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With sustainable travel on the rise, there's never been a better time to explore the UK by train. Unlike cars or buses, where you're normally crammed in and not the comfiest, or planes, where you miss the beautiful views as you're stuck in the clouds, travelling by train is a relaxed and leisurely way to travel. In this blog, we're going to unveil our top picks for the most scenic train journeys in the UK that span Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland and England including:
- Glasgow to Mallaig
- Swansea to Carmarthen
- Belfast to Derry
- Settle to Carlisle
- Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog
- London to Margate
- Perth to Inverness
- Shrewsbury to Pwllheli
- Oxford to Hereford
- Inverness to London
By the end of it, we guarantee that you'll be booking your train ticket and raring to explore the beauty of Britain.
Taking Scenic Train Journeys in the UK
How many train journeys are in the UK?
Thousands! Whether it's a quick commute or a scenic cross-country trip, the UK’s rail network has it all.
What's the longest train journey in the UK?
Aberdeen to Penzance – nearly 13 hours and 700 miles from Scotland to England’s southern tip. Long, but absolutely stunning.
What's the busiest train journey in the UK?
London Waterloo to Clapham Junction. Packed with commuters, this short stretch is the busiest in the country.
What's the most remote UK train journey?
The Far North Line from Inverness to Wick and Thurso. Think remote Highlands, rugged landscapes, and wildlife – pure adventure.
The Most Scenic Train Journeys in the UK
1. Glasgow to Mallaig
Journey duration: 5 hours
Why it's special: This West Highland Line is an absolute beauty. Think rugged coastlines, shimmering lochs, and dramatic mountain ranges. Oh, and did we mention you pass over the Glenfinnan Viaduct – aka, the Harry Potter bridge?
Where to stay: Mallaig is a quaint fishing village with cosy B&Bs and plenty of seafood restaurants to tuck into after a day’s exploring.
2. Swansea to Carmarthen
Journey duration: 1 hour
Why it’s special: This short yet sweet journey runs through the stunning South Wales coastline, where you can gaze out over the Bristol Channel. Ideal for a peaceful UK staycation.
Where to stay: Carmarthen has charming local inns and is a perfect base to explore the nearby Brecon Beacons.
3. Belfast to Derry
Journey duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Why it’s special: This route is hailed as one of the most picturesque in Northern Ireland, passing along the scenic coastline and the beautiful shores of Lough Foyle.
Where to stay: In Derry, you’ll find a mix of modern hotels and historic B&Bs, with plenty of options for every traveller.
4. Settle to Carlisle
Journey duration: 2 hours
Why it’s special: Running through the Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines, this journey is as English countryside as it gets, with rolling hills, valleys, and quaint stone bridges.
Where to stay: Carlisle is a historic city with excellent accommodation options ranging from boutique hotels to charming countryside inns.
5. Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog
Journey duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Why it’s special: Riding the Ffestiniog Railway, a historic narrow-gauge steam train, this journey offers fantastic views of Snowdonia National Park. It’s an unforgettable step back in time.
Where to stay: Porthmadog offers a variety of cosy B&Bs and cottages, perfect for relaxing after your scenic adventure.
6. London to Margate
Journey duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Why it’s special: Leave the hustle of the capital behind as you head out to the retro charm of Margate. The views of the Kent coast, especially on a sunny day, are not to be missed.
Where to stay: Margate is full of trendy boutique hotels and beachfront accommodations, ideal for a weekend away.
7. Perth to Inverness
Journey duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Why it’s special: This Highland route is all about the wilderness – think vast moorlands, sparkling lochs, and plenty of wildlife. Keep your camera ready for the views over Cairngorms National Park!
Where to stay: Inverness is a vibrant city with a wide range of hotels, from riverside lodges to modern stays.
8. Shrewsbury to Pwllheli
Journey duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Why it’s special: Known as the Cambrian Coast Line, this journey meanders through Wales’ coastline, giving you incredible views of Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains.
Where to stay: Pwllheli has a lovely selection of seaside stays, from budget B&Bs to charming guesthouses.
9. Oxford to Hereford
Journey duration: 2 hours
Why it’s special: Passing through the beautiful Cotswolds, this journey is all about picturesque countryside views, ancient woodlands, and charming villages.
Where to stay: Hereford offers a mix of historic hotels and modern stays, perfect for enjoying the peaceful vibes of the area.
10. Inverness to London
Journey duration: 8 hours
Why it’s special: From the remote beauty of the Scottish Highlands to the urban sprawl of London, this route showcases the very best of the UK’s landscapes.
Where to stay: London’s endless hotel options mean you’ll never be short on choice, from luxury to budget-friendly.
Will You Book One Of These Scenic UK Train Journeys?
We hope our list of the most scenic UK train journeys has inspired you to explore our beautiful country. Whether you choose to take a shorter route for a quick day trip or go the whole mile by travelling from London to Inverness, adventure awaits wherever you go!
Give Train Gift Vouchers for UK Train Journeys
If you're looking for special gift for someone who loves travel, consider a train gift voucher. With just one gift card, they'll be able to book trains all over the UK and Europe or even redeem it for an Interrail pass. They'll have 2 years to redeem it and will get access to our incredible 24/7 customer service if they need any help along the way.
