Sometimes the best adventures don’t need a plane ticket — just a train ride and a little curiosity. Whether you’re based in Manchester or Birmingham, you’re perfectly placed for affordable weekend getaways filled with character, culture, and a touch of surprise — all for under £25.

With up to 50% off Advance fares from Transport for Wales (TfW) and an extra 35% discount with JurnyOn, your total savings can reach up to 67%. That means more travel, more experiences, and more Eco Points for every mile you ride. 🌿

Let’s uncover some of the best weekend escapes that are just a short, scenic rail journey away.

🌄 From Manchester

🏞️ Chester – Roman Walls & Riverside Strolls

📍 Fare: From £15.40 (Advance)

📅 Journey Time: ~1 hr

Walk along the ancient Roman walls, admire the black-and-white Tudor buildings, and unwind by the River Dee. Chester is the perfect mix of history and charm, with cafés and boutiques tucked behind every corner.

Why go by train: Avoid the city traffic, arrive right in the heart of Chester, and start exploring immediately.

🌊 Llandudno – The Seaside Classic

📍 Fare: From £23.20 (Advance)

📅 Journey Time: ~2 hr 15 min

All aboard for sea breezes and scenic views! Ride along the North Wales coast to reach this Victorian gem. Take a stroll along the pier, ride the Great Orme Tramway, or just enjoy fish and chips on the promenade.

Eco Tip: Trains along this route follow one of the most picturesque coastal lines in the UK — sustainable travel at its finest.

🏞️ Rhyl – Sun, Sea & Seaside Strolls

📍 Fare: From £21.80 (Advance)

📅 Journey Time: ~1 hr 45 min

A classic North Wales seaside destination — think sandy beaches, fresh sea air, and fish and chips by the promenade. Explore Rhyl’s waterfront, visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views, or enjoy a coastal train ride that’s as scenic as it gets.

Perfect for: Families and sea lovers looking for a refreshing coastal escape.

🌳 From Birmingham

🏰 Ludlow – Market Town Magic

📍 Fare: From £20.90 (Advance)

📅 Journey Time: ~1 hr 45 min

Step off the train into a postcard-perfect town known for its medieval streets, gourmet food scene, and impressive Ludlow Castle. Spend the afternoon browsing artisan markets or tasting local ciders in one of its many historic pubs.

Why go by train: The Heart of Wales Line delivers rolling countryside views that set the tone for a slow, scenic escape.

🌿 Llandrindod Wells – Victorian Charm in Mid Wales

📍 Fare: From £23.90 (Advance)

📅 Journey Time: ~3 hr 15 min

Once a fashionable spa town, Llandrindod Wells now charms visitors with its tranquil lake, leafy parks, and vintage character. Ideal for a peaceful weekend surrounded by nature — plus, the journey itself is one of Wales’s most beautiful rail rides.

Bonus: Earn Eco Points with every journey — your reward for choosing the greener way to travel.

💚 Travel Smart, Save More, Go Greener

With JurnyOn, your weekend escapes come with big savings and bigger rewards.

Up to 50% off with TfW Advance tickets

Extra 35% discount through JurnyOn

Earn Eco Points for every mile — redeemable for discounts on Platinum, Gold, and Silver travel plans

So why wait for a holiday? Your next weekend escape is just a train ride away — affordable, scenic, and sustainable. 🌍💫

💡 Note: All fares listed are Advance prices available around one month ahead when booked through the JurnyOn app. Prices may vary depending on availability and travel date — so the earlier you book, the more you save!