There are a variety of train companies that operate around England so finding the best fare can be tricky. There is a website that makes it easy to find the cheapest fare and best time. You can search either for the train company offering the lowest price, quickest journey, or fewest transfers. That website is Trainline. It is similar to a website you would use to find a flight.

For foreigners visiting England [along with the rest of Britain], they have the option to purchase a BritRail Pass. This is a pass is similar to the EuroRail or InterRail Passes that can be used for train travel around Europe. While it may be cheaper to buy coach tickets for traveling around England, the Britrail offers you flexibility that buying coach tickets do not. The BritRail Pass allows you to travel around England for a certain number of days and all the tickets are included in the price of the pass. I have never used it myself, but have friends who have and they were quite happy with it.

If you have the money, then trains are by far the best way to get around England. But if you are like me, and often travel on a budget, be sure to check out our article on coaches. A more afford [and time consuming] way to travel around England.

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1. Coombe Abbey (Coventry): Originally a 12th century Cistercian abbey, Coombe Abbey now offers accommodation, medieval banquets and so much more. Located in the West Midlands, you are sure to escape the rush of city life with a visit to Coombe Abbey. Each room is beautifully decorated and makes you feel as if you have gone back in time. You can also enjoy the beautiful gardens that surround Coombe Abbey and go on moonlit walks with your honey.

2. Roxbro House (Warkworth): Winner of the 2012 Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award, Roxboro House is much more than just a simple bed & breakfast. Few bed & breakfasts can claim their neighbor as a 12th century castle. Each room is intricately decorated and focuses on both style and quality. The village Roxboro House is situated in is a calm and peaceful one, unspoiled by the modern world, which is ideal for a romantic weekend away. And if you stay here before not to miss the award winning breakfast or afternoon tea.

3. Brook Farm (Ludlow): There is something strangely romantic about a farm. Maybe it is the closeness of the quarters or the fact you are surrounded by nature. Whatever the reason, Brook Farm makes a perfect romantic getaway. Built in 1650 right in the middle of England’s beautiful countryside, at Brook Farm you will be surrounded by a babbling brook, woodland, meadows, and a garden maintained by the owners. Escape the stresses of everyday life with a romantic getaway to Brook Farm.

4. Ivydene House (Tewkesbury): Maybe it is the fact it is covered in ivy or that it is over 200 years old, but there is something magical about Ivydene House. This is another farm house, but it is a bit more on the luxurious side when compared to Brook Farm. There are two bedroom so you can go on a mini-couples retreat if you know of another couple looking for a romantic getaway. In the morning your breakfast will consist of homemade goodies, including homemade granola, fresh fruit compote, freshly baked bread with homemade preserves and marmalade or a full English breakfast with Ivydene free range eggs and locally sourced fresh produce. For those looking for a farm with a luxurious feel, Ivydene House is perfect.

5. Linthwaite Country House Hotel (Windermere):  Surrounded by 14 acres of wooded hilltop gardens, Linthwaite Country House Hotel is sure to offer you a place to get some piece and quiet for you and your significant other. Nestled in the Lake District, you will have ample hikes and walks to go on. There is also a conservatory at the hotel where you can watch the sun set, while enjoying pre dinner drinks. Linthwaite Country House Hotel is truly a place where you can relax and unwind.

So what did you think of the second installment of Romantic Getaways in England? Are you inspired to plan a special trip away with your honey? Let us know what you think or if you have any suggestions!

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Below is a song off of their first album, “I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor.” It has been speculated that their first album is a concept album based on the UK nightlife. “I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor” is a perfect example of that.

In 2007, the Arctic Monkeys released my favorite album, Favourite Worst Nightmare. “Fluorescent Adolescent” [featured below] is their most famous song off of the album and a fan favorite. This album is a bit more clean and professional sounding than their first album. You can tell that the band has matured and slightly changed their sound.

With their third album, the Arctic Monkeys grew out their hair and drastically changed their sound. No longer singing about the UK nightlife, and getting into fights, the Arctic Monkeys started to write far more complex songs. If at first you do not like Humbug, be sure to give it a second listen. Initially I hated the album, but now it is one of my favorites.

After chopping off their long locks and trading them in for a more 50s biker look, the Arctic Monkeys released their fourth album, Suck It and See. This album, is probably the most hard rock the Arctic Monkeys and definitely show a different direction for the band. While still there, Alex Turner’s accent is not as prominent at on the first two albums. Like Humbug, this is another album that grew on me. So if you fall in love with the early Arctic Monkeys, do not discount their most recent albums, despite, the difference in music styles.

Let us know what you think of the Arctic Monkeys! What’s your favorite song/album?

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As soon as I know I am going to be in London I book as soon as possible. My favorite website is Hostelbookers but another popular hostel website is Hostelworld. The key to finding a decent and cheap London hostel is early booking. If you wait too long all the cheap hostels will be taken and you’ll be stuck paying much more for a hostel in the middle of nowhere.

It is also good to have a general idea of where you would like to stay. Most areas of London have at least one or two hostels, so if you know where you would like to stay it can narrow down your choices. If you are unsure of where you want to stay its not a big deal because as long as you are in Central London you will never be too far from a tube stop. From my experience, however, the closer a hostel is to a tube station the better. It makes it much easier to transport your bags and get around London.

As a young traveler I know that it is always tempting to go with the cheapest option, but just be wary when you do this. Before I book a hostel I am sure to go through the reviews. You can sometimes save yourself a lot of hassle by paying a couple more pounds.

London may be one of the most expensive cities in the world, but it is also a city full of great hostels at even better prices. So don’t let London’s expensive reputation scare you away from visiting such an incredible city. And while you’re there, be sure to check out some of these sites.

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To start off this series, I thought I would start with a band I had the pleasure of seeing for the first time at the beginning of April. This band is Kasbaian. They are not a new and up and coming band, instead they are an established band that deserves far more fans than they currently have. Formed in 1997, Kasbaina is still going strong and they just released their fourth album, Velociraptor! Kasabian is a band that feels like a true rock band. Whenever I listen to Fire, I feel like robbing a bank, which just so happens to be the subject of the music video for the song.

While Kasabian is fairly famous in the UK, they are still pretty small in the U.S. Their music sets them apart from many modern bands, however. They are not just another Oasis cover band that the UK is so famous for producing. Kasabian is a one of a kind band that combines great guitar riffs with Tom Meighan’s strong vocals. Their guitarist, Sergio, is also known for his occasional singing parts and he has one of the most unique voices I have ever heard.

If you fall in love with Kasabian, which I know you will, and they come to your city be sure to see them. Kasabian is a great live band, but rarely tours, especially in the U.S. Since being a band, they have only played in Seattle two or three times. Most bands play in Seattle this often in the first year or two as a band.

We hope you fall in love with Kasabian just like we have here at England Boss. If you have any suggestions of British bands or musicians we should feature let us know! Otherwise see you next week, with the next installment of our Band of the Week.

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UNESCO has listed Bath, UK as a world heritage site with some of the finest architectures of the world.  The major attractions of the city are the Royal Crescent, the Roman Baths, Pulteney Bridge, The Circus, Jane Austen Centre, Thermae Bath Spa and its varied range of museums.

Royal Crescent: The Royal Crescent gives you a vital picture of life in Georgian Bath. It is an architectural masterpiece which overlooks Royal Victoria Park.

Jane Austen Centre: The Jane Austen Centre is a must watch for Jane Austen fans which beautifully explain the reflections of the city on the works of Jane Austen.

World Heritage Site Audio Tour: One can also download the free audio walking tour from the World Heritage Site Audio Tour which is a beautiful guide containing information about the city’s museums.

Mayor of Bath Honorary Guides: The best part about this city is its compactness which allows the visitors to enjoy all the ancient sights on foot. Mayor of Bath Honorary Guides provides free walking tours on a daily basis to all the visitors which last for around 3 hours.  This tour aims at giving the tourists an overview of the architectural system of the city.

Circus: Circus, another beautiful historic sight of Bath is located near the Royal Crescent. It presents Bath’s stunning Georgian architecture with artistic Bath stone carvings. It was constructed in the 18^th century.

Bath Abbey: The lavish and beautiful Bath Abbey, a 15^th century medieval church is located in the centre of the city adjacent to the Roman baths. It is of great attraction for the tourists as it’s the last of the glorious medieval churches in England. It is enriched with beautiful carving and striking fan vaulting.

Pulteney Bridge: Pulteney Bridge is widely known as one of the most romantic bridges around the globe which has many shops established into it. Its best view can be enjoyed from the splendid Parade Gardens.

Thermae Bath Spa: You can relish the breathtaking panoramic views of the Bath city from the top of the Bath Abbey Tower. After reaching at the top, you can relax in Thermae Bath Spa’s rooftop pool and relish the scenic beauty while having a dip in the natural thermal waters.

Exciting Night Life: With the increase in the number of pubs, bars and clubs, the nigh time entertainment offered by the city has almost doubled in the past few years. This city reveals exciting theatre and film culture which is filled with engaging live music and comedy scenes.

The Theatre Royal: The Theatre Royal is the main theatre of the city which offers a wide range of programs throughout the year that includes top-quality drama, dance, opera, comedy and frequent Sunday concerts.

Cinemas: After enjoying the whole day viewing the splendid sights of the city, you can spend your evening at any of the two cinemas in Bath which are The Little Theatre Cinema and Bath Odeon Cinema.

Bath is a must visit for those who wish to view some of the most beautiful places of the world.

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1. Lumley Castle: Named after its creator, Sir Ralph Lumley, Lumely Castle is a 14th Century castle located near the city of Durham. Lumley Castle offers a truly unforgettable experience. Not only do you get the opportunity rich with history and rumored resident ghosts, but you may also get the chance to participate in a Murder Mystery Party.

2.Langley Castle: Around 50 years older than Lumley Castle, Langley Castle still maintains much of its original structure. Its former residents have often been associated with the history of the Crown and in the 18th century, two brothers were beheaded for participating in an uprising against the king. Now, Langley Castle offers guests a unique experience on a ten acre woodland estate in Northumberland.

3. Thornbury Castle: Slightly younger than the previous two castles, Thornbury Castle was constructed in 1511 for Edward Stafford, 3rd Duke of Buckingham. Kings and Queens have stayed at this castle, including Henry VIII and his ill-fated wife, Anne Boleyn. Located a 30 minute drive from Bristol, Thornbury Castle is the ideal castle if you find yourself in the Southwest of England.

4. Swinton Park: Bordering Yorkshire Dales National Park and surrounded by 200 acres of parkland, guests are guaranteed a peaceful escape from modern life. Swinton Park may be the youngest castle on this list (construction didn’t begin until 1695), but it is one of the largest estates in England and the parkland surrounding the castle is open to guests.

5. Walworth Castle: Walworth Castle is currently owned by Best Western, but don’t let that put you office. If you stay there you will have no idea you’re staying at a Best Western. Much of the 400+ year history is still present in the castle today as you walk through the ancient hallways. Surrounded by 18 acres of lawns and woodlands, you will not find yourself bored and it will be easy to find tranquilty in the peaceful country setting.

If you have stayed at any of these castles or have stayed at other castles in England let us know. We’d love to hear from you!

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1. Wapping and Cains Brewery: Wapping and Cains Brewery is famous for manufacturing its own beer and the traditional way of serving it. The pub features an intimate atmosphere and varied food menu. The Brewery offers a full range of Cains beers. Cains Brewery is well known for arranging special brewery tours. The pub is situated close to the Stanhope Street.

2. The Baltic Fleet Pub: This pub is situated close to Liverpool´s Albert Dock. This section of the street is called Wapping. The Baltic Fleet offers its own beer, pies and home-made souse. The food served here is simply awesome and above all, it is served the entire day. The brewery has log burning stove for toasts, friendly atmosphere, delicious food and chilled home-made beer. However, the bar does not have gaming machines, pool table and juke box. For tourists, this is the right place to sip some beer with great tradition.

3. Ye Cracke Pub: The Ye Cracke pub functions inside a 19th century public house. The oldest part of the pub includes a “War room”. The pub is situated at the Rice Street. This traditional brewery also features a good collection of twenty drawings of local buildings. All these drawings are displayed on the public house wall. The very nature of these drawings is that they have traditional links with “The Beatles and The Dissenters”. The special beer and big menu attracts hundreds of people every day.

4. Crown Hotel Pub: The Crown Hotel pub is a grade II listed pub that is situated in the Liverpool city center. This enticing pub features a big fire place, multi colored ceilings and an upstairs billiard room. It is definitely a right place for having home-made beer and chitchatting with friends.

5. The Dispensary Pub: The Dispensary is a small pub which is situated on Renshaw Street. Even though the pub is quite small, the arrangement offers a spacious look in the limited space. Well trained staff and good beer are the plus points of this pub.

6. Doctor Duncan’s Pub: Doctor Duncan is a real time pub and is famous for lunch time gatherings. It’s a small pub with friendly atmosphere and well trained staff. The Victorian style interiors are worth seeing.

7. Fly in the Loaf: Fly in the loaf is an old-fashioned pub that offers most exciting as well as unique tasting beer products. A friendly atmosphere is guaranteed.

8. The Globe Pub: This Liverpool pub features good beer, sloping floor and eye catching interiors. You will certainly enjoy the slow and traditional way of serving.

9. The Grapes: The Grapes is a famous pub in Liverpool where the Beatles used to have a drink before their performance. The name is mostly for the historical ambiance.

10. Peter Kavanagh´s Pub: It’s an old pub in Liverpool which was built in 1929. The brewery features oil paintings, leaded glass and tiled floors. Grab some beer and enjoy the ambiance of this place.

All in all, it’s impossible to imagine Liverpool without pubs. We’ve mentioned some of the finest drinking establishments in Liverpool and would love to know some more from you in our comments section.

Have you been to Liverpool before? Where do you recommend?

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1. Rudding Park (Harrogate): Harrogate, located in North Yorkshire, is known as a spa town, so you already know it will be a romantic getaway. Rudding Park is just the icing on the cake. At Rudding Park you will find a spa with a gym, private cinema, restaurant and beautiful 18 hole golf course. It was even voted ‘No 1 Best UK Hotel’ by TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards 2010 and 2011. Staying there, you will be surrounded by tranquil parkland and you are free to roam the beautiful grounds.
2. Whitley Hall (Sheffield): Located near Sheffield, Whitley Hall is a picturesque 16th century ivy-clad mansion and perfect for the ultimate romantic getaway. It is nestled on a beautiful estate with countless trees, two breathtaking lakes, and even two peacocks. You could spend your whole weekend just walking around the grounds, but if you find yourself bored, the employees at Whitley Hall would be more than happy to offer a list of nearby attractions.
3. Swinside Lodge Hotel (Lake District): The Lake District is famous for its natural beauty and footpaths, which establishes it as one of the most romantic getaways in England. At Swindside Lodge, you will find stunning views of the Lake District Fells. The owners ensure that each visit is unique and enjoyable. Whether that is providing fresh flowers in every public room or homemade picnics to guests. This means that you can enjoy a delicious homemade picnic while walking around one of the most beautiful places in England.
4. Mollycroft (Somerset): If you are looking for something a little different than Mollycroft is what you want.Built in 1949, Mollycroft is a Showman Wagon that has been converted into a romantic getaway for couples. Privacy is ensured because you will have your own private area, equipped with a fire pit. Mollycroft offers something a little different than the typical romantic getaway, which is why it is perfect for couples looking for something new.
5. Combe House (near Exeter & Devon): Surround by 3,500 acres of beautiful English country side, Combe House offers a chance to live like royalty. You will also be close enough to the sea for coastal walks, which is key for many romantic getaways. Arabian horses and pheasants roam freely throughout the estate. Reminders of the past are maintained with paintings of Lords and Ladies who used to inhabit Combe House. If a walk through history and romantic getaway is what you are after then Combe House is perfect for you.

There are many more romantic getaways in England so be sure to keep an eye out for Romantic Getaways in England Part Two. Until then let us know if you have any suggestions of have been to any of these places. We’d love to hear from you!

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Manchester offers a true British experience. While not as polished or touristy as London, Manchester is still a must see for tourists. Unlike London, you do not have to spend a fortune to go out and have a good time in Manchester. You can get a pint for under £3 at most pubs and I have gotten into clubs for £5. And if you read my article on Liverpool, then you will have read about Font. Font also offers two locations in Manchester, so if you are looking for cheap cocktails, do not look any further than Font.

Although it can’t offer famous sites like Big Ben or the London Eye, Manchester still has a long list of interesting places to go to. So if you find yourself in Manchester be sure to hit up these places to make your Manchester experience complete.

1. Manchester Wheel: It seems like most English cities have a wheel of some sort and Manchester is no different. The Manchester Wheel is located in the city centre near Arndale Centre, the main shopping centre of Manchester. If you go on it, you will get a commentary about the sites you are seeing and unlike the London Eye; you will get your own pod.
2. Museum of Manchester: Here you can see dinosaur skeletons, mummies, and numerous other fun and quirky aspects of the history of the world. Like most museums in the UK, the museum of Manchester is free so you have no excuse not to stop by and stand face to face with a T-Rex.
3. Salford’s Lads Club: Every Smiths fan should know what this is. This is the club was used as the backdrop to a photo used in the sleeve of the Queen is Dead. It’s a bit far from the city centre, but if you’re up for a hike and a Smiths fan it is definitely worth it.
4. Afflecks: This is a funky shopping centre located near the city centre. It is five floors of random shops, including an American sweets shop, numerous vintage shops, and a 50s diner. I have spent hours just walking through the maze of shops that make up Afflecks. The best part is that you always discover a new shop when you go because there are so many twists and turns in the building.
5. Old Strafford: This is the stadium where the most sports franchises in the world plays. Old Strafford is home to both Manchester United and Manchester City. One thing I learned during my time in Manchester, however, is that Manchurians hate Manchester United and love Manchester City. You can take tours of the stadium or even go to a game if you’re lucky enough to get tickets.
6. Northern Quarter: As a Seattle native, if I were to compare the Northern Quarter to a Seattle neighbourhood I would compare it to Capitol Hill. It has great bars, vintage shops, and plenty of hipsters.
7. Arndale Centre: I am a bit of a shopaholic so I spent far too much time in the Arndale Centre. But if you love shopping as much as I do, then be sure to make a trip here and you will find Topshop, H&M, Neu Look, River Island and countless other stores. For me, shopping is England is as good as it gets fashion wise, so every time I take a trip to England I come back with about double the amount of clothing I left with.
8. Nightlife: Manchester has a great nightlife. It is home to four universities, so there are a lot of students in the city and because of this you can go out nearly any day of the week and find something to do. The only night I had a bit of trouble finding something to do was Sunday night, but for the rest of the week most clubs have specials going on during the weekdays.
9. Whitworth Park Art Gallery: I lived very close to Whitworth Park when I was in Manchester and always regret never getting over to the art gallery there. If you are an art fan, be sure to stop by though and afterward you can take a nice stroll through Whitworth Park.
10. Printworks: This is best to see at night when all the lights are lit up. Basically Printworks is an indoor street. It is lined with restaurants and movie theaters and on a Friday or Saturday night. Its just a fun place to go and grab something to eat.

If you are looking to meet English people and experience what England is all about skip London and head straight to Manchester. You will avoid all the tourists and find an amazing city just waiting to be explored.