The 8 best UK breaks to take this spring by rail

27th February 2023

The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer and Britain is bursting into bloom. That can only mean one thing: spring is finally here! 

 

One of the best seasons for train travel, the UK’s prettiest spots come to life in spring. Whether you’re after long walks, garden visits or charming towns, there’s plenty to discover by rail. 

 

To give you some inspiration, we’ve rounded up some of the best spring breaks in the UK.  

Want to put an extra spring in your step? Save on your train fares with a Railcard. 

 

Best for wildflowers: Sizergh Castle, Cumbria 

 

Wander like Wordsworth amid the gardens of Sizergh Castle in Cumbria. 

 

A beloved spot of the famous poet, the castle’s grounds are awash with yellow in spring as wild daffodils dot the fields for miles around.  

 

The castle itself is a fine medieval house with a lovely little cafe serving tasty snacks from a seasonal menu. Nearby Kendal is a great base for exploring the Lake District. 

 

Nearest station: Kendal 

 

Best for history: Stratford-upon-Avon .

 

Wish the Bard a happy birthday during spring with a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon. 

 

William Shakespeare’s birthday celebrations take place on 22 April, with performances, exhibitions and events happening across the week. 

 

If you can’t make it on the big day, don’t worry, there’s always an excuse to celebrate the famous playwright here. See the flowers bloom in Bancroft Gardens, join an Easter egg trail or just relax on the banks of the Avon. 

 

Nearest station: Stratford-upon-Avon 

 

Best for walking: North York Moors 

 

Blanketed in purple lavender, the North York Moors are beautiful at the best of times.  

 

But during spring, when other wildflowers get in on the act, this remote national park is at its best for walking.  

 

Lace up your hiking boots and spend a day rambling. The Farndale walk, famed for its wild spring daffodils, is one of the best routes this time of year. 

 

Nearest stations: Scarborough, Whitby, Malton 

 

Best for an early beach break: Bournemouth 

 

 

A short walk from several well-connected train stations, Bournemouth beach was made for a UK rail break. 

 

The beach itself stretches out for 7 sandy miles, packed with watersports, classic arcades and cafes to keep you busy. 

 

The best bit? Bournemouth is one of the warmest beaches in the UK, often getting up to 20C in late spring. 

 

Nearest stations: Bournemouth, Pokesdown, Branksome 

 

Best for a couple’s escape: Buxton 

 

With its spas, Victorian architecture and scenic setting, Buxton makes for one of the UK’s most romantic spring breaks by train. 

 

Book yourself in for a pampering at the elegant Buxton Crescent Wellness Spa, before a cosy fireside meal at one of the spa town’s many country pubs. 

 

If you’re more of a rambler than a relaxer, pack your hiking boots and head off into the nearby Peak District for some spring walking. 

 

Nearest station: Buxton  

 

Best for families: Pembrokeshire  

 

 

One of the best weekend breaks by train in the UK, Pembrokeshire is packed full of adventures for families to enjoy. 

 

Hike a section of the rugged Pembrokeshire Coast Path, take on the surf at Marloes Sands, jump, swim and climb with a coasteering trip or just enjoy one of the region’s many beautiful beaches. 

 

Whatever you get up to, you won’t have to fight your way through throngs of tourists. Spring is one of the quieter times to visit Pembrokeshire. 

 

Nearest train stations: Tenby, Haverfordwest, Pembroke, Milford Haven 

 

Best for a city break: Aberdeen 

 

Aberdeen explodes into action during spring, with live music, culture and nature in abundance. 

 

Book your ticket to the city’s acclaimed jazz festival, taking place at various venues between 17 and 27 March, catch a comedy show at the famous Breakneck Comedy club or wander along the coast at one of Aberdeen’s wild beaches. 

 

Nearest station: Aberdeen 

 

Best for blooming: Kent 

 

Where better for a spring break than the “Garden of England”? 

 

Famed for its bright purple wisteria, endless wildflowers and the multicoloured tulip displays of Hever Castle, Kent is a budding botanist’s dream escape. 

 

For something extra special, head to the Brogdale Collections in Faversham for the Hanami Festival of Japanese cherry blossom. The event takes place across multiple dates in April. 

 

Nearest stations: Marden, Ashurst, Tonbridge, Faversham 

 

Save more on your travels this spring with up to 1/3 off your train fares when you book with a Railcard. 

 

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