My husband and I will be travelling for two weeks in England. We are youthful seniors who will be relying on public transportation. Right now our itinerary includes Bath and Oxford as bases to visit some surrounding areas while seeing those towns, York (possibly two nights), and London (three nights)at the conclusion of our trip. We have two days for which we have not yet made plans. We had been thinking of the Lake District or North Wales since we enjoy hiking, nature and interesting scenery. The concern is whether it will just be too ambitious without having a car, and if it is still worth going via public transportation. Which area makes more sense? Any specifics on a suggested area would be appreciated.
Thank you- B&B
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1526 posts
I personally prefer Wales because of Edward's Castles; all available to see on a CADW pass. Snowdonia has spectacular scenery, with a train up to the top of Mt Snowdon; some ambitious hikers walk down. Wales has many scenic train routes available. The Lake District is further north for you. It is very popular for tourists. It has some good territorial vistas for hikers...the trails are a moderate challenge. Bath and Oxford are easily reached by train from London. You can take buses from there to some great sites such as Blenheim Palace 45 minutes from Oxford. Bath has some hikes up in the surrounding hills with great views back of the town. I would put York at the end as it is a easy train ride from or to London and hosts the Train Museum, the York Minster and the Town Wall hike. You can take a tour from here to Castle Howard. York might be the best place to go if you only have 2 days before London. You would want to spend more time in Wales.
Posted by
8329 posts
We are planning a four week drive of England and Wales in October and I would advise you to skip the Lake District considering the time available. Also, spend three nights in York. Consider a day in Warwick as well.
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
I too would add at least one extra night and ideally two to York and spend time exploring the countryside of Yorkshire, rather than upping sticks again. Look at the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. North Wales and the Lake District are best covered in a car in such a short timescale.
York city centre deserves a full day too.
Posted by
Kingston, Surrey
239 posts
You can do either just by public transport. The Lake District is probably slightly better served, but in truth neither is that easy without a car. Especially true if you want to walk--there are buses away from the tourist honey pots, but they aren't often very frequent.