4 Day Trips From London, England: A Guide to Escaping The City!

Today we’re sharing 4 different day trips from London you should consider on your next visit.

There is so much more to England than London, its dynamic capital city. Shocking, I know! This isn’t meant to sound patronizing at all; this is a fact that even Londoners quite often forget.

It’s all too easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of big city life, especially if that city has an incredible range of historic attractions and weekly cultural events.

Here are the Best Day Trips from London 

However, while London appears to have it all, it certainly doesn’t represent the entirety of England.

Thankfully, the number of trains and buses you can take to explore the rest of the country are plentiful and extremely convenient. I urge you to take full advantage of this and break out of The Big Smoke, even if it’s just for a day.

Also, fun London fact: this city has twice as many tourists each year than residents, so that’s another reason to explore beyond the capital.

Trade in those skyscrapers and noisy streets for a taste of some ancient monuments and rolling, green hills. Go on, I dare you!

Here are some easy day trips from London to get you started:

Windsor

The Royal Borough of Windsor is located less than 30 miles from London which means easy access by car, train, or bus.

I’d highly recommend taking the train from Paddington Station. After one easy change at Slough, you’ll find yourself arriving at Windsor & Eaton Central in just under 30 minutes.

Not only is this railway station a 19th century gem, but it just so happens to be located almost directly across from Windsor Castle. After all, Windsor Castle is the main attraction!

This is one of several official residences belonging to HRH Queen Elizabeth II and her family, but it’s common knowledge that Windsor is her favourite. As her weekend retreat, she arrives every Friday, or sometimes Thursday if she can get away from Buckingham Palace early.

It was William the Conqueror who chose the site for Windsor Castle and began building in 1070. That’s over 900 incredible years of history! Every monarch since King Henry I in the 12th century has used Windsor Castle.

Just admiring the castle is enough to impress you, but learning about how it survived so many tumultuous years throughout history is truly mind blowing.

If you have more time to explore outside the castle walls, I’d recommend visiting The Guildhall which has been the town hall of Windsor since the 1600’s. Inside you’ll find a few rooms filled with rare portraits of England’s most notable monarchs.

If you’ve had enough of the royals, I’d recommend strolling the cobbled streets in the town center, passing along colourful buildings which date back to the 15th century.

When your feet get tired, hop on a river boat for an hour and sail up and down the River Thames, taking in beautiful views of the castle.

Salisbury

Salisbury is mainly known for its stunning cathedral and its close proximity to Stonehenge. Both of these are reason enough to hop on a 90 minute train from London for a day trip.

This cathedral city recently celebrated its 800 year anniversary and you’ll find traces of its extraordinary history sprinkled throughout the city.

Before heading straight to Salisbury Cathedral, take your time to walk through the charming city center.

If you’re visiting on a Tuesday or Saturday, you’ll see the market in the main square. Like most markets, you’ll be able to purchase locally sourced food, as well as handmade gifts and souvenirs. What’s impressive is the fact that there’s been a market held here since the 1300’s!

I’d recommend eating at the Ox Row Inn on Butcher Row or any of the delicious Indian restaurants on Fisherton Street.

Salisbury’s city center is extremely walkable and you’ll be able to get around easily thanks to helpful street signs for tourists.

When you finally make it to Salisbury Cathedral, take a moment before you enter to admire one of the finest examples of early English Gothic architecture from the 12th century.

Try and fathom the incredible hard work, skill, and bravery it took to build something like this without the help of modern-day machinery.

Luckily, the cathedral is free to enter but I’d highly recommend taking the 90-minute Tower Tour for about 12 pounds.

Expert guides will give you a “behind the scenes” tour of the cathedral and take you up to the very top where you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views over Salisbury and Wiltshire County.

I wouldn’t recommend spending more than an hour or so at Stonehenge, but it is so worth seeing if you’re already in Salisbury. It’s an easy 8-mile bus ride which you can combine with your entry ticket when you book ahead online.

To be honest, I don’t want to tell you much about Stonehenge. I think it’s better to visit with an open mind and imagination.

Why? Well, it’s quite a mysterious place as many historians have varying opinions on how the stones got there and what their purpose was. This leaves some people either fascinated or bored. Personally, I love a good mystery.

There’s also a great audio guide you can download on your smart phone and a brand new visitor’s center which houses permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Lacock

Two words: Harry Potter. If you’re a fan, then a day trip to Lacock should be very high on your list. Be sure to hop on a Great Western Train from Paddington Station in London with Chippenham as your destination, just two hours away.

Lacock s a very small village without a local rail station so once you’re in Chippenham, take the local X34 bus which takes you directly to Lacock.

It might sound like a lot of fuss, but I promise you it isn’t. And even so, it’s absolutely worth it!

Head straight to Lacock Abbey if you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan or history buff. This picturesque country home dates back to the 13th century, built upon the foundations of a former nunnery.

Visitors can explore the medieval rooms which may be recognizable from the first and second Harry Potter Films. Several of these rooms, as well as the cloisters, were used as the classrooms and school hallways of Hogwarts.

There are so many different layers of history to discover and learn about at Lacock Abbey.

If the weather is nice, I’d recommend exploring their extensive grounds as well.

Lacock was also used as a film set for the 2005 version of Pride and Prejudice, which is why the streets might look a bit familiar.

Walking through this quaint village is like stepping back in time. You won’t find any chain restaurants here, only cozy pubs and cafes.

Speaking of pubs, you must try the fish and chips at Sign of the Angel. This was actually a coaching inn back in the 1400’s and visitors today can enjoy the charm and history over a good meal. The inviting atmosphere of the pub reflects the overall feel of Lacock.

Oxford

I’m sure it’s no surprise that the famous collegiate town of Oxford has made this list. Yes, it’s very touristy, but that’s no reason to avoid it!

If you’re adamant about avoiding crowds, I’d steer clear from visiting on weekends or during school holidays. From London, you can easily book a coach through Megabus and pay less than 5 pounds each way if you book ahead. It’s a two hour journey on a very comfortable, double-decker bus. What more could you want?

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My number one piece of advice? Don’t make any plans before visiting Oxford. Despite the whole city looking like a movie set, real students attend these prestigious colleges which means certain areas can be closed at weird times or dates which conflict with what their websites say.

Besides, the best activity to do in Oxford is walk. There’s really no better way to explore the winding, cobbled streets, and to soak in the incredible history of this university which was founded over 900 years ago!

Please don’t leave without seeing the stunning views atop the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. It was originally built in the 13th century and is the center from which the University of Oxford grew.

It’s free to enter and 4 pounds to climb to the top of the church tower.

Another must-see is Bodleian Library, where a guided tour for 7 pounds will take you around one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and another filming location for the Harry Potter films.

If the weather is nice, bring a picnic to Christ Church Meadow where you’ll find a tranquil, open space in the middle of Oxford. It’s the perfect place to relax and absorb everything you’ve seen in this enchanting and historic city.

What are your thoughts on day trips from London?

Planning Your London Day Trips: Routes, Timings and Practical Tips

Here’s everything useful in one place — how to get to each destination, how long to allow, what it costs, and which hotels and tours make the most sense as a base for your day out.

At a Glance: The Four Day Trips Compared

*Times are for the fastest options; off-peak, weekends and engineering works can add time.

Getting There Without Overpaying

• Train vs coach: Trains are quicker and pricier; coaches (National Express/Megabus) are slower but often very cheap if booked early. For Oxford, a coach can be a real bargain; for Windsor and Salisbury, trains are the better call.
• Paying: Use Contactless or Oyster within the TfL network, or book rail tickets in advance for off-peak and super off-peak fares. A Railcard (if eligible) cuts fares by around a third.
• 2-for-1 deals: If you arrive by train, check Days Out Guide 2-for-1 offers — Windsor, Oxford museums and other attractions sometimes participate. Print vouchers and show your train ticket at the gate.
• Stonehenge bus: From Salisbury station, buy the combo Stonehenge Tour bus and entry ticket. Timed slots make life easy — go early or late for softer light and fewer people.
• Lacock bus: From Chippenham station, take the X34 (or local equivalent) to Lacock village. Buses are reliable but not constant — photograph the return times when you arrive.

Sample Itineraries

Windsor: Castle, River and Eton (5–7 hours)

Morning

• Train to Windsor & Eton Central. Grab a coffee under the station’s ironwork canopy.
• Windsor Castle (allow 2–3 hours): State Apartments, St George’s Chapel and the doll’s house if open. Chapel is a working church — Sundays are worship only.

Lunch

• Pubs along Thames Street or a picnic in Alexandra Gardens by the river.

Afternoon

• Eton footbridge stroll (10–15 mins) for collegiate buildings and antique shops.
• River cruise (45–60 mins) for castle-from-the-water views.
• Treat: Windsor Farm Shop for something good to eat on the train home.

Salisbury and Stonehenge: Cathedral and Ancient Stones (Full Day)

Morning

• Train to Salisbury; wander the market square (Tue/Sat) and Fisherton Street cafés.
• Walk the Cathedral Close and join the Tower Tour (book ahead) for the medieval engineering and Wiltshire views.

Midday

• Hearty pub lunch — Ox Row Inn or one of the Indian restaurants on Fisherton Street (Salisbury does very good Indian).

Afternoon

• Stonehenge Tour Bus from the station (combo ticket). Pace the outer path slowly and use the audio guide — the layers of theory, myth and archaeology make it.
• Return to Salisbury for tea and a gentle stroll along the Town Path — meadows, cathedral framed like a painting.

Lacock: Cloisters, Cottages and Cream Tea (6–7 Hours with Travel)

Morning

• Train to Chippenham, bus to Lacock. Wander the medieval streets first to beat the later groups.
• Lacock Abbey (National Trust): cloisters (spot the Harry Potter classrooms), Fox Talbot Museum of early photography, then the abbey grounds for dreamy riverbank photos.

Lunch

• Sign of the Angel for elevated pub classics, or a garden tea room for cream tea under roses.

Afternoon

• Slow loop of the village — timber-frame façades, stone cottages, and a browse for local honey or pottery.
• Optional: bus back to Chippenham and a 15-minute train to Bath for golden hour on Pulteney Bridge — you’ll want to return for a full Bath day soon.

Oxford: Colleges, Libraries and Meadows (Full Day)

Morning

• Train or coach in, walk everywhere. Start at Radcliffe Camera for that “I’m really here” moment.
• Bodleian Library guided tour (bookable on arrival; sells out quickly) and the Divinity School, also famous from the Harry Potter films.

Lunch

• Covered Market (since the 1770s) for local stalls, fresh pasta or a pie.

Afternoon

• Climb the University Church of St Mary the Virgin tower for panoramic spire views — four pounds very well spent.
• Drop into the Ashmolean (free) or Pitt Rivers (donation) — both world-class and wildly different.
• If the sun’s out: punting on the Cherwell (hire with a chauffeur if your balance is aspirational).
• Finish in Christ Church Meadow for a slow, satisfied amble back to the station.

What to Budget

• Transport: £15–£45 return train (destination, advance timing and railcards all matter); £10–£20 return coach to Oxford.
• Entry: Windsor Castle ~£30; Salisbury Cathedral free/donation; Tower Tour extra (book ahead); Stonehenge ~£20–£25 with bus; Lacock Abbey ~£17 (free with National Trust); Oxford colleges and tours £5–£15.
• Food: £10–£15 quick bite; £18–£30 pub lunch; £4–£7 coffee and cake; £6–£9 cream tea.
• Extras: River cruise £12–£18; punting £25–£40 per boat/hour (share the cost).

Saver tricks: Travel off-peak, split fares where legal, bring a reusable bottle (free refills are common), and picnic one meal — English supermarkets do excellent meal deals.

Best Time of Year to Go

• Spring (Apr–May): Blossom in Oxford’s meadows; gentler temperatures for Stonehenge.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Long days, river cruises and punting — but book everything and start early.
• Autumn (Sep–Oct): Golden light on cloisters and spires; vineyards near Windsor at their best.
• Winter (Nov–Mar): Shorter days and some reduced hours, but Oxford’s museums and Salisbury Cathedral shine as cosy, weather-proof highlights.

What to Pack

• Layers and a rain shell — the forecast can’t be trusted.
• Comfortable shoes — cobbles and cathedral steps are merciless.
• Portable charger — maps and photos drain batteries fast.
• Small cash — village buses and tiny tea rooms often prefer it.
• Downloaded/printed tickets — signal can be patchy in rural spots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-scheduling: Two big destinations in one day sounds efficient; it’s usually exhausting. Pick one and savour it.
• Not checking closures: Chapel services, college events, private functions — always check official sites the day before.
• Arriving midday in summer: You’ll queue more and see less. Start early, lunch late, and enjoy the calmer afternoons.
• Ignoring the weather: A lightweight umbrella and a flexible attitude beat any forecast.

Where to Stay in London

All four day trips depart from central London train stations — Paddington for Windsor, Oxford and Lacock; Waterloo for Salisbury. Staying near either station saves time and makes early departures effortless. Three well-regarded options:

• Hilton London Paddington — directly connected to Paddington Station by a covered walkway; the most convenient option if you’re combining Windsor, Oxford and Lacock in your trip. Reliable, central and well-reviewed.
• citizenM London Bankside — a few minutes’ walk from Waterloo Station, sharp modern design and consistently strong reviews. The natural base if Salisbury and Stonehenge are your priority, and a great all-round London pick.
• Premier Inn London County Hall — on Westminster Bridge Road within walking distance of Waterloo, with Thames and Houses of Parliament views at a price point that’s hard to beat for the location. Good value pick for families or anyone wanting to stretch the budget.

Tours Worth Booking

If you’d rather leave the logistics to someone else — or want a guide who brings the history to life — check out the following:

• Windsor Castle guided day tour from London — typically includes return transport, skip-the-line entry and a guided walk through the State Apartments. Good option if it’s your first visit and you want the history explained properly rather than pieced together from signs.
• Stonehenge, Salisbury and Bath full-day tour — the most popular version of the Salisbury day trip, combining all three in one guided loop from London. Efficient if you want to tick off Stonehenge without managing the bus connections independently.
• Oxford day tour from London — guided walking tours of the colleges, Bodleian and covered market with someone who can actually explain which quadrangle is which and why it matters. The Harry Potter location context is usually included.
• Harry Potter filming locations day trip — typically covers Oxford (Bodleian’s Divinity School, Christ Church) and sometimes includes Lacock Abbey. A dedicated tour for serious fans who want every detail and don’t want to miss anything.

Day Trips from London FAQ

What are the easiest four day trips from London by public transport?

Windsor, Salisbury (with Stonehenge add-on), Lacock (via Chippenham) and Oxford. All are reachable in about 30–120 minutes on direct or one-change trains and coaches, with frequent services most days.

Train or coach — what should I book for each place?

• Windsor: Train (Paddington→Slough→Windsor & Eton Central) or direct from Waterloo.
• Salisbury: Train from Waterloo.
• Lacock: Train to Chippenham, then local bus (X34 or current equivalent).
• Oxford: Either train (faster) or coach (cheaper if booked early).

How long do I actually need in each destination?

• Windsor: 5–7 hours (castle, Eton and river).
• Salisbury and Stonehenge: A full day (cathedral, Tower Tour and stones).
• Lacock: 6–7 hours including the abbey and village wander.
• Oxford: A full day to tour colleges, climb St Mary’s tower and possibly punt.

Can I visit Windsor Castle without huge queues?

Arrive near opening (especially in summer and holidays), buy timed entry tickets in advance, and visit St George’s Chapel earlier in the day — it’s closed to sightseers during services, particularly on Sundays.

Do I need to prebook Stonehenge?

Strongly recommended. Buy the combined Stonehenge Tour Bus and entry ticket from Salisbury station. Choose an early or late slot for fewer crowds and softer light.

How do I see the Harry Potter filming locations in Lacock and Oxford?

• Lacock Abbey: The cloisters and several rooms doubled as Hogwarts in the first and second films.
• Oxford: The Bodleian’s Divinity School and Duke Humfrey’s Library both feature in the films. Book a Bodleian tour on arrival — slots sell quickly.

What’s the best Oxford viewpoint for photos?

Climb the University Church of St Mary the Virgin tower for panoramic spire views, then photograph Radcliffe Camera at ground level and finish with a stroll through Christ Church Meadow.

What are good markets and food stops on these trips?

• Salisbury: Market (Tue/Sat), Ox Row Inn for pub fare, and good Indian on Fisherton Street.
• Oxford: Covered Market and riverside picnics.
• Windsor: Thames Street pubs and Alexandra Gardens for a picnic.
• Lacock: Cream tea gardens and Sign of the Angel for a cosy meal.

What are rough costs for transport and entries?

• Trains: ~£15–£45 return (advance and off-peak vary; Railcards save around a third).
• Coach to Oxford: ~£10–£20 return if booked early.
• Entries: Windsor Castle ~£30; Stonehenge ~£20–£25 with bus; Lacock Abbey ~£17 (free with National Trust); Oxford college and library tours £5–£15; Salisbury Cathedral by donation with Tower Tour extra.

Any money-saving tips?

Travel off-peak, book advance fares, consider a Railcard, and check Days Out Guide 2-for-1 offers when arriving by train. Picnic one meal and use supermarket meal deals for everything else.

What should I pack?

Comfortable walking shoes, layers and a light rain shell, portable charger, reusable water bottle, small cash for village buses and tea rooms, and downloaded or printed tickets for areas where signal can be patchy.

Classic mistakes to avoid?

Over-scheduling two major destinations in one day, not checking for special closures such as services or college events, starting at midday in peak season, and underestimating the weather — a compact umbrella is never wasted in England.