The Hattie

The hybrid working lifestyle site.

15 impressive historic places to visit from London

London undoubtedly offers a rich seam of historical gems. But if you’re looking to explore beyond the capital, there are plenty on offer not too far away. From grand palaces to ancient ruins, here are 15 must-visit historic places easily accessible from the capital. 

Windsor Castle

A view of Windsor Castle with the Long Walk stretching out in front of it.
The Long Walk through the grounds of Windsor Castle measures 2.5 miles. Simon Hurry/Unsplash

Located just an hour from London, Windsor Castle is the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. A favourite residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the highlights of this stunning site include the breathtaking St George’s Chapel and the opulent State Apartments.

NEXT READ: 9 ideas for weekend breaks from London for history-lovers

Hampton Court Palace

A view of the courtyard of Hampton Court Palace with decorative arches and a lot of windows.
Hampton Court is a vast complex almost as difficult to navigate as its maze! KT Likes Coffee/Unsplash

Step into Tudor history at Hampton Court Palace, once home to Henry VIII. With its magnificent Great Hall, stunning gardens, and famous maze, Hampton Court is a fascinating insight into royal life during the 16th century.

Stonehenge

A view of Stonehenge, the collection of standing stones are silhouetted against the sky.
A wonder of the world, Stonehenge is. a must-see. Robert Anderson/Unsplash

One of the world’s most iconic prehistoric monuments, Stonehenge remains a mystery even today. Located in Wiltshire, about two hours from London, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for history lovers.

NEXT READ: 8 romantic weekend breaks less than two hours from London by train

Canterbury Cathedral

An interior shot of Canterbury Cathedral showing the intricate stone carving and the pulpit.
Canterbury Cathedral is as impressive inside as it is outside. The Hattie

One of England’s most important religious sites, Canterbury Cathedral dates back to 597 AD and is perhaps best known as the location of the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket. Located just over an hour from London, it’s a key destination for those interested in medieval history.

Blenheim Palace

A view of Blenheim Palace which is made of honey coloured stone.
Winston Churchill proposed to his beloved Clementine at Blenheim Palace. Michael Richardson/Unsplash

Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. This stunning estate in Oxfordshire offers grand interiors, breathtaking gardens, and a rich history dating back to the early 18th century.

Dover Castle

A view of Dover Castle on raised ground with a World War Two gun in the foreground.
Dover Castle is home to many layers of history. Hhach/Pixabay

Often referred to as the ‘Key to England,’ Dover Castle has played a vital role in British history for over 900 years. Explore the medieval Great Tower, the tunnels that acted as a HQ during World War II, and enjoy panoramic views over the English Channel.

Winchester

The front of Winchester Cathedral with its enormous window.
Winchester Cathedral is the burial place of author Jane Austen. Pixabay

Once the capital of Anglo-Saxon England, Winchester is home to one of the most impressive cathedrals in the country. The city also boasts the 13th century Great Hall, which houses King Arthur’s legendary Round Table (if you believe the story!), as well as charming medieval streets to explore.

Hever Castle

A view of Hever Castle and its moat on a sunny day.
The gardens of Hever Castle are perfect for a picnic. KT Likes Coffee/Unsplash

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle is a fairytale-like fortress with a fascinating Tudor history. The castle’s stunning gardens, moat, and lavish interiors make it one of the most picturesque historic sites in England.

Runnymede

Trees along the banks of the River Thames at Runnymede.
Runnymede is also a great place for a riverside walk. JeffWallis/Pixabay

The site where the Magna Carta was sealed in 1215, Runnymede is a must-visit for history buffs. Located near Windsor, this peaceful riverside meadow was also chosen as the site for the British memorial to John F. Kennedy due to its connections with democracy.

Imperial War Museum Duxford

The Red Arrows doing a show with red, white and blue smoke coming from the back of the aircraft.
Duxford hosts regular air shows – always popular events. Dang Khoi/Unsplash

Aviation and military history enthusiasts will love Duxford Air Museum in Cambridgeshire. This former RAF base played a crucial role in World War II and now houses an impressive collection of aircraft, including Spitfires, Concorde, and even a B-52 bomber.

If you want to venture further afield…

Hadrian’s Wall

A view of Hadrian's Wall leading over rocky landscape.
Imagine the life of a Roman soldier at Hadrian’s Wall. Gabe Fender/Unsplash

Stretching across northern England, Hadrian’s Wall was built by the Romans in AD 122 to protect their empire from northern tribes. Today, you can walk sections of the wall, explore Roman forts, and enjoy stunning countryside views.

York

The skyline of York dominated by York Minster.
York Minster dominates the skyline of York. Karl Moran/Unsplash

One of the best-preserved medieval cities in England, York is home to the impressive York Minster, ancient city walls, and the Shambles, a picturesque, narrow medieval street. Its Viking heritage adds yet another layer of historical interest.

Castle Howard

The frontage of Castle Howard, a wide stately home with a dome in the centre.
The famed dome of the Great Hall at Castle Howard rises to 70 feet in height. Yisi Li/Unsplash

A stunning stately home in North Yorkshire, Castle Howard is famous for its breathtaking architecture, grand interiors, and extensive gardens. It’s also known for its role in the TV adaptation of Brideshead Revisited.

St Michael’s Mount

An aerial view of the Cornish coast with St Michael's Mount a little way into the water.
Make sure you check the tide times when walking the causeway out to St Michael’s Mount! Benjamin Elliott/Unsplash

St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island in Cornwall, home to a medieval castle and monastery. Accessible by foot during low tide, this enchanting site offers incredible coastal views and fascinating history.

Ironbridge Gorge

The impressive Ironbridge with flowers in the foreground.
The magnificent Iron Bridge is a symbol of the Industrial Revolution. JeffWallis/Pixabay

Known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge Gorge in Shropshire is home to the world’s first iron bridge, built in 1779. The site features several museums dedicated to industrial heritage.

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