LNER survey finds half would prefer a night way than a slap-up meal

Despite the cost-of-living crisis, over half the people who responded to a survey run by London North Eastern Railway (LNER) say that they would rather have a night away than go out for a slap-up meal.

The survey was conducted on 1st February, and from 1,002 replies the results show that 58 per cent would choose a night away, with Brits choosing to go an extra mile (or 50) when it comes to celebrating Valentine's Day.

Most respondents said that because of the variety of places to explore in the UK, they did not feel the need to travel abroad for a Valentine's getaway. London North Eastern Railway own data shows that during the week in which Valentine's Day falls, there is an increase in the number of couples travelling midweek.

However, it is not only couples who seem to be enjoying the delights of Valentines Day, as 69 per cent of those travelling with London North Eastern Railway this month have booked a single ticket.

According to the study, some of the most picturesque locations in the UK are most popular for Valentine's Day stays. The Lake District, London, and Edinburgh top the list for the most popular romantic breaks, and the research showed that couples now prefer scenic views and free attractions instead of spending out on flash meals and expensive European city breaks.

It was the cost of travel for a romantic getaway that put more than threequarters (77%) off travelling abroad, whilst another 50 per cent highlighted environmental considerations as the reason for staying in the UK more this year. The survey found that the ten most popular destinations were:

1. Lake District
2. London
3. Edinburgh
4. York
5. Dublin
6. Brighton
7. Cambridge
8. Liverpool
9. Durham
10. Cardiff

Outside the top ten, there are hidden gems that offer just as much beauty, history, and culture as those in the top 10. Among those surprising romantic places that are only a train ride away are:

• Harrogate, which is a charming Victorian spa that is often called the ‘jewel of the north';
  Alnwick in the heart of Northumberland is known for its unspoilt beauty, with spectacular coastlines, castles, and cobbled streets, whilst its castle featured in the Harry Potter movies;
• Lincoln might not be the first choice for a romantic break, but it is an incredible city with a city-eye view from the top of the cathedral, history with a tour of the castle, or a night out at a local jazz café;
• Pitlochry is a hidden gem on LNER's route to Inverness that is surrounded by a vast range of mountains with incredible views;
• Berwick-upon-Tweed is just a stone's throw from the Scottish border, and has a rich history with Elizabethan walls that completely encircle the town and mesmerising views of Bamburgh and Lindisfarne Castles on the distant coast.

David Flesher, Commercial Director at LNER said, “Our LNER routes connect customers to many of the top-voted Valentine's destinations across the country, unlocking new and exciting places that people may not have previously thought about visiting.

“From film set scenery and excellent shopping in London and Edinburgh, to Lochs and river walks, the LNER route plays host to some of the most iconic romantic hotspots in the UK.

“We firmly believe that there's no need to jet off on an expensive European city break when we have so many wonderful places to visit easily by train on our doorsteps. With the historic cathedral of Durham just three hours from London and the iconic Edinburgh Princes Street Gardens two hours from York, there are plenty of spots to discover with your loved ones.”