Best Day Trips from London
There is so much to do in London, but make sure to carve out time to explore beyond the city.
With just a short train ride, you can swap busy streets for seaside towns, countryside walks, and storybook villages. These destinations are all within around 1–2 hours of London, making them perfect for a day off, or a relaxed weekend escape.
Seaside Day Trips from London
If you’re craving fresh air, ocean views, and classic English coastal charm, these are some of the best seaside towns near London.
Rye
Rye feels like stepping into a fairytale, with cobbled lanes, crooked timber-framed houses, and a rich history shaped by smugglers and the sea.
Wander slowly through the town, explore hidden passageways, and stop into cosy tea rooms or historic pubs. Go early for the best light on Mermaid Street - one of the most photogenic streets in England.
Deal
Deal is quieter and less touristy than many coastal towns, which gives it a real hidden-gem feel.
Expect fisherman’s cottages, a peaceful seafront, a long pier, and a mix of independent restaurants, galleries, antique shops, and traditional pubs like The King’s Head. Deal Castle sits right by the water and adds to the historic charm.
This is the perfect low-key, slow day by the sea.
Folkestone
Folkestone has a more modern, creative feel compared to classic seaside towns.
The harbour area has been beautifully regenerated, with colourful shopfronts, independent food spots, and a relaxed atmosphere. Walk along The Leas Coastal Park for sea views, then head to the harbour arm for sunset drinks and street food.
Margate, Broadstairs, & Ramsgate
These three towns sit close together and are ideal for a full day trip or even a weekend.
Margate – creative, buzzy, full of vintage shops, galleries, and great restaurants
Broadstairs – sandy beaches and a relaxed, nostalgic seaside feel
Ramsgate – elegant harbour, pastel streets, and a long sandy beach
If you have time, visit Botany Bay - one of the most beautiful coastal spots in the area.
Brighton
Brighton is one of the easiest and most popular day trips from London - lively, colourful, and full of personality.
Walk along the beach and iconic pier, then explore The Lanes, a maze of historic alleyways filled with vintage shops, cafés, and independent boutiques. The mix of seaside energy and creative culture makes Brighton a favourite for au pairs.
Whistable
Whitstable is a relaxed coastal town known for its seafood and rugged charm.
Walk along Tankerton Beach to see the colourful beach huts, grab fish and chips or a drink at The Old Neptune right on the beach, and don’t miss Wheelers Oyster Bar, one of the town’s most iconic spots.
Bring a journal, a camera, or your paints, and enjoy this coastal gem.
Birling Gap & Seven Sisters
Often considered one of the natural wonders of England, the Seven Sisters are known for their rolling white cliffs, soft green grass, and dramatic drops into the sea.
Walking here feels expansive and cinematic, especially in spring and summer when wildflowers line the cliffs. Birling Gap sits along the route and makes a natural stopping point, and the area is easily reached via Eastbourne, making it a rewarding day trip from London.
Hastings & St. Leonards
Hastings is full of character, with a charming Old Town made up of colourful bunting (street decorations), historic buildings, and independent shops and cafés. The newer area near the station is less interesting, although Robertson Street has some great coffee and cocktail spots, and Trinity Street is worth a quick stop for its architecture.
Wander along the seafront toward St Leonards-on-Sea (or visit on another day) for a more creative, laid-back feel. There, The Goat Ledge stands out - a bright, playful spot right by the sea, known for its relaxed atmosphere and bold, colourful dishes made with fresh local seafood.
Historic City Day Trips From London
Hastings is full of character, with a charming Old Town made up of colourful bunting (street decorations), historic buildings, and independent shops and cafés. The newer area near the station is less interesting, although Robertson Street has some great coffee and cocktail spots, and Trinity Street is worth a quick stop for its architecture.
Oxford
Oxford is one of the most iconic day trips from London, known for its historic colleges, beautiful architecture, and timeless atmosphere.
Head to Radcliffe Square just off the High Street, peer through the gates of All Souls College - one of the most exclusive colleges - and look up to spot the beautiful sundial. From there, find the Bridge of Sighs, and if you’d like to step inside somewhere, the Divinity School (featured in Harry Potter) is open to visitors for a small fee.
Head up to the Varsity Club rooftop terrace for views over the city.
Cambridge
The town itself is easy to explore on foot, with historic buildings, green spaces, and plenty of cafés and independent spots to stop in.
Visit the magnificent King’s College Chapel and St John’s College, then spend an afternoon along the river that runs through the city.
Try punting, a traditional wooden boat ride, for a classic Cambridge experience. You’ll pass under the Bridge of Sighs, then can stop at the riverside Anchor pub afterwards.
Countryside & Village Day Trips From London
If you’re looking for something slower, quieter, and more scenic, these countryside escapes are perfect.
Amberley
Amberley is often described as one of the prettiest villages in England.
Think thatched cottages, flower-filled gardens, and peaceful country lanes. Set in the South Downs National Park, it’s ideal for peaceful walks and wide countryside views.
For a classic pub lunch, stop at The Black Horse - cozy, welcoming, and exactly what you want after a walk.
Arundel
Arundel combines history, scenery, and charm in one place.
The impressive Arundel Castle overlooks the town and surrounding countryside, and you can explore both the castle and its gardens. Walk along the river, browse independent shops, and enjoy a relaxed lunch in one of the town’s cafés or pubs.
This is one of the best all-round countryside day trips from London.
Petworth
Petworth is known for antiques, cozy cafés, and a very picturesque town centre.
The highlight is Petworth Park, where deer roam freely across vast parkland. It’s perfect for a long walk, especially in spring and summer.
Afterwards, settle into a café or pub and take your time, this is a place to properly unwind.
Alfriston
Alfriston is a peaceful village surrounded by rolling hills, with plenty of spots for those iconic English countryside shots.
Wander the winding lanes lined with timber-framed houses. Near the church, you’ll find a small kiosk where you can grab a sausage roll (with veggie options), perfect for a quick snack.
Don’t miss the lovely independent shops, including The Fern Store, the adorable indie bookshop Much Ado Books, The Dressing Room vintage shop, and Joyous Place Handspun Organics.
Canterbury
Canterbury is a small, walkable city with fairytale charm.
Make sure to visit Westgate Gardens for one of the most iconic views - the gardens, river, and timber-framed houses all in one spot. It’s the perfect place to bring a picnic and relax.
You can also try punting along the river, stop for lunch at The Old Weavers House, and browse second-hand books at The Crooked House.
Final Thoughts
One of the best things you can do as an au pair in London is make the most of your time off.
These day trips are easy to reach, genuinely worth it, and perfect for creating memories outside the city.
If you have a few days to spare - or even a week - it’s worth travelling a little further to experience even more of the UK:
The Cotswolds – honey-coloured villages and rolling countryside
Bath – beautiful architecture and historic charm
Cornwall or Devon – dramatic coastlines and beach towns
Dorset – home to Durdle Door and incredible coastal walks
York – a cosy, historic city, especially magical in winter
Whether it’s a quick seaside escape, a countryside wander, or a longer trip across the UK, these are the moments that will stand out when you’re back home.
Take the trip, say yes to the plan, and make the most of your time here - it goes faster than you think.
