This article was written by National Geographic Traveler (UK).
Mainland Europe has been hit by so many railway revolutions over the past few years, but now the spotlight is etched into Britain. 2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railways, the world's first public railways, and the long-awaited Belmond Train, the Brittannic Explorer, will arrive in July. As train trips across the UK leave once more, there are eight train trips with views that you won't want to miss here.
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1. From Exeter to Riviera Line, Paignton, Devon
Showing the best views the British Riviera offers, the trip incorporates coastal scenery on the western edge of the UK. The Riviera Line in South Devon connects Exeter and Paignton, with deer-filled grounds passing by towering cliffs and numerous estuaries (one of the UK's rarest birds, the quaint market town, Powderham Castle and more. Descend to Newton Abbott and visit the Newton location, a 19th-century church that houses a small museum that explores how the railway changed this part of Devon in the 1800s. Tickets from £8 in one way .
The Riviera Line offers idyllic views of the countryside of Devon. Photo by Lukas Urbaitis, Getty Images
2. From Greater Anglia and Norwich in Norfolk to Norwich
This short but sweet 40-minute railroad journey is speed (or Trundor) across the entire Norfolk Broad, passing through the 13th century St. Olave monasteries and numerous rivers. The latter is why this route is popular with birdwatchers. If you find a goose with pink legs, you will receive bonus points. Tickets starting from £9.70 in one way.
This 24-mile rail journey connecting Grossmont and Pickering dates back to the 1830s, with one of the restored steam locomotives giving the barren beauty of the marsh dotted with North Yorkshire wildlife. It's the perfect way to have fun. Don't be surprised if a particular bit looks familiar. The stop includes Gosland Station, which doubled as Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film. If possible, reserve a seat with one of the restored heritage coaches with a refined teak wall or choose a Pullman dining train to feast local delicacies as they roar the marsh. Tickets starting from £13.50, one way.
Goathland Station may be familiar to Harry Potter fans, as featured in the series as Hogsmeade Station. Photo by Blandine Schillinger from Getty Images
4. Royal Scottish people surprise western views in the Scottish Highlands
A highlight of this 3 night round trip route from Edinburgh is Glenfarock, where Thunder Waterfall is located. Fort William in the shadow of Bennevis. and Mueller Sands, a white sandy beach with spectacular views of the Isle of Skye. As for onboarding, Edward includes maps of Scottish railway routes, an incredibly spacious cabin, Dior Spa and tartan-covered sofas inspired by a dining carriage stocked with 50 Scottish whiskeys. Expect wind decorations. Choosing one of the new Grand Suites unfolded in 2024, all future train journeys look obvious. Starting from £7,000 per person for 3 nights.
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For something more affordable, but equally grand, consider the Strathspie railway, which snakes from Aviemore to Bloomhill, once the main railway line in the Scottish highlands. Expect Moorelands, mountains and constantly changing colour backgrounds. Courtesy of Sparkling River Spey and purple heather belts. Equally awakening is the interior of the steam locomotive, especially the 1930s carriage with an Art Deco touch and a huge vintage armchair. Returns starting from £14.50.
Royal Scots travel through the Scottish highlands before returning to Edinburgh. Photo by Phil Metcalfe
This narrow gauge railway connects Wells Next The Sea and Walsingham, a pilgrimage village with an ancient monastery in its centre. It is four miles long and is the world's longest 10.25-inch gauge (in other words, a miniature) dating back to 1847. Despite its short length, there is plenty to see, including butterfly meadows and the quaint villages of Warham and Wigton. If weather is permitted, choose one of the outdoor carriages and finish your trip with a homemade cake at Wells-Next-the-Sea's Station Cafe, a restored signal box. One way from £9.
The Severn Valley Railway dates back to the 1860s, and today the steam train connecting Bridgnorth and Kidderminster is maintained primarily by volunteers. The route hides the river through wildflower atriums of Worcestershire and Shropshire, but architecture is a major attraction for many. The train crosses the historic viaduct and Victoria Bridge, named after Queen Victoria, and across the single span cast iron bridge once in England. Even the station is special. The only one with a call is Eddington. Don't be surprised if you experience Deja Vu, as this railway has been featured in many films, including the Narnia Chronicle. Returns starting from £16.50.
Climbing a train along this historic Mainline Railway, completed in the 1860s, is a great way to smoke views of the northern Wales coastline without having to face blown away winds. Book an early departure for your journey that connects Aberystwyth and Pwllheli. There's nothing better than watching the sun rise at the mouth of the Dyfi estuary. You'll pass the coastal village of Y Friog, and across Eliri near Barmas to enjoy a more luxurious view on the water. Keep an eye on wildlife – you're looking for winged wonders, including Ospreys, and there are also regular sightings of dolphins. One way from £9.
(Find echoes of the past on this quirky railway that passes through the hearts of the countryside of Welsh.)
