8 attractions and days out for families
26th April 2023
Need a plan to entertain the children? Don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of awesome activities to help keep boredom at bay. Whether you’ve got young kids or teenagers, there’s something on this list to keep your family happy, busy and entertained.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your trusty Railcard – where you can save 1/3 on adult fares and up to 60% off for kids –and hop on the train this weekend to discover one of these brilliant family days out in Great Britain.
1. Best for all ages: SEA LIFE Brighton
British attractions for families don’t come much better than SEA LIFE Brighton.
Packed to the gills with weird and wonderful creatures from around the world, kids of all ages will love exploring the different zones of the aquarium. Spot sharks, turtles, stingrays and more with a 2FOR1 ticket when you travel by train.*
Don’t live on the south coast? Don’t worry, there are 11 other SEA LIFEs across the UK!
Nearest station: Brighton
2. Best for teenagers: The Slate Caverns, Blaenau Ffestiniog
Head underground for a fascinating look at the slate mining industry in Wales at Zip World in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Dressed in full mining gear, you’ll descend 500 feet below the surface by cable railway to learn the story of the mines.
Back on the surface, take a ride on the Quarry Explorer, a converted military truck that provides off-road tours of the lunar-like quarry landscape. A great family day out for older kids.
Nearest station: Blaenau Ffestiniog
3. Best for a rainy day: Glasgow Science Centre
Who said science can’t be fun? Not us. Full of interactive exhibitions and immersive learning experiences, Glasgow Science Centre is the perfect day out when the weather’s rubbish. Make a splash in the Waterways zone, travel into space at the planetarium and play adventurer on the Big Explorer cargo ship.
Besides the exhibitions, there’s tons of other fun including live shows, workshops and an IMAX cinema.
Nearest station: Glasgow Central Station, Glasgow Queen Street
4. Best for active families: Fell Foot, Lake District
Located on the shores of Windermere, Fell Foot makes for an affordable outdoor adventure for the whole family.
Rent balance bikes free of charge from the visitor centre, skim stones in the lake, play in the outdoor play area or take a muddy ramble around the park and meadows.
This is a National Trust property, so there’s a good chance you’ll find tons of other activities on offer, too. Not a Cumbria native? No problem. Just look for other National Trust properties near you!
Nearest station: Windermere
5. Best for kids between 2 and 12: Legoland Windsor Resort
One of the UK’s best family attractions, Legoland Windsor Resort is the perfect day out for kids under 12.
This action-packed theme park captures all the fun of lego, with lots of rides, themed events and live entertainment.
There are tons of interactive building zones, where the kids can get creative, including the new Ferrari zone. And you can go 2FOR1 when you travel there by train with National Rail.*
Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central
6. Best for families on a budget: National Museum Cardiff
The National Museum Cardiff is the perfect budget-friendly day out for families – it’s completely free!
Kids will certainly love the natural history exhibition, which explains how Wales has changed from the time of the dinosaurs to the modern day.
On top of the usual displays, the museum regularly runs family events, such as Easter egg hunts and interactive workshops.
Nearest station: Cardiff
7. Best for animal madness: Dalscone Farm Fun, Dumfries & Galloway
Meet llamas, ponies, lambs and more, up close and personal at Dalscone Farm Fun.
Part petting zoo, part fun fair, there’s loads to keep the kids entertained. Besides the animals, there’s go karting, crazy golf, soft play and trampolines.
When it’s time to refuel, grab a slice of cake at the cafe. Great for kids up to 11.
Nearest station: Dumfries
8. Best for older kids who love history: York Dungeon
Delve into the horrible history of medieval England with a trip to York Dungeon.
Meet vengeful Vikings, come face to face with wicked witches and hear real-life stories of famous figures, such as Dick Turpin, the English highwayman. There’s a reason it’s one of the best places to visit in Britain for families.
On a budget? Get 2FOR1 on tickets when you travel by train.*
Nearest station: York
Travel together for less with the Family & Friends Railcard and save up to a 1/3 on adult fares and 60% for the kids.
*Restrictions apply. Check out www.DaysOutGuide.co.uk for availability.