As longer, sunnier days approach and the February school half-term beckons, planning an engaging family day trip becomes a delightful priority. For London-based families seeking charming destinations within easy reach, the picturesque village of Shere and the historic market town of Guildford in Surrey emerge as particularly lovely options.
A Travel Blogger's Enchanting Itinerary
One enthusiastic travel fan who recently explored both locations has shared their detailed itinerary on social media, where the suggestion garnered significant praise from viewers. Posting on TikTok under the username @Uktravel, the content creator documented their perfect day out in Surrey, describing it as one of their favourite excursions from the capital.
The blogger explained: "This is one of my favourite day trip ideas from London. You get to see a picture-perfect little village, have some food in a cosy cafe, wander around, and then hop on a bus or train to explore a nearby town with pubs, restaurants, and even a castle."
First Stop: Shere's Idyllic Charm
The journey began with a train from London Waterloo to Gomshall, taking approximately one hour and ten minutes. From there, a pleasant twenty-minute walk led to Shere village, described by the traveller as "such a charming place." The experience included strolling by a gentle stream, spotting horses in the surrounding countryside, and enjoying a delicious lunch at The Dabbling Duck café.
According to Visit Surrey's official tourism website, Shere represents a beautiful, quintessential English village offering visitors an array of attractions. These include charming historic buildings, a stream populated by ducks, a small museum, a traditional tearoom, two welcoming pubs (The White Horse and The William Bray), and the magnificent St James Church dating back to the 12th century.
The tourism authority further notes that the parish showcases excellent examples of Lutyens architecture and sits firmly within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, encompassing neighbouring settlements like Gomshall, Peaslake, Holmbury St Mary, and Abinger Hammer.
Second Destination: Guildford's Riverside Appeal
After thoroughly exploring Shere's delights, the traveller boarded a local bus from the village centre for a thirty-minute journey to Guildford. The blogger expressed genuine amazement at the town's beauty, particularly enjoying wandering by Guildford Castle and along the scenic River Wey.
A particular highlight was The Weyside, a riverside pub where they relaxed with drinks beside the water. Visit Surrey describes Guildford as a charming riverside town that beautifully blends historical significance with contemporary culture and modern living.
The town's iconic High Street, lined with elegant architecture and boutique shops, creates a picture-perfect setting for exploration. Guildford offers diverse attractions including exciting events, live performances, fabulous shopping opportunities, welcoming pubs, and award-winning restaurants, ensuring there's something to captivate every visitor whether for a day trip or longer stay.
Social Media Enthusiasm
The travel blogger's video showcasing this Surrey itinerary delighted viewers, accumulating over 3,500 likes on TikTok. Comments reflected widespread appreciation, with one viewer confirming: "Have done that! So lovely." Another praised the combination of "Good food and food views," while a third simply remarked: "So beautiful."
This enthusiastic response underscores the enduring appeal of these Surrey destinations for those seeking accessible escapes from London that combine rural charm with historic town atmosphere.
