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Coach Trips London with Anderson Tours

10 Day Trips to Consider From London For Half-Term

With half-term (school) holidays around the corner, the golden opportunity to get away abroad or on the long-expected staycation as a family is a cause of expectation, perhaps for some parents, a sigh of relief! Should you find yourself, however, with no plans for your family and friends or feel the tight squeeze on budget this year, here are 10 different day trips to consider from London this half-term. Get scrolling and expectant, all is not lost, and half-term is still salvageable on a trip full of memories and half the budget. 

 

Glance Upon The Towering Stonehenge

Stonehenge located in Salisbury, holds a firm place in British history as a pre-historic sight that’s shrouded with myths from old over its origin. A popular destination as a day tour from London amongst Londoners and tourists alike, it’s a sight to tick off one’s travel bucket list. Stonehenge is enjoyed by solo travellers to families looking for a trip to be enjoyed by all ages.

 

With the stones as high as 13 feet, and a mammoth weight of nearly 25 per stone – The significance and bold statue of the stones, become more evident when nearing the sight with the backdrop of clear green plains surrounding the sight. To learn more about the myths of Stonehenge, click here. Should you be looking for a trip from London to take the children away for the day during half-term, then Stonehenge is a recommended sight. In addition, it’s maintained and owned by the British Heritage. If indeed the young ones have been eating their greens, then gather the gang to see if you can pull the equivalent of a Stonehenge stone. Don’t forget to visit the museum, and café and be sure to make a pit stop at the shop for a souvenir. 

 

There’s much to be enjoyed, take our coach, avoid the Stonehenge admission fee and skip the queue with us here.

A wide picture of Stonehenge
A wide shot of Stonehenge

The 1,000 Year Old Windsor Castle

Situated on the outskirts of London, Windsor Castle offers an enchanting experience for solo travellers and families. Windsor stands as one of the longest-inhabited Castles in the world and was cherished and enjoyed most by the late Queen Elizabeth II. Experience the attraction, get up close and learn about royal history!

There is much to be gazed upon and appreciated within the rooms of Windsor Castle. Walk around and experience the State Apartments and Semi-State Rooms, which are adorned with priceless works of art and fine furniture suited for a royal reputation. St. George’s Chapel displays ancient Gothic architecture on its outside. Inside, experience the sobering atmosphere where Kings and Queens of the past have been laid to rest, from Henry VIII to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Visit Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, which is the largest and most famous dolls’ house in the world. Celebrating, its 100th anniversary, visit the 1:12 scale replica which has running water and electricity. There’s more to visit, but significantly – Be sure to visit the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Enjoy the military spectacle with precise drills and discipline, performed by real soldiers who guard the Castle!

The busy season of Windsor Castle is upon us! With no admission fee to worry about and the ability to skip the queue with us, book your Windsor Castle half-term trip here. 

Inside Windsor Castle with the famous Round Tower in the back of the frame.
Inside Windsor Castle, a shot with The Round Tower in the background.

The Place of The Roman Baths

A city founded by the Roman empire, Bath is a historic city with traits of its past ingrained in the city’s culture. From its gold limestone architecture, famous Roman Baths and famous poets – Bath makes for an aesthetically pleasing place to visit. Trace the steps of famous legends and get up close with history first-hand.

 

Much of Bath’s attractions can be walked to within the city centre. Most famously is the Roman Baths which have been preserved to show the ingenuity of the Roman’s complex structure. Would you consider yourself a Bridgerton fan? Some of Bath’s historic buildings are grade I or II buildings which means you’ll be visiting buildings with their near-original looks. during the 18th century when most of them were inhabited by the affluent communities at the time. Should you be a Bridgerton fan, then Bath was at the heart of some of the season’s 2 scenes. These include Beauford Square, The Assembly Room, Abbey Green and more. Lastly, a classic to be enjoyed by the family, especially for the younger ones is the the famous “Roly’s Fudge Pantry”. Get some live-action fudge being made.

 

One of our most popular tours is from London to Stonehenge and Bath. Perfect for solo travellers and families, learn more here.

Part of The Circus
A side shot of the The Circus at Bath

Into The World of Harry Potter

The Harry Porter Studios is a classic family treat! For all ages, from those who’ve grown up along with the Harry Potter stars and feel the nostalgia, to those who are young and have discovered the magic created by JK Rowling recently. Any familiarity with the world of Potter means you’ll find yourself and those with you reliving classical moments. The studio offers an immersive world with replicated scenes, props and items from the movies.

 

Get your friends and family to relive fan favourites – You’ll get to Board the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9¾, Wander through the Great Hall, see Dumbledore’s office, and Diagon Alley, marvelling at the intricate details that brought J.K. Rowling’s world to life on screen. Dive into the behind-the-scenes magic of filmmaking, discovering the secrets of special effects and animatronics that made Harry Potter’s world so captivating.

 

Grab your Harry Memorabilia and costume, and join us on a tour of Harry Potter Studio which includes a walking tour of London film locations here!

Harry Potter Tour - Figure all of three main characters. Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley.
The Gryffindor Common Room - Harry Potter Tour - Figure all of three main characters.

The Stones Circle's of Avebury

Found within the Wiltshire countryside, Avebury village is known for its ancient neolithic stone circles which take centre stage of the village and date back over 4,500 years. Unlike the famous Stonehenge, the stones are divided into 4 quadrants. Each with names that reflect upon old myths, traditions, rituals and ceremonies that were once considered a sacred area. Fast forward to today, interest in the village remains an attraction to visit.

Embark on a scenic walk along the Avebury Landscape, where you can discover ancient burial mounds of similar size to the Egyptian pyramids, and learn about the 4 quadrants and Stone Circle with your family. In addition, visit the 16th-century Avebury Manor which often holds exhibitions with great-looking gardens surrounding the manor. If your family is a wild bunch with a good appetite or perhaps you’re a solo traveller with a taste for the extra terrestrial. Then, The Red Lion is assumedly the most haunted pub in the whole of Britain, so grab some good hearty English “grub” but don’t be spooked! Avebury makes for a family-driven adventure with the great outdoors as the scenery. Learn more about our Avebury tour from London here.

Avebury Stone Circle tour from London
Avebury Stone Circle tour from London

The Relaxing Atmosphere of the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is known for its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere that can be enjoyed simply. Covering nearly 800 square miles, the Cotswolds is full of wonderful scenery, markets and cottages.

Explore charming towns like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, with their picturesque streets, historic churches, and family-run shops. Hike through scenic countryside trails, visit historic landmarks like Blenheim Palace, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful ambience with a simple family day out in the English countryside. Find out more about our Cotswolds day trip from London. 

Cotswolds villages
Cotswolds villages

The Cherished Culture of Canterbury

Canterbury is known for its places of worship and cultural landmarks. So significant is Canterbury, that it’s an official UNESCO World Heritage site. This means that the city is of “Outstanding Universal Value” and is important for keeping the culture built over many years alive for all to enjoy!

 

Famous to Canterbury, at its centre is none other than its Cathedral where Justin Welby, Senior Cleric of The Church of England is situated. Visit the UK’s most visited site walk inside of its walls and learn of its 1,400 years of history. Discover the city’s rich literary heritage at the Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction, or take a leisurely boat trip along the River Stour. A great family activity is to visit the Wildwood Trust. A sanctuary and conservation charity which has up to 200 animals. On the museum front, both Canterbury’s Roman and heritage museums are worth their while during a day in the City.

 

Find out more about our Dover And Canterbury Day Tour which includes access to Canterbury Cathedral & Dover Castle. Learn more here.

Canterbury Cathedral
Inside shot of Canterbury Cathedral

Prestigious Oxford

On the Doorstep of the Cotswolds is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Oxford is a “bucket-list” destination with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene! Oxford is a family-friendly destination with many of the activities encouraging children’s participation. 

 

Explore the famous colleges of Oxford University, including Christ Church and Magdalen College, or wander through the city’s picturesque streets lined with historic buildings and bustling markets. Visit iconic landmarks like the Bodleian Library and the Ashmolean Museum, or take a leisurely punt along the tranquil River Thames. With its blend of academic excellence, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, Oxford promises an enriching experience for solo adventurers and families alike. Get an idea of what a trip involving Oxford looks like here!

Oxford Tour
Picture of The Radcliffe Camera

World Class Cambridge

Renowned for its world-class university and breath taking architecture, Cambridge offers a captivating escape for travellers during the half-term break.

 

Learn about the historic colleges of Cambridge University, including King’s College and Trinity College. Take a stroll along the scenic Backs, where you can enjoy views of the iconic punts gliding along the River Cam. Discover the city’s rich cultural heritage at the Fitzwilliam Museum. Decide on a Family favourite with the natural beauty of the Cambridge University Botanic Garden. Find out more about our trips up to Cambridge

Cambridge - Trinity College
Cambridge - Trinity College

Mythical Glastonbury

Glastonbury isn’t just known it’s a music festival that sees many young people come from all over the country for a weekend of festival fun. The town is considered a place steeped in mystical allure and a vibrant energy with echoes of history that represent its past. There is much to do and be involved in. From the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, the sacred sight of Chalice well to the views of Somerset countryside as well as other nature walks, perfect for families looking to enjoy the outdoors outside of London for a day trip.

 

For those looking for the vibrant culture of the High Street, you’ll find it full of electric shops with treasures and souvenirs to Glastonbury’s vegan eateries which cater to all preferences. Titled the “hippiest town in the UK”, it offers a magical escape for solo adventures to immerse yourself in more sights such as the Glastonbury Mural trial to the Goddess Temple. Be sure to grab a trip up with us by visiting our Glastonbury day trip page here!

Glastonbury High Street
Glastonbury High Street

Day Trips From London - All Aboard!

Inspired, ready to take action? View all the tours from London. Should a visual comparison appeal more to you? Remove the hassle of travel, focus on activities and plan for the day to maximise your fun. Enjoy the half-term, whether you’re a solo traveller, with friends or family, we have tours from London to suit your destination of interest. 

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