The things to do in London are endless, any time of year, with or without children, with your partner or travelling solo, there is something for everyone – all the time. However, what if you have travelled to England countless times, particularly London, but would like to spend some time outside of London? Have you been on a road trip from London? 

There are so many day trips to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to my favourite; this will give you a little travel inspiration to set out for a day trip from London. 

Things to know before you go on your road trip from London

Hiring a car 

Hiring a car is your best option if you plan to spend a full-day road trip from London and want to do it at your own pace. Remember to check ahead of time if the places mentioned are open or whether you need to book a space before you go.

Guided day trips from London 

If driving is not an option and road trips are not your thing, a guided tour might be your best option. Whether you want a private or group tour, Get your guide has many great choices with many knowledgeable guides that can answer any questions you may have about the area. 

Public transport in England 

Transport is accessible, with buses and the tube everywhere for easy access anywhere in London, which is why you don’t need a car when you visit the city. However, if you plan to drive in and around town, there is a congestion charge when entering central London. Trains are also a great way to explore outside London and can easily be purchased online. 

4 Perfect road trips from London

Bath (approximately 2.5 hours drive)

If you only have a day, a tour might be your best option to ensure you see all the significant landmarks because this city has so much to offer. This is a perfect option for your road trip from London.

Things to do in Bath 

If you are a Bridgerton fan, ensure you head to Royal Crescent, where you will find the location of the Featherington household, where there are many examples of Georgian architecture. 

Just around the corner, you will find Royal Victoria Park. This public park, built in the early 19th century, is free to enter. You can find lots to do here, from ice skating in the Winter to adventure golf when the sun is shining. 

Continue to explore the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath and visit the city’s primary world heritage site in The United Kingdom. 

This charming town has so many historical gems that you will wish you have more than one day to spend here. But, of course, a must-do is to visit the Roman baths, well-preserved spas full of history. 

The historic bath Abbey is one of the most visited places in the Bath, Somerset area. The abbey is the last medieval cathedral built in England and is a significant part of England’s history. 

Visit Jane Austen Centre and learn more about Bath’s most famous neighbour. Find out what inspired the novels such as Pride and Prejudice. Then stop for The Regency room to select one of the traditional afternoon tea experiences. 

Stroll along the Pulteney bridge, which was completed in 1774, enjoy fantastic views over the River Avon and stop by the Beazer Garden Maze along the way. Then, continue towards Bath Rugby and take a peek at the world-famous grounds and the rugby club established in 1865 (one of the oldest in the world). Previously named Bath Football Club was founded in 1865 by the Landsdown Cricket club for something to do in Winter. 

Accommodation in Bath

Splurge 

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

For an authentic Bath experience, you can not go past The Royal Crescent Hotel and spa. Situated amongst the beauty of Royal Crescent and only 15 minutes walk to the city centre. The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa is ideally located and will have you feeling like royalty in no time. 

Budget

The Z Hotel Bath

It shows you that you can stay in this great town without spending too much money. Rooms are tiny, but they are clean with all the amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Just moments away from tourist spots like the Roman Baths, this location is 5-star. 

Cambridge (1.5 hours drive)

There is much to see and do in this marvellous university town of Cambridge. Sure, it has one of the most famous universities globally, but it also has a city rich in history with quaint little shops, a beautiful river and fantastic architecture. The perfect location for your road trip from London.

Things to do in Cambridge

Home to one of the first universities in the world, no wonder the reputation of Cambridge university is above so many other world-class educational institutions on the globe.

When you are in Cambridge, you can’t go past visiting some of these impressive colleges. Join a 1.5-hour guided walking tour of King’s, Clare and Trinity Colleges. (Trinity College is the college Prince Charles attended, and he was the time royal ever to complete a degree). 

In the warmer months, you must go on a Punting tour down the River Cam, where you can sit back and enjoy the ride, and your guide will have you gliding past the seven colleges, learning all the ins and outs of what goes on, on the extraordinary campuses. 

If the weather permits, you should also look around the Cambridge Botanical Gardens, where the Tours are free-of-charge, but there is a Garden admission. The grounds are beautifully manicured, and well looked after, but check the opening time before you go, as they vary depending on the season. 

If you have the time and for a truly marvellous experience, try the Pink Floyd tour of London and Cambridge, where you will follow Pink Floyd’s journey starting at Cambridge high school and ending at Battersea Power Station. This is where Pink Floyd’s album cover was shot in protest. 

With so many museums, you are a little spoilt for choice. The most well-known is the Fitzwilliam Museum on Trumpington St; however, there are others like the museum of Cambridge or Cambridge Museum of Technology.

If you can not do it all on your own in one day, purchase tickets on the Cambridge “on-off” bus. His way, you can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have but hop on and off where you need to. They will give you a map in advance to know exactly where you might like to go.

Accommodation in Cambridge

Splurge

The Varsity Hotel and Spa

Great location on Thompson’s lane right near the River Cam. The rooms and comfortable and tastefully decorated, and most rooms have a lovely view. The restaurant food is delicious, and the views from here are excellent, with friendly staff as a bonus. 

Budget

Holiday Inn Express Cambridge West – Cambourne

You can never go wrong with the Holiday Inn Franchise. They are clean, comfortable and reliable. However, it is 13km from the city centre, so it is not ideal for walking to major sites. 

Brentwood (approximately 45 minutes drive)

Brentwood, in particular Essex, is now an international name thanks to a reality tv show called “The Only Way is Essex”! (TOWIE). It is said that early settlers named the area Burntwood because it is believed that the town originated in a small forest clearing due to a fire. Some 18th-century maps still have the name on them.

Things to do in Brentwood

Besides scooting around the High Street, picking out all the boutiques, clubs and restaurants in the area that you will have seen on Towie during the years, you will find a hint of Medieval times when you visit Canterbury Cathedral. The chapel was built around 1221, so the Brentwood Chapel ruins can still be found in High St. 

I am sure you have heard of the children’s stories of Gruffalo; these magical childhood memories are recreated at The Gruffalo Trail, about 7 minute’s drive from Brentwood High Street. Here you will find magic trails that lead to hand-crafted carvings of the Gruffalo Characters. 

The Brentwood Brewery has touring days that allow you to see the behind the scenes of the mechanics of brewing beer. Spend an entire day getting to know the technical side, understanding the ingredients and learning all you need to know about the art of brewing. Otherwise, stop by for a pint instead.

Visit Brentwood museum, located in a small cottage that covers social and domestic history from 1840 to 1970. Opening hours are from 230-430pm on the weekends and 1030am to 1230pm on Mondays; dates vary, so check the website for details.

So whether you are interested in visiting this great little town for its notoriety or history, there is plenty to see and do here. 

Accommodation in Brentwood

Splurge

SILVERINGS, a Beautifully designed Luxurious Townhouse

If you are willing to drive about 11 minutes outside the city centre, there is a beautiful townhouse you could make a home for the weekend. It does sleep up to 8 people, so if it is just two people for the weekend, it can seem luxurious. 

Budget

De Rougemont Manor

It is hard to believe that the. De Rougemont Manor is this affordable, with a tennis court and outdoor swimming pool amongst the fantastic facilities here. There is also a restaurant and free parking, and the rooms are bright, clean and airy. 

Peterborough (2.15 hours drive)

For most, Peterborough is missing from their list of places to visit; why? I have yet to learn because although Peterborough is known mainly for its beautiful historic cathedral, the town itself is rich in history, dating back as far as 992 when it was named St Peters Burgh. However, after the city of Peterborough was burnt down in 1070, it was gradually built into the Peterborough city it is today.

Things to do in Peterborough

Enjoy a football game and watch Peterborough United at Westons Homes Stadium in Peterborough. Click here for Posh tickets and schedule to games. Sure, it isn’t Emerald Stadium, and you can not do a tour, but it is a great day out, nevertheless.

Croyland Abbey is about a 20-minute drive from Peterborough city centre. It was once a monastery of the Benedictine Order in Lincolnshire, founded in memory of St Guthlac in the early eighth century. Today it is still open for prayer, and visitors are welcome between 11 am to 3 pm. The grounds are beautiful and rich in history. 

Ferry Meadow is about a 12-minute drive from Peterborough; enjoy one of the many water sports in the lake in Nene Park or a windsurfing or sailing course for the more ambitious. Jog or cycle around the path or fly a kite; there is plenty to do that will ensure your day is a fun-filled one. 

Peterborough Cathedral is home to the tomb of Catherine of Aragon, better known as Catherine the Great first wife of Henry VIII and Mary, Queen of Scots, who was later moved to Westminster Abbey. The building started in the 7th century as a monastery. However, today is known as one of the finest Norman cathedrals in England.

Accommodation in Peterborough

Splurge

Park Inn By Radisson Peterborough

Walking distance to the train station if you have decided to leave the car at home on your Peterborough Stay. The rooms are clean and modern and are at the standard you would find at any Radisson hotel worldwide.

Budget

Signature Suites 

The Signature Suites is in a great location and is fantastic value for money. The rooms are comfortable and clean, beautifully decorated, offer parking and free Wi-Fi, and come with a kitchenette so you can choose to eat in if you like. 

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!

Other things you need to know

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost if you purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.

Check out my Instagram page or join the Truly Expat Facebook group. 

Pin it for later

Would you like to read more about Europe?