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The Atlantic Coast Express

Saturday 28th September 2024

Autumn Steam in the Harz Mountains

Friday 18th October to Sunday 27th October 2024

Price from £1925

The Kentish Belle

Wednesday 4th September 2024

Alpine Steam Express

Thursday 5th September to Wednesday 11th September 2024

Price From £2395

Steam and Christmas Markets in Germany

Thursday 28th November - Friday 6th December 2024

Prices from £1995

Railways of the Raj: India

Saturday 16th November to Saturday 30th November 2024

Prices from £3999

UK Day Trips

 UK Holidays

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Steam Rail Day Trips and Rail Holidays in the UK, Europe and Worldwide.

The Railway Touring Company has a long-established reputation for providing an interesting variety of UK day trips by steam train and unique railway tours in the UK, Europe and Worldwide.

Great Railway Adventures The British Travel Awards 2024 - Voting Opens Today

We are excited to announce that following our success in the previous four British Travel Awards we are again nominated for an award in 2024. 

The BRITISH TRAVEL AWARDS are the most prestigious and largest travel awards in the UK!

We would really appreciate your support and votes as we strive to repeat our previous successes in the awards.

Voting opens today and you can vote here…

Our latest print brochures are available to order now. Alternatively you can view the online e-brochure versions

The Old Stables, Estuary Road, King's Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2HL – Phone: 01553 661 500

© 2024 | The Railway Touring Company Limited | Founded by Nigel Dobbing in 1997 | All rights reserved. This work remains the property of The Railway Touring Company Limited and may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, without permission. Website: LucidSynergy Ltd.

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The 11 most scenic train journeys in the UK

Want to plan a big railway trip for your next staycation? Here’s our pick of the most beautiful train journeys in the UK

Whether you’re keen to admire the stunning vistas of the Scottish countryside, or just after a setting to pretend you’re in a music video, staring longingly out at the mesmerising beaches of Cornwall or the mountains of Wales , these train journeys will make you feel like the main character in the window seat. 

You could be a solo traveller craving some luxury transport, or just looking to take the kids on a wholesome family day out – either way, these railway trips will have you covered. Stretching from the very top of the country in Mallaig to the very bottom down in St Ives – and right across to Coleraine in Northern Ireland – here’s where to get your railway fix on your next UK holiday. All aboard!

RECOMMENDED: 🌊The best indoor and outdoor water parks in the UK ☀️The best wild swimming spots in the UK 🌴The most beautiful hidden beaches in the UK 🏂The best extreme outdoor activity breaks in the UK 🏞️The most beautiful national parks in the UK

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best train journeys in the UK

1.  the jacobite steam train.

All aboard the Hogwarts Express! Okay, you don’t have to be a Potterhead to get into the majesty of this stunning route. Scotland’s Jacobite Steam Train traverses the gorgeous landscape between Fort William and Mallaig, offering up a conveyor belt of rugged scenery that belies the comfort and luxury inside the train itself. Booking ahead is an absolute must, but it is 100 percent worth it. Few train journeys on the planet come with the grandeur of the Jacobite Steam Train.

2.  North Norfolk Poppy Line

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again, but North Norfolk might just be the most underrated part of England. The entire coast is an absolute delight, filled with gorgeous seaside villages and a very real sense of charm, and the so-called ‘Poppy Line’ is an adorable way to explore it. The heritage steam train runs the short distance between Sheringham and Holt (with options to go further at either end) and is an exercise in beautiful nostalgia that will practically drag serenity into your day. Yes, that is something of a contradiction, but it fits. 

3.  St Ives Bay Line

Okay, it might only be a ten-minute journey, but that just means that you can go back and forth on the St Ives Bay Line as many times as you like during the day. Why wouldn’t you? This 4.25-mile stretch of seaside sumptuousness was opened in 1877, the last of the new broad gauge railways to be opened in the UK, although standard gauge has since taken over. Of course, you’re not here for gauge history, you are here for impossibly quaint seaside views and that special delight that only Cornwall can provide. 

4.  Snowdonia Mountain Railway

Scratching and clawing your way to the top of Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) is one of the most exhilarating experiences in Wales, but all that scratching and clawing does sound sort of tiring, right? If slugging up the mountain isn’t your idea of fun, the Snowdonia Mountain Railway is here to save the day. Trains leave from the gorgeous village of Llanberis and slowly climb the mountain, stopping at the top for incredible views and a real sense of achievement.

5.  The Flying Scotsman

A real piece of history here, albeit only really in the name. The original Flying Scotsman still takes short, special journeys in the UK (in the south of England, mostly), and tickets sell out quickly, but why not jump on the spiritual successor of the famous train and make the journey between the capitals of Scotland and England instead? London to Edinburgh is a trip from one powerhouse to the other, a route that takes you through the whole of England – a curious look into the North/South divide.

6.  Settle to Carlisle

The North really is blessed with some beautiful train routes, isn’t it? The beloved Settle to Carlisle line runs across 73 miles of gorgeous countryside, showcasing Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines at their most rugged and remote. It is stunning stuff and has been a point of pilgrimage for train enthusiasts since passengers first jumped aboard in 1876. The journey takes 90 minutes (delays notwithstanding, this is the UK, after all), and tickets start at £8.50.

7.  Ffestiniog Railway

Fancy taking a short trip on the oldest independent railway company in the world? Of course you do, and you’ll find the little train that could waiting in the heart of Wales. The Ffestiniog Railway runs from the harbour of Porthmadog to the mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, passing through Snowdonia National Park as it does, ensuring some incredible views and a palpable sense of history within the carriages. The company offers plenty of journeys, but the three-hour charmer between Porth and Blaenau is the one to go for. 

8.  Londonderry to Coleraine

Northern Ireland’s prettiest rail line? While it’s a beautiful place from east to west, the stretch of tracks between Londonderry and Coleraine is right up there. The railway has plenty of history (more than 170 years of the stuff), but passengers can be forgiven for eschewing that in favour of the views waiting outside the window. You simply won’t get better rolling views of the coast than from the comfortable seat of a 3000 class DMU, trundling between the two towns. Michael Palin called it ‘one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world’, and he wasn’t wrong. 

9.  North Yorkshire Moors Railway

North Yorkshire is a treasure trove for railway lovers. As well as being a beautiful city with few equals, York is also home to the National Railway Museum, an absolute must-visit for anyone with even the most rudimentary interest in trains. The North York Moors National Park is truly sumptuous, and no prizes for guessing where the North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs. Yes, that’s right, smack-bang through the aforementioned sumptuous scenery. The journey from Pickering to Whitby takes almost two hours, and tickets start from £45, although members get big discounts.

10.  Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

Two hours and 45 minutes (give or take a minute or two) of absolute rural bliss. The northern reaches of Scotland are Britain at its most beautiful, and the views afforded to passengers from the cars of the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh line are as good as it gets. Ttickets cost £15.90, an absolute bargain considering the beauty outside the window. 

11.  Bluebell Railway

Even the name is all sorts of adorable. The UK offers a fine line of heritage steam railways, and the darling Bluebell Railway down in Sussex is one of the best. Originally opened in 1882, it actually closed in 1958 – sparking a preservation society into action, in the hopes of restoring as much of the original line as possible. They did a darn good job, and today the Bluebell is a time machine, taking you back to the days of steam engines trundling from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead. The journey takes around 40 minutes, and advance tickets cost £25.

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• The Jacobite
• The Dalesman
• Scarborough Spa Express
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The Greatest Railway Journey In The World

Grab a piece of history.

The Jacobite Fort William to Mallaig

"The greatest railway journey in the world"

Bookings for the Jacobite 2024 season are now open.

Please see the Important Announcement on the Jacobite Service  

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Morning Service - Thursday 28th March to Friday 25th October 2024

Afternoon Service - Monday 6th May to Friday 27th September 2024

2022 seats are now very limited and will only show available if we have any cancellations.

Departing from Fort William to Mallaig this 84 mile round trip takes you past a list of impressive extremes including the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct (a location made famous in the Harry Potter films).

Described as the greatest railway journey in the world! Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it visits Britain's most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig; passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain, Loch Morar and the shortest river in Britain, River Morar, finally arriving next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis!

Standard £65 | First Class £98

The Dalesman Two Spectacular Routes

STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE

Running from 6th June to the 3rd October 2024

From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins. This trip will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train across the Settle to Carlisle, England's most scenic railway.

Running Thursdays on 6th and 20th June, 11th July, 8th August, 5th and 19th September, 3rd October 2024. Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Westgate, Leeds (Central Station) Keighley and Skipton  

Running Tuesdays on 11th June, 2nd and 23rd July, 17th September 2024. Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Leyland and Preston.  

Adult return fare from £93 (Children travel from £45 standard class):

Standard £93 | First £185 | Dining £329

The Scarborough Spa Express Steam Hauled all the way

A magnificent journey to york or scarborough 

Running Thursdays on 27th June 1st, 15th and 29th August 2024.

Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. 

Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from Carnforth and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast.

New for 2022, steam hauled all the way from Carnforth to Scarborough.

Departing from Carnforth, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford, Church Fenton and York.

Adult return fare from £53 (Children travel from £28 standard class):

Jacobite Gift Vouchers Memories They'll Treasure

GIFT VOUCHERS FROM WEST COAST RAILWAYS

Give a gift of memories they'll treasure – a special day out on the Jacobite steam train, the ideal present for Birthdays or Christmas.

We can taylor our gift voucher values to suit any of our trips and the prices would be inclusive of booking fee & postage (to UK Mainland).

To purchase a gift voucher please call:

Unmatched Luxury Rail Travel

Indulge in Northern Belle’s charm. Experience gourmet delights, exquisite wines, and a journey marked by sophistication and scenic wonders.

Experience Luxury Rail Travel At Its Very Best

Northern Belle invites you to a refined journey. Step aboard for opulent surroundings and scenic charm.

Your Gateway to Memorable Excursions

Discover diverse destinations year-round. Northern Belle offers unforgettable journeys across Britain from countryside lunches to historic city trips.

Indulge in a Culinary Extravaganza

Savour a gastronomic adventure on Northern Belle. Delight in Champagne, Caviar, fine wines, and gourmet cuisine amidst breathtaking views.

Condé Naste Traveler Magazine 2023

Northern Belle offers an exceptional travel experience. Join us for refined elegance and memorable adventures.

Step Aboard Britain's Most Luxurious Train

Explore meticulously restored carriages, each with a unique story. Northern Belle promises innovative cuisine amidst picturesque landscapes.

Explore All Journeys

With exquisitely decorated carriages, sumptuous cuisine and liveried stewards each journey is as exciting as its destination.

- Testimonials -

"what a grand day out.".

What a grand day out. In the company of friends, Cleethorpes to Edinburgh return, travelled in luxury. Food was first class. The Catering team never stopped all day with service and friendly conversation. By the end of our journey many folks in our carriage were impressed, happy and all talking about where we could go next. Highly recommend it.

"Spectacular scenery."

We did the Premier dining trip Settle to Carlisle and weren't disappointed. Excellent food and service. Lots of room and very comfortable. Fully relaxing journey with spectacular scenery. Highly recommended.

"Very enjoyable rail tour."

Very enjoyable rail tour. All staff were always helpful, friendly and professional. The train manager kept everyone fully informed throughout our journey. The route passed though some spectacular scenery best viewed from the train.

WELCOME ABOARD

Step back in time on board one of our heritage carriages, as we travel along Britain’s scenic mainline to an exciting destination of your choice

EXPLORE OUR TOURS

Available excursions.

See a list of all available excursions available this year, you can also book online with us.

KEEP UP TO DATE

Latest news.

Confirmed timings for our tours and latest news.

EXCURSION ALREADY IN MIND?

Book online today.

Already know where you want to go? Then book online with us today!

Event Details

SATURDAY 24 - MONDAY 26 AUGUST 2024 A 'HERITAGE TRACTION' EXCURSION TO

SATURDAY 24 – MONDAY 26 AUGUST 2024

A ‘heritage traction’ excursion to the fantastic scenery of north and east scotland,, featuring english electric class 50’s on what may be the maiden journey for the class beyond aberdeen to inverness.

A circular rail routing through the weekend will encompass the ever changing and colourful English and Scottish landscape sliding past your carriage window, complemented by an informative printed journey guide.

Each day’s itinerary is outlined on the following page and there is a choice of comfortable seating (see below) and onboard catering to give you a most relaxing weekend.

Photographic stops are included each day.

THE JOURNEY

Our adventure commences by heading northwards along the West Coast Mainline through the Cumbrian Fells to Carlisle for an early afternoon short break, then continue over Beattock Summit into the upper Clyde Valley before reaching Scotland’s central belt. On through Stirling and Perth to Dundee where we then follow the eastern seaboard before grandly arriving into ABERDEEN in the evening at 1940hrs.

An expected 08.30 start from the ‘Granite City’ and our special train now forges west through the rolling hills of the Aberdeen, Banff, Moray and Nairn Shires, passing settlements like Inverurie, Keith, Elgin and Forres, to arrive into INVERNESS  lunchtime for a two hour break in the ‘Capital of the Highlands’.

Resuming our journey the direction swings south to take us on an afternoon journey along the undulating Highland Main Line, up and over the high Slochd and Drumochter summits to Perth, then a reversal to gain the eastern coastal route onto Aberdeen [arrive around 19.30] to complete the days picturesque and circular journey around the Grampian Mountains massif.

Departing Aberdeen at 08.00, we head southward via Montrose to Dundee to the take the famous 2.75 mile Firth of Tay Bridge into the Kingdom of Fife, followed by a journey along the newly reopened branch line to LEVEN as a definite highlight.  

Continuing south we pass coastal Kirkcaldy before crossing the mighty Forth Rail Bridge and thence through historic Edinburgh. The East Coast Main Line route then takes us south with more coastal scenery by way of Berwick-upon-Tweed to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, then on through Durham and York.

To regain our pick-up stations we will now steer across West Yorkshire and through the Pennine Hills via Diggle (subject to pathing) to reach Stockport, then transit the Potteries to Stafford and back to Taunton to complete the itinerary.

What a weekend it will be!

ON TRAIN CATERING

PREMIER DINING – will include a service of Full Cooked Breakfast each day, Light luncheon Saturday, a full Luncheon Monday and Evening Dinner Saturday and Sunday.

FIRST CLASS – features an included hot drink and filled roll in the morning and a sweet treat and hot drink during the afternoon. The buffet is available for additional purchases.

STANDARD CLASS – has an optional buffet open throughout each day, with a selection of hot and cold drinks, confectionery, sandwiches and hot snacks.

ABERDEEN OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION [not included in the fare]

There is a good selection of three and four star hotels within reasonable walking distance of Aberdeen railway station, as well as Guest Houses and B & B’s.

The Aberdeen Douglas Hotel [3*] is offering a £65 single room / £75 double or twin room only rate per night if ‘Event Rail Rate’ is quoted through [email protected]  

TRAIN TRACTION

The Class Fifty Alliance have graciously made available two of their classic locomotives to head the ‘Grampian Highlander’ north of Gloucester. A GBRf locomotive will fill in south of there. It is planned that the 50s will be resplendent in newly applied BR large logo livery.

Guaranteed Table for Two seats are available in First Class and Premier Dining at a supplement of £100 per person.

Customers will be able to relax in the luxury of classic 1970’s MK2 carriages throughout the journey.

————————–

CONFIRMED TIMINGS

Please note that our normal day tour terms and conditions apply to this excursion.

Photographs: Chris Beardsmore, Jack Boskett, Richard Szwejkowski 

Pathfinder Tours prides itself as one of the nation’s leading names in UK rail travel by special train.

• Why Choose us?
• Mobility Equipment
• Book With Confidence
• Download Brochure

WHY CHOOSE PATHFINDER TOURS TO TRAVEL WITH?

Pathfinder Tours prides itself as one of the nation’s leading names in UK rail travel by special train. We organise up to 40 day excursions every year, as well as a number of weekend trips, travelling to many interesting destinations and events.

Some customers just love to travel in our comfortable carriages; others have a real passion for the locomotives, steam or diesel. Many travel with us time and time again – we’d love to welcome you on board too!

TRAVELLING WITH MOBILITY EQUIPMENT 

We are happy to welcome aboard customers who have mobility equipment that requires storing on the train. As storage space is limited, the equipment must be foldable or demountable. We recommend lightweight equipment be brought to facilitate this. Please note that we do not carry any equipment for loan purposes on the trains – please bring along that which will make your day out manageable.

Often, we only have very limited stopping time at the stations – usually 2 to 3 minutes. Stewards are there to welcome all passengers onto the train and may not have the time to assist every individual who has equipment to manoeuvre. Travelling with a companion who can help you on and off the train would be beneficial.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

To operate our main line excursions Pathfinder Tours uses these professional train operating companies (TOC’s)…

DB Cargo (DB)

Direct Rail Services (DRS)

GB Railfreight (GBRf)

each of which is owned by a respected national or international parent company.

Bookings can be made with us in the knowledge that each excursion is run with your safety and welfare as the absolute priority.

Book now!  

DOWNLOAD BROCHURE

Some customers just love to travel in our comfortable carriages; others have a real passion for the locomotives, steam or diesel. Many travel with us time and time again – we’d love to welcome you on board too!

Download Brochure  .         Read Brochure online 

A Festive Excursion

A Grand Day Out

Steam Hauled Excursions

PLAN YOUR NEXT JOURNEY

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Pathfinder Railtours specialises in providing rail excursions to interesting destinations using diesel and steam locomotives and heritage carriages.

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Full day journeys.

Our day trips are the ideal full-day adventure. Our destinations include some Britain’s most loved national treasures, Areas of Outstanding National Beauty, ancient Cathedral cities, maritime favourites, Celtic adventures, and medieval wonders.

London to York Christmas Market

London to Bath Christmas Market

Southend to Bath Christmas Market

East Anglia to Chester Christmas Market

Train & Rail Tours in UK and Great Britain

• Choose from 19 UK and Great Britain tours
• 20 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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10 best train tour packages in UK and Great Britain

Compiled by

Steff UK and Great Britain travel expert at TourRadar

Jacobite Steam Train & The Great Glen

England & scotland small group tour (with london rail return) - 8 days, one for the road, titanic trail trail & wild atlantic way including donegal, loch ness, the jacobite and skye guided rail tour, titanic rail trail & wild atlantic way, ireland's wild atlantic way guided rail tour, london - dublin & the ring of kerry, london to dublin & waterford crystal, north highlands & orkney guided rail tour.

• Train & Rail
• Culloden Battlefield: Visit the historic battlefield and learn more about the Jacobite Rebellion
• Glen Coe: Dramatic & wild landscape with history to match
• Mallaig: Explore the coastal village with views to the Isle of Skye

“Very comfortable bus and great driving. I recommend this tour. My accommodation at fort William was fantastic.”

• In-depth Cultural
• Walking Adventure
• Learn bagpipe playing in Glasgow
• Explore the iconic Stonehenge
• Stroll through historic Bath

“We saw many meaningful places such as Stonehenge, Bath, Lake Windermere, Caernarfon Castle, Roman walls, and much more.”

• Christmas & New Year
• Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle
• Stroll along Galway's lively Shop Street
• Take a jaunting car tour in Killarney

“I was very impressed by how flexible the team was in helping me customize my inter-rail tour. Thanks to TourRadar, I was able to see a vast amount of gorgeous Ireland.”

• Tour the ancient Dún Aonghasa on Inis Mór
• Explore the Cliffs of Moher and Burren
• Travel the Ring of Kerry's scenic route

• Explore Skye with a local guide
• Ride the train around Loch Lomond
• Visit the historic Urquhart Castle ruins

“We were wanting someone to help take out the stress of driving and finding activities, Ciaran went above and brought the entire experience of visiting Scotland to a personal level.”

• Sightseeing
• Tour the ancient fort of Dún Aonghasa
• Visit the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle
• Meet at Dublin Heuston, depart by train

• Enjoy traditional Irish music in a pub in Ennis
• Discover the ancient ruins on Inis Mor by ferry
• Explore Galway with a local guide on a walking tour

“Irish roads are scary and the signs in towns are confusing, McKinlay Kidd is a good choice.”

• Travel back to London via Irish Ferries
• Ride the train from London to Holyhead
• Sail across the Irish Sea on the Ulysses

• Visit Waterford Crystal and see glassmaking
• Explore Dublin with a 2-day bus tour
• Ride a train from London to Holyhead

• Ride the Far North Line to Helmsdale
• Tour Dunrobin Castle and its gardens
• Discover Orkney with a local guide

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The 13 best train journeys in the UK

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

From the Scottish Highlands to Cornwall ’s sandy beaches — the following 13 trips showcase Britain’s best train journeys, including quick rail rides, overnight sleeper trains and a brand new Edinburgh route that is the most affordable yet.

1. Machynlleth to Pwllheli

Just inside the southernmost rim of Snowdonia National Park , this route is blessed by nature from the moment the train departs. Passengers gaze onto scenes of tall grass smattered with waist-high wildflowers and puffy clouds over peaks fringed with forest. Streams wink and flash in the sunlight, and hikers with sticks wave in the distance. Not long after Dovey Junction station, the ride follows the bends of the River Dyfi until it opens wide onto the Cardigan Bay coast, shaped by fingers of creamy sand and dunes melting into the water. Through the window, glimpse rocky beaches thrashed by teal-green water and campers parked on hills, their tents flapping wildly in the wind. A constant mix of sand and shallow waters overseen by cloud-capped mountains, the journey ends with an urban crawl through the market town of Pwllheli.

2. St Ives Bay Line

Short but so very sweet, this 10-minute ride between the village of St Erth and the seaside town of St Ives gives passengers fabulous views of the Cornish coast. Take a seat on the right-hand side of the train as it clatters along the Hayle estuary where birds pick their way through the pools, then take a deep breath as it climbs the dunes and curls around the crescent of Porth Kidney Sands, where the water is inked with blue and striped with green. From an open window, passengers will smell the saltiness in the air as the train winds above Carbis Bay, where sunbathers are dotted on its golden sands. On arrival at St Ives, head straight to the café at Porthminster beach for the crab, chilli and garlic linguine washed down with a lemon-and-thyme G&T.

3. Settle to Carlisle

Opened in May 1876, this segment is one of England ’s last great Victorian routes, which British Rail wanted to close in the 1980s. But pushback from campaigners, residents and train enthusiasts meant that the 72-mile stretch was saved and continues to seduce both visitors and commuters travelling across the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines. Boarding at Settle station, with its burgundy trimming and bright flower baskets, passengers are already surrounded by slanting fields of sheep, penned in by the region’s distinctive dry-stone walls. Plunging into tunnels, whizzing across bridges and squeezing through rock cuttings that rise around the carriage, the train negotiates a landscape that often appears to tilt and slide. Crossing rivers, hamlets and miles of peaceful farmland, the journey peaks as the train negotiates the 104ft-high Ribblehead Viaduct where hikers wave from below. For the last half hour look right for views over the Vale of Eden, its hedgerows and farmland spotlit by the sun breaking through low-hanging clouds, before the train terminates in the historic city of Carlisle.

4. Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

In just under three hours, passengers can treat themselves to almost every element one could want on a railway journey through Scotland. Flanked by hot-pink heather, the train canters out of Inverness along the southern bank of the Beauly Firth and soon draws circles around freshwater lochs, clusters of white houses hidden between trees and mottled moors with plenty of deer. Peering between blocks of thick Scots pine, you'll glimpse silver bodies of water, perhaps a single boat tethered to a pier. It’s worth a stopover at the pretty village of Plockton with its palm trees, pocket-size houses and islets dotted around the bay – along with several silky seals. Pick up the journey once more and continue to the Kyle of Lochalsh as the Isle of Skye looms up ahead.

5. Newcastle to Edinburgh

Don’t be fooled into thinking that a high-speed train between two major cities can’t offer a gorgeous view or two. This route follows England’s north-east coastline into southern Scotland , weaving passengers in and out of the patchworked countryside and misty-blue ocean scenes. Although the first few minutes of the ride include the classic sight of low-hanging wires and warehouses, the train soon shakes off the grime and guts of the city and blares its horn alongside meadows of sheep and picket-fenced farms. Given the journey's speed, flashes of canary-yellow rapeseed fields, the shiny black hides of Aberdeen Angus cows and villages vanish as fast as they rise, so sit on the right and face backwards to draw out the views. As you snake through forest and thunder over bridges , you’ll know when the sea is close as the horizon begins to haze and the edge drops away, revealing a blaze of North Sea blue. Plus, as of late 2021,  Lumo  launched new service, offering travellers one-way fares starting from just £14.90. Not only will it make the journey more affordable, the train itself — part of Lumo's brand new, 100 per cent electric-powered fleet — is much more carbon-efficient than most other models. 

6. Glasgow to Mallaig

Chugging out of Glasgow Queen Street, this train tails the River Clyde for some time before tearing away towards raw Scottish wilderness. Surrounded by glens tinged with the mauve of wild heather, it climbs up and around the bonny banks of Loch Lomond, clinging to hillsides trimmed with birch trees. Not long after Tyndrum, move to the front of the train and look back as it curls around the horseshoe bend at the foot of Beinn Doran before carrying on to Fort William. It’s a jolly summer jaunt – but brave the bite of wind and sleet and a winter journey brings beauty in the form of frozen rivers and daggers of ice dangling from trees. Towards the end of the line, the train runs along the 21 arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct at the top of Loch Shiel – a sight commonly known to Harry Potter fans as the route of the Hogwarts Express .

7. The Caledonian Sleeper

One of only two night services left in the UK, the Caledonian Sleeper connects London to Edinburgh and Glasgow on the Lowlander route, and Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness on the Highlander route. A facelift in 2019 means the train now resembles a mobile hotel rather than a mode of transport. With double beds, en-suite bathrooms and dimmable lights, the train provides a fun way to bed down for the night and arrive fresh for the day ahead. Board, stash your bags and hunt down the dining car for smoked salmon followed by a plate of haggis, neeps and tatties served with whisky-cream sauce. Knock back a wee dram, then drift off as London falls away in the dark, raising the blinds at dawn to the morning mist hanging over the moors.

8. Exeter St Davids to Newton Abbot

For unsuspecting travellers, this 18-minute journey might feel like any other urban trip. The rails roll past graffitied walls, the backs of terraced houses and a strip of factories. But look to the left and watch as the green marshland narrows to a point, the trees drop away and the train seems to hug the majestic, mile-wide river Exe. In warmer months passengers will see a flotilla of sailboats, kayaks and rowers, while in winter the wetlands are teeming with birdlife from curlews, dunlins and teals to bar-tailed godwits and avocets. Around Dawlish Warren the river merges with the English Channel and a perfect sliver of foam rims the edge of the water as walkers stroll along the coastal path, watching gentle waves break and fizz on the sand. Curving down the coast, the train swings inland once more and runs along the river Teign before coming to a stop at Newton Abbot.

9. The Belmond Royal Scotsman

Over seven nights with steward service, four-course suppers – and much whisky – travelling on the Belmond Royal Scotsman is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to soak up Scotland in all its glory. Boarding in Edinburgh , passengers are shown to private compartments in what feels like a long and narrow Edwardian country house decorated with rough tartan cushions, lacquer-polished wood and tufts of fresh heather on the bedside table. As the train sets off for Falkirk, it’s tempting to daydream by the window, but head to the dining car for a lavish afternoon tea of salmon sandwiches and slabs of sticky Dundee cake. Over the next few days, the train passes through Fort William with views of Ben Nevis and the Glenfinnan viaduct, then snakes north towards the Arisaig coastline with day tours to Inverlochy Castle and the Isle of Bute. Expect an excess of everything from windy walks and castles to massages and the heady morning scent of fresh coffee and frying bacon.

10. The Night Riviera

The only other sleeper service in the UK, the night train from London’s Paddington to Penzance is a thrill of a ride from the moment you line up to board in the eerily quiet station. Passengers travelling in a sleeper compartment get priority boarding. Most families pull on pyjamas, clean their teeth and slide under the silky-smooth duvets before the train sets off. But if you do, you’re missing out on the hubbub of the dining car where night owls and regular commuters shout and wave one another over to catch up over palm-sized bottles of wine and a tube or two of Pringles. Light sleepers might find the jolts and bumps a disturbance, and it makes sense to pack earplugs to block out the sounds of fellow passengers fumbling up the corridors looking for cabins, their voices drifting in and out of your dreams. A bleary-eyed wake-up is soon forgotten when you open the blind at dawn to find purple mists draped over moors, apricot light streaking the skies – and a knock at the door bringing coffee and a hot bacon roll.

11. The Dartmoor Line

At the end of 2022, one of the West Country’s most treasured railway lines reopened after 50 years, connecting Exeter with the market town of Okehampton. The line – established 150 years ago – became a victim of the notorious Beeching cuts that saw thousands of stations and branch lines put out of service. However, after two decades of campaigning, the train is now up and running again, much to the delight of hikers, rail enthusiasts and campers who can journey up to the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park. Before the train has even reached its destination, the wildness of the moors makes itself known, wind whipping the windows and branches tickling the sides.

12. Snowdon Mountain Railway

Since the end of the 19th century, a narrow-gauge railway has puffed its way up Mount Snowdon, taking passengers to the top of Wales’s highest peak. Now a favourite of tourists – and hikers looking for a lift halfway – the train departs from jolly Llanberis station at 30-minute intervals, taking around an hour to climb 1,064m to the summit. Within the first few minutes, you’ll be treated to the sight of the Ceunant Mawr waterfall which crashes down over 100 feet into a gorge, along with old farmhouses, crumbling walls and a feral goat or two. As of April 2022, owing to engineering works, the train is running as far as Clogwyn only, from where walkers are welcome to attempt the one-hour walk to the summit. In 2023 the train will resume its usual route to the top of Hafod Eryri where passengers can hop out, stretch their legs and take in the panoramic views that stretch to Ireland. If you’re in luck you might also spot a peregrine falcon or two.

13. Coleraine to Londonderry

A standard commuter line, this route from Coleraine to Londonderry takes just 40 minutes, giving passengers a taster of some of Northern Ireland’s loveliest views. From the moment of departure, fields surround the carriages on one side while the River Bann runs along the other, its body stretching in the sun. On the approach to the seaside village of Castlerock, the train runs along the edge of a caravan site offering passengers a peek into curtained windows with often a wave or two in return, followed by a smattering of churches and houses that close in then swiftly pull back. Plunging into tunnels, the train reappears alongside a blaze of golden sand until the next twist in the track brings the countryside back to heel. Towards the last 10 minutes of the journey, the River Foyle appears and guides the train to its final destination.

Monisha Rajesh is the author of Around the World in 80 Trains (£9.99, Bloomsbury)

Britain by train: Five great one-week UK rail trip routes

Posted on Last updated: June 5, 2024

Explore Britain by train with five of the best British rail trip itinerary ideas you can do in just one week, covering historic England, scenic Scotland, the Cornish coast, UK cities, and Wales and the Borders.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

I love a good rail trip and have travelled by train across Europe and beyond. But there are plenty of fantastic rail adventures close to home in the UK too – from Cornish coastal trains to the journeys across the wild Scottish highlands. And the country’s relatively small size means you can pack a lot into a short time, with rail passes available to keep costs down.

Whether you’re looking for history and culture, coast and countryside scenery or the UK’s coolest cities, there’s the perfect British rail trip for you. So here are five great itineraries for exploring Britain by train. It’s possible to do each of the routes in a week, but if you’ve got more time you can take it slower and spend more time in each place.

And if you’re ready to go, check out my detailed one-week itinerary posts – linked to after each route description below – for full details of which trains to take, how much they cost, how to book tickets, what to see and where to stay along the way.

Don’t want to organise it yourself? You can also book a custom rail trip based on any of our Britain by train itineraries through our partners Byway ,* the flight-free holiday platform. And you can save £100 off your first booking using the code LUCE100 if you book before the end of June 2024.

5 itineraries for exploring Britain by train

Historic England

London > Salisbury > Bath Spa > Oxford > Stratford-upon-Avon > York

This rail trip takes you across England and back through time, featuring some of the country’s most impressive castles, cathedrals and colleges. Start with a full day in London , choosing from its selection of historic buildings, museums and monuments, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, British Museum and Shakespeare’s Globe.

Then catch a morning train to Salisbury (1.5 hours). This riverside city is known for its 13th-century cathedral, where you can see one of the surviving copies of the Magna Carta and take a tour of the tower. Or travel back 2000 years to Roman times at Old Sarum.

Next travel to Bath Spa (1 hour). Bath is known for its Roman history, so don’t miss the Roman Baths – and you can soak yourself in the modern version at the Thermae Spa with its rooftop pool. There’s also the beautiful Georgian architecture of the Royal Crescent and Circle, and whole festival dedicated to Jane Austen who lived in the city in the 1800s.

Then take the train to Oxford (1 hour 10 mins), one of the UK’s most famous university cities. Take a tour of the college quads – Harry Potter filming location Christ Church is the star, but Magdalen, New College, Trinity and All Souls are also well worth visiting.

Call in to the quirky Pitt Rivers Museum to see its anthropology exhibits or explore art and antiquities at the Ashmolean Museum. Then catch a morning train to Stratford-upon-Avon (1.5 hours). Spent the afternoon in Shakespeare’s home town – you can visit his birthplace, school and houses his wife and mother lived in, and see his plays at the RSC theatre.

Then finish your trip by travelling north to York (4 hours), where you’ll have the afternoon and the next morning to walk the Roman city walls, visit the Minster, explore the cobbled lanes and half-timbered buildings of the Shambles and have afternoon tea at Betty’s.

Read the full Historic England by train itinerary

Scenic Scotland

Edinburgh > Glasgow > Fort William > Mallaig > Isle of Skye > Inverness

This Scottish rail itinerary takes you from the lowlands to the highlands via rugged coastlines, lakes, moors and castles. Start in Edinburgh and spend the day discovering the city’s highlights, from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and views from Calton Hill. Or discover hidden gems like underground Mary King’s Close .

Then catch the train on to Glasgow (1 hour), where the focus is on art, design and culture – from street art trails and the eye-catching modern Riverside transport museum along the redeveloped waterside to the Art Nouveau buildings of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Next head north to Fort William (3 hours 45 mins), a lochside town that’s a hub for adventure sports in the nearby Nevis Range. The journey takes you into the Scottish Highlands along the West Highland Line, rated as one of the most scenic rail trips in the world. Go hiking or biking, or taste whisky with a view at the Ben Nevis Distillery.

Rejoin the West Highland Line to travel across the Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig (1.5 hours) – or from April to October you could upgrade to a ride on the Jacobite steam train , also known as the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter films. Then leave the train behind and cross over to the Isle of Skye on the ferry from Mallaig to Armadale.

Spend a day exploring the Isle of Skye by bus or tour, with the pretty harbour town of Portree, the waterfalls of the Fairy Pools and the dramatic rock formations of the Quiraing. Then the following morning, cross the bridge to Kyle of Lochalsh by bus (1 hour) where you can catch the train to Inverness (2 hours 40 mins), capital of the highlands.

The Kyle Line is another of the UK’s top scenic train routes, passing lochs, mountains and herds of deer. Spend the evening and next morning in Inverness. Explore the castle and riverside, take a monster-spotting trip on Loch Ness or visit historic Culloden battlefield.

Read the full Scenic Scotland by train itinerary

The Cornish coast

St Ives > Falmouth > St Austell > Newquay > Looe > Plymouth

This UK train trip takes you to the far south-west of England, along some of Cornwall’s most beautiful coastal and countryside railways. Start off in the arty seaside town of St Ives , home to the Tate and Barbara Hepworth galleries along with beaches and coast walks.

If you’re travelling from London you can get reach St Ives on the Night Riviera overnight sleeper train (8 hours), changing at St Erth onto the St Ives Bay Line which runs past the golden sands of Carbis Bay. Then travel east to Falmouth (1.5 hours), changing in Truro onto the Maritime Line which runs through unspoilt countryside to the coast.

Visit Falmouth’s castle and maritime museum, or take a boat ride along the Fal River or across to neighbouring St St Mawes and the Roseland Peninsula. Then take a morning train to St Austell (1.5 hour) where you change onto a bus to reach the Eden Project, whose two giant biomes bring the rainforest and the Mediterranean to Cornwall.

Head back to St Austell to catch the train along the Atlantic Coast Line to Newquay (1 hour 20 mins). Check out some of Newquay’s 11 beaches and watch the surfers in action on Fistral Beach – or give it a try yourself. Grad a traditional Cornish pasty and watch the fishing boats come into Newquay harbour, or head underwater at Blue Reef Aquarium.

Then travel on to the pretty fishing village of Looe (3 hours). The Looe Valley scenic train line connects Liskeard and Looe, running along an estuary full of birdlife. Walk a stretch of the South West Coast Path to Polperro or visit the marine nature reserve of Looe Island, and make sure to try some local seafood and wine from Looe Valley Vineyard.

Finally travel on to your final stop in Plymouth (1 hour). Take a walk along the city’s waterfront, climb to the top of Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse and follow the journey of the Pilgrims at the Mayflower Museum before heading home – or exploring more of Devon.

Read the full Coastal Cornwall by train itinerary

London > Brighton > Bristol > Manchester > Liverpool > Leeds

This city-centric train route takes you to some of the UK’s coolest cities, with coffee shops, vintage shops, street art and quirky bars along the way. Start off in London and the East End’s most hipster neighbourhood – Shoreditch. Visit Brick Lane market, take a graffiti tour and try food from around the world at the Box Park shipping container pop-up market.

Then catch the train south of London to Brighton (1 hour 15 mins) for a day at the seaside. Visit the Brighton Pavilion, browse the indie shops in the narrow streets of the Lanes and play the slot machines on the pier before tucking into fish and chips on the beach.

The next day travel west to Bristol (1.5 hours). This harbourside city is a centre for independent food, art and craft businesses. Try tasty street food at St Nicholas Market or at Cargo in Wapping Wharf, and go Banksy spotting in Stokes Croft. Visit Brunel’s historic steamship the SS Great Britain or walk over Clifton Suspension Bridge at sunset.

Catch the train north to Manchester (3 hours). This north-west city famous for its football and music is a great place to catch a gig or shop for vinyl and vintage fashion before a night in the Northern Quarter’s bars. Or visit the museums and media hubs of Salford Quays.

Then from Manchester, it’s only around an hour by train to local rivals Liverpool. Check out the exhibits at the Tate Liverpool and Merseyside Maritime Museum in the Albert Dock, or take a Beatles themed walking tour and catch the ferry across the Mersey.

Then finally travel north-east to the West Yorkshire city of Leeds (1.5 hours). Discover local artworks on the Leeds Welcome Art Trail, visit the Corn Exchange for boutique shops in a stunning setting, sunbathe in Roundhay Park or take a tour of Leeds’ craft breweries.

Read the full UK cities by train itinerary

Wales and the Borders

Cardiff > Shrewsbury > Aberystwyth > Harlech > Llandudno > Chester > Cardiff

Our final Britain by train itinerary takes you across Wales, travelling from the capital through the unspoilt Welsh Marches to the spectacular coastline and mountains of North Wales. Start in Cardiff and spend the day exploring its historic side at the castle and its modern side among the contemporary buildings of redeveloped Cardiff Bay.

Then catch the train north to Shrewsbury (2 hours), a traditional market town across the border which was home to Charles Darwin. Visit its castle and take a boat trip on the River Severn. Then head back into Wales and the coastal town of Aberystwyth (2 hours) – a seaside holiday favourite with its sandy beach, Victorian promenade and Wales’ oldest pier.

Next catch the Cambrian Coast Line north through Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park to Harlech (3 hours), with scenic views along the way as you cross the estuary at Barmouth. Then explore Harlech’s hilltop castle or take an afternoon trip to the nearby quirky, Italian-style village of Portmeirion (the closest station is at Minffordd, 15 mins from Harlech).

Next head to Porthmadog (25 mins) and change onto the Ffestiniog Railway’s historic steam trains to travel to Blaenau Ffestionig in style (1 hour 20 mins). (Note the Ffestiniog Railway only runs from March–October, so outside of that you’ll need to take a bus.)

Then head back into the 21st century as you travel on to Llandudno (1 hour 15 mins). Another of Wales’ Victorian seaside resorts, Llandudno has panoramic views from Great Orme, which you can reach on foot or via the vintage tram or Llandudno Cable Car.

Finally travel across the border to Chester (1 hour 20 mins). Explore the city’s Roman ruins, walk around its city walls, admire the Eastgate Clock and shop the medieval black and white Rows. Then finish off your trip by travelling south back to Cardiff, passing the impressive Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Herefordshire countryside and Shropshire Hills.

Read the full Borders and Wales by train itinerary

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Gregory Bass

Monday 15th of January 2024

Hey Lucy I enjoy reading about all your travels and Itineraries but feel that it would somewhat overwhelming for me to plan. It has been a dream of mine to travel the UK by car or train. Twenty years ago I traveled Spain and Portugal by train but there was no planning involved. I was younger and just took a train to a city or town and if I liked it I stayed and if I didn't I moved on. I have also planned a year of traveling the west coast of the US for work when I was younger and that was before GPS. I just don't feel I know where to start. We definitely will want London as the starting point and Harry Potter is a must have since my husband is crazy about the series. We plan on spending anywhere from 10 to 15 days and that will all depend on what we try to squeeze into our trip. I was wondering if you had any ideas on how to start and what to do and see that are must dos. I would want to depart from London as well so whatever we do will have to include returning to London. We like nice accommodations but don't want to break the bank. Our travel schedule would be sometime between May thru August of 2025. I do have friends that live there so some downtime to allow visits with them would be needed as well. Any suggestions you can give would be greatly appreciated.

Lucy Dodsworth

Monday 22nd of January 2024

Hi Gregory, if you want to book through a company I would recommend Byway who can organise custom train itineraries and book all the train travel and hotels for you. With 10–15 days you could cover a lot of the UK depending on what your interests are, or add on a trip on the Eurostar to Paris or Amsterdam.

Wednesday 31st of May 2023

Hi Lucy This site is great! My husband and I will be arriving at Southampton after a transatlantic cruise on Sat April 20, 2024. We don't have our return flight plans yet as we are hoping to stay in England for at least a week. In 2012 we spent a month (Sept) traveling and sightseeing the UK by rail and had a great time - carrying only backpacks. We had time to visit the popular spots: London, Bath, York, Chester, Edinburgh, Loch Ness, Penzance, Bournemouth, Aberystwyth and much of Wales. This time (we are older!) and we will have luggage (ugh). We are thinking about exploring some less touristy places and poking around smaller villages, etc. Maybe staying at a B&B or somewhere that is centrally located and near a well connected train station where we can take day trips or short rail excursions in and out. Is that possible or even a good idea? Where would you suggest? Do we need a travel agent? I expect we will depart from Heathrow. Any advice will be appreciated!!

Sunday 25th of June 2023

Hi Martha, one area I'd definitely recommend is the Cotswolds. You can stay in Moreton-in-Marsh which is on a mainline train route from London and get from there via train to Oxford and Stratford-on-Avon, and there is a good Cotswold tour from Moreton as well as buses to places like Broadway, Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold. I have a whole website about the Cotswolds with lots of info (https://explorethecotswolds.com) and it's easy to explore without needing a travel agent.

Tuesday 23rd of May 2023

Hi Lucy, We are going to be in UK for 14 total days (not including travel to and from the US). We want to do two of these (exactly what I was thinking and perfectly laid out, thank you!). Wondering if you can help me understand the best way to buy the train tickets. We are family of 4 with an 18 yr old and 16 yr old. Starting and ending in London - want to do this: London > Salisbury > Bath Spa > Oxford > Stratford-upon-Avon > York - then from York do this: Glasgow > Fort William > Mallaig > Isle of Skye > Edinburgh to catch the Tattoo then back down to London. Maybe I need a travel agent to help :-)

Friday 26th of May 2023

You can buy tickets for specific trains in advance from the rail companies but it might be worth looking at getting a railpass – either an InterRail One Country Pass for the UK or a Britrail pass – as that means you can be more flexible. You can buy these in advance online and there are good discounts for under 25s.

Thursday 27th of February 2020

This info is amazing, thank you for posting Lucy! I am researching/looking into traveling to the UK (specifically Scotland) for the first time (coming from Toronto, Canada) this year and wasn't really sure where to start in terms of transportation once I arrived. I have bookmarked your page just for future reference. These routes and links will be so helpful, especially for a newbie to the area.

Also, love your blog & will definitely check out more of your recommendations .

Monday 9th of March 2020

Thanks Amy, great to hear it was useful! And have a wonderful trip.

Ellen D Leeper

Wednesday 25th of September 2019

Hi Lucy, What a comprehensive and great resource! I heard dogs are allowed on trains in the UK? Any feedback on that? I have a small guy but we are doing a couple months in the UK and Scotland so thinking trains vs. driving are the way to go. Thanks for such a great website! I'll watch this one!

Thursday 26th of September 2019

Hi, yes you can take dogs on trains in the UK so you should be fine with that!

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8 of the Most Scenic Train Rides in the U.K.

Crossing through the picture-perfect British countryside and charming seaside towns, these U.K. train journeys offer beautiful views along the way.

From adventurous cross-country journeys to luxurious rides in the world's most beautiful destinations, there's something truly romantic about train travel. It transports passengers to a simpler time, highlighting the joys of moving slowly and, of course, showcasing beautiful views along the way. There are some world-class railways that cut across the English countryside, traverse the mountains of Scotland, and skirt the most stunning sites in Northern Ireland and Wales.

These are the best train rides in the U.K., from luxurious Belmond locomotives to a sleeper train that departs from London and goes all the way to the Scottish Highlands. Check out these eight train journeys if you're seeking a memorable getaway with stunning countryside, seaside towns, and city vistas on display.

British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

The most indulgent way to explore England's quaint countryside is perhaps on Belmond's British Pullman , which transports passengers back to the roaring '20s in its storied art-deco carriages. There are many trips you can take from London Victoria. Maybe you want to go to the historic Chatsworth House , or the Highclere Castle of Downton Abbey fame? The food on board is delicious and includes seasonal ingredients and indulgent desserts. For design fans, the Wes Anderson carriage blends art-nouveau style, symmetrical lines, and pastel and jewel tones.

Coleraine to Londonderry, Northern Ireland

If you're pressed for time, the route from Londonderry to Coleraine (or vice versa) operated by NI Railways takes just 40 minutes. A bog-standard commuter line, the train ride — once dubbed "one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world" by actor and train lover Michael Palin — showcases some of Northern Ireland's loveliest spots.

On one side, idyllic pastures and the deep blue sea fill nature's canvas, and on the other, the River Bann roars as far as the eye can see alongside emerald mountains. Tunnels are aplenty, as are period homes, churches, and seaside towns.

Castlerock is well worth exploring for its pretty village, and if it isn't too windy, picnicking on the beach. As for what to do in Coleraine, the town itself is steeped in history — the Mountsandel Fort is one of the oldest human settlement sites in Northern Ireland — but we recommend hopping on a bus and continuing on to Causeway Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with wonders like the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Game of Thrones- famous Giant's Causeway.

Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

Scotland's luxury sleeper train, the Royal Scotsman , has space for only 36 passengers, so the vibe on board feels intimate and luxurious. En-suite cabins, tasty food (including lots of Scottish salmon), spa treatments with some of the U.K.'s chicest independent brands, and an observation car with a veranda are just a few standout features. There are several routes you can take, including some that go by landmarks like the Kyle of Lochalsh and beautiful Cairngorms National Park, a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II.

Daydreaming on board once the afternoon tea service hits is mandatory as you snake through the Scottish countryside, potentially taking in spellbinding panoramas of Ben Nevis (the U.K.'s highest mountain) or the Arisaig coastline. Luxurious amenities aside, the itineraries provide opportunities for adventure, too, such as hiking the gorges of Aviemore, canoeing on the famous Loch Ness, and shooting at clay pigeons at the Rothiemurchus estate.

Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

It's no surprise that this Scottish train, operated by West Coast Railways, has become an Instagram sensation. The route from Fort William to Mallaig , in particular, showcases an otherworldly mix of breathtaking U.K. views including craggy mountains, giant lakes, and the photogenic, 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for appearing in the Harry Potter films. In fact, Potter fans have nicknamed the train the Hogwarts Express.

What you see depends on the time of year. In the summer, expect fields of green and the most luminous of sunsets. In the winter, the rivers are frozen and the giant trees glisten with dagger-like icicles. Pro tip: Book a seat in advance, as they can sell out fast.

Settle-Carlisle Railway, England

RORY FULLER/TRAVEL + LEISURE

Often overlooked by Brits, the Settle-Carlisle Railway in northern England runs 73 miles through glorious countryside, showcasing ruggedly beautiful and remote spots along the way. The highlights come courtesy of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, home to fragrant heather, wildflowers, dry stone walls, and rolling hills. The stations here are just as beautiful (imagine charming pit stops flecked with hanging, posy-stuffed baskets), and the surroundings include green fields dotted with sheep. Another reason to hop aboard? This route, which launched in 1876, is one of England's last great Victorian journeys.

St. Ives Bay Line, England

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

This one might only last 10 minutes, but it's still worth it. Opened in 1877, this stretch of track zooms along the beauteous Cornish coast, a treasure trove of coves, azure seas, white-sand beaches, and beautiful coastal towns once adored by the likes of novelist Virginia Woolf and other celebrities. Tip: sit on the right side of the train for the best views, including a glimpse of the wispy sand dunes that eventually blend into the sparkly waters.

Snowdon Mountain Railway, Wales

Although it's more a tourist attraction and necessity for people who want a little help scaling the beautiful Snowdon mountain, this Victorian narrow-gauge railway is still worth exploring, if just for the breezy views. The ride from Llanberis Station and back takes about two and a half hours, which includes a 30-minute stop at the Hafod Eryri visitor center to take in epic views.

Keep your camera ready along the way to capture centuries-old farmhouses, ancient walls, the odd feral goat, and the towering Ceunant Mawr waterfall, which plunges more than 100 feet into a cavernous gorge. As it's pretty old, part of the way is blocked off, so the train currently only runs as far as Clogwyn, where you can hop off and walk the rest of the way to Hafod Eryri. If you're lucky, a clear day will allow you to see all the way to the coast of Ireland.

Caledonian Sleeper, England and Scotland

This old-school sleeper train connects London to Edinburgh via the scenic Lowlander and Highlander routes that weave through Scotland. Don't let the idea of sleeping on a train scare you — this locomotive is more like a hotel on rails: There are cabins with snuggly double beds, swish en-suite bathrooms, and for a dose of extra atmosphere, dimmable lights. A rather fancy dining cart ensures all bellies are fed for the 500-mile, eight-hour journey. This will give you an opportunity to try Scottish delicacies such as haggis and tatties (potatoes) served with a whiskey cream sauce. It's also worth waking up early to catch dawn breaking over the Northumbria countryside.

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UK Train Tours 2024/2025

Our island kingdom offers an amazing array of landscapes to explore by rail. Whether you're travelling past traditional seaside towns or over incredible mountain ranges, winding your way across wild moorland or steaming past the glens and lochs of Scotland - our green and pleasant land is full of beautiful and unexpected discoveries. And fascinating history is never far away; from ancient castles and centuries-old cathedrals to Viking cities, Tudor towns, and stately homes - the UK has it all, and it's right on our very own doorstep.

UK 2022 - last few places remaining!

Join us on tour and immerse yourself in the famous culture and bespoke scenery of the beautiful United Kingdom.

With landscapes as varied as local dialects, and history all around us, there’s plenty to explore nearer home. From the untamed Scottish Highlands and islands of the Outer Hebrides to the lakes, mountains and castles of the scenic Welsh countryside, we still have a few spaces remaining on our 2022 tours showcasing the very best destinations in the UK.

Book online now and save £50 per person on a 2022 UK break, departing in September and October.

But hurry, offer ends midnight on Wednesday 31st August.

UK Rail Holidays

Captivating cornwall.

5 Days from £649 per person

With its dramatic coastline and idyllic fishing villages, discover just what makes Cornwall so captivating. Enjoy fascinating history, amazing natural landscapes and scenic rail journeys.

Norwich & Norfolk

5 days from £409 PP

Explore the meandering waterways and heritage railways of Norfolk. Based in historic Norwich, this rural getaway takes in the North Norfolk Coast, the royal residence of Sandringham and quaint market towns.

The Peak District

5 Days from £399 per person

Experience the Derbyshire countryside in all its splendour, with visits to the spa town of Buxton, the magnificent Chatsworth House and the heritage Ecclesbourne Railway.

Royal Deeside & The Tornado Steam Train

5 days from £870 per person

Immerse yourself in the culture of Edinburgh and Aberdeen, with local food and whisky tastings, a visit to the fascinating V&A Museum of Design and a luxurious journey on the Aberdonian Tornado Steam Train.

Edinburgh, The Highlands & Islands

Explore the highlands of Scotland

9 Days from £1,595PP

From Edinburgh, cross the atmospheric lochs and glens of the Highlands as you make your way to the stunning Isle of Mull, tasting local whiskies and delicacies along the way.

Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man

6 Days from £745

Explore the Isle of Man’s unspoilt coastline via heritage rail, with trips on Britain's longest narrow-gauge railway and Douglas’ historic horse-drawn tram, and a drive along the famous TT racing circuit.

Railways & Castles of Wales

6 days from £695 PP

From your base in Llandudno, soak up stunning mountain scenery as you journey on historic steam railways and visit the region’s impressive medieval castles.

Flying Scotsman Steam Train & Classic Cambridge

3 Days from just £229 pp Departures: October 2 nights at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel with dinner & breakfast Train journey behind the Flying Scotsman on the heritage Mid-Norfolk Railway Free time in Norwich En-route visit to Cambridge

Tenby, Royal Mint & Brecon Mountain Railway

5 Days from just £349 pp Departures: October 4 nights at the Mercure Swansea Hotel with dinner & breakfast Excursions to the Royal Mint Experience, Cardiff & Tenby Heritage train journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway Scenic drive through the Brecon Beacons National Park

The Welsh Marches & Severn Valley Railway

5 Days from just £279 pp Departures: September 4 nights at the Bromsgrove Hotel & Spa, Bromsgrove with dinner & breakfast Excursions to Shrewsbury, Ludlow, Llandrindod Wells, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford & Worcester Heritage train journey on the Severn Valley Railway Cruise on the River Severn with light refreshments

The Unspoilt Isles of Scilly

6 Days from £1,095PP

Journey to a hidden treasure of the British Isles, an archipelago off the Cornish coast boasting azure seas and almost tropical climes. By overnight sleeper train from London, discover the glorious Islands of Scilly.

Yorkshire by Steam

5 Days from £375PP

Discover glorious Yorkshire, from the edge of the rugged Dales to its spectacular coastline, via the majestic North York Moors. Enjoy ancient York, delightful Brontë country and scenic railway journeys.

Isle of Man

6 Days from £620PP

A superb tour to the charming Isle of Man, with three full days of varied excursions to the island's old fashioned towns, pretty fishing ports and breathtakingly picturesque coastline on the different historic railways.

North Devon & Somerset

6 days from £649 per person

Uncover the West Country’s scenic railways, idyllic harbour towns and sprawling National Parks as you try award-winning Somerset cider, visit Buckfast Abbey and explore RHS Garden Rosemoor.

Cotswolds & the Severn Valley

5 days from £3 95PP

Discover glorious Worcester and its host of nearby attractions on this superb holiday, enjoying wonderful journeys on heritage railways including the Warwickshire Railway.

Great Little Trains of North Wales & Portmeirion

5 Days from just £299 pp Departures: October 4 nights at a selected hotel in Llandudno with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursions to Caernarfon & Portmeirion Heritage journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Great Orme Tramway & Ffestiniog Railway Free time in Llandudno

Isle of Wight

5 Days from £479 PP

Over half of the Isle of Wight is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore charming villages, striking coastal scenery and fascinating historical landmarks.

The Charms of the Channel Islands

7 Days from £1,395PP

Explore the stunning Channel Islands, discovering the history and incredible scenery of Guernsey, Jersey and Herm, visiting secluded beaches and ancient coastal castles.

Picturebook Pembrokeshire, Tenby & the Vale of Rheidol Railway

5 Days from just £369 pp Departures: April - October 4 nights at the Best Western Diplomat Hotel, Llanelli with dinner & breakfast Excursions to Haverfordwest, St Davids, Aberystwyth & Tenby Heritage train journey on the Vale of Rheidol Railway

Grand Tour of the UK

14 days from £2,695 per person

Imbued with centuries of history and culture, the UK is one of the most rewarding nations to travel around. Explore the length and breadth of Britain on this outstanding tour of the island. Discover ancient attractions, modern cities and wild landscapes from the rugged Rannoch Moor to the inspiring Stonehenge.

London & The Royal Windsor Steam Express

5 days from £770 per person

Spend 4 days getting under the skin of the English capital on this inclusive London city break. Enjoy 4-Star accommodation in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, meet with a Yeoman from the Tower of London, and ride the Royal Windsor Steam Express Train whilst sipping a chilled glass of Champagne.

The Harrogate Flower Show

6 days from £550 per person

On this horticulture-themed tour, we spend a day at the fabulous Harrogate Flower Show, travel across the North York Moors to Whitby by heritage steam railway and visit RHS Garden Harlow Carr.

9 Days from £1,375PP

Majestic lochs and glens lie in wait as we cross Edinburgh and the Highlands and visit historic castles and the Isle of Mull. We travel through the West Highlands and Cairngorms on this fabulous round trip climaxing with a 'Scottish Evening' on Edinburgh's stately Royal Mile.

Highland Adventure

5 days from £595 PP

Take in a stunning, unspoilt region by rail. Breathtaking scenery and fantastic journeys by mainline and steam railways; this tour takes in the very best of northern Scotland from our base in Inverness - the gateway to your Highland adventure.

Lakes and Dales by Steam

5 Days from £489 per person

On this scenic escape, step back in time on nostalgic heritage railways, enjoying the rugged countryside of the north of England – including the world-famous Lake District.

Isle of Man Heritage Rail Adventures

5 days from £799 PP

The Isle of Man boasts a wonderful rail heritage. Explore it by steam train, and on electric and mountain railways.

Edinburgh Tattoo

5 days from £695 PP

Experience the spectacle of marching bands when you visit the Edinburgh Tattoo by train, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. Complimenting the trip, witness incredible lochs, glens and mountains as we explore the West Highlands.

The Outer Hebrides & The Highlands

Enjoy an adventure to Scotland's idyllic Outer Hebrides

8 Days from £1,395PP

Enjoy an adventure to Scotland's idyllic Outer Hebrides and The Highlands on a tour that takes in two of the UK's most famous train lines, the West Highland and the Jacobite, as well as time in Stornoway and Isle of Barra.

Scottish Highlands

7 Days from £645 PP

Travel to the heart of the Scottish Highlands and take in the marvellous lochs and glens as you travel by train on the superb West Highland Line and cruise Loch Lomond.

The Highlands by Steam

6 Days from £595 PP

Experience Edinburgh before exploring the lochs, mountains and glens of Perthshire and the Cairngorms on spectacular mainline and steam railways from the pretty Perthshire village of Blair Atholl.

Yorkshire Dales & Moors

5 days from £665PP

Enjoy an immersive visit to 'God's Own County' as we explore Yorkshire. Discover the charms of the Yorkshire moors, enjoy local cuisine, and embark on two incredible heritage railway journeys on this exclusive tour of Yorkshire.

A Castle on the Shores of Loch Fyne

7 Days from £1080 PP

Set in idyllic, undiscovered surroundings overlooking picturesque Loch Fyne, a 19th century Baronial Castle awaits you on this magnificent tour. Cruise the open waters to the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, explore nearby Oban and Inveraray.

South Devon & the Dawlish Coast

5 Days from £595PP

Experience the English Riviera at its very best aboard two heritage railways, a river cruise and a journey along the Dawlish Coast by rail. Torquay provides the perfect base, set among seven green hills and famous for its grand Victorian villas and terraces gazing out to sea.

The Best of Scotland and Ireland

13 Days from £2,695PP

Three of the British Isles most scenic countries combine on a tour that showcases the best of these Celtic beauties. Beginning in Scotland, explore the majestic Highlands and its most incredible cities, before venturing over to Northern Ireland and the rest of the Emerald Isle, a land of incredible culture and tradition.

The Isle of Scilly

7 days from £1,695PP

The enchanting Isles of Scilly await on this stunning tour. Explore the Islands, surrounded by azure waters, and filled with a magical variety of gardens, towns, and beaches, and enjoy a trip on the St Ives Bay Line.

Valleys & Railways of Mid-Wales

5 days from £590PP

From picturesque coastline to rolling hills, explore the very heart of the renowned Welsh countryside on this exciting tour. Enjoy classic heritage railway journeys along some of the country's oldest lines and roll through the stunning scenery that Wales has become synonymous with.

Yorkshire & Northumberland

7 days from £895PP

Visit historic York, discover Northumberland’s rugged castles, and bask in the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales on this scenic rail tour of God’s Own Country - and beyond.

Railways of Wales

6 Days from £495 per person

Julie Walters has sprung onto our screens with her fabulous ‘Coastal Railways’ series, taking us the length of Great Britain. Why not follow in Julie's footsteps and enjoy a fantastic tour of North Wales, based in charming Llandudno. From here we discover the historic steam railways and impressive castles found along the coastline of this beautiful and mountainous region of Wales.

Coach Tours From Yorkshire

Portmeirion and snowdon railway.

Dates between 29/05/2022 - 21/08/2022 Duration 7 Days From £409 Price Per Person

Take a trip on the Snowdonia Railway. Portmeirion (entry included in tour cost) is set on its own peninsula on the southern shores of Snowdonia. Its dreamlike Italianate quality made it the setting for the famous TV series The Prisoner.

Leeds Castle and Bluebell Railway

Dates between 04/05/2022 - 20/07/2022 Duration 5 Days From £299 Price Per Person

Travelling on the fine steam Bluebell Railway, we pass through the gentle Sussex Weald (fare included in tour cost). Sheffield Park gardens has 4 lakes and a cricket pitch laid for the first ever cricket match between England and Australia.

Botanic Gardens & Breacon Railway

Dates between 11/05/2022 - 07/09/2022 Duration 5 Days From £269 Price Per Person

Take a trip on the Brecon Mountain Railway, which winds its way high into the Beacons National Park (return fare included in tour cost). The railway was conceived over 40 years ago.

Coach Tours From South East

Dates between 08/05/2022 - 18/09/2022 Duration 7 Days From £369 Price Per Person

Dates between 21/05/2022 - 01/10/2022 Duration 5 Days From £299 Price Per Person

Dates between 30/04/2022 - 09/07/2022 Duration 5 Days From £269 Price Per Person

Bridlington & North York Moors Railway

Dates between 19/06/2022 - 21/08/2022 Duration 7 Days From £419 Price Per Person

Enjoy a scenic journey by train from Pickering to Goathland. Our heritage train takes us through the dramatic North York Moors National Park to Goathland Station which was made famous by the first Harry Potter film.

The Devon Rivers and Railway Tour

Dates between 21/05/2022 - 03/09/2022 Duration 5 Days From £249 Price Per Person

South Devon Railway is the longest established steam railway in the South West (fare included). Its seven miles long and runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.

Coach Tours From North East

Dates between 15/05/2022 - 18/09/2022 Duration 7 Days From £379 Price Per Person

Dates between 27/04/2022 - 07/09/2022 Duration 5 Days From £294 Price Per Person

Dates between 29/06/2022 - 07/09/2022 Duration 5 Days From £289 Price Per Person

Dates between 10/05/2022 - 18/09/2022 Duration 7 Days From £359 Price Per Person

A Tour Of The Welsh Scenic Railways

Dates between 04/05/2022 - 14/09/2022 Duration 5 Days From £309 Price Per Person

The steam engines take us on a 5 mile return journey alongside Lake Padarn, past the 13th century Dolbadarn Castle & Llanberis' twin lakes (Fare included). The train runs through the Padarn Country Park & gives stunning views of Snowdon.

Dates between 18/05/2022 - 07/09/2022 Duration 5 Days From £289 Price Per Person

Severn & Wye Rivers and Railways

Dates between 23/05/2022 - 10/10/2022 Duration 5 Days From £329 Price Per Person

The Severn Valley Railway (fare included in tour cost) is a full-size heritage railway line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. The Brecon Mountain Railway was conceived over 40 years ago with construction starting in the late 1970s.

Tenby, St Davids and Gwili Railway

Dates between 01/05/2022 - 14/09/2022 Duration 5 Days From £299 Price Per Person

Known as 'the friendly line', this steam and diesel railway operates on part of the former Carmarthen to Aberystwyth line. The journey takes in some delightful natural scenery and industrial heritage. There is also a miniature railway display to enjoy.

Western Lakes & Eskdale Railway

Dates between 24/05/2022 - 19/09/2022 Duration 5 Days From £299 Price Per Person

We enjoy a scenic trip on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (included in tour cost). The railway climbs from near the Cumbrian coast to the tiny village of Boot in Eskdale. The line is known locally as La'al Ratty and its 3 ft gauge predecessor as Owd Ratty.

Fort William and The Jacobite Railway

Dates between 12/06/2022 - 07/08/2022 Duration 7 Days From £439 Price Per Person

Fort William to Mallaig has been described as the greatest journey in the world. You will travel through beautiful villages and breathtaking scenery on board the world famous steam train ‘The Jacobite’

Rail Tours In The UK

Those seeking a getaway closer to home will enjoy one of our tours of the United Kingdom or the Emerald Isle. From London's famous sights, to the stark landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, the UK offers a wealth of fascinating experiences, whilst Ireland's Ring of Kerry and west coast enchant with verdant countryside, welcoming villages and hearty food and drink. 

Stunning coastlines, ancient mountains, and magnificent cities - all of this and much more lie on your doorstep in the wonderful countries that make up the Great British Isles and stunning Ireland. Discover them both from the most exciting vantage point - on board some of their most incredible railway lines.

Discover the wealth of beauty just outside your door on an exception tour around the Great British Isles. From God’s Own County of Yorkshire, where the rolling hills and stunning scenes are best seen on board a nostalgic steam train, to the quaint personality of the Isle of Man, filled with numerous rail experiences. There is a plethora to see and do in England, Scotland, and Wales, so have a look at some of our fabulous tours below.

Some of our greatest rail adventures can be found on our doorstep. The UK is full of fantastic experiences, uncovering the culture and history of a nation of beauty and intrigue. Discover castles, mountains, railways and more with these latest additions to our UK collection of escorted rail tours. Take a look at the links below for more information.

With spectacular locations across the UK, sometimes the perfect holiday is closer than you think! Our comprehensive range of short breaks across England, Wales and Scotland whisk you away to the fantastic destinations up and down the four nations, uncovering thriving cities, marvellous railway journeys, and magnificent mountains and lochs. With the excellent inclusive nature of our tours, you can be sure that these short getaways offer true value for money, featuring handpicked experiences, comfortable hotels and fabulous meals.

Discover the rugged moors and spectacular coastlines of Yorkshire by rail. Or, perhaps the meandering waterways of Norfolk tickles your fancy? You could even take a royal visit to Sandringham, favourite retreat of Her Majesty the Queen, where you can explore the stunning house and acres of land. Or, you may prefer the chance to enjoy the breathtaking, UNESCO-listed Lake District in all of its glory! Wherever you want to explore in the UK, make sure you do it with Rail Discoveries.

From rugged coastlines, wild moorlands and shimmering lakes to cosmopolitan cities filled with vibrant life and culture, the Great British Isles are filled with ancient landscapes and world-famous landmarks. There’s a wealth of beauty to be discovered across the UK.

5 MUST SEE SIGHTS IN GREAT BRITAIN

Often, it’s easy to ignore the beauty that lies beyond our doorstep, and Great Britain boasts some truly splendid sights. There’s history and culture galore, from the Victorian-era horse-drawn trams of the Isle of Man and Wales’ wonderfully preserved 13th-century Conwy Castle, to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, famous for its religious heritage and unique tidal causeway. Then there’s the natural delights, including the Scilly Isles’ subtropical Tresco Abbey Gardens, and the remote, wild Butt of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

Culture-packed Holidays

Step into a world of storybook beauty as you discover the charms of England’s nostalgic railways and fairytale castles. A treasure trove of spectacular scenery awaits as you discover the country in the best possible way – by rail – relaxing and soaking in the views that speed by your window. And with visits to the country’s most captivating castles included, you’ll uncover unique history and heritage along the way too.

Experience the UK From the Tracks

From the lush green valleys of Wales and shimmering lochs of the Highlands to the wild and timeless moorlands of Northern England, the inspiring natural beauty of the UK is just a stone’s throw away. Join us and step back to a bygone age, when life was enjoyed at a slower pace, as we discover the best of these cinematic landscapes from the UK’s most scenic railways.

UK Summer Hotspots

With a summer of home-grown exploration on the cards, we’re delving into some of the UK’s lesser-known beauty spots. From end of the line destinations, such as Kyle of Lochalsh, to remote islands and the Mediterranean stylings of Wales’ north west coast, there’s still new places to visit and unexpected sights to admire.

Kyle of Lochalsh Take in Edinburgh and cross the Highlands, making visits to historic castles and the Isle of Mull. At the end of the Kyle Line, pretty Kyle of Lochalsh awaits, a village of whitewashed buildings home to an attractive harbour.

Isle of Harris Soak up the spectacular natural majesty of Scotland with visits to the Outer Hebrides, including the Island of Lewis and Harris, known for its sandy beaches and rugged mountains, and the ever-dramatic Highlands.

Portmeirion Experience the best of North Wales, soaking up the scenery with rides aboard historic steam railways and time at impressive castles. You’ll also explore Portmeirion, with its unique collection of Italian-influenced architecture and southern European flair.

Peel The Isle of Man is famous for its stunning coastline, historic railways and gentle pace of life. It’s here you’ll find idyllic Peel. Despite a population of less than 5,000, it’s the island's only 'city', home to a quaint cathedral and Viking castle.

Herm The stunning Channel Islands dot the sea between England's south coast and France, boasting gorgeous scenery and beautiful beaches. Discover natural beauty of Guernsey, Jersey and Herm, a destination with no cars, crowds or stress.

Ring of Kerry Three of the British Isles' most scenic countries come together on a holiday that showcases the best of Celtic heritage. In particular, the Ring of Kerry is sure to take your breath away with its dramatic mountain and coastal scenery and picturesque villages.

Explore Great British Gardens

For many of us, this past year our gardens have offered much-needed respite – the perfect way to soak up the sun and relax amongst the beauty of nature. This summer, though, it’s time to explore the gardens just beyond our doorsteps. From the subtropical splendours of Tresco’s Abbey Gardens to neatly manicured Chatsworth Gardens, discover an idyllic blend of nature and heritage on a holiday that showcases the UK’s world-class green spaces.

Tresco's Abbey Gardens

Bask in the beauty of Tresco’s Abbey Gardens on the Isles of Scilly. Opened in 1834, they’re a scenic slice of history filled with exotic plants and towering palm trees.

Chatsworth House

Discover the delights of the Peak District before heading to Chatsworth Gardens to admire the majestic Emperor fountain, market gardens and floral arrangements.

Royal Sandringham

Explore like royalty on a visit to the Queen’s residence of Sandringham, set within acres of beautiful landscaped gardens in the heart of rural Norfolk.

Blair Castle

A fairytale Scottish castle with exquisite gardens, discover a landscape of fruit orchards, wooded groves, landscaped ponds and free-roaming peacocks at Blair Castle.

Explore The Scenic Railways Of The UK!

Weave through England's finest rural landscapes and chug through miles of fantastic scenery on one of our incredible UK Railway Tours.

We have put together a list of tours which include trips and opportunities to journey along the great railway lines of the UK. With a plethora of resorts dotted around the country, you can find a railway tour to suit everyone. Why not try our Portmeirion and Snowdon Railway Tour complete with a stay in Criccieth!

Stand Out Sights and Unforgettable Experiences

We can’t wait to pick up our explorations of Great Britain and Ireland next year, and we’ve got some exciting things planned for 2022. With an impressive range of hand-selected unforgettable experiences made possible by our new smaller group sizes of 25, get ready to take a private tour of Castle Howard before it opens to the public, go on a unique Highland cow safari or experience toe-tapping Irish music at the famous Merry Ploughboy in Dublin.

Uncover the Wonders of Great Britain and Ireland

From the incredible coastlines and ancient castles of Wales and Scotland to the emerald landscapes of Ireland and the heritage steams trains of England, you’ll enjoy homegrown adventures across all four corners of the UK, filled with unique experiences exclusively designed for smaller groups of 25. Take a look at all the tours available on our website.

Doorstep Discoveries

From the idyllic Cotswolds to the wild and wonderful Scottish Highlands, these holidays showcase the extraordinary sights right on your doorstep. And, alongside trusted customer favourites, we also have a brand-new holiday that takes in the scenic and cultural charms of Devon and Somerset. Book online today and get ready to find your next UK adventure.

From the beautiful countryside of the Peak District to the heritage steam railways of Wales and the rugged scenery of the Scottish Highlands, it’s easy to forget how spoilt for choice we are with the destinations on our doorstep. If you’re thinking of a staycation this year, our range of UK-based rail holidays offer history, culture and culinary delights, all as you take in some of our nation’s most beautiful scenery.

Enjoy a Flavour of the UK

There’s so much to discover just beyond our doorsteps, from the wild and wonderful Yorkshire moors to the Isle of Man’s nostalgic railways. In 2022, holidays in the UK are looking to be as popular as ever, and, with just a handful of spaces left on some unmissable adventures across England, Scotland and the Isle of Man, you’ll need to act fast to secure your place.

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

Discover Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly as we explore St Ives and St Mary's, meet the curator of Tresco's Abbey Gardens, and journey on the Riviera Sleeper Train.

Yorkshire and Northumberland

Follow in Viking and Roman footsteps in historic York, discover the rugged castles and elegant gardens of Northumberland, and bask in the verdant beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.

Experience the timeless charm of the Isle of Man with its fantastic range of railways, including steam, electric and tram journeys, idyllic landscapes and classic seaside towns.

Orkney, Shetland and the Caledonian Sleeper

Uncover atmospheric castles, charming fishing ports, ancient archaeological sites and captivating wildlife in Orkney and Shetland, and enjoy two journeys on the Caledonian Sleeper.

Staying Closer to Home?

Now’s a great time to discover the delights of a UK-based holiday. For such a small island, we’re blessed with so many fascinating places to visit, thousands of years of history to explore, idyllic landscapes to discover and a range of gorgeous rail journeys, including heritage steam-hauled lines, to take you there.

The UK is packed with captivating culture, blending historic cities and idyllic towns with breathtaking rural landscapes. Our iconic rail journeys offer the perfect way to explore the home-grown beauty and heritage waiting to be explored on your doorstep. Discover a host of fantastic UK escapes and start planning your next escape.

Discover More of our Sceptered Isle

If you’ve found yourself fascinated by the changing, dramatic and mystical landscapes of ITV’s Wonders of the Border series, you may well be looking towards our own isle for holiday inspiration. As sponsors of the programme, we have a few home-grown recommendations of our own. If you’re looking for a shorter, easygoing break encompassing coasts, castles and thousands of years worth of history, we have a rail tour for you..

Tour Information:

The Giant's Causeway and Irelands North West - Norwich & Norfolk - Yorkshire by Steam - Norwich & Norfolk Broads - The Isle of Man - Cotswolds & Severn Valley - A Castle on the Shores of Loch Fyne - Highlands by Steam

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There really is a pleasurable side to rail travel and it’s here ready for you to enjoy to the full.

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Bank holiday travellers face air traffic control delays plus rail and road disruption

Streamers from the notting hill carnival became entangled in overhead wires outside london paddington, halting rail services on sunday evening, article bookmarked.

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Air traffic control problems are returning to haunt August bank holiday travellers – as rail and road disruption also takes hold across the country.

Over the weekend many passengers are experiencing delays as a result of what Ryanair calls an “air traffic control staff shortage” across the continent.

Europe’s biggest budget airline said one on eight of its “first wave” of flights on Monday were delayed because of air-traffic control (ATC) hold-ups. The airline posted on its website: “These repeated flight delays due to ATC mismanagement are unacceptable. We apologise to our passengers for these repeated ATC flight delays which are deeply regrettable but beyond Ryanair’s control.”

On the same bank holiday Monday last year air traffic control systems at Nats , the main UK air navigation provider, shut down in response to an unusual flight plan . Around 2,000 flights were cancelled and 300,000 passengers had their travel plans wrecked.

At least one flight on Sunday night was diverted because delays had built up so much, with easyJet flight 8483 from London Gatwick to Basel taking off more than two hours late. The Airbus jet was making a normal approach to the Franco-Swiss airport when about 10 minutes from landing it changed course and flew around 200 miles to Lyon.

Passengers were told: “We’re very sorry that your flight has now been diverted. This is due to air-traffic control restrictions throughout today have delayed your flight outside of the opening hours of Basel airport.

“Some airports have strict operating times which cannot be extended. As a result we had no option but to divert your flight.”

They completed the journey through the night on buses. But passengers waiting at Basel to fly to London were told their flight was cancelled and the plane flew empty from Lyon back to Gatwick.

A spokesperson for easyJet said: “Flight EZY8483 from London Gatwick to Basel on 25 August was required to divert to Lyon due to earlier delays caused by air traffic control restrictions, which meant the aircraft would not have been able to reach Basel before the airport’s night curfew. As a result, the return flight EZY8484 from Basel to Gatwick was cancelled.

“We did all possible to minimise the impact of the disruption for our customers and provided onward coach transfers to Basel for passengers on the diverted flight. Passengers whose flight was cancelled were entitled to a refund or a transfer to the next available flight and were offered hotel accommodation and meals where required.

“Whilst this was outside of our control, easyJet would like to apologise to passengers for any inconvenience caused. The safety of its passengers and crew is the airline’s highest priority.“

Yet at least five other easyJet aircraft landed at Basel after the flight from London would have touched down. The Independent has asked easyJet for clarification.

Thousands of airline passengers found their rail journeys to and from the key London airports disrupted on Sunday night by a series of issues.

Lines in and out of London Paddington were closed for a time after streamers from the Notting Hill Carnival became entangled in overhead wires.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “We had a series of incidents around the Ladbroke Grove area, including a reported trespasser and objects thrown onto the overhead lines in multiple locations, which meant that passenger services could not safely be run on all lines.

“Passenger services were therefore restricted whilst the objects, which turned out to be plastic streamers that had become entangled in the overhead wires, were safely removed.

“We’re incredibly sorry to any passengers disrupted and thank them for their ongoing patience and understanding during this time.”

In addition there was a track issue plus an electrical failure on the Thameslink line linking Luton and Gatwick airports with central London, and a broken rail at Harlow that halted the Stansted Express.

Rail passengers have so far endured a much worse bank holiday weekend than expected . Long-planned engineering work has disrupted three key intercity lines to and from London, with closures, cancellations and diversions.

The East Coast main line, which connects London King's Cross with Yorkshire, northeast England and Scotland, has now reopened – but LNER, the main operator has some curtailed trains as a result of staff shortage and overrunning engineering work elsewhere.

On the West Coast main line, work at London Euston – for the now-paused HS2 project – has reduced the number of trains. And the Great Western route through the Severn Tunnel is closed, with trains between South Wales and London diverted via Gloucester – extending journeys by an hour.

Away from the engineering work, GWR passengers faced widespread cancellations due to staff shortage: one in 10 trains on Sunday was cancelled, with passengers urged to travel on Monday instead. But that will add to pressure on already heavily booked services.

Insufficient staff is also affecting other rail firms. West Midlands Railway is warning: “Due to an anticipated lack of available train crew at key locations across our Snow Hill lines and Worcester - Hereford routes through the bank holiday weekend, we are unfortunately expecting disruption to train services.”

Many trains are expected to be cancelled, with limited rail replacement buses.

On the roads, the RAC predicts heavier bank holiday traffic than at any time since it started recording data in 2015 . Delays are expected on roads serving coastal resorts and on routes for the Leeds and Reading music festivals.

Returning motorists from continental Europe could encounter problems at Calais due to enhanced post-Brexit passport checks.

Strikes affecting travellers resume next weekend. At London Heathrow, 650 officers working for UK Border Force will stop work from 31 August to 3 September in a dispute over rosters. Also on 31 August, train drivers belonging to Aslef will begin 11 weekends of walkouts over a range of issues.

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September 2024 strikes: Full list of walkout dates, from train drivers to Heathrow

Despite a number of new pay deals for public sector workers travel disruption is on the cards for september as more industrial action is planned.

The Labour Government has agreed a series of new pay deals in the public sector since coming to power but industrial action is still on the cards next month.

Sir Keir Starmer has given the go-ahead to fresh pay settlements for junior doctors, NHS staff, teachers and civil servants among others since entering 10 Downing Street in July.

Aslef has also agreed to recommend a new pay proposal to its members, from 16 rail companies, which could see an end to two years of rail strikes.

Nonetheless, September will see train drivers at rail firm LNER walk out on a series of weekends.

While hundreds of Border Force staff at Heathrow airport are also expected to strike at the start of the month hitting holidaymakers heading home before the start of the new school year.

Here’s what we know about the planned action for next month.

When are the train strikes in September?

Train drivers at LNER, the rail firm which runs the passenger service on the East Coast main line between London and Edinburgh, plan to walk out every Saturday between 31 August and 9 November and every Sunday from 1 September to 10 November.

In September, this will mean strikes on the following dates:

• Saturday 31 August – Sunday 1 September
• Saturday 7 – Sunday 8 September
• Saturday 14 – Sunday 15 September
• Saturday 21 – Sunday 22 September
• Saturday 28 – Sunday 29 September

Aslef said the planned action follows a breakdown in industrial relations, bullying by management and the persistent breaking of agreements by the company.

The union said it is an entirely separate dispute from the national pay dispute.

Mick Whelan, Aslef general secretary, said: “The continued failure of the company to resolve long-standing industrial relations issues has forced us into this position.

“We would much rather not be here.

“But the company has brutally, and repeatedly, broken diagramming and roster agreements, failed to adhere to the agreed bargaining machinery and totally acted in bad faith.

“When we make an agreement, we stick to it. This company doesn’t.

“And we are not prepared to put up with their boorish behaviour and bullying tactics.”

LNER has said its “priority focus will be on minimising disruption to customers” during the forthcoming strikes.

A spokesperson for the firm told i previously: “We are surprised and disappointed to hear this news following recent constructive conversations.

“We will continue to work with Aslef to find a way to end this long-running dispute which only damages the rail industry.”

The firm said it was “working quickly to understand the impact this will have on our planned timetables for these dates and will be contacting affected customers once plans are confirmed”

If strike action goes ahead, the company said it will be running a reduced timetable.

It is likely any weekend industrial action will have a knock-on effect for the working week as services re-start on Mondays.

When are the Heathrow strikes?

Border Force staff at Heathrow airport are also planning to strike in September in a row over changes to terms and conditions.

The Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) announced this month that hundred of Border Force staff at the London airport plan to take industrial action over 23 days from 31 August.

The 650 members of the PSC will be on strike from  31 August to 3 September , then working-to-rule and refusing to work overtime until 22 September .

Train drivers on LNER to stage series of strikes despite pay deal

Fran Heathcote, PCS general secretary, said: “Our hard-working members at Heathrow take great pride in keeping our country’s border safe, but many are being forced out of the job they love.

“They’re being told by managers to choose between caring responsibilities and their job, which is no choice at all. The only reason they’re being forced to choose is because their managers are forcing them.

“We know our strike action is likely to cause serious disruption to travellers using Heathrow at the end of the summer, but the strike can be avoided if the employer listens to the concerns of our members.”

The Home Office, which runs the Border Force, said it appreciated “the tireless work that Border Force do to keep our borders safe and secure” and it was committed to “continuing our conversations with the union so we can find an agreement that works for both the public and staff.”

A spokesperson added: “We will have robust plans in place to minimise disruption where possible, but we urge passengers to check the latest advice from operators before they travel.”

Heathrow airport, which at peak holiday times is used by about 250,000 passengers a day, said disruption had been avoided during past strikes.

It said it had “previously worked closely with Border Force to support their contingencies during strike periods, which have seen passengers continue to travel smoothly”.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

M25 misery for bank holiday drivers ‘crawling for miles’ at Dartford Crossing

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Traffic on the M25 has come to a near standstill leaving August bank holiday drivers suffering.

Huge queues are stretching back at the Dartford Crossing where the M20 and M25 meets the A282.

Congestion is tailing back almost six miles from the Dartford Tunnel to junction three at Swanley, while several other areas of the motorway network are slow-moving.

Charlotte Woollven, who is stuck in the gridlock, said on X: ‘Traffic crawling for miles on the approach to the Dartford Crossing. I guess this is just the norm now?’

Motorists across the UK have been warned they will face severe congestion on major roads with traffic jams highly likely.

The M5 near Bristol is also experiencing delays of up to 50 minutes for those heading south-west.

Chaos on the roads will only be further impacted by the grim weather, with a Met Office warning for rain in place across parts of the country today.

• 2d ago M4 Severn Bridge to be shut for emergency roadworks
• 2d ago Heavy M25 traffic ‘crawling for miles’ at Dartford Crossing
• 2d ago M5 near Bristol hit by 50-minute delays
• 2d ago Major engineering work on UK rail lines

M4 Severn Bridge to be shut for emergency roadworks

The Prince of Wales Bridge on the M4, also known as the Severn Bridge, is set to be closed overnight, National Highways has confirmed.

It will be shut between midnight and 3am for ’emergency roadworks’.

*Emergency Roadworks* We are CLOSING the #M4 #PrinceofWalesBridge westbound between J21 #M4 /M48 split and J23 #Undy TONIGHT from 00:00 until 03:00 tomorrow morning (25/08/24). Diversion via #M48 #SevernBridge . Thank you for your patience. pic.twitter.com/txwCtgJNA4 — National Highways: South-West (@HighwaysSWEST) August 24, 2024

Dartford Crossing traffic still slow moving

It’s still slow going through the Dartford Crossing this afternoon.

Congestion has eased ever so slightly compared to a few hours ago, but traffic is still queuing back towards junction 2 heading anti-clockwise through the tunnels.

Petrol station on one of UK’s busiest holiday roads is also one of the cheapest places to fill up

AA’s study also found that a petrol station on one of the UK’s busiest holiday roads – the A303 near Stonehenge – will be offering fuel for less than 140p a litre – the first time that this has happened this summer.

Data supplied to the Competition and Markets Authority shows that petrol at the Solstice service area is selling petrol for 40p less than at most motorway service stations at 138.7p per litre.

Between July 16 and August 19, the average UK pump prices have fallen from 145p and 150p for a litre of petrol and diesel respectively to 142p and 147p respectively.

Three-quarters of drivers expected to travel under 50 miles this bank holiday

Many drivers are expected to remain close to home this bank holiday weekend, avoiding the usually busy traffic.

A new survey of 11,235 people conducted by the AA found that while over 14 million drivers were expected to be travelling on the busiest day of the long weekend – yesterday – three-quarters of those heading out on the roads will be travelling under 50 miles, with only just over 10 per cent expected to get behind the wheel for up to 100 miles.

The quietest day, meanwhile, is predicted to be tomorrow, though still over a third of drivers will be out on the roads.

However, a third of drivers don’t expect to travel on any of the days across the bank holiday weekend.

Of those that are planning to head out on to the roads, just seven per cent are thinking of travelling to the coast while just under 10 per cent will be enjoying a long weekend away from home.

M25 traffic cameras show congestion at Dartford Tunnel

These motorway camera images are a tad grainy – but they still show the heavy traffic on the M25 upon the approach to the Dartford Crossing.

Slow-moving on a wet, miserable bank holiday weekend.

As we mentioned, it’s still taking around 40 minutes to travel less than six miles through the Dartford Tunnel.

Widespread congestion on M25

Multiple stretches of the M25 network are being hit by delays this afternoon. Here’s a quick look at the areas affected:

• A282 Dartford Tunnel northbound – congestion
• M25 junction 2 anti-clockwise – congestion
• M25 junction 5 clockwise near M26 – congestion
• M25 junction 7 anti-clockwise – congestion
• M25 junction 13 clockwise – broken down vehicle, one lane closed
• M25 junction 22-23 clockwise – congestion

Heavy M25 traffic ‘crawling for miles’ at Dartford Crossing

Queues are tailing back more than six miles at the Dartford Crossing.

It’s taking around 40 minutes to get through according to Google Maps.

Huge crowds at King’s Cross station in London for bank holiday getaway

The bank holiday getaway is in full swing today.

This image shows just how busy things are at King’s Cross station in London as passengers look to travel near, far and wide.

Travellers are being disrupted by a planned closure on the Waterloo & City line, a part closure on the Piccadilly line and a number of suspensions on the London Overground.

DLR trains are also operating a reduced service today.

A303 crash causes long delays heading towards south west

There are more delays heading south west this morning after a crash on the A303.

According to National Highways, the smash has happened on the westbound carriageway of the major road between the junctions for the A371 and A359.

Delays aren’t expected to clear until around 3pm today.

‘Take extra care if travelling,’ warns Met Office

A wet start across parts of the UK this morning, especially across southern England 🌧️ Take extra care if you are travelling, as some localised surface water flooding is possible in places ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/olaMtfDNWB — Met Office (@metoffice) August 24, 2024

The Met Office has warned people to ‘take extra care’ if you’re travelling today.

Forecasters have said surface water flooding is possible in some areas as a brutal weather front batters the UK.

Road users in the south east in particular need to be on alert with heavy rain coming down until at least the mid-afternoon.

Cameras show M5 traffic jam near Bristol

This is the picture right now on the M5 near Bristol heading towards the south-west.

Devon and Cornwall are two of the most popular destinations for the summer bank holiday weekend and it must feel like most of the country is trying to get there right now.

Motorway cameras between junctions 15 and 16 show just how slow moving things are.

National Highways says there are still delays of 50 minutes and warned disruption is likely to last well into the afternoon until at least 12.45pm.

M5 near Bristol hit by 50-minute delays

Traffic experts warned the M5 was likely to be slow-moving this bank holiday weekend – and they’re not wrong.

The major motorway route connecting Birmingham and the south-west is facing long delays this morning.

Drivers are being held up by around 50 minutes near Bristol on a stretch of the road between junctions 15 and 20 heading southbound, according to National Highways.

A spokesperson for traffic specialists Inrix previously advised drivers to avoid travelling between 12pm and 5pm today.

Major engineering work on UK rail lines

Network Rail is carrying out widespread engineering works across the bank holiday weekend.

According to National Rail, the ‘biggest, most disruptive’ work will be as follows:

London Kings Cross : On Sunday, August 25, train services on the East Coast Main Line to and from London Kings Cross will be significantly amended, with replacement buses operating, and some services not running at all. This work will also affect late Saturday night and early Monday morning journeys.

London Euston: For most of the weekend, a reduced and amended service will be operated by the train companies running on the West Coast Main Line to and from London Euston. Longer distance journeys, and local travel plans, may also be affected by work taking place in the Stoke-on-Trent / Macclesfield area.

Will the weather affect your journey today?

It’s a bit of double whammy this weekend with the bank holiday coinciding with the lovely Storm Lilian.

What would already be a chaotic couple of days on the roads has been made just that little bit more difficult by the grim weather.

Parts of London and the south east in particular are bearing the brunt of the rain with a Met Office warning in plance.

Liam Eslick, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said: ‘With that yellow warning, expect some small travel disruption.

‘I know it’s the start of the bank holiday so people may be out and about trying to get to their holiday destinations.

‘We do say take care when driving on roads, stick to the main roads where you can because more local tracks could see some surface water.

‘So do take care when travelling around through Saturday morning.’

Met Office warns drivers of ‘very wet’ conditions today

Travelling away for the #BankHolidayWeekend ? Be aware that Saturday morning will be very wet in the south with heavy rain bringing tricky driving conditions and perhaps some flooding in places 🌧️ Stay #WeatherAware ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/sqEeS96kky — Met Office (@metoffice) August 23, 2024

The worst times for traffic jams on August bank holiday weekend

Saturday is set to be as busy as it gets on the roads this August bank holiday weekend.

Transport analytics company Inrix has warned the worst times for traffic jams are likely to be between 10am and 1pm today.

It’s certainly worth checking ahead before you travel to plot out the path of least resistance when it comes to congestion.

The RAC estimates 19.2 million leisure trips by car will be made over the weekend.

That’s the highest since the motoring services company began recording data for the summer bank holiday in 2015.

MORE : What are the bank holiday opening times for McDonald’s, Greggs and KFC?

MORE : The groundbreaking London play that’s finally making theatre welcoming for Muslim audiences

MORE : What did the first Notting Hill Carnival look like?

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