Archive for 'BritRail Products'
NEW! London Dungeon & Edinburgh Dungeon
Published on May 1st, 2009.
Full of frightening fun now available on www.BritRail.com (more…)
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Spotlight on English Gardens
Published on March 11th, 2009.
Inspire me!
Inspire me! With spring in the air, it’s the perfect season to highlight flowers in bloom, especially since England is renowned for its magnificent gardens! There are a number of famous gardens located in the BritRail London Plus Pass area which create the opportunity for special days out trips.
Taking the train
The BritRail London Plus Pass includes the area in yellow, with many short train journeys of one hour or less. For example, travel form London to Ashford in 35 minutes or London to Banbury in 66 minutes. Create your own garden path using your BritRail London Plus Pass!
What’s on
Spring Blossom Kew Gardens 250th anniversary
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond , Surrey, TW9 3AB
Kew’s much-loved spring celebration of over five million bulbs
From Mid March
- Cherry Walk : Stunning flowering cherry trees in pink and white
- Magnolias: Known for their spectacular pink, cream or white flowers, there are hundreds of magnolias to see at Kew.
April to May
- Lilacs, flowering cherries, crab apples, more magnolias and tulips
May to June
- Bluebells, lilacs, azaleas, rhododendrons, magnolias, Himalayan blue poppies and much more!
Come prepared! Buy your admission tickets to Kew Gardens in advance at www.BritRail.com
Attractions & Sites
The following English gardens can be found in towns just a short train ride outside London. They are ranked among the top gardens in the UK and are not to be missed, especially in the spring and summer seasons when the colours and scents are sure to impress. Have a picnic on a sunny afternoon or stroll though the garden trails and historic buildings at your leisure! Get access to these gardens and over 600 other attractions throughout Britain with The Great British Heritage Pass www.BritRail.com
Sissinghurst Castle Garden
This 6 acre garden is intimate thanks to its “outdoor rooms” with hedges of rose, yew and hornbeam. Beautiful views of the garden can be enjoyed from the four-storey Elizabethan tower, complete with ancient moat and spiral staircase. The rose garden, for which Sissinghurst is best known, is planted with several old-fashioned species and is complimented beautifully by the White Garden. Sissinghurst, nr Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2AB
Stowe Landscape Gardens
Discover a garden with more than 40 monuments and temples, breathtaking ornamental lakes, wooded valleys and spectacular views. This is a garden the whole family will enjoy with many hidden corners to explore and perfect for a walk along one of the many garden trails and surrounding parkland. Buckingham, Buckinghamshire MK18 5DQ
Hidcote Manor Garden
Created in the Arts and Crafts style Hidcote Manor Garden features old roses, unusual plants and trees from around the world, including rare plants from Africa and China. Hidcote gardens cover 10.5 acres that centers around the garden gazebo. Another notable feature is the large circular pool, edged with white roses. You can even enjoy a game of tennis or croquet! Hidcote Bartrim, nr Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire GL55 6LR
Featured Lodging
THE GEORGE HOTEL
Ideally located when visiting Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, The George Hotel is a historical landmark dating back to the 14th century. This boutique hotel has 12 individually designed rooms offering a mix of contemporary style and comfortable accommodation. Prices include a full English Breakfast!
Address: Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 3HE
Tel: +44 (0) 01 580 713348
http://www.thegeorgehotelkent.co.uk/index.html
Featured Restaurant
THE GLASSHOUSE
This restaurant is located close to Kew gardens, and along our theme of gardens we’ll be happy to settle for glasshouse instead of greenhouse! The menu is said to be a lovely mix of English and European ingredients with a French know-how.
Address: 14 Station Parade, Kew, TW9 3PZ
Tel: +44 (0) 208 940 6777
http://www.glasshouserestaurant.co.uk/
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Experience the train with BritRail
Published on March 3rd, 2009.
Flights for UK Bound Visitors
We can all agree that the best way to get around the UK is by train with a BritRail Pass! But to get the trip planning started there’s always the key element of getting to the UK from your city of residence.
The great news is that airplane operators are slashing their prices, making it more affordable than ever. For example residents of LA, California can fly to London for as little as $511*, and that’s return! Likewise, other UK bound visitors can fly from New York to London for as little as $373* return, from Sydney to London for as little as $1206* return, and from Toronto to London for as little as $498* return.
For most budget savvy travelers, affordable flights will make the idea of travelling to the UK for that greatly deserved summer vacation an attainable dream!
Upon arrival in London, travelers with select BritRail Passes will be happy to have access to airport transfers to central London via Airport Express’s Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted Express trains! www.BritRail.com
*Please note that BritRail is not responsible for any price differences from those mentioned above. Due to rapidly changing airline prices & seat availability, these fares may no longer be available. Please check your favorite air saver website for affordable air fares.
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Experience the train with BritRail
Published on February 3rd, 2009.
WIN YOUR PASS
Book a BritRail Pass in the month of February and it could be free!
If you’ve decided that Britain will be your spring break destination or you’re ahead on your vacation plans then you should book your BritRail Pass between February 1st and February 28th, 2009 and have the chance to win your pass for free.
Simply buy a BritRail Pass this month and you will automatically be entered to win your pass for free. The winner will be drawn at random and contacted March 6th, 2009. See www.BritRail.com for details.
Select the BritRail Pass that best suits your travel itinerary. First decide which cities you want to visit in Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland and then find the pass that’s a perfect match! Choose from the following 8 passes:
- BritRail FlexiPass
- BritRail Consecutive Pass
- BritRail England FlexiPass
- BritRail Pass + Ireland
- BritRail London Plus Pass
- BritRail Central Scotland Pass
- BritRail Scottish Freedom Pass
- BritRail England Consecutive Pass
To learn more about a pass that has caught your interest please visit www.BritRail.com
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BritRail Highlights
Published on January 27th, 2009.
Britain offers Value for Your Money
With the economy on everyone’s mind, it’s a good time to outline why travelling to Britain in 2009 might be the best time to go. Many currencies have strengthened against the British Pound making Britain more economical in 2009. Look for airlines to be removing fuel surcharges and offering great incentives to get travelers to the UK.
We can’t deny that a BritRail rail pass also offers great value and freedom for your money. In addition to this you can take advantage of amazing discounts. One such discount is the BritRail Senior Discount, where seniors 60 years and over are eligible to save 15% off select BritRail passes in first class (BritRail Consecutive Pass, BritRail FlexiPass, BritRail England Consecutive Pass, BritRail England Flexipass).
Another great way to save money is to buy city, tour or attraction passes. For example the Great British Heritage Pass is essential. This pass offers excellent value and free entry to nearly 600 castles, palaces, gardens and other historic attractions in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland including Stonehenge, Edinburgh Castle, Roman Baths, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Warwick Castle and Leeds Castle.
20% Off Season Discount on BritRail Passes
Please note that you can still take advantage of the 20% Off Season Discount for travel until February 28th, 2009. Travelers can purchase select BritRail passes (BritRail Consecutive Pass, BritRail FlexiPass, BritRail England Consecutive Pass, BritRail England Flexipass) and save!
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Experience the train with BritRail
Published on January 5th, 2009.
Rail Passes Allow Travelling Flexibility
The best part of having a rail pass when travelling in Britain is the flexibility it permits. With so many cities and towns that are must-sees on your itinerary, the ability to jump on and off the train at your discretion is key to fitting them all in. It’s also nice to have the freedom to stay a few more days in your favorite city or move to the next destination with new found friends. Having endless options on vacation is always much appreciated!
Another aspect of a rail pass’ flexibility is that you can select the one that best suits your budget and schedule. For example a BritRail Flexipass is best for non consecutive days of rail travel, whereas the BritRail Consecutive Pass is best for a number of consecutive travel days.
In addition, there’s a variety of validities depending on the pass. Select 4, 8, or 15 days of travel in a 2 month period with the BritRail Flexipass or 4, 8, 15, 22 or 1 month with the BritRail Consecutive Pass. Please note that European residents also have access to 2 and 3 day validities for quick weekend jaunts to the UK.
The options don’t end there of course…there is a total of 8 BritRail Passes to choose from depending on the countries you would like to visit. First decide which cities you want to visit in Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland and then find the pass that’s a perfect match. Choose from the following passes:
BritRail FlexiPass
BritRail Consecutive Pass
BritRail England FlexiPass
BritRail Pass + Ireland
BritRail London Plus Pass
BritRail Central Scotland Pass
BritRail Scottish Freedom Pass
BritRail England Consecutive Pass
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Spotlight on Edinburgh
Published on December 11th, 2008.
Inspire me!
Edinburgh is one of Britain’s most beautiful cities, featuring a stunning backdrop with rocky hills overlooking the sea. The city is home to 4,500 historic and architectural listed buildings which is the highest concentration in the world. Edinburgh is also a modern, dynamic city of art and culture with its museums, galleries, universities and festivals.
Taking the train
Edinburgh is reached by frequent direct train services from London, and other main English towns and cities. The journey from London to Edinburgh can be as little as 4½ hours.
What’s on
Homecoming Scotland 2009 is a year-long celebration with events to highlight Scotland’s great contributions to the world, inspired by Robert Burns ’ 250th anniversary weekend in January. Other topics of interest are: golf, whisky, great minds & innovations and Scotland’s rich ancestry and culture. You can view all the events which are taking place throughout this celebration, from Highland Games to Celtic Connections at: www.homecomingscotland2009.com
Edinburgh Hogmanay new years celebration Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is said to be the world’s greatest New Years’ celebration! It’s a four-day winter festival that takes place at the end of each year. Check out the torchlight procession, concert in the gardens and the headline event of the festival – Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party where 100,000 party-goers meet into the city centre to ring in the New Year. http://www.edinburghshogmanay.org/
Attractions & Sites
EDINBURGH PASS
The Edinburgh Pass is your ticket to experience all of Edinburgh’s delights. Get entrance into 27 of Edinburgh’s top attractions at a great value without having to wait in line for tickets. www.britrail.com
EDINBURGH CASTLE
Towering on an extinct volcano, this instantly recognizable fortress is a powerful national symbol and heritage site with the oldest part, St. Margaret’s Chapel, dating back to the 12th century. Explore inside its massive walls and marvel at the Great Hall, the National War Museum, the Stone of Destiny and the nation’s crown jewels. From here you can follow the Royal Mile, an ancient cobbled road, popular with tourists and lined with shops, pubs and restaurants, that leads to the Palace of Holyrood House.
Address: Castle Hill Edinburgh
Tel: 44 0131 225 9846
ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA
The Royal Yacht Britannia was the royal residence to The Queen and her family during their travels to many exotic and remote locations around the world from the yacht’s launch in 1953 until her decommissioning in 1997. Now permanently docked at Ocean Terminal, she is a floating monument and you can step aboard and tour its magnificent decks.
Address: Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh
Tel: +44 (0)131 555 5566
www.britrail.com
Featured Lodging
HOLYROOD APARTHOTEL
This aparthotel, features 41 apartments, in a great location adjacent to the Royal Mile. A great bonus is the well equipped kitchens and dining areas, which can accommodate a family or couple perfectly and save on restaurant bills. You’ll also find quiet, comfortable rooms with modern design, and other added features such as wireless Internet connection, LCD television with digital channels and hi -fi systems.
Address: 1 Nether Bakehouse Holyrood, Edinburgh
Tel: 0131 524 3200
Featured Restaurant
APARTMENT
Fantastic food and a cool, youthful atmosphere are featured at this buzzing bistro with generous portions, encouraging sharing tasty treats.
Address: 7-13 Barclay Pl, Central Edinburgh (nearby this months’ featured lodging)
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Spotlight on Liverpool
Published on November 13th, 2008.
Inspire me! Liverpool is the European Capital of Culture 2008, promoting itself as “The World in One City”. Visit www.liverpool08.com for a complete list of activities and events.
Taking the train
The trip from London Euston (EUS) to Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) is roughly 2.5 hours. Intercity services run from major towns and cities into Liverpool Lime Street Station. After taking the train to Liverpool, your first destination of interest will likely be St Georges Hall as it’s the first building you’ll see. It’s widely regarded as the finest neo -classical building in Europe, where Charles Dickens was a regular visitor, and represents the prosperity in Liverpool in the 19th century.
What’s on
ONLY A GAME? UEFA Football/ Soccer Exhibition
UEFA and World Museum Liverpool have a new exhibition titled ‘Only a Game?’ featuring Europe’s love affair with the game of football. Rare objects from legendary matches, top European trophies and memorabilia from star players are on display until March 1st 2009.
True fans will appreciate the display of UEFA trophies, including the Champions League trophy and UEFA Cup, and player memorabilia from the National Football Museum, including shirts, medals and trophies of great European players.
Attractions & Sites
Visiting Albert Dock is a must for all, where you will be treated to rich maritime history, and find the best of both worlds –old and modern. This location is also the home to two of the most popular visitor’s attractions, namely Tate Liverpool and The Beatles Story.
TATE LIVERPOOL
Tate Liverpool is home to the National Collection of Modern Art in the North. It’s also the largest gallery of modern and contemporary art outside of London. Currently on exhibition until March 29th, 2009 is The Twentieth Century: How it looked & how it felt. Nearly 200 pieces are displayed over three floors, including some key works from the Tate Collection. Capture the story of modern and contemporary art and don’t miss Pablo Picasso’s Weeping Woman 1937.
THE BEATLES STORY
A must-see for all Beatles fans! Step back in time and find out how 4 lads from Liverpool became the biggest band in the world. There’s an audio guide narrated by John Lennon’s sister, the world’s only ‘blue’ White Album, a never before heard interview with Sir Paul McCartney, George Harrison’s first ever guitar, John Lennon’s iconic spectacles and much more. Tickets for the Beatles Story are available through www.britrail.com
Featured Restaurant
THE LONDON CARRIAGE WORKS
Enjoy a modern international menu with a strong emphasis on the use of local, organic and fresh seasonal produce. The building was once home to coach and carriage builders and doubles as Hope Street Hotel.
Address: 40 Hope Street,
Liverpool, Merseyside
Tel: 0151 705 2222
http://www.hopestreethotel.co.uk/eating
Featured Lodging
HARD DAYS NIGHT HOTEL
This 4* boutique hotel is Liverpool’s Beatles inspired hotel including the peace garden and select artwork. With a central location and a converted Grade II listed building (being of special architectural & historic interest), it has retained all the character of its original form, but now has all the features and facilities of a modern hotel.
Address: North John Street/Mathew Street,
Liverpool, Merseyside
Tel: 0844 870 0123
http://www.harddaysnighthotel.com/
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BritRail Highlights
Published on October 24th, 2008.
Airport Express
Now with your purchase of a BritRail Pass, two airport express coupons are included. After potentially hours on an airplane isn’t it nice to know someone’s there to pick you up? One less thing to plan and no taxis needed!
Your first option is the Heathrow Express, whisking you from Heathrow airport to London Paddington Station in just fifteen minutes. With trains departing every fifteen minutes this is the ultimate in convenience. London Paddington Station is also a great place to start your rail journey, with connections to a number of popular destinations (Oxford, Penzance, and Swansea to name a few).
If you’re landing at Gatwick Airport then the Gatwick Express is your ticket to London Victoria Station. This service also departs every fifteen minutes and ends thirty minutes later in London’s West End, also home to a number of rail connections and departures.
The third express service departs from London Stansted Airport and arrives in London Liverpool St. Station in forty-two minutes. The Stansted Express provides direct travel to the city of London for easy connections to cross-country destinations.
20% Discount on BritRail Passes
Please note that you can still take advantage of the 20% discount for travel between November 1st, 2008 and February 28th, 2009. Travelers can purchase select BritRail passes (BritRail Consecutive Pass, BritRail FlexiPass, BritRail England Consecutive Pass, BritRail England Flexipass) and save!
Visit www.BritRail.com to select the pass that’s right for you!
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Festivals & Events: BritRail takes you to Belfast
Published on September 15th, 2008.
Timing is everything as they say and that’s why stopping in Belfast between October 17th and November 1st would grant you the pleasure of enjoying Ireland’s biggest international festival: The Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s.
This annual festival covers all art forms including theatre, dance, classical music, literature, jazz, comedy, visual arts, folk music and popular music, attracting over 100,000 visitors.
This is a great opportunity to see the best of Irish and UK cultures! http://www.belfastfestival.com
Getting to Belfast by train is made easy with BritRail´s most complete and flexible pass, the BritRail Pass + Ireland, which allows unlimited travel in not only England, Scotland and Wales, but also the lush green landscapes of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Before setting out, be sure to book your BritRail Irish Sea Crossing. With this new product, travelers gain access to Stena ferries, and for this occasion you can select the Stranraer to Belfast route.
To obtain more information or purchase the BritRail Irish Sea Crossing, visit www.BritRail.com or call 1-866-BritRail (North America)
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