Nature Bathing by Train

Nature bathers in search of quiet and peaceful surroundings can immerse themselves in solitude across rural retreats around Britain. What’s more, getting there by train with the help of a Railcard(external link, opens in a new tab) means sanctuary-seekers can make great savings on their journey.

Nature bathing or Shinrin-yoku, as it is known in Japan, is based on ancient Shinto and Buddhist practices. It allows nature into the body through the 5 senses and includes benefits such as reduced blood pressure, lower stress and anxiety levels and a boost to the immune system and mood.

So, why wait? Get your Railcard(external link, opens in a new tab) and plan a trip to the coast to capture the sound of rippling waves, or gaze at starry skies from a National Park. Feel the wind blow the cobwebs away as you indulge in nature!

Cool coastal walks

With most British towns located within 70 miles of the sea, escaping to the coast for a walk is within easy reach. Almost 1,000 stations on the National Rail network are classed as coastal, so get out and find some stunning scenic walks where land meets sea. Visit the National Trust(external link, opens in a new tab) to find out more about coastal walks.

North East England, Saltburn to Warsett Hill

Walk the 4.5-mile walking trail along the Yorkshire Coast and enjoy sculptures, seaside, wild flora and fauna along with historic sites depicting ironstone mining.

Nearest station: Saltburn

North West England, Whitehaven Coastal Walk

Tread 7 miles towards Wainwright’s Coast to Coast path and experience wild secluded beaches, dramatic clifftops and a 17th century harbour.

Nearest station: Whitehaven

South East England, East Head and Ellanore Circular Walk

Stroll 4 miles through Chichester harbour and West Wittering village, stopping off at cosy pubs dotted along the coastal path.

Nearest station: Chichester

South West England, Brownstone to Froward Point Circular walk

Enjoy 3 miles of spectacular coast with hidden coves along the way.

Nearest station: Paignton

Starry sky gazing

National Parks are great places to stargaze free of the lights of the city, and with 15 parks to choose from, one is never too far away. The Lake District, New Forest, South Downs, The Broads, Yorkshire Dales, Dartmoor, North Yorkshire Moors, Peak District, and Northumberland all offer National Park adventures from a direct rail link. If you’re looking for accommodation, Youth Hostel Association(external link, opens in a new tab) has many to choose from.

North East England, Northumberland National Park

Lay beneath 1,483 square meters of twinkling skies at Europe’s largest area of protected night sky in Northumberland(external link, opens in a new tab)’s Dark Skies Park(external link, opens in a new tab). Awarded a gold tier designation by DarkSky International(external link, opens in a new tab), where the Milky Way and Andromeda Galaxy, almost 2.5m light years away, are visible.

Nearest stations: Hexham, Haydon Bridge, Bardon Mill

Wales, Pembrokeshire Coast

Head to Martin’s Haven for 360-degree panoramic views of the night sky where the National Trust has teamed with Pembrokeshire’s National Park Authority to create a map of Dark Sky Discovery sites.

Nearest stations: Milford Haven, Haverfordwest

South East England, South Downs National Park

Explore 1 of only 13 International Dark Sky Reserves in the world on your next trip to Hampshire. After a visit to the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium(external link, opens in a new tab), get set to gaze at the real thing at Old Winchester Hill, Iping Common or Devil’s Dyke.

Nearest station: Petersfield