The best UK staycation ideas accessible by train

Dreaming of an unforgettable holiday without the hassle of travelling abroad? British staycations have never been more exciting! This summer, ditch the airport queues and explore some of the best staycations the UK has to offer – all accessible by train.

We’ve rounded up our favourite UK staycation ideas, perfect for every kind of adventurer. Whether you’re craving historic landmarks, peaceful beaches or vibrant cityscapes, we’ll guide you to your next great escape (no car keys required).

Keep reading for inspiration, tips and everything you need to know to start planning your ultimate British staycation!

Contents:
Natural escapes
Historic sites
Beach holidays
Hidden gems
City breaks

Natural escapes

We’re lucky enough to have some of the best National Parks in the UK that are easily accessible by train. You could get a cottage in the Peak District with a group of friends, take the whole family to one of the charming towns dotted around the Lake District, or spend a weekend hiking and castle-hopping. Here are our favourite UK staycation locations for an outdoor adventure.

Lake District

Stretching across 912 square miles, the Lake District National Park is the UK’s biggest National Park. It’s home to 17 stunning lakes, Scafell Pike (England’s tallest mountain) and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Paddle in the cooling waters of Lake Windermere or hop aboard a boat for a scenic trip. For the more adventurous, lace up your walking boots and set out on one of the park’s many walking trails. When the day winds down, don’t miss the chance to camp under a blanket of stars.

How to get there: Take a direct train to Penrith or Oxenholme station from Manchester in just 1.5 hours. From Oxenholme, you can connect to Kendal or Windermere for easy access to this outdoor paradise.

Peak District

Looking for one of the best places for a staycation across the UK? The Peak District National Park delivers in spades with its sweeping countryside, forests and endless opportunities to explore. Located between Manchester and Sheffield, the 554 square miles of the park offer something for everyone.

Whether you’re craving reservoir walks or challenging hill hikes, the Peak District has it all. Try Chapel-en-le-Frith for peaceful waterside trails or take on the rugged landscapes of Kinder Scout for spectacular views. Love quaint villages? Bakewell, famous for its tarts, and Castleton with its caves, are absolute must-visits!

How to get there: Convenient routes from Manchester, Sheffield and beyond make reaching the Peaks easy. Popular stations like Chapel-en-le-Frith, Edale, Buxton and Hope are ideal entry points.

Northumberland

Northumberland is an ideal staycation destination, brimming with natural beauty and fascinating attractions. Stretch your legs with hikes along Hadrian’s Wall or savour Northumberland’s unique charm by visiting its coastline. Picture yourself wandering through Bamburgh, with its iconic castle, or exploring Alnwick, home to enchanting gardens. History buffs will love the region’s countless ancient sites, providing plenty to discover with every visit.

How to get there: Bamburgh and Alnwick are a 40-50-minute bus ride from Berwick-upon-Tweed train station. You can also catch the Tyne Valley Line to the southern part of Northumberland from Newcastle.

Historic sites

If you thought you needed to go abroad to see ruins, castles and historic wonders, think again. The UK is steeped in history, with plenty of awe-inspiring sites to explore. From the iconic Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Roman Empire, to ancient castles, these destinations are close to (or in!) major cities too, so they’re easy to get to by train.

Edinburgh Castle

Majestically overlooking Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Castle is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an icon of the city. Step inside and take a tour to uncover centuries of fascinating history, from its role as a royal residence to its military significance. Don’t miss highlights like the Honours of Scotland, the oldest crown jewels in the UK, or the Stone of Destiny. Enjoy the panoramic views of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, giving you a picture-perfect backdrop for your British staycation adventure.

How to get there: Take the train to Edinburgh Waverley, the city’s main station, which connects directly to most major UK cities.

Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian's Wall is an ideal destination for anyone interested in history and looking for a unique staycation experience. Stretching coast to coast from Newcastle to Carlisle, this ancient Roman fortification offers a unique blend of history, landscape and culture. Walking along the wall, you'll find well-preserved forts, milecastles and turrets, each with tales of Roman Britain.

Beyond the wall itself, there’s plenty to explore in the towns and landmarks along its route. Vindolanda, a Roman auxiliary fort, and the Roman Army Museum are two must-visit sites. Whether you prefer strolls or more challenging hikes, you’ll find routes to suit all abilities, making it a fantastic day out for families, solo travellers or couples.

How to get there: Catch a train to Newcastle or Carlisle, and from there, hop onto the Tyne Valley Railway. This historic rail line delivers you to the heart of this remarkable landmark, with stations near main access points.

York Minster

York Minster, one of the largest and most breathtaking Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, is a gem on any British staycation bucket list. Dating back to the 7th century, this architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to York’s fascinating history. Once inside, you’ll be awed by its stained-glass windows and intricate stonework. Feeling brave? Climb the Central Tower to enjoy views across the city.

But the Minster is just the beginning. Take a stroll along the York City Walls, first built by the Romans, and soak up the historic charm of the city from atop the ancient walls.

How to get there: Hop on a direct train to York station from cities like Manchester or Leeds. From the station, it’s just a 20-minute walk to York Minster.

Beach holidays

We’re proud to have some of the best beaches in the North and Scotland along our network, so why not pack your beach towel and hop on a train to the seaside? You could soon be catching waves at Saltburn Beach or taking a coastal walk at Belhaven Bay in Dunbar. Here are our favourite staycation spots for a beach holiday in the UK.

Belhaven Bay, Dunbar

This expansive beach is found within the John Muir Country Park and stretches from Belhaven in Dunbar to the north of the River Tyne. It’s fringed by low, sheltering dunes, rich salt marsh and colourful grasslands.

Whether you’re picnicking on the sand, exploring the shoreline or soaking up the sun, Belhaven Bay’s natural charm is hard to resist. If you’re feeling more active, the nearby clifftop walk in Dunbar is a scenic trail that takes you past the historic harbour and the ruins of Dunbar Castle, offering stunning views of the coastline.

How to get there: Take a train to Dunbar, followed by a short ride on the 120 bus to this beautiful coastal location.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

A haven for thrill-seekers and beach lovers, Saltburn Beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions and is considered one of the best spots for catching waves in the area. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, jet skiing, windsurfing and swimming.

Saltburn has a rich Victorian heritage and is home to the UK’s oldest water-balanced funicular lift, a true engineering marvel that still operates today. Take a ride to experience a bit of history while enjoying fantastic views of the beach below. Nearby, the Italian gardens offer a peaceful retreat, while the miniature railway (one of the country’s most famous) entertains visitors of all ages.

How to get there: Simply catch a train to Saltburn station, and from there, it’s just a short five-minute walk to the beach.

Scarborough

Scarborough Beach is an ideal spot for those who enjoy being in the middle of the action. With its lively vibe and golden sands, you’ll find cafés, ice cream shops, arcades and traditional donkey rides. A Victorian promenade connects Scarborough’s north and south bays, and the waves often provide excellent conditions for surfing, making it popular among water sports enthusiasts. Take a boat tour out to sea if you’re looking for another fun activity or simply relax on the sand during sunny days.

How to get there: Arrive by train at Scarborough station, and within just a five-minute walk, you’ll find yourself at the heart of this vibrant seaside haven.

Hidden gems

If you love escaping the crowds and uncovering lesser-known treasures, these hidden gems are perfect for your next UK staycation trip. Tucked away in some of the country’s most beautiful yet overlooked corners, these destinations may be a little trickier to reach by train, but that’s precisely what keeps them hidden. These secret spots reward the extra effort and promise a staycation experience like no other.

Holy Island, Berwick-upon-Tweed

Holy Island, also known as Lindisfarne, is a tidal island tucked away off the Northeast coast of England near Berwick-upon-Tweed. What makes Holy Island so special is that it’s only accessible at low tide via a causeway, so if you stay the night, you’re completely secluded from the rest of the world.

The landscape is stunning, with beautiful beaches and a castle for those who love a touch of history on their holidays. It's an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and discover a truly magical place.

How to get there: Hop on a train to Berwick-upon-Tweed and from there, take the number 477 bus (around 34 minutes) to reach the island. The bus operates to the island on most days during the summer months, depending on the tide. Be sure to check the safe crossing times to plan your journey.

Runswick Bay

You might have heard of Saltburn-on-the-Sea on the North Yorkshire coast, but have you heard of Runswick Bay? This crescent-shaped bay boasts golden sands, dramatic cliffs and a picturesque cliffside village, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful seaside retreat. The village has a (very) small collection of bed and breakfasts and hotels overlooking the beach from a cliff. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular, or you can relax and enjoy the scenery in peace.

How to get there: Travel by train to Saltburn-by-the-Sea, and from the station, take a scenic 45-minute public bus (X4) to the bay. Alternatively, a 25-minute taxi ride can get you there even faster.

Jesmond Dene, Newcastle

Not everyone wants to go so far off the beaten track to find their hidden gem, so we thought we’d include one that was a bit more central. Jesmond Dene is a lush, wooded valley in Newcastle, perfect to visit as part of a city break. It’s full of winding paths, greenery and stunning waterfalls; you’ll forget you’re so close to the city! As you explore the park, you'll come across Millfield House, the historic Old Mill, and the Pet's Corner, which is ideal for families.

How to get there: Jesmond Dene is conveniently located for visitors coming from Newcastle-upon-Tyne station. Take a leisurely 35-minute walk or opt for an 11-minute bus ride.

City breaks

Choosing the perfect city break destination can be a challenge, especially with so many incredible options across the North and Scotland along our network. These cities are teeming with cultural attractions to explore. For travellers on a budget, you’ll find plenty of affordable accommodation options and wallet-friendly activities.

Newcastle

For a city brimming with iconic landmarks and vibrant energy, Newcastle is hard to beat. This legendary destination is home to sights like the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, the medieval Newcastle Castle and the Tyne Bridge. If you fancy venturing slightly further afield, a short trip outside the city takes you to the Angel of the North.

Newcastle’s arts and culture scene is equally impressive. Explore theatres, galleries and museums, including the Great North Museum and the hands-on Discovery Museum. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast or science lover, there’s something here to spark your curiosity.

No visit to Newcastle is complete without experiencing its famous nightlife. From buzzing bars to live music venues, the city promises an unforgettable evening.

How to get there: Travelling to Newcastle is straightforward, with the main train station, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, right in the heart of the city.

Manchester

Manchester is best known for its rich industrial heritage, cultural scene and warm Mancunian hospitality. You can explore the city's iconic landmarks, such as Manchester Cathedral and the historic Manchester Town Hall in Albert Square, or visit one of Manchester’s galleries or museums.

But Manchester isn’t just about the buzz of the city centre. If you’re craving a breath of fresh air, hop on a tram and head to Chorlton or Sale, both just a short ride away. Chorlton Water Park offers tranquil lakeside views, ideal for a picnic or a stroll along wooded trails. It’s the perfect way to unwind after soaking up the city’s energy.

How to get there: Multiple central train stations, including Manchester Oxford Road, Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria, all offer convenient access to the city’s top attractions.

Glasgow

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, so it’s no surprise there’s a lot to see and do! We love Glasgow for its vibrant arts scene, lively nightlife and gorgeous Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture. Our favourite attraction is the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. It's free entry and has a gallery for everything you could imagine, from iconic artwork to ancient Egyptian artefacts.

For shopping and dining, head to Buchanan Street and the trendy West End for plenty of shops, cafés and restaurants to choose from. Whether you're immersing yourself in history and culture or simply enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere, Glasgow promises a memorable city break.

How to get there: Head to the main train stations, Glasgow Central or Queen Street.

Ready for your British staycation? With so many options for a holiday in the UK, you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding where to go! Book your train now to avoid disappointment.

For more holiday inspiration, check out our guides on the most beautiful places in the UK and what to do during a trip to The Lakes.