Episode 174 – Exploring the UK by Train: Doug’s Six Week Rail Adventure [Expert Tips]

In the world of travel, there’s often a debate about the best way to explore a new country. Some swear by road trips, while others prefer the convenience of flying. But for those looking for a unique and immersive experience, there’s one mode of transportation that can’t be beat – train travel.

In episode 174 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we had the chance to chat with UK Travel Planning’s resident train travel expert, Doug, about his recent six-week rail adventure across the UK. From London to Scotland and back again, Doug shared his highlights from travelling the length and breadth of Britain by train, visiting major cities and charming rural stations along the way.

For Doug, the trip was a one-of-a-kind experience that truly captured the essence of Britain. “Travelling by train allowed me to see the country in a way that’s just not possible by any other means,” he said. “I was able to appreciate the beautiful landscapes, meet locals from all walks of life, and explore diverse cities and towns – all while sitting back and enjoying the journey.”

Doug’s trip began in the bustling capital of London, where he hopped on the iconic East Coast Main Line towards Edinburgh. As the train sped through the picturesque countryside, Doug couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the adventures that lay ahead. The first stop on his journey was York, a historic city in northern England known for its medieval streets and stunning Gothic architecture. “It was like stepping into a time machine,” Doug reminisced. “The city has a rich history and there’s so much to see, from the iconic York Minster to the quaint Shambles street lined with charming shops and cafes.”

From York, Doug continued north to Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. The scenic route took him through the rolling hills of the Scottish Lowlands and past quaint villages, before arriving at the majestic Edinburgh Castle. “It was truly a sight to behold,” Doug said. “Perched on a hilltop, the castle is a symbol of Scotland’s history and heritage. Inside, I was able to explore the grand halls, learn about the country’s past, and take in stunning views of the city below.”

After a few days in Edinburgh, Doug hopped back on the train and headed north to Inverness, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. “This was one of the most breathtaking parts of the journey,” Doug said. “As the train travelled through the Highlands, I was surrounded by vast, rugged landscapes, dotted with lochs and mountains. It was like something out of a fairytale.”

But Doug’s adventure wasn’t limited to the main cities. As a train travel expert, he knew that some of the most charming and authentic experiences can be found in the smaller towns and villages. That’s why he made sure to hop off at stations along the way, such as Pitlochry and Aviemore. “These towns may not be on many tourists’ itineraries, but they are full of character and offer a glimpse into local life,” Doug said. “I loved wandering around the quaint streets, chatting with friendly locals, and trying traditional Scottish cuisine.”

After exploring the Highlands, Doug’s journey took on a different pace as he headed south towards England’s West Country. The scenic route took him through the idyllic Cotswolds region, where he made stops at picturesque villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Moreton-in-Marsh. “The train rides through the Cotswolds were like postcard-perfect scenes,” Doug smiled. “The rolling hills, dotted with charming cottages and fields of sheep, were a welcome change of scenery after the rugged Highlands.”

As his journey came to an end, Doug’s final stop was the vibrant city of Bristol, before looping back to London. “Bristol was a perfect mix of old and new,” he said. “The city has a rich history, but it’s also a hub of art, music, and independent shops and cafes. I spent my last few days here, exploring the city’s many hidden gems, before heading back to London to end my journey.”

For Doug, the six-week rail adventure was an experience unlike any other. “The train journeys allowed me to truly connect with the country – its people, its culture, and its stunning landscapes,” he said. “And I couldn’t have done it without the excellent train connections and resources provided by UK Travel Planning.