Exploring the UK by rail — Must-do train journeys

The Orient Express and the Trans-Siberian are the two most famous rail journeys in the world. Taking either of these journeys is a massive commitment in terms of time and money. For those who want a railway experience closer to home, luckily, there are plenty of options. The UK has some of the loveliest countryside and a historic railway system that makes it perfect for exploring. 

Advert

Whether one’s taking the train into London for a night of playing classic casino games at the Hippodrome in Leicester Square, commuting from a town or village into Manchester or Birmingham, or taking the train to Edinburgh to enjoy the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the UK rail system is a marvel.
 
Below are some of our leading recommendations for exploring the UK by rail. These must-do train journeys can all be done in one day, which makes them perfect for a weekend getaway. Some can also be combined with longer walking holidays through the local countryside.

 

Settle to Carlisle

 
The Yorkshire Dales are often overlooked when talking about the UK’s most beautiful areas. The Settle to Carlisle railway journey covers 72 miles of scenic countryside through both the Dales and the North Pennines. Settle is a lovely market town, worthy of a visit on its own. The journey also includes a crossing of the Ribblehead Viaduct, a 104-ft high railway bridge that provides a beautiful view of the surrounding valleys.  
 

Glasgow to Mallaig

 
Leaving from the urban heart of Glasgow, this rail journey quickly moves from the city to the wilderness. It begins by following along the River Clyde, then tracing Loch Lomond before finally curling along the base of Beinn Doran. If there’s a Harry Potter fan in your life, this is the train journey to take them on. The Glenfinnan Viaduct with its iconic series of 21 arches is famously the route taken by the Hogwarts Express in the films. 

Exeter St Davids to Newton Abbot

 
This is the shortest journey on our list. What it lacks in length, it makes up for with scenery. The unattractive urban start of this 20-minute trip is quickly replaced by low marshlands which give way to stunning sea views. The marsh is home to many species of birds and it’s a birder’s delight to watch them from the train. Keep an eye out especially for bar-tailed godwits and avocets. The stretch of rail along the coast is relaxing and makes you wish that the journey was a bit longer.   
 

The Dartmoor Line

 
British rail fans are finally able to travel along the historic Dartmoor Line. It reopened in 2021, 50 years after it was closed during the shortsighted Beeching cuts. Originally opened in the 1860s, the Dartmoor line now runs from Exeter to Okehampton. The 40-minute journey is run as an hourly service, making it convenient for day trips. Okehampton sits on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park. The view from the train provides a glimpse at the beauty of the National Park while Okehampton provides walkers with a starting point for seeing more of Dartmoor.  
 
 

Entertainment on the train

 
Watching the scenery is the best way to pass the time, but occasionally everyone needs a break from the vistas and something to do if the journey passes through less interesting countryside. Chatting with one’s travelling companions is ideal. If travelling alone, there are plenty of alternatives. 

It’s very difficult these days to find a train with a lounge car set up for playing cards. At the height of rail travel’s glory days, this was a common sight. Finding a roulette wheel would have been unlikely due to the motion of the train over the tracks, but card games like poker were a common way for travellers to mingle and relax on long journeys.
 
Bringing a pack of playing cards remains a popular choice for those lucky enough to secure a seat with a table. Besides reading and playing card games, listening to an audiobook or podcast while watching the world go by is relaxing. Plus, these can be downloaded in advance without having to use Wi-Fi or data while on the train. Just remember to pack noise cancelling headphones.