There’s a lot to discover in London itself that you possibly can simply fill a lifetime uncovering all the town’s secrets and techniques – however there’s no denying that it additionally makes an excellent base to discover, with an entire string of incredible day journeys from London with youngsters.
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Whether or not you reside within the metropolis and are on the lookout 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 similar time, I’ve picked 29 days out for teenagers close to London to encourage you.
I’ve tried to make these as sensible as doable – for instance, you possibly can technically go to York as a day journey from London, with trains taking round two hours every method, however it’s a protracted day and also you’d nonetheless barely have likelihood to see all of the incredible sights in York with youngsters. Identical goes for Birmingham, which is nearer however equally deserving of greater than a day.
Evidently, I haven’t included each doable place you possibly can go to on day journeys from London with youngsters both – I’ve targeted on locations slightly than particular sights, however there are theme parks like Legoland Windsor, Chessington World of Adventures and Thorpe Park, in addition to different sights the place you possibly can simply spend the day.
I’ve additionally ignored Hampton Courtroom Palace – it’s someplace I’d extremely advocate as a time out, and also you do need to make a journey from central London to get there, however it’s nonetheless formally a part of the town!
TOP TIP: For those who’re travelling by prepare, 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
Contents – click on to leap to a piece
Windsor, Berkshire
There’s nowhere fairly like Windsor Fort – one among my high UK castles to go to with youngsters. In any case, how typically do you get to peek inside a ‘working’ palace?
One in all Queen Elizabeth’s favorite properties, the royal household nonetheless often 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 fortress, in addition to getting a glance indoors on the state residences.
E-book tickets to Windsor Fort right here
In fact, there’s extra to Windsor than the fortress alone. Whereas the hop-on hop-off bus tour of Windsor is at present not operating – beforehand you possibly can uncover the origins of Eton, with some Shakespeare thrown in – you’ll be able to nonetheless stroll the historic streets and deal with the well-named Lengthy Stroll via Windsor Nice Park.
Or try the Treasure Map Trails of Windsor and Eton for a enjoyable option to discover with youngsters, recognizing a few of the quirky sights of the historic cities – get 10% off utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS.
For extra issues to do in Windsor with youngsters, try my high picks
Winchester, Hampshire
England’s first capital, Winchester is the right place to step again in historical past – and there’s hundreds for teenagers to take pleasure in as effectively.
Together with the well-known cathedral, which my daughter first visited as a toddler (try the Christmas market in December too), you’ll be able to see the medieval spherical desk on show within the thirteenth century Nice Corridor, uncover the town’s long 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 possibly can simply spend an entire day there.
For extra concepts of issues to do in Winchester with youngsters, try my high picks
The New Forest, Hampshire
The New Forest Nationwide Park in Hampshire is the right family-friendly day journey from London for households who take pleasure in woodland walks and lively adventures, together with the possibility to identify the wild ponies which reside there.
You possibly can 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 attractive nationwide park from a special vantage level.
For those who’re visiting with toddlers and youthful youngsters, there are additionally a number of farms the place you’ll be able to meet the animals and, after all, the thrilling Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World – toddler and preschooler heaven!
The most effective 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 likelihood of sunburn throughout your outside adventures – though should you’re visiting on a sunny day, head to Buckler’s Arduous for an ice cream by the waterfront.
For extra concepts of issues to do in Winchester with youngsters, try my high picks, together with extra issues to do in Hampshire with youngsters
- The best option to attain the New Forest and discover is by automotive. However there are additionally varied stations if you wish to take the prepare to the New Forest from London: among the best stations to go in the direction of is Brockenhurst, which takes round 90 minutes from Waterloo.
Stonehenge, Wiltshire
There’s nowhere on the earth 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 method by automotive), it’s effectively definitely worth the effort to have a look at what might be the world’s most well-known prehistoric monument.
Take a look at my submit 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 possibility 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 (helpful should you’re visiting with youthful youngsters or older kinfolk), and even higher, stroll the paths via the fields for the total expertise, seeing the well-known stone circle out of the blue showing on the horizon.
There’s extra data should you obtain the free app earlier than you go to (or utilizing the location’s free WiFi), as an alternative of an audio information, however the impression of seeing Stonehenge in actual life, marvelling on the dimension of the stones, the precision of the design, is rarely lower than jaw-dropping.
- You will get quite a lot of excursions from London to Stonehenge, together with half-day choices which offer you a few hours on the stones themselves should you don’t need 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 method with the Stonehenge tour bus (bus solely tickets value £12.50).
Salisbury, Wiltshire
One other fabulous metropolis to go to with youngsters on a day journey from London should you’re considering historical past – Salisbury cathedral is the best-known attraction, residence 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’ll be able to nonetheless see medieval buildings in addition to the cathedral itself.
As soon as a Saxon city, then residence to a Norman fortress, you’ll be able to nonetheless see the ruins of this and an Iron Age fort simply outdoors the present metropolis at Previous Sarum.
Salisbury can also be an excellent 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 bold by public transport.
For extra concepts of issues to do in Salisbury with youngsters, try my high picks
- Trains to Salisbury from Waterloo take round 80-90 minutes direct, or round two hours by automotive.
Bathtub, Somerset
Fairly Bathtub is one among 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 Web site).
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 sights and close by countryside.
I’ve picked out my high 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 Vogue Museum, Jane Austen Centre, American Museum and extra, or the stunning Bathtub skyline stroll – to not point out a Bathtub bun earlier than you allow.
For those who’re spending longer within the space than a day journey, test out my high issues to do in Somerset with youngsters
Bristol
On a equally quick prepare path to close by Bathtub, vibrant Bristol is a superb place to go to with youngsters – you’ll discover nice avenue artwork, the SS Nice Britain and Clifton Suspension bridge, museums and animal sights.
The interactive science centre, We The Curious, is one among 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 residence to an aquarium (plus the incredible zoo simply outdoors the town centre), the free M Shed museum in regards to the metropolis, and all the pieces avenue artwork from Banksy to classes in creating your personal works, with an excellent self-guided tour or Banksy-themed exploration recreation that will help you uncover them.
For extra issues to do in Bristol with youngsters, try my high picks
- Trains to Bristol Temple Meads from London (the perfect station for the town, slightly than Bristol Parkway) take round 90 minutes direct, or round two hours by automotive.
Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
For those who’re on the lookout for day journeys from London with youngsters that don’t embrace a protracted journey, fairly Henley-on-Thames is only a quick prepare 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, among the best 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 properties and historic buildings that line the banks.
For one thing extra adventurous, it’s also possible to rent kayaks and canoes that are appropriate for youngsters 5+.
Plus, don’t miss a go to to the surprisingly kid-friendly Henley River and Rowing Museum – I visited when my daughter was simply two and he or she beloved the Wind within the Willows themed reveals, however there’s a lot for all ages.
- It takes between 45 minutes to an hour to achieve Henley by prepare from Paddington – there aren’t any direct prepare routes, so that you do have to vary alongside the way in which – or round an hour by automotive.
Oxford
Even after a number of years residing within the metropolis, I’d nonetheless discover myself stopping to stare at simply how pretty Oxford is – that attractive honey-coloured stone, the previous school buildings, the gorgeous riverside, the botanic gardens.
For youngsters who love studying, you will discover all the pieces 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 one consists of CS Lewis and JRR Tolkein in addition to the Bodleian library, whereas this one mixes Oxford historical past with Wizarding World trivia.
Take a look at my evaluation 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, so that they’re additionally nice should you’re on the lookout 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 option 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 automotive. You too can 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 time out from London, together with an excellent audio tour of the grand palace itself.
Take a look at my evaluation of a time out at Blenheim Palace with youngsters for extra of the location’s household sights
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 youngsters’s play space, a two-mile hedge maze, a miniature prepare, 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 automotive, though there are additionally quite a lot of excursions to Blenheim Palace should you don’t need to drive. Alternatively, the simplest option to get there by public transport is to take the prepare to Oxford after which a bus on to Woodstock, which takes a further 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 historical stone bridges, surrounded by the rolling inexperienced hills of the English countryside.
As the most important Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence (AONB) in England, the Cotswolds are best to discover by automotive, however you possibly can simply go to two to a few 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 via the center that youngsters can splash in with an ice-cream in hand whereas dad and mom calm down 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.
A number of the different high villages to go to within the Cotswolds with youngsters embrace Decrease and Higher Slaughter, in addition to the attractive Fort Combe and Moreton-in-Marsh.
For extra concepts of issues to do within the Cotswolds with youngsters, try my high picks
- It takes round two hours to drive from London to Bourton-on-the-Water. For those who don’t need 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 too can be part of a tour from London to the Cotswolds, though these don’t are typically 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 sights 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 carry the expertise alive and are nice at participating youngsters of all ages. With older youngsters, you’ll be able to 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 possibly can 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, individuals wearing genuine Tudor outfits and conventional crafts and actions which youngsters can attempt for themselves, together with archery and falconry.
Away from the city’s Shakespeare connection, you’ll be able to 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 Treasure Map Path is one other enjoyable option to discover Stratford-on-Avon with youngsters, discovering a few of the quirky sights alongside the way in which – there’s additionally 10% off utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS
- It takes round 2 hours half-hour by prepare to Stratford-upon-Avon from London Marylebone, or slightly below two hours to drive. You too can ebook a tour to Stratford-upon-Avon from London, reminiscent of this feature which additionally consists of Oxford, though this a protracted and busy day so not one for youthful youngsters.
You probably have longer to spend exploring England, it’s simple to mix Stratford-upon-Avon with a go to to Warwick and Warwick Fort
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 realm impressed a few of his books.
However even with out wandering round Nice Missenden itself, the Roald Dahl Museum is a incredible mixture of details in regards to the creator, areas to encourage youngsters to get artistic, and details about his books and their origins.
If you wish to curl up in a nook together with your favorite story, you’ll be able to, whereas there are storytelling periods and crafts actions that are enjoyable for younger youngsters.
Learn my full evaluation 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 a parking on the museum and restricted parking within the village should you’re driving.
Warner Bros Studio Tour, Herfordshire
One of the vital fashionable day journeys from London with youngsters, the Warner Bros Studio tour is heaven for Harry Potter followers (small and huge!) Not removed from the town in Hertfordshire, the Harry Potter Studio tour can also be one of many closest London day journeys in my checklist.
Having visited the Leavesden studios a number of occasions – it’s one among my high days out for Harry Potter followers and high Harry Potter places in London – you possibly can very simply spend all day there should you wished.
For extra recommendations on visiting the Harry Potter Studios, try my submit
In addition to the possibility to see props from the flicks in all their spectacular element, you possibly can pose with a broomstick in opposition to a inexperienced display screen, 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 Categorical, an opportunity to wander via Diagon Alley, a fire-breathing dragon in Gringotts and the one place you’ll be able to see Hogwarts.
St Albans, Hertfordshire
The historic metropolis is one other very simple day journey from London with youngsters, and it’s an excellent possibility if your loved ones loves historical past – together with a historic avenue market, with some nice meals stalls.
The location of one among England’s most essential Roman settlements, Verulamium, it was additionally the house of the nation’s first Saint, Alban – you’ll be able to nonetheless go to the Norman cathedral – and the scene of the primary battle within the Conflict of the Roses so there’s a lot 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 few of the historical 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 should you’re visiting with youngsters.
The St Albans treasure hunt from Treasure Map Trails is one other nice option to discover – get 10% off utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS.
Paradise Wildlife Park, Hertfordshire
In case your youngsters love animals, a household time out at Paradise Wildlife Park is a superb possibility with over 800 unique wild animals housed on the zoo.
It’s the one one within the UK which is residence to 5 totally different large 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 additional thrills to your day.
Throw in particular occasions, talks, feeding occasions, reveals, particular animal experiences, a bit of prepare and even the possibility to play safari golf and it’s not exhausting to fill a full day right here.
- It takes round an hour to drive to Paradise Wildlife Park from London. For those who’re travelling by public transport, the simplest possibility is to go to London Liverpool Road to catch one of many trains to Broxbourne. These take round half-hour and the prepare station is round 5 minutes away from Paradise Wildlife Park by taxi (there isn’t a longer a minibus operating to the park).
Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire
The closest safari park to London, Woburn Safari Park makes a incredible time out from London with youngsters. In addition to the possibility to drive via to see a few of the larger animals, there’s additionally a piece to stroll round, supreme for teenagers to stretch their legs.
As a bonus, there are some very memorable VIP experiences too should you’re forking out – beforehand there was the possibility to get near smaller animals, together with meerkats and lemurs, from round age 5. At present, you’ll be able to select 30-minute guided excursions to see large cats, rhino or giraffe.
Take a look at my evaluation of the VIP experiences at Woburn Safari Park
It’s residence to all the pieces from elephants and bears to lions and tigers, all the way down to monkeys, penguins and sea lions, to call only a few. There are additionally play areas, each indoor and out, a mini prepare to experience and swan and dragon boats on the lake.
- Woburn Safari Park is round one hour’s drive from London – and you need to drive. Not solely would it not be a protracted journey to attempt on public transport, you need to drive to the doorway, after which clearly you’ll be able to’t stroll across the safari park, so that you do want your personal car for today journey.
Cambridge
The second of England’s most prestigious college cities, Cambridge can also be an excellent vacation spot for a kid-friendly time out from London – 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 will even love visiting the close by College Museum of Zoology and the Cambridge Science Centre. The Science Centre often runs enjoyable workshops and periods for teenagers so remember to test the schedule earlier than your go to.
And there are some incredible concepts for household actions on the Fitzwilliam Museum for even the youngest guests: this free artwork gallery is likely one of the most family-friendly within the UK.
On a sunny day, punting alongside the River Cam, admiring the town’s many spectacular college buildings, is an absolute should, and save a while for a stroll across the Botanic Gardens too. The Treasure Map Trails are one other enjoyable option to discover the town with youngsters, looking for a few of Cambridge’s quirky sights and statues – get 10% off utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS.
For extra issues to do in Cambridge with youngsters, try my high picks
- Trains to Cambridge take as little as 50 minutes from London and you may journey from Kings Cross or Liverpool Road direct. It takes round 90 minutes to drive, though like Oxford, Cambridge is a lot better explored on foot, so it’s value contemplating parking outdoors the town on the park & experience.
For those who’re staying in Cambridge for longer, it’s simple to mix with a visit to Ely with youngsters in addition to discovering a few 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 incredible with youngsters – I’ve visited a number of occasions with my daughter, and there’s an excellent mixture of sights, historical past and picturesque streets to wander round.
In reality Norwich is likely one of the greatest cities I’ve come throughout for placing up indicators about its historical past, so you’ll be able to uncover the origins of surprising names, learn the way previous buildings are and study a couple of native tales as you wander across the county city of Norfolk.
Discover a few of my favorite spots and concepts for easy methods to spend at some point in Norwich with youngsters right here
Don’t miss an opportunity to look inside the cathedral, with its labyrinth and cathedral cat, whereas it’s also possible to discover contained in the fortress the place the metropolis’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 via Tombland and all the way down to the Quayside, the place the sculptures commemorate the individuals and trades which as soon as helped make it England’s second metropolis, in addition to wandering round Norwich Lanes, filled with cafes and little outlets. Wherever you wander, you’ll discover loads of avenue artwork too.
- Trains to Norwich take just below two hours from London Liverpool Road – it’s also possible to journey from Kings Cross however it takes barely longer and you’ll want to change trains in Ely. It takes the same period of time to do the identical journey by automotive.
Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
For a barely totally different place to attempt, should you’re on the lookout 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’ll be able to nonetheless see a blue plaque commemorating it on the entrance of the constructing.
Reverse, the gorgeous 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 attractive cathedral of St Edmundsbury too, with a Discovery Detective path for teenagers to observe.
There are some sudden sights as effectively: within the close by church of St Mary, you’ll be able to 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 should you’re on the lookout 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 essential Roman websites, with a part of the traditional wall nonetheless remaining, together with the ruins of the one Roman circus within the nation.
You too can see a part of the massive Temple of Claudius, destroyed within the revolt by Boudica and the Iceni, within the shadow of the fortress – the Norman fortress now homes a incredible museum, with reveals from excavations within the space, AR recreations of life within the fortress, hyperlinks to the Witchfinder Basic and extra. Excellent for maintaining the entire household entertained.
For extra concepts of issues to do in Colchester with youngsters, try this submit
Take a wander across the fairly fortress park too, in addition to exploring a few of Colchester’s different museums and wandering the previous streets. There’s additionally an excellent zoo simply outdoors Colchester itself.
- Trains to Colchester take simply over an hour from London; select a route from Liverpool Road to Colchester City station, which is lower than 10 minutes stroll to the fortress (or you’ll be able to 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 basic British seaside vacation spot on the Essex coast that makes for a enjoyable kid-friendly day journey from London.
In addition to the big pebble seaside for teenagers to take pleasure in, you’ll additionally discover loads of family-friendly sights, together with a number of gaming arcades, the Journey Island amusement park and the Sealife Journey aquarium.
The city can also be famously residence to the longest pleasure pier on the earth, which incorporates a loopy golf course, museum and several other small outlets and cafes. You possibly can both stroll half-hour to achieve the tip of the pier (instructed you it was lengthy!) or soar on the electrical railway.
For those who’re considering this could solely be in your checklist for a go to in summer time, Southend-on-Sea is definitely a beautiful year-round London day journey with youngsters – all through October and November annually, the city places on a tremendous free fireworks show each Saturday night from a barge out within the water, accompanied by reside 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 Road to Southend Central, which is barely nearer the seaside, or Liverpool Road 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 a couple of pictures of the colorful seaside homes that line Victoria Esplanade.
And if the queue isn’t too lengthy, remember 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 prepare to Mersea Island, the closest station is Colchester, round an hour from London. You possibly can 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 pretty spots by the ocean and a string of potential day journeys with youngsters.
Whitstable is one among my favourites: in addition to the shingle seaside, there’s an excellent cycle observe 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 all around the city. Gas up with some candy treats from the outlets alongside Harbour Road first (with a lot 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.
For those who’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 perfect seashores in Kent with youngsters, try my high picks
- Trains to Whitstable from London take round 75-90 minutes from St Pancras and Victoria, in addition to Cannon Road, 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 prepare 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 perfect
Margate, Kent
The seaside city of Margate on the Kent coast is one other nice day journey from London for teenagers who take pleasure in being by the water.
This conventional British seaside city has an elegant trendy twist, so whilst you’ll discover fish and chips overlooking the sandy seaside, it’s also possible to discover a city centre crammed with cool classic outlets and hipster cafes serving cold-brew espresso.
For a enjoyable kid-friendly time out in Margate, don’t miss a go to to Dreamland, the thrilling 100-year-old amusement park which is residence to the UK’s oldest picket curler coaster.
You too can discover Iron Age stays contained in the Margate caves and go to the ornate Shell Grotto – an uncommon sequence of passageways mysteriously coated 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 essential pilgrimage website, 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 take pleasure in exploring the spectacular Canterbury cathedral, wandering the traditional Medieval partitions, and visiting the fascinating Canterbury Roman Museum, one among my favorite Roman locations within the UK.
Youthful youngsters are certain to like embarking on the Canterbury Spy Mission Path as a enjoyable option to discover the town’s historic streets, or you may get one other view by heading to the water, and punting on the river.
- Select a quick prepare to Canterbury from London St Pancras and you may get to the 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 Fort, Kent
For those who’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 an entire string of incredible castles in Kent alone. However one of the crucial spectacular, which can also be one of many best to go to is Dover Fort.
Relationship again over 900 years, the inside is adorned as it could 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 massive preserve and the fortress grounds, there are medieval tunnels in addition to more moderen historical past within the Second World Conflict tunnels, plus some fabulous views out throughout the English Channel and to the White Cliffs of Dover.
Learn my evaluation of a time out at Dover Fort 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 too can journey from London Bridge, which takes round 1hour 40 minutes, or Victoria, which takes just below two hours. It’s simply over a mile on foot from the station (enable round half-hour) though there are a number of bus routes to take you all or a part of the way in which. It takes round two hours by automotive.
Need to go to extra castles in Kent?
For those who’re hoping to go to one other fortress, Hever Fort and Leeds Fort are each incredible household days out however much less accessible by public transport.
Hever Fort is just a mile from Hever station, with direct trains from London Bridge taking round 45 minutes – these depart as soon as per hour, and you’d have to stroll as there aren’t any taxis at this small station. Alternatively you’ll be able to take the prepare to Edenbridge and get a taxi from there.
To go to Leeds Fort, there are direct trains from Victoria to Bearsted station however you’ll want a taxi for the three-mile journey from there (until you need to take two buses and stroll). In both case, it’s value reserving prematurely (and making certain you might have 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 slightly than sand, however there are some nice household sights within the metropolis, together with Sea Life Brighton, the world’s oldest aquarium, a string of quirky museums and a few unbeatable views from the Brighton i360 statement tower.
Take a look at my high 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 residing to make your jaw drop. Teenagers will love wandering the Lanes with their classic outlets and retro homewares, or testing the stalls on the Open Market.
- Trains to Brighton from London Victoria take round an hour – it’s also possible to 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 area outdoors the centre.
Sussex seashores
For those who’re on the lookout 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 good selection 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 can even get very busy on sunny summer time 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 just below two hours to drive, with parking simply off the seaside. The others are tougher to achieve by prepare: the closest station to Camber Sands is fairly Rye, round three miles away, which takes simply over an hour by prepare, or it’s round two hours by automotive. Realistically, a day journey to West Wittering is just sensible by automotive however prebooking a parking area on the seaside automotive park is strongly suggested.
*First revealed 2021, final up to date 2023*
PIN FOR LATER: THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON WITH KIDS
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