Unlock the past by train
This year marks 200 years of railway history – a perfect reason to take a family trip and step back in time, exploring Britain’s rich heritage by train. From medieval market towns to Victorian seaside resorts, our railways are far more than a means of travel, they can also be a gateway to the past.
Join us as we explore inspiring places to visit and historic highlights to unlock the past by train, one journey at a time.
Celebrating Britain’s Railways, 200 years in the making
As we mark 200 years of railway heritage, a vibrant programme of events celebrates rail’s remarkable past, its vital role today, and its importance for a greener, more sustainable future. From poetry on the platform and photo competitions to station tours and signal box open days there’s plenty for all the family to enjoy this summer. Take a look at the full events programme here.
Visitors young and old are invited to go on a journey of discovery on the Inspiration train, bringing the railway’s 200 year story to life through interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities. See the touring route here.
The Inspiration Exhibition Train at the Severn Valley Railway. Credit: Jack Boskett
Castles, cathedrals & curious adventures
East of England
Hop on the Sunshine Coast Line to explore Colchester Castle, home to Europe’s largest Norman Keep, perfect for hands-on history fun. Or ride the Hereward Line to visit both Peterborough and Ely Cathedrals – from family augmented reality trails featuring Shaun the Sheep to peaceful gardens, it’s a tale of two cities with a twist.
Wales
Travel the Cambrian Coast Line to Harlech Castle, where dramatic sea views meet centuries of Welsh history, just a short walk from the station.
South East
Step into a fairy tale at Arundel Castle via the Arun Valley Line. With grand halls, towers, gardens, and family-friendly activities, it’s a magical day out.
North West
Take the Mid Cheshire Line or North Cheshire Line to Chester Cathedral for Making Tracks 200, a spectacular model railway exhibition celebrating 200 years of intercity travel, running until 30 August 2025.
Arundel Castle along the Arun Valley Line
Trails through time
Step off the train and into the past with these fascinating walking trails across the UK. In West Sussex, follow the Littlehampton Railway 200 Blue Plaque trail from the station to the museum, spotting hidden railway cats along the way, or stroll through Lancing to uncover stories of railway workers past and present.
In Cambridgeshire, the Whittlesey Heritage Walk along the Hereward Line invites families to explore this ancient market town – kids can even hunt for fairies and dinosaurs in Lattersey Nature Reserve using the Love Exploring App. Over in Essex, take the Mayflower Line to Harwich for a maritime-themed walk through the historic old town to Dovercourt. And in Kent, hop on the Swale, Medway Valley, or Kent Downs lines to follow the Wheels of Time Trail, collecting fun badges while exploring museums and heritage sites. All just a train ride away.
Fascinating museums & inspiring exhibitions
One of the great ways to unlock the past by train is to explore unique exhibitions across Britain, all just a short walk from the station. In the East of England, ride the Hereward Line to Peterborough Museum for Adventures in Time & Space exhibition, a must-see for Doctor Who fans with props, costumes, and spaceship models (pre-booking recommended).
Over in the North West, take the scenic Furness Line to Kents Bank Station Library for Holidays by Train, a nostalgic look at seaside escapes of the steam era, in partnership with the Beach Hut Gallery.
Hop off the train at Bolton Station and step into a world of local creativity! From 4th to 31st August, the Platform Gallery on platform 5 hosts The Clitheroe Line – A Picturesque Railway Journey, a unique mobile exhibition of photography, drawings, and poetry inspired by the scenic stops along the line.
In the West Midlands, visit Nuneaton Museum & Gallery to see Art of Travel, a vibrant collection of over 40 retro-style travel posters by artist Nicky Thompson, on display until 20 September.
Head further East and explore three fascinating museums in Bedford: The Higgins Bedford, the John Bunyan Museum, and the Panacea Museum – perfect for curious minds and budding historians. Join the Marston Vale Line from Bedford and stop off at Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre, where kids and grown-ups alike can explore railway history in a charming Victorian setting. For a truly memorable experience, head to Bletchley Park, the iconic home of WWII codebreakers, where rail passengers can enjoy 2-for-1 entry.
View from the platform at Kents Bank Station.
Uncover unusual tales
Discover quirky and lesser-known stories across Britain when you take the train. In Scotland, travel the Strathallan Line to Stirling’s atmospheric Old Town Jail, where costumed guides bring Scotland’s darker past to life.
In Wales, the Heart of Wales Line leads to the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, where you can meet a life-sized woolly mammoth. And in the Peak District, the Buxton Line takes you to Poole’s Cavern, a stunning natural wonder steeped in local legend.
Over in the Midlands, take the Derwent Valley Line to Matlock Bath and soar to the Heights of Abraham for caves, fossils, and sweeping views. In the West Midlands, explore the Cam Valley’s ancient settlements and archaeological finds, like the Meldreth Hoard.
Poole’s Cavern | Buxton Line. Photo: Buxton Civic Association
In the East of England, stroll from Harwich Town Station on the Mayflower Line to the Lifeboat Museum, packed with tales of daring sea rescues.
Head further East and uncover the past by train at Lowestoft, where railway heritage meets hands-on fun and local charm! From 11–14 August, the Railway 200 Inspiration Exhibition Train rolls into Lowestoft Station, offering a fascinating look at 200 years of railway history through interactive displays and stories – perfect for curious kids and nostalgic grown-ups. Alongside it, a free photographic exhibition opens on 11 August, showcasing stunning images from the Bittern Line and Wherry Lines over the past 50 years. No booking needed, just drop in and explore!
While you’re there, check out the newly restored heritage crossing gates at the south end of the station, part of a growing heritage quarter. And don’t miss a visit to the Lowestoft Station Shop and Tourist Information Office, now celebrating its fifth birthday – a great spot to pick up ideas for more local adventures. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just looking for a fun, free day out, Lowestoft has something special for every family.
Lowestoft Central | Wherry Lines
Discover fascinating history along the Barton Line, where every stop tells a story. From Grimsby’s iconic Blundell Park and historic fish docks to the Time Trap museum in the old town hall, the journey is packed with fascinating sights. Spot restored 1920s railway signs at Thornton Abbey, once visited by Henry VIII, and glimpse the former station hotel and paddle steamer pier at New Holland. As you approach Barton, look out for the claypits-turned-lakes that once fueled the town’s tile industry – perfect for a family day out with a touch of heritage.
Ready to unlock the past by train or need more inspiration?
Find out even more suggestions for your next family adventure with our find your next journey tool and discover more car-free days out across Britain. Try it out here.
