With so many incredible attractions and experiences, London is a no-brainer holiday destination. But there’s more to the country than just its capital city. From Edinburgh's enchanting streets to Cardiff’s phenomenal panoramas, there are heaps of things to see and do outside of London.
Embark on a trip outside the city and explore underrated British gems using just one thing: the Eurail Pass. Marvel at the captivating countryside as you travel from south to north, east and west by train.
Don’t know where to start? We’ve listed down the best destinations that put the great in Great Britain:
What is the Eurail Pass?
A Eurail Global Pass gives travellers unlimited access to the train networks of 33 European countries, including the UK. Using only the app, you can hop on and off trains from one city to another as much as you like. It also covers public transport in select locations. On top of that, the pass also includes discounts on ferry systems and attractions all over the continent and the British Isles, so it’s a great travel companion if you’re going to do things outside of London.
Still not sure? We’ve listed down 10 reasons to get a Eurail Pass.
1. London, England
Pose for photos by the 136-year-old Tower Bridge, one of London’s famous landmarks. Credit: sas_ii
Let’s get the touristy items out of the way first - no visit to the UK is complete without a stop at London. Visitors of all walks of life will have a blast at the city thanks to its varied offerings of culture, history, booze, food, and more. Then go ahead and admire its centuries-old structures like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Palace of Westminster.
- Things to do
Grab drinks at The Shard
Love is in the air! Grab some drinks from the bar and enjoy a romantic date at The Shard. Credit: denisemoscuzza
London’s skyline is among the most iconic in the world, thanks to landmarks like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. One of the best ways to enjoy that scenic panorama is by visiting the View from The Shard, the city’s tallest skyscraper. At 310 metres high, you’ll get unparalleled 360° views while you enjoy the bar and live music.
Ride the London Eye
The London Eye is one of the UK’s most popular attractions for a reason: the views are incredible and constantly changing and you can see various viewpoints as you go around the 135-metre tall structure. There’s no need to hurry since the ride lasts for 30 minutes, leaving plenty of time to take photos and even sip on some champagne.
Marvel at Westminster Abbey
Retrace the path of the Royal Family on your visit to Westminster Abbey. The almost millennium-old church has served as the site of official coronations, burials, and weddings (including William and Kate’s in 2011!). On top of its royal connections, the church also boasts an interior of stained glass and imposing aisles.
2. Bath, England
Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bath on a trip from London. Credit: Photo by Cajeo Zhang
Bath is the place to be for history buffs. The city has well-preserved bathhouses established during the Ancient Roman times as well as charming Georgian buildings. That’s not all—it’s also one of Jane Austen’s former homes and the setting of her books, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.
- How to get there
Use your UK Eurail Pass and board the train from London Paddington Station to Bath Spa. The journey takes around 90 minutes. Although there are departures every half hour, it’s best to get there early to avoid the crowds.
- Things to do
See Bath’s Highlights
Learn about Bath Abbey’s history which dates back to the 7th century. Credit: melisfontana
With sights like the Bath Museum, Jane Austen Centre, and the Roman Baths, the city is not to be missed during your British holiday. One of the best ways to discover its finest views is by joining the hop-on hop-off Bath bus tour, and you get to avoid trekking through its steep hills at the same time.
Explore Bath Abbey
Make sure to stop by the historical Bath Abbey. Enjoy the free admission and checkk out the intricate details on its walls and the vibrant stained glass. Don’t forget to look up and admire the fan-like design of the ceiling.
3. Liverpool, England
Grab a drink at one of the many pubs and restaurants along the Royal Albert Dock. Credit: _jasmineclare__
Maritime features, mercantile buildings, and music—Liverpool is a city like no other. Its skyline is peppered with modern masterpieces like the Museum of Liverpool, as well as sites like the oldest church in Britain, Liverpool Cathedral.
- How to get there
From London, UK Eurail Pass users can take the Avanti West Coast train from Euston Station to Liverpool Lime Street. The trip takes less than two hours.
- Things to do
Discover The Beatles Story
Visit The Beatles Story, located at Royal Albert Dock. Credit: aneesahkhadijah
Where better to learn about The Beatles than the very place where they began? Visit the Beatles Story and get to know the Fab Four’s musical journey with immersive features and experiences. Celebrate the legendary band’s music and see the actual instruments used by the members.
4. Windermere, England
See the largest natural lake in England, Windermere. Credit: Jonny Gios
Watch skyscrapers change into mountains on your way to Windermere. Nestled in the Lake District, the tiny town is a place of rest and relaxation. Unplug and soak in its tranquil atmosphere and natural surroundings.
- How to get there
If departing from London, you can use your UK Eurail Pass to reach Windermere by taking the Avanti West Coast train from London Euston Station to Oxenholme Lake District. From there, board the Northern train to Windermere. It will take around three hours.
From Liverpool, you can reach Windermere between two and three hours by taking the Northern trains, Wigan North Western and Windermere.
- Things to do
Visit The World of Beatrix Potter
Immerse yourself in the world of The Tale of Peter Rabbit and the rest of Beatrix Potter’s works. Credit: bellsbookary
See your favourite children’s books come to life at the World of Beatrix Potter. Watch videos, walk through the Peter Rabbit™ Garden, and enjoy interactive experiences at the attraction. Don’t forget to visit the shop for a nice souvenir before you go.
5. York, England
Take a stroll along the University of York, one of the most prestigious institutions in the UK. Credit: Photo by Zeyu Jiang
Feel like you’ve travelled back in time when you visit York. Take a walk down its narrow streets to discover 13th century fortifications, charming cathedrals, and impressive towers. Learn more about its history with a visit to one of its many museums.
- How to get there
UK Eurail pass holders can take the direct train from London King’s Cross station to York. The route is serviced by London North Eastern Railway and takes around two hours. It’s mandatory to reserve your seats before your trip.
- Things to do
Visit York Castle Museum
Take a step back in time on a visit to the York Castle Museum. One of its best features is Kirkgate, a Victorian street brought back to life thanks to intensive research and well-preserved heirlooms. It’s also home to the York Castle Prison and the Sixties exhibition to show how times have changed.
6. Birmingham, England
Admire the facade of the Birmingham Library. Credit:Photo by Ethan Thompson
Old meets new at Birmingham. At the second biggest city in Britain, you’ll find contemporary buildings and restored Victorian-era structures for a striking cityscape. Not to be missed is its Jewellery Quarter, which houses more than 800 businesses.
- How to get there
Take the train from London Euston Station to Birmingham New Street for a quick, 1.5-hour trip. The Avanti West Coast journey doesn’t require reservations, but it’s best to do so anyway since seats run out fast.
- Things to do
Make your own chocolate bar at Cadbury World. Credit: fashion_by_finley
Calling all chocoholics! Head over to Cadbury World for a delicious adventure like no other. See how the famed sweets are made, watch a 4D show, and learn how to pipe chocolate straight from the experts! Of course, you’ll also get to taste some chocolate during the visit.
7. Cardiff, Wales
Get a great view of the city skyline by the Wales Millennium Centre. Credit: Photo by Jonny Gios
Exchange England’s scenery for a stay in Wales. Its capital, Cardiff, is a charming city that packs quite a punch, thanks to attractions like the National Museum, Bute Park, and St. Fagans. Less than an hour away, Cardiff Bay is also worth a visit.
- How to get there
From London, use your Eurail Pass to take the train from Paddington Station to Cardiff Central. The trip takes under two hours and is serviced by Great Western Railway. Although it’s not required, it’s best to make reservations to ensure your seats.
- Things to do
Be charmed by Cardiff Castle
Admire the Norman and Roman architecture of Cardiff Castle. Credit: anasturcija
Cardiff Castle is pretty impressive from the outside but it’s nothing compared to its grand interior which features elaborately designed ceilings and vibrant walls. Discover the fortress’ rich history that dates back to over 200 years ago during your visit.
8. Llandudno, Wales
Add the town of Llandudno to your Welsh itinerary for a coastal getaway. Soak up the sun at North Shore Beach, have a blast enjoying the arcades at Llandudno Pier, and gaze up at the bright red exterior of the Mostyn Gallery.
- How to get there
From Cardiff, board the Transport for Wales train from Cardiff Central to Llandudno Junction and switch to Llandudno. The journey is usually under five hours.
If departing from London, take the Avanti West Coast train from Euston station to Llandudno Junction before switching to the Transport for Wales train to Llandudno. The entire trip typically takes around 3.5 hours.
- Things to do
The jewel in Llandudno’s crown is undoubtedly the Great Orme, which boasts vistas of Snowdonia, Isle of Man, and beyond. At 207 metres tall, it can be quite a hike. The great news is that you can take the Great Orme Tramway, the only cable-hauled tramway in Britain.
9. Glasgow, Scotland
Venture to Scotland for a scenic escape. Start your Scottish trip with a stop at Glasgow, famed for its blend of Victorian and art nouveau buildings. Beyond the architecture, the city also has a lively art and nightclub scene.
- How to get there
Depart from London Euston Station and travel eight stops before arriving at Glasgow Central Station. The Avanti West Coast journey takes 4.5 hours. It’s recommended (but not required) to make reservations before the trip.
- Things to do
Admire masterpieces at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Credit: liug1m6
As one of the city’s most popular attractions, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum boasts one of the most impressive collections of art in Europe. See pieces by Salvador Dalí, Vincent van Gogh, and Claude Monet. Oh, and did we mention that it’s free to visit?
10. Edinburgh, Scotland
![Make the quick trek up to Edinburgh Castle, one of Europe’s oldest fortresses. Credit: Photo by Jörg Angeli]](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_1000/v1650508113/blog/j5lntwlswxdtzsojmtu0.jpg)
Make the quick trek up to Edinburgh Castle, one of Europe’s oldest fortresses. Credit: Photo by Jörg Angeli]
Edinburgh never fails to charm visitors with its rocky hills by the sea, old winding streets, and exciting arts scene. The capital city is home to historical monuments and Michelin-starred restaurants (the most in Scotland) at every turn.
- How to get there
From London, board the London North Eastern Railway train from King’s Cross Station to Edinburgh Waverley. The journey typically runs under five hours.
From Glasgow, take the ScotRail train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh Waverley. The trip takes less than an hour.
- Things to do
See the Old Town
Enjoy a panoramic view of the city at Royal Mile. Credit: chloejacks_
Take to Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, where you’ll find some of the city’s most important monuments like the Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. As you make your way down the cobblestone streets, grab a meal and a drink at one of the many pubs.
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