Posted on 30 June 2021

“Anything is possible on a train: a great meal, a binge, a visit from card players, an intrigue, a good night's sleep, and strangers' monologues framed like Russian short stories.”   - Paul Theroux

Travel writer Paul Theroux is a well-known train lover, and his passion for moving by rail is shared by many in the UK.

And mercifully, while we in Britain may not have anything as nippy as a Japanese bullet train or a French TGV, we do have some fabulous rail routes that pass through some spectacular landscapes. And for the window-gazing train lover, perhaps the view is better enjoyed at 125mph, and frequently, much less.

Here are some of the finest railway journeys in the UK. Many can be enjoyed as part of a package deal, where you'll travel with fellow rail enthusiasts and take in some of the local attractions on the way. Alternatively, you might plan the whole adventure yourself, for maximum freedom.

The English Riviera and Devon

Explore this quintessential English holiday destination by rail, and take in the idyllic countryside and a picturesque coast.

Plymouth is a great starting point. From here, hop on the mainline to Torquay, and take in the awe-inspiring views as your train passes through rolling hills and edges the English Channel. You might stop off at Teignmouth or Dawlish for fish and chips, or possibly a Devonshire pasty.

Torquay of Fawlty Towers fame is a vibrant coastal town with a hint of faded Victorian seaside glory. After a stay in a typical Devonshire B&B (no Basil Fawlty in sight), why not head to Totnes and hop aboard the South Devon Railway, running to Buckfastleigh via seven miles of stunning countryside. The Butterfly Farm and Otter Sanctuary are must-visit attractions here, not to mention the Abbey of Buckfast wine fame (or infamy?).

Back in your cosy Torquay B&B, plan a day trip to Brixham by ferry and see the replica of Sir Francis Drake's Golden Hind warship (he defeated the Spanish Armada in the original). Try a Devonshire cream tea upon your return.

Next day, why not take the steam train along the English Riviera to Churston, then on to the Dart Estuary to Kingswear, via the charming wooded slopes of Long Wood. Hop on the ferry to Dartmouth for sightseeing, then enjoy a circular river cruise offering views of Bayards Cove, Kingswear and Dartmouth castles, Britannia Royal Naval College, Dittisham Village and Sir Walter Raleigh's Boathouse - the latter perched by the water's edge and backed by ancient woodland.

Return by stream train to Paignton with its long sandy beach, where more pasties and cream teas await.

If you don't fancy organising such an adventure by yourself, escorted packages are available including hotels, food and rail tickets.

Yorkshire Steam Railways

The North York Moors Railway winds its way through the picturesque Yorkshire Moors, passing through one of the oldest railway tunnels ever built.

The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, meanwhile, covers five miles of Brontë country - charming stone cottages, wild moorland and rugged hills.

Riding these legendary railways lets you explore Harrogate, famed for its restorative treatments and its Moorish-inspired Turkish baths; and the medieval city of York, with its mighty Minster rising over the crooked wooden houses below - one of the best-preserved medieval areas in the world.

A visit here might also include Whitby, with its brooding abbey that helped inspire Bram Stoker's Dracula, and of course a trip to a fish and chip restaurant - Whitby has some of the best in the county.

Escorted package deals are available for exploring these railways, which include hotels, stays, meals and of course railway tickets. Or you can organise a DIY rail adventure.

Scottish Highland Railways

There is perhaps no better way to enjoy the majestic Scottish Highlands than in the high riding position of a railway carriage. And in the Highlands, three fantastic routes place you in the heart of this epic part of Britain.

Inverness is a great starting point, with the lyrical beauty of the Kyle of Lochalsh as your objective.

The West Highland line, from Fort William to Malaig, is another must-try rail journey - 42 miles cutting through breathtaking scenery.

And completing this trio of routes, the steam-hauled Strathspey Railway offers yet more mountains, castles and affable locals.

Among the many highlights are crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct on the train ride from Fort William to Mallaig, and exploring the famous winter sports resort of Aviemore while in Fort William - not to mention the possibility of climbing the UK's tallest peak, Ben Nevis (1,345m).

Again, there are various escorted package options available that include accommodation, food and rail tickets. But of course, you may wish to organise the trip yourself, beginning simply by boarding a train at your local station.

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