Platform to paradise: LNER reveals the UK’s best beaches to visit by train this summer
New research from LNER has revealed some of the UK’s best beaches to visit by train this summer, spotlighting coastal escapes that can be reached via LNER services and simple onward connections.
For those looking to swap the shops for the seaside, several standout beaches are easily reachable by rail.
In Yorkshire and the Humber, Filey Beach, Whitby Beach and Bridlington South Beach were named among the top beaches to visit by train, with each accessible via York and onward connections. Filey offers five miles of golden sand, Whitby combines classic seaside scenery with gothic heritage, and Bridlington South Beach is known for its firm sands, calmer waters and traditional land train.
The North East also features strongly, with Whitley Bay Beach, Tynemouth Longsands and Sandhaven Beach all easily reached by travelling with LNER to Newcastle, followed by local Metro connections. Visitors can climb St Mary’s Lighthouse at Whitley Bay, watch the surfers at Tynemouth Longsands or enjoy seaside fun at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park in South Shields.
In Scotland, LNER-linked highlights include Portobello Beach, Nairn Beach and Broughty Ferry Beach. Portobello sits just a few miles from Edinburgh city centre, Nairn can be reached via Inverness, and Broughty Ferry is connected via Dundee.
Other beaches in the research are also connected through major rail hubs, including Seaton Carew Beach via Darlington, as well as southern seaside spots reachable through London King’s Cross and onward services.
David Flesher, Commercial Director at LNER, said:
"For many people, a summer trip to the coast is one of the best ways to make the most of the warmer months, whether that means a family day out, a paddle in the sea, a walk along the promenade or simply enjoying fish and chips by the shore.
This research highlights the variety of beaches that can be reached by train across England and Scotland, including many that are accessible via LNER destinations and straightforward onward connections.
Travelling by train helps make the journey part of the experience, offering a smarter way to travel by avoiding traffic, stops for fuel, parking stress, and letting the getaway begin the moment people step on board."
The research analysed 56 coastal locations across England and Scotland, assessing factors including sunshine hours, sunset times, sea temperature, positive ice cream reviews, nearby fish and chip shops, Blue Flag or Seaside Award status, and distance from the nearest train station. Each factor was normalised, weighted and combined into a final score out of 100 to rank the top three beaches in each region.
Explore the UK’s best beaches to visit by train and plan your journey at:
http://www.lner.co.uk/destinations/travel-inspiration/best-beaches-by-train