London: Day Trips

Bath Burbling natural hot springs, a grand medieval abbey, and a treasure trove of Georgian architecture unite in this World Heritage Site, a former residence of Jane Austen. 117 miles west of London; www.visitbath.co.uk
architecture | spas | historic

Brighton With its hilly streets, lively pier, and sizable gay community, it’s like a small San Francisco; it's also home to top-notch vegetarian restaurants, one-of-a-kind shops, and the Royal Pavilion, a wacky marvel of Indian and Chinese influences. 50 miles south of London; www.visitbrighton.com
beach | family | culinary | gay/lesbian

Cambridge Formal gardens, ancient cathedrals, and the historic campus that educated Charles Darwin, poet John Milton, and members of Monty Python make this town an elegant oasis of higher learning. 64 miles north of London; www.visitcambridge.org
architecture | culture | historic

Oxford The streets ooze history on the site of the English-speaking world's first university; highlights include the Ashmolean Museum's antiquities collection, the 12th-century Christ Church Cathedral, and the views from Carfax bell tower. 60 miles west of London; www.visitoxford.org
architecture | culture | historic

Salisbury/Stonehenge The tallest spire in England beckons visitors to Salisbury in the south Wiltshire countryside, where it serves as the perfect medieval base camp for visiting the mysterious monoliths of nearby Stonehenge. 91 miles southwest of London; www.visitsalisbury.com
architecture | historic

Stratford-upon-Avon Dramatic sights saturate the town most closely linked to William Shakespeare, including his birthplace on Henley Street; the Royal Shakespeare Theatre; the River Avon; and the Holy Trinity Church, site of his grave. 102 miles northwest of London; www.visitstratforduponavon.co.uk
architecture | culture | historic