We live on the South Coast and in fact I have done pretty much all my life but there are still so many towns I’ve not really explored with the kids, or at all in some cases! This year I want to take a few more day trips with them by train, we live right next to a station and train travel for us is such an easy way to get around as we can literally pop out of our front door and be on the platform in under 60 seconds. There are a few towns along the South Coast that are ideal to visit by rail, so I plan on checking out the prices for off peak tickets and planning some adventures! Here are a few of the towns on the southern railway lines that are ideal to visit by train!
Hastings
A historic fishing town with so much to see and do! From the newly refurbished pier which reopened a few years ago after a fire in 2010, to the miles of beaches and traditional seaside attractions there is a lot do at the seafront, as well as the picturesque town centre to explore! As well as those there’s the castle and smugglers adventure attractions and the funicular railway that slides up the side of the cliff with views over the town and sea!
Portsmouth
(image credit: What the Redhead Said)
The kids would love looking around the old ships of the Mary Rose and HMS Victory, and heading right up to the top of the spinnaker tower to walk on the glass floor and get a birds eye view of the city! There is a huge history to the city of ship building and sailing and it has to worlds oldest dry dock! Apart from all the historical learning opportunities I would love a stroll round Gunwharf quays for some discount outlet shopping, lunch at a restaurant with a view and then maybe some bowling or a film afterwards!
Littlehampton
This town is so close to us but we’ve actually only really taken the kids to the annual bonfire procession! Littlehampton holds fond memories for me but it’s changed a lot since I was a kid. There is Harbour Park, which has fair ground type rides, soft play, amusements and more and sits right on the beach. There’s also the sandy dunes of West Beach, which you can access by the footbridge over the river Arun. Also on the Arun are lots of sailing and fishing boats and more than a few cafes you can sit at for a peaceful lunch of cup of tea!
Of course there are so many more towns you could visit easily by train, Brighton & Hove, my own town of Worthing and Bognor Regis to name but a few, all have beaches and plenty to keep you occupied!