Autumn Half Term by Train: Adventures Await, Rain or Shine
As the leaves turn golden and the days grow shorter, autumn is the perfect time for a family adventure during the half-term break. But don’t let the typical British weather hold you back! There are plenty of cosy, indoor-friendly destinations that are just a train ride away – ideal for families who want to explore, rain or shine.
At Trainsplit, we believe in making travel easy and affordable for families, whatever the weather. So, grab your raincoats and wellies, and hop on board! We’ve rounded up some of the UK’s best hidden gems, complete with indoor activities and autumnal beauty, to keep the whole family happy (even in the wettest weather).
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Durham, County Durham
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With its historic streets and striking cathedral, Durham is a great mix of culture and charm. Perfect for a rainy day, the stunning Durham Cathedral is a must-visit. Take a tour, explore the cloisters, and warm up with a hot chocolate in the café. If the rain lets up, a walk along the River Wear is the perfect way to soak up the autumn scenery.
• Top Attractions: Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle, Oriental Museum
• Nearest Station: Durham (direct trains from London, York, and Edinburgh)
• Tip: Pack layers – Durham can get chilly in autumn, especially after a rain shower. A waterproof jacket will be your best friend!
Bath, Somerset
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Famous for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture, Bath is perfect for a family day out. Warm up indoors with a visit to the Roman Baths or take a dip at Thermae Bath Spa (though this one’s for the adults!). Explore the Jane Austen Centre for a bit of literary history and don’t forget to indulge in a classic afternoon tea.
• Top Attractions: The Roman Baths, Thermae Bath Spa, The Jane Austen Centre
• Nearest Station: Bath Spa (direct trains from London and Bristol)
• Tip: Plan for indoor stops – with so many charming cafes and museums, you’ll stay dry and entertained no matter the weather.
York, North Yorkshire
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York is steeped in history and packed with cosy corners for a rainy day. From the medieval York Minster to the fascinating National Railway Museum, there’s plenty to see and do indoors. The winding, cobbled streets of The Shambles are also great for a wander (just bring a brolly!). And for little witches and wizards, The York Ghost Merchants is a must-see.
• Top Attractions: York Minster, National Railway Museum, JORVIK Viking Centre
• Nearest Station: York (direct trains from London, Leeds, and Manchester)
• Tip: Bring a backpack with umbrellas and waterproofs – York’s narrow streets can be drizzly but charming if you’re prepared.
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Margate, Kent
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Don’t let the seaside location fool you – Margate has plenty of indoor fun too! Head to the quirky Turner Contemporary Gallery to shelter from the rain, or take the kids to the Shell Grotto, an underground passageway lined with millions of seashells. Margate’s Dreamland amusement park also offers plenty of indoor rides and activities for all-weather fun.
• Top Attractions: Turner Contemporary, Shell Grotto, Dreamland
• Nearest Station: Margate (direct trains from London and Canterbury)
• Tip: Pack a rain cover for your buggy if you’ve got little ones – that sea breeze can blow in a few showers!
Norwich, Norfolk
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Norwich is a hidden gem of a city, with beautiful medieval streets and a vibrant arts scene. Norwich Cathedral is a perfect indoor retreat, and for book-loving families, The Book Hive is a must-visit. If the weather clears up, take a wander through the scenic Plantation Garden, one of the city’s best-kept secrets.
• Top Attractions: Norwich Cathedral, The Plantation Garden, Norwich Castle Museum*
*Please note that some areas of Norwich Castle are currently closed due to construction work for the Norwich Castle: Royal Palace Reborn project. This includes the medieval castle, dungeons, and battlements. However, the following areas remain open for visitors:
- Special Exhibitions Galleries
- Art Galleries
- Decorative Art Galleries
- Boudica & Romans Gallery
- Wider World Gallery
- Natural History Galleries
- Egyptian Collections (temporarily displayed in the Arts of Living Gallery)
- Royal Norfolk Regimental Collections
• Nearest Station: Norwich (direct trains from London and Cambridge)
• Tip: Check out some of Norwich’s indie shops for quirky gifts and souvenirs – perfect for some indoor exploring!
Glasgow, Scotland
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Glasgow might have a reputation for rainy weather, but it also boasts some of the best indoor activities around. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is great for families, with over 8,000 objects to discover, from ancient Egypt to modern art. The Riverside Museum is another rainy-day gem, packed with vintage vehicles and interactive exhibits.
• Top Attractions: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Riverside Museum, Glasgow Science Centre
• Nearest Station: Glasgow Central (direct trains from Edinburgh, Manchester, and London)
• Tip: Don’t forget a scarf and hat! Glasgow’s weather can change quickly, so it’s best to stay cosy when out and about.
Why Book with Trainsplit?
We know autumn can bring unpredictable weather, but with Trainsplit, your journey will always be smooth and affordable. Our app finds the best split-ticketing options for your family, meaning you’ll save money while keeping travel stress-free. Whether you’re heading to a bustling city or a peaceful town, we’ve got you covered.
Save Even More with a Digital Railcard
Planning to travel around the UK by train? A Digital Railcard is your ticket to extra savings on top of your TrainSplit deals! Whether you’re heading off for a short staycation or a longer adventure, a railcard can save you up to 1/3 on fares – and the best part? You can buy and add your railcard directly to the Trainsplit app!
Extend Your Stay with Ease: Book Your Accommodation Now
Why cut your adventure short when you can extend your stay and fully immerse yourself in your chosen destination? Whether you’re exploring a hidden gem in the countryside or soaking up the culture in a bustling city, booking accommodation in advance ensures you’ll have the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. Plus, it saves you the last-minute hassle of finding somewhere to stay!
With our trusted accommodation partner, you can quickly and easily secure a comfortable, budget-friendly room through the link below. No stress, no surprises – just a smooth booking experience so you can focus on making the most of your staycation. Book now and start planning those extra days of fun!
Top Tips for Autumn Train Travel:
• Pack for the weather: Don’t forget waterproofs, layers, and extra socks for when the rain surprises you.
• Entertainment on the go: Bring travel games, books, or download films to keep the kids entertained on longer journeys.
• Stay flexible: Trainsplit’s split-ticketing system helps you save money, giving you more flexibility on where to go and when.
This half-term, explore the UK’s lesser-known gems without worrying about the rain. From cultural cities to coastal towns, there’s plenty of indoor fun waiting for your family, and Trainsplit is here to help you get there. So, grab your umbrella, download the app, and start planning your autumn adventure – rain or shine!
Book now with Trainsplit and save big on your half-term travels!
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