Right this moment I wish to convey you my information to the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. There’s no scarcity of enjoyable locations to go to close to the UK capital. Whether or not you’re into cities, coastal escapes, or the countryside, there are locations within the UK and Europe that can suit your journey fashion. In the event you’re on the lookout for your subsequent day journey from London by prepare, bus, or tour, my listing will provide help to select the proper vacation spot. I’ve included an interactive map as properly.
Greatest Day Journeys from London With out a Automobile
My listing of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive covers a variety of locations you’ll be able to go to in a short while. Whether or not you dream of escaping to the English countryside or the seaside, a well-known European metropolis or a quintessential village, there’s a brief break for you.
I’ve been to each place on my listing (a lot of them a number of instances), so I can guarantee you ways worthwhile they’re from private expertise. There’s extra about day journeys within the e book Escape London: Days Out inside Simple Attain of London, too. You possibly can get it on Amazon right here.
You are able to do these journeys independently by prepare or bus, or on a guided tour. In the event you favor the previous, my information to UK prepare journey will help. If you wish to do the latter, you’ll be able to take a look at excursions and e book one right here.
1. Bathtub
Bathtub is among the most lovely cities in England, and it deserves a spot on my listing of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. Identified for its stone buildings and heritage structure, it’s a simple prepare journey from London.
The traditional Roman Baths are value a particular journey, and the town’s Jane Austen connections draw literature lovers from throughout the globe. Add to that the Royal Crescent and The Circus, and there’s magnificence throughout.
There are many impartial retailers and eating places that make for an fulfilling day journey to Bathtub, too. From bookstores to cafes, there’s sufficient to even fill a complete weekend in Bathtub.
In the event you’re eager about a guided day tour, you’ll be able to see a few of the space round Bathtub, too. From fairly villages to well-known landmarks like Stonehenge, there are many choices.
It’s notably enjoyable to discover Bathtub and the Cotswolds in a single journey. You’ll get to see a few of the prettiest villages in Wiltshire and different counties.
If that sounds good, you’ll be able to see a variety of excursions and e book one right here. There are many choices, so that you’re positive to seek out one that matches your pursuits and journey fashion.
2. Oxford
If you wish to go to one of the well-known college cities within the UK, Oxford is among the finest day journeys from London and not using a automotive. It’s solely an hour from London by prepare and it’s served by a number of rail companies each hour. It’s one of many finest locations to go to within the UK.
Oxford is just not solely identified for teachers, but in addition structure. From Christ Church to Magdalen and St John’s, there are well-known school buildings all over the place you look inside the college. You are able to do my self-guided strolling tour of Oxford to see the very best of them.
Past the universities, the town is filled with historic pubs, markets, and museums. Oxford can also be common for its Alice in Wonderland connections and Harry Potter filming places.
In the event you’re eager about a guided day tour, you’ll be able to see locations round Oxford as properly. From fairly villages to well-known filming places, there’s loads to find.
It’s at all times a deal with to discover Oxford and the Cotswolds in a single journey. You’ll get to see a few of the prettiest Cotswolds villages and locations the place Downtown Abbey was filmed.
If that sounds good, you’ll be able to see a variety of excursions and e book one right here. There are many choices, so that you’re positive to seek out one that matches your pursuits and journey preferences.
3. Cambridge
Oxford’s rival Cambridge is one other of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. Not solely is it straightforward to get to by prepare from a number of London stations, nevertheless it’s additionally lower than an hour’s journey from the capital in the event you take a quick service.
Cambridge is just not solely lovely, but in addition an necessary heart of British teachers and heritage. Add to that gorgeous structure, wealthy historical past, and fairly streets, and Cambridge is tough to beat for a day trip from London.
In the event you’re occurring a Cambridge day journey, you’ll be able to see the highlights and expertise the very best issues to do. From touring the universities to attending evensong at King’s School Chapel, there’s lots to maintain guests entertained.
When you’re right here, you are able to do my self-guided strolling tour of Cambridge. It should present you the massive points of interest and hidden facet streets along with the universities.
One in every of my favourite issues to do in Cambridge is go punting on the river behind the universities. It’s an idyllic—to not point out quintessentially English—technique to spend a sunny afternoon.
In the event you favor a guided tour, you’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here. There are many excursions to select from, so that you’re certain to seek out one that matches your journey fashion and preferences.
4. Brighton
On the south coast, Brighton is one other of my favourite day journeys from London and not using a automotive. It’s a simple journey from the UK capital by rail. Trains depart from a number of stations within the metropolis, and the journey takes an hour or much less usually.
There’s lots you are able to do on a day journey to Brighton. From the opulent 18th-century pleasure palace to the amusement park on the pier, large seashores, and little lanes with retailers, Brighton has one thing for each traveler.
Brighton is just not solely considered one of my go-to seaside day journeys from London, but in addition considered one of my favourite locations to go to in East Sussex. When you have time, it’s value spending 2 days in Brighton.
Whereas visiting this well-known seaside city you’ll be able to see every part from the English Channel to the sightseeing points of interest and avenue artwork. In the event you keep late, you’ll be able to expertise the town’s well-known nightlife scene as properly.
If you wish to see extra of the coast, you’ll be able to take a guided tour. There are many lovely areas round Brighton, from the chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters to seashores and extra.
If that appeals, you’ll be able to see a variety of selections and e book one right here. There’s all kinds to select from, so that you’re certain to seek out one that features the locations you’re eager about seeing most.
5. Canterbury & Dover
In Kent, Canterbury and Dover make for a fantastic day journey from London and not using a automotive. The previous is among the most well-known cathedral cities in England, and the latter is understood for its hilltop fort and white cliffs.
The cathedral is the primary occasion in Canterbury, and it’s value a particular journey whether or not you’re spiritual or not. It’s huge, lovely, and galvanizing, and when you’ve seen the within there are gardens and cloisters to tour exterior.
Nevertheless it’s not simply the cathedral that pulls guests to Canterbury. The encompassing streets are full of retailers, cafes, and hidden surprises to find. It’s one of many finest locations to go to in Kent.
Dover is famend for its fort, which is filled with historical past. It’s house to an historical Roman lighthouse, an Anglo-Saxon church, and Napoleonic Struggle-era tunnels that had been used as an Allied command heart in World Struggle II. Which is to say nothing of the views throughout the channel to France.
It’s straightforward to see each Canterbury and Dover on someday journey from London. Guided excursions will choose you up from the center of the town and whisk you off to Kent. It’s a good way to see two locations in someday.
If that sounds good, you’ll be able to see quite a lot of choices and e book one right here. There’s various them to select from, so that you’re positive to seek out one that matches your journey fashion.
6. Hampton Courtroom Palace
Hampton Courtroom Palace is subsequent on my listing of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. It’s a brief prepare journey from the town heart (or a scenic boat journey), leaving you loads of time to discover the interiors, gardens, and grounds.
There’s lots to see on a day journey to Hampton Courtroom Palace. From the State Flats and personal rooms of William III and Mary II to the gardens, kitchens, and courtyards, there’s loads to maintain you entertained.
And that’s to say nothing of the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze and the centuries-old Nice Vine. The latter is the biggest grapevine on the planet, and it’s value seeing.
In the event you can time your go to to coincide with the annual Hampton Courtroom Backyard Competition, you’ll be in for much more of a deal with. It’s a enjoyable annual occasion each summer season, and it makes this one of many finest backyard day journeys from London.
If all that sounds good, you’ll be able to e book your entry ticket right here. If you wish to go by boat, you’ll be able to e book a ticket right here. Whether or not you go from Westminster, Richmond, or elsewhere, it’s a enjoyable technique to get to the palace.
It’s also possible to take a tour when you’re right here. There are all types of guided excursions on supply, together with ones that function afternoon tea at Hampton Courtroom Palace. And if you wish to see two royal residences in someday, you’ll be able to take a tour of Hampton Courtroom and Windsor Fortress. You possibly can e book tickets right here.
7. The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is one other day journey you’ll be able to take from London and not using a automotive. This Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence is unfold over a number of counties, and it has a variety of villages, gardens, countryside, and landmarks dotted all through.
Whereas it’s doable go to the Cotswolds by prepare, it’s troublesome to get round by public transport when you arrive. Taking a day tour makes it lots simpler. Not solely will it can help you see extra of the highlights, however it would prevent time attempting to navigate by yourself.
It’s just below a 2-hour drive from London to the Cotswolds, and as soon as there your tour will present you locations like Burford, Bibury, Higher Slaughter, Decrease Slaughter, Painswick, and/or different locations.
If that appeals, you’ll be able to see choices and e book a Cotswolds day tour right here. Along with those I’ve already talked about that embrace Bathtub and Oxford, there are many Cotswolds day excursions that spend the entire time within the Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence.
In the event you don’t wish to go on a guided tour, I’ve written about 5 straightforward methods to go to the Cotswolds and not using a automotive. Whether or not you wish to take a rustic stroll or see one of the lovely villages close to London by prepare, my information will provide help to do it.
In the event you go, take into account that there’s much more to see right here than you’ll be able to match into someday. It’s a good suggestion to plan forward and map out the place you wish to go so you will get to all over the place you wish to see. Ensure to pre-book taxis properly prematurely and search for native bus schedules, as not all companies run each day.
8. Warner Bros Studio Tour
The Warner Bros Studio Tour is one other of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. That is the place the Harry Potter films had been filmed, and you may see all of the units from his magical world of wizardry when you’re right here.
From the Gryffindor frequent room at Hogwarts to Diagon Alley, Gringotts Wizarding Financial institution, and Dumbledore’s workplace, guests can rise up near the highlights and discover all of the interactive displays.
Positioned simply exterior of London, you will get to the Warner Bros Studio Tour by a mix of prepare and shuttle from the town heart.
It’s a 15-20 minute journey from Euston station to Watford Junction, from the place common shuttles make the 15-minute journey to the studio.
It’s also possible to go to by taking a tour from London by coach or bus. It should make it a neater journey because you’ll be on the identical automobile complete means. If that appeals, you’ll be able to see choices and e book one right here.
I’ve achieved this earlier than and I cherished how straightforward it was. The bus takes you proper to the doorway, and you may discover by yourself all day earlier than taking it again to London on the finish.`
9. Windsor Fortress
Windsor Fortress is one other of my favourite day journeys from London and not using a automotive. One of the crucial well-known castles in England, it’s a fantastic place to get into all issues royal.
There’s lots to see on a day journey to Windsor Fortress. Most guests tour the State Flats and St George’s Chapel to absorb the historic and ceremonial highlights. You possibly can e book tickets right here.
There’s extra past the fortified partitions, too. Windsor and Eton are full of retailers, historic buildings, and inexperienced areas. It’s straightforward to spend an hour or two exploring them after you tour the fort.
Then there’s Windsor Nice Park. This enormous inexperienced area is value discovering, not least as a result of it’s an exquisite place to stroll. The traditional Royal panorama options forests, grasslands, lakes, and gardens.
If that sounds good, Windsor is shut sufficient to the UK capital that it’s solely a 40-minute prepare journey from Paddington station. It’s so shut you’ll be able to even do it as a half-day journey from London.
It’s also possible to come right here on a guided tour. You possibly can e book one right here. You possibly can even mix it with different locations like Stonehenge, Bathtub, and/or Hampton Courtroom. You possibly can see choices and e book a tour right here.
10. Rye
In East Sussex, Rye is a type of day journeys from London and not using a automotive that I preserve taking many times. Significantly, it’s so lovely right here.
Filled with cobbled streets, haunted inns, half-timbered facades, and quaint cottages, Rye is among the prettiest cities in Britain.
When you’re visiting, there are a variety of enjoyable issues to do in Rye. From climbing the bell tower of the church to touring the house of author Henry James, the city has lots to see regardless of your pursuits.
Rye can also be a simple stroll from Camber Fortress, a historic fortress with connections to Henry VIII. It’s top-of-the-line castles close to London, and it’s value a particular journey if in case you have time.
And that’s to say nothing of the city’s location close to Camber Sands, one of many finest seashores in East Sussex. In the event you pre-book a taxi you’ll be able to head out to the coast for a part of the day.
No matter you resolve to do, Rye is a simple prepare journey from London. It’s definitely worth the rail journey to get right here and uncover top-of-the-line cities close to the UK capital.
11. Margate
Margate is one other of the highest day journeys from London and not using a automotive. Also known as Shoreditch-on-Sea, Margate brings cool East Finish London fashion to the waterfront in Kent.
A Margate day journey is a good way to play hipster on the seaside close to London. If that’s not your factor, Margate has a world-class artwork gallery, loads of fairly historic homes, and nice cafes.
There’s an enormous seashore in Margate with a lighthouse within the distance, too. The seafront is backed by colourful buildings and the well-known Turner Modern.
The Dreamland Margate amusement park is close to the waterfront, too. It’s a well-known place to have enjoyable within the solar on the seaside.
Margate’s classic clothes retailers, cafes, and eating places spherical out the scene, which is to remain nothing of the Sixteenth-century Tudor Home and streets like Love Lane.
This seaside city in Kent is definitely accessible from London by prepare. Over on the Kentish coast, it’s round an hour and a half from the town, and it’s conveniently served by a few London stations.
12. Winchester
Winchester is one other of my favourite day journeys from London and not using a automotive. It’s an hour or much less by rail from the capital, and the city’s prepare station is a fast and straightforward stroll from the center of the town.
As soon as on a day journey to Winchester, there’s a wealth of heritage websites and different enjoyable locations to discover. The cathedral is gorgeous, and it’s value a particular journey. Jane Austen and different notables are buried right here.
You’ll additionally discover King Arthur’s spherical desk and the ruins of a medieval bishop’s palace on the town. They’re each value seeing for his or her distinctive historic significance.
Add to that the bucolic river stroll and gardens of the Hospital of St Cross, and it’s exhausting to wish to take the prepare house from Winchester.
In the event you’re feeling bold, you’ll be able to take a day journey to Winchester and Chawton to see the home the place Jane Austen as soon as lived. It’s value a visit in the event you’re a fan of her work.
If you need some steerage when you’re right here, you’ll be able to take a tour. There are loads to select from, together with historic excursions and ghost walks. You possibly can see choices and e book one right here. With so many good selections, you’re positive to seek out one you’re keen on.
13. Hastings
Hastings is one other of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. This seaside city in East Sussex is understood for its Norman historical past, however its seashores are what draw the vast majority of guests.
There’s no scarcity of them, both. Rock-A-Nore Seaside is legendary for having steep cliffs behind it. Hastings Seaside incorporates a large apron of pebble shoreline. It’s additionally house to Hastings Pier, which has iconic striped seashore huts on it.
The Stade, a shingle seashore, is lined by colourful fishing boats, nets, and stalls promoting recent fish and seafood.
The waterfront in Hastings is filled with historic internet huts, carnival rides, and energetic eating places. Behind them you’ll discover a pleasant maze of streets with heritage homes and two funiculars.
Then comes the clifftop fortress. Hastings Fortress was established by William the Conqueror in 1066 whereas he was making his means from Normandy to Battle at first of the Norman Conquest. It advanced over time to be a stone fortress of strategic significance.
Taking a Hastings day journey is easy and simple by rail, as there are direct companies from London to the center of city. It’s one of many best seaside day journeys from London by prepare.
14. Bristol
Out west, Bristol is one other of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. Lower than 1.5 hours from the capital by rail, this metropolis on and across the River Avon is simple to get to, and it makes for a fantastic day trip.
Bristol has lots for guests to see and do, from museums to enjoyable retailers and cafes. There are well-known bridges, colourful homes, and slim lanes to discover, to not point out a world-class zoo (the pink pandas are lovable!).
Town is understood for its impartial spirit, pupil inhabitants, and riverside points of interest. Transformed Nineteenth-century riverfront warehouses shelter cool eating places, retailers, and galleries.
Harbourside is house to the modern M Shed museum, which explores Bristol’s industrial and social heritage. Clifton is filled with elegant crescents, Georgian townhouses, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It’s a enjoyable place to take images and movies.
Bristol can also be well-known for its Banksy connections. Many guests take pleasure in taking excursions to see his iconic avenue artwork across the metropolis. In the event you’re , you’ll be able to e book one right here.
Different enjoyable excursions embrace the St. Nicholas Market and Air Raid Shelter Tour. If you wish to see extra, you’ll be able to discover a vary of excursions and e book one right here. There are many choices, so that you’re positive to seek out one that matches your pursuits and journey fashion.
15. Whitstable
One other coastal spotlight, Whitstable is among the finest day journeys from London and not using a automotive. It’s served by multiple London station and the quickest companies attain the city in lower than an hour and 1 / 4.
Whitstable is legendary for its seafood, and for the annual oyster competition that it hosts every year. Nevertheless it’s a fantastic place to go to at different instances for its scrumptious recent catches, fairly seashores, and candy excessive avenue full of retailers.
In the event you’d favor to go to on a guided tour, you’ll be able to e book one right here. It’s a good way to see this a part of the Kentish coast with an knowledgeable.
16. Deal
Additionally on the seaside in Kent, Deal is one other of my favourite day journeys from London and not using a automotive. Positioned the place the North Sea meets the English Channel, this historic city has large pebble seashores and an extended pier.
Deal is most well-known for what lies behind the seashore, although. The seafront Deal Fortress is famous. Established by Henry VIII, it’s considered one of seven forts constructed to defend ships in Kent and guard in opposition to enemy invaders from France and different elements of Europe.
Moreover, the pastel homes and historic pubs on Center Road are each eye-catching and steeped in smuggling lore. There’s nice buying right here, too.
In the event you’re up for a stroll, you’ll be able to see Walmer Fortress when you’re visiting Deal. Like Deal Fortress, it’s one of many seven forts constructed by Henry VIII between 1539 and 1540. It’s absolutely furnished inside and options lush gardens exterior.
There’s a prepare station in Cope with direct companies to London, so it’s straightforward to take a day journey to Deal if you wish to journey by rail.
In the event you favor a guided tour, there are excursions of Kent with stops in Deal. They’re nice methods to see issues just like the White Cliffs of Dover, Canterbury, and different highlights in someday. You possibly can e book a tour right here.
17. St Albans
St Albans is among the finest day journeys from London and not using a automotive as a result of it’s so near the town. Lower than 20 minutes by prepare from some London stations, it’s a fantastic selection in the event you don’t wish to spend an excessive amount of time in transit.
St Albans has a variety of Roman historical past, and it’s a really perfect place to go to in the event you like Roman ruins. Nevertheless it has a recent facet, too, with retailers, avenue markets, and eating places on the town.
It additionally has one thing in between with St Albans Cathedral, which dates again to Norman instances, and the Ye Olde Combating Cocks, a pub that claims to be the oldest in England. It doesn’t matter what you’re into there are many issues to do in St Albans you’ll love.
18. Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is one other enjoyable day journey from London and not using a automotive. Positioned in Warwickshire, this historic city is understood for its Shakespeare connections.
Stratford is filled with homes The Bard and his household lived in, theaters displaying his performs, and historic streets and riverside pubs good for consuming and eating.
A day journey to Stratford-upon-Avon gives you ample time to go to the Shakespeare homes, go to a play, and discover the historic streets, retailers, and riverfront.
If this brief break sounds good to your internal journey lover, there are many excursions you’ll be able to take. From open-top buses to walks, there’s one thing for each traveler. You possibly can see choices and e book one right here.
It’s also possible to take a guided tour from London to see Stratford and different highlights close by. There are many nice ones to select from, together with excursions that cowl the Cotswolds. You possibly can see a spread and e book right here.
I’ve even taken a tour that took me to Stratford, Warwick Fortress, the Cotswolds, and Oxford in someday. It was a busy journey, however I loved seeing so many highlights in a brief period of time. You possibly can e book it right here.
19. Bletchley Park
Simply north of the town, Bletchley Park is one other straightforward day journey from London. This World Struggle II codebreaking heart is so near the UK capital you’ll be able to attain it on a 35-minute prepare journey from Euston station.
Positioned in Buckinghamshire, Bletchley Park is legendary for being the top-secret office of codebreakers like Alan Turing. It’s additionally thought of the birthplace of recent computing.
A day journey to Bletchley Park is a enjoyable technique to study concerning the necessary work that was achieved right here throughout the conflict. If you need a completely guided tour, you’ll be able to e book one right here.
20. Ely
In Cambridgeshire, Ely is one other of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. This well-known cathedral metropolis within the UK is commonly neglected, nevertheless it’s value a particular prepare journey to get right here.
That’s not least as a result of Ely Cathedral traces its origins to 672, and its historic interiors are gorgeous. One in every of England’s largest cathedrals, it’s identified regionally because the ‘Ship of the Fens’.
Away from the church, there are much more issues to do in Ely. Town has a reasonably riverfront space and wealthy historical past. It’s brimming with historic streets, nice retailers, and bustling markets. It even has a home that was as soon as lived in by Oliver Cromwell.
If you wish to, you’ll be able to go on a guided tour to see Cambridge and Ely in a single journey. It’s a fantastic day trip, and a enjoyable technique to see two well-known cities in someday. You possibly can e book tickets right here.
21. Rochester
Subsequent on my listing of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive is Rochester. This beautiful metropolis in Kent is legendary for its fort, cathedral, and Charles Dickens connections.
I fell in love with Rochester the primary time I noticed its fortress from the prepare. It took a couple of extra years to go to, however after I did I discovered a city filled with fairly streets and basic English ambiance.
The fort and cathedral are highlights of a day journey, however there are loads extra issues to do in Rochester. The city has nice bookshops, cafes, and parks to discover.
Rochester is legendary for its Charles Dickens connections as a result of he lived right here. Lots of the buildings on the excessive avenue are named after characters from his books and life. Actually, extra locations in Rochester function in his writing than every other a part of Britain apart from London.
If that appeals, there are many excursions you’ll be able to take when you’re right here. From walks to arts excursions and costumed excursions, there’s a spread to select from. You possibly can see choices and e book one right here.
If you wish to see extra of the realm round Rochester in your day journey, there are guided excursions that can take you throughout Kent. From Dover Fortress to the white cliffs, you’ll see the highlights. You possibly can e book a tour right here.
22. Lewes
Lewes is one other of my favourite day journeys from London and not using a automotive. This city is among the finest locations to go to in East Sussex as a result of it’s full of lovely streets, a historic fort, and impartial retailers.
Lewes is an hour from London by prepare, which implies you’ll have loads of time to discover. There are many issues to do in Lewes, together with visiting the priory ruins, seeing the historic houses, and taking within the views from the city’s hills.
There’s even a legendary fortress right here. Lewis Fortress is a Norman quantity that was constructed by supporters of William the Conqueror after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. You possibly can tour it if you wish to see it up shut.
23. Stonehenge
Stonehenge is among the hottest day journeys from London and not using a automotive. Its historical past and thriller draw guests from all throughout the globe to see the stones and picture how and why they made their means right here. It’s one of the magical locations within the UK.
In the event you take a day journey to Stonehenge, you’ll be able to e book tickets prematurely to avoid wasting time if you arrive. As soon as right here, there’s an audio tour that can information you across the web site. There are additionally Neolithic homes, a digital tour, and exhibitions that convey the place to life.
Touring by a mix of prepare and bus to Stonehenge takes some time, so I like to recommend visiting on a guided tour. There are heaps that mix the stones with visits to different locations. You possibly can see choices and e book one right here. With so many to select from, you’re certain to seek out one which appeals.
24. Ramsgate
Ramsgate is subsequent on my listing of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. Out in Kent, it’s a seaside city identified for its huge sandy seashore, heritage structure, and royal harbor.
Ramsgate is among the finest seashore day journeys from London as a result of there’s an enormous stretch of sand right here. It’s a fantastic place to go to on a sunny summer season day.
Past the sand, there are many issues to do in Ramsgate. The city is understood for every part from retailers to seafood eating places.
The facet streets are enjoyable to discover, too. There are many fairly homes and particulars to absorb right here. And that’s to say nothing of the views of the boats from the hill.
Then there’s the Pugin structure. Augustus Pugin designed the Homes of Parliament in London, and he lived in Ramsgate. His work will be seen at St Augustine’s Church on the town.
There’s a railway station in Ramsgate with direct companies to London, making it a simple day journey from the UK capital by prepare.
25. Norwich
In Norfolk, Norwich is considered one of my high picks for day journeys from London by prepare. With an exquisite historic metropolis heart and charming cobbled streets, this place is value a particular journey.
There are many enjoyable issues to do in Norwich, together with exploring the cathedral, strolling across the market sq., seeing the hilltop fort, and discovering the hidden courtyards.
Elm Hill is affected by Tudor buildings, and Norwich Market is among the oldest and largest outside markets in Britain. Add to {that a} smattering of colourful homes, and there’s lots to like about this place.
There are many enjoyable issues to do in the event you like being energetic, too. From stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking and canoeing, there are many actions on supply on the Norfolk Broads. You possibly can see a variety and e book one right here.
26. Henley-on-Thames
In Oxfordshire, Henley-on-Thames is one other nice day journey from London and not using a automotive. With its historic church, picturesque City Corridor, market sq., and impartial retailers, there’s lots to like about it.
It’s enjoyable to time a visit to coincide with the annual Henley Royal Regatta, however even on quieter days this riverside city is the proper place for afternoon tea and a wander alongside the water.
Rail companies function from London to Henley-on-Thames (with one change en route), making it a simple day journey from the capital by prepare.
27. Battle
Battle is one other of my high picks for day journeys from London by rail. This city within the Excessive Weald in East Sussex is legendary for its historic abbey, however there are many different issues to do in Battle that make it value spending a day exploring.
Battle is understood for being the location of the Battle of Hastings in 1066. William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, defeated the English military of King Harold right here.
His victory kicked off the Norman conquest of England, making the battle one of the necessary navy occasions in British historical past.
The combating came about in a area within the present-day city of Battle. After his victory, William the Conqueror based an abbey on the location.
Remnants of each the battle and the abbey nonetheless stay, and so they’re what draw most guests to the city at present.
Whereas right here you’ll be able to stroll the battlefield and take within the abbey ruins, to not point out uncover the excessive avenue and facet streets and tour the Battle Museum of Native Historical past.
28. Broadstairs
Broadstairs is one other of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. This seaside city on the Isle of Thanet in Kent is filled with sandy seashores, chalk cliffs, and scenic shoreline. From Botany Bay to Joss Bay and Viking Bay, there’s heaps to like concerning the waterfront right here.
There are many nice issues to do in Broadstairs past the seashore, too. From buying to consuming fish and chips, the city has no scarcity of issues to supply guests.
Add to that Charles Dickens connections, energetic pubs, ice cream retailers, and scenic paths just like the Viking Coastal Path, and there’s lots to take pleasure in on this place.
29. Amersham
Amersham is subsequent on my listing of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. Positioned simply exterior the town, it’s so shut you’ll be able to attain it on the tube. It’s one of the lovely villages close to London, too.
Amersham is understood for the heritage homes and historic buildings on and across the excessive avenue in Previous Amersham. From houses that date again to 1450 to the Market Corridor and the Thirteenth-century St Mary’s Church, there’s lots to see on the town.
Previous Amersham is round a 20-minute stroll from the tube station. The route goes by means of lovely woodland, and it’s a picturesque technique to arrive on the town.
Talking of which, this place can also be identified for walks close to London by prepare, because it’s positioned within the Chiltern Hills Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence. If you wish to do a mix of a village go to and a rustic ramble, it’s simply the spot.
An Amersham day journey is good in the event you’re eager about occurring a simple journey from London with as little time in transit as doable.
It’s additionally a fantastic choice in the event you’re on a funds, because it’s top-of-the-line low cost days out from the town.
30. Greenwich
A number of the finest day journeys from London are locations in London itself. Greenwich is a major instance of this, not least as a result of it’s so fast and straightforward to get right here by public transport from the town heart.
As soon as on a Greenwich day journey, there’s a wealth of issues to do. That is notably true with regards to the realm’s historic gems. Every thing from the Nationwide Maritime Museum to the Queen’s Home is right here.
Strolling by means of the grounds of the Previous Royal Naval School to absorb the gorgeous historic buildings is enjoyable, and climbing the hill in Greenwich Park to absorb the gorgeous views from the highest is definitely worth the journey.
Greenwich Market can also be a deal with to browse. There are nice meals stalls, to not point out distributors promoting all types of artwork, handicrafts, and different items.
I’ve created a free self-guided Greenwich strolling tour that can allow you to discover extra of the realm and its facet streets, too.
If you need a guided tour or an extended day trip, there are many choices. I’ve achieved one which goes to Leeds Fortress, Dover, Canterbury, and Greenwich. It’s an enormous journey, nevertheless it’s nice to see so many locations in a single go in the event you’re pressed for time. You possibly can e book it right here.
31. York
Subsequent on my listing of day journeys is York. It may appear a great distance from London, however I found how straightforward it was to take a day journey from the UK capital by prepare various years in the past. It’s 2 hours every means, so it’s doable in the event you get an early begin.
On my first day journey to York I used to be gained over by every part from York Minster cathedral to the tiny Snickelway lanes and the half-timbered facades that line them.
The eating places and cafes are glorious, and York is house to a few of the prettiest historic buildings within the UK.
On my second go to I traveled to York on what I contemplate one of many finest Christmas day journeys from London.
Every year, the annual Christmas markets take over the streets and squares and switch the town right into a winter wonderland. It was wonderful to see all of them and take within the seasonal spirit in York.
No matter time of yr you go to, there are many enjoyable issues to do right here. If you need some steerage, you’ll be able to take a river cruise, go on a Harry Potter strolling tour, or journey the ghost tour bus. You possibly can see a variety of choices and e book one right here.
32. Paris
Paris is considered one of my favourite day journeys from London to Europe and not using a automotive. There are direct trains from London, and the Metropolis of Mild is simply over 2 hours and quarter-hour away. That leaves you a variety of time to see the sights in the event you get an early begin.
The French capital is understood for every part from tradition to delicacies. It has museums for artwork aficionados, vogue for buying lovers, and exquisite streets for individuals who wish to wander.
Whereas Paris is finest visited over the higher a part of per week (or extra), you’ll be able to see the highlights in a single lengthy day if that’s all you’ve got.
In the event you use the metro, you’ll have the ability to go to Paris landmarks just like the Eiffel Tower, stroll round neighborhoods like Montmartre, and take within the scene on the Seine.
You possibly can study extra in my information to taking a day journey to Paris from London. It should present you all of the issues you are able to do within the French capital in a day.
If you need steerage, there are excursions you’ll be able to take as properly. You possibly can see a variety of choices and e book one right here. Whether or not you’d wish to go comparatively independently or have lunch on the Eiffel Tower, there’s one that can suit your preferences.
33. Brussels
Brussels is one other of the best day journeys from London to Europe and not using a automotive. Just like the French capital, the Belgian capital advantages from direct rail companies from the UK capital. You may get right here in just below 2 hours, leaving you with loads of time to see the sights.
Brussels is underrated so far as European capital cities go. I spent a summer season dwelling and dealing right here after school, and I discovered no scarcity of locations to like.
From the attractive buildings within the Grand Place (it’s top-of-the-line metropolis squares in Europe) to the slim streets lined with eating places and exquisite buying arcades, there’s lots to see.
And that’s to say nothing of the museums, avenue artwork, Artwork Nouveau structure, and scrumptious meals (suppose waffles, fries, chocolate, and mussels).
It’s straightforward to spend 1 day in Brussels, as a lot of the sightseeing highlights are in a compact space close to the Grand Place and central prepare station.
If you need some steerage, there are excursions you’ll be able to take if you arrive. You possibly can see choices and e book one right here. Whether or not you’d wish to go on a hop on, hop off bus tour or a guided stroll by means of the town streets, there’s one that can suit your fashion.
34. Lille
Lille is subsequent on my listing of the very best day journeys from London and not using a automotive. One in every of my favourite under-the-radar cities in France, this northern gem advantages from direct rail companies from London.
Lille is reachable in simply over 1 hour and 20 minutes from the UK capital, that means you’ll be able to see lots in a day.
And there’s lots to see. Like Brussels, the primary Lille sightseeing highlights are pretty concentrated in a single space. They’re all conveniently positioned in strolling distance of the prepare station you’ll arrive into as properly.
From the Place du Basic de Gaulle with its lovely historic buildings to the scrumptious pastries within the patisseries, there’s lots to like about Lille.
The buying is nice as properly. If you wish to discover the very best French clothes boutiques with out going all the way in which to Paris, there are many retailers you’ll take pleasure in searching right here.
In the event you’d like some steerage, there are excursions you’ll be able to go on if you get right here. You possibly can see choices and e book one right here. Whether or not you’d wish to go on a guided stroll by means of the previous city, a meals tour, or a journey in a classic Citroen, there’s one that can suit your pursuits.
35. Bruges
Bruges is one other of the very best day journeys from London to Europe and not using a automotive. Whereas there aren’t any direct trains from London to Bruges, you’ll be able to take a prepare to Brussels and alter there for persevering with rail companies to Flanders.
Bruges is filled with waterways and wanderlust-worthy lanes. This medieval metropolis in Belgium charms guests with its engaging squares, bell towers, and well-preserved previous city.
Being in Bruges looks like stepping again in time. Every thing from the bridges to the waterfront homes is postcard-pretty.
In the event you want steerage, there are excursions you’ll be able to go on if you arrive on the town. You possibly can see choices and e book one right here. Whether or not you’d wish to go on a ship tour, a guided stroll, or do a waffle-making workshop, there’s one that can suit your tastes.
Map of Day Journeys from London
As promised, I created an interactive Google map of all of the locations I lined on this weblog publish. You possibly can see it right here. In the event you click on on the pins, you could find extra info and my weblog posts about every one. I hope it helps you intend a fast getaway!
Greatest Day Journeys from London With out a Automobile
I hope you’ve got a fantastic day trip and that this publish has helped you uncover some thrilling new day journeys from London. Whether or not you wish to journey by rail or on a guided tour, they’ll present you a few of the finest locations close to the town.
In the event you’re on the lookout for seasonal journeys, you’ll be able to check out my guides to spring, summer season, autumn, and winter day journeys from London for concepts.
And if in case you have extra time, you’ll be able to try my weblog posts about 2-day journeys from London, 3-day journeys from London, and 4-day journeys from London. My information to the very best weekend journeys from London by prepare will help, too.
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