Short Breaks SWR Blog

Day trips and breaks

Get inspired for your next day trip or break

Discover your next break

Discover the best day trips and breaks for every type of traveller, whether you’re heading on a business trip, romantic weekend or family getaway. From budget staycations to fun-filled days out, find everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

Spending a couple of days in a new city? Browse our 48-hour guides, packed with sights and attractions you can’t miss. Or check out our staycation ideas – perfect for recharging away from the urban bustle.

Book tickets in advance and check SWR rewards to make your experience even better. Join us as we uncover the best things to do in destinations across our network, ensuring your getaway is nothing short of extraordinary.

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Adventure Days Out in London and the South West

St. Paul’s Cathedral in London framed symmetrically between two modern glass buildings, with its iconic dome centered in the composition. Reflections in the glass enhance the visual depth, while pedestrians walk along the pathway below, highlighting the contrast between historic architecture and contemporary urban design.

Adventure Days Out in London and the South West

Adventure Days Out in London and the South West

Discover the most thrilling adventure days out across London and the South West, from rooftop climbs and white‑water rapids to coastal zip lines, surf lessons and even hot air balloon rides.

Top National Trust Days Out in the South West

Top National Trust Days Out in the South West

Top National Trust Days Out in the South West

Explore the best National Trust places in the South West. Discover castles, gardens and more.

Best Eco-Friendly Stays in the South West Accessible by Train

visit Denbie's Vineyard by train to Dorking

Best Eco-Friendly Stays in the South West Accessible by Train

Best Eco-Friendly Stays in the South West Accessible by Train

Looking for a more sustainable holiday this year? Check out these budget staycations for eco-friendly alternatives to going abroad!

Best Scenic Journeys in Autumn

Photo of a silhouette of a person looking out of a train window into scenery

Best Scenic Journeys in Autumn

Best Scenic Journeys in Autumn

Whether you’re hoping to escape the city for a day or want to plan a weekend break and visit several locations, we’ve got you covered.

Day trips out of London by train

Best days out away from London

Day trips out of London by train

Day trips out of London by train

Looking to escape the city for a day? From Windsor to the Isle of Wight, read our guide and find out where you’ll be exploring next!

South West Festival Guide 2025

A crowd at a festival

South West Festival Guide 2025

South West Festival Guide 2025

Discover the best festivals across the South West of England with our curated guide, from music to literature, there's something for everyone!

48 hours in Exeter

48 hours in Exeter with South Western Railway

48 hours in Exeter

48 hours in Exeter

Discover the beauty of Exeter and all the best things to do

48 hours in Bournemouth

Bournemouth Pier

48 hours in Bournemouth

48 hours in Bournemouth

The best things to do in Bournemouth, including Boscombe and Bournemouth Piers and a selection of amazing food and drink

Things to Do for International Dinosaur Day and National Dinosaur Month

An image of a dinosaur skeleton

Things to Do for International Dinosaur Day and National Dinosaur Month

Things to Do for International Dinosaur Day and National Dinosaur Month

Ready to celebrate International Dinosaur Day and National Dinosaur Month? The South West has loads of dinosaur-themed activities for you to explore.

The best staycations in the South West

Windsor Castle and the Long Walk

The best staycations in the South West

The best staycations in the South West

Plan your UK getaway with our guide to the best staycations across the South West from action-packed city breaks to slower country retreats