The UK’s most scenic train routes – where you can enjoy the winter views

by Christopher Turban

Whether you love the snow or hate it, it is impossible to deny how the beautiful the sheets of sparkling, pure white look atop the British countryside hills. If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the views, without exposing yourself too much to the cold, you might consider taking a scenic train journey to enjoy the views.

Travel booking website, OMIO, has revealed five of the UK’s most scenic train journeys and taken a look the recent snowy snaps shared by users on Instagram, below:

West Highland Line train, Scotland

The West Highland train, which journeys between Glasgow and the West Coast is believed to not only be one of the most scenic train journeys in the UK – but among the best in the world.

This specific train line takes you past some of Scotland’s most wonderful landscapes and lochs in a journey which lasts around three and a half hours.

Though this route is beautiful at any time of year, it looks particularly magnificent when the hills are topped with snow, and the grass is crusted with ice. See below an Instagram post shared by @droner_alert of the wintery view.

Recognise the bridge? The Glenfinnan Viaduct was famously featured in the Harry Potter films as the trainline taken by the Hogwarts Express – making it an even more perfect route for any Potterheads out there.

The UK’s most scenic train routes – where you can enjoy the winter views
Instagram credit: @droner_alert

Settle-Carlisle Railway, Yorkshire

The Settle-Carlisle line is one of the finest railway journey’s the UK has to offer. The journey takes you from the buzzing city centre of Leed city, through the breathtaking landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales and deep through Cumbria’s rolling green hills to arrive at the destination of Carlisle.

Many of the stations on this route have been preserved in their beautifully historic state and you can even buy snacks and beverages aboard the train. 

This line provides an affordable, practical and accessible way to see the Yorkshire Dales in all their glory – and is a great way to enjoy the snowy countryside views, without catching frostbite!

The UK’s most scenic train routes – where you can enjoy the winter views
Instagram credit: @setcarrailway

East Coast Main Line, London – Edinburgh

Starting the journey at the infamous King’s Cross station, London, the East Coast Main Line service carves through some of the most beautiful scenery and cities the country has to offer, stopping off in beautiful locations such as York, Durham and Newcastle on the way to its final destination – Edinburgh.

Though this journey is a little longer, the best countryside views admittedly start just before you reach the city of York and stretch out until you reach Edinburgh. Whether your planning a weekend trip away to London, Edinburgh or any of the stops along the way, you can rest assured that the East Coast Main Line train will not only get you there safe and sound- but you will be able to enjoy views of rolling hills and crisp, white fields along the way.

The UK’s most scenic train routes – where you can enjoy the winter views
Instagram credit: @eliza_dearnley

The North Wales Coast line

The North Wales Coastal route along the beautiful shores of Wales, starting out in Holyhead and venturing on to Chester.  From very comfort of your seat, enjoy sights of the wintery, mystical beaches, snowy rolling hills and historic Welsh landmarks. 

The coast line of Wales is dotted with an abundance of seaside towns to explore too if you fancy getting off to have a wander!

The UK’s most scenic train routes – where you can enjoy the winter views
Instagram credit: @brenig_cottage_escapes

The Riviera Line , Devon Coast to Coast

Hop aboard the Riviera Line in Exeter and follow the route along the South Devon coast  all the way to Paignton for unbeatable seaside views – without having to lift a finger.

The standout feature of this journey are the tremendous, glowing red cliffs which tower over the tracks, as well as breathtaking views of the English Channel.

Come rain or shine, this trust route promises the very best of the English seaside.

The UK’s most scenic train routes – where you can enjoy the winter views
Instagram credit: @5_exploded