{"id":12946,"date":"2025-06-25T07:38:39","date_gmt":"2025-06-25T07:38:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/?p=12946"},"modified":"2026-03-19T10:25:28","modified_gmt":"2026-03-19T10:25:28","slug":"the-best-day-trips-from-london","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/tips\/the-best-day-trips-from-london\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Day Trips from London: 7 Places to Go by Car"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#Canterbury-Kent\">Canterbury, Kent: Medieval History Day Trip&nbsp;<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Whitstable-Kent\">Whitstable, Kent: Day Trip for Seafood Lovers<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Stratford-upon-Avon\">Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire: For Literature Lovers<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Rye-East-Sussex\">Rye, East Sussex: Home of the Prettiest Street in Britain<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#The-Cotswolds\">The Cotswolds: Day Trip from London for Natural Beauty<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Highclere-Hampshire\">Highclere, Hampshire: For Downton Abbey Fans<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Elmley-Nature-Reserve-Kent\">Elmley Nature Reserve, Kent: Eco-Friendly Day Trip from London&nbsp;<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#FAQ\">FAQs&nbsp;<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Heading to London and renting a car? You\u2019re in for a treat. The capital city of England is huge in and of itself and has plenty to offer. If you\u2019ve got a car, though, you can also get off the beaten path and easily explore the surrounding region. It\u2019s easy to get a rental car in London as soon as you land at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.co.uk\/car-hire\/united-kingdom\/london\/london-gatwick-airport\/\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.co.uk\/car-hire\/united-kingdom\/london\/london-gatwick-airport\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">London Gatwick<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/car-rental\/united-kingdom\/london\/london-heathrow-airport\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">London Heathrow Airport<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/car-rental\/united-kingdom\/london\/london-stansted-airport\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">London Stansted Airport<\/a>. Pick up the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/tips\/best-car-for-london\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best car in London<\/a> for your needs and hit the road right away.\u202f\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a trip to the English coast, hoping to explore <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/travel\/best-small-towns-near-london\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">quaint villages<\/a>, or eager for some Shakespearean history, you\u2019ll find the perfect day trip from London on this list. For a more relaxing trip, be sure to check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/tips\/driving-tips-united-kingdom\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">driving tips for the UK<\/a> before hitting the road!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, let\u2019s explore the 7 best places to go from London by car.\u202f<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Canterbury-Kent\">Canterbury, Kent: Best Day Trip from London for Medieval History&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-river-running-through-a-lush-green-park-karen-cann-RaSi0XsJZFA-unsplash-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A field with poppies, next to a river with a stone bridge and houses lined up in Canterbury, Kent. \" class=\"wp-image-12999 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-river-running-through-a-lush-green-park-karen-cann-RaSi0XsJZFA-unsplash-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-river-running-through-a-lush-green-park-karen-cann-RaSi0XsJZFA-unsplash-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-river-running-through-a-lush-green-park-karen-cann-RaSi0XsJZFA-unsplash-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-river-running-through-a-lush-green-park-karen-cann-RaSi0XsJZFA-unsplash-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-river-running-through-a-lush-green-park-karen-cann-RaSi0XsJZFA-unsplash.jpg 1920w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/768;\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">You can find a piece of history in every corner of Canterbury.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance from London: 62 miles&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drive time: 1 hour 35 minutes&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Main route: M2 and A2&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Situated in southeast England, Canterbury is a cathedral city and was a <strong>popular pilgrimage site<\/strong> in the Middle Ages after the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket. In fact, Geoffrey Chaucer wrote the famed novel <strong>The Canterbury Tales<\/strong> about the pilgrimages people made in the late 1300s. The <strong>Canterbury Cathedral<\/strong>, built in 597 A.D., is still the main attraction of the city and is the seat of the Church of England. The building itself is in the Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. The cathedral isn\u2019t the only historic attraction here, though. The medieval city center is surrounded by ancient Romanesque walls.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After you explore the historic city center, you can head to the Westgate Gardens for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. This park is located right on the river and is home to gorgeous flowers and a Victorian Tower House.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SIXT pro tip<\/strong>: Before heading back to London, you\u2019ll want to have dinner at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.weaversrestaurant.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Old Weavers House<\/a>, a restaurant known for serving delicious local cuisine in a 16th-century house.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Whitstable-Kent\">Whitstable, Kent: Perfect Day Trip from London for Seafood Lovers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-houses-near-beach-viewing-blue-sea-under-blue-and-white-sky-arthur-knoepflin-IA7J8uBszvw-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Houses near a beach viewing the blue sea in Whitstable.\" class=\"wp-image-13000 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-houses-near-beach-viewing-blue-sea-under-blue-and-white-sky-arthur-knoepflin-IA7J8uBszvw-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-houses-near-beach-viewing-blue-sea-under-blue-and-white-sky-arthur-knoepflin-IA7J8uBszvw-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-houses-near-beach-viewing-blue-sea-under-blue-and-white-sky-arthur-knoepflin-IA7J8uBszvw-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-houses-near-beach-viewing-blue-sea-under-blue-and-white-sky-arthur-knoepflin-IA7J8uBszvw-unsplash-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-houses-near-beach-viewing-blue-sea-under-blue-and-white-sky-arthur-knoepflin-IA7J8uBszvw-unsplash.jpg 1920w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Take a day off from the city to feel the sea breeze in Whitstable.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance from London: 61 miles&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drive time: 1 hour 35 minutes&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Main route: A2 and M2&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Located along the English coast, this seaside town was actually the port of arrival for many of the pilgrims coming to visit Canterbury. This is perhaps the <strong>best place in the UK to feast on fresh seafood<\/strong> like oysters, mussels, shrimp, lobster, and more. You\u2019ll find plenty of charming and very popular seafood shacks right along the beach, including the colorful <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wheelersoysterbar.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Wheelers Oyster Bar<\/a>. Once you\u2019ve eaten, you can take a stroll along the pebbled beach and admire the quaint beach huts dotted along the shoreline. If you\u2019re feeling more adventurous, you can take a dip or get out on the water in a kayak.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Exploring the High Street here is also recommended, as you\u2019ll find plenty of vintage shops and unique, independent boutiques. <strong>Whitstable Castle and Gardens<\/strong> is another prime attraction. Built in the late 1700s, the castle now serves as a gorgeous event venue. Stop at the <strong>Orangery Tearooms<\/strong> on site for a dessert, a light lunch, or <strong>traditional English afternoon tea<\/strong>.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SIXT pro tip<\/strong>: For a picnic on the beach, grab a ready-to-eat box from Wheelers Oyster Bar and sit by the sea on a blanket.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Stratford-upon-Avon\">Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire: A Great Day Trip for Literature Lovers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-house-with-a-thatched-roof-surrounded-by-trees-christopher-eden-diAIXIScrY4-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A house with a thatched roof surrounded by trees in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire.\" class=\"wp-image-13001 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-house-with-a-thatched-roof-surrounded-by-trees-christopher-eden-diAIXIScrY4-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-house-with-a-thatched-roof-surrounded-by-trees-christopher-eden-diAIXIScrY4-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-house-with-a-thatched-roof-surrounded-by-trees-christopher-eden-diAIXIScrY4-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-house-with-a-thatched-roof-surrounded-by-trees-christopher-eden-diAIXIScrY4-unsplash-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-house-with-a-thatched-roof-surrounded-by-trees-christopher-eden-diAIXIScrY4-unsplash.jpg 1920w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Meet the homeland of one of the world\u2019s greatest writers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance from London: 101 miles&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drive time: 2 hours 5 minutes\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Main route: M40&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Just a few hours northwest of London, you\u2019ll find <strong>William Shakespeare\u2019s hometown<\/strong>. Shakespeare was born, raised, and eventually buried here, so you\u2019ll want to explore this charming medieval town to experience what it was that inspired some of his greatest works. The historic city center is home to <strong>more than five attractions directly related to his life<\/strong>. You can visit his birthplace and childhood home, which now serves as a museum dedicated to the continuing influence of his work. The cottage of his wife, Anne Hathaway, is also preserved and available for touring. It holds five centuries of Hathaway family history. Finally, you can visit Shakespeare\u2019s and Hathaway\u2019s resting place at the <strong>Holy Trinity Church<\/strong>. If you\u2019d like to watch one of his plays, head to the <strong>Royal Shakespeare Theatre<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shakespeare aside, the architecture of the Tudor homes and cottages is stunning, and the <strong>Museum of Mechanical Art<\/strong> is a popular destination. You can also take a rowboat out on the\u202fcanal and experience the romance of quaint old England in this town that has a history spanning about 1000 years.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SIXT pro tip<\/strong>: Visit the Garrick Pub Restaurant for a meal before heading back to London\u2014it\u2019s supposed to be the oldest pub in town!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Rye-East-Sussex\">Rye, East Sussex: Home of the Prettiest Street in Britain<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-cobblestone-street-between-buildings-adam-tams-d0AjN7xsMiE-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A cobblestone street between buildings in Rye.\" class=\"wp-image-13002 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-cobblestone-street-between-buildings-adam-tams-d0AjN7xsMiE-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-cobblestone-street-between-buildings-adam-tams-d0AjN7xsMiE-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-cobblestone-street-between-buildings-adam-tams-d0AjN7xsMiE-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-cobblestone-street-between-buildings-adam-tams-d0AjN7xsMiE-unsplash-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-a-cobblestone-street-between-buildings-adam-tams-d0AjN7xsMiE-unsplash.jpg 1920w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The perfect spot to take the best pictures in Rye.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance from London: 77 miles&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drive time: 2 hours 10 minutes&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Main route: A2 and M20&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This southern coastal town used to be England\u2019s <strong>pirate port<\/strong> and, as such, has a compelling history. You can visit <strong>Rye Castle<\/strong>, an ancient moated castle that\u2019s home to the Women\u2019s Tower and the Medieval Gardens. The <strong>13th-century Ypres Tower<\/strong> is also part of the castle museum and at one point served as the town\u2019s courthouse, morgue, and prison. If you want to learn more about the town itself, the <strong>East Street Museum<\/strong> is ripe with exhibits about local industry. For more medieval buildings, check out the 12th-century <strong>St. Mary\u2019s Church<\/strong> as well as the Landgate, which once guarded the town.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you go to see the <strong>prettiest street in Britain<\/strong>, head straight to <strong>Mermaid Street<\/strong>. Appropriately named for a pirate port, Mermaid Street is famous for its cobblestone lanes and historic, quaint buildings that now house tearooms, vintage boutiques, and plenty of flowers and foliage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SIXT pro tip<\/strong>: If you want to get closer to the sea, head to Camber Sands\u2014it\u2019s about 10 minutes from the town center by car and is considered to be one of the best beaches near London.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"The-Cotswolds\">The Cotswolds: The Best Day Trip from London for Natural Beauty<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"819\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-brown-and-gray-house-beside-river-under-cloudy-sky-during-daytime-john-dancy-dZU_siwrbHI-unsplash-1024x819.jpg\" alt=\"A brown and gray house beside a river under cloudy sky during daytime in Cotswolds. \" class=\"wp-image-13003 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-brown-and-gray-house-beside-river-under-cloudy-sky-during-daytime-john-dancy-dZU_siwrbHI-unsplash-1024x819.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-brown-and-gray-house-beside-river-under-cloudy-sky-during-daytime-john-dancy-dZU_siwrbHI-unsplash-300x240.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-brown-and-gray-house-beside-river-under-cloudy-sky-during-daytime-john-dancy-dZU_siwrbHI-unsplash-768x614.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-brown-and-gray-house-beside-river-under-cloudy-sky-during-daytime-john-dancy-dZU_siwrbHI-unsplash-1536x1229.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-brown-and-gray-house-beside-river-under-cloudy-sky-during-daytime-john-dancy-dZU_siwrbHI-unsplash.jpg 1920w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/819;\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">One of the best places to go hiking in the Cotswolds.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance from London: 101 miles&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drive time: 2 hours 10 minutes&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Main route: M4&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The Cotswolds isn\u2019t necessarily a single city\u2014it&#8217;s a designated <strong>Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty<\/strong> that spans 800 square miles, and it\u2019s up to you which part or parts you want to visit. Overall, the area is characterized by rolling green hills, quaint, idyllic villages, unique limestone buildings, and gorgeous gardens. There are more than <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cotswolds-nl.org.uk\/exploring\/self-guided-routes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">120 walking trails<\/a> in the area, and you can choose one based on your starting location and how far you\u2019re looking to go.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The village of Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most popular villages in this area thanks to its bridges and canals, earning it the nickname of the \u201cVenice of the Cotswolds.\u201d Cirencester is another village you can visit that dates back to Roman times, while the town of Castle Combe boasts a plethora of buildings dating back to the 1600s.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SIXT pro tip<\/strong>: You can break the Cotswolds up into several day trips if you find you really like the area\u2014and be sure to bring a bag in case you visit any village markets!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Highclere-Hampshire\">Highclere, Hampshire: The Perfect Day Trip for Downton Abbey Fans&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-castle-by-green-field-during-daytime-andy-galbraith-4QkWB0o-Rqs-unsplash-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A castle by a green field during daytime in Highclere.\" class=\"wp-image-13004 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-castle-by-green-field-during-daytime-andy-galbraith-4QkWB0o-Rqs-unsplash-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-castle-by-green-field-during-daytime-andy-galbraith-4QkWB0o-Rqs-unsplash-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-castle-by-green-field-during-daytime-andy-galbraith-4QkWB0o-Rqs-unsplash-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-castle-by-green-field-during-daytime-andy-galbraith-4QkWB0o-Rqs-unsplash-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/05\/unsplash-castle-by-green-field-during-daytime-andy-galbraith-4QkWB0o-Rqs-unsplash.jpg 1920w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/768;\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A must-go in Highclere for fans all over the world. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance from London: 66 miles&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drive time: 1 hour 30 minutes&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Main route: M4&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A drive directly west of London, Highclere is located in another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known as the North Wessex Downs. Its most well-known attraction is the privately owned <strong>Highclere Castle<\/strong>. The estate itself dates back to Anglo-Saxon times in 749 AD. In the late 1600s, the medieval palace was transformed into Highclere Place House, and then it was renovated again in the 1800s into what it is today. This Victorian castle sits in a huge green park that was designed in the 18th century. You can tour the castle and the gardens, and there\u2019s even an on-site caf\u00e9. Those familiar with the TV show <strong>Downton Abbey<\/strong> will recognize the main state rooms of the castle.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re a die-hard Downton Abbey fan, you can combine a trip to Highclere Castle with a trip to nearby <strong>Bampton<\/strong>, just a 50-minute drive from Highclere. Much of the TV series was filmed in this town. You\u2019ll find filming locations at Bampton Library, which served as Downton Cottage Hospital; Church Green, which served as Downton Village Square; Churchgate House, which served as Crawley House; and many more.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SIXT pro tip<\/strong>: If you\u2019re heading to Highclere Castle, it\u2019s recommended to book your tour in advance, and the dress code is smart casual.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Elmley-Nature-Reserve-Kent\">Elmley Nature Reserve, Kent: The Best Eco-Friendly Day Trip from London<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/06\/unsplash_field-of-purple-flowers_suhail-kapoor-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A purple flower field during the daytime in Kent.\" class=\"wp-image-13007 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/06\/unsplash_field-of-purple-flowers_suhail-kapoor-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/06\/unsplash_field-of-purple-flowers_suhail-kapoor-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/06\/unsplash_field-of-purple-flowers_suhail-kapoor-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/06\/unsplash_field-of-purple-flowers_suhail-kapoor-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/06\/unsplash_field-of-purple-flowers_suhail-kapoor.jpg 1920w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/768;\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Take a moment to appreciate nature.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance from London: 52 miles&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drive time: 1 hour 35 minutes&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Main route: A2&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This massive nature reserve is located on the Isle of Sheppey in southeastern England, next to the Thames Estuary. The <strong>Elmley Nature Reserve<\/strong> boasts <strong>3300 acres<\/strong> of unspoiled nature, including wetland landscapes and a wide variety of native species. The family-run estate puts sustainability and conservation at the forefront of everything it does, so it\u2019s a great place to visit if you\u2019re looking for an eco-friendly day trip.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are plenty of walking trails where you\u2019ll be able to come face to face with <strong>more than 40 species of birds<\/strong> as well as other wildlife like frogs, cows, hares, and much more. You can also book guided tours, such as the group walk nature safari.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SIXT pro tip<\/strong>: If you want to relax and unwind a little more, you can also explore the wellness treatments that the reserve offers, including massages, facials, and reflexology.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"FAQ\">FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the best day trip outside of London?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The best day trip outside of London for you depends on your preferences. Think about what you want to see and how far you want to drive. If you want to visit a seaside town, consider Whitstable or Rye. Those more interested in nature may want to go to the Cotswolds or Elmley Nature Reserve.\u202f<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where can I visit within 2 hours of London?&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are plenty of places to go within 2 hours of London by car. Elmley Nature Reserve, Highclere Castle, Canterbury, and Whitstable are all great options that are about 1.5 hours from London by car.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where can I go within 1 hour of London?&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a very short day trip from London, Windsor is your best option. Just under an hour\u2019s drive from London, Windsor is home to the 11th-century <strong>Windsor Castle<\/strong>, which now serves as a residence of the British Royal Family. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on the_content --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on the_content -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Heading to London and renting a car? You\u2019re in for a treat. The capital city of England is huge in and of itself and has plenty to offer. If you\u2019ve got a car, though, you can also get off the beaten path and easily explore the surrounding region. It\u2019s easy to get a rental car&#8230;<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":111,"featured_media":12998,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-12946","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-tips","8":"entry"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The Best Day Trips from London: 7 Places to Go by Car | SIXT Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Renting a car in the iconic City of London? 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