Best summer train trips
- UK
- Spain
- Italy
- Eurostar
Visiting London in summer
London offers travellers the chance to imbibe its rich cultural landscape, learn more about the city’s heritage, and make memories visiting its extraordinary sites.
The easiest way to travel to London this summer is, of course, by train, allowing travellers the privilege of speed and convenience as they make their way to the nation’s capital.

Tower bridge
Tower Bridge sits like a jewel along the River Thames, a real testament to the city’s ingenuity and appreciation for engineering that’s also easy on the eye. The structure features a glass-floored walkway, providing visitors a unique view of London. Visitors can learn more about the bridge’s construction and history through its many exhibits.


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.

Charlton

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 and its many landmarks. Each capsule is equipped with interactive guides to enhance your understanding of the sights below.

Waterloo

Big Ben
Everyone recognises Big Ben as being quintessential to London’s skyline. From Alaska to Zimbabwe, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn’t seen it before. So why not see it for yourself? Although currently undergoing renovations, 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.


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. The gallery offers guided tours and educational programmes to help deepen your appreciation of the art on display.


Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum is the world's largest museum of decorative arts and design. Its extensive collection includes fashion, textiles, and ceramics, that help provide an insight into how art and design has evolved over the centuries.

London Victoria

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.

Blackfriars or Cannon Street

Brtish Museum
The British Museum tells the world’s history through its enormous collection of historical 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 history of the globe, all from Central London.

Exploring the best beaches in 2025
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. Find the nearest train stations to the airport and its connecting routes that provide easy access to city centres and connecting public transportation.
- 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.
Best summer events to attend in 2025
This summer, take the train to the year’s most sizzling events in the UK, Spain, and Italy. Take advantage of our summer sales to ensure your plans go even more smoothly, giving you more time to create some unforgettable memories.
UK events
Glastonbury Festival (June 25-29)
Celebrated as the UK's most iconic music festivals, Glastonbury offers everything from small up-and-coming indie acts to rip-roaring headliner sets by music legends. To get there by train, head to Castle Cary station, where shuttle buses are available to transport festival-goers to the event.
Reading & Leeds Festivals (August 21-24)
Reading & Leeds Festival is hosted across two different cities, with alternating acts on different days. You can hear everything from punk and metal to hip hop, pop, and dance music. For Reading, take a train to Reading station, which is conveniently close to the festival grounds. For Leeds, arrive at Leeds station and use local transport to reach the venue.
Isle of Wight Festival (June 19-22)
Set in a picturesque seaside location, this festival boasts an impressive lineup of musical acts. To attend, take a train to Portsmouth Harbour or Southampton Central, then catch a ferry to the Isle of Wight and use local transport to reach the festival site.
Wimbledon Championships (June 30 - July 13)
One of the biggest and oldest championships in tennis, Wimbledon, is a must-visit for fans of the sport. 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.
British Summer Time Hyde Park (June-July)
This lively music festival is held in the heart of London. Attendees can take a train to London Paddington station, which is within walking distance of Hyde Park to join in the fun and see some great musical acts.
Notting Hill Carnival (August)
Europe's largest street party, the Notting Hill Carnival, is a vibrant celebration of British-Caribbean music and dance. To get there, take a train to London Paddington or Notting Hill Gate 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.