Historian Alice Loxton, with over 2 million TikTok followers, is encouraging people to explore the UK’s rich history in locations just a few hours from home. A survey by Trainline revealed that while 75% of Brits expressed interest in visiting historic sites, only 10% had actually done so. One of the main reasons behind this gap is the lack of knowledge about where to find these sites and how to reach them. To address this issue, Trainline has partnered with Alice to promote travel to UK historic sites by train, making it more accessible for curious travelers. Alice suggests a variety of historic towns to visit across the UK, starting with her top recommendations.
One of Alice’s favorite UK destinations is Stratford-upon-Avon, known for its association with Shakespeare. Visitors can explore sites such as Shakespeare’s birthplace, his school, and his grave. Another hidden gem in the town is the Guild Chapel, which features medieval wall paintings that have survived to this day. The whitewashing of the paintings in the 1500s was overseen by Shakespeare’s father, John, adding an intriguing historical dimension to the site. Stratford-upon-Avon is a two-hour train ride from London, making it easily accessible for a day trip to delve into its rich history.
In York, visitors can follow in Roman footsteps by walking along the ancient city walls that date back almost 2,000 years. The city also offers unique sights such as the quirky street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate, and the picturesque Shambles alleyway. Other attractions in York include the birthplace of Guy Fawkes, York Minster cathedral, and the annual Viking Festival in February, celebrating the city’s Norse heritage. The city is less than two hours by train from London and under three hours from Edinburgh, making it a convenient stop for history enthusiasts looking to explore the UK’s past.
Edinburgh, a popular destination for tourists, offers a mix of natural beauty and historical significance. The city, built around an extinct volcano known as Arthur’s Seat, provides stunning panoramic views and inspiration for Harry Potter fans with its winding streets. Royal history buffs can explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse, once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, and the Royal Yacht Britannia which hosted notable figures like Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela. Edinburgh is just a five-hour train ride from London, with direct rail links to major UK cities, making it easily accessible for visitors looking to immerse themselves in British history.
Alice’s rail recommendations offer travelers a convenient and engaging way to explore the UK’s historic sites. By partnering with Trainline, she aims to bridge the gap between intention and action for those interested in delving into the country’s rich heritage. Whether it’s Shakespearean heritage in Stratford-upon-Avon, Roman history in York, or royal connections in Edinburgh, these destinations offer a diverse range of experiences for history enthusiasts. With accessible train connections from major UK cities, exploring the country’s past has never been easier, encouraging more people to rediscover their heritage close to home.
Overall, Alice Loxton’s rail recommendations provide a valuable guide for travelers looking to explore the UK’s historic sites by train. Her insights into lesser-known gems like the Guild Chapel in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Viking Festival in York offer a unique perspective on the country’s rich history. By highlighting convenient train connections to these destinations, Alice makes it easier for curious travelers to embark on a journey of discovery and connect with the past. With her expertise and passion for history, Alice inspires others to follow in her footsteps and uncover the fascinating stories that lie within the UK’s historic towns and cities.