Train travel in the UK offers some of the best train rides in the UK, visitors could hope for, a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and eco-conscious transport. As Rail Britain notes, taking the train isn’t just about getting somewhere quickly; it’s one of the greenest ways to travel and a great way to experience the best train journeys in the UK. You'll enjoy scenic views, lower your carbon footprint, and have the chance to unwind while taking in beautiful landscapes through your window.
UK rail statistics show a train journey emits about two-thirds less carbon than the same trip by car or plane. (Travel authorities even point out that a train creates roughly 7× less CO₂ than flying and 67% less than driving. So rail travel not only helps the planet, it also offers a window-seat view of Britain’s most beautiful landscapes. Below we have highlighted eight of the UK’s top scenic train routes, a “slow travel” bucket list, and we have also shared tips on when to go, what to pack and how to plan your journey.
What makes Train Travel Green and Scenic
Modern UK trains are cleaner and more energy-efficient than ever. The National Rail network reports that even paper tickets now use water-based inks, stations have water fountains (saving 400,000 plastic bottles a month), and many lines are electrified. On the passenger side, a train outing means relaxing in spacious seats instead of watching the speedometer, plus almost non-stop scenery out the window. For example, when you ride by rail, you can grab yourself a window seat as your train travels across lush farmland and rolling countryside, through rugged mountains and coastal cliffs. Trains rarely have blindfolded moments, even tunnels usually emerge into grand views.
In short, rail travel is a greener, more comfortable way to see the country. A recent industry report noted that 85% of UK routes emit less CO₂ by train than by car, and rail journeys are up to 13× greener than flying. The legislation is clear: the UK’s climate goals now legally require cutting emissions, and simply swapping one car or short-haul flight for the train makes a big difference. At the same time, you get to unwind, sip tea or chat with fellow travellers, and watch forests, lakes, and coastlines roll by. In other words, train travel lets you “consider taking the slow train on your next adventure” and be sure to bring your camera.
Top Scenic Train Routes in the UK
From iconic steam trains like The Jacobite and the Harry Potter steam train to peaceful countryside routes, here are some of the best train rides the UK has to offer for those seeking scenic views, slow travel, and unforgettable railway experiences.
Each route is described briefly; look them up on the National Rail Journey Planner or Trainline app to find current schedules and fares.
West Highland Line (Glasgow – Fort William – Mallaig)
Scotland’s West Highland Line is often ranked among the best train rides in the UK and for good reason. Over about 5–6 hours, the train leaves Glasgow through Loch Lomond’s forests, then runs up into the Highlands. You’ll pass deep glens of heather and lochs (keep an eye out for red deer on the hillsides). The finale is the Glenfinnan Viaduct – a 21-arch, 100-foot bridge built in 1901 – seen in the Harry Potter films. For fans, riding the Harry Potter steam train, officially known as The Jacobite, is a magical experience. From the viaduct, you can glimpse the snow-capped peaks of Ben Nevis and even Loch Ness on a clear day. This epic journey is a favourite for photographers: Scenic Rail Britain calls it “one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys”. This heritage steam train runs seasonally and recreates the Hogwarts Express journey in real life.
(Tip: For a truly immersive experience, look into the Jacobite Steam Train schedule, which runs a similar route with historic steam engines.)
Settle–Carlisle (Yorkshire Dales to Cumbria)
This classic northern English line runs about 73 miles from Settle (North Yorkshire) to Carlisle (Cumbria). It threads through the remote Yorkshire Dales and Eden Valley, crossing 20 old stone viaducts and 14 tunnels. Its signature sight is the Ribblehead Viaduct, soaring 104 feet above the moorland.
James from Travel and Leisure puts it well: this railway “provides a gorgeous 73-mile journey through the heart of northern England”. Along the way, you’ll see sheep-dotted hills, dry stone walls, and quaint daleside villages. In winter, the moors can be snow-topped; in summer, they glow purple with heather. Most trains take under 2 1⁄2 hours, and you can stop off at Settle, Horton-in-Ribblesdale or Kirkby Stephen, all historic villages with cosy pubs for walks or an overnight stay.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway (Pickering – Grosmont)
For a slower, nostalgic trip, hop on the heritage steam trains through the North York Moors National Park. The 24-mile route is one of the best train journeys in the UK (Pickering ↔ Grosmont)and is Britain’s longest preserved steam line and runs daily in high season. As National Geographic Traveller explains, “a journey on one of the restored steam trains is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the wildlife-dotted moors of North Yorkshire”. The ride passes rolling heather-covered hills and dense woodland. Fans of the wizarding world will also recognise Goathland Station, which served as Hogsmeade in the Harry Potter steam train scenes.. There’s no faster way to feel transported to Victorian Britain: pick your spot by the window of a teak-panelled carriage, enjoy the hiss of steam, and watch the countryside glide past.
(Practical tip: book early for summer dates, as this line is very popular, and consider combining your trip with an overnight in Whitby, a seaside town at the eastern end of the route.)
Cambrian Coast Line (Shrewsbury – Aberystwyth/Pwllheli)
Crossing into Wales, the Cambrian Line is a ribbon of track that hugs the wild Cardigan Bay coast. In total, it links Shrewsbury (West Midlands) to Aberystwyth and onward to Pwllheli on the Llŷn Peninsula. This Victorian-era coastal way has been called “one of the world’s epic train journeys”. The rails cling to sheer cliffs and pass golden sand dunes at Borth, Tywyn and Barmouth. On clear mornings, the sun rises over the Dyfi estuary, creating a spectacular start to the day. Wildlife is a bonus: you may spot ospreys fishing, or dolphins playing.. The views “showcase the sandy beaches, coastal villages and outstanding scenery” of North Wales. Plan a long weekend here: helpful stops include Aberystwyth (historic college town with castle ruins), Barmouth (with a Victorian bridge) and Porthmadog.
Hope Valley Line (Manchester – Sheffield)
Connecting Manchester and Sheffield through the Peak District, this line is short (about 40 miles) but very scenic. Trains pass through the heart of the national park: after leaving urban areas, you emerge from Woodhead tunnels into the green Edale and Hope Valleys. Here you’ll see classic moorland and limestone dales, with Mam Tor and Kinder Scout looming above. The Peak District villages (like Edale and Grindleford) look like chocolate-box postcards. The ride takes roughly 1–1.5 hours. It’s ideal in autumn when the heather and bracken turn rich shades of gold and purple. Hikers will note that Edale is the start of the Pennine Way, and there are trailheads near several stations. As one rail site puts it, “you’ll suddenly find yourself surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Edale and Hope Valleys”.
Riviera Line (Exeter – Paignton)
On the south-western tip of England lies Devon’s Riviera Line, running about 22 miles from Exeter St Davids to the seaside town of Paignton. This coastal route “showcases the best views the English Riviera has to offer,” according to nationalgeographic.com. In practice, that means the train threads past high limestone cliffs, into green river estuaries and along sandy inlets. Look out for one of Britain’s rarest birds – the little egret – in the marshes as you cross the Exe and Teign estuaries. Past charming market towns and the historic Powderham Castle (with its deer park), the train finally arrives at Paignton, gateway to the beaches of Torbay. In summer, the bay sparkles turquoise; in winter, the storms crashing on the cliffs are dramatic. This trip takes roughly 1 hour and offers a gentle mix of coastal views and countryside.
(St Erth – St Ives, Cornwall)
Although only 4¼ miles long, this little branch line in Cornwall has mega views for its size. The short St Ives Bay Line connects St Erth (on the main line from London) to the surfing and art town of St Ives. In about 10 minutes, the train scoots along the Cornish coast: first skirting the Hayle Estuary and sea lagoons (watch for turquoise water and wetland birds), then threading between craggy headlands. Once you round the point, the brilliant blue bay of St Ives opens up, with the Golden Bay (Porthkidney Sands) on one side and a friendly harbour on the other. Travel + Leisure calls this ten-minute ride “as pretty as it is succinct”. Seals often bob near the rocks, and gannets plunge out of the sky for fish as the train rolls by. In short, it’s pure Cornish charm packed into a short ride. (If you have time, stay a day in St Ives to enjoy its galleries, beaches and seafood restaurants.)
Cumbrian Coast Line (Barrow-in-Furness – Carlisle)
This rugged route along Cumbria’s western edge is a hidden gem. It runs from Barrow-in-Furness up past Whitehaven and Maryport to Carlisle – about 71 miles in total. Scenic Rail Britain proclaims it “undoubtedly one of the most scenic railway routes in Britain”. Almost the entire journey has one foot in the Lake District hills and the other by the Irish Sea. You’ll pass sandy coves and steep bluffs at Ravenglass and St. Bees (the only seaside headland in England). To the east, the misty fells of the Lake District loom. The route is slow (taking about 3–4 hours end-to-end), but that’s part of the fun. Pack your camera: “No matter what side of the train you’re sitting on, you’ll be treated to epic views”. This line is quieter than the mainline inland route, so it’s perfect for a relaxed day trip.
Tips for a Great Scenic Train Trip
- Plan your journey and book early. Check train times and connections on the official National Rail Journey Planner or a rail app. Many scenic lines have only a few trains per day, so it helps to reserve seats or buy tickets in advance. (In the UK, you can often save money by booking up to 12 weeks ahead or using a Railcard. Don’t forget to double-check times on the day of travel – engineering work can sometimes alter schedules.
- Grab a window seat. This may seem obvious, but it makes a huge difference. As in the article by scenic rail britain advises, “grab yourself a window seat” to enjoy rolling countryside, looming hills orthe ocean If you’re travelling in a small group, book early or split tickets so you can sit together facing the sights. Also, check which side of the train has the best view (often the land side) for each route, if you can find that info online.
- Pack for comfort and fun. Even on a short train trip, bring a small backpack with snacks and water. Many UK stations now have water fountains to refill bottles (National Rail says this cuts out thousands of plastic so a reusable bottle is handy. Wear layers (trains can be chilly or warm) and bring a power bank to charge your phone or camera. Binoculars and a camera are great if you want wildlife or landscape shots. For a longer journey (e.g. West Highland), pack a light picnic or buy takeaway in station towns to enjoy on board.
- Think about timing and seasons. Many routes are scenic all year round, but the experience changes with the weather. Spring and summer bring blooming heather and wildflowers on moors, while autumn turns hills golden and red. A sunrise or sunset ride (like on the Cambrian at the Dyfi Estuary) can be magical if schedules allow. Check local weather too – misty days can look atmospheric on moors, while clear days let you see far into the distance. Avoid very stormy weather on exposed coastlines if you can.
- Stay near stations or attractions. Most of these scenic lines serve small towns or villages that are great bases. For example, on the Cambrian coast, you could stay overnight in Aberystwyth or Barmouth to explore beaches and castles. Riding the North York Moors line? Park in Pickering and stay at a local inn or B&B – there are several quaint pubs within walking distance of the station. Many stations (like St Ives or Severn Valley’s Bridgnorth) have car parks and tourist info nearby. Look up local guesthouses or farm stays for a true slow-travel experience.
- Be a green traveller. By choosing the train, you’re already lowering your footprint. Do a bit more without much hassle: bring reusable mugs and containers so you don’t need single-use cups or plates if you stop for a snack. Use the station recycling bins if available. If you combine your train trip with a local bus or even a bike (many trains allow folding bikes), you reduce car use even further. (Many stations even have EV charging points and lots of bike racks.)
Travelling by rail isn’t just practical, it offers some of the best train rides UK travellers can experience, blending comfort, views, and eco-awareness. Whether you hop on The Jacobite, a nostalgic steam train, or one of the many modern scenic routes, you’ll discover that the best train journeys in the UK are about more than getting from A to B; they're about enjoying the journey itself.