Passenger numbers on coastal rail routes rose by up to a third in June, with weekend trips fuelling a multimillion-pound boost for local economies.

Coastal towns across the country have experienced a sharp rise in visitor numbers this summer, with rail travel playing a key role in the increase.

According to the Rail Delivery Group, passenger traffic to seaside destinations surged during June 2025, driven by record-breaking heat and dry weather. The North East saw a 25 percent rise compared to the same month in 2024, while the South East reported a 32 percent increase and East Anglia an 18 percent uplift.

The organisation noted that 47 percent of passengers travelling to coastal stations came from the same region. Many appear to have favoured shorter trips closer to home, with climate conditions influencing the choice of destinations.

“This summer made history as one of the hottest UK summers on record,” commented Jacqueline Starr, executive chair and chief executive officer of Rail Delivery Group. “Now, our analysis shows that changing temperatures are also changing how people travel. For the first time, summer getaways to the coast directly correspond to Met Office patterns for both temperature spikes and areas with the driest conditions.” 

Starr added that August traditionally attracts the highest visitor numbers, suggesting the trend is likely to continue. Rail Delivery Group data also revealed that Friday to Monday are the most popular days for coastal travel, reflecting the appeal of weekend and day trips. The group estimates rail travellers contributed £678m to their local departure areas this summer, and £916m at their destinations.

Riding high

Rail Delivery Group said……. “For the first time, summer getaways to the coast directly correspond to Met Office patterns for both temperature spikes and areas with the driest conditions……