With an estimated 4 million extra people due to hit London this August, finding a quiet holiday corner in the capital might prove impossible. In order to escape the crowds in 2012, the last place you should be heading to is the airport.
Instead, discover some of the less well-known tourist locations that the UK has to offer, by the romantic mode of train travel.
York
This picturesque Roman city is the stuff that English postcards are made of, and to top it off, it’s also easily accessible by rail.
The cobbled streets and authentic shop fronts mean a trip to York feels a million miles away from London’s busy roads and dramatic contemporary architecture. Be sure to take a walk along the city walls for the scenic views of the city, check out the National Railway Museum or pay a visit to the historic Castle Howard.
You’ll be spoilt for choice for places to dine, but when it comes to York’s countless tearooms, naturally Betty’s scones and Earl Grey reigns supreme. Getting to York is cheapest and easiest via train, with regular connections from across the country. You can buy cheap train tickets in advance online, or save money regularly by ordering a railcard.
Harrogate
Stunning countryside, bustling market towns and an abundance of history and culture – there is plenty to love about Harrogate.
If the thought of London’s packed streets stresses you out, arguably the best place to relax is in Harrogate’s Turkish baths and spa.
With the scenic Yorkshire Dales on your doorstep there’s also no shortage of outdoors activities to pass the time, from walking and cycling, to fishing, wildlife watching and even llama trekking.
When travelling to Harrogate, leave the car and the traffic behind and instead opt for a train journey. There’s always a wide selection of train times and fares available to get you to Harrogate on time and on-budget.
Lincoln
This city is small in size but packs a punch in terms of things to do and sites to see.
With the city dating back to Roman times, be sure to tour one of Europe’s finest Gothic Cathedrals and visit the historic Lincoln Castle. Within the walls of Lincoln Cathedral, visitors are challenged to find the famous stone carving of the Lincoln Imp, so keep an eye out.
For shopping fans, don’t miss out on the Bailgate area and for a snapshot of authentic Britain, visit the picturesque Roman cobbled roads of Steep Hill – voted Britain’s Best Street in 2012.
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