Top Tour by Train Experiences in the UK
Travelling by train in the UK offers a unique and enchanting way to explore the country's rich heritage and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, there are several train journeys that capture the essence of the British landscape and leave a lasting impression. Here are some of the best train tours in the UK, featuring notable heritage lines and vintage locomotives.
Heritage Lines and Vintage Locomotives
One of the most memorable train tours in the UK involves visiting the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. This heritage line operates with the participation of volunteers using vintage locomotives and coaches. The railway runs between Pickering and Whitby, traversing through stunning and picturesque scenery. This railway has gained recognition for its use in several popular films, including the latest Mission: Impossible and Indiana Jones movies. Visitors can enjoy a captivating train journey through this historic railway, eventually arriving in Whitby, a fascinating and charming harbour town.
UK Train Tours by Region
1. London Kings Cross to Edinburgh
Travelling along the iconic East Coast Main Line offers a convenient and speedy way to explore the diverse landscapes of the UK. Departing from London Kings Cross, this train journey leads to Scotland's bustling capital, Edinburgh. The scenic route is filled with remarkable views of rolling countryside, historic cities, and coastlines. Highlights include the Royal Border Bridge in Berwick-upon-Tweed, next to the Anglo-Scottish border. Some notable landmarks and sights include York Minster, Durham Castle, and Durham Cathedral, as well as multiple bridges that span the Tyne in Newcastle. The journey comes to a grand end at Edinburgh Waverley station, framed by Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle.
2. Penzance to Porthmadog
This 12-hour train journey offers an unparalleled experience from the far western coast of Cornwall to the rugged shores of North Wales. Departing Penzance at 09:00 in the morning provides ample light to capture the extraordinary scenery. The route begins in Cornwall, with its rolling hills, transitioning into the iconic scenic views of Devon's South Devon coastline. The Dawlish seafront is a stunning highlight, with the train hugging the cliffs and beaches for several miles. After crossing barren farming lands, the journey heads to Birmingham New Street where another train continues the journey to Porthmadog. This leg of the journey covers industrial West Midlands, before scenery changes to countryside and then the mountains of mid-Wales. The last two hours of the trip follow the coast of Cardigan Bay, offering a series of remote halts, isolated settlements, and expansive beaches. Highlights include Barmouth Bridge, where the train gingerly crosses the estuary. This extensive journey is best enjoyed with plenty of planning and a packed picnic, given its duration. Savor the moment and enjoy the view from the right side when passing through Cornwall and Devon, and from the left side when approaching the Wales coast. Porthmadog makes a great base for a few days' stay, exploring the several scenic steam train services in the area and the enchanting Portmeirion village.
3. Belfast to Derry/Londonderry
This journey offers a different perspective from the well-documented scenic routes in Scotland. Departing from Belfast Great Victoria Street station, visitors will experience a blend of urban and rural landscapes. The train crosses the rich agricultural lands of County Antrim, transitioning to the Atlantic coastline and Lough Foyle before arriving in Derry. A two-hour journey, this trip is versatile enough to enjoy without the need for advance booking. It is particularly interesting when paired with a visit to the vibrant cities of Belfast and Derry, where conversations can easily flow over a few drinks.
These train tours not only offer breathtaking sights and historic experiences but also provide the opportunity to delve into the rich culture and heritage of the UK. Each journey is a unique experience that captures the essence of what makes the UK a truly remarkable destination.