Episode 174 – Exploring the UK by Train: Doug’s Six Week Rail Adventure [Expert Tips]
In episode 174 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats 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 shares highlights from travelling the length and breadth of Britain by train, visiting major cities, charming rural stations and some of the country’s most scenic routes.
In this trip report, you’ll discover which UK rail journeys stand out for their views, how to plan and adapt an extended train itinerary, and practical advice for using passes such as the BritRail Flexipass. Doug also shares insider tips on booking, travelling smoothly between regions, and making the most of UK Travel Planning’s resources – including the Guide to UK Train Travel ebook, consultations and upcoming train travel workshops.
Whether you’re planning a rail-focused holiday or simply want to explore more of Britain by train, this episode offers inspiration, expert insight and plenty of practical tips to help you plan your own unforgettable UK rail adventure.
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Episode 174 – Summary
What you’ll learn in this episode
- How Doug planned and adapted his six-week UK train travel itinerary
- Top scenic and favourite UK rail routes, including the Night Riviera Sleeper and Settle–Carlisle line
- The best day trips from London by train, such as Bath, Oxford, Windsor, and Hampton Court
- Insider tips for managing schedule changes, engineering works, and ticketing challenges
- Real-world experience using the BritRail Flexipass—pros, cons, and when it’s worth choosing
- Expert advice on flexibility, packing, and arrival times at stations
- How to use UK Travel Planning resources: consultations, Facebook group, eBook and YouTube channel
- Details about the upcoming UK train travel workshop and itinerary planning services
- Luggage tips, including storage options and differences between train operators
- How the UK’s rail network connects cities, towns and countryside – and where coverage can be limited
UK places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
🚆 UK Places Mentioned
- London >> The hub for most rail journeys, with nine major terminus stations featured in Doug’s travels
- Bath >> Historic city and popular day trip by train from London
- Oxford >> University city visited en route to the Cotswolds
- Canterbury >> Cathedral city known for its medieval history and easy train connections
- Liverpool >> Iconic destination for Beatles fans, easily reached by rail
- Windsor >> Home to Windsor Castle; Doug discusses routes and connections for visitors
- Edinburgh >> Scotland’s capital, accessible via several scenic rail routes
- Cambridge >> Renowned university city included in Doug’s itinerary
- York >> Historic northern city featured in Doug’s travels
- Brighton >> Classic seaside destination reached by train from London
- Rye (Sussex) >> Picturesque town in East Sussex, explored as a train trip option
- Moreton-in-Marsh (Cotswolds) >> Gateway to Cotswold tours, including Go Cotswolds connections
- Carlisle >> Northern terminus of the scenic Settle–Carlisle railway
- Penzance (Cornwall) >> Final stop on the Night Riviera Sleeper, at the far tip of Cornwall
💡 Words & Concepts Mentioned
- BritRail Pass >> Flexible train pass for overseas visitors, reviewed and explained in detail
- Ticket Barriers and QR Codes >> Doug’s experience using digital tickets and the BritRail Flexipass
- Scenic Rail Routes >> Britain’s most beautiful train journeys, including the Settle to Carlisle and Night Riviera
- Luggage Storage >> Variations in racks and shelving across different UK train operators
- Engineering Works >> Planned maintenance affecting services and the need for flexibility
- East West Rail (University Line) >> Upcoming project connecting Oxford and Cambridge
- Consultations and Itinerary Planning >> Doug and Tracy’s personalised services for rail travellers
- Arriving at Stations >> Advice to arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for logistics and changes
Related content on UK Travel Planning and London Travel Planning
Podcasts
- Episode 171 – Guide to the Night Riviera Sleeper Train (London to Penzance)
- Episode 157: 15 UK Train Travel Mistakes First-Time Travellers Make and How to Avoid Them
- Episode 141 – Caledonian Sleeper Update [+ Route Choices and Travel Tips]
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