Family adventures loved by locals
Schools are out for the summer and the holidays are in full swing, which means only one thing – it’s time to head off on family adventures by train.
Going by train with the family needn’t be expensive. We’ve got helpful tips and advice on how to make train travel more affordable here.
Whether you’re looking for a countryside escape or a city adventure, a family trip by train is the perfect opportunity to take in a change of scenery and explore somewhere new.
We’ve worked closely with community rail and tapped into local knowledge to bring you family day out ideas that go beyond the usual tourist spots. These suggestions are shaped by the people who live, work and volunteer along the lines, so you can explore new place by train, like a local.
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From station to seaside with ease
After a scenic trip along the Wherry Lines, explore further with a seamless journey from Great Yarmouth Station to the seaside by hopping on the Wherry 100 bus service. Running every 30 minutes, between 9.45am and 6.15pm every day, the Wherry 100 bus service connects rail passengers arriving at Great Yarmouth Station with the town centre, bus station, seafront attractions and Vauxhall Holiday Park. View the timetable and plan your journey.
Further north, wind through the heart of the North York Moors National Park on the Esk Valley Railway before arriving at the home of Dracula. Explore the famous Whitby Abbey, dip your toes in the sea and of course treat yourself to fish and chips and ice cream.
Esk Valley Railway
Go car-free into nature from Lancashire to Scotland
You certainly don’t need a car to access some of Britain’s stunning scenery and wildlife. Community Rail Lancashire and the Forest of Bowland National Landscape have the perfect solution to your next family day out by rail into nature. Bowland Tracks to Trails and Ribble Valley Jubilee Walking Trail are two of sixteen itineraries that can be downloaded for free from the Eco Escapes website, alongside an interactive sustainable travel map, details of visitor attractions, accommodation, walks, rides and wildlife.
Head north for family adventures and discover wild and remote Scotland as you take the train along the Far North Line. You’ll see the peat bog stretching for miles, wonder at the vast expanse of the Flow Country (one of the RSPB’s prize peat habitats) and cross some of the finest salmon fishing rivers in Scotland. You can even take your adventure further by boat, absorbing the spectacular scenery with Caithness Seacoast Boat Tours from Wick Harbour.
Helmsdale | Far North Line
Take a walk on the wild side in Kent
Hop off the train at one of the stations along the scenic Medway Valley Line and pick up one of the beautiful walking trails from there. Ranging from 2 to 10 miles, these paths are filled with rich history and vibrant wildlife, and will take you through towns and villages, along the river and past orchards and woodland. Families will love looking out for kingfishers and otters along the riverside trails and admiring the stunning Archbishop’s Palace near Maidstone West. Pick your next rail trail.
Discover castles along the Wales coast
Step right back in time to discover the rich heritage of the Cambrian Coast Line from Shrewsbury to Pwllheli as you explore historic castles and fortresses at Aberystwyth, Harlech and Criccieth.
Criccieth Castle | Cambrian Coast Line
Rail trails with a difference outside London
If you’re looking for a station-to-station walk with plenty of opportunity to quench your thirst along the way, why not try the Hertford Loop Rail Ale Trail. The trail takes you on a trip along the Hertford Loop railway line from Alexandra Palace to Watton-at-Stone, inviting you to explore each of the 12 stations and to seek out the best pubs within easy walking distance.
Travel with pride in the south east
Join in the family-friendly Medway Pride celebrations at Rochester Castle Gardens and High Street on Saturday 16 August. A fabulous festival less than 40 minutes from London packed with music, food and drink, drag performances and a dazzling parade – how could you say no!
Outdoor swimming in Peterborough
The Art Deco outdoor swimming complex just 10 minutes’ walk from Peterborough Station offers three heated outdoor pools, sun-bathing terraces, a large grass lawn and play area for the kids – the perfect venue for a fun family day out.
The Lido swimming pool, Peterborough | Hereward Line
Shop local from Halifax to Haltwhistle
Who doesn’t love a spot of shopping – and even better if it’s right on the doorstep of a speedy train ride. Take the Calder Valley Line to Halifax where you can explore the Grade I listed Piece Hall, which offers a host of independent shops, cafes and restaurants by day, before transforming into a concert venue at night.
On the third Saturday of every month, just a 15-minute walk from Arundel Station, you’ll find a delightful farmers market, where you can browse for fine British food and drink, artisan produce and goods from local businesses. At Haltwhistle, on the third Sunday of every month, you don’t even need to leave the station – the market is right there in the grounds, ready for you to peruse at your leisure.
Ready to unlock more family adventures?
Find even more inspiration, travel tips and scenic rail routes, perfect for family days out  here.
Join the conversation online and share your favourite moments using #DaysOutByRail – we’d love to see where your journey takes you!
