If you’re coming to visit the UK in the next few months, you might be wondering: what are the best day trips from London in summer? In the summertime, England is at its warmest and brightest, with long days for you to fill with fun memories. It’s the perfect season to explore our beautiful nature, visit pretty cities and discover fascinating historical sites. Read on to find out our recommendations for the Best Day Trips from London in Summer.
Dover
On a sunny day, there’s nowhere better than the White Cliffs of Dover. From up on the cliff paths, you find some of the most beautiful scenery that the English coast has to offer. On a clear day, you can even see all the way across the sea to France! Local wildlife includes many rare birds, butterflies and grazing ponies. Head down to the beach to dip your toes in the sea and sunbathe on the shore, or climb the Great Tower of Dover Castle for a spectacular view.
Bath
Famous for its gorgeous honey-gold stone buildings, there’s lots to do outdoors in the historic city of Bath. For instance, a picnic in Parade Gardens, with winding paths and colourful flowerbeds overlooking the river, alongside a bandstand and cafe. You can enjoy the River Avon itself, taking a stroll along the banks to admire the canal boats or touring the water on a river cruise. Finally, climb the hill up to the Royal Crescent to discover the best architecture in Bath with a sprawling lawn perfect for relaxing in the sun.
The Cotswolds
The rolling hills with their patchwork pattern and sweet little villages of the Cotswolds are undoubtedly at their best in the summertime. In Bibury, you can explore Arlington Row, take a stroll around Rack Isle and stop for a bite at the Trout Farm, sitting in the open air beside the fish pools. In Burford, many are tempted by the charming shops on the high street, or visit the historic Church of St John the Baptist. And in Bourton-on-the-Water, the best thing to do is to buy some tasty local food then sit on benches by the River Windrush, watching the ducks paddle around at your feet.
Stonehenge
The most important day of the year at Stonehenge takes place right at the start of the summer! The Summer Solstice is usually on the 21st of June and attracts tens of thousands of visitors. And throughout the whole season, Stonehenge is a brilliant place to visit. This is the best time of year for amazing pictures and walking through the landscape, marvelling at ancient burial mounds and earthworks. The pleasant weather also means you can leisurely enjoy your time up at the stone circle–some people even meditate, or do yoga under the open skies.
Canterbury
Canterbury is a very pretty city with some things that you can only do in the summer, so this is an ideal time to visit! For example, punting–a traditional style of boating, cruising gently along the canal network that runs through the city, available in the summer months. Sit back and relax while a local guide steers the boat and tells you stories about Canterbury’s history and legends. There’s also the lovely Westgate Gardens on the canal bank, with stunning floral displays, winding pathways and even an underwater sculpture. Finally, shopping for souvenirs on the King’s Mile, a quaint street of historic houses and independent sellers.
Oxford
With the world-famous university integrated seamlessly into the city centre, Oxford is perfect to explore in the sunshine. Also, since the students go home for the summer holidays, you can even pay to stay in the dormitories of the colleges themselves! During your stay, wander over to Christchurch Meadow to stroll amongst the Longhorn cattle, or enjoy a well-earned ice cream in the riverside green of University Parks. And best of all, nature-lovers will adore the Oxford Botanic Garden. As the oldest botanic garden in the country housing over 5000 types of plants, this is the perfect place for a lush and leafy space to relax.
Book your tour for the summer!
Thank you for reading this quick guide to the Best Day Trips from London in Summer! There’s so many amazing places to visit throughout England in the sunny season and wherever you decide to go, we hope you have a brilliant time. Make sure to stay safe and hydrated in the heat. If you would like to see any of the places mentioned above with your own eyes, then check out our great Day Tours from London. We hope to see you on tour soon!
