Discover the beauty of train travel across North England
Discover the beauty of train travel across North England, an area renowned for its breathtaking scenery and rich history. Explore charming market towns scattered across Yorkshire, experience the birthplace of the modern railways in the North East or venture to the North West, a perfect base for your outdoor adventures. Whatever direction you decide to head in, you’re sure to find a delightful day out or splendid short break when you travel by train across Northern England.
Skipton – Gateway to the Dales
Heading northwest, you’ll reach Skipton, a market town crowned by a majestic 900-year-old castle. Often called the ‘Gateway to the Dales’, it’s your starting point for exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The journey itself, along the beautiful Bentham Line, offers postcard views of stone cottages, rolling hills, and grazing sheep.
Settle to Carlisle – One of England’s most scenic routes
If you’re craving true drama, take the legendary Settle to Carlisle line. With viaducts spanning vast valleys and charming heritage stations, this route is an experience in itself. Leave the train at Ribblehead and walk the short route to the base of the impressive viaduct. Bring a picnic and watch the trains pass overhead.
Whitby – Gothic heritage
Whitby, a gem on the Yorkshire coast. From York, take the scenic route to Whitby via Middlesbrough, along the stunning Esk Valley Railway. This seaside town is famous for its Gothic abbey, Dracula connections, and some of the best fish and chips you’ll ever eat.
Tyne Valley – Hadrian’s Wall
Running west from Newcastle to Carlisle, the Tyne Valley Line is a spectacular ride through Roman and rural England. Trains pass through the Tyne Gorge, lush valleys, and the rugged hills of Northumberland. Along the way, you’ll reach Haltwhistle, the geographical centre of Britain and a great base for exploring Hadrian’s Wall.
Tyne Valley
Bishop Line – Birth of the modern railway
Head to the birthplace of the modern railway during 2025 and commemorate 200 years since the opening of the world’s first passenger railway: The Stockton & Darlington Railway. At the heart of this nationwide celebration is the Bishop Line, a short but significant stretch of railway steeped in history, running from Darlington to Bishop Auckland. Head to Shildon, to visit the Locomotion Museum housing a world-class collection of locomotives from throughout the ages.
The Buxton Line – Manchester to the edge of the Peaks
The Buxton Line leaves the buzz of Manchester Piccadilly behind, steadily climbing through the Stockport suburbs into the lush green hills of the Peak District.
Arriving in Buxton, you’re greeted by a historic spa town with grand Georgian architecture, thermal springs, and the beautifully restored Buxton Crescent. It’s a perfect base for a weekend of walking, exploring the nearby caverns, or just soaking up fresh air and quiet.
The South Fylde Line – from Preston to the seaside
Less than an hour long, the South Fylde Line is a charming ride from Preston to Blackpool South, threading through Lancashire’s farmland and quietly bustling towns. Along the way, you’ll pass through places like St Annes on Sea, a charming seaside town with a Victorian pier.
This line offers a more relaxed, local experience compared to the busier Blackpool North route. And when you reach Blackpool South, you’re just steps from the promenade, pier, and classic British seaside fun. Fish and chips on the beach? Yes, please.
Cumbrian Coast Line – the sea train
For sheer drama and coastal scenery, few routes rival the Cumbrian Coast Line. Stretching from Carlisle to Barrow-in-Furness, it clings to the edge of the Irish Sea, offering uninterrupted views of wild beaches, salt marshes, and distant mountains.
Travelling by train across Northern England isn’t just a means of getting from place to place—it’s an experience in itself and there’s lots more to discover. Take a look at our map to see even more routes across the north and book your tickets with train operator, Northern here.
