Deciding whether to travel around the UK by train, by car, or by using a combination of both is one of the biggest planning decisions you will make. In this episode, we talk through the pros and cons of each option so you can decide what works best for your route, travel style, and priorities.

We explain how UK train travel works in practice and why trains are often the best choice for getting between major cities and towns. We also clear up a common misconception: once you arrive in places like London, York, Edinburgh, or Bath, you generally do not need a car, as these cities are compact, walkable, and well served by local transport.

We then look at when driving makes more sense, particularly for countryside destinations and rural regions, and share common planning mistakes to avoid adding unnecessary stress or cost to your trip.

In this episode, you will learn:

• When trains are the best option for travelling between UK cities and towns
• Why cities like London, York, Edinburgh, and Bath are best explored on foot once you arrive
• How the main UK rail routes fit into itinerary planning
• When hiring a car makes sense for countryside and rural destinations
• Why combining trains for long distances and cars for short rural loops often works best

📝 Show Notes - Episode 184

🎧 Listen to next:

• Episode #157 - Train Travel Mistakes
• Episode #155 - Road Trip Planning Mistakes 
• Episode #182 - Planning a UK trip

• Click here to book a 30 minute Q&A with Doug Collins (our resident rail expert)
• Click here for our UK Train Travel Planning Bundle

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