The UK is home to beautiful scenery, from rolling countryside and breathtaking mountains to awe-inspiring cityscapes.
Enjoying a train ride through the most scenic parts of the country is an incredible way to take it all in, and six routes have been recommended above all others.
Travel experts at hoppa analysed price data and Tripadvisor reviews to find the most worthwhile train routes in the UK.
The results highlighted routes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, although anyone venturing further north will definitely be able to find some gorgeous routes in Scotland.
The Tamar Valley Line is the most scenic train route in the UK, according to research
|TAMAR VALLEY LINE
Taking the top spot is the Tamar Valley Line, which received an impressive 'scenic train score' of 9.05 out of 10. This route goes between Plymouth and Gunnislake.
Expect to find "views of the Royal Albert Bridge, rolling countryside, rivers and dockyards", with the experts describing scenery as "delightful" and "panoramic".
For suggestions outside of England, Downpatrick & County Down Railway in Northern Ireland ranked the highest, taking third place overall. It has a 'scenic train score' of 7.38 out of 10.
The experts added: "The heritage railway runs through County Down's beautiful countryside, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views and travel on an old-fashioned train."
The UK's most scenic train route
- Tamar Valley Line, England (£8.30) – 9.05/10
- St Ives Bay Line, England (£4.20) – 7.86/10
- Downpatrick & County Down Railway, Northern Ireland (£10.50) – 7.38/10
- Looe Valley Line, England (£6.20) – 6.91/10
- Cambrian Coast Line, Wales (£23) and Esk Valley Line, England (£9.50) – both 5.96/10
UK TRAVEL INSPIRATION
The St Ives Bay Line offers incredible views of the UK
|VISIT CORNWALL
"With incredible beach and cliff views, it is no surprise one reviewer said it is 'one of the most beautiful journeys I can remember taking'."
Discovering the UK by train is a unique way to see places you may not be able to get to by car or on a walking route, and the expert's recommendations give Britons a good starting point.
Managing director at hoppa, Chris Harrington, added: “The UK is home to some incredible scenery, and one of the best ways to experience it is by train.
"From the coastlines of Cornwall to the countryside of County Down, rail travel offers a relaxing and memorable way to take it all in. We have revealed the best train routes in the UK for you to experience some of the most scenic journeys.”