6 Of The Best Quick Getaways Near London

1. West Wittering

For those in need of a secluded beach getaway…

If you find yourself in need of some peace and quiet away from the everyday stresses of the city, there’s a good chance that a day trip to West Wittering is ideal for you. This idyllic English village features a stunning Blue Flag beach with glorious views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs. The surrounding area has a few handy facilities dotted around including an ice cream hut as well as some green spaces for picnic-ing. The beach is a popular destination for windsurfers if you happen to dabble, but if not, it also makes for some great entertainment when relaxing on the sand.

To reach West Wittering from London, day trippers need to grab a train from London Victoria to Chichester and upon arrival, board a 52 or 53 bus straight to the beach.

2. Bath

For those that have ‘see the Roman baths’ on their bucket list…

The ancient city of Bath, aside from being home to some of the most breathtaking architecture in the UK, has been a popular wellness destination since Roman times with many great spots to take a dip. Spend the day exactly like the Romans and Celts did 2,000 years ago by bathing in warm, mineral-infused waters at the luxurious Thermae Bath Spa. Alternatively, if you'd prefer to stay dry for your trip, go and explore The Jane Austen Centre if you’re a literary lover, the Fashion Museum to see the fascinating evolution of fashion trends since the 1600’s, or visit the historic Roman Baths with its awe-inspiring architecture and a whopping 1,700,000 litres of hot spring water. Now, I know it’s tempting, but I don’t think you’ll want to take a dip in this one…

Get yourself to London Paddington and you’ll be in Bath in a matter of an hour and twenty minutes. Happy travelling!

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3. Hastings

For those of you that want to mix history with pleasure…

If you like your historic monuments to be within walking distance of a relaxing beach, Hastings is the day trip for you. This seaside town is replete with jaw-dropping cliffs, historic architecture, and a charming sand and shingle beach perfect for a spot of sunbathing. Of course, one of the main attractions is Hastings Castle which sits strikingly atop of a cliff overlooking the English Channel, offering a pretty spectacular view once you’re up there (recruit your best walking shoes for this one). Explore what remains of this 12th-century fortress which, fun fact, was the first ever Norman castle in Britain and features dungeons, a cloistered chapel, and even an on-site mini cinema where you can view the 20-minute ‘1066 Story’ to brush up on your knowledge.

Hastings is super easy to get to from London, simply hop on a train from London Bridge or St Pancras International and you’ll be there in around an hour and a half.

4. New Forest

For the hiking addicts…

Want to be as far away from a building as possible? A trip to New Forest will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. This National Park is known for its healthand, thick forest, and beautiful native ponies that roam free alongside cattle, donkeys, and deer. Covering a vast area of land including Hampshire, East Dorset, and Wiltshire, day trippers can easily spend a whole day (or more) exploring the region’s nature trails or taking a leisurely cycle through its many scenic off-road routes.

The South Western Railway service can be caught from London Waterloo or Clapham Junction and will whisk you away to New Forest in just 90 minutes.

5. Whitstable

For those that are just in it for the fresh seafood…

Famous for its rich maritime history and deliciously fresh oysters, Whitstable is a seaside and fishing town in the Canterbury district. In the past, it has often been forgotten due to its popular surrounding areas of Margate and Deal, but that was before people became aware of its charming pebble beach, picturesque pubs, and enticing seafood options everywhere you turn. Aside from its array of exciting restaurants and cafés, it’ll be worth going to explore Whitstable Castle for a little bit of history. Just a five minute stroll away from the harbour, this 18th-century castle is free to walk around, surrounded by ornamental gardens, and even features a tea room complete with a sun terrace for a wholesome afternoon tea, al fresco style.

To indulge in some of the best seafood around, take a train from London St Pancras and you’ll be in Whitstable in just under one hour and a half.

6. Oxford

For those that are obsessed with Gothic architecture…

Of course we all know Oxford as the site of the prestigious university, but if you’ve never ventured to this historic city, you’re missing out on its endless supply of spectacular 17th-century architecture, its surprising cultural scene that is anything but dull, and of course, some sights that’ll make Harry Potter fans jump with joy. In this captivating city, visitors can wander around world-class museums and galleries bursting with centuries old treasures, take serene strolls or go punting along its scenic rivers, and even book a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic university to get a glimpse into the life of Nobel Prize-winners and literary icons that once speed-walked through these halls to get to class.

Getting to Oxford could not be easier, hourly trains from London Paddington and Marylebone whiz to Oxford in less than an hour.

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Did any of these destinations pique your interest? There are plenty more beach and city getaways to have on your radar, and you can find them all in our Day Trips near London guide, free to download on the Bindy Street app.

You’re a busy bee and can’t afford the time to leave the city behind? Not to worry, Greenwich is just on the south side of the river and it has some spots that’ll make you feel as though you’ve escaped London without even having to pack a suitcase.