Fun, easy and affordable: 24 hours in London

Getting from Exeter to the capital has never been easier, taking just over two hours when you travel by train. Kick back and relax, make your plans on the way, and stay connected with at-seat plugs and on-board Wi-Fi. There’s never been a better time to explore all that the city has to offer. Here’s our guide to 24 hours in the Big Smoke.

A trip to London doesn’t need to cost you a fortune . By taking a Great Western Railway train from Exeter St Davids, you can save money when booking ahead, getting tickets for as little as £19 one-way.

At just over two hours from London Paddington, you won’t have to spend loads on an overpriced hotel, and instead see everything you want in a single day. Having a valid rail ticket also gets you two-for-one entry into loads of the capital’s best attractions, so make sure you plan ahead and tick off some of those must-see sights on your bucket list.

Morning

Hop on your train at Exeter St Davids, bound for the Big Smoke. Save time by enjoying your breakfast on the move with an at seat trolley service. Sip on a hot drink as you watch the Devonshire countryside roll by.

When you arrive in Paddington, you don’t need to travel far to find your first big attraction. Just a quick walk away is Hyde Park, one of the most famous parks in the city. Then, jump on a bus or Tube and head over to Baker Street – home to the fictional sleuth Sherlock Holmes – where you’ll find the famous wax museum, Madame Tussauds. Take a selfie with Harry and Meghan before checking out the amazing Star Wars section.

Afternoon

You’ve still got time to head on over to Camden Market, which is open till 6pm, seven days a week. It’s a great fun place to have a browse and pick up some bargains, and since the foodie revolution took hold, it’s also a great spot to get a bite to eat, including top-notch fried chicken, curries, hot dogs and loads more.

Evening

To round off the perfect day, head south of the Thames – just a brief journey by public transport – and discover some of the best views at the London Eye (open till 8.30pm at the weekends). It’s the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel and offers unrivalled panoramas of the city, with views of the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard and more.

To find out more about 2for1 offers, visit daysoutguide.co.uk
For tickets, see GWR.com

Madame Tussauds London
Camden Market
London Eye