While our beautiful capital has everything you could possibly want, it might seem strange that we would do a blog about spending the day away from London town.
But there are incredible trips to be had, things to see and activities to take part in just a short drive or train ride from London – here we list a few of the best.
Harry Potter Studio Tour
This one’s for all you muggles out there. Based in Watford, this incredible tour allows you to wander through Harry Potter sets at the studios where it all began. You can check out authentic props from wands and brooms to potions and even a sorting hat, as well as downing a glass of butter beer down Diagon Alley. Don’t forget to visit the shop and buy yourself your very own magic wand to practise your spells when you get home!
Isle of Wight
Fancy getting off our island altogether? Why not hop on a boat to the Isle of Wight?! Just catch a train to Portsmouth (1 hour 40 minutes) and hop on the FastCat to Ryde to explore all that the Isle of Wight has to offer. Beyond its incredible popular festival, there are stunning beaches, beautiful walking trails and an exhilarating chairlift taking you to see the needles rocks and coloured sands.
Canterbury
Just a two-hour drive away from Central London, Canterbury is a quaint historic cathedral city and UNESCO World Heritage Site full of incredible architecture and history. Be blown away by the beautiful Canterbury Cathedral – home to the Archbishop of Canterbury. You may even catch their famous choir performing! To really make the most of Canterbury, embarking on one of the Cultural Tours is a great way to see all of what the city has to offer in one go.
White Cliffs of Dover
Visiting the White Cliffs of Dover is something everyone should do in their life – and just 72 minutes from London on the train, there’s no excuse not to make the journey. Escape the urban jungle and recharge your batteries during the legendary Seven Sisters cliff hike (it has been called the best trail in South East England!). The cliffs and surrounding views will blow you away, and wandering down gentle rivers, over pebbly beaches and over hills will be just what you need.
Cambridge
Just an hour away from London, Cambridge is a great escape from the capital. Not only is it home to one of the most famous universities in the world, but stunning scenes such as a punt along the River Cam, visiting King’s College Chapel and climbing the great St Mary’s Church Tower are just some of the activities you can take part in in this beautiful city. Don’t miss out on a tour of the university colleges to walk in the footsteps of famous Cambridge University alumni.
Brighton
Less than an hour on the train from London is one of the country’s funnest, happiest cities – the wonderful Brighton. Long associated with hedonism and simply enjoying life, Brighton not only has a picture perfect pebble beach, but an endless stream of things to do and see. Indulge in some shopping on one of the many pedestrianised streets, or squeeze into one of the Lanes to while away the hours in a cosy café. Ensure you visit the city’s most famous attraction – the Royal Pavilion. This unique 18th century palace adorned with meringue domes and surrounded by stunning gardens is worth the day trip in itself.