Get your summer travel back on track
Summer is on the way! Whether you’re ready to explore or want a bit more information on what train travel will be like this summer, we’re here to help.
Our guide to all things train travel will help you unleash your summer, plan your journeys, save money and book your summer train tickets all in one place.
What are you looking for?
Train travel tips
First things first, we all know the way we travel on trains has changed quite a bit since last year. If you haven’t been on a train in a while, or are wondering what you should bring with you, here are our top tips for making your journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Go contactless with tickets on your phone
There’s no need to visit the ticket machines or queue at the station, as digital tickets are available on most UK routes.
Avoid travel at Peak times
If you can, plan your journey outside of Peak times – Monday to Friday mornings and late afternoons – as the trains are likely to be quieter then.
Stay hydrated
We know summer doesn’t always mean a heatwave in the UK! But bringing some water with you (and a snack or two) will keep you feeling refreshed, especially as not all train companies are offering onboard food and drink services at the moment.
Money-saving tips
We like to help you save money on train travel, our guide to cheap train tickets will tell you how, along with these top tips.
Split your train tickets
Splitting your journey into sections and buying separate train tickets for each is sometimes cheaper than buying a single ticket.
Our app feature SplitSave will do all the hard work for you.
Get a Railcard
There are 8 National Railcards in the UK that can save you 1/3 on train travel around the UK.
Learn more and buy your digital Railcard.
Book in advance
Train companies in the UK tend to release Advance tickets up to 12 weeks before departure, usually at their cheapest price.
Find out more about Advance train tickets.
Travel Off-Peak
Not only are the trains quieter during Off-Peak times, tickets tend to be cheaper too!
Find out more about Off-Peak train tickets.
Check for deals and offers
From cheaper travel for kids and groups, to evenings out, different train ticket deals run all year long.
Check out the latest train deals and discounts.
Book your summer train tickets today
Ready to book your next adventure by train? Start a search in our Journey Planner today!
Family train travel
Travelling as a family by train is a great way to reach day trip or holiday destinations around the UK. With plenty of space for luggage, cheaper tickets for children and a family specific Railcard available, what’s not to love?
Family train tickets
Find out more about travelling as a family by train.
Child train tickets
Learn more about child train tickets in the UK.
Family & Friends Railcard
Save 1/3 on adult tickets and 60% off kids’ tickets for a year.
Kids for a Quid
Up to 4 children aged 5-15 travel for £1 when accompanied by an adult during Off-Peak times.
Family Off-Peak Travelcards
A group Return Ticket for a minimum of 1 adult and 1 child traveling to London during Off-Peak times.
Group travel
Heading out with friends into the city, to the beach or to that place you’ve not been for a while? There are lots of ways you can save on group train travel with us. From Railcards to train ticket offers, we’ve got you covered.
Save up to 34% with GroupSave
For groups of 3-9 people travelling together.
Two Together Railcard
Save 1/3 on 2 adults travelling together for a year.
Duo train tickets
Save up to 25% on 2 adults travelling together at weekends.
Heading out on your bike?
Did you know, there’s no charge for taking your bike on a train in the UK. So, whether you’re travelling to your nearest park, wood, or favourite cycling destination, it’s easy to hop on a train with your bike in tow.
Generally, train companies allow full-sized bikes on trains during Off-Peak hours, so anytime except Monday to Friday rush hours. Fully folding bikes with wheels up to 85cm are allowed on all trains at any time. Depending on who you’re travelling with, you may need to reserve a space for your full-sized bike before you travel.
Find out more in our guide to taking bikes on trains in the UK.
Book your summer train tickets today
Ready to book your next adventure by train? Start a search in our Journey Planner today!
Summer train timetables
Trains run to popular destinations around the UK throughout the summer, we’ve highlighted a few of the most travelled routes below, or you can start a search for train times in our Journey Planner at the top of the page.
|
Route |
Fastest time |
Trains per day |
First train |
Last train |
Frequency |
|
52m |
437 (various stations) |
03:10 |
02:08 |
2 per hour | |
|
1h 13m |
47 |
04:04 |
00:09 |
2 per hour | |
|
1h 43m |
52 |
04:30 |
00:05 |
2/3 per hour | |
|
1h 55m |
21 |
04:50 |
18:45 |
1 per hour | |
|
46m |
63 |
05:30 |
00:15 |
2/3 per hour |
Heading on a staycation in the UK this year?
The extensive rail network in the UK means travelling by train is a simple, quick and easy way to reach your favourite staycation spot. With more and more people holidaying at home this year, we’ve put together our top list of things to consider before/during your summer staycation.
Somewhere to stay
Whether you love the outdoors or want a touch of luxury on your staycation, why not check out Booking.com for amazing places to stay, including hotels, B&Bs, campsites, holiday lets, and more.
Pack for all weathers
We all know what weather in the UK can be like, one day you’re sunbathing on the beach and the next you’ve got your woolly jumper on. Make sure you’re ready for anything!
Travel insurance
It’s not just holidays abroad that it’s good to have travel insurance for. Having UK travel insurance offers that extra bit of protection for any last-minute changes or cancellations.
Look for local attractions
If you’re holidaying in the UK, there’s likely to be attractions or outdoor spaces close by that are worth a visit. We can help you find great days out nearby by train, simply enter your nearest train station and your ideal travel time and we’ll show you relevant attractions nearby.
Popular destinations to visit by train this summer
Whether you want to sunbathe on the beach, hike through hills and countryside or seek some thrills, there are thousands of destinations and attractions around the UK that are easy to get to by train. Take a look at some of the most popular places to visit below.
In need of some inspiration?
Our UK travel inspiration hub is filled with useful guides and ideas for making the most of your summer.
Book your summer train tickets today
Ready to book your next adventure by train? Start a search in our Journey Planner today!
Destinations on demand
Discover some of the most exciting places around the globe from the comfort of your couch with Trainline’s virtual travel planner.
We’ve scoured the internet to collate an exhaustive list of films about travel, transport, and vacations, mapping them to available streaming services and holiday destinations.
Grab the popcorn and check out our destinations on demand.
Frequently asked questions
Take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about UK train travel below.
I want to take my bike on the train, how do I book?
Why are tickets for the journey I want to book not on sale yet?
How do I change my ticket or request a refund?
Want to know more about train travel in the UK?
We’ve told you everything you need to know about train travel in the UK this summer, but if you want to find out more about train companies in the UK, travel in certain countries, or even venturing into Europe, we’ve got all the helpful guides you need.