The UK is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. According to Statista, almost 30 million tourists visited the UK in 2022, which will grow next year as more and more people consider foreign vacations after the Pandemic.
But visiting the same old tourist spots is way too mainstream to be fun anymore. Why not spice up the trip and make it about the journey instead of the destination?
In this article, we will discuss how you can travel through the UK in some unusual transports and some usual ones with a twist.
Riding the Rails
Picture this; you’re chugging along on a vintage steam train, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. The sound of the train’s whistle echoes through the valley, and the smell of coal smoke fills the air. This is the experience you’ll get when you take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express.
The train travels 168 miles round-trip, passing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous in the Harry Potter films. This journey is itself a tourist attraction and a must-do for any Harry Potter fan or anyone who wants to experience something truly unique while traveling through the UK.
However, even if you’re not on the train, you can watch it go over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. According to their official website, the Jacobite Steam train passes over this famous bridge every day at 10.45 am and 3 pm, Something you can see from the Glenfinnan Visitor Center.
Cruising the Canals
Exploring the UK by boat is a unique and tranquil way to see the country. Picture yourself gliding along the tranquil waters of the canals, passing through charming towns and villages surrounded by lush greenery. Renting a canal boat is a great way to see the countryside at a leisurely pace.
You can choose from a variety of boats, from traditional narrow boats to luxury cruisers. You can even bring your own food and drinks and make it a floating picnic. A popular route is the Grand Union Canal, which connects London to Birmingham, or the Llangollen Canal, which takes you through the picturesque Dee Valley.
On the Road
Travelling by coach is a great way to see the UK and take in the sights without the hassle of driving. A coach tour allows you to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery while you’re being taken to some of the most beautiful places in the UK. There are a variety of coach tour companies that offer a wide range of itineraries, from day trips to multi-day excursions.
However, you don’t necessarily have to go on a guided tour for this. There are several companies that let you hire coaches for long-distance journeys. You can find Cardiff coach hire services that can be hired for guided tours to football matches and long drives. Whatever your need, they’ve got you covered.
Popular destinations for coach journeys include the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District, and the Cotswolds, as well as cities such as London, Edinburgh, and Bath. If you choose to take a tour guide, they will give you interesting facts about the places you visit, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet other travelers and make new friends along the way.
Pedalling Through History
Cycling is a great way to explore the UK and get some exercise at the same time. The UK has a National Cycle Network, which is a network of interconnected cycling paths throughout the country. Sustrance, the group trusted with developing it, notes that even during the Pandemic in 2020, 4.9 million users took 764.8 million trips on that network.
Cycling allows you to travel at your own pace, and it’s a great way to get up close and personal with the countryside. You’ll see things you wouldn’t see from a car or a coach, and you’ll get a sense of accomplishment when you reach your destination. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, the UK’s National Cycle Routes offer a unique and enjoyable way to explore the country.
Step Back in Time
Stagecoaches or horse-drawn carriages are the relics of days gone by. Britannica notes that the first stage coach service started in London around 1640, quickly spread to France, and reached the height of their popularity in the 19th century USA. Nowadays, the only place we can see them is the silver screen. That is if you discount a number of tourist spots in the UK.
If you’re looking for something longer and more adventurous, you can book a stagecoach trip. Stagecoach trips are a great way to experience the Wild West atmosphere of the UK and to get a sense of how people used to travel in the past. These trips can be a full-day experience or a shorter one and take you through beautiful landscapes and historic sites.
Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan, a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a different kind of vacation, the UK has something to offer for everyone. So, next time you plan a trip to the UK, consider stepping off the beaten path and try out one of these unique and unconventional ways of travelling.