A solo trip can be truly freeing—no need to compromise or worry about pleasing others. It's just you, your thoughts, and the adventure ahead. And when it comes to solo travel, the UK is hard to beat. Whether you're taking a break or seeking inspiration, hop on a train with CrossCountry and explore some of the best solo trips the UK has to offer.
Cornwall
With quaint coastal towns and outstanding hiking routes, Cornwall is an ideal solo getaway. Start at St Michael’s Mount, a stunning tidal island with a historic castle. Unwind at Watergate Bay, famous for its golden sands and surf-friendly waves, and don’t miss the Eden Project’s futuristic biomes. Explore Tintagel’s ancient ruins, enjoy great coffee and local cuisine in St Ives, or catch some waves at Great Western Beach. Whether you're after adventure or tranquillity, Cornwall has it all.
CrossCountry runs services along the south of Cornwall, from Liskeard all the way to Penzance, making a solo trip on public transport a reasonable and sustainable option.
Bath
Few UK cities allow you to relax in the same way Bath does. Named after the famous landmark, the Roman baths, the city is as quaint as they come, with Victorian architecture, cobbled streets, and a wealth of spas to choose from. We recommend getting lost in Bath’s charm for a day, wandering the narrow shopping streets, browsing the bookshops and ending up at one of the many delicious restaurants – look to Chequers for great beer and food.
The most convenient way to reach Bath Spa from the west is via a connecting train from Bristol Temple Meads. For those heading from the east, there are onward services from Oxford, Reading, and other towns like Basingstoke and Winchester.
The Cotswolds
A stone’s throw from Bath is the Cotswolds, with yet more unbelievable British scenery to soak up. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has it all, from breathtaking views and challenging hikes to outdoor activities and charming villages. Look to Castle Combe for an ultimate Instagram village, take a trek along Cotswold Way, and finish the day partaking in a delicious roast dinner at a local pub.
You can access the Cotswolds with a connecting train from a variety of CrossCountry stations, including Oxford, Cheltenham Spa, and Worcestershire Parkway. From these stations, there are plenty of onward routes to the main station in the Cotswolds, Moreton-in-Marsh.
Edinburgh
Travelling safely when alone should be your number one priority. Edinburgh, has an extremely low crime rate for the capital, making it a popular destination for solo holidaymakers. Aside from this, you’ll be drawn to its abundance of museums and Edinburgh Castle, which towers over the city atop Castle Rock. The city’s cobbled streets are lined with enough cafes, restaurants and bars to last a lifetime, and green space is always just a wander away. For nature lovers, Edinburgh Zoo is a must-visit, home to over 1,000 animals, including the UK's only giant pandas and the famous penguin parade. Sports fans, meanwhile, can head to Murrayfield Stadium, Scotland's largest and most iconic rugby venue, where you can either catch a match or explore the historic grounds.
Edinburgh Waverley is well-connected by CrossCountry, offering routes from across the UK that make reaching the city convenient for solo travellers, whether arriving from England or other parts of Scotland, such as Motherwell, Stonehaven, or Montrose.
Snowdonia
There’s a reason why Snowdonia is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the UK. It’s home to a number of peaks and treks that would make any ‘top’ list, with Mount Snowdon by far the most beloved. Unforgettable views can be witnessed in almost every direction, from Harlech Castle to Hafod Eryri. If you’re feeling sore after too much walking, take a ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway for an easy way up.
Norfolk
With Norwich, Great Yarmouth, and Cromer all within touching distance, Norfolk has everything you need all in one place. Discover the county’s history at Norwich Cathedral and explore East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden for some green space. Great Yarmouth is home to some of the UK’s most-visited beaches, while Cromer is perfect for a quiet, quaint seaside experience.
Southampton
Southampton has been an important port city since way back in the medieval times and today is a popular destination for holidaygoers. The city’s Western Shore and Weston Shore areas provide accessible waterfront paths, ideal for leisurely strolls with beautiful views over the Solent. Although Southampton isn't known for its sandy beaches, nearby Calshot Beach is both wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly, offering a peaceful retreat just outside the city. Don’t miss the medieval Bargate, a stunning historic gate that once marked the entrance to the city. Aviation fans can visit Solent Sky Museum, home to an impressive collection of aircraft, showcasing the region's contributions to aviation history.
Southampton Central can be accessed from all over the UK aboard a CrossCountry train, including from Bournemouth, Manchester Piccadilly, and Edinburgh Waverley.
If you’re planning a solo trip, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Julia