The charming medieval market town is filled with stunning timber-framed houses, hidden lanes and timeless English charm – and it's just 55 minutes by train from London13:13, 24 May 2026With the sun blazing and temperatures soaring, here's a destination well worth adding to your day trip list. As the Met Office forecasted 35C degree sunshine in areas of the UK, it's so tempting to get outdoors.‌Hopping on an air-conditioned train doesn't sound like a bad shout right now with temperatures surging across the country. So if you're looking to escape the capital this bank holiday weekend, one medieval market town has got everything you could want. Brimming with magnificent timber-framed buildings, tucked-away lanes and quintessential English charm, the destination in question is Saffron Walden in Essex.‌TikTok creator Reiko recently made the journey herself, reaching Essex in just 55 minutes from Liverpool Street station.‌She said: "If you're looking for an easy day trip from London. Saffron Walden, Essex, is a charming medieval town to check out. It is filled with stunning timber-framed houses, hidden lanes, timeless English charm."We spent the morning wandering through the peaceful Bridge End Garden, exploring the old town, spotting the historic Old Sun Inn and simply getting lost in the prettiest little streets."For lunch, the content creator stumbled upon The Goat and Grass, praising the pasta as "honestly so good".‌She also gave a firm recommendation to Audley End House, a stunning stately home that has served as a backdrop for numerous period dramas over the years.In her caption, she enthused about the destination once again, writing: "Saffron Walden is a seriously charming medieval market town, packed with cosy cafes, cute streets and plenty to explore."And fun fact, it's often called one of the prettiest market towns in Essex."‌Detailing the journey, she added: "London Liverpool Street to Audley End (55 minutes) then a short bus/taxi into town. £16.55 return with a Network Railcard."Perfect low-cost day trip whether you're going solo or with friends for a chilled day out of London."Things to see in Saffron Walden:Begin by visiting Audley End House and Gardens, where you can explore this Jacobean country house run by English Heritage. It boasts ornate interiors, a functioning organic kitchen garden, and parkland designed by Capability Brown.Article continues belowAfterwards, you can pop along to the Audley End Miniature Railway, which offers family-friendly entertainment. Take a stroll through Bridge End Garden, before heading to the Saffron Walden Museum.Make sure to include Walden Castle and The Turf Maze on your itinerary as well — it's among the largest examples of its type in Europe. Lastly, the historic market town setting allows you to soak up the area's distinctive character.The town trail offers an engaging walk through medieval lanes worth admiring. Should you be staying beyond a single day, catch a world-class musical performance at Saffron Hall.