Train holidays

A poll of 2,000 adults found that scenic rail journeys are a huge draw for 46% of these generations – despite the trip more commonly linked with backpacking students

A quarter of Gen X and Boomers are keen to go on an interrailing journey across Europe – a trip usually associated with younger backpackers – after missing out on such adventures in their younger years. The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that scenic rail journeys are becoming a major attraction for 46% of people in these age groups.

Over a third are eager to visit multiple countries in one trip, while the thrill of adventure appeals to 22%. In fact, many are looking to explore lesser-known destinations like Lucca in Italy, Zermatt in Switzerland, and San Sebastián, Spain’s foodie paradise.

The poll also suggests convenience is another reason many older people are considering interrailing. A. A third like the idea of avoiding the hassle of dealing with flights or airports, and another 30% crave the flexibility to travel at their own pace.

Adrija Biswas, head of HSBC UK’s Global Money account, which allows customers to convert, spend and send multiple currencies worldwide and commissioned the research, said: “It’s never too late to chase new experiences – and rail travel is proving the perfect way for older generations to finally live out the adventures they may have missed in their youth.”

“Europe has an endless number of incredible sights to see, and doing so from a rail carriage berth is such an exciting way of doing it.

“From coastal pathways to wooded wonderlands, through some of the most famous cities in the world, a rail trip around Europe is a surefire way to make lifetime memories.

“The global money account has been designed to support just that – borderless travel with a card that is as flexible as your travel itinerary.”

Across all respondents, nearly a third (32%) would consider going on a multi-destination trip this year, ranging from multiple stops across Europe to far-flung, long-haul destinations. With 55% citing a variety of scenery – from beaches to mountains – as a top reason, and 47% excited by different cultures and cuisines.

But 34% said having to pack and unpack multiple times might put them off, and 32% would fret over the potential for travel delays or missed connections.

According to the poll conducted by OnePoll, when it comes to holiday expectations, 47% of respondents aim to visit famous landmarks, while 46% are keen to immerse themselves in different cultures.

Moreover, 38% use their holidays as an opportunity to strengthen their relationship with their partner, and 37% look forward to meeting new people during their travels.

Adrija Biswas added:“Far from being the preserve of the young, it’s great to see older adults also exploring what Europe has to offer. It’s incredible to think how much there is, relatively, on the UK’s doorstep that so many people haven’t taken the time to experience.

“Modern technology can also make the trip much easier, from being able to move and access money more simply across different currencies using the global money account, to language translation.

“If it’s something you’ve been thinking about, whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, you’re sure to make memories to treasure forever.”

The top 10 European hotspots people would like to visit by train:

1. Lucca, Italy
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
3. Lecce, Italy
4. Bolzano, Italy
5. San Sebastián, Spain
6. Braga, Portugal
7. Annecy, France
8. Ronda, Spain
9. Lake Bled, Slovenia
10. Nafplion, Greece

A recent study analysing passenger review data has named the best train journey in all of Europe, offering travellers unparalleled views of the Scottish Highlands

A scenic train trip across Scotland has been named the best in Europe according to a new study. The journey offers impeccable views of some of the country’s most iconic vistas and natural landmarks.

Conducted by FruityKing, a recent study analysed the rating data of thousands of passenger reviews to determine which European train lines offer the most scenic routes for travellers. The analysis revealed that the Kyle Line had the highest average passenger rating, scoring 4.72 out of a possible 5.

The Kyle Line runs from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh. Inverness makes for the starting point of multiple great day trips, including a full-day trip through the Isle of Skye, which you can find via TripAdvisor.

The Kyle Line costs £32 to ride and accompanying children can travel for a mere £1 return each, with up to four children allowed per adult. The line crosses some of the most awe-inspiring and remote landscapes in the Scottish Highlands.

Passengers can comfortably enjoy panoramic views of misty mountains including Ben Wyvis in Easter Ross, the Torridon Peaks in the Northwestern Highlands, and the famous Loch Luichart Estate.

Travellers interested in exploring more under-the-radar destinations along the line can also consider a stop in Duirinish. Trainline has highlighted the town as one of the most underrated, isolated destinations on the UK rail network.

A spokesperson for the ticketing app told the Mirror: “The penultimate stop on the Kyle line, the UK’s most remote yet underrated railway, and with only 17 passengers booked via Trainline in the last year, Duirinish is frequently overlooked.

“This quaint township provides insight into crofting, a practice unique to the Highlands, with the opportunity to spot Highland cows thanks to a nearby dedicated tour.” While you’re there, you can get off at the market town of Dingwall for the Far North Line for more distinctive mountain range views and the Torridon Peaks.

The journey from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh takes roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes, so you can return back to Inverness on the same day.

The passenger review study listed the Isle of Man Steam Railway as the second best train journey in Europe, earning an impressive average rating score of 4.71 out of 5 based on 1,327 reviews.

Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways and West Somerset Railway were also highlighted as top train lines in the study.

As well, Switzerland’s Bernina Express made the list with an average passenger rating of 4.67. The renowned route traverses the Swiss Alps through staggering and stunning mountain passes.

The British Pullman Belmond Train journey, which departs from London Victoria, allows guests to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day and be transported back to the 1920s through its art deco carriages

One American traveller has given her verdict of a luxury steam train trip to Bath, however there was one thing about the experience that had her online following stunned – the price of it.

Influencer Eryn Krouse took a trip on a British steam train adventure via the Belmond British Pullman service. The luxury vintage train carries passengers all over the country, including on a special day trip to ‘Historic Bath’. However, her fans have been left slack-jawed at the cost of a trip aboard the historic train.

The British Pullman is so fancy, it requires its own dress code that passengers must adhere to while enjoying four-course meals and bottomless brunches.

The train doesn’t just carry travellers to their destination, but whisks them back through the decades. This magnificent train provides sumptuous journeys throughout the nation, including visits to grand historical properties like Highclere Castle and Burghley House.

Excursions depart from London Victoria and sweep guests through Britain’s glorious countryside, showcasing varied terrain and breathtaking panoramas.

The compartments are absolutely remarkable, with travellers relishing every element, especially the Cygnus, designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson. Food lovers are treated to a feast as every train package features mouth-watering cuisine, from a five-course meal accompanied by champagne to delicate pastries and fragrant teas.

Passengers must follow a rigorous dress code, and can participate in various special activities on the train including a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea or a Murder Mystery Lunch. The service also ventures to the West Country on a distinctive ‘Historic Bath’ expedition, which is where one social media star travelled on the 1920s-style locomotive.

Content creator Eryn Krouse, originally from Southern California, filmed her journey on the British Pullman during a day trip to Bath. The social media personality revealed the excursion had “been on my bucket list for a while”.

Eryn and her friend were treated to a “beautifully set up” table and a brunch that kicked off with a Bellini, which she said was “kept full” by the attentive staff. The journey to Bath offered stunning views of “lots of lush, green countryside with beautiful flowers, quaint farmhouses and tons of cows and sheep”.

After savouring a “yummy” main course of smoked Scottish salmon with caviar, an English muffin and a poached egg, she took time to explore the cabin cars – including the one designed by Wes Anderson. Eryn noted that “even the bathroom is stunning” before she and her friend ventured out to explore Bath.

They had around two-and-a-half hours to wander around the city, visiting the Roman Bath Museum and Jane Austen Museum before returning to London. Once back on the train, she found her table prepared for an early dinner service featuring a lavish four-course meal.

She shared: “Our four-course meal started off with yet another champagne toast and a bottle of rose. This fried haddock ball was probably the most delicious thing I’ve ever tasted.

“The bread was warm and fresh and I definitely helped myself to seconds. The main course was this lamb, beautifully presented. I’m not the biggest fan of lamb, but I enjoyed it anyway.

“Then a cheese selection followed by a rhubarb pie was served and we got back to London full and very sleepy. It was an incredible experience and worth every penny.”

However, social media users were left gobsmacked by the hefty price tag of £620 per passenger. One user gasped: “Gosh that’s super expensive!”

Not all trips come with such a steep price, with a solo table starting at £560 for a trip to Bath in April 2026.

The thrilling murder mystery lunch begins at £485, while some journeys can rocket up to a staggering £1,280 per passenger for a private compartment for two.

This scenic railway journey through the Cambrian Mountains has been named in the top ten percent of attractions worldwide in the 2025 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards

A breathtaking railway journey in Wales has been hailed as one of the world’s top tourist attractions. The Vale of Rheidol Railway in Ceredigion has earned global acclaim, landing a spot in the top ten percent of attractions worldwide in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, which are entirely based on visitor reviews and ratings over a 12-month period.

The scenic trip begins at Aberystwyth and takes passengers deep into the heart of the Cambrian Mountains, ending at the iconic Devil’s Bridge. This Welsh gem is actually three bridges built atop each other, towering over the Mynach and Rheidol streams.

The railway itself boasts a rich history, having been in operation for over 120 years since its opening in 1902. Initially built to serve local communities and transport goods like lead and timber, it now enjoys a reputation as one of the most picturesque railway journeys for all ages, reports Wales Online. Meanwhile, a warning has been issued to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain.

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The line spans a modest 12 miles and it takes about an hour to reach Devil’s Bridge. Once there, you can enjoy a snack or a hearty meal and a pint at the Hafod Hotel, which offers stunning views of the valley below from its seating area.

Visitors can then embark on two different walks: a brief stroll beneath the bridges offering the chance to witness the cascading water up close, and a lengthier, more challenging trek deep into the Rheidol gorge where spectacular views of the 300ft Mynach waterfalls await.

The Travellers’ Choice Awards rely on authentic feedback, with only a limited number of attractions earning this prestigious recognition annually. “Being recognised by the people who travel with us is what means the most,” said Llyr ap Iolo, general manager of the Vale of Rheidol Railway.

“Whether it’s their first visit or their fiftieth, we aim to make the experience special every time. This award reflects the hard work and passion of our staff and volunteers, and we are proud to share it with them.”

The Vale of Rheidol Railway boasts an exceptionally impressive TripAdvisor rating of 4.6 out of five stars, based on nearly 1,400 reviews. One traveller declared he was “absolutely amazed at how good it is”, whilst another described it as a “lovely experience with incredible views”.

A recent visitor penned: “Absolutely wonderful experience on this railway. We paid a little extra to travel first class and it was well worth it. Travelling in a 1920s cabin was so nostalgic and humbling. The station was immaculate in every way. Even the WCs were immensely clean. The pride the staff took in every aspect of the train itself was clear to see – even the chimney on the engine was gleaming.”

Another visitor gushed: “A brilliant afternoon spent on this quaint steam train. From start to finish, spectacular views. Devil’ls Bridge was excellent along with the Devil’s Punch bowl. The museum entry which comes with the train tickets was very good. A must do activity if you’re in Aberystwyth.”

Trains from London are planned to stop in this beautiful seaside town in the north of England, marking the destination’s first and only direct rail connection to the capital

Plans are progressing to establish a new direct rail link from London to the stunning Durham coastline in northern England.

Starting December 2025, trains will begin calling at the town of Seaham in County Durham, renowned for its striking cliffs, sandy beaches, and fascinating maritime heritage. Visitors should arrive with an appetite too, as the town boasts no fewer than 10 fish and chip shops, according to Google Maps.

The railway service will be operated by the Open Access operator Grand Central, supported by transport firm Arriva. Operators such as Grand Central remain outside the Labour government’s nationalisation proposals, utilising their own finances, reports the Express. It comes after images show the cheapest seaside spot in England is full of abandoned £40k homes ‘nobody wants’.

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Grahame Morris, the MP for Easington said: “I’m delighted to share that the Office of Rail and Road has confirmed that Grand Central Trains will begin stopping at Seaham Station from December 2025 to December 2026. [There will be] four stopping services per day in each direction.”

Home to roughly 21,500 inhabitants, Seaham is a bustling harbour town along the Durham Coast, boasting award-winning hotels, an extensive array of cafés and breathtaking clifftop vistas.

Seaham Beach features a combination of rocky and sandy shoreline, extending roughly one mile along the town’s coast, from the harbour wall to the northern edge of the settlement. Seaham is famous for vibrant sea glass – manmade glass that was previously discarded at sea before being tumbled and shaped by the water over several years and eventually washing ashore.

A visitor said on Tripadvisor this past April: “Lovely beach with beautiful coloured pebbles and sea glass. There are car parks along the seafront – only cost £3 for the whole day. Town is within walkable distance and has a number of good fish and chips shop. Bell’s fish restaurant has plenty of seating inside when the weather’s cold. There’s also a market. Great for a relaxing day out.”

The news emerges as UK rail regulators approved extended track access rights for Grand Central’s current operations through to 2038. The trains will be manufactured at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe plant, the company’s British manufacturing hub.

Arriva officially submitted an application to the UK Office of Rail and Road, the appropriate authority, to broaden its Grand Central operations into Lincolnshire from 2026. The operator is also pursuing approval for plans involving two additional daily return journeys between Bradford and London, plus an early morning and late evening return from York to London, along with connections to Seaham, which would mark the town’s first and only direct link to London.

Morris added: “Although the approval is currently for a one-year period using 5-car trains, I’m confident that these services will be well-used by residents across our community.

“This means that our constituency will now have direct rail links to York and London, alongside increased capacity to local destinations such as Sunderland and Hartlepool.”