Hidden May Bank Holiday Escapes by Train 2025: Discover Britain’s Best-Kept Secrets
Ditch the Crowds—Find the UK’s Best Underrated Destinations
When we think of Bank Holiday travel, the first thing that often comes to mind is long traffic jams and crowded tourist hotspots. Think Brighton, the Lake District, and the Cotswolds—packed with holidaymakers, overpriced attractions, and endless queues. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to settle for the same old routine. You can uncover hidden gems that offer everything from peaceful beaches to charming market towns, without breaking the bank on travel.
Even better, you don’t need a car or a stressful journey. Just hop on a train, sit back, and enjoy the stunning scenery—all while saving money on cheap train tickets. There are fantastic UK destinations closer than you think, and here’s how you can get there for less.
The TrainSplit app makes it easy to find cheaper alternative journeys through split ticketing.
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The TrainSplit app helps you find better fares by splitting your tickets. Available on iOS and Android, just search for TrainSplit in your app store and start saving today!
5 Secret May Bank Holiday Escapes by Train – Affordable, Beautiful, and Stress-Free
If you’re after a relaxing escape, here are five destinations that are perfect for train travel and packed with charm:
• Malton, Yorkshire – A foodie’s dream, packed with artisan markets and farm-to-table restaurants.
• Dunkeld, Scotland – A Highland escape with woodland walks, waterfalls, and live folk music.
• Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire – A medieval market town with riverside charm and stunning history.
• Aberdaron, Wales – A remote coastal paradise with hidden beaches and fresh seafood.
• Kirkcudbright, Scotland – A colourful harbour town with art galleries, castle ruins, and quiet coastal roads.
Skip the usual tourist traps and head for one of these off-the-beaten-path UK breaks instead.
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Malton, North Yorkshire – The Foodie Capital You Haven’t Heard Of (Yet)
Best for: Food lovers, countryside strolls, weekend markets
If you’re looking for a food-focused getaway with a fraction of the crowds, Malton is your perfect destination. This small market town in North Yorkshire has become a hidden gem for food lovers, offering everything from artisan bakeries to farm-to-table dining. You’ll also find some of the best cheese, chocolate, and gin in the country.
And the best part? It’s just a short, affordable train ride from major cities, meaning you can save money while enjoying a stress-free trip. No need to fight over a brunch spot here.
Image credit: Steve Allen | Shutterstock
Why go?
• Farmers’ market with local produce.
• Gorgeous countryside walks around the North York Moors.
• Charming local pubs and food experiences.
Nearest station: Malton
Tip: Find cheap train tickets to Malton by booking in advance or using split-ticket services like TrainSplit or Raileasy.
Dunkeld, Scotland – Storybook Scenery with a Side of Adventure
Best for: Nature lovers, hiking, live folk music
Dunkeld, in the Scottish Highlands, offers a peaceful retreat with dramatic scenery and charming streets. While it’s not as crowded as nearby hotspots like Inverness or Edinburgh, Dunkeld boasts beautiful woodlands, waterfalls, and historic sites—plus a fantastic live music scene.
From the River Tay to The Hermitage woodland walk, you’ll find an abundance of natural beauty.
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Image credit: Aryan Dariush | Unsplash
Why go?
• Scenic walks to hidden waterfalls.
• Kayak on Loch of the Lowes, home to ospreys.
• Local live folk music at The Taybank.
Nearest station: Dunkeld & Birnam
Tip: Cheap train tickets to Dunkeld can be found using our split-ticket tool or booking early for discounts.
Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire – A Medieval Marvel on the Water
Best for: History lovers, riverside walks, cosy pubs
Swap crowded historic cities like Bath or York for Tewkesbury. This medieval town is a hidden treasure, filled with half-timbered buildings, breathtaking abbeys, and peaceful riverside walks.
Whether you’re strolling along the Severn & Avon rivers or exploring the Tewkesbury Abbey, this place offers all the charm of historic towns without the masses.
Image Credit: James Graham | Unsplash
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Why go?
• Tewkesbury Abbey—one of the most stunning medieval churches in England.
• Quaint riverside walks—perfect for a quiet picnic.
• Historic charm with no crowds.
Nearest station: Ashchurch for Tewkesbury
Tip: Use websites like TrainSplit and Raileasy to secure cheap train tickets to this peaceful gem.
More Splits, More Savings! Find cheaper train tickets by splitting your fares with the TrainSplit app. Download now on iOS or Android—search for TrainSplit in your app store.
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Aberdaron, Wales – The End of the Earth (In the Best Way Possible)
Best for: Coastal walks, hidden beaches, seafood lovers
Tucked away on the Llyn Peninsula, Aberdaron feels like it’s at the edge of the world. With rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and a laid-back vibe, this Welsh village offers wild beauty without the crowds.
A short train and bus journey gets you to this remote gem, where you can explore the Wales Coast Path, watch seals, and enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries.
Image credit: Gavin Allanwood | Unsplash
Image credit: Cai Erith Williams | Getty Images
Why go?
• Secluded coastal walks and hidden beaches.
• Seals and wildlife along the coast.
• Fresh seafood at quaint local cafés.
Nearest station: Pwllheli (then a scenic bus ride to Aberdaron)
Tip: With cheap train tickets and a straightforward route, Aberdaron is an affordable coastal escape.
Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway – The Scottish Seaside You Never Considered
Best for: Art lovers, seafood, Scottish culture
Known as the Artists’ Town of Scotland, Kirkcudbright (pronounced “Kirk-koo-bree”) is a colourful harbour town in Dumfries & Galloway. With art galleries, creative workshops, and a rich cultural history, it’s perfect for those who love art and history, all while enjoying the tranquility of the Scottish coast.
Image credit: Jo Seawright | Unsplash
Image credit: SenemPeace | Getty Images
Why go?
• Visit the local galleries and explore the art scene.
• Quiet beaches—ideal for peaceful relaxation.
• Delicious seafood and local produce.
Nearest station: Dumfries (then a scenic bus ride to Kirkcudbright)
Tip: Booking cheap train tickets in advance will save you money on this hidden seaside treasure.
Why These? Because They’re Upgrades, Not Just Alternatives
These aren’t just lesser-known spots—they’re better choices. Places where you won’t spend your weekend queuing for overpriced coffee, battling through crowds, or wondering why you left home in the first place.
And here’s the best bit: getting there is easy. No sat-nav stress, no motorway standstills—just a relaxed train ride with a book, a coffee, and the excitement of knowing you’re heading somewhere special.
And the best part? Getting there is easy. You don’t need to be a train expert to save money. With TrainSplit and Raileasy, you can find cheap train tickets with ease, leaving you more time to focus on enjoying your getaway.
Tips for Finding Cheap Train Tickets This May Bank Holiday
When you’re planning your getaway, follow these insider tips for finding the best cheap train tickets:
1. Book early – The earlier you book, the cheaper your tickets. Ideally, aim for 8–12 weeks in advance.
2. Use Railcards – If you’re eligible, use a 16–25, Two Together, or Family & Friends Railcard for 1/3 off train fares.
3. Travel off-peak – Trains in the early morning or late evening tend to be cheaper and quieter.
4. Use split-ticket services – Websites like TrainSplit and Raileasy automatically find hidden savings by splitting your journey into smaller tickets.
FAQs: Hidden May Bank Holiday Escapes by Train
Q: Where can I find cheap train tickets for a May Bank Holiday getaway?
A: Use tools like TrainSplit and Raileasy to find the best fares. Booking in advance will also help you score cheap train tickets to destinations like Malton, Dunkeld, and Aberdaron.
Q: What are the best train-accessible hidden gems in the UK for Bank Holidays?
A: You can reach Malton, Aberdaron, Kirkcudbright, and other hidden gems easily by train. The journeys are scenic, affordable, and stress-free.
Q: How can I make my trip more affordable?
A: Consider splitting your tickets, booking early, and using a Railcard to save on fares.
Buy Your Digital Railcard with TrainSplit!
Buy a digital railcard through TrainSplit and have it ready on your phone when you travel. Whether you’re using a 16-25 Railcard or a Two Together Railcard, you can save 1/3 on your train tickets and enjoy a smoother journey.
Extend Your Stay—Book Accommodation in Advance
Planning to stay overnight in one of these hidden gems? Book your accommodation through Booking.com. Find great deals on hotels, B&Bs, and more to make your weekend getaway even more affordable.
Escape the Ordinary – Book Your May Bank Holiday Getaway Today!
Forget the overcrowded tourist traps and head to one of these affordable hidden destinations for your Bank Holiday getaway. With cheap train tickets, beautiful scenery, and authentic experiences, it’s time to escape the ordinary and make your Bank Holiday unforgettable.
Ready for the adventure? Book your train tickets now and start planning your escape.
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