A solo trip can be a liberating experience. Gone are the debates over what to do next and the feeling of always having to please other people. It’s just you, your thoughts, and the journey ahead. And there are few places in the world better suited to travelling alone than the UK.
From historical landmarks to stunning cities, there’s an abundance of things to do in the UK perfectly suited to solo travellers. So, whether you’re taking a well-deserved break or looking to get some life inspiration, these are the best solo trips the UK has to offer.
Lake District
As far as views go, few places in the UK – the world, even – can compete with the Lake District. The region is home to stunning scenery and lakes that are begging to be explored, with an abundance of adventure activities that any solo traveller can enjoy. Spend your days hiking, climbing, and mountain biking, before you finish it off at a traditional English pub. Outdoor life doesn’t get any better.
Cornwall
With quaint coastal towns and outstanding hiking routes – not to mention some of the best beaches in the UK – Cornwall is one of the best places for a UK solo trip. Visit Tintagel for ancient ruins, drink great coffee and eat local cuisine at St Ives, or get your surf on at Great Western Beach. There’s so much to do in Cornwall, we even created our own seven-day itinerary – perfect whether you’re travelling in a group or alone.
Bath
Few UK cities allow you to relax in the same way Bath does. Named after the Roman baths it’s still home to, 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 and ending up at one of the many drinking holes – look to The Chequers for great beer and food.
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 breath-taking 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 the UK’s favourite hobby: visiting pubs.
London
There’s so much going on in England’s capital it’s impossible to list an itinerary here. Visit East London for a glimpse into the city’s hipster scene, with plenty of cool cafes, bars, and street art to explore. Head across to Oxford Circus and you’ll realise why it’s one of the best places for shopping in the UK – and the world. Discover a wealth of history at the London Dungeons, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey.
Brighton
The seaside town has seen a recent reformation in Britain after the rise of the international holiday left them unappreciated. Brighton evaded this, though, and has consistently remained one of the best places in the UK for sun and sea. With a buzzing nightlife, quirky buildings and shops, and a beach that matches any across the globe, it’s one of the best places to spend some solo time in the UK.
Edinburgh
When you’re travelling alone, safety is high on the priority list. You won’t find any city safer than Edinburgh, with an extremely low crime rate for a capital. Aside from this, you’ll be drawn to its abundance of museums and Edinburgh Castle, which towers above 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.
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.
If you’re looking for one of the best solo trips in the UK, don’t forget to book an Advance ticket via our website or our Train Tickets app. You can also find information on how to get cheaper train tickets via our special offers page. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
The UK is bursting with fun activities. Whether you’re visiting one of the best castles in the UK, the best theme parks in the UK, or the best waterparks in the UK, you can always travel by train. CrossCountry has services running up and down the country to ensure you can get to the places you need to be.