We’ve all seen London in the movies, and many areas of the city aren’t far off from its cinematic portrayal.
Hopping aboard bright red double-decker buses through the city is definitely a must, but once you deboard, you’re just another face in the thick of the city’s bustling streets.
London is great to visit, but more and more travelers are scoping out the U.K.’s best alternatives and hidden gems.
From the storybook Cotswolds to surprisingly stunning islands, the U.K. is finally getting its due beyond the fascination with London.
Just this week, a new train connecting 2 of the U.K.’s most beautiful cities was launched by the Great Western Railway (GWR), making England all the more enticing to explore.
Don’t Call It A Comeback – It’s Only Been 21 Years!
The GWR has brought back to life one of its most scenic routes end to end after a 21-year pause.
So, why now?
Like I said, our friendly allies ‘across the pond’ have become a trendier destination, especially among American travelers.
Another would simply be locals who want to enjoy their own country’s top cities as well. And where locals go, travelers should always follow!
Having halted multiple decades ago, the potential for a tourism boom beyond London is more than feasible, and it seems this route is here to stay.
‘Having direct connectivity between some of the world’s best Universities, businesses and tourist attractions is a fantastic positive and we think will prove very popular.’Matt Griffith, Director of Policy, Business West
Relaunched September 14th, discover the Gothic grandeur of Oxford connecting to Bristol, another beaut in its own right, and recently voted not only as one of the U.K.’s prettiest cities, but the happiest too. Cheerio!
With a handful of British treasures in between, tourists can escape the London grind for these historic gems instead.
The Full Route
The paperwork is submitted, and the boring behind-the-scenes bureaucracy is over; the GWR’s Bristol – Oxford route has officially commenced.
This is the official schedule from Bristol:
- Depart Bristol Temple Meads at 10.18am (or 3:18pm)
- Stop in Bath Spa at 10:31am (or 3:31pm)
- Stop in Chippenham at 10:44am (or 3:45pm)
- Stop in Swindon at 10:58am (or 4:00 pm)
- Arrive in Oxford at 11:29am (or 4:31pm)
Reverse order from Oxford:
- Depart Oxford at 12:03pm (or 5:12pm)
- Stop in Swindon at 12:34pm (or 5:46pm)
- Stop in Chippenham at 3:45pm (or 5:58pm)
- Stop in Bath Spa at 1:00pm (or 6:11pm)
- Arrive in Bristol Temple Meads at 1:12pm (or 6:23pm)
Direct service is only offered on Saturdays twice per day. Prices start at $34 one-way from either Oxford or Bristol Temple Meads for Standard Class.
First Class travelers will have to splurge a bit more with current fares costing $70 each way, which can be booked on GWR’s official website.
Tip: Sooner you book, the better! GWR offers discounted fares for advanced bookings.
Where You Should Go: The Oxford – Bristol Route’s Highlights
Beyond London, travelers may wonder where they should venture off to, but these are some real gems included on this route.
Oxford:
Starting off with Oxford, the architecture alone will leave you gobsmacked! Dating back to the 12th century, the city’s Gothic marvels are a sight to behold, especially at world-renowned Oxford University.
Beyond the school grounds, the city is well worth exploring along the scenic River Thames where you’ll notice a huge difference between the peaceful atmosphere versus London’s madness.
Make sure to stop at The Covered Market, a legendary bazaar dating back to the 1700s!
Swindon, Chippenham, & Bath:
The in-betweeners along this revamped route shouldn’t be overlooked. Swindon is small yet mighty with cultural sites and beautiful countryside.
You can nerd out at the Museum of Computing, take a stroll through Queens Parks or check out an authentic local pub like The Beehive without the touristy fluff.
Chippenham is picturesque town along the River Avon dating back to Roman times. Today, you’ll find charming cobbled streets and medieval buildings, but most impressive is the bustling town market held on weekends.
Bath may be the most notable of the bunch renowned for, you guessed it, baths! Roman baths, that is, are an absolute must when visiting the area!
Bristol:
Circling back, Bristol was voted one of the U.K.’s prettiest cities for a reason.
There’s plenty to take in, boasting vibrant street art, a glistening waterfront, and astounding landmarks like Bristol Castle!
Not to mention the underrated nightlife scene and how affordable it is to visit compared to London, our last report claimed you can easily book an Airbnb near the city center for just $39!
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