Days Out By Rail in 2026

The brand new year is upon us, and many of you might already be thinking about all of the fun things you can do throughout 2026. And you won’t be short of options! There’s much to do and see in the UK, and there’s no better way to get there than by train! 

That’s why we’ve compiled a selection of top attractions that are close by to some of our station stops (including some of our favourites!), just in case you’re looking for some additional inspiration for things to do in 2026! 

Days out in Sunderland

Close to Sunderland station is an eclectic mix of things to see and do, with cafes and eateries such as Biz-R, which can be reached within a 4-minute walk. History and culture options are also within a short distance; take a short walk, and you’ll stumble upon the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, which house art exhibits, a rich history of the city of Sunderland, and the beautiful Winter Gardens.

Discover other attractions close to Sunderland station 

• Mowbray Park, the perfect place for a stroll to start your day out in Sunderland 
• The Bridges Shopping Centre for a spot of retail therapy 
• Jacky Whites Indoor Market
• Sunderland Empire Theatre, ideal if you’re hopping off the train and going straight to catch a show 
• Keel Square 

Explore Days Out by Rail in Sunderland and download our handy guide detailing all the best attractions, along with the distance and walking time in minutes from the train station! 

Days out in Bradford 

Bradford is a northern city with strong industrial roots. Home to an incredible selection of stunning architecture, Bradford was even named the world’s first UNESCO City of Film in 2009 – beating Los Angeles and Cannes to the title, and the West Yorkshire city boasts many places to visit close to Bradford Interchange:

• St George's Hall 
• Bradford Police Museum  
• Bradford City Hall 
• The famous Wool Exchange 
• The City Park Mirror Pool and Fountain 
• The National Science and Media Museum 
• Cetenary Square 

Discover our Days Out by Rail in Bradford and download the full guide. 

Days out in York

York is a beautiful walled city, drenched in history and vibrancy. As well as having the stunning Minster nestled in the heart of the city, it was also home to the Romans and Vikings once upon a time! There really is no better place to visit for history lovers in the UK. For those visiting York by train, the National Railway Museum is situated just 6 minutes away from York station and provides hours of fun for children and adults alike! 

Discover other things to do in York, just a short walk from the station 

• Visit the Memorial Gardens (just a 4-minute walk from the station!)
• Go and have a look at the North Eastern Railway's War Memorial 
• Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre
• Museum Gardens 

If you’re happy to walk just a little further, you’ll find many more things to do and see: 

• Walk along the Shambles, York's oldest medieval street 
• Go and see Clifford's Tower 
• Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre 
• Spend a few hours at The York Dungeon 
• Explore York Castle Museum 

And don’t forget to download our Days Out by Rail in York guide!

Days out in Halifax 

Located in West Yorkshire, Halifax is famous for its beautiful landmarks and architecture. If you’re searching for a day out that blends shopping experiences, historical sites, and an array of food and drink options, you’re looking in the right place! Discover all the fun things to do in Halifax, just a stone's throw away from the station! 

• Visit the Piece Hall, home to heritage, shopping and dining experiences, and a real community spirit 
• Go and see the Wainhouse Tower
• Spend an hour or two at the Calderdale Industrial Museum
• Stroll around Halifax Borough Indoor Market
• Walk through Shibden Hall, and its stunning surrounding gardens
• Explore the history of Halifax at the Bankfield Museum 
• Take a stroll through Manor Heath Park 

Download a copy of our Days Out by Rail in Halifax to take with you on your next trip. 

Days out in Doncaster 

Known widely for its ties to the world of horse racing, Doncaster is the perfect choice for anyone with a strong interest in history, horses, and anything in between! Discover all the things you can do below within walking distance of Doncaster train station: 

• Explore Doncaster Market 
• Enjoy some retail therapy at the Waterdale shopping centre 
• There’s also the Frenchgate shopping centre, plenty of opportunity to bag some bargains!
• Danum Gallery Library and Museum 
• Admire the architecture at the Mansion House 
• Grab a brew and a sweet treat from the Back in Time Cafe 

Discover the full lowdown on Days out by Rail in Doncaster on our Grand Central trains!

Days out in London 

Last but certainly not least, the vibrant capital city! Known for its ties to Harry Potter and Platform 9and 3/4s, the bustling King's Cross Station in London is a central hub for those looking to access various parts of the city! There really is plenty to see in the area surrounding London King's Cross: 

• Visit the impressive British Library 
• Explore London’s Canal Museum 
• Stroll around Canopy Market 
• Discover Granary Square, home to a stunning open space dotted with fountains 
• Take a walk along the Regents Canal 
• Take a look at the Lethaby Gallery, the ideal spot for art-lovers 
• Check out the restaurants, shops and unique architecture at Coal Drops Yard 

And that’s all just within minutes of the station. Download our full helpful guide, Days Out By Rail in London to discover all the other things you can get up to, and find out how long it will take you to get there from Kings Cross!

The nation's favourite days out 

Alongside compiling these top days out by rail, we’ve also quizzed the nation to find out more about the days out they love and what their plans are for exploration. Visit ‘The Nation’s Favourite Days Out’ to find out more! 

Days out by rail with Grand Central 

Now you’ve discovered the best days out by train, all that’s left to do is pick your chosen destination, and plan your trip with us! You can book tickets for our trains using our Journey Planner or through the Grand Central Rail App (available through the App Store and Google Play).