You’ve enjoyed the popular city of London and its great attractions. It’s time to leave the bustling activity behind for a day trip from London! Here’s a range of tours – Grab friends and family for a special trip!
Click straight to your day trip of interest below:
Your Go-To Day Trips from London
1. Stonehenge
Stonehenge is one of England’s most iconic prehistoric monuments in Wiltshire. Reaching 13 feet in height, this ancient site marks a significant shift in human history. Full of mystery, its true purpose remains unknown. Popular theories suggest it was used for ceremonial gatherings, burials, or astronomical observations.
A visit to Stonehenge will leave you pondering these possibilities. The attraction draws over a million visitors annually and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the UK. The tourist staple when it comes to taking day trips from London!
Things to do:
Audio Tour: Be sure to use the official Stonehenge audio guide by the British Heritage. Access this by getting the app from your app store, which comes in 13 different translations.
Summer Solstice: Experience the magic of the longest day of the year when the sun aligns perfectly with the stones.
Inner Circle Access: Get up close to Stonehenge without restriction!
What to know in 2025:
Summer Solstice Celebrations: The Annual celebration is the biggest Stonehenge gathering as people witness the sunrise on the ancient stones.
Half-Term History Makers at Stonehenge: Family-friendly activities and workshops during the February half-term break.
Stonehenge and Bath Guided Day Trip from London
From London, go to the Stonehenge trip to see the standing stones. Then go from Stonehenge to Bath to explore the city of Bath and the Roman Baths (optional).
2. Windsor Castle
Did you know that one of the world’s largest inhabited castles is just a stone’s throw away from London? Windsor Castle has been a royal residence for nearly a millennium. It offers a glimpse into centuries of British history, showcasing the riches and honour of the royal family.
A half-day tour of Windsor Castle will suffice, with an ideal time of 2h 30m being needed to tour the attraction. See where the royals worship, pay your respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, and see where ceremonials and presidential visits happen! Remember, it’s a royal residence, so keep your eyes peeled for royal family members.
Things to do:
State Apartments: Tour the lavishly decorated rooms used by royalty.
St. George’s Chapel: Visit this gothic-designed Chapel and burial place of past monarchs.
Queen Mary’s Doll’s House: See the intricate masterpiece created for Queen Mary in the 1920s.
Changing of the Guard: The historic and proud ceremony change of the King’s Guard.
Multimedia Guide: Windsor Castle provides free multimedia guides to everyone!
- Read your Windsor Castle Guide here!
What to know in 2025:
- £1 Windsor Castle admission – Starting in 2025, a new scheme offers £1 tickets for individuals receiving Universal Credit or other benefits. This makes for a great opportunity if you’re looking to get on a day out but are restricted due to finances.
Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London Including Entry
Explore St George’s Chapel, State Apartments and other royal attractions your guide will tell you about.
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3. Cotswolds
You’ve probably heard of the Cotswolds in a conversation with friends or on social media in the past year. The Cotswolds grew in popularity as a pleasant region to visit, with its beautiful and lush countryside.
The limestone and gold buildings, markets, footpaths, wildflower meadows and woodlands are utopia features of the Cotswolds. The beauty of the Cotswolds is maintained and protected as it’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Therefore, visiting the destination will feel like a privilege worth having! Day trips to the Cotswolds are best enjoyed by a coach. This is due to the length of travel in between villages.
What to see (Cotswold Villages):
- Stow on the Wold, Burford, Chipping Campden, Bourton-on-the-water and Bibury
What to know in 2025:
- The Big Festival – This popular Cotswolds Festival includes live performances, food, rides, experiences, and more – August 22nd – 24th, 2025.
- Cotswold Fest – A camp celebration with the community enjoying music, the countryside and local food – July 25th – 27th, 2025.
The Cotswolds Guided Day Trip from London
From £85
Visit the Cotswolds from London, and stroll through Bibury, stow on the wold and many more beautiful Cotswolds villages.
4. Kent: Dover and Canterbury
Kent offers a delightful blend of historic castles, stunning natural beauty, and distinctive regional architecture. It also played a significant role in both World Wars. We recommend visiting three locations on a day trip to Kent which is detailed below.
What to see:
Dover Castle: Known as the “Key to England,” this imposing fortress overlooks the English Channel and offers breath taking views. See the network of war tunnels from the Napoleonic era, and the museums that show the live of medieval times to word war 2.
The White Cliffs of Dover: These iconic chalk cliffs are a must-see for all people and is taken care of by National Trust.
Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent Gothic cathedral is the site to enjoy and learn the years of history under one roof.
What to know in 2025:
“Inside Constable’s Tower” Tour: Happening 16th January, 2025. (Dover Castle – Members only)
“Operation Fortitude” Exhibit: Unveiling 2nd March, 2025. (Dover Castle – Members only)
“The Lost Landscapes” Tour: Launching 7th March, 2025. (Dover Castle – Members only)
Silent Disco at Canterbury Cathedral, February 22nd, 2025 – 80s, 90s, & 00s.
Dover Castle, White Cliffs and Canterbury Guided Day Trip from London
From £115
Take a day trip from London to Canterbury and tour inside the Cathedral. Go to Dover and see the White Cliffs of Dover. Visit Dover Castle including the secret war tunnels.
5. Bath
Bath is a famous city known for its golden stone buildings, Georgian architecture, and Roman Baths. Founded in 43 AD by the Romans, the city was built around natural hot springs. The 18th century brought a new style of architecture to Bath. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is a great place to visit as a historic city while enjoying cultural elegance.
What to see:
- Roman Baths – See the well-preserved hot springs used centuries ago.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – A fantastic way to see all the popular sights in a timely manner. Pay a single fee, get off at a particular location, snap photos and get on the next bus! Great to see the Royal Crescent, the Circus, Milsom Street, and more.
- Jane Austen Centre – A special treat into the life of the famous Jane Austen but also of the Regency era!
- The Pump Room – TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards 2024, experience something of the Georgian era for delicious meals.
- Thermae Bath Spa
What to know in 2025:
Bath & West Food Drink Festival – 22nd – 24 March, 2025.
Jane Austen Festival: Celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth from – September 12th–21st, 2025.
The Bath Festival: features music, literature, and art.
Visit the Roman Baths Museum in Bath and Wiltshire
From £125
Explore the Roman Baths museum in Bath – See the ancient thermal pools and sacred Spring, and artefacts from Roman Britain and the prehistoric Stonehenge in Wilshire.
6. Oxford
Oxford is a historic university city famous for its beautiful architecture, world-class education, and rich culture. Well-known colleges like Christ Church and Magdalen College are architectural masterpieces.
Beyond academics, Oxford offers a wealth of cultural experiences. Explore the Botanic Garden, wander the historic market square, or punt on the River Cherwell. Oxford’s lovely atmosphere and spirit make it a tempting destination to visit.
What to see:
Ashmolean Museum Museum of Natural History for a cultural deep-dive.
Bodleian Library -Walking tour of Oxford’s world-famous colleges, including Christ Church.
Blenheim Palace – The seat of the Dukes of Marlborough, one of Britain’s greatest palaces. Now a country house, open to the public.
What to do in 2025:
Shakespeare’s Birthday Parade: Happening in April 2025.
Alice Day: Celebrate Lewis Carroll’s famed character.
Oxford and Cambridge Guided Day Trip from London
From £89
See the grand and famous cities of Oxford & Cambridge. Explore the history and architecture. Visit Bodleian Library, Oxford University, Kings College Chapel and more with this tour!
7. Cambridge
Cambridge is a beautiful city in England, famous for its world-class university. You can explore stunning college buildings like King’s College Chapel. A boat trip along the River Cam offers great views of the city.
The Fitzwilliam Museum has amazing art collections. Cambridge Market Square is full of local shops and street food. The Botanic Garden is perfect for nature lovers. Cambridge’s history, beautiful scenery, and cultural attractions make it a great place to visit.
Things to see:
University of Cambridge – Learn about the student experience and take a tour through the university!
Church of St Mary – Climb the tower to get 360 views of the surrounding area of Cambridge.
Trinity College
The Fitzwilliam Museum – See the collection of art and antiquities of the University of Cambridge.
Mill Lane Punting Station – Take a serene punting tour for unforgettable views of the city’s landmarks.
What to do in 2025:
Cambridge Folk Festival – Join others from around Europe at one of the most famous folk festivals in the world – July 31st – August 3rd, 2025.
Cambridge Day Trip from London
From £79
Adventure into Cambridge from London, the second oldest English city. See University of Cambridge, St Mary’s Church, go putting and more. Click to see the Cambridge itinerary.
8. Glastonbury
Perhaps one of the most spiritualistic day trips from London. Glastonbury is a small town in Somerset, famous for its annual music festival. Often called the “hippiest town in the UK,” it attracts people interested in music, spirituality, and history.
With many unique independent shops selling everything from crafts to magic cards, Glastonbury is a special place. It’s a free-spirited town with a lot to offer.
What to see:
Glastonbury Abbey – History and myth, see one of the earliest Christian foundations and the burial place of King Arthur.
Chalice Well Gardens – Come up close to sacred waters that many have made pilgrimages to to receive healing according to myth.
Glastonbury Tor – Walk up the hill to the pagan site of Glastonbury Tor and enjoy the Somerset plains!
What to do in 2025:
2025 Glastonbury Festival
Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza – August 9th 2025 – Headlined by The Script.
Glastonbury Abbey Medieval Faye – Travel back to medieval times with re-enacted battles, war demonstrations and more – April 26th – April 27th 2025
Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge Guided Day Trip from London
From £89
Explore Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge and go down the Cheddar caves. Adventure out of London into Somerset to areas full of history, legend & beautiful landscapes.
9. Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a beautiful island off the south coast of England. Making for a great option if you’re interested in seaside day trips. It’s a great place to escape the busy city and enjoy nature and beaches. You can explore the coastline, visit charming towns, and see historic sites like Osborne House and Sandown Beach. To get to the Isle of Wight, you’ll need to take a ferry from Southampton.
What to see:
Shanklin Chine – Trees, lush vegetation and waterfalls at this popular attraction.
Osborne House – The once beloved home retreat for Queen Victoria.
Carisbrooke Castle – From an artillery fortress to a romantic castle, see the historic castle and meet Carisbrooke donkeys!
The Needles – Seaside Town
What to Know in 2025
- Cowes Week – International regatta racing, spectator friendly – August 2nd – 8th, 2025
- Isle of Wight Festival – The annual British music festival in Newport, Isle of Wight – June 19th – 22nd, 2025
Isle of Wight Day Trip from London
From £109
Journey with us across land and sea! Tour the Isle of Wight. Explore the horizons with the Needles Chairlift. Visit Osborne House, home to past royalty and Stroll through Godshill Village.
10. Cardiff
Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is the largest city in the country. It’s a mix of old and new buildings, making it unique. The city is known for its friendly people and great arts scene, making it a great place for tourists. You can explore museums, galleries, and the waterfront area of Cardiff Bay.
What to see:
Cardiff Bay: A vibrant waterfront district with much to do such as stays, attractions, food & drink and shopping.
Millennium Centre: Iconic performing arts centre
Cardiff Castle: Historic Norman castle that has a story of 2,000 years!
Pierhead Building: Striking landmark building
Techniquest: Interactive science discovery centre.
National Museum Cardiff: World-class art and history museum.
What to Know in 2025:
- Caerphilly Food & Drink Festival – In the town centre of Cardiff, food & drinks, craft and an artisan market – April 12th, 2025.
- Cardiff Mela – Seeing over 30,000 people, this free event see performers, funfair rides and activities – Summer 2025
Cardiff Day Trip from London
From £99
Go across the border with a London to Wales day trip. Explore Cardiff, sightsee and stop by Cardiff Bay, Wales Millennium Centre, and Penarth seafront for a memorable day.
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