I am confused on the process and prices of the rail in the UK. Is it cheaper to travel by rail or car rental? We are going to LHR from there travel to Scotland and back to London in 2 weeks.
Posted by
Los Angeles, California
1986 posts
If you want to experience the countryside- England or Scotland, it is more convenient by car. you can get to more places and stop at spots that interest you (maybe just a little bridge in Scotland). You dont need (cant use) a car in London. Otherwise do you want to fully experience Scotland (train to edinburgh or Glasgow) or the English countrysid in between
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33847 posts
That's a broad question, Jerri. Where do you want to go to in Scotland? Scotland is a very large place, much larger than the 30 miles or so just north of England. There are large areas of Scotland not served by rail, yet the train does go to many places. ..... so ..... where you want to go is critical to answering your question correctly.
Posted by
OP
Houston, TX, USA
2 posts
We have determined that it will be cheaper for us to rent a car and drive from LHR to Scotland. Where is still undetermined as of now. When will be March 29 through April 12. We believe that Bath, Bury St Edmunds, a few days in London befor we return home. Edinburg, Stirling, Glasgow, Mabey Nessy(?). Too much to see in such a short time......
Posted by
Los Angeles, California
1986 posts
Bath is to the west of England, Bury st Edmunds is to the East, awkward to see them both by car unless you are doing a big circle. probably too much driving for 14 days. Easier to concentrate either on the East or the West
Posted by
Reston, Virginia
403 posts
Jerri: No way do you need or want a car while you are in London, so pick it up after you leave or drop the car outside London and train in. The posters who have said that a car allows you to see the small towns and countryside--areas such as the Cotswolds or the Highlands of Scotland--more effectively than a train are quite right. However, are you sure that you are ready to drive on the left side of the road? Unless you get an automatic transmission, not easy to do, you will also be shifting with the left hand. Some people have no problem with this, and to them I tip my hat. Personally, I wouldn't do it under any circumstance. Cheaper is not cheaper if your trip is filled with anxiety, so think carefully about this before making a final decision.
Posted by
Troy, Oh, USA
2804 posts
I would suggest picking up your car at Heathrow.....going to Bath....then up to Scotland...on the way back to London go to Bury St Edmunds....then dropping off the car in St. Albans just north of London....then take the train into London. You don't want to take a car into London..besides driving which is crazy...trying to find a place to park and you would have to pay a congestion charge of £8.00 per day and if you don't pay it there is a penalty of £80.00.