As spellbinding as London is with a never-ending array of things to see, do, shop or explore, England’s historic towns and rolling countryside give a glorious respite from city life. Whether you’re seeking a spot of solitude or a slower pace of life, within easy reach of London are picture-perfect towns, landmark cathedrals and enigmatic ancient sites. From the honey-hued villages of the Cotswolds to the majesty of Windsor; escape the capital for a day with our favourite day trips from London.

Oxford

Oxford’s dreaming spires have inspired countless writers, poets and literary greats. Home to the world-famous Oxford University, it’s a city with a deeply intellectual history and reputation. But Oxford’s beauty makes it such a captivating day trip destination. Meander your way through cobbled lanes and fairy tale towers to discover charming cafes, bookshops and boutiques. Visitors will also recognise locations from the Harry Potter films. Take a punt ride along the river - or even a boat cruise – before visiting the Ashmolean Museum’s collection of art and archaeology.

Distance: 1.5 hours’ drive from London

The Cotswolds

From Bath to Banbury, the Cotswolds stretches its way westwards in a swathe of caramel coloured cottages and manicured rose gardens. It’s impossible to see it all in one day, but cherry pick a few villages to explore and you’ll immerse yourself in the Cotswolds’ chocolate box charm. Straddling the River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water is endlessly photogenic with its tiny bridges and thatched houses, while the market town of Cirencester is resplendent with antique shops galore. Awarded ‘the most romantic street in Britain’ Lower Slaughter’s Copse Hill Road, is a lover’s dream come true.

Distance: 2 hours’ drive from London

Windsor

Famed, of course, for Windsor Castle, a residence of the British Royal Family, Windsor radiates regal splendour. Positioned on the banks of the River Thames, the historic town’s elegant townhouses, deeply-rooted history and expansive green spaces make it the perfect day trip destination. After a tour of the castle’s impressively grand rooms, watch the changing of the guard and explore St George’s Chapel and take a leisurely ramble in the 4,800-acre Windsor Great Park. Younger day trippers will love the rides and attractions at nearby Legoland.

Distance: 45 minutes’ drive from London

Canterbury

Technically a city on account of its awe-inspiring cathedral, Canterbury retains a village-like charm with cobbled lanes and Tudor facades. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Church of England’s most important place of worship, Canterbury Cathedral is an imposing Gothic masterpiece with pointed arches and jagged spires. After a tour inside, take a slow stroll around the medieval city’s narrow alleyways, lined by timber-framed houses. You’ll be rewarded with delightful independent stores and craft shops. Unfurl a blanket and picnic on the pretty Westgate Gardens beside the River Stour before returning to London.

Distance: 1.5 hours’ drive from London

Bath

Known for its immaculately preserved ancient Roman baths, the Georgian town of Bath is enduringly splendid. Its grand crescents and boulevards are straight out of a period drama, while its many churches and abbeys tell the story of the historic town. In fact, the best view of the city can be found from atop the 212 steps of Bath Abbey’s tower. Pay a visit to the legendary Roman baths then enjoy a delicious afternoon tea at the Pump Room restaurant. Explore Bath’s culture at The Holburne Museum and Victoria Art Gallery then journey back to London via Salisbury Plain to pay a visit to the deeply mysterious, ancient monolithic site of Stonehenge.

Distance: 2.5 hours’ drive from London

After a day trip outside of London, return to your sumptuous suite at Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel.