February half-term is just around the corner. Whether you’re planning a city break, a seaside escape, or a countryside adventure, the chaos of roads, traffic, and parking can make family travel feel like a marathon. Luckily, trains make it easier, quicker, and often cheaper and Raileasy is here to help you navigate it all.
From cheaper fares to split-ticketing options, our journey planner does the heavy lifting while you focus on planning the fun stuff. Here’s how to make your half-term travel smooth and stress-free.
Why Rail Travel Makes Half-Term Easier
Trains take the stress out of family travel. No long car rides, no parking dramas, and no early-morning tantrums in traffic jams. Kids can move around, play games, or watch the scenery pass by while you relax.
Make family travel simple.
Use Raileasy to check routes, fares, and savings automatically so you can focus on the fun, not the logistics.
With Raileasy, you can compare fares, spot split-ticket savings automatically, and even check Advance tickets to lock in the best deals before they sell out.
Image credit: Jonny Gios | Unsplash
Where to Travel This Half-Term
Planning where to go? Here are three family-friendly destinations that are easy to reach by rail:
Chester
A brilliant option for families and short breaks, Chester blends Roman history with a walkable city centre and plenty of green space. The station is close to the historic walls, making it easy to explore without needing extra transport. It’s also well connected for day trips into North Wales.
Llandudno
If you’re after fresh air and a change of pace, Llandudno ticks a lot of boxes. Trains run directly into the town, and from there it’s a short walk to the promenade, pier and Great Orme. It’s a relaxed, traditional seaside spot that works just as well for a day trip as a longer stay.
Lincoln
Compact, characterful and often overlooked, Lincoln is ideal for a slower break. The cathedral and castle dominate the skyline, and while the climb up Steep Hill earns its name, the views and independent shops at the top are worth it. The station sits at the bottom of the city, so everything starts on foot.
💡 Travel Tip: Travelling midweek can unlock extra Advance fares and quieter trains.
Go somewhere new.
Cheap fares and split tickets often unlock destinations you hadn’t considered. Sometimes the best half-term adventures are the ones you discover by chance.
How to Maximise Savings
- Advance fares: Book early to secure the best value.
- Split-ticketing: Raileasy automatically finds cheaper combinations of tickets.
- Family & Friends Railcard: Save up to 60% on kids and 1/3 on adults.
Go digital for stress-free travel.
If you have a Railcard, make it digital before your half-term trip. A digital Railcard lives on your phone, so there’s nothing to forget or misplace when the station is busy. Perfect for busy journeys with kids or families on the move.
Image credit: Tayybah Yasin | Unsplash
Travel Tips for Families
- Pack snacks, water, and entertainment for longer journeys.
- Bring a tablet or books to keep kids engaged.
- Opt for quieter carriages when possible.
- Allow extra time at stations, as half-term crowds can be larger than expected.
Snack smart, relax harder.
Pack treats, a drink, or let the kids enjoy a festive carriage snack trolley. The view is free, the fun is guaranteed.
Mini Packing Checklist
Pack Smart for stress-free travel:
- Snacks and drinks
- Entertainment (books, tablets, games)
- Wet wipes and hand Sanitiser
- Extra layers for chilly platforms or trains
- Chargers or power banks
Image credit: Matthew Feeney | Unsplash
Optional Day Trips
Not ready for an overnight?
Some half-term adventures work perfectly as day trips. From York to Bath, or Edinburgh to the Scottish Borders, you can explore and return in the same day without worrying about hotels.
Need a Hand? Contact Us
Questions about routes, fares, or Railcards? We’re here to make planning simple.
👉 Contact us here and we’ll get you moving with a smile, so your half-term is stress-free from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Railcards for half-term travel?
Yes! A Family & Friends Railcard works on most journeys, saving 1/3 on adults and 60% on children.
Are split tickets available for family trips?
Absolutely. Raileasy automatically checks split-ticket combinations to find cheaper fares without extra effort.
Can I buy half-term tickets in advance?
Yes, and booking early usually means the best prices and seat availability.
How do I know which trains are quieter?
Midweek travel and avoiding peak times usually results in quieter trains. Raileasy shows alternative times too.