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.
For more inspiration follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for ideas direct to your inbox every month.
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.
Hop on the Barton to Cleethorpes Line for a fun-filled family day out to the seaside town locals love! Just steps from Cleethorpes station, you’ll find sandy beaches, fish and chips at the historic Mermaid Fish Bar, and classic attractions like the Lollipop Road Train, Seasider open-top bus, and Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway. Enjoy a peaceful boating lake, feed the ducks, or treat the kids to a donkey ride and ice cream. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and adventure – ideal for making coastal memories together. For more days out along this line see here.
Cleethorpes Beach | Barton Line
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.
Throughout August at Buxton Pavilion Gardens you’ll find two indoor markets, perfect for families looking for a fun and relaxed day out. First up, from Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th August, the Bank Holiday Special Bazaar takes over the Octagon Hall, offering a vibrant mix of stalls, local crafts, gifts, and tasty treats – ideal for browsing with the kids or picking up something unique. Then, on Saturday 30th August, the Artisan Market by KC Artisan returns, showcasing handmade creations from talented makers across the region. Both events are free to enter, set in the beautiful surroundings of the Pavilion Gardens, and offer a great way to enjoy quality time together without spending a fortune.
The River Great Ouse, Bedford | Marston Vale Line
Discover Nature, Boats & Miniature Rails in Beds & Bucks
Hop on the train and explore a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and unique experiences across Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. Start with a relaxing cruise on the John Bunyan Community Boat, just a short walk from Bedford St Johns Station. Then head to Millbrook Station for a scenic walk or cycle to the Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park, perfect for nature-loving families.
Between Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands, enjoy peaceful woodland walks ideal for little explorers. For train enthusiasts, don’t miss the charming Caldecotte Miniature Railway, open only on August Bank Holiday Monday, easily reached from Bow Brickhill Station.
Finally, set sail on the Electra Community Boat from Fenny Stratford Station, offering a tranquil way to end your day. All these spots are accessible via the Marston Vale Line, making it a stress-free and eco-friendly way to enjoy quality time together.
Rail to Ale Trail leaflet | Worcestershire Community Rail Partnership
Rail to Ale: A pub trail for grown-up explorers
Explore Worcester’s pub scene with the Rail to Ale Trail – Summer Edition, a self-guided adventure perfect for grown-up families. Visit any 6 of 12 real ale venues, collect stamps, and earn a Rail to Ale pin badge at your final stop. The trail launches at Worcester Foregate Street Station on 9th August with a pop-up stall, live music, and friendly faces to get you started. It’s a great way to enjoy local flavours and sustainable travel – cheers to that!
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!
