At times, London’s fast-paced and hectic environment can become a bit overwhelming. During such moments, the idea of taking a day trip to a nearby, serene and scenic destination can be quite alluring. 

It’s possible to set out on a mission to discover the best of London and not get close to covering all the sights, even after several weekends.  The city’s expansive nature, history and culture mean there’s always something new, something interesting, just around the corner.  Still, sometimes the bustle of the city gets a little much, and that’s when a day trip to somewhere picturesque (but not too far away) starts to seem more appealing.  

Thankfully, there are plenty of day trips out of London that offer a mix of countryside walks, coastal escapes, and foodie havens, all within easy reach of the capital. These offer a range of landscapes and moods, like a countryside walk, seaside escape, or a foodie’s paradise away from the crowds. The best part is that you won’t have to spend too many hours travelling, as many destinations are within easy reach. Start planning your upcoming escape from the city and discover the best day trips outside of London, from countryside retreats to cultural landmarks, in our helpful guide.

Charming Country Escapes

The countryside dominates English landscapes with rolling plains, gentle hills, and large swathes of greenery.  Visiting the English countryside is quintessential if you want to get a real taste and understanding of the country, where rural areas comprise 90 per cent of the landmass.  There are many countryside days out from London by car that you can experience, all promising a fantastic time that will reveal the countryside’s essential charm.

Canterbury, Kent

You may have heard of Canterbury thanks to the author Geoffrey Chaucer and his ‘The Canterbury Tales’, written between 1387 and 1400.  Today, Canterbury, located in Kent, boasts plenty of history and culture.  It was once a popular destination for ancient Romans, which you can learn more about at the Canterbury Roman Museum.  Pilgrims have been journeying there to visit the Canterbury Cathedral, one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the UK.  The wider Kent area is sometimes known as the ‘Garden of England’ as it’s brimming with orchards and hop gardens, which all come alive in the spring and summer, the ideal time to visit.

Explore the city’s literary history in the many bookshops it offers.  You will certainly find a book, old or new, to suit every taste, and you might even uncover some rare and limited editions that are perfect for gifting.  Visit the Canterbury Cathedral to learn about its 1,400 years of history and to witness the mesmerising architecture for yourself.  The River Stour runs through the city, and a walk alongside it is a beautiful and peaceful way to relax.  You can also enjoy a boat trip on the river with one of several available boat trips.

There are plenty of foodie options to discover, but a pub drink is advised to soak up even more historic and local atmosphere.  The Dolphin and The Parrot boast secret pub gardens and are ideal for when the weather is sunny, if not warm.  The Goods Shed, located in a farmers’ market in a former railway goods shed, is worth a visit for a taste of local artisans’ produce.  There’s also a hyper-local restaurant inside the venue, showcasing the best of the ingredients on offer.

The New Forest, Hampshire

Stepping foot inside the New Forest in Hampshire can feel like entering a fairy tale, especially in spring when the forest ground is transformed into a purple carpet of heather beneath one’s feet.  At the same time, it all glows in shades of gold and amber in autumn.  Head to Beaulieu Road if you want to spend your day walking and exploring nature.  Watch out for the New Forest’s most famous residents – free-roaming ponies.  Around 5,000 of them are in the area, so the chances of spotting at least a few on your walk are high.  Exbury Gardens is another great starting point for a walk; the 20 miles of walkways will reveal three separate woods and an impressive Rothchild collection of plants and flowers.

Many award-winning beers are brewed in the New Forest Area.  You can visit the breweries – like the Ringwood Brewery – and taste some local favourites.  You can also tour where they’re made and learn about the process.  Stop at the historic Drift Inn for a break between walks, a pint of real ale and pie of the day.

If you’re after a more town-like feel while still surrounded by nature, head to Lymington, which has its own Quay and looks out onto the Isle of Wight.  You’ll find beaches (ideal for a languid afternoon stroll), independent shops and plenty of cafes.  The Elderflower restaurant serves gourmet cuisine and is famous for its chocolate dessert, while Lanes, housed in a converted chapel, is fantastic for a taste of local ingredients.

Dorking, Surrey Hills

The pretty, wooded Surrey Hills surround the historic town of Dorking.  You can choose to spend the day in the town itself or explore the nearby countryside.  On the nature side, you can visit Box Hill to get an overview of the town or head to Farnham Heath, a wildlife-rich heathland.

The lovely historic town is filled with several antique and vintage shops, should you wish to find something unique for yourself or as a gift. While there are many fantastic pubs and cafes in Dorking, the Michelin-starred Sorrel is a must-visit for a taste of contemporary fine dining.

Hampton Court Palace, where Henry VIII once resided, is not too far away. It’s a fantastic place to visit with the family or anyone interested in England’s vast royal history. The palace is not only visually stunning but also full of information and things to learn.

Soaking in the Seaside

The United Kingdom is an island with numerous seaside and coastal towns where you can experience it to the fullest.  Some traditions – such as eating fish and chips – make more sense by the coast, surrounded by sea air.  There’s plenty of maritime history to discover or, if you prefer to relax, many leisurely walks to take and seafood to taste.

Rye, Essex

Gilding was not unique to Egypt, however, as the Chinese used it on pottery and wooden ornaments,

Rye in East Sussex is postcard pretty.  The streets are winding and cobbled, and the buildings are low and filled with beams – many date back centuries.  St Mary’s Church, for example, originates from around the 12th century.  A day in Rye is a little bit like spending time on a film set, in the best way.

A little away from the town is the Rye Nature Reserve, made up of sprawling grassland, salt marsh, and woods.  There, you’ll find many walking routes – The Discovery Centre will help you find the best one and give you information on the wildlife to watch.  Just a 15-minute drive from Rye is Camber Sands, one of the most stunning beaches in England, pale and sprawling.  The water might not be warm enough for a dip (even in summer!), but it’s beautiful to explore nonetheless.

Back in town, wander over to Mermaid Street, where you’ll find stores selling interiors and souvenirs nestled along bakeries and vintage tea rooms.  Stop for a drink at the Mermaid Inn and marvel at 600 years of history, or try the similarly historic The George Inn for a drink or two.

Cultural Getaways

If you’ve explored all that London has to offer, why not embark on one of the best day trips out of London, where history, art, and cultural treasures await just a short journey away? It just so happens that these destinations tend also to be home to fantastic independent stores, delectable restaurants, and local charm.

Bath, Somerset

You will feel like you have stepped back in time when you visit the picture-perfect city of Bath, named after the Roman-built baths circa AD 60, earning the city the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Stroll around the streets and take in the buttery-coloured Georgian architecture, stopping to marvel at the many remnants of Roman history.  The city also has a rich literary heritage, and Jane Austen once called Bath home.  You can learn more about her and her writing at The Jane Austen Bath Centre.

Likewise, the city has many bookshops and literary events. Make a stop at Topping and Company, which boasts over 55,000 titles; there’s no better spot for a bookworm. The American Museum is worth a visit. Set in a grand Georgian house, it has impressive grounds and gardens for a beautiful afternoon stroll. Inside, you’ll find art and cultural objects related to American history.

Once you’re hungry, wander to The Circus to taste traditional British cuisine.  For afternoon tea with a view, The Pump Room Restaurant offers just that with impressive vistas of the Roman Baths.  Wine lovers must stop at Corkage, where over 70 bottles can be sampled by glass.

Oxford, Oxfordshire

You’ll encounter culture and history on practically every street in Oxford.  Home to Oxford University, its campuses can be seen all over the city: Oriel, Brasenose, Murton, All Souls, and each is architecturally impressive in its own right.  Let the experts guide you on one of the many tours to learn about the history and significance of each college and which famous alumni have graced their halls.

The Ashmolean Museum is Britain’s oldest public museum, and it is home to a collection spanning cultures and continents, plus exciting temporary exhibitions.  There’s also a sleek rooftop bar and restaurant with unparalleled historic city views.

Baroque architecture is on full display at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill and now home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough. Be sure to take the ‘Upstairs Tour’ to see the Marlborough family’s palatial private residences.

When you’ve finished sightseeing, head to the Freud Bar in Jericho. It is located inside a stunning glass-stained church that has been converted into this impressive cocktail bar. For a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine, find incredible tapas at Arbequina on Cowley Road. The tortilla is a must-order.

Experiences at The Ritz London

The locations mentioned above are only a short drive from London and your residence at The Ritz.  This means you can enjoy a leisurely pace inside your suite before setting off for a day of exploration.  Start your morning with a delectable five-star breakfast featuring classic dishes like Eggs Benedict or American Pancakes, with the finest tea and coffee as an accompaniment.  As always, you may choose to have your breakfast in our opulent dining room or opt for privacy and have it inside your room instead.

Travel in style and comfort with the help of our luxury chauffeur service.  We will be delighted to arrange your trip and chauffeur you to your destination in our Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB.  The interior of the car is a prime example of exceptional craftsmanship.  Each surface has been carefully handcrafted using only the finest materials, including exquisite wood veneers and gleaming metal accents.  All our chauffeurs are expertly trained, providing the highest professionalism and discretion.  Dressed immaculately in tailored attire, they are highly trained to provide exceptional service, always ensuring your comfort and safety wherever you may be headed.

After exploring nature, history, culture, or all three, for a day, return back to The Ritz for a taste of dining in Mayfair.  The Ritz Restaurant’s Two Michelin Star cuisine is sure to delight and surprise with classic dishes interpreted with a contemporary lens.  Executive Chef John Williams MBE and his team use only the finest ingredients, sourcing locally and seasonally and adapting the menu accordingly.  You can expect organic beef from the Cornish moors, lamb from the Lake District, succulent lobsters from South West Scotland, and luxuries like caviar.  Finally, enjoy a nightcap inside The Rivoli Bar – an opulent oasis serving classic and inventive cocktails.  The theme of seasonality is present in the drinks, with the Head Bartender creating new concoctions to match and reflect the best of the seasons.  It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of travel and exploration.