Ah, the summer holidays. As if the scorching heat wasn’t enough to deal with, it’s that wonderful time of year when you have to try and find things to keep the family occupied for six long weeks. That’s why we’re here with a list of day out ideas to keep the kids happy and help you discover new and exciting attractions. Not only that, each of these is amazing value for money, thanks to Southern Railway’s wallet-friendly travel deals like 2FOR1 entry, GroupSave, and Kids for £2.
Whether you’re climbing castle towers, time-travelling through a Tudor cottage, or squawking at exotic animals at the zoo, these easy day trips by train are perfect for curious kids, grateful grown-ups, and everyone in between.
Lewes Castle and Museum
Built by the Normans, loved by families. Climb the winding staircase of Lewes Castle and you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views in Sussex. The kids will love pretending they’re kings and queens defending the tower, and the museum next door is packed with Roman items, costumes and ancient treasures. Be sure to pack a picnic, because there’s a sun-drenched lawn just begging for sandwiches and sausage rolls. And if it’s too hot for the climb, the shady museum is a great escape.
Great value: Get 2 adult tickets for the price of 1 when you travel with Southern Railway, just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide. If you travel off-peak, the kids’ train tickets will be just £2 each.
Address: 169 High Street, Lewes BN7 1YE
Nearest Station: Lewes
Anne of Cleves House
Once gifted by Henry VIII to his fourth wife (post-divorce, naturally), this timber-framed house lets you time-travel to the Tudor age. Kids can learn all about history by exploring rooms full of medieval furnishings, traditional dress-up and hands-on displays that bring the past to life.
This attraction is small and manageable, perfect for younger kids and slightly frazzled parents. There’s a gorgeous garden, too, where little legs can stretch out while grown-ups have a moment on a bench. The garden’s herb-scented borders are in full bloom by July, making it a peaceful place for a well-needed breather after a morning of castle-climbing.
Great value: Get 2 adult tickets for the price of 1 when you travel with Southern Railway, just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide. If you’re going as a group of 3-9 people, make the most of GroupSave to get a third off your train ticket.
Address: 52 Southover High Street, Lewes BN7 1JA
Nearest Station: Lewes
The Priest House & Gardens
Feel transported back 600 years at this beautifully preserved timber-framed home, once owned by Henry VIII (he’s got a lot, hasn’t he?) It’s packed with centuries-old artefacts and stories of everyday Tudor life. The peaceful cottage garden is a real highlight, full of butterflies, wildflowers and an orchard. It’s a gentle, outdoorsy experience with lots to explore. The scale is just right for kids, enough to hold their attention without overwhelming them. The garden is a dream in July, especially for nature-lovers.
Great value: Get 2 adult tickets for the price of 1 when you travel with Southern Railway, just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: North Lane, West Hoathly, East Grinstead RH19 4PP
Nearest Station: East Grinstead
ZSL London Zoo
London Zoo in Regent’s Park is one of the world’s oldest zoos, home to over 650 species from cheeky lemurs to roaring big cats. Highlights include the Penguin Beach wave pool, the gorilla enclosure, and interactive talk sessions. Open-air animal zones let kids run from exhibit to exhibit in the sunshine and with cafés, picnic benches, and shady trees, it's a great way to spend a summer’s day.
Great value: Get 2 adult tickets for the price of 1 when you travel with Southern Railway, just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: Outer Circle, London NW1 4RY
Nearest Station: London Bridge or London Victoria
Arundel Historic Guided Tour
This guided tour is the perfect way to learn more about the beautiful town of Arundel, and find out interesting facts about its Norman castle, elegant cathedral, and independent shops and cafés. The two-hour guided walk brings the past to life, with stories of medieval dukes, gothic architecture, and little-known quirks that make Arundel unique. With daily tours starting at 14:30, the easy pace means you can linger at an ice‑cream van or riverside bench midway. Pushchair-friendly paths and plenty of green spaces mean even the smallest family members can join in.
Great value: Get 25% off when you travel with Southern Railway, just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide. Pre-booking is essential by calling 07443 896480. Quote Southern Rail for discount.
Address: Mill Road, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9PA
Nearest Station: Arundel