Hop aboard the money-saving train! Believe it or not, taking the train instead of driving isn’t always the wallet-draining adventure many think it is. In fact, over 7,380 UK train routes are actually lighter on your pocket.
They’re not only gentle on your bank account but also whisk you to your end point quicker than your automobile, all the while helping the planet by emitting a whopping 67% less CO2. So, why not kick back, relax, and let the landscapes roll by, knowing you’ve bagged yourself a sweet deal?
Glasgow to Oxenholme Lake District
£16.80 cheaper, 30 minutes quicker and 15.5kg less CO2
Exploring Oxenholme and the stunning Lake District on a shoestring budget is a thrilling adventure that’s totally doable!
Kick off your escapade at Oxenholme, the gateway to the Lake District’s wonders, where the charm of the countryside meets budget-friendly fun. Strap on your hiking boots and conquer the local trails, offering breathtaking views without costing a penny. Don’t forget to pack a picnic for a serene lunch by the lakes, where the only thing better than the food is the view.
For a splash of culture, dive into the area’s rich history with a visit to nearby free museums or historical sites, soaking in the heritage without soaking your wallet. And as the day winds down, find a cosy spot to watch the sunset paint the sky. The best things in life (and travel) are indeed free!
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Edinburgh to Newcastle
£6.67 cheaper, 61 minutes quicker and 3.2kg less CO2
Oh, Newcastle! A vibrant gem in the North that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a fabulous time. First off, take a stroll along the iconic Quayside, where the views of the Tyne Bridge are Instagram gold, and the only cost is the calories you’ll burn. Then, dive into the city’s rich history with a visit to Newcastle Castle, where the past comes alive before your eyes.
If you’re feeling artsy, The Biscuit Factory contemporary art gallery offers a feast for your senses, and guess what? It’s totally free to explore! For a breath of fresh air, Jesmond Dene awaits with its enchanting waterfalls and greenery, perfect for a budget-friendly picnic or a leisurely walk. And let’s not forget the free film screenings in Tyneside Cinema’s Bar Cafe, because who doesn’t love a free movie?
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London Euston to Oban
£27.44 cheaper
The charming little seaside town of Oban is a treasure trove of budget-friendly delights!
Start your day with a jaunt up to McCaig’s Tower, where the views are priceless but thankfully, looking is free. Then, meander down to the bustling harbour, where you can watch the boats and sea life frolic without spending a penny. Fancy a bit of history? The War & Peace Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Oban’s past, and you guessed it, entry is free!
If you’re up for a wee adventure, take a scenic drive (or cycle) around the nearby countryside, where the landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful. And let’s not forget the local beaches, where you can hunt for sea glass, dip your toes in the water, or just enjoy a good old-fashioned picnic.
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Barmouth to Tywyn
£1.92 cheaper, 18 minutes quicker and 1.4kg less CO2
This little gem in Wales is your go-to spot for adventures without draining your wallet.
First off, hit the Talyllyn Railway for a nostalgic steam train ride through the breathtaking Welsh countryside – it’s like stepping into a living postcard! If you’re a beach bum at heart, Tywyn Beach is your sandy paradise, perfect for picnics, sandcastles, and chasing the waves. Don’t forget to lace up your boots and explore the Dysynni Valley, a treasure trove of natural beauty that’s totally free to roam. And for the cherry on top, catch a sunset at the magical Dolgoch Falls, where the only thing you’ll spend is time in awe.
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Aviemore to York
£8.73 cheaper, 31 minutes quicker and 37.8kg less CO2
Ah, York, the city where history and charm shake hands and invite you for an unforgettable stroll!
First on the agenda, York’s ancient city walls beckon for a leisurely walk with views that cost zilch but deliver rich, Instagram-worthy moments. Then, meander through The Shambles, an old street that looks like it’s straight out of a Harry Potter scene – magic for the eyes and free for the taking!
Don’t miss the chance to step into the breathtaking York Minster to soak in some awe-inspiring architecture. If you’re feeling peckish, grab a budget-friendly bite at one of the many quirky cafes dotting the city. And for a touch of greenery, the Museum Gardens offer a picturesque escape with no admission fee.
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Brighton to Leicester
£2.06 cheaper, 11 minutes quicker and 16.9kg less CO2
The city of Leicester is a vibrant patchwork of history, culture, and green spaces, just waiting to be explored. Dive into the past without spending a penny at the Leicester Guildhall, where medieval charm meets ghost stories. Then, let your curiosity roam free at the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery where you’ll find wonders from dinosaurs to Egyptian artefacts.
For a breath of fresh air, meander through the University of Leicester Botanic Garden, where the only thing richer than the biodiversity is the price – free! If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the Great Central Railway offers a nostalgic train ride, and while it’s not free, it’s a steal for the experience. Leicester is your go-to for an unforgettable escapade that keeps your wallet happy!
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East Croydon to Norwich
£12.18 cheaper and 15kg less CO2
Norwich, with its charming blend of medieval architecture and bustling market vibes, is like a cosy book you can’t put down.
Start your adventure with a free wander around the Norwich Cathedral, a stunning example of Norman architecture that promises to awe without costing a dime. Then, step back in time at The Lanes, where browsing the quirky shops and admiring the historic streets is as free as the air you breathe. Fancy a bit of nature? Head over to Eaton Park for a picnic, a kickabout, or just a lazy day under the sun. And for those with a liking for art, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts offers a feast for the eyes without eating into your budget.
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Peterborough to Thetford
£1.35 cheaper, 19 minutes quicker and 5.9kg less CO2
Thetford, nestled in the heart of Norfolk, is a quaint town with surprises around every corner, offering a blend of history, nature, and adventure—all without costing you a fortune.
First up, step into the enchanting world of Thetford Forest. Perfect for cyclists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts, it’s an outdoor playground that’s as vast as your imagination. Don’t miss the Dad’s Army Museum, a quirky spot that celebrates the classic TV series filmed in the area, with a tiny entrance fee that’s well worth the nostalgia. For a touch of history without the price tag, the ruins of Thetford Priory whisper tales of the past to those who wander their grounds. And if you’re keen on spotting some wildlife, the Nunnery Lakes Reserve is a serene spot for birdwatching or simply enjoying a tranquil walk. Thetford proves you don’t need to spend big to experience the best of England’s countryside charm!
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Bath Spa to Newton Abbot
£3.52 cheaper, seven minutes quicker and 11.3kg less CO2
Newton Abbot, a charming market town in the heart of Devon, is filled with things to do that won’t make your wallet weep!
Kick things off with a jaunt to Decoy Country Park, where the lake, woods, and play areas offer a day of fun for absolutely nothing. Fancy a bit of history? The Newton Abbot Town & GWR Museum, with its fascinating railway heritage and local lore, is a delightful dive into the past, and yep, it’s free too!
For the market mavens, the vibrant Newton Abbot Market brings the town to life with its bustling stalls of goodies—perfect for a browse and a chat. And if you’re up for a short drive, the stunning landscapes of Dartmoor National Park await, offering endless hiking, picnicking, and breathtaking views. Newton Abbot is your go-to for those who love to explore, enjoy, and save a bit along the way!
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