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is a Britrail pass worth it in our case?

Hello again,

This is Eric, and as indicated in an earlier post my wife and I are going to London for 10 days June 5-June 14. I was last in London 1990--my wife, never. We have limited time because of work commitments, etc. I mean, we can't go 2-3 weeks This is also an anniversary trip-our 10th Since I'm "been before"--and my wife doesn't mind--we are going to skip at least a FEW of the main "draws" like Tower of London in favor of a few days trips. only ONE will be an "organized" viator style all day tour-- that Sunday, to Blenheim Palace , Cotswolds, etc. But I am planning (tentative!) day trips to Canterbury, Warwick Castle, and Portsmouth on our own. For the record I'm a history teacher, so I know pretty much what I want to see-BUT a welcome suggestions. Yeah heard Warwick a bit "Disneyland"--but looks fun in terms of costumed people, etc. BUT here's my question: Is a Britrail pass worth it for only 3-4 day trips?-- like getting a 3-day pass, for example.... Here's the thing: This is a special anniversary trip, and I want it to be as stress-free as possible-- not long ticket lines, and so on. So, what does anyone think? many thanks

Posted by
1526 posts

Have you been to Hampton Court? It makes a great day out. It has different escorted tours thru the eras and Rulers. My Favorite is Henry the 8th. It is one of the Historic Royal Palaces which has a membership for a couple of 50 pounds or so. Then you have free access to Hampton Court, the Banqueting Hall , Kensington Palace. Kew Palace, Hillsbourgh Castle and the Tower (Your Lady may want to see the Crown Jewels). You can get a Day Return Ticket to Hampton Court which may be less expensive than using a Pass. There is a viator tour also. Warwick was fun, but Hampton Court may satisfy you. Portsmouth and the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose are fabulous. Check to see if there are time differences in the prices of train tickets between commuter hours.

Posted by
2599 posts

You need to go to www.nationalrail.co.uk and put in for the rail trips that you plan to make. Try and get up early and see prices for pay today - go today. Then check out the fares for about 11 weeks ahead of now. Note them down. Would you be happy to pre-bbok specific trains about 11 weeks out - if the fares were cheaper? Compare that with the cost fo the Britrail Pass.

Posted by
1530 posts

No way is a Britrail pass worth it in your case! Those are all fairly short trips. I would suggest that if you do go to Canterbury you work in Dover Castle. I think they can both be done in a day, but it would be a very full day. IMHO Dover Castle is much better than Warwick. As suggested by another poster - Hampton Court is very good also!