Somewhere interesting to go on the train for a day’s outing

Richmond on Thames is easily accessible from Waterloo, it's a pretty town with lovely river views and Richmond Park at the top of the hill, lots of lovely shops. Further down the line is Teddington, again a pretty high street, nice for window shopping awash with great cafes. Bushy Park nearby and if you are an able walker, a walk through that park will take you to Hampton Court Palace. All those places I know well I lived in that area for many years.

Although having moved a bit further away I'd second WW choice of Arundel, lovely smallish town, castle, great shops, and plenty of enticing eateries.

I would also recommend Tunbridge Wells if you haven't already discovered that town, but in particular an area there called The Pantiles which has an amazing collection of shops and cafes, almost feels like France!

Canterbury also great.

I used to do this myself when I was more mobile. I had a railcard so just go to the station and pick a town or city where I knew there would be lots of book or antique shops or a market with vintage stalls. I enjoyed doing it alone as I did not have to please anyone else or compromise. No fixed time table but always treated myself to a nice lunch.

They all sound lovely. Very pleasant outings. Do let us know which you choose Patsy

Another vote for Ocford. I attended two academic conferences there and I enjoyed just walking around the streets. One was in spring and the other autumn so not so many tourists. An afternoon tea cruise on the river is a pleasant way to relax and see the sights at leisure.

Rye is lovely and Thursday is market day …..

I did exactly this a day trip on a train I choose Canterbury it was lovely it has everything and you can have mooch round the unique shops. 1.5 hrs from London.

Thank you for your suggestions.

Arundel is a delight. Castle, cathedral, lovely river walks, boating lake, bird sanctuary, castle gardens, delightful independent shops, superb eateries, outdoor lido 😄, and their festival is on all this month with plays, music etc. 10 minutes walk from the country station. It is such a small town that walking around is a doddle.

We live relatively close and frequent it often. In fact will drive past tomorrow on our way to an eatery near Goodwood.

How about St Albans? You could go to Kings Cross from Waterloo then out.
Good shopping centre an Abbey and Roman ruins.

Sandwich in Kent is a pretty village with river walks and quirky shops, there is a train station. You could then go on to Deal, by bus or train its just a few miles, a lovely seaside town.

Oxford might do - only an hour from Paddington, I'd start with an open-top bus tour to get your bearings and a feel for what you'd like to see more of.