7 Easy Day Trips from London by Train

London, a city renowned for its history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, is also an ideal base for exploring stunning destinations that lie just a train ride away. With this guide, plan unforgettable day trips from London by train and discover unique landmarks, picturesque countryside, and charming seaside towns. Whether you’re into historical sites, natural beauty or some fish and chips by the seaside, there’s something for everyone within easy reach of the capital. Here’s a rundown of my favourite day trips from London by train.

Seven Sisters Cliffs, East Sussex

You don’t have to visit Dover to see white chalk cliffs. Instead, take a day trip from London by train to the majestic Seven Sisters Cliffs. They stand along the coast between Brighton and Eastbourne, facing the English Channel in East Sussex. They’re a breathtaking natural wonder that draw visitors from around the world. Stretching for around 14 miles (22 kilometres), these chalk cliffs offer a mesmerising display of dramatic white cliffs, undulating hills, and stunning coastal views. Named after the seven peaks that rise and fall along the coastline, the best way to admire and appreciate the scale is to walk them. 

Seven Sisters, day trips from London by train:

How to Visit Seven Sisters: 

• Train Information: London Victoria Station to Brighton or Eastbourne Stations
• Journey Time: 1 hour 

• The Eastbourne Sightseeing bus, 12, 12A, 12X, 13X Brighton & Hove buses run parallel to the trail on the main road. They all service the park entrance. 
• Join the trail at any point along the route. Seaford Beach – Hope Gap – Coastguard Cottages – Cuckmere Haven – Cuckmere Inn – Seven Sisters Country Park – Birling Gap – Belle Tout Lighthouse – Beachy Head Lighthouse – Beachy Head Pub – Eastbourne Seaside Promenade – Eastbourne 

Check out this detailed guide on how to Walk the Seven Sisters Cliffs!

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Stonehenge, the iconic prehistoric monument situated in the English countryside, has captivated the imaginations of visitors for centuries. Standing tall on Salisbury Plain, this ancient stone circle (5,000 years old) continues to mystify people with its origins, purpose, and construction methods. Check out the visitor centre to draw your own conclusions. Stonehenge is also one of the most famous landmarks in the world, so it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular day trips from London.

Stonehenge, day trips from London by train:

• Train Information: London Waterloo Station to Salisbury Station
• Journey Time: 1 hour 30 minutes 
• Visitors also need to make their way from Salisbury Station to Stonehenge Visitor Centre. One option is by a 15-minute taxi, or bus directly from the station. You can choose either a bus only or tour included fare. The trip takes around 35 minutes.

Things to do at Stonehenge: 

• Spend time at the exhibition centre, learning all about the area and its origins
• Walk around the Stone Circle and admire the famous landmark
• Enjoy the wider National Trust landscape, and check out the heritage trail

Bath, Somerset

Located in the picturesque countryside of southwest England, Bath is a historic city renowned for its natural thermal springs and Roman-built baths. This UNESCO World Heritage Site draws in visitors with its elegant Georgian terraces, magnificent abbey, and well-preserved Roman remains. With charming, cobbled streets, bustling markets, and vibrant cultural scene, Bath also offers a blend of past and present to all who wander through its enchanting lanes. So whether you’re looking for some relaxation in the healing waters or wish to explore the city’s fascinating heritage, Bath promises to be an unforgettable day trip.  

Bath, day trips from London by train:

• Train Information: London Paddington Station to Bath Spa Station
• Journey Time: 1 hour 30 minutes 

Things to do in Bath: 

• Stroll along Pulteney Bridge lined with boutique shops 
• Visit the grand Bath Abbey, and climb 154 steps up the tower for amazing views  
• Check out the Roman Baths and visit the UNESCO Centre 
• Indulge in some relaxation at Thermae Bath Spa – Britain’s only natural hot springs 
• Admire the Georgian architecture at The Royal Crescent, The Circus, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey 
• Pop into The Jane Austen Centre and learn about Britain’s favourite author 
• Take a walking tour so you don’t miss out on all the city highlights.

Hastings, East Sussex

Nestled on the south coast of England, the historic town of Hastings, with its origins dating back over a thousand years, welcomes visitors with its outstanding natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. From its iconic castle perched high atop the cliffs, to its bustling fishing port and quaint old town streets, Hastings offers a mix of history, contemporary charm, and coastal vistas. So, whether you’re a history enthusiast exploring the remnants of the Norman conquest, or seeking relaxation by strolling along its expansive beaches, Hastings is bound to leave a mark on every traveller fortunate enough to experience its unique pirate town allure. 

Hastings, day trips from London by train:

• Train Information: London Bridge to Hastings Station
• Journey Time: 1.30 (dependant on train service) 

Things to do in Hastings: 

• Explore the ruins of Hastings Castle, once home to William the Conqueror, and the beautiful views across the town and the English Channel. On a clear day you can see France.
• Go on a Smugglers Adventure and explore secret tunnels, caverns and passageways used by smugglers and bootleggers once upon a time
• Wander through The Stade and along Rock-a-Nore Road to witness the unique black fishing huts, boats and fresh fish restaurants. Also head to Maggie’s for the best fish and chips! 
• Enjoy free entry to the Shipwreck and Fishermans Museums for a glimpse into the town’s heritage 
• Head to the top of Hastings Cliffs on Britain’s steepest funicular railway  
• Grab an ice cream and stroll along Hastings Pier 
• Stroll through Old Hastings Town with its quaint shops and lively pubs. Also head to The Stag Inn, the oldest pub in Hastings, for a unique experience!

Brighton, East Sussex

At only an hour-long train ride, this is one of the easiest day trips to do from London. Brighton, often referred to as “London by the sea,” is a vibrant and eclectic city located on the south coast of England. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, beachfront, and iconic pier, Brighton has long been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With its rich history, diverse culture, arts scene, and reputation as one of the UK’s LGBTQ+ capitals, there is something for everyone in this bustling seaside town. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, Brighton offers attractions and activities that are sure to captivate any visitor. 

Brighton, day trips from London by train:

• Train Information: London Victoria Station to Brighton Station
• Journey Time: 1 hour  

Things to do in Brighton: 

• Stroll along Brighton Palace Pier and take in the beach views  
• Walk the promenade and visit the upside-down house and Brighton i360 tower
• Enjoy traditional fish and chips on the beachfront promenade 
• Explore The Lanes’, narrow streets filled with quirky boutiques and cafes 
• Also check out The Black Lion, The Cricketers, and The Druids Head. They’re the oldest pubs in Brighton and full of historical tales 
• Visit the Royal Pavilion – a stunning palace that combines Indian and British architecture 

Eastbourne, East Sussex

Eastbourne is a charming seaside town that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, Victorian architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. As one of the sunniest places in the country, this picturesque resort town attracts visitors with its stunning beaches and breathtaking cliffs. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, Eastbourne also has an impressive collection of historic landmarks and museums that showcase its past. Whether you’re looking for relaxation by the sea or seeking adventure exploring scenic landscapes, Eastbourne has something to offer every traveller. 

Eastbourne, day trips from London by train:

• Train Information: London Victoria or Waterloo Station to Eastbourne Station
• Journey Time: 1 hour 10 minutes 

Things to do in Eastbourne: 

• Admire Eastbourne’s Victorian Pier and bandstand
• Grab an ice cream and stroll along Eastbourne beach and its lengthy promenade 
• Check out the Towner Art Gallery (free entry), home to pieces by Picasso and Henry Moore. It’s also the host of the Turner Prize in 2023  
• Head to Sovereign Harbour and enjoy some shopping and a bite to eat  
• Get your walking shoes on and head up to Beachy Head and Birling Gap. Alternatively hop on a bus and admire the views from the top 

Portsmouth, Hampshire

Portsmouth, a waterfront city nestled on the south coast, is steeped in maritime history and cultural charm. With its bustling port, historic dockyards, and iconic Spinnaker Tower dominating the skyline, Portsmouth stands as a testament to its naval heritage, while also embracing a thriving arts scene and diverse culinary offerings. Whether you’re wandering through the cobbled streets of Old Portsmouth or taking in the views from Southsea Common’s promenade, this laid-back city offers something for everyone to enjoy.  

Portsmouth, day trips from London by train:

• Train Information: London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour Station
• Journey Time: 1.30 – 2 hours (dependant on train service) 

Things to do in Portsmouth: 

• Explore Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard which includes the National Museum of the Royal Navy, the HMS Victory, HMS Warrior 1860 and the Tudor ship, Mary Rose   
• Stroll through Old Portsmouth and admire the cobbled streets and maritime homes
• Head up the iconic Spinnaker Tower and take in the views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight 
• Visit the museum and birthplace of Charles Dickens
• Grab a bite to eat or indulge in some retail therapy at Gunwharf Quays 
• Relax at Southsea Common, or enjoy some games with friends and family 
• Take a walk around the Southsea and stroll the Rose Garden and Southsea Castle – a fortification built by King Henry VIII (free entry)
• Take the ferry across to the Isle of Wight and enjoy a full day tour

Other Popular Day trips from London by Train

With so many day trip options from London, I’ve not been able to venture to them all. But some other popular places that I’d love to visit in the future are:

• Windsor Castle
• Oxford & Cambridge
• The Cotswolds
• Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio

Thanks for reading, I hope this has been a useful guide to some easy day trips from London by train. Are there any other destinations you’d add to this list? Let me know in the comments below or find me on Instagram. Alternatively, if you’re looking for more destination inspiration throughout the United Kingdom, check out this castle trail in Aberdeenshire.

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