Train journeys in the UK are amazing. You get to see farms, hills, animals, and mountains. It honestly makes you want to pack up and move to the countryside. It’s really cool.
If you like hills, mountains, or just nature in general, you’ll love it. The only problem with train journeys in the UK? They can be stupidly expensive, especially for a poor guy like me. But if you’re balling, then hey, no worries for you. Lucky you.
Train tickets can sometimes cost more than a flight to another country, which makes absolutely no sense, but hey, that’s life. If you book early, you might get a good deal, but if you just show up at the station? Good luck.
If you’re travelling anywhere in the UK, I highly recommend taking the train. Like I said, it’s ridiculously beautiful. Even if you’re addicted to your phone, you’ll find yourself looking out the window, going, “Wow… that’s actually really cool.” It’s that good.
So, in this article, I’m going to tell you which train journeys are the absolute best in the UK. Get ready, because these are the ones that’ll make you fall in love with train travel.
1. The Jacobite Steam Train (Scotland)
It’s often called the Hogwarts Express because it was in the Harry Potter film. And don’t worry, there’s no magic stuff in this train journey — but the view is still really beautiful without the magic.
The Jacobite Steam Train is one of the most famous train journeys in the world. It covers 84 miles round trip. This train journey is probably going to get stuck in your mind for the rest of your life. You will want to go again and again because the views are insane.
The duration on this train is 2 hours each way. Now, you want to know more about the view? OK, let me tell you.
Alright, so as the train goes forward a little, you will see the highest mountain in the UK. The mountain’s name is Ben Nevis. Make sure to keep an eye out for the Caledonian Canal, which connects Scotland’s east and west coasts.
As the train goes forward and forward, you will see Loch Eil. It’s a lake. The lake will reflect the sky, and you will feel like you’re in heaven — trust me — if it’s a sunny day. I mean, c’mon, you know how the UK’s weather is like.
Now moving on: the most famous part of the journey. The train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a 21-arch stone bridge that curves gracefully through the valley. Below, you’ll see Loch Shiel, a vast, deep-blue loch stretching into the distance.
In the middle of the loch, you’ll spot the Glenfinnan Monument, a tall tower dedicated to the Jacobite uprising of 1745. And when the train slowly crosses, you will feel amazing.
This train journey is special because the train is a steam train. The old-fashioned locomotive gives off a nostalgic, cinematic feel. So if you like the old trains, you will feel like a million dollars in this train journey.
2. The Settle–Carlisle Railway (England)
Nestled near Dent Village, this train station is the highest mainline station in England, sitting 1,150 feet above sea level.
Once you hop on the train and it starts moving, you’re greeted with stunning views of nature’s own Instagram filter.
But hold on, there’s more: you’ll soon enter the Blea Moor Tunnel. At 2,629 yards (or 2,405 metres for the metric fans), it’s one of the longest on the line, snaking beneath the moorland before emerging onto the Dent Head Viaduct.
Each season brings its own flavour to the journey. Spring? Think lush greenery and blooms everywhere. Summer? Still green, but with that perfect clear sky vibe. Autumn, though… full of rich colours but also misty mornings, which I’d rather avoid. And winter? Snow. Lots of it.
Now, this train station wasn’t just built overnight. Oh no, construction started in 1869 and finished in 1876. Over 6,000 workers braved the harsh elements to get it done. And trust me, respect those workers.
Many didn’t make it because, surprise, British weather isn’t just a nuisance; it’s dangerous. Seriously, don’t mess with it. It’s like the weather’s trying to test your patience and your survival skills.
The train ride lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes. No need to panic if you miss one, though — trains run several times a day. Tickets? Easy. Just grab them from the ticket office or hop online via National Rail.
3. The West Highland Line (Scotland)
The rail station opened in 1894. This is kind of an old one.
Anyways, this place has wonderful views. You will see beautiful landscape and gorgeous mountains. You will also see lakes and isolated islands.
Right at the start of the journey, you will pass over Rannoch Moor. Rannoch Moor is filled with purple heather, scattered lochs, and mountains in the distance. And if you’re lucky enough to go on a misty day, you will feel like you’re going through a different dimension.
The train also passes through Ardverikie Forest, where the train snakes past dense pine trees and quiet lochs. The scenery feels both serene and wild, offering the perfect mix of tranquillity and adventure.
And there are lots more, but these two were one of my friend’s personal favourites.
The duration of this train journey is 5 hours and 30 minutes from Glasgow to Mallaig. It’s a long ride, but trust me — don’t trust me, trust my friend — he said it was worth every minute.
Do you want to know a fact? During World War II, it was used for military transport, especially to move equipment. But after the war, there was a decline in passenger numbers as road transportation (cars and buses) became more common.
The West Highland Line became a bit more isolated and less frequently used, though it remained crucial for the local communities it served.
4. The Snowdon Mountain Railway (Wales)
The journey begins in Llanberis village, nestled beside Llyn Padarn. As you set off, you will see ruins of castles and many cool things.
Make sure you’re not on your phone this whole trip. Some parts might be boring, but there are things you can miss out on — like the Ceunant Mawr Waterfall.
You’ll catch glimpses of Llyn Peris and the remnants of the Dinorwic Slate Quarry, reflecting the area’s industrial past.
Halfway through the trip, you will see the landscape turning rugged with open slopes and rocky outcrops. There are also mountain goats — wild ones. So if you see one, you’re very lucky. Keep an eye out for them. It’s like an achievement if you see one — that’s how rare it is.
This train station was opened in 1896. The Snowdon Mountain Railway is the only rack and pinion railway in the UK. This system allows the train to climb the steep gradients of Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales at 1,085 metres.
At the top, you can visit the Hafod Eryri Visitor Centre (open in summer), which offers panoramic views. On a clear day, you might even spot Ireland!
The duration of this train journey is 1 hour from Llanberis Station to the summit of Snowdon. The total round trip is around 2.5 hours, including a 30-minute stop so you can look at the beautiful Welsh view from the top.
In late seasons, the train journey might be shorter than usual. The train may only go partway (to Clogwyn Station), making the round trip shorter — 2 hours, to be exact.
Tickets sell out quickly, especially in the seasons like spring to autumn. The railway runs March to October, but it mostly depends on the weather conditions.
Make sure you wear proper clothing before you go here because the weather changes rapidly. Wear layers, a waterproof jacket, and good shoes — that’ll be just fine.
5. The Cambrian Coast Line (Wales)
This has to be one of the best journeys I have ever been on. You can see literally everything. The train hugs the coastline, so you can get a really good view of the Irish Sea — and you might also spot dolphins.
The journey starts at Shrewsbury — it’s an English market town. This town has really cool architecture.
When you hop on the train and the real journey starts, you will pass through farmlands, woodland, and really beautiful villages.
You’ll cross the border into Wales, passing through quaint towns like Welshpool, overlooked by the grand Powis Castle. As the train leaves the town, the scenery transforms into a backdrop of rugged mountains and lush green valleys.
After a few moments, you will approach Aberdovey (Aberdyfi). Like I said, the rail is near the coastline, and there — that’s where you experience your true dream.
As you approach Barmouth, the train crosses the iconic Barmouth Bridge, a 113-year-old wooden viaduct spanning the Mawddach Estuary.
Travel tip: Sit on the left side of the train so you can get a better sea view. Afternoon journeys offer beautiful sunset views over the Irish Sea.
You can book tickets through major UK train operators and platforms. Websites like Trainline or Rail Europe offer easy booking and mobile tickets. If you have a UK railcard — Senior, 16-25, or Two Together — you can get up to 1/3 off fares.
More Than Just a Journey
These train journeys aren’t just special — they’re really special!
When I say special, I mean the kind of special that sticks in your heart long after the ride is over. You’ll be treated to views so breathtaking you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world (no passport required!).
If you’re hunting for the best journey with the most jaw-dropping views, let me save you some time: hop on The Jacobite Steam Train.
I mean, I love Harry Potter, and if you do too, you’ll be grinning like you just caught the Golden Snitch!
Not only does this ride boast incredible scenery, but the cherry on top? It’s a steam train. Yes — like stepping back into the 1800s, minus the top hats and telegrams.
If you’re ever in the UK, this is a must-do. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later — and me, hopefully. It’s an experience you won’t regret!
