10 scenic railways you may not have heard of
Looking to explore Britain beyond the usual tourist trails? Below are 10 scenic railways you may not have heard of but should definitely take a trip on. These hidden gems of the rail network, supported by community rail partnerships and station volunteers, offer breathtaking views, rich heritage, and unforgettable local experiences. From coastal curves to countryside climbs, here are 10 scenic railways across England, Wales, and Scotland that deserve a spot on your summer travel list.
Lockwood Viaduct, Penistone Line | Photo: Copyright (c) Nick James
The Penistone Line (Yorkshire)
Route: Huddersfield – Sheffield
Winding through the South Pennines, this line offers dramatic moorland views, charming market towns, and access to walking trails. Throughout your journey you will be treated to views of stone-built Yorkshire villages and lush rolling countryside. Look out below as you travel over impressive Victorian viaducts. Find out more…
Tamar Valley Line
Tamar Valley Line (Devon & Cornwall)
Route: Plymouth – Gunnislake
This short but spectacular journey crosses the Calstock Viaduct and follows the River Tamar through lush valleys. Sit back and relax as you travel past rolling green fields with cows and sheep peacefully grazing, sleepy villages and beautiful river crossings. Find out more…
Heart of Wales Line
Heart of Wales Line (Wales)
Route: Shrewsbury – Swansea
A true rural escape, this line meanders through rolling hills, remote villages, and historic market towns. It stretches for 121 beautiful miles from the quaint town of Shrewsbury, with its wonderful architecture and history, to the picturesque coastal city of Swansea in South Wales. Find out more..
Photo by Community Rail Cumbria.
The Cumbrian Coast Line (Cumbria)
Route:Â Barrow-in-Furness – Carlisle
Our list wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t this route on our 10 scenic railways list. Hugging the dramatic coastline of northwest England, this route offers a rich blend of breathtaking scenery, family-friendly attractions, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a local explorer or a curious visitor, here’s why this line deserves a spot on your travel list. Find out more…
Esk Valley Railway
Esk Valley Railway (North Yorkshire)
Route: Middlesbrough – Whitby
Tucked away in North Yorkshire, the Esk Valley Railway offers one of England’s most enchanting rail journeys. Running from Middlesbrough to Whitby, this route winds through the heart of the North York Moors National Park, connecting remote villages, historic landmarks, and stunning natural landscapes. Find out more…
Marston Vale Line crossing the Grand Union Canal
Marston Vale Line (Bedfordshire)
Route: Bedford – Bletchley
This peaceful route connects rural Bedfordshire with Milton Keynes, passing through nature reserves, historic villages and the world-famous Bletchley Park. It’s an ideal route to explore from London, with only a short 40 minute journey by train from London St Pancras. Find out more…
Arun Valley Line
The Arun Valley Line (Sussex, Southeast England)
Route:Â Gatwick – Bosham
This picturesque line meanders with the River Arun along the South Downs Way, past wetlands, thatch cottages and country pubs, to the sunny coastal gem of Littlehampton. Find out more…
Heckington Station | Poacher Line
Poacher Line (Lincolnshire)
Route: Nottingham – Skegness
From city to seaside, this line crosses the Lincolnshire Wolds and offers a relaxing route to the coast while passing the quaint market towns of Grantham, Sleaford and Boston. Find out more…
Highland Main Line
Highland Main Line (Scotland)
Route: Dunkeld & Birnam – Carrbridge
While better known than some, this line still surprises with its wild beauty and remote Highland stops. Be sure to grab a window seat and have your camera ready as the journey takes you through the stunning Cairngorms National Park. Leave the train at Dalwhinnie and you’ll have reached the highest station on the line. Find out more…
Tyne Valley Line
Tyne Valley Line (North East England)
Route: Newcastle – Carlisle
Stretching from Newcastle to Carlisle, this historic route follows the course of the River Tyne, weaving through rolling countryside, ancient settlements, and dramatic landscapes that tell the story of northern England, including the fascinating history of Hadrian’s Wall. Find out more…
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