Summer days out by train for less
Summer days out by train are a great way to make the most of the sunny season without stretching your budget. With a little planning, taking the train can be both affordable and memorable, giving you the chance to explore new places, enjoy quality time with loved ones and leave the car at home.
Taking the train for a day out needn’t be expensive. From making the most of advance fares, to packing a picnic and enjoying the scenery from your seat, there are plenty of simple ways to keep costs down. Whether you’re rediscovering a favourite destination or heading somewhere new, travelling by rail offers an easy, budget-friendly way to create lasting summer memories.
Below you’ll find a handpicked list of free places to visit by train, plus plenty of money saving tips for travel below – perfect for families looking for eco-friendly, budget-conscious days out by rail.
Scotland – Picnics & parks by rail
Pack a picnic and discover some of Scotland’s most scenic green spaces by train, perfect for summer days out by train. On the Borders Railway, a short five-minute stroll from Stow station leads to the banks of the Gala Water, where peaceful surroundings and open green space make it an ideal spot to relax before exploring the village and nearby walking routes.
On the Far North Line, Ness Islands is around a 20-minute walk from Inverness station, following the attractive River Ness to a network of wooded islands connected by Victorian footbridges, with plenty of grassy spots for an al fresco lunch. Along the Highland Main Line, Carrbridge station is just a short walk from the River Dulnain, where visitors can enjoy riverside views before exploring the village’s historic Packhorse Bridge and tranquil woodland paths.
Packhorse Bridge, Carrbridge | Scotland
Discover Wales’ rich heritage
Travel by rail along the Heart of Wales Line, wander the historic streets of Llandovery, a traditional market town with centuries of heritage and independent shops. Along the Cambrian Line, discover historic Machynlleth, from its landmark clock tower and traditional market streets to its close association with Owain Glyndŵr, who held his Welsh Parliament here in 1404.
On the Conwy Valley Line, explore the historic town of Llanrwst, home to the iconic Tu Hwnt i’r Bont and the Grade I-listed Pont Fawr bridge, both just a short stroll from the station.
Tu Hwnt I’r Bont, Llanrwst | Wales
Step into Yorkshire & Humber’s great outdoors
Make your summer days out by train part of the adventure with a scenic station-to-station walk. Take the Yorkshire Coast Line train from Hull to Ferriby Station and enjoy a gentle 3.5-mile walk along the Humber Estuary to Hessle Station. This flat, well-signposted route offers spectacular views of the Humber Bridge and estuary, making it an ideal low-cost family day out.
On the Penistone Line, stretch your legs on the scenic route between Silkstone Common and Penistone, following public footpaths through rolling countryside, woodland and picturesque villages.
Take the Esk Valley Line, for a leisurely walk between Ruswarp and Whitby, following the River Esk into the historic seaside town, where you’ll be rewarded with harbour views, independent cafés and the famous abbey overlooking the coast.
Humber Estuary to Hessle Station walk
Adventure awaits in the North East
On the Bishop Line, visit Hopetown Darlington and explore the Arthur Wharton: He Changed The World From Here exhibition, celebrating the world’s first professional Black footballer through engaging displays and interactive activities. You can also head to Locomotion in Shildon, home to one of Europe’s largest collections of historic railway vehicles, with free entry and hands-on exhibits just a short walk from the station.
Along the Tyne Valley Line, visit Corbridge to explore scenic stretches of Hadrian’s Wall, discover Roman Britain at the free museum and visitor centre, or enjoy the village’s independent shops, riverside walks and picnic spots, all within easy walking distance of the station.
Locomotion, Shildon | Bishop Line
Seaside adventures by rail in the North West
Make memories by the sea with affordable family adventures by rail. On the South Fylde Line, spend the day at St Annes-on-the-Sea, where a wide sandy beach, colourful beach huts and traditional promenade are all just a short stroll from the station.
Along the Cumbrian Coast Line, Silecroft offers a peaceful beach with spectacular views towards the Lake District fells, perfect for paddling, picnics and coastal walks. Or, on the Lakes Line, head to Arnside, where estuary walks, wildlife spotting and waterside picnic spots begin almost as soon as you step off the train. Perfect for summer days out by train when the weather is warm and the sky is bright.
Arnside Station, Cumbria | Lakes Line
Midlands market towns and hidden treasures
Step off the train and discover some of the Midlands’ best-kept secrets. On the Derwent Valley Line, explore the historic market town of Belper, where you can enjoy free riverside walks through the beautiful River Gardens, browse independent shops and soak up the town’s rich heritage. In the Heart of England, Henley-in-Arden offers a charming high street filled with character, easy access to peaceful countryside walks and plenty of spots to relax and watch the world go by. Or travel on the Marston Vale Line to Bedford, where free museums, scenic riverside strolls along the Great Ouse and bustling markets make for an affordable summer day out.
Get closer to nature in the East of England
Breathe in the fresh air and discover summer days out by train along some of the East’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. On the Wherry Lines, enjoy a walk from Oulton Broad to the free-to-visit Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve, where wetlands, wildlife-rich trails and wide-open views make it a perfect summer escape. Along the Bittern Line, explore charming stations nestled amongst the Norfolk countryside and follow waymarked walks through the Broads, taking in rivers, woodland and tranquil landscapes. You can also travel on the East Suffolk Lines, where a network of free station-to-station walks links picturesque market towns, heathland, estuaries and coastal countryside, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature straight from the train.
Bittern Line
Family fun in Suffolk
Take the St Edmunds Line to Bury St Edmunds and take part in the free 66 World Cup Trail running until 6 September 2026. Just a 10-minute walk from the station, families can explore the historic town centre while hunting for ten football-themed items hidden in participating businesses. Complete the trail and return your entry form for the chance to win one of several prizes, making it a fun and affordable day out for football fans of all ages.
The 66 World Cup Trail | Bury St. Edmunds
Seaside escapes in the South East
Make the most of summer with a great-value day beside the sea. On the Sussex Coast Line, hop off at Worthing or Littlehampton to enjoy free beach days, traditional promenades and miles of waterfront walking, all just moments from the station. Along the Marshlink Line, explore the historic seaside town of Hastings, where you can stroll the seafront, wander through the Old Town and enjoy coastal views without spending a penny. You can also visit Rye and continue to Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, where miles of free walking trails, coastal landscapes and wildlife-rich habitats make for a fantastic day by the sea.
Hastings | Marshlink Line
Stunning scenery in the South West
Experience some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery and take summer days out by train to the South West. On the St Ives Bay Line, enjoy breathtaking coastal views before arriving in St Ives, where sandy beaches, harbour-front walks and stunning sea vistas can all be enjoyed for free. Along the Tarka Line, discover the beautiful Tarka Trail, with traffic-free walking routes, estuary views and abundant wildlife around Barnstaple and North Devon. For a classic Cornish day out, travel via the Looe Valley Line to explore the picturesque fishing town of Looe, or follow the South West Coast Path towards Polperro, taking in dramatic clifftop scenery and amazing coastal views along the way.
Looe Valley Line
Top tips for cheaper train tickets
From railcards to advance bookings, these tips will help you enjoy memorable moments for less:
- Railcards: If you travel regularly, investing in an annual railcard can save you up to a third on fares. Families can save 1/3 off rail travel for adults and 60% off for children with a Family & Friends Railcard.
- Advance ticket fares: Planning ahead? Booking in advance often means cheaper prices, especially for longer journeys.
- Split train ticket: Split ticketing means buying separate tickets for different parts of your journey instead of one through ticket. You stay on the same train, but it can often work out cheaper. Many ticket companies can do split ticketing automatically saving you time. Find out more with Virgin Trains Ticketing.
- Seasonal sales: Many train operators run limited-time sales. Sign up for their newsletters to be the first to know and grab the best deals.
- Group discounts: Travelling with three or more friends or family members? You might qualify for group savings – check individual train operators for details.
Save with family tickets: Travelling with children? The new LNER and Northern Family Ticket covers up to two adults and four children and can save families an average of 77% on journeys between London, Edinburgh and destinations across Northern England. Book at least three days ahead to take advantage of the offer.
Make your day trip even more budget-friendly
Using the tips above can make summer days out by train a great money-saver for families but you can save even more with a little planning:
- Great British Summer Savings scheme – from 25 June to 1 September 2026, the Government is reducing VAT from 20% to 5% on a wide range of family days out. From attractions and museums to adventure parks and entertainment centres, new offers are being added every day. Take a look at the latest summer savings.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the train. The kids will love watching the scenery from the window while munching on their favourite snacks.
- Many attractions offer discounts or free entry for visitors who arrive by public transport. Take a look at National Rail’s 2FOR1 days out guide for some great money-saving offers.
- Be rewarded for traveling car-free. Visit Good Journey’s website featuring over 500 attractions offering discounts and rewards to visitors who arrive car-free. These include galleries and museums, historic houses and castles, holiday accommodation, cafes, breweries and more! Check prices and plan your journey.
- Free bus travel for children throughout August makes it simple to go further. Hop on a connecting bus from stations in England and reach attractions and destinations that are a little further afield, all while keeping costs down.
Want more suggestions for memorable moments for less with the family?
Join the conversation online and share your favourite moments using #DaysOutByRail – we’d love to see where your journey takes you! For more inspiration, travel tips, and family day trip ideas by train, check out our Days Out by Rail pages.
