From wildlife parks to soft play havens, castles to zoos, discover toddler-friendly adventures accessible and affordable by train. Find nearby days out for toddlers and explore the best activities in the West Midlands.
Enjoy hassle-free travel by taking the train, allowing you to fully focus on creating unforgettable family memories together.
We know taking a train journey with your little one can seem a bit daunting at first. But it's actually going to be such an amazing adventure for your toddler! Imagine their joy as they watch the world whizz by. And don't worry, you'll have a friendly conductor right there with you on every train ride.
Rain or shine, forget about petrol prices, traffic jams or finding parking when you take the train to all those amazing toddler adventures.
1. National Sea Life Centre, Birmingham
Young children will be captivated by the undersea wonders of the National Sea Life Centre Birmingham . Families can wander through its 11 captivating zones, where little ones will love watching playful penguins gracefully glide and waddle through their icy habitat. They'll also be spellbound by the vibrant clownfish in the enchanting Clownfish Kingdom. You’ll also receive discounted entry to the National Sea Life Centre if you travel by train.
Travel tip: Catch a train to Birmingham New Street station and Sea Life Centre is about a 15-minute walk. See more on trains to National Sea Life Centre Birmingham.
2. Thinktank Birmingham
Fuel your toddler's curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham , an educational wonderland with over 200 hands-on exhibits. With free entry for kids up to 2, enjoy budget-friendly fun. Explore MiniBrum , a mini city with canals, shops and Birmingham landmarks. Let the little ones unleash their inner architects, build dens, role-play and set sail on miniature waterways in this STEM-focused environment bursting with learning adventures. You’ll receive discounted offers to Thinktank Birmingham if you travel by train with WMR.
Travel tip: The nearest station to Thinktank is Birmingham Moor Street station, a 10-minute walk away.
3. LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre
Kids aged 3 to 10 will love LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre , an indoor theme park with eight interactive zones like DUPLO® Farm and LEGO® Star Wars™. Discover MINILAND® city with landmarks made from 1.5M LEGO bricks. Enjoy LEGO® 4D Cinema movies with special effects. Ride Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice, race handbuilt Racers and uncover building secrets. You’ll also receive discounted entry to LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre if you travel by train.
Travel tip: Hop on the train to Birmingham New Street, the nearest station. From there, it’s a 15-minute stroll. See more on trains to LEGOLAND.
4. Birmingham Botanical Garden
On a sunny day, parents and tots can explore Birmingham Botanical Garden, pack a picnic and play in the Treetops adventure park. In winter, escape the chill in the exotic world of the conservatories. Explore the greenhouses and spot the colourful butterflies, frogs, and a whole range of mesmerising minibeasts. You’ll also get discounted entry to Birmingham Botanical Garden if you travel by train.
Travel tip: The nearest train stations to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are Birmingham New Street or Five Ways station. On foot, Birmingham Botanical Gardens is 20 minutes from Five Ways station. See more on trains to Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
5. Dudley Zoo and Castle
Little adventurers can experience a wild blend of big cats and historic ruins at Dudley Zoo and Dudley Castle . The zoo features Sumatran tigers, a penguin pool, a lemur wood and a vintage chairlift among other attractions. Kids can pretend to be medieval knights and run around the ancient 12th-century castle ruins on the grounds, perched on a mound overlooking the zoo and included with zoo tickets.
Travel tip: The nearest station is Dudley Port. From there, catch a bus directly to Dudley Zoo and Castle, a 10-15 minute journey. See more on trains to Dudley Zoo and Castle.
6. Warwick Castle
Discover the magic of Warwick Castle , one of England's best-preserved medieval castles. Toddlers and adults can enjoy stepping into the past as they wander the castle. From thrilling birds of prey displays to Zog Playland and the Horrible Histories Maze, you’ll find plenty to keep the kids entertained. You’ll receive discounted entry to Warwick Castle if you travel by train.
Travel tip: From Warwick station the castle is a 15-minute walk. See more on trains to Warwick Castle.
7. Wonderland, Telford Town Park
This family-favourite Wonderland -themed attraction in Telford Town Park bursts with thrills and spills for little adventurers with six fairground rides and an indoor soft play area. Fairytales come alive in the fairy valley, and prehistoric giants roam the dinosaur valley. Bouncy inflatables add to the energetic fun with crazy golf and a maze.
Travel tip: Hop on a bus from Telford Central train station.
8. The Wave Coventry
Make a splash at The Wave in the heart of Coventry. The waterpark is packed with six different watercoasters and high-octane slides. Your tots, however, will love the lazy river and the Reef with mini slides, tipping buckets, jets and fountains - a splash zone created especially for younger visitors.
Travel tip: The waterpark is a short 10-minute walk from Coventry station.
9. Rock Up Birmingham
Perfect for tiny tots bursting with energy, Rock Up Birmingham is a thrilling indoor climbing adventure sure to tire them out! The soft play area is great for children and the toddler climb and play sessions give them the chance to experience the fun of climbing walls with specialised equipment.
Travel tip: Rock Up Birmingham is a short 8-minute walk from Five Ways station.
10. Rush Trampoline Park
Get ready to bounce at Rush Trampoline Park with a separate Toddlers Court comprising 7 connected trampolines and a foam pit. This popular family leisure destination also runs toddler takeover sessions where little ones can explore the whole park, including the tumble lanes, dodgeball and basketball courts, as well as the multi-sports pitch in a safe and fun environment.
Travel tip: The trampoline park is a 17-minute walk from Bournville station.
To save money, look to travel off-peak, including weekends and bank holidays. You can also purchase your ticket via the West Midlands Trains app or at the station on the day.
Plus, with free travel for children under the age of five, and a range of affordable ticket options available when you travel with WMR – travelling by train is a no-brainer.
