7 Places in Britain to Visit by Train Before You Turn 25

Sweeping white sands, turquoise waters, cobbled streets and ancient wonders – all hallmarks of a far-flung destination, right? Well, the truth is, this is all pretty much on your doorstep. Yes indeed, you can experience all of this and more right here in Great Britain. 

So, if you’re young and looking for adventure, whether it’s a day out or a mini getaway, this is for you. We’ve rounded up 7 places to tick off before you turn 25 – all of them easy to get to by train – and for less with a 16-25 Railcard.

1. Tyneham Village: for a little taste of the unreal

Eerie, ghostly and unnerving may not be the first words that come to mind when you think of Dorset, but the 'lost' village of Tyneham has all 3 in abundance. Evacuated during the Second World War, it has remained uninhabited since – and, to add an extra layer of the unusual, the British Army still owns the village.  

If you’re the urban explorer type, there’s plenty to get your teeth into here. Take a walk through Tyneham’s original terraced houses, church and school to see an untouched snapshot of Britain in the 1940s. There’s nothing else like it. 

Nearest station: Wool 

2. Birkenhead Park: for tranquil, scenic vibes 

Believe it or not, the influence of Birkenhead Park stretches far across the Atlantic. So inspired was the American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted by its beauty that he took the idea into his designs for New York's iconic Central Park.  

There’s plenty here to keep you entertained here. Take your pick from tennis courts, fishing opportunities and fitness trails, or find a spot to relax among the park’s ornate lodges, bridges and beautiful boathouse. The park is also home to a visitor centre, cafe and ice cream van. 

Nearest station: Birkenhead Park  

3. Duncansby Head: for an alternative to John o’ Groats 

Get one up on the 200,000 or so people who visit John o’ Groats every year with a trip to the actual most northeastern tip of the British Isles, Duncansby Head. But don’t worry, there’s plenty more to this place than a claim to fame.

Take a walk along the jutting coastline to experience Hell’s Mouth, the crashing tidal streams that once put fear into the most hardened of sailors. On a still day, the Thirle Door arch and Stack of Duncansby rock formations provide just as impressive a backdrop.  

Nearest station: Thurso  

4. Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve: for a walk on the wild side 

You don’t need to trek the Serengeti or snap a selfie with a Sumatran tiger to impress #TravelTikTok. Hop off the train at Ely in Cambridgeshire and you can walk the wetlands among 9,000 species at the Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve. 

Spot ponies, cattle, birds and butterflies before taking in a lunch with a view at the Docky Hut Café. Later, and for a little more adventure, book a boat trip to explore the waterways that run through the fenland. You can also hire bikes and ride the route from Wicken to Anglesey Abbey. 

Nearest station: Ely 

5. Wistman’s Woods: for the lushest of lush woodland 

The winding trees of Wistman’s Woods need to be seen to be believed. Think twisting trunks, a maze of branches and some of the brightest mosses and lichens you’ll likely find anywhere in Britain.  

An air of mystery adds to its aura. Some say the druids planted it, others say wild hounds live in the trees and come out at night. The only thing we know for sure is the Wistman’s Wood walk is well worth hopping on the train for.  

Nearest station: Plymouth 

6. The Lizard Peninsula: for the most southern of coasts 

From the furthest northeast to the furthest south, the Lizard Peninsula is another great spot for Insta-worthy shots and stunning scenery. No trip here is complete without the short walk to the point marker for incredible clifftop views across the southwest coast.  

Head along the coastal path in either direction for quiet coves, quaint fishing villages and traditional seaside pubs – perfect for relaxing after your hike. If you’re looking to get your blood pumping a little more, book in kayaking, climbing, surfing and plenty other more seabound pursuits.  

Nearest station: Falmouth Docks 

7. Lynton and Lynmouth: for the magic of Little Switzerland 

For spectacular alpine cliffs without packing your passport, hit the rails and head for Lynton and Lynmouth. Nicknamed Little Switzerland, they give off strong mountain town vibes despite being on the north Devonshire coast.  

Take a trip between the 2 villages via the Grade II listed Cliff Railway for epic coastal views. Or, for a closer look, take to the Tarka Trail or South West Coast Path to hike the surrounding hills. Keep your eyes peeled for red deer, Exmoor ponies and wild goats along the way. 

Nearest station: Barnstaple