5 days in and around London
Introduction
London is a city that needs no introduction. Its iconic sights, abundance of culture and international flavours make it a bucket list destination that continues to enchant visitors and us Brits alike. But London is just one jewel on Britain’s crown, and you don’t need to venture far from the capital to discover another side of the UK. In just a short train ride, experience the royal splendour of Windsor, the academic legacy of Oxford or Kent’s magnificent Heritage Coast. There’s always more to explore in Britain.
Here’s our pick of the top things to see and do in five days in and around London:
Days 1 – 2 – London
Days 1 – 2 – London
With so many incredible things to do in London, you’ll never get bored in our capital. Step back in time at the Tower of London, experience the futuristic ABBA Voyage concert, and browse for vintage bargains at Camden Market. Take a luxury shopping trip to the iconic Harrods department store, explore the hustle and bustle of Soho, or relax in a peaceful royal park. London is a city of contrasts, with something for everyone.
Things to do in London
Getting to London
London is the biggest hub in the UK and is served by several international airports that welcome flights from all over the world.
Heathrow is Britain’s biggest airport, and is connected to London by the Heathrow Express train, the Piccadilly Line on the London Underground and the Elizabeth Line. The journey from Heathrow to the city centre takes from 30 to 50 minutes.
Gatwick Airport connects to London’s Victoria station via the Gatwick Express train in around 30 minutes.
London City Airport is the capital’s most central airport, and has direct links to many stations in London via the Docklands Light Railway.
Stansted Airport provides connections to Europe, and has a direct link to London Liverpool Street station via the Stansted Express, which takes around 50 minutes.
It’s also possible to reach London by train from mainland Europe via the Eurostar. Travel from various European destinations into the heart of London, arriving into King’s Cross station sustainably and hassle-free.
While you're here...
Day 3 – Windsor
Day 3 – Windsor
To experience Britain’s unique royal culture and legacy, there are few places as impressive as Windsor. Visit the magnificent Windsor Castle that’s been home to 40 British monarchs, or join society’s finest as they don their best hats for the Royal Ascot horse race every June. But Windsor is far from stuck in the past — to fully appreciate the town, make sure your visit includes its art galleries, craft breweries and Michelin star dining.
Things to do in Windsor
Getting to Windsor from London
Trains to Windsor and Eton Riverside station from London Waterloo station depart every 30 minutes. The journey takes under one hour. There’s also a coach service departing from various stations in central London.
While you're here...
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Day 4 – Oxford
Day 4 – Oxford
Home to one of the world’s oldest universities and the immense Bodleian Library, Oxford is a city that’s proud of its academic legacy. But it’s not only ‘muggles’ who come to school here — Harry Potter fans can spot several filming locations that appear as Hogwarts school in the beloved franchise. Take a punting tour to explore the city’s sights on a traditional boat, and check out these exciting things to do in Oxford.
Things to do in Oxford
Getting to Oxford from Windsor
Trains from Windsor and Eton Central to Oxford take around one hour and 15 minutes, but do require some transfers in Reading or Slough.
While you're here...
Day 5 – Kent
Day 5 – Kent
Known as the ‘Garden of England’, the southeastern county of Kent has an eclectic mix of places to discover. Hipsters flock to trendy Margate, with its cutting-edge galleries, diverse food scene and colourful amusement park, Dreamland. The cobbled streets of Canterbury are a hit with culture and history buffs, while out on the coast, pretty Whitstable is famous for its seafood and hosts an annual oyster festival.
Things to do in Kent
Getting to Kent from Oxford
There are several train stations in Kent that can be reached from Oxford, with a transfer in London. As a reference, a train from Oxford to Canterbury takes around two hours and 30 minutes.
