BEST BUDGET FRIENDLY DAY TRIPS TO TAKE FROM LONDON

From charming palaces and coastal cities, there are plenty of ways to have the best vacation, while not spending all of your savings in one day...

London is one of our favorite and most charming cities in the world and will likely steal your heart too. However, if you have any more than three days in the city, take the opportunity to get out of London and see more of the United Kingdom. Taking day trips from London is an amazing way to see unique sites without straying too far outside of the city.

There are so many fun things to do in London, but several other exciting destinations are only a short train journey away.

Whether you are after a beach holiday, a bit of history, or some royal architecture like Windsor Castle, there are plenty of day trips from London that will provide a great cultural experience.

Here are the best day trips from London to inspire your next trip!

Stonehenge

Distance from London: 1.5-hour drive or 2.25 hours on the train from Waterloo Station

An iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stonehenge is one of the best historical day trips from London. The outstanding natural beauty held by this unique prehistoric monument is just a short drive from Salisbury train station. While you’re out on this day trip, it’s worth taking part in the Stone Circle Experience, where you can get up close and personal with the monument and learn more about it from an expert guide. This experience takes place outside of normal visiting hours to ensure you get to capture the true beauty of Stonehenge without being surrounded by several other tourists.

Windsor

Distance from London: 50-minute drive or 40 minutes on the train from Paddington Station

The enchanting town of Windsor on the River Thames is home to the British Royal Family. If you love history or are a royal knowledge buff, then you will certainly want to add Windsor to your list of day trips from London. Situated in Southeast England, Windsor Castle is home to 1000 years of royal history and is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the entire world. There is so much to see at Windsor Castle alone, from the changing of the guard to the moat room, St George’s Chapel, the state apartments, and much more. You can purchase tickets in advance from the Royal College Trust website, and they even offer a family discount. Windsor Castle is a landmark worth visiting to learn a thing or two about British history.

Paris

Distance from London: 2.25 hours by Eurostar train from St Pancras International

Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world and its beauty speaks for itself. In my opinion, the croissants and flaky pastries alone are a good enough excuse to make the day trip from London. Some of the city’s highlights include the infamous Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. The activities are endless in this romantic and beautiful city, making it a great day trip or a weekend getaway with a group of friends or a partner. Beyond the amazing attractions, Paris has an incredible food and drink scene that is unique to each neighborhood. Check out Le Cafe Du Commerce for a traditional Parisian meal in an architecturally and aesthetically pleasing setting.

Brighton

Distance from London: 1 hour on the train from London Victoria Station or London Bridge Station

Being the UK’s most well-known beach town, it would almost be a crime not to consider Brighton when looking into day trips from London. Beyond the infamous Brighton Palace Pier and pebbly shores, Brighton is known as a positive and inclusive city with plenty of activities and events taking place regularly. If you’re in search of some fresh sea air during your day trip, look no further than this cute spot. The city center offers several boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes and will guarantee an enjoyable day or weekend. Brighton is also home to a wealth of arts and culture, and if you visit on a day trip from London in early August, be sure to participate in the Pride celebrations. They are world-renowned!