As the UK experiences soaring temperatures, many people are looking for ways to cool down without a long drive. Fortunately, some of the nation's most beautiful beaches are just a train ride away, ideal for a spontaneous day out or weekend escape. Experts at Trainline have compiled a list of nine breathtaking beaches accessible by rail, from expansive sandy coastlines to charming seaside towns.
Crosby Beach, Liverpool
Crosby Beach marks the start of the 22-mile Sefton coastline, offering sweeping views across the sea to the Wirral and the hills of North Wales. It is easily reached from Liverpool with regular Merseyrail services to Blundellsands and Crosby station, just a short walk from the beach.
Barafundle Bay, Wales
Dubbed the "jewel in the crown" of Pembrokeshire, Barafundle Bay is a secluded stretch of golden sand backed by dunes and woodland. Accessible only via the coastal path, it is a peaceful spot popular for swimming and scenic walks. To get there by train, travel to Pembroke station, then take a taxi or local bus to Stackpole Quay before following the half-mile coastal walk to the beach.
Weymouth Beach, Dorset
Set on Dorset's stunning Jurassic Coast, Weymouth Beach is a three-mile stretch of golden sand perfect for sunbathing, paddling, and seaside strolls. It is one of the easiest beaches to reach by rail, with Weymouth station just a 10-minute walk from the seafront and direct train services from London, Bristol, and Southampton.
Blackpool Sands, Dartmouth
Just south of Torquay, Blackpool Sands is a picturesque, family-friendly beach offering a holiday feel without leaving the UK. The sheltered shingle beach is a popular summer spot, so expect it to be busy on warm days. To get there by train, travel to Paignton station, then take a taxi or local bus to the beach.
Bournemouth Beach
"Imagine Brighton with a sandy beach, and you’ll probably be getting an idea of what Bournemouth has to offer," said Trainline. "Both destinations mix old seaside charm with a cosmopolitan, bustling city centre scene – if your plans get rained out, at least there’s plenty of opportunities to go shopping nearby!" Bournemouth Beach is just a 20-minute walk from Bournemouth station, making it one of the easiest seaside destinations to reach by train.
Rhossili Bay, Wales
Rhossili Bay is one of Wales' most spectacular beaches, known for its sweeping sands and dramatic coastal scenery. It also serves as a great base for scenic cliff-top walks. To get there by train, travel to Swansea station, then catch the scenic one-hour bus to the beach.
Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris
Luskentyre Beach is worth adding to your travel list. With turquoise waters and golden sands, it looks more like the Mediterranean than Scotland. The expert shared: "This one’s a little more difficult to reach if you live in the south since Luskentyre beach is located on the Isle of Harris, so you’ll either need to take a connecting flight from Glasgow, Inverness or Edinburgh or hop on a ferry from Uig."
Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach is one of the UK's most popular seaside destinations thanks to its lively atmosphere and easy rail connections. Whether you're visiting for the beach, the pier, or classic fish and chips, it is just a short walk from Brighton station, with direct trains from London, Bristol, and Bedford.
Fistral Beach, Cornwall
Cornwall is home to countless stunning beaches, but Fistral Beach in Newquay stands out for its golden sands and world-famous surf. It is easy to reach by train, with direct or connecting services to Newquay from major UK cities, followed by a walk through town to the beach.
