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19 Mar 2024

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21 Mar 2024

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Top Cities for the Perfect Day Trip from London

London is a beautiful, vibrant and fun city to visit and explore. If you're planning a visit to London for a holiday, why not add a short trip outside of the bustling city and explore other UK cities, villages, castles and famous landmarks?

London day trips and car hire servies

Avis Prestige has put together a selection of the best day trips from London. Indulge in the complimentary Meet & Greet service at London Heathrow airport, or allow us to deliver your rental car directly to your hotel, work or home.

1. Windsor

No trip to the UK is complete without a visit to at least one castle and we think the Queen’s official place of residence, Windsor Castle, is one not to miss! Only an hour outside of London, there is plenty for history lovers and royal enthusiasts to discover at the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. Whilst Windsor Castle is the most obvious reason to visit this medieval town, don’t miss out on taking time to appreciate Windsor Great Park.  Covering an impressive 4,800 acres and home to 500 free-roaming red deer, Windsor Great Park is ideal for the avid photographer and nature enthusiast!

2. Oxford

Home to one of the world’s most elite academic institution, Oxford is well-known all over the world for its beautiful architecture, dynamic art scene and amazing pubs and restaurants - this is truly a wonderful city to explore. Less than two hours from London, we promise this day trip will have something for the whole family to enjoy. Several scenes from the Harry Potter franchise were filmed here. Can you find all seven major Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford?

3. Stratford-upon-Avon

Travel back through time and arrive deep in Shakespeare country, where the world’s most famous writer and dramatist was born and raised. Catch a show by the eminent Royal Shakespeare Company or visit one of the many well-preserved buildings where you can learn the story of the Bard’s life and works. There is plenty of non-Shakespearean entertainment to enjoy in and around the historic market town. Stratford is home to the UK’s largest tropical butterfly farm. Have a wander through exotic plants, flowing waterfalls and watch hundreds of free-flying butterflies flutter around you.

4. Winchester

If you like historical architecture, then Winchester is the perfect day trip for you. Just an hour and a half cruise outside London, this former capital is one of Britain’s greatest cathedral cities. The (mostly) pedestrian high street is charming with small alleyways and squares running off it. Take your time to explore some of the great independent shops along the way and allow your imagination to run wild as you follow poet John Keates’ Ode to Autumn walking route. Winchester city is full of ancient treasures and stories waiting to be found!

5. Brighton

Less than fifty miles from London, this character-filled pebbled seaside town makes a perfect day out. In Brighton, you will find loads of unique boutiques, cafés and vintage shops housed in pretty sixteenth-century buildings. Don’t miss the Royal Pavilion, an ornate, Grade 1-listed structure and once a holiday home for George, Prince of Wales (later George IV). Walk along Brighton Palace Pier and join in the fun with the arcade games, fairground rides and chippy vans.

Explore the UK with Avis Prestige…

Hire one of our top of the range sports cars, SUVs or estates and explore the beautiful cities, charming villages and historical landmarks all around the UK.  Hire your car with Avis Prestige today and ask us about help with pre-programmed navigation systems and trip-planning assistance to make your holiday hassle-free. If you would like to know more about Avis Prestige or any of our luxury rental fleet, please send us an enquiry here, or call our team on +44 (0) 20 7591 0444.

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