Nature near the station – walking and wheeling by train
One of the joys of travelling by train is how quickly you can swap busy streets for open countryside, peaceful waterways, nature near the station, wildlife-rich landscapes and spectacular coastlines. Across Britain, community rail partnerships and station groups are helping people discover walking and wheeling routes that start just steps from the station, making it easy to enjoy the benefits of nature while choosing a more sustainable way to travel.
As part of our Tracks and Trails campaign, we’re celebrating some of the inspiring rail-linked routes that connect people with nature.
Walk the Heart of Wales Line
The Heart of Wales Line Trail is one of Britain’s best examples of rail and walking working hand in hand. Stretching for 141 miles between Craven Arms and Llanelli, the route follows one of the UK’s most scenic rural railways, allowing walkers to tackle the trail in sections using the train to reach and return from different stations.
A recent addition is the new Trail Passport, which encourages walkers to collect stamps from participating businesses along the route. Not only does it offer a memorable way to record progress, but it also supports local communities and independent businesses along the line. Walkers collecting ten or more stamps can even claim a certificate and trail gift.
Heart of Wales Line Trail
Discover Nature and Wellbeing in Worcestershire
The Worcestershire Community Rail Partnership has developed an impressive programme of rail-linked walking routes designed to connect people with nature and improve wellbeing. Their free Rail Trails and station-to-station walking guides make it easy to step off the train and onto routes through some of the county’s most beautiful landscapes.
A particularly inspiring project is the Worcestershire Parkway Eco Area, a biodiversity-rich space created in partnership with the Bee Friendly Trust. Located around Worcestershire Parkway station, the area includes pollinator-friendly planting, meadow habitats, wildlife interpretation, community artwork and spaces designed to encourage people to spend time outdoors and connect with nature.
Explore the Norfolk Broads on the Wherry Lines
The Wherry Lines offer a fantastic gateway to outdoor adventures, linking stations with the unique landscapes of the Norfolk Broads. Routes from stations including Buckenham, Reedham, Haddiscoe and Somerleyton take walkers through grazing marshes, riverside paths, nature reserves and some of the most important wetland habitats in the country. The gentle landscapes, abundant birdlife and expansive skies make the Broads a wonderful destination for a slower-paced day out in nature.
Wild landscapes on the West Highland Line
For those seeking dramatic scenery, few railways can match the West Highland Line. Known as one of the world’s great railway journeys, the line carries walkers deep into some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes.
The West Highland Community Rail Partnership promotes a range of walks from stations along the line, including routes from Corrour, Bridge of Orchy and Rannoch. Corrour, famously the highest and one of the most remote stations in Britain, offers access to vast moorland landscapes, lochs and mountain views that can only truly be appreciated on foot. Whether you’re tackling part of the West Highland Way, heading into the hills around Bridge of Orchy, or simply enjoying a lochside stroll, the train provides a sustainable and memorable route into Scotland’s wilderness.
Glennfinnan Viaduct, West Highland Line | Photo: Pixabay
Coastal and countryside trails in Swale
In Kent, visitors can get closer to nature by rail with a variety of walking and cycling opportunities across Swale. From coastal routes along the Saxon Shore Way to countryside trails and links into nature reserves, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the area’s distinctive landscapes. The network of routes makes it easy to combine a train journey with time spent exploring the coast, marshes and rural villages on foot or by wheel.
Following the Towpath: Canal Walks by Rail
Britain’s canals offer some of the most accessible walking and wheeling routes in the country, and many are easily reached by train. One standout example is the magnificent Five Rise Locks at Bingley in West Yorkshire, the steepest staircase locks on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Just a short walk from Bingley station, the route combines industrial heritage, waterside wildlife and beautiful views across the Aire Valley. Across the country, canal towpaths offer largely level routes suitable for a wide range of walkers and wheelers, making them ideal for those looking for gentle adventures close to nature.
Find even more inspiration for walking, wheeling and cycling and discover your next Tracks and Trails adventure here.
