10 unmissable days out near London for adults

As encapsulating as London can be, a change of scenery offers a breath of fresh air and the chance to try something new. If you are willing to explore beyond the capital, there are many days out to be enjoyed, and they’re just a short travel away from Dolphin House and Pimlico.

In this guide, we’re shedding light on 10 of the best days out near London particularly for adults. We hope this blog post inspires you to try something new, whether it be an afternoon tea for 2, a supercar experience, or your next thrill-seeking adventure in the great outdoors. Let’s jump straight in.

The best days out near London to explore

1. Supercar Track Day at Silverstone

Drive at the spiritual home of British Motorsport and Formula F1 with a supercar experience steeped in history. Unleash the power of 3 supercars on Silverstone and enjoy one of the most fully inclusive track days around the country. With no speed limits and pro-instructors to guide you around the track, there’s never been a more exciting time to jump behind the wheel of a BMW M2, Ferrari F430 Coupe, or the Aston Martin Vantage and burn rubber around Silverstone’s most-famous corners and straights. Booking a spot on this adrenaline-induced adventure can be done right here. 

• Location: Silverstone, Northamptonshire.
• Distance: 68 miles
• Travel: 1 hour, 47 minutes by train from Marylebone to Banbury; around 3 hours by car on the M1 and A5.

2. Stonehenge

One of the most exciting prospects that attract visitors to Stonehenge is the mystery surrounding it. Built with high-level precision and upholding a curious history, the earthwork has long been a spectacle, raising many questions about how and why it was built. Nonetheless, a visit to Stonehenge can turn out to be an extraordinary experience for all. As well as gazing upon the monument itself, a trip to the visitors centre and exhibition is well worth your time.

• Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire.
• Distance: 90 miles.
• Travel: 2 hours, 30 minutes by train from Vauxhall to Salisbury; around 2 hours by car on the M3 and A303.

3. The Big Shoot - Clay Pigeon Shooting

At The Big Shoot clay pigeon shooting experience, you will definitely have a blast. Put your shooting skills to the test on this 16-acre site as you set your sights on all the action. It doesn’t matter if you have no experience at all, qualified tutors including a former British champion will ensure you smash each clay to pieces. Equipment is provided and on-site facilities mean refreshments are available to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.

• Location: East Dartford, Kent.
• Distance: 22 miles.
• Travel: 1 hour, 34 minutes by train from London Bridge to Dartford; around 1 hour by car on the A2.

4. Treetop Challenge For 2 at Go Ape

Designed for adults with a minimum age of 18, Go Ape welcomes you to take on the Treetop Challenge and scale the dizzying high-rope adventure. Test your limits or face your fears in the great outdoors as you climb to heights of 25 meters and zip line more than 400 meters through the high tree-to-tree crossings. Get ready to tackle the Treetop Challenge and book your experience here.

• Location: Bracknell, Berkshire.
• Distance: 35 miles.
• Travel: 2 hours by train from Vauxhall to Bracknell; around 1 hour by car on the M4.

5. Microlight Flight in Kent

Reviewed as “highly enjoyable” and “more than just a passenger flight”, view The Garden of England like never before as you take to the skies in a Microlight aircraft and pilot your way across Kent. For the budding pilot in us all, the Microlight flight is your one-way ticket to circa 2000ft as you soar through the sky with picturesque views of the English landscape. At the end of your journey, you will be presented with a commemorative certificate to remember your day. Check availability here.

• Location: Kent.
• Distance: 39 miles.
• Travel: 1 hour, 11 minutes by train from Victoria Station to Maidstone East; around 2 hours by car on the A2.

6. Brighton’s Bars & Boozers

If you don’t already know, the city of Brighton is known for its weird and wonderful offerings, especially on the refreshment side of things. On a day trip to Brighton you can explore some of the best drinking spots the south coast of England has to offer. Snuggle into grotto-styled booths at The Tempest Inn, enjoy the retro decor of The Exchange, go back in time to the glamorous 20s at Proud Cabaret, or spice up your evening at The World’s End with unconventional drinks alongside bingo and drag.

• Location: Brighton and Hove, East Sussex.
• Distance: 53 miles.
• Travel: 1 hour, 20 minutes by train from Victoria Station to Preston Park; around 2 hours by car on the M23 and A23.

7. Isle of Sheppey

Dubbed ‘Kent’s Treasure Island’, the Isle of Sheppey is an island off the northern coast of Kent that is known for its adventure and a great escape. On this spectacular day trip, jump at the opportunity to discover marine and bird life found along the shoreline, visit top attractions including the Minster Abbey Gatehouse Museum, Sheerness Beach, and the Rose Street Cottage of Curiosities, or simply grab a cuppa and a bite to eat at one of the many cafes dotted around the island.

• Location: Isle of Sheppey.
• Distance: 59 miles.
• Travel: Around 2 hours by car on the M25.

8. Thorpe Park

Home to some of the most talked-about thrill rides, live events, attractions, and a themed hotel, Thorpe Park is the ultimate theme park destination for adrenaline junkies and thrillseekers looking for the ultimate day out. With more than 30 rides and attractions to indulge in, including Colossus, SAW - The Ride, and Stealth, Thorpe Park offers endless fun. Day tickets can be purchased here.

• Location: Village of Thorpe, Surrey.
• Distance: 20 miles.
• Travel: 1 hour, 20 minutes by train from Cheswick to Staines; around 30 minutes by car on the M4.

9. Snow Zone

Not only will skiing work the core muscle groups of your body, improve balance, and increase body strength, this super-addictive sport will leave you feeling happier and healthier as you enjoy the thrills of combating Snow Zone’s indoor snow slope complex. At Europe’s largest indoor real snow resort, hit the slopes and have some fun with this chilly experience. Whether you are a complete novice or ski at an advanced level, a session at Snow Zone will exceed expectations. Get ready to ride the powder right here.

• Location: Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire.
• Distance: 63 miles.
• Travel: 1 hour, 35 minutes by train from London Euston to Milton Keynes Central; around 1 hour, 15 minutes by car on the M1.

10. Afternoon Tea & Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford

A highly-rated experience that is likely to sell out if not snapped up quickly, the Afternoon Tea & Sightseeing River Cruise is one that attracts rave reviews. Enjoy a sumptuous traditional afternoon tea and take in the sights of Oxford as you glide down the River Thames for a 1.5-hour cruise as you get to know this historic city. Check availability here.

• Location: Oxford.
• Distance: 54 miles.
• Travel: 2 hours by train from Paddington to Oxford; around 1 hour, 10 minutes by car on the M40.

Make Dolphin House your stay of choice

Guests who stay at Dolphin House enjoy some of the most memorable days out, indulging in the perks this great country has to offer. If you need a place to stay, somewhere to recharge your batteries after a busy day, look no further than Dolphin House.

Our serviced apartments are a quick walk from Pimlico tube station or an even quicker taxi ride from Victoria station meaning you have direct access to convenient travel routes ahead of your next adventure.

If you would like to know more about our apartments located right on the River Thames, why not get in touch with our friendly team today and book a viewing? Whatever your requirements, we’re sure we have the solution to your needs, as well as the knowledge and experience to deliver it.