So-so fish and chips may top $20, and hotel rates may be out the wazoo, but not all aspects of London have to be expensive.
You know — like leaving the city!
Kidding aside, the UK’s most iconic destination has captured our hearts here at Travel Off Path time and time again with astounding marvels, world-renowned landmarks, and classic pubs at every corner.
There’s no doubt you’ll find eye-watering prices here, no matter the season, whether it’s an obligatory red bus tour or simply grabbing a pint with local lads.
But the same can’t be said for all of the UK, and let’s be honest, the lack of affordability isn’t stopping travelers from visiting one of Europe’s top cities.
For those who do have their sights set on London, why not add to your trip with a budget-friendly train ride to one of the UK’s most overlooked cities?
Lumo, a low-cost, all-electric rail operator, is launching new journeys from London to Glasgow, Scotland’s buzzing city full of Old World charm and bold swagger, with a booming arts scene — and it’s much cheaper than London!
Get Your Money’s Worth In Scotland
If you have a gap in your London itinerary, Glasgow is the perfect spot to fill in. According to MyLifeElsewhere, London is 41% more expensive than Glasgow, a pretty hefty amount that can add up quick.
Think about it — Scotland has timeless charm, even funnier accents, similar classic pubs, and who knows, maybe you’ll find a pot o’ gold at the end of a rainbow.
If you pay a visit to Glasgow, expect to come back to London with more money to spend. For example, you can easily score a 4-star hotel here for under $75 per night.
In London, that would be a nearly impossible task unless you cash out your loyalty points.
A quick search found the best deal was Leonardo Royal Hotel Glasgow for $67 in December (when the new route is slated for launch).
It’s said restaurants are 1/3 of the price here on average compared to London as well, and there are some intriguing menus for adventurous foodies with offerings such as Haggis, a traditional dish comprised of sheep organs, and Black Pudding, a blood sausage often paired with breakfast (what a way to start your day!).
And just in case you missed it — United will soon operate America’s only nonstop route to Glasgow if you want to start here and take the train ride in reverse order than most passengers.
Lumo’s New London-Glasgow Route Is Surprisingly Affordable
According to The Scottish Sun, there’s no official date for the first trip.
However, we do know it will take place in December as the local experts note travelers ‘will be able to go on the new service from December this year, just in time for Christmas’.
The journey will connect both ways from Glasgow Queen Street station and London‘s King’s Cross station.
Whether you’re arriving or departing King’s Cross, you’ll want to take advantage of the closest thing to a real-life “Hogwarts” as the iconic Platform 9¾ photo op awaits just steps away.
Accio selfie! 🪄
To score the best fares, travelers should go to Lumo’s official website well in advance.
With the price points they’re currently listing, it’s definitely worth planning ahead.
Tickets are listed as low as $45 one-way, a steal of a deal for the UK’s often triple-digit fares.
If the unsightly winter weather isn’t in the cards, there are cheap fares still on sale throughout 2026 for the 5-hour, 22-minute journey.
All Aboard! What It’s Like Riding Lumo Trains
If you’re a sustainable traveler, you will surely love what Lumo has to offer on its all-electric trains.
Not only are they quiet, climate-friendly, and 100% digital with no paper tickets, the rides are smooth and have plenty of modern amenities for a 5+ hour adventure across the UK:
- Free wifi
- USB and standard outlets at every seat
- Comfortable, ergonomic seating with ample legroom
- Trolley service offering snacks, coffee, and locally-sourced food
- Panoramic windows for scenic countryside views
- Reading lights and fold-out tables
In 2024, Lumo received the highest accolade possible for reliability.
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