Great Britain - London, Easy Day Trips (Canterbury & Bath)

Further afield, but easy day trips, there are many lovely towns to visit from London including Canterbury and Bath.

Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury is a historic and delightful town and is easy to visit by train. Ancient walls, originally built by the Romans, encircle the medieval center with its cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings.

The Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most famous churches in England and has been designated a World Heritage Site. Founded in 597, the cathedral was completely rebuilt between 1070 and 1077. The east end was enlarged at the beginning of the 12th century and then largely rebuilt in the Gothic style following a fire in 1174.

Canterbury Cathedral Interior

The Cathedral’s notoriety is linked to the 1170 murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket. Climaxing a long dispute between Becket and King Henry II, the king is said to have cried out “Who will rid me of this turbulent priest?” Following that, four knights were sent to murder the Archbishop as he prayed in his own cathedral.

Inside the graceful columns and arches, the pretty stained-glass windows, and the fine stonework combine to create a magnificent house of worship.

Town of Canterbury

Founded in 598, St Augustine's Abbey was a Benedictine monastery until its dissolution in 1538 during the English Reformation. Since 1848 the abbey ruins have been preserved for their historical value. Part of the site is used for educational purposes.

The historic Westgate Towers mark the main entrance to the Westgate Park. The park is made up of four areas: Westgate Gardens, Tannery Field, Toddler’s Cove and Bingley Island Local Nature Reserve. The River Great Stour runs through the center of the park and boat tours are available for people to relax and enjoy.

A charming town center, a famous cathedral, interesting ruins, and a beautiful park make up the city of Canterbury, only a couple hours away from London.

Town of Bath

We took a train to Bath on the last day of our last visit to London. This is a stunning town that is great for a day trip or, even better, to spend a night or two. It’s the perfect place to put your feet up and take it easy, so to speak. There is easy access to many day trips from here as well.

It’s not necessary to wander much further than Bath’s town square to see an array of interesting sites. There are the big bus tours of course, but not really worth it here. Instead I would opt for a free walking tour to get acquainted with this gorgeous city.

Bath has been known for its curative waters for centuries, drawing royalty to soak in its warm, mineral-rich baths. Today visitors can still enjoy the hot springs at the Thermae Bath Spa.

Roman Baths

Dating back to ancient Roman times, the Roman Baths and accompanying museum are a must to visit. Best to arrive early as this is a very popular tourist attraction. The entrance fee includes a good audio guide that takes visitors through the entire museum beginning with an explanation of the structure that stood here in Roman times. The stairs lead down to the temple’s original foundation. There are archaeological fragments and objects, and Roman coins on display. It really is a fascinating piece of history.

The exit ushers visitors into the Pump Room, an elegant Georgian-style tea room, where a taste of spa water or a spot of tea can be had.

Bath Abbey

The dominant feature of Bath’s town center is the 500-hundred-year-old abbey. The graceful façade is stunning and, for a small donation, the interior is worth exploring. Replaced in the 1950s, the lovely stained-glass window behind the altar depicts 52 scenes from Christ’s life. The original medieval glass was destroyed by WWII bombs. The red-iron gas-powered glass lamps remain from the 19th century. The abbey’s tower can be climbed, but only as part of a guided tour.

Pulteney Bridge

The much photographed Pulteney Bridge spans the 

River Avon. Designed by Robert Adam, it was completed in 1774 and is one of only four bridges in the world that has shops across on both sides.

Next to the bridge stands the Victoria Art Gallery. The ground floor hosts temporary exhibits and the upstairs houses a small permanent collection of paintings from the late 17th century to the current day, as well as a decorative arts collection.

Victoria Park

The Royal Crescent is a huge complex of Georgian-style buildings shaped into an arc. Built in the mid-18th century for the well-heeled residents of bath, these unique condo-like buildings are worth a look. The manicured grounds have a trick fence providing residents with an expansive view yet keeping the less fortunate out. The nearby Victoria Park and Botanic Gardens are beautiful and worth the time to relax and enjoy a picnic.

A hotel sits in the center of the Crescent complex and number 1 Royal Crescent is a period home museum, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience how the upper-class lived in Bath during the 18th century.

Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath

The Fashion Museum is a lot of fun and is included with the Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery combo ticket. Four centuries of fashion are on display including period accessories. There is an area to try on clothes that makes it playful as well as interesting.

We enjoyed a very pleasant walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath. The pretty path extends from the train station for three miles to the small town of Bathampton. Along the way there are a series of locks. I was surprised to learn that my husband had never seen a working lock, so he liked watching the boats maneuver their way through them. The Pulteney Princess provides lazy cruises to Bathhampton for those choosing not to walk.

We loved the time we spent in Bath. It is an exquisite town with entertaining sites and many beautiful areas to wander. It's a great and easy get-away from the hustle and bustle of London.