Explore 2 Weeks in Great Britain by Train (England & Scotland)

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If you’re dreaming of castles, cozy pubs, rolling countryside, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities, this 2 Weeks in Great Britain is just what you need. Traveling by train across England and Scotland is efficient and scenic, and allows you to immerse yourself in the charm of the UK without the stress of driving.

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2 Weeks in Great Britain – UK Itinerary 2 Weeks by Train

Whether planning your UK Itinerary 2 Weeks by Train for the first time or revisiting this stunning region, this guide blends cultural highlights, must-see sights, and hidden gems with practical advice like train times, affordable hotel options, and top-rated tours to book. Let’s plan a perfect travel itinerary for an unforgettable 2 Weeks in England and Scotland by Train.

Day 1-3: London – Iconic Landmarks and Local Vibes

Arrival: Most international travelers land at Heathrow or Gatwick. The Heathrow Express or Gatwick Express can take you into the city center within 30 minutes.

Things To Do in London

Spend your first three days exploring the best of London.

Start with the classics—Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London.
But don’t just stop there. London is a tapestry of neighborhoods worth exploring: stroll through Notting Hill‘s pastel streets, sip coffee in Soho, or
Take a walk in the expansive Hyde Park.
Don’t miss a ride on the London Eye at sunset or a West End show in the evening.
And if you’re a museum lover, the British Museum and the V&A are free and world-class.

London is a microcosm of the entire UK. From royal history to modern culture, there’s no better place to start your 2 Weeks UK Itinerary.

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Overnight Stay: Check out The Z Hotel Holborn – stylish, central, and with compact, comfortable rooms. Or you can check Club Quarters St. Paul’s near London Bridge.

Top Tour to Book: A Thames River Cruise + Tower of London combo or a Jack the Ripper walking tour adds depth and fun to your city experience.

Day 4-5: Bath – Roman Elegance Meets Georgian Grace

Train from London to Bath: 1.5 hours (Great Western Railway)

Bath is one of England’s most beautiful small cities, known for its Roman Baths, honey-hued Georgian architecture, and Jane Austen heritage. Things To Do in Bath

Wander the cobbled streets,
Visit the historic Roman Baths,
and soak in the modern Thermae Bath Spa rooftop pool with views over the city.
Stroll through the Royal Crescent and pop into the Jane Austen Centre for a literary treat.
Don’t forget to have afternoon tea at The Pump Room—it’s as British as it gets.

Bath is compact, walkable, and a living museum with a relaxing pace after the hustle of London.

Overnight Stay: Henrietta House Hotel is centrally located, has charming rooms, and offers an excellent breakfast.

Top Tour to Book: Stonehenge and Cotswolds Day Trip from Bath—combines two iconic regions in one leisurely tour.

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Day 6: Oxford – Academia and Ancient Alleys

Train from Bath to Oxford: 1 hour 15 minutes (via Didcot Parkway)

Things To Do in Oxford

Spend a day in the historic university city of Oxford.
Take a walking tour through the university’s ancient colleges, visit the Bodleian Library, and climb up the tower at the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin for sweeping views.
Potter fans shouldn’t miss the Christ Church College dining hall, which inspired Hogwarts.

Oxford is packed with history, academia, and stunning architecture, making it a perfect short stop on your UK Itinerary 2 Weeks journey.

Overnight Stay: The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels—a bit of a splurge but worth the comfort and old-world vibe.

Top Tour to Book: Oxford University and City Walking Tour – short, informative, and ideal for first-timers.

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Day 7-8: York – Walled Charm and Viking Legends

Train from Oxford to York: 3 hours 20 minutes (via Birmingham or London)

Things To Do in York

York is a medieval jewel. Walk along its ancient city walls, explore the Shambles (inspiration for Diagon Alley), and visit York Minster—one of the most magnificent cathedrals in Europe.
The JORVIK Viking Centre is a fascinating journey into the city’s Norse roots.
In the evening, try a historic pub like Ye Olde Starre Inne or book a ghost tour—York is considered one of the most haunted cities in the UK.

York combines history, architecture, and a small-town feel that’s hard to beat. It’s a true highlight of any 2 Weeks in Great Britain plan.

Overnight Stay: Hedley House Hotel—a quiet street with home-cooked breakfast and walking distance from everywhere.

Top Tour to Book: Evening Ghost Tour of York – spooky, entertaining, and packed with local lore.

Day 9-10: Edinburgh – Castles, Kilts, and Cobbled Streets

Train from York to Edinburgh: 2.5 hours (LNER)

Welcome to Scotland’s capital! Edinburgh is dramatic in every sense—set across hills with a skyline dominated by the castle, it feels like a fairytale city.

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Things To Do in Edinburgh

Walk the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, explore the quirky shops, and
Don’t skip a hike up Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views.

The city’s history is rich, but its vibe is youthful, especially if you visit during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August.

Edinburgh is the crown jewel of Scotland—charming, historic, and full of character. It’s a key stop in your 2 Weeks in England and Scotland by Train adventure.

Overnight Stay: Motel One Edinburgh-Royal—stylish rooms with unbeatable access to the Royal Mile and train station.

Top Tour to Book: Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour + Skip-the-Line Ticket or a Haunted Underground Vaults Tour for the brave-hearted.

Day 11-12: Scottish Highlands – Scenic Majesty

Train from Edinburgh to Inverness: 3.5 hours (Scenic ScotRail route)

Make your way to Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands. The train journey is a stunner—lush valleys, glens, and lochs pass by your window. Spend a couple of days exploring the Highlands: visit Loch Ness (yes, that Loch Ness!), explore Urquhart Castle, and take in the vast, wild beauty of the region.

You can also take a guided trip to the Isle of Skye. Though it’s a long day, it’s doable from Inverness and will give you serious wanderlust memories.

Scotland’s raw, cinematic beauty comes alive in this part of the UK tour. For many, the Highlands are the soul of the UK.

Overnight Stay: Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel, riverside, warm hospitality, and great whisky.

Top Tour to Book: Full-Day Loch Ness and Highlands Tour from Inverness or Isle of Skye Guided Tour.

Day 13: Glasgow – Culture Meets Cool

Train from Inverness to Glasgow: 3.5 hours.

Glasgow is often overshadowed by Edinburgh but offers an entirely different slice of Scotland. Think edgy art, live music, fantastic food, and friendly locals.

Things To Do in Glasgow – Check out the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Riverside Museum, and stroll along Buchanan Street for some last-minute shopping.

Glasgow’s creative energy and culture scene perfectly contrast the Highlands’ rugged nature. It adds a vibrant finale to your 2 Weeks UK Itinerary.

Overnight Stay: Point A Hotel Glasgow—modern, well-located, and affordable.

Top Tour to Book: Street Art and Music History Walking Tour, or hop into a pub with live music for an authentic experience.

Day 14: Return to London

Train from Glasgow to London: 4.5 hours (Avanti West Coast or LNER)

Wrap up your UK Itinerary 2 Weeks by Train with a scenic ride back to London. Spend your last evening enjoying a meal at a traditional pub or catching a final view of the city from the Sky Garden or Shard.

Helpful Tips – 2 Weeks in Great Britain (2 Weeks UK Itinerary)

Rail Pass: Consider a BritRail Pass or UK Rail Pass for unlimited train travel—it saves money and time if you take multiple long-distance journeys.
Advance Booking: Book long-distance trains (like London to York or Edinburgh) in advance for better rates. Use sites like Trainline or National Rail.
Pack Layers: The UK weather is unpredictable—bring a waterproof jacket and layers.
Travel Light: British trains have limited luggage space. A medium suitcase or backpack is ideal.
Local SIM or eSIM: Stay connected with a local SIM or eSIM from providers like Vodafone, Lyca, or EE.
Tours & Entry: Many attractions, like Edinburgh Castle and the Roman Baths, have timed entry. Book online in advance to avoid queues.

FAQs: 2 Weeks in Great Britain by Train

Q. Is it easy to travel around the UK by train?

Absolutely. The UK has one of the best-connected rail networks in Europe. You can reach most cities directly, and even scenic regions like the Scottish Highlands are accessible by train. Booking in advance ensures better prices and reserved seats.

Q. Should I buy a BritRail Pass or book individual train tickets?

It depends on your travel style. If you plan to take multiple long-distance trains (which you will on this itinerary), a BritRail Pass can be more cost-effective and flexible. However, if your dates are fixed, booking advance individual tickets can save money—especially with discount cards like the Railcard.

Q. What’s the best time of year for this UK itinerary?

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and lush landscapes. Summer is great too, but it’s the peak tourist season, especially in London and Edinburgh.

Q. Can I customize this itinerary to start or end in Scotland instead of London?

Yes! This itinerary is flexible. You can easily start in Edinburgh and work your way down to London, or vice versa, depending on your flight routes. Major cities like London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow have international airports.

Q. Are all the recommended hotels near train stations?

Yes, I have suggested all hotels for their central location and proximity to train stations, making it easy for travelers with luggage or those relying on public transport. They’re also mid-budget and traveler-friendly.

Q. Do I need to book tours in advance?

For popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle, the Roman Baths, or day trips to Stonehenge or the Isle of Skye, it’s best to book in advance—especially in summer. Walking tours and ghost tours in cities like York and Edinburgh can often be booked a day before.

Q. What’s the best luggage for this kind of train travel?

A medium-sized suitcase or travel backpack is ideal. British trains don’t always have generous luggage space, so pack light and efficiently, especially if you’ll be walking or taking public transport to your accommodation.

Q10. Is it safe to travel solo in Great Britain?

Yes, the UK is generally very safe for solo and female travelers. Cities are well-lit, transport is reliable, and people are helpful. As always, stay aware of your surroundings and follow basic travel precautions.

Planning a 2 Weeks in Great Britain trip by train lets you experience the best of England and Scotland without the hassle of driving or navigating country roads. From London’s grand palaces to the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, this UK Itinerary 2 Weeks by Train is a perfect balance of big cities, historic towns, and natural wonders.

Whether you’re tracing royal footsteps, sipping whisky in a cozy Highland inn, or walking in the footsteps of ancient scholars, this journey is more than just sightseeing—it’s a deep dive into the heart and soul of the UK.