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History continues to be made in some timeless British cities. As you know, traveling from A to B in Europe is very different than in the United States.
Instead of being shuffled through security like nameless cattle and scrolling TikTok for hours waiting for a flight to board, hand it to Europe for their impressive end-to-end rail system.
I’ve just taken a high-speed train from Paris to Marseille and it couldn’t have been more seamless, and while the latest exciting train announcement won’t buzz through the French countryside, it does connect two must-see destinations for your next UK adventures.
CrossCountries new direct service will benefit travelers who want to explore more of Britain than the bright lights of London with at least one household name and another emerging capital.
History in the making: first direct route connecting Cardiff and Edinburgh
CrossCountry is delighted to announce their first route of its kind connecting Cardiff and Edinburgh.
With Britain becoming increasingly popular, travelers will soon have an easier way to reach Scottish Gothic icon Edinburgh and the trendy capital of Wales, with countless hidden gems in between.
Set to start December 15just in time to make use of your holiday days or to start 2025 off right, you can seek out new sensations in Britain from Edinburgh or Cardiff, as the train runs both ways every weekday.
The trip is expected to take approximately 6 hours in total, and there will be 20 stops along the 455-mile journey.
Choose to get out and explore a wealth of lesser-known gems such as Gloucester or Sheffield, or enjoy the full journey on CrossCountry’s Traveler trains.
Please note that the route splits at Birmingham and Gloucester, so keep an ear out for announcements to ensure you are going in the right direction!
Otherwise you might end up on the English coast in Plymouth or Penzance wishing you had packed your swimwear.
Why visit Cardiff?
Cardiff is an emerging destination, supported by Conde Nast’s article crowning this lesser-known capital as the British capital.Best city‘ in 2023.
As we turn the page to 2025, the hype for Cardiff has only grown stronger, and now travelers have an easier way to discover all the delights this city has to offer.
Both timeless and modern, there’s no shortage of places where you can immerse yourself in Cardiff’s timeline or enjoy the here and now with trendy neighborhoods full of buzzing bars.
Visit the unmissable medieval Cardiff Castle for one grand tour (just $5!) or visit the revamped Cardiff Market which oozes Victorian atmosphere, where local vendors sell local treats such as Welsch cakes.
Although British food occasionally gets a bad wrap, the cuisine here goes far beyond endless tea and bland crumpets.
Getting around anywhere in Britain without grabbing a pint is a difficult feat. Here’s one of your best bets The Duke of WellingtonA Real traditional pub dating back to the 1880s and still cooking up hearty pub food and serving the best cold drinks.
And don’t miss the classic Fish & Chips on Caroline Street (known as ‘Chip Alley’ for a reason)!
Why visit Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has a lot to offer, especially for Americans. As the only destination in Britain to exceed pre-Covid-19 tourist numbers, there is no reason to believe the city will return any sooner.
With the soon to be launched train and current direct flights from the US, Edinburgh is a great alternative to London’s chaos as a shrunken urban jungle with great sights.
Exploring the Old Town is an absolute must and will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook, no matter the season.
Home to towering castles as it is rightly named Edinburgh castleIn and around the city, Edinburgh can certainly compete with any other European icon in terms of architecture and history.
The only problem you may face when coming here is whether you want to continue on to Cardiff!
There is no doubt that Edinburgh is an easier starting point as there are direct flights here.
Wherever you leave, you can book your trip now CrossCountry website.
But keep in mind that from January 8, 2025, Great Britain will require a permit for American travelers.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
