Best summer train trips
- UK
- Italy
- Spain
- Eurostar
What to check out in London this Summer
The capital city is a fantastic place to explore when the sun is shining, with countless cultural landmarks, exciting events, and memories to be made around every corner.
Not only that, but the easiest way to travel to London is (of course) by train, trading out the hassle of navigating airports or finding parking with speed and convenience. Here are some of our favourite central sites to visit once you exit the station:
Tower bridge
Tower Bridge sits like a jewel along the River Thames, a true testament to the city’s ingenuity and appreciation for engineering that’s easy on the eye, with a unique glass-floored walkway for a unique view. Visitors can also learn more about the bridge’s construction and history through its many exhibits.
Tower Hill
The London Eye
The world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel, the London Eye epitomises London: it's big, bombastic, and offers a thoroughly good time. It offers remarkable 360-degree views of the city's many landmarks, and each capsule is equipped with interactive guides to enhance your understanding of the sights below.
London Waterloo
Big Ben
Everyone recognises Big Ben as being quintessential to London’s skyline - so why not see it for yourself? It’s situated at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, and is a focal point for visitors who are interested in British history, architecture, and taking selfies.
Westminster
The O2
Built for the dawn of the new Millennium, The O2 is London’s premier entertainment venue, hosting massive pop concerts, exhibitions and events all summer long. It’s really easy to get to, as well - just a few minutes' walk from Charlton Railway Station.
North Greenwich
Tate Modern
Tate Modern is the UK’s leading institution for contemporary and modern art. Located in former Battersea Power Station, it houses works by internationally celebrated artists like Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol, and offers guided tours and educational programmes to help deepen your appreciation of the art on display.
Southwark
Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum is the world's largest museum of decorative arts and design. Its extensive collection includes fashion, textiles, and ceramics, which help provide an insight into how art and design have evolved over the centuries.
London Victoria
South Kensington
St Pauls Cathedral
St Paul's Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece with a spectacular history. Visitors can explore its majestic interior, climb to the Whispering Gallery, and enjoy panoramic views from its glorious dome. Informative tours are available to enhance your understanding of this historic site.
St Paul's
Brtish Museum
Explore the world’s history through the British Museum's enormous collection of artefacts that span the globe. From Australia to Japan, Ancient Egypt and the Rosetta Stone, to the Parthenon Marbles, the Roman Empire, and the Incas, the museum’s exhibits showcase the story of the globe, all from Central London.
Tottenham Court Road
Our guide to the best British beaches
Don’t let summer get scorching this year, whether you're in the UK, Italy, or Spain, make sure you grab an ice cream, pack your sun cream, and find a beach to cool down at.
- UK beaches
- Italy beaches
- Spain beaches
Best beaches near London
Find the best beaches near London by train, from Brighton Beach to Camber Sands, with dog-friendly beaches and the best beaches in the UK for swimming.
Best beaches in Cornwall
Seaside towns and beaches near Cornwall by train: find the best beach day trips in Cornwall, from St Ives and Newquay to Penzance and St Austell.
Top 10 beaches in the UK
The top beaches in the UK by train, with the best beaches for swimming, dog-friendly beaches, Scotland seaside resorts and sandy Cornwall beaches.
Best beaches in Wales
Experience the best beaches in Wales by train, with scenic and sandy beaches from Llandudno and Colwyn Bay to Prestatyn and Tenby.
Best beaches in Scotland
Scottish seaside towns and the best beaches in Scotland, with dog-friendly beaches and scenic beaches by train, from Aberdeen Beach to Barassie Beach.
The best sandy beaches in England
The best sandy beaches in England you can get to by train, including dog-friendly beaches in England, from Whitby Beach to Bournemouth Beach.
Train transfers at airports
Getting to and from the airport should be simple this summer. Below, find the nearest train stations to popular airports, including dedicated airport transfer services and connecting routes for easy access to city centres and onward travel.
- UK
- Italy
- Spain
Trains to Heathrow Airport
Heathrow Airport trains are convenient with main stations at Terminals 2 & 3, 4, and 5. Direct routes are available from London Paddington, Reading, Oxford, and Bristol.
Trains to Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport railway station provides Thameslink and Gatwick Express services, connecting seamlessly to London Victoria, London Bridge, and other destinations like Brighton and Bedford efficiently.
Trains to Stansted Airport
Stansted Airport railway station offers Greater Anglia services, providing direct connections to London Liverpool Street and other destinations like Cambridge and Norwich efficiently.
Trains to Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport railway station features Northern and TransPennine Express services, linking directly to Manchester Piccadilly and other cities like Leeds, Liverpool, and Sheffield.
Unmissable summer events 2026
As always, the summer calendar is jam-packed with exciting festivals, sports showdowns, carnivals - you name it. Here are our top picks for the most exciting events you won’t want to pass up in 2026.
Isle of Wight Festival (18-21 June)
With headliners The Cure, Lewis Capaldi and Calvin Harris (as well as performances from Wet Leg, Tom Grennan and Teddy Swims), Isle of Wight Festival returns in 2026 with one of their strongest line-ups yet.
Given there’s a significant amount of sea in between mainland England and the Isle of Wight, it’s not as simple as just hopping on a train to the festival. However, you can make travel significantly easier by getting the train to Yarmouth, where you will find a conveniently located Ferry Terminal for the remainder of your journey.
Wimbledon Championships (29 June - July 12)
Renowned as one of the largest and most celebrated championships in tennis, Wimbledon is a must-visit for die-hard fans of the sport and those looking for a sun-soaked day of celebrations alike.
Visitors can take a train to Wimbledon station, which is a short walk or bus ride from the All England Club, the tournament's venue.
Reading & Leeds Festival (27-30 August)
Hosted across two titular English cities, these legendary weekend festivals feature everything from hip hop and pop to metal and dance music, with a shared line-up that alternates each day. This year, headliners include Charli XCX, Chase & Status, Dave, Florence & the Machine, and more.
For Reading Festival, you will want to get a train to Reading Station, which is conveniently close to the grounds. Alternatively, Leeds Festival is served by Leeds Station, where you can easily hop on local transport to reach the festival grounds.
Notting Hill Carnival (30 - 31 August)
Europe's largest street party, the Notting Hill Carnival, is a vibrant celebration of British-Caribbean music and dance and not one to overlook, taking over London with joy and celebration every year.
To get there, take a train to London Paddington or Notting Hill Gate Underground station, both of which are conveniently located along the carnival’s route.
Summer train travel tips
Taking a train journey in summer always has an air of excitement about it, rekindling memories of trips gone by. It’s best to be prepared though, as it can save you money and peace of mind.
Use TrainPal to easily search, buy, and book the cheapest fares as well as stay informed about any disruptions to ensure you have a smooth journey.
In the UK
Book in Advance: Get the best fares and seats by booking your tickets early, especially during the busy summer months.
Check for Disruptions: Stay updated on potential delays or route changes by visiting the TrainPal App before and during your journey.
Pack Light: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing for comfort if you know it’s going to be a warm day, or bring a light jacket or jumper for colder climes.
Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle handy if you know it’s going to be a warm day. There should be cafes and shops at your train station to buy refreshments, and they might be available on board the train, too.
Charge Devices: Fully charge your phone and other devices before departure, and consider a power bank for emergencies. There may also be plug-in sockets on the train too.
Enjoy the View: You might want to enjoy the landscapes that pass by your window as you travel, if so, consider booking a window seat when you purchase your ticket.
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