Memorable moments for less

Think train travel is too expensive? It doesn’t have to be. With a little planning and the right know-how, exploring Britain by rail can be both affordable and enjoyable. Whether you’re after a spontaneous day trip or a planned adventure, this blog is packed with tips to help you save money and discover fantastic destinations – for memorable moments for less.

You’ll find 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.

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.

Sign up to our monthly newsletter before 3 September 2025 and be in with a chance of winning a 12-month Family & Friends Railcard. Sign up for free here.

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 here.

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.

Why train travel can be budget-friendly

Using the tips above can make train travel a great money-saver for families but you can save even more with a little planning:

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 here.

Hidden gems to explore for free

Looking for fun and affordable destinations? There are plenty of places across Britain that offer free or low-cost entry, with easy access to the railway, perfect for family days out by train. From scenic towns and parks to museums and cultural spots, these budget-friendly locations prove you don’t need to spend much to make great memories. Below you’ll find a curated list from our community rail friends so you can explore like a local and save money at the same time.

Uncover Scotland’s stories

On the Highland Main Line, visit the Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre to learn about its innovative fish ladder designed to help salmon migrate upstream. Along the Strathallan Line, the Stirling Smith Museum & Gallery showcases local history, including a rare silver casket linked to Mary, Queen of Scots (on display until 31 August). At the end of the East Lothian Line, North Berwick’s Coastal Communities Museum explores seaside heritage with engaging exhibits run by dedicated volunteers.

Explore more of Scotland by rail…

Highland Main Line

Walks & wonders of Wales

Step off the Conwy Valley Line at Betws-y-Coed and enjoy easy access to woodland walking trails, riverside paths, and waterfalls, perfect for a family-friendly stroll with picnic spots along the way. Over on the South West Wales Connected network, the National Waterfront Museum in Swansea offers a free, interactive journey through 300 years of Welsh industrial and maritime history, blending modern technology with traditional displays.

Explore more of Wales by rail…

Betws-y-Coed Station | Conwy Valley Line

Nature meets history across East England

Cambridge offers a treasure trove of free museums ideal for a curious family day out. Hop aboard from London, winding through the scenic Cam Valley, and in just over an hour you’ll be diving into the city’s rich cultural heritage. See the full itinerary here.

Nature calls next at  Railworld Wildlife Haven, a delightful spot near Peterborough Station where wildlife and a garden railway come to life, thanks to passionate volunteers. From here, the Hereward Line whisks you to Ely Park, perfect for little explorers with its open green spaces and towering cathedral views.

Heading east, swap train seats for sandy toes with a beachside stroll between Walton-on-the-Naze and Frinton-on-Sea via the Mayflower Line – a dream for shell collectors and ice cream connoisseurs. Nearby, the Sunshine Coast Line guides you to Mistley Walls, where the tranquil Stour Estuary leads through the charming lanes of Manningtree, England’s smallest town.

Railworld Wildlife Haven | Hereward Line

Art adventures in the South East

Discover grand city galleries or explore quirky art trails when you explore the South East along the Thameslink rail network. From London to Bedford, Cambridge to Brighton, there’s plenty of cultural experiences for all the family to enjoy. Find out more…

Beds & Bucks on a budget

Have memorable moments for less in Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire while exploring the Marston Vale Line. Step into the past for free at the Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre, where railway history comes alive in a charming Victorian setting. In Bedford, enjoy free entry to three fascinating museums: The Higgins Bedford, the John Bunyan Museum, and the Panacea Museum and don’t miss Crafty Thursdays at the John Bunyan Museum, where little hands can get creative with free craft activities. For a sweet treat, head to Gallone’s Ice Cream Parlour at the Pavilion in the Park, where Marston Vale Line passengers get 25% off with a valid ticket.

Then stretch your legs at the Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park, just a pleasant walk or cycle from Millbrook Station, complete with a play area and 10% off at the Lakeside Café for rail passengers.

Family fun in the fresh air up North

Lace up your walking boots and pack a picnic, it’s time to explore the Peak District National Park, Britain’s very first national park. Easily accessible via the scenic Hope Valley Line, this stunning region is perfect for unforgettable family adventures in the great outdoors.

Looking for a budget-friendly way to explore and make memories? The Barton Cleethorpes Community Rail Partnership offers a fantastic collection of free walks between stations, perfect for families and curious explorers alike. Discover hidden gems and local history along the route – find all the walk details at bccrp.co.uk.

Hop on at Manchester Piccadilly and enjoy a picturesque journey along the Buxton Line, which takes you straight to, you guessed it, the charming spa town of Buxton.

A 15 minute walk from the station, Buxton Country Park offers a budget-friendly escape into nature. Wander through peaceful woodlands, spot local wildlife, and soak up breathtaking views. Follow the enchanting sculpture trail, where you’ll meet characters like Charlie the Limeburner and Martha the Quarry Worker, each sharing a piece of the area’s rich heritage.

Buxton Country Park | Buxton Line | Photo: Buxton Civic Association

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 page here.