Looking to surprise your partner with the perfect romantic getaway? Whether you want a relaxing countryside escape, a charming historic town, or a seaside adventure, London is surrounded by destinations that are perfect for couples. The best part? Most are less than two hours away—making them ideal day trips from London.

In this guide, I’ll share the 10 best romantic day trips from London for couples, complete with travel tips, highlights, and recommendations on whether to go independently or join an organized tour.

👉 Want to skip the planning hassle? Many of these day trips are available as highly-rated guided tours. Click here to explore the top-rated London day trips

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

1. Bath – A Timeless Romantic Escape

Bath is one of England’s most beautiful and historic cities, famous for its Georgian architecture, honey-colored stone, and connections to Jane Austen. Walking through its crescent-shaped streets feels like stepping into a romance novel.

Highlights for Couples in Bath:

• Visit the Roman Baths and Thermae Bath Spa
• Stroll along the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge
• Relax in cosy tea rooms or riverside cafes

🚗 Getting there: About 1h 30m by train from London Paddington.
🚌 Tour option: If you want to combine Bath with the world-famous Stonehenge, consider this Bath & Stonehenge Day Tour – a best-selling tour with excellent reviews.

💡 Romantic tip: Extend your visit and follow this 2-Day Bath Itinerary for the ultimate weekend getaway.

2. Oxford – Dreaming Spires and River Punting

Known as the “City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford is steeped in history and romance. Its iconic university buildings, cobblestone streets, and riverside paths make it an ideal day out for couples.

Highlights for Couples in Oxford:

• Go punting on the River Cherwell
• Explore the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera
• Walk through Christ Church College (a Harry Potter filming location)

🚆 Getting there: Just 1 hour from London Paddington by train.
🚌 Tour option: Try this Oxford & Cotswolds Day Tour which lets you explore Oxford plus charming villages like Burford and Bibury (the one featured inside every UK passport!).

👉 Harry Potter fans? Join the Oxford & Harry Potter Studio Tour for a magical couple’s experience.

3. Brighton – Seaside Fun and Sunsets

If you’re craving sea air and vibrant energy, Brighton is the ultimate seaside day trip from London. Perfect in summer, but fun year-round, Brighton offers quirky charm, coastal views, and plenty of activities for couples.

Don’t Miss in Brighton:

• The iconic Brighton Palace Pier
• Royal Pavilion’s exotic architecture
• A romantic walk along Brighton Beach
• The i360 observation tower for panoramic views
• Fresh fish & chips by the sea

🚆 Getting there: 1 hour by train from London Victoria.

👉 Want adventure? Try the Brighton Zip Line for a thrilling ride over the beach. Book Brighton activities here.

4. Windsor – Royal Romance Just Outside London

Only 40 minutes from London, Windsor is a small town packed with royal charm. Home to Windsor Castle—an official residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II—it’s perfect for couples who love history and regal beauty.

Romantic Highlights in Windsor:

• Tour Windsor Castle’s State Rooms (a must-see!)
• Walk the Long Walk, the tree-lined avenue leading to the castle
• Explore Windsor’s charming streets and riverside

🚆 Getting there: 30–40 minutes by train from London Waterloo.
🚌 Tour option: If you want to combine Windsor with Bath and Oxford, this Windsor, Bath & Oxford Tour offers incredible value.

5. The Cotswolds – Idyllic Villages & Rolling Hills

Few places in England are as romantic as the Cotswolds. Think thatched cottages, stone houses, charming pubs, and countryside walks—it’s like stepping into a postcard.

Highlights for Couples in the Cotswolds:

• Explore villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Castle Combe
• Stroll along riverside paths and country lanes
• Enjoy cosy pub lunches together

🚗 Best by car: Around 2 hours from London.
🚌 Tour option: No car? Join this Full-Day Cotswolds Tour from London which takes you to four iconic villages in one day.

👉 Romantic tip: Stay overnight in a boutique inn for the ultimate countryside escape.

6. South Downs National Park – For Nature-Loving Couples

Looking for outdoor adventure? The South Downs offers dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and charming villages, all just 1.5–2 hours from London.

Don’t Miss:

• The breathtaking Seven Sisters Cliffs
• Arundel Castle
• Chawton (home of Jane Austen’s house)
• Hikes along the South Downs Way

🚌 Tour option: This South Downs & Seven Sisters Day Tour includes transport, sightseeing, and plenty of time to explore.

7. Rye & Camber Sands – Seaside Serenity

For couples who love beaches and charming towns, Rye and Camber Sands are the perfect pair. Rye is filled with cobbled streets and historic pubs, while Camber Sands boasts wide golden beaches.

Romantic things to do:

• Stroll down Mermaid Street in Rye
• Relax on the sandy dunes of Camber Sands
• Enjoy a local wine tasting tour together

🚌 Tour option: Book an East Sussex Wine Tasting Tour for the ultimate indulgent day out.

8. Canterbury & Whitstable – History Meets Seaside Charm

Combine history and seaside romance in one trip. Canterbury is known for its medieval cathedral, while Whitstable is a laid-back seaside town famous for oysters and colorful beach huts.

Highlights:

• Visit Canterbury Cathedral (a UNESCO site)
• Wander cobbled medieval streets
• Try fresh oysters in Whitstable
• Explore Whitstable Harbour Market

🚌 Tour option: This Kent Day Trip from London includes Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Greenwich, and even a Thames River Cruise!

9. Dover & The White Cliffs – Dramatic Coastal Romance

Few sights are as iconic as the White Cliffs of Dover. Combined with Dover Castle, this day trip is a mix of history and natural beauty—perfect for couples who love stunning landscapes.

🚗 About 2 hours from London.
🚌 Join this Dover, Canterbury & Leeds Castle Tour which includes entrance tickets and transport.

10. Cambridge – Classic University Charm

Like Oxford, Cambridge is a charming university town filled with history, cobbled streets, and river punting. It’s smaller and more relaxed than Oxford, making it ideal for a romantic day.

Don’t Miss in Cambridge:

• Go punting on the River Cam
• Climb Great St Mary’s Church tower for city views
• Explore Cambridge University colleges
• Enjoy cocktails at Six rooftop bar

👉 Book your Cambridge Punting Tour here for a truly romantic experience.

Final Thoughts: The Best Day Trips from London for Couples

Whether you’re dreaming of historic cities, royal castles, coastal escapes, or countryside villages, London offers endless opportunities for romantic day trips.

✨ Tip: If you don’t want the stress of planning trains and buses, consider booking a guided tour. They’re affordable, stress-free, and often include multiple destinations in one day.

👉 Browse the best London day tours for couples here and start planning your next romantic adventure.

=> Suggested post: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall UK – Ultimate Travel Guide