Highlights Tour Of Britain
17 July 2023
A BritRail Pass lets you travel Britain's vast National Rail network at any time on any train. Tour Britain's highlights and let the scenery unfold out of your window as you sit in the comfort of your carriage.
London
After arriving in London, take a day or two to appreciate this fine capital city. Get stuck into some adrenaline activities like speed boating down the river Thames or walking over the Millenium Dome. If you’re wanting something more relaxing, or are nursing that jetlag feeling, there are many parks to walk though like Hyde Park and museums to visit such as the world famous Natural History Museum in this charming cultural capital city that dates back to the Roman times.
Next travel to York, a city founded in AD71 and made up of Roman walls with a Viking heritage and history down every cobbled street.
Experience a Victorian themed road at the Castle Museum and discover the sights, sounds and smells of an authentically recreated Viking city at the Jorvic Viking Centre.
The giant York Minster cathedral is also a must see and is visible from miles around. York can be done en-route to Edinburgh in a day if you set off early, however, we recommend a night or two to get the most of this beautifully historic city.
Edinburgh
From the National Museum of Scotland to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s magnificent capital city boasts excellent restaurants, world-famous festivals and a rich history.
There’s a wealth of attractions giving a glimpse into its colourful past, like the Real Mary King’s close, the Royal Yacht Britannia and if you’re around at midday, listen out for the gun salute from the castle! Be sure to book your train and hotel reservations well in advance as this is a popular city, especially during the world famous Fringe and Royal Military Tattoo festivals which it hosts.
Glasgow
Glasgow is a vibrant city with a lively atmosphere, famously friendly locals and second-to-none shopping – take a walk along the city’s ‘Style Mile’ to browse a wealth of high street stores and designer boutiques. Enjoy learning about its industrial history in one of the many museums and most importantly when in Glasgow, ensure you enjoy the nightlife by visiting one of the many lively restaurants… and maybe a local pub after! Take a day trip to nearby Stirling and see the legendary castle where many battles for independence were fought and many famous figures in British and Scottish history lived.
The Lake District
Rugged peaks that pierce the clouds, tranquil valleys where streams meander and lots of fresh air. The Lake District leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Hosting 885 square miles (1,425 square Kilometres) of National Park, 16 crystal clear lakes and England’s highest mountains, hikers will be in their element.
There are also many slow country walks where you can spot sheep on the mountainside, red squirrels jumping in the trees and of course have a refreshing break at a remote tea shop.
If you’re on a whistlestop tour you can still experience the beauty of the Lakes by taking the train to Windermere and booking a day bus tour around the Lakes. (We recommend you book well in advance as spaces are limited.)
Oxford
Known as the city of dreaming spires this charming British city boasts historic buildings, many with domes and gargoyles, dating back to the Anglo-Saxon times. Oxford is well known for its University, the oldest in the English speaking world, with Christ Church college being the most famous. There are many shops in Oxford, museums like the Ashmolean Museum and some antiques places too. If you have a passion for fashion then you can indulge in the Westgate Shopping centre in Oxford city or at the tremendously popular Bicester Village just 16 minutes away by train.
London
Arriving back into London Paddington station, brush up on your knowledge of the classic British story “Paddington Bear” which was based on this station and your highlights tour of Britain is complete. Take your next journey from here. Trains for Heathrow Airport leave from this very station or the Eurostar from St Pancras station towards Europe is only one change away via Farringdon.
This is just one example of untold places a BritRail Pass can open up on your journey. Where will your BritRail Pass take you...?