It’s nearly half term, and with spring around the corner there’s never been a better time to get out and about by train. Travelling by train is an adventure in itself, and journeys on our rail network take in some wonderful views – but having an exciting activity or two at your destination adds extra excitement. Here are 6 fun trips to enjoy with the kids this half term.
Ride the Heart of Wales line
Running all the way from Swansea to Shrewsbury, the Heart of Wales line is one of the UK’s finest rail journeys, passing through six tunnels, across three viaducts and taking in spectacular views of fields, mountains, forests and meadows. You can pick up the train from Swansea, Llanelli, Llandeilo or Ammanford and ride it all the way to Shrewsbury or head for some of the lovely towns along the line, such as Llandrindod Wells or Llanwrtyd. Take a picnic, sit back and watch the kids enjoy the ride.
© Discover Carmarthenshire
Have a day out in Llanelli
Enjoy a guided tour of historic Llanelly House on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 11am – you need to book in advance. Details are here. A little further from the railway station (45 minutes’ walk or a few minutes in a taxi) is Llanelli Wetland Centre, where the kids can enjoy adventure playgrounds, feed exotic waterfowl, go pond dipping and – best of all – take part in the Welsh Puddle Jumping Championships 2022, running from February 19-27. Puddles are open at 2pm for practice jumps, then the main event takes place at 2pm daily. Head here for more information.
Plunge into history at Dinefwr
Dinefwr Park, with its castle and historic Newton House, is a pretty 30-minute walk from Llandeilo station, with much of the walk passing through beautiful parkland. Enjoy nature trails, spot deer and wild birds, and head to Newton House to learn about the park’s history. The current exhibition features rare treasures from the stores and collections at Dinefwr. There are 125 objects to mark 125 years of the National Trust – a celebration originally planned for 2020 but postponed due to covid.
Enjoy the magic of bubbles in Milford Haven
On Sunday February 20 at 2pm kids and adults can enjoy a spectacular bubble show at Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. Bubble man Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences for 30 years with his unique show that brings together the science, art, magic and fun of bubbles. Combining comedy and deft artistry, this show will thrill young audiences. Book here.
Go skating in Port Talbot
On Friday February 18 at Port Talbot Transport Hub from 1-6pm and Saturday February 19 from 11-6pm kids can enjoy the fun of ice skating on Port Talbot Synthetic Ice Skating Rink. Whether your kids are beginners or already know how to pirouette and glide with ease, this is a sure-fire way to brighten up the beginning of half term. More details here.
Get festive at Croeso festival, Swansea
Croeso is a festival of all things Welsh – and it offers plenty of fun for kids. Running in Swansea’s city centre Friday February 25 and Saturday February 26, it
will feature the best of local Welsh culture, including: food and drink, cookery demonstrations, live music, poetry, street entertainers, workshops, art and crafts, a St David’s Parade and special children’s activities. Find out more.