Beyond London, England is more Enriching

London, the glittering capital of England, draws millions of visitors to its iconic landmarks, Michelin-starred restaurants, and diverse cultural scene. However, beyond the Thames and London’s historic boroughs lie gems that offer a deeper, more personal glimpse into English life.

From ancient Roman spas to seaside splendour, here are seven destinations that make for unforgettable day trips from London, each easily accessible by train or car. Each destination offers a distinct flavour of English life—be it literary, coastal, royal, or rural—making them perfect for day escapes.

Bath: Roman baths and Regency elegance

Just under two hours by train from London, Bath is a harmonious blend of Roman history and Georgian grandeur. Its UNESCO World Heritage designation is no surprise, given the city’s perfectly preserved crescents and colonnades. The Roman Baths, still bubbling with geothermal waters, are an essential stop, as is the adjacent Bath Abbey, an architectural marvel with centuries of history. Literature lovers will appreciate the Jane Austen Centre, which pays homage to the famed author who lived here in the early 19th century. Bring back Netflix show Bridgerton as you stroll down Great Pulteney Street, relax in the Thermae Bath Spa, or enjoy a regal afternoon tea in Regency style.

Oxford: Academia, architecture, and Alice

An hour from London by train, Oxford is steeped in academic prestige and picturesque charm. The University of Oxford, the oldest in the English-speaking world, dominates the city’s skyline with its spires and stately colleges. Wander through the Bodleian Library, explore the Ashmolean Museum, or step inside Christ Church College, famously linked to Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and the Harry Potter films. Meander through narrow cobbled lanes and riverside paths that have inspired generations of scholars and writers.

The Cotswolds: Bucolic bliss and unlimited charm

Covering parts of five counties, the Cotswolds is England's most famous rural escape. An hour and a half by train or car, and you can be in small towns that seem like they are out of storybooks: Moreton-in-Marsh, Kingham, Winchcombe, and Stow-upon-the-Wold set you up to explore rolling hills, storybook villages, and limestone cottages. Small villages like Upper and Lowe Slaughter, Chipping Campden, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Bibury are just a few of the scenic spots that encapsulate the English countryside ideal. The Cotswolds is perfect for gentle hikes, antique shopping, and lingering over a pub lunch.

Canterbury: Pilgrimage and poetry

Famous for Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, this medieval city in Kent is less than two hours from London and is a pilgrimage in both literary and historical senses. Canterbury Cathedral, a towering Gothic structure and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, is a must-see for its stained glass, religious history, and sheer architectural scale. The compact and walkable city offers charming half-timbered houses, quaint tea rooms, and literary landmarks. History buffs and book lovers will love tracing the pilgrim routes and exploring the tales of yore.

Brighton: Seaside sophistication and vintage vibes

A 90-minute train ride from London transports you to Brighton, a lively seaside city with an eclectic edge. The pebble beach and Brighton Pier offer are not to be missed for their unusual experiences, while The Lanes — a maze of narrow alleyways — are a paradise for those who love indie cafes and window shopping. Don’t miss the Royal Pavilion, a former royal residence with opulent interiors and an exotic, Indo-Saracenic exterior. Brighton’s artsy spirit, diverse food scene, and LGBTQ+-friendly vibe make it one of the UK’s most vibrant coastal towns.

Windsor: Royalty and riverside charm

Nestled along the River Thames, Windsor is a quintessential English town that blends royal grandeur with small-town charm. Its crowning jewel is Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, where visitors can tour the lavish State Apartments. Don’t miss St George’s Chapel, the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II. Just beyond the castle walls, Windsor offers elegant streets lined with boutiques, pubs, and restaurants. A walk through Windsor Great Park takes you through lush landscapes and the spectacular Long Walk, a tree-lined avenue with postcard-worthy views. Take a boat ride on the Thames, cross the bridge to historic college Eton, and explore the quirky Crooked House. Far from being just a royal stopover, Windsor charms with its walkability, riverside setting, and blend of history and everyday English life.

Stratford-upon-Avon: In Shakespeare’s footsteps

Tucked in the heart of Warwickshire and about two hours from London by train, Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit for anyone enchanted by literature, history, or classic English charm. Best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, the town draws theatre lovers and history buffs from around the world. A visit to Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and Hall’s Croft provides a glimpse into the bard’s life and times. The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) stages unforgettable performances on the banks of the Avon. Wander cobbled streets lined with timber-framed buildings, take a serene boat ride on the River Avon, or browse through quaint bookshops and tea rooms. The town’s Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare is buried, offers a quiet, contemplative stop.

London may be the bustling global capital that all travellers head to, but the England that exists beyond the boundaries of the metropolis is no less captivating. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of Jane Austen or William Shakespeare, soaking in a Roman bath, strolling through collegiate quads, or simply sipping tea in a quiet village, these seven-day trips are sure to enrich your journey. In just a day, you can travel worlds away — and be back in time for a late dinner in London.