The 5 Best Day Trips in London

London has an endless array of attractions and activities to offer, ranging from world-famous landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. But sometimes it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore what lies beyond. Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic destinations within easy reach of the city that make for perfect day trips. So, if you’re looking for a break from the urban jungle or simply want to experience more of what the UK has to offer, join us as we explore some of the best day trips in London.

The 5 Best Day Trips in London

  1. Private Custom Tour London in a Day
  2. Private Day Tour to Bath Avebury and the Cotswolds
  3. The Ultimate Full Day London Classic Tour
  4. Luxury Paris Day Trip With Champagne Lunch on the Eiffel Tower
  5. Paris Rail Day Trip from London

The 5 Best Day Trips in London

1. Private Custom Tour London in a Day

Discover the enchanting city of London exactly as you want with a private custom tour, where you can craft your precise itinerary with the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert. Take your pick between a half-day and full-day tour and fill it with the attractions and sites that interest you most. Receive insider insights and tips from your guide as you journey through the city, discovering hidden gems off the conventional tourist trail. Admire the spectacular architecture of landmarks such as Big Ben and the Tower of London, and enjoy the convenience of the pre-planned logistics such as transportation and reservations. Additionally, certified guide service for museums is available for a richer experience. This tour will enable you to explore London at your own pace, stress-free, and in the company of a seasoned guide ensuring a memorable trip that is tailored to your interests.

2. Private Day Tour to Bath Avebury and the Cotswolds

This private day trip to Bath Avebury and the Cotswolds is the perfect way to see three charming towns in just one day. With a private tour, you’ll have the freedom to tailor and tweak your itinerary and a knowledgable driver guide will lead the way. Traveling in a small vehicle also means you can take more scenic routes and enjoy the stunning southern England countryside. The stress-free experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off at selected Central London hotels, and entry to Lacock Abbey and The Roman Baths Museum is also included. Don’t worry about transportation and fuel costs, they’re covered. Simply sit back, relax, and enjoy this incredible day trip.

3. The Ultimate Full Day London Classic Tour

Optimize your time in London with a private full-day tour that covers the city’s top attractions. Your personal guide will take you to famous landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. Travel in a traditional black cab to get an authentic London experience and enjoy plenty of stops for pictures or closer looks. You can also request additional stops according to your interests with the help of your guide’s personalized recommendations. Pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Central London is included, making it easy to start and end your day. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable London experience.

4. Luxury Paris Day Trip With Champagne Lunch on the Eiffel Tower

See Paris in all its glory on this exquisite day trip from London. Experience the city’s top attractions through a panoramic sightseeing tour that covers Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. Further, savor a one-hour scenic Seine River cruise to discover the gems of Paris, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral. What makes this day trip exclusive is the option to upgrade to a 3-course lunch with wine on the Eiffel Tower, making memories that will last a lifetime. The luxury offering coupled with the ease of travel through Eurostar has made this Paris day trip a favorite of tourists worldwide. The experience also includes gratuities for your convenience.

5. Paris Rail Day Trip from London

Escape London for the day and soak up the charm and romance of Paris on this rail day trip by Eurostar. With the option to tour the city with a guide or on your own, you have the flexibility to create your own itinerary according to your preferences. Choose the independent tour option and enjoy the freedom of exploring Paris at your own pace with an included hop-on-hop-off bus tour that stops at all the top tourist spots, including the famous Louvre. Alternatively, opt for the guided experience and take a Paris city tour, including a magical sightseeing cruise along the Seine River. First or standard-class Eurostar tickets for round-trip travel from London’s St. Pancras to Paris’ Gare du Nord are included, so you can sit back and relax while you’re whisked away. This is the perfect opportunity to escape London and immerse yourself in the stunning sights and sounds of Paris.

London Guide: Frequently Asked Tourist Questions

London is one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world, welcoming millions of visitors every year. As a tourist, it’s natural to have lots of questions about this vibrant and bustling city. In this article, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists to help you plan your visit better.

1. When is the best time to visit London?

London is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months (June – August) are the busiest and most expensive, with long daylight hours and warm temperatures. The winter months (December – February) are colder, but you can enjoy festive events and lower prices. Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November) can be pleasant, with fewer crowds and mild weather.

2. What’s the easiest way to get around London?

London has one of the best public transportation systems in the world, with buses, trains, and underground tubes connecting every corner of the city. The easiest way to get around is by using an Oyster Card or contactless payment method, which offers a discounted fare and allows you to hop on and off any mode of transport as many times as you like. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available, but they can be expensive and prone to traffic jams.

3. What are the must-see attractions in London?

London is full of iconic attractions that are worth a visit, such as the Tower of London, the British Museum, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and the West End theatre district. If you’re interested in exploring history and culture, make sure to visit the National Gallery, Tate Modern, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey. For a more unique experience, you can visit Camden Market, Greenwich Observatory, or the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

4. What’s the food scene like in London?

London has a vibrant and diverse food scene, with cuisine from all around the world. You can find traditional British dishes like fish and chips, Sunday roast, and afternoon tea, as well as international favorites like pizza, sushi, and curry. Food markets such as Borough Market and Camden Market offer a range of fresh produce and international street food. If you’re looking for a fine-dining experience, you can visit Michelin-starred restaurants like The Ledbury, Core by Clare Smyth, and Sketch.

5. How much money do I need for a trip to London?

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, but you can still plan a budget-friendly trip. The cost will depend on your accommodation, transport, food, and activities. On average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around £60-80 per day, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around £120-150 per day. You can save money by staying in hostels or budget hotels, using public transportation, and eating at local street food markets.

6. What’s the weather like in London?

The weather in London can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and temperature changes. The average temperature in summer is around 20°C (68°F), while in winter, it drops to around 7°C (45°F). It’s recommended to bring layers of clothing and a raincoat, regardless of the season.

7. How do I get tickets to popular attractions in London?

It’s recommended to book tickets to popular attractions in advance, especially during the peak season. You can book online through the official website of the attraction or through a third-party website. Some attractions offer a discount if you book in advance. If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, you can save money with a city pass like the London Pass or the Explorer Pass.

8. What’s the nightlife like in London?

London has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, catering to all tastes and preferences. You can visit traditional pubs, trendy bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. Areas like Soho, Shoreditch, Camden, and Notting Hill are known for their nightlife. If you’re interested in theatre, make sure to catch a show in the West End.

9. Is London safe for tourists?

London is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s recommended to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, keep your valuables secure, and stay in well-lit areas at night. It’s also recommended to use licensed taxis and ride-sharing services, especially at night.

10. What’s the tipping etiquette in London?

Tipping is not mandatory in London, but it’s customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service charge is not included. It’s also common to tip hotel staff, hairdressers, and taxi drivers if the service is exceptional. In conclusion, London is a fascinating city with endless possibilities for visitors. By planning your trip in advance and knowing what to expect, you can make the most of your experience and create unforgettable memories.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in London

Visiting London as a tourist can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. This city offers a plethora of attractions, activities, and sights that can make it difficult to decide on what to do first. In this guide, we will take you through some of the best things to do in London and help you plan your visit better.

Plan Your Trip Ahead

Even before your arrival, you should plan your trip in advance. London is a vast city, and knowing where you want to head first will save you time and effort. Plan your accommodation and travel itinerary ahead of time, so you can make the most out of your trip. Some valuable resources for planning your trip include:

  • Visit London’s Official Website: This website is an excellent resource for finding out all the essential information about the city, including events, accommodation, attractions, and tours.
  • Google Maps: Use Google Maps to get directions on how to get around the city by foot, public transport, and taxi.
  • London Pass: The London Pass provides entry to many popular tourist attractions in London, as well as discounts for several restaurants, tours, and shops.

Visit London’s Iconic Sites

London is home to some of the world’s most exciting and iconic tourist sites. These include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the British Museum, the London Eye, and Big Ben.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the British monarch since 1837. The Palace is situated in the heart of London and is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. You can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside the palace gates or take a tour of the palace’s state rooms from July to October.

The Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic castle located along the River Thames. The castle was founded by William the Conqueror after his victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Today, it houses the Crown Jewels and the famous Beefeaters.

The British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s most significant museums, displaying over eight million artefacts from different parts of the world. Some of the most popular artefacts include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Marbles, and the Egyptian Mummies.

The London Eye

The London Eye is a modern landmark situated along the River Thames that has become one of London’s most popular tourist sites since its opening in 2000. The Eye offers an aerial view of the city, giving tourists a panoramic view of London’s skyline.

Big Ben

Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. This iconic clock tower is one of London’s most photographed sites and stands as a symbol of British culture and heritage.

Get a Taste of London’s Food and Drink

London is a cosmopolitan city, meaning it boasts a multicultural cuisine that is perfect for food lovers. Try out some traditional British dishes like fish and chips, pie and mash, or a Sunday roast, or sample some of the city’s international cuisine like Indian, Chinese, or Italian.

Afternoon Tea

One of the most quintessential British customs is taking afternoon tea. This experience is to be had at many of the city’s top hotels, including The Ritz, The Savoy, and Claridge’s. You can enjoy a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and pastries while drinking tea in style.

London’s Bars and Pubs

London’s pub culture is famous worldwide, and there are thousands of bars and pubs in the city offering ales, beers, and cocktails to choose from. For a unique experience, check out some of the city’s rooftop bars like Sushisamba or 12th Knot or head to Nightjar, voted the best bar in London.

Go Shopping in London’s Fashion District

London is renowned for its fashion industry, with designers showcasing their collections at the famous London Fashion Week. If you are a shopaholic, then a visit to some of London’s top shopping destinations like Oxford Street, Bond Street, and Covent Garden should be on your list.

  • Oxford Street: Oxford Street is one of London’s busiest shopping streets with over 300 shops, including Topshop, Zara, and H&M.
  • Bond Street: Bond Street is a luxurious shopping destination with designer stores like Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Chanel.
  • Covent Garden: Covent Garden is a popular destination for markets, ranging from handmade crafts to global cuisine. The area also features unique shops like Benjamin Pollock’s Toy Shop and The Tea House.

Explore London’s Parks and Gardens

London is home to a plethora of parks and gardens with beautiful natural scenery.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in London, covering 350 acres of land. The park is home to many famous landmarks, including the Serpentine Lake, the Diana Memorial Fountain, and Kensington Palace.

Kew Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is a famous garden attraction in London with botanical collections from all around the world. The gardens feature greenhouses, tree-top walks, and landscapes, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

London is a city full of life and excitement, and there is so much to see and do. By following this guide, you can explore the city and create an unforgettable trip to remember. Whether you prefer shopping, sightseeing or relaxing in parks, London has something to offer everyone.

Make sure to plan your trip in advance by using the resources provided, so you can experience everything that London has to offer.

The 5 Best Day Trips in London