By Grand Central Rail
Summer has arrived, and with it comes long days, warmer nights, and the perfect excuse to get out and explore.
Whether you’re a live music addict, a sports fanatic, a culture connoisseur, or just looking for fun ways to spend your weekends, you’ll find plenty to enjoy along the Grand Central routes.
From Bradford to Doncaster, Sunderland to York, and Halifax to Peterborough, this guide rounds up some must-visit events and experiences near our key destinations. So grab your diary, dust off your sunglasses, and let’s plan a summer to remember.
A day at Doncaster Races
There’s nothing quite as classically British as a day at the races, and Doncaster Racecourse serves up the whole experience.
Doncaster is one of the oldest and most prestigious racecourses in the UK. It is home to the famous St. Leger Stakes and makes for a great day out.
Dress to impress, arrive early to soak in the atmosphere, and even treat yourself to hospitality access for a little extra luxury.
Get your train tickets to Doncaster train station sorted in advance.
The Piece Hall events
There are gigs, and then there are Piece Hall gigs. This 18th-century architectural gem transforms into a buzzing open-air concert venue every summer, and the 2025 lineup is jaw-dropping.
You’ll be shoulder to shoulder with thousands of fellow music lovers under twinkling lights, historic stone walls, and (hopefully) a starry sky. The atmosphere here is unmatched; it is part festival, part courtyard party, and all unforgettable.
Line-up highlights include:
- UB40 – 20th June
- The Script – 6th July
- Smashing Pumpkins – 12th August
- Faithless & Norman Jay – 22nd August
Make a day of it: Arrive early to explore Halifax’s hidden gems - like the historic Borough Market and the quirky cafes on Westgate.
Book your train tickets to Halifax train station today.
York Races Sky Bet Ebor Festival
York is always a good idea, but the Sky Bet Ebor Festival (20th–23rd August) adds extra glamour. With elite horse racing, stylish crowds, and flowing champagne, this is the highlight of the summer calendar at York Racecourse.
Just a short walk or taxi ride from the station, this event perfectly balances tradition and thrill. Whether you’re heading for a day at the races or making it a whole weekend is ideal.
Why we love it: Between races, you can stroll through the city’s historic streets or climb Clifford’s Tower for a killer view.
Don’t miss out; book your tickets to York train station now.
View some art at The Hepworth Wakefield
Culturally rich and refreshingly laid-back, Wakefield is the perfect day-trip for art lovers and explorers. Start your day at The Hepworth Wakefield, one of the UK’s leading modern art galleries, where rotating exhibitions and a sculpture garden create a world-class experience.
Underrated highlight: Yorkshire Sculpture Park is only a short bus or taxi ride away and offers acres of open-air art installations.
Boost your historical knowledge in Pontefract
If you’re looking for something quieter and a little off the beaten path, Pontefract is the summer wildcard. Famous for its castle ruins and liquorice heritage, this charming town is an ideal stopover en route to bigger events.
What to check out:
- Explore Pontefract Castle and learn about its royal drama.
- Pack a picnic for Pontefract Park.
- The city of Pontefract in Yorkshire was the furthest north where Liquorice was grown to produce Liquorice sweets.
- Perfect for a peaceful break between races in Doncaster or a night out in Wakefield.
Northallerton, Thirsk & Eaglescliffe for slow travel lovers
These towns are tailor-made for slow-paced, scenery-filled summer escapes.
- Thirsk: Birthplace of James Herriot and gateway to the North York Moors. Ideal for literary fans and countryside walkers
- Northallerton: Known for its high street charm, Saturday markets, and hidden tea rooms.
- Eaglescliffe: Conveniently close to the Tees Valley and perfect for spontaneous weekend wanders.
Why go: These stops offer a nostalgic kind of summer, one filled with market days, nature walks, and leisurely lunches.
Peterborough heritage
While Peterborough’s cathedral might steal the spotlight, the city is also perfect for outdoor lovers. Cycle the Green Wheel network, spend a lazy afternoon at Ferry Meadows, or paddleboard on Overton Lake.
Events in London: Big city, bigger summer
When it comes to summer events, London doesn’t hold back. Whether you’re after live music, outdoor cinema, epic sports, or a world-class night out, the capital’s packed calendar has something for every mood and moment.
Getting there is a breeze thanks to Grand Central’s direct services to London King’s Cross. There are no airport queues or traffic jams, just straight into the heart of the action.
Here are just a few standout events worth planning a trip around:
- Wimbledon (30 June - 13 July) - Get ready for strawberries, sunshine, and world-class tennis as Wimbledon serves up two weeks of iconic sporting drama on the grass courts of SW19.
- Wireless Festival – Finsbury Park (11–13 July) - Expect huge headline acts, high energy, and some of the biggest names in hip-hop, R&B, and pop. It’s one of the UK’s must-attend summer music festivals.
- Luna Cinema (Various London Parks, All Summer) - Catch cult classics and new releases under the stars with open-air screenings in stunning locations like Regent’s Park and Kensington Palace Gardens.
- Notting Hill Carnival (August Bank Holiday) - Feel the rhythm of the streets as Notting Hill Carnival brings London alive with dazzling costumes, Caribbean beats, and vibrant community spirit.
Start planning your summer by booking your train tickets to London's King's Cross train station.
Your grand summer travel checklist
Book early: Grand Central’s Advance tickets offer top value.
Pack smart: Sunglasses, a water bottle, snacks, and a charger are your summer essentials.
Double-check details: Always confirm age limits, ticket availability, and venue rules.
Experience summer the right way with Grand Central
From chart-topping gigs in Halifax to footy fever in Sunderland, chilled beach days in Hartlepool to race day glam in York and Doncaster, a summer is just waiting to be explored.
And with Grand Central, the journey’s as exciting as the destination.
So… where will your summer begin? Book your train tickets with Grand Central today.