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London is a magnificent place. We all know its beauty is undeniable, with its iconic skyline, rich history, and unmatchable energy. Yet, for many visitors and even lifelong Londoners, the areas surrounding the city often get overlooked. It’s a missed opportunity, as there are so many incredible places waiting to be explored.
So, whether you’re a local itching for a change of pace or a visitor looking to see beyond the Tube map, this post is for you. I’ve put together a list of excellent trip ideas for a perfect day out, staying within a comfortable 124-mile (200 km) radius from central London. Get the car ready, it’s time to discover the best of what the UK has to offer, just a stone’s throw from the capital.
A day trip to Oxford
One of the UK’s most iconic cities lies just 60 miles (about 100 kilometres) from London: Oxford. The city’s main highlight is the world-famous Oxford University. Spend the morning diving into its famous academic heart, wander through the ancient quadrangles and explore the beautiful college grounds.
Don’t miss the chance of visiting the Christ Church College, where you can gaze upon the incredible Great Hall. Does it look familiar? That’s because it was the inspiration for Harry Potter’s dining hall! While you’re there, be sure to check out the equally beautiful Christ Church Cathedral.
The Bodleian Library is an absolute must-see; it’s one of the oldest libraries in Europe and is essential for understanding Oxford’s academic heritage. And if you’re into museums, stop by the Ashmolean Museum (Britain’s oldest public museum) or the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.
But wait, there’s more! Hop back in your car—it’s just a 20-minute drive to the Blenheim Palace. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it boasts a Baroque façade and incredibly detailed interiors. Best part for me? It’s not just about the palace! You can easily spend the entire afternoon getting lost among the spectacular gardens and lake. It’s the perfect way to finish your day trip.
Coastal getaway: Southend-on-Sea
Sunny day and craving some sand and sea? While you can find a few patches along the Thames Estuary, when planning a proper beach trip, it’s always best to head for the real deal. That’s why I recommend a road trip to Southend-on-Sea, just 40 miles (64 km) east of the capital.
Southend is the perfect destination for a seaside getaway that packs a punch. Here, you’ll find sandy stretches like Shoebury Common Beach, Westcliff Beach, and Chalkwell Beach, ideal for chilling out by the water.
But the great thing about Southend is that you can do so much more than just relax! Go for a walk along the Southend Pier—quick fact: it’s the longest pleasure pier in the entire world! And, if you’re looking for some serious fun (especially if travelling with kids), you have two options:
- Adventure Island: Free-entry amusement park boasting over 40 rides. While entry is free, you pay for the rides you choose, giving you flexibility for your visit.
- Sealife Adventure: Just down the road, you’ll find this aquarium, home to all sorts of incredible marine animals.
Southend is a plan that blends the chill vibes of a proper sandy beach with the adrenaline of an amusement park!
Nature escapes under an hour from London
Sometimes, you just need a quick injection of green space to reset. Here are three natural parks, perfect for hiking and disconnecting from the city buzz, listed from the closest to the furthest (but all within easy reach of the capital).
Colne Valley Regional Park
Just 22 miles (35 km) from London, right on the city’s doorstep, the Colne Valley Regional Park is packed with wetlands, lagoons, and woodlands. Once you’ve hungry, recharge at one of the traditional local pubs, like The Oaks, or try The Coy Carp, which is known for its excellent food.
Surrey Hills National Landscape
Similar in distance to the Colne Valley, the Surrey Hills National Landscape offers a more classic countryside experience. This area is full of hiking trails designed to immerse yourself in nature. I highly recommend checking out the views from Box Hill —it might just be the most beautiful walk of the lot! Up here, you can breathe the fresh air and feel like you’re a million miles from the nearest building.
South Down National Park
Okay, so the South Downs National Park is my personal favourite, and it’s true that it might be just over the one-hour driving mark… but trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes in the car!
This is a truly spectacular national park that brings together cliffs, panoramic meadows, and forests. It’s the perfect setting for picnics, outdoor sports, or just a long walk. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys hiking or letting their dog run free.
Family day trips: Excitement on London’s doorstep
If you’re looking specifically for family-focused plans that promise fun for all ages, this final section is tailor-made for you! I’m keeping the distance tight, bringing you two fantastic options under 25 miles (40 km) from London, both promising an unforgettable day out. You decide which theme park you prefer or, if you’re ambitious, you can tick off both!
For a fantastic mix of thrills and wildlife, you can’t beat Chessington World of Adventures Resort. This is more than just a theme park; it’s a ‘World of Adventures’ combining rides, an zoo, and even an aquarium!
The second option is Legoland Windsor, one of the most beloved theme parks in the UK. Geared primarily towards children aged 2-12 (but truly unforgettable for adults too!), it offers an immersive, imaginative experience. Both of these resorts offer numerous attractions and spectacular shows that will make time absolutely fly by.
Your next Adventure awaits
It’s clear that there’s so much more to explore just beyond London’s boundaries. Both residents and visitors often miss out on the true essence of the region that lies just a short journey away.
If getting out of the city seems difficult because of transport, which let’s be honest, can often be a limit, hiring a car is the solution. Now, hiring a car might sound expensive, but there are smarter, cheaper ways to do it! I personally recommend using CarJet, a comparison website. Instead of wasting time checking every provider’s page individually, CaJet brings together all the best offers in one place, helping you find bargains. With a little planning and the right deals, these incredible day trips are totally accessible. Get out there and explore!
