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