steam train

Stunning Scenery: The UK’s Most Scenic Train Routes

Off the beaten path

There’s something truly enchanting about discovering Britain by train. As the diverse landscape unfolds past your window – untamed moorlands, sparkling coastlines, mist-shrouded peaks, and historic towns – you enjoy a prime seat to the UK’s vibrant panorama. With no need to handle winding roads or plan petrol stops, train travel allows you to sit back, unwind, and soak in the views.

From timeless steam railways to cutting-edge modern lines, these scenic routes reveal the best of Britain at a leisurely, scenic pace. Whether you’re navigating through Highland valleys or skirting the Cornish sea, these routes are more than just means of travel – they’re integral to the adventure.

Every one of these routes can be easily incorporated into our customised Great British Trips itineraries. Here are the UK’s most awe-inspiring rail experiences.

Settle to Carlisle Railway (England) 

Meandering through the rugged Yorkshire Dales and the secluded Eden Valley, the Settle to Carlisle route is often regarded as one of England’s most picturesque railways. The journey spans 21 viaducts and 14 tunnels, with the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct providing a moment more reminiscent of a film scene than a daily commute.

Route Highlights:

  • Peaks of the Pennines and limestone vistas
  • Victorian station architecture in Settle and Carlisle
  • Access to walking paths directly from rural stations

Perfect for: Fans of classic rail travel and countryside landscapes Add to: A Yorkshire Dales or North Pennines walking holiday

The West Highland Line (Scotland) 

Possibly the most renowned scenic train journey in the UK, the West Highland Line travels from the lively city of Glasgow to the remote and rugged west coast. The route divides at Crianlarich, with one branch heading to Oban and the other to Mallaig via Fort William and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Scenery Along the Route:

  • Loch Lomond, the vast Rannoch Moor, and Ben Nevis
  • Vistas over sea lochs and Atlantic inlets
  • Wide-open spaces with scarce roads in sight

Best enjoyed as: Part of our Scotland Highlands Explorer Tour

Train à vapeur au Pays de Galles

The Cambrian Line (Wales) 

This lesser-known gem of Welsh rail journeys runs from Shrewsbury to the west coast, passing through gentle hills, castle towns, and eventually tracking along the Cardigan Bay coastline. The sea views are surprising and dramatic, especially between Machynlleth and Pwllheli.Don’t Miss:

  • Views of Harlech Castle from the train
  • Coastal sunsets over the Irish Sea
  • Optional steam connections on the Welsh Highland Railway

Ideal for: Explorers of Eyri (Snowdonia) or the Llyn Peninsula

The Jacobite Steam Train (Scotland) 

Often hailed as the most beautiful train ride globally, the Jacobite Steam Train travels a section of the West Highland Line, from Fort William to Mallaig, pulled by a vintage steam engine. This nostalgic journey is about the experience as much as the scenery – with first-class carriages, open windows, and expansive Highland vistas.

Reasons to Ride:

  • Traverse the Glenfinnan Viaduct with the steam whistle blowing
  • Pause at the silver sands of Morar
  • Immerse yourself in the spirit of classic rail travel

Book Early: This ride is highly popular in summer Perfect addition to: Our West Coast Highlands Tour

The Devon Riviera Line (England) 

A coastal favourite, the Devon Riviera Line clings to the South Devon shoreline from Exeter to Paignton, often just metres from the waves. The dramatic Dawlish stretch is especially memorable, with spray sometimes splashing the tracks during high tides.

What to Anticipate:

  • Clifftop vistas and glimmering waters
  • Stops in English Riviera towns like Torquay
  • Charming seaside stations and beachfront strolls

Great for: Coastal adventurers and tranquil day trippers Pair with: A South West England itinerary

Viaduc de Glenfinnan en Ecosse

The Caledonian Sleeper (Scotland) 

More than just a rail journey, this overnight service transports you from London to the Highlands while you sleep – waking up to some of Britain’s most remote and stunning views. Whether you choose the Inverness, Fort William, or Aberdeen route, it’s an efficient and scenic way to head north.

Experience Includes:

  • Cosy sleeper cabins and lounge cars
  • Sunrise over moorland and mountain chains
  • Debark in Highland towns ready for exploration

Perfect for: Romantic escapes or scenic shortcuts to northern Scotland Add to: Any extended Scotland tour beginning in London

The North Norfolk Railway (England) 

For a journey back in time, take a ride on this preserved steam railway between Sheringham and Holt. It’s a brief trip, but with heritage carriages, staff in period uniforms, and tranquil countryside views, it feels like travelling through history.

Highlights:

  • Steam engines and vintage carriages
  • Coastal walks near Sheringham
  • A relaxed pace with a touch of bygone charm

Best for: History enthusiasts and nostalgic travellers Easy stop on: An East Anglia Heritage Tour

The Heart of Wales Line 

This lesser-known rural route journeys from Shrewsbury to Swansea, winding through the hills and valleys of central Wales. It crosses secluded farmland, passes market towns, and even halts at quaint request-only stations.

What You’ll See:

  • Central Welsh countryside at its most genuine
  • Viaducts, rivers, and Red Kite territory
  • A real “off the beaten track” experience

Ideal for: Slow travellers and rail enthusiasts Connect with: South Wales or Brecon Beacons itineraries

Tips for Planning Scenic Rail Travel in the UK 

Book Ahead: Especially for sleeper services and steam trains

Bring Snacks and Water: Some rural routes lack trolley service

Which Side to Sit On? Research for the best views – particularly on coastal tracks

Combine with Walking Trails: Many of these routes connect to national parks or coastal paths

Why Choose Rail Travel with Great British Trips? 

Train travel offers one of the most delightful ways to appreciate the UK’s landscape – slower, more sustainable, and more relaxing than driving. With Great British Trips, we ensure you make the most of it. We handle the connections, rail passes, and timing, and pair each scenic journey with nearby towns, walks, and attractions.

Train travel offers one of the most delightful ways to appreciate the UK’s landscape – slower, more sustainable, and more relaxing than driving. With Great British Trips, we ensure you make the most of it. We handle the connections, rail passes, and timing, and pair each scenic journey with nearby towns, walks, and attractions.

Whether you wish to ride the rails through the Highlands, watch the waves on the South Coast, or explore castle country from a leisurely carriage, we help you organise an unforgettable journey that’s as much about the ride as the destination.

Begin Planning Your Scenic Rail Adventure Explore our rail-based itineraries or contact us to customise a train-focused route across the UK.

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