England is a country full of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. The best part? You don’t need a car to explore it! England’s train network is one of the best in the world, making it easy to travel from city to city and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, I’ll share 12 best places to visit in England by train. From bustling cities to charming villages, these destinations are perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Plus, I’ve included helpful links to make your journey even easier. Let’s get started!
Why Travel by Train in England?
Travelling by train in England is convenient, eco-friendly, and often faster than driving. Here’s why you should consider it:
- No traffic: Avoid the stress of navigating busy roads.
- Scenic routes: Enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside.
- Affordable tickets: Book in advance to save money with discounted fares.
- Eco-friendly: Trains produce fewer emissions compared to cars.
Also Read: 12 of the Best Road Trips in UK
12 Best Places to Visit in England by Train
Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the 12 amazing places you can visit by train!
1. London – The Heart of England
No trip to England is complete without visiting its vibrant capital, London. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, there’s something for everyone.
Top Attractions:
- Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament: Iconic symbols of London.
- The Tower of London: Discover centuries of history.
- Buckingham Palace: Watch the Changing of the Guard.
- The British Museum: Explore artefacts from around the world.
How to Get There: London is well-connected by train from all major cities. Check train times and book tickets on National Rail.
2. Oxford – The City of Dreaming Spires
Famous for its prestigious university, Oxford is a charming city with stunning architecture and a rich history.
Top Attractions:
- Oxford University: Visit the historic colleges.
- Bodleian Library: One of the oldest libraries in Europe.
- Ashmolean Museum: Explore art and archaeology.
- Punting on the River Thames: A relaxing way to see the city.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 1 hour. Book your tickets on Trainline.
3. Cambridge – A Rival to Oxford
Cambridge is another university city known for its beautiful colleges, riverside views, and peaceful atmosphere.
Top Attractions:
- King’s College Chapel: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
- The Fitzwilliam Museum: Art and antiquities from around the world.
- Punting on the River Cam: A must-do activity.
- Botanic Garden: A peaceful escape from the city.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 1 hour. Check schedules on National Rail.
Also Read: 8 of the Best Hiking Trails in UK
4. Bath – A Georgian Gem
Bath is famous for its Roman baths, Georgian architecture, and natural hot springs.
Top Attractions:
- The Roman Baths: Step back in time to ancient Rome.
- Bath Abbey: Climb the tower for stunning views.
- The Royal Crescent: A row of beautiful Georgian townhouses.
- Thermae Bath Spa: Relax in the rooftop pool.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 1.5 hours. Book your tickets on Trainline.
5. York – A Medieval Masterpiece
York is a historic city with cobbled streets, medieval walls, and a stunning cathedral.
Top Attractions:
- York Minster: One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe.
- The Shambles: A picturesque street with timber-framed buildings.
- York Castle Museum: Discover life in Victorian England.
- York City Walls: Walk along the ancient walls for great views.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 2 hours. Check schedules on National Rail.
6. Liverpool – The Beatles’ Hometown
Liverpool is a vibrant city known for its music, culture, and maritime history.
Top Attractions:
- The Beatles Story: A museum dedicated to the Fab Four.
- Albert Dock: A waterfront area with museums, shops, and restaurants.
- Liverpool Cathedral: One of the largest cathedrals in the world.
- Anfield Stadium: Home of Liverpool Football Club.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 2.5 hours. Book your tickets on Trainline.
7. Manchester – A Cultural Hub
Manchester is a dynamic city with a rich industrial heritage and a thriving arts scene.
Top Attractions:
- Manchester Art Gallery: Explore a world-class collection of art.
- Old Trafford: Home of Manchester United Football Club.
- The Science and Industry Museum: Learn about Manchester’s industrial past.
- Northern Quarter: A trendy area with street art and independent shops.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 2 hours. Check schedules on National Rail.
8. Brighton – A Seaside Escape
Brighton is a lively seaside town known for its pebble beach, pier, and vibrant nightlife.
Top Attractions:
- Brighton Pier: Enjoy arcade games and fairground rides.
- The Royal Pavilion: A stunning palace with exotic architecture.
- The Lanes: A maze of narrow streets with quirky shops and cafes.
- Brighton Beach: Perfect for a stroll or a dip in the sea.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 1 hour. Book your tickets on Trainline.
9. Stratford-upon-Avon – Shakespeare’s Hometown
Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
Top Attractions:
- Shakespeare’s Birthplace: Explore the house where the Bard was born.
- Anne Hathaway’s Cottage: The picturesque home of Shakespeare’s wife.
- Royal Shakespeare Theatre: Watch a play by the river.
- Holy Trinity Church: Shakespeare’s final resting place.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 2 hours. Check schedules on National Rail.
10. Canterbury – A Historic Cathedral City
Canterbury is a beautiful city with a rich history and a stunning cathedral.
Top Attractions:
- Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Canterbury Tales: A fun attraction based on Chaucer’s stories.
- St Augustine’s Abbey: Explore the ruins of an ancient monastery.
- River Stour: Take a boat trip for scenic views.
How to Get There: Trains from London take about 1 hour. Book your tickets on Trainline.
11. Cornwall – A Coastal Paradise
Cornwall is known for its stunning coastline, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages.
Top Attractions:
- St Ives: A picturesque town with an art scene.
- Land’s End: The westernmost point of England.
- The Eden Project: A unique eco-attraction with giant biomes.
- Tintagel Castle: The legendary birthplace of King Arthur.
How to Get There: Trains from London to Penzance take about 5 hours. Check schedules on National Rail.
12. The Lake District – A Nature Lover’s Dream
The Lake District is a stunning national park with mountains, lakes, and picturesque villages.
Top Attractions:
- Lake Windermere: The largest lake in England.
- Scafell Pike: The highest mountain in England.
- Beatrix Potter’s House: Visit the home of the beloved author.
- Keswick: A charming town with outdoor activities.
How to Get There: Trains from London to Windermere take about 3.5 hours. Book your tickets on Trainline.
Tips for Travelling by Train in England
- Book in advance: Save money by booking your tickets early.
- Use a railcard: If you’re eligible, a railcard can save you up to 1/3 on fares. Check out Railcard options.
- Pack light: Trains have limited luggage space, so travel light.
- Check for delays: Use apps like National Rail Enquiries to check for delays or cancellations.
Final Thoughts
England is a treasure trove of amazing destinations, and travelling by train makes it easy to explore them all. Whether you’re visiting historic cities, charming towns, or stunning natural landscapes, these 12 places are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
If you found this article helpful, share it with your friends and family. And don’t forget to leave a comment below with your favourite train travel destination in England!
Relevant Links:
Happy travels! England is waiting for you. 🚂🌟
FAQ: 12 Awesome Places to Visit in England by Train
Travelling by train in England is a fantastic way to explore the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. If you’re planning a trip, you might have some questions about how to make the most of your journey. Here are 10 frequently asked questions about visiting England by train, along with detailed answers to help you plan your adventure.
1. Is it easy to travel around England by train?
Yes, England has an extensive and reliable train network that connects major cities, towns, and even some rural areas. Trains are frequent, and stations are usually located in the heart of cities, making it easy to explore. Websites like National Rail and apps like Trainline can help you plan your journey and book tickets.
2. How do I save money on train tickets in England?
Train tickets in England can be expensive, but there are ways to save:
- Book in advance: Tickets are usually cheaper if you book weeks or months ahead.
- Use a railcard: Railcards like the 16-25 Railcard, Senior Railcard, or Two Together Railcard can save you up to 1/3 on fares. Check out Railcard options.
- Travel off-peak: Avoid rush hours (usually before 9:30 AM and between 4-7 PM) to get cheaper fares.
3. What are the best cities to visit in England by train?
Some of the best cities to visit by train include:
- London: The capital is a must-see with its iconic landmarks and museums.
- Oxford and Cambridge: Famous for their historic universities and beautiful architecture.
- York: A medieval city with a stunning cathedral and cobbled streets.
- Bath: Known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture.
- Liverpool and Manchester: Vibrant cities with rich cultural and musical heritage.
4. Can I visit the countryside by train?
Absolutely! England’s train network extends to many rural areas, including:
- The Lake District: Perfect for hiking and enjoying stunning landscapes.
- Cornwall: Known for its beautiful coastline and charming villages.
- The Cotswolds: A picturesque area with rolling hills and quaint villages.
Pro Tip: Some rural areas may require a short bus or taxi ride from the nearest train station.
5. How long does it take to travel between cities by train?
Travel times vary depending on the distance:
- London to Oxford: About 1 hour.
- London to Cambridge: About 1 hour.
- London to York: About 2 hours.
- London to Manchester: About 2 hours.
- London to Cornwall (Penzance): About 5 hours.
Check train times and plan your journey using National Rail.
6. What should I pack for a train trip in England?
Packing light is key, as trains have limited luggage space. Here’s what to bring:
- Comfortable clothing: Layers are ideal, as the weather can change quickly.
- Snacks and water: While some trains have food services, it’s always good to have your own supplies.
- Entertainment: Bring a book, download movies, or enjoy the scenic views.
- Travel documents: Keep your tickets, railcard, and ID handy.
7. Are there scenic train routes in England?
Yes, England has some breathtaking scenic train routes, including:
- The Settle-Carlisle Line: Offers stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales and the Pennines.
- The Cornish Main Line: Passes through picturesque coastal towns and beaches.
- The West Highland Line (to Scotland): Known for its dramatic landscapes and viaducts.
Pro Tip: Sit by the window and enjoy the views!
8. Can I use my train ticket for multiple destinations?
Some tickets, like rover or ranger tickets, allow unlimited travel within a specific area or route for a set period. For example:
- The Freedom of the South West Rover: Covers Devon, Cornwall, and parts of Dorset and Somerset.
- The North Country Rover: Covers northern England, including the Lake District and Yorkshire.
Check out BritRail Passes for more options.
9. What if my train is delayed or cancelled?
If your train is delayed or cancelled:
- Check for updates: Use the National Rail Enquiries website or app.
- Ask for assistance: Station staff can help you find an alternative route.
- Claim compensation: If your delay is over 15 minutes, you may be eligible for compensation. Check the train operator’s website for details.
10. Are trains in England accessible for people with disabilities?
Most trains and stations in England are accessible, but it’s always best to check in advance:
- Assistance: You can book assistance (like ramps or help with luggage) through the train operator.
- Accessible facilities: Many stations have lifts, ramps, and accessible toilets.
- Priority seating: Most trains have designated seats for passengers with disabilities.
Pro Tip: Contact the train operator or visit National Rail’s accessibility page for more information.
