1 hour 30 minute direct train from Kings Cross St. Pancras

Fancy a trip to another country , and a trip to the seaside? You can be in Wales in 2 hours. See impressive Cardiff Castle, the Wales Millennium Centre arts complex, and the historic Cardiff Bay area.

• 2 hour direct train from Paddington 

Weston-Super-Mare

A seaside town in Somerset, famous for its grand pier, sandy beaches, and the Helicopter Museum. “Weston”, as it’s known to locals, is more of a commercial seaside town, but it’s still got English charm. 

• 2 hour 15 minute direct train from Paddington

Close Cities to London: Final Tips

Remember to do my favorite train hacking tips to get the best price ! The farther you can book ahead, the better the price will be.

If you’re overwhelmed by this list, here’s a more detailed list of day trips that are totally doable (and some that aren’t you’ll want to avoid).

Happy travels!

More on Trips from London

35 Comfortable Day Trips from London that are Realistic, and 24 that Aren’t 

What’s the Closest Country to London? 10 Incredible Trips to Take Today 

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14 Cities Outside of London To Visit In The UK

There’s so much more to the UK than London. Yes, London is an amazing city and all that but the UK has so many different beautiful and exciting cities that most people miss out on thanks to buzzing bright lights of London.

I have lived all across the UK and experienced life in different parts of the country and even though I currently call London home, it seems right and quite apt to put together a list of some of the UK’s amazing cities (asides London) that you definitely need to visit.

1.) Edinburgh

This is the second most visited city outside of London already and is a city that is truly defined by its beautifully preserved historic buildings, strong and rich culture, food and people.

Edinburgh has been home to me for many years in the past and is the perfect city in that there is so much to see and do here and yet it still manages to be intimate enough (definitely more so than London) that you can actually get to know your neighbours and truly call this amazing city home.

You’ll love the city.

Visiting Edinburgh? See the best bars , best things to do and secret spots

2.) Glasgow

This might sound slightly controversial to some but Glasgow is perhaps best defined as Edinburgh’s grittier, savvier and perhaps edgier sister.

Glasgow is the biggest city in Scotland by population and is a truly vibrant city.

It arguably has better shopping and nightlife than Edinburgh although Edinburgh might boast historical architectural treasures.

Glasgow is louder, wilder and fiercer than it’s sister city while still packing in lots of sights guaranteed to keep you entertained and is definitely worth visiting when you’re in the UK.

Oh, I almost forgot, they also have a whole heap of Scottish foods and meals you have to try.

Visiting Glasgow? Here are the top places you have to explore

3.) Newcastle

Newcastle is one of those cities that always surprises people.

Everyone comes back from the city impressed when they realise it’s so much more than what MTV and tabloid magazines would like to portray it as.

The people are so down to earth and the city is actually quite charming.

The nightlife here is pretty fantastic too and seeing as it’s partway between London and Edinburgh, a trip to Edinburgh definitely requires a stopover in Newcastle. Keep your eyes peeled for the Angel of the North, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Newcastle

4.) Cardiff

The Welsh capital city is one of those cities you would expect to be quiet and a bit more laid-back but it is actually one of the busiest cities to visit (especially on a Saturday night out).

Cardiff is a good starting point for anyone who’s never experienced Welsh life and Welsh hospitality and is easily one of my favourite cities in the UK (I kid you not, I planned on moving here at one point).

It may not have as many sights to see as say London (but let’s face it, no other city has as many sights to see as London really) but what will keep you in Cardiff long after you’ve arrived is the sheer openness, fun attitude and warmth of its people!

Read more: Best things to do in Cardiff

Famed for it’s Roman Baths (hence the name) Bath is one city everyone needs to visit in the UK at least once.

The city has such an amazing history – along with some of the UK’s more exclusive postcodes outside of London.

Visitors all over the world flock to Bath each year and it’s one of the most popular cities to visit so if you’ve never considered it before, you probably should now.

Make sure to grab a freshly-baked bun at Sally Lunn’s. They’re delicious.

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

The ancient seat of academic learning (i.e. Oxford University) pretty much defines this city but that’s not a bad thing.

On the contrary, it lends itself to some amazing architecture, a ridiculously detailed and documented history and a good balance of activities to get involved with even outside of sightseeing.

Oxford is also ridiculously close to London (just over 1 hour on the train from London Paddington station) so you have no excuse for not visiting if you ever find yourself in London.

Read more: Best things to do in Oxford

7.) Cambridge

Cambridge is, without a doubt, one of the prettiest places to visit in the UK.

Like Oxford, the University defines quite a lot of the look and feel of the town but unlike Oxford, it’s spread out over a smaller space. Making it so much easier to see all the sights in Cambridge on foot or via bicycle.

Also, and maybe this is just the Cambridge man in me speaking but the buildings have so much more character than Oxford as Cambridge.

This is mainly due to the fact that the city didn’t have any local stone during the early days of the University. This meant the stones used to make the buildings were all different.

Hence, why you’ll find the different colleges and buildings all have different colours. Make sure to go into King’s College Chapel, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

8.) Liverpool

Another city that people are constantly surprised by is Liverpool .

Again, everyone I know who’s visited has been surprised by the startling amount of sights to see in the city, the activities to get up to and the nightlife on offer.

It’s a truly vibrant city also characterised by the down-to-earth honesty that one can expect from a Northern city.

Read more: Best things to do in Liverpool

9.) Inverness

The appeal of this city is not so much the city itself (there’s that too) but instead, its proximity to amazing natural sights!

Inverness is one of those cities that’s fantastic to visit and ‘set your base’ while exploring more of the beautiful spots in the Highlands .

It is by no means as large (or as busy) as some of Scotland’s larger cities but that in itself has its charm that you’ll love.

Read more: Best things to do in Inverness

10.) Bristol

Bristol is a charming city not too far west of London and is another one of the UK’s more vibrant cities.

It’s famed for the artist Banksy (you can still see his murals on the walls of the city) and with Bath really close to Bristol, a trip to one should really go hand in hand with a trip to the city.

Read more: Best things to do in Bristol

11.) Belfast

The Northern Irish city of Belfast is the UK’s pocket full of Irish charm, wit and culture!

It’s one of the trickier cities to visit as it’s not on the UK mainland but it’s a fairly easy city to get to.

It’s definitely worth spending some time in Belfast to get to see another side of the UK you would otherwise miss on the mainland.

Read more: Best things to do in Belfast

12.) Brighton

The UK’s famed beach town. You know a place is worth visiting when even people from the UK recommend going there.

Brighton is known for being a fun place to visit and a quick respite from crazy city life in London.

It’s also quite easy to get to from London, so if you fancy sometimes by the seaside, head over to Brighton for a day or two (or maybe even more).

Make sure to grab a fish and chips on the beach, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Brighton

13.) Manchester

This is another one of my favourite cities and I’d long been plotting ways to move to Manchester .

It’s a city with a surprisingly different mix of the old and new with new buildings merging and weaving into old ones and the city is truly filled with its own unique character and sense of fun.

This probably explains why Manchester is (and has been for a while) the 3rd most visited city in the UK.

Read more: Best things to do in Manchester

York is probably best described as one of the UK’s most charming cities.

It’s not the biggest, or the loudest or even the one with the most sights outside of London but what it does have are charming old British buildings, and oodles of homely Yorkshire hospitality.

You’ll gorge on some amazing local food famed across the UK (along with other amazing food) and some of the funniest people you’ll ever meet (and I mean this in a very good way).

Make sure you head to the smaller market town of Malton that’s just outside the city. It’s a food lover’s dream.

Read more: Best things to do in York

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5 best cities to visit near London and what you can do in each

With so much to see in London , you can have a great time in England without ever venturing outside the capital. But just a few hours outside of the city and you can find yourself amongst vastly different landscapes, from geothermal pools and dramatic coasts to quiet beaches and small English towns. If you have time for a day trip or two, here are 5 best cities near London to add to your trip.

1. Manchester

How to get there: 2-hour train ride from London

Good for: Football and live music

Home to two major English football teams and a thriving music scene, Manchester in northwest England is a real treat for a weekend break. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and flavors of Manchester on a walking tour or guided food tour . Football fans can join a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Etihad Stadium or delve into the history of the country’s favorite sport at the National Football Museum —best experienced during football season between September to December. The 19th-century John Rylands Library is also worth a visit for its spectacular Victorian-Gothic architecture.

Experience Manchester’s nightlife with a pint at local institution Port Street Beer House , which carries over 100 beers from across the world, including gluten-free options. As the birthplace of iconic English rock bands like The Stone Roses, The Smiths, and Oasis, make time for live tunes at The Deaf Institute or Band on the Wall , which are popular spots for music lovers.

Where to stay: Check out INNSIDE Manchester , located close to the city’s best attractions, or Hotel Football , a football-themed hotel.

How to get there: 1.5-hour train ride from London

Good for: A relaxing spa break

Located in southwest England, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is just a short train ride away from London. Home to 2000-year-old Roman Baths , Bath was in the business of wellness long before it was a trend. While you can’t swim in the waters of the baths, you can explore the complex on a guided tour and enjoy a spa treatment at the nearby Thermae Bath Spa .

The city, though, isn’t just about rest and recuperation. Walk the streets of Bath with a Blue Badge Tourist Guide and admire Georgian architectural masterpieces like the Pulteney Bridge and Royal Crescent —a collection of terraced townhouses—before refueling at The Pump Room . Then, slow it down and take a boat trip on the River Avon . If you’re a Bridgerton fan, you don’t want to miss this anecdote-filled tour of the Netflix hit’s filming locations .

Where to stay: Book the plush Francis Hotel or Bath Priory for easy access to the city’s best spots. 

How to get there: 1.5-hour drive from London

Good for: Medieval architecture

Home to the country’s oldest university, Oxford in southeast England on the edge of the Cotswolds is a small city that can be explored in a day. Join a student-guided campus walking tour to see highlights like Radcliffe Camera and the 17th-century Bodleian Library , or hop on a punting tour down the River Cherwell . The University Church of St Mary the Virgin is also worth a visit for the postcard-perfect views from its towers. For food, tuck into a modern European menu at Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant or Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant.

Where to stay: Immerse yourself in Oxford’s history at Old Bank House or Malmaison Oxford , a former prison.

4. Brighton

How to get there: 1-hour train ride from London

Good for: Nostalgic seaside fun

Since the 1840s, Brighton on England’s south coast has been a favorite weekend seaside getaway for city-dwelling Londoners. Join a walking tour to explore the city’s popular landmarks like the 19th-century Royal Pavilion and The Lanes, before heading to the pebbled Brighton Beach . Adrenaline-seekers can try water sports, fly over the waves on a zip wire , or head up to the Sky Walk around the Brighton i360’s viewing pod . For nostalgic fairground fun, head to Brighton Pier .

Hungry? This food tour will introduce you to the best food stops in Brighton. This seaside town is popular in summer, so watch out for the crowds between July and August.

Where to stay: Enjoy the sea views from Brighton Harbour Hotel or Blanch House.

Good for: History and nightlife

Step back in time with an easy day trip to Cardiff , a historic city in the southeast of Wales. Take in Victorian-era landmarks like Cardiff Castle and modern buildings like Principality Stadium on this hop-on hop-off bus tour . Meanwhile, active travelers can take a boat tour , walk or bike along the Cardiff Bay Barrage to admire the views of the Welsh capital.

Check out the city’s culinary scene at Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay , which has a slew of cool restaurants and bars. As the sun goes down, head to St. Mary Street for a night out. As the heart of downtown Cardiff’s nightlife, the street is lined with clubs, cocktail bars, and Irish pubs. Grab a classic or modern cocktail at Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice award-winning Be At One Cardiff . Alternatively, pop into live music venues like the legendary The Live Lounge or Clwb Ifor Bach .

Where to stay: Crash at the modest Sleeperz Hotel or splash out at the vine-covered Georgian-style New House Country Hotel .

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15 Terrific Day Trips From London

These UK  day trips  are quick, fun alternatives to a day in the city. Castles, famous movie sets, great discount shopping, historic homes, and gardens are all less than two hours from London . And transportation links from the British capital to the suburbs, the countryside and even other nearby cities are easy, fast and reasonably priced.

If you are looking for an alternative to London's hustle and bustle, and a chance to see England from a different perspective, a quick "away day" may be just the ticket. They're all reachable by public transportation too.

UK travel tip : To keep transportation costs down, try to book your train or coach tickets well in advance to take advantage of the lowest fares.

Windsor Castle

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Windsor Castle is everyone's idea of a fairytale castle. And there's plenty to see at the Queen's weekend home (which, we hear, is her favorite). The building alone covers 13 acres and is the biggest inhabited castle in the world. William the Conqueror picked the site, west of London overlooking the Thames and it has been a Royal residence and fortress ever since - almost 950 years.

How to Get There

• Take the train - Trains leave regularly from London's Paddington Station to Windsor & Eton Central. The castle, a short walk from the station, dominates the town and is impossible to miss. The trip takes between 25 and 40 minutes depending upon the train you choose.
• By car: Windsor Castle is 24 miles from Central London. Take the A4 and M4 to Junction 6 then follow signs for Windsor town center and parking.
• By bus: Green Line buses (701 and 702) leave hourly from Victoria station, stopping at Windsor Castle and  Legoland Windsor.

Warner Brothers Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter

If you've ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of your favorite film characters or look behind the scenes at how all the special effects are accomplished, Warner Brothers' Harry Potter attraction at its Leavesden studios, 20 miles northwest of London is a must see. And if you or members of your family are Harry Potter fans, this is a definite "don't miss".

The makers of the film have pulled together some of the most iconic sets, loads of the actual props used in the films and created a walking tour in two soundstages where the Harry Potter films were made. Even for those of us who have not been dyed-in-the-wool Harry Potter fans, it's endlessly fascinating and entertaining. We spent about five hours there, making the apparently high ticket prices surprisingly good value for money.

Top tip: Don't forget to book your tickets in advance. No tickets are offered for sale at the site.

• By train: Trains from London's Euston Station leave for Watford Junction roughly every ten minutes throughout the day. The trip takes between 15 and 20 minutes. Once at the station, a colorful bus takes you directly to the attraction, while you watch a film to get you in the mood. The bus meets passengers in front of Watford Junction Station. When weighing up travel costs and choosing between car and train, keep those costs in mind. A family of four could spend more than £50 just traveling to the attraction by train. Frequent trains from Birmingham New Street also stop at Watford Junction.
• By car: The attraction is just a few miles from the M1 and M5 motorways and once you leave the motorways, brown signs lead you in. There are detailed directions for travel by road on the attraction website as well as SatNav coordinates.
• By coach: Transfers from London with a preferred transportation partner are regularly scheduled and can be purchased without studio admission.

Brighton - London's Beach

In 2016, Brighton added a spanking new attraction: The BA i360 rises more than 500 feet above the seafront and on a clear day it really does seem like you can see forever. It's only one of the attractions of the funky seaside resort known as London's beach. The Royal Pavilion, Brighton, the splendid summer house built by George IV when he was Prince Regent, is an Arabian Nights fantasy slap bang in the middle of town. In the early 19th century, his architect, John Nash, slapped a cast iron framework around an older, simpler farmhouse and, well, just went to town, really.

• By train:  Trains leave about every 15 minutes from either London Bridge or Victoria Station and take about an hour.
• By car: Brighton is 54 miles due south of London. It takes about 1h30 to drive. South of the M25 ring road, the M23 leads into Brighton.
• By bus: Buses from London to Brighton take between an hour and forty minutes to more than three hours. Each journey has a small amount of lowest fare tickets available. These sell out quickly so it is a good idea to buy your tickets well in advance. Buses travel hourly between Victoria Coach Station in London and Brighton Pier Coach Station.

A Weekend Is Great Too

There's more than enough to do in Brighton to spend a short break. Visitors love to stroll among the antique shops and boutiques of "The Lanes", walk the shingle beach or take some fish and chips out to the end of  Brighton's Victorian pier . In winter there's the spectacle of Brighton Burning the Clocks and in May Brighton stages England's biggest multi-arts festival. Why not plan a Brighton getaway ?

Oxford England

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Oxford University, England, is the oldest university in the English speaking world, dating back to the 11th century. Graduates have made notable contributions in every form of human endeavor.

Walk these streets and you will be following in the footsteps of Nobel prize winners, kings, presidents, and prime ministers. The university has produced saints, scientists, explorers, artists, authors, and actors.

And where you find students and the UK's gilded youth you'll also find wonderful pubs and great shopping.

Another Oxford treat is the recently reopened Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology . Founded in 1683 as Britain's first public museum, its dusty and dark old galleries were reborn with a major, multi-million-pound refurbishment program. The museum reopened in 2009 with 39 new galleries and a 100% increase in exhibition space.

Among the treasures you might see at the Ashmolean are drawings by Michaelangelo, Raphael, and Rembrandt; a Stradivarius Violin; ancient Chinese and Middle Eastern porcelain and glass; the coins with the heads of Nero and Henry VIII, and lots more. The museum is part of Oxford University and it's free.

Altogether Oxford is a terrific, and easy, day out of London.

How to Get There 

• By train: Express trains to Oxford from Paddington Station are frequent and take about an hour and round-trip fare. If you don't catch the express train, a conventional journey takes about an hour and 45 minutes.
• By car: Oxford is 62 miles northwest of London via the M4, M25, M40 and A roads. It takes about an hour and a half to drive. Parking is difficult but the city is surrounded by Park and Ride parking lots with cheap bus services into the center.
• By bus: The Oxford Tube is a very popular way to get to Oxford by bus. The company runs buses every ten minutes, 24 hours a day, with pickups from multiple stops in London and in Oxford.

Blenheim Palace - Magnificent Home of the First Churchills

Blenheim Palace is more than another one of England's stately homes. This magnificent palace, home of the Dukes of Marlborough and an easy day trip from London, is:

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• A stunning example of 18th century English Baroque style
• A memorial to one great British hero, the first Duke of Marlborough, and the birthplace of another, Sir Winston Churchill.
• One of the finest examples of the work of 18th-century landscape architect Launcelot "Capability" Brown.
• A wonderful backdrop for family activities, virtually year round.

It's in Woodstock - the gateway to the Cotswolds - and less than two hours away from London.

• By train: Express trains to Oxford from Paddington Station are frequent and cost under £25; then 10 minutes on the local S3 bus from the station.
• By car: Blenheim is about 62 miles from London via the M4, M25 and M40 motorways and the A40 and A44 roads. The main entrance is at the bottom of Woodstock High Street.

Bicester Village - Discount Designer Outlets

Shopping! If you thought London was the be-all and end-all of fashionable shopping, a short train journey to Bicester Village will open your eyes. More than 100 chic boutiques are all discount designer outlets. All the big European and international designer brand names are there with prices much lower than Bond Street or Fifth Avenue. And there are a few restaurants and coffee shops where you can rest your tired feet (or park your "bag man").

• By train:  Trains to Bicester North Station leave up to four times an hour, daily, from London Marylebone. The journey takes just under an hour. There is an inexpensive shuttle bus from Bicester North direct to the Village.
• By car: The shopping center is about 64 miles from Central London on the A41. The drive takes between an hour and a half and two hours. Take the A4 to the M4 Motorway, then the M25 north to the M40 west. Exit at Junction 9 and follow the A41 to Bicester Village. It looks a bit like a small town...with a huge parking lot.
• By bus: Morning and afternoon luxury coach trips to Bicester Village operate daily with pick ups from several London hotels and other Central London points.

Ightham in Kent - A Village With Secrets and a Great Day Trip to Walk or Drive

Ightham is as charming a Kentish village as you can imagine - but it's the sort of place with so many dark happenings in its history that Agatha Christie would have rubbed her hands together with glee.

Besides having picturesque 14th and 15th-century houses and pubs, Ightham is just up the road from Ightham Mote, a fortified medieval manor, and just down the hill from Oldbury Wood, a protected ancient woodland and Iron Age earthwork. There's plenty to see, a good lunch to be had at the George & Dragon and some fine but easy walking.

• By train : Trains to nearby Borough Green & Wrotham Station from Victoria Station are frequent and take less than an hour.
• By car: Ightham (pronounced "item" by the way, is about 55 miles from Central London via the A3, the M25, and the M26.

Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral

Nothing can really prepare you for your first sight of Stonehenge . No matter how many pictures you've seen of this iconic landmark, watching it rise up from Salisbury Plain is heart-stopping.

After that, in the past, a visit to the site could be disappointing. But in 2013 the monument was reborn. A new visitor center with a reconstructed Stone Age village and a restoration of the ancient landscape around the stones themselves, plus the opening of an excellent museum and interpretive center shows off ​Stonehenge in a completely new light.

The road that once passed close enough to rattle the stones was dug up and grassed over as was the old parking area. Now, from the visitor center, you can either walk a mile to the stones or travel in a silent electric buggy to within a few hundred yards. 

And a Visit to Salisbury Cathedral

You can book various coach tours to get to Stonehenge but they're typically overpriced and try to cram in too many different places. Instead, especially if you are an independent sort of traveler, go by train via Salisbury to visit the city's nearly 800-year-old cathedral. Among its highlights are the best preserved of the four remaining copies of the 1215 Magna Carta, the world's oldest working mechanical clock, and - at 404 feet - the tallest spire in Britain.

• By train: Trains from London Waterloo to Salisbury leave 20 minutes and 50 minutes after the hour throughout the day. The trip takes about an hour and 20 minutes. Salisbury Reds run regular bus services from the train station to the Stonehenge Visitor Center.
• By car: Stonehenge is about 85 miles from Central London via the M3 and the A303.

Leeds Castle

A neighboring lord once described  Leeds Castle , near Maidstone in Kent, as "the loveliest castle in the world." It's hard to argue once you see this gorgeous, 900-year-old moated castle, surrounded by gardens and parklands.

Unusually, from its beginnings, this castle has been inherited by women. It was the dower house of six Plantagenet Queens, the so-called she-wolves of England. Later, Henry VIII had it updated and made luxurious for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.

What makes Leeds Castle a particularly fine day out is that there is plenty to please everyone in the family. Besides its glorious interiors and wine cellars, it has a devilish maze with an exit through a scary grotto, two playgrounds for pretending to be knights and ladies, a dog collar museum with more than 100 unusual and historic examples, several restaurants, a covered pavilion for temporary exhibits and a full schedule of family-friendly events.  

• By train: Southeastern Trails run regular services, 22 and 52 minutes after the hour throughout the day from London Victoria to Bearsted Station. The trip takes about an hour. A shuttle bus operates from the station to the castle during the summer months. Do be careful, by the way, not to accidentally book a train to Leeds in Yorkshire or you could end up 230 miles away.
• By car: The castle is about 44 miles from Central London via the A20 and the M20. From junction 8 off the M20 motorway, follow the brown and white tourist signs.
• By bus: Several tour companies operate sightseeing tours from London that include Leeds Castle. As these change from time to time, it's best to check the castle website for the latest information.

Hever Castle - Home of Anne Boleyn

Hever Castle , Anne Boleyn's childhood home is a fascinating place. Steeped in the history of Tudor court intrigue, the house was begun in the 13th century and made into a comfortable Tudor home by the Bullen (or Boleyn) family. It later became part of Henry VIII's divorce settlement with Anne of Cleves, his 4th wife. The house has a very good collection of Tudor portraits, lots of family activities, two mazes to wander around in, jousting, romantic gardens, and several restaurants and snack bars.

Strolling through the castle's magnificent gardens before stopping for lunch or a cup of tea makes a really fine UK day out. And there's plenty more to do for every member of the family:

• An adventure Playground
• Yew and water mazes
• Hever Lake walk
• A gruesome exhibition of armor, instruments of execution, and torture

Throughout the summer months, Hever Castle also hosts a variety of events including jousting tournaments, demonstrations of longbow warfare and a summer performing arts festival in its open-air theatre, with matinee and evening performances.

• By train : Trains to nearby Edenbridge Town Station leave frequently from London Bridge Station. Book a taxi on +44 (0)1732 863 800 (Relyon) or +44(0)1732 864009 (Edenbridge Cars) for the three-mile onward journey. It's a good idea to book your ride before you arrive in the town.
• By car: Hever Castle is 44 miles from Central London via the A3 and the M25.

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

For 400 years, the Historic Dockyard at Chatham in Kent built the ships that built the British Empire. From the mid-1500s to its closure in 1980s, it created, launched and maintained some of the most historic ships of the British Navy. HMS Victory, Admiral Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, was built here. 

When it closed, time stood still. And while various interests tried to decide what to do with, it was saved for posterity. And it is an amazing place to visit. The 80-acre site has 100 listed buildings and 47 scheduled ancient monuments. There's

• A Victorian Ropery - still in action, with a "rope walk" that's a quarter of a mile long
• Covered slips where ships hulls were constructed
• A multi-media exhibition in the Mast and Mould Loft (where you can still see the outlines of HMS Trafalgar scribed on the wooden floor)
• Three 19th century drydocks, one of which holds a diesel submarine retired in the 1960s that you can board

This barely scratches the surface. This is one of the best historic sites you can visit. And if you're lucky, you might get to see some of your favorite film and TV stars at work. The historic buildings of the dockyards are popular backdrops for filmmakers.

• By train: Chatham is within the London commuter belt and trains leave from several different London stations throughout the day. The fastest trains are from St Pancras International for a 38 minute trip to Chatham. The Chatham Maritime bus (route 190) makes the 8 minute trip from the station to the Dockyard gates or you can walk - it's just under a mile.
• By car:  This is a journey that involves either going through Central London (about 38 miles on the A2) or all around London (68 miles via the M25 to the A2). Not surprisingly, given London traffic, both journeys take about the same amount of time. Best advice - take the train.

Beaulieu and the National Motor Museum

Beaulieu, a country house in the New Forest, is a great day trip, not far from London, that is jam-packed with things to see and do. Besides offering a look at Victorian upstairs-downstairs life in a manor house, it has beautiful gardens, an abbey ruin, a monorail, vintage double-decker bus, a restaurant, and Go Karts. 

But all of that pales before Beaulieu's amazing National Motor Museum. Car enthusiasts from all over the world come to admire more than 100 years of automobiles, plus star cars, movie cars, and James Bond cars. It's a knockout!

• By train :  Trains to Brockenhurst Station leave every 15 minutes from Waterloo. The journey takes 1.5 hours. Take a taxi from the station. If you arrive all or in part by public transportation, present your travel tickets at reception for a 20% discount on admission.
• By car: Beaulieu (pronounced "Bewley" by the way) is 87 miles from Central London. Take the M3 to the M27 exit 2 and follow the brown and white signs. There is free parking.

William Morris's Red House - English Home of the Arts and Crafts Movement

Red House was the only building ever commissioned by 19th-century artist and designer William Morris. Now owned by the National Trust and open to the public, the house, in Bexley Heath, just south of London, was designed as Morris's first marital home by his friend and design partner Philip Webb.

Artists and writers of the period were frequent visitors, including Dante and Christina Rosetti, Augustus and Gwen John. Some added their own personal touches, which can still be seen. Pre-Raphaelite Edward Burn-Jones, a frequent visitor, designed some of the stained glass and, inside an upstairs closet, there's a primitive painting attributed to Gwen John.

Morris believed a garden should "clothe" a house and the gardens at The Red House have been landscaped according to drawings and pictures of Morris's original designs.

Bexley Heath is the nearest train station. Trains from London Victoria or Charing Cross Stations take about half an hour. Plan on visiting in good weather as The Red House is a 3/4 mile walk from the train station.

Battlesbridge Antiques Center

If your idea of heaven is spending hours poking around an enormous antique center with dozens of dealers trading in everything from junk to treasure, then you will love the Battlesbridge Antiques Center .

It's a collection of buildings, including a former granary and a range of barns, sheds, and cottages, open every day from about 10 am to 5 pm. At any one time, at least 80 antique dealers buy and sell a very wide range of items including stamps, jewelry, ephemera, furniture, vintage clothing, lamps, music boxes and musical instruments and, yes, plain old-fashioned dusty junk. Paradise.

This isn't the sort of place where posh interior decorators find elegant 18th-century Italian furniture. It's a real grab bag of antiques, reproductions, and fakes. But there are real treasures to be found.

By the way, in case you are wondering what battle took place here, the answer is none. The village takes its name from a family named Bataille who once looked after the bridge over the River Crouch beside the Granary.

• By train: Regular trains leave London Liverpool Street Station throughout the day. Change at Wickford to the Southminster. Battlesbridge is the first stop on that line. The center is about a third of a mile from the station.
• By car: Battlebridge in Essex is about 40 miles from London, midway between Chelmsford and Southend beside the A130. 

RHS Wisley Garden

The Royal Horticultural Society's Wisley Garden is where keen English gardeners go to be inspired. Its world famous collection of plants has been developing for more than 100 years and there is always something new to see, any time of year. Spread out over 240 acres in Woking, Surrey, about an hour's drive from Central London, Wisley is a lovely, peaceful place for a stroll as well as a demonstration garden full of practical garden design ideas and cultivation techniques.

In June 2007, a huge new glasshouse, 40 feet high and covering an area equal to ten tennis courts, was opened to the public. The glasshouse at RHS Wisley covers three different climatic zones - tropical, moist temperate and dry temperate habitats. A winding path, past rocky outcrops, waterfalls, pools, and slopes, leads visitors through the glasshouse to see some of Wisley's most important plant collections. The RHS's tender plant collection is housed there. So are rare and endangered species and hundreds of varieties of orchids.

A new lake, intended to bring environmental benefits to the whole of Wisley and colonized by mollusks, damselflies, dragonflies, and amphibians, surrounds The Glasshouse.

• By train:  Trains from London Waterloo Station leave regularly for nearby West Byfleet or Woking. Take a taxi for the short ride from the station. On weekdays during the summer months, a special bus service operates from Woking Station to Wisley.
• By car: Wisley is about 22 miles west-southwest of Central London on the A3.

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9 Great Places To Visit Near London

London’s a great place to visit, but it would be a shame if you didn’t also grab the chance to see a bit of what else England has to offer whilst you’re there. Here’s our list of places we’d visit.

Each idea is meant to be able to be done as a day trip although you can, of course, spend longer there.

We’ve also included ideas for a range of age groups and interest – families with kids, culture vultures and the like – and so there should be something for everyone here.

( This post was updated in January 2023 )

Table of Contents

The internationally renowned seat of learning is also extremely pretty.

The University is actually a collection of about 40 colleges, each its own distinct ethos – some are new, whereas others are over 800 years old – but the prettiest are within a mile radius of the center.

Explore some of these colleges, punt on the river or just wander around soaking up all that history and learning…

Oxford’s an hour on the train from Paddington Station in London.

Update: We recently published a post focusing on Oxford here>>> 10 Must See Sites In Oxford

2. Stonehenge

If you think Oxford’s old then you’ll think it positively juvenile compared to Stonehenge, reckoned to be over 5000 years old.

Comprising huge blocks of stone arranged in a circle in the middle of Salisbury Plain, it is one of the most recognisable monuments in the world.

It’s a bit tricky to get there given its remote location.

However its a short drive from London – or you could take one of the many tours from London.

3. Legoland

A change of take: this is one for the kids (and big kids).

Legoland is a short trip west of London – there are several coach operators such as Golden Tours – and will suit kids of all ages.

4. Cambridge

Given we’ve listed Oxford, it would be unfair not to mention its arch rival Cambridge.

If anything it’s even prettier than Oxford and quieter – Oxford a reasonably sized city whereas Cambridge is much smaller in relation to the university.

There are frequent rail services from Kings Cross station.

5. Stratford Upon Avon

One for the more culturally inclined.

Stratford Upon Avon was the home town of William Shakespeare. You can visit his actual birthplace and where he lived with his wife, Anne Hathaway (no, not that one).

It’s also the home of the world famous Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and so you can always catch a play whilst you’re there.

6. Bletchley Park

Fans of the movie ‘The Imitation Game’ will know that Bletchley Park was where codebreakers – especially the genius Alan Turing – broke the German Enigma code during the second world war. This allowed the Allies to spy on German naval communications.

The Bletchley park trust now does a great job of explaining how it was done – great for scientifically mided older children.

Again, it’s a short train ride from London.

7. Windsor Castle

Windsor was Queen’s favourite castle – she stayed there often – and also one of the most accessible.

Windsor itself is a beautiful place to visit, but the highlight is the castle itself, available for tours.

Here’s our post on the castle: Windsor Castle

Another beautiful place, Bath in Somerset has been a spa town – renowned for its mineral water, well, baths – since Roman times. Indeed one of the major attractions is the well preserved Roman baths which can be toured year round.

In later years it become one of the best sites of Georgian architecture – be sure to visit the streets around the Royal Crescent for great examples of this popular building style.

Here our post on this lovely town>>> Bath

9. Cotswolds

No trip to England could be considered complete without a trip to its beautiful countryside, shaped by thousands of years of human activity- especially farming.

One of the best examples is the Cotswolds, gentle rolling hills dotted with pretty villages built with the local Cotswold sandstone.

Update – we just published a post focusing on the best places to visit in the Cotswolds .

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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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17 Absolute Best Day Trips from London (+ How to Visit, Top Tours & Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

London is an amazing city with so much to offer that you could spend weeks and still not see it all. But in addition to all the top sights and attractions in the city itself , there are also so many beautiful places near London, many of which can easily be visited as a day trip from London.

However, with such an array of possibilities, how do you choose the very best day trips from London that are worth your time the most?

In this article, we feature the absolute best places that you can visit as a one-day trip from London, England . This guide includes all the ‘musts’, the very best day trip destinations near London for first-time visitors, but also for local travelers who want to (re)discover some of the most popular sights near London.

In addition, for each place, we include recommendations on how to visit on your own and also the best day tours from London . Because even though you can visit many of these places by train, often, you will be able to see so much more if you go on an organized tour.

Many tours combine several major landmarks in one day, allowing you to make the most of your time and see a lot in a short time. Furthermore, going with a local guide is a great opportunity to explore deeper, scratch beneath the surface, and discover things you didn’t even know existed…

Good to know: At the bottom of this article, you can find a map indicating all the places that you can easily visit as a day trip from London mentioned in this guide. It will give you a better idea of where everything is.

TIP: If you don’t have the time to read the entire article and are looking for the best day trips from London, here are the 4 most popular day tours among our readers:

• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath (also in combination with Roman Baths that you can add when booking).
• Cotswolds .
• Harry Potter Studio (also in combination with Oxford).
• Seven Sisters & South Downs .

Interesting to know: Overall, the most-visited day trip destinations from London are Windsor Castle and Harry Potter Studios.

These are the best & most popular day trips from London:

1. Windsor Castle

If you visit just one place outside of London city, make it Windsor Castle ! Located just 20 miles (32 km) from the city center, a day trip to Windsor is a must on any London bucket list!

The spectacular Windsor Castle is one of the queen’s official residences and has been home to the royal family for 900 years! Kings and queens have been buried here, including the infamous Henry VIII and Jayne Seymour, his third wife. Most recently, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is also buried at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

An excellent example of church architecture in medieval times, Windsor Castle is still used for royal receptions and state occasions. In recent years it has been the venue of the weddings of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

Open all year round, Windsor Castle is a great way to explore royal history, from touring the Castle Precincts to viewing the lavish staterooms and apartments. The Castle Grounds are both beautiful and peaceful and from there you can observe the iconic Changing of the Guard, which normally happens at 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, from April until the end of July.

Good to know. At the moment, Windsor Castle is open daily except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Because it’s a working royal palace, sometimes parts of the castle or even the entire castle can get closed on short notice. Below, you can find all the practical information for your visit. Read on!

How to visit. You can easily get to Windsor by train from London. There’s a direct train from London Waterloo Station and it takes about 1 hour. From Windsor & Eton Riverside station, it’s just a short walk to the castle. Be sure to book your Windsor Castle tickets online in advance ! This is the best option for those who prefer to take their time and explore the castle at their own pace.

If you come here for a day, be sure to check out Windsor and Eton towns as well! The best way to do this is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus in Windsor . Another nice thing to do is take a boat tour and enjoy different views of the castle from the river.

Good to know: Entry to Windsor Palace is also included with the London Pass , which offers good value if you spend more time in London and plan on visiting many popular tourist attractions and museums.

Best tours from London. Windsor Castle is the most popular day trip destination near London, so there are many tours that can bring you here as well. Most tours that visit the castle also include one or several other nice places nearby – perfect for those who are short on time and want to make the most of their day.

Here are the most popular day tours from London that visit Windsor Castle:

• Windsor Castle only – this is a convenient bus transfer from/ to London that also includes the tickets to the castle. This tour takes about 4 hours in total – the fastest way to visit Windsor Castle from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – the most popular full-day tour from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – with an option to visit Roman Baths.

2. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments and another extremely popular destination for London day trips. Built almost 5000 years ago by farmers in the Neolithic period, this is a spiritual and architectural wonder that many people consider an absolute must-see in the UK!

Historians still debate its original purpose, although most agree that it was probably built for spiritual reasons. Meanwhile, engineers marvel at the extraordinary skill and size of the construction project, which must have involved hundreds of workers given the very simple tools they had available at the time.

Whilst the main attraction at this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the mystical Stone Circle itself, you can also view the 5 on-site Neolithic houses. Their design was based on the remains of houses from this period that were discovered during a nearby excavation in 2006.

You can step through the doors of these houses to see just how the builders of Stonehenge might have lived thousands of years ago, with each house equipped with replica axes, pottery, and artifacts.

How to visit . Stonehenge is located about 90 miles (145 km) from London. There are no direct trains to Stonehenge, but you can take a train to Salisbury train station and then take The Stonehenge Tour Bus service from there. The easiest way to get here from London is either by car or by tour. If you drive, prepare for very busy traffic and count at least 2 hours one way. If you go without a tour, be sure to book your admission tickets online in advance !

Best tours from London. Since Stonehenge is quite a drive from the city, but it doesn’t require that much time to visit, it’s usually included as one of the sights of some of the most popular day tours from London.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Stonehenge from London:

• Stonehenge only – a very popular half-day tour (morning or afternoon) that includes transportation and entrance tickets. It takes about 6 hours and is the fastest way to visit Stonehenge from London.
• Stonehenge & Bath – the most relaxing full-day tour.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – a very complete tour that also includes an entry to the Roman Baths.

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and the most popular town that you can easily visit as a day trip from London. This picturesque historic city is filled with stunning examples of honey-colored Georgian architecture and some of the most photographed buildings in the world.

Perhaps the most famous feature of this UNESCO World Heritage City is the ancient Roman Baths built around thermal springs and supplying water for over 2,000 years. Whilst the Baths are open for you to view, no bathing has been allowed there since 1978. Instead, the much more modern Thermae Bath Spa was opened in 2006, containing the only natural hot spring in England in which you are allowed to bathe.

In the city stands the magnificent Bath Abbey , with its unique ‘ladder of angels’ on the west front. This feature was inspired by Bath’s Bishop at that time, who saw angels ascending and descending in a dream. You will also see the iconic ‘Royal Crescent’ – 30 Grade I listed terraced houses built in the late 18th century, arranged in a crescent around a verdant lawn overlooking Royal Victoria Park.

Another architectural gem is the Circus , also built in the latter half of the 18th century. This historic street of large townhouses forms a circle, which is how it got its name (Circus is Latin for a ring, circle, or oval).

And perhaps most beautiful of all is the romantic Pulteney Bridge , with its small, leaded domes, pilasters, and pediments. The bridge was named after the wife of William Johnstone Pulteney, an important figure in Bath at that time and owner of much of the surrounding land. A popular thing to do in Bath is to take a short boat trip on River Avon – it allows you to easily see some of the main sights of Bath in a short time.

How to visit. Bath is about 120 miles (195 km), about 2.5 hours drive from London. If you drive, be sure to stop at Stonehenge along the way! The fastest way to get to Bath from London is by train – it takes less than 1.5 hours. And there are also many tours that visit Bath from London, usually in combination with other beautiful places nearby.

TIP. If you visit Bath on your own, you may want to take a walking tour of the city. It’s the best way to see a lot in a short time – you’ll be sure not to miss any important places, but it also gives you a better insight into the history and architecture of this unique town.

Best tours from London. Since Bath is so close to Stonehenge, most tours from London visit both of these places together. In addition, some tours also include one or several other places nearby.

Here are the most popular day tours from London to Bath:

• Stonehenge & Bath .
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath .
• Stonehenge and Bath Tour with Secret Site – a very highly rated small group tour.

One of the UK’s most famous university towns, Oxford is also a place that you can easily visit as a day trip from London.

Oxford University was established in the 12th century and is one of the oldest universities in the world. The university is composed of 38 separate college buildings, whose architecture inspired the poet Matthew Arnold to name it the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ (see the picture of the All Souls College below, and you’ll understand where the name comes from).

Some scenes in the Harry Potter movies were filmed in Oxford, so it can be fun to try and spot them as you tour the city. Harry Potter fans can also opt for this popular walking tour of the filming locations .

In the heart of the city center is Christ Church College , home to the magnificent Hall and Christ Church Cathedral with its landmark spire and Tom Tower. The gardens of the 12th-century Cathedral inspired Lewis Carroll to write ‘Alice in Wonderland’. You can hunt for features of the story, such as the Alice in Wonderland motives in one of the large windows in the Great Dining Hall.

The Cathedral also contains the shrine and tomb of Saint Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford. Christ Church College – one of Oxford University’s largest colleges – has lots more for visitors to see, from the famous Bodley Tower to the stunning Meadow Building.

There are two main museums that are well worth seeing during a visit to Oxford. Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum is Oxford University’s museum of art and archaeology. Free to enter, it’s a great place to learn all about human culture and societies across the world and throughout time, with its collections including everything from Egyptian mummies to contemporary works of art.

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History , meanwhile, houses a captivating collection of natural specimens, covering everything from Earth’s beginnings to a look inside an active beehive!

Connecting two parts of Hertford College is the Hertford Bridge , popularly known as the ‘Bridge of Sighs’. Named after its resemblance to Venice’s Bridge of Sighs , this particular bridge is a skyway that allows students to travel from one building to another. Designed by Sir Thomas Jackson and completed in 1914, this photo-worthy bridge is best viewed from the steps of the University’s Bodleian Library (another must-see in Oxford).

How to visit. Oxford is just 60 miles (95 km), 1.5 hours drive from London. There are also direct trains from London and the journey takes about 1 hour – this is the best way to visit Oxford on your own. There are also organized tours that visit Oxford from London – usually in combination with one or two other places nearby.

TIP: If you visit Oxford for a day, consider this walking tour . It takes just 1.5 hours and is a great way to learn more about the city and the university. River cruises are also very popular and are a fun way to explore Oxford!

Best tours from London. While you could easily fill an entire day in Oxford, most one-day tours from London only spend a few hours here and combine a visit here with several other places.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Oxford from London:

• Harry Potter Studio Tour & Oxford – a bucket list day trip for all Harry Potter fans!
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – see three of the most popular locations in one day.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – this is a great tour for those who want to see the English countryside. It’s also a nice addition to the popular Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath tours mentioned above. If you do two of these tours, you get to see most of the nicest day trip destinations near London in just two days.

5. Cotswolds

The scenic traditional towns and stone villages of the Cotswolds is one of the most popular London day trips for those who want to experience the true English countryside. This area is so picturesque! Below, you can find an overview of the most beautiful places not to miss.

Minster Lovell village is the home of Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote, which sits on the banks of the River Windrush. This 15th-century Oxfordshire manor house was built by William, Baron of Lovell and Holand – one of England’s richest men at the time. The house was eventually abandoned and now only the substantial ruins remain, giving lots of wonderful photographic opportunities against their beautiful rural backdrop.

A Cotswold village of outstanding beauty is Bibury , with its gorgeous stone buildings that run along the banks of the River Coln. Here you can see the iconic Arlington Row – a series of buildings that were originally built as a monastic wool store but were later converted into cottages. Now owned by the National Trust, Arlington Row is considered to be so quintessentially English that its image appears on the inside cover of UK passports.

Another village well worth visiting is Buford , with its 3 arched medieval bridges across the River Windrush. Famous for its High Street which runs down toward the river, Buford is popular for antique shopping and boasts lots of good restaurants, pubs, and tea rooms. It’s also home to a hotel in which King Charles dined with his mistress, Nell Gwynne.

Whilst there are many contenders for the title, most people will agree that Bourton-on-the-Water is the prettiest village in England. Also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, this ‘must-see’ village is named for the many beautiful bridges that cross its river at the center. Located in a small valley, Bourton-on-the-Water has many charming tea rooms and restaurants, plus a range of eclectic shops including pottery and the Cotswold Perfumery. Don’t miss the popular model village, which is a 1/9th scale replica of the entire center of the village.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting on the afternoon of the August Bank Holiday Monday, you’ll witness one of the village’s more curious traditions, in which a local team plays a full game of football right in the River Windrush. This bizarre game of soccer has been filmed and reported all over the world!

If you have more time in this area, here are some more really nice villages to see in the Cotswolds: Castle Combe, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester, Chipping Campden, Blockley, and Stanton .

How to visit. The Cotswolds are about 30 minutes drive west of Oxford and about 2 hours drive from London. Since the main attractions of the Cotswolds are its various villages, the best way to visit here is either by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. The beautiful Cotswolds region is just a short drive from Oxford, so many tours combine the two places. There are also popular Downton Abbey filming location tours that combine a visit here to that of the Highclere Castle, but because of time restraints, you usually only see one village on these tours.

Here is an overview of the most popular Cotswolds tours from London:

• Cotswolds only – this is the best tour for those who want to explore the Cotswolds deeper as it visits several of the nicest villages and allows you more time to experience this beautiful area.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – the most popular day tour.
• Oxford and Cotswolds Villages – the best small-group tour.
• Stonehenge, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Bath, and Cotswolds – this tour is packed, but well organized and you get to see some of the best places in a very short time.

6. Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small medieval market town and also a very popular place to see near London. The birthplace of William Shakespeare is probably at the top of most people’s must-see lists and the main reason to visit here.

The timber-framed house on Henley Street is where Shakespeare not only spent part of his childhood but also the first 5 years of his marriage after his father’s death in 1601. Live presentations from guides dressed in period costumes and the carefully restored Tudor rooms bring history to life.

In the many Tudor-style buildings of Stratford, you’ll also find 3 theatres owned by The Royal Shakespeare Company. They perform plays by Shakespeare, his contemporaries, and other, later writers. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is situated on the banks of the River Avon, panoramic views of which can be enjoyed from the theatre’s tower.

Also on the River Avon is the Swan Theatre , built on the side of the Royal Theatre and offering a more intimate atmosphere. The third theatre – the Other Place – is smaller and used as a center for performing arts.

For a taste of old-fashioned romance, pay a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage a bit outside of town. This beautiful 500-year-old building was originally a farmhouse and was where William Shakespeare courted Anne, his future wife. Incredibly picturesque, the cottage still contains original features and furnishings and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Another must-see is the Hall’s Croft , the house of Shakespeare’s daughter, with stunning gardens. Inside, you can find original 16-17th-century furniture, paintings, and other items.

How to visit. Stratford-upon-Avon is about 100 miles (160 km), 2 hours drive from London. If you don’t have a car, the easiest way to visit here on a day trip from London is by joining a tour.

Best tours from London. Most tours visiting Stratford-upon-Avon from London combine it with other places nearby and only spend a few hours here. They usually include a guided walk in the town center and sometimes a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace.

Here is a small selection of the best day tours from London:

• Shakespeare’s Stratford & Cotswolds – this is one of the few tours that spend more time in Stratford and also visits Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. It also brings you to three villages in the Cotswolds.
• Oxford, Stratford, & Cotswolds – this popular tour spends about 2 hours in Stratford and covers more ground in a day.

7. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Fans of Harry Potter – and even those who have yet to experience the wizardly wonder of the movies – will enjoy a visit to the fascinating Warner Bros. studio near London . It’s one of the most popular day tours from London (after Windsor Castle), and a must if visiting London with kids .

Here, you can see firsthand some of the amazing sets used in the film’s production, including the Great Hall of Hogwarts (which went on to be used in 6 more films) and the Forbidden Forest filled with 19 trees, each with a diameter of over 12 feet. You can even see The Hogwarts Express locomotive at the elusive Platform 9¾.

There are prop rooms where you can take a close-up look at look at the elaborate props used in the Harry Potter movies. There are almost 2,000 potion jars and memory vials, all with labels hand-designed by the Graphics Department. You can also see Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, which took 3 months to build and was intended to look as much as possible as a real 18th-century storefront.

If you have an interest in the making of movies, you will enjoy other parts of the studio as well. The Special and Visual Effects section reveals how some of the more incredible scenes were created, including how Harry and his friends were made invisible by the Invisibility Cloak and how they appeared to fly! Even more captivating is the Creature Effects section, where you can learn how the magical creatures in the Harry Potter films were created and brought to life.

A visit to the Making of Harry Potter Studio provides a magical and educational experience for adults and children alike. If you are looking for a fun relaxing day trip near London, this is a great option for the whole family!

How to visit. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio is located in Leavesden, Watford, about 20 miles from London city center. But because of the busy traffic, it’s quite a long drive. There’s a train from London to Watford, from where you’ll have to take a bus to the studios – the journey will take you over 1 hour not counting the time to get to the station. There are also several companies offering bus transfers from London – see below.

Best tours from London. The easiest way to get to Harry Potter Studios is by booking a transfer or a tour from London. That way you don’t have to worry about the tickets either.

This highly-rated  Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour  departs from Victoria Station, close to Westminster Catedral in the city center. There is also a popular  tour that departs from King’s Cross . The prices are usually the same and include a bus transfer and tickets. You’ll need about 7-8 hours in total for this day trip.

PRO TIP: One of the most popular tours from London is this popular tour that includes a visit to the studios and also visits Oxford . It’s a truly magical day trip as Oxford is one of the places where Harry Potter movies were filmed.

8. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace , one of the Tudor Palaces, was the former royal residence of King Henry VIII. In addition to Windsor, this is another really nice place to visit near London, especially if you are a fan of royal history.

Hampton Court is a huge, impressive baroque-style palace located at the River Thames and surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland . If you visit in spring, you can see the magnificent tulip festival. But the gardens have something nice to offer in every season, and there are various events at the Palace throughout the year.

The interior of the castle gives you a chance to take a glimpse into the daily life of royals in the 16-17th centuries. You can visit the impressive State Rooms and private apartments of William III . Also, don’t miss the kitchens of Henry VIII , where over 200 people worked in the past, cooking and serving more than 800 meals per day.

Another highlight is the magnificent Great Hall that was originally a dining room, but afterwards became a sort of theatre that was used for entertainment, plays, and dances. Back in the day, William Shakespeare performed his plays here. The highlights here include a series of tapestries showing scenes from the Book of Genesis and the impressive timber roof with Anne Bollaine’s coat-of-arms.

This is also a very nice place to visit for families, with a maze in the garden, fantastic play areas for children, and plenty of places for a picnic. When the weather is nice, you could easily spend an entire day just exploring the gardens.

How to visit. Hampton Court Palace is located on the outskirts of London, about 15 miles southwest of the city center. You can easily visit Hampton Court Palace from London by train. There is a train from London Waterloo Station to Surbiton Station, and from there to Hampton Court. It takes about 40 minutes.

In addition, there are also several tours – see below.

Good to know: Hampton Court Palace entry is included with the London Pass .

Tours from London. Because Hampton Court is quite easy to get to and explore on your own, there aren’t many organized tours. The best ones are private tours like this one ; it combines a visit to Hampton Court Palace with that of Windsor Castle. That way, you get to see two of the most impressive royal palaces near London in one day.

There are also some nice bike tours or boat tours that explore the surroundings of Hampton, starting from different locations nearby.

9. Brighton & Seven Sisters

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London and see some of the stunning nature of England, then definitely consider a day trip to the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs . At the same time, you can also visit one of the UK’s nicest coastal cities – Brighton .

Brighton is worth a trip in its own right, with all the little pleasures that a lively seaside resort has to offer. If you have some time to spare, check out the Royal Pavilion , an Asian-style palace that looks like it belongs in an Indian fairytale…

But for a sightseeing day trip from London, you can also opt for something slightly different and explore some of the beautiful nature outside of town as well.

The rolling hills of the South Downs offer so much to explore and enjoy, with spectacular views and popular spots with their own unique legends. One of the most famous is that of the Devil’s Dyke , a v-shaped dry valley whose creation was attributed to the work of the devil himself (although, as you will see, it’s far too beautiful for that!). The South Downs is also home to the Long Man of Wilmington – a 235 ft tall chalk figure on the side of a grassy hill and one of only two human hill figures in England.

Be sure to check out Beachy Head , which – at 535 feet – is the highest chalk cliff on the southern coast of England. From the top, you can see miles of coastline in either direction, plus the candy-striped lighthouse that sits just out to sea. Nearby is the Birling Gap – one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. Here you can see coastal erosion firsthand, with the cliffs eroding up to a meter a year at certain points.

Another highlight of any visit to the South Downs is the Seven Sisters – an undulating line of white chalk cliffs, each hill with its own name. They are best viewed from Seaford Head , where you can see evidence of an 8th hill beginning to form from the erosion of the sea.

TIP: Any visit to the Downs must include a visit to the popular Middle Farm , which offers such delicacies as local cheese, sparkling wines, and traditional Sussex cider.

How to visit. South Downs and the Seven Sisters are located near Brighton in south England. While you can easily get to Brighton by train from London, you’ll need a car for the other places. The best way to visit is with a tour – see below.

Best tours from London. There are just a few tours from London that visit this area. The best option is this highly-rated tour that includes a train ticket from London to Brighton and a small-group minibus tour of the sights along the coast. If you prefer to make your own way to Brighton, you can also book the same tour starting in Brighton .

TIP: If you rather book a private tour, there is one tour that offers a pick-up in your hotel in London and covers all these sights in and around Brighton.

10. Cambridge

Less than an hour by train from London, Cambridge is another beautiful town to visit for a day. Just as Oxford, it’s probably best known for its centuries-old University, and this beautiful town has lots of well-preserved historic buildings. But this medieval city is also a student town and has a very nice, relaxed atmosphere.

Don’t miss the King’s College Chapel , Queen’s College , Trinity College, and Wren Library . You can also climb to the top of the tower of Great St Mary’s Church for nice views over the city.

In addition to exploring the many colleges in the city (there are 31! of them), be sure to walk along the River Cam ! Also Cambridge has its own Bridge of Sighs . This covered bridge at St John’s College spans over the river and is a favorite photo spot for weddings as well as tourists visiting the town.

Other nice bridges worth seeing in Cambridge are the Mathematical Bridge , Clare College Bridge , King’s College Bridge , and there are many others.

A great way to explore the beautiful river, see the bridges, the town, and the surroundings is a punt tour . This traditional boat ride is a very typical thing to do in Cambridge – don’t miss it!

How to visit. Cambridge is just over 60 miles (95 km) north of London, and the easiest way to visit is by taking a direct train from King’s Cross Station in London. It takes less than 50 minutes, so you can easily visit Cambridge on your own, without a tour.

Once in Cambridge, you can take a walking tour with a local or explore on your own. The earlier mentioned punt tours on the river are also not to be missed.

Best tours from London. If you rather visit Cambridge with a tour from London, there are several options as well. We recommend this 2-in-1 tour that visits Cambridge and Oxford . That way, you get to see two university towns in one day.

11. Canterbury Cathedral & Leeds Castle

While Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral are over 20 miles apart, these two landmarks don’t require that much time and so are usually visited on the same day. In fact, they are usually combined with a short visit to Dover too, but more about it further below.

After a visit to Leeds Castle , you will not be able to help but agree with Lord Conway, who described it as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’. With a romantic, fairy-tale appearance, this 12th-century gem was built in the center of a natural lake, surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland.

Leeds Castle was once used as a palace by Henry VIII and the private property of six medieval queens. Its rooms have been beautifully restored and give you the opportunity to learn all about its long and fascinating history.

In addition to the Lady Baillie Garden, which gives stunning views across the lake, the grounds also hold one of Kent’s most popular mazes, with 2,400 yew trees. Once you reach the maze’s center, a fascinating underground grotto takes you back to the real world!

One of the most famous and picturesque Christian buildings in England, Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597, then extensively rebuilt from 1070 to 1077. It is the Cathedral of the leader of the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and is still used for active worship.

The Cathedral contains the shrine of Archbishop Thomas Becket and you can stand on the spot upon which he was murdered, as told in Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous ‘Canterbury Tales’.

Also the medieval town center of Canterbury, with its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses, is a nice place to see if you have more time. It’s a popular day trip from London for locals. Also here, you can take traditional boat tours on the river.

How to visit. Unless you have a car, the easiest way to visit Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral is by taking a tour. If you just visit one of these places, you could also get there by public transport. For Leeds Castle, you have to take a train to Ashford, followed by a bus trip to the castle. For Canterbury, there’s a direct train from London, and you can make a nice relaxing day trip by visiting this picturesque town.

Best tours from London. There are several tours from London that visit these places. You can find them here and they are all quite similar in terms of itinerary.

12. White Cliffs of Dover & Dover Castle

“There’ll be bluebirds over the white cliffs of Dover” went the words to the popular wartime song – and if you’re familiar with the song then it’s quite incredible to see the inspiring white cliffs for yourself. If you are looking for something different to see near London than historic towns and villages, Dover is a wonderful place to visit!

Composed of chalk, Dover’s cliffs are 350 ft high and stretch for 8 miles. They were on the front line of both world wars and were a critical part of England’s defenses at that time. Now, they provide wonderful views across the surrounding countryside and the English Channel. On clear days you can even look across and see France!

The unique chalky grassland habitat of the cliffs means that they are abundant in wildlife and you can see all sorts of flowers, butterflies, and birds as you walk, including the rarely spotted peregrine falcon.

You can either spend your visit simply enjoying the cliff-top views, or take a short trip to see Dover Castle too. Dover Castle is one of England’s biggest castles and was built in 1066 by William the Conqueror. Ironically, he built it to stop anyone from invading the country using the way in which he’d invaded it himself!

A visit to the Castle includes exploration of the tunnels that go deep into the cliffs, where you can learn all about the dramatic evacuation from Dunkirk and see the Underground Hospital that was used to treat injured soldiers in WWII.

How to visit. Dover is about 80 miles southeast of London. You can take a direct train to Dover from London and visit the town and the castle, and take a walk along the shore from where you can admire the beautiful white cliffs. Alternatively, you can also visit here with some day tours from London – see below.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that visit Dover from London, usually in combination with a few other places and Dover is often not more than a short photo stop. Here are the most popular day tours:

• Dover, Leeds Castle & Canterbury Cathedral – the most popular and best price/quality tour from London.
• Dover, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Greenwich – quite a full day, but you get to see a lot in a short time.

13. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a very impressive country house in Woodstock, about 65 miles northwest of London. This is England’s only non-royal country house that actually holds the title of a palace.

The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill currently the home of the 12th Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace is a stunning example of 18th-century Baroque architecture. During your visit, you will see the magnificent staterooms, which are filled with priceless works of art and beautiful tapestries. A grade I listed building and World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace also contains the finest collection of antiques to be found anywhere in Europe.

The gardens – set within over 754 hectares of land – are particularly wonderful to explore. Designed by the English landscape architect Capability Brown, there are several formal gardens to enjoy. Don’t miss the Rose Garden, the exquisite Water Terraces, the Secret Gardens, and the family-friendly Pleasure Gardens.

Historical monuments can be seen throughout, including the Column of Victory (built to commemorate the Duke of Marlborough’s military successes), the Grand Bridge which spans the two lakes and The Temple of Diana, where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to his future wife.

There are also a few recommended walks to take. Possibly the most beautiful is The Lake and Grand Cascade walk, which gives you breathtaking views of the countryside.

Good to know: The Palace and the grounds are so big and have so much to offer that you can easily spend an entire day here. In fact, many people find that one day isn’t even enough and many locals get a yearly pass for the Palace. However, many tours only spend a few hours here and just cover the main highlights. So how to visit depends on what you want to see and do here.

How to visit. The easiest way to visit Blenheim Palace is by car or with a tour, but you can also get here by public transport. From London Paddington Station, take a train to Hanborough (a bit over 1 hour), and from there, take a bus to the palace (it takes 7-10 minutes). If you want to spend an entire day at the palace, this is the best way to visit on a day trip from London.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that shortly visit Blenheim Palace from London. The best tour that spends more time at Palace is this Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds tour. This tour also includes a few short photo stops at other popular locations nearby.

14. Downton Abbey Filming Locations

Downton Abbey filming locations close to Oxford and the Cotswolds make another popular day trip destination from London. There are two main places that you’ll want to see here – Bampton village and Highclere Castle .

Highclere Castle is a beautiful building and another fine example of luxurious life in the English countryside. It has been used for various film sets but became hugely popular since the filming of the TV series Downton Abbey . It’s now a very popular place to visit from Oxford or from London. The castle belongs to the Carnarvon family and is kept as it is, without turning it into a ‘theme park’ like some other castles in the area.

Another must-see for Downton Abbey fans is the beautiful village of Bampton . You’ll recognize many of the buildings here from the series, and it’s great fun to try to spot them during your visit!

Be sure to locate the home of Isobel Crawley, the church (actually named St. Mary’s), two fictional pubs – the Grantham Arms and the Dog and Duck – plus the Downton Cottage Hospital. The building used for the hospital is, in reality, the Bampton Community Archive, which houses a collection of old photos of the village and its people.

Bampton is a lovely village to visit in its own right. It is mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086 and was already a large settlement during the era of the Norman Conquest. On the other hand, it’s so small that you don’t need much time here.

How to visit. Highclere Castle is located about 65 miles (105 km) west of London, whereas Bampton village is about 30-40 miles from here, very close to Oxford. The best way to visit these places is either by car or by taking a tour.

Best tours from London. There are several tours visiting Downton Abbey filming locations from London. Some of the tours also visit Oxford, some others pass several villages of Cotswolds as well. This tour has the most complete itinerary covering most of the Downton Abbey filming locations.

The picturesque village of Lacock in rural Wiltshire near Bath is another place often visited on day tours from London. It’s a small village and you don’t need much time here, but it’s well worth a stop if touring the area.

The historic village of Lacock looks much as it did two centuries ago. Founded in the Saxon era, Lacock’s buildings originally made up part of a monastery complex (be sure to visit Lacock Abbey !). In the 19th century, it lost its main source of income from the wool industry, so very little development has taken place since then.

This means that this unspoiled little village gives an authentic look into days gone by. In fact, you can still see an old workhouse and medieval tithe barn in addition to the traditional stone cottages, with classic English pubs dotted throughout.

The village’s beauty makes it a popular choice as a TV and film location. Scenes from Pride and Prejudice were filmed here and Lacock Abbey was also used to film parts of Harry Potter.

Lacock was also used in Downtown Abbey, but because of its location, it’s usually a place you’d visit in combination with Bath and Stonehenge and not together with Highclere castle or Bampton. Unless you drive – in that case, you could make your own tour covering all three.

How to visit. Because of its rural location, Lacock is best visited by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. There are many tours that stop in Lacock, usually in combination with a visit to Bath, Stonehenge, sometimes also with Windsor Castle. This is the most popular tour that also brings you to Lacock (in addition to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath).

16. Warwick Castle

If you want to visit a real medieval castle near London, consider a day trip to Warwick Castle . With a history that goes back over 1000 years, a visit here takes you on a journey back in time, to a world of historic myths and battles for the English throne, but also lavish banquets, and royal splendor.

The castle was originally built as a wooden fort in 1068 and was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century. As you arrive, you enter over the footbridge and find an impressive medieval castle with ramparts and towers. You can climb the stairs of the castle walls and explore this impressive castle inside out.

A visit to Warwick Castle is very different than the others mentioned in this guide – it has something of a theme park feel if you like. There are various events, shows, attractions, archery and sword lessons, and lots of other fun experiences all year round.

This is one of those places where locals visit with their children during weekends and school holidays, but it’s also fun and entertaining for tourists. Even more so if you are traveling with a family.

How to visit. Warwick Castle is located about 100 miles (160km), 2 hours drive from London. If you want to spend more time at the castle, by far the easiest way to visit Warwick from London for a day is by train.

There are direct trains from London Marylebone Station to Warwick Railway Station, the journey takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, it’s about 20-30 minutes walk to the castle. Be sure to check the official website of the castle for more info and book your tickets in advance!

Best tours from London. Most tours from London that visit Warwick Castle do this in combination with Oxford and Stratford. Some also stop at one or two villages in the Cotswolds. Here you can find a selection of tours that include a visit to Warwick Castle .

17. Liverpool & The Beatles

While not exactly next door, we feel that Liverpool also deserves a mention as a place that you can visit on a day trip from London. If you are a fan of The Beatles , a visit here is a bucket-list experience and well worth the journey.

A visit to Liverpool gives a fascinating look into the lives and times of 4 local lads who formed what would become one of the most famous bands in the world. A good starting point from which to enjoy this vibrant Victorian city is the Royal Albert Dock, which is made up of refurbished dock warehouses and is now packed with restaurants, cafes, and many attractions.

The Beatles Story is an award-winning, permanent exhibition totally devoted to the Fab Four! Located on the Dock, it contains lots of authentic memorabilia and provides an immersive experience for visitors. Even children are catered for in the Exhibitions Discovery Zone. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance !

Another interesting part of the visit for die-hard Beatles fans is the Magical Mystery Tour , which you take via a colorful tour bus that sets off from the Royal Albert Dock. In addition to the birthplaces, homes, schools, and original workplaces of the Beatles, you will also see the places that inspired some of their greatest hits, including Penny Lane and Strawberry Field.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool

How to visit. The best way to visit Liverpool as a day trip from London is by taking a train (going by car would be about 4 hours one way). The journey by train takes 2 – 2.5 hours and there are many trains throughout the day, but be sure to book in advance and start your day as early as possible!

Once in Liverpool, you can take the earlier-mentioned Magical Mystery bus tour. Definitely visit the Beatles Story exhibition as well!

TIP: If you find it overwhelming to arrange everything yourself, you can also book a day tour to Liverpool from London. Most of these ‘tours’ are actually individual trips where everything from train tickets to all activities is pre-arranged for you. See below.

Best tours from London. This Liverpool and The Beatles day tour is the most popular and probably the best option. It includes reserved train seats, an entry to the Beatles Story exhibition, and also a ticket to the 2-hour Magical Mystery Tour!

Good to know: The above-mentioned tour from London to Liverpool starts at Euston Station in London and is normally available every day except Sundays. You’ll have to meet their representative at the station at 6.30 AM, so prepare for this to be a long day!

LEARN MORE: How to Plan a Day Trip to Liverpool from London

Map of the best places to visit as a day trip from London & practical info

To give you a better idea of where all these places are located, we created a map indicating all the best day trip destinations from London mentioned in this guide. You can click on the map below in order to see it on Google Maps.

Good to know: As already mentioned, many of the most popular day trip destinations from London can be visited with organized tours or by train .

We don’t recommend renting a car if you are staying in London – the traffic is so busy in and around the city that it would be a nightmare for someone who’s not used to it. Renting a car would only make sense if you are planning a longer road trip, outside of the cities.

For organized tours , we recommend booking via the GetYourGuide website . They have a great selection of tours at the most competitive rates and the best cancelation policy and customer service out there. We personally book all tickets and tours via this website when we travel anywhere in the world.

So, this is our guide to some of the most popular day trips and tours from London. I hope that this helps you choose a few nice places to visit near London and make your trip even more memorable.

For more travel inspiration for London and the UK, please see our featured articles below. Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for London:

• Must-see in London: Top London Attractions
• Hidden Gems of London
• Camden Market
• What to See in Camden Town
• Best Views in London
• London Travel Tips
• Where to Stay in London
• 1 Day in London
• 2-day London Itinerary
• London with Kids
• Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Painted Hall
• Queen’s House and Tulip Stairs

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Cities: Best Cities to Visit in the UK
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & The Beatles in Liverpool
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1-day Manchester Itinerary
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh: Top Places to See in Edinburgh & One Day in Edinburgh & Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow
• Seaside: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Blackpool Travel Tips & Places to See Near Blackpool
• …for more destinations, check our UK travel guide .
• Read also: How to Plan a Trip to Europe

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Lacinda Mena

Tuesday 2nd of May 2023

I am traveling with a group of six. We would like to depart London on September 4 and view Stonehedge, Windsor, and Bath on our way to Southampton. Do you know of any tours that would offer this service?

Hi Lacinda, no, I don't personally know any tours that offer this kind of service. I found this private tour that visits all the places that you mentioned from London. It's one of the cheapest and best-rated tours in its kind. However, I'm not sure if they wouldn't mind dropping you off somewhere else. You could probably book it and then contact them and ask what is possible. If it's not what you are looking for, you can cancel it. I see that the tour has free cancelation, so that's how I would do it. Otherwise, try to search the internet for private drivers and ask for a quote. Good luck!

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

Amazing blog! Was looking for something like this for my trip to London in a few days, and this has been really useful information; the detail with which you describe are amazing. Plus the alternatives to get there and the map, loved it all! Thanks for taking the time.

Thursday 27th of April 2023

Glad to help and thanks a lot for taking the time to leave this kind feedback, Alex! Have a great trip!

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Awesome! Thanks for the info!

Saturday 4th of February 2023

This was great information. Thanks

Monday 6th of February 2023

Glad to help. Have a great time in the UK!

Thursday 15th of December 2022

Love this blog!!! I am planning a trip to London with my son in February! This is exactly the information we are looking for! Super helpful!!

Friday 16th of December 2022

Glad to help, Holley. Have a great time in London!

Escape to the Countryside: 15 Cities Near London to Explore

Have you ever visited London? If No, then don’t worry; with the various resources along with our team, who are passionate about travelling and trips will share all the details of London along with the top 15 cities near London that you can visit for enjoyment. However, there are cities near London, and after reading this article, you will not resist visiting London.

Cities Near London

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and cities near London with outstanding old towns, gardens, buildings, and more. The city is defined as a tourist place with the best cultural activities, food, and bar.

Many festivals are arranged in the city; their heritage and whisky walks are the best. Moreover, if you love to visit in the cold, January and February are the best for you, with a temperature of 1.5c.

Glasgow is a city in Scotland near London, and it is famous for its Museum and its, thriving music scene, historic architecture, and food. With neoclassical architecture, the school of art is the best example of education, and I don’t have to share more about them.

The city has the most professional people, traditional people, and modern life. However, how can I forget that this is the 2nd most affordable city in London?

Newcastle is a vibrant city in the North East of England, famous for its iconic bridges, lively nightlife, and friendly locals. The best time to visit Newcastle is during the summer when the city hosts various festivals and events, including the annual Newcastle Pride and the Great North Run.

Foodies will love the diverse culinary scene in Newcastle, which offers everything from traditional British pub grub to international cuisine.

Whether exploring the city’s rich history and architecture or simply enjoying its friendly atmosphere and lively culture, there’s always something to discover in Newcastle.

Cardiff is one of the busiest and most vibrant cities in the UK, with a lively atmosphere and various attractions to suit all tastes. The city is known for its warm hospitality and friendly locals, making it a popular destination for visitors worldwide.

Cardiff offers a wealth of sights and attractions, including the iconic Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and the stunning Millennium Centre.

How can I forget the cultural scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and music venues showcasing various performances and events throughout the year.

Bath is the most beautiful and historical city in southwest England; the town is famous for its stunning Georgian architecture, natural hot springs, and rich cultural heritage.

Hiking, cycling, and horseback riding are the most common things you can do for outdoor activities when visiting. Whether indulging in a luxurious spa treatment, exploring the city’s rich history and architecture, or simply loving the relaxed and friendly atmosphere, Bath is a city for you.

If you are visiting London and looking for the nearest city then oxford is the best one for you, it takes only 1 hour to reach London. The city is famous for its education, as we all know, oxford university.

However, the city is also renowned for its documented history, culture, and sightseeing activity, which many people can visit in a year.

Along with education, it has historic buildings, libraries, and more. So If you are looking for the nearest trip to London, then oxford is a great one for you.

Yorkshire is a county in northern England known for its historic British buildings and architecture as we know. However, It’s also famous for its contributions to the world of cricket and its production of high-quality steel.

The people of Yorkshire are known for their hospitality, warm welcome to visitors and unique sense of humour. Moreover, Local food in Yorkshire includes delicious specialities like Yorkshire pudding and Wensleydale cheese.

Also, Smaller market towns throughout the county are popular destinations for visitors looking to experience the charm and character of Yorkshire life.

Read More: Restaurant in Milford on Sea

Manchester is a major city in northwest England known for its vibrant culture, history, and architecture. The City is famous for its industrial heritage, particularly in cotton and textiles, and its world-class football teams.

Manchester is also renowned for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues attracting visitors from all over the world. Local cuisine includes traditional dishes like Manchester tart and barm cakes and a range of international cuisines.

The City has many iconic buildings and landmarks, including the historic Manchester Town Hall and the modern Beetham Tower.

Brighton is a vibrant seaside city on the south coast of England, known for its lively atmosphere and entertainment options. The City is a popular destination for visitors looking for a fun and exciting place to explore, with various activities, including shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Brighton is also famous for its iconic pier, which offers stunning coastline views and a range of amusements and attractions. Located just a short train ride away from the hustle and bustle of London, Brighton offers a great escape from the crazy city life while still offering plenty of excitement and entertainment.

Finally, Brighton is a fun and lively destination for visitors looking to experience British seaside culture and entertainment.

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland, located on the country’s east coast. The City has a rich and complex history, with many significant landmarks and attractions related to the Troubles and the peace process.

Belfast is also an excellent destination for visitors exploring Irish culture, with various traditional music, dance, and food options available. The City is home to many beautiful parks, green spaces, and a vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and shops.

The City is identified as a vibrant city; it has a rich maritime history, with many beautiful harbourside attractions and landmarks. Bristol is also an excellent destination for visitors exploring art, music, and culture, with various festivals and events throughout the year.

Local cuisine includes specialities like Bristol Blue glass, cider, and Clifton sausage. There are many things to do for outside activity in bristol, and the bath is near Bristol city, so if you are planning to bathe for a trip, remember to go to bristol.

Inverness is a beautiful Scottish Highlands city known for its stunning natural scenery and rich history. The City is a popular destination for visitors exploring the Scottish countryside, with many outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Inverness is also home to many historic landmarks, including the beautiful Inverness Castle and St. Andrew’s Cathedral. One of the City’s most famous natural sights is Loch Ness, which is said to be home to the mythical creature known as the Loch Ness Monster.

Liverpool is famous for its rich maritime history and vibrant cultural scene. The City is home to iconic landmarks such as the Liverpool Cathedral and the Royal Albert Dock, which is now a popular tourist attraction.

The City is also known for being the birthplace of the Beatles, and visitors can explore their legacy at the Beatles Story museum. Moreover, Liverpool is a thriving cultural hub with a diverse range of museums, galleries, and live music venues.

Cambridge is a city in eastern England known for its prestigious university and beautiful architecture. One of the best ways to explore the university is by bicycle, which allows visitors to see many historic colleges up close.

The City is also known for its connection to the stone industry, as it has been a centre for quarrying and stoneworking for centuries. Visitors can see examples of this in the stunning stone buildings and structures throughout the City, such as the iconic King’s College Chapel.

Additionally, the City is home to many museums and galleries, including the Fitzwilliam Museum, which houses a world-class collection of art and antiquities.

Greenwich is known for its maritime history and royal connections. It is home to the Royal Observatory, which is the location of the Prime Meridian and Greenwich Mean Time.

Visitors can stand on the Meridian Line and explore the museum’s collection of historic telescopes and other astronomical instruments.

The district is also home to the Cutty Sark, a historic sailing ship, and the National Maritime Museum, which exhibits Britain’s naval history. Moreover, Greenwich has a vibrant cultural scene, with theatres, art galleries, and markets showcasing the area’s diverse cuisine and crafts.

FAQ | Cities Near London

What towns are close to London?

There are several towns close to London, including Slough, Windsor, Watford, and Reading.

What towns are 30 minutes from London?

Towns that are approximately 30 minutes from London by train include Croydon, Bromley, and Dartford.

What cities are an hour away from London?

Cities that are about an hour away from London by train or car include Cambridge, Oxford, Brighton, and Southampton.

Which are the 10 UK cities closest to London?

The 10 UK cities closest to London are Reading, Luton, Slough, Southend-on-Sea, Crawley, St Albans, Chelmsford, High Wycombe, Guildford, and Bracknell.

Which is the cheap city near London?

Some of the cheaper cities near London include Croydon, Luton, and Slough. However, prices can vary depending on several factors, including location and availability.

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s Top Places to Visit Near London

Today I want to share my top picks for places to visit near London with you. From day trips to weekend getaways, scenic drives to stately homes, there are a lot of spots you can go to escape the city and enjoy other parts of Britain. Whether you’re into the seaside or the countryside, the coast or castles, this guide has a destination (or three) you’ll love.

Places to Visit Near London

I’ve published a lot of blog posts about places to visit near London since I moved to the UK over a decade ago. Today I want to pull them all together into one easy-to-access place. I hope it inspires you to explore more of the UK.

You can bookmark it or pin it on Pinterest for easy reference if you want to.

Day Trips from London

Since they’re the easiest, I’ll start my guide to places to visit near London with day trips.

I’ve written about 15 day trips from London , 17 more day trips from London , day trips from London by car , day trips from London by train , cheap day trips from London , beach day trips from London , seaside day trips from London , scenic drives near London , and more.

I’ve also published blog posts about seasonal day trips from London. I’ve covered summer day trips from London , autumn day trips from London , winter day trips from London , and spring day trips from London .

If there’s a particular time of year you’re looking for places to visit near London, they have you covered.

I’ve also written a lot of posts about specific day trips from London.

From Brighton to Oxford , Cambridge , Ramsgate , Hastings , Deal , Winchester , Ely , the New Forest , Windsor Castle , and the Cotswolds , there’s no shortage of places you can read about on the A Lady in London blog.

If you want to find a specific destination you’re interested in, you can use the search box to find it. The box is on the sidebar of the blog if you’re on desktop and at the bottom if you’re on mobile.

If you prefer tours, I’ve reviewed plenty of day tours to places to visit near London. From an Oxford and Cotswolds day tour with Rabbie’s to a Warwick Castle and Stratford-upon-Avon tour , I’ve covered a lot.

They’re great if you want to visit places like the Cotswolds without a car , as transportation is included.

There’s a lot more about these and other places in the beautiful book Escape London: Days Out within Easy Reach of London . You can get it here .

Weekend Trips from London

I’ve also published blog posts about places to visit near London for a weekend. I’ve written about weekend trips in the UK , weekend getaways from London , and more.

And as with day trips, I’ve published seasonal posts about weekend trips from London .

I’ve covered an autumn weekend in the Cotswolds , a spring weekend in the Cotswolds , a summer weekend in Wales , a summer weekend in Hampshire , a winter weekend in Wales , a winter weekend in Rye , a winter weekend in the Cotswolds , and more.

I’ve published lots of blog posts about specific weekend trips to places to visit near London, too. From West Sussex to Norfolk , Cambridge , Stratford-upon-Avon , the Wye Valley , and Bath , I’ve covered a range of places.

If you want to read more about a destination you’re interested in, you can use the search box on the blog to find it.

There are a lot more ideas in the book 52 Great British Weekends , too. You can get it here .

Longer Breaks Near London

If you want to go away for more than a weekend, I’ve written about a number of places to visit near London that I’ve been to for three or more days. They’re great for bank holiday weekends or week-long getaways.

From Southwold with its great beaches to Surrey with its beautiful countryside, there are a lot of easy travel destinations close to London.

I’ve also reviewed a small-group tour of southwest England with Rabbie’s that includes places like Stonehenge , Durdle Door , Exeter , Glastonbury , Bath , and destinations in Devon like Tavistock and Dartmoor. It’s perfect for seeing a lot in one trip.

If you want more ideas, you can take a look at my blog posts about 3-day trips from London and 4-day trips from London .

Themed Places to Visit Near London

If you’re interested in a particular theme when it comes to places to visit near London, you’ll find an abundance on the A Lady in London blog.

I’ve published posts about country walks near London , stately homes near London , places to go to the seaside near London , and castles near London .

If you like urban areas, I’ve written about the best cities in England . If you enjoy the countryside, I’ve written about beautiful places in England , a lavender field near London , and National Trust Cotswolds properties.

If you love village charm, I’ve published posts about the prettiest villages in England , the best villages in Wiltshire , and the top Cotswolds villages .

And if you’re into literature, you can find posts about literary places to visit in England and Jane Austen locations .

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to places to visit near London and that it’s inspired you to discover more of Britain.

If you want to go further afield, take a look at my blog post about the best places to visit in the UK . Happy travels!

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The 5 Most Scenic Small Towns Near London

London is a fast-paced metropolis with an endless wealth of culture, nightlife, and history to explore. If you can’t keep up, we highly recommend taking a few days outside the city visiting some of the picturesque villages close by to refuel your energy reserves. London’s M25 ring road gives you quick access to the surrounding counties, countryside, and coastline. Here we give you five of our top small towns near London that are within easy reach.

1. Alfriston, East Sussex

• 2. Castle Hedingham, Essex

3. Dungeness, Kent

4. stratford-upon-avon, warwickshire.

• 5. Ely, Cambridgeshire

Alfriston is your quintessential chocolate box English village complete with half-timber houses and thatched cottages. Many of the buildings date to the 14th century, such as St. Andrews Church, and strong evidence of ancient occupation has been found throughout the town. There are three great traditional English pubs and the town is situated on the scenic River Cuckmere, great for walks and swimming. To reach Alfriston from London take the A23 south towards Brighton. The town is 66 miles from the center of London.

2. Castle He dingham, Essex

Castle Hedingham is 63 miles in the opposite direction to the north on the M11 and A120. The town features one of the best-preserved Norman castles in the whole country and is open to the public from Easter until October. The town also features many half-timber medieval buildings and the historic Colne Valley Railway.

Dungeness is a hamlet and dramatic headland in Kent. It was the home of artist Derek Jarman and many people come here to see his beautiful but simple house and garden that has been preserved since his death. The Old Lighthouse is magnificent and the low-lying shingle, shacks, and shipwrecks strewn on the beaches give the headland an eerie and dramatic atmosphere. You can reach Dungeness from London in just under 2 hours on the M20 south.

Shakespeare fans flock to Stratford-upon-Avon to visit his birthplace. It is a beautiful riverbank town with many historic buildings tracing the life of the bard. The River Avon Trail provides picturesque walks along the riverbank and is a great way to tour the town. You can reach Stratford-upon-Avon by traveling north on the M40 for 100 miles and the journey takes around two hours.

5. Ely, Cambridgeshire

Ely is famous for its magnificent cathedral and stunning Fenlands, or marshy coastal plain, surround the town. The cathedral is a must-see for its fascinating history and stunning architecture. The town features many listed historic buildings, like Oliver Cromwell’s House, now a tourist center with information about his life. We also highly recommend a trip to the Stained Glass Museum and to absorb some local history at the Ely Museum. The town itself has some fantastic English pubs and teahouses and you can take walks on the Fens wetlands via boardwalk trails on the Wicken Fens National Nature Reserve. Ely is just over 80 miles north of London and can be reached in just under two hours on the M11 motorway.

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The 16 best seaside towns to visit near London

The Thames not big enough for you? Upgrade your summer days by the water in one of these cute coastal towns near London

When the sun shines, unimaginative Londoners head straight to the nearest beer garden  or patch of grass to soak up some rays. But with a little planning, it’s perfectly easy to slink off a little further afield and upgrade your patch in the park to a seaside deckchair. 

The UK’s wild and sweeping coastline is peppered with pretty little towns – some of which are surprisingly close to London.  Don’t be fooled by the small stature of these seaside spots – they’re packed with plenty of things to do , see, eat, drink and explore. Here are the best seaside towns near London: they’re kitsch, cool and perfect for flip-flopping your way through a day of salty, sandy fun. Plus, the coast's arty renaissance means that many of them boast galleries galore for rainy day exploring. 

And for adventures further afield, check out our comprehensive guide to the UK’s best and coolest seaside towns .

RECOMMENDED: The best  beaches near London

An email you’ll actually love

16 seaside towns near London

1.  Whitstable, Kent

What’s the vibe: Chocolate-box seaside town with a modern, indie undercurrent. 

Why go: The Kent coast is dotted with pretty towns, and Whistable is among the best. With its pastel-painted shop fronts, long shingle beach and seaside restaurants selling locally farmed oysters and the freshest seafood, the fishing town is tailor-made for weekend getaways. 

Don’t miss : The Lobster Shack  is a charming seafront spot to crack into a fresh lobster or shuck the famous local oysters. 

Get there: One hour 30 minutes by train from London Victoria to Whitstable; around two hours by car. 

2.  Margate, Kent

What’s the vibe? Shabby chic, with a growing emphasis on the chic.

Why go? City vibes meet coastal relaxation in Margate. Attractions are plentiful, including Japanese-inspired restaurant Mori Mori, retro funfair Dreamland, uber-cool skincare shop Haeckels and the Shell Grotto, where 4.6 million shells create spectacular murals in a subterranean chamber. Oh, and the Turner Contemporary’s pretty awesome too. 

Don’t miss: Margate’s newest attraction, Margate Caves, is an eighteenth-century chalk mine decorated with unusual carvings and paintings. The caves have been used as a wine store and an air-raid shelter, and now they’re the seaside’s shadiest spot. 

Get there: One hour 30 minutes by train from London St Pancras to Margate; around two hours by car. 

3.  Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex

What’s the vibe? Laidback wildlife haven lined with golden sandy beaches.  

Why go? If gaudy amusements aren’t your thing, this quiet town is a rustic seaside paradise. Think unpretentious caffs and tea shops, b ric-à-brac emporiums, and colourful beach huts. While there’s not much in the way of entertainment - Naze Tower, a historic 86ft-tall cylinder with a small art gallery and museum is about it in the way of culture - nature’s the real draw here. Unspoiled headland The Naze is a wildlife haven, cliffs crumble away to reveal a treasure trove of fossils, and the backwaters around the estuary are ribboned with scenic walking trails. 

Don’t miss Hop onboard one of the regular wildlife boat trips. Guided by experts, it’s a chance to spot the resident seal population. 

Get there Two hours and 10 minutes by train from Liverpool Street Station; Around two hours by car. 

4.  Southend-on-Sea, Essex

What’s the vibe?  Nostalgic seaside fun with an arty undercurrent.

Why go? Essex ’s finest offers unbeatable seaside fare, from amusements and fairgrounds to ice-cream parlour Tomassi’s (which does the kind of towering, cream-topped and cherry-studded sugar bombs that are all too rare in twenty-first-century society) and old school chippies. But you’ll also find a new breed of ambitious seasonal eateries, like Aurum and The Pipe of Port. Plus, like Margate before it, a new arty set is bringing culture here in spades. Head to Focal Point Gallery for cutting edge exhibitions.

Don’t miss  At over one mile long, Southend is home to the world's longest pier. Stroll down to the restored Pier Head to see the ships coming in and out of the estuary, stopping by the cafe, sun deck, gift shop, and exhibition space on the way. 

Get there One hour and 15 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street; just under two hours by car. 

5.  Leigh-on-Sea, Essex

What’s the vibe? Tiny, sweet and quintessentially English. 

Why go? Old Leigh’s main street is lined with cheerful cafés, a gallery, a pottery studio, a couple of restaurants and plenty of pubs. Just around the corner on the seafront are cockle sheds, working boats and passing tankers out at sea. At the west end, a tiny sandy beach gives way to a muddy gulch when the tide goes out – kids love it, but parents might want to take some spare clothes and a plastic bag for the journey home. 

Don’t miss Sara's Tea Garden is a gorgeous spot for a scone, sandwich, or cuppa in a plant-filled courtyard .

Get there Just under fifty minutes by train from Fenchurch Street station; Around two hours by car. 

6.  Folkestone, Kent

What’s the vibe? A former seaport that’s way cooler than you think.

Why go? For almost 15 years now, Folkestone has been trying its damnedest to shed its image as a dreary Channel ferry port. An art triennial? Sure! The founding of an official Creative Quarter up the steep and curvy Old High Street? Yes, please! Nowadays the old Harbour Arm hosts street food stalls instead of cross-Channel hulks, and there are multiple actually-very-trendy restaurants. Add in the longer established pleasures of the massive Leas coastal park and one of the south coast’s few sandy beaches (even if the latter vanishes at high tide) and you’ve got yourself a real sleeper hit of a seaside town.

Don’t miss A glass of champers from the converted lighthouse at the end of the Harbour Arm. Look out for dolphins!  

Get there Around an hour by train from London St Pancras; Two hours by car. 

7.  Herne Bay, Kent

What’s the vibe? Nostalgic bucket-and-spade jollies.

Why go? Unlike its trendy neighbours, Herne Bay is relatively untouched by the trendy hordes of London. But what it lacks in style it makes up for with unspoilt beaches, charming traditional cafés and a recently jazzed-up pier. 

Don’t miss: The Vintage Empire Tearoom for outrageous cakes and doorstop sandwiches amidst the kooky retro glamour. 

Get there: One hour 20 minutes by train from London St Pancras International to Herne Bay; around one hour 40 minutes by car.

8.  Manningtree, Essex

What’s the vibe? A classy, historic hangout with winding ancient streets and a forward-thinking foodie scene.

Why go? Manningtree  is thought to be the smallest town in England, but don’t let its size fool you. Steeped in history, its Georgian high streets have hardly changed since they were built and, even further back, it's famous for its links to gruesome witch hunts. Nowadays, the time-worn streets are peppered with independent shops and eateries, like Townsends bookshop, Italian bistro Lucca Enoteca, and record and natural wine shop Winyl, as well as arty spots like North House Gallery. 

Don’t miss Sprawled over 60 acres, Wrabness Nature Reserve is a charming patch of green with stunning views over the Stour Estuary. Follow the coastline through the reserve and up to Wrabness where you’ll find Grayson Perry’s ‘House for Essex’. 

Get there One hour by train from Liverpool Street station; two hours by car.

9.  Broadstairs, Kent

What’s the vibe? 1950s seaside innocence, with liberal splashes of Farrow & Ball.

Why go? Super-cute Broadstairs has something for everyone. On the one hand the sandy beach and gaily painted huts of Viking Bay are a delight for families, but it has plenty of appeal for grown-ups too, including a tiny cinema, great food and a clifftop walk to romantic Botany Bay. 

Don’t miss: There are old-school fish and chip shops galore in Broadstairs, but if you want a next-level meal out, book in advance for Twenty Seven Harbour Street for small plates with memorable views over the coast. 

Get there: One hour 40 minutes by train from London St Pancras to Broadstairs; around two hours by car. 

10.  Worthing, West Sussex

What’s the vibe? Beach-boho with arty enclaves. 

Why go? As well as the usual seaside suspects (fish and chips, pier, sandy beach come as standard) there’s a raft of crafty, creative attractions including beachside artist studios, gorgeous art galleries and the Grade II-listed Dome Cinema. 

Don’t miss: The rows of quirky vintage stores, cafés and micropubs along Rowlands Road. 

Get there: One hour 20 minutes by train from London Victoria to Worthing; around 2 hours by car.

11.  Ramsgate, Kent

What’s the vibe? Artsy indies meet massive ’Spoons 

Why go? Previously in the shadow of bigger, better established seaside resorts, Ramsgate is now a destination in itself for day-tripping Londoners. Pretty townhouses, lifestyle shops and buzzing restaurants, this coastal town has the lot. Plus it’s home to the Royal Victoria Pavilion , the biggest Wetherspoon’s in the WORLD. Need we say more. 

Don’t miss: Enviably stocked charity and antiques shops: try Petticoat Lane Emporium  and  Arch 16 Antique Vintage and Retro Junk. 

Get there: One hour 40 minutes from St Pancras International

12.  Deal, Kent

What’s the vibe? Buzzy bars, contemporary crafts and the prettiest pebble beach.

Why go? Smaller than Whitstable and not as much of a hipster honeypot (for now) as Margate, the Kent town somehow manages to combine the best of both towns. Higgledy-piggledy Georgian houses, great food and a thriving creative community make for a special seaside spot. 

Don’t miss : Like a little piece of Bordeaux, Le Pinardier sells impeccably sourced bottles with a side of joie de vivre. 

Get there: One hour and 20 minutes by train from St Pancras International; around 2 hours by car.

13.  Rye, East Sussex

What’s the vibe? A history buff’s dream of winding streets, medieval inns and ancient castles. 

Why go? From the ancient Rye Castle to the twelfth-century St Mary’s Church, Rye has a fascinating history to explore. It’s not as coastal as some of the towns on our list, but urbanites can shake off the city by exploring Rye Nature Reserve  –  a pretty patchwork of grassland, saltmarsh and woods – or  take the very short trip to Camber Sands: it’s so wide and golden you’ll feel like you’re anywhere but the UK. 

Don’t miss : Marveling at Mermaid Street’s storybook charm – it’s all cobbles and wonky half-timbered houses.

Get there: One hour 10 minutes from London St Pancras International to Deal; around two hours by car. 

14.  Hastings, East Sussex

What’s the vibe? A characterful seaside escape despite a well-worn path from London.

Why go? From William of Normandy in 1066 to eighteenth-century smugglers, people throughout history have flocked like gulls to Hastings. Nowadays it’s Londoners that come to seize freshly caught fish, stroll along the pier and uncover the bubbling creative scene.

Don’t miss: Climb into the carriage of the East Hill Cliff Railway and soar skyward. It’s the steepest funicular railway in Britain, running from Rock-a-Nore at the base of the cliffs to the top of the East Hill.

Get there: One hour 30 minutes by train from London Bridge to Hastings; around 2 hours by car.

15.  Eastbourne, East Sussex

What’s the vibe? Old school seaside glamour meets cutting-edge culture.

Why go? All the classics are here: a trad Victorian pier, retro arcades, Victorian Tea Rooms, ice cream parlour and a handsome pebble beach. But, in recent years a burgeoning art scene has run through the town, including  Printers Playhouse, which  hosts comedy nights, live music from local bands and cutting-edge theatre.

Don’t miss: Rainbow-coloured arts centre   Towner Gallery holds collections by Grayson Perry, Wolfgang Tillmans and Eric Ravilious, and also puts on indie film screenings and creative workshops.  Get there One hour and twenty minutes by train from London Victoria; Two hours and twenty minutes by car.

16.  Brighton, Sussex

What’s the vibe? Cosmopolitan seaside party playground. 

Why go? Brighton’s delightfully kitsch pier is often the first port of call for visitors, but this beachside city has loads more to offer. For a bevy of unique boutiques, cafés and music shops, head to The Lanes. Brighton’s LGBTQ+ party scene is known the world over, and its clubs and bars are always buzzing. And if you're after a bit of seaside silliness,  there’s even a dayglo, dinosaur-themed crazy-golf course to be conquered.

Don’t miss: The Lanes are a delightful warren of narrow streets brimming with brilliant independent cafés, record shops, vintage emporiums, book stores and artwork – all housed in pretty eighteenth-century buildings. 

Get there: One hour from London Bridge.

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• 30 Places to Visit near London

Places To Visit Around London

Here's a list of the best places to visit near london:, quick navigation.

Must Visit Attractions Near London

Windsor castle.

Alton Tower

Warwick Castle

Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio

Hampton Court Palace

Leeds Castle

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The New Forest

The New Forest is an unenclosed pasture area of northern England that is renowned for its forest trails, native ponies, and heathland. It is the hotspot for many interesting outdoor activities such as paddle boarding, horse riding, and hiking. The New Forest National Park is the prime attraction of this area where you can have a picnic with your family, or you can witness deers, tigers, rhinoceroses, and wild buffalo in the region. You should also visit the Hearst castle that is an artillery fortress designed by Henry XIII. Apart from that, Exbury Gardens is the ideal weekend getaways from London for a family day out, and you can even have an Exbury steam railway ride here. Distance from London: 69 mi. Best Time: May to September. How To Reach: You can board a train from Waterloo that will drop you at The New Forest in 90 minutes. Suggested Read:  Things To Do In Victoria London   Must Checkout:  Europe Honeymoon Packages

Blenheim Palace

Brighton Museum & Royal Pavilion

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Highclere Castle & Downton Abbey Sites

Must Visit Cities Near London

Known throughout the world for its unparalleled educational magnificence, the town of Oxford is a global educational hub. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit near London due to its historical buildings and covered markets. One such amazing place that you must visit here is the Christ Church Cathedral that exudes excellent architecture and beauty. Oxford Castle is another major attraction here that gives you a chance to have a 360 degrees view of London. You should also visit the Sheldonian Theatre, which houses the Museum of the History of Science. It has a splendid collection of ancient art and antiquities, Greek and Roman pottery, classical sculpture, Far Eastern art, and jewelry. While here, you should also consider going shopping in Cornmarket Street, which is pedestrian-friendly and sells a range of items. Among many branded shops and departmental stores, this street also has the historic Golden Cross arcade which is well-known for its jewelry and craft shops. Distance from London: 56.1 mi. Best Time: August and September, May & July. How To Reach: Board a train from Paddington Station to Oxford. It will take sixty minutes to reach Oxford from London. Checkout & Book:   London Tower Bridge Tickets    Suggested Read:  Places To Visit In London       

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Regarded as one of the best places to visit around London, the city of Brighton has some outstanding attractions and monuments. A must-visit attraction is the Brighton Palace Pier, a perfect example of a Victorian pleasure pier. You can have traditional seaside fun here while enjoying the rides and the delicious street food. Another great attraction over here is the Royal Pavilion, which was the home of Prince Regent. This pavilion is one of the most exotic and stunning architecture in the British Isles. During your trip to Brighton, you should also visit the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, which includes fashion & style, design & fine art and exciting interactive exhibitions. Distance from London: 56.4 mi. Best Time: May to September. How To Reach: Board a bus from Victoria Coach Station to Brighton. Book Now: Buckingham Palace Tickets  Recommended Read: Places In West London  

Located in the county of Kent, Canterbury is one of the heritage cities of Britain that has retained its old-world charm as well as modern glitz. It houses the Canterbury Cathedral that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for being the murder site of Archbishop Thomas Becket. You should also visit the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, which has a facility-part museum, an art gallery, and even a library. It displays a collection of paintings, prints, engravings, European ceramics, Anglo-Saxon jewelry, and Asian porcelain. Canterbury Castle is another major attraction here where you can discover the historical treasures of Canterbury. Distance from London: 60.8 mi. Best Time: May & September. How To Reach: South Eastern train runs regular service from St Pancras, Charing Cross and London Victoria. Do Read:   T hings To Do In Central London

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Known to be a rival of the Oxford University, Cambridge is claimed to have one of the most preserved historic buildings in England. The King's College Chapel is the most famous attraction over here that is renowned for its 12-bay perpendicular-style interior and incredible architecture. Besides that, the Mathematical Bridge is the major highlight of the city as it has been built without any nails solely relying on the calculative structuring. You should also visit the  Cambridge University Botanical Garden stretching across 40 acres in Cambridge. This garden boasts of having more than 8,000 plant species from across the world. Another must-visit place is the Fitzwilliam Museum, which is an architectural masterpiece. It displays collections of Egyptian antiquities, illuminated manuscripts,  potteries of English, China, Greek, and Roman origins. Distance from London: 64.0 mi. Best Time: June & July. How To Reach: ThamesLink Runway and The Great Northern Runway runs the fastest train to Cambridge. Check This Out:  Hidden Places In London    

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Best of England

Winchester functioned as a former cultural and political capital of England until the 13th century. It is home to some of the best places to visit around London, such as the Winchester museum, which is one of Europe's largest cathedrals. Another such attraction is the Highclere Castle: Aka Downton Abbey that was featured in the English TV series of the same name. The Castle includes a spectacular gothic saloon, a library with 5,650 rare books and historic portraits. Another popular attraction over here is the Hospital of St. Cross, which is England's oldest almshouse. It features the 15th-century Hall of the Brothers, a kitchen, and a chapel. Other must-visit places are Winchester City Mill, Winchester's Military Museums, Marwell Zoo, and Winchester City Museum. Distance from London: 67.8 mi. Best Time: May to June. How To Reach: Take a train from Waterloo to Winchester. Best Offers On:  London Eye Tickets   Recommended Read:  Things To Do In London With Kids     

If you're looking for one of the best places to visit around London, then St Albans should be your topmost choice. It is a vibrant city located in the northern belt of London known for its centuries-old medieval cathedrals and scenic parks. Verulamium Park is one of the beautiful spaces in St Albans that houses an ornamental lake, and you can witness here the remains of ancient Roman walls. If you wish to trace the rich history of this city, then the Verulamium Museum should be your ideal stopover. It has displays of gold coins, mosaic structures, and second-century Roman theater. Distance from London: 69 mi. Best Time: May to September. How To Reach: You can take a flight from Gatwick and Luton airport. Both these airports are linked directly to London. Do Read:  Things To Do In Shoreditch   

Mersea Island

This is a small fishing town with sandy beaches and an impressive collection of cafes, shops, and restaurants. Due to its old-world charm and impressive landscape, it is considered to be one of the best places to visit around London. Mersea Island Vineyard is a popular destination here that is known for producing local and traditional wines, while also offering an enthralling view of lush greenery of nature. Get a glimpse of the history of Mersea Island by visiting the Mersea museum that houses the oldest sculptures and archeological relics. Distance from London: 69 mi. Best Time: May to September. How To Reach: You can catch a train from Liverpool Street to Colchester train station. From here you can board a taxi to Mersea Island. Check This:  Things To Do In Kings Cross   

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One of the beautiful and charming villages in South East England, Rye, is a haven for nature lovers. This adorable fairy-tale town has medieval cafes and inns, winding streets and quirky shops. It houses the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve that is spread in around 1,000-acres and has over 4,000 species of animals. Another attraction is the Rye Castle Museum and Ypres Tower, which has two sites, East Street and The Ypres Tower. The East Street site includes collections of the museum and is the best place to know about the rich history of Rye. You should also visit the Parish Church of St. Mary, Rye, which houses magnificent stonework and exquisite stained-glass windows. Another must-visit site is the Mermaid Street, lined with crooked timber houses and quirky cafes. It is considered to be one of the most photographed streets in Rye. Distance from London: 76.7 mi. Best Time: June to October. How To Reach: No direct train runs from London to Rye. You can however board a train from St Pancras. Do Read:  Things To Do Near Borough Market   

Portsmouth is one of the most famous places to visit near London that serves as the base of the Royal Navy and contains around two-third of the surface fleet of the UK. It houses some of the most popular ships such as the Tudor carrack Mary Rose, HMS Warrior and HMS Victory. Further, the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard gives you a chance to discover the eight hundred-year-old maritime histories of the town. You can also visit the Blue Reef Aquarium to witness the diverse species of aquatic animals housed here. Distance from London: 74.8 mi. Best Time: March to November & January to February. How To Reach: Board a train from Waterloo to portsmouth. Suggested Read:  Things To Do Near London Eye   

The stark landscape and the otherworldly beauty of Dungeness make it one of the best places to visit near London. It boasts of having the largest shingle beach in Europe where you can enjoy sunbathing, and you can also relish the seafood at the cafes and beachside shacks located here. Also, the RSPB Nature Reserve is an absolute paradise for the wildlife watchers as you can witness here a dazzling variety of migratory as well as domestic birdlife. Another major attraction that you must visit here is the Pilot Inn that is known for serving the best chips and traditional seafood. Distance from London: 77.8 mi. Best Time: March to May. How To Reach: Board a train from St Pancras to Ashford International. Board a taxi from Ashford to Dungeness. Recommended Read:  Museums Near London Bridge   

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Surrounded by sandy beaches, fishing villages, and family attractions, Chichester is one of the most popular weekend getaways from London. West Wittering Beach is one of the prime attractions of Chichester that has been awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness. It is a sandy and long beach where you can enjoy sunbathing and boating. Chichester Cathedral is also an important attraction that is the sacred church of the Holy Trinity and is the seat of Bishop of Chichester. Also, the city center is the main shopping arena of Chichester, where you can buy a variety of elite brands. Distance from London: 80.8 mi. Best Time: June to Early September. How To Reach: You can board a train from Victoria to Waterloo station. Check This Out:  Places In East London   

Well known as an elegant spa town since Roman times, Bath is built for relaxation and pleasure. This is one of the best weekend getaways from London where you can have an aromatic spa or Roman Baths to relieve your senses. It is a gorgeous city dotted with exquisite architectural monuments and cobblestone streets. Nestled between Somerset and Mendip Hills, it is considered to be one of the best places to visit near London because of its honey-colored Georgian houses and beautiful gardens and parks. Bath Abbey is also a popular site over here that is a Gothic cathedral with beautiful paintings and architecture. Furthermore, another popular attraction is Pulteney Bridge that is considered to be the departure point for various fun river excursions. Distance from London: 114.6 mi. Best Time: January to February. How To Reach: Frequent trains run from Paddington station to London after every thirty minutes. Do Read:  Adventurous Things To Do In London   

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Also known as the capital of castles in Wales, the city of Cardiff is known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscape. Among many places to visit around London, Cardiff should be an ideal stopover in your itinerary due to its beautiful castles and historic houses. It houses the Cardiff Bay Barrage, which is located in a stunning maritime setting, perfect for a bike ride or a relaxing stroll. You should also pay a visit to the Albany Gallery and the Martin Tinney Gallery that depict some of the greatest art collections in the world. Some other attractions that you must visit over here are Hensol Castle Distillery, St. John's Parish Church, and Forest Farm Country Park. For a calming experience after a busy day of touring, you should surely visit the chic Mermaid Quay to have a romantic dinner with your partner. Distance from London: 150.6 mi. Best Time: Early June to Late September. How To Reach: 27 trains operate in a day from London to Cardiff. You can board any of the trains that will drop you at Cardiff in 2hrs and 28 mins. Also Read:  Things To Do Near Borough Market   

Manchester is one of the most lively and vibrant cities in London, throbbing with architectural splendours and creative spaces. It houses the most popular football club in the entire world known as the Manchester United Football Club. Moreover, a paradise for the foodies, Manchester has a huge variety of street food markets as well as elegant cafes and restaurants. The city is also home to some of the oldest libraries, such as the Chetham's and John Rylands library that houses a collection of novels and books spanning across five millennia. Distance from London: 208.4 mi. Best Time: June and August. How To Reach: Take a bus from Victoria bus station to Manchester. Suggested Read:  Things To Do In London In September   

Guildford is a beautiful town located on the southern periphery of London. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit around London because it is home to historic cathedrals and castles that offer peace and tranquility like none other. Apart from that, the city seems to be brimming with an array of pubs, restaurants, bars, and shopping venues as well. Moreover, the Odeon Cinema is a paradise for the film fanatics, and you can watch some of the best Hollywood movies over here. If you're a shopping enthusiast, then Tunsgate Quarter should be your ideal spot as it is home to some of the branded stores such as Cath, Loaf, and Kidston. Distance from London: 208.4 mi. Best Time: June and August. How To Reach: Direct buses don't run from London to Guildford. You can however board a bus from Victoria Coach Station and arrive at Friary Bus Station. Check This Out:  Thing To Do In London In October   

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Home of iconic music-band, The Beatles and Liverpool Football Club, the city of Liverpool, is one of the best places to visit near London. To start the tour of this city, you should visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum, which has an impressive collection of artifacts and sculptures. Another such attraction is the Pier Head area of Liverpool, which houses the Three Graces,  the traditional trio of harbor buildings. Moreover, the Museum of Liverpool celebrates the city's distinct history, geography, and culture with several displays. It houses various collections of decorative art and period costumes and other archaeological materials. Liverpool also has some of the best gardens and parks, such as the Sefton Park Palmhouse, that is lush with greenery and large varieties of flowers. Distance from London: 220.5 mi. Best Time: May to June. How To Reach: Board a train from Euston station in London to Liverpool. Suggested Read:  Places In North West London  

The capital city of Northern Ireland, Belfast is the birthplace of the sunken ocean liner, RMS Titanic. To recall the legacy of the ship, the Titanic Quarter has been built, which pays tribute to Belfast's maritime history. Another major attraction over here is the HMS Caroline museum, which houses one of the last surviving vessels to have witnessed service in both world wars. This floating museum also displays history related to WWI and WWII. You should also visit St. Anne's Cathedral, which is a neo-Romanesque style of a basilica featuring a beautiful mosaic ceiling and elegant stained-glass windows. Other worthwhile visits in Belfast are the Grand Opera House, Crumlin Road Gaol, the Belfast Castle and the Belfast Zoo. Distance from London: 470.0 mi. Best Time: April to October. How To Reach: Board a train from Euston station to Belfast. You can also take a car ferry from London that takes ten hours and four minutes to reach Belfast. Recommended Read:  Camping Near London   

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London Top Attractions

Located on London’s Southbank, the London Eye is the world’s tallest cantilever wheel and an iconic figure in the London sky. This wheel attracts nearly 4 million visitors every year, making it a popular destination among tourists and locals alike. If you're planning a trip to Europe, consider including the London Eye in your itinerary as part of our exciting Europe tour packages.Wheel consists of 32 capsules which are made of glass. On a clear day one can see up to 40 km from the wheel. There are multilingual guides giving a commentary on the details of the spectacular view of the city. Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and other famous London landmarks can be seen from the London Eye.The slow rotation of the wheel enables one to take pictures of the famous landmarks. Apart from the stunning view, another major attraction is a 4D show that forms a part of your London Eye experience. Over the past 19 years, it has become an important feature of the London skyline.You can also look out for special themed events like pop-up dining events, Valentine day celebrations or an anniversary dinner. London Eye is one of the major attractions in London’s New Year day firework celebrations. Seeing London at a glance should definitely be a part of your London itinerary. The wheel was dedicated to the public in 2000. It was originally planned to be in public service for only 5 years. However, its popularity made it a permanent feature in the tourist map of London. Tourists love the experience of the thrilling ride on the wheel and observe the breathtaking view of the London city over the River Thames.If you are planning for a honeymoon trip to Europe, you can checkout Europe Honeymoon Packages

Popular as one of the unique UNESCO World Heritage sites in London, Kew Gardens is one of the pleasant getaways in the city to enjoy with your family and friends. Explore this captivating destination as part of our curated Europe tour, home to a fascinating collection of living plants and an internationally recognized scientific research center. With over 14,000 trees, Kew Gardens' exquisite natural landscape spanning 300 acres is truly spellbinding, making it a leading center of research, complete with a library, museums, and beautiful gardens.It invites people of all ages to discover a day of serenity in the city of London. The visitors here can enjoy a number of activities whether it is taking a stroll along the colourful canopies of trees or exploring the beautiful glasshouses. Some of the popular attractions of Kew Gardens include the Palm House, Princess of Wales Conservatory and the Waterlily House.There are activities which the visitors can enjoy at Kew Gardens like the 59 ft high Treetop Walkway, catching the views of the city by climbing the Great Pagoda and getting to know about its history at the Kew Palace. Kew Gardens is also a paradise for photographers who wish to capture the natural beauty of London at its best.

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Where to Visit With a Day Trip – Near London: Most Adorable English Towns and Villages

London is a vibrant and exciting city that is well worth visiting for so many reasons. Home to some of the most famous tourist sites in the world, it boasts an impressive and instantly recognizable skyline. But there is a different side to England not far from this sprawling metropolis – a side that is quaint, delightful, and an absolute must-see when visiting London.

At HeyTripster we provide trip plans to the famous historic and momentous sights the city has to offer, but we think it’s important to visit some of the beautiful towns near London to visit too. If you are looking for towns, cities to visit near London, you should check out this blog. Each of the places in this article has its own unique character, history, and points of interest. And they have been attracting pilgrims, tourists, and visitors for many, many years.

Traveling from London

1. go right back in time with a daytrip to salisbury & stonehenge, 2. walk in the footsteps of royalty with a heytripster trip plan to windsor, 3. visit bath – one of the grandest cities near london to visit, 4. oxford and the cotswolds: two very different but equally attractive places to see near london, 5. be charmed by canterbury, 6. visit stratford upon avon and discover the life of the world’s most famous playwright, 7. let heytripster introduce you to one of the most important locations in english history, 8. discover one of the most overlooked places to go near london – st albans.

London has fantastic transport links with the rest of England via train or car, and there are some wonderful places to visit near London that you can reach within a few hours or less and will introduce you to other quintessentially English towns and cities.

While using London Underground to get around the city is relatively inexpensive (you can normally do a whole day on the Tube for around £5 using your contactless card, mainline trains in England are notoriously expensive – particularly if you travel between the peak hours of between 06.30 – 09.30 in the morning or 15.30 – 18.30 in the evening. The best way to save on train tickets when traveling to England is to travel off-peak and book in advance if possible. During off-peak hours, use the ‘Kids for a Quid’ offer which sees children travel for £1. If traveling in a group of 3-9 people, you may be able to get a group discount of up to 34%.

Please note: There are several train operators that travel to and from London with prices and offers subject to change without notice but all information is correct at the time of publication.

If you’re traveling by car and looking for things to do near London, the M25 motorway is your friend. The M25 is a ring road around London with access to major routes in and out of the city.

Let’s start to explore the best places to visit near London;

Ok, including Stonehenge on a list of places to visit near London is a bit of a stretch as it’s actually 87 miles away. But you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the most famous prehistoric site in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to around 2600 BC and many myths and legends have grown up around it. One suggests the stones have healing properties. Another that they were transported to the site by giants.

What is in no doubt, though, is that these giant, heavy stones were placed in their current location, at what is believed to be an ancient burial site, thousands of years ago using techniques we can only guess at. The structure is a marvel to look at and the nearby visitor center is packed with information about it.

Starting at the visitor center is recommended as you will begin your day with the Virtual Stones Experience where you will find out more about Stonehenge itself and the landscape around it. The experience is interactive with opportunities to look around Neolithic houses, feel the Touching Stone, and try pulling a sarsen (the sand block stones that Stonehenge is made from).

After seeing what life was like in Neolithic times, the visitor bus will take you to see Stonehenge. Unfortunately, you can longer touch the stones.

During the Summer Solstice (21st June), huge crowds gather to see the sunrise behind the Heel Stone and shine its first rays shine into the heart of the stone circle.

Stonehenge is open every day apart from Christmas Day.

Ticket prices: Adult £22.70 Child £13.60 Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) £59.00 Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) £36.30

Salisbury is a medieval city near Stonehenge, famous for its cathedral. Other historic sites include: · Old Sarum – an ancient ruin set in the stunning landscape just outside the city · Mompesson House – an 18th century Grade One listed house · The Poultry Cross – a large structure built in the 14th century that was home to the Poultry Market · Rolly’s Fudge Pantry – a local store selling traditional English fudge for those with a sweet tooth

Location: View on Google Maps Phone Number: +44 370 333 1181 Website: Visit Tripadvisor: View Foursquare: View

Just an hour outside of London via the M4, Windsor is home to the Royal Family throughout summer. When the Queen’s Standard is flying above Windsor Castle, it indicates that Queen Elizabeth II is in residence. The castle, steeped in over 1000 years of royal history, is open to visitors all year round but is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Tickets are priced at : · £30.00 for adults · £16.50 for children · Under 5s go free

Aside from Windsor Castle, which boasts some impressive artworks by Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Canaletto and Da Vinci, the town of Windsor is a pleasant place to go for a walk. Stroll along The Long Walk, following in the footsteps of royalty, visit a local pub for a pint of ale, and visit Windsor Guildhall where Prince Charles and Camilla were married. This is a town like no other, dominated by Windsor Castle and almost fairytalesque in its charm. Windsor ranks close to the top of the best towns to visit near London.

During the summer months, Windsor Racecourse holds weekly meetings on a Monday night. Tickets for this typically English day out start from just £30. In June, Ascot Racecourse holds its Royal Meeting. This is a bit pricier, must be booked in advance, and is one of the highlights of the British sporting year.

Location: View on Google Maps Phone Number: +44 303 123 7334 Website: Visit Tripadvisor: View Foursquare: View

Located 117 miles from London but accessible in around two and half hours by car or train, Bath is a microcosm of English history. Named after the wonderfully preserved Roman Baths in the center of the city, visiting Bath is like taking a step back in time. Just yards from the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey dominates the central square.

The Abbey is a stunning example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture. For a traditional English afternoon tea, head to the Bath Pump House, a grand old building that now serves as an elegant dining hall. It’s not cheap, but it is delicious.

If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk up to The Royal Crescent for a taste of what life was like in Georgian England. Many of the grand houses in the street are still occupied, but one has been turned into a museum where you can find out how the wealthy and the poor lived in the 1700s.

Bath is also home to the Jane Austen Exhibition where guides in Regency Costume will guide you through life in England during the time of great works of literature like Pride & Prejudice.

Location: View on Google Maps

One of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful university towns. Oxford is easy to reach from London by car or train. If traveling by car, park outside of the city and use the ‘Park & Ride’ bus to get into the city. Naturally, the university is the main tourist attraction with highlights including the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College which featured as the Great Hall in the Harry Potter movies.

Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs that joins two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane. Oxford itself is a small but attractive city with plenty of parks and gardens to explore. In the center of the city is the historic Covered Market and Christ Church Cathedral.

The Ashmolean Museum has recently seen huge investment and is now one of the most popular attractions. With artifacts from all ages right across the globe, it has something for everyone – and entry is free.

The Cotswolds is the name given to the idyllic region near Oxford that is full of beautiful rolling hills and picturesque villages. Many of the buildings here are made using the local Oolitic limestone, naturally produced in the region between 206 – 124 million years ago. Its distinct yellow hue is unique to the region and makes The Cotswolds a one-off area.

Villages made of the local stone are dotted between lush green landscapes that are ideal for hiking and seeing wildlife. For a more organized view of wildlife, including animals from all around the world, visit Cotswold Wildlife Park.

As it is predominantly lots of small villages and beautiful countryside, visiting The Cotswolds is one of the best places to visit near London by car. Fans of popular BBC drama series Father Brown will want to visit the village of Blockley, home to the church featured in the series as well as other familiar sites.

The Cotswolds is traditionally associated with the wool and cloth industries and there are still numerous markets across the region throughout the week. Of particular note is the market in Stow on the Wold on Saturday mornings.

For foodies, there are local farm shops all across the region as well as Woodchester Valley vineyard where a selection of wines produced on the site are available for tasting and to buy.

60 miles and around 2 hours from London, Canterbury is a beautiful medieval city in Kent – the county known as the Garden of England. Due to excellent transport links via train or the M2, it is considered one of the best places to visit near London. Home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been the center of English Christianity since St Augustin arrived and converted the Anglo Saxons in 597.

The streets around the cathedral are charming and quaint, and the pedestrianized zone through the center of the city makes it easy to access all the local sights on foot.

There are plenty of historical pubs where you can try a local ale but if you prefer more modern tastes, there are bars serving modern drinks too. The choice of places to eat is also huge. Try food from around the world with Mediterranean fayre at Il Posticino or great Mexican food and drink (including real tequila – worm and all) at Tacos Locos.

Canterbury Roman Museum chronicles the impact of the Roman Empire on the region and you can even see a section of the original Roman road beneath Waterstones bookshop in the city center. Canterbury Heritage Museum explores more modern history.

Birthplace and long-time home of William Shakespeare, Stratford upon Avon is a homage to The Bard and one of the most delightful towns to visit near London. Almost everything here is dedicated to or inspired by the greatest playwright in England’s history. Many of the buildings maintain their Tudor charm and just strolling around the town is a joy.

Right in the heart of the city is Shakespeare’s family home where he was born in April 1564. Now a tourist attraction, the house serves as a fantastic example of life in England at that time.

As you make around the house and garden, you may be lucky enough to happen upon an impromptu act from one of Shakespeare’s plays performed by actors in traditional dress.

You can buy one ticket for Shakespeare’s birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Place, the Stratford home he bought when he returned successfully from London, and Anne Hathaway’s cottage. The delightful 12-roomed cottage was where Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s future wife, grew up.

A ticket to visit all three attractions costs: · £26.00 per adult · £17.00 per child A ticket for one site will cost £20.00.

If you fancy catching a play, Shakespeare’s Globe theatre is open all year round with a variety of traditional versions of some of the playwright’s most famous works. River cruises on the River Avon and rowing boat hire are also available.

Hastings, home of the famous battle in 1066 that saw William the Conqueror claimed the English throne, is situated on the south coast of England. The ruins of Hastings Castle are here, but Pevensey Castle is another place worth visiting. There you can find out how prisoners were treated – and if you’re traveling with children, you can have them locked up for a bit too!

The exhibition at Battle Abbey, a partially ruined Benedictine abbey, tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England and the defeat of King Harold. Here you can stand on the spot where this decisive battle was fought and visit the Harold stone that marks the exact location that Harold is said to have fallen. The nearby town of Rye is worth a visit if you have time. The Tudor buildings and cobbled streets are a window on another era.

And just a short drive away is Camber Sands, a beautiful sandy beach where you can sample the unique atmosphere of the British seaside. There is a pier, amusement arcades, fairground rides, and, of course, Punch & Judy shows. Make sure you enjoy fish and chips by the sea too – there is nothing more British!

One of the best cities near London to visit, St Albans is a small city just 25 miles from London that is often overlooked but is an absolute gem! Located in Hertfordshire, and just 10 minutes from the M25, the city was one of the most important towns in Roman Britain.

During Roman times, it was known as Verulamium, and parts of the walls to the town are still visible in St Albans Park. In the center of the park, and completely free to visit, is The Hypocaust, a wonderfully preserved mosaic and part of one of the first underground heating systems in England.

Towering over the park is St Albans Cathedral, built on the site of the execution of the first English Christian martyr, killed for harboring a priest in his home. Inside the striking cathedral lies the tomb of St Alban.

The city itself is quite small but makes for a pleasant place to stroll with lots of vennels and alleys where you can imagine much skulduggery took place over the years. There are numerous places to eat and drink but two are worthy of a mention. Ye Olde Fighting Cocks is one of a number of pubs that claim to be the oldest in England. While that claim may be disputed, the low ceilings and dark atmosphere are certainly akin to a historic alehouse.

The White Hart Hotel is another historic pub. Dating back to 1470, it is charmingly unsymmetrical with low ceilings and tiny walkways. Legend has it that the 11th Lord Lovat stayed overnight in 1747 on his way to London to be the last person beheaded in England. St Albans is a great place to stop off if you’re visiting the Harry Potter studios in nearby Leavesden.

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5 easy cities to travel to from London

London definitely takes some time to explore. With quirky neighbourhoods and phenomenal sites, it’s worth spending a week at least here to explore the best of everything the capital has to offer.

However, many visitors travel hundreds of miles to come to London. For those that live far away, a London trip might be a rare chance to explore Europe and the UK. If you feel like a journey to the UK might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for you, you’ll want to get the most out of it.

Fortunately, London has some of the best transport links in Europe. Whether you want to see some of the best cities in the UK or visit even further afield, London’s network of trains gives you some easy, exciting options to choose from.

Let’s take a look at our five favourite cities to travel to from London.

For those looking to get a taste of quintessential English culture, Oxford is the city to visit . Pick up a train from Paddington station on the East side of the city, and you can be there in under an hour.

This beautiful city is the perfect destination for a day trip, offering visitors the chance to explore its stunning church’s medieval architecture. You can even go punting on the canals.

Often overlooked by tourists, York is a lovely walled city with some of the best-kept secrets in the UK, including its majestic cathedral and cobbled streets. It’s also a great place to slow down a little and explore some of the UK’s quirky pubs and restaurants.

Around Christmas time, York becomes a wonderland of snow and fairy lights – the perfect time to see the city at its best. Take a northbound train from King’s Cross and arrive in just over two hours.

Thanks to the Channel Tunnel, Paris is as easy to visit from London as anywhere else in the UK. We probably don’t need to hype the city of love for you too much – its beauty and style are already world-famous.

Just know that you can hop the Eurostar from St Pancras and be there in two and a half hours. If you’d like a cost-effective way to see the best of Paris, take a look at our wonderful Paris tours .

Visitors to Birmingham are often surprised at just how lovely the city is. Famous for its fantastic ethnic cuisine, it’s a bustling, modern city filled with trees and green space. It’s also incredibly cheap and easy to get to from the capital. Take the train from Euston for as little as five pounds!

Edinburgh is a bit of a slog at four and a half hours on the train. However, the trip is more than worth it. The beauty of Edinburgh was the inspiration behind the design for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and it’s clear why.

It’s a city of elegant medieval and Georgian architecture set on multiple levels around its mighty central castle. If you don’t fancy the train journey, check out flights from Gatwick, Luton or Stansted. They can get you there in just over an hour.

To explore some great options for visiting cities outside of London, take a look at our Day Trips from London and Rail Tours from London pages. You’ll find exciting tours all around the UK and beyond, including Windsor, Bath, Cambridge, and Chester.

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Towns To Visit Near London

London is a great place to live, work, and study, with all the amenities you will ever need on your doorstep, whether that be bars, restaurants, shops, or parks. On the other hand, London can become overwhelming with its busy streets, large population, and the number of tourists that visit the city. Therefore, every so often, it is nice to escape, taking a day trip out of the city and discovering what the rest of England has to offer. 

Just a short drive or train ride away from the hustle and bustle of the city are a number of locations that are a perfect getaway. Whether you are looking for a quaint town or quiet countryside, there is a spot for you. If you are looking to get out of the city to stretch your legs, take a look at our top ten towns to visit near London:

Famous for the 1066 battle, Hastings has been a place where the history books have been written. Dive into this history by heading to Hastings Castle, built by the Normans in the 11th century, or Smuggler’s Adventure where you will be transported back to the time where smugglers brought goods into Britain. Along the ancient streets, there are a number of shops and cafés to visit, as well as old architecture to admire. Why not take a ride on the hill Cliff Railway, which is home to a funicular railway that is the steepest in all of the UK. Travelling to Hastings takes around two hours in the car or an hour and a half on the train from London Bridge station. With a stunning pier and historic monuments, however, Hastings is well and truly worth a visit.

Another Seaside town close to London is Whitstable, which takes just over an hour to travel to by train from either St Pancreas station or London Victoria. By car, the 60-mile journey will take you around an hour and 45 minutes. The town is famous for its fresh seafood caught just the shore, making it some of the freshest in the country. Try relaxing at The Forge on the seafront, where you can see them preparing your seafood right in front of you before heading to the famous beach pub The Old Neptune. Wander the main streets to discover independent cafés and boutique stores where you can find some real treasures, escaping from the busy London streets.

A quaint and unique town southeast of London is Rye. This medieval time was used to defend England against invaders and still has many historical buildings standing today for you to visit. Spend some time wandering around the meandering, cobbled streets soaking in the atmosphere and visit old book and antique shops. The beautiful and traditional Mermaid Street is a great spot for an Instagram photo that shows the opposite of busy London life . Visit the Rye Castle Museum, or National Trust-run Rye House to step back in time and discover the town’s historical past, or head to the local vineyard to find out about English winemaking and taste the final product. To get there, hop on the train from St Pancreas for just over an hour (changing at Ashford for the most direct route) or travel around 2 hours in the car.

A firm favourite of many British holiday goers is the seaside town of Margate, located southeast of London around 76 miles away. The location is around a 2-hour drive from the capital or can be reached by train in less than an hour and a half. Margate has much to offer, and it is easy to fill your day with many different activities. The Main Sands are an excellent place to relax on a hot day, basking in the sun while eating an ice cream. Grab some friends and head down to Dreamland in Margate for some vintage fun on the roller disco track, or hop on board the old fashioned fairground rides for some afternoon entertainment. 

For a more cultural visit, head to the Turner contemporary Museum, which houses a number of pieces by the famous artist JMW Turner, or scour the racks at Breuer and Dawson for some amazing vintage clothing items. In Margate, there is so much to do, you may find yourself going on multiple day trips !

One of the coolest spots outside of London to visit is Brighton – famous for its independent stores, beautiful beach , and support for the LGBT+ community. If you are looking for a night out away from London then Brighton is the place with great bars and live music venues to keep you dancing all night. You might even want to try the Brighton Beer dispensary, which works with a number of small, independent breweries to deliver some of the most flavourful beer to you. If drinking isn’t your thing , Brighton has even more to offer with a stunning seafront packed full of restaurants, ice cream, and fish and chip shops for you to enjoy on a hot summer’s day. One of the top attractions in the area that is not to be missed is the Palace Pier which sticks out into the sea. Brighton is easily accessible from a number of London’s train stations, including London Bridge, Victoria and Blackfriars, with the journey being only an hour long. 

Around one hour on the train from St Pancreas Station, the town of Canterbury is around 60 miles South East of London . There are many things to do in the town, which has a large student population and a number of different bars, pubs, and restaurants. For a cultural visit, head to Canterbury cathedral (a world heritage site) or the Beanly House of Art and Knowledge to learn more about history.  After this, you may want to visit Westgate Gardens or St Augustine’s Abbey for an afternoon stroll. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Try Howlett’s wild animal park located just outside the city. The park is set over a huge 90 acres and is home to many species, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys.

The ancient Roman city of Bath is the furthest away destination on our list, but it is so special it is worth the trip. Over 100 miles west of London, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its Roman bathhouses that are powered by natural thermal springs. Visit the historical Roman baths that have been preserved for centuries before checking in to the modern Thermae Spa, where you can relax and unwind while taking in views of the city . If spas are not your thing, there is still plenty to see as the picturesque town has been used as a film set for many movies and tv shows, from Jane Austin to Bridgerton. The most famous street in the city is Royal Cresent which is worth a look just for its stunning architecture. To get here, take the train from Paddington Station to arrive in an hour and a half – so what are you waiting for?

The town of Cambridge is most famed for its prestigious university, but it has plenty in it to keep you occupied when you leave London. Only 64 miles outside of the capital, you can get to your location in only 45 minutes on the train directly from Kings Cross Station. If you would rather drive, it will take you around 2 hours due to traffic, so we recommend using public transport. 

When you get to Cambridge, head towards the famous university to visit the renowned Fitzwilliam Museum, which is packed full of artefacts and treasures owned by the university. Take a step back in time as you wander around looking at the historical artefacts and immerse yourself in different cultures as you find out more about them. After your cultural visit, stop off at Fitzbillies for lunch, where you can experience their world-famous Chelsea buns that they have been making since 1920.

In the afternoon, spend your time meandering through the cobbled streets, taking in the old buildings and the beauty of the river Cam which flows through the centre. If you have sea legs, why not try some punting on the river and view the town from the water.

Southend on Sea

If you do like to be beside the seaside, then head to Southend in Essex for some traditional beachside entertainment. Only 36 miles outside of London, you can travel from Fenchurch Street Station to the beach in only 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you have arrived in Southend, head straight to the coastline to see the world’s longest pier stretching out into the ocean. Spend some time reliving your childhood at the amusement parks and fairground attractions all along the seafront or relax on the beach if the weather is warm enough. Fish and chips always taste best by the sea, and the chipped in Southend are no exception. Treat yourself to a traditional 99 ice cream from Italian ice cream shop Tomassis while sitting on the pier and taking in the friendly atmosphere. 

With excellent transport links, London is a great place to live but is also easy to escape for a day or two. From historical towns to sunny seasides, there is a town that will suit your every mood. So what are you waiting for? Go further afield and explore today. 

24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Shandley McMurray Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley has visited London many times, most recently on an extensive tour of England in the spring of 2022. Author Shandley McMurray lived in London and always enjoys returning.

London is one of the world's most mesmerizing cities . Modern architectural marvels like the Shard line medieval laneways peppered with historic monuments, high-end shops, and award-winning theaters. Picturesque streets and avenues connect renowned attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul's Cathedral, causing visitors to gape at their beauty and exhaust their phone's photo storage.

With so many impressive tourist attractions and captivating things to do, it's no wonder London is one of the most popular places to visit in the world , attracting over 20 million tourists each year. Britain's bustling capital offers something for everyone, including shopaholics, foodies, adventurists, historians, and kids, making it tough to choose what to do first.

Should you hit one of the top museums, many of which are free to enter, or enjoy a picnic in one of the city's expansive parks ? Maybe tour a royal palace, or wander around a breathtaking garden? Perhaps you'd prefer to take in a show; enjoy a horseback ride; see the city views from atop the London Eye; or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in Harrods, the world's poshest department store?

Use our list of the best attractions and things to do in London to help decide what to see and do in this phenomenal city you'll want to visit again and again.

See also: Where to Stay in London

1. Visit Buckingham Palace and Watch the Changing of the Guard

2. see the crown jewels at the tower of london, 3. beat the crowds: take a morning stroll across tower bridge, 4. get cultured at the british museum, 5. big ben and the houses of parliament, 6. get creative at the national gallery, 7. tour the art displays at the victoria and albert museum, 8. wander around piccadilly circus and trafalgar square, 9. journey to the top of the shard, 10. get your art fix at tate britain and tate modern, 11. walk the hallowed halls of westminster abbey, 12. head underground to the churchill war rooms, 13. walk with dinosaurs at the natural history museum, 14. enjoy a picnic in hyde park, 15. climb the dome of st. paul's cathedral, 16. shop at london's best markets, 17. be entertained by buskers at covent garden, 18. take flight on the london eye, 19. meet henry viii at hampton court palace, 20. straddle the meridian line at greenwich, 21. the imperial war museum & hms belfast, 22. explore the london docklands & canary wharf, 23. visit picturesque richmond park, 24. ogle the flora and fauna at kew gardens, where to stay in london for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to london, map of tourist attractions & things to do in london, best time to visit london, england.

One of Britain's most iconic buildings, Buckingham Palace is also the scene of London's most popular display of pomp and ceremony: the Changing of the Guard.

Drawing crowds at 11:30am most days regardless of the season, this colorful display of precision marching and music also takes place at St. James's Palace . One of the top free things to do in London , you can then follow the band along The Mall as they march between sites.

Buckingham Palace was built in 1837 and has been the London residence of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria's accession. If you're wondering whether the King is in, look at the flagpole atop the building: if the royal standard is flying day and night, he's at home. On special state occasions, he and members of the Royal Family may even emerge on the central balcony.

When the King's away at the Royal Family's summer residence in Balmoral Castle, Scotland , visitors can purchase tickets for tours of the State Rooms, the Queen's Gallery, and the Royal Mews.

From prison to palace, treasure vault to private zoo, the magnificent Tower of London has fulfilled many different roles over the centuries. One of Britain's most iconic structures, this spectacular World Heritage Site offers hours of fascination for visitors curious about the country's rich history, so much of which happened here.

Inside the massive White Tower, built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, is the 17th-century Line of Kings with its remarkable displays of royal armaments and armor. Other highlights include the famous Crown Jewels exhibition, the Beefeaters, the Royal Mint, and gruesome exhibits about the executions that took place on the grounds.

The Bloody Tower is also worthy of a visit. Here you'll find stories of ancient torture, and you can learn about the mystery of two princes who disappeared many years ago.

For the best use of your time, especially during the busy summer season, purchase the Tower of London Entrance Ticket Including Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour in advance, to bypass the ticket office lines. This pass guarantees the lowest price, helps avoid the crowds, and saves time and hassle.

Located adjacent the Tower of London, Tower Bridge features two huge towers rising 200 feet above the River Thames.

This is one of London's best-known and most photographed landmarks. While fascinating behind-the-scenes tours are available, you can easily walk across the bridge from the Tower of London.

For the best Tower views, as well as a glimpse of HMS Belfast and London Bridge (which many mistakenly believe Tower Bridge to be), find a spot mid-way across. While it can be crowded, especially around sunset, an early morning arrival before the throngs of tourists get there is well worth the effort.

Afterwards, head over to the renovated Butlers Wharf district on the bridge's south end for a unique twist on the classic "full English" breakfast at WatchHouse Tower Bridge. This now ritzy area is fun to wander and is home to a funky selection of restaurants, luxury housing, and shops.

Address: Tower Bridge Road, London

Official site: www.towerbridge.org.uk

Displaying one of the world's finest collections of antiquities, the British Museum contains more than 13 million artifacts from the ancient world. With priceless objects from Assyria, Babylonia, China, Europe, and elsewhere, it's hard to know where to begin in this expansive attraction.

Most tourists head first for the museum's most famous exhibits: the controversial Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, the Rosetta Stone , the colossal bust of Ramesses II, the Egyptian mummies, and the spectacular hoard of 4th-century Roman silver known as the Mildenhall Treasure .

In addition to a well-stocked, on-site bookshop boasting an exhaustive array of titles on ancient history, archaeology and art history, there's a shop selling kids' games and souvenirs, along with one that sells replica sculptures and jewelry.

For those able to linger longer, the museum offers a variety of lectures and workshops, plus a restaurant and café.

Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London

Official site: www.britishmuseum.org

Nothing screams "London" more emphatically than the 318-foot tower housing the giant clock and its resounding bell known as Big Ben. It's as iconic a landmark as Tower Bridge , and the tolling of Big Ben is known throughout the world as the time signal of the BBC.

Below it, stretching along the Thames, are the Houses of Parliament . The seat of Britain's government for many centuries, it was also once the site of the royal Westminster Palace occupied by William the Conqueror.

The best view of the parliament buildings can be had by crossing Westminster Bridge and looking back. Or, turn left after crossing the bridge and walk along the path towards the SEA LIFE London Aquarium (a fun spot to take kids). Gather your crew along the wall for a perfect photo with Big Ben in the background.

Tours of the Houses of Parliament offer a unique chance to see real-time debates and lively political discussions. From Parliament Square, Whitehall is lined by so many government buildings that its name has become synonymous with the British government.

Official site: www.parliament.uk/bigben

It's almost impossible to visit London without catching a glimpse of the impressive National Gallery. This iconic, columned museum is set at the edge of Trafalgar Square , home to incredible masterpieces that make it one of the best attractions in London.

Ranking among the top art museums in the world, London's National Gallery represents an almost complete survey of European painting from 1260 until 1920. The museum's greatest strengths are in its collections of Dutch Masters and Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries.

Among its highlights are a cartoon (preliminary sketch) of the Madonna and Child by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo's The Entombment , Botticelli's Venus and Mars , van Gogh's Sunflowers , and The Water-Lily Pond by Monet.

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London

Official site: www.nationalgallery.org.uk

The Victoria and Albert Museum (aka the V&A) is part of a South Kensington-based group of museums that includes the Natural History Museum and Science Museum . Founded in 1852, the V&A covers close to 13 acres and contains 145 galleries spanning some 5,000 years of art and related artifacts.

Exhibits include ceramics and glass, textiles and costumes, silver and jewelry, ironwork, sculpture, prints, and photos, and are conveniently arranged into four main categories: Asia; Furniture, Textiles, and Fashion; Sculpture, Metalwork, Ceramics, and Glass; and Word and Image.

It's impossible to get around this vast museum in a single visit, so the best plan to tackle it is to decide in advance which sections you most want to see. Taking a V&A tour is highly recommended, and often free, with options including everything from daily introductory tours to specific gallery or themed tours.

The Main and Garden Cafés are more impressive than any museum eatery you've seen. The intricate detailing on everything from the floor to the columns to the ceiling make them worthy pieces of art themselves. Plus, the food is quite tasty. Also, don't miss an opportunity to luxuriate in the John Madejski Garden , which is so beautiful and serene, you'll forget you're in the center of one of the world's largest cities.

If you're around, check into one of the fun "Friday Late" programs held on the last Friday of the month (except for March and December). These fun events are popular for their food and drink experiences, along with late-night exhibition openings.

Address: Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge, London

Official site: www.vam.ac.uk

Two of London's best-known tourist spots, Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square lie not far apart and mark the gateway to Soho , London's lively theater and entertainment district. The walk from one to the other is truly enjoyable, lined with eclectic boutiques, tasty cafés, ice-cream shops, and winding laneways evoking a bygone era when only horses and buggies traipsed through these historic streets.

Trafalgar Square was built to commemorate Lord Horatio Nelson's victory over the French and Spanish fleets at Trafalgar in 1805. Nelson's Column , a 183-foot granite monument, overlooks the square's fountains and bronze reliefs, which were cast from French cannons. Admiralty Arch, St. Martin-in-the-Fields , and the National Gallery surround the square.

Piccadilly Circus marks the irregular intersection of several busy streets, including Piccadilly, Regent, Haymarket, and Shaftesbury Avenue. Overlooking this somewhat untidy snarl of traffic stands London's best-known sculpture, the winged Eros delicately balanced on one foot, bow poised.

"It's like Piccadilly Circus" is a common expression among Londoners to describe a busy and confusing scene.

Since it opened in 2012, The Shard has taken its place as one of the most-recognizable and most-visited landmarks in London.

Standing 1,016 feet tall and encompassing some 95 stories, this remarkable structure is so-named for its resemblance to a shard of glass. Yet, while it dominates the skyline south of the River Thames, its pleasing design doesn't seem at all out of place when seen next to neighbors such as Tower Bridge.

In addition to its office space on the lower levels, The Shard is home to a stunning Shangri-La Hotel and three superb restaurants, all boasting some of the most incredible views over London. For those not staying here, the upper-most levels consist of a choice of viewing platforms: indoor and outdoor.

Another London skyscraper that's worth a visit is the "Walkie Talkie" with its popular Sky Garden attraction. Located around the corner from the Tower of London and set on the building's 34th to 37th floors, the garden's terraces offer some of the best views over the city. If you've got the time, reserve a table at one of the restaurants here in order to enjoy the views while you dine.

Address: 32 London Bridge Street, London

Official site: www.the-shard.com

Art lovers cannot visit London without touring its most impressive art museums: the two Tates. Located on opposite sides of the Thames, Tate Britain and Tate Modern together comprise one of the world's most important art collections .

The original gallery opened in 1897 as the basis of a national collection of significant British art, and continued to make acquisitions, needing more space to properly display its collections. The end result was the establishment of Tate Britain, in Millbank on the north side of the Thames, as home to its permanent collection of historic British paintings.

A superbly transformed power station across the Thames became home to the modern art collections. Art lovers can spend a whole day viewing both sites, conveniently connected by high-speed ferry. Better still, walk across the Millennium Bridge , a footbridge that connects the two banks of the river close to the Tate Modern. The views are spectacular.

Tate Britain

• Address: Millbank, London
• www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-britain

Tate Modern

• Address: Bankside, London
• www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Another location with a long association with British royalty, Westminster Abbey stands on a site that's been associated with Christianity since the early 7th century. Officially known as the Collegiate Church of St. Peter in Westminster, Westminster Abbey was founded by Edward the Confessor in 1065 as his place of interment.

From his burial in 1066 until that of George II almost 700 years later, most sovereigns were not only crowned here but were buried here, too. More recently, it's become famous as the preferred location for Royal Weddings.

This masterpiece of Gothic architecture not only has the highest Gothic nave in England (102 feet), it's also one of London's most popular tourist attractions, drawing well over a million visitors each year.

Highlights of a visit include seeing the more than 600 memorials in the Nave, including the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior; Poet's Corner in the Transepts , with its memorials to the likes of Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Dickens; the Westminster Abbey Museum; and the attractive gardens.

Address: 20 Dean's Yard, Westminster, London

Official site: www.westminster-abbey.org

Among the most fascinating and evocative of London's historic sites are the perfectly preserved Churchill War Rooms.

The nerve-center from which Prime Minister Winston Churchill directed British military campaigns and the defense of his homeland throughout World War II, their simplicity and cramped conditions underline the desperate position of England as the Nazi grip tightened across Europe.

You'll see the tiny cubicle where Churchill slept and the improvised radio studio where he broadcast his famous wartime speeches. Simple details, such as Clementine Churchill's knitting wool marking the front lines on a map of Europe, bring the era to life as no other museum could possibly do.

Audio guides are available (a thorough self-guided tour takes about 90 minutes), and a café and bookshop are located on the premises.

Address: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London

Official site: www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms

Established in 1754, London's spectacular Natural History Museum remains one of the most-visited such attractions on the planet. It's easy to spot for its huge Romanesque façade, and a visit is something you'll not want to rush. Arrive early as it can get quite crowded.

Many of the museum's original exhibits are still on display centuries later, and together comprise a massive collection of more than 80 million items showcasing everything from botany to zoology, plus pretty much everything in between. A highlight of a visit is seeing the preserved specimens that Charles Darwin collected on his epic journeys.

If you're not in a hurry, start your visit by joining one of the formal guided tours on offer, ranging from 30 to 50 minutes. You'll be introduced to highlights you may wish to return to at a later date to explore in greater detail.

A variety of fun events are held regularly, from workshops for kids to late night openings. Shopping opportunities are located on-site, along with a number of dining options.

Address: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London

Official site: www.nhm.ac.uk

Covering 350 acres, Hyde Park is London's largest open space and has been a destination for sightseers since 1635. One of the park's highlights is the Serpentine, an 18th-century man-made lake popular for boating and swimming. Hyde Park is also where you'll find Speakers' Corner , a traditional forum for free speech—and heckling.

Another Hyde Park landmark is Apsley House , former home of the first Duke of Wellington and purchased after his famous victory at Waterloo. Now a museum, it houses Wellington's magnificent collections of paintings, including Velázquez's The Waterseller of Seville , along with gifts presented by grateful European kings and emperors. England's greatest hero is also commemorated at the Wellington Arch.

Another lovely London green space to explore is Regent's Park . Just a short walk away from Westminster, this 410-acre attraction is a delight to stroll around. If you're traveling with kids, be sure to visit London Zoo , located within the grounds of the park and one of the most popular things to do for families visiting the city.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions around Hyde Park

The largest and most famous of London's many churches, and undoubtedly one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's Cathedral sits atop the site of a Roman temple. The previous church structure was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666, and Sir Christopher Wren designed the rebuild .

Today, the twin Baroque towers and magnificent 365-foot dome of St. Paul's are a masterpiece of English architecture. If you're up to it, be sure to walk the stairs with their spectacular views of the dome's interior, including the Whispering Gallery , undoubtedly one of the top things to do in London.

• Read More: Exploring London's St. Paul's Cathedral: A Visitor's Guide

Whether you're a fan of food, flowers, art, or clothes, you'll find something to love in London's best markets . While most open only on weekends (Fridays included), some of the most eclectic venues, like the vibrant Camden Market in North London, welcome shoppers daily.

Camden Market is home to over 100 stalls, shops, and eateries offering everything from gluten-free goodies to hand-made jewels to bohemian clothing. If you're looking for a distinct urban feel, you'll find it here.

Borough Market is a must-visit for foodies in central London. This popular venue, which is situated near London Bridge, is so busy on weekends, you'll have to fight your way through crowds to nab the best produce or mouthwateringly good sample of giant paella.

Arrive early (we'd suggest no later than 10am) to enjoy a little more elbow room. The line for coffee can extend for blocks, so head there first. While some stalls are open during the week, most don't unveil their goods until Friday morning.

Old Spitalfields Market is another beloved spot offering some of the city's most gorgeous flowers, interesting antiques, art, jewelry, and more. Built in 1876, this is one of the best examples of a Victorian Market Hall.

Other popular markets include, Maltby Street Market , Brick Lane Market , and Portobello Road.

Read More: Best Places to Shop in London

The market halls of Covent Garden are only the beginning of the neighborhood, which encompasses the shops and restaurants of Long Acre and other adjacent streets, those of Neal's Yard and Seven Dials, as well as the Central Square with its incredibly talented, and unique, street performers.

The halls and arcades of Covent Garden Market are lined with specialty shops and kiosks selling everything from teas to fine handcrafts to tacky souvenirs. A few restaurants are sprinkled in as well, some offering patios for you to enjoy a tasty treat while people-watching.

Housed in the former flower market, you'll find the London Transport Museum , a kid-centric haven for those who love all things vehicular. Filled with historic buses, trolleys, and trams, children and adults alike will love this interactive transportation hub. "Drive" a London bus, pilot a tube train, or sit on an ancient trolley.

This area is also where you'll find the Royal Opera House and a variety of other leading London theaters.

Built to mark London's millennium celebrations in 2000, the London Eye is one of the world's largest observation wheels. Its individual glass capsules offer the most spectacular views of the city as you embark on a circular tour rising 443 feet above the Thames. The journey lasts close to 30 minutes, often quicker than the time spent lining up for your turn.

If you can, reserve your time in advance. Better still, skip the line completely with a London Eye: Skip-the-Line Ticket . This advance ticket allows you to take a flight at any time on the day you plan to visit. If you can afford it, rent one of the private capsules and share the experience with friends and family.

Another fun way to view London for above is aboard the Emirates Air Line , a cable car system that crosses the Thames between Greenwich and the Royal Victoria Dock. The journey travels one kilometer and lasts 10 minutes, long enough to enjoy spectacular views and grab a few memorable selfies.

Official site: www.londoneye.com

Another great Thames-side attraction, Hampton Court is one of the world's most famous and grandest of royal palaces, and a truly remarkable place to visit in London. Its Great Hall dates from Henry VIII's time (two of his six wives supposedly haunt the palace), and it's where Elizabeth I learned of the defeat of the Spanish Armada .

Meet Henry VIII himself or have a chat with Anne Boleyn, both of whom wander the grounds and involve guests in their interesting antics at random points throughout the day. Depending on the time and date you visit, you may even be asked to participate in a session in court.

Grab an audio guide upon your arrival and choose a velvet cloak to wear as you tour the grounds, if you're hoping to feel a bit more authentic. Get lost in the palace's famous Maze , or grab a bite in the on-site café,

Other interesting features include the Clock Court with its fascinating astronomical clock dating from 1540, the State Apartments with their Haunted Gallery, the Chapel , the King's Apartments , and the Tudor tennis court. Don't miss the Tudor Kitchens and their massive fireplaces.

The gardens are also worth visiting, especially in mid-May when in full bloom. Highlights include the Privy Garden, the Pond Garden, the Elizabethan Knot Garden, the Broad Walk, and an area known as the Wilderness.

Although a little farther outside the city center, Hampton Court is a must-do sightseeing trip when visiting London. It's a bit of a haul on the tube, but taking a taxi, renting a car, or even grabbing a car service will make this trip more than worthwhile.

• Read More: Visiting Hampton Court Palace: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

For centuries the hub of Britain's naval power, Greenwich is best known to tourists as the home of the Cutty Sark , the last of the 19th-century tea clippers to sail between Britain and China. The ship is located adjacent to the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre with its exhibits showcasing more than 500 years of maritime history, and the Palladian mansion known as Queen's House .

The impressive collections of the National Maritime Museum , the largest of its kind in the world, illustrate the history of the Royal Navy. And one of the most unusual things to do in London is standing with one foot in each hemisphere, astride the Meridian Line in the Meridian Building in the Royal Observatory.

Read More: Top Attractions in Greenwich & Docklands Districts, London

If you've time in your travel itinerary, two other military attractions related to the Churchill War rooms are also worth visiting: The Imperial War Museum and HMS Belfast .

Located a short distance from the popular Southbank cultural district, the Imperial War Museum London can easily occupy the best part of a day with its fascinating exhibits and collections of military vehicles, weapons, and aircraft.

Set in chronological order, displays portray the very real experiences of participants and victims in the world's major conflicts, with many hands-on exhibits allowing unique incites into their place in history. The Holocaust Galleries are particularly sobering.

A shop and café are located on-site, and before leaving, grab a selfie standing next to the huge shells and guns located out front.

The other must-see under the Imperial War Museum umbrella, HMS Belfast is a well-preserved WWII-era cruiser that served during D-Day. Located on the River Thames opposite the Tower of London, this historic vessel can be explored as part of a guided or self-guided tour.

For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a fun family tour. A gift shop is located on the premises.

The revitalized Docklands area of East London has been transformed into an international place of business and recreation, filled with some of London's smartest new restaurants and entertainment experiences.

The revitalized Docklands area also includes Canary Wharf. This important financial and business hub offers a variety of fun things to do, including shopping and dining.

The excellent Museum of London Docklands is the place to visit to learn more about the area. Located in a series of old Georgian warehouses on Canary Wharf, it brings to life the river, port, and its people from Roman times to the present through hands-on displays that are especially interesting for children.

A little closer to the Tower of London, St. Katherine Docks is fun to explore, too. Redeveloped as a mixed commercial and residential area, here you can spend time wandering the marina or enjoying a great meal or respite while watching the world go by.

It's hard to believe you're in London (well, technically just outside London) when on a visit to Richmond Park. One of the most captivating of the eight Royal Parks, this lavish natural wonderland has everything you'd look for in an English park: winding paths, verdant woodland, sparkling lakes, horse stables and trails, bike lanes, and multiple picnic spots.

Enjoy unparalleled views of St. Paul's Cathedral from King Henry's Mound , a picturesque hilltop surrounded by wild deer. Luxuriate in a warm tea and traditional scones at the Pembroke Lodge Tea Room , or rent a bike and cycle through this spectacular 2,500-acre nature reserve.

If visiting during spring, particularly late April or early May, make your way to the Isabella Plantation , a remarkable Victorian woodland garden set within the park. Its vibrant 40 acres are filled with colorful rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias so resplendent, you'll think you're walking through a fairy tale.

Official site: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond-park

Spending at day at Kew Gardens is one of the best things to do in London. A UNESCO Heritage Site , this phenomenal spot is home to over 50,000 living plants and some of the most majestically manicured gardens in England.

Officially called the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is situated in southwest London on the south bank of the Thames and offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of central London, and a welcome breath of fresh air. Located on a flight path, you'll spot multiple jumbo jets, but these add to the allure for little ones.

Also family-friendly is the expansive indoor and outdoor playground, which comes complete with a zipline. Visit on a sunny day, and you should prepare to jostle for a picnic spot on the lush lawns, as this is a popular spot for families to enjoy a lunch out. Didn't pack snacks? Visit one of the on-site restaurants for a tasty treat-they even offer dairy and gluten-free options.

Laid out in 1759, the gardens became government property in 1841. In 1897, Queen Victoria added Queen's Cottage and the adjoining woodland. A variety of tours are available free with admission, and many musical and cultural events are held here throughout the year.

Don't miss the towering Pagoda ; Japanese gardens ; Treetop Walkway ; and the remarkable Palm House , an indoor rainforest with an aquarium in the basement. The impressive Rhododendron Dell is a breathtaking treat popping with vibrant blooms during spring.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of London's Kew Gardens

London's top tourist attractions are spread out over several different areas of the city. If you want to spend time sightseeing, it's a good idea to base yourself in a central location and use the city's excellent public transport system to travel between the sites. Here are some highly rated hotels in Central London:

Luxury Hotels:

• When it comes to posh hotels, the grande dames still grace the list of London's best. Pampering guests for more than a century are The Goring , a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace.
• The Langham , in the heart of the West End, has played host to royals and celebrities for more than 150 years.
• A few steps from Trafalgar Square is the Corinthia London , with a rooftop terrace and luxurious afternoon teas.
• The Ritz London , also known for teas, is handy to the posh shops of Mayfair.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Fielding Hotel , a popular boutique property, places you right near Covent Garden, one of the city's most touristy areas. Handy for those arriving by train from Heathrow or Gatwick airports,
• The Clermont, Victoria is right over Victoria Station.
• About a 15-minute stroll from Covent Garden, Bloomsbury was once London's literary hub and is now home to one of the city's top attractions, the British Museum, as well as highly rated mid-range hotels such as The Montague on the Gardens and The Bloomsbury . Both are also a short stroll from Oxford Street shopping.

Budget Hotels:

• If you're watching your wallet, the Premier Inn London Kensington (Earl's Court) Hotel is an affordable option minutes from museums and Earls Court tube station.
• You can also head north and try The Alhambra Hotel or Jesmond Dene Hotel , both near busy King's Cross tube station, a major transport hub.
• In-depth tours. It's hard to choose the best sights to see in London; there are so many awesome spots on offer. This nine-hour, Best of London Sightseeing Tour makes sure you don't miss anything essential. In addition to taking you to some of the city's top spots like Westminster Cathedral and Buckingham Palace, guests receive pre-arranged tickets for a boat cruise, as well as comprehensive tours of the Tower of London and St. Paul's Cathedral, plus a stop to watch the Changing of the Guard. Upgrade to receive a cream tea at Harrods or a flight on the London Eye.
• Seeing the Sights . One of the best ways to see the sights of London is on a traditional, double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off London Sightseeing Tour . This has been the classic sightseeing tour for years, and it's popular for good reason: it's easy, convenient, informative, and ensures you see the most important attractions. Tickets are flexible, with open dates, and are valid for a 24-hour period. Even if you are in London for several days, this is a great way to spend a day getting oriented, especially for first-time visitors to the city.
• Day Trips . Beyond the city, there are some excellent sightseeing opportunities that can be easily undertaken on a day trip tour from London. The Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath Day Trip from London is an 11-hour guided trip that takes visitors to these must-see places to visit. It's a great way to see the surroundings without the hassle of driving, navigating, and parking.
• Harry Potter Experience. Fans of Harry Potter will definitely want to take the Warner Brother's Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter for a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the movie and a walk through the incredible sets where the film was made. Visitors can explore the site on their own, see the costumes and props, wander through the Great Hall, and learn about the whole experience of filming. The tour includes transportation to and from the studios from central London and an entrance ticket.

Let's be honest: no one travels to London for its weather. Frequented by cloudy skies that release smatterings of mist and rain, the UK's epic capital city is best visited with an umbrella in hand.

That said, London receives less annual rainfall than its tarnished reputation would have us believe, and less than many European cities . And rather than heavy rainfalls, the norm is "little and often." Yes, you'll likely run into a sprinkle or two during your visit, but a little rain never ruined a vacation, especially when touring a historic metropolis with so much to offer.

When those beautiful, bright sunny days do appear, visitors receive front row seats to the city's remarkable transformation. Locals smile more easily, the city's best parks and gardens fill with sun worshippers and picnickers, and a sparkling hue adds another level of magic to the city's most magnificent buildings. There's nothing better!

London is a tourist hot spot throughout the year. In other words, there's never a bad time to visit. If you're looking for a better chance of glimpsing the sun and avoiding masses of tourists, however, the best time to visit London is from March through May . That said, if you don't mind rubbing elbows with a zillion other tourists, a good time of year to travel to London is during the summer months from June to September.

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Other English City Destinations : Given its relatively small size, it's easy to travel from London to other great English cities, including lovely Liverpool , famous as the birthplace of The Beatles. The industrial city of Manchester is also within easy reach and is popular for its historic canal network and fine museums. Birmingham is another northern city worth visiting and celebrates both its rich industrial past along with modern museums, art galleries, and other cultural attractions.

Easy Escapes : From London, you're only a short train ride away from the idyllic countryside of the Lake District , a popular walking destination and known for the stunning scenery around Lake Windermere. The historic city of Bath , named after its well-preserved Roman baths, is another great escape, whether for a weekend or a week. So, too, is the cathedral city of Durham , which is also home to one of the most-visited castles in England.

Top UK Vacation Ideas : Scotland makes for an excellent UK vacation, and is where you'll find the spectacularly beautiful city of Edinburgh , recognizable the world over for its lovely castle. The tiny nation of Wales , too, is worth exploring, especially its capital city of Cardiff and the stunning scenery of Snowdonia in North Wales .

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20 top tourist attractions in London

London is a charismatic city that combines culture and heritage with a vibrant cosmopolitan energy. As one of the most visited cities in the world – and my personal favourite city – London offers an impressive collection of tourist attractions and landmarks. 

I’ve lived near London my whole life – so I may be biased, but I absolutely adore London. My guide to the top tourist attractions in London highlights the best destinations which I think are worth visiting.

From iconic landmarks and world-renowned museums to lesser known spots and hidden gems, I’ve tried to include something for everyone in this list.

This post was written in collaboration with Go City. I’d recommend choosing your own package of attractions with the Explorer Pass , as it’s a great way to benefit from amazing savings on London attractions, rather than booking individually. Plus, you get all tickets in one handy digital pass.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

1. The View from The Shard

Opening times: Wed-Fri, Sun: 11:00-19:00, Sat: 10:00-22:00

Admission price: £32

Time needed: 1 hour

Nearest tube or station: London Bridge train & tube station

Tickets: Book here

The Shard is one of the most iconic buildings in London , and a visit to the top is an unforgettable experience.

The View from The Shard is the highest observation deck in Western Europe and, on a clear day, you can see up to 40 miles away.

The 360-degree views take in some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

The journey to the top starts in The Shard’s lobby, where you’ll board a high-speed elevator that whisks you skyward at 22 miles per hour. I’m always surprised at how quickly you get to the top!

As you ascend, you’ll be treated to a fascinating audio guide that tells the story of The Shard’s construction.

Once you reach the observation deck, you’ll have ample opportunity to explore and take photos before descending back to ground level.

I’d suggest treating yourself to a glass of Champagne while watch you watch the world unfurl across the city.

A visit to The Shard is a must for any fan of architecture or anyone who simply wants to enjoy breathtaking views of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

Insider travel tip: You must book a ticket in advance. I recommend booking your ticket for sunset for gorgeous golden views over the city.

2. Westminster Abbey

Opening times: Mon, Tues, Thu, Fri: 09:30-15:30, Wed: 09:30-18:00, Sat: 09:30-13:30

Admission price: £20

Time needed: 2.5 hours

Nearest tube or station: Westminster tube station

Westminster Abbey is one of the most famous churches in the world, and it has been at the heart of British royal history for centuries. Trust me when I say that it is utterly breathtaking.

The building itself has an interesting history, having been constructed over a thousand years ago in the Romanesque style.

The Abbey has been the site of numerous important events in British history, including the coronation of kings and queens, and the burial of many notable figures.

Visitors can explore the beautiful Gothic architecture and learn about the Abbey’s long history.

The Abbey is also home to many famous artefacts, including the coronation chair and the Shrine of Edward the Confessor. 

Westminster Abbey is an important World Heritage site, and for that reason, I consider it to be one of the absolute must-see tourist attractions in London.

Insider travel tip: I’d advise planning to visit Westminster Abbey from 4pm on a Wednesday afternoon to avoid crowds and queues. No groups or tours are allowed in during these hours and not everyone knows about the extended opening times on a Wednesday.

3. St Paul’s Cathedral

Opening times: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat: 08:30-16:30, Wed: 10:00-16:30

Admission price: Adult: £18, Children: £7.70

Time needed: 2 hours

Nearest tube or station: St Paul’s tube station

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. The cathedral, which is the seat of the Anglican church in London, was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1708.

I’m sure you’ll recognise St Paul’s from its impressive dome, which is the second largest in the world after St Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

The cathedral is also home to a number of works of art, including paintings by Sir Joshua Reynolds and stained glass windows by Sir Christopher Wren.

Visitors to St Paul’s can explore the cathedral’s beautiful interior, climb to the top of the dome, or simply enjoy the views of London from the famous steps. I really think this is such a wonderful tourist attraction in London.

Insider travel tip: I’d suggest checking the calendar before you plan your visit, as opening hours can change depending on different events. 

4. Tower Bridge

Admission price: Adult: £11.40, Children: £5.70

Nearest tube or station: Tower Bridge tube station, London Bridge train & tube station

Tower Bridge is another of London’s most iconic landmarks. Situated in the heart of the city, it spans the River Thames and offers stunning views of both the river and the skyline.

Rather than simply seeing it from the outside, I’d recommend walking across the bridge’s high-level walkway, which opens up to reveal a glass floor above the river below.

It’s one of the few places in London where you can actually see the river flowing beneath your feet.

The bridge is also home to a number of historical exhibits, including a Victorian engine room that is open to the public. 

Insider travel tip: I’d advise arriving early if you can to avoid the crowds.

5. Royal Observatory Greenwich

Opening times: Daily: 10:00-17:00

Admission price: Adult: £16, Children: £8

Time needed: 1.5 hours

Nearest tube or station: Greenwich & Maze Hill stations

The Royal Observatory Greenwich is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London and I can see why.

Home of Greenwich Meantime (GMT) and the Planetarium, the Observatory offers a unique opportunity to learn about time and space.

Established in 1675 by King Charles II, the Observatory has been used to set the standard for timekeeping ever since.

It’s also home to the Prime Meridian, which is the imaginary line that divides the Earth into East and West – so it’s a pretty important place!

The Observatory itself offers views of the cityscape and the opportunity to learn about the history of timekeeping.

While the Planetarium offers a chance to view the night sky and learn about the stars and planets – I’d really recommend doing this, as I found it to be a truly fascinating experience.

Insider travel tip: I’d advise combining your visit to the Royal Observatory with a visit to Cutty Sark, as you can get a Day Pass ticket for £25 that includes both.

6. Cutty Sark

Nearest tube or station: Cutty Sark DLR station & Greenwich station

Tickets: Book here 

The Cutty Sark is a historic sailing ship and award-winning tourist attraction that is located in Greenwich. Built in 1869, it is one of the last surviving tea clippers. 

I’d recommend a visit to the Cutty Sark so you can explore the ship’s decks, view the historic rigging, and discover what life was like aboard the iconic ship.

The Cutty Sark was awarded the prestigious title of top tourist attraction in London a few years back – so you can trust me when I say that this attraction will deliver!

Note that you must have a timed entry ticket, so be sure to book in advance of your visit.

Insider travel tip: Rather than getting the DLR to the Cutty Sark, I’d recommend arriving via the Thames on an Uber Boat by Thames Clipper. You can pay with an Oyster card or contactless card, just like on the underground.

7. Kensington Palace

Opening times: Wed-Sun: 10:00-16:00

Nearest tube or station: High Street Kensington & Queensway tube stations

Tickets : Book here

Kensington Palace is the royal residence of TRH The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children.

It’s also a popular tourist attraction in London and I’d especially recommend it for those interested in British history and royal palaces.

You can explore the beautiful grounds, tour the state apartments, and see important historical artwork.

Kensington Palace is also known for its afternoon tea , which is served in the Orangery restaurant, and I definitely think it’s worth stopping by.

The restaurant has an outdoor terrace with views of the palace gardens, making it the perfect place to enjoy a cup of tea on a sunny day. 

Insider travel tip: Although an appealing attraction to anyone with an interest in England’s royal history, there is not much to keep smaller children entertained at Kensington Palace.

Exploring London on your own? Check out my guide to the best London hotels for solo travellers .

8. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

Opening times: Daily tours available

Admission price: Adult: £17, Under 16: £10

Time needed: 50 minutes

Nearest tube or station: Blackfriars train station

In my opinion, a tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a must-do for any fan of the Bard. Located on the banks of the River Thames, the iconic Globe is a replica of the open-air theatre where Shakespeare’s plays were first performed.

You can explore the theatre, learn about its history and see how it was used in Elizabethan times. The education centre features interactive exhibits on Shakespeare’s life and work.

The Globe is more than just a London tourist attraction – it’s a cultural landmark that offers a unique insight into the life and work of one of the world’s greatest writers.

Of course, if a tour isn’t enough, I’d suggest checking what’s on and booking to see a performance. 

Insider travel tip: If you’re watching a performance at the Globe, it’s worth renting a cushion for £1 if you’re sitting on the wooden benches. Trust me, your bottom will thank you!

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9. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Opening times: Daily 10:00-15:00/16:00/17:00 (depending on season)

Admission price: Adult: £11-£20.50, Child: £4-5 (depending on season)

Time needed: 3 hours

Nearest tube or station: Kew Gardens tube station

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is a world-famous institute for the study of plant life and a major tourist attraction in southwest London. I love Kew, as I think it’s a real sanctuary of peace within the city.

This London landmark features 500 acres of woodland and contains more than 50,000 different types of plants. As well as several glasshouses, a herbarium, and a museum.

You can stroll through the beautiful grounds, which contain rare and exotic plants from all over the world, or take a guided tour of the glasshouses.

Don’t miss the lily pads behind the greenhouse and be sure to stroll along the Treetop Walkway – my personal favourite spot when the weather is good!

Kew Gardens is also home to the seed conservation project. Seeds are collected and stored from all over the world in an effort to conserve rare and endangered species.

The gardens offer a number of educational programs, for those interested in learning more.

Insider travel tip: I’d advise arriving shortly after opening (10am) to get the most out of your day at Kew Gardens. 

10. Hampton Court Palace

Admission price: Adult: £26.10, Child: £13

Time needed: 4 hours

Nearest tube or station: Hampton Court train station

Hampton Court Palace is a historic palace in London that was first built in 1514 for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey.

However, Wolsey fell out of favour with King Henry VIII, and the palace was taken over by the king.

It remained a royal residence for centuries, and today I’m pleased to say that it is open to the public. You can explore the palace grounds, which include a stunning maze, as well as the beautiful state apartments. 

I love that Hampton Court Palace is full of fascinating history and beautiful architecture. I think it’s a must-see London tourist attraction for anyone with an interest in British royal history.

Insider travel tip: The gardens and landscaped areas of the palace grounds cover an astonishing 750 acres.

So I’d advise wearing comfortable shoes, as you’ll need to do a fair bit of walking to thoroughly explore everything on offer.

11. London Stadium Tours

Times & prices: See individual stadiums

Tickets: Stamford Bridge , Emirates , Wembley , Tottenham Hotspur , Twickenham

London is home to some of the most iconic stadiums in the world. Visitors can now get an up-close look at these architectural marvels through London stadium tours.

Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge, Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, Wembley Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Twickenham are just a few of the incredible venues that are open to the public.

With London stadium tours, visitors can explore the facilities, learn about the history of each stadium and even stand on the pitch itself.

Whether you’re a diehard sports fan or simply an admirer of architecture, London stadium tours offer a unique opportunity to explore some of the world’s most famous sports venues.

Insider travel tip: For those looking for an even more thrilling experience, The Dare Skywalk at Tottenham Hotspur offers stunning views of London from high above the pitch. I’m not a big sports fan, but this does sound right up my street!

12. Royal Albert Hall

Opening times: Daily: 10:00-16:00 (varies according to what’s on)

Admission price: Adult: £16.25, Child: £8,25

Nearest tube or station: South Kensington tube station

The Royal Albert Hall is one of the most iconic buildings in London. I’ve had some of my most memorable evenings watching various performances here.

The grandiose concert hall has been the site of some of the world’s most famous performances, from classical music concerts to rock shows.

Built in the late 19th century, the hall is named after Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria.

The Royal Albert Hall is home to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and plays host to many other musical events throughout the year.

Aside from seeing a performance, you can take a tour of the hall to learn about its history and see its beautiful architecture up close.

You’ll start in the grand foyer, where you will see the stunning marble staircases and get a sense of the scale of the building.

From there, you will head into the auditorium. Here you will see the famous circular seating arrangement and learn about the acoustics of the hall.

Insider travel tip: Around 20 times a year, the Royal Albert Hall runs a Behind-the-Scenes tour. It takes visitors to areas usually off limits to the public, such as under the stage and into the dressing rooms.

I think this a truly unmissable experience but there is limited availability so be sure to book in advance. 

13. Household Cavalry Museum

Opening times: Wed-Sun: 10:00-17:00 Nov-Mar & 10:00-18:00 Apr-Oct

Admission price: Adult: £10, Child: £8

Nearest tube or station: Westminster, Charing Cross & Embankment stations

The Household Cavalry Museum is located in the heart of London, next to Horse Guards Parade. The museum tells the story of the Household Cavalry, from their formation in 1660 to the present day.

You can discover what life was like for a soldier in the cavalry, learn about the role of horses in warfare, and see a range of artefacts, including armour, weapons, and uniforms.

There is also an interactive exhibit where visitors can try on an actual Queen’s Life Guard uniform. While I know that kids will love the arts and crafts area.

I think the Household Cavalry Museum is a must-see London tourist attraction for anyone interested in military history.

Insider travel tip: Be sure to catch the public inspection of the Household Cavalry – it takes place every day at 4pm.

14. ArcelorMittal Orbit

Opening times: Mon-Thurs: 12:00-17:00, Fri-Sun: 10:00-18:00 (varies throughout year)

Admission price: Adult: £11.50 (£16.50 with slide), Child: £5.50 (10.50 with slide)

Nearest tube or station: Stratford tube station

ArcelorMittal Orbit is a 115-metre-high sculpture and observation tower in the Olympic Park in Stratford. It was designed by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond for the 2012 Olympics.

The Orbit has a breathtaking viewing platform at 80 metres high. Don’t worry though, I’m pleased to say that there is a 34 second lift which whisks you to the top of the UK’s tallest structure.

When it comes to getting down, you can descend via the lift, the 455 steps or in the 45-metre slide. The latter is undoubtedly the highlight of a visit to ArcelorMittal Orbit and I know what I would do!

Insider travel tip: If you’re claustrophobic then this London tourist attraction may not be for you.

You’ll need to contend with the lift up, plus the slide is enclosed and therefore not suitable for anyone who is claustrophobic. 

Discover my guide to the best quirky things to do in London .

15. Museum of London

Admission price: Free

Nearest tube or station: Barbican & St Paul’s tube stations

The Museum of London is a must-see tourist attraction for anyone interested in the history of the city.

Spanning over two million years, the museum tells the story of London from its humble beginnings as a small Roman settlement to its current status as a global metropolis.

The exhibits are both informative and interactive, making it a great place to spend a few hours, whether you’re a history buff or not.

And if you get tired of walking around, I’d suggest pausing in the cafe where you can grab a bite to eat and relax.

Insider travel tip: Make sure that your phone is charged before visiting, as you can access online content via the QR codes as you explore the museum.

16. The Monument to the Great Fire of London

Opening times: Daily: 09:30-13:00 & 14:00-18:00

Admission price: Adult: £5.80, Child: £2.90

Time needed: 45 minutes

Nearest tube or station: Monument tube station

The Monument to the Great Fire of London is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The towering stone column stands over 202 feet tall.

It’s topped with a gilded urn that serves as a memorial to the devastating fire that consumed much of London in 1666. The Monument stands at the exact site where the fire started.

The Monument is open to the public, and I’d recommend ascending to the top for breathtaking views of the city.

The climb is not for the faint-hearted though, as there are more than three hundred steps to navigate. Quite the calorie burner if you ask me!

Those who make the journey are rewarded with a unique perspective on London’s history and architecture.

The Monument is a must-see for any visitor to the city, and provides a stirring reminder of the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

Insider travel tip: There is a mesh cage surrounding the viewing area at the top, so you may struggle to capture photos if you’re using a camera with a large lens. 

17. Old Royal Naval College

Admission price: Adult: £13.50, Child: Free

Nearest tube or station: Maze Hill train station

In my opinion, the Old Royal Naval College is a spectacular sight. Situated on the banks of the River Thames, the buildings were designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in the late seventeenth century.

Today, the college is home to a number of museums and art galleries, as well as an iconic Painted Hall (known as ‘Britain’s Sistine Chapel’) and a beautiful riverside garden.

Here you can explore the history of the site, marvel at the architecture, and enjoy views of London from across the river.

Whether you’re interested in maritime history or simply looking for a place to relax, I really think that the Old Royal Naval College is well worth a visit.

Insider travel tip: The Old Royal Naval College is one of the most popular filming locations in the world. From Thursday to Sunday, there are special film tours of the College – perfect for film buffs (like me!).

18. Tower of London

Opening times: Tues-Sat 09:00-16:30, Sun-Mon: 10:00-16:30 (varies throughout year)

Admission price: Adult: £29.90, Child: £14.90

Nearest tube or station: Tower Hill tube station

The Tower of London is one of the most historic sites in the world. For centuries, it has been a symbol of the British monarchy and a part of the country’s rich history.

Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London, drawing visitors from all over the world – and I can see why.

The Tower of London was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1066 as a fortification against invasion.

It later served as a royal palace, a prison, and even an execution site. Its most famous prisoner was Anne Boleyn, who was infamously beheaded in 1536.

A visit to the Tower of London is a truly unforgettable experience. From the moment you step inside, you feel like you are stepping back in time.

The imposing stone walls and high towers loom overhead, creating an atmosphere of awe and mystery. As you explore the different rooms and exhibits, I know you won’t be able to help but marvel at the Tower’s rich history.

The Tower also houses the Crown Jewels, which are among the most valuable objects in the world.

Insider travel tip: Queues to see the Crown Jewels can get extremely long, especially at peak times. So when you visit the Tower of London, I’d advise aiming to see the Crown Jewels first, before anything else.

Note that photography isn’t allowed in this exhibit.

19. Apsley House

Opening times: Thurs-Sun: 11:00-17:00

Admission price: Adult: £11.60, Child: £6.90

Nearest tube or station: Hyde Park Corner tube station

Apsley House was built in 1771 for the Earl of Apsley, and it was designed by the architect Benjamin Dean Wyatt.

It has been home to a number of notable residents over the years, including the Duke of Wellington.

This stately mansion is considered to be one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in England.

I think the interior of the house is just as impressive as the exterior, with a grand staircase, high ceilings, and several ornate fireplaces.

Visitors to Apsley House can tour the public rooms and learn about the history of the house and its owner, the Duke of Wellington.

A visit to Apsley House is a wonderful opportunity to step back in time and experience nineteenth-century luxury.

Insider travel tip: If you enjoy visiting this type of tourist attraction in London, I’d recommend visiting Sir John Soane’s Museum and the Wallace Collection too.

20. Eltham Palace

Opening times: Check online , dates and times vary

Admission price: Adult: £16.00, Child: £9.60

Nearest tube or station: Mottingham train station

Eltham Palace is a remarkable stately home in London. The building has a long and interesting history, dating back to the 12th century when it was first built as a royal palace.

Over the centuries, it has been remodelled and expanded several times, most notably during the reign of King Henry VIII.

Today, Eltham Palace is open to the public. I’d recommend exploring the beautiful gardens, state rooms and Great Hall. There is also a wide range of amenities, including a café, restaurant, and gift shop.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, or British royalty, Eltham Palace, I’m sure you’ll love this hidden gem.

Top tip: In late summer, Eltham Palace plays host to their annual Legendary Joust event. It’s a jousting tournament that transports visitors back to the 15th century, and I think it’s a fascinating event!

So if you’re visiting London in late summer time, I’d suggest checking when this unique event is on.

Planning a trip to England’s capital city? Discover my pick of the best luxury hotels in London , the best spa hotels in London and my guide to the top Michelin star restaurants in London .

If you’re struggling to decide which city to visit next, have a read of my guide to choosing between London or Paris .

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Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

British tourist found dead in Algarve holiday apartment

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A British tourist has been found dead in an Algarve holiday apartment.

The alarm was raised around 7am this morning at the Orada Tourist Apartments near Albufeira Marina in Portugal.

The man, 30, travelled there for a vacation and it thought to have been staying with a friend, who alerted emergency services.

Respected Portuguese daily Correio da Mana is reporting the whereabouts of the friend, whose nationality has not yet been made public, is not known.

Portugal’s GNR police force were the first force alerted but the investigation has now been handed over to the country’s Policia Judiciaria force.

As well as police, firefighters and ambulance workers were also mobilised as part of the emergency response.

The victim was declared dead at the scene.

Police are now investigating the circumstances of the death.

Portuguese police have confirmed the dead man was a 30-year-old British national who was on holiday.

The four-star apartment complex has an outdoor pool and 220 apartments plus a reception area that is staffed 24/7.

A well-placed source close to the ongoing investigation said: ‘The British man’s body was found on the floor by the toilet door in his apartment.

‘There was a lot of vomit around him.

‘Police suspect he had suffered some sort of health issue.

‘The GNR force took a call around 7am this morning from an English speaker they believe was a friend saying a man was probably dead in the flat.

‘But that same person simply then disappeared and the police can’t find him at the moment which is what’s odd about all of this and why the PJ police were called in.

‘They are trying to establish his whereabouts at the moment.

‘The dead man had been due to leave the apartment this morning so was probably going to fly back to the UK and investigators are trying to confirm it was his friend who called them and whether he ended up just going to Faro Airport after making the emergency call.

‘They find it all very weird that he didn’t realise he needed to stay around after making the call as the person who phoned the emergency services.’

Another source added: ‘There are no obvious signs of any violence in the apartment or anything pointing to the man’s death being the result of a crime.

‘But a post-mortem has yet to take place and the Policia Judiciaria will carry out a full forensic examination of the apartment and speak to reception and ask for CCTV footage.

‘Officers will also try to track down and speak to the person that called.’

Police sources said the dead man was on a ‘short break’ to Portugal and he is understood to have travelled with only a small suitcase.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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