29 of the most effective day journeys from London with youngsters

There’s a lot to discover in London itself that you may simply fill a lifetime uncovering all town’s secrets and techniques – however there’s no denying that it additionally makes an awesome base to discover, with a complete string of improbable day journeys from London with youngsters.

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Whether or not you reside within the metropolis and are searching for concepts of household days out close to London, otherwise you’re visiting the capital and attempting to pack in a bit extra of the UK on the identical time, I’ve picked 29 days out for teenagers close to London to encourage you.

I’ve tried to make these as real looking as doable – for instance, you may technically go to York as a day journey from London, with trains taking round two hours every manner, nevertheless it’s an extended day and also you’d nonetheless barely have probability to see all of the improbable points of interest in York with youngsters. Similar goes for Birmingham, which is nearer however equally deserving of greater than a day.

However with greater than 29 concepts for days out from London with youngsters, you’ll nonetheless have loads of inspiration for all ages and pursuits, plus tips about get there.

TOP TIP: When you’re travelling by practice, do issue within the time wanted to get from wherever you’re staying to the station you depart from: crossing London can simply add one other half-hour or extra to your journey

Day journeys near London

When you don’t wish to journey too removed from central London however you do wish to try a number of the highlights, the next all make simple days out from London with youngsters.

Theme parks

There are a string of theme parks inside simple attain of London, together with choices for various ages:

Hampton Court docket Palace

The house of King Henry VIII and a number of other of his Queens, to not point out different Tudor and Georgian royalty, Hampton Court docket Palace is formally a part of town, however as you do must make a journey from central London to get there, it’s greatest thought-about as a day journey.

Not least as a result of you possibly can simply spend all day exploring. The great Magic Backyard play space can preserve youngsters occupied for a very long time, fairly aside from the palace itself, together with the Tudor kitchens and Nice Corridor, the opposite royal residences, the grounds and gardens, together with the well-known hedge maze, plus plenty of further occasions throughout the college holidays.

There are direct trains from Waterloo to Hampton, and it’s solely a brief stroll from the station to the palace.

Windsor, Berkshire

There’s nowhere fairly like Windsor Citadel – certainly one of my prime UK castles to go to with youngsters. In spite of everything, how typically do you get to peek inside a ‘working’ palace?

One of many late Queen Elizabeth’s favorite houses, the royal household nonetheless usually spends time at Windsor, and you may see the Altering of the Guard right here, eye up a very spectacular doll’s home, see the tombs of royalty together with Henry VIII in St George’s chapel on the citadel, in addition to getting a glance indoors on the state residences.

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After all, there’s extra to Windsor than the citadel alone. you possibly can nonetheless stroll the historic streets and deal with the well-named Lengthy Stroll by means of Windsor Nice Park.

Try the Treasure Map Trails of Windsor and Eton for a enjoyable solution to discover with youngsters, recognizing a number of the quirky sights of the historic cities – get 10% off utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS.

Sadly the hop-on hop-off bus tour of Windsor is not operating (beforehand it was a straightforward solution to uncover the origins of Eton, with some Shakespeare thrown in) however there’s loads to find with out it.

For extra issues to do in Windsor with youngsters, try my prime picks

Winchester, Hampshire

England’s first capital, Winchester is the right place to step again in historical past – and there’s masses for teenagers to get pleasure from as effectively.

Together with the well-known cathedral, which my daughter first visited as a toddler (try the Christmas market in December too), you possibly can see the medieval spherical desk on show within the thirteenth century Nice Corridor, uncover town’s gone in its museums and wander the traditional streets.

For extra trendy enjoyable, the Winchester Science Centre reopened in 2020 after a multimillion pound overhall, and you may simply spend a complete day there.

For extra concepts of issues to do in Winchester with youngsters, try my prime picks

The New Forest, Hampshire

The New Forest Nationwide Park in Hampshire is the right family-friendly day journey from London for households who get pleasure from woodland walks and lively adventures, together with the prospect to identify the wild ponies which stay there.

You may take a scenic stroll or rent bikes to discover the traditional woodland, then hop right into a kayak for a visit alongside the river to see the gorgeous nationwide park from a unique vantage level. 

When you’re visiting with toddlers and youthful youngsters, there are additionally a number of farms the place you possibly can meet the animals plus the New Forest Wildlife Park, and, after all, the thrilling Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World – toddler and preschooler heaven!

Probably the greatest occasions to go to the New Forest with youngsters is throughout the early autumn months when the leaves are beginning to change color and the cooler climate means much less probability of sunburn throughout your out of doors adventures – though if you happen to’re visiting on a sunny day, head to Buckler’s Onerous for an ice cream by the waterfront.

For extra concepts of issues to do within the New Forest with youngsters, try my prime picks, together with extra issues to do in Hampshire with youngsters

The best solution to attain the New Forest and discover is by automobile. However there are additionally numerous stations if you wish to take the practice to the New Forest from London: the most effective stations to go in direction of is Brockenhurst, which takes round 90 minutes from Waterloo.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

There’s nowhere on this planet fairly like Stonehenge – this superb creation nonetheless has the facility to fascinate and spark your curiosity at any age.

Whereas it’s not a brief go to (round 2 1/2 hours every manner by automobile), it’s effectively well worth the effort to have a look at what might be the world’s most well-known prehistoric monument.

Try my publish on a go to to Stonehenge after lockdown

On the entrance, there’s a small museum and recreated Neolithic homes to discover – the exhibition specifically is unmissable, not least for the prospect to face in a recreation of the stones on the solstice, in addition to offering some background.

Then common buses can shuttle you all the way down to the henge itself (useful if you happen to’re visiting with youthful youngsters or older family members), and even higher, stroll the paths by means of the fields for the complete expertise, seeing the well-known stone circle all of a sudden showing on the horizon.

There’s extra info if you happen to obtain the free app earlier than you go to (or utilizing the location’s free WiFi), as a substitute of an audio information, however the influence of seeing Stonehenge in actual life, marvelling on the dimension of the stones, the precision of the design, isn’t lower than jaw-dropping.

You may get a wide range of excursions from London to Stonehenge, together with half-day choices which provide you with a few hours on the stones themselves if you happen to don’t wish to drive. In any other case, direct trains to Salisbury take 90 minutes from Waterloo and you may both take a taxi instantly or a 30-minute bus journey every manner with the Stonehenge tour bus (bus solely tickets price £14).

Salisbury, Wiltshire

One other fabulous metropolis to go to with youngsters on a day journey from London if you happen to’re thinking about historical past – Salisbury cathedral is the best-known attraction, dwelling to one of many copies of Magna Carta, in addition to the world’s oldest mechanical clock.

However that’s solely the beginning of the issues to do in Salisbury with youngsters – half the pleasure is wandering the historic streets, the place you possibly can nonetheless see medieval buildings in addition to the cathedral itself.

As soon as a Saxon city, then dwelling to a Norman citadel, you possibly can nonetheless see the ruins of this and an Iron Age fort simply outdoors the present metropolis at Previous Sarum.

Salisbury can also be an awesome choice to crew with a go to to Stonehenge – though attempting to pack each right into a day journey from London with youngsters could be distinctly formidable by public transport.

For extra concepts of issues to do in Salisbury with youngsters, try my prime picks

Trains to Salisbury from Waterloo take round 80-90 minutes direct, or round two hours by automobile.

Bathtub, Somerset

Fairly Bathtub is certainly one of my favorite cities in England, and fast trains imply it’s simply doable for day journeys from London with youngsters (though you’ll most likely be tempted to remain longer exploring this fabulous Unesco World Heritage Website).

The town is good whether or not your youngsters are fascinated by Roman locations, love the writing of Jane Austen and Regency magnificence, or for the combo of metropolis points of interest and close by countryside.

I’ve picked out my prime issues to do in Bathtub with youngsters right here for extra inspiration: you shouldn’t miss the Roman baths themselves and a stroll round absorbing the attractive structure with its honey-coloured stone, together with the Royal Crescent, in addition to a wander to Pulteney bridge.

There’s additionally the Trend Museum (at present closed), Jane Austen Centre, American Museum and extra, or the stunning Bathtub skyline stroll – to not point out a Bathtub bun earlier than you allow.

When you’re spending longer within the space than a day journey, try my prime issues to do in Somerset with youngsters

Bristol

On a equally quick practice path to close by Bathtub, vibrant Bristol is a superb place to go to with youngsters – you’ll discover nice road artwork, the SS Nice Britain and Clifton Suspension bridge, museums and animal points of interest.

The interactive science centre, We The Curious, is certainly one of my daughter’s all-time favourites – we go to every time we’re in Bristol and the toughest factor is tempting her again out once more.

Visiting the SS Nice Britain and the Being Brunel exhibition, celebrating the achievements and lifetime of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is equally unmissable.

The town can also be dwelling to an aquarium (plus the improbable Bristol zoo Venture simply outdoors town centre), the free M Shed museum concerning the metropolis, and every part road artwork from Banksy to classes in creating your individual works, with an awesome Banksy-themed strolling tour that can assist you uncover them.

For extra issues to do in Bristol with youngsters, try my prime picks

Trains to Bristol Temple Meads from London (the most effective station for town, moderately than Bristol Parkway) take round 90 minutes direct, or round two hours by automobile.

Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

When you’re searching for day journeys from London with youngsters that don’t embrace an extended journey, fairly Henley-on-Thames is only a brief practice experience or drive from the capital.

Set on the Thames within the Oxfordshire countryside close to the Chilterns, Henley is greatest identified for its annual boating regatta – however when that isn’t on, the most effective issues to do is rent a ship for the day to hit the river your self.

Seize a picnic, and spend the day on a self-drive electrical boat, exploring the river Thames and recognizing the luxurious houses and historic buildings that line the banks. 

For one thing extra adventurous, you may also rent kayaks and canoes that are appropriate for kids 5+. Sadly the surprisingly kid-friendly Henley River and Rowing Museum has now closed.

It takes between 45 minutes to an hour to succeed in Henley by practice from Paddington – there aren’t any direct practice routes, so that you do have to vary alongside the best way – or round an hour by automobile.

Oxford

Even after a number of years dwelling within the metropolis, I’d nonetheless discover myself stopping to stare at simply how beautiful Oxford is – that attractive honey-coloured stone, the previous school buildings, the beautiful riverside, the botanic gardens.

For teenagers who love studying, yow will discover every part from the doorway to Narnia to Alice in Wonderland and Harry Potter – don’t miss the Oxford Story Museum to step inside tales, nice for youthful guests in addition to eager readers.

Or try a Harry Potter tour – this Oxford strolling tour contains CS Lewis and JRR Tolkein in addition to the Bodleian library.

Try my overview of a Harry Potter strolling tour of Oxford with youngsters

The Oxford Pure Historical past Museum is one other of my daughter’s favourites – with loads of probabilities to get arms on, and the College Parks close by – whereas there’s an enormous quantity to find on the Ashmolean Museum with youngsters. Neither has an entry cost, in order that they’re additionally nice if you happen to’re searching for free issues to do.

The town is greatest explored on foot (or bike!) however the hop-on hop-off bus tour is a enjoyable possibility with youthful youngsters or for a fast overview of a few of Oxford’s highlights. And on a sunny day, there’s nothing higher than hiring a punt and cruising alongside the river.

For an additional enjoyable solution to discover, try the Treasure Map Trails assortment, together with two treasure hunts for Oxford – and get 10% off utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS

Trains to Oxford from Paddington station take from round 45 minutes, or round 75 minutes by automobile. You can even take a coach from London Victoria to Oxford (together with the Oxford Tube) which takes round 1 hour 40 minutes.

Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

The one non-royal nation home in all of England to carry the title of palace, Blenheim Palace is round 20 minutes from Oxford, at Woodstock within the Oxfordshire countryside.

Well-known for being the birthplace and residential of wartime Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, it’s additionally an extremely child-friendly day trip from London, together with an awesome audio tour of the grand palace itself.

Try my overview of a day trip at Blenheim Palace with youngsters for extra of the location’s household points of interest

One of many highlights for teenagers is the fabulous new journey playground – there’s a separate charge to enter, with timed slots, however with a lot for all ages, it’s large enjoyable.

Elsewhere within the 2,000-acre property, you’ll discover immersive household exhibitions on the palace’s historical past, in addition to sprawling gardens that function a two-mile hedge maze, a miniature practice, butterfly home and pony path for little ones, to not point out particular occasions all year long.

Go to within the run-up to Christmas, and there’s an illuminated path too.

It takes round 1h 20 minutes to get to Blenheim Palace from London by automobile, though there are additionally a wide range of excursions to Blenheim Palace if you happen to don’t wish to drive. Alternatively, the best solution to get there by public transport is to take the practice to Oxford after which a bus on to Woodstock, which takes an extra 30-40 minutes.

Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are really the postcard-perfect picture of England. Scattered throughout a number of counties, principally Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, the gathering of fairly villages is understood for its quaint thatch-roofed cottages and historic stone bridges, surrounded by the rolling inexperienced hills of the English countryside.

As the biggest Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence (AONB) in England, the Cotswolds are best to discover by automobile and also you definitely can’t discover the entire space in a single go to, however you may simply go to two to 3 villages on a day journey from London.

Bourton-on-the-Water is likely one of the most kid-friendly villages within the Cotswolds, with a shallow river operating straight by means of the center that children can splash in with an ice-cream in hand whereas dad and mom loosen up on the riverbank.

There’s additionally a mannequin village, hedge maze and Birdland Park and Gardens – which has one of many largest collections of unique birds within the UK, and close by Cotswold Farm Park.

Among the different prime villages to go to within the Cotswolds with youngsters embrace Decrease and Higher Slaughter, in addition to the gorgeous Citadel Combe and Moreton-in-Marsh.

For extra concepts of issues to do within the Cotswolds with youngsters, try my prime picks

It takes round two hours to drive from London to Bourton-on-the-Water. When you don’t wish to drive, there are direct trains to Moreton-in-Marsh from London Paddington, and buses to close by villages, though you’ll be extra restricted in your exploring. You can even be a part of a tour from London to the Cotswolds, though these don’t are usually appropriate for youthful youngsters.

Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire

This fascinating historic city is greatest identified for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and also you’ll discover loads of points of interest linked to the well-known playwright as you discover.

Go to the home that Shakespeare grew up in, the place you’ll be greeted by tour guides in genuine Tudor gown who deliver the expertise alive and are nice at participating youngsters of all ages. With older youngsters, you possibly can watch a efficiency on the Royal Shakespeare Theatre too, after all.

There’s additionally a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Stratford-upon-Avon, which hyperlinks a number of of the city’s highlights, or you may expertise a Tudor lesson in Shakespeare’s schoolroom, the place the younger William was educated.

Mary Arden’s farm – the house of Shakespeare’s mom – is one other enjoyable family-friendly attraction, with its many cattle, folks wearing genuine Tudor outfits and conventional crafts and actions which youngsters can strive for themselves, together with archery and falconry.

Away from the city’s Shakespeare connection, you possibly can see mechanical artwork on the uncommon MAD museum, spend a while at Stratford’s Butterfly Farm and take a calming boat journey alongside the River Avon.

The Stratford-upon-Avon Treasure Map Path is one other enjoyable solution to discover Stratford-on-Avon with youngsters, discovering a number of the quirky sights alongside the best way – there’s additionally 10% off utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS

It takes round 2 hours half-hour by practice to Stratford-upon-Avon from London Marylebone, or just below two hours to drive. You can even guide a tour to Stratford-upon-Avon from London, comparable to this selection which additionally contains Oxford, though this an extended and busy day so not one for youthful youngsters.

When you’ve got longer to spend exploring England, it’s simple to mix Stratford-upon-Avon with a go to to Warwick and Warwick Citadel

Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Buckinghamshire

This little museum in Nice Missenden, Buckinghamshire, is unbeatable for followers of Roald Dahl – he lived within the village itself, and it’s simple to see how the world impressed a few of his books.

However even with out wandering round Nice Missenden itself, the Roald Dahl Museum is a improbable mixture of information concerning the creator, areas to encourage youngsters to get inventive, and details about his books and their origins.

If you wish to curl up in a nook along with your favorite story, you possibly can, whereas there are storytelling classes and crafts actions that are enjoyable for younger kids.

Learn my full overview of a go to to the Roald Dahl Museum with youngsters

Trains to Nice Missenden run from London Marylebone twice an hour, taking 45 minutes, and it’s solely a brief stroll from the museum. There isn’t any parking on the museum and restricted parking within the village if you happen to’re driving.

Warner Bros Studio Tour, Herfordshire

One of the crucial standard day journeys from London with youngsters, the Warner Bros Studio tour is heaven for Harry Potter followers (small and enormous!) Not removed from London, in Hertfordshire, the Harry Potter Studio tour can also be one of many closest London day journeys in my record.

Having visited the Leavesden studios a number of occasions – it’s certainly one of my prime days out for Harry Potter followers and prime Harry Potter places in London – you may very simply spend all day there if you happen to needed.

For extra tips about visiting the Harry Potter Studios, try my publish

In addition to the prospect to see props from the films in all their spectacular element, you may pose with a broomstick in opposition to a inexperienced display, watch animatronic creatures from the wizarding world – and see how they have been designed.

There’s additionally a mannequin of Privet Drive and the Hogwarts Specific, an opportunity to wander by means of Diagon Alley, a fire-breathing dragon in Gringotts and the one place you possibly can see Hogwarts.

St Albans, Hertfordshire

The historic metropolis is one other very simple day journey from London with youngsters, and it’s an awesome possibility if your loved ones loves historical past – together with a historic road market, with some nice meals stalls.

The positioning of certainly one of England’s most necessary Roman settlements, Verulamium, it was additionally the house of the nation’s first Saint, Alban – you possibly can nonetheless go to the Norman cathedral – and the scene of the primary battle within the Struggle of the Roses so there’s loads to find.

Step additional again in time to seek out Romans on the 100 acres of Verulamium Park: this stands on the previous Roman metropolis with a number of the historic partitions nonetheless seen, together with the Hypocaust mosaic. Close by are the stays of the Roman Theatre.

Head to Verulamium Museum too to seek out extra of the objects excavated from the location, plus a hoard of golden cash, some spectacular mosaics, and household actions if you happen to’re visiting with youngsters.

The St Albans treasure hunt from Treasure Map Trails is one other nice solution to discover – get 10% off utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS.

Trains to St Albans from London take as little as 17 minutes from St Pancras, or it’s round a 50-minute drive. If you’re driving, it’s a straightforward one to mix with Hertfordshire Zoo (previously Paradise Wildlife Park).

Hertfordshire Zoo, Hertfordshire (previously Paradise Wildlife Park)

In case your youngsters love animals, a household day trip at Hertfordshire Zoo is a superb possibility with over 800 unique wild animals housed on the former Paradise Wildlife Park.

It’s the one one within the UK which is dwelling to 5 totally different massive cat species, plus a giant assortment of small monkeys and an enormous anaconda. If that’s not sufficient, the World of Dinosaurs attraction has 30 life-size animatronic dinosaurs so as to add some further thrills to your day.

Throw in particular occasions, talks, feeding occasions, exhibits, particular animal experiences, a bit of practice and even the prospect to play safari golf and it’s not laborious to fill a full day right here.

It takes round an hour to drive to Hertfordshire Zoo from London. When you’re travelling by public transport, the best possibility is to go to London Liverpool Avenue to catch one of many trains to Broxbourne. These take round half-hour and the practice station is round 5 minutes away from Hertfordshire Zoo by taxi (there isn’t any longer a minibus operating to the park).

Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire

The closest safari park to London, Woburn Safari Park makes a improbable day trip from London with youngsters. In addition to the prospect to drive by means of to see a number of the greater animals, there’s additionally a piece to stroll round, perfect for teenagers to stretch their legs.

As a bonus, there are some very memorable VIP experiences too if you happen to’re forking out – you will get near smaller animals together with meerkats and lemurs (for age 5 + ), or take an off-road safari journey (appropriate for all ages although it’s possible you’ll want to supply a baby seat) with particular variations that embrace assembly the lions, tiger and giraffe (some age restrictions).

Try my overview of the VIP experiences at Woburn Safari Park

It’s dwelling to every part from elephants and bears to lions and tigers, all the way down to monkeys, penguins and sea lions, to call just some. There are additionally play areas, each indoor and out, a mini practice to experience and swan and dragon boats on the lake.

Woburn Safari Park is round one hour’s drive from London – and it’s a must to drive. Not solely would it not be an extended journey to strive on public transport, it’s a must to drive to the doorway, after which clearly you possibly can’t stroll across the safari park, so that you do want your individual car for at the present time journey.

Cambridge

The second of England’s most prestigious college cities, Cambridge can also be an awesome vacation spot for a kid-friendly day trip from London – you will get your bearings with a hop-on hop-off bus tour across the metropolis.

Dwelling to a number of nice museums, together with dinosaurs on the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, youngsters can even love visiting the close by College Museum of Zoology and the Cambridge Science Centre. The Science Centre usually runs enjoyable workshops and classes for teenagers so make sure to test the schedule earlier than your go to.

And there are some improbable concepts for household actions on the Fitzwilliam Museum for even the youngest guests: this free artwork gallery is likely one of the most household pleasant within the UK.

On a sunny day, punting alongside the River Cam, admiring town’s many spectacular college buildings, is an absolute should, and save a while for a stroll across the Botanic Gardens too.

For extra issues to do in Cambridge with youngsters, try my prime picks

Trains to Cambridge take as little as 50 minutes from London and you may journey from Kings Cross or Liverpool Avenue direct. It’s round a 20-minute stroll from town centre, or a number of bus routes run between the 2. It takes round 90 minutes to drive, though like Oxford, Cambridge is significantly better explored on foot, so it’s price contemplating parking outdoors town on the park & experience.

When you’re staying in Cambridge for longer, it’s simple to mix with a visit to Ely with youngsters in addition to discovering a number of the greatest issues to do in Suffolk with youngsters as effectively

Norwich, Norfolk

This typically missed metropolis in East Anglia, a go to to Norwich is improbable with youngsters – I’ve visited a number of occasions with my daughter, and there’s an awesome mixture of points of interest, historical past and picturesque streets to wander round.

In truth Norwich is likely one of the greatest cities I’ve come throughout for placing up indicators about its historical past, so you possibly can uncover the origins of surprising names, learn the way previous buildings are and be taught just a few native tales as you wander across the county city of Norfolk.

Discover a few of my favorite spots and concepts for spend sooner or later in Norwich with youngsters right here

Don’t miss an opportunity to look contained in the cathedral, with its labyrinth and cathedral cat, whereas you may also discover contained in the citadel the place town’s museum is ready. There are museums galore, together with the Museum of Norwich on the Bridewell inside a former jail, and the medieval Stranger’s Corridor.

Stroll by means of Tombland and all the way down to the Quayside, the place the sculptures commemorate the folks and trades which as soon as helped make it England’s second metropolis, in addition to wandering round Norwich Lanes, full of cafes and little retailers. Wherever you wander, you’ll discover loads of road artwork too.

Trains to Norwich take slightly below two hours from London Liverpool Avenue – you may also journey from Kings Cross nevertheless it takes barely longer and it is advisable change trains in Ely. It takes an identical period of time to do the identical journey by automobile.

Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

For a barely totally different place to strive if you happen to’re searching for day journeys from London with youngsters, Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk is lower than two hours away, with its magnificent cathedral, ruins of the previous abbey and hyperlinks to Charles Dickens – for starters.

The creator made a number of visits to the city, staying at The Angel teaching inn – you possibly can nonetheless see a blue plaque commemorating it on the entrance of the constructing.

Reverse, the beautiful Abbey Gardens have their imposing previous gatehouse in addition to pillars, arches and even previous graves from the medieval abbey which was one of many richest and strongest within the nation. Wander inside the gorgeous cathedral of St Edmundsbury too, with a Discovery Detective path for teenagers to observe.

There are some surprising sights as effectively: within the close by church of St Mary, you possibly can spot the grave of Mary Tudor – sister of Henry VIII, Queen of France and later Duchess of Suffolk, whereas Moyse’s Corridor Museum, voted Suffolk’s most family-friendly museum, has shows on homicide and witchcraft, in addition to on the historical past of Bury St Edmunds.

Colchester, Essex

Calling itself Britain’s oldest metropolis, Colchester is one other nice possibility if you happen to’re searching for history-packed day journeys from London with youngsters – particularly if yours love the Romans.

Then referred to as Camelodunum, it was one of the crucial necessary Roman websites, with a part of the traditional wall nonetheless remaining, together with the ruins of the one Roman circus within the nation.

You can even see a part of the large Temple of Claudius, destroyed within the revolt by Boudica and the Iceni, within the shadow of the citadel – the Norman fortress now homes a improbable museum, with reveals from excavations within the space, AR recreations of life within the citadel, hyperlinks to the Witchfinder Basic and extra. Good for conserving the entire household entertained.

For extra concepts of issues to do in Colchester with youngsters, try this publish

Take a wander across the fairly citadel park too, in addition to exploring a few of Colchester’s different museums and wandering the previous streets. There’s an awesome zoo simply outdoors Colchester itself too.

Trains to Colchester take simply over an hour from London; select a route from Liverpool Avenue to Colchester City station, which is lower than 10 minutes stroll to the citadel (or you possibly can journey to Colchester Station, which is faster however barely additional outdoors the centre). It takes round 90 minutes to drive.

Southend-on-Sea, Essex

Southend-on-Sea is a traditional British seaside vacation spot on the Essex coast that makes for a enjoyable kid-friendly day journey from London. 

In addition to the massive pebble seaside for teenagers to get pleasure from, you’ll additionally discover loads of family-friendly points of interest, together with a number of gaming arcades, the Journey Island amusement park and the Sealife Journey aquarium.

The city can also be famously dwelling to the longest pleasure pier on this planet, which incorporates a loopy golf course, museum and a number of other small retailers and cafes. You may both stroll half-hour to succeed in the tip of the pier (instructed you it was lengthy!) or bounce on the electrical railway. 

When you’re pondering this could solely be in your record for a go to in summer season, Southend-on-Sea is definitely a stunning year-round London day journey with youngsters – all through October and November every year, the city places on an incredible free fireworks show each Saturday night from a barge out within the water, accompanied by stay music and festivities alongside the seafront.

Trains to Southend-on-Sea take round an hour, and you’ve got a alternative of two totally different routes – from Fenchurch Avenue to Southend Central, which is barely nearer the seaside, or Liverpool Avenue to Southend Victoria, which is barely sooner. It additionally takes round an hour to drive from London to Southend-on-Sea.

Mersea Island, Essex

For a barely extra low-key and chilled-out day journey to the seaside from London, head to the small estuary island of Mersea in Essex.

Spend an idyllic day on Mersea Island having fun with the peaceable sandy seashores, attempting your hand at catch-and-release crabbing, hiring a paddleboard or kayak from Mersea Island Watersports and heading out onto the water, and snapping just a few images of the colorful seaside homes that line Victoria Esplanade.

And if the queue isn’t too lengthy, make sure to cease for lunch at The Firm Shed which has a fame for serving the tastiest fish and seafood on the island, and children are welcome.

If you wish to journey by practice to Mersea Island, the closest station is Colchester, round an hour from London. You may take bus 67 to West Mersea from there, which takes round 45 minutes – or a taxi experience is round 20 minutes. To drive from London, it takes round 1 hour 45 minutes.

North Kent seashores

For an additional alternative of seashores near London, head to the North Kent coast, the place you’ll discover a string of beautiful spots by the ocean and a string of potential day journeys with youngsters.

Whitstable is certainly one of my favourites: in addition to the shingle seaside, there’s an awesome cycle monitor to discover a bit of additional and a well-deserved fame for nice fish and oysters.

One in all my favorite issues is the road artwork in Whitstable although, with works to identify everywhere in the city. Gas up with some candy treats from the retailers alongside Harbour Avenue first (with loads to tempt grown-ups in addition to youngsters)

For a conventional seaside really feel, select close by Herne Bay. Wander alongside the pier, try the helter skelter and seize fish and chips to eat by the waves, earlier than strolling additional alongside the seaside to identify the seaside huts.

When you’re ready to journey a bit additional, Broadstairs has a number of attractive seashores, fabulous ice cream at Morelli’s and a few nice locations to eat alongside the seafront.

For extra of the most effective seashores in Kent with youngsters, try my prime picks

Trains to Whitstable from London take round 75-90 minutes from St Pancras and Victoria, in addition to Cannon Avenue, whereas the identical trains to Herne Bay take 5-10 minutes longer. Driving to Whitstable and Herne Bay from London takes round 90 minutes. The quick practice to Broadstairs from St Pancras takes round 75 minutes, or it’s an additional half-hour to drive.

For extra concepts of issues to do in Kent with youngsters, try my decide of the most effective

Margate, Kent

The seaside city of Margate on the Kent coast is one other nice day journey from London for teenagers who get pleasure from being by the water.

This conventional British seaside city has an elegant trendy twist, so when you’ll discover fish and chips overlooking the sandy seaside, you may also discover a city centre crammed with cool classic retailers and hipster cafes serving cold-brew espresso.

For a enjoyable kid-friendly day trip in Margate, don’t miss a go to to Dreamland, the thrilling 100-year-old amusement park which is dwelling to the UK’s oldest picket curler coaster.

You can even discover Iron Age stays contained in the Margate caves and go to the ornate Shell Grotto – an uncommon collection of passageways mysteriously lined in thousands and thousands of shells.

Trains to Margate from London take round 90 minutes from St Pancras, or barely longer from Victoria. It takes round 1 hour 45 minutes to drive to Margate.

Canterbury, Kent

As soon as an necessary pilgrimage web site, commemorated in Chaucer’s well-known Canterbury Tales, the charming metropolis of Canterbury in Kent remains to be a preferred place to go to from London for the day with youngsters.

Older youngsters will get pleasure from exploring the spectacular Canterbury cathedral, wandering the traditional Medieval partitions, and visiting the fascinating Canterbury Roman Museum, certainly one of my favorite Roman locations within the UK.

Youthful kids are positive to like embarking on the Canterbury Spy Mission Path as a enjoyable solution to discover town’s historic streets, or you will get one other view by heading to the water, and punting on the river.

Select a quick practice to Canterbury from London St Pancras and you will get to town in an hour. There’s one other route from Victoria to Canterbury East station, in addition to to Canterbury West from Charing Cross, however you’ll want to permit a minimum of one other half-hour. Each stations are round 10 minutes stroll from the cathedral. It takes round 75-90 minutes to drive to Canterbury from London.

Dover Citadel, Kent

When you’re trying to go to one of many UK’s historic castles on a day journey from London with youngsters, you’re spoiled for alternative, with a complete string of improbable castles in Kent alone. However one of the crucial spectacular, which can also be one of many best to go to is Dover Citadel.

Relationship again over 900 years, the inside is adorned as it will have been again when a few of England’s Norman kings (and queens), and their Plantagenet successors, would have visited – full with roaring fires within the coronary heart on chilly days.

When you’ve explored the large preserve and the citadel grounds, there are medieval tunnels in addition to more moderen historical past within the Second World Struggle tunnels, plus some fabulous views out throughout the English Channel and to the White Cliffs of Dover.

Learn my overview of a day trip at Dover Citadel with youngsters

Trains to Dover Priory station run from a number of stations in London – the route from London St Pancras is quickest, with trains taking simply over an hour. You can even journey from London Bridge, which takes round 1hour 40 minutes, or Victoria, which takes slightly below two hours. It’s simply over a mile on foot from the station (permit round half-hour) though there are a number of bus routes to take you all or a part of the best way. It takes round two hours by automobile.

Wish to go to extra castles in Kent?

When you’re hoping to go to one other citadel, Hever Citadel and Leeds Citadel are each improbable household days out however much less accessible by public transport, so these are greatest if you happen to’re travelling by automobile.

Hever Citadel is barely a mile from Hever station, with direct trains from London Bridge taking round 45 minutes – these depart as soon as per hour, and also you would want to stroll as there aren’t any taxis at this small station. Alternatively you possibly can take the practice to Edenbridge and get a taxi from there.

To go to Leeds Citadel, there are direct trains from Victoria to Bearsted station however you’ll want a taxi for the three-mile journey from there (except you wish to take two buses and stroll). In both case, it’s price reserving prematurely (and guaranteeing you’ve a plan for the return journey).

Brighton, East Sussex

One in all my favorite UK cities, Brighton can also be one of many best day journeys from London with youngsters if you wish to hit the seaside.

The seaside itself is shingly and pebbles moderately than sand, however there are some nice household points of interest within the metropolis, together with Sea Life Brighton, the world’s oldest aquarium, plus a string of quirky museums.

Try my prime issues to do in Brighton with youngsters for extra concepts

Don’t miss the enduring Royal Pavilion too, with a path for youthful youngsters to observe, and loads of opulent royal dwelling to make your jaw drop. Teenagers will love wandering the Lanes with their classic retailers and retro homewares, or testing the stalls on the Open Market.

Trains to Brighton from London Victoria take round an hour – you may also journey from Blackfriars and London Bridge, which takes one other 5-10 minutes. It takes round 1h 45 minutes to drive to Brighton: parking is commonly at a premium so be ready for prime costs or to discover a house outdoors the centre.

Sussex seashores

When you’re searching for sandy seashores close to London, the Sussex coast is likely one of the closest stretches to the capital for a paddle and an opportunity to construct a sandcastle.

There’s a sensible choice of days out from London with youngsters as effectively, from Camber Sands to Littlehampton and West Wittering.

Each Camber Sands and West Wittering are backed by dunes, with tide swimming pools when the tide is out: each also can get very busy on sunny summer season days!

Or Littlehampton has some extra conventional seaside enjoyable at its jap finish, with sand when the tide is out and the UK’s longest bench, whereas the western finish is extra unspoiled with dunes to discover.

Trains to Littlehampton from London take from round 90 minutes, and it’s a 15 minute stroll all the way down to the beachfront, or it takes slightly below two hours to drive, with parking simply off the seaside. The others are tougher to succeed in by practice: the closest station to Camber Sands is fairly Rye, round three miles away, which takes simply over an hour by practice, or it’s round two hours by automobile. Realistically, a day journey to West Wittering is barely sensible by automobile however prebooking a parking house on the seaside automobile park is strongly suggested.

*First revealed 2021, final up to date 2026*

PIN FOR LATER: THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON WITH KIDS

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Photographs: Dreamland courtesy Go to Kent/Kallaway PR, most important picture/Salisbury/Bathtub/Henley/Oxford/Blenheim/Cotswolds/ Stratford/StAlbans/Cambridge/Bury St Edmunds/Southend/Mersea/Canterbury/Brighton courtesy of Depositphotos, all others copyright MummyTravels

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