26 Day Trips from London By Train! Cities, Beaches & Europe!

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Whether you live in London or you are visiting London, the huge amount of day trips from London by train that are available is the best thing about London! London is great but it’s also good to leave it once in a while right?

Train is the best and quickest option to leave the big smoke because the train system in the UK, and to and from London, is usually pretty reliable and there are so many train routes on offer! So take advantage of this and do more day trips from London by train!

Best Day Trips from London By Train

1. Oxford

One of the best day trips from London is without doubt Oxford, known for its spectacular architecture, the oldest university in the UK and more recently, its Harry Potter history. Once you arrive, you can explore the whole city on foot.

With a day in Oxford, for ideas of things to do in Oxford, you can check out the iconic buildings like the Radcliffe Camera, the carved heads on the Sheldonian Theatre and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Pay £1 to admire the elaborate ceiling of the Divinity Schools, a location used to film Hogwarts school balls. For the best birds-eye-view in town, climb St Mary’s tower.

For lunch, visit the quirky Covered Market. Eat delicious salads and nachos at colourful Georgina’s Cafe or authentic, cheap Thai food at Sasi’s Thai. Don’t miss the flagship store of Ben’s Cookies found in the market.

For the afternoon, head inside a few charming Oxford colleges. Harry Potter fanatics will want to include Christ Church college to see the staircase and dining hall used in filming. For more information about visiting Oxford colleges, check out this guide ready for your Oxford from London day trip.

How to do a day trip from London to Oxford by train?

London to Oxford Train: London Paddington Station to Oxford Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Oxford train route.

London to Oxford Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Where Goes Rose

2. Cambridge

One of the most popular train trips from London is to the historic university town of Cambridge. A Cambridge day trip from London is one of the easiest to do as it’s only a short distance from the capital and is small enough to be able to see all of the highlights in one day.

There are plenty of interesting things to do in Cambridge, including visiting some of the historic university colleges such as Kings College or Trinity College, watching the people punting along the River Cam (or having a go yourself!) or enjoying the number of green spaces available in the city.

There are also numerous walking tours in the city that are run by local students which make for a great way to learn about the history of the city as well as helping you get a better understanding of what daily life is like in the university town for residents.

How to do a day trip from London to Cambridge by train?

London to Cambridge Train: London Kings Cross Station to Cambridge Station in 50 minutes is the quickest London to Cambridge train route.

London to Cambridge Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: The World Was Here First

3. Norwich

Norwich is the perfect escape from the hustle of the capital. Not only does it offer a much slower pace of life but it is also hugely historical, featuring colourful houses, medieval cobbled streets, quaint beer gardens and lush green spaces.

Owing to the city’s size, it is easily walkable and there is plenty to do depending on your interests. Visitors should not miss an underground Norwich tour where you can explore a medieval undercroft. This tour will give you plenty of information about the city’s history as well as some of the local legends.

Norwich is one of the few cities in the UK to have two cathedrals, both of which are worth a visit. History buffs will also want to pencil in a trip to Norwich Castle. This impressive build is the focal point of the city and holds some fascinating history.

The River Wensum runs through the city and on a nice day, it is great to rent a canoe and explore the waterways. This is best arranged online in advance during the summer months.

Elm Hill is one of the most picturesque parts of the city and on this one street, it is possible to see more medieval buildings than in the whole of the City of London!

Before you depart, don’t miss the opportunity to grab a meal and a cold beer in the Adam & Eve, Norwich’s oldest pub. There are claims that this public house has been serving the patrons of Norwich since 1249!

Bear in mind that the city of Norwich is a short walk away from the train station. The walk takes around 15 minutes but if you prefer, buses also head to Castle Meadow in the centre every 5 minutes.

How to do a day trip from London to Norwich by train?

London to Norwich Train: London Liverpool Street Station to Norwich Station in 1 hour 50 minutes is the quickest London to Norwich train route.

London to Norwich Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Winging The World

4. Cardiff

A great place to visit on a day trip from London is Cardiff. The centre of Cardiff is not very big and the main train station in Cardiff is less than 10 minutes’ walk to the pedestrianised high street area. Everything in the centre is walkable so there’s no need for taxis or buses on your Cardiff day trip from London.

Shop till you drop in St David’s and the newer St David’s 2 where you’ll find the biggest John Lewis outside of London. There are shops galore and plenty of places to eat. Wander a bit further from the shops and you can discover some of Cardiff’s history in Cardiff Castle, while still being in the centre of the city. There is a Norman Keep, Castle Apartments and battlements which hold a secret. I won’t spoil it for you.

Behind Cardiff Castle is Bute Park, a peaceful haven in the middle of a bustling city. And just across the road, you can find the National Museum of Cardiff (which is free) and the Museum of Cardiff is also a great place to visit to learn more about the city you are visiting and it’s also free.

Any sporting fans should try and pay a visit to the Principality Stadium, known to many as the Millennium Stadium. Take a tour of the home of Welsh football, visit the team dressing rooms and stand in awe pitch-side and imagine the roars of fans on match day.

Whether you are visiting the city as a solo traveller, couple or visiting Cardiff with family, you won’t be sort of ideas on how to enjoy the Welsh capital.

How to do a day trip from London to Cardiff by train?

London to Cardiff Train: London Paddington Station to Cardiff Central Station in 1 hour 50 minutes is the quickest London to Cardiff train route.

London to Cardiff Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Passports and Adventures

5. Canterbury

Canterbury has been a popular destination for Londoners for nearly 1,000 years, although it wasn’t always accessible as a day trip from London like it is now. Pilgrims once travelled on foot to see the place where Thomas Becket was murdered inside the Canterbury Cathedral. This long voyage inspired the Canterbury Tales, one of the greatest literary works written in the English language. The book is comprised of a series of short stories that the pilgrims told to entertain each other during their travels.

Still today, the Cathedral is the main highlight of a trip to Canterbury, though it’s certainly not the city’s only attraction. When you’re done gazing up at the tall vaulted ceiling, don’t forget to head down into the underground crypt to see the frescoes there.

St. Martin’s Church, St. Augustine’s Abbey and the last remaining tower of the city’s medieval fortifications are also worthy of your time and are all easily explored on foot, as the historical city centre is quite compact. For lunch, head to the Lady Luck, a rock ‘n’ roll pub that offers both meaty and vegan versions of typical pub food. The Goods Shed, an indoor farmer’s market, is also a great place to eat in Canterbury.

How to do a day trip from London to Canterbury by train?

London to Canterbury Train: London Victoria Station to Canterbury West Station in 1 hour 15 minutes is the quickest London to Canterbury train route.

London to Canterbury Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: The Nomadic Vegan

6. Bath

Bath is a charming English city that be visited on an easy day trip from London. The city is perfect to visit on a day trip as it is small and walkable.

Bath is best known for its namesake: the historic Roman Baths. The Roman Baths date back to around 60 AD, when they were used for public bathing up until the 5th century. You can’t enter the water when visiting the Baths; however, you can tour the historic site and taste the spa water – it doesn’t taste very good, but it’s said to have healing properties. If you’d like to take a dip in hot spa water, check out the Thermae Bath Spa that is located next door.

Another must-see attraction in Bath is Bath Abbey, the city’s beautiful parish church. The Gothic church is made of golden Bath stone, along with most other buildings in Bath. After exploring the Abbey, spend some time wandering around the city to admire its gorgeous architecture. The Bath Circus is a unique, historic street full of townhouses made of Bath stone and is a classic example of Georgian architecture.

Bath is a gorgeous city that is worth visiting on a day trip from London. If you’re short on time, you can even do a combined Bath and Stonehenge day trip!

How to do a day trip from London to Bath by train?

London to Bath Train: London Paddington Station to Bath Station in 1 hour 20 minutes is the quickest London to Bath train route.

London to Bath Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: A World in Reach

7. Birmingham

Birmingham is ideal for a quick train trip from London to explore. Despite being England’s second-largest city, Birmingham can be overlooked as a destination but it has so much to offer for a variety of interests and needs.

With frequent and affordable train tickets to get you there, lots to do and see, it might just surprise you and become a more regular choice for eating, drinking and sightseeing from London.

Arguably the best train station in the UK, Birmingham New Street is modern, functional, a stunning work of architecture and right in the centre, making the entire city accessible on foot from the moment you step off the train. In fact ‘The Bullring’ is one of the places recommended to visit on the itinerary of any day trip to Birmingham; three levels of food court and retail stores is handy and fun to wander around but by no means the extent of the trip. 

Head out to find boutique stores as well as cafes and restaurants with servings as delicious as they are instagrammable. Foodies will have heard of the Michelin famed restaurants, but shouldn’t fail to drop into the more affordable spots, often family-run with fresh and inspiring menus – a firm favourite of locals and visitors being the cafe Faculty. 

For those with a cultural bent, the city centre’s architecture is diverse. While making a beeline for the canal, don’t miss the Library of Birmingham for its striking modern theme right by the classical, art deco structures of Centenary Square, in turn, a short stroll from the landmark Victorian construction now home to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

How to do a day trip from London to Birmingham by train?

London to Birmingham Train: London Euston Station to Birmingham New Street Station in 1 hour 20 minutes is the quickest London to Birmingham train route.

London to Birmingham Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Generation Avocado

8. Durham

The historic city of Durham is one of the great day trips from London by train. Don’t be put off by the 3-hour journey – the East Coast mainline is a scenic route, passing through rolling countryside and the historic city of York en route to Durham.

Once in Durham, there is no further need for transport as the train drops you right to the edge of the city centre. Start your visit at the 11th century, UNESCO World Heritage Durham Cathedral whose exteriors cloisters were used as a location for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies. The cathedral is a mix of Norman and Romanesque architecture and has splendid stained glass windows. Opposite the cathedral is the multi-angular Durham Castle. Tours of the Castle are by pre-booking only.

Descend the cobbled, pedestrianised lanes lined with boutique shops into the small city’s main square and visit the Victorian indoor market or St Nicolas Church. If you have time, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the River Wear before heading back to the station for your relaxing train ride back to London.

How to do a day trip from London to Durham by train?

London to Durham Train: London Kings Cross Station to Durham Station in 3 hours is the quickest London to Durham train route.

London to Durham Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Best in York Guide

9. York

Hop on the train in central London and get off two hours later in the historic city of York. Wander the cobbled lanes that inspired Joanne K Rowling’s famous Harry Potter books, indulge in York’s sweet, chocolatey history and immerse yourself in medieval architecture.

It is easy to see the best of York in one day, but make sure you arrive early to maximise your time in the city. The train station is just outside the medieval city wall and from the station it is just a 5-minute walk to Micklegate – one of the four main gates to enter the Old Town of York.

The first order of the day: climb the city wall at Micklegate. You can walk the entire circumference of the wall, but the section north of Micklegate is particularly beautiful. Soon after you cross the River Ouse, descend into the city to visit York Minster, an iconic Gothic cathedral with vast stained glass windows.

From there, make your way through the maze of York’s cobbled lanes. Don’t miss addresses like Stonegate, Coffee Yard and Davygate. Stop at Betty’s Tea Rooms to treat yourself to their famous fondant fancies. But the best is yet to come: York’s famous Shambles, a lane filled with quirky shops, that is said to be the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

One of my favourite things to do in York is a tour at York’s Chocolate Story – a museum dedicated to York’s history as the chocolate capital of England. Of course, there are also plenty of tasters available and you will be able to make your own chocolate lolly at the end of the tour.

Make your way back to the city wall to continue your walk back towards Micklegate and the train station.

How to do a day trip from London to York by train?

London to York Train: London Kings Cross Station to York Station in 1 hour  50 minutes is the quickest London to York train route.

London to York Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Watch Me See

10. Winchester

Winchester is a charming historic city, England’s ancient capital where King Alfred the Great resided. Today, Winchester is one of the most desirable places to live in England and the house prices dually reflect that.

The city is situated in Hampshire, only an hour away from London on a train. The city’s most prominent landmark is 11th century Winchester Cathedral, which is one of the largest in Europe! When you’re in Winchester, make sure you visit the Winchester College, the oldest public school in England and a place where Harry Potter and Les Miserables were filmed! Have you heard about King Arthur and his knights? Well, the Great Hall in Winchester housed his Round Table for 700 years.

Winchester has many great, traditional English pubs where you can have a pint of a locally brewed beer to accompany a mouth-watering roast dinner. And if you’re a fan of nature, Winchester offers very picturesque riverside walks.

A perfect time to visit Winchester is before Christmas when the city is bustling with Christmas markets selling quality crafts, and there is an impressive ice ring next to the Cathedral, making Winchester one of the best day trips from London by train in winter.

How to do a day trip from London to Winchester by train?

London to Winchester Train: London Waterloo Station to Winchester Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Winchester train route.

London to Winchester Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Raw Mal Roams

11. St Albans

St Albans is a charming English city which can be easily reached by rail meaning it’s one the quick train trips from London on offer.

The main point creating the panorama of the city is the city’s cathedral The Cathedral and Abbey Church of Saint Alban, whose architecture is a mixture of many different eras. Its large tower was built of bricks from the ruins of the Roman city located in the past in the area of today’s St. Albans.

St Albans stands out not only because of the beautiful city cathedral. The rich history of this city can also be seen in beautiful medieval architecture.

In addition, numerous green areas, parks and water reservoirs are a great place for an afternoon walk, and the bike paths around the town definitely encourage active leisure. There is also Ye Olde Fighting Cocks – the oldest pub in Great Britain!

How to do a day trip from London to St Albans by train?

London to St Albans Train: London St Pancras Station to St Albans City Station in 17 minutes is the quickest London to St Albans train route.

London to St Albans Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Darek and Gosia

12. Manchester

If you are looking to discover a whole new side of England, Manchester will be the perfect place and a London to Manchester day trip is easy to do!

There are free walking tours running every day at 11:00 am. The tour lasts 3 hours and is the perfect way to discover the city. Manchester is the third biggest city in the UK however the city centre itself is quite small and easily navigable.

On the walking tour, you will get to discover the history of Manchester, the gay village, the cathedral, Alan Turing Memorial, the story of Vimto and plenty more!

If you want to grab a drink or see some amazing murals, head to Northern Quarter! This hipster neighbourhood is to Manchester what Shoreditch is to London! You will find many bars, restaurants and pubs. If you walk around, you will also get to discover the best of Manchester’s street art.

Manchester was mainly built during the Industrial Revolution. There are still many warehouses all around the city which is why it’s very often chosen as a movie filming location. Some parts of Peaky Blinders, for example, were filmed by the canals in the city centre!

How to do a day trip from London to Manchester by train?

London to Manchester Train: London Euston Station to Manchester Picadilly Station in 2 hours 5 minutes is the quickest London to Manchester train route.

London to Manchester Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Bee Loved City

13. Coventry

Coventry is one of the most historically significant cities in the United Kingdom. With so much history, as well as a wealth of cafés, restaurants, shops and parks, Coventry is an excellent day trip from London for both adults and children alike.

During the industrial revolution, Coventry stood at the forefront of both invention and creation for the British travel industry. Britain’s first bicycle factory, the inventor of the jet engine and London’s famous black cabs are all the products of Coventry, and they are extensively covered in the exemplary Coventry Transport Museum.

Coventry was also one of the most bombed cities in England during World War 2. Because of this, many of the buildings that stand today are only 80 years old, though many were built as replicas of the ones that were destroyed in the blitz. As you wander amongst the streets, one of the fun things to do in Coventry is to try and guess which Victoria-era building is new and which is historic!

One of the main losses to the German Luftwaffe was the original Coventry Cathedral – only the spire and the outer shell. Following its reconstruction, visitors to the cathedral grounds can walk amongst the ruins of the original building, and enjoy the multicoloured, avant-garde architecture of the newly constructed main building. Those energetic enough can also ascend the 180+ spiral stairs to the top of the old bell tower and be rewarded with a commanding view of the city.

How to do a day trip from London to Coventry by train?

London to Coventry Train: London Euston Station to Coventry Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Coventry train route.

London to Coventry Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Cultura Obscura

14. Windsor

The historic royal town of Windsor is one of the best places to spend a day outside of London absorbed by its history and heritage.

Of course, you cannot ever visit Windsor without visiting the castle. Tickets are priced around £21 but valid for a full 12 months so you can always return as many times as you like before the expiry date. When the Royal Standard flag is flying then that indicates the Queen is in residence. Visiting the castle is very rewarding in itself to visit the various ornately decorated rooms of the Upper Ward.

What is also very interesting is to see a room dedicated to all sorts of pottery and ceramics bearing the royal arms and those that were gifts to the House of Windsor from abroad. Other rooms like the armoury room are also fascinating to see historical metal knight suits from centuries ago.

Further into the town of Windsor itself feels like one of those great snapshots of old England exploring glorious narrow cobbled streets that play host to some delightful stores such as the Crooked House which is one of many great places for a glorious afternoon tea. Taking a stroll over the bridge to the other side of the Thames is the neighbouring town of Eton, most famous for one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious boarding schools.

On the other side of Windsor, there is nothing more rewarding than a long walk through the Long Walk (no pun intended, surely?) that marks the boundaries of Windsor Great Park. This is one of the best places you will ever see hundreds of mostly red deer roaming along the grass.

Standing proudly on the end is the statue of King George III on horseback and here the path intersects into different sections of the park such as the Savill Garden (tickets needed for this) but also the nature reserve by Virginia Water and its instantly recognisable Totem Pole and also Valley Gardens where the azaleas and rhododendrons bloom beautifully in the Spring.

How to do a day trip from London to Windsor by train?

London to Windsor Train: London Paddington Station to Windsor and Eton Riverside Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Windsor train route.

London to Windsor Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Journey Maxx

15. Brighton

Not every city has a nice central station, but Brighton does and it’s a nice stroll from the beach, with a network of smaller local stations taking you to the city’s other suburbs too (Portslade, Brighton London Road etc are all local stations). It couldn’t be easier to get around and is much easier than trying to get a parking spot which is why a London to Brighton day trip by train is ideal.

Perfect for a sunny day by the seaside, for things to do in Brighton, you can have a lot of retro fun on the pier, and, if the weather isn’t in your favour, the Lanes are an awesome place to shop. There’s no better place to hunt for antiques, kitsch and unique items or vintage. A sky-high ride in the British Airways i360 also gives you a bird’s eye view of the whole city.

The other thing that makes this a perfect day trip from London is the beautiful Pavilion, also centrally located to the south of the Lanes and close to some great restaurants. Its gardens are a lovely place for a walk, inside is a well-presented museum and you can take some fabulous photos here.

How to do a day trip from London to Brighton by train?

London to Brighton Train: London Victoria Station to Brighton Station in 1 hour is the quickest London to Brighton train route.

London to Brighton Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Live in 10 Countries

16. Margate

When you’re in the heart of London, with all the people and traffic and concrete, it’s easy to forget that the coast is just a short train ride away. And one of the easiest and best places to get to is Margate from London by train.

Despite being so close, it’s much quieter and less well-known than places like Brighton and Eastbourne. Being so small, the train station is only about two minutes’ walk from the beach, and it’s really easy to explore on foot for a few hours or a day out.

As well as being convenient, Margate is also really cute, with loads of pretty streets full of pastel-painted houses and vintage shops. There’s a thriving artistic community producing unique fashion, art or furniture designs for you to buy or just simply browse.

The beach is enormous and has actual sand! And there are loads of independent boutiques and cafés to chill out in. So wait for a sunny day, pack your sun cream and hat, hop on the train and enjoy some fresh sea air and traditional fish’n’chips on the beach before you return to London.

How to do a day trip from London to Margate by train?

London to Margate Train: London St Pancras Station to Margate Station in 1 hour 30 minutes is the quickest London to Margate train route.

London to Margate Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Passport and Pixels

17. Eastbourne

If you are looking to leave the city and escape to the English coast for the day, Eastbourne is definitely a town to check out. This resort town is known for its historic pier, a charming boardwalk, long pebble beach, and numerous days of sunshine each year! There is actually quite a bit to do in Eastbourne over the course of a day – much of it on the “relaxed” side.

Among them, a stroll along the waterfront is a great place to start. Here, Victorian-style hotels line the boardwalk. You can even grab a drink with a view if you choose. The boardwalk is often lined with small vendors selling arts and crafts, antiques, and even food. If you are lucky, you might catch a performance at the beachside Bandstand which was built back in the 1930s!

Of course, the famous Eastbourne Pier is also worth a visit. Built back in the late 1800s, the historic pier is free to enter and you’ll find food, souvenirs, and great views all around. Back on shore, the beach itself is also great. The tiny stones are surprisingly comfortable. If you bring a bathing suit, you can go for a dip in the water between the wooden wave breakers (called groynes). Of course, if you are in Eastbourne, you could also head just outside town for a hike along the famous white chalk cliffs known as the “Seven Sisters”.

Overall, it’s very simple to get to Eastbourne by train – just head south from London Victoria Station. Once you arrive in Eastbourne, the train station is located at the northwest end of the city centre. You can walk through the main pedestrian mall and past the restaurants all the way to the beloved boardwalk and pier in about 15 minutes!

How to do a day trip from London to Eastbourne by train?

London to Eastbourne Train: London Victoria Station to Eastbourne Station in 1 hour 20 minutes is the quickest London to Eastbourne train route.

London to Eastbourne Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Penguin and Pia

18. Whitstable

The small but charming harbour town of Whitstable is located on the north coast of Kent and is an easy day trip from London by train. The town itself is fairly compact so can easily be explored in a day by foot, and the train station is just a short walk to all the main sights.

Whitstable is very famous for its incredible seafood scene and is a great spot for foodies. You’ll find several small oyster shacks down by the harbour and along the beachfront, or for a more indulgent lunch, head to the Lobster Shack restaurant for an amazing shellfish platter feast!

After indulging in all the seafood delights make your way over to the Old Neptune which is one of the most popular pubs in town. It is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy a delicious pint of locally brewed beer with a beautiful sea view.

Other things you can do in Whitstable include taking a walk along the coast which is lined with colourful beach huts or visit the main high street which is filled with cute boutique shops, galleries and cafes.

How to do a day trip from London to Whitstable by train?

London to Whitstable Train: London St Pancras Station to Whitstable Station in 1 hour 15 minutes is the quickest London to Whitstable train route.

London to Whitstable Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: CK Travels

19. Dover

Dover is a coastal town and home to an impressive hilltop castle and iconic white cliffs.

The first place you will want to stop during your London to Dover day trip is Dover Castle. One of Britain’s most stunning fortresses, Dover Castle was originally built as a fortification in the 11th century. Here you can watch a jousting tournament, spend some time at the Great Tower and take a walk through the medieval tunnels.

Make sure to climb the spiral staircase to the very top of the Great Tower where you can enjoy some epic views across the channel to France. Visiting the Great Tower is the highlight of any day trip to Dover!

After leaving the Castle, you may go for a scenic walk and look up at the white chalk cliffs that make up the White Cliffs of Dover. The eight-mile stretch offers a gorgeous view of the Channel from the top and sandy beaches from the bottom. If you have some time on your hands, consider visiting Fan Bay Deep Shelter, South Foreland Lighthouse, and Mrs Knotts Tearoom. These attractions can provide the most exciting travel experience in Dover.

How to do a day trip from London to Dover by train?

London to Dover Train: London St Pancras Station to Dover Priory Station in 1 hour 30 minutes is the quickest London to Dover train route.

London to Dover Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Mind The Travel

20. Seven Sisters

The Seven Sisters are a chain of chalk cliffs stretching from Cuckmere Haven to Birling Gap in East Sussex, England. The best way to experience this natural wonder is by walking the 21.9 km coastal trail from Seaford to Eastbourne in East Sussex which can be done in one day from London.

When you arrive at the Seaford train station, head directly to the sea. Follow the seaside promenade to the eastern end of the beach. From here, locate the coastal trail ascending ever so gently in the direction of Cuckmere Haven. As you progress, the views of the Seven Sisters unfold marvellously.

The Seven Sisters cliffs path is very straightforward, hugging the coast almost the whole time. The only time you depart the coast is when you walk inland along the Cuckmere River to Cuckmere Inn, in order to cross the water safely during high tide.

Check out the map in this Seven Sisters Cliffs trail guide for a visual overview of the trail and tips on where to eat.

How to do a day trip from London to Seven Sisters Cliffs by train?

London to Seaford Train: London Victoria Station to Seaford Sussex Station in 1 hour 25 minutes is the quickest London to Seaford train route.

London to Seaford Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Moon & Honey Travel

21. Peak District

The UK’s first National Park, the Peak District, is a perfect place to visit from London by train.

The journey from London to Sheffield is only two hours followed by another half an hour to Hope station and from there it is a 5-minute taxi journey to the beautiful village of Castleton. If you start your day early this gives you enough time to experience everything the village has to offer.

Start by hiking the famous “Shivering Mountain” also known as Mam Tor, and enjoy incredible vistas of most of the National Park from the Great Ridge. Then explore Speedwell Cavern, one the best show caves in the UK, or try your hand at rock climbing or mountain biking around the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.

End the day by wandering around the charming village of Castleton, admiring the quaint stone houses and satisfy your appetite by stopping at one of the traditional tea rooms or local pubs for a traditional British meal.

How to do a day trip from London to the Peak District by train?

London to Peak District Train: London St Pancras Station to Hope (Derbyshire) Station in 2 hours 33 minutes is the quickest London to Peak District train route.

London to Peak District Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: The Wanderlust Within

22. New Forest

The New Forest National Park is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the capital.

If you want to go hiking near London, there are several trails in the area that offer scenic routes. Spotting wild horses, deers and jays on them is also a common occurrence. Brockenhurst is a great base as it has good public transport links, campsites, cycle hire facilities, horse riding schools and pubs and cafes. The area is very bike-friendly with good infrastructure.

At the outskirts of Brockenhurst, you can find the Lymington River, which is great for wild swimming. In the summer it is a popular picnic spot among families, as the shallow river provides a safe place for the children to splash around. The locals also put up rope swings at many places to have fun making this one of the great day trips from London by train in Summer.

The area provides many different activities for all ages. If you enjoy spending your time outdoors and get close to nature, then this place is for you!

How to do a day trip from London to New Forest by train?

London to New Forest Train: London Waterloo Station to Brockenhurst Station in 1 hour 30 minutes is the quickest London to New Forst train route.

London to New Forest Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Travel Hacker Girl

23. Box Hill

Box Hill is a rural area and National Trust site, and though it is so easy to reach from London, it has a real countryside feel. While it may be a bit busier than nature spaces further afield, it’s stalwart when it comes to finding somewhere calm and beautiful just a stone’s throw from the city.

Part of the Surrey Hills, Box Hill is popular with hikers, cyclists, trail runners and motorbikers, as well as those just wanting to enjoy a picnic and a fantastic view of a green, undulating landscape.

There is a fantastic 8 mile circular walk which is signposted all the way and easy to follow. The terrain can be challenging, with steep hills, uneven ground, and lots of steps. However, you will be rewarded with woodland replete with wildlife, and some stunning pastoral views.

There are several pubs around for a hearty hot meal; a highlight is The Stepping Stones which has a wide selection of food and a big beer garden.

If you’re not a big hiker, Box Hill is also popular with Jane Austen fans. The author was very fond of the area, which featured in her novel ‘Emma’ so you might be happier sitting on the top of the hill with a book and a glass of fizz.

For centuries, Londoners have been using Box Hill as a place for respite from the city, and today is no different. Jump on the train and discover what this bucolic patch of Surrey has to offer.

How to do a day trip from London to Box Hill by train?

London to Box Hill Train: London Waterloo Station to Box Hill & Westhumble Station in 50 minutes is the quickest London to Box Hill train route.

London to Box Hill Train Tickets: Buy tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Seannas World

24. Paris

I know, visiting Paris as a day trip sounds insane, but hear me out. I’d never recommend visiting the City of Lights for just a few hours if it’s your first visit, but if you’ve been to Paris before, and you have a day to spare from London, do consider going back because Paris works as one of the few Eurostar day trips from London.

I’m sure you’ve seen the landmarks, so head to the unexplored neighbourhoods, as Belleville. You’ll find amazing street art, cosy cafés, and cool aperitif spots. Don’t miss Belvédère de Belleville to get incredible views of Paris, including a surprising open view of the Eiffel Tower.

Even if you’ve already wandered around Montmartre, go back during your day trip to Paris from London to get lost in the little alleyways, and do some people watching from a wine bar. Or explore a bit more of Le Marais and stop to recharge in one of its famous creperies.

You can even take a class to learn some French specialities! From croissants to macarons, you can eat the day away. You’ll find plenty of options around the Latin Quarter.

Paris hides many treasures, and a quick day devoted to living like a Parisian (instead of running around checking landmarks off a list) will allow you to discover one or two and makes it an enjoyable day trip to Europe from London.

How to do a day trip from London to Paris by train?

London to Paris Train: London St Pancras Station to Paris Gare Du Nord Station in 2 hours 15 minutes is the quickest London to Paris train route.

London to Paris Train Tickets: Buy Eurostar tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Experiencing the Globe

25. Brussels

A day trip to Brussels in Belgium from London? Well, this might be surprising to you, but we assure you that it is doable.

Brussels is a popular Eurostar day trip from London because you can easily reach Brussels within two hours, which gives you one day to experience the Belgian capital to the fullest  – meaning eating lots of fries, drinking good beer and finishing off with the sweetest waffles you ever had in your life.

Brussels is great for a day trip as it has both, a beautiful old town with cute cobblestoned alleys and a picturesque square and a modern part, where important political institutions such as the EU is based. Apart from that, the restaurant scene in Brussels is simply stunning.

Not only has Brussels some of the best beer in the world, but it has also a great density of restaurants and food stalls that can easily be tested one after another.

Eurostar day trips from London by train

How to do a day trip from London to Brussels by train?

London to Brussels Train: London St Pancras to Bruxelles-Midi Station in 2 hours is the quickest London to Brussels train route.

London to Brussels Train Tickets: Buy Eurostar tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: Travellers Archive

26. Lille

Lille in France is a great destination to visit on a day trip from London by train. Despite this is an international trip, a London to Lille day trip is only a 1.5 hour-ride with Eurostar trains making it one of the quickest Eurostar day trips from London by train.

Lille is the capital of the region Hauts-de –France, and it is a cultural and lively city very easy to explore on a day trip.

Lille and its surrounding area are quite different from the picture we all have of France. For many centuries, Lille was a prosperous merchant town of the County of Flanders, that’s why the city’s architecture is similar to the architecture of cities like Brussels or Amsterdam.

Lille’s train station is quite central so from there you can get around on foot. Admire the elegant Grand Place, with its 17th-century brick houses, this is Vieux Lille’s beating heart. Then wander around the cobbled streets to get the essence of this beautiful city, and stop at a café-terrace for brunch while watching life go by.

Later, you can walk up to the Citadel designed by Vauban for more beautiful architecture and green spaces before taking the train back to London.

How to do a day trip from London to Lille by train?

London to Lille Train: London St Pancras Station to Lille EuropeStation in 1 hour 20 minutes is the quickest London to Lille train route.

London to Lille Train Tickets: Buy Eurostar tickets on The Train Line Here! And buy them early to get the best price!

Suggested by: World in Paris

You should now have so many ideas for train trips from London, hopefully, you can take as many adventures from London now and see more of the UK without needing to hire a car!

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• For more ideas on where to visit in and around London see:
• The Best Alternative Day Trips from London
• All my London Posts
• All my UK Posts