The Hattie

Sometimes the best way to escape London isn’t with a weekend away but with a day trip that combines fresh air, countryside walks, and a cosy pub stop at the end. Fortunately, there are plenty of destinations within easy reach of the capital where you can stretch your legs and then reward yourself with a pint and hearty meal!

Here are some of the best day trips from London with great walks and pub stops to try.

1. Box Hill, Surrey

• Travel time: About 50 minutes by train from London Victoria to Box Hill & Westhumble
• The walk: A National Trust classic, Box Hill offers sweeping views of the Surrey Hills and a variety of walking trails, from gentle riverside strolls along the Mole to the steeper Stepping Stones Walk.
• The pub stop: The Stepping Stones, just by the station, is a favourite with walkers. Expect local ales and comforting pub food in a relaxed setting.

Check out more walks at Box Hill on AllTrails

2. Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

• Travel time: About 1 hour by train from London Paddington
• The walk: Known for its regatta, Henley also offers riverside walks along the Thames Path. A popular choice is the loop across Remenham Hill with postcard views of the river and surrounding countryside.
• The pub stop: The Angel on the Bridge, a historic riverside pub dating back to 1728, is perfect for a pint on the terrace overlooking the Thames.

Check out more walks near Henley-on-Thames on AllTrails

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3. Epping Forest, Essex

• Travel time: About 40 minutes via the Central Line (Epping Station)
• The walk: This ancient woodland on London’s doorstep has more than 50 miles of trails. The Oak Trail is a great circular option, offering peaceful glades and deer-spotting opportunities.
• The pub stop: The Forest Gate Inn, in nearby Epping, has been serving walkers since the 19th century and is known for its log fires and traditional feel.

Check out more walks at Epping Forest on AllTrails

4. Marlow, Buckinghamshire

• Travel time: About 1 hour from London Paddington to Marlow (via Maidenhead)
• The walk: Follow the Thames Path upstream from Marlow Bridge for a gentle riverside stroll, or take on a longer loop towards Hurley and back through woodlands and fields.
• The pub stop: The Two Brewers, a 300-year-old pub near the bridge, is a characterful place for post-walk food and drinks.

Check out more walks near Marlow on AllTrails

5. Lewes and the South Downs, East Sussex

• Travel time: About 1 hour by train from London Victoria
• The walk: From Lewes, head up onto the South Downs Way for chalky ridges and panoramic countryside views. Shorter routes loop back to town through rolling farmland.
• The pub stop: The Lewes Arms is one of the town’s most-loved pubs, serving Harveys Ale brewed just down the road.

Check out more walks near Lewes on AllTrails

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6. Cookham, Berkshire

• Travel time: About 1 hour from London Paddington to Cookham (via Maidenhead)
• The walk: Explore the Thames Path around Cliveden Reach, one of the prettiest stretches of the river. Gentle and family-friendly, it’s ideal for a relaxed day out.
• The pub stop: The Ferry, overlooking the river, offers classic pub food with a view.

Check out more walks near Cookham and Maidenhead on AllTrails

7. Guildford and the North Downs Way, Surrey

• Travel time: About 40 minutes by train from London Waterloo
• The walk: Head from Guildford town centre up to the North Downs Way and enjoy trails through Chantry Wood and St Martha’s Hill. You’ll be rewarded with expansive views over Surrey.
• The pub stop: The March Hare in Guildford is a cosy gastropub with an excellent Sunday roast menu.

Check out more walks near Guildford on AllTrails

Whether you’re after a gentle riverside stroll with family or a more energetic hike across the Downs, there are plenty of day trips from London that pair perfectly with a pub stop at the end (we all know the best walks end with a pub!). These walks give you the best of both worlds: fresh country air and the promise of a pint waiting when you’re done.