Exploring the UK

Source: https://warwick.ac.uk/students/together/welcome/internationalstudents/traveluk/ Parent: https://warwick.ac.uk/students/together/welcome/

Popular places to visit in the UK

LondonEdinburghBathOxfordCambridgeLake District The CotswoldsYorkCanterbury

London

London has a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern life, with something for everyone. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, it's a city that never ceases to surprise.

Top Attractions

How to get there?

Travelling by Bus

Station: Coventry Pool Meadow London Victoria

Service provider: National ExpressLink opens in a new window and FLIX BusLink opens in a new window

Cost: You can find one way tickets as cheap as £8, the key would be to book your tickets way in advance

Duration: Usually buses from Coventry take roughly around 3hrs to reach London. But if you are on a budget, travelling by bus would be the cheapest option

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station London Euston

Service provider: Avanti West CoastLink opens in a new window and West Midland RailwayLink opens in a new window

Cost: You can find one way tickets as cheap as £9, the key would be to book your tickets way in advance. The key to find cheap tickets would be to travel during off-peak timings, and get a 16-25 Railcard (saving 30% on standard fare). Booking fixed time returns is also significantly cheaper than open-return. Check more about travelling on a budget.

Duration: The fastest train would reach within 55mins (Avanti west coast). Other trains like the West Midlands Railway takes 1 hr 30 mins to 3hrs depending upon the number of stops and train changes. Always remember that the direct & faster trains are priced a bit more than the others.

Edinburgh

Famous for its medieval Old Town, the city is rich in history, with stunning views and a thriving arts scene. Edinburgh’s festivals and unique architecture make it a cultural hotspot year-round.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh CastleLink opens in a new window
Royal MileLink opens in a new window
Arthur's Seat
National Museum of ScotlandLink opens in a new window
Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe day trips

How to get there?

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station Edinburgh (Waverly)

Service Provider: Avanti West Coast,Link opens in a new window Cross Country,Link opens in a new window Transpennine expressLink opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you as little as £50-60 if you travel during the week and book your travel weeks before

Duration: The fastest train would reach within 5hrs (Avanti west coast). Other trains may take 6 hrs- 7 hrs depending upon the number of stops and train changes. Always remember that the direct & faster trains are priced a bit more than the others.

Travelling by Plane

Airports: Birmingham International (BHX) Edinburgh International (EDI)

* You can easily get to the Birmingham International Airport by train or bus from Coventry (takes 10-20 minutes).

Service Provider: Easy JetLink opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you as little as £50-70. Flight tickets might be cheaper than trains in multiple instances. Use skysannerLink opens in a new window to compare the prices of flights across various service providers and times

Duration: Direct flights just take around 1 hr 10 mins. Flights can be the best option to travel time efficiently.

Bath

Known for its well-preserved Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture, Bath is a picturesque historical town. Its elegant streets, thermal springs, and rich heritage make it a charming escape, perfect for those interested in history and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Roman BathsLink opens in a new window
Bath AbbeyLink opens in a new window
Pulteney Bridge
Royal CrescentLink opens in a new window

How to get there?

Travelling by Bus

Station: Coventry Pool Meadow Bath Coach Station

Service Provider: National ExpressLink opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you£30-70

Duration: A coach journey to bath may not be feasible to a lot of students as it roughly5 hrs and a couple of bus changes. However if you are on a budget and trains are more expensive, a bus journey might be ideal

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station Bath Spa

Service Provider: CrosscountryLink opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you a minimum of £30-50

Duration: The fastest train would reach within 2 hrs 30 mins. You can get the tickets cheaper if you split the tickets, but the duration of the travel would increase

Why not combine your trip?

Bath is a delightful destination, ideal for a day trip or a longer 2-3 day getaway when combined with nearby Bristol and Stoneleigh.Link opens in a new window Bath pairs beautifully with the vibrant culture of Bristol and the charming countryside of Stoneleigh. Traveling by train is a convenient and efficient option.

Oxford

Known as the "City of Dreaming Spires," Oxford is iconic for its prestigious university and stunning medieval architecture. Visitors can immerse themselves in its rich academic history, explore beautiful college grounds, and enjoy a tranquil river experience through the tradition of punting.

Top Attractions

University of Oxford
Ashmolean MuseumLink opens in a new window
Bodleian LibraryLink opens in a new window
Christ Church College
Punting on the River ThamesLink opens in a new window

How to get there?

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station Oxford Railway station

Service Provider: CrosscountryLink opens in a new window , Great Western Railway

Cost: A round trip can cost you as little as £15

Duration: The fastest train would reach in 48 mins making it an ideal day trip location.

Cambridge

Famous for its prestigious university and breathtaking Gothic architecture, Cambridge offers a blend of academic heritage and natural beauty. The city's serene river scenes and vibrant college culture make it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and those looking to experience traditional English charm.

Top Attractions

University of Cambridge
King's College ChapelLink opens in a new window
Punting on the River Cam
Cambridge University Botanic GardenLink opens in a new window
MuseumsLink opens in a new window

How to get there?

Travelling by Bus

Station: Coventry Pool Meadow Cambridge Parkside (City Centre)

Service Provider: National Express Link opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you as little as £30.

Duration: National Express do have buses running throughout the week and would take you 3 hrs to arrive to Cambridge. A bus journey might be ideal if you want to avoid the hassle of changing multiple trains

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station Cambridge

Service Provider: CrosscountryLink opens in a new window , Great Western RailwayLink opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you as little as £30. Trains during the peak-time would cost you quite a lot.

Duration: The fastest train would reach in 2 hr 20 mins with atleast 1 or 2 changes. The first change might be London Euston, where you would have to take a tube from Euston to London Kings Cross. London Kings Cross to Cambridge would be a journey less than 1 hr

Lake District

The Lake District is the UK’s largest national park, celebrated for its stunning lakes, rugged mountains, and idyllic villages. A haven for nature lovers, it offers endless opportunities for hiking, boating, and exploring scenic landscapes that have inspired poets and writers for centuries.

Top Attractions

How to get there?

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station Oxenholme Lake District or Penrith North Lakes

Service Provider: Avanti West CoastLink opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you as little as £20.

Duration: The fastest train would reach in 2 hr 45 mins with no changes. You can choose to split your tickets to save more.

Travelling within Lake District

Travelling within lake district might be a bit challenging. Therefore plan your itinerary and look for local bus timings to ensure you have no last minute delays. Bus farers within lake district are £2 till December 2024

Popular bus routes in Lake District

The Cotswolds

Known for its charming villages and rolling countryside, the Cotswolds is quintessentially English and perfect for a peaceful countryside retreat. Its honey-coloured stone cottages and scenic landscapes offer a glimpse into traditional rural England at its finest.

Top Attractions

Details list of attractions

How to get there?

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station Bibury, Cam and Dursley, Cheltenham, Evesham, Stratford-upon-Avon, Gloucester, Kemble, Moreton-in-Marsh, Stroud, Charlbury.....and a lot more

Travel options based on your desired location

Getting the right train through Avanti West Coast Visit the Cotswolds by Train Cotswolds by public transport

Note: The Cotswolds National Landscape is the largest protected area in England and Wales. It spans a wide region, stretching from the border areas of South Warwickshire and Worcestershire through West Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire. Travel within the Cotswolds varies significantly depending on your chosen starting point, as each location offers different transport options, timings, and costs. Opting for a guided tour can be a convenient way to explore the region's charming villages, as it often simplifies travel logistics. However, keep in mind that guided tours can be expensive, so it's worth weighing the benefits against the cost.

York

A beautiful medieval city with deep Roman and Viking roots, York captivates with its historic charm and cobbled streets. From its impressive Gothic cathedral to its ancient city walls, York offers a rich journey through England’s past.

Top Attractions

How to get there?

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station York Railway Station

Service Provider:Cross CountryLink opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you as little as £35.

Duration: The fastest train would reach in 2 hr 40 mins with mostly one change in Birmingham new street. You can also choose to split your tickets to save more.

Note: Travelling by bus might not be ideal as it involves multiple changes and would take atleast 6 hrs to 7hrs.

Canterbury

Known for its stunning cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Canterbury is steeped in medieval history and charm. Its narrow streets, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene make it a perfect blend of the past and present.

Top Attractions

Travelling by Train

Station: Coventry Railway Station Canterbury West

Service Provider: Avanti West CoastLink opens in a new window, West Midlands Railway,Link opens in a new window SoutheasternLink opens in a new window

Cost: A round trip can cost you as little as £35.

Duration: The fastest train to Canterbury takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, but it requires at least two changes along the way. You can start with a direct train to London Euston. Upon arrival, you’ll need to navigate the London Underground to reach London St Pancras, where you'll catch a train to Canterbury. While this journey involves multiple steps, the well-connected transit network makes it manageable, especially if you plan ahead and familiarise yourself with the tube routes

Why not combine your trip?

Canterbury is a fantastic base for exploring nearby destinations by train. Dover is just 30 minutes away, offering the iconic White Cliffs and historic Dover Castle. For a seaside escape, Whitstable is only 20 minutes by train, renowned for its oysters and picturesque harbor. Margate, with its retro charm and cultural attractions, and Folkestone, known for its creative quarter and stunning coastline, are also easily accessible. With efficient train connections, extending your Canterbury visit to these nearby gems is both convenient and enjoyable.

Disclaimer

The university does not officially endorse any of these links. The prices mentioned above are subjected to change with respect to each service provider, the date & time of your booking and other external factors. The prices are just a guide for you to plan your expenses and time for your trip.
The above mentioned places are just a few suggested by our current students and alumni. However there are various other places you could possibly visit.
Check out other places to travel within the UKLink opens in a new window
Driving in the UKLink opens in a new window: shift gears like a Pro! All you need to know about driving licenses and driving rules in the UK!

Places to visit near the university

LeamingtonBirminghamKenilworthCoventryStratford-upon-Avon

Leamington

Royal Leamington Spa – known as ‘Leam’ by locals – is a picturesque regency town located in the heart of Warwickshire and is less than 10 miles from campus. Named after the River Leam, which flows through the town, Leamington Spa’s growth was largely due to the natural spa springs that were discovered and commercialised in the 19th century. Now, it is a popular town for Warwick students to live in or go out in... you will definitely notice the strong student community when you visit Leamington!

Explore Leamington SpaLink opens in a new window

Birmingham

Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK, and is a short train journey away from Warwick University campus. It is a diverse, multicultural city with lots going on.

Explore Birmingham Link opens in a new window

Kenilworth

Kenilworth is a very small town known for Abbey Fields, pubs and restaurants. Remember you can just get off the Bus at Abbey Fields and discover the city centre and the fields together.

Explore KenilworthLink opens in a new window

Coventry

The University of Warwick is situated within the city of Coventry. A vibrant, multicultural and diverse place which was the UK's City of Culture in 2021. Only a bus ride away, it is worth exploring the city centre and all it has to offer.

Explore Coventry

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular UK tourist destination and is just 15 miles away from campus. It is synonymous with (arguably) the most famous English writer, William Shakespeare; however, the town is so much more than just ‘Shakespeare’s birthplace’. Stratford is a market town on the banks of the River Avon with more than 800 years of history, containing not only many buildings that would have been familiar to Shakespeare and used as inspirations for locations in his stories, but also a thriving community offering a wide variety of leisure, theatre and shopping experiences.

Explore Stratford-Upon-AvonLink opens in a new window

Disclaimer

The university does not officially endorse any of these apps. However, they come highly recommended by current students and alumni to support your travel in the UK.

Accommodation

HostelworldLink opens in a new window: Perfect for finding affordable hostels with reviews from fellow travelers.
AirbnbLink opens in a new window: For renting homes, apartments, or rooms, often a good budget option.
Booking.comLink opens in a new window: A broad range of accommodations, from hotels to apartments and B&Bs.

Air Travel

SkyscannerLink opens in a new window: Search and compare flights, often offering budget-friendly options.
easyJetLink opens in a new window For booking low-cost flights within the UK and Europe with easyJet.
RyanairLink opens in a new window Another budget airline popular in Europe, with routes across the UK.

Bus

StagecoachLink opens in a new window: Major bus company app with routes across the UK.
National Express BusLink opens in a new window: For intercity travel via coach, often offering affordable options.
MegabusLink opens in a new window: Known for long-distance budget-friendly bus travel.

Cab and Rideshare

Uber: Link opens in a new windowThe go-to ride-hailing app for getting around cities.
Bolt:Link opens in a new window A budget-friendly alternative to Uber available in several UK cities

How to travel on a budget?

Plan and book in advance: Early planning often results in cheaper fares for flights, trains, and accommodations. Compare your flight tickets to get the best deals.
Use public transport: A cost-effective way to travel around cities and towns.
Travel during off-peak times: Avoid rush hours and peak seasons to save on travel and accommodation costs.
Take advantage of free attractions: Many museums, parks, and landmarks are free to visit.
Use student discounts: Leverage student discounts on transport, attractions, and dining where available.
Railcards | Digital Railcard and Prices | National Rail Link opens in a new window(Get a 16-25 Railcard or 26-30 for discounted train fares (up to 1/3 off))
UNiDAYS - Fast, free, exclusive discounts for studentsLink opens in a new window
Student BeansLink opens in a new window
Eat like a local: Avoid tourist traps; explore local markets and affordable eateries.
Stay in hostels and airbnbs: Affordable alternatives to hotels, offering shared facilities or local stays.
Explore free attractions: Visit free museums, galleries, and parks (e.g., British Museum, National Gallery, Hyde Park).
Use contactless or oyster cards: In London, these save money on public transport compared to single tickets.

How to travel safely?

How to travel Safely?

Research your destination: Understand the area, know key locations, and familiarize yourself with local customs.
Stay aware of your surroundings: Remain vigilant and avoid risky areas, especially at night.
Use trusted transport: Rely on verified transport options, such as official taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Carry some documents online: Keep digital copies of essential documents (e.g., passport, IDs) for emergencies.
Stay connected: Ensure you have mobile data or Wi-Fi access for navigation and emergencies.
Get travel insurance for international travel: Protects against unexpected medical costs, trip cancellations, and more.
Don’t carry large sums of cash: Minimise cash and use cards for secure transactions.
Follow local rules and customs: Respect local laws and customs to avoid misunderstandings or issues.

Maps and Travel options

Google Maps:Link opens in a new window For navigation and finding local businesses.
Citymapper:Link opens in a new window Great for navigating cities with real-time travel updates and multiple transport options.
Rome2Rio:Link opens in a new window Helps plan journeys across multiple transport methods, including trains, buses, ferries, and flights.

Train and Tube

Trainline:Link opens in a new window For booking train tickets across the UK.
Split-my-fare: Helps split train fares to save money on rail travel.
TFL Go: Link opens in a new windowTransport for London’s app, useful for navigating the London Underground and other TfL services.
Railcard:Link opens in a new window For purchasing and managing digital railcards, offering discounts on train fares.

Travelling outside the UK

Have a UK Student Visa? If you are planning to travel out of (and successfully back into) the UK during your period of study there are a few questions you may have:

Am I allowed to travel outside the UK while studying at Warwick?
Can I travel after my course has finished?
Do I need a travel visa for the country I am travelling to?
How do I travel safe abroad?
Currency and finances

Visa advice for travelling aboard Guidance for travelling outside of the UK