There’s tons to see and do in Cardiff (see our Visit Cardiff by Train page). But if you fancy venturing a bit further afield, see our pick of destinations that you can get to by train from Cardiff for a short day trip.

From quiet coastal walks to scenic countryside, historic buildings, culture, restaurants and shopping, you’re bound to find something to enjoy.

You can plan your train journey here, and don’t forget if you have a Railcard you can get 1/3 off your rail fares. If you require additional support when travelling, the Passenger Assist service can help you.

Day Trips from Cardiff in 1 to 2 hours

Exeter

The capital of Devon has a gorgeous stretch of coastline and 2 national parks on its doorstep, but there is plenty to enjoy in the city itself. Visit Exeter Cathedral(external link, opens in a new tab), founded in 1050 and widely regarded as one of the finest in Europe, and be sure to take a cathedral roof tour(external link, opens in a new tab) for incredible views across the city.

Take some time to relax at the historic Exeter Quayside(external link, opens in a new tab) on the banks of the River Exe, which is full of independent cafés and shops.

Nearest station: Exeter St David’s

Cheltenham

The Gloucestershire Regency-era town was a key spa destination in the 18th century and now hosts more than 35 festivals a year, including the Cheltenham Festival(external link, opens in a new tab) (4 days of horse jumping every March that culminates in the Gold Cup), the Cheltenham Literature Festival(external link, opens in a new tab) (10 days of events in October) and the Cheltenham Music Festival(external link, opens in a new tab) (8 days of classical music in the summer).

There are also myriad independent restaurants, cafés and shops.

Nearest station: Cheltenham Spa

Western-super-Mare

This seaside town in North Somerset is positioned on the Bristol Channel, across the water from Cardiff. It has gorgeous sandy beaches, including a safe enclosed swimming area at Marine Lake(external link, opens in a new tab), a small rocky beach at Anchor head and the photogenic Uphill Beach(external link, opens in a new tab) to the south of the town.

Visit the Grand Pier(external link, opens in a new tab) with its indoor theme park or the world’s largest helicopter museum(external link, opens in a new tab), with over 80 helicopters on display.

Nearest station: Weston-super-Mare

Bath

Established by the Romans in 76BC, the Somerset city of Bath is almost untouched by time. When it was home to Jane Austen in the early 19th century, Bath was a fashionable spa resort with thermal springs and breathtaking architecture. These days, the limestone buildings and thermal springs can still be enjoyed, alongside plenty of restaurants, cafes and boutique shops.

Marvel at the Roman Baths(external link, opens in a new tab), take a dip in natural hot spring water at Thermae Bath Spa(external link, opens in a new tab) or admire the breathtaking Georgian architecture of the Royal Crescent(external link, opens in a new tab).

Nearest station: Bath Spa

Oxford

Nicknamed ‘the City of Dreaming Spires’, Oxford is famous worldwide for having the oldest English-speaking university in the world. It also has 2 rivers running through it, the Cherwell and the Thames (known as the Isis where it passes through the city) and an impressive collection of gardens, libraries and museums.

Visit the Ashmolean Museum(external link, opens in a new tab), the oldest university museum and home to collections that range from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art, or the Botanic Garden & Aboretum(external link, opens in a new tab), the oldest in the UK and home to over 5,000 different plant species. For something a bit different, go punting on the river with Cherwell Boathouse(external link, opens in a new tab).

Nearest station: Oxford

Birmingham

The second-largest city in Britain truly has something for everyone. Marvel at the redeveloped New Street station when you step off the train then pop into Mailbox for some retail therapy and a wide selection of canal side dining.

Pop into the 10-level Library of Birmingham, which shares an entrance with the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, and take the elevator up the panoramic viewing gallery to enjoy impressive views across the city.

Nearest station: Birmingham New Street