The UK is home breathtaking train routes (Image: Getty)
The UK boasts diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to dramatic mountains, and thanks to the many beautiful train routes the nation has to offer, passengers can embark on adventures that will provide views of many of the country’s treasures and hidden gems. Some of these adventures can be costly, but the majority of them are very affordable, meaning no one has to miss out.
So whether you just like taking in beautiful scenery or you like spotting wildlife, there is a majestic train ride for you that will offer a one-of-a-kind experience.
Here are the seven most picturesque train journeys across the UK:
The Riviera Line
The Riviera Line from Exeter to Paignton offers passengers the best views on the English Riviera. Crossing some of the nation’s most beautiful coastal spots, you’ll find yourself struck by towering hillsides, beautiful bodies of water, and charming market towns.
Off-peak day Return tickets can be bought for £10.70.
Greater Anglia, Norfolk
This 40-minute journey between Lowestoft and Norwich may seem like a short trip, but is well worth it. The train passes a vast number of historic sites including St Olave’s Priory as it travels across the Norfolk Broads.
The route is a treasure for those who particularly enjoy birdwatching, where bird enthusiasts have the chance of spotting a pink-footed goose in the winter.
Tickets can be bought from £5.95 one way.
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Harry Potter fans will love this train ride connecting Grosmont and Pickering. The journey taken on a steam train will transport you through the beauty and wildlife that fills North Yorkshire.
One of the stops include Goathland station, or as some might know it Hogmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film.
Tickets can be bought from £34.65 one-way
The Royal Scotsman
This scenic experience includes a five-day round trip starting from Edinburgh through to the West Highland Line, while passing the beauty of the Glennfinnan Viaduct, rugged peak of Ben Nevis, and the stunning Isle of Bute.
Passengers get to embark on an adventure of comfort and luxury with this unforgettable route on the railway’s Western Scenic Wonders tour.
Tickets from £21,035 per person for five days.
Strathspey Railway
Another breathtaking trip through the Scottish Highlands can be enjoyed on this more affordable Strathspey Railway journey. The trip which starts from Aviemore and travels to Broomhill, is met with moorlands and mountains, and the incredible River Spey.
However, the beauty starts within, as the train itself is full of charm, with one carriage even dating right back to the 1930s.
A return ticket can be bought for £24.50
Wells & Walsingham Light Railway
The famed trip connects the Norfolk seaside resort of Wells-next-the-Sea to the stunning Abbey village of Walsingham. In just half an hour, those on board will pass the beautiful countryside under bridges, travel past a hill-fort and go through a ghost platform.
Wildlife lovers will also spot wild flowers, butterflies, birds, brown hare and deer as the train chugs past.
Return tickets can be bought for £14
Severn Valley Railway
The Severn Valley Railway, first opened in the 1860s, now runs charming steam trains between Bridgnorth and Kidderminster, thanks largely to dedicated volunteers. The journey follows the River Severn, cutting through the lush, flower-dotted landscapes of Worcestershire and Shropshire.
The train travels over striking viaducts, including the Victoria Bridge — once the longest single-span cast iron bridge in the country.
Return tickets can be bought from £8.50
