scenic rail journeys uk

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The 11 most scenic train journeys in the UK

Want to plan a big railway trip for your next staycation? Here’s our pick of the most beautiful train journeys in the UK

Whether you’re keen to admire the stunning vistas of the Scottish countryside, or just after a setting to pretend you’re in a music video, staring longingly out at the mesmerising beaches of Cornwall or the mountains of Wales , these train journeys will make you feel like the main character in the window seat. 

You could be a solo traveller craving some luxury transport, or just looking to take the kids on a wholesome family day out – either way, these railway trips will have you covered. Stretching from the very top of the country in Mallaig to the very bottom down in St Ives – and right across to Coleraine in Northern Ireland – here’s where to get your railway fix on your next UK holiday. All aboard!

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Best train journeys in the UK

1.  The Jacobite Steam Train

All aboard the Hogwarts Express! Okay, you don’t have to be a Potterhead to get into the majesty of this stunning route. Scotland’s Jacobite Steam Train traverses the gorgeous landscape between Fort William and Mallaig, offering up a conveyor belt of rugged scenery that belies the comfort and luxury inside the train itself. Booking ahead is an absolute must, but it is 100 percent worth it. Few train journeys on the planet come with the grandeur of the Jacobite Steam Train.

2.  North Norfolk Poppy Line

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again, but North Norfolk might just be the most underrated part of England. The entire coast is an absolute delight, filled with gorgeous seaside villages and a very real sense of charm, and the so-called ‘Poppy Line’ is an adorable way to explore it. The heritage steam train runs the short distance between Sheringham and Holt (with options to go further at either end) and is an exercise in beautiful nostalgia that will practically drag serenity into your day. Yes, that is something of a contradiction, but it fits. 

3.  St Ives Bay Line

Okay, it might only be a ten-minute journey, but that just means that you can go back and forth on the St Ives Bay Line as many times as you like during the day. Why wouldn’t you? This 4.25-mile stretch of seaside sumptuousness was opened in 1877, the last of the new broad gauge railways to be opened in the UK, although standard gauge has since taken over. Of course, you’re not here for gauge history, you are here for impossibly quaint seaside views and that special delight that only Cornwall can provide. 

4.  Snowdonia Mountain Railway

Scratching and clawing your way to the top of Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) is one of the most exhilarating experiences in Wales, but all that scratching and clawing does sound sort of tiring, right? If slugging up the mountain isn’t your idea of fun, the Snowdonia Mountain Railway is here to save the day. Trains leave from the gorgeous village of Llanberis and slowly climb the mountain, stopping at the top for incredible views and a real sense of achievement.

5.  The Flying Scotsman

A real piece of history here, albeit only really in the name. The original Flying Scotsman still takes short, special journeys in the UK (in the south of England, mostly), and tickets sell out quickly, but why not jump on the spiritual successor of the famous train and make the journey between the capitals of Scotland and England instead? London to Edinburgh is a trip from one powerhouse to the other, a route that takes you through the whole of England – a curious look into the North/South divide.

6.  Settle to Carlisle

The North really is blessed with some beautiful train routes, isn’t it? The beloved Settle to Carlisle line runs across 73 miles of gorgeous countryside, showcasing Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines at their most rugged and remote. It is stunning stuff and has been a point of pilgrimage for train enthusiasts since passengers first jumped aboard in 1876. The journey takes 90 minutes (delays notwithstanding, this is the UK, after all), and tickets start at £8.50.

7.  Ffestiniog Railway

Fancy taking a short trip on the oldest independent railway company in the world? Of course you do, and you’ll find the little train that could waiting in the heart of Wales. The Ffestiniog Railway runs from the harbour of Porthmadog to the mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, passing through Snowdonia National Park as it does, ensuring some incredible views and a palpable sense of history within the carriages. The company offers plenty of journeys, but the three-hour charmer between Porth and Blaenau is the one to go for. 

8.  Londonderry to Coleraine

Northern Ireland’s prettiest rail line? While it’s a beautiful place from east to west, the stretch of tracks between Londonderry and Coleraine is right up there. The railway has plenty of history (more than 170 years of the stuff), but passengers can be forgiven for eschewing that in favour of the views waiting outside the window. You simply won’t get better rolling views of the coast than from the comfortable seat of a 3000 class DMU, trundling between the two towns. Michael Palin called it ‘one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world’, and he wasn’t wrong. 

9.  North Yorkshire Moors Railway

North Yorkshire is a treasure trove for railway lovers. As well as being a beautiful city with few equals, York is also home to the National Railway Museum, an absolute must-visit for anyone with even the most rudimentary interest in trains. The North York Moors National Park is truly sumptuous, and no prizes for guessing where the North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs. Yes, that’s right, smack-bang through the aforementioned sumptuous scenery. The journey from Pickering to Whitby takes almost two hours, and tickets start from £45, although members get big discounts.

10.  Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

Two hours and 45 minutes (give or take a minute or two) of absolute rural bliss. The northern reaches of Scotland are Britain at its most beautiful, and the views afforded to passengers from the cars of the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh line are as good as it gets. Ttickets cost £15.90, an absolute bargain considering the beauty outside the window. 

11.  Bluebell Railway

Even the name is all sorts of adorable. The UK offers a fine line of heritage steam railways, and the darling Bluebell Railway down in Sussex is one of the best. Originally opened in 1882, it actually closed in 1958 – sparking a preservation society into action, in the hopes of restoring as much of the original line as possible. They did a darn good job, and today the Bluebell is a time machine, taking you back to the days of steam engines trundling from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead. The journey takes around 40 minutes, and advance tickets cost £25.

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The 13 best train journeys in the UK

By Monisha Rajesh

From the Scottish Highlands to Cornwall ’s sandy beaches — the following 13 trips showcase Britain’s best train journeys, including quick rail rides, overnight sleeper trains and a brand new Edinburgh route that is the most affordable yet.

1. Machynlleth to Pwllheli

Just inside the southernmost rim of Snowdonia National Park , this route is blessed by nature from the moment the train departs. Passengers gaze onto scenes of tall grass smattered with waist-high wildflowers and puffy clouds over peaks fringed with forest. Streams wink and flash in the sunlight, and hikers with sticks wave in the distance. Not long after Dovey Junction station, the ride follows the bends of the River Dyfi until it opens wide onto the Cardigan Bay coast, shaped by fingers of creamy sand and dunes melting into the water. Through the window, glimpse rocky beaches thrashed by teal-green water and campers parked on hills, their tents flapping wildly in the wind. A constant mix of sand and shallow waters overseen by cloud-capped mountains, the journey ends with an urban crawl through the market town of Pwllheli.

2. St Ives Bay Line

Short but so very sweet, this 10-minute ride between the village of St Erth and the seaside town of St Ives gives passengers fabulous views of the Cornish coast. Take a seat on the right-hand side of the train as it clatters along the Hayle estuary where birds pick their way through the pools, then take a deep breath as it climbs the dunes and curls around the crescent of Porth Kidney Sands, where the water is inked with blue and striped with green. From an open window, passengers will smell the saltiness in the air as the train winds above Carbis Bay, where sunbathers are dotted on its golden sands. On arrival at St Ives, head straight to the café at Porthminster beach for the crab, chilli and garlic linguine washed down with a lemon-and-thyme G&T.

3. Settle to Carlisle

Opened in May 1876, this segment is one of England ’s last great Victorian routes, which British Rail wanted to close in the 1980s. But pushback from campaigners, residents and train enthusiasts meant that the 72-mile stretch was saved and continues to seduce both visitors and commuters travelling across the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines. Boarding at Settle station, with its burgundy trimming and bright flower baskets, passengers are already surrounded by slanting fields of sheep, penned in by the region’s distinctive dry-stone walls. Plunging into tunnels, whizzing across bridges and squeezing through rock cuttings that rise around the carriage, the train negotiates a landscape that often appears to tilt and slide. Crossing rivers, hamlets and miles of peaceful farmland, the journey peaks as the train negotiates the 104ft-high Ribblehead Viaduct where hikers wave from below. For the last half hour look right for views over the Vale of Eden, its hedgerows and farmland spotlit by the sun breaking through low-hanging clouds, before the train terminates in the historic city of Carlisle.

4. Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

In just under three hours, passengers can treat themselves to almost every element one could want on a railway journey through Scotland. Flanked by hot-pink heather, the train canters out of Inverness along the southern bank of the Beauly Firth and soon draws circles around freshwater lochs, clusters of white houses hidden between trees and mottled moors with plenty of deer. Peering between blocks of thick Scots pine, you'll glimpse silver bodies of water, perhaps a single boat tethered to a pier. It’s worth a stopover at the pretty village of Plockton with its palm trees, pocket-size houses and islets dotted around the bay – along with several silky seals. Pick up the journey once more and continue to the Kyle of Lochalsh as the Isle of Skye looms up ahead.

5. Newcastle to Edinburgh

Don’t be fooled into thinking that a high-speed train between two major cities can’t offer a gorgeous view or two. This route follows England’s north-east coastline into southern Scotland , weaving passengers in and out of the patchworked countryside and misty-blue ocean scenes. Although the first few minutes of the ride include the classic sight of low-hanging wires and warehouses, the train soon shakes off the grime and guts of the city and blares its horn alongside meadows of sheep and picket-fenced farms. Given the journey's speed, flashes of canary-yellow rapeseed fields, the shiny black hides of Aberdeen Angus cows and villages vanish as fast as they rise, so sit on the right and face backwards to draw out the views. As you snake through forest and thunder over bridges , you’ll know when the sea is close as the horizon begins to haze and the edge drops away, revealing a blaze of North Sea blue. Plus, as of late 2021,  Lumo  launched new service, offering travellers one-way fares starting from just £14.90. Not only will it make the journey more affordable, the train itself — part of Lumo's brand new, 100 per cent electric-powered fleet — is much more carbon-efficient than most other models. 

6. Glasgow to Mallaig

Chugging out of Glasgow Queen Street, this train tails the River Clyde for some time before tearing away towards raw Scottish wilderness. Surrounded by glens tinged with the mauve of wild heather, it climbs up and around the bonny banks of Loch Lomond, clinging to hillsides trimmed with birch trees. Not long after Tyndrum, move to the front of the train and look back as it curls around the horseshoe bend at the foot of Beinn Doran before carrying on to Fort William. It’s a jolly summer jaunt – but brave the bite of wind and sleet and a winter journey brings beauty in the form of frozen rivers and daggers of ice dangling from trees. Towards the end of the line, the train runs along the 21 arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct at the top of Loch Shiel – a sight commonly known to Harry Potter fans as the route of the Hogwarts Express .

7. The Caledonian Sleeper

One of only two night services left in the UK, the Caledonian Sleeper connects London to Edinburgh and Glasgow on the Lowlander route, and Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness on the Highlander route. A facelift in 2019 means the train now resembles a mobile hotel rather than a mode of transport. With double beds, en-suite bathrooms and dimmable lights, the train provides a fun way to bed down for the night and arrive fresh for the day ahead. Board, stash your bags and hunt down the dining car for smoked salmon followed by a plate of haggis, neeps and tatties served with whisky-cream sauce. Knock back a wee dram, then drift off as London falls away in the dark, raising the blinds at dawn to the morning mist hanging over the moors.

8. Exeter St Davids to Newton Abbot

For unsuspecting travellers, this 18-minute journey might feel like any other urban trip. The rails roll past graffitied walls, the backs of terraced houses and a strip of factories. But look to the left and watch as the green marshland narrows to a point, the trees drop away and the train seems to hug the majestic, mile-wide river Exe. In warmer months passengers will see a flotilla of sailboats, kayaks and rowers, while in winter the wetlands are teeming with birdlife from curlews, dunlins and teals to bar-tailed godwits and avocets. Around Dawlish Warren the river merges with the English Channel and a perfect sliver of foam rims the edge of the water as walkers stroll along the coastal path, watching gentle waves break and fizz on the sand. Curving down the coast, the train swings inland once more and runs along the river Teign before coming to a stop at Newton Abbot.

Olivia Morelli

Jessica Puckett

Lanie Goodman

9. The Belmond Royal Scotsman

Over seven nights with steward service, four-course suppers – and much whisky – travelling on the Belmond Royal Scotsman is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to soak up Scotland in all its glory. Boarding in Edinburgh , passengers are shown to private compartments in what feels like a long and narrow Edwardian country house decorated with rough tartan cushions, lacquer-polished wood and tufts of fresh heather on the bedside table. As the train sets off for Falkirk, it’s tempting to daydream by the window, but head to the dining car for a lavish afternoon tea of salmon sandwiches and slabs of sticky Dundee cake. Over the next few days, the train passes through Fort William with views of Ben Nevis and the Glenfinnan viaduct, then snakes north towards the Arisaig coastline with day tours to Inverlochy Castle and the Isle of Bute. Expect an excess of everything from windy walks and castles to massages and the heady morning scent of fresh coffee and frying bacon.

10. The Night Riviera

The only other sleeper service in the UK, the night train from London’s Paddington to Penzance is a thrill of a ride from the moment you line up to board in the eerily quiet station. Passengers travelling in a sleeper compartment get priority boarding. Most families pull on pyjamas, clean their teeth and slide under the silky-smooth duvets before the train sets off. But if you do, you’re missing out on the hubbub of the dining car where night owls and regular commuters shout and wave one another over to catch up over palm-sized bottles of wine and a tube or two of Pringles. Light sleepers might find the jolts and bumps a disturbance, and it makes sense to pack earplugs to block out the sounds of fellow passengers fumbling up the corridors looking for cabins, their voices drifting in and out of your dreams. A bleary-eyed wake-up is soon forgotten when you open the blind at dawn to find purple mists draped over moors, apricot light streaking the skies – and a knock at the door bringing coffee and a hot bacon roll.

11. The Dartmoor Line

At the end of 2022, one of the West Country’s most treasured railway lines reopened after 50 years, connecting Exeter with the market town of Okehampton. The line – established 150 years ago – became a victim of the notorious Beeching cuts that saw thousands of stations and branch lines put out of service. However, after two decades of campaigning, the train is now up and running again, much to the delight of hikers, rail enthusiasts and campers who can journey up to the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park. Before the train has even reached its destination, the wildness of the moors makes itself known, wind whipping the windows and branches tickling the sides.

12. Snowdon Mountain Railway

Since the end of the 19th century, a narrow-gauge railway has puffed its way up Mount Snowdon, taking passengers to the top of Wales’s highest peak. Now a favourite of tourists – and hikers looking for a lift halfway – the train departs from jolly Llanberis station at 30-minute intervals, taking around an hour to climb 1,064m to the summit. Within the first few minutes, you’ll be treated to the sight of the Ceunant Mawr waterfall which crashes down over 100 feet into a gorge, along with old farmhouses, crumbling walls and a feral goat or two. As of April 2022, owing to engineering works, the train is running as far as Clogwyn only, from where walkers are welcome to attempt the one-hour walk to the summit. In 2023 the train will resume its usual route to the top of Hafod Eryri where passengers can hop out, stretch their legs and take in the panoramic views that stretch to Ireland. If you’re in luck you might also spot a peregrine falcon or two.

13. Coleraine to Londonderry

A standard commuter line, this route from Coleraine to Londonderry takes just 40 minutes, giving passengers a taster of some of Northern Ireland’s loveliest views. From the moment of departure, fields surround the carriages on one side while the River Bann runs along the other, its body stretching in the sun. On the approach to the seaside village of Castlerock, the train runs along the edge of a caravan site offering passengers a peek into curtained windows with often a wave or two in return, followed by a smattering of churches and houses that close in then swiftly pull back. Plunging into tunnels, the train reappears alongside a blaze of golden sand until the next twist in the track brings the countryside back to heel. Towards the last 10 minutes of the journey, the River Foyle appears and guides the train to its final destination.

Monisha Rajesh is the author of Around the World in 80 Trains (£9.99, Bloomsbury)

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8 of the Most Scenic Train Rides in the U.K.

Crossing through the picture-perfect British countryside and charming seaside towns, these U.K. train journeys offer beautiful views along the way.

From adventurous cross-country journeys to luxurious rides in the world's most beautiful destinations, there's something truly romantic about train travel. It transports passengers to a simpler time, highlighting the joys of moving slowly and, of course, showcasing beautiful views along the way. There are some world-class railways that cut across the English countryside, traverse the mountains of Scotland, and skirt the most stunning sites in Northern Ireland and Wales.

These are the best train rides in the U.K., from luxurious Belmond locomotives to a sleeper train that departs from London and goes all the way to the Scottish Highlands. Check out these eight train journeys if you're seeking a memorable getaway with stunning countryside, seaside towns, and city vistas on display.

British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

The most indulgent way to explore England's quaint countryside is perhaps on Belmond's British Pullman , which transports passengers back to the roaring '20s in its storied art-deco carriages. There are many trips you can take from London Victoria. Maybe you want to go to the historic Chatsworth House , or the Highclere Castle of Downton Abbey fame? The food on board is delicious and includes seasonal ingredients and indulgent desserts. For design fans, the Wes Anderson carriage blends art-nouveau style, symmetrical lines, and pastel and jewel tones.

Coleraine to Londonderry, Northern Ireland

If you're pressed for time, the route from Londonderry to Coleraine (or vice versa) operated by NI Railways takes just 40 minutes. A bog-standard commuter line, the train ride — once dubbed "one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world" by actor and train lover Michael Palin — showcases some of Northern Ireland's loveliest spots.

On one side, idyllic pastures and the deep blue sea fill nature's canvas, and on the other, the River Bann roars as far as the eye can see alongside emerald mountains. Tunnels are aplenty, as are period homes, churches, and seaside towns.

Castlerock is well worth exploring for its pretty village, and if it isn't too windy, picnicking on the beach. As for what to do in Coleraine, the town itself is steeped in history — the Mountsandel Fort is one of the oldest human settlement sites in Northern Ireland — but we recommend hopping on a bus and continuing on to Causeway Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with wonders like the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Game of Thrones- famous Giant's Causeway.

Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

Scotland's luxury sleeper train, the Royal Scotsman , has space for only 36 passengers, so the vibe on board feels intimate and luxurious. En-suite cabins, tasty food (including lots of Scottish salmon), spa treatments with some of the U.K.'s chicest independent brands, and an observation car with a veranda are just a few standout features. There are several routes you can take, including some that go by landmarks like the Kyle of Lochalsh and beautiful Cairngorms National Park, a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II.

Daydreaming on board once the afternoon tea service hits is mandatory as you snake through the Scottish countryside, potentially taking in spellbinding panoramas of Ben Nevis (the U.K.'s highest mountain) or the Arisaig coastline. Luxurious amenities aside, the itineraries provide opportunities for adventure, too, such as hiking the gorges of Aviemore, canoeing on the famous Loch Ness, and shooting at clay pigeons at the Rothiemurchus estate.

Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

It's no surprise that this Scottish train, operated by West Coast Railways, has become an Instagram sensation. The route from Fort William to Mallaig , in particular, showcases an otherworldly mix of breathtaking U.K. views including craggy mountains, giant lakes, and the photogenic, 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for appearing in the Harry Potter films. In fact, Potter fans have nicknamed the train the Hogwarts Express.

What you see depends on the time of year. In the summer, expect fields of green and the most luminous of sunsets. In the winter, the rivers are frozen and the giant trees glisten with dagger-like icicles. Pro tip: Book a seat in advance, as they can sell out fast.

Settle-Carlisle Railway, England

RORY FULLER/TRAVEL + LEISURE

Often overlooked by Brits, the Settle-Carlisle Railway in northern England runs 73 miles through glorious countryside, showcasing ruggedly beautiful and remote spots along the way. The highlights come courtesy of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, home to fragrant heather, wildflowers, dry stone walls, and rolling hills. The stations here are just as beautiful (imagine charming pit stops flecked with hanging, posy-stuffed baskets), and the surroundings include green fields dotted with sheep. Another reason to hop aboard? This route, which launched in 1876, is one of England's last great Victorian journeys.

St. Ives Bay Line, England

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

This one might only last 10 minutes, but it's still worth it. Opened in 1877, this stretch of track zooms along the beauteous Cornish coast, a treasure trove of coves, azure seas, white-sand beaches, and beautiful coastal towns once adored by the likes of novelist Virginia Woolf and other celebrities. Tip: sit on the right side of the train for the best views, including a glimpse of the wispy sand dunes that eventually blend into the sparkly waters.

Snowdon Mountain Railway, Wales

Although it's more a tourist attraction and necessity for people who want a little help scaling the beautiful Snowdon mountain, this Victorian narrow-gauge railway is still worth exploring, if just for the breezy views. The ride from Llanberis Station and back takes about two and a half hours, which includes a 30-minute stop at the Hafod Eryri visitor center to take in epic views.

Keep your camera ready along the way to capture centuries-old farmhouses, ancient walls, the odd feral goat, and the towering Ceunant Mawr waterfall, which plunges more than 100 feet into a cavernous gorge. As it's pretty old, part of the way is blocked off, so the train currently only runs as far as Clogwyn, where you can hop off and walk the rest of the way to Hafod Eryri. If you're lucky, a clear day will allow you to see all the way to the coast of Ireland.

Caledonian Sleeper, England and Scotland

This old-school sleeper train connects London to Edinburgh via the scenic Lowlander and Highlander routes that weave through Scotland. Don't let the idea of sleeping on a train scare you — this locomotive is more like a hotel on rails: There are cabins with snuggly double beds, swish en-suite bathrooms, and for a dose of extra atmosphere, dimmable lights. A rather fancy dining cart ensures all bellies are fed for the 500-mile, eight-hour journey. This will give you an opportunity to try Scottish delicacies such as haggis and tatties (potatoes) served with a whiskey cream sauce. It's also worth waking up early to catch dawn breaking over the Northumbria countryside.

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Iconic British train journeys

From the earliest steam trains to today’s electric carriages, Britain’s railway has formed a huge part of our culture. With over 150 heritage railways across the nation, it’s no surprise that Britain is steaming ahead with exciting train experiences for you to get stuck into. Whether it’s firing up a steam train for yourself, or dining out in style with iconic scenery aboard the restored 1920s Belmond British Pullman, you’ll find the national full of experiences to get you out onto the tracks. 

A sustainable and exciting way to travel, British trains connect our thriving cities, picturesque villages and some of the country’s most striking and inaccessible autumn and winter scenery. So, what are you waiting for? A journey across British rails will leave you in the midst of adventure.

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Indulge in fine dining

Whether you’re travelling at lunchtime or fancy an afternoon tea, treat yourself to an on-board fine dining experience. The Belmond British Pullman offers the ultimate dining experience, with a three-course meal and stunning scenery.

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Glenfinnan Viaduct, Highlands, Schottland

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Harry Potter fans will want to board The Jacobite – Scotland’s most famous steam train that crosses the large viaduct believed to lead to Hogwarts.

Britain’s most iconic train journeys

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Cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct on the Hogwart’s Express.

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Snowdon Mountain Railway

Enjoy a relaxing journey up Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa).

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Night Riviera sleeper train

Venture from London to Cornwall overnight.

Caledonian Sleeper

Travel in comfort from London to Scotland overnight.

The Belmond British Pullman

Mix luxury and adventure on travels across Britain.

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Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway

Experience the Cotswolds aboard a heritage steam railway.

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Ecclesbourne Valley Railway

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Avon Valley Railway

Opening in 1869, this iconic railway connected Birmingham to the South Coast. Now, experience the railway for yourself as you drive either a steam engine or diesel locomotive and take controls through the countryside.

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10 of the UK’s most scenic rail journeys

From crossing moors to rattling along the coast, it’s worth taking these train rides for the view from the windows alone

Belfast to Derry

This two-hour train trip gets seriously scenic after Coleraine, when it partly follows the coast and Lough Foyle. As it runs along Downhill Beach, the sands and turbulent ocean are just outside the window, with the domed Mussenden temple perched on the cliffs above. On through farmland and past views of craggy Binevenagh – a towering cliff on the edge of the Antrim plateau – it will offer views of wintering geese, whooper swans and waders on the shores of the lough.

Within Derry’s 400-year-old city walls are excellent cafes such as Soda and Starch and engaging guided city walks (from £6). For rainy days, there is the new Derry Girls experience in the Tower Museum or, over the river, the Walled City Brewery for a taster-filled tour (£15). Next door, the Ebrington is a new hotel and spa in a former army barracks with glowing city views across the Peace Bridge (doubles from about £135 room-only). Singles £14. On Sundays, a Day Tracker ticket gives unlimited rail travel across Northern Ireland for £9 , translink.co.uk

Norwich to Lowestoft

This wild 40-minute railway journey, one of Greater Anglia’s “Wherry Lines” , glides out of Norwich and straight through the Norfolk Broads, past reedbeds, rivers and racing deer. Water birds can be spotted from the train windows across windmill-dotted marshland; one of the walks on the Wherry Line walks website ) offers a closer look. The pink-footed geese that overwinter here fly past in huge V shapes towards dusk.

Near Haddiscoe station is the free-to-enter ruin of St Olave’s priory, and the Bell , the oldest recorded pub in the Broadlands is nearby. A short riverside walk from Norwich station, by the church where Julian of Norwich was an anchorite, the restful All Hallows guesthouse (doubles from £80 B&B) is immaculate, friendly and great value. £10.50 return or £12 for a Wherry Line Ranger ticket

Swansea to Carmarthen

Running beside the Loughor estuary and then the castle-flanked River Towy, this route offers glimpses of oystercatchers on the sandy shore outside the window, and cows grazing on the saltmarshes. In Swansea, the elegant Glynn Vivian art gallery, near the station, hosts the biennial Artes Mundi exhibition until February 2024.

Walkable Carmarthen is a great place for a foodie stroll round imaginative places such as Karm’en Kafe near the ruined castle and the veggie cafe in Waverley Stores with its homity pie and platefuls of salad. Almost next door, the veteran Falcon hotel has smartly renovated bedrooms (doubles from £120 B&B). Day returns £12 , tickets.trc.cymru

Manchester Piccadilly to Sheffield

The wooded Hope Valley line runs right through the Peak District past gritstone cliffs, reservoirs and viaducts. The local Community Rail Partnership suggests walks for all seasons from its stations, such as a 4½-mile hike from Grindleford through the ancient ferny woods of Padley Gorge, with beeches framing the waterfalls. After a climb on the glorious moors, the station cafe offers chip butties and tea in halves and pints.

If it’s tipping down, interesting museums in Sheffield include the Millennium Gallery , five minutes from the station, with an easyHotel nearby (doubles from £35 room-only). Advance singles from £4.70 , northernrail.co.uk

London to Margate

High-speed trains run from London St Pancras to Margate in 90 minutes, through wooded downs and sloping vineyards. This route and the slightly slower coastal line from London Victoria via Whitstable both have their scenic charms. The coastal route crosses the Medway at Rochester, with views of the riverside Norman castle. Beyond Herne Bay, the twin towers of St Mary’s church at Reculver can be seen rising from the marshy shoreline.

Margate is an ideal destination for wintry beach walks or sheltering from the elements in galleries and underground attractions such as the eccentric Margate Caves . No 42 is a new boutique hotel (doubles from £155 B&B) on Margate’s seafront near the Turner Contemporary where every detail feels fresh, from Whitstable oysters and local artworks to a spectacular rooftop bar. Advance singles from £11 , 5-15 years £1, southeasternrailway.co.uk

Inverness to Thurso

Another monumental four-hour Scottish railway journey, the Far North line winds slowly past shifting vistas of estuaries, lochs and mountains, miles of deserted beach and rocks covered in cormorants.

The blanket-bogged Flow Country is easily reached on foot from Forsinard, where the old station house is now an RSPB visitor centre , with a surfaced trail through bird-rich lochans to a lookout tower.

In Thurso, the North Coast visitor centre has displays of Pictish stones and Viking shield bosses. Back in Inverness, there are great places to eat, such as the riverside Mustardseed ; the city’s oldest hotel, the Royal Highland , is right next to the railway station (doubles from £76 room-only). Advance singles £14.70 , scotrail.co.uk

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Oxford to Hereford

This two-hour journey through the Cotswolds and Malverns passes meandering willow-bordered rivers, wooded hills and ancient orchards, and crosses four counties. There may be herons by the River Evenlode, swans on the Avon and fork-tailed red kites wheeling overhead.

Ten minutes’ stroll from Worcester Foregate Street station, beside the wide River Severn, is the city’s cathedral, with its Norman crypt, medieval cloisters and carved misericords. Orchard-ringed Ledbury makes a great winter base for exploring: the half-timbered Feathers hotel , one of the town’s oldest inns, has 20 colourfully refurbished bedrooms (doubles from £100 room-only) and is a 10-minute walk from the station. Advance singles from £14 , gwr.com

Lancaster to Carlisle via Penrith

This speedy line, skirting the Lake District, is beautiful as well as fast. There are autumn views across fells and undulating fields with sheep and whitewashed farms. The North Lakes hotel and spa , a 10-minute walk from Penrith station past the rose-walled castle, has a decent-sized pool and cheerful restaurant with an open fire in the middle (doubles from about £140 B&B).

It’s a 15-minute hop to the end of the line, where Carlisle Castle , surrounded by wooded parks, is a 15-minute stroll away through the city from the station and is offering 20% off to people who arrive by train, bus or bike. Advance singles from £7.40 , avantiwestcoast.co.uk , tpexpress.co.uk

Glasgow Queen’s Street to Mallaig

Scotland’s West Highland Line is one of the world’s most spectacular rail trips: an epic five-hour journey along Loch Lomond and over wild Rannoch Moor. The scenery is endlessly engaging, especially in late autumn, when the bracken-bronzed hillsides glow. There are trackside waterfalls and pine-ringed, island-studded lochs all the way to the white sands of the west coast.

From Glenfinnan station, passengers can tackle a rocky hike under the huge curving viaduct that features in the Harry Potter films, or stroll to the National Trust visitor centre , free and open all year, with a winter cafe serving soup and hot drinks.

The rail theme can be continued with a night in a 1950s carriage at Glenfinnan station (twin bunkroom £50). Advance singles from £26.60 . Until March 2024, Scotrail is offering off-peak fares all day

Southampton Central to Bournemouth

Trains between Southampton and Bournemouth take in miles of the New Forest, where ponies wander through gold birches over winter-browned heath. At Brockenhurst, 20 minutes in, there are hire bikes at the station for exploring level trails such as the disused railway line to pub-rich Burley (from £22 a day). Those wanting to see more of Southampton or Bournemouth could add PlusBus to their train ticket and get unlimited bus travel around the area.

Bournemouth is turning the Lower Garden into a free festive light trail again from 17 November, and the Village hotel (doubles from £60 room-only) is offering 10% off with a train ticket as part of Southwestern’s reward scheme. Advance singles from £4.10 , southwesternrailway.com

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• NORTHERN IRELAND
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10 Most Scenic Train Journeys in the UK You Must Take Once in Your Life

There are a lot of scenic train journeys in the world. From the famous Trans-Siberian to The Orient Express, there is no shortage of amazing train experiences you can have but the UK is also home to some of the most scenic train journeys of all.

From the Harry Potter train to the coastal lines, we have so many amazing train lines that make for a perfect adventure.

In this article, I tell you everything you need to know about the most scenic train journeys in the UK and how you can book them.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

🔎 Table of Contents

1. The West Highland Line (Fort William to Mallaig)

✨ Highlights : Ben Nevis, Glenfinnan Viaduct (featured in Harry Potter films)

This has to be the most famous train line in Scotland since it was featured in many Harry Potter movies !

The West Highland Line starts from Glasgow and goes all the way to Mallaig, near the Isle of Skye, but the most scenic part is located between Fort William and Mallaig.

Mountains, Ben Nevis, lochs, seaside… you get to see it all!

You can take any Scotrail train on this line but if you want the proper Harry Potter experience , opt for the Jacobite Train from Fort William. Not only is this steam train beautiful but it’s also known as the real-life version of the Hogwarts Express.

2. The Hope Valley Line (Manchester to Sheffield)

✨ Highlights : Peak District, Grindleford, Hathersage, Bamford, Hope, Edale

The Peak District was the first national park in the UK and it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in England if you love the countryside.

The Hope Valley line is perfect if you want to discover the scenery as well as cute villages.

It goes all the way from Manchester to Sheffield but the most scenic parts are located between Edale (from which you can go to Mam Tor) to Grindleford (where you can go Padley Gorge).

The highlights also include the town of Bamford from which you can go on the Bamford Edge hike which reveals beautiful views of Ladybower Reservoir.

3. St Ives Bay Line (St Erth to St Ives)

✨ Highlights : St Ives, Hayle Towans, Carbis Bay

Let’s head to Cornwall with this short but stunning coastal train line. As you probably already know, St Ives is one of the most beautiful towns in Cornwall and the best way to get there is to take the train from St Erth.

It’s very easy to do. You can park your car at the St Erth station and get a train ticket to St Ives. It only takes 45 minutes but it’s very scenic. You’ll get to see a lot of beautiful beaches and cliffs before arriving at the stunning St Ives.

4. The Settle-Carlisle Railway (Leeds to Carlisle)

✨ Highlights : Ribblehead Viaduct, Yorkshire Dales, Eden Valley

The Settle-Carlisle Railway goes all the way from Leeds to Carlisle and is the perfect line for those who want to discover the Yorkshire Dales.

The train stops in many cute villages such as Settle or Skipton but also features 20 viaducts and 14 tunnels!

It’s 72-mile long and it also stops in the places where you can start the 3-Peak Challenge.

5. The Snowdon Mountain Railway

✨ Highlights : Ascends Mount Snowdon, stunning views of Snowdonia National Park

This one is a bit different compared to the others since it’s not a train line per se but more of a scenic railway. 

Whichever way, it’s stunning and definitely something you should consider if you are visiting North Wales.

The Snowdon Mountain Railway starts in Llanberis and goes all the way up Mount Snowdon. The journey takes 2.5 hours but you get about 30 minutes at the top to enjoy the views over the national park.

6. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway

✨ Highlights : North York Moors National Park, Whitby, Goathland

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs from Whitby to Pickering and is one of the best heritage railways in the UK. If you’d like to go on a steam train for a day and discover the beautiful Yorkshire Moors, this is the one for you!

You’ll start in Whitby which is a stunning coastal town famous for its connections with Dracula and will go all the way to Pickering through the moors.

You can also stop at Goathland station which was featured in the first Harry Potter movie.

7. The Caledonian Sleeper (London to Scotland)

✨ Highlights : Overnight journey, scenic routes through the Scottish Highlands

We don’t have a lot of overnight train journeys in the UK but the Caledonian Sleeper is one of them and I can promise you something, that’s an experience of a lifetime!

You can take the train from London Euston in the evening and go all the way to Fort William, Inverness or Aberdeen.

While you don’t get to see much of England since that part of the journey is at night, there is something absolutely magical about waking up and seeing the beautiful scenery of the Highlands.

8. The Cumbrian Coast Line (Carlisle to Barrow-in-Furness)

✨ Highlights : Solway Firth, Lake District, Duddon Sands

The Cumbrian Coast Line goes from Carlisle all the way down to Barrow-in-Furness. It’s an excellent train journey for those who want to discover the Lake District from a different angle.

While most people go to the lakes in Windermere or Ambleside, the coast is also worth the detour.

With this train journey, you’ll go along the coast and discover cute towns and beautiful seaside views.

9. The Cambrian Line (Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth/Pwllheli)

✨ Highlights : Welsh countryside, Machynlleth, Aberdyfi

Central Wales is by far the most underrated part of Wales. Most visitors head to Snowdonia or in the south but a lot of people completely skip the central part of Wales.

This is a mistake you shouldn’t be making especially since it’s home to one of the best train lines in Britain.

The Cambrian Line runs from Shrewsbury in England to Pwllheli, on the coast and stops in fantastic towns such as Welshpool or Machynlleth.

The scenery while you are inland is incredible and it gets even better once you reach the coast!

I particularly recommend stopping in Aberdyfi, it’s one of the best coastal towns in Wales!

10. Chester to Holyhead

✨ Highlights : Llandudno, Conwy, Bangor, Holyhead

If you’d like to discover North Wales by train, the train line that goes from Crewe to Holyhead will be ideal for you.

I recommend starting in Chester since it gets more scenic from there and you can spend some time exploring this beautiful city.

You will quickly reach the coast and go along the coast all the way to Anglesey and then Holyhead.

I hope this article was helpful and has made you want to go on one of these fantastic train journeys. 

You may also be interested in:

• 12 Best Places To Visit in Cornwall During Your Holidays
• 5 Beautiful Villages in the Peak District To Visit At Least Once in Your Life
• These 10 Beautiful Villages in England Look Like They Belong in A Fairytale

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

• England's best heritage train routes

England's best heritage train routes

England’s iconic railways link thriving cities, picturesque villages and some of the country’s most striking and inaccessible autumn and winter scenery. With everything from modern locomotives to historic steam trains to choose from, a steam-powered adventure can be as big as your imagination. So jump aboard as we journey through the country’s rich railway heritage, for a train ride to remember.

The Night Riviera Sleeper

London Paddington

Dream of waking up to sprawling beaches, roaring surf and the winding coastal paths of the southwest following a trip on Great Western Railway’s  Night Riviera Sleeper . Linking London Paddington with a host of towns, cities and holiday resorts in Cornwall, the train offers comfortable one and two-bed compartments and a multitude of other facilities. 

The Settle-Carlisle Railway

For a journey through the outdoor delights of the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines, plan a trip on the  Settle-Carlisle Railway . Dating back to the mid-19th century, the 73-mile stretch features notable tunnels and viaducts, and was the last mainline railway to be constructed almost entirely by hand. Following the natural landscape of the region, the train passes over the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct and through an array of lush moorlands on this railway adventure. Daily diesel train services run on the mainline, while specialist operators also run classic steam locomotives on selected days of the year. 

Belmond British Pullman

London Victoria

Those yearning for stress-free, luxurious travel can embark on a lavish adventure through the countryside aboard a  Belmond British Pullman , whose restored carriages embody the golden age of 1920s and 1930s train travel. With routes to vibrant cities, ancient castles and grand estates, travel in style on the way to discovering the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath or the story behind William Churchill’s birthplace at Blenheim Palace.

There are a number of iconic railway hotels to discover in London, including a landmark of Victorian splendour, the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel . Overlooking St Pancras Station, it dates back to 1873 and is inseparably linked to the railways. Having taken over much of the premises of the Midland Grand Hotel, designed by George Gilbert Scott, the luxurious five-star accommodation has a rich and eclectic history. Its centrepiece is a stunning Victorian Gothic staircase, lovingly restored to its 1901 glory. Alternatively, opt for a stay in the ‘world’s first grand railway hotel’, right in the heart of Kings Cross St Pancras. The lavish  Great Northern Hotel  opened its doors in 1854 and has been welcoming travellers ever since.

Bluebell Railway

Sheffield Park Station

As one of England’s first preserved heritage railway lines, the Bluebell Railway includes a fine collection of vintage steam locomotives, which run along an 11-mile stretch of track in the beautiful Sussex countryside. Railway lovers can experience the recreated trains, hailing from the 1880s through to the 1960s.

The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway

Cheltenham Race Course Station

Surrounded by spectacular views of the Cotswolds, the  Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway  crisscrosses its way past sleepy hamlets and fields sparkling with autumn frost. You can venture from Cheltenham Racecourse to Broadway as steam fills the air, whizzing past chocolate-box cottages and winding country lanes in the process. Breathtaking vistas of the Malvern Hills, Wales and the Vale of Evesham await.

The Swanage Railway

Swanage Station

Dream of following a historic route from Victorian times along England’s south coast from Wareham to Swanage, a trip that originally cost travellers 11 old pence! The Swanage Railway  stretches for nearly 10 miles and travels through Dorset’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in vintage style, past rolling hills, atmospheric winter woodland and even William the Conqueror’s  Corfe Castle . With its roots hailing back to 1885, the numerous vintage steam-hauled locomotives take you on a journey through the ages, arriving at (or departing from) the Victorian resort of Swanage. Having adhered to the We’re Good To Go industry standard, trains from Swanage to Norden station resumed in mid-July. Head to the  Swanage Railway website  for the latest information.

If you’re dreaming of waking up to stunning sea views, you can book a stay at the luxurious Pines Hotel , Swanage. Offering a serene setting in which to switch off, many of the rooms feature stunning sea-facing balconies. 

The Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Havenstreet Station

Both a vintage steam train museum and functioning train line, the award-winning  Isle of Wight Steam Railway  is a dream-worthy day out if you want to experience more than  150 years  of transport history.  The 10-mile line allows you to travel in vintage carriages and wagons, pulled by impressive steam locomotives, with a number of historic station stops along the way. A highlight stop is the restored 1940s Havenstreet station, which houses a train discovery centre, fascinating museum and wagon workshops. 

History buffs can look forward to staying in the Grade-II listed  Arreton Manor , a private house that has been owned by no less than eight monarchs. It’s now open to overnight guests and the annexed Nook has its own take on modern yet rustic décor, offering a cosy space with traditional timber beams and a majestic king-sized bed.

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Pickering Station

A dazzling example of a heritage railway, if you’re longing for a dose of ‘slow travel’ why not dream of absorbing the stunning Yorkshire countryside aboard the  North Yorkshire Moors Railway . Stops along the 24-mile route include the chance to travel back to the 1930s at the restored Pickering station, the 1912-themed Levisham station, and Grosmont station – which film enthusiasts might recognise as the filming location for Hogsmeade in the Harry Potter films. This line takes you to one of Yorkshire’s historic gems, the coastal town of  Whitby , where you can plan to see ancient ruins, walk the famous 100 steps and enjoy a traditional portion of fish and chips, a hearty traditional treat for the cooler months!

Those wanting to add a touch of modern luxury to their heritage adventure can book a stay at  Horngarth , nestled in the heart of Whitby. Alternatively, if you’re seeking a relaxing night in more traditional surroundings, you can plan a stay at Whitby’s 16th century  Bagdale Hall Hotel . Complete with beamed ceilings, stone mullion windows and grand four-poster beds, you’ll feel as if you’re waking up in England's Tudor past!

Ravenglass and Eksdale Railway

Ravenglass Station

Winding through the foothills of England’s highest mountains, the seven-mile open-air  Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway  passes some of the most dramatic landscapes in all of Britain. Dating back to 1875, the route begins at Ravenglass, the Lake District National Park’s only coastal town. It passes a number of stops along the way, including Muncaster Mill and Beckfoot before arriving at Dalegarth station in Eskdale – all great spots for hikes through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lake District, which promises a sea of autumn colour and memorable winter rambles. If you fancy a touch of opulence, you can dream of boarding the first-class observation carriage for the best views of the stunning scenery passing by.

Why not plan to end a day of Lake District discovery in the four-star 16th century  Sella Park Country House Hotel , in a setting that includes peaceful gardens that sweep down to the River Calder. 

The North Norfolk Railway

Holt Station

Plan a tranquil trip through decades of heritage by booking a journey along the 10-mile  North Norfolk Railway . Each of their stations offer a steam-adorned trip through glorious by-gone eras, taking in the enamouring countryside of North Norfolk along a route featuring epic woodlands to the south and the tranquil coastline to the north. 

The last station stop is Sheringham, a traditional seaside town wonderfully located for scenic winter walks. Those wanting to spend a restful night here can stay at the nearby  Dales Country House .

Tanfield Railway

Climb aboard the world's oldest railway in County Durham, where you'll journey through six miles of rolling countryside and wooded valleys along the Tanfield Railway . This steam train is decked out in decadent Victorian carriages, letting you immerse in a bygone era. Look out for Causey Arch - it's said to be the world's oldest surviving single-arch railway bridge. 

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England's most scenic rail line

Settle & carlisle railway.

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Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, through the yorkshire dales.

The Settle & Carlisle railway is England's most scenic rail route, a set of shining silver rails from Leeds to Carlisle through the Yorkshire Dales National Park.  It was once the third main line to Scotland, built by the Midland Railway to carry its daytime & sleeper expresses from London to Glasgow & Edinburgh.  It was never as fast as the rival east coast & west coast main lines, British Rail steadily ran the line down in the late 1970s and tried to close it in the 1980s.  Saved from closure in 1989 after a long and determined campaign, it has since gone from strength to strength and is now a tourist attraction in its own right.  This page tells you how to visit & what to see.

A journey on the Settle & Carlisle

The journey begins in Leeds, Britain's fourth largest city.  The Leeds-Carlisle trains travel through Shipley, Keighley, Skipton & Hellifield, then join the Settle & Carlisle railway at Settle Junction. Below, we pick up the journey at Settle, a market town on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales where the serious scenery begins.  See route map .

Ribblehead station , south of the viaduct.  Stop off to see the viaduct, visitor centre & for a beer or lunch at the Station Inn, see the Ribblehead section .

Dent station , looking south from the road up Dent Fell.  It's the highest National Rail station in England at 1,150 feet (350m) above sea level and over 4½ miles from Dent village.  Get off at Dent for a bracing 9.2 mile 4½ hour walk to Ribblehead.  For more about this walk, see the How to Visit section .  You can rent Dent station as holiday accommodation, www.dentstation.co.uk .

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How to visit

If you simply want to ride the Settle & Carlisle line

The simplest option is to take a train from Leeds to Carlisle.  You can do this as a day trip from Leeds or a day trip from Carlisle, or as a longer day trip from further afield, even from London.

You can travel at any time of year.  The line is at its best in summer, but also beautiful in winter snows.

If you're travelling between London & Scotland

You can travel between London and Carlisle, Glasgow or Edinburgh via the Settle & Carlisle railway.  It's slower and involves a change or two, but it's a scenic alternative to the usual east & west coast routes.

London Kings Cross to Leeds takes 2h15 by LNER Azuma train , Leeds to Carlisle takes 2h40, Carlisle to Glasgow takes 1h15.

Off-Peak & Anytime tickets between London & Carlisle, Glasgow or Edinburgh with route any permitted are valid from Kings Cross via Leeds and the Settle & Carlisle line as well as on the faster & more direct east or west coast main lines.  However, it can be cheaper to use Advance fares for such a journey, see the practical information below .

There are great views on both sides.  The best views of the Ribblehead Viaduct are from the right hand side of the train going north as the line curves to the right and you can look forward into the curve.  However, the best scenic views are between Ribblehead, Dent & Garsdale and these are on the left hand side going north.

To explore the line more thoroughly

Walk from Dent to Ribblehead, 9.2 miles, 4½ hours?

Practical information

Train times.

Northern runs 8 trains per day in each direction between Leeds & Carlisle (6 on Sundays) most calling at all the local stations between Settle & Carlisle.  Trains run all year round except 25, 26 December.  Leeds to Carlisle takes 2h40.

You can check train times between any two stations at any train operator site such as tfw.wales or www.lner.co.uk   Booking for British trains usually opens up to 3 months ahead.

You can download a complete timetable for the Leeds-Settle-Appleby-Carlisle route at settle-carlisle.co.uk .

How much does it cost ?

Leeds-Carlisle starts at £13.20 each way.

If you buy a ticket on the day or want to stay flexible

How to buy tickets

There are Advance fares from London to Carlisle, Glasgow & Edinburgh (or vice versa) routed via the scenic Settle & Carlisle line.  But journey planners won't find these unless you tell it that you want to go via Settle.

Here's how to find them using tfw.wales :  First run an enquiry from KGX to CAR, GLC or EDB (using these station codes saves time).  The results page will initially show the normal direct mainline trains.  Ignore these and click CHANGE JOURNEY .  Now click More options .  Now look for Extra journey requirements and select Go via , entering SET for Settle.  Run the enquiry and you should now see journeys from London Kings Cross to Carlisle, Glasgow or Edinburgh with a change at Leeds and (if going to Scotland) Carlisle.

What are the train s like?

The trains between Leeds & Carlisle are run by Northern using air-conditioned class 158 diesel trains.  These are standard class only (no first class) with toilets, luggage racks, bike spaces.  A refreshment trolley operates on some services selling tea, coffee, sandwiches and snacks.

A brief history

A stopover at ribblehead, the hawes junction accident of 1910, watch the video.

The video shows the whole journey from Leeds to Carlisle, partly on regular scheduled trains, partly on a charter train called the Staycation Express.

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• Lines to Explore
• Plan a trip

Tamar Valley Line

Plymouth - gunnislake.

Explore the riverside village of Calstock. Great pubs & walks.

Looe Valley Line

Liskeard - looe.

Enjoy great estuary views and Looe’s harbour and beach.

St Ives Bay Line

St Erth (P&R) - St Ives

One of Britain's most scenic railways. Amazing views.

Maritime Line

Truro - falmouth docks.

Visit Falmouth’s harbour, beaches, castles and shops.

Atlantic Coast Line

Par - newquay.

Arrive in the heart of Newquay ready to hit the beach.

Dartmoor Line

Exeter - Okehampton

Dartmoor adventures right from Okehampton station.

Exeter - Barnstaple

Take in the countryside views and explore North Devon.

Riviera Line

Exeter - Paignton

Travel the famous Devon coast to the English Riviera.

Avocet Line

Exeter st davids - exmouth.

Journey along the Exe Estuary to Topsham and Exmouth.

East Devon Line

Exeter st davids - axminster.

Visit Honiton and Axminster with countryside views.

• Tamar Valley Line Plymouth – Gunnislake
• Looe Valley Line Looe – Liskeard
• St Ives Bay Line St Erth – St Ives
• Maritime Line Truro – Falmouth
• Atlantic Coast Line Par – Newquay
• Dartmoor Line Exeter – Okehampton
• Tarka Line Exeter – Barnstaple
• Riviera Line Exeter – Paignton
• Avocet Line Exeter – Exmouth
• East Devon Line Exeter – Axminster
• Explore Cornwall by train Glorious beaches, estuaries, wooded valleys – soak up the views on your way to beloved coastal destinations.
• Explore Devon by train From rolling countryside to seaside views, Devon’s branch lines offer a real taste of the West Country.

Walks from the railway

Rail ale trails, beaches by train.

• Arts, culture and heritage
• Vinyl Trail
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It's all about the Journey

Some of Britain's most scenic railways

Explore Devon and Cornwall by train and enjoy stunning coastal views, rolling green countryside, wooded valleys and river crossings.

Visit picturesque villages, fabulous beaches, historic market towns and bustling cities. Forget the hassles of taking the car and concentrate on exploring to your heart’s content.

Devon and Cornwall are famed for their beaches. You can reach some of the best of them by train. Take your pick with our at-a-glance guide:

Enjoy a fine pub? Try our seven Rail Ale Trails. Sample real ales and great food along your chosen line. You can even win a T-shirt!

Foodie Guides

Read our top tips for scrumptious cafes, delis and purveyors of top quality local produce - all located near branch line stations.

Enjoy the views of the lush Tamar Valley. Explore gems like the riverside village of Calstock with its great pubs and walks.

Weave alongside the estuary, then visit Looe’s harbour, beach and coastal walks.

St Erth Park & Ride - St Ives

One of Britain's most scenic railways, with amazing views of the golden sands.

Visit Falmouth’s harbour, beaches, castles and National Maritime Museum.

Arrive in the heart of Newquay and hit the beach within just 5 minutes' walk.

Exeter Central - Okehampton

Explore Dartmoor's peaks, woodlands and waterfalls. Or cycle the Granite Way to Lydford - with top pubs en route.

Exeter Central - Barnstaple

Take in the countryside views and discover North Devon and the famous Tarka Trail.

Exeter Central - Paignton

Enjoy glorious sea views along the Devon coast, then explore the English Riviera.

Journey along the Exe Estuary to Topsham and Exmouth. Great walks and views.

Visit Honiton and Axminster, with onward bus connections to the Jurassic Coast.

Great Days Out

From short strolls to longer rambles, we’ve got maps and directions aplenty for walks starting or finishing at many of our stations.

Stunning Coastal Walks

You can walk from Looe to the beautiful village of Polperro along the stunning South West Coast Path.

The walk is only 6 miles and you can catch the bus back to Looe from Polperro to make it a circular walk.

Liskeard - - - Causeland - - Looe

Buying tickets.

Liskeard to Looe

Tickets & train times, scenic walks from the riviera line.

Combine a trip on The Riviera Line with a scenic walk. Get your free booklet of maps and directions for six short walks from Riviera Line stations.  There are also even more walks available online, courtesy of the South West Coast Path team.

From Starcross or Dawlish Warren stations, you can explore the beautiful Exe Estuary by foot, bus or ferry – see map .

Exeter Central - - - - - - Dawlish - Teignmouth - - - Torquay - Paignton

Exeter to paignton, train times and prices.

Soak up the culture

With two World Heritage Sites, two National Parks, ancestral homes, castles and festivals, Devon and Cornwall have a rich cultural heritage.

Great shopping

Whether you like exploring hidden back street gems, or hitting the high street brands, our destinations offer it all.

On your bike

Enjoy estuary views by bike on the glorious Tarka Trail, starting from Barnstaple station. Hire a bike or bring your own.

Britain by train – top 10 UK rail journeys (+ map & tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: October 21, 2022

Are you planning to take some rail journeys around Britain in the future? Are you confused about using the UK rail network? Not sure where to start to put together your train trip itinerary? Perhaps you have limited experience of rail travel or are unsure of where to go in Britain via train?

In this article you will find all the help you need to start your planning. Reflecting on a background of 25+ years working (and 50+ years travelling) on the UK rail network we have picked 10 of the top UK rail journeys to take around the country and the journeys which will enable you see the best of Britain by rail .

Tip – If you are considering travelling around the UK by train it may be cost effective to purchase a BritRail Pass to cover your rail travel. There are a variety of different passes available – click here for more information about the BritRail Pass.

1. London Paddington to Penzance Cornwall

2. london euston to glasgow central, 3. london liverpool street to birmingham new street via cambridge & ely, a. london kings cross to edinburgh waverley, b. london st pancras to edinburgh waverley via sheffield, complete guide to uk train travel written by doug and tracy collins.

• 6. Birmingham New Street to Llandudno via Hereford, Shrewsbury & Chester (+optional return to Shrewsbury via the Blaenau Ffestiniog Independent Narrow Gauge Railway)

7. Sheffield to Manchester Piccadilly (extend to Liverpool Lime Street)

8. glasgow to fort william and mallaig (west highland line), a. edinburgh waverley to inverness via dundee or aberdeen, b edinburgh waverley to inverness via stirling, listen to our introduction to uk train travel podcast, read our guide to travelling on the uk train network, where can i book tickets for these journeys, how can i save money on uk train travel, enjoy your rail journeys in the uk and beyond.

London Paddington > 3 hours > Reading > Taunton > Tiverton > Exeter > Newton Abbot > Totnes > change at Plymouth > 2 hours > lots of small stations including Liskeard St Austell Truro St Erth (change for St Ives) > Penzance 305 miles from London Paddington to Penzance Cornwall (via Plymouth)

This journey takes around 5 hours from London Paddington to Penzance in Cornwall (with a change of train in Plymouth).

The train operating company for this journey is Great Western Railway.

The first part of the journey takes you from the hustle and bustle of London on Brunel’s Great Western route to the West Country . At Plymouth you change trains from the faster modern service to a smaller regional service which features regular stops at smaller quaint stations.

Beautiful scenery typifies this route as it passes through several counties including Somerset, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Devon and into Cornwall .

Places of historical interest on this journey include the cathedral city of Exeter.

If you to wish to include a visit to the beautiful city of Bath in your itinerary it is possible to take an alternative route. Catch a CrossCountry train service from London Paddington to Bath then onto Bristol (1 hours 20 mins to Bath and an additional 15 minutes to Bristol)

Trains to Plymouth from Bristol/Bath take approximately 2 hours. At Plymouth connect with the Penzance train.

Good to know – To provide an additional option there is a Cornwall sleeper train service called the Night Riviera . This leaves from London Paddington 6 times a week starting on Sunday evenings with Penzance its final destination. There are around 15 stops in-between.

It departs London Paddington at 23:45. Cabin passengers can board at 22:30 pm. It arrives at Penzance the next morning at around 8 am. Seating options are available as well as sleeper cabins. The Night Riviera is operated by Great Western Railway .

Alternatively travel back to London via train. The Night Riviera leaves Penzance at 21:45 (21:15 Sundays) and arrives into Paddington at around 5:30 am.

Click for ticket prices

London Euston > 4 hours 50 minutes > Glasgow Central 343 miles from London Euston to Glasgow Central

The train journey takes you up the West Coast Mainline . This is a fast service which is perfect if you want to get from London to Glasgow quickly.

This 4 hour 50 minute trip has no changes. There are a limited number of stops which includes principal stations only so as to decrease travel time.

At present this route is operated by Avanti West Coast . There are new trains on order for this route.

The route incorporates some of the most beautiful countryside in northern England including the Lake District .

This service takes you into the centre of Glasgow perfect to pick up other train services in Scotland.

Good to know – Travel during daylight hours (leave early in the day) to enjoy the scenery en route.

London Liverpool Street > 1 hour 15 mins > Cambridge > 15 minutes > Ely > 30 mins > Peterborough > 60 mins > Leicester > 50 mins > Birmingham New Street

Trains leave roughly every 15 minutes (Monday to Friday/less frequently during weekends and public holidays) from London Liverpool Street direct to Cambridge. This takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes and is currently operated by Greater Anglia .

Stop off in Cambridge as it is worth exploring. The station is about 45 minutes from the main centre though buses are available outside the station (directly outside and to the left)

The train from Cambridge to the historic cathedral city of Ely takes approximately 15 minutes. This is a CrossCountry service and the train’s final destination will typically be Birmingham New Street (total travel time Cambridge to Birmingham New Street is 2 hours 45 minutes)

The first calling point after 15 minutes is Ely. Even if you don’t plan to get off keep an eye out for beautiful 12th century Ely Cathedral on the hill on the left hand side of the train as you approach the town. It is a 10 minute walk from the train station into Ely town centre.

After Ely the train calls at Peterborough. This is a stopping point on the East Coast Mainline so you could hop onto that line at this point for travel to York/Durham/Newcastle and Edinburgh.

After Peterborough the train calls in at Leicester then onto Birmingham New Street.

This is not a fast route and you will be using more regional services with a multitude of station stops but it is a great way to see the country.

Good to know – At Ely there is also a lovely train trip to Norwich over the Norfolk countryside.

4. London to Edinburgh

There are various routes to take from London to Edinburgh depending on your preferences. I am going to talk about 2 possible routes.

London Kings Cross > 2 hours > York > 50 mins > Durham > 15 mins > Newcastle > 1 hour 45 mins > Edinburgh

London Kings Cross to Edinburgh Waverley is along the East Coast Mainline route.

This is the most direct route to Edinburgh from the capital and takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. The route is operated by London North Eastern Railway (LNER)

General stopping points include Peterborough, York , Darlington, Durham and Newcastle. The route is best for speed and new modern trains tend to service this line. This is the route of the famous Flying Scotsman steam train.

The route from Newcastle to Edinburgh is particularly scenic as you hug the Northumberland coastline. Sit on the right for views of Bamburgh Castle and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne .

Good to know – This journey is about the rail experience and getting to Edinburgh quickly from London. It zooms through the cities and countryside so you don’t get time to absorb the countryside as you travel.

London St Pancras > 2 hours > Sheffield > 3 hours 50 mins > Edinburgh

An alternative route to that above is from St Pancras (next to Kings Cross) using East Midlands Railway Service .

On this journey from London to Edinburgh you will see different scenery as it takes you on the cross country route via Sheffield and the Derbyshire Dales .

This journey will give you more a sense of the countryside in central England and passes through the cities of Leicester, Derby and Chesterfield (look for the crooked spire as you travel into Chesterfield)

You need to change trains at Sheffield from the East Midlands trains onto an Edinburgh service run by CrossCountry. The slower service from Sheffield to Edinburgh goes via Leeds. A faster route bypasses Leeds but may mean a change of trains in York or Newcastle .

Check which train operator you have a ticket with as they are generally not interchangeable between each other.

(Please note if you have booked your ticket through a retailer such as thetrainline.com you will have a valid ticket for the entire journey as you will have selected the relevant tickets and seat reservations)

The cross country route joins the East Coast Mainline at Doncaster (south of York).

Learn more – 19 beautiful destinations in Scotland for your bucket list

5. Leeds (Settle) to Carlisle Line

Leeds > 2 hours 45 minutes > Carlisle 72 miles

This is a famous route which joins the cross country lines to the West Coast mainline. Cross the Pennines surrounded by rugged countryside and stunning views.

The train passes through a number of beautifully restored train stations. This line came within a whisker of being closed down but only a lobby group prevented its permanent closure.

From Leeds the train passes through Saltaire a model Victorian town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Two stops further you pass through Keighley (the home of the famous steam railway the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway)

After Settle Junction you head north through stations such as Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Kirkby Stephen, Lazonby & Kirkoswald and Langwathby. The station at Dent is the highest mainline train station in England at 1150 feet.

After Horton-in-Ribblesdale and Ribblehead the train passes over the famous Ribblehead Viaduct . With 24 arches set on a curve (and an incline) the Ribblehead Viaduct is instantly recognisable in iconic steam train images (along with the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland)

There are several tunnels along the line including the Bleamoor Tunnel which is 2629 yards long. The entire line was a massive achievement of Victorian engineering.

6. Birmingham New Street to Llandudno via Hereford, Shrewsbury & Chester ( +optional return to Shrewsbury via the Blaenau Ffestiniog Independent Narrow Gauge Railway )

Birmingham New Street > 1 hour 25 mins > Hereford > 60 minutes >Shrewsbury > 1 hour 5 mins > Chester > 1 hour 10 mins > Llandudno Junction > 10 mins > Llandudno > 10 mins > Llandudno Junction > 1 hour 10 mins > Blaenau Ffestiniog (private railway) > 30 mins > Penrhyndeudraeth > 3 hours > Shrewsbury

This is a potential two to three day trip depending on where you decide to stop off along the way.

The journey from Birmingham New Street to Hereford takes approximately 1 hour 25 mins via West Midlands trains . Train passes through Worcestershire and the picturesque Malvern Hills into Hereford.

The journey from Hereford to Shrewsbury along the Welsh marches line (one of the England’s most scenic railway routes) takes around an hour and passes through many places of historical interest including the famous market town of Ludlow.

In Shrewsbury change trains to Llandudno via Chester. If you decide to head into Shrewsbury you will find half timbered houses in the Tudor centre of town.

The journey time from Shrewsbury to Chester on Transport for Wales services is about 1 hour 5 mins. The train line passes into Wales and then back into England before pulling into the beautiful walled city of Chester.

It is worth planning to spend the day in Chester as there are lots of things to do and see in the city including the cathedral, Roman walls, the Tudor timbered buildings, and the Rows (a medieval two level covered arcade)

From Chester to Llandudno change at Llandudno Junction where it is a further 10 minutes into the Welsh seaside town .

For those of you who would like to explore further we recommend you take the train to Blaenau Ffestiniog where you can catch the narrow gauge private heritage railway which runs for 21 kms and is located within Snowdonia National Park.

Frequency of these services depend on the time of year so do check before traveling to avoid disappointment.

Sheffield > 1 hour 20 mins > Manchester Piccadilly > 1 hour > Liverpool Lime Street

The Sheffield to Manchester Piccadilly line is operated by multiple train operating companies . This route takes you up and over the Pennines and down across the Hope Valley and Edale in the Peak Distric t. This is beautiful all year round scenery. Temperature and weather changes can be rapid.

On this train journey you will witness the contrast between the industrial heart of the country and the beautiful lush countryside.

I recommend taking the slowest possible train journey with stops at all of these fabulous stations Dore & Totley, Grindleford, Hathersage, Hope, Edale and Chinley to name but a few.

Change at Manchester Piccadilly for services to Liverpool Lime Street.

Glasgow Queen Street > 1 hour 45 mins > Crianlarich > 1 hour 45 mins > Fort William > 1 hour > Mallaig

There are a few trains a day that run this route. From Glasgow Queen Street to Fort William it takes 3 hours 45 minutes. For services to Oban and ferry services to the Inner Hebrides Islands of Mull, Tiree, Barra, and Coll etc change at Crianlarich.

For the best views as you leave Glasgow sit on the left hand side of the train.

This is a ScotRail service. Take this trip in the daylight as the scenery is stunning. North of Crianlarich the train crossed over the bleak wilderness of Rannoch Moor. Look out for Ben Nevis (the UK’s highest mountain) as you approach Fort William.

Change trains at Fort William for Mallaig. This journey takes about 1 hour and takes you over the famous 21 arch Glenfinnan curving viaduct (as seen in Harry Potter) with views of Loch Shiel and the Jacobite Monument.

Further along this route you reach the coast at Arisaig – the western most train station in Britain. As the train turns north enjoy views of the Sound of Sleat and the islands of Aigg, Rum and Muck .

It is vitally important to plan your travel in advance so you don’t get stranded. There are very limited trains from Glasgow to Oban, Fort William and Mallaig.

The Jacobite is another train service from Fort William to Mallaig. This is a private service that only runs in the summer months and is extremely popular (and pricy). Many photographs you will see of the Glenfinnan Viaduct feature the Jacobite steam train service puffing its way across the arches.

Good to know – If you are starting your journey in Edinburgh you will find a multitude of trains every half hour. It takes roughly 50 mins between the two cities.

9. Edinburgh to Inverness (via Dundee or via Stirling)

Edinburgh > 1 hours 10 mins > Dundee > 2 hours 20 mins > Aberdeen > 2 hours 15 mins > Inverness

This is a ScotRail service. It takes 1 hour 10 minutes to Dundee from Edinburgh Waverley train station where you can change trains for Inverness or you could stay on the train and change at Aberdeen.

This route will take you over the Forth Rail Bridge. (Also as you leave Edinburgh look upwards for a view of Edinburgh Castle)

I would only recommend taking this route in daylight or during the summer months. This is the slower route to Inverness but it takes you along the coast and through rural Scotland.

Edinburgh > 40 mins > Stirling > 3 hours > Inverness

The fastest routes from Edinburgh to Inverness are via Stirling and Perth. These take 3 hours 35 mins. If you want to go via Stirling you will need to change trains there for a service to Inverness via Perth.

Around 25 minutes into the journey to Inverness via Stirling look out of the right hand side of the train and you may catch a glimpse of the Kelpies at Falkirk. You will also see Stirling Castle on your approach into the city.

From Stirling the route takes you through Perth, Pitlochry, Kingussie, Aviemore and the Cairngorms National Park. This route is typified by beautiful scenery all year round.

Good to know – For a surprising contrast in terrain and scenery take the train up to Thurso and Wick from Inverness.

10. Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

Inverness > 2 hours 30 mins > Kyle of Lochalsh It is 82 miles from Inverness to the Kyle of Lochalsh

This is a beautiful train journey with scenic and dramatic views over the Highlands of Scotland .

There are many highlights along this route. Look out for the mountain of Ben Wyvis between the Muir of Ord and Dingwall. You may also be lucky to spot deer between Loch Luichart and Garve.

The train passes through Plockton where Hamish Macbeth (the TV series) was filmed in the 1990s.

As you head into the Kyle of Lochalsh enjoy spectacular views of the Isle of Skye .

Good to know – there is an Isle of Skye bus tour which operates every day at 11.45 am. The tour returns in time to catch the last train to Inverness. Alternatively take a day tour from Inverness to Skye (but you would miss this lovely train journey)

Do check for train times and frequency in advance as there are a limited number of daily services.

Plan your UK train travels

If you are unfamiliar with the UK rail network you will find our in-depth guide invaluable. You may also find our guide to getting around London useful too as it details all methods of public transport.

Written by Doug Collins (the co-founder of UK Travel Planning ) who has over 25 years experience working and traveling on the UK train network) the article answers all the questions you may have to help you plan your train journeys in the UK.

It is important to follow any advice around train travel in the UK from train operating companies as well as legal requirements in the light of Covid-19.

Note that it is the law that you  must wear a face covering when travelling in England  on a

• train or tram
• bus or coach
• ferry or hovercraft or other vessel

Reservations should also be made in advance where possible via contactless payment.

If you are planning train travel in the UK and you are not a UK permanent resident I would recommend checking out BritRail Passes .

There are 7 different passes available and you can choose depending on where you plan to visit. For example there are 3 different passes for Scotland – a Spirit of Scotland pass, a Scottish Highland Pass or a Central Scotland Pass.

Alternatively you can purchase the BritRail Pass which covers the entire UK.

Click the button below for more information.

As you can probably tell we love train travel and it is always our chosen method of transport.

Where possible we include at least one train trip into our holiday plans so you will find lots of train related tips, inspiration and resources for UK train travel on both this website and its sister site tracystravelsintime.com

• Discover 12 great day trips by train from London.
• Our best of Britain by rail 14 day itinerary – see 3 countries and 7 top destinations following our detailed itinerary

Love Exploring

We’ve Tracked Down Europe’s Most Scenic Rail Routes to Try

Posted: February 9, 2024 | Last updated: February 9, 2024

Terrific trains

With so many countries to explore – each offering vastly different landscapes and scenery – Europe almost seems custom-built for train travel. So it’s little wonder that the continent is covered in a huge network of brilliant railways, most of which are affordable and easy to navigate. From routes along the alpine slopes of Switzerland to Italian coastal villages and dramatic Nordic fjords, here are our favorites. (Ticket prices are correct at the time of writing, but do check individual operators for the most up-to-date information.)

Trenino Verde, Sardinia, Italy

Translating to 'little green train', the Trenino Verde is a sublime – and surprisingly little-known – way to see the Sardinian countryside. This 130-year-old vintage railway has five different routes across the country, totaling 272 miles (438km) of track, which pass through a treasure trove of landscapes, including olive groves, quaint villages, glittering seas, craggy coastlines and steep peaks. 

West Highland Line, Scotland, UK

It’s little wonder that ScotRail's  West Highland Line is often dubbed Britain's most scenic train route, with rugged Highland landscapes, rolling hills and windswept moorlands galore. But the most picture-perfect (and famous) section of the rail line, which runs between the cities of Glasgow and Mallaig, is the part where the train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Recognize it? That’s because it’s the same bridge the Hogwarts Express crosses in the Harry Potter films.

For an even more authentic Harry Potter experience, you can travel across the famous viaduct on the Jacobite steam train , which is used in the films. The seasonal service typically runs between early April and late October each year, covering the 84-mile (135km) round trip between Fort William and Mallaig in leisurely style. It’s a little more expensive than the ScotRail line, with an adult return costing $61. The ScotRail service line starts at around $19 for an off-peak day return.

Belgrade, Serbia to Bar, Montenegro

There aren’t a whole lot of options for exploring the famously bus-heavy Balkans by rail, but this legendary 10-hour journey takes in some of the best scenery Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro have to offer. That includes this eye-wateringly high bridge, which teeters 656 feet (200m) above the Mala Rijeka viaduct (until 2001 it was the highest railway bridge in the world). But it’s one of just 435 bridges along the route – necessary to cross all the mountains and gorges. 

Beginning at the Serbian capital, the train rattles past wide, flat fields and distant mountains, before stopping at Užice in the country’s southwest. Next, it hurtles towards Podgorica in Montenegro, skimming along the shores of Lake Skadar before finishing up at the coastal town of Bar. There's a daytime departure and a night train too, and tickets are reported to cost just $21, although you can’t book online. 

The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Connecting the mountain resorts of Zermatt and St Moritz, the Glacier Express is a brilliant way of seeing some of the most beautiful views in the Swiss Alps. The scenic route takes in sights including the Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the journey, and the Landwasser Viaduct (pictured) – a six-arch bridge which stands at 213 feet (65m) and plunges straight into a tunnel that leads through the mountain. 

The day-long trip covers 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, and offers the chance to take in alpine meadows, mountain lakes and chalets. You might expect such a stunning train ride to cost huge sums of money, but the journey will only set you back around $156 for a one-way, second-class ticket. Now the only decision is whether to travel in summer, when you’ll get to see the region covered in vibrant green trees and colorful wildflowers, or winter, when the alpine landscapes are blanketed in frost and snow. 

Barcelona to Montserrat, Spain

The storied mountaintop monastery of Montserrat is one of the most gorgeous parts of Catalonia – but did you know you can reach it by train? The ToT Montserrat is an ultra-scenic route which runs between Barcelona and the foothills of the peak, at which point you can choose between taking the cable car (Aeri) or the rack railway (Cremallera) up to the Montserrat Monastery. Whichever option you go for, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas across the rugged valley.

A round-trip ticket, which includes either the Aeri or Cremallera option, costs $65 and takes around an hour and a half in total. If you want to go even higher, hitch a ride on the Saint Joan funicular (pictured) which is included in the price of your ticket and takes you from the monastery right up to the top of the mountain.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, UK to Italy

For a no-expense-spared, once-in-a-lifetime trip, look no further than this route between London and Verona. With an aim to evoke the romance and grandeur of old-school railway journeys, the stunning Art Deco  Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a chance to see rolling Italian countryside and iconic European cities in style. The new European ‘Grand Tour’ routes also include stops in Rome and Florence, and stretches to Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands too, with options to add hotel stays.

There are six Grand Suites on the train and each one is uniquely decorated to reflect a different city (Vienna, Prague, Paris, Istanbul, Venice and Budapest). Expect plenty of period features, delicate light fixtures, polished cherrywood marquetry and marble en suite bathrooms. Michelin-starred food (including Brittany lobsters and salt marsh lamb from Mont St Michel) is served from three dining cars. As if all that wasn’t decadent enough, there’s also a 24-hour butler onboard.

Flåm Railway, Norway

Traveling between Myrdal and Flåm in western Norway, the Flåm Railway is among the most historic and beautiful journeys in Europe. The route was built between 1923 and 1940 to serve villages along the Sognefjord. In fact, it’s one of the steepest rail journeys on the planet, dropping 2,844 feet (867m) during its 12-mile (20km) route, with 20 tunnels traveling through the steep mountains. Along the way, you’ll get to see everything from waterfalls to mighty lakes and mountains.

Mariazell Railway, Austria

Captured here in the golden-tinged glory of early fall, Austria’s Mariazell Railway is a fine way to see the picturesque Pielach Valley. The journey begins at St Pölten, the capital of the Lower Austria region, snaking its way southwards through 21 tunnels and across 19 viaducts before arriving at Mariazell. The so-called ‘Stairway to Heaven’ is Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway, covering a distance of around 56 miles (91km) in just over two hours.

There are three options for those wishing to experience the storied route. Either take the modern Himelstreppe (pictured), which departs daily and starts from just $19. Or book a ticket on the first-class panorama carriage, which runs April to October and over Christmas, boasting 360-degree views and a first-class catering service. Alternatively, for a historic experience check out the historic Ötscherbär adventure train, powered by a century-old electric locomotive, with themed journeys for families.

Rauma Line, Norway

Few places on Earth have as much dramatic scenery as Norway and the Rauma Line is a great way to experience it. The one hour and 40-minute journey begins in the village of  Dombås, taking in the historic towns and mountain farms of the Gudbrandsdalen valley before entering the steep and rugged Romsdalen valley. It then passes over the famous Kylling Bridge and cruises past Trollveggen mountain before arriving at its final destination, Åndalsnes.

If you’re ending your journey in Åndalsnes, there’s no shortage of things to do in the fjord town. Hop on the Romsdalen Gondola for more epic views across the valley, enjoy a bite to eat at the panoramic Eggen Restaurant or lace up your hiking boots and explore one of the region’s many walking trails. Tickets can be purchased from SJ NORD and start from around $20 each way.

Mountain Spirit, Wales, UK

 Dating back more than 150 years, North Wales’  Mountain Spirit  service was rejuvenated in 1982, following a three decade-long restoration. The nostalgic steam train journey begins in the charming village of Blaenau Ffestiniog, crossing over the Cob embankment and climbing up the valley past woodlands and fields, before stopping at pretty Tan-y-Bwlch. The scenic 13.5-mile (21.7km)  journey ends in Porthmadog, a port town and narrow-gauge railway hub.

Those who board the historic train will be rewarded with its gorgeous vintage interiors, complete with comfortable seats and huge windows for admiring the scenery. Tickets start at $93 for a return ticket for two adults, with a there-and-back journey taking around three hours. 

La Rhune, France

You’d be hard-pressed to find a much more adorable train journey than this. Located in France’s captivating Basque Country, the Rhune Railway (or Le Petit Train de la Rhune) is a fabulous cog railway which takes passengers on a 35-minute ascent up to the 2,969-foot (905m) summit of its namesake mountain. The picture-perfect chestnut-wood carriages have been navigating this steep section of track since 1924.

Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece

Operating on the world’s narrowest gauge track – just a hair-raising two-and-a-half feet (0.75m) wide – southern Greece’s Odontotos Rack Railway is a stunning and historic way to experience the Peloponnese Gorge. Starting in the coastal town of Diakopto, it runs alongside the Vouraikos River, through rock-hewn tunnels and next to adrenalin-pumping sheer drops before arriving at the mountain town of Kalavrita. 

The leisurely one-hour journey covers a total distance of 14 miles (22.5km) but there are an impressive 49 bridges in total, plus six tunnels which have been carved directly into the rock. As well as being jaw-droppingly scenic and historic (the train has been in operation for over 120 years), Odontos Rack Railway is also a total bargain, costing just over $9.50 for a single or $19 for a return trip. 

Inlandsbanan, Sweden

Slicing through Sweden from top to bottom, the Inlandsbanan should be top of all rail buffs’ wish lists. This epic 807-mile (1,200km) track stretches between Kristinehamn in the south and Gällivare in the north, passing from relatively flat green fields through alpine forests and the perennially snowy mountains of Lapland. Naturally, such a monumental journey takes a while to complete, with the typical itinerary taking nine days to cover the full route.

North York Moors Railway, England, UK

Whisking you back to the golden era of train travel, the 24-mile (39km), 1h 45min journey between Whitby and Pickering in the north of England promises to be a trip to remember. This steam-powered railway has been around since the 1830s and received a new lease of life in 1967, when a group of local volunteers took on the task of restoring it. 

For the ultimate luxury experience, hop aboard the Pullman dining carriage, where you can enjoy either a four-course dinner service or three-course lunch as the train ambles through the countryside. Unmissable attractions along the way include the 1930s-era Pickering station, Goathland, which served as Hogsmeade Station in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone , as well as the historic port of Whitby where the journey ends. The train runs from April to October every year and tickets on the dining car start at $84. 

The Brocken, Germany

Named after the 3,747-foot (1,142m) mountain which it traverses, central Germany’s Brocken Railway is all sweeping panoramas and serpentine bends. This 11-mile (19km) branch of track, connecting the mountain to the Harz railway, is still operated by historic steam locomotives, since this part of Germany was behind the Iron Curtain for decades and its trains were never modernized. But that’s good news for rail buffs, who come here to experience the decades-old carriages in all their glory.

The 50-minute ascent packs in plenty of mesmerizing views, across towering forests, vibrant green meadows and distant peaks, traveling at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (40km/h). Inside, carriages have back-to-back seats with large windows for gazing out of – or you can head to one of the open-air viewing platforms for optimum vistas. The journey between Drei Annen Hohne and Brocken starts at $50 for an adult return. 

Now take a look at beautiful images of the world's train stations

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The picturesque seaside towns reconnected by Scotland’s new £116m railway

Scotland’s first new railway in almost a decade has reconnected coastal communities that have been without a rail link for more than 50 years.

This train is long overdue. When services were axed to the Fife resort town of Leven in 1969 they also severed the rail link into the tourist temptations of the fishing villages in Fife’s East Neuk.

On Sunday 2 June, they were brought back into action with much fanfare, reconnecting the East Neuk and raising hopes of regeneration in Leven. This is the first new railway line in Scotland for almost a decade and cost £116m to bring back to life.

I was on the first ScotRail passenger service from Edinburgh to Leven, and the two-car train was packed with notepad-toting rail enthusiasts and curious locals.

It’s a spectacular journey that cranks into gear crossing the Forth Bridge , that great red iron Victorian levitation that surged from the tumultuous waters in 1890. The train skirted the Forth’s northern shores, with views opening up across to Edinburgh as I scanned for cetaceans.

Then we left the main line to join the new Levenmouth Rail Link, eight miles of freshly-laid track east of Kirkcaldy that includes two new stations. The smooth rails eased through a tree-lined route: the Forth shimmered on one flank, the volcanic hulk of Largo Law on the fringes of the East Neuk on the other. Half a dozen wind turbines vaulted above the abandoned coalfields, signs of renewal alongside the Highland cow-dappled fields of this fertile corner of Scotland.

We were greeted in Leven, 69 minutes after leaving Edinburgh Waverley, by a toot from one of the steam trains at the Fife Heritage Railway, which has vintage locomotives that shunt around the adjacent tracks.

Ross Bennett, treasurer of the Levenmouth Rail Campaign, which was instrumental in bringing back the new trains, smiled as he surveyed the new station. “It’s a delight to see trains again. It’s given Leven a boost.”

He gave the Heritage Railway next door as an example. It is expanding into the Network Rail base used during construction of the new railway.

Co-ordinated efforts are working towards making sure the new line – on which there are 37 trains a day (and almost double that next year) – is a success. Leven station has electric vehicle charging and bike storage racks by a cycle and walkway, which runs down to Leven’s 2km-long sandy beach.

I wandered down it, thinking about the days when Glaswegians took their summer holidays here. The romance of this period is immortalised by local artist Jack Vettriano in his 1992 painting The Singing Butler – a couple, dressed in formal wear, dancing on the beach under umbrellas.

There was a tangible buzz on the beach. Wild swimmers were out in force and a yoga group was making moves on the sand. Postie was enjoying the sea air and attention. He is a microcosm of Leven’s determination to push on from the industrial decline of the 1980s. The statue was part of a temporary art trail, but the community clubbed together to keep their beloved oversized Scottie dog for good.

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More positivity hung on the salty air amid the squawking gulls around Leven’s compact core. Artisan coffee roaster Colliers sits close to an old-fashioned butcher and a fishmonger. I heard news of a new taco bar, Italian restaurant and a whisky and gin haunt; an optometrist is being reborn as a cocktail bar.

On the high street, a flurry of stalls welcomed our arrival. Sam Green of community environmental regeneration charity Clear beamed from behind a feast of community orchard apple juice, jams and chutneys. “It’s a joy to see things growing. The train will bring in more businesses and employment,” he told me.

Community is a buzzword here. The Together Levenmouth project had stalls set outside its Tardis-like hub. Inside it packs in a café (coffee and cake with change from £5), crazy golf and an escape room. All profits are ploughed back into the community. One of its volunteers said: “What benefits Leven benefits us all.”

Investment is filtering out along the coastline too. New bus services scoot off from Leven station into the more gentrified East Neuk. Phil Clark, the project manager of Levenmouth Reconnected , said the aim is to connect Levenmouth – the towns of Leven, Methil and Buckhaven on the banks of the River Leven – and deeper into Fife: “We’ve got £15m of government funding for developing active travel, the most ever spent in Scotland on a community this size. This was the largest community [in Scotland] without a rail link.”

While the villages west of Leven have lesser-known charms, Fife’s big hitters tempt visitors east. From Leven’s beach, I peered into the East Neuk, a sweeping beach walk away along the Fife Coastal Path. It cuts through Levenmouth to the eastern fringes of Fife. I’ve walked it several times and always meet more gannets and seals than people.

Those empty sands lead to the village of Elie – its clean, golden beach is home to a sauna and the only UK cricket team with a home ground on sand. It’s overlooked by the excellent Ship Inn, where you can wash down local langoustines with a Fife craft ale from St Andrews.

If Elie has the airy feel of a well-to-do holiday escape, so do its siblings: Anstruther, with its award-winning fish and chip shops, pretty Pittenweem and relatively unsung St Monans ripple with beaches, artist studios and fresh seafood. In the extreme east, Crail is a final flourish, before the path turns north towards St Andrews . You can now make a loop from Edinburgh via Leven that reconnects with the rail network again at Leuchars for St Andrews, then back to the capital.

I ended my journey on Elie’s beach with a dip in the Forth followed by a session in the Elie Seaside Sauna . Owner Judith Dunlop said: “I’m looking at opening another sauna – and that just wouldn’t have happened without the new train connecting us all again.”

Getting there ScotRail trains serve Leven from Edinburgh in around an hour. Return fares from £13.60. Staying there The Ship Inn Elie has doubles from £216. https://www.instagram.com/p/C6dyXq6uv0-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

More information welcometofife.com visitscotland.com

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Train to KL from Singapore [Official Guide]

May 30, 2024

Are you planning a trip to Kuala Lumpur (KL) from Singapore? Why not take the train? Train travel is a great way to see the sights and enjoy the journey. Not only is it affordable, but it's also a scenic journey that takes you through some of Malaysia's most beautiful landscapes.

In this article, we'll break down the journey from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and give you all the information you need to plan your trip.

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Train to KL from Singapore overview

The train journey from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur involves a three-part journey, with the first leg from Singapore to Johor Bahru (JB), the second leg from Johor Bahru to Gemas and the final leg is from Gemas to Kuala Lumpur (KL).

Here we are going to go into more details on the 3 separate parts.

Train to KL from Singapore part 1: Singapore to Johor Bahru

The first part of the journey takes you from Singapore to Johor Bahru. You can take a taxi or MRT service to get to Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore.

From there, you'll clear Singapore Immigration and Malaysian Customs and Immigration before boarding the shuttle train via KTM that goes from Woodlands Train Checkpoint to JB Sentral.

This ride will only take 5 minutes.

Train to KL from Singapore part 2: Johor Bahru To Gemas

Source: Wikipedia - Gemas train station ticket counters

The second part of the journey takes you from Johor Bahru to Gemas.

Once you arrive at JB Sentral, you'll be required to get on the KTM Berhad train to Gemas in the Tampin District of Negeri Sembilan. Travel time will take approximately 4 hours for this ride.

Train to KL from Singapore part 3: Gemas To Kuala Lumpur

The final part of the journey takes you from Gemas to Kuala Lumpur.

Once you arrive at Gemas, you’ll need to change trains at Gemas to KL Sentral. The travel time from Gemas to KL Sentral will take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Train to JB from KL schedule

The first train departs from JB Sentral at 8:30 AM and arrives at Gemas at 13:14 PM. The last train departs from JB Sentral at 18:05 PM and arrives at Gemasl at 22:47 PM.

Souce: ktmb.com.my

There are only 2 trains from the point of writing this article from Gemas to KL Sentral.

• The first train departs from Gemas at 8:05 AM and arrives at KL Sentral at 10:45AM.
• The second (and last) train departs from Gemas at 15:20 PM and arrives at KL Sentral at 18:00 PM.

If you want to arrive at KL on the same day, the only option is to take the 1st train from JB to Gemas and have about a 2-hour transit before taking the second train from Gemas to KL Sentral.

Buying train ticket to KL from Singapore

There are 2 ways you can buy train tickets: either online via the KTMB app, or over the counter at the respective train stations. We definitely recommend buying return tickets on the KTMB app as early as you can, as tickets sell out ridiculously fast!

To book a train ticket online, follow these steps:

• Download the KTMB app.
• Create an account or log in to your existing account.
• Select your departure and arrival stations and the date of travel.
• Choose your preferred train and seat.
• Pay for your ticket using your preferred payment method.
• Download and print your ticket or save it on your mobile device.

Immigration and customs clearance

As the train from Singapore to JB crosses the border between Singapore and Malaysia, passengers need to go through immigration and customs clearance. Here's what you need to know:

Singapore immigration and customs clearance

Direction to Woodlands Train Checkpoint

At the Woodlands Train Checkpoint station, passengers need to clear Singapore immigration by presenting their passport and disembarking the train. After clearance, passengers can board the train again and continue their journey.

Malaysia immigration and customs clearance

At the Johor Bahru Sentral Station, passengers need to clear Malaysia immigration and customs. Passengers need to disembark the train, go through immigration clearance, collect their luggage, and clear customs. After clearance, passengers can board the train again and continue their journey.

Make sure to carry all the necessary documents, such as passport, visa, and travel itinerary, to avoid any hassle during immigration and customs clearance.

Tips for taking train to KL from Singapore

Book your tickets in advance

To avoid disappointment, it's best to book your KTM train tickets in advance. Same-day tickets are almost always sold out, especially on weekends and public holidays.

Check the train schedule

Make sure you check the train schedule before heading to the train station. This is especially important as there is no direct train to KL from Singapore. You are required to do 2 transits.

Bring your passport

Your passport is required for clearance at both Malaysian and Singaporean immigration. Make sure you bring it with you when taking the KTM train to JB from Singapore.

Arrive at the train station at least 40 minutes before your train departs to give yourself enough time to clear immigration and board the train.

Train to KL from Singapore conclusion

Embarking on a journey from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by train offers not only an affordable and convenient travel option but also a captivating experience through Malaysia's picturesque landscapes.

The three-part voyage takes you from the bustling cityscape of Singapore to the charming allure of Johor Bahru, from there to the heart of Gemas, and finally, to the vibrant Kuala Lumpur.

Beyond the travel logistics, this train journey serves as a bridge between cultures and nations, with customs clearances adding a touch of adventure. As you explore the scenic route, remember to keep an eye out for the ever-changing travel landscape, as regulations and experiences evolve over time.

😉 Interested to find out more about Malaysia? Read on:

Faqs: train to kl from singapore, how can i buy train tickets for the singapore to kl journey, what are the travel durations for each leg of the journey, are there specific immigration and customs procedures to follow, do i need a visa to travel from singapore to malaysia, what are the current covid-19 travel restrictions.

Train To KL From Singapore

• 1. Train to KL from Singapore overview
• 2. Train to KL from Singapore part 1: Singapore to Johor Bahru
• 3. Train to KL from Singapore part 2: Johor Bahru To Gemas
• 4. Train to KL from Singapore part 3: Gemas To Kuala Lumpur
• 5. Train to JB from KL schedule
• 6. Buying train ticket to KL from Singapore
• 7. Immigration and customs clearance
• 8. Tips for taking train to KL from Singapore
• 9. Train to KL from Singapore conclusion

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