Forget dinner and a movie. Nothing could be more romantic than a first-class train trip for Valentine’s Day. So, without further ado, let’s discover some of the most romantic train trips you can take from London.
1. Lake District
The Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cumbria, provides the ideal spot to escape busy city life for a few days. Romantic poets like William Wordsworth praised the unique beauty of the area. Couples can indulge in a delicious breakfast in one of Cumbria’s market towns before hitting the trail. Take a leisurely stroll through some of the easier trails or work up a sweat on a more challenging hike. Then, settle down under the stars at a luxury glamping site, listening to the glorious sounds of nature.
Getting there: Get to the Lake District by taking the Avanti West Coast line from London to Oxenholme Lake District Station. The trip takes approximately three hours. After all that camping and hiking, you’ll appreciate your upgraded first-class treatment on the way home.
2. Edinburgh
Dreamy couples can recreate Scottish fairy tales in picturesque Edinburgh. By day, you’ll learn the secrets of royal figures like the legendary Mary of the Scots at Edinburgh Castle. In the evening, lovers can relax with twin glasses of Scotch at a historic pub before heading out to take in some of the local nightlife or having a two-person party at the hotel.
Getting there: Take the four and a half-hour trip on the CrossCountry or Avanti West Coast line from London’s Euston or Kings Cross to Edinburgh’s Waverley Station. It’s a bit of a hike but you can upgrade your ticket with Seatfrog and travel like Scottish royalty on a budget.
3. Oxford and the Cotswolds
Couples can meander through the cobblestone streets of Oxford and rekindle the romantic magic with a tour of Christ Church, one of the most recognizable Harry Potter filming locations. Afterward, head to the medieval villages of the Cotswolds and check out the local crafts. Spend a night or two exchanging sweet talk in front of the fireplace in a stone cottage before heading back to London.
Getting there: Trains to Oxford leave from Paddington or Marylebone stations. The trip to Oxford is just over an hour. Continue onward to the Cotswolds on the Great Western Railway. We recommend taking a day trip out to explore the quaint countryside. You can drop your bags at one of the many Stasher locations in Oxford to make your life easier when exploring the Cotswolds.
4. Cornwall
If your idea of romance involves secluded beaches and quaint fishing villages, head straight to Cornwall. Indulge in Celtic history and romantic fantasy at Tintagel Castle, the home of King Arthur. Explore the English countryside on the hiking trails of the Penwith Peninsula. Skip the crowds at Land’s End, and bask in a romantic sunset in Cape Cornwall.
Getting there: Great Western Railway trains leave every two hours from Paddington Station to Tintagel or Newquay. From there, you can take local trains to explore the peninsula.
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5. Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Abundant with emerald forests, white-water rapids and luscious waterfalls, Snowdonia is the perfect getaway for active lovers. Adventure-seekers can take the couple’s challenge up Mount Snowden. In the evening, indulge in a romantic Italian dinner in Mediterranian-styled Portmeirion or visit a traditional village tavern and recite Welsh poetry over pints of ale. Afterward, couples can cuddle in front of the fireplace at a romantic bed and breakfast in Betws-y-Coed village.
Getting there: Purchase advance tickets from Avanti West Coast from Euston Station to Bangor. Pro tip: upgrade to First Class to enjoy complimentary nibbles and drinks in the First Class Lounge at Euston.
6. Bath
Are you and your honey looking for a short trip to relax and unwind? The ancient Roman resort of Aquae Sulis offers the perfect Valentine’s holiday for busy couples. Lovers can soak in the hot springs and de-stress with a couple’s massage at the Thermae Bath Spa. In the evening, you can dine in a 5-star restaurant while taking in the stunning views of the Georgian city.
Getting there: Great Western Railway trains leave for Bath from Paddington Station every 30 minutes.
Want to step your romantic getaway up a notch? Check out Seatfrog. They offer discounted First Class upgrades on most of the long-distance routes in the UK. Think: extra space, complimentary food and drink, and plush seats for you and your honey to spread out. Thanks to Seatfrog’s upgrades on train trips, getting there is half the fun! Also, Stasher makes your life easier by offering affordable luggage storage so you can make the most of your little escapade.
Hi! I am George and I am the Content Lead for Stasher.com. I love travel, writing, making music and meeting new and interesting people.