Right, let’s get one thing straight. The seaside is great — if you like sand in your sandwiches, wind that blows your hat into the next county, and queueing for chips behind ten thousand other folk. But if you fancy a bit of peace and proper fresh air this summer, lakes are where it’s at.
And the best bit? You can get there by train, no stressful parking or endless motorway jams involved. Grab your railcard, pack a picnic, and you’re sorted for a smashing day out.
Why lakes beat the beach (no offence to beaches)
Lakes have a laid-back charm that’s hard to beat. The water’s usually calmer (less chance of swallowing half the ocean), you can see your feet, and there’s usually more space to spread out without sitting on someone’s towel.
You can paddle, swim (if you’re brave), hire a boat or just chill on the banks while the kids hunt for the perfect skipping stone. And if it starts tipping it down? There’s usually a nearby café or pub for emergency cake.
And if you stay the night? Well, there’s nowt better than waking up to birdsong, a misty morning over the water, and another full day of fresh air and no emails.
12 Lakes You Can Actually Get to by Train (with somewhere to stay too)
1. Loch Tay, Perthshire
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Not quite the Lakes District, but honestly just as stunning — and a lot quieter. Perfect for kayaking, fishing, or hiring a canoe. The village of Kenmore nearby is adorable, with a bakery that does a mean scone.
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Get there: Train to Pitlochry or Perth, then bus to Kenmore (limited service, so check ahead).
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Stay: Kenmore Hotel or Mains of Taymouth Cottages.
2. Bassenthwaite Lake, Lake District
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Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbours, but brilliant for birdwatching and peaceful walks. It’s one of the few lakes where you might spot ospreys diving for fish.
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Get there: Train to Penrith or Workington, then local bus to Braithwaite or Dodd Wood.
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Stay: Embleton Spa Hotel or The Pheasant Inn.
3. Derwentwater, Keswick
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A bit more bustling, but still less frantic than Windermere. Hire a rowing boat, walk the lakeside trail, or explore the Keswick Market for local crafts and goodies.
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Get there: Travel to Keswick.
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Stay: The Kings Arms Hotel or YHA Keswick are both central.
4. Loch Earn, Perthshire
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A quiet spot popular with wild swimmers and kayakers. The water’s clear, the hills are dramatic, and there’s a friendly local vibe. Good for families who like a bit of adventure without the crowds.
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Get there: Train to Stirling, then bus to Lochearnhead (again, check times).
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Stay: Clachan Cottage Hotel or Balquhidder Braes Holiday Park.
5. Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), North Wales
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Wales’ largest natural lake. Perfect for sailing, fishing, and walking. The town of Bala has lovely cafes and a great outdoor pool for the kids if they get chilly.
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Get there: Train to Ruabon, then a TrawsCymru bus to Bala.
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Stay: Plas Coch Hotel in Bala town centre is cosy and convenient.
6. Grafham Water, Cambridgeshire
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If you fancy something less mountainous, this reservoir offers sailing, windsurfing, and loads of walking and cycling trails. Great for families who want a bit of everything without trekking up a hill.
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Get there: Train to Huntingdon, then the 66 bus or a 15-min taxi.
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Stay: The George Hotel in Huntingdon or camping near the reservoir.
7. Loch Morlich, Cairngorms
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I know I mentioned this before, but it’s worth repeating. Sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and mountain views. Plus, there’s a playground and café close by, so it’s brilliant for families.
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Get there: Train to Aviemore, then the #30 bus.
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Stay: Cairngorm Hotel or Aviemore Youth Hostel.
8. Ullswater, Lake District
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Known as England’s most beautiful lake (very official title), it’s great for gentle walks and steamer boat trips. The Aira Force waterfall nearby is a lovely spot for a picnic.
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Get there: Train to Penrith North Lakes, then bus to Glenridding or Pooley Bridge.
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Stay: Ullswater Inn has lake views (double room only), or try The Quiet Site for eco pods.
9. Loch Lomond, Scotland
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If you fancy a wee adventure north of the border, this one’s a classic. Plenty of walking trails, boat hire, and cosy pubs nearby. Plus, the West Highland Line that takes you close is one of the UK’s most scenic train journeys.
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Get there: Train to Balloch, which is right on the southern shore.
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Stay: The Queen of the Loch (a Marston’s Inn) is near the station.
10. Coniston Water, Lake District
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A bit quieter than Windermere, famous for the old speed record attempts by Donald Campbell, but now perfect for kayaking and sailing. Great for families and history buffs alike.
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Get there: Train to Windermere, then the 505 bus to Coniston.
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Stay: The Coniston Inn or YHA Coniston Holly How.
11. Chew Valley Lake, Somerset
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An underrated beauty near Bristol, great for birdwatching, cycling, and picnics. Ideal if you want to avoid the more touristy spots.
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Get there: Train to Bristol Temple Meads, then bus to Chew Magna (walk/cycle from there).
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Stay: The Pig Near Bath or Chew Valley Lake Lodges.
12. Thirlmere, Lake District
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Less known than some neighbours, but a stunning spot for walking and wildlife spotting — and great views without the crowds.
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Get there: Train to Penrith or Windermere, then connecting buses towards Keswick.
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Stay: Try accommodation in Keswick and take a short bus or taxi from there.
Quick Escapes from London
Not every great lake needs a five-hour train ride and a waterproof OS map. If you’re after something more spontaneous, here are a few bonus spots — perfect for day trips, no hiking boots required.
A former quarry turned aqua playground. Paddleboarding, wild swimming, and open-water diving just outside Rochester. You’ll need to book ahead for activities.
Get there: Train to Halling, then a short walk or taxi.
Stay: Not much nearby — best for a day trip.
Image credit: JeanCuomo | Getty Images
A stone’s throw from central London, this one’s got sailing, windsurfing, and a proper lake vibe without needing to leave Zone 6. Great for families.
Get there: Central line to Fairlop, then a short walk.
Stay: Best for a day trip, but Ilford has hotel options if needed.
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Technically a reservoir, but it has a sandy beach, a miniature railway, and a circular walking route through ancient woodland. Kids love it.
Get there: Tube to Ruislip, then the H13 bus.
Stay: West London hotels or make it a day out.
Blue Pool, Surrey (Thorpe Lakes)
Watersports galore — wakeboarding, paddleboarding, or just chilling by the lake with a cold drink. Popular with young Londoners in summer.
Get there: Train to Chertsey or Staines, then walk or grab a cab.
Stay: Thorpe Park hotels nearby or camping.
Things to do that don’t involve just sitting on your towel
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Rent a boat or kayak — Everyone looks cooler in a lifejacket, promise.
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Go for a paddleboard lesson — Because balancing on a paddleboard is 90% fun, 10% hilarious falls.
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Try wild swimming — Only if you’re feeling brave. Maybe test the water with a pinky toe first.
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Picnic by the water — Cheese, crisps, and something sweet to finish. Always a winner.
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Explore local villages — Find the best ice cream, a quirky shop, or a pub with a cracking Sunday roast.
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Wildlife spotting — Bring binoculars or just keep an eye out for ducks, swans, or the odd cheeky squirrel.
And here’s where the family & friends railcard saves the day
If you’re planning to go with kids or a bunch of mates, the Family & Friends Railcard is a no-brainer. It saves you a third on adult fares and 60% on kids’ tickets — so more cash for ice cream, boat hire, or that extra round of tea.
You don’t have to be related either, so bring your best mate, your niece, your mum — whoever’s up for a day out. It’s dead easy to get one online and use it straight away.
Why train travel makes the whole day better
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You can relax from the moment you step on board. No road rage, no “Are we nearly there yet?” from the back seat.
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You arrive fresh, ready to explore — and with a great excuse to crack open a flask of tea.
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It’s kinder on the planet, so you can enjoy all that fresh air guilt-free.
So, lakes over seaside? We reckon yes.
No beach crowds. No sand in your pants. Just clear water, fresh air, epic views and the kind of day out you’ll actually want to do again. You can get there easily by train, and there’s plenty of cosy places to stay overnight if you want to stretch it into a proper mini-break.