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Half-term’s right around the corner, and we can already hear the pitter-patter of little paws (and feet!) getting restless for an outing. If you’re scratching your head thinking about how to entertain the entire family (fluffy members included) this half-term, look no further.
Transport for Wales are running a tail-wagging “Kids Go Free” offer for little humans. But wait, are the trains dog friendly? Absolutely, your canine companion can also hop on board for a fab adventure. It’s like a golden ticket for family travel!
We’re gonna share with you 10 incredible destinations across the UK that are just a train ride away. So grab the kids, grab the lead, and hop on board for a pawsome half-term adventure!
1. Cardiff – Capital Canine Adventures
What to do: Cardiff pulls out all the stops for a family day out. Bute Park isn’t just a stroll in the park; it’s an adventure waiting to happen! The woodland play trail is a magical experience for kids who fancy themselves young explorers, and let’s not forget the endless green spaces for a game of fetch with your furry friend. Fancy flexing those brain muscles? Head over to Chance and Counters, a board game café where everyone, including your pooch, can get their game on.
Shopping, anyone? High-street darling John Lewis is more than happy to roll out the red carpet for your four-legged pal. If you’re more into thrills, Escape Rooms Cardiff is not just a dog-friendly place, but also an epic adventure for the entire family. And if you’ve got a hankering for some Welsh delights, you’ve got to visit the Fabulous Welsh Cakes store in the Castle Quarter Arcades. They’ve taken inclusivity to the next level by offering dog-friendly Welsh cakes shaped like bones!
After all that, why not wind down with a lovely boat trip to Cardiff Bay? The scenery’s fab, and it’s a delightful way for everyone to catch their breath and soak up some views.

How to get there: Cardiff Central Station is your main stop, offering easy access to all the paw-sibilities.
2. Swansea – Sandy Paws
What to do: If you’re hankering for a combo of retail therapy and seaside fun, Swansea’s got your tail covered. Awarded ‘Best Large Indoor Market’ in 2020, Swansea Market in the city centre is a treasure trove of goodies. Pick up local produce, artisan dog treats, and maybe a Welsh cake or two for the kids.
Not far from the station, you’ve got Swansea Beach, with its golden sands and fantastic promenade, is a must-visit. There are plenty of other beaches just a bus journey away like Mumbles and Rhossili Bay, perfect for a game of fetch or sandcastle building with the young ‘uns (just be sure to wrap up warm in this chill).
Feeling cinematic? Head to Cinema & Co. on Castle Street for a movie experience that welcomes your pup. Or pop to the Quadrant Shopping Centre, where you can spot dog friendly stickers on a whole bunch of stores! Stores welcoming your furry friends include HMV, Schuh, The Body Shop, and loads more.

How to get there: Swansea Railway Station is the hub, and a quick bus or taxi ride will take you to the beachfront.
3. Shrewsbury – A Town Full of Tails
What to do:
Shrewsbury is a delightful blend of shopping, history, and riverside relaxation for both your little humans and four-legged friends. Start your day at the Darwin Shopping Centre, where you can shop till you drop with a brilliant selection of stores, ranging from high street brands to charming local boutiques. The best part? Dogs are welcome on a lead inside the main shopping centre, so you won’t have to leave your furry companion behind.
After some retail therapy, why not explore the intriguing world of Shrewsbury Prison? While it might sound like an unconventional family outing, it’s surprisingly fascinating. The prison welcomes well-behaved dogs on leads for self-guided walks. What makes this experience even better is the ample space within the prison, ensuring your dog stays comfortable year-round. Conveniently, there’s a car park just opposite the building. Plus, it’s perfectly located next to the train station, making it an ideal stop for day-trippers. You can easily spend a good chunk of your day here, making it great value for money.
But the Shrewsbury adventure doesn’t stop there. For a unique pet-friendly experience, hop aboard the Sabrina Boat. This attraction is considered one of the best things to do in Shrewsbury with your furry friend. What sets it apart is that it offers both indoor and outdoor areas, making it suitable for any weather. Even better, it’s conveniently located right next to The Quarry Park, which stretches along the picturesque River Severn. It’s the perfect place to take your dog for a leisurely walk before embarking (pun intended!) on your voyage along the river.

How to get there: Shrewsbury Station is an easy gateway, with The Quarry just a short walk away.
4. Chester – Paws and Roman Walls
What to do:
Chester offers a blend of educational and entertaining activities for the whole family, including your furry friends. Start by taking a leisurely stroll along Chester’s historic Roman walls, which provide an engaging walk complete with informative plaques that will captivate the kids’ curiosity.
For even more historical immersion, step back in time and envision gladiator battles at the Roman Amphitheatre. Then, make your way to the Castle’s Agricola Tower and Castle Walls to soak in breathtaking views and explore history together. Meanwhile, Grosvenor Street beckons as a delightful spot for dog walks, boasting charming streets to explore and numerous independent shops that happily welcome dogs.
And if you’re in the mood for shopping and a touch of culture, make your way to the bustling Chester Indoor Market, where you’ll discover a variety of vendors offering unique goods.
For those ready for a short bus ride, the Crocky Trail awaits. This outdoor wonderland is a haven of family fun, featuring thrilling outdoor challenges and activities that promise a day filled with excitement.
Chester truly offers a delightful mix of historical exploration, shopping, and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable family outing with both kids and dogs.

How to get there: Chester Railway Station offers quick access to the city’s historic centre.
5. Birmingham – Urban Fuzz
What to do:
Birmingham is a hub of family and pet-friendly activities! For a unique experience, check out The Mockingbird Cinema and Kitchen, which hosts dog-friendly cinema screenings. The Alexandra Theatre also offers dog-friendly cinema screenings for a night of entertainment.
If you’re looking for active fun, GoBoat Birmingham lets you and your family embark on a canal adventure, and they’re dog-friendly! For the climbing enthusiasts, Boulder Central Indoor Climbing boasts the West Midlands’ best indoor bouldering wall. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a newbie, they have everything for a thrilling session of plastic pulling, and your furry friend can watch all the action unfold!
And don’t forget to visit Chance and Counters, Birmingham’s board game cafe. They’re not just kid-friendly; they’re pup-friendly too, so everyone can join in on the board game fun.
For a dose of creativity and local goods, explore the dog-friendly Custard Factory and Paperdolls Handmade Market. Located in the heart of Digbeth, just outside Birmingham city centre, this market inside the market hall ‘Factory Works’ showcases handmade treasures and is a great spot to browse with your little ones and four-legged companions.

How to get there: Aim for Birmingham New Street Station, with excellent city connections.
6. Aberystwyth – Seaside Sniffs
What to do: Aberystwyth is a true family paradise, offering a plethora of activities that cater to kids of all ages. Begin your family adventure at Aberystwyth Castle, where little ones can let their imaginations soar amidst ancient ruins while your furry friend explores the castle grounds. Keep an eye out for special family-oriented events and historical reenactments that often bring the castle’s history to life.
For an enchanting and picturesque experience that’s perfect for families, hop aboard the Vale of Rheidol Railway. The steam locomotive journey through the stunning Welsh countryside will captivate children and adults alike. Best of all, this railway welcomes dogs, so your entire family, including your four-legged member, can relish the scenic ride together.
For a dash of excitement, Constitution Hill beckons. The Cliff Railway offers breathtaking coastal vistas, and at the summit, you’ll discover a playground designed to delight kids. There’s ample space for your furry friend to romp and play, making it a splendid spot for the whole family to enjoy.
Afterward, saunter down Aberystwyth Pier, a hub of traditional seaside fun that will thrill both young and old. Allow the kids to try their hand at the amusement arcades while your pup revels in the invigorating sea breeze. Aberystwyth boasts several beaches, with Aberystwyth Beach being a firm family favourite for sandcastle building and letting your dog frolic in the gentle waves.

How to get there: Aberystwyth Station is central, putting you in close proximity to the main attractions.
7. Llandudno – Pup Paradise
What to do: Llandudno is a coastal paradise with a plethora of activities for the whole family, furry friends included! Begin your adventure with a delightful boat trip from the Llandudno Jetty on the Promenade. Pass by the iconic Llandudno Pier, explore hidden caves and coves, and catch sight of the charming lighthouse. If you’re up for more, opt for the hour-long excursion that covers both the Great Orme and the little Orme, a registered bird sanctuary. Keep an eye out for various sea bird species and the occasional family of seals, all without the need for advance booking.
For history buffs and for little ones who are curious about the past, the Home Front Museum is a must-visit. Step back in time and immerse yourself in civilian life during World War II. This indoor attraction showcases the daily lives of civilians during the wartime era, complete with faithful recreations of shops and homes. While it may be a small museum, it’s a hidden gem filled with intriguing artifacts and information. Well-behaved dogs on leads are more than welcome inside.
For a truly unique perspective of the Great Orme, embark on a cable car adventure with your furry companion. The Cable Car journey from Happy Valley to the Great Orme Summit is a breathtaking experience. It’s the longest Aerial Cabin Lift in the UK, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape.
But that’s not all! Llandudno has even more in store for you and your family. Hop on the Great Orme Tramway, take a leisurely stroll along Llandudno Pier, or embark on a sightseeing tour bus to uncover even more wonders in this delightful coastal town.
So, whether you’re seeking seaside adventures, historical insights, or scenic vistas, Llandudno has it all, and it’s ready to welcome your entire family!

How to get there: Llandudno Station is your stop, and the sea breeze is almost instant from there.
8. Manchester – Where Doggie Delights Meet City Beats
What to do: Ah, Manchester, the city where industrial history meets modern culture, and guess what? It’s not just for the two-legged crowd! This bustling metropolis has a dog-friendly scene that’ll make tails wag with excitement.
Family of foodies? Make a beeline for Mackie Mayor. Housed in Smithfield’s Grade II listed market, which opened its doors in 1858, this food haven welcomes dogs with open paws.
Looking for some friendly competition? Head over to All Star Lanes, a bowling alley where you can knock down pins while your dog watches your strikes and spares. And speaking of bowling, don’t miss Dog Bowl, another top-notch alley where you can enjoy some strikes and spares, along with your canine companion’s enthusiastic encouragement.
Just a stone’s throw from Piccadilly station, the Northern Quarter warehouse, Ducie Street Warehouse, awaits tired travelers and hungry explorers alike. After savouring the flavours of Manchester, take the kids to the dog-friendly ‘Mini Cini,’ where classic films grace the big screen.

How to get there: Manchester Piccadilly Station is a convenient location for you and your family, including your furry friends, to visit all the places above.
How to Woof Up the Kids Go Free Offer
Kids under 16 travel for free when they’re with a fare-paying adult. It’s available off-peak for those aged 11 to 16, while the teeny weenies under 11 can travel for free anytime! To paw through all the possibilities, take a look at the TFW Network Map.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your pawsport ready and let’s hit the rails for a half-term filled with adventure, fur, and family fun.