Tag: Visit England

Top 8 Day Trips from London by Train (2026 Guide)

Paola Tambo2 Comments

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support this blog and allow me to continue creating free travel guides and resources. As always, all opinions are my own, and I only recommend places and experiences I truly love.

London is bursting with energy, culture, and iconic sights—but sometimes, a change of scenery is exactly what you need to recharge. One of the best things about visiting or living in London is how easy it is to escape the city for a day. Thanks to the UK’s excellent rail network, you can reach historic towns, seaside resorts, and countryside gems in under two hours, with no car or overnight stay required.

Whether you are craving rolling countryside views, medieval streets, grand architecture, or fresh coastal air, there are countless unforgettable destinations just a short train ride away.

Below, I am sharing 8 wonderful day trips from London by train that are easy to reach, rich in history and beauty, and absolutely worth adding to your travel plans. I also wrote this article about how to do London on a budget.

1. Moreton-in-Marsh: Gateway to the Cotswolds

🚆 Getting there: Approx. 1 hr 28 min from London Paddington via Great Western Railway

Tucked in the northern Cotswolds, Moreton-in-Marsh is a postcard-perfect market town that feels like stepping into an old English novel. Expect colored stone buildings, independent bookstores, and cozy cafés serving scones with clotted cream.

It’s a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding countryside or joining a guided tour of nearby villages like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Tip: Book a small-group tour with Go Cotswolds for a seamless, story-filled Cotswolds experience.

2. Dover: Coastal Drama & Historic Majesty

🚆 Getting there: Just 1 hour from London St Pancras International via Southeastern High-Speed (Javelin)

If you’ve ever wanted to stand on cliffs that seem to touch the sky, Dover is your place. Famous for its dazzling white cliffs and wartime tunnels, Dover also boasts the mighty Dover Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views over the English Channel.

On clear days, you might even spot the French coastline across the water. If you are interested in a Guided Day Tour from London, then check this one out!

3. Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires

🚆 Getting there: About 1 hour from London Paddington via Great Western Railway

History, academia, and breathtaking architecture combine in Oxford, one of the most iconic university towns in the world. Tour centuries-old colleges, visit the Bodleian Library, and stroll along the River Thames—or spot film locations from Harry Potter and Inspector Morse.

Be sure to pop into the Covered Market for local eats and handmade gifts. This tour of Oxford and its University is a best-selling one, so make sure to check it out!

4. Rye: A Real-Life Fairytale

🚆 Getting there: ~1 hr 5 min from London St Pancras via Southeastern High-Speed to Ashford, then transfer to Rye

Rye is the kind of place where time slows down. Wander its cobbled lanes (like the famously photogenic Mermaid Street), admire timber-framed houses, and browse antique shops straight out of a Dickens novel.

This charming East Sussex town is rich in literary and smuggling history and just the spot for a slow, scenic day. If you would like to discover the secrets of Rye, then check out this tour!

5. Cambridge: Punting, Parks & Prestige

🚆 Getting there: A speedy 48 min from London King’s Cross via Great Northern Express

Cambridge exudes intellectual charm, with stunning college courtyards, tranquil riverside paths, and an artsy town centre. Don’t miss a chance to go punting—a flat-bottomed boat ride—on the River Cam under the famous Bridge of Sighs.

Tip: Book with Traditional Punting Company for a guided punting experience through the university’s most scenic stretches.

6. Bath: Ancient Wellness Meets Georgian Elegance

🚆 Getting there: Around 1 hr 15 min from London Paddington via Great Western Railway

Known for its Roman heritage and graceful Georgian architecture, Bath is a feast for the eyes—and the senses. Visit the Roman Baths, take a dip in a modern thermal spa, and marvel at the Royal Crescent. Jane Austen fans will especially love exploring her connections to the city. Here is a Guided City Tour you might be interested in.

7. Canterbury: A Cathedral City with Literary Soul

🚆 Getting there: Just 50 min from London St Pancras International via Southeastern High-Speed to Canterbury West

With cobblestone streets and timbered houses, Canterbury is steeped in history. At its heart lies Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Book lovers and pilgrims alike will enjoy walking in the footsteps of Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales.” You can also book a walking tour of Canterbury with a Green Badge guide here.

8. Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespeare’s Timeless Town

🚆 Getting there: About 2 hours from London Marylebone via Chiltern Railways (change at Leamington Spa)

No literary pilgrimage is complete without a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon. This riverside market town is the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and his legacy lives on in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.

Tip: Save money and time with the Explorer Pass from Shakespeare’s England, which grants access to multiple historic sites.

Final Thoughts

These 8 destinations offer more than just a break from London—they’re immersive, enriching, and effortlessly accessible by train. So whether you’re in the mood for rolling hills, coastal winds, or college towns with centuries of legacy, you don’t have to go far to experience the magic.

Which place are you excited the most to explore next?

Find this guide helpful? You can buy me a drink and support my work here.

Top 13 Must See Places in Bath, England (2026 Guide)

Paola Tambo1 Comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a booking through them.

Located in the rolling hills of Somerset, Bath, England is one of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in the United Kingdom. Best known for its ancient Roman baths, elegant Georgian architecture, and literary connections to Jane Austen, Bath has been attracting visitors for over 2,000 years.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath offers far more than just its famous thermal waters. Visitors can expect impressive abbeys, grand crescents, charming streets, independent shops, and a thriving café culture. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, a spa retreat, or a literary inspired trip, Bath is a destination that rewards slow and meaningful travel. It is also a wonderful day trip option from London by train (I talk more about it in this article)

In this guide, you will discover 13 iconic places you must see in Bath, along with practical travel tips and ideas to help you plan your visit!

1. Jane Austen’s Bath Home at 4 Sydney Place

Jane Austen lived in Bath between 1801 and 1806, and although she resided in several houses, the most famous is 4 Sydney Place, located near Sydney Gardens. While the home is privately owned, many visitors stop to see the exterior and imagine Austen’s life in the city that inspired scenes in Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.

This property is occasionally available as a holiday rental, offering a rare opportunity to stay in a genuine literary landmark.

Click here to book a stay in Jane Austen’s Family Home in Bath from 1801 to 1805

  • 4 Sydney Place

2. The Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent is Bath’s most iconic architectural landmark. Built in the 18th century, this sweeping curve of 30 Georgian townhouses overlooks a manicured lawn and offers one of the finest examples of Georgian design in Europe.

The Royal Crescent is also home to the No.1 Royal Crescent Museum and the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa, both worth visiting. You can find several tours in Bath here!

  • View of the Royal Crescent in Bath, England

3. The Georgian Garden

Hidden behind the Royal Crescent, the Georgian Garden recreates an authentic 18th century pleasure garden. With symmetrical planting beds, herbs, and traditional landscaping, it offers a peaceful retreat and a deeper look into Georgian lifestyle.

It is free to enter and makes a lovely addition to a Royal Crescent visit.

Click here to book a walking tour of Georgian Bath!

  • A lovely example of a Georgian Garden in Bath, England

4. The Jane Austen Centre

Located on Gay Street, the Jane Austen Centre explores Austen’s years in Bath through exhibitions, costumed guides, and interactive displays. Upstairs, the Regency Tea Room serves traditional cream teas in period style. This is one of Bath’s most popular attractions for literature lovers!

Click here to book the “Jane Austen’s Bath And History Trail” tour, which includes FREE entry to the Jane Austen Centre

  • The Jane Austen Centre & Regency Tea Rooms

5. The Circus

The Circus is a perfectly circular terrace designed by John Wood the Elder. Its three curved segments represent classical orders of architecture and are decorated with symbolic carvings.

Famous former residents include painter Thomas Gainsborough, who lived here during the height of his career.

The Circus connects naturally to the Royal Crescent, making it an essential stop on any Bath walking route. For an architecture focused city tour, check this guided tour out here and discover Bath’s most beautiful historic buildings!

  • Partial view of The Circus in Bath, England

6. Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House

Sally Lunn’s is one of the oldest houses in Bath and one of the most famous tea rooms in England. It is known worldwide for the Sally Lunn bun, a light brioche style bread served with sweet or savory toppings.

It is an ideal place to experience traditional Bath food culture.

7. The Pump Room

Once the social heart of Georgian Bath, the Pump Room was where visitors gathered to drink the mineral rich spa water and be seen by society. Today, it operates as a refined tea room offering afternoon tea and live music.

Visitors can still sample the historic spa water from the fountain!

8. Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey dominates the city’s skyline and is one of the most impressive Gothic churches in the country. Its fan vaulted ceiling, stained glass windows, and historic monuments make it a must visit attraction.

The tower tour offers panoramic views over the rooftops of Bath.

Tickets can be purchased online or from the Welcome Desk on arrival at the Abbey.

  • The glorious Bath Abbey

9. The Roman Baths

The Roman Baths are the reason Bath exists. Built around Britain’s only natural hot springs, this ancient bathing complex dates back nearly 2,000 years.

Visitors can explore the Sacred Spring, Great Bath, Roman temple ruins, and museum galleries. The site is especially atmospheric in the evening.

Click here to book a Roman Baths and Bath city walking tour and explore Bath’s top historic sights with a local guide

  • The iconic Roman Bath in the city of Bath, England

10. Bath City Centre

Bath’s city centre is a UNESCO protected area filled with honey coloured stone buildings, independent boutiques, museums, cafés, and historic streets.

Popular areas include Milsom Street, SouthGate, Stall Street, and Walcot Street, known for its artisan shops and vintage stores.

You can book an Afternoon Tea at The Regency Tea Room here

  • A stroll around Bath city centre

11. Pulteney Bridge

Pulteney Bridge is one of only a few bridges in the world with shops built across its full span. Inspired by the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, it crosses the River Avon and offers beautiful views in both directions.

The nearby riverside walks and boat tours add another dimension to a Bath visit.

  • Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon

12. Parade Gardens

Parade Gardens sits along the riverbank and offers landscaped lawns, floral displays, and excellent views back toward the Abbey and Pulteney Bridge.

It is an ideal place to rest after sightseeing or to enjoy a picnic.

  • The lovely and relaxing Parade Gardens

13. Sweet Little Things Tea Room

Sweet Little Things on Old Bond Street is a modern favorite for visitors seeking a stylish afternoon tea or brunch. Known for its floral decor, homemade cakes, and bottomless tea experiences, it appeals strongly to social media driven travel audiences.

Best Time to Visit Bath

The best months to visit Bath are April to June and September to October. During these seasons, the weather is mild, gardens are in bloom, and crowds are lighter than in peak summer.

Winter visits are also popular due to Christmas markets, spa experiences, and festive lights.

How to Get to Bath, England

Getting to Bath, England is simple and convenient.

By train

Direct trains run from London Paddington to Bath Spa in about 90 minutes. Bristol, Cardiff, and Birmingham also have excellent connections.

You can also use Welcome Pickups transfers from London or Bristol Airport.

By car

Bath is approximately two hours from London. Park and ride services are strongly recommended.

You can compare car rental options through Expedia or Booking.com. You can also check here for taxi transfers.

By coach or bus

National Express, FlixBus, and Megabus provide regular and affordable services into Bath.

Where to Stay in Bath

Bath offers outstanding accommodation options including:

Luxury spa hotels such as The Gainsborough Bath Spa and The Royal Crescent Hotel
Boutique guesthouses such as The Yard in Bath and Leighton House
Well rated budget stays including Bath YMCA Hostel and YHA Bath

Looking for more Bath accommodation? Explore listings on Booking.com!

Find this guide helpful? You can buy me a drink and support my work here.

8 Amazing Places to See in Oxford, England (2026 Guide)

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a booking through them.

Visiting Oxford, England feels like stepping into a living tapestry of history, literature, and knowledge. With its breathtaking architecture, majestic college buildings, ancient libraries, and ivy-clad stone walls, the city exudes a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere shaped by centuries of academic tradition and student life.

Whether you’re visiting for a day trip from London or planning a longer stay, Oxford offers a magical blend of culture, beauty, and intellectual charm. In this guide, I’m sharing 8 amazing places you must see in Oxford, along with how to get there, where to stay, and how to plan your trip easily.

Compare cheap flights to Oxford & London airports here

1. The Covered Market

The Covered Market is one of Oxford’s most charming hidden gems. Dating back to the 1770s, this historic indoor market is filled with independent shops, florists, bakeries, boutique clothing stores, and local food stalls.

The scent of fresh pastries and coffee fills the air, and it’s the perfect place to grab lunch, pick up unique souvenirs, or escape the rain while exploring the city center.

Don’t miss: Ben’s Cookies, local craft shops, and the historic cake counters.

2. Turl Street

Turl Street is one of Oxford’s most picturesque historic lanes. Lined with beautiful college buildings such as Exeter College, Lincoln College, and Jesus College, it feels wonderfully timeless.

This narrow cobbled street offers a quieter escape from the busy main roads while still placing you right in the academic heart of Oxford. Cozy cafés and centuries-old facades make it an ideal photography spot.

Browse Oxford tours and experiences here

3. St. Mary’s Passage (Narnia Connection)

This narrow, enchanting walkway between the University Church of St Mary the Virgin and the Radcliffe Camera is often overlooked, yet it’s one of Oxford’s most magical corners!

St. Mary’s Passage is famously linked to C.S. Lewis and The Chronicles of Narnia. A carved lion’s head, stone fauns, and a nearby lamppost are all believed to have inspired elements of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Victorian lamp post which is said to have inspired C.S. Lewis in his book The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

To book a self-guided audio tour about Oxford’s literary legends and landmarks, click here

4. Radcliffe Square

Radcliffe Square is one of the most iconic locations in Oxford. Surrounded by architectural masterpieces, including the Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, and the University Church, this area feels like the living heart of the university.

Every angle offers postcard-worthy views, making it one of the best places in Oxford for photography.

The Radcliffe Camera, locate at the center of Radcliffe Square

5. The Bridge of Sighs (Hertford Bridge)

Oxford’s Bridge of Sighs connects two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane. Built in 1914 and inspired by Venice, it is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks!

It adds a romantic, fairy-tale feel to the historic streets and is especially beautiful in early morning light.

6. New College

Founded in 1379, New College is one of Oxford’s most impressive and peaceful colleges. Behind its high stone walls you’ll find:

  • Medieval cloisters
  • A magnificent chapel
  • One of Oxford’s oldest gardens
  • Sections of the original city wall

New College is also a Harry Potter filming location, making it especially popular with fans.

To book a private tour of the college, click here

7. Christ Church College

Christ Church is one of Oxford’s most famous colleges and a highlight of any visit. Founded in 1546, it features:

  • Christ Church Cathedral
  • The iconic Tom Tower
  • Grand meadows and river walks
  • The legendary dining hall that inspired Hogwarts

This college alone can easily fill several hours of exploration.

Book a guided Christ Church & Oxford University tour here

8. St. Edmund Hall

Known affectionately as “Teddy Hall,” St. Edmund Hall dates back to the 13th century and is one of Oxford’s oldest academic institutions.

Smaller and quieter than many colleges, it offers a wonderfully intimate atmosphere, beautiful medieval architecture, and a peaceful garden perfect for slowing down and soaking in Oxford’s academic soul.

How to Get to Oxford, England

Oxford is extremely easy to reach from anywhere in the UK.

By Train

Direct trains run frequently from London Paddington and Marylebone. Journey time is around 1 hour. I usually book my tickets with Trainline.

By Bus

The Oxford Tube and National Express offer frequent, budget-friendly connections from London and Heathrow Airport.

By Car

Oxford is about 1.5 hours from London via the M40. Park-and-ride services are highly recommended.

You can compare car rentals here (click on the “car rental” option)

Where to Stay in Oxford, England

Oxford offers accommodation for every style and budget.

Extra Travel Tips for Oxford

  • Best time to visit: April–June & September (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)
  • Wear comfortable shoes – Oxford is best explored on foot
  • Book popular colleges and tours in advance
  • Consider travel insurance for UK trips

Oxford is a city that rewards slow exploration, every alleyway, courtyard, and college seems to hide another story waiting to be discovered.

Are you planning a trip to Oxford? Let me know in the comments which place you’re most excited to see!

Enjoyed this guide? You can buy me a warm drink here and support my travels & writing!

Exploring Near and Far Sawrey in the Lake District, England (2026 Travel Guide)

Paola Tambo1 Comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Near Sawrey and Far Sawrey are two small neighboring villages in Cumbria, England, located in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Dating back at least to the fourteenth century, these peaceful villages are best known for their traditional stone cottages, rolling farmland, and strong connection to Beatrix Potter.

Tucked between Hawkshead and the western shore of Lake Windermere, Near and Far Sawrey offer visitors a slower, more authentic Lake District experience. They are perfect for travelers who enjoy literary history, countryside walks, and quiet village exploration.

Both villages sit along the B5285 road, which connects Hawkshead to the Windermere car ferry. Because the villages are small and public transport is limited, having a car is strongly recommended. This also allows you to explore nearby attractions such as Hawkshead, Esthwaite Water, and the western lakeshore.

If you are planning to stay overnight, there are charming guesthouses, inns, and countryside cottages nearby. Booking.com, Vrbo, and Expedia are excellent places to search for accommodation in or near Near Sawrey.

Exploring Near Sawrey

Arriving in Near Sawrey feels like stepping into a classic English countryside scene. On one side of the road you will see open green fields and grazing sheep. On the other, a line of whitewashed and stone cottages, some operating as inns and bed and breakfasts, others still private homes.

There is public parking near the Sawrey House Hotel and Restaurant, which is convenient if you are visiting for the day. There is also very limited parking near Hill Top, but spaces fill quickly, especially in peak season.

  • Partial view of New Sawrey

Hill Top Farm

The main reason most visitors come to Near Sawrey is Hill Top, the former home of beloved author and illustrator Beatrix Potter. This seventeenth century farmhouse is a beautiful example of traditional Lakeland architecture.

Beatrix Potter bought Hill Top in 1905, and many rooms were the inspiration for scenes in her books. Before her death, she left the property to the National Trust. Today, it is a Grade II listed building and operates as a writer’s house museum, preserved much as she would have known it.

Inside, you can see original furniture, personal belongings, and rooms that appear almost exactly as they did when she lived there. Outside, the cottage garden is just as charming, filled with flowers, vegetables, and quiet corners to enjoy.

Hill Top also has a gift shop and an independent café serving baked goods, savory snacks, locally roasted coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. If you would like to visit Hill Top as part of a guided tour, you can check these options. Otherwise, you can book your tickets through the original website.

  • Hill Top farm

Walking Along the B5285

After visiting Hill Top, take time to walk along the B5285 road. This stretch is one of the most scenic parts of the village. Dry stone walls border the road, cottages dot the landscape, and open fields roll into the distance.

In spring and summer, the area is especially beautiful, with daffodils, wildflowers, and colorful cottage gardens lining the route. This short walk alone makes Near Sawrey worth visiting.

  • Northern view of the village as you exit Hill Top farm

Stones Lane and Countryside Views

As you continue through the village, you will come across Stones Lane. Along this small road you will find a few local services, more accommodation options, and a quieter residential feel.

Walking up Stones Lane leads you away from the cottages and into open countryside. Follow the path bordered by old stone walls, and you will reach a viewpoint where the village fades behind you and farmland stretches out ahead.

This is a peaceful dirt track where you can often see sheep and cows grazing. It connects to additional footpaths that lead beyond the village and into the surrounding Lake District countryside, making it ideal for gentle walks and photography.

  • The Belle Green B&B
  • Landscape view from Stones Lane

Tower Bank Arms

After exploring, the Tower Bank Arms is the perfect place to stop for a meal. Located right next to Hill Top, this historic inn is full of character and offers classic pub dishes alongside local drinks.

Whether you stop for lunch, dinner, or just a warm drink, it is a wonderful place to rest and soak in the atmosphere.

Exploring Far Sawrey

Far Sawrey is even quieter than Near Sawrey and feels more spread out across fields and country lanes. Most buildings date from the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries and are surrounded by irregularly shaped farmland.

Public footpaths connect the village to the surrounding countryside, making it a lovely base for scenic walks toward Lake Windermere, Esthwaite Water, and the Claife Heights area.

St Peter’s Church

St Peter’s Church was completed in 1869 and built from local stone in the Early English style. Although the parish itself has only around 150 permanent residents, the church is surprisingly large and seats about 400 people.

Visitors are welcome to attend services or simply step inside to admire the architecture and enjoy the peaceful setting.

Claife Viewing Station

One of the highlights near Far Sawrey is Claife Viewing Station. These atmospheric ruins once formed part of a residence where each room had differently colored glass windows, designed to change the appearance of the landscape with the seasons.

From Claife, there are gentle walking paths along the western shore of Lake Windermere, offering beautiful lake and mountain views. The area is ideal for relaxed lakeside walks and photography.

There is also an independent café nearby serving baked goods, light meals, and hot drinks, making this a pleasant place to pause during your walk.

  • View of Lake Windermere next to the Ferry House

Why Visit Near and Far Sawrey

Near and Far Sawrey are perfect for travelers looking to experience the quieter, more traditional side of the Lake District. With literary history, historic churches, scenic footpaths, and timeless village charm, these villages offer a peaceful contrast to busier towns like Bowness and Ambleside.

They are ideal for Beatrix Potter fans, slow travelers, couples, and anyone who wants to immerse themselves in English countryside life.

To enhance your experience in the area, click HERE to book a tour in the Lake District!