London is an exciting city, but England offers even more treasures beyond the capital. Whether you want to explore quaint villages, uncover royal history, or wander through the countryside, these day trips offer something for everyone. Here’s our countdown of the top 10 day trips from London, each with unique experiences waiting to be discovered. Book with MNL Tours to enjoy a fully curated, hassle-free day out.
1. The Cotswolds – Quaint Villages and Rolling Hills
The Cotswolds is a scenic landscape of rolling hills, charming villages, and golden-stone cottages. Popular villages include Bibury, famous for Arlington Row, a row of picturesque 17th-century weavers’ cottages, and Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” for its low bridges and waterside charm. Stow-on-the-Wold offers antique shops and cozy tearooms, while Broadway boasts historic inns and a 12th-century abbey. The Cotswolds’ beauty has been the inspiration for countless artists, writers, and filmmakers over the years.
MNL Tours Recommends: Taking a leisurely walk through Bourton-on-the-Water, where quaint stone bridges and beautiful river views make it one of England’s most charming villages.
2. Cambridge – Historic Colleges and Scenic Punting
Cambridge combines its reputation as a top academic institution with a beautiful riverside setting. Walk through historic colleges like King’s, St John’s, and Trinity, each with its own history and stunning architecture. The River Cam offers a relaxing way to see the city’s highlights from a different perspective, with punting tours gliding by the colleges’ scenic backs. Cambridge is also home to the Fitzwilliam Museum, known for its impressive art and antiquities collections.
MNL Tours Recommends: Taking a traditional punt on the River Cam to see some of Cambridge’s most iconic views from the water.
3. Bath – Roman Baths and Georgian Splendor
Bath’s timeless beauty, Georgian architecture, and Roman history make it a standout day trip from London. Begin with a visit to the ancient Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world. The sweeping Georgian crescents, including the iconic Royal Crescent, offer some of the best examples of 18th-century architecture in Britain. Bath Abbey is also a must-see, while the Jane Austen Centre provides insight into the author’s life in the city. After exploring, relax in the Thermae Bath Spa for a modern twist on the city’s famous thermal waters.
MNL Tours Recommends: Walking along the Royal Crescent for breathtaking views and a sense of Bath’s grand architectural style.
4. Oxford – The “City of Dreaming Spires”
Renowned for its prestigious university, Oxford is a city of academic and architectural marvels. Explore Christ Church College, whose beautiful dining hall and quadrangles are instantly recognizable to fans of Harry Potter. Wander through the historic Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and the Sheldonian Theatre, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Art enthusiasts should visit the Ashmolean Museum, Britain’s oldest public museum, housing priceless artifacts from around the world.
MNL Tours Recommends: Stopping by the Divinity School, a stunning example of English Gothic architecture that has stood for over 600 years.
5. Jane Austen’s Chawton and Winchester – Literary History
For fans of classic literature, a journey to Chawton is essential. At Jane Austen’s House in Chawton, you can see where Austen lived and wrote Pride and Prejudice and other timeless novels. The house, preserved with period furnishings, offers insight into her life and inspirations. A short drive brings you to Winchester, where Austen spent her final days and is laid to rest in Winchester Cathedral. The surrounding countryside, dotted with thatched cottages and charming lanes, is reminiscent of scenes from her novels.
MNL Tours Recommends: Touring the house and gardens at Chawton, which provide a window into Jane Austen’s life and the Regency era.
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6. Lacock – Historic Charm and Harry Potter Magic
Lacock is a quintessential English village, almost untouched by modern development, and has become famous as a film location for period dramas and the Harry Potter films. With cobbled streets and traditional stone cottages, Lacock feels like a step back in time. The 13th-century Lacock Abbey is a highlight, with a fascinating mix of medieval and Tudor architecture and beautiful cloisters, famously featured as the hallways of Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and The Chamber of Secrets. Lacock is also known for its historic charm, having appeared in Pride and Prejudice and Downton Abbey.
MNL Tours Recommends: A visit to Lacock Abbey’s cloisters, which offer a magical experience for Harry Potter fans and history buffs alike.
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7. Windsor – Royalty and Regal Architecture
Just a short distance from London, Windsor is home to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Tour the castle’s grand State Apartments, filled with royal portraits and treasures, and visit St. George’s Chapel, where many royal weddings and services are held. The Long Walk, a scenic tree-lined avenue stretching over 2 miles, offers breathtaking views of the castle. After exploring, you can wander around Windsor’s charming town center, packed with shops, cafes, and historic pubs.
MNL Tours Recommends: Attending the Changing of the Guard ceremony for a quintessential royal experience.
8. Canterbury – Cathedrals and Medieval Streets
Canterbury offers a rich medieval atmosphere, with its most famous landmark, Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Gothic masterpiece is known as the site of Archbishop Thomas Becket’s martyrdom in 1170, a historical event that made Canterbury a major pilgrimage destination. Walk through the quaint, cobbled streets lined with Tudor-style buildings and browse the many independent shops, cafes, and bookstores. Don’t miss the tranquil Greyfriars Garden or the Canterbury Roman Museum to delve into the city’s Roman roots.
MNL Tours Recommends: Exploring the Cathedral Cloisters, a quiet retreat within the cathedral grounds where you can reflect on Canterbury’s historic and spiritual legacy.
9. Stonehenge – Mystery and Megaliths
Stonehenge, one of the world’s most enigmatic sites, has fascinated visitors for centuries. This ancient stone circle, dating back around 4,500 years, is believed to have been a place of worship or perhaps even an astronomical observatory. Stonehenge’s iconic standing stones are set amidst a landscape of burial mounds and ancient landmarks. Combine this trip with a visit to Salisbury, where you can tour the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, famous for its soaring spire and an original copy of the Magna Carta. This site provides a remarkable connection to Britain’s deep past.MNL Tours Recommends: Experiencing Stonehenge at sunrise or sunset to capture the mystical beauty of this ancient monument.
10. Brighton – Seaside Fun and Vibrant Culture
Brighton combines classic British seaside charm with a vibrant arts and culture scene. Walk along the iconic Brighton Palace Pier, complete with vintage arcade games, fairground rides, and stunning ocean views. The Royal Pavilion, with its exotic architecture inspired by Indian and Chinese styles, is a must-visit. For shopping, explore The Lanes, a maze of narrow alleyways filled with quirky boutiques, antique shops, and one-of-a-kind eateries. Brighton’s vibrant street art and numerous art galleries, like the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, make this city a haven for creatives.
MNL Tours Recommends: Enjoying fish and chips on Brighton Beach, paired with a stroll along the promenade for a true British seaside experience.