With staycations more popular than ever, it's the perfect time to explore the incredible destinations right on our doorstep. The UK is home to an abundance of beautiful beaches, breathtaking National Parks, and scenic countryside, all just a train ride away. Discover some of the top spots for a memorable UK break this summer.
The Scottish Highlands
For romantic scenery and stunning natural landscapes, a staycation in the Highlands is hard to beat. With 30,000 km² to explore, you’ll never run out of things to do. For lovers of the great outdoors, Britain's largest National Park, the Cairngorms, has islands, coastlines, and mountains just waiting to welcome you.
The charming town of Oban, known as the ‘Charing Cross of the Highlands’, is a great base. It may be small, but Oban is home to a picturesque waterfront, world-class restaurants, and offers easy access to the islands. Alternatively, stay in Aviemore to be at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, with its dramatic mountain ranges, sparkling lochs, and thick forests perfect for outdoor sports.
Key Stations: Inverness, Aviemore, Fort William, Oban.
Main Operators: ScotRail operates most services within the Highlands. LNER, Avanti West Coast, and the Caledonian Sleeper provide direct links from London, the Midlands, and the North of England to key hubs like Inverness.
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North Wales
Another favourite hotspot for UK staycations, North Wales is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and families. You can't mention North Wales without talking about Snowdonia National Park, home to Mount Snowdon, the historic Ffestiniog Railway, and award-winning beaches.
For a classic British day at the seaside, head to the Victorian resort of Llandudno. Or, walk or cycle along the scenic Wales Coast Path to spot historic buildings, including the magnificent Conwy Castle.
Key Stations: Llandudno Junction, Bangor, Holyhead, Betws-y-Coed.
Main Operators: Transport for Wales runs extensive services across the region. Avanti West Coast provides direct, high-speed services from London Euston and the Midlands to the North Wales coast.
Cornwall
Historical harbours, sandy dunes, and picturesque blue seas – it can only be Cornwall! A staycation favourite for many years, Cornwall has something for everyone. From watersports to pristine beaches and not forgetting a classic Cornish cream tea, this county has so many places to enjoy.
Try your hand at surfing at Fistral beach in Newquay, or take a boat trip to Seal Island from St Ives to see the colony of grey seals. For a more relaxed pace, fish for crabs in the harbour at Padstow before taking the ferry across to Rock.
Key Stations: Penzance, St Ives, Newquay, Truro, Falmouth.
Main Operators: Great Western Railway (GWR) operates direct services from London Paddington, including the Night Riviera sleeper service. CrossCountry provides links from the Midlands, the North, and Scotland.
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Devon
Cornwall’s next-door neighbour also makes for a delightful staycation. With fascinating historic cities, two amazing coastlines, and striking countryside to explore, there’s plenty to do here. With some of the best local climates in the country, you could spend your time wandering around Exeter Cathedral or paddling in the sea at Torquay.
If you fancy a good walk, Dartmoor National Park has a rugged but beautiful landscape to discover, full of ancient tors and wild ponies.
Key Stations: Exeter St David's, Plymouth, Torquay, Barnstaple.
Main Operators: Great Western Railway (GWR) and CrossCountry are the primary long-distance operators. South Western Railway provides services from London Waterloo to Exeter.
Norfolk
From the unique landscape of the Broads to award-winning beaches and the charming city of Norwich, Norfolk has it all. Perfect for those who love the great outdoors, this county has many places that make the perfect staycation spot.
Head to Cromer to enjoy some delicious locally caught fish and chips on the beach, or why not hire a boat and explore the extensive network of waterways and pubs along the Wroxham Broads. You could even head to Great Yarmouth to visit the Britannia Pier and its endless line-up of amusements.
Key Stations: Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Cromer, Sheringham.
Main Operators: Greater Anglia provides frequent, direct services from London Liverpool Street to Norwich and other key towns. East Midlands Railway also serves Norwich from the Midlands and the North.
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Thanet, Kent
The Isle of Thanet features some of the UK's most iconic seaside destinations, including Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate. It only takes around 20 minutes to travel between them by train, so you could visit all three in one day, but spending a day in each makes for a lovely, relaxed staycation.
Be sure to stop at Morelli’s traditional ice-cream parlour in Broadstairs, wander around the art galleries in Margate's Old Town, and enjoy some coffee and cake at Archive by the marina in Ramsgate. And don’t forget the beautiful beaches: Ramsgate Main Sands, Margate Main Sands, and Viking Bay all feature golden sands perfect for a day of relaxation.
Key Stations: Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate.
Main Operators: Southeastern operates all services, including high-speed Javelin trains from London St Pancras International (journey time approx. 1hr 30mins) and mainline services from London Victoria and Charing Cross.
Use our journey planner to find the best routes to your ideal UK staycation
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