There’s something undeniably romantic about train journeys and watching the landscape unfurl through your window—no traffic jams and no airport queues. Across the UK, a number of scenic rail routes give passengers a front-row seat to the UK’s most stunning countryside views.
Recent research conducted by travel experts at hoppa analysed cost and traveller reviews to rank the UK’s most visually stunning train rides. Chris Harrington, Managing Director at hoppa, said: “The UK is home to some incredible scenery, and one of the best ways to experience it is by train. From the coastlines of Cornwall to the countryside of County Down, rail travel offers a relaxing and memorable way to take it all in.”
Topping the list is the Tamar Valley Line, named the most beautiful train journey in the UK with a near-perfect score of 9.05 out of 10. The route stretches from Plymouth to Gunnislake, cutting through the heart of the Westcountry and showcasing a variety of rivers, valleys and viaducts. Passengers are treated to views of the River Tamar and working dockyards, which give an insight into the area’s maritime heritage.
But perhaps the most iconic highlight of the journey is crossing the Royal Albert Bridge, a Victorian gem designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel that connects Devon and Cornwall.
Reviews of the Tamar Valley Line have been glowing, with passengers calling the journey “delightful” and “panoramic”, and one Tripadvisor user recounting: “I travelled the Tamar Valley Line on an overcast day and even though the weather was not fantastic I was BLOWN AWAY by the magnificent scenery.”
And it seems southwestern train rides are a must for railway travel lovers, as one coastal Cornish gem snapped up the second spot on the list.
Though slightly shorter in distance, the St Ives Bay Line managed to score 7.86 out of 10. It begins at St Erth and runs along the coastline to the ever-popular seaside town of St Ives.
Travellers pass through Hayle Towans, with its emblematic sand dunes, and beside Carbis Bay, where they will overlook turquoise waters and golden beaches.
Taking third place is Northern Ireland’s Downpatrick & County Down Railway, a heritage line that scored 7.38 out of 10. For those looking to combine lush beauty with a touch of history, this line offers a slower, more immersive way to explore the rolling hills of County Down.
The UK’s most scenic train rides
1. Tamar Valley Line, England – 9.05
2. St Ives Bay Line, England – 7.86
3. Downpatrick & County Down Railway – 7.38
4. Looe Valley Line, England – 6.91
5. Cambrian Coast Line, Wales – 5.96
5. Esk Valley Line, England – 5.96