If you're looking for some fun days out in Northern England, you've come to the right place! From exploring quaint medieval towns to strolling through beautiful gardens, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.
So that you can spend less time searching and more time having fun, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite days out up north. We've also put together handy train travel tips for families to ease any worries you might have about travelling.
Discover York
A historic city with tons to offer, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Northern England, is the city of York. This grand and fascinating city is home to several must-see attractions, including York Minster (one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe), the National Railway Museum, and Clifford's Tower (a castle that was used as a prison for over 600 years!).
What’s more, York is filled with charming medieval streets and alleyways, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring and discovering boutique shops and cafes.
- Historical city
- Nearest Station: York
- Website: Visit York
Enjoy a Hike in the Lake District National Park
If you love being outdoors, then you'll definitely want to add the Lake District National Park to your list of places to visit. This stunning park is home to 12 of England's largest lakes, as well as miles upon miles of hiking trails. Various fascinating flora and fauna adorn the trails and make stunning backdrops for a day of outdoor exploration.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or want to enjoy a stroll, you'll find plenty of trails to suit everyone. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some of the park's resident red deer!
- Adventurous
- Discover the nearest stations
- Website: Lake District
Stroll through Salford Quays
Salford Quays is a vibrant waterside district located just outside Manchester. This area is home to several museums, art galleries, restaurants, and bars, as well as The Lowry (a theatre that hosts regular musical and theatrical productions).
In addition, Salford Quays is also home to MediaCityUK—a hub for media and creative businesses—making it the perfect place to people watch and soak up some local culture.
- Waterfront
- Nearest Station: Deansgate
- Website: Salford Quays
Explore Hadrian's Wall Country
Last but not least on our list is Hadrian's Wall Country. This region is steeped in history and was once home to Hadrian's Wall—the Roman defensive structure that stretched for 84 miles across England (from coast to coast), from Maryport to South Shields.
Today, Hadrian's Wall Country is home to several historical sites and attractions dotted along the wall, including Vindolanda—a Roman fort that was once used as a military outpost—and Housesteads Roman Fort—one of the best-preserved Roman forts in Britain.
- Learn about the history
- Discover the nearest stations
- Website: Hadrian’s Wall Country
Experience Blackpool
There's so much fun stuff to do in Blackpool! For starters, the town is home to the famed Blackpool Tower, a 518-foot-tall structure that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the world's oldest operating roller coaster, the Big Dipper. Other popular attractions include Madame Tussauds and the SEA LIFE Centre. And of course, no visit to Blackpool would be complete without taking a stroll along the iconic 3-mile-long Blackpool Promenade with views of the pleasure beach.
- Family-friendly
- Nearest Stations: Blackpool North, Blackpool South and Blackpool Pleasure Beach
- Website: Visit Blackpool
Save with our family ticket
Families love the Northern Family Ticket, which offers even greater value train travel - available on over 200 new routes this Spring, with average savings of 80% compared to purchasing Anytime Single tickets. Tickets allow up to 6 people (2 adults and up to 4 children) to travel together for one great price.
Buy a family train ticketNorthern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.
Northern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.