Best Ways to Travel Around England: Trains, Cars, Buses, and More
For many travelers, a trip to England starts with London and nearby spots, but venturing beyond the capital unlocks the true essence of English charm. Think picturesque towns like Bath, York, and Canterbury; historic university cities such as Oxford and Cambridge; vibrant music hubs in Manchester and Liverpool; or coastal gems like Bristol, Cardiff, and Brighton. England's compact size means you can explore much of it in just a week to 10 days. Here's our expert guide to the most efficient and enjoyable ways to get around England.
Top Tips for Getting Around England
Rent a Car for the Cotswolds or Lake District
England boasts an excellent train network and reliable buses, but for certain destinations, a car is unbeatable. The Cotswolds, with its idyllic villages and rolling hills—designated an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' in the 1960s—is a prime example. Just a 2-hour drive from London, it's ideal for a weekend escape.
The optimal way to visit villages like Bibury, Broadway, Tewkesbury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and towns such as Stroud, Cheltenham, and Gloucester is by car. Cruise scenic country roads at your leisure, stopping wherever inspiration strikes, free from rigid schedules. For an authentic stay, rent a cottage in a quiet village—we loved our time in Snowshill.
Train to Liverpool or Edinburgh
Uneasy about driving on the left? Trains connect nearly everywhere. Reach Manchester and Liverpool from London in under two hours on high-speed services; Edinburgh is just 4.5 hours away.
Book ahead via TheTrainline.com for bargains: Brighton from £5 (vs. £23.10), Edinburgh from £19.10 (vs. £60.50), Manchester from £18 (vs. £49). England's trains are fast, comfortable, punctual, and a delight to ride.
Bus from London to Oxford for £1
For budget travel, Megabus offers fares across Britain, often £1 with advance bookings 3-4 weeks out—practically free! It serves Edinburgh and Glasgow for under £10 (longer trips, like overnight). Perfect for short hops like the 2-hour ride to Oxford.
Fly to Scotland or Cornwall
Britain's size favors some flights. EasyJet flies London to Scottish Highlands (Aberdeen/Inverness) for £30—train-competitive but faster. Flybe to Newquay, Cornwall, starts at £37. Check budget airlines for UK routes.
Walk or Cycle Through England's Countryside
Slow travelers will love England's trails for hiking and cycling. Long-distance paths span the land, with guided week-long tours ending at cozy pubs.
Top long-distance cycle routes:
- West Country Way: 250 miles, Bristol to Padstow via Cornwall
- Sea To Sea: 138 miles, Cumbria to Tyneside
- North Coast 500: 500 miles across Scotland
Discover five of the best long-distance walks in England in our dedicated guide.
