day trips ideas uk

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50 of the best day trips across GB

Published on May 25, 2021 25 min read

Whether it’s a single day trip, or a series of long weekends, there’s some epic things to see and do outside across Great Britain. The OS GetOutside Champions bring you 50 of the best day trip ideas!

You might fancy a long distance walk or cycle over a few consecutive day trips, or a visit to a new wild swimming spot. Perhaps there’s a few great crags you’ve been meaning to take on? Or is it a family adventure day where you don’t need to spend a penny, perhaps river wildlife spotting with a picnic to enjoy along the bank.

Click on a button below to find day trip ideas near you.

1. Alpaca walking

Alpaca trekking is a brilliant activity to do as a group or team building event. When you arrive, you will be welcomed by members of our team. After a short health and safety talk and introductory into all things alpacas we will hand over the alpacas, and the fun will begin. The trek will explore different areas of the farm, saying hello to some of our other animals along the way while getting a first-hand insight into life on a working farm. Each tour will take you to a scenic spot where you will have an opportunity to take photographs with your alpacas. We will then return the alpacas to their field, and you will have a chance to feed them their reward and then say your goodbyes.

Tracy selfie with alpaca

Alpaca walking

2. Donkey/pig walking experience

The ultimate animal experience days for donkey lovers! Walk Maverick and Goose & Bertie, sweet Miniature Mediterranean donkeys across scenic farmland, sometimes accompanied also by Betty, our lovely small standard donkey. You’ll follow quiet pathways with great views towards Pen Y Fan and The Black Mountain in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales.

Have a mini adventure and take some little Kune Kune pigs for a walk along a beautiful valley in the Brecon Beacons, followed by a “Pig-Nic” of tea/coffee/squash and cakes! Great fun for families and also people wanting a fun and engaging few hours in the countryside with these friendly little animals. Have the opportunity to learn all about their welfare and their life in this scenic area.

Both day trip ideas brought to you by Tracy Purnell.

3. Llandegfedd Reservoir

Llandegfedd and its reservoir is a great day out for the family. Fishing, watersports, bird watching and a great walk of almost 9km on permissive paths around the reservoir. There’s a coffee shop and toilets at the visitor centre where there is free parking. Easy to reach from Newport/Cwmbran/Pontypool.

4. The Black Mountain and Llwyn y Fan Fawr

A cracking ridge walk with two mountain lakes. Keep this for a clear day to enjoy the incredible views. Car park at the start, no facilities. More about the area .

Carmarthen Fans

Merthyr Mawr

Usk Reservoir, photo credit Sophie Hillier

5. The sand dunes of Merthyr Mawr

Sand dunes and sea. This is a great day out for young and old! Just a few miles from the M4 between Cardiff and Swansea, Merthr Mawr is a national nature reserve with the highest sand dune in Wales! You can walk through the dunes, picnic in a hidden spot, or have a dip in the sea. Pay and display parking.

6. A tour of Usk Reservoir

Usk Reservoir , between Trecastle and Llanddeusant is a hidden gem. It’s great for all abilities and ages, with a clearly marked six mile track which you can walk or cycle. The views are wonderful as you go through woodland and gaze across to open moorland and the striking Carmarthen Fans.

All of these day trips ideas brought to you by OS Champion Phillipa Cherryson . Follow Phillipa on Instagram .

7. A visit to Llanberis

If you’re visiting the Snowdonia National Park this summer then a trip to the lovely town of Llanberis is a must. The High Street has a great selection of cafes, craft shops and outdoor clothing shops. There are lakeside accessible walks along the side of Llyn Padarn where you can visit the old quarry hospital, a children’s park and it’s also where you’ll have the opportunity to have your photograph taken next to a replica sword named Llafn y Cewri by local schoolchildren.

Dolbadarn Castle, which is a short walk away takes you back a thousand years to the time of the native Welsh princes. It is free to visit, open to explore and the perfect place to sit and have a picnic. Llanberis also has its own lakeside railway, where you can take a 5-mile return journey on a little steam engine which runs along the side of Llyn Padarn, right into the heart of Snowdonia.

Lisa on SUP

National Slate Museum

Snowdon Mountain Railway will take you to the summit of Snowdon (COVID-19 restrictions currently in place). The National Slate Museum, which is another free attraction tells the story of Snowdonia’s rich industrial heritage.

Snowdonia Watersports hire out Stand Up Paddleboards and kayaks so that you can view the mountains from the water. It is also the perfect place to see the Lonely Tree which is reputedly the most photographed tree in Wales.

If you have enough energy left you could walk to the summit of Wales’s most famous mountain, Snowdon. Llanberis has something for everyone, you just need to decide how many days you need to set aside for your visit.

Llyn Padarn

Dolbadarn Castle

Lisa with dog

This awesome day trip idea brought to you by OS Champion Lisa Wells . Follow Lisa on Instagram .

8. Roman Caerleon

Then known as Isca, one of just three permanent legionary fortresses in Britain, Roman Caerleon was quite the bustling town. When the Roman legionary weren’t fighting the ancient Britons, they were allowed to enjoy the modern facilities here, including keeping fit at the fortress baths and watching the gladiators at the local amphitheatre. The remains of the Roman buildings are surprisingly intact, albeit with all the gaps filled in with housing and other buildings charting Roman times through to the present day, but there is still a surprising amount to see. You can see the remains of the large open-air swimming pool (now inside a building…), that would have once held more than 80,000 gallons of water, and parts of the bath house (owned and managed by CADW).

Fortress baths

Walk along the river

You can also see the amphitheatre, which would have held 6,000 spectators when it was open, and the remains of the barracks where the soldiers lived. The National Roman Legion Museum houses an impressive collection of Roman artifacts, including a coffin that was discovered when builders were working on the University, and some beautifully preserved precious stones that were excavated from the water pipes that fed the bathhouse – the Roman’s hadn’t learnt to take their rings off when they went for a swim and a sauna. Find out more about this area.

9. Newport Wetlands

The Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve lies between the Severn Estuary and the River Usk on the South Wales coast. Owned and managed by Natural Resources Wales, in partnership with RSPB Cymru, Newport City Council and others, it is exactly the kind of place I’d go with my family to explore – and not just because there is a lovely little café serving soup and stew when you’re done. Built on mudflats and marshland, the nature reserve here was opened in 2000 as a mitigation project to restore wildlife habitat following the Cardiff Bay Barrage scheme. The reserve covers just over 1,000 acres of the Caldicot Level, a low-lying area of land bordering the northern shore of the Severn Estuary. The reserve was designated a National Nature Reserve in 2008, and is now a haven for birds and other wildlife, and a lovely place for a walk.

Find out more at Visit Monmouthshire .

Both day trip ideas brought to you by OS Champion Zoe Homes .

10. Gordon Way via Bennachie

11 mile linear hike along the Gordon Way . Beautiful Forest tracks to open hill tops. Waymarked route with views further afield over the Cairngorms. Some overgrown parts due to quiet trails. Slight detour off the trail to climb Bennachie. Started in Suie Hill and finished Bennachie centre.

Brought to you by OS Champion Jess Mather . Follow Jess on Instagram .

11. Beach Clean at Lunderston

A lovely wee beach to spend a day rockpooling but when you are there you could spend a bit of time litter picking.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Ross Toole . Follow Ross on Instagram .

12. Canoe and Kayak adventures in Wester Ross

Tailored Canoe or Kayak adventures to suit all experience levels and ambitions.

Kayak adventures on Loch Ewe

13. Climb, ride, explore in Wester Ross

Hill guiding, MTB, SUP and coasteering. Find out more here .

14. Red Point Beaches, Wester Ross

Easy 6km walking with 2 stunning beaches. Views of Torridon mountains, Raasay and Skye

These great day trip ideas brought to you by OS Champion Sal Thornton . Follow Sal on Instagram .

England: North, Yorks & Humber

15. craster to beadnell via embleton bay.

Sand, sea, coastal paths, quaint villages and an amazing castle. You can start from Craster, meaning you”ll go past Dunstanburgh Castle or if you prefer, start at Embleton Bay, either way, its a beautiful day out. A long and rewarding coastal hike.

Brought to you by OS Champion David Finlayson . Follow David on Instagram .

Craster to Beadnell via Embleton Bay

16. Coombs Wood Near Armaithwaite

An awesome woodland which runs parallel with the River Eden. You can park in Armaithwaite village on the main bridge (for free) then head up the river on a bridleway, taking in the incredible/lush woodland. You can drop down near the river and see the powerful rapids/weir that many canoeists spend time thinking about ! If you are into bouldering you can even climb some lovely sandstone rocks and then cool off with a dip in the river ! Also some really cool face carvings in the sandstone rock.

Brought to you by OS Champion Craig Henderson . Follow Craig on Instagram .

17. Whernside Wander, Yorkshire Dales

Ribblehead Viaduct

View from Whernside

Starting from the beautiful Ribblehead Viaduct this route takes you to the highest point in Yorkshire – Whernside. This 7.5-mile walk starts with a long steady climb followed by a scenic wander along an impressive high-level ridge. On a clear day there are spectacular views out to the Howgills, the Lake District and Morecambe Bay. Whernside is one of the three peaks in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge (three peaks in 12 hours!) and in my eyes, is the most impressive of the three.

18. Cycling on the Cinder Track

The Cinder Track, a former railway line, is one of the foremost cycle routes in the UK. The route from Scarborough to Ravenscar is a pleasant 10 miles with fantastic sea views. The track is very easy to follow as signposting is plentiful.

Among the highlights is Ravenscar itself and the beach at Hayburn Wyke, where woodland meets the sea. There is also a selection of places to eat and drink right on the track which makes it particularly well suited to family cycling.

Route in OS Maps

19. Easy paddling on Ullswater Lake

Kayak from Glenridding to Blowick Bay at the southern end of of Ullswater Lake. It’s only a short paddle across to this secluded beach making it suitable for all abilities. Get up close to Wall Holm, a small secluded island in the middle of the lake which makes a fantastic photo! Back at Glenridding, reward yourself with coffee and cake in the beautiful garden of the The Inn On The Lake Hotel .

Kayaking on Ullswater

All three day trip ideas are brought to you by Helen Newman from the OS team. Follow Helen’s adventures on Instagram .

England: Midlands

20. local explorer challenges.

Events cancelled or lacking inspiration? No problem – Our answer was to further explore what’s on our doorstep and design our own adventures from home.

Andy & Gee

8 miles to Derby path

Map with bridges plotted

21. Micro End to End

An ‘End to End’ adventure is often associated with the larger scale adventure from Land’s End to John O’Groats, or the Coast to Coast. But applying a ‘micro’ perspective to this challenge can create some really fun half day, full day or even weekend microadventures in either your local surroundings or further afield.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Two Travlrs . Follow Two Travlrs on Instagram .

22. Grishill Crag

Some great sandstone climbing to be experienced in rolling countryside of Shropshire. This small outcrop boasts a large array of climbing experiences and some breathtaking views.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Ben Turner . Follow Ben Turner on Instagram .

23. Discover Lud’s Church

Whether you are climbing, walking or trail running, The Roaches take in some of the best scenery in the Peak District. A visit to nearby Lud’s Church is a must. The impressive deep, moss-covered chasm is full of history, and is wet and cool even on the hottest of days. This popular 6-mile circular walk takes in the spectacular ridgeline of The Roaches plus the unmissable Lud’s Church. There’s plenty of less trodden trails in the area for those wanting to venture off the beaten track. Discover more routes in OS Maps .

Lud’s Church

Helen at The Roaches

The Roaches

24. Explore Kinder Scout’s air crash sites

There are more than 11 remaining air crash sites on Kinder Scout, the most visited being the B-29 Superfortress on Bleaklow which came down on the 3rd November 1948. Despite taking place over 70 years ago it almost feels (and looks!) like it happened yesterday thanks to the remoteness of this vast moorland. Parking is located in the lay-by on the A57, north of the Snake Pass Inn. It’s a pleasant 4 mile walk to the crash site through Lady Clough Forest. Why not plan a longer route and make the most of the wild and rugged moorland of Kinder Scout? It’s so large, you have enough space to really get away from it all!

Both walks are brought to you by Helen Newman from the OS team. Follow Helen’s adventures on Instagram .

East England

25. deserted beach.

A short beach ramble North of crumbling Covehithe brings you to a wild and desolate coastal broad at Benacre. The beach sandbar seperates the sea from the broad lagoon and is generally deserted, it’s easy to imagine being cast away here, even for a few hours. Fire up the stove and slow the pace down. You could easily spend a morning collecting sea glass and drift wood, spotting bitterns and marsh harriers or simply capturing the landscape on canvas or film. Continue North towards the Denes before joing the Suffolk Coast Path inland to complete the loop back to Covehithe inland.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Chris Webster . Follow Chris Webster on Instagram .

26. Dunwich and Dunwich Heath

This circular 7 mile walk takes in the best scenery around around the lost town of Dunwich , which disappeared due to erosion from the Sea. You will take in sections of the Sandlings Walk, an off road path connecting Ipswich and Southwold, Dunwich Heath with its vivid purple flowering heather, the ruins of Greyfriars Priory, see the last grave remaining next to the cliff tops and encounter spectacular views towards Walberswick and Southwold.

27. Rendlesham Forest

Rendlesham Forest is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, covering 1500 hectares, just outside of the well-known market town of Woodbridge. Located close by is a RAF Woodbridge, where US Air Force personnel were based. In 1980 there was a series of reported sightings of unexplained lights near Rendlesham Forest, which were linked with UFO sightings. Today, there is a UFO trail for children to follow in the forest, there are also marked routes for mountain bikes, walkers, runners and those wishing to explore. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of a herd of Deer.

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Tom Wake . Follow Tom Wake on Instagram .

England: South East

Views from Butser Hill (#30)

28. Frensham Pond – escape from London!

A beautiful beach and varied walks through sandy heathland within easy reach of London. Perfect for a family day out there is a National Trust cafe as well as ice cream van – you wouldn’t know you were under an hour on the train from London!

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Sophie Power . Follow Sophie Power on Instagram .

29. Blackdown & The Temple of the Winds

A gentle and easily accessible walk along the Blackdown Ridge to the highest point of the Southdowns NP. Enjoy the fantastic views from the Temple of the Winds

Blackdown route in Os Maps

30. Butser Hill & Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Visit the QECP and enjoy accessible walks, picnics, cafe and shop. This is a great location for all the family with plenty to do and plenty of space. Take a walk up Butser HIll, the highest point on the Southdowns Way and look across to the Isle of Wight

Butser Hill

Both walks brought to you by GetOutside Champion Glyn Dodwell . Follow Glyn Dodwell on Instagram .

31. A peaceful day walk around Thorney Island

Pack a picnic for this leisurely 9-mile circular route, along the shoreline of MOD-owned Thorney Island in Chichester Harbour AONB . The peaceful shores of this island are a sanctuary for wildlife, including seals! The coastal route takes in the deserted sand dunes of Thorney Island Beach, the historic St Nicholas Church with its war graves and you can even walk over to Pilsey Island, which is a rspb Bird Sanctuary (access on to the sanctuary is restricted). The coastal route is easy to follow but you must make sure you stick to the coast. Walking across the island is prohibited as it is MOD land. Parking can be found in Emsworth or in Prinsted.

Thorney Island at sunset

32. Halnaker Windmill

The recently restored Halnaker Windmill is an iconic sight close to Chichester. Starting from Boxgrove Village Hall Car Park the Windmill Trail is a leisurely 5-mile circular route to the windmill. Passing Tinwood Estate Vinyard, the trail then takes you through ‘the tunnel of trees’ on Mill Lane before climbing up to Halnaker Hill itself, boasting spectacular views across the countryside. On a clear day you can even see the sea.

View from the Halnaker Windmill

Halnaker Windmill

England: South West

33. the blue pool of dorset.

The Blue Pool of Dorset … which isn’t always blue! Formerly a clay pit, supplying tons of clay for making of smoking pipes and porcelain, it has later filled with rainwater becoming what is is today – a beautiful lake that changes colour in different light conditions, from blue to green and turquoise, thanks to a high concentration of minerals in the water as well as a good deal of clay in suspension. A fascinating natural oasis tucked away in Dorset’s rolling green countryside, The Blue Pool is a spot of beauty and tranquillity even on a busiest day. It is a centre-piece of the Furzebrook Estate surrounded by 25 acres of heath and woodland and offering it’s visitors a retreat from the hustle and bustle of civilisation.

The Blue Pool

Both walks brought to you by GetOutside Champion Richie Rakauskas . Follow Richie on Instagram .

34. A day out at Worth Matravers

Starting at the village car park this 12km circular walk takes in the awe inspiring views of Winspit Quarry, St Aldhelm’s Head, Chapmans Pool and miles and miles of views of the Jurassic Coastline. You can spend time watching the climbers ascend routes in the quarry (or if you’re a climber, join in!), enjoy the sea views on the walk round to St Aldhelm’s head, then you’re greeted with arguably one of the best views in Dorset into Chapmans Pool. Before heading back to the village take a path down to the beach, stop for a picnic, have a swim and watch the sun set. Be sure to venture into the Square and Compass which contains a rather quirky museum!

Walks brought to you by GetOutside Champion Charlotte Fowler . Follow Charlotte on Instagram .

35. Wiltshire White Horses

Visiting the Nine White Horses of Wiltshire (inc one on the Oxfordshire border). All are great one day walks but also why not walk the 150km White Horse Way and see them all over a week.

36. Uffington White Horse

An 11km, 2.5hr walk taking in the White Horse, Wayland Smithy long barrow, Uffington Castle, part of the Wessex Ridgeway and White Horse Way

Uffington White Horse

37. Broad Town White Horse

An 8km, 2.1hr walk taking in the paths and bridleways of the North Wiltshire downland and White Horse Way

38. Cherhill White Horse

A 14km, 3.5hr walk taking in the beautiful Marlborough Downs, Cherhill White Horse, the ancient Wandsdyke path, hill forts and the source of the River Marden at Calshott springs

39. Devizes White Horse

A 7km, 1.5hr walk from Devizes, along the Kennet And Avon Canal and up towards Roundway Down and the youngest of the Wiltshire White Horses

Kennet and Avon Canal near Devizes

40. Westbury White Horse

A 12km, 3hr walk from Bratton to see the oldest of the horses at Bratton Down with far reaching views and steep coombes, feel the ground tremble if the big guns are in action on the Plain!

41. Pewsey Downs White Horse

A 6km, 1.5hr circular route across unfarmed downland with magnificent sping/early summer flowers. Crossing the Wandsdyke and White Horse Way, the route passes over one of the two high points of Wiltshire at Milk Hill (the other one at Tan Hill being a few km’s away further on the Wandsdyke and the hills still argue today as to which is the highest)

42. Marlborough White Horse

A 5km, 1.25hr walk taking in quiet lanes, paths and tracks which links up to the White Horse Way. This route has lots of alternatives including links to Marlborough via footpaths through its well known public school(which give the best views of the White Horse!)

43. Hackpen White Horse

A 2hr 8km walk (or great trail run) taking in the ancient Wessex Ridgeway and hidden valleys and wooded coombes littered with Sarcen stones of Marlborough Downs

Hackpen White Horse

44. New Pewsey White Horse

Lots of short circular walks heading south out of Pewsey along ancient drovers tracks.

All Nine White Horses brought to you by GetOutside Champion Lisa Drewe . Follow Lisa on Instagram .

45. Martin Down Nature Reserve

A newtork of footpaths across chalk downland full of flora and fauna plus archeological interest with ancient ditches and tumuli. Great visit on a summer’s day when a host of species of butterfly are fluttering amongst the wildflowers and there is chance to hear turtle doves. Perfect peaceful spot for a picnic far from the madding crowd or star gazing at night. Find out more .

Brought to you by GetOutside Champion Sue Barrett . Follow Sue on Instagram .

46. Tisbury and Old Wardour Castle

A great day out visiting Tisbury , which is steeped in 2,000 years of history, with a walk that takes you to Old Wardour Castle, which dates from the 14th century and was the scene of two sieges, it also featured in the film `Robin Hood Prince of Thieves.

All of these day trips ideas brought to you by GetOutside Champion Phillipa Cherryson . Follow Phillipa on Instagram .

47. Cotswold Water Park

Located within Cotswold Water Park and close to Cirencester, Cotswold Country Park and Beach is a facility with two lakes, a beach, and a whole host of activities – a place to spend a whole day as a family or group or friends. Describing themselves as “the ultimate for watersports in the Cotswolds”, there is the inflatable assault course Aquaventure, paddleboards, kayaks and Canadian canoes, swan pedalos, rowing boats, mini electric boats for the kids, mini golf, and other things.

48. Sea Swims in Dorset

Being an island nation, there are a plethora of great spots for taking a dip in the ocean here in Great Britain. If you’re on holiday down in Dorset (and who wouldn’t want to be?!), these are four lovely places for a swim. They’re already popular, so I’m not giving away any secrets!

Worbarrow Bay, a beautiful bay perfect for a sunrise swim and breakfast on the beach. Winspit, more of a dip off the rocky shoreline than an endurance sea swim, but a lot of fun. Durdle Door and Man of War Bay, the iconic south England swim through the natural arch. Dancing Ledge, a natural pool good for a plunge.

All of these swims require a bit of a walk from the local parking, and should be taken seriously – the Dorset coast is beautiful but it’s also very rugged and can be rough.

49. Four Hills to Climb Near Cheltenham

One day with lots of views, or four days with one view each – four great views near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.

Being right on the edge of the Cotswolds, there are a whole host of amazing walks of all kinds of lengths to keep you busy from Cheltenham. Having recently moved to the area from the flatlands of Lincolnshire, I was particularly interested to explore the line of hills surrounding the old Spa town, as they promise excellent views back down into the valley and across the wide landscape to the Malvern Hills and into Wales.

You can easily visit Crickley Hill, Leckhampton Hill, Nottingham Hill and Cleeve Hill in one day or over one weekend – all offering short hikes, great scenery, and views of other hills you can come back and visit another time.

Both day trip ideas brought to you by GetOutside Champion Zoe Homes . Follow Zoe on Instagram .

50. Coastal strolls and ice cream at West Bay

The section from Burton Bradstock westwards towards Golden Cap is a beautiful family-friendly stretch of the South West Coastal Path . There’s certainly no shortage of scenic stops and the seaside towns of West Bay and Seatown allow plenty of opportunity to stock up on food, drink and of course, ice cream (the best being from Baboo in West Bay!). The SWCP route is well sign posted and you can make the walk as long or as short as you like. Challenge yourself to reach the top of Golden Cap – the highest point on the south coast of Great Britain.

South West Coast Path

This day trip idea is brought to you by Helen Newman from the OS team. Follow Helen’s adventures on Instagram .

So for day trips this summer, spread out a paper map , or download the OS Maps app, spot what you want to see and do, visit views with the wow-factor and explore new places.

Make sure you check that any sites, events, activity centres or adventure destinations are open and accessible before travelling, plus what the weather plans to do. The Met Office have these beach and mountain forecasts to help you enjoy the outside safely.

Share your day trip adventures with us by using #GetOutside and tagging us on Twitter (@OSLeisure), Facebook or Instagram (Ordnance Survey).

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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!

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12 Best Day Trips In England

Honestly, there’s a huge amount of places in England to explore, especially on a sunny day. We’re so fortunate to have a whole heap of the best day trips in England that are dotted all across the country. With everything from tropical-like islands to magnificent castles .

That being said, it can be pretty tough to nail down a few of the best day trips in England to head out on. This is especially true when you’ve got such a huge amount to see.

This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the best day trips in England that everyone can enjoy.

Now, rather than just focusing on one area of England (after all, we’re not all based in London , Manchester etc), I thought I’d pop a few suggestions that are dotted all across the country.

This’ll hopefully give you a load of relatively local spots to visit for one of the best day trips in England.

With that in mind, take a look at some of the best day trips in England that I’m sure you’ll love. Have the best trip!

1.) The Cotswolds

For me, visiting the Cotswolds is easily one of the best day trips in England. This is especially true if you’re based around Bristol , Bath or further north, too.

Nestled within a protected area of outstanding natural beauty, the Cotswolds is filled with rolling hills and quaint little villages and towns to boot! It’s the kind of place where you can spend a day driving around the country lanes and randomly just come across the prettiest little places.

Once here, make sure to explore Bibury and see the iconic Arlington Row . The houses are so quaint. Afterwards, take a little drive to Stow-on-the-Wold or visit Castlecombe that is equally idyllic.

To make things really easy, book this incredible Cotswolds tour from London. Along the way, you’ll stop at Bibury, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold and more.

Just be sure to book your tour before arriving in London as the tour can fill up fast at peak times. Alternatively, check out the tours that have slightly different routes, too.

Read more: Best places to visit in the Cotswolds

Not too far from the Cotswolds, Bath is a Roman city that’s totally steeped in history.

It’s a totally stunning city and one of the best day trips in England as it’s only a few hours by train from central London.

Once here, you’ve got to go visit the Roman baths that you can still tour to this day. Also, pop into Sally Lunn’s for some of her iconic buns that are famous in Bath.

They’re so tasty and a must-have when hunger strikes.

Afterwards, take a stroll around the town and see Bath Abbey and the circus, too. It’s a present of houses that are so beautiful and totally unique.

Finally, after strolling the cobbled streets, pop over to the Thermae Spa pool that’s heated by geothermal activity. Their outdoor pool is just so nice.

Though be warned, you can easily get sunburned, especially on a sunny day. Lather yourself in sun protection, like the ones Bioderma produce that’s not using nano mineral filters and are better for the environment.

Plus, you won’t look like a lobster when you leave the spa! 

After a little dip, head inside for one of their massage treatments, too. They’re amazing.

Also, be sure to book this Bath walking tour with optional Roman Bath tickets . It’s a great way to explore the whole city and see all the main spots.

Just be sure to book before arriving in Bath; places fill up on weekends and you don’t want to miss out.

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

3.) Peak District

Being the oldest national park in the country, the Peak District is a totally gorgeous area to explore.

Plus, it’s one of the best day trips in England if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Once here, make sure to ramble around Winnats Pass , visit the underground river and take a tour in a historic car across the hills and valleys. It’s so picturesque.

Read more: Exploring the Peak District

4.) Cambridge

Now, after living in Cambridge for a year, I’ve come to realise how special this place is. You see, it’s not only steeped in history but it also has a shed load of gorgeous foodie spots and stunning university grounds to see, too.

Only 45-minutes from central London by train, it’s totally easy to visit if you’re wanting to see one of England’s prettiest little cities.

Yeah, it’s much smaller than the likes of London or Birmingham but it has a charm that is well-worth experiencing.

After arriving in Cambridge, make sure to head over to King’s College Chapel and see the ornate works that have stood for centuries.

Afterwards, book these tickets and hop on board a guided punting tour of Cambridge at your own pace. It’s so much fun, even in the colder months when you wrap up warm.

Alternatively, check out the (below) tours of Cambridge which are great options, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

5.) The Jurassic Coast

Nestled on the south coast of England, the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO-protected area of England that’s pretty unique.

You see, what makes the Jurassic Coast so special is its geological formations and the fact you can go fossil hunting , too.

Once here, take a stroll on the beach and keep your eyes peeled! If you’re patient, you’ll end up finding quite a few fossils that you’re actually allowed to keep. Though, no digging into the cliffs isn’t allowed.

Some people have even found dinosaur skeletons, too. It’s such a special place and a perfect spot for one of the best day trips in England.

After scouring the beach, head over to Corfe Castle for a wander around this ancient village.

Finally, pop over to see Durdle Door and ramble to Old Harry Rocks that’s totally beautiful on a sunny day.

Read more: How to go fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast

Situated within Yorkshire, York is a Viking city that’s got a history dating back over 1,000 years.

Plus, it’s also a relatively small city which makes it one of the best day trips in England if you’re already in the area.

After arriving in the city, take a wander over to York Cathedral and climb the stairs to the views from the roof. You’ll get a gorgeous view of the walled city from up here.

Afterwards, head on over to the Shambles that’s a street that’s so quaint and pretty. It almost looks like it has fallen out of Harry Potter!

Afterwards, take a wander around the city walls, visit the castle and even head to Roots for a delicious seasonal meal.

It’s one of my favourite spots; plus, they have the tastiest cocktails.

Finally, if you want to take to the water, book these self-drive boats around York . It’s so much fun for a morning; we loved it. 

Read more: Best things to do in York

7.) Newcastle

Being England’s most northerly city, Newcastle is one of the best day trips in England if you’re heading up (or down) the east coast.

You see, over the last few decades, Newcastle has really made a name for itself as a great little city break, especially with all the things to do there.

If you love art, then check out the Laing Art Gallery or the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. These are great spots to visit, especially if the weather gets a little wet!

Afterwards, pop down to Sage, and wander the Riverside to see the Tyne Bridge. It’s an iconic part of Newcastle. You honestly can’t miss it.

Read more: Best places in Newcastle to visit

8.) Northumberland Coast

Northumberland has a nickname as ‘castle country’ and it’s easy to see why once you arrive. It’s the county that has the most castles out of any in England and they’re totally stunning.

Once here, make sure to check out Bamburgh Castle which is huge and so imposing. Also, don’t forget to see Dunstanburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle, too. Now, you probably won’t have enough time to visit them all when searching for the best day trips in England, but you can certainly give it a shot.

Alternatively, stay for a few days and head out to see Holy Island that’s totally unique! It’s a tidal island that gets cut off from the mainland every day, so be sure to plan your trip in advance.

Once here, you can visit Lindisfarne Castle and even try some of the monks’ mead that they produce on the island (and is made from honey).

Read more: Best places in the north of England to visit

9.) Lake District

One of England’s newest UNESCO world-heritage-sites, the Lake District is just beautiful.

With around sixteen lakes in all, the Lake District is a great place to visit if you love the outdoors and you’re already in the northwest of England.

Now, the most famous lake to visit has to be Windermere, but if you want to avoid the crowds, pop over to the quieter (but still big) Ullswater.

From here, you can stay in places like Another Place and ramble around the hills and countryside before heading out onto the lake itself.

We decided on paddle boarding and also taking the traditional steamer across the lake itself.

It really is a stunning area of England and, if I’m honest, a great place to spend longer than just one day.

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

10.) St. Ives

Cornwall is a totally beautiful area within England to explore. Better still, it’s a really easy place to visit for one of the best day trips in England when you’re already in the southwest of the country.

Whilst here, make sure to check out the sandy beaches of St. Ives, take a wander around the town and find some of the best places to eat.

Pop into the Cellar Bistro for their freshly-caught sea bream and haddock that is always so tasty.

Alternatively, pop into the Mermaid Seafood Restaurant which serves some tasty seafood, too. Their hake is so yummy and the restaurant is so cute.

Read more: Best things to do in Cornwall

11.) Arundel

Situated around a 100-minute drive from central London, Arundel is dominated by its incredible castle that’s something to behold!

Occupied by the Howard family, it has a history that dates back almost 1,000 years. Nowadays, you can head inside the grounds and the grand rooms that still overlook the town of Arundel itself.

Once here, make sure to scale the Norman Motte and see the views of the quadrangle and courtyard of the castle itself.

Afterwards, head into the staterooms and libraries to get a glimpse of what castle life is really like. It’s totally incredible.

Read more: Visiting Arundel Castle in West Sussex

12.) Windsor

If you’re already in London, Windsor is probably one of the easiest (and arguably) one of the best day trips in England. You see, it’s only about 30-minutes on the train, right from the heart of central London.

Before arriving, be sure to book these tickets and head inside Windsor Castle and explore some of the staterooms and iconic grounds which the royal family call home.

You’ll likely spend about 3-4 hours here, so plan your day trip in advance.

Afterwards, pop over to Eton and take a boat trip down the River, too. It’s a great way to relax and see more of the area on a sunny day.

Read more: Best things to do in Windsor

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Attractions & Tours

Discover the country’s most popular attractions and amazing days out.

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A Visit to Port Lympne Reserve, Truck Safari and Afternoon Tea for Two

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Faulty Towers Dining Experience for Two

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Two merlin thrilling theme park tickets, comedy pass for two adults, vineyard tour with afternoon tea or lunch for two, 2 for 1 meerkat encounter, port lympne reserve gorilla encounter and truck safari for two, up at the o2 climb experience for two, warner bros. studio tour london with champagne afternoon tea for two at sopwell house, sea life entry tickets for two, silver tickets for two to a west end theatre show, sea and train adventure from poole for two, brighton pavilion entry and sparkling afternoon tea at hilton doubletree brighton for two, garden of england five course lunch journey on belmond's british pullman for two, deluxe gift box, entry to the british music experience for two, live music bottomless brunch at mr fogg's city tavern for two, three course meal with a bottle of sparkling wine for two at the royal horseguards hotel, zip world velocity for one, the view from the shard for two with champagne - special offer, tour and tasting at chiltern valley winery and brewery for two, 60 minute golf lesson with a pga professional for one, fun family experience days out, days out together gift box, especially for her gift box, zip world velocity for one - midweek, entry to silverstone museum and simulator experience for two, comedy show and dinner at inamo in covent garden for two, adult arsenal emirates stadium tour for two, a bird of prey falconry experience for two, steam day and museum entry with tea and cake for two at didcot railway centre, steam train ride for two on the east somerset railway with cream tea in the whistlestop cafe, entry to the lift 109 experience at battersea power station for two adults, luxury gift box, design a bespoke perfume platinum experience for two, traditional afternoon tea bus tour in glasgow or edinburgh for two, attractions & tours in the uk.

Take in the sights and sounds of the country’s most popular attractions and tours with our stellar collection of amazing days out.

Historic places. World-famous landmarks. Modern locations.  Sports venues . Whether it’s someone’s birthday, a happy couple’s anniversary or for Christmas this year, an experience day is the ultimate way to make it one to remember. It’s the picture-perfect day out for two or the whole family.

UK Attractions for Families

Take the whole family out for a day to remember and visit the incredible  family-friendly attractions  that the UK has to offer. Get close to creatures great and small with an  animal experience , enjoy nature like never before with a fun-filled day at Go Ape or delve into history with a visit to one of  over 400 English Heritage sites across the UK . These make perfect gifts for kids and adults alike and with hundreds of family-friendly attractions and days out on offer, there is something to suit the whole family.

Day Trips in London

The Capital is always filled with excitement. Our  London sightseeing and tours  offer a glimpse of what it’s like to be amongst the hustle and bustle of the busy city streets. Discover the city’s rich history, iconic attractions and fascinating landmarks. From cruises down the River Thames to a trip to London Olympic Park and a tour on a vintage double-decker bus, there are so many fun and exciting things to do in London. Head down to the West End and enjoy a timeless show at a theatre, with The Lion King, Mamma Mia and Matilda ready to dazzle theatregoers.  The View from The Shard  gives explorers a stunning panorama of London. At 72 floors high, the skyline stretches out for over 40 miles. Spot The Gherkin, Canary Wharf, the Houses of Parliament as well as other landmarks from this unique viewpoint.

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from England

Day trips from england.

• England to London
• England to Windsor
• England to Amesbury
• England to Bath
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
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1. The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small

2. Private tours to Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace, Oxford

3. Private Windsor Castle and Stonehenge Day Tour

4. Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, The City of Bath from London

5. Private Cotswold Villages Day Tour see the beauty of the Villages

6. Private Day Tours from London - Stonehenge Bath Cotswolds & More

7. Full Day Private Tour in Lizard and West Cornwall

8. Private Day Tour to Oxford and The Cotswolds

9. Private Day Tour of Magical Windsor Castle and Stonehenge

10. Stonehenge and Salisbury / Magna Carta Private Tour from Southampton

11. Private Cotswolds and Stratford upon Avon

12. Royal Windsor, Oxford & Cotswold Private Tour

13. Southampton to Heathrow via Attraction of your choice (Stonehenge, Windsor etc)

14. Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Tour

15. Cotswolds Private Tour from Southampton

16. Private half day Guided Tour of Windsor Castle PLUS and History

17. Hire a Driver from Southampton Day Tour

18. Private Arrival Transfer: Heathrow Airport to London with Stopover at Stonehenge

19. Stonehenge & Bath Private guided Tours

20. Leeds Castle, Canterbury and White Cliffs of Dover Private Car Tour

21. Private Tour - Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York

22. Private Tour to Stonehenge, Bath and The Cotswolds

23. Gems of the British countryside - sightseeing from Southampton

24. Bath and Stonehenge Day Tour from Southampton

25. Shore Excursion Stonehenge & Salisbury Cathedral (Magna Carta)

26. Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York

27. Cruise Ship Pickup Private Tour

28. Windsor & the Castle Private Tour

29. All Inclusive Full Day Private Tour in Oxford and Cotswold

30. Private Day Tour to Bath, Avebury & The Cotswolds

What travellers are saying.

• Sandra L H 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Eddie made our Cotswolds trip great! What a great trip! Eddie was courteous, very informative, and put our wants first. Ask for him, he helped make our day special. Read more Review of: Private Cotswolds and Stratford upon Avon Written 24 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

From London to Newcastle: 16 days out near you

Whether you’re looking for family days out with the kids, or are just desperate for a change of scenery, there are heaps of places around England that are ready and waiting to welcome you.

Pack up a picnic, hop in the car and swap the city for some of these beautiful English sights. They’re all an hour or less away from a major city, meaning you’ll be back home in time for dinner.

Day trips from London: Eltham Palace and Gardens

Eltham, London

Tucked away in the borough of Greenwich, Eltham Palace  is a medieval estate known for its striking Art-Deco charm and connection to Henry VIII. And while the palace itself is brimming with historical importance, it’s not the only reason to make the day trip from London, as the award-winning grounds are equally as impressive. Wander through 19 acres of greenery, relax in the Rock Garden with its pools and cascading waters, take the perfect shot in the rose garden and make your way across London’s oldest working bridge, all in one day.

Day trips from Bristol: Blaise Hamlet

Just four miles outside Bristol, Blaise Hamlet’s nine thatched-roof cottages, owned by the National Trust, look like they’ve been plucked out of Grimm’s Fairy Tales. Previously owned by John Harford – a Bristol banker and Quaker – the cottages were actually built to house his servants after they retired (a pretty good pension package if you ask me!). The quirky cottages are still lived in today, so their interiors aren’t open to the public – though a walk around this mini village is satisfying in itself.

Bath day trips: Longleat House & Safari

Longleat, Wiltshire

Less than 20 miles from Bath, Longleat  is home to much more than just grand Elizabethan rooms and pleasure gardens. As you delve deep into its grounds (with your car doors locked and windows wound up), you’re likely to find yourself side-by-side with a sleeping lion, following in the tracks of elephants or face-to-face with cheeky monkeys who are notorious for getting comfy on your bonnet. There are also walk-through attractions on site, where you can get a glimpse of koalas, meerkats and tons of other furry friends.

Day trips from Birmingham: Warwick Castle

Warwick, Warwickshire

Just a 30-minute train ride from Birmingham, this an ancient estate is packed with legend and lore. It keeps its colourful history alive and kicking with its dark, dingy dungeons, tall towers and spectacular live shows.

Surrounding the fortress is 60 acres of landscaped gardens – designed by Capability Brown. Walk among the summer florals of the Peacock Garden, home to a peafowl of romantic peacocks; stroll alongside the River Avon; or climb the Conqueror’s Fortress for never-ending views of the Midlands countryside.

Norwich days out: Somerleyton Hall & Gardens

Lowestoft, Suffolk

Dating back 900 years, Somerleyton Hall & Gardens  is renowned as one of the finest stately homes in the country. From the grand staircase to the ballroom with its Jacobean charm, every inch of this house is impeccably preserved.

Its gardens are pretty famous in East Anglia, too. Don’t miss the sunken White Garden, with its beautiful blooms, the Walled Garden housing an array of vegetables and seasonal flowers and, if you’re up for a challenge, the huge maze.

Day trips from Exeter: Ashclyst Forest

Exeter, Devon

Step into a magical forest alive with butterflies, bluebells and bird song on the Killerton Estate. One of the largest woods in East Devon, the forest has heaps of waymarked trails to explore, perfect for blowing away the cobwebs and reconnecting with nature. Look out for all the different species of butterfly – from peacocks to marbled whites – and you may even get lucky and spot a quick-footed deer.

Day trips from Leeds: Haworth

Haworth, West Yorkshire

Wuthering Heights fan or not, the charming, cobbled Yorkshire village of Haworth is more than worth a visit. The town and its surrounding rugged moorlands were the inspiration for many of the Brontë sisters and their novels. Along with the Brontë Parsonage Museum, it’s a haven for independent businesses selling everything from chocolates to artworks.

The rural walks leading out of the village are a must-do, too, with labyrinthine trails up to ruined farmhouses and waterfalls.

Days out near Nottingham: Belvoir Castle

Grantham, Leicestershire

Having been around for nearly a whole millennium, the ancestral home  of the Dukes of Rutland is pretty special. For a sneak peek inside, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour, or if you’re all about the outdoors you can take a walk in the woodland gardens – which were partly designed by esteemed landscaper, Capability Brown. See if you can see the peacock sat atop an obelisk – it’s said he watches over the castle from afar.

Cambridge day trips: Wicken Fen

Ely, Cambridgeshire

Take a day trip to one of Europe’s most important wetlands , home to more than 9,000 species of wildlife – from water voles to dragonflies. Alongside walking routes for full-grown adventurers, there are buggy and wheelchair-friendly paths, and numerous cycleways too.

Take your camera and see if you can snap a photo of the grazing herds of highland cattle, or maybe a striking Konik pony, both of which were introduced to the landscape to aid conservation and increase the diversity of wildlife in the area.

Days out near York: Castle Howard

York, North Yorkshire

It may sound a little farfetched, but construction on Castle Howard  actually took over 100 years to complete. Since then, eight generations of the Howard Family have occupied the castle, each adding their own personal touches.

Outside, you’ll find 1,000 acres of parkland – including woodland, lakes, fountains and ornate temples. Little ones will also love Skelf Island – a treetop adventure of, slides and rope bridges suspended above the Great Lake.

Liverpool day trips: Chester Zoo

Chester, Cheshire

Home to over 35,000 animals from every corner of the earth, Chester Zoo is one of the most prestigious wildlife parks in the UK – so much so, it even featured on Channel 4’s documentary The Secret Life of the Zoo. The herd of Asian elephants (with their playful babies) are a big crowd-pleaser, as well as the gorgeous Sumatran orang-utans and sloths.

Don’t miss the award-winning botanical gardens, whose plants aren’t just good looking, but play a vital role in helping local wildlife.

Brighton day trips: Devil’s Dyke

Brighton, East Sussex

Rumoured to have been created by the Devil, who dug out the valley to drown the church-goers of the Weald, this record-breaking beauty spot has as colourful a history as its scenery.

Formerly used as a bomb-testing site in World War 1, Devil’s Dyke has roots dating back to the Iron Age – with a hill fort you can still see today. Day-trippers and even members of the royal family used to flock here in the 18th and 19th centuries too, who have left their mark in the form of a derelict Victorian funfair. Fast forward to today and the valley certainly hasn’t lost its draw, as nature lovers and cyclists galore make their way here year in year out for its photogenic panoramas and off-road routes.

Days out from Sheffield: Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors

Peak District, Derbyshire

Grand open spaces are one of the Peak District’s main draws. Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors  are excellent walking country for those in need of a good dose of country. From ancient woods and tumbling streams to heather-filled moorland and spectacular views overlooking the Derwent Valley, the scenery here definitely keeps on giving.

Day trips from Coventry: West Midlands Safari Park

Kidderminster, West Midlands

Get up close and personal to incredible animals from all over the world  – just make sure the doors are locked! From the comfort of your car, roll through the African Plains to see elegant giraffe and a herd of Southern White Rhino, drive across Wild Asia and into the land of the Carnivores, where tigers, cheetahs and the mighty king of beasts, the majestic lion, roam free.

Newcastle days out: Birdoswald Roman Fort

Brampton, Cumbria

Budding historians and established explorers will have a whale of a time discovering the remains of Roman forts and turrets at Birdoswald , located around an hour’s drive from Newcastle. It’s home to the longest remaining stretch of Hadrian’s Wall, as well as one of the best-preserved fort gates along the whole of the partition. There’s also a small museum on-site full of interactive learning exhibits revealing the history of the fort.

If you fancy exploring further afield, lace up your walking boots and head out into the rugged, untouched countryside – it’s guaranteed to take your breath away.

Day trips near Carlisle: Castlerigg Stone Circle

Keswick, Cumbria

This mystical Neolithic stone circle  is said to be among the earliest British circles, created around 3,000 BC. The dramatic backdrop of the Helvellyn and High Seat peaks add to the atmospheric setting of the stones, and their proximity to Keswick – a 30-minute walk to be precise – makes a visit to the stones a perfect addition to a day out in the Lake District.

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The 21 Best Day Trips From London

By Condé Nast Traveller and Anna Prendergast

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

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

Read our complete London travel guide here .

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

Canterbury, Kent

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

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

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

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

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

Elmley Nature Reserve

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

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

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

Great Garden Escape, The Newt in Somerset

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

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

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

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

Clifton, Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Bath, Somerset

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

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

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

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

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

The New Forest, Hampshire

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

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

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

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

Hertford, Hertfordshire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more about Deal, Kent

Whitstable, Kent

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

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

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

Rye, East Sussex

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

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

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

These are our favourite things to do in Rye

Margate, Kent

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

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

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

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

Read more about Margate's best things to do

Eastbourne, East Sussex

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

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

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

An insider guide to the South Downs

Brighton, East Sussex

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

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

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

The best restaurants in Brighton

Lewes, Sussex

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

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

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

Folkestone, Kent

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

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

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

The best restaurants in Kent

Oxford, Oxfordshire

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

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

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

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

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

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

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

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

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

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

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

Dungeness, Kent

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hastings and St Leonards

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

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

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

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17 day trips from London to escape the city

Whether you’re after a seaside jaunt or a country retreat, here are the best trips from London we’re planning right now

As much as we love London here at Time Out, we’re also partial to the odd daydream about a leisurely getaway to somewhere that’s not quite so big and busy. Microdose on that holiday vibe by taking a day trip to one of the many laidback, joy-inducing destinations just a few hours away from London, which pack in plenty; from historic cities and cute villages to sandy beaches and rolling countryside.

If you’re wanting a quick getaway, here are 17 of the Time Out team’s favourite day trips from London, complete with our recommendations of cute pubs and ace restaurants – all close enough to the city to get there and back in one sweet day. 

RECOMMENDED: ✨The best day trips from London 👪 The best  family day trips from London ☀️ The best  weekend trips from London 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs near London 🌳 The best  quirky Airbnbs in the UK

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Dreamy day trips from London

1.  St Leonards-on-Sea

Famed for how many Londoners moved here during lockdown (it’s even been referred to as Dalston-on-Sea, which is cringe, we’ll admit), St Leonards-On-Sea is a cracking day out from the Big Smoke for beachside drinks and a tonne of great food spots. Head to food market Heist  (basically a much nicer version of Boxpark) for orange wine and street food, then sink pints at Goat Ledge , a vibesy, colourful shack right on the beach. If you fancy splashing out a little, book dinner at the fabulously old-school  St Clement’s for white tablecloths and delicious seafood. Plus you've got easy access to the rest of Hastings for its Old Town, pier and the Norman castle ruins.

How far? 58 miles

How to get there: A one hour 18 minute train from London Charing Cross

2.  Dungeness

Dungeness’s shingly, shipwreck-dotted beach is so spookily empty that it’s been described as Britain’s only desert (though the Met Office refuses to technically recognise it as such, the party poopers). It’s a beautifully eerie landscape, with the (disused) nuclear power station and two lighthouses looming over a motley mixture of weathered shacks, beached fishing boats and sleek, modernist bungalows – all clustered along a single in-and-out road.

But despite all that emptiness, there’s a surprising amount to do here. You could catch the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch steam train down the coast, and hop off in Dungeness for a walk and a pint at the lonely Britannia Inn. Grab a freshly-caught lunch at the famous Snack Shack: specialities include lobster or crab rolls and smoked cod chowder. And check out the galleries and open houses showcasing the work of the (surprisingly) many artists who have moved down here, including the shingle garden of the experimental filmmaker Derek Jarman, whose yellow-windowed Prospect Cottage is a major landmark here. Book in advance for a 40-minute tour inside.

If you’ve got time, head over to RSPB Dungeness nature reserve for a chance to glimpse glossy ibises and marsh harriers – plus the huge concrete ‘sound mirrors’, pre-radar experiments from WW1 that were designed to listen out for planes. (Look out on the RSPB site for news of the rare open days when you can get up close.) Finish off your day with dinner at the Pilot Inn; I’m willing to back the quality of their famous fish and chips, which were the thing that brought Derek Jarman here in the first place.

How far? 86 miles

Get there O ne hour  by train from St Pancras International to Folkestone, with a one-hour 30-minute bus ride to Dungeness. Or take a bus or taxi from Folkestone to Hythe station to board the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. Alternatively, Dungeness is  around two hours from London by car.

3.  Stratford-upon-Avon

As a born-and-bred Midlander, I’ve spent many Saturdays traipsing around Stratford-upon-Avon’s lovely streets. With its half-timbered houses and canalside pubs, Stratford’s got just enough of the  small-town charm you’re craving on an escape from the Big Smoke, but unlike a small town, there’s actually loads to see and do.  

The Bard, of course, is the big draw here, and Shakespeare’s house, his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage and the RSC’s famous theatre are all must-sees. But Stratford is more than just a Tudor Disneyland, we promise. Take a boat tour of the canal basin to find out more about the West Midlands waterways, refresh yourselves in the Grade II-listed Old Thatch Tavern and stop for a scoop of Eton mess ice cream at Hooray’s British Gelato Kitchen. 

How far? 104 miles

Get there T wo hours 15 minutes  by train from Marylebone; around two hours by car. 

4.  Whitstable

Don’t even think about thinking about it: Whitstable is far from overhyped. Sure, the secret is most definitely out about this fabulous little seaside town, but the vibes here are as great as they were 20 years ago. Grab brunch at Farm & Harper , fish and chips at Ossie’s and a glorious pint of craft at the Twelve Taps , and treat yourself to a dozen oysters to go at Wheelers Oyster Bar on the high street. Once you’ve walked the length of the beach and admired the beach huts, settle in at the famous pub-on-the-beach Old Neptune for a pint and wait for sunset to fall. Plus, Whitstable is so near, you’ll be back home before you can say ‘ another   bank holiday?’. But that’s if you don’t miss the last train.

How far? 50 miles

Get there One hour 15 minutes from St Pancras International, around two hours by car.

5.  Brighton

With its pebble beach, wall-to-wall live music venues and buzzing LGBTQ+ scene, there’s nowhere better for topping up your Vitamin Sea levels than Brighton . Start your day by dodging seagulls on the Palace Pier, then shop up a storm in the Lanes, which are packed with independent boutiques, record stores and vegan eateries. Sit down with a couple of pints in the Brighton Beer Dispensary, which champions small Sussex breweries like the Hand Brew Co.

How far?  A little over 50 miles

Get there One hour by train from Victoria, Blackfriars or London Bridge; around two hours by car. 

6.  The New Forest

A trip to the New Forest is about as close as you can get to going on safari without buying a plane ticket. As you make your way down dappled lanes and across the heather-covered heath you’ll be watched the famous ponies, which have grazed there for thousands of years, plus free-ranging Highland cattle and pigs hoovering up fallen acorns. Don’t fancy being stuck in the car all day? Hire a two-seater electric Twizzy buggy to explore in, or book a beginners’ hack at one of the stables. Don’t forget to make time for a proper ploughman’s lunch at the Royal Oak in Fritham.

How far? 90 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Waterloo to Brockenhurst; around two hours by car. Just remember that animals, not drivers, have right of way here.

7.  Rye

The antique shops and higgledy-piggledy cobbled lanes of Rye make it feel like a little slice of the Cotswolds on the coast. After you’ve satisfactorily browsed around the accurately named Tiny Book Store, treat yourself to a seafood lunch surrounded by lobster pots at Globe Inn Marsh, followed by Sussex real ale or a glass of local wine at The George. The Chapel Down vineyard is just up the road and well worth a visit if you want to know the ins and outs of wine-making – or simply enjoy a tipple with their signature wine tasting. Ten minutes away are the pillowy dunes of Camber Sands: roll your trousers up and splash through the shallows, take a kite for a spin or just park your towel and stretch out.

How far? 79 miles.

Get there  One hour 10 minutes by train from St Pancras International (with a change at Ashford); around two hours by car. 

8.  Box Hill

Biking to green and pleasant Surrey is a wheely nice way to spend a Sunday (sorry) – plus, Box Hill was part of the 2012 Olympic road-cycling route. Start in Richmond Park and pedal down past Hampton Court – it should take you about two hours. After a 1.6 mile climb and some hairpin bends (easier than it sounds!), you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the North Downs from the top of Box Hill. Grab a slice of cake from the National Trust café, and save space for lunch at The Tree, which serves homemade pies and crumbles. Your last stop is Box Hill and Westhumble station, where you can load your bikes on to a train back to Waterloo. Whew!

How far? 30 miles

Get there  Two hours by bike (obviously). Plan the route carefully before you set out, and take a map and a puncture repair kit, plus water and snacks.

9.  Bath

A glorious water-themed day awaits you in the city of Bath . Start as you mean to go on with a tour of the Romans baths (no paddling allowed, you’ve been warned), before making a splash in the Thermae Bath Spa – the rooftop pool has stunning views of the city. Once you’ve dried off, make like Jane Austen and stroll along the Royal Crescent. Peckish? Sally Lunn’s teahouse is home to the Sally Lunn Bun, a kind of sweet brioche bap – for a Bath take on the cream tea, order one toasted and spread with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

How far? 115 miles

Get there  One hour 30 minutes by train from Paddington; two hours 30 minutes by car. 

10.  Mersea Island

Attached to the mainland by a causeway that floods (and pub quizzers, take note: this is the UK’s most easterly inhabited island), Mersea feels properly remote at high tide. The big draw is The Company Shed, which serves seafood platters that pull in crowds from all over the country every weekend. It’s BYOB – bring your own bread – and they don’t take bookings, so get there before noon to make sure you can feast on prawns, smoked fish, oysters and dressed crab. Speaking of which, catch-and-release crabbing is encouraged – there are specially marked areas near the water, and shops selling the kit. Or you can book a boat trip around the bay.

How far? 69 miles

Get there  One hour by train from Liverpool Street to Colchester, then a 45-minute bus to Mersea Island; around two hours by car. D on’t forget to check the tide timetable before you set off...

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Explore the scenic landscapes, intriguing historical sites, and captivating cultural attractions across the UK from the comfort of our coaches. Our day trips offer you a diverse selection of destinations to suit every interest, whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast.

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Take a captivating journey through time on meticulously restored steam trains from bygone eras. Be immersed in breathtaking landscapes as picturesque vistas roll past your window. Experience nostalgia and evoke a profound sense of awe and wonder as you revel in one of these incredible adventures. Step back and be captivated!

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the United Kingdom's rich historical heritage! Uncover magnificent palaces, breath-taking gardens, majestic castles, captivating National Trust sites, and enchanting English Heritage attractions. With so much to explore and be amazed by, the fascinating history of the UK awaits your discovery!

Embark on an extraordinary journey through time at the UK's iconic museums! Discover wonders like the Bovington Tank Museum, Milestone Living History, The Postal Museum, Didcot Railway Centre, and more. Delve into history, culture, and endless discoveries, creating cherished memories. Uncover the past, ignite inspiration, and experience the ultimate blend of fun, knowledge, and fascination!

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Indulge in a magnificent exploration of the United Kingdom's finest zoos, wildlife havens, and animal sanctuaries. Embark on an awe-inspiring journey, encompassing renowned treasures like Monkey World, Howletts Wild Animal Park, and Port Lympne. Brace yourself for an unforgettable encounter with nature's wonders, as you delve deep into the heart of these extraordinary destinations.

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Experience the rich history and culture of quintessentially English cities in the UK! Explore the iconic landmarks of London, wander through the hallowed halls of Oxford, soak in the medieval charm of Canterbury, delve into the naval heritage of Portsmouth, and indulge in the Roman baths of Bath. Discover the essence of Britain!

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England Road Trip: 50 Unmissable ideas (for every UK itinerary)

Planning an England road trip? Here are some of the best itinerary ideas for all schedules, including London to Cornwall, the Cotswolds and Kent in southern England, National Parks like the Lake District or Peak District, Northern England and all the way up to the Scottish border.

Whatever your cup of tea, there’s a UK road trip idea here for you. We’ve also provided a helpful map so you can visualise your route.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

UK Road Trips- How to Plan

Planning a UK road trip to England or elsewhere can be tough. 

There are SO MANY places, ideas, options and reviews- how on earth are you supposed to choose the best way or most scenic drives?

Then, you have to factor in how long you have for your UK road trip (remembering that much of rural UK has smaller, slower roads, so it takes a lot longer to get there than you might expect. 

So, if you’re planning a road trip around England (and the UK) and feeling overwhelmed, here are some of our favourite road trips and itinerary ideas to help you. We’ll discuss the best bits of each area, why and when you should visit, how far it is from London and where you should allow extra time to explore.

England Road Trip Ideas- Where to Start

The first thing to decide is where you want to visit on your road trip. Also, remember that England is only one section of the UK- there are several other countries to explore (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland make up the United Kingdom).

So, if you want to do a full UK road trip, you’ll need more time than if you were just doing an England road trip.

Our biggest tip is not to overface yourself. Whether you only have a long weekend for a quick trip from London or a week to get out on the open road and tour, make sure you leave time to actually get out of your vehicle and explore the places you’re visiting- you’ll find plenty of historic sites, sandy beaches and incredible routes to enjoy. 

Roughly speaking, you can split England in half- the South of England and the North  (the line roughly goes through Birmingham) or even further into quarters if you only have time for a one-week road trip. 

Again, how far you can travel will depend on how much time you have, as well as how you are travelling (rental car, motorhome or public transport), but to do each half ‘properly’ we would recommend at least 2-3 weeks- especially if it’s your first time in England.

Having said that, you can see some of the best sights in less time than that- here’s our one week in England road trip itinerary .

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Where to stay during your England road trip

If you’re planning a motorhome or campervan trip , you’ll be able to travel and stop along the way, often without booking in advance, using schemes like Brit Stops or wild camping in your motorhome .

If you’re in a car or motorbike, there are PLENTY of hotels and BnBs to use en route. If you’re travelling in summer we recommend booking at least the first stop in advance- if you use Booking.com for all your accommodation you’ll find you can get a great deal and save a lot of money.

England Road Trip Map

I know how hard it can be to visualise places if you don’t know the country well, so here’s a map of England with several of the road trip destinations shown on it.

Out of interest, if you did this route, it’s about 1056 miles (1700km) long. You could technically do it in a week, but you’d barely have time to get out of the car!

Common England Road Trip Questions

How long does it take to drive the whole of england .

Many people wonder “ How long does it take to drive the whole of England ?” That’s a tough question, as there are so many places to go and depends a lot on your starting point.

Most people allow 2-3 weeks to drive through as much of England as they can, but that will involve a LOT of driving. Of course, you can take a look at the road trip itinerary ideas below and see which scenic route or quaint villages most appeal to you- and then plan your trip around that.

One common UK road trip idea is to drive from Land’s End in Cornwall all the way up to John o’Groats in Scotland, which is about 838miles (1350km). Obviously, this is a road trip which involves England AND Scotland, and that brings me to another important point.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Can we go to England by road?

This is a common question for anyone who doesn’t live in the UK- and the short answer is yes, you can drive to England from mainland Europe.

Whether you’re enjoying a European road trip (here are some ideas for you ), or want to combine a trip to England with another country, you can drive to England from Europe via either the Eurotunnel or taking one of several car ferries (they also take motorhomes/ campervans on most of the ferry routes.)

If you’re planning a road trip from France to England, which route you take will depend on which part of France and England you want to visit- find out more in our Eurotunnel vs Ferry post.

And if you’re going the other way and will be driving in Europe, make sure you are aware of the new rules for driving in Europe after BREXIT .

If you’re like more help planning your trip, this post about how to plan an epic UK road trip will help.

Is England the UK or Great Britain?

Neither. And part of both 🙂

It’s common for people to confuse an England road trip with a UK road trip. England is just one country within the UK, along with Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you want to extend your trip and see more of those countries, you might enjoy our post on the best UK road trips and scenic drive ideas.

The UK is short for ‘The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland’.

Great Britain is the LANDMASS of the largest island in the British Isles (the one which makes up England, Wales and Scotland). Northern Ireland, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands are not included in this.

And, to make things even more odd, the British Isles includes ALL the islands, including the whole of Ireland, which isn’t part of the UK at all.

Thoroughly confused? Ok, let’s just stick to England road trip ideas! 🙂

South England Road Trip Ideas

If you’re visiting London and want to explore part of the country for a few days, southern England is a good place to start. Of course, there are a HUGE number of places to explore in ‘South England’ (which is roughly classed as anywhere below Birmingham), so I’m just going to pick a few highlights to inspire you.

Cornwall- South West England

Cornwall is one of my favourite places to road trip in England. I spent 2 years living there whilst I was in the Navy, and have been back many times since. There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall , but there are some important tips you need to know before you arrive!

Why is Cornwall one of the best England road trips?

If you want cute villages, incredible beaches and more history than you can shake a stick at, Cornwall is perfect. Also, they have some of the best ice cream IN THE WORLD (no kidding) and it’s perfectly acceptable to eat a scone with jam and clotted cream EVERY day and no one will judge you.

IMPORTANT NOTE : There is intense rivalry between Devon and Cornwall over whether jam or cream should go first on a scone. In Cornwall, they do jam and THEN cream, which is apparently the way the Queen preferred her scones .

(Don’t worry, they’re used to tourists and won’t stone you if you get it wrong. But be warned if you want to live there…!) 

In Devon, they do it the other way. I’ve tried both, and I’m a jam first girl (because you can then put more cream on!)

When should you visit Cornwall?

Cornwall is best anytime between Easter and mid-October.

TOP TIP : Avoid July and August if you possibly can. The schools are on holiday and it feels like EVERYONE in England has travelled to the same small Cornish village as you.

Beaches are overcrowded, parking becomes a struggle and there’s a very real chance of shops running out of ice cream. Don’t do that to yourself. You deserve that ice cream.

Also, many businesses and attractions close after mid-October for the winter, so you might find you can’t do everything you want to outside the season.

Having said that, we find Cornwall one of the best places to enjoy Autumn in Europe – the weather is still warm, but everywhere is quieter and easier to get to.

How long should you spend roadtripping Cornwall?

How long is a piece of string!! But, as you can see on our Cornish road trip itinerary , we recommend 7-10 days minimum to see all the best places.

Where are the best places to visit in Cornwall on a road trip?

Did I mention that I used to live here? I have SO many recommendations for places to visit we could be here all week!!! Some of my absolute favourites (and this is like choosing my favourite child… or chocolate bar) include:

• Tintagel Castle (the home of Arthur and the round table)
• Minack Theatre (built onto the side of a cliff)
• St Michael’s Mount
• Boscastle (where one of the best witchcraft museums in the world is!)
• Newquay beach (and bars!)

READ MORE: Discover our complete Cornwall road trip itinerary (45 places you HAVE to see!)

Recommended by Ben at Driftwood Journals

Famed for its endless rolling hills, craggy coastlines and clotted cream delights, Devon is unsurprisingly one of the most popular destinations in the UK – and a dream for rural road-trippers! With wild moors galore, cutesy towns and villages, and bountiful beaches, you don’t have to drive far in Devon to stumble upon scenes of unparalleled beauty.

Highlights and best places to visit in Devon

• Dartmouth- one of the best towns in the county (and home of the Royal Naval Officer training. I spent a year here…running up those bl***y hills!) Hire a boat and explore the river.
• Paignton- the beach with the red sand and is also known as the English Riviera.
• Dartmoor National Park
• Exmoor National Park
• Exmouth with its beautiful painted houses
• Salcombe Harbour – a holiday hotspot for all generations.
• Dulverton- head to the Copper Kettle tearoom; you won’t regret it!

Devon road trip ideas

Pack up your motorhome/ camper (or car with tent) and find a site with views across the Devonshire cow-grazed hillsides of the Lyn Valley, or out over Dartmoor. You can wild camp in Devon, but not on the moors. Find out more about motorhome wild camping in the UK.

For a coastal trip, explore sea towns like Salcombe and Dartmouth (where you can take a boat up to Greenway, Agatha Christie’s summer home) and round to Exmouth, before heading north to Woolacombe, Dawlish and the fishing boat bobbing harbour of Ilfracombe. Enjoy the bustle and culture in the capital of Exeter or discover the notorious prison of Dartmoor.

Alternatively, head to North Devon and enjoy the wilder seas and views of the north coast. This is a great area for surfing and watersports.

If you have more time (and fuel) to burn, take to the A386 between Appledore and Plymouth, traversing through forested valleys to picture-perfect towns like Great Torrington and Tavistock, where you can tour the tearooms and plan the rest of your trip in the park while dangling your toes in the River Tavy.

But the true beauty of road tripping in Devon is that you don’t really need to plan too extensively. You’ll never be far from a cream tea pitstop, and the verdant country roads will offer up some of the most perfect picnic spots you’ll ever see. All you need is is a full tank, and a little patience when stuck behind tractor after tractor!

When is the best time to visit Devon on a road trip?

As with Cornwall, the best time to visit Devon is Spring to Autumn, but avoid the high summer months if you can, especially if you’re on a UK motorhome holiday .

Can you visit Devon on a day trip from London?

You can, but it’s quite a long drive. I’d say you’d need at least 2 or 3 days to really be able to explore anything.

Dorset- One of England’s Best Road Trips

Recommended by Paul | Anywhere We Roam

The Jurassic Coast stretches 95 miles across Dorset in southern England. With an iconic coastline of towering white cliffs, it’s an excellent destination for a classic road trip. Stunning scenery, historical sites and local breweries make the Jurassic Coast one of the best places to experience the beautiful English countryside.

Dorset road trip- best places to visit?

The main highlight of a road trip to Dorset in the area has to be Old Harry Rocks – a collection of white stone monoliths that have been carved out along the coast. It’s one of the most impressive stretches of scenery in the UK with dazzling chalk stacks assembled like a jigsaw puzzle waiting to be completed. If you get time, be sure to enjoy one of the many fabulous Dorset walks- you won’t regret it.

A thirty-minute drive away, Corfe Castle stands as a reminder of England’s 11th-Century past. It was one of the earliest Norman castles built and today it glows in its dilapidated glory overlooking the Dorset hills. It’s a stunning, photogenic inclusion on a UK road trip.

For another natural phenomenon, Durdle Door is possibly one of the most recognisable symbols of the Jurassic Coast. Over time, crashing waves have eroded limestone stacks in the sea leaving a glorious natural arch.

It’s a beautiful stretch of beach, ideal for a long summer stroll. It’s also next to the famous Lulworth Cove, which is a wonderful place to enjoy an ice cream!

Editors note: (I (Kat) actually jumped off the top of Durdle Door on my hen party!)

After soaking up the stunning scenery, head west to Lyme Regis, a quaint town with a vibrant independent retail scene. The historic Cobb Harbour set against moody cliffs is well-preserved and houses some of the best coffee in the area.

When is the best time to visit Dorset on an England road trip?

The best time to visit the Jurassic Coast on a road trip is from May to early July when the surrounding countryside will be verdant green and covered in wildflowers, but there’s not too much traffic!

Hampshire road trip

Hampshire is another county in England we know well, having lived here for 14+ years. There’s plenty to enjoy on a road trip to Hampshire, from beautiful cities to picturesque country houses.

Highlights of a Hampshire road trip

Some of our favourite places to visit in Hampshire include:

• Winchester- be sure to visit the Cathedral where Jane Austen is buried and you can see one of the oldest Bibles in the world. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in December, don’t miss the famous Winchester Christmas Market , held in the Cathedral grounds each December.
• Highclere Castle (or Downton Abbey, as you might know it!)
• Lymington – for the oldest open sea water baths in the UK – and the New Forest (check out the Wildlife park there and make sure to take some memorable photos).
• Hinton Ampner- 18th century famous manor house known for its gardens.
• Portsmouth (you MUST go to the Mary Rose museum and HMS Victory)
• Isle of Wight (see below)

Isle of Wight road trip

Recommended by Darek | DarekandGosia

The  Isle of Wight , famous for its beautiful views, is an island on the south coast of England, just below Southampton. Technically, it’s part of Hampshire, but feels like a different world.

With a motorhome or car, you can reach the island by ferry from either Southampton or Portsmouth – book in advance during summer. There are also a couple of foot passenger ferries and a hovercraft from Southsea.

Why is it one of England’s best road trips?

The Isle of Wight is like going back in time. It’s worth a road trip here for even a weekend, to escape the hustle and bustle of normal life, ride bikes and take a walk on the cliffs.

Also, there are some wonderful places to stay. If you’re on a road trip, check out these amazing Isle of Wight campsites – some with stunning sea views!

What is there to do?

You can start exploring the island in Shanklin – one of the coastal villages famous for its beautiful beaches. On the promenade along the sea you will find many restaurants and hotels – most of the Island is typically tourist-oriented.

From Shanklin drive to the western part of the island. The most characteristic point is The Needles – three chalk rocks emerging from the sea with a small lighthouse built at the end of one of the columns. You can get to Needles by car and then follow the path on foot to the cliff slope. It’s a fabulous place for a picnic.

Next to Needles is Old Battery, a military fortification dating from the nineteenth century. There you can find World War II memorabilia or visit one of the various exhibitions are also taking place.

While driving around the island make sure you get to Carisbrooke Castle near Newport. Its construction began in the 12th century. It is worth taking a moment to walk around the castle, relax in the Edwardian-style garden.

One of my favourite places on the Island is Osborne House- Queen Victoria’s summer home. You can walk around the gardens and the house and even enjoy an ice cream on her private beach. Osborne House is run by English Heritage.

When is the best time to visit the Isle of Wight?

The Isle of Wight is a must-see for anyone who wants to admire the British climate and above all fantastic views. It is worth going here all year round – it’s actually one of the best places to visit in Europe in October , when there are fewer tourists and you can enjoy the views & roads!

Norfolk Broads

Recommended by Mandi | Big Family, Little Adventures

Sometimes you want nothing more than to escape the hustle and the bustle of everyday life, the noise, the bright lights, the never-ending pace of life. If you want to get away, the Norfolk Broads is pure escapism; big skies, plenty of peace and quiet and an abundance of wildlife.

Best places to visit in Norfolk on a road trip

• The Old Roman Fort at Burgh Castle with an elevated position and commanding views over the marshes – perfect for a walk in both winter morning frost or a hot and hazy mid-summer evening
• If you prefer a bit of activity, Wroxham is a bustling Broads village- home to Roy’s of Wroxham, possibly the largest village shop you have ever seen
• Plenty of riverside pubs and restaurants in Wroxham and all around the Broads- the perfect places to stop for a bite to eat
• St Benet’s Abbey – an 11th century monastery defying time, standing in a stunning green valley.
• If you are an animal lover, you will enjoy a visit to Wroxham Barns to feed the lambs or spot the grey seals on the Norfolk beaches

Norfolk Road Trip- when is the best time to visit?

You can explore Norfolk all year. In summer, if you would like to explore the best Norfolk beaches or Broads up close, why not hire a dayboat; these can be hired at various boatyards throughout the Broads. Waveney River Centre is another stunning place to stop and admire the view, either by boat or car.

The challenge is (as always in England!) the weather. In dry conditions, most paths are excellent, but it can get a bit more challenging in wet weather.

However, over the years, an increasing number of boardwalks have been developed, increasing safe access to the Broads whatever the weather. Also, seeing the windmills and rivers on a crisp winter morning is unforgettable.

Time does not stop in Norfolk, but it really does feel like it slows down.  To be able to watch the sunset across the broads any time of year is a magical experience and the perfect place to enjoy a chilled road trip.

Sussex, Kent and Surrey

Ahhh, the picturesque south-east corner of England, which includes the Garden of England (that’s the other name for Kent). This area is lush, green and has some many historic buildings and castles you’ll find it impossible to avoid them.

It’s also home to plenty of gorgeous sandy beaches, white cliffs (such as Dover and Beachy Head) and some truly wonderful parks to walk in.

Even better, it’s all easily reached from London by car and train, so it’s easy to get away from the city for a few days if you’d like a countryside break or a trip to the beach.

Best Places to visit in Sussex include:

Sussex is actually split into East and West Sussex, but to make things easy on your road trip I’ve made one list for you. They’re not that far apart from each other!

• Brighton : A vibrant seaside city famous for its pebble beach, iconic pier, and the Royal Pavilion with its distinctive architecture. Explore the Lanes for unique shops and enjoy the city’s lively arts and music scene. See below for more ideas
• Arundel : Home to Arundel Castle, a medieval and Victorian castle that overlooks the River Arun. The town itself is picturesque with cobbled streets and antique shops.
• Chichester : A historic cathedral city with Roman origins, Chichester offers a mix of history, culture, and shopping. The Chichester Cathedral and Pallant House Gallery are notable attractions.
• Lewes : Known for its medieval architecture, Lewes Castle, and historic streets. The Lewes Bonfire Night is a famous annual event.
• Eastbourne : A traditional seaside town with a Victorian pier, beautiful seafront, and the iconic Beachy Head cliffs nearby.
• Rye : A charming medieval town with cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and views of the surrounding marshland.
• Battle : Famous for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, this town is home to Battle Abbey and the Battlefield. Explore the historic sites and learn about this pivotal event in English history.
• Petworth House and Park : A stately mansion with an impressive art collection set in a vast deer park. The gardens are also worth exploring.
• Seven Sisters Country Park : A stunning coastal area with dramatic chalk cliffs and rolling hills, perfect for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views.
• Bodiam Castle : A 14th-century moated castle surrounded by water and picturesque landscapes.
• Sheffield Park and Garden : A National Trust property known for its stunning gardens, lakes, and vibrant displays of plants.
• Birling Gap and Beachy Head : More stunning chalk cliffs and coastal views, with the added beauty of the natural arch at Birling Gap.
• Glyndebourne Opera House : Known for its world-class opera productions, the opera house is set in beautiful countryside and offers a unique cultural experience.

Best places to visit in Kent include:

• Canterbury – home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Canterbury Cathedral
• Dover : Known for the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, this coastal town is home to Dover Castle, which boasts a complex history and offers panoramic views of the English Channel.
• Rochester : A charming town with a medieval castle and cathedral. It’s also the birthplace of Charles Dickens, and you can visit the Dickens World theme park.
• Whitstable : This coastal town is famous for its oysters and seafood. Enjoy the quaint streets, beach huts, and seafood restaurants along the coast.
• Margate : A seaside town with a revived artistic scene, featuring the Turner Contemporary art gallery and the scenic Margate Sands.
• Leeds Castle : Often referred to as the “loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle is set on an island in a lake and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Hever Castle : The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, with historic architecture, gardens, and a maze.
• Chatham Historic Dockyard : A maritime museum where you can explore historic warships, submarines, and learn about Britain’s naval history.
• Biddenden Vineyards : If you’re a wine enthusiast, Kent has several vineyards. Biddenden is one of the oldest and most well-known.
• Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction : An interactive museum where you can step back in time to experience Chaucer’s famous tales.
• St. Augustine’s Abbey : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this abbey in Canterbury dates back to the 6th century and is a significant historical site.
• Chartwell House : The former home of Winston Churchill, now a museum showcasing his life and legacy.

These are just a few highlights of what Kent has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, you’re likely to find something appealing in this diverse and beautiful county.

Best Places to Visit in Surrey

• Box Hill : A National Trust site known for its stunning views and walking trails. It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.
• Polesden Lacey : A grand Edwardian estate with beautiful gardens, Polesden Lacey is a National Trust property that offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy in the early 20th century.
• Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village : Located in Compton, this unique attraction is dedicated to the works of Victorian artist George Frederic Watts and his wife Mary Watts. The village includes a gallery, chapel, and artist studios.
• Hampton Court Palace : While part of the palace is in Greater London, the stunning Hampton Court Palace is right on the border of Surrey. It’s famous for its Tudor history, grand architecture, and beautiful gardens.
• RHS Garden Wisley : A flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, Wisley offers a wide variety of plants, landscapes, and garden designs to explore.
• Brooklands Museum : A museum dedicated to motorsport and aviation history, located on the site of the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit.
• Loseley Park : A grand Elizabethan manor house surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, open to the public during certain times of the year.
• Denbies Wine Estate : England’s largest vineyard, Denbies offers tours, wine tasting, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
• Newlands Corner : Another viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Surrey Hills, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.
• Epsom Downs : Known for Epsom Downs Racecourse and the famous Epsom Derby, this area offers open spaces and walking trails.
• Virginia Water : Part of Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water features a lake, ornamental cascades, and woodland walks.

Surrey’s mix of historic sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions make it a delightful destination for a variety of interests. Whether you’re into history, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying scenic landscapes, Surrey has something to offer.

Brighton – East Sussex

I’ve given Brighton it’s own section because it’s one of my favourite cities in England and you should try to add it to your England road trip itinerary, especially if you’re heading toward East Sussex.

Brighton is a city renowned for its diverse communities and innovation, the quirky shopping areas, its music and art scene, and its large LGBT population. Read more about Brighton in Autum .

Why is Brighton one of the best England road trips?

Brighton is less than an hour away from London (76 km) and on a direct train line. It offers plenty of fun and exciting activities to enjoy (more than just fish and chips at a pier!)

Brighton has been famous as a cultural centre for over a century. It’s home to the world’s oldest operating aquarium (which opened in 1872- now called ‘’Brighton Sea Life’’), and you can even ride the world’s oldest operating electric railway, the Volks Railway, built in 1883.

Other Brighton Highlights include:

• See the Palace Pier
• Catch the latest release in the Duke of York Picturehouse, Britain’s oldest cinema.
• Have a stroll down the North Lane- home to over 400 independent shops
• Discover the Victorian innovations still in operation in the city.

How long should you spend in Brighton?

You will want to spend at least two days in Brighton to truly take in the city, but you can easily make a week of your itinerary if you want to explore more places in Sussex, Kent and Surrey.  

What is the best month to visit Brighton?

The sunniest (and therefore warmest!) time of the year in Brighton is from May to September. July and August are peak tourist season, with hotel prices skyrocketing, so be aware of that and plan your stay accordingly.

Cambridgeshire & Cambridge

Cambridgeshire is a county in the East of England with plenty to do. The jewel of the county is Cambridge, with a historical, 800-year-old centre you should definitely not skip.

Why should you include Cambridge on your England road trip?

Only 1 hour and 30 minutes away from London via M11, Cambridge offers so much: a rich history of English heritage, a buzzing local community, and a picturesque setting. You’ll even find a gift Henry VIII gave to Anne Boleyn!

Cambridge Highlights

• See the King’s College Chapel 
• Enjoy breakfast at Fitzbillies
• Go punting in the River Cam
• Have a picnic by the river.
• Enjoy walking the historic streets

Cambridge Trip Itinerary idea

Leaving London, head up to Cambridge via the M11.

Start the day with drinks and a meal in one of the many deli and brunch places in Market Square before setting off to explore the city. I highly recommend the famous Fitzbillies- the food is delicious.

From there, you can choose from a variety of activities: visiting King’s Chapel, punting in the River Cam (pass under the Bridge of Sighs), hiking on the Cam Towpath (lots of hidden gems if you know how to look for trails!), or taking in the city views from St. Mary’s Tower.

If you’re staying overnight, end the day by attending the Evensong at the King’s College Chapel (select days only)

When is the best (and worst) time to visit Cambridge ?

Cambridge is beautiful all year round. However, the worst time to visit would be spring – the university students sit their finals between April and June, which means many of the college sites are closed to visitors. 

What are some of the best places to visit in Cambridge?

The King’s College Chapel in the University of Cambridge is the third-oldest university in operation and the most iconic and instantly-recognisable building in the county.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to drink at the Eagle, a historic pub in the heart of Cambridge’s city centre famously linked to Watson and Crick’s discovery of DNA.

If you are feeling adventurous and are ready to brave the British winter, visit Cambridge in December. It’s off-peak season and features one of the best UK Christmas markets you should visit. Read all about the Cambridge Christmas market here.

How long should you spend in Cambridge?

One day in Cambridge is usually enough time to visit the majority of the main sights, especially if you are visiting during the summer. You’ll need tickets for most of the chapels and university buildings, so go first to buy those.

Wiltshire & Cotswolds Road Trip – 3 day trip from London

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The Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales. If you look at a map of England, find Bristol (west coast, just below the indent of southern Wales) and the Cotswolds is the area north-east of Bristol.

There is so much beauty and fascinating history to discover around the Cotswolds region and luckily you don’t have to travel far from London to get there! You can reach Bath or Bristol easily in a day from London, but we recommend at least 3 days to really explore the area by car/ motorhome, plus explore Stonehenge and Salisbury on the way back to London. If you’re travelling with children, don’t worry- there’s plenty of things to do in the Cotswolds with kids.

Highlights & Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds and Surrounding Area

• Explore the charming stone villages of the Cotswolds
• visit the historic city of Bath
• marvel at the mysterious ancient stones of Stonehenge
• Indulge in some shopping at Daylesford farm
• stop at the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral.

When is the best time for a Cotswolds road trip?

Although the Cotswolds can be visited all year, this road trip is best completed in the spring or summer months to ensure warmer and sunnier sightseeing weather.

The days are also longer- allowing you to see more each day. However, unlike Cornwall and Devon, most places to NOT shut during winter, so feel free to explore whenever suits you!

Wiltshire & Cotswolds road trip itinerary from London

• Departing London, drive out to the Cotswolds. This is where you should spend 3-4 days exploring as many lovely little towns and villages as you wish to.
• A few of the prettiest Cotswolds villages include Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe and so many more! The beauty of the Cotswolds region is that the villages are all located in close proximity with minimal driving time in between them.
• Once you have seen your share of lovely English villages , carry on to Bath which is only a 30-minute drive from the village of Castle Combe- well worth a visit.
• Spend a full day and night in Bath visiting the Roman baths.
• From there continue to Stonehenge. A visit to this incredible ancient site can easily take half a day. We camped overnight at Stonehenge and saw the most INCREDIBLE sunrise we’ve EVER seen. (Seriously, watch the video. It’s breathtaking)
• From Stonehenge, it’s only a short 20-minute drive to the medieval town of Salisbury which brings you to the final stop of this road trip.
• The highlight of Salisbury is the stunning Salisbury Cathedral which has the tallest spire in all of Britain! Spend one night in Salisbury before making the final 2-hour road trip back to London.
• Another option is to return to London via the historic city of Oxford. Don’t miss a meal in Sticks and Sushi- one of the best restaurants in Oxford and with incredible views over the city.

North England Road Trips- Why You Should Visit

It’s easy when planning an England road trip to get sucked into famous places like Cornwall, Devon or the Cotswolds- and those are all AMAZING places to visit.

However, I strongly encourage you to visit the north of England as well if you have time. You’ll find villages just as pretty, delicious food (chips, pie and gravy is the best thing in the world) and incredible history.

Again, we were lucky to live up here for 4 years- here are some of our absolute favourite places to road trip, although there are of course many more we have yet to discover! I hope they give you some ideas and inspiration for your next trip.

Don’t forget to Grab your ULTIMATE road trip planner here – it has everything you need to help you pack for your road trip.

Peak District National Park

The Peak District is a huge and stunning area in Derbyshire, just to the east of Manchester. It’s a perfect place for a road trip because there are so many things to see!

A car or motorhome makes it easy to travel between the sites and there are plenty of campsites or hotels to use as you explore.

There are a multitude of hikes, walks and tors to climb and the area is famous for its caves, which people still lived in as recently as 1910!

The Peak District was the UK’s first National Park and is also considered the real ale capital of the world! If you’re exploring the Peak District with kids , there are steam trains, tramways, cycle paths and even a cable car taking you up to see some stunning views! There’s also Alton Towers theme park – one of the best in the UK.

Best places to explore in the Peak District

Some of the highlights include:

• Chatsworth House
• Ladybower reservoir
• Alton Towers theme park
• Heights of Abraham cable car

Lake District road trip

Recommended by Fiona/ Passport & Piano

The Lake District National Park is a UNESCO heritage site that makes for the perfect road trip.  Walking around the lakes and fells to see the magnificent scenery is one of the many pleasures of the area.

Quintessential villages are plentiful as are traditional English pubs with real ale and hearty food. Don’t just rush by on your way from England to Scotland; take a few days and enjoy all that the lakes have to offer.

Best places to visit on a Lake District Road Trip

Most people arrive from the south via Windermere, but to explore the areas hidden gems its worth spending at least three days here. The Lake District has some of the worlds best scenic drives and a trip along the Honister Pass and Kirkstone Pass are a must.

In the South Lakes, I’d highly recommend a  visit to Grasmere . Here you can visit several homes of the famous poet William Wordsworth and enjoy Sarah Nelson’s delightful gingerbread.

If you love Beatrix Potter, you can follow in her footsteps at Beatrix Potter World in Bowness- on- Windermere.  Her home near Hawkshead is open to visitors, and Wray Castle is a beautiful spot where she enjoyed her family holidays.

In the North Lakes, the towns of Keswick and Cockermouth have plenty to explore. The Castlerigg stone circle, with its stunning views across the fells, is worth stopping at, and the “Surprise View” across Derwent Water is spectacular.

If you’re not exploring in a motorhome or campervan, accommodation throughout the area is plentiful. There are boat rides and water-based activities to enjoy on most of the lakes and a plethora of outdoor pursuit centres for the more adventurous.

When is the best time for a Lake District road trip?

In the summer months, the National Park can be rather busy particularly on the main A66 road which runs through the centre. Hence if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the spring or autumn.

While you’re not guaranteed sunshine at any time of the year, the weather is probably at its best between April and September.

England Road Trip- Yorkshire & The Dales

Recommended by Sinead | Map Made Memories

England’s largest county, Yorkshire, is a perfect destination for a road trip. There are so many diverse attractions to see within a relatively short drive of each other.

Highlights and some best places in Yorkshire to visit

• Hardraw Force–England’s highest single-drop waterfall
• White Scar–The longest show cave in England
• Visit the ‘Best Street in Britain’
• Visit the cobbled Shambles, named ‘the Best Street in Britain’.
• Marvel at the Ribblehead Viaduct, the 24 arches that span the Yorkshire Dales, a true masterpiece of Victorian engineering.
• Castles and ruins all over the place
• Stand on Hogsmeade station (or at least the station which played it in Harry Potter!)

Yorkshire Road Trip Itinerary

Start your road trip in the rolling hills and river valleys of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Visit the 11th century Skipton Castle or descend underground to marvel at the formations in White Scar Caves, the longest show cave in England.

Clamber over Brimham Rocks or hike the stunning landscape around Malham Cove. Browse the independent shops in the Victorian spa town of Harrogate.

Places to visit on the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales are packed with attractive waterfalls. Choose between the plunging falls around Ingleton, popular Aysgarth Falls or, my favourite waterfall, Hardraw Force which is England’s highest single drop waterfall. Before leaving the Dales, visit the impressive monastic ruins and landscaped gardens of Fountains Abbey.

Continue your road trip by exploring the historic city of York . This compact city is easily navigated on foot and is an ideal location for history buffs. You can visit Viking, Roman, Georgian and Victorian sites all in one day!

See the iconic York Minster, walk the city’s medieval city walls and stroll along the cobbled Shambles, which has been voted the ‘ Best Street in Britain’ and was the inspiration behind Diagon Alley from the movie adaptation of the Harry Potter series!

Road trip over the Yorkshire Moors

End your Yorkshire road trip with a drive across the wild Yorkshire Moors. Take a scenic trip on a steam train across the Moors to visit charming Goathland train station which doubled as Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter movies. Alternatively, your legs with a hike at the Hole of Horcum, a huge ancient natural amphitheatre.

How long should you spend exploring Yorkshire on a road trip?

You could ‘cover’ Yorkshire in a couple of days but to truly appreciate all it has to offer I would recommend at least one full week.

When is the best time to road trip to Yorkshire?

Yorkshire can be explored all year around- and expect rain at any time! But Spring is incredible on the moors- with the wildflowers blooming and the days getting longer, it’s a perfect time to visit. Autumn also offers spectacular views with the leaves turning colour, providing an incredible backdrop.

England Road Trip Idea – North East Coast

Northern England’s east coast is full of charming towns and villages, and is the perfect destination for a road trip.

Best places to visit on a North East coast England road trip

• Saltburn-by-the-Sea (to search for fossils)
• Lemon top ice-cream – Its legacy goes back over 100 years!)
• Staithes- picturesque fishing village
• Whitby Abbey – the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula
• Robin Hood’s Bay (where smuggling was commonplace
• Scarborough Castle

North East England road trip itinerary

Start in Saltburn-by-the-sea. Be sure to search for fossils throughout your visit. I actually found one in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, but you can get lucky in any of the places on this list! Saltburn-by-the-Sea is home to the historic Saltburn Cliff Tramway and affords beautiful views from the bluffs above town.

You can walk along The Cleveland Way, a historic trail that runs through each of the 5 locations mentioned. I’d also recommend trying Lemon Top Ice Cream, or vanilla ice cream with a dollop of lemon sorbet on top.

Staithes is a quaint fishing village laden with narrow pathways and quirky cottages.

The Whitby Abbey towers above the town, giving it an eerie feeling – it’s even credited as the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula!

Robin Hood’s Bay has a long history with smugglers, and its red rooftops and crowded buildings conceal hidden routes. In Scarborough, you can enjoy rides at the Luna Park amusement park or visit the historic Scarborough Castle!

When is the best time to road trip England’s north-east coast?

Although you can visit this area all year round, I’d suggest visiting in the summer or fall. It rains much of the year in this region of England, but there’s a higher likelihood of sunshine from July through October.

How long to spend on this England Road trip?

You can complete this road trip in less than 2 hours, but I’d suggest spending at least a few days exploring the region. Each Yorkshire coastal town has its own charm and activities to offer, so you certainly don’t want to rush!

How far is it from the North east coast to London?

Scarborough to London takes about 5 hours by car. Avoid travelling Friday afternoons or Monday morning- those are the peak road traffic times.

Don’t miss Durham

We spent a lovely couple of days exploring the city of Durham. There are so many wonderful places to explore, but one of the highlights for us was Durham Cathedral. This incredible building was built in the 11th Century and is the largest surviving stone vaulted ceiling of its size.

However, if I’m honest, I was more excited by the fact that several scenes in Harry Potter were filmed here, including in the cloisters and many of the covered walkways.

It was also in Durham Cathedral that Harry, Ron and Hermione encounter ‘Fluffy’- the forbidden corridor was also part of the cathedral.

Other fantastic things to see in or near Durham include:

• Durham Castle
• High Force Waterfall (one of the best waterfalls in Europe )
• Finchale Priory

Northumberland Coast

Recommended by Tracy | Travels in Time

The Northumberland Coastal route stretches for over 35 miles from Alnmouth in the south to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in the north.

The drive takes you through an area of outstanding natural beauty with many beautiful villages and places of interest to visit along the way.

How long to spend on a Northumberland coast road trip

This itinerary covers a day trip but you could spend a few days exploring the area or even walk the Northumberland Coastal Path along the same route if you are feeling up to it!

Northumberland road trip itinerary

The first village to visit is Craster – famous for its kippers and overlooked by Dunstanburgh Castle. If you’re looking for impressive castles in England , Northumberland is the place to go- there are more castles here than any other county in England!

After exploring Craster and the castle, head to Seahouses. A popular seaside town for families with lots of arcades and fish and chip shops this is the place to stop for a bite to eat.

If the weather is good why not hop on a boat over to the Farme Islands? With large colonies of seals and puffins the islands are popular with nature lovers.

Bamburgh Castle dominates the horizon and is worth exploring. It was once the home to the Royal Seat of the Kings of Northumbria and also has a ghost or two!

After Bamburgh head to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Make sure you check the tides before you go- the island is tidal and is only accessible during certain times.

Once on the island take a stroll up to the castle. Don’t miss exploring the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory. This is the place famous as the home of Christianity in England until Viking raids eventually led to the abandonment of the priory.

When is the best time for a Northumberland road trip?

The best time to visit Northumberland and places in North East England is in the summer – the days are long and the sun will hopefully be shining! Be aware that on occasions during the summer a sea fret (mist) can hang over the coast and cool temperatures and decrease visibility. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you travel.

Wow- anyone else want to jump in their motorhome/ camper/ car/ bike and head off to start exploring? What a fantastic list of England road trip destinations!

As you can see, it really doesn’t matter where you go or how long you have to explore England- you’ll have plenty of places to enjoy. And who knows- next time we set off for Norfolk, we might even make it there without swinging by Cornwall first!! 🙂

Planning an England road trip? You might find these posts useful:

• How to plan an epic UK road trip
• How to create a road trip itinerary with Google Maps
• 100 best road trip driving songs
• How to plan a motorhome trip to UK or Europe

See all our UK travel ideas and tips

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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Cornwall is such a beautiful part of the UK to visit in a motorhome, although it can be a little tight around those country roads.

So true- some of those roads are tiny, but worth it for the incredible views and places to visit.

Have you been on the welsh coast much

Our very first motorhome trip EVER was to the Welsh coast. We’ve put together some of our favourite Welsh road trips here if you want some ideas: https://wandering-bird.com/wales-road-trip/

Although all road trips are lovely, I particularly enjoy traveling in a campervan through Devon in the UK. I appreciate you sharing this list of road trip suggestions.

Fantastic article for anyone travelling England on a road trip

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13 BEST Day Trips from Oxford, England

From the stunning blenheim palace to visiting bath & london, these are the best day trips from oxford to keep anyone entertained..

From its world-class university to gorgeous riverside walks to amazing independent restaurants and pubs, it’s no secret that Oxford is one of the best places to visit in England.

Personally, I love it for its architecture and old-world vibe. Just walking around here feels like you’re stepping back in time. It really is one of those cities that you can feel the history just from walking around.

However, if you’re looking to mix it up, there are tons of day trips from Oxford that’ll make your city break even better. 

Whether you’re looking to experience magic and wonder at the Harry Potter Studio Tour, want to hit up the beach at Bournemouth, or spend the day hiking in the Cotswolds , these Oxford days trips offer up plenty of variety. 

There’s a little something for everyone in this part of the country, and the train connections mean that you can actually get pretty far in under two hours! If not, I’ve included a couple of tours for you too.

So, what kind of amazing day trips from Oxford can you look forward to? I’ve collated some of my favourites to help inspire your next Oxford itinerary. Let’s dive in and find out more!

If you’re looking for somewhere to base yourself while in the city, then check out our guide to the best boutique hotels in Oxford !

Day trips from Oxford

Explore the grandeur of blenheim palace.

With a history spanning over 300 years and being the birthplace of legendary UK Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace attracts visitors from all around the world.

Join a guided tour around the stately home and the impressive grounds to get the most out of your trip. Located just 40 minutes away from Oxford and surrounded by acres of lush countryside, Blenheim is often the perfect tonic to the city. 

Every time I’ve been to Blenheim Palace (I’ve clocked up a few visits now!), I’m always taken aback at how big the place is. You could easily spend a whole day here and still not see everything.

Enjoy the beauty of the Cotswolds

If you’re looking for a day out in the quintessential English countryside, there is no better place than the Cotswolds and its outstanding natural beauty. Spread across 800 miles of gorgeous landscape, the Cotswolds are filled with picture-perfect villages.

I love wandering around the Cotswolds and and seeing all the cute villages. One of the best things is that you can be there in around 30 minutes from Oxford. It’s the perfect short day trip out, and a great way to see and experience rural England.

If you’re a fan of countryside walks that wind between old-world pubs, where you can imagine you’re the only one in the world, you’ll feel right at home in the Cotswolds.

If you’re short on time and don’t have your own transport, then check out this amazing full-day tour of the Cotswolds from Oxford. On this tour everything is taken care of for you, so you can just have a good time.

Taste history and delicious chocolate at Cadbury World

I don’t know about you, but I am a chocolate fiend. Just outside Birmingham to the north of Oxford lies Bourneville, the home of Cadbury’s chocolate. Now a tourist attraction that’s half museum half factory tour, Cadbury World is a smash hit with visitors of all ages. 

Bring your appetite for the free samples, learn about the Aztec roots of chocolate, and have tons of fun in the interactive zone. There’s even a short ride where you sit in a cartoon cocoa bean, complete with a commemorative photo! It’s a perfect full day out, especially if the English weather isn’t cooperating…

Stare in awe at the Living Rainforest

Now, I wouldn’t expect to find a rainforest in England, but that’s precisely what the Living Rainforest is! Here you can unleash your inner Attenborough at this favourite Oxford day trip.

At the Living Rainforest you’ll find a series of extravagant glass houses where you can spot iguanas, lizards, sloths, toads, and more. It’s a haven for conservationists, as the Living Rainforest is actively protecting endangered wildlife and plant life. Again, this is perfect for the little ones and they’ll learn loads about wildlife too.

Get your fill of magic at the Harry Potter Studio Tour

Oxford is pretty great for Harry Potter fans, with some of the interior Hogwarts scenes being filmed at some of the University of Oxford colleges, but you can find even more magic close by.

Nestled in Watford, just outside London, you’ll find the Harry Potter Studio Tour . Filled with props, costumes, sets, and facts about the beloved film series, it’s a must for any Potterhead.

Don’t forget to leave plenty of time for the gift shop – it’s huge and the choices can keep you there for hours on end!

Embrace the hustle and bustle of London

What can I say about London that hasn’t already been said? You can take a day trip to the iconic capital from Oxford in around an hour on a direct train.

Take in the sights of the London Eye, the Thames River, Hyde Park, and more. Honestly, you could spend your whole trip here and not see everything there is to see.

If you’ve got time, join a group tour around the spooky side of London on a Jack the Ripper tour , or go on a river cruise with afternoon tea for a calmer vibe. Of course, another great London evening excursion is to hit the West End. Head to the Leicester Square box office to see what shows are available!

Hit the beach in Bournemouth

Who doesn’t love a day out at the beach? Although the old architecture of Oxford might seem a million miles away from the British coast, you can actually reach Bournemouth in around two hours on the train.

Enjoy a full day out, filled with sun, sea, and sand. Bournemouth’s sandy beaches are massively popular with visitors of all ages. Bring your bucket and spade, grab an ice cream from one of the many shops on the promenade, or take a dip in the sea – the perfect day!

Feel regal at Highclere Castle

We all have our guilty pleasures, and for many of us, it’s Downton Abbey. Head to the real-life Grantham Estate by visiting the gorgeous Highclere Castle. For me, this is definitely one of the best day trips from Oxford.

Spread across five stunning acres, you can reach Highclere Castle in just over an hour from Oxford, making it a great option for getting out of the city. Jump on a guided tour of the house and learn all about the regal history of this amazing stately home.

Check out the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath

From one cultured city to another, enjoy a full-day trip from Oxford by jumping on the train to the Roman city of Bath. Known for its Roman spa, it’s Georgian architecture, and amazing independents, Bath is a charming city to spend your time in.

Whether you’re visiting the Jane Austen Centre, walking along the Royal Mile, or joining a tour of the Roman history and architecture of the city, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time.

Get cultured in Stratford-Upon-Avon

Fans of the Bard, this Oxford day trip is for you! Located just under an hour and a half away from Oxford, you’ll find Stratford-Upon-Avon, home of the legendary playwright, William Shakespeare.

Jump on the sightseeing bus to get a general overview, or check the schedule at the Royal Shakespeare Company to see what plays are on while you’re there. It’s really common for some big names to be taking on iconic roles here, and often for a fraction of the cost of the London theatres.

You can also check out the birthplace of Shakespeare too if you’re feeling inspired!

Marvel at the majesty of Stonehenge

There are so many iconic sights in the UK, but Stonehenge is one of the big ones. The instantly recognisable stone circle has posed questions for centuries. How did they get here? Why are they here? Who did it?

Journey across from Oxford for the day and take in these majestic stones for yourself. I’d recommend trying to go on one of the Solstice days for an extra magical excursion.

Failing that, visiting at either sunrise or sunset provides unforgettable views!

Shop till you drop at Bicester Village

I love a bargain as much as the next person, so one of the best places to go on an Oxford day trip if you love shopping is Bicester Village . This designer shopping outlet is a bargain-hunters playground.

With amazing designer brands like Burberry, McQueen, Dior, and more for up to 60% off, you can look the part without spending a fortune. It’s so popular that small group tours go straight from London airports to the shopping village and back again!

Discover the Jane Austen Centre

Located in the stunning Roman city of Bath, the Jane Austen Centre pays tribute to one of Britain’s best and most famous writers. Wander around at your own pace or join a private tour with an Austen expert. 

Learn all about Austen’s life, works, and legacy in this world-class museum. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the Regency-era tearoom that’s attached to the museum and pretend you’re a character in an Austen novel.

Make sure you don’t miss out on the gift shop either! There are plenty of beautiful editions of Austen’s works and lo

So there you have it, the best day trips from Oxford! I told you there was something for everyone here. Which excursion is your favourite from the list?

Maybe you have alternatives that you love and want to share. Let me know in the comments below and I’ll add them to my next itinerary!

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Brian Cox’s top 10 science day trips

When it comes to inspiring young scientists, nothing compares to visiting the sites of great discoveries, says Professor Brian Cox. Here are his favourite places

B rian Cox cheerfully admits that his TV documentaries are part-scientific exposition, part eye-boggling travelogue. “The original, very good idea,” he says, “was that we should use places on Earth as analogues for the solar system.”

Wonders of the Solar System , Wonders of the Universe and other shows have inspired countless young and not so young minds. But Cox still thinks the screen is “no substitute” for actually visiting great sites of scientific discovery: “TV can light the flame. But to go further you need to go to the places where cutting-edge science was done.”

For this list we gave him a strict brief: no Namibian deserts or Chilean glaciers. So here are Cox’s top 10 places in Britain and Ireland that changed the world.

Jodrell Bank, Cheshire

My mum and dad would take me there when I was growing up in Manchester. You feel that this large thing pointing into the sky is capable of discovering places you can only dream of: it’s a symbol of everything that’s magical about astronomy. It is still one of the world’s largest radio telescopes and the headquarters of the Square Kilometre Array , which is building the world’s largest telescope, in Western Australia. Daily 10am-4pm, adult £8, child £5.95, family £26.50-£31, jodrellbank.net

Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London

This place shows the close connection between astronomy and seafaring. To navigate, you need to know what the time is. So telling the time is ultimately linked to astronomy, and to the great challenge of defining longitude. Greenwich has a tremendous visitor centre: you can stand on the zero longitude line. The telescope dome is quite small but very evocative. Daily 10am-5pm, adult from £9, child from £5.85, rmg.co.uk

Woolsthorpe Manor, Lincolnshire

Isaac Newton was the first modern scientist, and his Principia Mathematica of 1687 is the first modern scientific document. The key idea that the laws of nature that you encounter here on Earth are the same that govern the universe is made real. It was a big leap. Did the idea come to him when he saw an apple fall from a tree? Well, you can visit his house – and there is an apple tree there, as well as a Science Centre where kids can play with light and find out how gravity works. Opens at 11am, closing time varies but is 5pm from April, adult £8.50, child £4.25, free to NT members, nationaltrust.org.uk

Trinity College School of Physics, Dublin

Erwin Schrödinger was one of the founders of quantum mechanics but he also inspired Crick and Watson, who often cite his book, What Is Life?, as the inspiration for their quest. The book was based on a series of lectures Schrödinger gave at Trinity College in 1943. It was also the inspiration for my series Wonders of Life. On 5 and 6 September, the 75th anniversary of Schrödinger’s lectures, Trinity will host a conference called The Future of Biology in Dublin’s National Concert Hall. General admission free, conference €100, tcd.ie . The College’s Science Gallery is open Tues-Fri noon-8pm, Sat-Sun noon-6pm

Saddleworth, Greater Manchester

Saddleworth was the centre first of wool production, and then cotton. The Huddersfield Narrow Canal goes straight through the town and over the Pennines – straight through where I was born, basically. I am quite geographically focused in my knowledge of early industrial Britain! The canal has been restored: you can get boats and float along and see the way the industrial revolution unfolded. canalrivertrust.org.uk

The Royal Institution, London

In this genuinely powerful place, you can see the lab where Michael Faraday laid the foundations of modern civilisation with his discovery of electromagnetism in 1831. Even more important for me is the lecture theatre. Faraday, and Joseph Banks before him, really understood that science was not something to keep to yourself. Faraday – an apprentice bookbinder – was inspired by Humphrey Davy, whose public lectures he went to in 1812. I, too have given a lecture there: mine was The Science of Dr Who , with Matt Smith. Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, free, rigb.org

Manchester Museum of Science and Industry

I love the aerospace gallery, and especially the English Electric Lightning, which has always been my favourite aircraft. I used to go to Manchester airport with my dad and write down plane numbers in the 1970s. The first passenger railway station is also in the museum, which was built on the Manchester-Liverpool line. You can see why a friend of mine, Peter Saville [the Factory Record graphic designer] calls Manchester the first modern city. You see the industrial revolution beginning. Daily 10am-5pm, free, msimanchester.org.uk

University of Manchester

This is where I studied, and now teach. In the Rutherford building, you can visit the lab (little room, big plaque) where Ernest Rutherford discovered the atomic nucleus – nuclear and particle physics was invented on that spot. There is also quite a nice museum. I like the Egyptology bit: we’re famous for our mummy collection. The National Graphene Institute is also here, in a spectacular building. When they were digging its foundations, they found the club which Friedrich Engels belonged to when he was working with Karl Marx, and a sink from the club is on display in the lobby. Konstantin Novoselov, one of the two Nobel prizewinners who discovered graphene, insisted it was installed in the lobby. Daily 10am-5pm, free, manchester.ac.uk

The Eagle, Cambridge

Scientists are excitable people. What do you do when you’ve had some amazing revelation, such as discovering the secret of life itself? You go down the pub and tell people. That’s what Francis Crick did one lunchtime in February 1953 after he and James Watson had discovered the structure of DNA. You can see the path he ran down from the old Cavendish lab. [Crick and Watson were regulars at the pub, and there’s a plaque above their favourite table.] 8 Benet Street, greeneking-pubs.co.uk

Cromford Mills, Matlock, Derbyshire

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Day Trips & Group Entertainment

Find the perfect day trip for your group, the best group travel.

Greatdays Travel Group has been successfully organising long and short group tours for over 30 years. During this time our group organisers have enjoyed hundreds of wonderful sightseeing tours and holidays around the UK and Europe.  In response to the current popular demand for ‘Day Trips’ we are now pleased to offer an excellent range of great Day Trips and group Entertainment  especially for you, including fantastic entertainment lunches with top quality entertainment at premium 4 star venues across the country.

Day Trips for your group

We invite you to browse our extensive range of UK, day trips, created especially for groups. We pride ourselves in finding delicious places for lunch where you can all sit together. Our itineraries are specially researched and designed for all interested groups, you can learn something new or just enjoy a social day out.  Our carefully selected day trips guides will host an unforgettable day with their in depth knowledge and friendly approach. Your itinerary will then be carefully organised from pick up to drop off, by our passionate day trips team.  We are happy to chat over any worries that you may have or discuss any special requirements for your group to ensure everyone has a great experience.  Most of all, we want to ensure that all our group organisers have a happy and relaxing day!

Coach Hire for your group

Although we don’t have our own coaches, we can still take the headache out of organising the coach hire for you and your group.  We can also source a wheelchair accessible coach if required. Contact us for details.

Entertainment lunches for your group

To complement our day trips, we offer our own range of exclusive entertainment events for groups or individuals.  Come along and enjoy premium entertainment in a 4 star venue with a delicious 3 course lunch included. Check below for all the dates and prices at a venue near you.

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Greatdays offer a trade only booking service for coach and tour operators or professional group travel organisers and we can provide single or multiple elements of a holiday.

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Greatdays are able to offer a complete tailor-made booking service for group travel organisers with the help of one of our friendly consultants to assist you through the booking process.

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Earth Day 2024 is fast approaching - here's everything you need to know

This year's theme is a big one...

Taking place in April every year, Earth Day is an annual event that aims to bring the world together in a continuing bid to tackle some of the most serious issues facing our planet – such as global warming, pollution and health issues as a result of damaging environmental practices.

When is Earth Day?

Why do we mark earth day, earth day 2024 theme and how to take part.

So, what do you need to know about the significant global event?

Below are all the important details for 2024 – including this year's theme – and what you can to do make your mark for Earth Day...

What is Earth Day?

If you’re unfamiliar, Earth Day is an annual event created to highlight the serious need to support our environment as it battles with a range of challenges, usually caused by us humans. It is designed to highlight the various threats and challenges to the health of our planet, raising awareness of – and attempting to fix – issues such as global warming, pollution, and the depletion of the earth’s resources.

It was first established in 1970, after peace activist John McConnell proposed holding a special day to honour the Earth during a UNESCO conference.

Though it began in the United States, it soon became a worldwide event, and 20 years later (in 1990), a collection of events marking Earth Day took place in 141 different nations.

So far, Earth Day has made some significant strides in prompting change. In 2016, the landmark Paris Agreement was signed by over 120 countries including the United Kingdom, the United States and China, the first international treaty on climate change.

Every year, Earth Day takes place on 22nd April, which is a Monday in 2024 . It's said that this date was decided on, as many of the first big events were held as schools and colleges in the US, and the late April date landed conveniently between spring break and student’s final exams.

Nowadays, Earth Day is often marked across the week of 22nd April rather than just the day, and is even sometimes referred to as Earth Month, with a host of initiatives taking place across the entire month of April.

Earth Day came about in 1970, at a time when environmental considerations were arguably much more lax, and when the world was commonly exploiting many of the earth’s natural resources – such as fossil fuels, leading to the continued and significant damage to our planet.

As such, the event was considered to be an important movement towards better caring for the planet and everything within it. And of course, that sentiment has only increased in importance as the years go on; because while in some areas, things have improved, huge steps are still required to save our planet from climate change.

While Earth Day is only technically one day, the wider movement at large is all about making positive and impactful changes in order to protect and conserve the environment.

And with environmental issues reaching somewhat of a breaking point in 2024 (something causing all of us significant eco-anxiety ), it’s arguably never been more important to mark the occasion.

For 2024, the theme is Planet vs. Plastics, highlighting the enormous negative impact single-use plastics have on our environment.

The organisation explains that this year, “for Earth Day 2024, EARTHDAY.ORG is unwavering in our commitment to end plastics for the sake of human and planetary health, demanding a 60% reduction in the production of ALL plastics by 2040.”

In order to achieve this goal, the organisation is aiming to raise awareness of the impact of microplastics on babies and children, as well as putting forward a proposal to end single-use plastics, with a commitment to this goal in the United Nations Global Plastic Treaty on Plastic Pollution.

It’s also aiming to champion policies aimed at reducing the impacts of fast fashion.

How can you get involved?

There are a number of ways to positively contribute to Earth Day 2024, from small changes to your daily habits, to bigger impacts you can make in your local community.

• Change your own habits : Of course, every big change starts with a small step, so one of the biggest ways you can make an impact this Earth Day is to consider your own use of single-use plastics or consumption of fast-fashion. If possible, make as many economical plastic-free swaps as you can to reusable plastics (a reusable water bottle is a great place to start), and, if possible, stay away from fast fashion retailers in favour of more sustainable shopping options, or, not shopping at all. And of course, be sure to recycle as much as possible.
• Share social posts: The Earth Day organisation is also encouraging people to sign up to their " Social Squad ", where you'll receive posts to share on your Facebook, Instagram or Twitter promoting the message of better environmental habits.
• Sign the petition: You might want to sign the Earth Day Global Plastics Treaty , which has been created to encourage governments around the world and the United Nations to make certain environmental promises, ASAP.
• Participate in local events: There are a number of events happening across the globe for Earth Day that you can participate in; for example, there are a swathe of community clean-up events being hosted across the UK.
• Organise your own march, rally or clean-up: If there aren't many events taking place around you, there's also still time to plan either a march, rally or clean-up in your local area (if you're feeling ambitious) in order to call for a 60% reduction in plastics by 2040. You can, for example, register a clean-up, here .

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The 30 best UK holidays for 2024

T ravel is truly back – predictions are that 2024 will break records for global tourism. So does that mean domestic holidays are dead? Nope. Abta’s latest report reveals 58 per cent of Britons are planning a UK trip in 2024. 

The continuing demand for more sustainable, lower-carbon breaks is a contributing factor. But so is the fact that Britain offers so much. 

For instance, this year should see the completion of the 2,700-mile King Charles III England Coast Path , the longest managed coast path in the world. This is also a year to celebrate National Landscapes , the new name given to the country’s 46 Areas of Outstanding National Beauty. Then there’s English wine, and wine tourism, which is booming – check out events such as Norwich Wine Week and new trips from Wine Tours of Kent . Or maybe use the National Gallery as your guide: to celebrate its 200th anniversary, the gallery is lending 12 headline works to 12 venues countrywide. 

Whatever your interests, here’s a batch of British break ideas to inspire you to holiday on home soil this year.

Skip ahead:

Coastal escapes

• Weekend breaks

Longer journeys

• Luxury stays
• Family holidays
• Active adventures
• Back to nature trips

Celebrate the sea in the Isles of Scilly

Ahoy! This year sees the inaugural outing of Ocean Scilly (Aug 23-Sept 1), a week dedicated to the waters around southern England’s idyllic archipelago. There will be a lot going on, from paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing sessions to Wildlife Trust talks, marine workshops, seafaring storytelling and pilot gig races. If you’re game, try one of the five Swimrun events, which range from a short taster to a long race comprising five miles of inter-island open-water swimming and 18.5 miles of trail running.

Book it:  St Mary’s Star Castle Hotel (01720 422317; star-castle.co.uk) has double rooms from £205 including breakfast. For festival news see visitislesofscilly.com . Plan the perfect break on the Isles of Scilly with our guide .

Kip on the cliffs in Ceredigion

Embrace the trend of being fully immersed in nature at secluded Golwg y Mor. This adults-only cottage is built right into the plunging cliffs; there are uninterrupted views over Cardigan Bay from its enormous picture windows, huge roof garden and hot tub terrace. Stay in and use the binoculars and telescopes to spot the resident dolphins. Alternatively, follow the Wales Coast Path, which passes just below, to reach the beautiful beaches of Llangrannog and Cwmtydu, a few miles’ walk away.

Book it:  Golwg y Mor (01237 426781; walescottageholidays.co.uk ) costs from £1,423 for seven nights, sleeping four. Plan the perfect holiday in Wales with our guide .

Live by the links in Ayrshire

In July 2024, the Open will be played at Royal Troon, the 10th time the venerable South Ayrshire club will have hosted the championship since 1923. The Marine Troon hotel, fresh from a smart revamp last year, is just the place to get in the golfing mood, as it offers unobstructed views of the 1st and 18th fairways, and the Firth of Clyde beyond. Enjoy the indoor pool, sauna and steam rooms, book a round of golf or hit Troon’s tremendous beach, perfect for windsurfing, kitesurfing and blustery strolls.

Book it:  Marine Troon (01292 314444; marineandlawn.com/marinetroon ) has double rooms from £159 including breakfast.

Enjoy accessible surf in Pembrokeshire

Blue Horizons is committed to getting everyone out on the waves. In 2024, this surf club near Tenby is focusing on lessons for disabled people, including wheelchair users and those with autism, offering assisted sessions on seated, tandem and prone boards. Stay at nearby Bluestone National Park Resort, which has a number of adapted family rooms that include wider doorways and accessible wet rooms.

Book it:  Blue Horizons Surf Club (01646 685273; bluehorizonssurfclub.co.uk ) offers half-day tuition from £40, or £120 supported by instructors and volunteers. Bluestone (01834 862400; bluestonewales.com ) offers adapted lodges, sleeping four, from £630 for three nights. Plan the perfect holiday in Pembrokeshire with our guide .

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Ultimate weekenders

Fish for your supper in hampshire.

Fancy yourself as a bit of a Rick Stein/Paul Whitehouse cross? Then head to Southampton for First Class Sailing’s new Catch and Cook trips. Onboard the Golden Vanity, a traditional wooden gaff cutter, venture into the Solent with a skipper and some fishing kit to try your luck, then cook up a feast in the galley afterwards. Not into fishing? Gaff Rig Sailing courses are available too.

Book it:  First Class Sailing (020 3006 3717; firstclasssailing.com ) offers two-night Catch and Cook/Gaff Rig Sailing trips from £549pp or £1,900 for five, hiring the whole boat, including onboard accommodation, skipper and food; April-October.

Re-treat yourself in Somerset

Tucked away in rural Somerset, 42 Acres is a nature reserve, regenerative farm and vision for environmental change. Last November, the estate launched Self-Guided Retreats – restorative, inspiring breaks that guests can take at their own pace. Based in the beautifully calming rooms of the 13th-century Hermitage, stays include daily guided experiences (anything from gardening to beaver walks and somatic movement) as well as nourishing soil-to-gut meals, wild swims in the lake and the chance to explore the 170-acre site solo.

Book it:  42 Acres (07511 209876; 42acres.com ) offers Self-Guided Retreats from £350 per night for two including food and experiences. Plan the perfect holiday in Somerset with our guide.

Get away with the girls in Cornwall

Companies dedicated to women-only trips have increased by 230 per cent in the past few years, according to the Lemongrass 2023 Travel Trends Report. One such is Ride on Retreats, whose surf and yoga escapes for women promise not only like-minded company and a safe space to try new things but a big boost in a short break. It’s based at a clifftop spa hotel on the Cornish coast, and the long weekends are packed with surf lessons, yoga sessions, seaside walks, wild swims, nutritious meals and camaraderie.

Book it:  Ride on Retreats ( rideonretreats.com ) offers three-night retreats from £895pp including accommodation, activities and meals; departs May 17, November 15. Plan the perfect holiday in Cornwall with our guide.

Run wild in Argyll

Ecologists Katharine and David Lowrie, the owners of Auchgoyle Farm, were the first people in the world to run the length of South America. But don’t worry: their new wild-running weekenders aren’t so extreme. Some retreats are mixed, some are women-only, some are aimed at beginners; all include lovely guided runs around their rewilding estate and across the hills, beaches and woodlands of the Argyll coast. Gentle yoga, farm walks, tree planting and eco-friendly accommodation are included too.

Book it:  Auchgoyle ( auchgoylefarm.com ) offers three-night Wild Running Retreats from £599pp including full-board accommodation and activities (10 per cent off if arriving by public transport); April-December. 

Drink and ride in Shropshire

To mark the 30th anniversary of the legendary Ludlow Food Festival this year, why not experience the wider county’s bounty by bike? Shropshire company Wheely Wonderful Cycling has devised an easy-going route that visits an array of small breweries, food producers and even a vineyard, while showcasing plenty of pretty countryside. Those booking to coincide with the Ludlow Food Festival’s events (May 10-12, Sept 13-15; foodfestival.co.uk ) will get free entry too.

Book it:  Wheely Wonderful Cycling (01568 770755; wheelywonderfulcycling.co.uk ) offers a six-day self-guided Six Local Breweries and a Vineyard Cycle Trail from £935pp including B&B accommodation and bike hire; May-September.

Stride the Salt Path in Devon & Cornwall

This year, a big-screen version of Raynor Winn’s South West Coast Path memoir, The Salt Path , is due to open in cinemas – shooting took place in Cornwall last summer. But don’t just watch the film; hit the trail yourself. Walkers’ Britain’s new trip from Westward Ho! to Padstow covers one of the 630-mile path’s most challenging but magnificent sections, undulating between scenic spots such as cliff-tumbling Clovelly, Tintagel Castle, picturesque Port Isaac and wild Hartland Point.

Book it:  Walkers’ Britain (0800 008 7741; walkersbritain.co.uk ) offers a 10-day self-guided trip from Westward Ho! to Padstow from £1,120pp including B&B accommodation. Plan the perfect holiday in Devon with our guide .

Be surprised in the Highlands

Feel like your life is lacking adventure? New for 2024, tour operator McKinlay Kidd has launched Reveal road trips: bespoke Scotland tours designed especially for you, with an air of mystery. “You give us an idea of what you do and don’t like,” McKinlay Kidd’s Mark Worthington says, “and we’ll put together a tailor-made tour that remains a surprise to you until you decide to see the details – even if it’s on a day-by-day basis while you’re travelling.”

Book it:  McKinlay Kidd (0141 260 9260; mckinlaykidd.com ) offers a seven-night Highlands Reveal Road Trip from around £1,370pp including B&B accommodation. Plan the perfect holiday in Scotland with our guide .

See it all by sea

Can’t decide where to go in 2024? Visit it all. Hurtigruten Expeditions’ British Isles expedition explores the country’s islands and coast via ports such as the Isles of Scilly, St Davids Cathedral, the Isle of Man, the Outer Hebrides and Islay’s whisky distilleries. There’s an onboard Citizen Science programme, so you can help with research. Or you can hit the hot tubs and panoramic sauna instead. Join the April 26 departure to cruise with television’s Carol Kirkwood.

Book it:  Hurtigruten Expeditions (020 3993 5652; hxexpeditions.com ) offers a 13-day British Isles cruise from £3,590pp including full-board accommodation; no single supplement. Departs April 14 & 26, May 8, June 1.

A touch of luxe

Ride the dragon in north wales.

Take a nostalgic steam-hauled journey along the most scenic tracks in Wales. Steam Dreams Rail Co’s new Welsh Dragon trip will trundle over Barmouth Bridge and along the Cambrian Coast, follow the North Wales route between Snowdonia and the sea, and plunge through the little-visited Marches on the Heart of Wales Line; journeys between Wales and the start/end in London are steam-pulled, too.

Book it:  Steam Dreams Rail Co ( steamdreamsblog.wordpress.com ) offers a four-night Welsh Dragon trip from £995pp Premium Standard including B&B accommodation, travel and some meals, depending on package; departs Sept 15.

Raise a glass in East Sussex

As English wine increases in quality, wine tourism is increasing in popularity. In response, Gallivant Camber Sands, a swish adults-only hotel in the heart of British wine country, has collaborated with Gusbourne Estate to offer exclusive quaffing for guests. Book a Discover English Wine stay for a self-guided Gusbourne tour and tasting. Or upgrade to the Ultimate English Wine Experience, which includes a private winery tour, tutored tastings of rare bottles and a sumptuous dinner with wine pairing.

Book it:  The Gallivant (01797 225057; thegallivant.co.uk ) offers a one-night Ultimate English Wine Experience from £1,015 or Discover English Wine stay from £375 for two.

Lounge around in Lincolnshire

A top wellness trend for 2024 is boosting your energy in natural ways, and Laceby Manor Spa, on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, is just the place. Opened in 2022, it’s been designed to bring the countryside in; there’s a natural swimming pond (perfect for wild swimming and cold-water therapy), an indoor-outdoor vitality pool and saunas infused with herbs from the garden. Or indulge in its speciality hammams, rituals and massages using hand-harvested seaweed.

Book it:  Laceby Manor Spa (01472 873468; lacebymanor.co.uk ) offers a Two Night Weekend Escape from £249pp/per night including full-board accommodation, spa access and two treatments per person.

Live the high life in Suffolk

For some, the cost of living isn’t a crisis: 2023 became the year of the Six Figure Family Holiday , with high-net-worth individuals spending big. For a taste of that high life, rent 17th-century state-of-the-art Orpheus manor (where, incidentally, Gordon Brown held a cabinet meeting during the 2008 financial crisis that effectively saved the banking system). Follow the mile-long driveway to discover, among other things, a heated outdoor pool, a high-spec Dolby Atmos cinema, the same bathtubs you’d find in Buckingham Palace and general rococo-meets-Hollywood flair.

Book it:  Unique Homestays (01637 881183; uniquehomestays.com ) offers seven nights at Orpheus from £9,995, sleeping 14. Plan the perfect holiday in Suffolk with our guide .

Drink a dram or two in Argyll & the Isles

Did you know we’re almost through Whisky Year Zero (July 2023-June 2024), the 200th anniversary of the 1823 Excise Act, which shaped Scotland’s “Whisky Coast”? To celebrate, Tartan Road has devised a new luxe tour. You’ll be driven around the most exciting distilleries in Campbeltown, Islay and beyond, and given VIP tours, tutored tastings and the chance to blend your own bottle. You’ll also explore the dramatic landscapes and spirited communities from which whisky comes.

Book it:  Tartan Road (01631 402066; tartanroad.co.uk ) offers an eight-day Ultimate Whisky Tour from £6,500pp including B&B accommodation, chauffeur-guide and tours.

Family adventures

Sleep back in time in lancashire.

This year, swap screen-gazing for stargazing, plus an immersive history lesson, by staying at Bowland Escapes Roundhouse. This faithful replica of an Iron Age dwelling sits within a family-owned park in the heart of the Forest of Bowland, an official Dark Sky Discovery site. Families can explore the National Landscape’s woodland and riverbanks, walk the Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail, cook over the firepit and stare up at the sparkling stars, and then huddle together under the roundhouse’s ancient-feeling – and definitely Wi-Fi-free – thatch.

Book it:  Bowland Escapes Roundhouse ( hostunusual.com ) costs from £60 per night, sleeping two adults and three children.

Go under-age off-roading in Hertfordshire

The Grove is great for families. During the school holidays, this five-star country retreat near London offers a smorgasbord of kids’ stuff, from hawking, archery, axe throwing and arts and crafts to a kids’ club, video game wagon, soft play centre, fun pool and free afternoon sweet trolley. Plus, new for 2024, children can head out on woodland trails in miniature 4×4s for their own off-roading adventures.

Book it:  The Grove (01923 807807; thegrove.co.uk ) has B&B rooms from £289 per night as part of its three-nights-for-two Holiday Escape deal, valid during Easter; junior 4×4 £40.

Cavort with kings in Leicestershire

This year’s a biggie for Richard III, despite having been dead since 1485. A new (free) King’s Walking Trail has launched in Leicester, plus it’s the 10th anniversary of the city’s Richard III Visitor Centre and the 50th of Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre. These two sites – among others such as Twycross Zoo and Conkers – are included in the region’s excellent-value Stay Play Explore holidays, which package accommodation and attractions for one low cost; better yet, the price has been frozen for 2024.

Book it:  Stay Play Explore ( stayplayexplore.co.uk ) offers a one-night Leicestershire Family Fun break from £169 for four including B&B accommodation and three attractions.

Bunk up in Powys

Last year saw a rise in both group and multigenerational holidays – a trend for bonding breaks that shows no sign of abating. So grab everyone and book into Wye Valley Bunkhouse. This five-star (but affordable) converted chapel can squeeze in up to 18 – and is built for family fun. It has a huge television, games room with table tennis and pool table, and a tube slide for getting from the top floor to the bottom. Plus Wye Valley Canoes is based on site, making it easy to hire boats for river exploration.

Book it:  Wye Valley Bunkhouse (07515 905 419; groupaccommodation.com ) costs from £3,450 per week, sleeping 18 (£27pp/per night). 

Mini-adventures

Conquer the fells in the lake district.

New year, new challenge? HF Holidays has launched a collection of challenge hikes for 2024. Mostly doable in a long weekend, they require a little more effort than your average countryside stroll but deliver a lot of satisfaction. For instance, scale Scafell. Meet like-minded walkers over a cream tea at HF’s Derwent Bank country house, take a warm-up walk to Cat Bells, then tackle the roof of England. It’s a good option for solos: there’s no extra charge for a single room.

Book it:  HF Holidays (020 3974 8865; hfholidays.co.uk ) offers a three-night small-group Scafell Pike Challenge from £475pp including full-board accommodation; May 3, Sept 13. Plan the perfect holiday in the Lake District with our guide .

Pack in a pilgrimage in Northumberland

Pilgrimages are popular. But not everyone has time for a month-long Camino. Instead, consider Macs Adventure’s taster of St Cuthbert’s Way which, though only three walking days, packs a historic punch. From Wooler, follow in ancient footsteps, pausing at Cuthbert’s Cave (where the saint’s body was once hidden) and crossing to the tidal island of Lindisfarne, where he became abbot; explore Holy Island’s priory ruins and stay overnight to explore after the day-trippers have gone.

Book it:  Macs Adventure (0141 530 5452; macsadventure.com ) offers a four-night Highlights of the St Cuthbert’s Way trip from £545pp including B&B accommodation. Plan the perfect holiday in Northumberland with our guide.

Camp wild in Norfolk

Launching in spring 2024, the East Anglia 350 driving route will reveal the wild beauty of Norfolk and Suffolk, from Brecklands to the Broads. But to make the 350-mile road trip even more immersive in nature, do it with Wild With Consent. The off-grid experts have teamed up with EA350 to create self-drive 4×4 experiences, wild camping included. Behind the wheel of a fully equipped Land Rover Defender (complete with roof tent), make your way through villages, beaches and bird reserves, before parking up – legally – in the middle of nowhere each night.

Book it:  Wild With Consent ( wildwithconsent.com ) offers a two-night Norfolk Off-Grid self-drive from £695 including 4×4 hire. Plan the perfect holiday in Norfolk with our guide .

Pedal pushers in Southern Scotland

Opened in 2023, the Kirkpatrick Coast to Coast – a 250-mile route named after the local blacksmith who invented the first pedal-assisted bicycle – is Scotland’s newest cycle route. It runs from Stranraer to Eyemouth via sandy beaches, Wigtown (Scotland’s National Book Town), hills and forests, Victorian viaducts, ruined abbeys, the river Tweed and a smidgen of Northumberland. For a bit of support along the way, join Saddle Skedaddle’s new guided ride – the width of a whole country packed into just four diverse cycling days. 

Book it:  Saddle Skedaddle (0191 265 1110; skedaddle.com ) offers a five-night Kirkpatrick Coast to Coast cycle from £1,175pp including half-board accommodation; April 21, September 15. 

Back to nature

Go on stay-fari in dorset.

No need to swan off abroad on safari this year. Enjoy a magnificent menagerie in south-west England in the company of top-notch guides. Wildlife Worldwide’s week in Dorset with nature buffs Mike Dilger and Ed Drewitt (both seen on the BBC) will explore some of Britain’s most biodiverse sites. Sightings may include great bustards on Salisbury Plain, osprey and white-tailed eagles on the Wareham Channel and red squirrels on Brownsea Island.

Book it:  Wildlife Worldwide (01962 302086; wildlifeworldwide.com ) offers an eight-day small-group South Coast Wildlife Extravaganza from £2,995pp including accommodation, most meals and guided activities; departs May 10.

Down on the farm in Ceredigion

Looking for a sustainable stay in 2024? Choose Denmark Farm, a conservation centre near Lampeter that is at the forefront of efforts to revitalise the country’s farmed countryside. There’s a lovely eco-lodge (sustainably sourced timber, sheep’s wool insulation), an eco-campsite with composting loos and woodland kitchen, plus bird hides, biodiverse ponds and nature trails. It also runs a range of back-to-nature courses, featuring everything from ethnobotany and willow weaving to fermenting and tree identification.

Book it:  Denmark Farm (01570 493358; denmarkfarm.org.uk ) has tent pitches from £14 per adult/£8 per child; eco-lodge apartments, sleeping four, cost from £90pp. See online calendar for courses and prices.

Write your way in East Sussex

The three luxe cabins at Starcroft Farm, hidden in the High Weald, are a good choice for creative types. Each one has two writing desks, bulging bookshelves and thought-provoking art and curios you can use as writing prompts. But if your novel needs a real kickstart, book one of Starcroft’s Writing Retreats. As well as an inspiring natural environment, you get a one-to-one with a writing coach, head-clearing woodland walks, writing goodies and vital cake breaks.

Book it:  Starcroft Farm (0780 884 1313; starcroftfarm.co.uk ) offers five-day Writing Retreats from £560pp including self-catering accommodation and coaching session; March 18, June 10, September 23. 

Planting ideas in Cairngorms

When Sir David Attenborough starts extolling the benefits of plant-based diets – as he did on Planet Earth III – nature buffs should take note. So consider signing up for Naturetrek’s new Summer in the Cairngorms Vegetarian/Vegan tour. While the focus will be on seeking special species, from rare orchids to dragonflies and crossbills, it will be based at a hotel specialising in vegan cuisine, and includes delicious meat-free breakfasts, picnics and three-course dinners.

Book it:  Naturetrek (01962 733051; naturetrek.co.uk ) offers a five-day small-group Summer in the Cairngorms trip from £1,495pp including full-board vegetarian/vegan accommodation; June 23. Plan the perfect holiday in the Cairngorms with our guide.

Rewild in style in Devon

Cove Valley, a 300-acre rewilding project on the edge of Exmoor, is home to a wealth of species: red deer, badgers, beavers, hares and more than 50 species of birds. It’s also home to three luxurious, nature-immersed cabins. Opened in summer 2023, these beautiful boltholes are designed to encourage alfresco living: as well as indoor facilities, there are kitchens and wood-fired tubs outside. Enjoy the views, then pack the picnic basket to stroll the estate – trails lead via streams, lakes and feeding stations, where you might spot the wild residents.

Book it: Cove Valley ( covevalley.co.uk ) has self-catering cabins from £250pp, sleeping two.

This story was first published in February 2024 and has been revised and updated.

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460 Years Ago, Shakespeare Was Born Here. Or Somewhere.

Every year, millions flock to Stratford-upon-Avon, England, to visit the house known as Shakespeare’s Birthplace. But was he really born there? A whole industry depends on it.

By Elizabeth Winkler

Sometime in the late 18th century, a sign appeared outside a shambly butcher’s hut in the English town of Stratford-upon-Avon: “The Immortal Shakspeare was born in this house,” it announced, using a then common spelling of his name. Devotees began making pilgrimages — dropping to their knees, weeping, singing odes: “Untouched and sacred be thy shrine, Avonian Willy, bard Divine!”

A tradesman grew rich selling carvings from a local mulberry tree, like pieces of the true cross. Some skeptics suspected that the sign was part of a scheme to bring visitors to Stratford; others wondered if it had been hung by the property’s occupant. A local antiquarian criticized the whole scene as “a design to extort pecuniary gratuities from the credulous and unwary.”

Pilgrims flocked to the house, and it became a site so hallowed that one visitor warned that the veneration of Shakespeare threatened to eclipse that of God:

Yet steals a sigh, as reason weighs/ The fame to Shakespeare given,/ That thousands, worshippers of him,/ Forget to worship Heaven!

About 250 years after its break from the Catholic Church, England had its own Bethlehem and manger.

The problem: No one really knows where Shakespeare was born.

Mock Tudors and magic wands

Stratford-upon-Avon lies two hours northwest of London in the Midlands, more or less the heart of England. Today, it is one of Britain’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing up to three million visitors a year. The Birthplace is its main attraction, followed by the cottage reputed to be the place where Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife, grew up.

Stratford exudes Elizabethan kitsch, with souvenir shops and half-timbered buildings. ​​In the 19th century, the Victorians tried to make Stratford look more “authentic,” which has left it teeming with mock Tudors.

It’s a town whose economy and identity revolve around Shakespearean fervor, which peaks every year on April 23, the date celebrated as Shakespeare’s birthday. It is also, conveniently, St. George’s Day , honoring the patron saint of England.

On my first visit in June 2021, I passed the Hathaway Tea Rooms and a cafe called the Food of Love, a cutesy name taken from “Twelfth Night” (“If music be the food of love, play on”). Confusingly, there were also several Harry Potter-themed shops. Stratford and Hogwarts, quills and wands, poems and spells . Then again, maybe the conflation was apt: Wasn’t Shakespeare a sort of boy wizard, magically endowed with inexplicable powers?

On Henley Street, I arrived at the Birthplace, a half-timbered house yellowed with age. Today, it looks like a single detached building, but it was originally a row of tenements. John Shakespeare bought one tenement on the street in 1556, though he also bought property on nearby Greenhill Street, which could just as easily have been the site of his son’s birth. He bought the property thought to be the Birthplace in 1575, 11 years after his son was born.

Those who believe in the Birthplace point to a record from 1552 showing that a John Shakespeare was fined for keeping a dung heap somewhere on Henley Street. It doesn’t specify the location, but that dung heap has fueled a theory that he must have been living there at the time of his son’s birth, perhaps as a renter.

Similarly, the claim for the authenticity of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage rests on a record that a John Hathaway leased the 90-acre farm on which the building stood 13 years before Anne was born in about 1556. The cottage may well be linked to the Hathaways, but there is no proof that Anne actually grew up in it, just as there is none that Shakespeare was born in the house on Henley Street.

Together, these traditions have sustained Stratford’s tourist industry, worth about $315 million in 2019, before the pandemic. But they have not convinced many skeptics over the years.

“Stratford permits — indeed encourages — one of the biggest frauds in England to rage unchecked,” the journalist Bernard Levin railed in The Daily Mail in 1965. “I mean those two monumental frauds, ‘Shakespeare’’s Birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.”

It didn’t help that hucksters have found ways to make the story profitable. In the early 19th century, a tenant of the Birthplace named Mrs. Hornby ran a lucrative hustle showing and selling Shakespeare’s “relics” to gullible visitors. The relics were eventually exposed in an 1848 article in Bentley’s Miscellany , which observed that four different chairs, each purporting to be “Shakespeare’s chair,” had been sold over the years, each made by a well-known local craftsman.

I entered through the Shakespeare Centre, a strange museum that acts as an antechamber to the Birthplace. There were no books owned by Shakespeare or letters in Shakespeare’s hand, because none are known to exist. Instead, a glass case displayed eight Shakespeare busts dating from 1844 to 2000. Another case featured a Shakespeare beer mug (1933), Shakespeare playing cards (1974) and a Shakespeare action figure made in China (2003).

Inside the Birthplace, I went from room to room with the other visitors. Guides regaled us with tales of Shakespeare’s childhood — how he played and ate and dreamed in these rooms. Of course, his childhood is actually a yawning blank: From his baptism in 1564 to his marriage in 1582, there are no records of him. In one room, a table displayed books, quills and ink, indicating a family of learning — but his parents signed documents with a mark, like many illiterate people in Tudor England.

The other visitors murmured to one another in reverent museum whispers and nodded at the guides. I thought of how, in the late 19th century, a Birthplace custodian named Joseph Skipsey resigned his post after a few months, explaining that “not a single one of the many so-called relics on exhibition could be proved to be Shakspere’s” and that “the Birthplace itself is a matter of grave doubt.”

The power of popular faith

Efforts to preserve the property as the official Birthplace began in 1847, when it was put up for sale. In response to fears that P.T. Barnum was going to buy it and make it part of a show, a committee was formed to “save” the house for the nation, and the group began to solicit donations.

Not everyone was convinced. “The extraordinary sensation caused by the purchase of this shabby sausage-shop deserves a prominent place amongst popular delusions,” declared the 1848 Bentley’s Miscellany article . A writer for another British periodical mocked the gullibility of a nation pouring forth funds to buy a “rubbishing mass of lath and plaster in which the Poet was no more born than was the Man in the Moon himself.”

But the belief had already become an article of faith, strengthened by its own repetition. The Birthplace was a better shrine for the very absence of evidence — for the faith it required of its visitors — the publisher Charles Knight wrote at the time. That same year, the committee secured the Birthplace at auction for 3,000 pounds, worth about $323,000 today .

The “shabby sausage-shop” made an uninspiring temple. So the adjoining premises were demolished, walls moved, floorboards replaced, new doorways and staircases created. Its new stewards transformed it into the large, comfortable home of a prosperous Elizabethan family, leaving the cellar as “the only portion which remains as it was,” as the scholar Sidney Lee wrote in 1901. What emerged was less a Tudor dwelling than a Victorian imagination of one.

The committee became the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust , the group that still runs the site, and maintains its authenticity. “We know that, to the best of our current understanding, the building includes the surviving fabric of a property that is traditionally and intimately associated with Shakespeare and his family,” said a spokesman for the trust.

The trust went on to acquire more properties, including Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, a thatched farmhouse where visitors are invited to “relive Shakespeare’s love story.”

A temple to baby Shakespeare

“This is the room where we believe William Shakespeare was born in April 1564,” read a sign in the Birthroom. Next to the bed stood a cradle laid out with blankets and a tiny pillow, encouraging visitors to imagine the baby genius mewling by his parents’ side. For the Victorians, the Birthroom offered the mystical possibility of contact with the poet. Visitors recorded melodramatic accounts of what they felt on entering the room: They burst into tears. They fell down. They kissed the floor. Those desiring a more extended communion spent the night.

Others were unimpressed. “If I were to allude to Stratford, it would not be in connection with the fact that Shakespeare came into the world there,” wrote the novelist Henry James after visiting. “It would be rather to speak of a delightful old house near the Avon which struck me as the ideal home for a Shakespearean scholar.”

But the fantasy is resilient. In a 2023 PBS documentary, “ Making Shakespeare: The First Folio ,” the scholar Michael Dobson, director of the Shakespeare Institute, stood in the Birthplace, gushing over “the very room in which Shakespeare was born.”

I shuffled around the cradle with the other visitors, unsure of what to do. Were we supposed to genuflect? Kiss it? After an appropriate amount of staring, we moved on.

To exit, I had to pass through the gift shop, where any lingering sense of piety dissipated in a tidal wave of consumerism. Visitors were loading up on Shakespeare T-shirts, breakfast teas and tea towels. Shakespeare rubber ducks and windup toys. Shakespeare Christmas ornaments, baby onesies, tote bags and luxury chocolates. Belief is good business.

When I returned to Stratford last February, little had changed since my first visit. The Shakespeare Centre was now showing modern artists’ interpretations of the poet, including a Surrealist painting of a masked figure that suggested the mystery surrounding him. The trinket stands were still hawking their modern versions of those 18th-century mulberry tree carvings. Faith in the traditions is bound up with desire — the need to believe.

Where was “the Immortal Shakspeare” really born? Stories are usually more seductive than the truth.

Sheelagh McNeill contributed research.

Elizabeth Winkler is a journalist, a critic and the author of “ Shakespeare Was a Woman and Other Heresies: How Doubting the Bard Became the Biggest Taboo in Literature .”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Best Mother's Day gifts 2024 — 35 great ideas from $13

Mother's Day gift ideas for every budget

• Quick Links
• Personal/self-care
• Tech and gadgets
• Fitness and sports
• Kitchen and garden

Shopping for the best Mother's Day gifts isn't always easy, but the right present can show mom she deserves nothing but the best. To help you, we've created a list of fool-proof Mother's Day gifts for every kind of mom in your life.

From affordable little luxuries and daily essentials to modern tech and fitness favorites, we've rounded up all the best Mother's Day gifts you can buy right now no matter your budget. Mother's Day 2024 is on May 12, and it's approaching quickly. You shouldn't hesitate if you see a present on our list that mom will love. 

See all our top Mother's Day gifts we know mom will love below. 

Best Mother's Day Gifts 2024

• Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band: $13 @ Amazon
• JunVpic Cold Brew Coffee Maker: $19 @ Amazon
• Wrist Weights Set: $19 @ Amazon
• Owala Stainless Steel 40oz Tumbler: $37 @ Amazon
• Breo Foot Massager Machine: $109 @ Amazon
• Kindle Paperwhite: $149 @ Amazon
• Hybrid Double Burner Griddle: $199 @ HexClad
• Theragun Mini Massage Gun: $199 @ Amazon
• Oura Ring Generation 3: from $299 @ Best Buy
• Bose Ultra Open Earbuds: $299 @ Amazon

Best Mother's Day Gifts 2024: Personal and Self-care

Owala Stainless Steel 40oz Tumbler: $37 @ Amazon Forget Stanley Cups, this Owala straw tumbler is guaranteed to impress mom with its fun colors and dishwasher-safe design. Staying hydrated counts as self-care, right?

LEGO Ideas Family Tree: $79 @ LEGO LEGO is most definitely for moms, too. This Family Tree set is the perfect blend of creative and sentimental, coming with clips to attach your own family photos. Bonus points if you build it with mom as a Mother's Day activity.

Breo Foot Massager Machine: $109 @ Amazon Every day at home can feel like a spa day for mom with this heated foot massager machine. From deep kneading and compression to scraping and rolling, this massager can do it all. Plus, the foot sleeves are washable. Click the on-page digital coupon to get this price. 

Hatch Restore 2: $199 @ Amazon Giving mom the gift of sleep can't be beat. This is the best-looking sunrise alarm clock we've ever tried. It can also work as a night light and sound machine. Read what happened when we used the Hatch Restore 2 for a month .

Shark FlexStyle System: $239 @ Amazon This Shark FlexStyle system is a great choice for about half the price of the Dyson Airwrap. Of course, the hair tools someone needs depends on their hair type, but overall, this all-in-one system is an awesome choice to replace mom's old hair drier.

Away Travel Bigger Carry-On: $295 @ Away What is travel if not a form of self-care? The Bigger Carry-On from Away Travel features a built-in removable battery to help mom keep her gadgets charged on her next trip.

AroMini BT Diffuser: $295 @ AromaTech This Bluetooth-connected, waterless aromatherapy diffuser is a brilliant gift idea for the mom who prides themselves on a great-smelling home. It can be controlled via app, just be sure to bundle diffuser oil with your gift.

Oura Ring Generation 3: from $299 @ Best Buy The Oura Ring Generation 3 is one of the best fitness trackers to buy for mom if she doesn't want it to look like she's wearing a fitness tracker — this beautiful ring looks like jewelry. Read our full Oura Ring review to learn more.

TheraFace Mask: $599 @ Therabody This FDA-approved LED skincare mask uses a combination of light and vibration therapy with proven benefits to enhance the appearance of skin. It's the ultimate gadget for the skin-care guru.

Best Mother's Day Gifts 2024: Tech and gadgets

Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band: $13 @ Amazon For the mom who could use a more fashionable Apple Watch band, this premium-looking stainless steel mesh loop is a thoughtful gift. It comes in several metal options, so you can decide which best suits the recipient's style.

Apple AirTag: $24 @ Amazon The Apple AirTag is an excellent key finder that is extremely easy to set up and does a great job of locating your valuables. In other words, it's the perfect gift for the mom who's always misplacing their keys or wallet. 

Amazon Echo Pop: $39 @ Amazon The Amazon Echo Pop is an excellent value smart speaker that puts Alexa everywhere your voice can reach. That means hands-free music control and access to hundreds of Alexa skills. It comes in inspiring colors, too. 

Anker Nano Battery Pack: $43 @ Amazon This 10,000mAh portable charger from Anker has a built-in USB-C cable, making it the perfect accessory for most smartphones and tablets. We like this battery pack accessory because of its battery status display. 

Kindle Paperwhite: $149 @ Amazon Among the different Kindles, our favorite choice  is the Kindle Paperwhite. The 6.8” display, water-resistant design and 10-week battery life make it a great gift — but you can read our full Kindle Paperwhite review to learn more.

Amazon Echo Show 15: $279 @ Amazon The Echo Show 15 has a large display and adaptive interface with widgets that lets you easily interact with smart home devices. It can even be used a digital picture frame, which we know mom will love. Read our full Echo Show 15 review to learn more.

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds: $299 @ Amazon The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds feature an open ear design that lets you hear the world around you while still enjoying great sound quality, complete with spatial audio support. The design is flexible and comfortable and you get up to 27 hours of battery life with the included charging case. 

Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses: $299 @ Amazon These smart glasses are a camera, bluetooth headphones, and stylish designed sunglasses all in one. They're great for moms who are always on-the-go. Read our Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses review for more info.

Sonos Move 2: $449 @ Sonos This booming battery-powered smart speaker has a long-lasting battery, water-resistance and technology that auto-calibrates the sound to your surroundings. Read our full Sonos Move 2 review to read why we love it.

Best Mother's Day Gifts 2024: Fitness and sports

Wrist Weights Set: $19 @ Amazon A pair of wrist and ankle weights can elevate all kinds of workouts, from walks to pilates. This set is adjustable and comes in several color options, plus they look quite similar to the popular Bala Bangles (that cost triple the price.)

BAGSMART Gym Bag: $19 @ Amazon Look no further for a gym bag you can give as a gift, and get for under $20. This one even has a dedicated shoe pocket, so you can keep your things clean and organized. It doubles as a travel duffle, too.

Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat: $38 @ Amazon Compared to all the best yoga mats , this cushy Gaim yoga mat is one of the best you'll find for extra support — and one of the best you'll find for the price. It even comes in nine different color options.

Pickleball Paddle: $75 @ On Holiday Pickleball Whether mom plays pickleball or wants to pick up the sport this summer, this trendy-looking paddle is the perfect gift. We like this green striped style, but there are tons of cute patterns to choose from.

Theragun Mini Massage Gun: $199 @ Amazon Theragun's travel-sized massage gun comes with three foam attachments, so you can tailor the device based on your aches and pains. Therabody makes high-tech wellness feel luxurious, so mom will definitely be blown away.

Stitch SL Sunday Golf Bag: $248 @ Stich Golf Even mom already has her everyday golf bag, she could probably use a smaller, secondary bag for walking a quick 9. Our favorite essentials-only bag is the SL Sunday Golf Bag from Stitch. 

Apple Watch Series 9: $329 @ Amazon The flagship Apple smartwatch comes with an improved processor for better performance, offline Siri support, and 18 hours of battery life.  When we reviewed the Apple Watch Series 9 , we were impressed with the display's brightness, even in sunny weather for sports.

Best Mother's Day Gifts 2024: Kitchen and garden

JunVpic Cold Brew Coffee Maker: $19 @ Amazon Turns out, you don't need to leave your hot coffee in the fridge to turn it to cold brew. You can steep cold brew with this filtered pitcher. Pair this with a bag of ground coffee for the best gift for a cold brew-lover. 

Hydro Flask 12L Carry Out Soft Cooler: $69 @ Amazon For the beach or short excursions, the Hydro Flask 12L Carry Out Soft Cooler is the best value bring-along. It comes with a cross-body strap, making it easy to tote around. Despite its compact size, it can hold up to 20 cans at one time. 

Nespresso Vertuo: was $209 now $119 @ Amazon This stylish unit works with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, available in 30 aromatic blends. It can make various sizes including 5-, 8-, and 18-oz coffees, as well as single and double espresso. It uses a one-touch brewing system and looks luxurious in a black-matte rose gold. In our Nespresso Vertuo review we said its smart technology makes brewing coffee foolproof

Sand Cloud Party Blanket: $148 @ Sand Cloud This isn't your average outdoor blanket — the sand-resistant Sand Cloud Party Blanket is the last beach towel you'll ever need. It can also be used as a cozy wrap while camping, plus it comes in a collection of fun colors.

Chef’s Knife Set: 150 @ Hedley & Bennett If your mom refuses to sharpen her knives or hers are starting to fall apart at the handle simply, consider investing in a new set. You can take this 20% off by popping the coupon code "MOMSNEWKNIVES" at checkout.

Hybrid Double Burner Griddle: $199 @ HexClad My mom absolutely adores pancakes for breakfast (and lunch, and dinner) — if yours does, too, this double burner griddle is a great find. HexClad's premium materials will be appreciated by an avid home cook.

Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0: $249 @ Solo Stove The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is a smokeless — yes, you read that right — fire pit that will turn any backyard into the ultimate destination for s'mores night. It's the best fire pit and therefore one of the best gifts for mom.

Vitamix Explorian E310: $329 @ Vitamix One of the best blenders in the market, we found it to be great for small batches. Mom will love its simple design, offering 10 speed settings to whip up smoothies, hummus and more in no time at all.  

KitchenAid Classic Series: $329 @ Amazon Big enough to make up to eight dozen cookies—that's 28 grams of dough if you were wondering—this 4.5 quart mixer features a tilt-head design for better mixing and 10 speeds to do the heavy lifting for mom.

Ooni Koda 16: $599 @ Best Buy If mom is a pizza lover, this is the best pizza oven to get. It runs on propane only and is easy enough to transport, which why we rated it so highly in our Ooni Koda 16 review .

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Kate Kozuch is the managing editor of social and video at Tom’s Guide. She covers smartwatches, TVs and audio devices, too. Kate appears on Fox News to talk tech trends and runs the  Tom's Guide TikTok account , which you should be following. When she’s not filming tech videos, you can find her taking up a new sport, mastering the NYT Crossword or channeling her inner celebrity chef. 

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