Explore England by train: Three great cities under an hour from London

Railway travel is at an all-time low. With the pandemic and remote working pushing numbers of explorers down, fewer Britons are taking the train, particularly in London. According to estimates from the London underground, passenger numbers have dropped about 20% around the country. However, a bright spot is that the number of people using London Underground’s services later in the day for leisure has been steadily increasing. Now as warmer spring weather arrives and high streets welcome increased footfall, more people are venturing out of London to explore all that the UK has to offer. Filled with rich history and hidden gems like Brighton (England’s most popular seaside) adventurers will be surprised at the amazing railway adventures they can have, all within an hour of the capital.

Brighton

For those thinking sunshine and beaches in the summertime, Brighton is often at the top of the list. Located on the southern coast of the UK, Brighton is just an hour’s train ride from any of London’s major railway stations, including London Victoria, London Bridge or Blackfriars. The town is known for its seaside attractions, and travellers can easily experience one of the many events in Brighton’s jam-packed calendar. For car racing fanatics, there is the Brighton Veteran Car Run; for sport fans, there are sporting events throughout the year including surfing, biking and diving. For lovers of the arts, the city holds the Brighton Festival in May, which showcases rising talent in music, drama and arts.

Windsor

Windsor has famous royal connections with The Queen herself holding a home there. However, it also highlights over a millennium of architectural history. The castle itself has been home to 39 monarchs so far and was built in the 11^th century. A train ride to Windsor is a great day out for the entire family as the city also has family-friendly activities including theme parks like Legoland and events planned for the Queen’s Jubilee this year. For fans of British horticulture, Windsor Great Park is a fabulous attraction. Prices for travel are relatively cheap as well, with tickets available from £12. However, to cut the costs further, split tickets enable travellers to buy two tickets for the same train journey while staying on the same train for much less money. Best of all, Windsor is only 40 minutes away from London by train.

Cambridge

For as low as £8, one can travel from London to Cambridge and immerse in rich, English heritage and culture in just over an hour. With regular trains from Liverpool Street station, Cambridge has rapidly become known for its diverse and younger population, thanks to it being home to universities like the world-renowned Cambridge University. Filled with traditional architecture from centuries ago, the city is an architecture lover’s dream, with buildings such as King’s College showcasing Italian wooden carvings and stained glass windows. There is also the Fitzwilliam Museum, a free tourist attraction where visitors can see hundreds of artworks.

However, there is much more to Cambridge than its beautiful buildings. The city is also known for its buzzing food scene. From five-star Michelin restaurants to homely pubs, there is something to suit every palette. For the perfect Sunday roast, diners can head to MJP or Provenance Kitchen. Those who fancy a taste of fine dining can enjoy tasting menus at Restaurant 22.

The list does not end here. Whether it’s a day at the beach or the hustle and bustle of a cosmopolitan city, adventure is just a short train ride away from London’s doorstep.

The editorial unit