DuckAbroad Day Trip Planner

Day trips from London

1. Windsor Castle & Windsor

A classic family day out with a world-famous royal castle, scenic walks, and plenty of kid-friendly spots for lunch and treats in the historic town center.

• Windsor Castle (State Apartments and grounds)
• Changing of the Guard (select days)
• Family-friendly riverside walk along the Thames

By train, about 55 minutes from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside (or ~40 minutes from Paddington via Slough) or by car, about 60–75 minutes.

2. Harry Potter Studio Tour (Warner Bros. Studio Tour London)

A top family favorite featuring immersive film sets and interactive exhibits that keep kids and adults engaged for several hours.

• Great Hall and iconic sets
• Behind-the-scenes props and costumes
• Butterbeer and themed photo opportunities

By train, about 20 minutes from London Euston to Watford Junction, then shuttle bus (~15 minutes) or by car, about 45–70 minutes depending on traffic.

3. Oxford

An easy cultural day trip with museums, parks, and plenty of open spaces—great for families who want a mix of learning and fun.

• Oxford University colleges and historic streets
• Punting on the River Cherwell (seasonal)
• Pitt Rivers Museum (family-friendly exhibits)

By train, about 1 hour from London Paddington or Marylebone or by car, about 90 minutes.

4. Brighton

A seaside classic for families—beach time, funfair energy on the pier, and an eye-catching palace for a quick cultural stop.

• Brighton Beach and promenade
• Brighton Palace Pier rides and arcade
• Royal Pavilion (unique palace interiors)

By train, about 1 hour from London Victoria or London Bridge or by car, about 90–110 minutes.

5. Cambridge

A relaxed, scenic university city that works well with kids thanks to river activities, green spaces, and easy walking routes.

• Punting on the River Cam (seasonal)
• Fitzwilliam Museum (free entry)
• College courtyards and riverside walks

By train, about 50–80 minutes from London King’s Cross or Liverpool Street or by car, about 90–110 minutes.

6. Legoland Windsor Resort

A purpose-built family theme park with rides and attractions geared especially toward children, making it one of the easiest big-fun day trips from London.

• Family rides and themed lands for younger kids
• MINILAND models and LEGO builds
• Seasonal events and shows

By train, about 55 minutes from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside, then taxi/bus (~10–20 minutes) or by car, about 60–90 minutes.

7. Hever Castle & Gardens

A highly family-friendly castle day with space for kids to run around, hands-on outdoor activities, and picturesque grounds for a full-day visit.

• Moated castle with Tudor history
• Adventure playground and boating lake
• Extensive gardens and seasonal trails

By train, about 45–60 minutes from London Bridge to Hever Station, then ~25–35 minutes walk or short taxi; or by car, about 70–90 minutes.

8. Chessington World of Adventures Resort

A convenient all-in-one day trip combining rides, animals, and aquariums—ideal for families who want variety without long travel time.

• Theme park rides for mixed ages
• Zoo and SEA LIFE centre on-site
• Seasonal events and character experiences

By train, about 35–45 minutes from London Waterloo to Chessington South, then ~10–20 minutes walk; or by car, about 40–70 minutes.

9. Bath

A beautiful historic city that works well for families with older kids—compact, walkable, and packed with iconic sights and parks.

• Roman Baths (museum experience)
• Bath Abbey and Georgian streets
• Royal Crescent and Victoria Park playgrounds

By train, about 1 hour 20 minutes from London Paddington or by car, about 1 hour 50 minutes (traffic dependent).

10. Canterbury

A charming medieval city with an easy-to-navigate center, engaging history, and plenty of spots to stop for snacks and breaks with kids.

• Canterbury Cathedral (UNESCO site)
• Historic city walls and riverside paths
• Family-friendly boat tours (seasonal)

By train, about 55–90 minutes from London St Pancras International or London Victoria or by car, about 90–110 minutes.