29 of the best day trips from London with kids

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

comprises affiliate hyperlinks*

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 making an attempt to pack in a bit extra of the UK on the similar time, I’ve picked 29 days out for youths close to London to encourage you.

I’ve tried to make these as sensible as potential – for instance, you may technically go to York as a day journey from London, with trains taking round two hours every approach, nevertheless it’s an extended day and also you’d nonetheless barely have likelihood to see all of the unbelievable sights in York with children. Identical 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 children, 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 straightforward days out from London with children.

Theme parks

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

Hampton Courtroom 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 Courtroom Palace is formally a part of the 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 maintain children occupied for a very long time, fairly other than 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 a number of additional occasions throughout the faculty 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 Fortress – one in all my prime UK castles to go to with children. In any case, how usually do you get to peek inside a ‘working’ palace?

One of many late Queen Elizabeth’s favorite houses, 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.

Guide tickets to Windsor Fortress right here, with a reduction utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6

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

Try the Treasure Map Trails of Windsor and Eton for a enjoyable solution to discover with children, 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 now not operating (beforehand it was a simple solution to uncover the origins of Eton, with some Shakespeare thrown in) however there’s lots to find with out it.

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

Winchester, Hampshire

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

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 the town’s long gone in its museums and wander the traditional streets.

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

For extra concepts of issues to do in Winchester with children, 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 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 gorgeous nationwide park from a special vantage level. 

When you’re visiting with toddlers and youthful children, 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!

Among the finest occasions to go to the New Forest with children 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 out of doors adventures – though should you’re visiting on a sunny day, head to Buckler’s Laborious for an ice cream by the waterfront.

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

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: among the finest stations to go in direction of is Brockenhurst, which takes round 90 minutes from Waterloo.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

There may be nowhere on the 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 approach by automobile), it’s nicely well worth the effort to have a look at what might be the world’s most well-known prehistoric monument.

Try my put up on a go to to Stonehenge after lockdown

On the entrance, there’s a small museum and recreated Neolithic homes to discover – the exhibition particularly 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 should you’re visiting with youthful children or older relations), and even higher, stroll the paths by way of the fields for the complete expertise, seeing the well-known stone circle instantly showing on the horizon.

There’s extra info 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 measurement of the stones, the precision of the design, isn’t lower than jaw-dropping.

You will get quite a lot of excursions from London to Stonehenge, together with half-day choices which provide you with a few hours on the stones themselves should you 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 straight or a 30-minute bus journey every approach with the Stonehenge tour bus (bus solely tickets value £14).

Salisbury, Wiltshire

One other fabulous metropolis to go to with children on a day journey from London should you’re inquisitive about historical past – Salisbury cathedral is the best-known attraction, house 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 children – 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 house to a Norman fortress, you possibly can nonetheless see the ruins of this and an Iron Age fort simply exterior the present metropolis at Outdated Sarum.

Salisbury can be an important choice to staff with a go to to Stonehenge – though making an attempt to pack each right into a day journey from London with children could be distinctly formidable by public transport.

For extra concepts of issues to do in Salisbury with children, 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 one in all my favorite cities in England, and fast trains imply it’s simply potential for day journeys from London with children (though you’ll in all probability be tempted to remain longer exploring this fabulous Unesco World Heritage Website).

Town is right whether or not your children 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 prime issues to do in Bathtub with children right here for extra inspiration: you shouldn’t miss the Roman baths themselves and a stroll round absorbing the beautiful 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 (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 permit.

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

Bristol

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

The interactive science centre, We The Curious, is one in all 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.

Town can be house to an aquarium (plus the unbelievable Bristol zoo Challenge simply exterior the town centre), the free M Shed museum concerning the metropolis, and all the things road artwork from Banksy to classes in creating your individual works, with an important Banksy-themed strolling tour that can assist you uncover them.

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

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

Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

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

Set on the Thames within the Oxfordshire countryside close to the Chilterns, Henley is greatest recognized for its annual boating regatta – however when that isn’t on, among the finest 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 can even 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 pretty Oxford is – that beautiful honey-coloured stone, the previous faculty buildings, the gorgeous riverside, the botanic gardens.

For teenagers who love studying, you’ll find all the things 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 evaluate of a Harry Potter strolling tour of Oxford with children

The Oxford Pure Historical past Museum is one other of my daughter’s favourites – with loads of possibilities to get fingers on, and the College Parks close by – whereas there’s an enormous quantity to find on the Ashmolean Museum with children. Neither has an entry cost, so that they’re additionally nice should you’re on the lookout for free issues to do.

Town is greatest explored on foot (or bike!) however the hop-on hop-off bus tour is a enjoyable choice with youthful children 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 time out from London, together with an important audio tour of the grand palace itself.

Try my evaluate of a time out at Blenheim Palace with children for extra of the location’s household sights

One of many highlights for youths 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 enormous 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 quite a lot of excursions to Blenheim Palace should you 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 a further 30-40 minutes.

Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are really the postcard-perfect picture of England. Scattered throughout a number of counties, largely Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, the gathering of fairly villages is thought for its quaint thatch-roofed cottages and historic 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 automobile and also you actually can’t discover the entire space in a single go to, however you may 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 by way of the center that children can splash in with an ice-cream in hand whereas dad and mom chill out 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 prime villages to go to within the Cotswolds with children embody Decrease and Higher Slaughter, in addition to the gorgeous Fortress Combe and Moreton-in-Marsh.

For extra concepts of issues to do within the Cotswolds with children, 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 children.

Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire

This fascinating historic city is greatest recognized 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 children of all ages. With older children, 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 livestock, folks wearing genuine Tudor outfits and conventional crafts and actions which children 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 children, 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 slightly below two hours to drive. You can even e-book a tour to Stratford-upon-Avon from London, comparable to this feature which additionally contains Oxford, though this an extended and busy day so not one for youthful children.

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

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 straightforward 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 unbelievable mixture of details concerning the creator, areas to encourage children to get artistic, 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 evaluate of a go to to the Roald Dahl Museum with children

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 should you’re driving.

Warner Bros Studio Tour, Herfordshire

One of the common day journeys from London with children, 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 be one of many closest London day journeys in my checklist.

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

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

In addition to the prospect to see props from the films in all their spectacular element, you may pose with a broomstick towards 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 by way 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 straightforward day journey from London with children, and it’s an important choice if your loved ones loves historical past – together with a historic road market, with some nice meals stalls.

The location of one in all England’s most vital 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 lots 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 should you’re visiting with children.

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. In case you are driving, it’s a simple one to mix with Hertfordshire Zoo (previously Paradise Wildlife Park).

Hertfordshire Zoo, Hertfordshire (previously Paradise Wildlife Park)

In case your children love animals, a household time out at Hertfordshire Zoo is a good choice with over 800 unique wild animals housed on the former Paradise Wildlife Park.

It’s the one one within the UK which is house to 5 completely 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, exhibits, particular animal experiences, just a little practice and even the prospect to play safari golf and it’s not arduous 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 choice 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 is no such thing as a longer a minibus operating to the park).

Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire

The closest safari park to London, Woburn Safari Park makes a unbelievable time out from London with children. In addition to the prospect to drive by way of to see a number of the greater animals, there’s additionally a bit to stroll round, ideally suited for youths to stretch their legs.

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

Try my evaluate of the VIP experiences at Woburn Safari Park

It’s house to all the things 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 practice to journey and swan and dragon boats on the lake.

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

Cambridge

The second of England’s most prestigious college cities, Cambridge can be an important vacation spot for a kid-friendly time out from London – you may 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, children will even love visiting the close by College Museum of Zoology and the Cambridge Science Centre. The Science Centre often runs enjoyable workshops and classes for youths so make sure you examine the schedule earlier than your go to.

And there are some unbelievable 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 the 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 children, 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 the town centre, or a number of bus routes run between the 2. It takes round 90 minutes to drive, though like Oxford, Cambridge is a lot better explored on foot, so it’s price contemplating parking exterior the town on the park & journey.

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

Norwich, Norfolk

This usually neglected metropolis in East Anglia, a go to to Norwich is unbelievable with children – I’ve visited a number of occasions with my daughter, and there’s an important 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 possibly can uncover the origins of surprising names, learn how previous buildings are and be taught a number of native tales as you wander across the county city of Norfolk.

Discover a few of my favorite spots and concepts for spend at some point in Norwich with children right here

Don’t miss an opportunity to look contained in the cathedral, with its labyrinth and cathedral cat, whereas you can even discover contained in the fortress the place the town’s museum is about. 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 way 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 just below two hours from London Liverpool Avenue – you can even journey from Kings Cross nevertheless it takes barely longer and you should change trains in Ely. It takes the same period of time to do the identical journey by automobile.

Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

For a barely completely different place to strive should you’re on the lookout for day journeys from London with children, 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 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 gorgeous cathedral of St Edmundsbury too, with a Discovery Detective path for youths to observe.

There are some sudden sights as nicely: 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 choice should you’re on the lookout for history-packed day journeys from London with children – particularly if yours love the Romans.

Then known as Camelodunum, it was one of the crucial vital 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 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 unbelievable museum, with reveals from excavations within the space, AR recreations of life within the fortress, hyperlinks to the Witchfinder Normal and extra. Excellent for holding the entire household entertained.

For extra concepts of issues to do in Colchester with children, try this put up

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 an important zoo simply exterior 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 fortress (or you possibly can journey to Colchester Station, which is faster however barely additional exterior 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 youths to get pleasure from, 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 be famously house to the longest pleasure pier on the planet, which includes a loopy golf course, museum and a number of other small retailers and cafes. You possibly can both stroll half-hour to succeed in the top of the pier (advised you it was lengthy!) or bounce on the electrical railway. 

When you’re pondering this could solely be in your checklist for a go to in summer time, Southend-on-Sea is definitely a stunning year-round London day journey with children – all through October and November every year, 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 completely different routes – from Fenchurch Avenue to Southend Central, which is barely nearer the seaside, or Liverpool Avenue to Southend Victoria, which is barely quicker. 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, making an attempt 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 number of photographs of the colorful seaside homes that line Victoria Esplanade.

And if the queue isn’t too lengthy, make sure you cease for lunch at The Firm Shed which has a repute 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 possibly can take bus 67 to West Mersea from there, which takes round 45 minutes – or a taxi journey 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 children.

Whitstable is one in all my favourites: in addition to the shingle seaside, there’s an important cycle monitor to discover just a little additional and a well-deserved repute for nice fish and oysters.

One among 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 retailers alongside Harbour Avenue first (with lots to tempt grown-ups in addition to children)

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 beautiful 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 children, 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 children, 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 youths who get pleasure from being by the water.

This conventional British seaside city has a classy fashionable twist, so when you’ll discover fish and chips overlooking the sandy seaside, you can even discover a city centre full of cool classic retailers 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 house to the UK’s oldest wood curler coaster.

You can even discover Iron Age stays contained in the Margate caves and go to the ornate Shell Grotto – an uncommon sequence of passageways mysteriously lined in hundreds of 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 vital pilgrimage website, commemorated in Chaucer’s well-known Canterbury Tales, the charming metropolis of Canterbury in Kent remains to be a well-liked place to go to from London for the day with children.

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

Youthful kids are certain to like embarking on the Canterbury Spy Mission Path as a enjoyable solution 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 practice 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 at the very least 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 Fortress, Kent

When you’re seeking to go to one of many UK’s historic castles on a day journey from London with children, you’re spoiled for alternative, with an entire string of unbelievable castles in Kent alone. However one of the crucial spectacular, which can be one of many best to go to is Dover Fortress.

Courting 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 massive maintain and the fortress grounds, there are medieval tunnels in addition to newer 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 evaluate of a time out at Dover Fortress with children

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 just 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.

Need to go to extra castles in Kent?

When you’re hoping to go to one other fortress, Hever Fortress and Leeds Fortress are each unbelievable household days out however much less accessible by public transport, so these are greatest should you’re travelling by automobile.

Hever Fortress 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 Fortress, 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 upfront (and guaranteeing you’ve gotten a plan for the return journey).

Brighton, East Sussex

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

The seaside itself is shingly and pebbles fairly than sand, however there are some nice household sights 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 children for extra concepts

Don’t miss the enduring Royal Pavilion too, with a path for youthful children 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 trying out the stalls on the Open Market.

Trains to Brighton from London Victoria take round an hour – you can even 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 fees or to discover a house exterior the centre.

Sussex seashores

When you’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 sensible choice of days out from London with children as nicely, 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 may 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 more durable 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

Disclosure: This put up comprises affiliate hyperlinks – any purchases you make are unaffected however I could obtain a small fee

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

LIKED THIS? SIGN UP FOR MY EMAIL NEWSLETTER