Campaigns

Days Out by Rail

Family having a day out in the autumn sunshine at a railway station
Children sat on the train doing activities

Arts and culture

Family fun

History and heritage

On a budget

Outdoors and nature

Walking

Days Out by Rail

There’s nothing quite like exploring Britain by rail, seeing spectacular views from the window, going on wonderful walks, uncovering hidden gems and using the journey to spend quality time with family, friends or quiet time alone. Not only that but it’s also one of the greenest ways to travel so you’re helping the environment too.

Below you’ll find suggestions for days out by rail and how to explore Britain by train for family travels, autumn adventures, short breaks, budget friendly trips and spooky Halloween haunts. There are plenty of ideas to inspire your future adventures whether you chose a day out, short break or longer stay!

In addition check out National Rail and Time Out’s ultimate guide to exciting experiences, all accessible by train for even more inspiration. And don’t forget you can get 2FOR1 and 1/3 OFF entry with National Rail’s Days Out Guide when you travel by train.

Join the conversations online, share your favourite days out by rail and be sure to follow us on our social channels (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X/Twitter). Sign up to our newsletter below for more delightful days out and short break ideas too.

Autumn days out with the family

Find suggestions for a exciting autumn days out with the family by train.

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Family on platform waving at train as it pulls into station

More ideas for days out

View of Whitby town, harbour and abbey from between the whale bones

Eerie places to visit this Halloween

Spooky season is here! We've rounded up a small selection of eearie places to visit this Halloween, take a look, if you dare.

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Family and train at platform

A grand day out with the grandkids by train

Spend quality time with the grandkids and take them on a day out by train.

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Houses with imposing Durham cathedral in the background against blue sky

Sustainable scenic views

Take a look at some of the winning entries from this year's Better Transport Week competition, in partnership with Campaign for Better Transport, along the theme of 'scenic rail view'.

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Pullman Camping Coaches, Ravenglass

Unusual places to stay by train

See suggestions for unusual places to stay by train including railway carriages, luxury glamping and more, all easy to reach by scenic train journeys.

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Room looking out to see with open windows

Taking the slower route, a guest blog by Ecosy Travel

Katie from Ecosy Travel shares the benefits and delights of taking the greener slower route, opening the door to a world of possibilities and opportunities when you go by train.

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Days out by scenic rail in Sussex

Delightful days out for grown-ups

Whether your travelling solo, as a couple or in a group we've got ideas for days out just for grown-ups. So leave the kids at school and enjoy a day out by rail.

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