Easily the best thing about London is that there’s always stuff to do – a good thing, too, or we’d need new jobs! If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t believe there’s a world beyond Zone 4, then you may feel there’s no reason to leave (“What’s even outside the M25? Do they even have Vietnamese food out there?”).
Well, it’s good to escape the London bubble every once in a while. And that’s doubly true in autumn, because the colours are brighter and the air is definitely cleaner. With that in mind, we’ve picked out some great ways to escape the capital with these autumn day trips.
1. The New Forest
This picturesque part of England has been drawing visitors since 1079, when William the Conqueror rocked up and proclaimed it his ‘new hunting forest’. Almost a thousand years later, the name has stuck, as have the forest laws he put in place. Since you won’t be herding pigs (unless you really want to), we’ve found some other stuff to do.
The best way to see the woodland is by cycling or even better, horseback riding, given how many ponies roam through the forest. Whilst the ancient forests are the main draw, particularly with the autumn colours about, there are also quaint villages to look at. Perhaps the best is Buckler’s Hard, a historic shipbuilding village where Admiral Nelson’s fleet was built. You might even say this village is a major reason why he has such a nice view of Whitehall.
Southampton lies on the doorstep of the New Forest, and since it’s only an hour and a half from Paddington to Southampton Central, you can conquer this trip in a day!
2. Canterbury
Just like Chaucer’s pilgrims before you, London to Canterbury is a route you should follow this autumn. You’re unlikely to encounter knights or pardoners nowadays, but the city nonetheless is an intriguing mix of medieval and modern. As it was for the Wife of Bath & co, the big attraction is the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, one of England’s best-loved buildings.
Their archbishop is kind of a big deal too… Aside from the holy pursuits, you can have a rollicking good time punting down the Great Stour, or perhaps taking in a matinee at the Marlowe Theatre. All this, and you can still make it home for cocktails in the capital. Sorted.
The journey from St Pancras to Canterbury West is less than an hour, but since there are few tale-telling pilgrims on Southeastern Rail these days, you may want to bring a book.
3. The South Downs
The ferociously beautiful South Downs are just over an hour away from the centre of London, and well worth a visit. Amongst the prettiest sights to see here is the town of Arundel, which boasts an impressive Norman castle. To feel like you’ve stepped back in time, wander the gardens and watch the castle knights put on a combat and weapons demonstration.
For something a little more active, try walking or cycling along the South Downs Way. It’s a hundred miles long, however, so maybe don’t try to do it all in a day. If all this nature and solitude is way too much for a Londoner to stomach, then Brighton is only a short train ride away, offering arcades, piers, and a nightlife that feels almost like London. Almost.
You can reach Arundel in an hour and twenty minutes from Victoria, and the same amount of time will see you from Blackfriars to Brighton.
4. Great Yarmouth & The Norfolk Broads
As autumn day trips go, this one is a little further away, but catch an early train and you’ll have a cracking day. Great Yarmouth’s Pleasure Beach draws over a million visitors a year. Surely that silenced the doubters who said it had Norfolk in chance… They’ve also got strong links to British history, with the Wellington Pier being one of the highlights. If you don’t fancy any of these, you can head into the countryside to find the Norfolk Broads. Commandeer a vessel if you’ve got a couple of hours to spare, and you’ll feel just like the Admiral as you sail the waters of East Anglia. Ahoy there!
A three-hour train journey from Liverpool Street will get you to Great Yarmouth, and you’re free to launch your naval campaign from there.
5. Bath
The debate over whether it’s pronounced ‘Baff’ or ‘Barth’ (it’s ‘Barth’, take it from a former local) will never end, but whatever you call it, Bath still makes for a lovely day trip. Easily the biggest attraction is the Roman baths which give the town its highly unimaginative name.
Once you’ve learnt about Roman Britain, you can take a dip in the waters to relax and let that knowledge sink in. Other highlights include Bath Abbey and The American Museum of Britain, which is the only museum of Americana outside of the US. Before you leave, munch down a Sally Lunn bun, which is an indescribable marriage of cake and bread. They count former Bath resident Jane Austen amongst their fans, so they’ve clearly done something right!
You’ve got Brunel to thank for this one, as his railway will get you from Paddington to Bath Spa in an hour and twenty minutes. Bravo Isambard!
6. The Cotswolds
Next up on our list of autumn day trips is another venture out west, to the picture-perfect Cotswolds. Covering parts of five counties, this place also happens to be criminally beautiful and stuffed full of chocolate-box villages. The trio of Stow on the Wold, Moreton-in-Marsh, and Bourton-on-the-Water are not only tongue twisters, but they’re three of the most beautiful little places in England.
Here, perfect autumn day trips are made of a walk through the village, a pub lunch, and then a stop at the local sweet shop. However, for a real gem, head south to Castle Combe, which is perhaps the most beautiful of the lot in autumn, and makes regular appearances in TV and films for that very reason.
Paddington is your gateway to the West, as you can reach Cheltenham Spa in a shade over two hours, and strike out for the Cotswolds from there.
7. Box Hill
This last of our autumn day trips is slightly closer to home, making it slightly quicker to get to but no less beautiful. Box Hill is tucked away in the depths of the Surrey countryside and is the perfect spot for an autumnal wander. It’s the summit of the North Downs, offering some pretty spectacular views from the top and is just 50 minutes from central London.
When it comes to things to do, walking is of course a no brainer – and there are plenty of trails to choose from. Box Hill is also known for its impressive plant and wildlife offering, with 38 different species of butterfly having been spotted there and 17 types of orchid. After you’ve walked, view-gazed, and wildlife-spotted to your heart’s content, head to local gastropub, The Stepping Stones, for some well-deserved pub grub before heading home.
The closest train station is Box Hill & Westhumble, which is a 50 minute direct train from London Waterloo.
8. Margate
Margate offers a delightful seaside escape, even as summer fades into autumn. This charming coastal town in Kent has reinvented itself as a hub for art and vintage culture while retaining its traditional British seaside charm. Start your day at the Turner Contemporary gallery, which showcases both historical and contemporary art with stunning views over the North Sea. As the autumn light plays on the water, you’ll understand why J.M.W. Turner was so inspired by Margate’s skies.
Stroll along Margate Main Sands, where the beach may be quieter than in summer but no less beautiful. The Victorian-era Dreamland amusement park is a must-visit, offering retro rides and attractions that are just as fun in the cooler months – especially with your younger ones.
Explore the Old Town’s winding streets, filled with quirky vintage shops, art galleries, and cosy cafes perfect for warming up with a hot drink. As evening falls, enjoy fresh seafood at one of Margate’s excellent restaurants, or sip a locally brewed ale at a traditional pub while watching the sun set over the sea.
Direct trains run from London St Pancras International, taking about 1 hour 30 minutes. By car, the journey is around 1 hour 45 minutes via the M2 and A299.
9. Oxford
Oxford is a picturesque city that truly shines in autumn. As the leaves turn golden and crisp, the historic “city of dreaming spires” takes on a magical quality. The cobblestone streets are lined with centuries-old college buildings, their coloured stone glowing warmly in the autumn light. Wander through the University of Oxford’s stunning colleges, like Christ Church and New College, where fall foliage creates a colourful canopy over manicured quads.
Don’t miss the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest in Europe, or the iconic Radcliffe Camera. Climb the tower of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin for panoramic views over the city’s spires and domes.
Take a stroll along the River Cherwell, where you might spot students punting lazily downstream amid falling leaves. The Oxford Botanic Garden is particularly beautiful in autumn, with its diverse collection of trees and plants showcasing a riot of seasonal colours.
For a cosy break, duck into one of Oxford’s historic pubs like the Eagle and Child, once frequented by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Sample some local ales and hearty British fare to ward off the autumn chill.
Trains run frequently from London Paddington or Marylebone stations, taking about 1 hour. By car, the journey is around 1 hour 30 minutes via the M40 motorway.
10. Rye
Rye, a small town in East Sussex, is a picture-perfect destination for an autumn day trip. Its well-preserved medieval streets and half-timbered houses create a fairytale-like atmosphere that’s enhanced by the golden hues of fall. Wander down Mermaid Street, often considered one of the most picturesque streets in England.
The ancient cobblestones and leaning timber-framed buildings seem to transport you back in time. Visit the Rye Castle Museum to learn about the town’s rich history, including its past as a smuggling haven.
Climb the tower of St Mary’s Church for panoramic views over Rye’s terracotta rooftops and the surrounding countryside, which takes on beautiful autumnal colours this time of year. Explore the town’s many antique shops and art galleries, or take a short trip to nearby Camber Sands. While it might be too chilly for swimming, the vast expanse of sandy beach is perfect for brisk autumn walks. As the day winds down, enjoy a meal at one of Rye’s cosy pubs or seafood restaurants, many of which serve locally caught fish and regional specialties.
Trains run from London St Pancras International with a change at Ashford International, taking about 1 hour 10 minutes. By car, the journey is around 2 hours via the M20.
11. Winchester
Winchester, the ancient capital of England, is a captivating destination for an autumn day trip. The city’s rich history and stunning architecture are beautifully complemented by the changing colours of the season. Begin your visit at Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Its Gothic architecture is particularly striking against the backdrop of autumn skies. Inside, you can visit the tomb of Jane Austen and marvel at the longest medieval nave in Europe.
Stroll down the High Street, lined with historic buildings and charming shops. Don’t miss the Butter Cross, a 15th-century monument, or the Westgate Museum, housed in a fortified medieval gateway.
Visit the Great Hall, home to the legendary Round Table linked to King Arthur. The adjacent Queen Eleanor’s Garden is lovely in autumn, with medieval-style plantings and a tranquil atmosphere.
For a taste of nature, take a walk along the River Itchen. The clear chalk stream is bordered by trees that turn vibrant shades of red and gold in autumn. Visit the City Mill, a working watermill that offers demonstrations of traditional flour-making.
End your day with a meal at one of Winchester’s excellent restaurants or pubs, many of which serve seasonal, locally sourced cuisine.
Direct trains run from London Waterloo, taking about 1 hour. By car, the journey is around 1 hour 30 minutes via the M3 motorway.
12. Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, is a charming market town that becomes even more enchanting in autumn. The changing leaves provide a colourful backdrop to the town’s Tudor architecture and riverside setting.
Start your visit at Shakespeare’s Birthplace, where you can explore the house where the Bard was born and raised. The garden here is particularly beautiful in autumn. Continue your Shakespeare tour with visits to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Mary Arden’s Farm, both of which offer insights into Tudor life.
Take a stroll along the River Avon, where the trees lining the banks create a stunning autumnal reflection in the water. You might spot swans gliding by or catch a glimpse of a traditional narrowboat. Visit the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, even if you’re not catching a performance. The tower offers panoramic views over the town and the surrounding countryside, which are particularly spectacular when dressed in fall colours.
Explore the town centre, with its mix of historic and modern shops, cafes, and restaurants. Many offer seasonal menus featuring local produce.
Trains run from London Marylebone station, taking about 2 hours with a change at Leamington Spa. By car, the journey is around 2 hours via the M40 motorway.