Great Western Railway (GWR) has revealed analysis that shows that UK holiday searches have risen by more than 5,000% over the past month, as holidays in South West England become increasingly popular.

The operator’s own booking data shows that advance reservations for August and September to popular holiday destinations are increasing year on year.

Going on holiday by train – known as a ‘railcation’ – is becoming a more attractive option for many people, and GWR has summarised the appeal of several of its destinations.

GWR reports that the Cotswolds area “gives families the postcard version of the English countryside”, as it features limestone villages, old market squares, riverside walks and pub lunches. Holidaymakers can spend their time taking short walks, village-hopping, and visiting gardens, farm parks, wildlife attractions, castles, steam railways and small towns. GWR has been improving connections in the area.

Cornwall boasts beaches, harbour towns, coastal walks, local food and surfing. Even the journey gives travellers the opportunity to enjoy the scenery.

GWR recommends South Wales for people who “want a UK break that still feels like stepping into somewhere different”. Capital city Cardiff has a castle, as well as Cardiff Bay, local markets and museums. It is a good base from which to travel to attractions such as Caerphilly Castle or Castell Coch.

Bath is a recommended venue for an easy city break. It is compact enough to walk around and sample its Roman history, Georgian streets, parks, museums, cafés and riverside.

Another destination for a city break is Bristol. Its harbourside offers boat trips, museums, galleries and fantastic food and drink. The city also hosts many festivals and events over the summer.

GWR recommends Plymouth as a destination for “a different kind of coastal break”. The city is built around the water, with harbour views, boat trips, museums and open spaces.

Tips for ‘railcations’

GWR has some suggestions for people travelling on holiday by train.

It suggests that people begin by choosing their base, and book their journey in advance. Once at their base, the operator recommends that passengers use short bus routes, local taxis, walking or branch lines..

GWR also suggests that passengers do not try to squeeze too much into each day, or into their luggage!

“Families are having to think harder about how they spend their summer holiday budgets. Overseas trips can feel expensive or uncertain, while driving comes with its own pressures, from fuel costs and motorway traffic to parking at the other end.

“That is why the railcation feels so relevant this summer. It gives families a way to still have a proper UK break, but without starting and ending the holiday with hours in the car.”

Jeremy Clarke, GWR Head of Customer Research