Local family favourites by train
From animal encounters and outdoor adventures to theatre trips and free summer events, some of Britain’s best family days out can be reached by train. We asked community rail partnerships and station volunteers to share their local family favourites by train that families return to year after year.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly day out, activities for younger children or inspiration for the summer holidays, these local favourites prove that some of the most rewarding family adventures begin at the station.
Read below to discover local family favourites along Britain’s community railways.
Meet Highland Cattle along the Yorkshire Coast
One of the Yorkshire Coast Line’s best-kept secrets can be found in the small village of Arram, just north of Beverley. Dumble Farm has become a much-loved destination for visitors looking to experience the countryside in a different way.
While the farm is well known for its award-winning Highland cattle experiences, including cow cuddling and guided safaris, it also offers plenty for families looking for a lower-cost day out. Visitors can enjoy a signposted circular walk through the farm’s fields, where fluffy Highland cattle can be spotted grazing among beautiful rural scenery.
After your walk, reward yourselves with an ice cream, coffee or other treats from the courtyard café while taking in the relaxed atmosphere of this sustainable working farm. The attraction also supports wildlife conservation and endangered species, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious visitors travelling by train.
Top tip: Not all services call at Arram station, so it’s worth checking train times before you travel.
Dumble Farm | Yorkshire Coast Line
Discover Suffolk family favourites on the St Edmund’s Line
The Ipswich to Cambridge route is packed with family-friendly attractions, offering everything from outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to free holiday entertainment, all easily accessible by train.
In Bury St Edmunds, families can enjoy The Greatest Summer Show at The Arc Shopping Centre. Just a 10-minute walk from the station, this free summer event brings Charter Square to life with circus skills workshops, magic shows, giant bubble displays, face painting and colourful street performers. With no booking required, it’s an easy and affordable day out that can be combined with exploring the town’s historic streets, independent shops and green spaces.
Further along the line, Ipswich is celebrating one of Suffolk’s most famous artists through the Constable 250 programme at Christchurch Mansion. Marking 250 years since the birth of John Constable, the exhibitions showcase remarkable artworks from major national collections while a programme of family activities encourages visitors to explore the connections between art, landscape and nature. Around a 25-minute walk from Ipswich station, it’s a fantastic option for families looking to add a dose of culture to their day out.
For those who prefer the outdoors, Needham Market Station offers the chance to explore Suffolk’s countryside sustainably. Just seven minutes from the station, Needham Lake is a popular destination for wildlife spotting, waterside walks and picnics. Visitors can also hire electric bikes from the Eezybike hub beside the Duck and Teapot Café, making it easy to discover more of the surrounding area while trying a greener way to travel.
Needham Lake | St Edmund’s Line
Great family days out in the Cam Valley
Just south of Cambridge, the Cam Valley offers a variety of family-friendly attractions that are easy to reach by train. From nationally recognised attractions such as Shepreth Wildlife Park and National Trust Wimpole Estate, to local favourites such as Kingsway Golf Centre with its Jurassic-themed adventure golf course and Bury Lane Farm, which offers pick your own fruit and flowers, plus indoor soft play and a beach-themed outdoor adventure area. The Cam Valley Community Rail Partnership‘s Days Out guide showcases even more ideas for sustainable adventures by train, helping families discover wildlife, heritage, outdoor activities and village exploration. Find out more.
Bury Lane Farm, Cam Valley Line
Water, wildlife and history on the Hereward Line
The Hereward Line offers plenty of opportunities for memorable family days out, combing outdoor adventure with hands-on heritage experiences. In March, Cambridgeshire, families can enjoy time on the water with Fourwinds Leisure, where canoes, pedalos and paddleboards are available to hire for exploring the local waterways. Located within walking distance for the railway station, it’s a great way to experience the landscape from a different perspective while enjoying an active day out together.
Further along the line in Ely, Oliver Cromwell’s House brings history to life for visitors of all ages. Families can explore interactive exhibits, take part in activities, and even try on period costumes while discovering the story of one of Britain’s most famous historical figures.
Explore family fun along the Bishop Line
The Bishop Line offers plenty of opportunities for family adventures, combining imaginative play, culture and outdoor exploration, all easily accessible by train.
Start your journey in Darlington, where The Hullabaloo is just a five-minute walk from the station. As the only purpose-built children’s theatre north of London, it has become a firm favourite with local families. Designed especially for children aged 0-7 and their grown-ups, The Hullabaloo offers a packed programme of theatre shows, creative play sessions and engaging activities that encourage young imaginations to flourish. Open Wednesday to Saturday, it’s the perfect introduction to the world of theatre and storytelling.
Continue along the line to Bishop Auckland, where families can enjoy a summer adventure at The Auckland Project. The popular Quackers Fun trail invites children to follow a trail of mischievous ducks that have escaped from Paradise Garden and hidden themselves across the town. As families search for the missing ducks, they’ll discover Bishop Auckland’s fascinating mix of art, history, heritage and green spaces. Running throughout the summer holidays, the trail provides a fun and affordable way to explore the town, with free admission to Auckland Gardens for children under 16 when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.
The Hullabaloo, Darlington | Bishop Line
From canal walks to clog-making in Mytholmroyd
Nestled along the picturesque Calder Valley Line, the West Yorkshire village of Mytholmroyd is a great destination for families who love the outdoors. Explore peaceful walks along the Rochdale Canal, discover the beautiful Calder Valley, or head south towards the scenic Cragg Vale. While the area is well-known for its industrial heritage, it’s also home to a unique tradition: clog-making. Visit Walkley Clogs in the heart of the village, to watch traditional clogs being handcrafted and learn about this fascinating British craft from expert clog-makers.
Newmarket: Horses, history and family fun
Easy to reach by train, Newmarket offers families a unique day out centred around Britain’s horse-racing heritage. The National Horseracing Museum hosts a packed programme of summer activities, including creative workshops, family trails, outdoor chess and opportunities to meet retired racehorses.
Visitors can also take a behind-the-scenes tour of the National Stud, where they can meet mares, foals and resident stallions while discovering how future racehorses are bred. It’s a memorable family adventure that combines hands-on fun with fascinating local history. Discover more Newmarket public tours.
Discover Windsor This Summer
Windsor remains one of Britain’s best-loved family destinations and offers a wealth of attractions accessible by rail. From riverside walks along the Thames to historic landmarks and family-friendly events, there is plenty to keep visitors entertained. Take a look: Top Tips and Summer Savings.
More family adventures await
From Highland cattle in East Yorkshire and circus fun in Suffolk to children’s theatre in Darlington and family adventures in Bishop Auckland, these local favourites connects families with extraordinary places and unforgettable experiences.
The best part? They’re all recommended by the people who know them best.
So next time you’re planning a family day out, leave the car behind and discover a local family favourite by rail.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our scenic rail routes and family-friendly ideas for days out by train across Britain.
