If you’re interested in exploring the rest of England without having to deal with the congested road system, there are plenty of awesome day trips from London that you can take by train. Whether you’re a visitor from abroad or a local looking for a UK staycation, it’s always nice to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and breathe in some fresh air.
First things first, let’s talk about how to get your train tickets. Nobody enjoys waiting in queues, not even the British (and trust me, you don’t want to mess with British queue etiquette). Luckily, there’s a handy website called Trainline that offers cheaper prices (if you book a few days in advance) and the option to use their app for paperless tickets. No need to keep track of a physical ticket when you can have it on your phone! However, if technology isn’t your thing, you can always brave the lines at the ticket office. Most stations have ticket machines, but they can be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the different ticket options. In that case, it’s best to queue up at the ticket office and ask the helpful employee for assistance. They’ll guide you through the process and make sure you get the most cost-effective ticket for your day trip.
Now that you know how to get your tickets sorted, let’s explore the various day trip options within Britain. Just a heads up, I don’t recommend Edinburgh as a day trip from London because it’s such a wonderful city that deserves more than just a day. With a travel time of over 5 hours, it’s not feasible to visit Edinburgh and truly experience its charm in such a short amount of time. So, do yourself a favor and plan to spend at least a couple of days there!
One of the most popular day trips from London is to the beautiful city of Bath. Hop on a train from London Waterloo station, and in just 1 hour and 20 minutes, you’ll find yourself in this Roman city that boasts some of the most captivating sights in the UK. The city is famous for its Roman Baths museum, where you can immerse yourself in history and marvel at the well-preserved bathing complex. Once you’ve had your fill of Roman history, there’s still plenty more to explore in Bath. The Royal Crescent, a 500-meter long terrace of Georgian houses, is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and Instagram lovers. And if shopping is your thing, make sure to wander around the streets near the Roman Baths, where you’ll find unique stores waiting to be discovered. Don’t forget to indulge in a tasty Bath Bun at Sally Lunn’s Eating House and Museum, and take a moment to appreciate the literary history of Abbey Green, where Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein.
Another iconic day trip option is Stonehenge. Although you can’t take a train directly to Stonehenge, you can catch a train from Waterloo station to Salisbury, and from there, it’s just a short bus ride to the ancient stone circle. Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site and a true marvel of ancient history. The visitor center has greatly improved over the years, ensuring that you have a memorable experience. Take the time to learn about the history of the site before heading up to the stones, ideally close to sunset for an awe-inspiring view. The mystery surrounding the construction of Stonehenge only adds to its allure, making it a must-visit destination.
If you’re looking for a vibrant and quirky day trip, Brighton is the place to go. Just an hour away from London Bridge train station, Brighton offers a lively LGBT scene and a plethora of activities to enjoy. Explore the independent shops in the North Laine area, which range from funky fashion stores to cozy vegan cafes. For a taste of history, visit the Royal Pavilion, a stunning palace with a hint of Indian-inspired architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, sit on the pebbles, and savor some traditional fish and chips or a stick of Brighton Rock. Brighton has a unique charm that’s hard to resist.
Oxford, home to the world-renowned university and its dreaming spires, is another popular day trip destination from London. Catch a train from Paddington Station, and in less than an hour, you’ll arrive in this picturesque city. Simply wandering around the city center is a delight, thanks to the beautiful buildings made of creamy-colored stone. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you can even take a Harry Potter tour and see some of the filming locations from the movies. Oxford has a certain charm that captivates visitors, so take your time to explore and soak in the atmosphere.
These are just a few examples of the fantastic day trips you can take from London by train. There are many more destinations to discover, each with its own unique attractions and experiences. So, grab your train ticket, hop on board, and get ready to fall in love with the wonders of England and beyond!
