Come rain or shine, there’s so much to see and do in the South West of England – and excellent rail links make it easy to reach some of the region’s very best attractions and destinations. But there’s nothing better than uncovering exciting activities just a stone’s throw from a major rail hub, ensuring your next big day out involves minimal travel time – something that should keep adults and little ones happy alike.
Looking for some inspiration for things to do near your local station? Whether you’re heading for a day out with family or are simply looking to kill some time on a work trip, our list of the top things to do within walking distance of stations will help you fill your day with fun. Read on for activities just a short walk from some of the South West’s most popular stations, including Waterloo, Exeter Central, and Portsmouth Harbour.
Top activities near London Waterloo
As one of the UK’s busiest stations, Waterloo’s central location guarantees you’ll have a variety of amenities and activities at your disposal. London’s excellent Underground and bus services make getting around so easy-- but since there are so many activities just a short distance from London Waterloo, you’ll find plenty to do on foot!
BFI IMAX
A trip to the cinema is the perfect year-round activity, no matter the weather! And thanks to its huge screens (reportedly the biggest in Britain), the BFI IMAX takes the cinema experience to a whole new level. Immersive, family-friendly, and only a three-minute walk from Waterloo Station, this is certainly one of the best things to do in Waterloo.
The Hayward Gallery
If galleries are your thing, then you don’t want to miss out on a visit to The Hayward Gallery. Showing a range of thought-provoking and influential exhibitions, this world-renowned contemporary art gallery is perfect for those with a creative flair and an eye for the arts.
With numerous different exhibitions running throughout the year, you can enjoy this gallery time and time again—and being only a five-minute walk from London Waterloo, you won’t have to fuss about with transport.
London Eye
Want to spend the day being a true tourist? Then a trip to the London Eye has to be on the cards! Among the most popular visitor attractions in London, the magnificent Eye boasts sprawling views of some of the city’s top attractions, including Big Ben and Tower Bridge. It’s a unique way to tick off several of London’s must-see sights all in one go!
The London Eye is just a six-minute walk from Waterloo station. What’s more, if you travel by train you can enjoy 2FOR1 entry to this popular attraction, and if you buy train tickets direct from SWR you can get great savings on packages that include the London Eye through SWR Rewards.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Looking for a fun rainy-day activity in London? SEA LIFE Aquarium is the perfect place to visit! Located just a five-minute walk from Waterloo station, this fascinating aquarium makes for a great day out in London for day-trippers big and small.
Step into a tropical underwater realm and marvel at the hundreds of varieties of fish and aquatic life from all corners of the globe, before stopping at the gift shop to pick up a souvenir or two. Finish with a delicious bite to eat in one of the many cafés and restaurants nearby. Plus, when you travel by train you get 2FOR1 entry to SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Located on the south side of the River Thames at just a five-minutes’ walk from Waterloo, South Bank is so much more than a scenic spot. In fact—it’s regarded as the cultural and social heart of London, with an amazing host of restaurants, facilities, and activities for all ages.
Perfect for solo explorers, couples, and families, at South Bank you can immerse yourself in a day of shopping, cultural exhibitions and tasty food and drink, before evening arrives and the bustling nightlife takes over!
Top activities near Clapham Junction
As another of Britain’s busiest rail hubs, Clapham Junction’s central location makes it the ideal spot for finding nearby things to do in Clapham.
Antiques Market, Northcote Road
Do you have an eye for antiques? If you love nothing more than browsing through relics of the past, then Northcote Road Antiques Market is the place for you. With two floors of goodies to explored, this bargain hotspot is the perfect way to pass a Sunday afternoon. To get here, it’s just a 13-minute walk from Clapham Junction Station.
Clapham Common
If you fancy a summer’s stroll or crisp winter walk, then Clapham Common is the perfect spot for all seasons. This triangular stretch of green park features delights such as a butterfly garden and an on-site café, making it a wonderful place to stretch your legs after your travel.
Clapham Common is just a 15-minute walk from the station, making it a popular choice for things to do near Clapham Junction.
Things to do within walking distance of Exeter Central
As the busiest and most central station in Exeter, Devon, Exeter Central is well located for things to do in Exeter. From shopping trips to cultural excursions, where will Exeter take you first?
Exeter Cathedral
As one of the most iconic landmarks in Exeter, the city’s Cathedral is not to be missed. Explore the gilded ceilings, carved statues and fifteenth century astronomical clock within this magnificent gothic building. You can even take things up a notch with an exclusive rooftop tour. To get here, it’s just a six-minute walk from Exeter Central.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
With collections in world culture, natural history, zoology, pre-history, and art, Royal Albert Memorial Museum is full to bust with fascinating historical artefacts. What’s more, the museum is only a two-minute walk from Exeter Central, which comes in handy if you don’t have much time left to kill.
Parliament Street
Take a quick diversion from the high street for a truly unique experience down Parliament Street, where you’ll explore one of the narrowest streets in the world.
Previously known as small lane (for obvious reasons) Parliament Street is just a three-minute walk from Exeter Central and can be found nestled in between Greggs and Patisserie Valerie. It has the appearance of a very narrow alleyway, so it’s easily missed!
Things to do within walking distance of Southampton Central
Southampton Central benefits from a handy city centre location, so excellent local landmarks and attractions are never hard to find nearby.
SeaCity Museum
Having opened back in 2012 for the 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s departure from Southampton, this museum provides a fresh perspective on the world’s most famous maritime disaster. Loved by families, it’s easily one of the most popular things to do in Southampton. To get here, it’s just a seven-minute walk from Southampton Central.
Tudor House and Garden
If you’re a fan of history, then take some time to explore the Tudor House and Garden. This dignified 15th-century house on Bugle Street became the city’s first ever museum when it opened to the public in 1912. It’s just a gentle 15-minute walk from Southampton Central, to boot.
Top things to do within walking distance of Portsmouth Harbour station
Last on our list is Portsmouth Harbour station, which is situated just outside of the very harbour itself. Nearby, you’ll find lots of things to see and do in Portsmouth’s vibrant city centre, from historic museums to thrilling viewing towers.
Spinnaker Tower
Do you have a head for heights? Take a trip to Spinnaker Tower on a clear day for 115 metre-up, sprawling views that stretch across Portsmouth and beyond. Step on the tower’s reinforced glass floor – if you dare – or feast upon a truly unique afternoon tea from the tower’s very own restaurant above the clouds. To get here, it’s just a seven-minute walk from Portsmouth Harbour station.
Gunwharf Quays
Be prepared to shop ‘till you drop at the South’s leading designer outlet, Gunwharf Quays, located at just a seven-minute walk from Portsmouth Harbour Station. Whether you’re after clothes, electronics, cooking appliances and more, this shopping centre has it all!
Prepare your sea legs with a trip to the Historic Dockyard, which is just a six-minute walk from Portsmouth Harbour Station. A battleship central, this fascinating dockyard contains several ancient buildings and shipwrecks which beg to be explored. Lord Nelson’s HMS Victory is spectacular, while the HMS Warrior will transport you right back to 1860. What’s more, those travelling with South Western Railway can save 20% off Ultimate Explorer tickets with SWR Rewards.
From immersive museum trips to iconic landmarks, there are so many entertaining activities just a stone’s throw from the South West’s train stations. Explore our flexible range of ticket types to find the right one for your journey. Make the most of cheap train tickets to your chosen indoor activity by going off-peak, and those with a Railcard could save even more. If you’re travelling with a bicycle, make the most of our bike-friendly services and plan your journey in advance to avoid disappointment.
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