As one of the most popular destinations to visit from London, Oxford is a perfect place for a day trip to escape the fog of the big city. Best known for the University of Oxford, a prestigious institution and one of the oldest universities in the world, the city is home to numerous landmarks that draw visitors from all over the world. There’s no shortage of things to do in Oxford. Explore sights like the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, the Oxford Botanic Garden, and more on your trip.

At just over 80 kilometers (50 miles) away, traveling to Oxford from London is quick and easy. By train, the trip is just over an hour, but can be even shorter if traveling by car. If traveling by bus, travel time is usually around 2 hours.

Taking a day trip from London to Cambridge is the perfect way to explore one of England’s quintessential university towns. Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge has facilitated the growth of the city as one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the world. You’ll find plenty of things to do in Cambridge outside of the university, like visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum or the Bridge of Sighs.

You can travel from London to Cambridge in an hour by train, leaving from Kings Cross station. If you decide to drive the 100 kilometers (62 miles) to Cambridge from London, you’ll double your travel time and arrive in about two hours.

For those looking to get out to the countryside, a day trip from London to the Cotswolds is the perfect rural escape. While the pace of life out in the country might be a little bit slower, you’ll find plenty of things to do in the Cotswolds. You’ll find walking trails at Westonbirt, famous fortresses like Sudeley Castle, and beautiful gardens like Hidcote Manor Garden.

About 175 kilometers (108 miles) west of London, driving to the Cotswolds will take you a little over two hours. If you’re interested in taking the train, make sure to start your day early, as the travel time is usually over four hours.