Slow travel is back with a bang. From romantic journeys to the coast to sophisticated countryside excursions, these are the best train trips to book right now.
Train travel is taking off in 2025. According to Ahrefs’ Slow Travel Index, searches in the UK for slow travel have increased 5.4% from 2024 to 2025, and it doesn’t come as much of a surprise.
“Post-pandemic, travellers have been seeking more meaningful, slower travel experiences that allow them to rediscover the pleasure of the journey itself,” says Samy Ghachem, general manager for La Dolce Vita Orient Express.
“In a world that has felt rushed, people are now yearning for experiences that allow them to disconnect, slow down and truly savour every moment of travel.”
Is this tickling your fancy? From day trips to short breaks, L360 has selected six of the best train journeys to book in the UK.
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The Lakes Express
London Euston to the Lake District
Have you always wanted to embark aboard a classic steam train? Here’s your chance. From 9-12 September, you can journey through the breath-taking landscapes of the Lake District and back via a private charter train, passing through dramatic mountain scenery and taking in Cumbria’s rugged coastal views.
Once you arrive, you’ll have two full days to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District with organised optional excursions, including a tranquil lake cruise. For lovers of country houses and stunning gardens, there will be trips to the enchanting Holker Hall, Wordsworth House and Beatrix Potter’s House. Meanwhile, each hotel has been chosen for its unique character and charm, and carefully selected to match each class of travel – Pullman Dining, First Class and Premium Standard. From £850 per person. steamdreams.co.uk
The Sunset Steam Express
London Paddington to the Chiltern Hills
The Steam Dreams Rail Co has recently announced a new itinerary for 2025: the Sunset Steam Express, running for two dates only — 10 July and 21 August. While the same company’s Spirit of Summer Lunch tour departs from London Paddington at 10.30am, returning at 3pm, this evening tour sets off at 6pm and gets home at 10.30pm.
The picturesque tour, hauled by the iconic 70000 Britannia, will steam out of Paddington and glide along the Thames Valley towards the dreaming spires of Oxford. The train then turns south east through the picturesque countryside and ancient woodland of the scenic Chiltern Hills. Passengers will be treated to views of rolling chalk hills, Iron Age hillforts, lush valleys and vineyards while enjoying fine dining, a picnic or afternoon tea on board. From £100 per person. steamdreams.co.uk
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East Lancashire Railway
Greater Manchester
Step aboard authentic Pullman-style carriages reminiscent of the legendary Orient Express on the East Lancashire Railway. This isn’t merely dinner with a view — it’s a meticulously crafted journey into an era when locomotive luxury defined sophisticated travel.
Departing from Bury Bolton Street Station in Greater Manchester, the steam engine will wind through Lancashire’s rolling countryside, offering an unparalleled dining experience to enjoy alongside your views. From four-course gastronomic journeys to quintessentially British afternoon tea services, each experience is designed to transport diners in both place and time. From £55.50 per person. eastlancsrailway.org.uk
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Settle & Carlisle Steam Special
Hull to Carlisle
If you’re looking for pristine white linen, sparkling glassware and individually decorated carriages, look no further than a Northern Belle train journey. Taking in the legendary Settle-Carlisle Line, this journey begins in Hull and takes you all the way to Carlisle – a trip so stunning it was featured on Channel 5’s ‘World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys’. Expect a welcome mimosa, a three-course brunch, time to explore Carlisle at leisure and a sumptuous six-course dinner including a bottle of wine – among many other luxurious amenities. £595 per person. northernbelle.co.uk
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The Britannic Explorer
London Victoria to Cornwall
Another incredible option from Belmond, this journey will take you along the rugged shoreline of Cornwall to the bucolic villages of the Lostwithiel area and to Penzance beyond. The trip includes three nights aboard the Britannic Explorer luxury train, with 24-hour steward service and daily table d’hôte meals, including breakfasts, brunches, lunches, afternoon teas and dinners, alongside a selection of drinks.
New for 2025, the Britannic Explorer has launched an exclusive wellness suite aboard its luxury train – the first of its kind on the rails. Ideal for wellness-seekers, this unforgettable experience includes access to the spa and its signature treatments, as well as off-board excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on-board. Accommodation starts from £12,600 for a double cabin. belmond.com
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Great British Seaside: Whitstable
London Victoria to Whitstable
A trip on a British Pullman is a bucket-list item everyone should tick off. Getting to luxuriate on the beautifully designed vintage train is enough to make the ticket worthwhile, never mind the stunning journeys and out-of-this-world dining. This trip in particular makes a perfect choice this summer, as you’ll be greeted with a sparkling bellini before enjoying a delicious brunch while you absorb the scenery as the train winds its way south east towards Whitstable.
Once you arrive, you’ll have free time to explore and soak up the seaside atmosphere with a stroll along the beach or a browse of the many independent shops along Harbour Street. Back on board, linger over a delectable three-course dinner with half a bottle of wine as you travel back to London. From £560 per person. belmond.com
