With many holiday plans scuppered this year, more of us than ever will be looking for ways to use the rest of our annual leave on holidays and breaks a little closer to home this autumn.
And with 43% of Brits stating that they definitely won’t go abroad this year, 2021 has been all about the staycation. With so many incredible places to visit in the UK, here are some British hotspots across Govia Thameslink Railway routes that would fool anyone into thinking they’ve jetted off abroad.
Swap Bordeaux for East Sussex
With trips to the South of France out for many, travellers can still enjoy a delicious glass of wine with a picturesque view by taking a trip to East Sussex. With the UK now producing some outstanding British wines, take a day trip to Bolney Wine Estate in Haywards Heath or Rathfinny Wine Estate in Polegate where you’ll discover beautiful vineyards to rival some of the top French spots. This is the perfect opportunity for any staycation as not only does East Sussex offer an array of vineyards, it has plenty of picturesque villages such as Rye and Alfriston easily accessible by train.
Getting to East Sussex from London takes 60 – 90 minutes on Southern and Thameslink services, with routes from London Victoria, London Bridge and London St Pancras.
Bruges or Cambridge?
For those seeking a city break in Bruges – known for its impressive architecture, canal trips and a stunning market square – skip the queues at passport control and jump on the train to Cambridge instead. With more than five colleges to visit, including Trinity College, home to the famous Wren library and King’s College founded in 1441 by Henry VI, it’s easy to spend a day lost in the history of this fascinating city. If you fancy a little down time, take a trip punting down the River Cam and see the historical wooden Mathematical Bridge before heading to the market square for a bite to eat.
Tourists can hop on a Great Northern train from London King’s Cross and be exploring the historic streets of Cambridge in just 48 minutes.
Trade Tuscany for The South Downs
If you’re dreaming about the rolling hills of Tuscany and scenic views as far as the eye can see for your next break, why not take a trip to the UK’s South Downs? With breathtaking views of the English countryside, pack up a picnic and spend the day surrounded by nature. Pure bliss!
Why wait? It’s just a 60-minute Southern train to get to The South Downs from London Victoria and with no need to book ahead, you’ll be transported to the rolling hills in no time.
Replace Milan’s Duomo for the epic St Alban’s Cathedral
For those in search for some religious culture, why not hop on the train to St Albans? ‘The Abbey’ is estimated to have been founded in the 8th century and is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain. Open daily from 08:30 – 17:30, visitors can enjoy free indoor daily guided tours and learn about the cathedral’s rich history, including the monarchs that have walked on the same stones, whilst taking in the incredible architecture.
After just a 20-minute Thameslink journey from London St Pancras, you can explore the mighty cathedral in all its glory.
With so many choosing to stay closer to home this year and the UK generating a positive buzz as an exciting destination, both domestically and in parts of Europe, the train is a great – and environmentally-friendly – way to discover the spectacular places and attractions across the network.
For more information on how to book , please visit the Southern, Thameslink and Great Northern websites. ( All information and times produced by Govia Thameslink Railway
