Things To Do In Or Near London: Your Ultimate Guide To Wild Escapes

ByEric James Updated on

Think London is just concrete, crowds, and the constant rumble of the Tube? For the outdoor soul, the city’s relentless energy can feel a world away from the peace of a forest trail or a windswept coastline. It’s easy to believe that true adventure is a long-haul flight away.

But what if we told you that some of England’s most beautiful and accessible wild spaces are just a short train ride from the capital? This isn’t just about finding a bigger park; it’s about genuine escape. This is your expert guide to the best things to do in or near London when you need to trade pavement for ancient footpaths.

Imagine swapping the city hum for birdsong, watching a sunset over rolling hills, or feeling the sea spray on your face. You don’t need a massive expedition. You just need a plan.

Keep reading to discover how to find your next adventure, packed with actionable tips, gear advice, and destinations that will reboot your spirit and connect you back to the wild.

Planning Your Escape: A Practical Guide to London-Based Adventures

The key to a successful micro-adventure from London is smart planning. A little prep work before you leave ensures you spend less time stressing and more time soaking in the scenery. This is the foundation of your Things To Do In Or Near London guide.

Getting out of the city is surprisingly straightforward. London’s extensive rail network is your best friend. Many of the best trailheads and access points are intentionally located near rural train stations.

Mastering London’s Transport Network for the Outdoors

Forget the car. Embrace the train. It’s more sustainable and often drops you closer to the start of a trail than a remote car park would. Here are some best practices:

  • Book in Advance: Use apps like Trainline to book tickets ahead of time for the best fares. Look for off-peak tickets to save even more.
  • Check the Last Train: The most common problem new adventurers face is misjudging their timing. Always know when the last train back to London departs, and give yourself a generous buffer to get back to the station.
  • Use a Railcard: If you plan on making this a regular escape, investing in a Network Railcard or a Two Together Railcard can pay for itself in just a couple of trips.

Packing Smart: The Day Trip vs. The Overnighter

What you carry depends on your objective. A casual day hike requires a much lighter pack than a weekend camping trip.

For a day hike, a reliable 20-30L backpack like an Osprey Talon 22 is perfect. Pack waterproofs (even if the forecast is sunny!), a simple first-aid kit, a portable power bank, a map, a compass, and more water and snacks than you think you’ll need.

For an overnighter, you’ll need to add your “big three”: a lightweight tent (like the MSR Hubba Hubba NX), a sleeping bag appropriate for the season, and a comfortable sleeping pad. Your pack size will increase to 50-65L.

Top Day Hikes Accessible by Train

Ready for some instant gratification? These classic day hikes offer maximum reward for minimal travel time. They represent some of the best benefits of things to do in or near London—complete changes of scenery in under an hour.

The Surrey Hills AONB: Box Hill & Leith Hill

The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a quintessential English landscape of rolling hills and ancient woodland. It’s incredibly easy to reach.

Take a direct train from London Victoria or Waterloo to Box Hill & Westhumble station. From there, you can tackle the famous Box Hill Stepping Stones walk—a challenging but rewarding 2-mile loop with stunning views.

For a longer day, hike from Box Hill over to Leith Hill, the highest point in Southeast England. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your legs and feel truly removed from the city. A great tip is to use a navigation app like AllTrails or carry an OS Explorer Map of the area.

The Chiltern Hills: A Landscape of Woods and Valleys

Stretching across Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, the Chilterns offer beautiful beech woodlands and chalk streams. Take a train from Marylebone to towns like Great Missenden or Wendover to start your hike.

The Ridgeway National Trail, Britain’s oldest road, runs through the Chilterns. You can walk a section of it for a day, experiencing a path trodden for over 5,000 years. The peace and quiet here are a powerful antidote to city life.

Epping Forest: London’s Ancient Woodland

If you’re truly short on time, Epping Forest is your answer. Technically still within London (accessible via the Central Line), this vast, ancient forest feels like another world.

Get off at Theydon Bois or Loughton and follow one of the many waymarked trails. It’s a fantastic place for a beginner-friendly hike, a trail run, or simply a long walk to clear your head. It’s a perfect example of eco-friendly Things To Do In Or Near London right on your doorstep.

Weekend Camping & Wild Escapes Near London

When a day trip isn’t enough, a weekend under the stars is the ultimate reset. While true “wild camping” is legally restricted in most of England, there are fantastic campsites and a few areas where it’s tolerated with a responsible approach.

The South Downs National Park

Just over an hour by train from London, the South Downs offer dramatic white chalk cliffs, rolling green hills, and a 100-mile-long national trail.

Base yourself at a campsite near Lewes or Amberley. From there, you can hike sections of the South Downs Way. The stretch from Southease to Alfriston is particularly beautiful, offering incredible views of the Cuckmere River valley.

Pro Tip: The South Downs can be very exposed. A good windproof jacket is non-negotiable, even on a sunny day. Pack layers you can easily add or remove.

The New Forest National Park

Famous for its free-roaming ponies, ancient woodlands, and heathlands, the New Forest is a camper’s paradise. Take a train to Brockenhurst, which sits right in the heart of the park.

There are numerous excellent campsites managed by Camping in the Forest. From your base, you can explore by foot or rent a bike. This is a great option for those new to camping, as the sites offer excellent facilities while still feeling wild. This is a great place to learn how to Things To Do In Or Near London for a full weekend.

Coastal Adventures: Swapping the Thames for the Sea

Don’t forget the coast! The salt air and expansive views of the sea provide a different kind of natural therapy. Many stunning coastal areas are within a two-hour train journey.

The Seven Sisters & South Downs Way

The iconic white cliffs of the Seven Sisters are one of England’s most breathtaking sights. Take a train to Seaford and walk the coastal path over the undulating cliffs to East Dean or Birling Gap.

This is a strenuous hike with lots of ups and downs, so be prepared with sturdy footwear and plenty of water. The views are your reward. On a clear day, you can see for miles along the English Channel.

The Kent Coast: Margate and Botany Bay

For a different coastal vibe, head to the Kent coast. Take a high-speed train from St Pancras to Margate. From there, you can walk the coastal path towards Broadstairs, passing the stunning chalk stacks of Botany Bay.

This area offers a mix of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and seaside town charm. It’s a great choice for a more relaxed coastal walk combined with some local culture.

Your Essential London Escape Kit: Gear & Preparation

Having the right gear makes the difference between a miserable slog and a joyful adventure. You don’t need the most expensive equipment, but you do need reliable basics. This is your essential Things To Do In Or Near London care guide for your gear.

  • Footwear: A pair of waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support is your most important investment. Brands like Merrell, Salomon, or Scarpa are trusted for a reason.
  • Navigation: While phone apps are great, they can fail. Always carry a physical map and a simple baseplate compass (like a Suunto A-10) and know the basics of how to use them.
  • Layers: Follow the three-layer system: a moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool is excellent), an insulating mid-layer (like a fleece or a lightweight down jacket), and a waterproof/windproof outer shell.
  • Safety: A small first-aid kit, a whistle, a fully charged phone, a portable power bank, and a head torch (like the Petzl Actik Core) are essential safety items, even on a day hike.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Adventures from London

As outdoor enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to protect the places we love. Practicing sustainable Things To Do In Or Near London is crucial for preserving these natural escapes for future generations.

Embracing these best practices ensures your adventures have a positive impact:

  1. Leave No Trace: This is the golden rule. Pack out everything you pack in, including food scraps like apple cores and banana peels. Stick to marked trails to prevent erosion.
  2. Use Public Transport: As we’ve emphasized, the train is your best tool for eco-friendly travel from London. It drastically reduces your carbon footprint compared to driving.
  3. Support Local: When you arrive in a village or town, buy your trail snacks from a local shop, grab a post-hike pint at the village pub, or stay in a local B&B. Your visit can help support rural economies.
  4. Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance. Never feed wild animals, as it can make them dependent on humans and unhealthy. Keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and ground-nesting birds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Or Near London

Do I need a car to enjoy the outdoors near London?

Absolutely not! In fact, for many of the best destinations like the Surrey Hills, South Downs, and the Chilterns, a car is more of a hindrance. The rail network is extensive, affordable (with planning), and drops you right where you need to be.

Is wild camping legal near London?

In England and Wales, wild camping is technically illegal without the landowner’s permission. The only exception is in large parts of Dartmoor National Park (which is a longer trip from London). For weekend trips, it’s best to use official campsites or basic “nearly wild” sites to stay on the right side of the law and practice Leave No Trace principles.

What is the best time of year for outdoor activities near London?

Every season offers something unique. Spring brings wildflowers and birdsong. Summer offers long days perfect for epic hikes. Autumn has stunning foliage and crisp air. Winter provides dramatic, moody landscapes and fewer crowds. The key is to have the right gear for the conditions, especially reliable waterproofs for the unpredictable UK weather!

How can I find hiking routes and trails?

Apps like AllTrails, Komoot, and the official OS Maps app are fantastic resources for discovering and navigating trails. You can filter by length, difficulty, and elevation. For inspiration, the National Trails and AONB websites are also packed with recommended routes.

Escaping London for a dose of nature is more than just a nice idea—it’s an essential practice for well-being. It proves that adventure isn’t about distance, but about mindset. With a little planning and the right spirit, you can find wildness, solitude, and beauty just beyond the city limits.

So pack your bag, check the train times, and get out there. The hills are waiting.

Eric James
Latest posts by Eric James (see all)

Similar Posts