In just one or two hours from London you can explore medieval cities, seaside towns, ancient Roman baths or even hop across the Channel for lunch in Paris. And you don’t need a car to do it. The extensive rail network is easy to use and puts plenty of options within easy reach of the capital. These are the quickest and prettiest day trips from London by train.
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Why take a Day Trip from London by Train?
If you’re planning a day out from London you might be wondering whether to travel by train or car. A lot depends on your destination but for a one day trip to a popular city the train is usually the best option.
Travelling by train is a quick, efficient and sustainable way to get around England. None of the pretty and historic cities near London were designed with cars in mind. And by using the train you avoid getting stuck in heavy traffic on the way in and out. It also takes away the worry about navigating or finding places to park. And as a bonus, your seat on the train gives you front-row scenic views as the train passes through the English countryside.
Visitors to London can sometimes find our rail system intimidating. So in this post I’ve picked the best quick and easy day trips from London by train that are all direct journeys, no changes of train needed. I’ve also given links to ready-made tours that include round-trip train travel to take the worry out of the booking process.
Get to Know London’s Train Stations
As you’ll see from the map, London’s major train stations encircle the capital, each serving different regions and destinations. They’re interlinked across central London by the Underground (Tube), overground and bus services. For the easiest day trips from London by train these are the stations to know with direct services to popular destinations:
- Paddington for direct trains to Oxford and Bath
- Marylebone for Oxford, a slower train than from Paddington but this route also stops at Bicester Village designer shopping outlet
- Euston for Oxenholme Lake District
- King’s Cross for Cambridge and York
- St Pancras International for Cambridge, Canterbury and Eurostar to Paris
- Liverpool Street for Cambridge
- London Bridge for Brighton
- Waterloo for Windsor and the New Forest
- Victoria for Brighton
Local’s Tips:
When you’re planning your day trip from London check how long it will take you to get from where you’re staying to your departure station. If you’re crossing London during rush hour and you need to change Tube lines this could take up to an hour. It’s all quite do-able but just extends the time you spend in transit on your day out.
- Book train tickets in advance. They may be delivered to your phone or you may need to pick up the tickets from a ticket machine at the station.
- Double check that you’re booking a direct service, if you want to avoid a change of train
- Allow extra time to find your platform, especially at larger stations like Waterloo or Victoria where dozens of trains depart simultaneously.
- Services can be reduced at weekends and tend to be busier and more liable to disruption. So try to travel on a weekday
Click for an interactive map of best rail stations for day trips from London by train
Click for a map of the best destinations for a day trip by train from London
Day Trip from London to Oxford
- Which London station: Paddington or Marylebone
- Journey time: usually direct and under an hour from Paddington
- Why visit: history, culture, pretty streets, Harry Potter locations
The famous ‘city of dreaming spires’ is also one of the easiest days out from London by train. Oxford is one of Britain’s oldest university towns and, along with Cambridge, attracts some of the smartest minds in the world. Global leaders and thinkers have studied here and some of the beautiful golden stone colleges date back to the 12th century.
Oxford is one of my favorite day trips! It feels far from London, even though the journey takes less than an hour on the train. As you wander the cobbled lanes between the colleges you can almost sense the centuries of tradition and academia, soaked into the stone. This is especially so if you visit during university term time when students hurry between lectures and whizz around town on bicycles.
Things to do in Oxford
Oxford is a walkable city, but to get a proper sense of the place you need to look inside the colleges. Unless you happen to be a prospective student the best way to do this is on an organised tour led by an ex-student. You’ll get fascinating insights into college life.
There’s lots to do in Oxford besides gazing at old buildings. I love the covered market which dates back to the 1770s. And, as you’d expect from a university town, you’ll find lots of fun independent stores and coffee shops. Take a picnic to University Parks and enjoy it by the River Cherwell, watching punts (flat-bottomed boats) float by.
The Ashmolean Museum of art and archeology is free to enter. It has a world-renowned collection from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art. And, if you don’t mind a climb, you can ascend the 127 medieval steps to the top of the tower of the University Church of St Mary for panoramic views across Oxford’s skyline.
Book a day out from London to Oxford by train
Oxford is the setting of many memorable scenes from the Harry Potter films. Visit the iconic Christ Church College and its Chapel which is also Oxford’s cathedral, and don’t miss the grand Bodleian Library and spectacular Divinity School. This organised day trip by train includes a Harry Potter walking tour of Oxford:
From London: Oxford by Rail and Harry Potter Insights Tour
- Round trip train travel from Marylebone station (unescorted)
- 1.5 hr walking tour exploring the Harry Potter film locations with an expert guide
- Entrance to The Divinity School (location of the Infirmary) or, on days when it is unavailable, New College
- Option of stopover at Bicester Village designer outlet shopping centre on return journey
Day Trip from London to Cambridge
- Which London station: Paddington, Kings Cross or Liverpool Street
- Journey time: direct from 50 mins to 1 hr 25m depending on route. It’s a 20 – 25 min walk from the station to the town centre, or a quick hop by bus or cab
- Why visit: history, culture, beautiful colleges, punting on the river
Another stunning and ancient university town, Cambridge is centred around its centuries-old colleges. In this respect it is very similar to Oxford although Cambridge feels more compact.
If forced to choose I’d say Cambridge has the edge on Oxford for scenic prettiness. You feel more immersed in Cambridge’s collegiate history, whilst in Oxford you’re also aware of the larger modern city. Try to visit during term time to experience the authentic buzz of university life.
One of the stand-out sights in Cambridge is King’s College Chapel. its Gothic spires, awe-inspiring fan-vaulted ceiling and world-famous choir draw visitors from around the world.
Take a guided walking tour like this one to gain access to the hidden college courtyards and hear tales of the University’s famous alumni.
Then walk along The Backs, to see the golden college buildings reflected in the calm waters of the River Cam. Here you’ll spot students and visitors engaged in the quintessential Cambridge pastime of punting. This is a fun and unique thing to do – I’ve tried, with varying degrees of success – and you’ll get beautiful views from the river. But don’t worry, there’s no need to wobble around precariously yourself. You can sit back, relax and book a chauffeured punting tour, rather like Venice in fact.
Day Trip from London to Brighton
- Which London station: Victoria or London Bridge
- Journey time: direct from 1 hr to 1 hr 15m depending on route
- Why visit: seaside fun, Regency architecture, indie and vintage shopping
One of the best day trips from London by train is Brighton. Affectionately nicknamed London-on-Sea, this seaside town in East Sussex is close enough to the capital to be a commuter hub. You’ll be sharing your train carriage with locals who combine work in the capital with a coastal lifestyle.
Brighton is a lively city that mixes historic splendour with a contemporary diverse and creative buzz. It’s been a holiday playground since Regency times, and has many of the retro trappings of a traditional British seaside resort.
Things to do in Brighton
Wander through The Lanes, a maze of narrow alleyways that date back to the 16th century when Brighton was a small fishing village. Nowadays they are packed with independent shops and vintage boutiques, the walls adorned with street art and music spilling from the cafes.
Then head to the promenade for some bracing seaside fresh air. Brighton has five miles of pebbly beach with cycle lanes along the seafront and bikes to hire. On the promenade, Brighton Palace Pier juts out to sea with its sweets and treats, arcade games and fairground rides. In contrast the exotic Royal Pavilion lies nearby, an Eastern-inspired palace built by King George IV as his seaside escape.
Brighton beach comes alive in summer when visitors and locals gather to splash in the sea, relax on striped deckchairs and enjoy fish and chips or fresh seafood at promenade restaurants. Time your day trip from London for a sunny day: Brighton shows its best side when the sun shines on its pebbly shores and Regency architecture.
Local’s tip: From Brighton you’re just a short hop away from the spectacular English coastal views of the Seven Sisters white cliffs, overlooking the English Channel. This guided day trip from London by train combines both for a busy day of sightseeing and relaxation:
From London: Seven Sisters and Brighton Full Day Tour
- Pre-booked and escorted direct train travel from London Bridge to Brighton
- Minibus transfer to Birling Gap to view and explore the iconic chalk white cliffs with a knowledgeable guide
- Return to Brighton for a guided city tour of its landmarks and historic streets
- Free time in Brighton to shop, explore, visit the beach or have a meal
- Flexible train ticket to return to London Bridge at your own pace
Day Trip from London to Bath
- Which London station: Paddington
- Journey time: direct 1hr 20 m
- Why visit: Roman baths, historic spa town, Jane Austen and Bridgerton connections
Set among the rolling hills of Somerset, Bath is an entire UNESCO World Heritage city. Between its Roman history and stunning Georgian buildings it’s an architectural masterpiece.
The Roman Baths, built around natural hot springs, still give us a glimpse of ancient Roman life. And Jane Austen fans will know that the Pump Rooms, where visitors could drink the mineral-rich waters of the spa, were the epicentre of the upper-class Georgian social scene.
Nowadays, for a modern take on the city’s spa tradition, you can soak in the warm waters of Thermae Bath Spa’s rooftop pool, while taking in views across Bath’s honey-coloured stone buildings.
And you can still walk the same streets that inspired Austen’s novels. At the Pump Room you can enjoy an elegant brunch or afternoon tea in the same salon where Jane and her characters mingled.
More recently, Bath has featured in the Netflix series of Bridgerton, standing in for London as a key location. You can visit many of these familiar settings as you walk around town. The grand sweep of Georgian townhouses known as the Royal Crescent was the height of 18th-century fashion. Whilst the imposing Holburne Museum appears in Bridgerton as Lady Danbury’s residence. It’s worth joining a walking tour to learn more about the city’s architecture and the hidden stories behind its grand façades.
Day Trip from London to Windsor
- Which London station: London Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Riverside station is the only direct rail connection to Windsor. The route from Paddington to Windsor and Eton Central requires a change at Slough.
- Journey time: 56 mins
- Why visit: British pageantry, Royal residence, walks, boat trips
Windsor is one of the most popular day trips from London, especially if you’re interested in British heritage and the Royal Family. The Castle, a working royal residence, is obviously a key sight and visitors can tour the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel, the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II.
You can also watch a Changing the Guard ceremony, check here for dates and times, which is simpler to access than the one at Buckingham Palace. You need Castle tickets to see the ceremony itself or simply watch the guards and band march through the streets of Windsor.
The Castle isn’t open every day and is very popula, so to avoid disappointment book Windsor Castle tickets in advance. Aim to arrive early to avoid crowds.
After touring the castle, visit the Windsor Long Walk, the spectacular tree-lined avenue in Windsor Great Park. Or you could take a boat trip on the Thames or cross the bridge to the village of Eton. It’s home to Eton College where princes and prime ministers have studied for centuries.
When you’re hungry you’ll find interesting historic pubs in Windsor as well as pretty places for afternoon tea. All that and you can be back in central London in time for some evening entertainment.
Local’s tip: If you want to avoid changing trains this is important! Visitors often worry that they have to change trains to go to Windsor. But trains from London Waterloo station run directly to Windsor and Eton Riverside station, just a 10 minute walk to the Castle. Windsor has two train stations only a few minutes apart. The route from London Paddington to Windsor and Eton Central station requires a change in Slough.
Longer Day Trips from London by Train
These journeys are all around two hours each way, but they’ll transport you to places that feel a world away from London.
Day Trip from London to York
- Which London station: King’s Cross
- Journey time: varies from 1hr 50m to 2hr 25m
- Why visit: history, culture, medieval streets
In just two hours from London King’s Cross station, you can arrive in York, the historic capital of the North. This ancient city dates back to Roman times. Medieval walls encircle the centre whilst the mighty York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe, is the jewel in the city’s crown. You’ll catch glimpses of its towering spires throughout your day. If you don’t have time to attend a service it’s worth paying for an interior visit.
Things to do in York
For perfect views across red rooftops and winding streets take a walk on top of York’s city walls. It only takes about 15 minutes to complete the scenic section between Monk Bar (gatehouse) and Bootham Bar which has great views of the Minster.
The Shambles is a preserved medieval street that’s said to have inspired Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. Its crooked timber-framed buildings overhang the cobblestones and house charming shops and cafes. And yes some do have a wizarding theme! You can have a street food lunch at the Shambles Market nearby.
One of the best things to do in York is to explore. But its winding old streets and snickelways (alleys) can be a challenge and it’s easy to waste time getting lost! This small-group tour takes in the city’s highlights in just 90 minutes which is perfect when your time is limited:
For afternoon tea book a table in Betty’s Cafe Tea Rooms. It’s served in the Art Deco-style upper floor Belmond Room with piano accompaniment – important to book ahead though.
In Victorian times York built its fortunes on the railways – and also chocolate! Rowntrees and Terry were the big-name chocolate factories in the 20th century producing iconic British snacks like Quality Street and Kit Kat. Nowadays independent chocolatiers carry on the tradition in York and run chocolate-making workshops too.
You can also visit York’s free museums. The National Railway Museum is exactly what it says on the tin: a vast former engine shed full of historic trains. It’s a 20 min walk from the Minster, across the River Ouse. Whilst the York Castle museum has re-created Victorian streets, shops and even prison cells.
If you’d prefer the convenience of a ready-booked day trip from London by train to York this one will fill the bill:
Day Trip from London to the Lake District
- Which London station: Euston
- Journey time: some direct morning trains taking 2hr 40 m
- Why visit: Lake and mountain views, classic English countryside, cream teas
This is the longest day trip by train from London that I’d risk! It’s ambitious, but it is possible to see some of the glory of the Lake District on a day tour from London. This tour begins with a train journey from London Euston to Oxenholme, where you meet your local guide and transfer to a minibus to explore the Lake District national park.
A pre-arranged tour like this takes care of logistics, so you can focus on the scenery. The Lake District’s highlights are spread across the region and you can’t just walk to them from the station. You need transport and ideally a guide to see as much as possible in just a few hours.
Things to do in a day in the Lake District
Tours usually include stops at Lake Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, and some characteristic grey stone villages like Grasmere and Bowness. Your guide will share stories about the region’s literary connections, from William Wordsworth to Beatrix Potter. And you’ll get a chance to experience the rugged fells and peaceful valleys that inspired their works.
I can recommend a lake cruise to give you a different perspective on the lush scenery and – obviously! – a cream tea is an essential part of the day.
Local’s tip: Pack layers and rain gear. Take it from me, Lake District weather changes rapidly, even in summer.
This action-packed one day trip by train from London fits in plenty of sights and experiences:
From London: Lake District Tour with Cream Tea and Cruise
- Pre-booked direct return train travel between Euston and Oxenholme (unescorted)
- Guided tour of the Lakes from Oxenholme station with a knowledgeable local guide
- Visit Hawkshead, Tarn Howes and the Langdales
- Take a cruise on Lake Windermere
- Enjoy a cream tea at Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel once owned by Beatrix Potter
Day Trip to Paris from London
- Which London station: St Pancras International
- Journey time: 2hr 20 m
- Why visit: Parisian style, sightseeing, food, French culture
It’s actually quicker to cross the Channel to Paris by train than it is to go to Edinburgh. I know this because I made several one day train journeys to the French capital when I worked as an editor. I always prefer to spend a night or two in Paris if I can. But a day trip from London by train is quite feasible.
The Eurostar is what makes this possible. This sleek high-speed service whisks passengers from London St Pancras through the Channel Tunnel to Gare du Nord in the centre of Paris.
You step out of the station and you’ve arrived! The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the River Seine and Notre-Dame Cathedral are all within easy reach.
If you’re a first-timer in Paris I would definitely book a guided tour to make the most of your limited time. But simply walking will also let you soak in Parisian street life and architecture.
If you’d prefer to be independent, perhaps focus on one neighbourhood. I love the historic Marais, but artsy Montmartre is very popular too. Make sure to stop at pavement cafés between sights for authentic French eats: fresh baked croissant with a café crème, steak frites, or a toasted croque monsieur.
You can maximise your time in Paris by booking early departure and late return trains to allow you the longest day possible in the City of Light.
Book a Day Trip to Paris from London by Rail
This one day trip by train from London to Paris is a great mix of escorted sightseeing plus free time to explore on your own.
Book the Welcome to Paris Day Trip from London via Train
- Travel with your guide from St Pancras International
- Guided panoramic tour of Paris taking in sights like Eiffel Tower, Champs Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
- Seine River Cruise
- Free time to explore with advice from your guide
- Includes round-trip travel by Eurostar from St Pancras International
Which day trips from London by train to avoid
While Britain is a relatively small country, some cities are still too far to be really feasible for a day trip by train or car. Edinburgh in Scotland is a 4 or 5 hour journey each way by train from London King’s Cross.
I know some people do tackle this. But in my view it doesn’t leave much time to see Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and all the city’s other attractions. And above all, it doesn’t give you any leeway if your train is delayed. I love Edinburgh, but I’d recommend spending at least one night there to appreciate it properly.
In this post I’ve deliberately left out the day trips that require changes of train. It’s straightforward if you’re used to the rail system, but it can be confusing for first-time visitors.
If you don’t mind changing trains on the journey then consider:
- Windsor from Paddington Station with a change at Slough. (You can travel direct to Windsor from Waterloo).
- Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare, from Marylebone with a change of train at Leamington Spa.
FAQs about day trips from London by rail
Yes, catch the train from Euston to Watford Junction. From here shuttle buses will take you to the studio. You can book a convenient package of train and admission tickets with a flexible return here
I use the Trainline app to book tickets. Enter ‘London Any’ plus your destination and it will show you all the available routes from London stations on any given day. If you don’t want to change trains during the journey check that you book a ‘direct’ route.
Please note that all visitor information here is for guidance only. Please check the relevant websites for the most up to date information eg. accommodation details, tickets, entrance requirements, opening times etc.
What to Read Next about London
- The Best English Countryside: 14 Beautiful Places
- Best Pretty and Historic Cities close to London
- How to Visit the Long Walk Windsor
- The Best Historic Old Pubs in Windsor
- London Food: 49 must try dishes and where to eat them
- 101 Best British Snacks that also make great souvenirs
- Guide to Central London Neighbourhoods: things to do and where to stay
About the author Nancy Roberts is a former women’s magazine editor and writer. She lives in London and is mum to two 20-something boys. In Map&Family she shares info and inspiration for curious travellers: singles and couples as well as families travelling with teens and young adults.
All photos are all rights reserved. Please do not reproduce these photos without prior written permission
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