There’s something magical about exploring the UK by train — the rhythmic click-clack of the tracks, the unfolding countryside views, and the slow travel vibe that lets you take it all in. Whether you’re after dramatic coastlines, historic viaducts, or scenic mountain passes, the UK delivers rail journeys that are as unforgettable as the destinations themselves. Here are 15 of the best train rides in the UK for 2025 — handpicked for their beauty, popularity, and timeless charm.
1. The Jacobite Steam Train – Fort William to Mallaig, Scotland
If you’ve ever dreamed of riding the real-life Hogwarts Express, this is the journey. The Jacobite Steam Train is arguably the most iconic rail trip in the UK, traveling 84 miles (round trip) through the dramatic Scottish Highlands.
Highlights: The famous Glenfinnan Viaduct (yes, that bridge from Harry Potter), views of Ben Nevis, Loch Morar, and the silver sands of Morar.
Best Time to Ride: May to September.
Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours one-way.
- Website: West Coast Railways – Jacobite Train
- Tip: Book well in advance — this ride often sells out months ahead, especially in peak summer.
2. Settle to Carlisle Railway – Northern England
A marvel of Victorian engineering, the Settle to Carlisle route is a stunning 73-mile journey through the Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines. It’s rugged, remote, and ridiculously scenic.
Highlights: The Ribblehead Viaduct, wild moorlands, and classic stone-built stations.
Best Time to Ride: All seasons — snow in winter, wildflowers in spring, golden hills in autumn.
Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours.
- Website: Settle-Carlisle Railway
- Don’t Miss: Sit on the right side of the train (heading north) for the best views of the viaducts.
3. Caledonian Sleeper – London to the Scottish Highlands
Want to fall asleep in London and wake up in the Scottish Highlands? The Caledonian Sleeper is a dreamy overnight train that combines scenic travel with hotel-style comfort.
Highlights: Waking up to the rolling Highlands, luxury berths, private lounges, and onboard dining.
Best Time to Ride: Year-round — especially magical in winter when the Highlands are dusted in snow.
Travel Time: Approx. 12 hours (overnight).
- Website: Caledonian Sleeper
- Good to Know: The Fort William route is the most scenic, while the Inverness and Aberdeen routes are faster.
4. The Heart of Wales Line – Shrewsbury to Swansea
One of the UK’s lesser-known hidden gems, the Heart of Wales Line is a poetic journey through rolling farmland, sleepy towns, and castle-dotted hills.
Highlights: Sugar Loaf Mountain, Knucklas Viaduct, charming rural stations.
Best Time to Ride: Spring and early autumn for wildflowers and mellow sunshine.
Travel Time: Just under 4 hours.
- Website: Heart of Wales Line
- Tip: Stop off in Llandeilo for a coffee break and a walk through its boutique-filled town centre.
5. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Pickering to Whitby
This heritage steam railway offers a nostalgic trip back in time, running through one of the most atmospheric parts of England — the moors. It’s perfect for families, history lovers, or anyone looking to slow down.
Highlights: Goathland Station (aka Hogsmeade from the Harry Potter films), charming market towns, coastal views at Whitby.
Best Time to Ride: Late summer and autumn when the moors turn purple with heather.
Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes.
Website: North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Don’t Miss: Spend time in Whitby, famous for its gothic abbey, fish and chips, and Dracula connections.
6. Cambrian Coast Line – Machynlleth to Pwllheli, Wales
Hugging the wild Welsh coastline, the Cambrian Coast Line offers one of the most underrated train experiences in the UK. The route winds along beaches, estuaries, and clifftops with jaw-dropping views of Cardigan Bay and Snowdonia.
Highlights: Barmouth Bridge, Harlech Castle, Snowdonia National Park views.
Best Time to Ride: Summer and early autumn — coastal sunsets here are stunning.
Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Website: TfW – Cambrian Coast Line Info
- Tip: Sit on the left side (heading north) for uninterrupted sea views.
7. Devon’s Riviera Line – Exeter to Paignton
Nicknamed England’s “coastal gem,” the Riviera Line takes you through charming seaside towns, sandy beaches, and dramatic sea cliffs. It’s a short but incredibly scenic trip — great for a day out on the English Riviera.
Highlights: Dawlish sea wall (waves often splash the train!), Torquay, red sandstone cliffs.
Best Time to Ride: Spring to late summer.
Travel Time: Approx. 1 hour.
- Website: Great Scenic Railways – Riviera Line
- Don’t Miss: Stop off in Dawlish or Teignmouth for a seaside stroll and fish & chips.
8. The Highland Main Line – Perth to Inverness
For a more dramatic Highland experience without the sleeper train, the Highland Main Line is a top choice. This route carves through mountain passes, pine forests, and misty valleys — it’s a taste of Scotland at its wildest.
Highlights: Cairngorms National Park, Drumochter Pass, moody Highland lochs.
Best Time to Ride: Autumn for vibrant foliage or winter for snowy peaks.
Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours.
- Website: ScotRail – Highland Main Line Info
- Tip: Look out for wildlife — deer, eagles, and even red squirrels if you’re lucky.
9. The Thameslink Cross-Country Route – Bedford to Brighton
This lesser-hyped journey gives you a unique cross-section of England — from market towns and cathedral cities to bustling London and the Brighton seaside. It’s a great way to see varied landscapes and architecture.
Highlights: St Albans Cathedral, crossing the Thames through central London, Brighton Pier.
Best Time to Ride: Year-round — Brighton is always buzzing.
Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Website: Thameslink – Route Map
- Urban + Coastal: Start the day with history in St Albans and end it with sunset on Brighton beach.
10. The Borders Railway – Edinburgh to Tweedbank, Scotland
Reopened in 2015 after a 50-year closure, the Borders Railway is the longest new domestic railway built in the UK in over a century. It reconnects Edinburgh with the beautiful Scottish Borders, offering green hills, abbeys, and quiet charm.
Highlights: Rolling countryside, abbey towns like Melrose, Edinburgh’s skyline as you depart.
Best Time to Ride: Spring and summer when the Borders bloom.
Travel Time: Approx. 1 hour.
- Website: ScotRail – Borders Railway
- Travel Tip: Pair your journey with a visit to Abbotsford House, home of Sir Walter Scott — just a short cab ride from Tweedbank station.
11. Cumbrian Coast Line – Carlisle to Barrow-in-Furness
This rugged coastal journey hugs the edge of the Irish Sea and offers uninterrupted views of the water, backed by the fells of the Lake District. It’s a unique mix of sea, hills, and heritage — and ideal for those who love remote, wild beauty.
Highlights: Crossing the Eskmeals and Ravenglass estuaries, views of the Isle of Man on clear days, and proximity to the Lake District.
Best Time to Ride: Summer for clear sea views and walking weather.
Travel Time: Approx. 2.5 hours.
- Website: National Rail – Cumbrian Coast Line
- Tip: Break your journey at Ravenglass and ride the narrow-gauge Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway into the hills.
12. The Durham Coast Line – Newcastle to Middlesbrough (via Hartlepool)
The Durham Coast Line is an unsung gem. It mixes industrial history with spectacular views over the cliffs and beaches of northeast England, offering a surprisingly scenic stretch of rail with dramatic sea cliffs.
Highlights: Seaham and Sunderland coastlines, views of the North Sea, historic mining towns.
Best Time to Ride: Spring and early summer.
Travel Time: Approx. 1.5 hours.
- Website: Northern Railway – Durham Coast Line
- Tip: Sit on the right side heading south for the best coastal views.
13. The Maritime Line – Truro to Falmouth Docks, Cornwall
Short but sweet, the Maritime Line winds through lush Cornish countryside before arriving at the vibrant coastal town of Falmouth. It’s the perfect ride for beach lovers, history buffs, and foodies.
Highlights: Rolling green farmland, the Fal River, and Falmouth’s maritime museums and harbors.
Best Time to Ride: Late spring through early autumn.
Travel Time: Approx. 25 minutes.
- Website: Great Scenic Railways – Maritime Line
- Don’t Miss: Enjoy a seafood lunch by the harbor at Rick Stein’s Fish once you reach Falmouth.
14. St Ives Bay Line – St Erth to St Ives, Cornwall
One of the shortest but most jaw-dropping coastal routes in the UK, this line follows golden beaches and turquoise waters as it winds toward the charming artists’ town of St Ives. It’s like riding through a postcard.
Highlights: Carbis Bay, sweeping sea views, golden Cornish sand.
Best Time to Ride: Summer or early autumn.
Travel Time: Just 10–15 minutes.
- Website: St Ives Bay Line Info
- Tip: Once in St Ives, explore Tate St Ives or wander down to Porthmeor Beach.
15. Looe Valley Line – Liskeard to Looe, Cornwall
Winding through wooded valleys and along a tidal river, the Looe Valley Line is a peaceful, nature-rich journey through southeast Cornwall. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxing escape from busier rail lines.
Highlights: The River Looe, peaceful farmland, and quaint Cornish villages.
Best Time to Ride: Spring and autumn.
Travel Time: Approx. 30 minutes.
- Website: Great Scenic Railways – Looe Valley Line
- Explore More: Once in Looe, take a short boat trip to Looe Island, a wildlife haven just offshore.
Final Thoughts: Why These Train Rides Are Worth It
In 2025, slow travel is making a big comeback — and there’s no better way to experience the soul of the UK than by train. From the misty moors of Yorkshire to the snow-capped Highlands, these rail journeys give you a front-row seat to some of the most stunning scenery in the country. Whether you’re a local rediscovering the beauty of Britain or a visitor seeking something timeless, these train rides deliver pure magic — and memories you’ll never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most scenic train ride in the UK?
The Jacobite Steam Train is widely considered the most scenic, especially over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Do I need to book train tickets in advance?
Yes, especially for seasonal and popular routes like The Jacobite or Caledonian Sleeper.
Are these train rides family-friendly?
Absolutely! The North Yorkshire Moors Railway and Heart of Wales Line are great for kids and multi-generational trips.
Can I bring luggage or bikes?
Most long-distance and scenic trains have dedicated luggage space and limited bike spaces (check in advance).
Related Post you may like:
I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
