Uncover Britain’s hidden history

200 years ago the world’s first passenger route opened and Britain became the birthplace of the modern railway. Railways allowed people to travel further, more quickly. This allowed leisure travel, and contributed to the growth of seaside resorts. It also allowed people to live further from their places of work as the phenomenon of commuting took hold. There’s no surprise then that Britain has a wealth of rich and diverse heritage that can be explored with easy access from the train.

With insider knowledge and insights from local community rail partnerships and station volunteer groups, we’ve collated a series of ideas for delightful days out, ideal for those who are fascinated by history. Take a look below and get ready to step back in time on your next scenic rail adventure.

Step back in time at Arundel

Often overlooked by travellers using Gatwick Airport as an international gateway, the Arun Valley Line is well worth exploring. One of the highlights is the charming market town of Arundel, look out for the impressive Arundel Castle nestled in the countryside from your train window as you arrive. During your visit be sure to uncover the areas rich history at the museum, marvel at the beautiful cathedral and browse the independent boutiques which are all a short walk from the castle.

Ride the cable cars in the Derwent Valley

Nestled in the heart of Derbyshire, the picturesque Derwent Valley Line provides easy access to Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and the historic cable cars at Matlock Bath.

You can also enjoy the valley on foot via the Derwent Valley Heritage Way, the scenic station to station walks or the picturesque Cromford Canal which runs parallel to the railway between Ambergate and Cromford.

Take the train to Tatton Park

Enjoy a trip along the charming Mid Cheshire Line from Manchester Piccadilly or Chester, leaving the train at the market town of Knutsford. From here head to Tatton Park, one of the UK’s more complete historic estates. It’s home to a Tudor Old Hall, Neo-Classical Mansion, 50 acres of landscaped gardens, 1000 acres of deer park and a rare breed farm: there’s plenty for all the family to explore.

Experience a spa town

Discover Buxton, a spa town that offers something for all ages when you take the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Buxton. Families with little ones will enjoy burning off energy at Buxton Pavilion Gardens and don’t miss a visit to the park’s miniature railway. Join a charming tram tour to delve deep into the area’s history with local guides or head underground to depths of nearby Poole’s Cavern.

Secrets of Scotland

Visit the site of the 1745 Battle of Prestonpans, see Meadowbank Stadium originally home to the 1970 Commonwealth Games and take a walk from Longniddry to Haddington and stroll along the old railway line when you take the train along the East Lothian Line.

Take a deep dive in Scotland’s history like never before with a visit along the picturesque Borders Railway to The Great Tapestry of Scotland, located a short walk from Galashiels Station. Scotland’s past comes vividly to life through the Tapestry with 160 panels and 140 meters of linen, depicting stories of Scotland’s people and landscapes unfolding over thousands of years from prehistoric to the present day.

Explore the legacy of pottery making in North Staffordshire

A trip along the North Staffordshire Line connects you with Stoke-on-Trent, affectionately known as The Potteries that boasts award winning museums. Explore the Gladstone Pottery Museum, the only complete Victorian pottery factory from the days when coal burning ovens mane the world’s finest bone china. Nearby you can discover the world famous Burleigh pottery and discover the mould store home to Europe’s largest collection of ceramic moulds at Middleport Pottery.

Code-breaking in Bletchley

Take the picturesque Marston Vale Line from Bedford to Bletchley to reach the iconic Bletchley Park, once home to top-secret World War II codebreakers. Understand the origins of computers we use today with a visit to The National Museum of Computing or learn about the development of radio communications technology at the National Radio Centre, both located inside Bletchley Park.

Uncover the inspiring stories of the Pilgrims

Over 400 years have passed since the famous Mayflower voyage that delivered the Pilgrims to North America. Follow in the footsteps of the Pilgrims as you explore the history by train. Visit Harwich, considered to be the place where it all began, explore the historic port where the Mayflower is believed to have been built and learn more about the ship’s captain who lived here. The Maritime Heritage Trail is great for those waiting to see more of the town’s maritime history.

Marvel at the stream in the sky

From the historic city of Chester, enjoy the picturesque scenery as you weave between the English and Welsh border, making your way to Shrewsbury along the Chester to Shrewsbury Line. Stop off and visit the World Heritage site at Pontcysyllte, and wave to the boaters below as you travel in parallel to Chirk Aqueduct. The first 11 miles of the Llangollen Canal is an outstanding piece of industrial and engineering heritage comprising of embankments, tunnels, viaducts and aqueducts as is often referred to as the stream in the sky.

Uncover the secrets of the Roman Empire

Journey on the historic Tyne Valley Line, originally opened in 1838, providing easy onwards access to Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site. Leave the train at either Hexham or Haltwhistle and hop onto the AD122 bus. Be sure to visit The Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre, a perfect place to start exploring Northumberland National Park, and a fantastic location to connect with nature and the area’s unique and special landscapes.

Historic railway stations

Britain’s railways are packed full of history and heritage, some of which can be uncovered at stations. The romantic setting of Carnforth Station is popular with film fans wanting to recreate ‘Brief Encounter’. Step into the station’s Heritage Centre to soak up the atmosphere of a bygone age, when this Victorian railway station once welcomed frequent steam trains. On the Cumbrian Coast, Workington’s historical display depicts the area’s industrial heritage and not too far away is Millom’s Heritage and Arts Centre celebrates the rich and vibrant past from Bronze Age through industrial renaissance to when sailing ships crowded the nearby harbour.

Peek behind closed doors during ‘open days’ festivals

Every September historic places and spaces across Britain open their doors (often for free) and welcome visitors to explore usually unseen areas. These festivals feature thousands of free events and experiences bringing people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history across England, Scotland and Wales. Railway themed open days can include signal boxes, station tours, heritage walks and more.

More information about each festival can be found below:
• Heritage Open Days – England, usually first two weeks in September
• Doors Open Days – Scotland, every weekend in September
• Cadw Open Doors – Wales, throughout September