Train travel in Britain is the easiest and most flexible ways to get around. Whether you are taking a quick excursion from London or traversing the British countryside, there is a route to serve you. Urban travelers appreciate the fact that most of the United Kingdom’s cities are so compact that arrivals by train mean they are already in the midst of historic and cultural districts, or a short walk away. Rural itineraries may take travelers through some scenic wonders hidden in the British countryside, and makes stops at charming villages.

The British rail system was developed in the nineteenth century. The system consisted of four companies that were region-specific until the Transport Act of 1947 began making inroads to nationalizing the network. As ridership faded during the 1960s, there were calls to sell off branches and routes and to privatize the system. Now privatized, the West Coast Main Line, East Coast Main Line, Great Western Main Line and Midland Main Line follow the same routes they did when they were owned by the government. There are now nearly 30 different companies operating railways and overseeing routes in Britain.

The comprehensiveness of the railway system, paired with Britain’s size, makes train travel convenient. Tourists can cross from one end of the country to the other in one day. Even the more rural outposts typically offer a few departures per day, while the more traveled spots have several departures per hour.

While the timetables in the stations are great general guides, delays and train changes are fairly common. Keep connection times generous and itineraries on the more open side to accommodate any last-minute alterations to the schedules. Some trains offer standard class and first class. Remember to specify if you wish to face front or back. First class coaches may have bigger cars, wider seats, complimentary snacks and reading lamps.

The Britrail pass is available only to overseas tourists. Visitors must purchase these passes in advance, before entering the United Kingdom. In high season, trains on popular routes fill up quickly, so make reservations. Discounted seats also sell out, and advance purchase is required. The busiest periods for British rail are the winter holidays, Easter, bank holidays and early morning Friday departures.

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