Short Breaks, Big Adventures: Family Walks by Train

Pam

5 Aug 20246 min read

There's nothing quite like exploring Britain's great outdoors with your family. With TrainSplit, you can save money on train fares through split ticketing and discover beautiful UK destinations from coastal spots to countryside retreats. Here are some fantastic locations you can reach by train, perfect for a memorable staycation.

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The Enchanted Forest of Dean

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Nearest Station: Lydney

Nestled in the heart of the Wye Valley, the Forest of Dean is a magical place for families. A short walk from Lydney station will lead you to the enchanting woods, where you can explore ancient woodland, spot wildlife, and let your imagination run wild.

Walk Highlights:

Canopy Walkway: For a bird's eye view of the forest, take a walk on the stunning Canopy Walkway.
Puzzlewood: This mysterious ancient woodland is perfect for little explorers.
Bike Hire: Explore the forest on two wheels with family bike hire available at various locations.

Family Fun:

Go Ape: For the adventurous family, there’s a fantastic Go Ape course where you can swing through the trees. More details.
Dean Heritage Centre: Discover the region's history with interactive exhibits and demonstrations. More details.
Forest Bathing: Relax and reconnect with nature through a guided forest bathing experience. More details. More details.

Coastal Charms of Whitstable

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Nearest Station: Whitstable

Whitstable is a quintessential seaside town with a charming old-fashioned feel. A leisurely stroll along the promenade offers stunning sea views and plenty of opportunities for ice cream and fish and chips.

Walk Highlights:

The Crab and Winkle Way: Start from Canterbury West station. This former railway line has been transformed into a traffic-free path perfect for walking or cycling. More details.
Tankerton Beach: Enjoy building sandcastles, paddling, or simply relaxing on the sandy shores. More details.
The Harbour: Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the harbour with its independent shops and seafood restaurants. More details.

Family Fun:

Whitstable Oyster Festival: If you're lucky enough to visit during the summer, enjoy this lively festival celebrating the town's famous oysters. More details.
Boat Trips: Take a boat trip to explore the local coastline and spot wildlife.
Miniature Railway: Ride on a miniature railway through the Kent countryside. More details.

The Magical Mere of Rutland Water

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Nearest Station: Oakham

Rutland Water is a haven for wildlife and offers a range of activities for families. A gentle walk around the reservoir provides stunning views and opportunities for spotting birds and other creatures.

Walk Highlights:

Nature Reserve Trails: Explore the diverse habitats of the nature reserve, from woodlands to wetlands. More details.
Cycle Paths: Hire bikes and explore the area on two wheels.
Fishing: Try your hand at fishing with family-friendly fishing lakes available.

Family Fun:

Sailing and Windsurfing: For the more adventurous, try your hand at sailing or windsurfing. More details.
Alexander's Sculpture: Marvel at this iconic piece of art set against the stunning backdrop of Rutland Water. More details.
Pick Your Own Fruit: Enjoy a fun day out picking your own fruit at nearby farms. More details.

Historic Highlights of Chester

Nearest Station: Chester

Chester is a city steeped in history with a charming atmosphere. A walk through the city centre will take you past Roman walls, medieval buildings, and picturesque rows.

Walk Highlights:

The Roman Walls: Take a walk along the city walls for stunning views of Chester. More details.
The Rows: Discover the unique shopping experience of the Rows, where shops are built on two levels. More details.
Chester Cathedral: Admire the impressive architecture of this historic cathedral. More details.

Family Fun:

Chester Zoo: Home to thousands of animals, Chester Zoo is a must-visit for families. More details.
River Dee: Enjoy a boat trip along the River Dee and admire the city from a different perspective. More details.
Storyhouse: A cultural centre offering theatre, cinema, and library facilities. More details.

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The Picturesque Peak District

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The Peak District offers stunning scenery, challenging hikes, and plenty of family-friendly activities. With a variety of train stations throughout the area, it's easy to explore different parts of the national park.

The Peak District is incredibly accessible by train. With multiple train lines serving the area, it’s easy to leave the car behind and explore this stunning national park.

The Hope Valley Line between Manchester and Sheffield offers direct access to the heart of the Peak District, with stations at Grindleford, Hathersage, Bamford, Hope, and Edale.
The Derwent Valley Line from Derby to Matlock provides access to the picturesque White Peak, with connections to Bakewell.
The Manchester to Glossop line takes you to the Dark Peak's dramatic moorlands, with stations at Glossop and Padfield.
The Manchester to Buxton line offers access to both the Dark Peak and the White Peak, with Buxton as a popular starting point for exploring the area.
The Manchester to Huddersfield line provides access to the northern part of the Peak District, with stations at Greenfield and Marsden.

From these stations, you can embark on a variety of walks, from gentle strolls to challenging hikes, and explore the best of what the Peak District has to offer.

Walk Highlights:

Kinder Scout: For experienced walkers, this iconic peak offers breathtaking views. More details.
Castleton: Discover the charming village of Castleton with its historic castle and caves. More details.
Dovedale: Enjoy a leisurely walk through this picturesque valley, famous for its stepping stones. More details.

Family Fun:

Go Ape: There are several Go Ape locations in the Peak District for adrenaline-filled fun. More details.
Caving: Explore the underground world with guided cave tours suitable for families. More details.
Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. More details.

Tips for Family Walks

Plan ahead: Check train times, weather forecasts, and walk distances before setting off.
Pack essentials: Don't forget snacks, drinks, sunscreen, hats, and a first aid kit.
Layer up: The British weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers for everyone.
Involve the kids: Let children help plan the walk, choose snacks, or create a nature diary.
Take breaks: Incorporate plenty of stops for picnics, exploring, or playing games.
Respect nature: Leave no trace and teach children about wildlife and conservation.
Capture the moment: Take photos to remember your family adventure.

Accommodation: Extend Your Stay

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To make the most of your budget-friendly staycation in the UK, consider extending your visit by booking comfortable and affordable accommodation through our recommended link. Securing your stay in advance ensures you have a relaxing place to unwind after exploring your chosen destination, whether it's a coastal retreat, a historic city, or a countryside haven.

Booking your accommodation in advance not only provides peace of mind but also helps you take full advantage of your time away. Enjoy the convenience of having your lodging sorted before you arrive, so you can focus on making memories and enjoying your staycation to the fullest.

With a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference, you're sure to find the perfect place to stay. Don't miss out—secure your accommodation today and make your staycation unforgettable!

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