The Best UK Train Rides Through the Countryside
5. The St Ives Bay Line: St Erth to St Ives
A Jewel on the Cornish Coast
Although short—just under five miles—this coastal train ride is a journey straight into the heart of Cornwall’s natural beauty. The St Ives Bay Line winds along the northern Cornish coast, offering spectacular views of golden beaches, azure waters, and rugged cliffs.
Highlights of the Journey
- Carbis Bay: Known for its pristine sands and turquoise waters, this beach is a visual treat as the train glides past.
- Godrevy Lighthouse: Inspiration for Virginia Woolf's To the Lighthouse, the iconic lighthouse can be spotted on clear days.
- St Ives: The journey ends in the charming harbor town of St Ives, renowned for its artistic heritage, cobbled streets, and fantastic seafood.
Insider Tip
Travel in spring or summer to catch the turquoise waters at their most vibrant. Spend time exploring the Tate St Ives gallery and the Barbara Hepworth Museum for a cultural bonus.
4. The West Highland Line: From Glasgow to Mallaig
Why It’s Exceptional
Regularly voted one of the world’s most scenic train journeys, the West Highland Line traverses the rugged wilderness of Scotland’s Highlands, culminating in the charming fishing port of Mallaig. It’s a feast for the senses, offering views of lochs, glens, and peaks that seem untouched by time.
Highlights of the Journey
- Glenfinnan Viaduct: Harry Potter fans will recognize this iconic structure from the Hogwarts Express scenes. Beyond its cinematic fame, the viaduct offers breathtaking views of Loch Shiel.
- Loch Lomond and Rannoch Moor: Witness the tranquil beauty of Loch Lomond and the remote expanse of Rannoch Moor, where the train glides through a seemingly endless wilderness.
-
Ben Nevis Views: Near Fort William, catch glimpses of the UK’s tallest peak, often crowned with snow.
3. Coleraine to Londonderry: A Coastal Gem in Northern Ireland
The Most Beautiful Train Ride in Ireland
Dubbed "one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world" by travel experts, the Coleraine to Londonderry route in Northern Ireland is a stunning coastal journey that captures the rugged beauty of the Emerald Isle. This 33-mile trip takes you past idyllic beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush green landscapes.
Highlights of the Journey
- Downhill Strand and Mussenden Temple: The train skirts the golden sands of Downhill Strand, with breathtaking views of Mussenden Temple perched atop a cliff.
- Binevenagh Mountain: Admire the imposing Binevenagh Mountain, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Lough Foyle: As the train nears Londonderry, it follows the serene shores of Lough Foyle, offering panoramic views of the estuary.
Insider Tip
Sit on the right side of the train for the best views of the coastline. Extend your trip by exploring Londonderry, a city rich in history and culture, including its iconic 17th-century walls.
2. The Cambrian Coast Line: Shrewsbury to Pwllheli
A Coastal Journey Through Wales
The Cambrian Coast Line takes you on a scenic journey from the Shropshire market town of Shrewsbury to Pwllheli, hugging the spectacular Welsh coastline. As you wind along estuaries and beaches, the train offers stunning vistas of the Irish Sea and Snowdonia’s towering peaks.
Highlights of the Journey
- Harlech Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site that dominates the skyline as the train approaches.
- Barmouth Estuary: The iconic Barmouth Bridge provides breathtaking views where the Mawddach River meets the sea.
- Snowdonia National Park: Experience glimpses of this iconic park’s peaks, valleys, and waterfalls.
Insider Tip
Travel during sunset to witness the magical colors reflected in the sea and mountains. Stop at Harlech or Barmouth for a coastal walk and local Welsh delicacies.
1. The Settle-Carlisle Railway: A Journey Through the Yorkshire Dales
A Victorian Engineering Masterpiece
The Settle-Carlisle Railway is the crown jewel of scenic train journeys in the UK. Spanning 73 miles from Settle in North Yorkshire to Carlisle in Cumbria, this route cuts through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, showcasing dramatic landscapes and architectural marvels.
Highlights of the Journey
- Ribblehead Viaduct: An awe-inspiring 24-arch structure that spans the remote moors. This Victorian masterpiece is as much a part of the scenery as the hills themselves.
- Three Peaks: Marvel at the towering Whernside, Ingleborough, and Pen-y-ghent mountains as the train weaves through the countryside.
- Quaint Stations: Stops like Dent, England’s highest station, exude charm and history.
Insider Tip
Autumn is the best time to enjoy this route, as the moors take on vibrant golden and russet hues. Book a northbound window seat to fully appreciate the views of the viaduct and surrounding fells.
These five journeys prove that the UK’s railways are more than just a mode of transport—they’re an invitation to slow down, connect with nature, and explore the country’s most beautiful regions. From the rugged coastlines of Cornwall to the remote reaches of the Scottish Highlands and the charming villages of the Cotswolds, each route offers a unique adventure.
So, hop on board, grab a window seat, and let the rhythmic click-clack of the tracks carry you through landscapes that will linger in your memory long after the journey ends. Rediscover the timeless magic of the British countryside—by rail.