LNER

Budget-friendly family days out

Travel hacks that help you save more

Tips for travelling on a budget

  • Save 56% with the LNER Family Single

    A ticket for the whole family starts from just £30 each way. Bring up to two adults and four children (aged 15 and under) on your next action-packed outing.

    Book now
  • Get 1/3 off with a Family and Friends railcard

    If you're looking for a day out that isn't covered by the LNER Family Single, there are still more options to save!

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  • Discounts on hundreds of UK attractions 

    Did you know that your LNER ticket grabs you discounts at some of the best family attractions across the UK?

    Explore discounts
  • Perks members save even more

    Join now and receive an instant £5 credit, plus 2% credit back every time you travel with LNER. Did we mention the many monthly offers? Take a look now.

    Join LNER Perks
  • Book early

    We know it's sometimes tough for families to plan ahead, but if you have some flex, booking at least 4 weeks in advance can save some serious cash.

    Book advance tickets
  • Free seat reservations 

    No seat-shuffling here! Families always sit together, and with free seat selection, you’re in control. Pick your favourite spot, claim a table, and settle in for a relaxed ride.

    Book your seat

Our favourite freebie attractions along the route

York

  • The National Railway Museum

    Home to a collection of iconic locomotives, the NRM celebrates the past, present and future of innovation on the railways. Entry is free but donations are warmly welcomed.

  • Museum Gardens

    Stroll through the picturesque greenery and wander the ruins of St Mary's Abbey in these stunning gardens. For an entry fee, you can also explore York's history in the Yorkshire Museum, showing what life in Yorkshire was like from the dinosaurs until today.

  • The Shambles

    This historic cobble-stoned street is lined with unique and interesting shops. Whether you're looking for a tasty slice of cheesecake or your own unique ceramic ghost, you'll find it in the Shambles.

Inverness

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    Ness Islands

    A 10 minute stroll from the train station, Ness Islands are a place of natural beauty, situated in the middle of the River Ness.

  • Leakys Bookshop

    Scotland's largest secondhand bookshop complete with dedcicated children's section. Let the children get lost in the shops and the stories.

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    Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

    This museum is the ideal place to discover more about the unique history and culture of Inverness and the surrounding Highlands.

Leeds

  • Leeds Museum

    A treasure trove of curios and local history, whether it's ancient mummies or massive extinct birds, this is one of the best free things to do in Leeds

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    Leeds Art Trail

    The varied and distinctive pieces along this route tell the stories of Leeds and is the perfect way to explore all the hidden independent shops across the city.

  • Kirstall Abbey 

    A 20 minute bus ride will take you back in time to this iconic Yorkshire treasure. With stunning grounds, its own museum, and a riverside walk, Kirkstall Abbey is the perfect free day out in Leeds.

London

  • The museums 

    From the Natural History Museum to the Science Museum and many more, the family will have plenty to choose from with so many of the city's museums offering free entry.

  • The parks

    London is dotted with some of the most beautiful green spaces in the UK. Regent's Park is just a short walk from King's Cross Station, but it's easy to access more of these ready-made days out via tube.

  • Coal Drops Yard

    Browse stylish boutiques, artisanal cafes, and cultural events set amidst innovative architectural design, perfect for a leisurely stroll and just minutes from King's Cross Station.

Edinburgh

  • Calton Hill

    A brilliant choice for families thanks to its manageable climb and spectacular city views at the top. Kids and adults alike will love spotting landmarks from above, it’s one of the best viewpoints in the city!

  • Edinburgh Old Town

    Edinburgh's Old Town

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with character, cobbled streets and plenty for families to discover. From street performers to hidden closes and iconic landmarks, there’s always something to catch a child’s imagination as you make your way through this historic part of the city.

  • National Museum of Scotland

    One of Edinburgh’s best family attractions and a guaranteed hit with kids and grown‑ups alike. With everything from dinosaurs and ancient artefacts to hands‑on science spaces and the famous animal exhibits, there’s loads to explore across its bright, spacious galleries.

Newcastle

  • The Baltic

    If you've got any budding artists in the family, make sure to explore the six floors of contemporary art this museum holds.

  • Discovery Museum

    Discovery Museum

    This inconic Newcastle museum has so much to see and do for all ages, including dedicated areas for kids to play and create.

  • Jesmond Dene

    Jesmond Dene

    Just a quick bus ride from the city and you'll find yourself in a woodland paradise teeming with wildlife and walking paths

Lincoln

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    Lincoln Arboretum

    This Grade II listed park is the perfect place for a picnic and also has a play park for the kids. Keep an eye on its events calendar available on the Lincoln Council website.

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    Lincoln Museum

    This award-winning archaeology museum hosts interactive exhibitions, events and guided tours. The museum showcases artefacts from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages.

  • Lincoln Castle

    The grounds of this enchanting castle are free to enter and are the perfect setting for young explorers. If you want a closer look inside, children under 5 go free, while adult tickets start at £16.

Which Yorkshire destination suits your travel style best?

Try our quiz to find out the best Yorkshire destination for you! Will you get City of Culture 2025 Bradford? Spa central Harrogate? Or cobbled and coastal Whitby? Find out now!

Yorkshire quiz