Saturday, August 24, 2024 While millions of travelers frequent the UK’s busiest train stations, such as London Liverpool Street, Birmingham New Street, and Manchester Piccadilly, there are towns that see far fewer visitors. Among the least visited are Aberaeron in Wales and Melrose in Scotland, each with fewer than 100 passengers recorded by Trainline in the past year. Despite their low visitor numbers, these destinations offer stunning attractions and unique experiences.
Discovering Aberaeron, Wales Aberaeron, often referred to as the “gem of Cardigan Bay,” is a picturesque town located on the Ceredigion Coast. The town is renowned for its charming colorful houses, independent craft shops, and local eateries. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls around the harbor or visit Aberaeron South Beach, where they may spot porpoises or bottlenose dolphins on warm days.
The town also sits along the Wales Coast Path and The Coastal Way, providing excellent opportunities for scenic walks. For those interested in history and architecture, Aberaeron is home to Llanerchaeron Estate, a National Trust property featuring an 18th-century Georgian villa, a walled garden, a farm, and a lake. Visitors are encouraged to indulge in fresh seafood at Y Seler, a local restaurant offering harbor views, or enjoy a taste of honey wine from nearby New Quay Honey Farm and Meadery.
Exploring Melrose, Scotland Melrose, a town in the Scottish Borders, is famed as the birthplace of Rugby Sevens, hosting the first tournament in 1883 and continuing the tradition each spring. Beyond sports, Melrose offers breathtaking views of the Eildon Hills and the ruins of Melrose Abbey. The Abbey is historically significant, believed to house the heart of Robert the Bruce, king of the Scots.
Garden enthusiasts can visit Priorwood, a National Trust property featuring a rustic walled garden and an orchard with 90 varieties of apples. The town’s scenic beauty and rich history make it a top tourist destination in the Scottish Borders, despite its low train visitor numbers. Travel Costs Traveling to these hidden gems can be an adventure in itself.
Tickets to Aberaeron from London Paddington range from £37 to £99, depending on the time of travel and whether a Railcard is used. The journey takes just under six hours and includes train changes. Melrose, on the other hand, is accessible via a combination of train and bus from London King’s Cross, with tickets costing between £52.
40 and £200. The journey takes over five hours, making it a less convenient but rewarding trip for those looking to explore this historical town. Conclusion Aberaeron and Melrose, though less visited, are brimming with character, history, and beauty.
Whether you’re drawn to the colorful seaside charm of Aberaeron or the historical significance of Melrose, these towns offer unique experiences away from the usual tourist routes..
