places to visit by train north west

Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, amtrak trips out west: 7 amazing train vacations.

For an adventure with Wild West towns, Spanish missions, national parks and historic landmarks, book a trip on Amtrak for an epic experience. Multiple long-distance trains travel across the Western United States, so you can choose the route based on your sightseeing interests.

To start planning your Amtrak vacation, here are seven must-do train trips out West.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page .

1. Glacier National Park

Take a trip on the Empire Builder from cities such as Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Portland and Seattle to experience Glacier National Park and Great Northern Railway history.

Founded in 1889, the Great Northern Railway connected Saint Paul, Minnesota with Seattle, Washington. To increase ridership, the railroad company petitioned the US government to create Glacier National Park, which was near their railroad tracks.

The effort paid off. Glacier National Park was established in 1910, and the railroad company built lodges and chalets that you can still stay in today:

• 1910 Belton Chalet (next to the West Glacier Station)
• 1913 Glacier Park Lodge (next to East Glacier Park Station)
• 1939 Izaak Walton Inn (former railroad employee lodging next to the Essex Station)

The Great Northern Railway also built several lodges inside Glacier National Park (Granite Park Chalet, Lake McDonald Lodge, Many Glacier Hotel and Sperry Chalet), but you’ll need a car to get there. Exit at the Whitefish Amtrak Station for rental cars or to reach an airport .

2. Route 66

Amtrak’s Southwest Chief travels near Route 66, the first all-weather road that connected Chicago with Los Angeles. Board the train in Chicago to officially kick of the journey from the start of the highway, but once you are outside of Chicago, the train doesn’t connect with Route 66 again until Las Vegas, New Mexico.

For a trip that’s all along the historic road, start in Albuquerque and travel to Los Angeles. You can also get off the train for one night or more at one of the below Amtrak stations to see Route 66 up close:

• Las Vegas, New Mexico
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Gallup, New Mexico
• Winslow, Arizona
• Flagstaff, Arizona
• Kingman, Arizona ( Historic Route 66 Museum )
• Needles, California*
• Barstow, California*
• Victorville, California*
• San Bernardino, California
• Los Angeles, California

*Westbound trains arrive in these cities after midnight

3. Colorado Rocky Mountains

The majestic Colorado Rocky Mountains straddle the Continental Divide and separate the Western US from the Great Plains. The California Zephyr will take you there from cities including Emeryville (near San Francisco), Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Chicago, Omaha and Denver. It’s one of the most scenic Amtrak routes with beautiful views all year long.

If you start the trip in Chicago, you’ll spend a night on the train before reaching the Rockies, but you’ll get to see the massive mountains rise in the distance on the approach.

To experience just the mountain journey, we recommend starting in Denver. From there, you can take a day trip to Salt Lake City, or travel to one of the Amtrak stations in the mountains so you can hike, ski and visit local attractions. See Colorado train trip ideas to learn more.

4. Donner Pass and Lake Tahoe

If you recall from history class, the Donner Party was a group of pioneers that traveled out west in a wagon train in 1846. They got caught in a blizzard and almost half of them died after spending months next to what is now Donner Lake (pictured above).

Amtrak’s California Zephyr train travels through this area today from cities including Chicago, Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City, Sacramento and Emeryville. You can view Donner Lake out the windows along with the Sierra Nevada mountains, which made the last leg of the journey west difficult for many settlers.

To visit Donner Memorial State Park and enjoy outdoor activities at nearby North Lake Tahoe , you’ll need to rent a car. Exit the train in Truckee, California, which is a historic town that was originally built along a wagon road. You can arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you to the nearby Enterprise Rent-A-Car office .

With the car, you can choose from many different lodging options in the mountains or near the water. Plan to say at least one night in the area.

5. Old West Towns

Dodge City, Kansas and Las Vegas, New Mexico (pictured above) are two great places to experience the Wild West on the Southwest Chief route.

In Dodge City, Boot Hill Museum is one of the top attractions to visit, with interactive displays, artifacts and activities that recreate the town’s past. You can also check out the Gunfighers Wax Museum and walk the Dodge City Trail of Fame .

Las Vegas, New Mexico is eight hours away from Dodge City via train and has over 900 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. It hasn’t changed much since Billy the Kid, Doc Holliday, Jesse James and other outlaws walked the streets. Be sure to check out the Plaza Hotel that opened in 1882. Former President Theodore Roosevelt visited here in 1899 as part of a Rough Riders reunion.

Both cities have hotels and downtown districts in walking distance of Amtrak stations. Holiday Inn Express & Suites is closest to the Dodge City Amtrak Station and the Castaneda Hotel , which was formerly a Harvey House for railroad passengers, is closest to the Las Vegas, New Mexico Amtrak Station.

If you’re looking for a flight for the return trip, Albuquerque and Kansas City are the closest Amtrak stops with major airports. To start the trip, you can begin in and near Los Angeles or cities including Chicago and Kansas City.

6. Spanish Missions

San Antonio, Texas is just one of many places where you can view historic Spanish missions in the United States. The Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited Amtrak routes stop here, with departures from cities in Texas, as well as Chicago, St. Louis, Little Rock, New Orleans, Tucson and Los Angeles.

The must-visit destinations include The Alamo (also known as Mission San Antonio de Valero ), Mission Concepción , Mission San José  (pictured above), Mission San Juan  and Mission Espada . View the missions trip guide to learn more or plan to go on a guided tour .

After you’ve seen all the sights, you can return home on Amtrak or book a flight out of San Antonio or another major city on the Texas Eagle or Sunset Limited routes. Note that The Alamo is in walking distance of the San Antonio Amtrak Station along with the San Antonio River Walk and several hotels ( Staybridge Suites is closest to the station).

7. Grand Canyon and Flagstaff

For views of an amazing natural wonder, plan a trip to the Grand Canyon via Amtrak’s Southwest Chief . The closest station is Flagstaff, and you’ll need to rent a car (pick up service available during office hours), book a shuttle or go on a tour to reach the Grand Canyon from there.

Perks of renting a car include being able to visit other top area attractions including Walnut Canyon National Monument , Lowell Observatory , Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort .

Even if you don’t rent a car, you can explore Historic Downtown Flagstaff and Route 66 , check out the many art galleries , visit the Clara M. Lovett Art Museum and go on an electric bike tour . Lyft and Uber services are also options for getting around, although all the above activities are walkable if you stay at a hotel or vacation rental downtown.

Tip : Train arrival time in Flagstaff is better if you are traveling west vs east. To travel west, you can start the trip in Chicago, Kansas City or Albuquerque, which all have major airports.

More Information

• 5 best Amtrak sleeper car routes
• Amtrak roomettes vs bedrooms
• 7 things to pack for an Amtrak trip
• 10 attractions on the Sunset Limited route to plan a trip around
• 10 attractions on the Southwest Chief route to plan a trip around

Top photo courtesy Pxhere

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The 15 Most Scenic Amtrak Routes in North America

A nationally recognized reporter, writer, and consumer advocate, Ed Perkins focuses on how travelers can find the best deals and avoid scams.

He is the author of "Online Travel" (2000) and "Business Travel: When It's Your Money" (2004), the first step-by-step guide specifically written for small business and self-employed professional travelers. He was also the co-author of the annual "Best Travel Deals" series from Consumers Union.

Perkins' advice for business travelers is featured on MyBusinessTravel.com , a website devoted to helping small business and self-employed professional travelers find the best value for their travel dollars.

Perkins was founding editor of Consumer Reports Travel Letter, one of the country's most influential travel publications, from which he retired in 1998. He has also written for Business Traveller magazine (London).

Perkins' travel expertise has led to frequent television appearances, including ABC's "Good Morning America" and "This Week with David Brinkley," "The CBS Evening News with Dan Rather," CNN, and numerous local TV and radio stations.

Before editing Consumer Reports Travel Letter, Perkins spent 25 years in travel research and consulting with assignments ranging from national tourism development strategies to the design of computer-based tourism models.

Born in Evanston, Illinois, Perkins lives in Ashland, Oregon with his wife.

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Did you know Amtrak can be much more than just a business commuter train? Railroad journeys make up some of the best sightseeing adventures in the world, but especially in North America. You’ll pass through spectacular mountain ranges, along rugged coastlines, and beside legendary rivers. And it’s a comfortable adventure; sit back and enjoy the window view.

While Switzerland is considered by many to be the world champion when it comes to scenic train trips, some of the best Amtrak routes can take you to the most scenic areas the United States—with some routes some stretching into Canada.

Most Scenic Amtrak Routes in North America

This compilation is focused on scheduled Amtrak routes that operate mainly in daylight—so you won’t miss sights. These routes complete their itineraries in a single day, or in long daylight segments on an extended overnight trip.

East Coast: The Adirondack

The general consensus for the best of the scenic Amtrak routes in the east is service on the Adirondack , between New York and Montreal. The 10-hour day trip operates daily in both directions, and gives you a double-header of great views: It travels along the east bank of Hudson River between New York and Albany, where you pass the Palisades, West Point, and wooded hills. It also travels along the West bank of Lake Champlain, a popular summer activity lake-valley area nestled between the Adirondacks and the Green Mountains.

The northbound trip is daylight through the scenic areas throughout the year. The southbound trip sees more daylight in summer; in winter you hit the Hudson valley after dark. In the fall foliage season, Amtrak usually adds a dome car to the train between Albany and Montreal, which operates every other day in each direction. And if you want off before getting to Canada, you can still see all the highlights by starting or ending your trip at Rouses Point, in New York.

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Elsewhere in the east, several other Amtrak one-day trains operate through scenic areas:

Empire Service : Three daily trains and between New York and Buffalo give you the Hudson Valley plus some very attractive areas of Upstate alone the Mohawk valley as soon as you get out of the heavily industrialized areas near Albany. The Lake Shore Limited New York section does this trip too, as does the Maple Leaf. And nine shorter Empire trips plus the Ethan Allen Express between Rutland and New York all run the Hudson segment, too.

The Vermonter : Service runs daily between St Albans, Vermont, and Washington, D.C.; the scenic portion between St Albans and New Haven passes through nice mountain scenery in the Berkshires and Connecticut. Daylight hours are best going northbound. You can access the North end most easily through Essex Junction, just a few miles from Burlington. Forget the New Haven-Washington segments unless you like urban landscapes.

The Pennsylvanian : This Amtrak route operates daily between Pittsburgh and New York, but the scenic areas are over the former Pennsylvania main line between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. This trip includes the famous Horseshoe Curve; daylight viewing is best eastbound.

Lake Shore Limited , Capitol Limited , and Cardinal : Three overnight long-distance Amtrak trips to/from Chicago go through the Appalachian range during daylight hours. They carry coach seats along with sleepers for folks who want to do the full trips.

The Boston section of Lake Shore Limited between Albany and Boston includes the Berkshires in western Massachusetts along with the Mohawk valley; daylight is good in both directions. The Capitol Limited operates daily between Chicago and Washington, but the scenic area is between Pittsburgh and Washington. Daylight viewing is best eastbound, although that means a 5:20 am departure from Pittsburgh.

The Cardinal operates three days a week between Chicago and New York, but the important scenery is between Cincinnati and Washington on the former C&O main line. Daylight viewing is best eastbound. The schedule isn’t great in either direction, with 1:30 am arrival and 3:30 am departure at Cincinnati. You can get most of the good stuff beginning or ending in Charleston, or you can take the overnight to/from Chicago.

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The California Zephyr

Rail enthusiasts generally rate the California Zephyr between Chicago and Emeryville (San Francisco) as the best of the Chicago-to-coast Amtrak routes. It passes daily through two different areas of top mountain scenery: Denver to Grand Junction through the Rockies, and Reno to Emeryville through the Sierras including the infamous Donner Pass. The entire three-day, two-night trip is timed for good daylight viewing through both scenic areas in both directions. The daytime run between Chicago and Omaha is forgettable, but many opt for the full journey. Again, you have a choice of comfortable coach or sleeper accommodations.

Three other long-haul train routes that span from east to west are popular with railfans:

The Empire Builder : A daily two-night, three-day trip from Chicago to Portland or Seattle, the Empire Builder skirts Glacier National Park as it passes through the northern Rockies. The Portland section adds the spectacular Columbia River Gorge. The trains are timed for daylight in the Glacier Park area, at least in summer, with eastbound schedules good all year, but the best segment is between two remote stops: Shelby and Whitefish Montana. Spokane might be a logical place to start or end the trip on the West end, but the arrival and departure times are 12:37 a.m. and 1:15 a.m. Spokane would also seem to be logical for the Portland section, but the best eastern end for the Columbia Gorge is Pasco, Washington, and the best daylight viewing is westbound. Many go for two overnights between Portland or Seattle and Minneapolis-St Paul.

The Southwest Chief : Daily service is between Chicago and Los Angeles, traces the route of the famed Super Chief and almost matches its former two-night, one-day schedule. The best scenery is between La Junta Colorado and Albuquerque, in both directions.

The Sunset Limited : Service is three times a week. It links New Orleans and Los Angeles through the bayou country between New Orleans and Houston with the best daylight viewing westbound, and West Texas and New Mexico desert and mountains between El Paso and Tucson with good daylight viewing in both directions.

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West Coast: Coast Starlight

The daily Coast Starlight links Los Angeles and Seattle on a two-day, one-night itinerary, and it’s another consensus favorite. The top scenery is between Los Angeles and San Jose, a stretch formerly known as the Daylight route, where the track hugs the spectacular California Coast between Oxnard and San Luis Obispo, including some more isolated sections. Timing for daylight is good in both directions. The other daytime segment, between Klamath Falls, Oregon, and Portland crosses some nice mountain areas: It’s no match for the California Zephyr, but it makes a good bookend on the two-day trip.

Two other short West Coast Amtrak routes offer good scenic potential:

Pacific Surfliner : Multiple daily trips duplicate the Coast Starlight itinerary between San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles, and they add 11 daily runs on the coast-hugging Los Angeles-San Diego segment as well.

Amtrak Cascades : Service runs between Eugene, Oregon, through Portland and Seattle, to Vancouver, B.C., including some nice scenic spots. No train makes a through trip between Eugene and Vancouver, but five operate daily between Portland and Seattle; two extending to Eugene and two different trains run to Vancouver.

Long-Haul Land Cruises

If you’re interested in a long-haul “land cruise,” most railfans would recommend the two-night California Zephyr or the Empire Builder between Chicago and the West Coast, and the one-night Coast Starlight between Los Angeles and Seattle. They would also recommend sleeper accommodations, which include all meals, access to showers, and other first-class benefits. Sleepers are a lot more expensive than sit-up coach seats: A couple occupying a roomette on the California Zephyr for early June, for example would pay $779, compared with $276 in Coach. But if you’re a real rail freak, the sleeper is part of the whole experience. Amtrak has in the recent past offered two-for-one sleeper tickets as flash sales—which are probably more likely in the off-season, or winter.

Off-Amtrak Bonus: VIA Rail’s Canadian

And I couldn’t complete this report without mentioning North America’s premier rail land cruise: VIA Rail’s The Canadian between Toronto and Vancouver. The four-night marathon route includes spectacular mountain scenery in Alberta and British Columbia and interesting isolated country between Winnipeg and Toronto. This train operates twice weekly over the entire routes, with an additional section added on the same schedule between Edmonton and Vancouver from May to October. It sells out early, especially for summer travel. Summer fares are generally a lot higher than winter ones; check ViaRail for promotions, especially on its regular Discount Tuesdays.

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel.

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I Heart Britain

6 North Yorkshire Market Towns You Can Visit by Train

One of the most common misconceptions I hear about UK travel is that idea that if you venture outside of London or Edinburgh, you have to rent a car. Renting a car in the UK comes with a host of issues many travelers would prefer to avoid – driving on the opposite side of the road, paying relatively high prices for petrol, finding parking, learning the rules and symbols, and being very, very careful about speeding due to the strict speed enforcement tactics in some areas. As a result, many people just stick with London-only trips or package tours.

The good news is that it's not at all true. The UK has an incredible rail network, and while there ARE plenty of destinations that aren't easily reached by rail, there are many that are.

Today, I wanted to highlight some of the market towns in North Yorkshire that you can reach easily by car. If you're going from London to Edinburgh by train, it's very easy to stop off for a couple days in York (roughly halfway between the two) and visit one or more of these market towns as a day trip.

Table of Contents

On my last trip to the UK, I stayed in York for 4 nights. I had seen some great photos of Skipton Castle Woods, and for some reason that was enough to persuade me to visit. The trip was a little over an hour, with a quick stop in Leeds to change trains. I think I paid around 25 GBP for the ticket.

Skipton is a great little town, both in terms of scenery and activities. If it's raining, you can hide out in a cozy pub, enjoy a bookshop, visit Skipton Castle, or check out Craven Court Shopping Centre.

The Craven Museum also offers a look at the area's past, if you're interested in that sort of thing. One of their exhibits is an Amethyst Intaglio – a gemstone with a carved image on the flat side, designed so the image shows through the stone. Amethyst was believed to prevent its owner from getting drunk – which leads me to believe that stone could tell some interesting stories if it could talk.

The best part of Skipton, though, is the scenery. The view from the top of the castle is lovely, and the canal walk is not to be missed. A path winds along behind the castle, and it feels like you're a million miles away from everything. The sound of the running water drowns out the town noises, and the path takes you back to Skipton Castle Woods, should you want a longer walk. Bear in mind, you'll probably want to bring or buy some Wellies in case of rain. It can get quite wet and muddy back in the woods. The canal walk is paved, though, and totally fine for a rainy day.

Things to See & Do in Skipton, North Yorkshire

• Skipton Castle
• Skipton Castle Woods
• Craven Court Shopping Centre
• Craven Museum

Knaresborough

Knaresborough is a quick 25-minute train ride from York, and as of April 2018, you can buy a ticket between the two destinations for less than 10 GBP. It's about 4 miles east of Harrogate, too, so a quick 11 minute train ride (roughly 3 GBP) can take you there, too.

Why visit Knaresborough? In spite of its small population (roughly 15,000), Knaresborough has some great attractions. One of the most notable is Mother Shipton's Cave, one of England's oldest and quirkiest tourist attractions. Mother Shipton was a witch-like prophetess who predicted the Great Fire of London, the fates of many rulers, and the end of the world. She was born in the cave that bears her name, and it features a well with water that petrifies anything left there (due to high mineral content).

Speaking of Knaresborough caves, you can also visit the cave of St. Robert, a 12th century hermit. He wandered the area and attracted both followers and the annoyance of local authorities – but eventually, they bowed to public pressure and gave him a cave to live in. For the young battling high UK housing prices, this might be a strategy to consider. St. Robert's cave is a slightly longer walk, roughly 1.3 miles from the train station.

If you're not in the mood to walk that much, you could also check out Knaresborough Castle and Museum. It's less than half a mile from the train station, by way of a gorgeous walk along the River Nidd.

The Knaresborough High Street is not as lovely as some, but it more than makes up for it in quirkiness and the riverside scenery.

Things to See & Do in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire

• Mother Shipton's Cave
• St. Robert's Cave
• Knaresborough Castle & Museum

Malton is a market town of around 13,000 people, and it's probably best known as the struggling little market town that turned itself into a foodie hotspot. While some market towns have rolled over and allowed themselves to die off, Malton developed and supported the growth of restaurants, tours, farms, and even a cookery school. Throughout the year, the town plays host to a food markets, beer and gin festivals, and street food days.

The train station is less than half a mile from most of the food hotspots – including the Talbot Yard Food Court, The Groovy Moo ice cream shop, and the area where they hold the food festivals and markets.

What should you do in Malton if you don't like food? Aside from perhaps skipping it in favor of a different town, I hear they have a goat-hair sock shop .

A love letter to Malton | Yorkshire's Food Capital from Aberration on Vimeo .

Things to See & Do in Malton, North Yorkshire

• Malton Museum
• Malton Castle Gardens
• Castle Howard (a 6-mile taxi ride)

Northallerton

Northallerton is a good-sized market town, with a population of roughly 16,000 at the last census. It's about 30 miles from York, with a busy High Street and plenty of independent shops. The town centre is roughly half a mile from the train station, so it's not a terribly long walk.

Northallerton differs from some of the other locations on this list because unlike most, there isn't one central theme or attraction that dominates the town. It's a great place for a quiet escape.

If you've been in York or Harrogate and had difficulty securing a reservation for tea at Betty's, you'll be delighted to know Northallerton has a Betty's location, too. You might have better luck there than in a more crowded city.

If you don't mind taking a taxi outside the main town area, you can also visit Mount Grace Priory , considered to be the best-preserved Carthusian house in England. For those who don't know what that means, the Carthusians were an order of Catholic monks and nuns. The priory is roughly 8 miles outside of town, so you'll need to call up a local taxi company and arrange for arrival and pickup.

Things to See & Do in Northallerton, North Yorkshire

• Mount Grace Priory
• Betty's Tea Room

The smallest of the market towns on this list, Settle has a population of just 2500 or so at the last census. The town is located in the Yorkshire Dales, and it's a don't-miss spot for any nature enthusiast.

Settle is a very small town, and the walk from the train station to the High Street is around a quarter of a mile. Although the biggest attractions are just outside the town, they do have a 17th century Grade I listed building called The Folly that has a coffee house,  museum, and artisans gallery.

For those who aren't sure what to do, there's a helpful tourist centre in town to help you get started off in the right direction. The most popular attractions here are each around 8 miles from the town – Gordale Scar, and Ingleborough Cave.

Gordale Scar is a giant limestone ravine with two waterfalls and overhanging cliffs. It's believed to have been formed by either melting glaciers or a cavern collapse.

Ingleborough Cave is a bit more commercial, offering guided tours through a well-lit show cave. It's worth noting that this cave has well-paved paths and no stairs, so it is considered pushchair accessible.

Things to See & Do in Settle, North Yorkshire

• The Folly Experience
• Ingleborough Cave
• Gordale Scar

Thirsk is one of the smaller market towns on our list, with just 5000 residents at the last census. In spite of that, it's a popular tourist spot – partially due to its proximity to the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors.

Fans of All Creatures Great and Small may know Thirsk as the hometown of veterinary surgeon and author James Herriot . His practice was previously located at 23 Kirkgate, a site that now houses The World of James Herriot Museum .

Less than a block away, you can also visit the Thirsk Museum. It's a free attraction that features local history and artifacts. If that's not enough to keep you busy, you'll find a surprisingly large number of pubs and restaurants, along with a tourist information center.

As a fair warning to those visiting Thirsk, the main town is a bit over a mile from the train station. It's a leisurely 25-30 minute walk, but if you get tired easily, you might wish to call a taxi. There's no taxi rank at the station, so call ahead or prepare to wait a little while at the station after you call for a ride. Quite a few companies service the area.

A taxi also opens up another great possibility in Thirsk – the Thirsk Birds of Prey Centre. They offer three flying displays daily, along with opportunities to get up close and personal after each one (at no extra charge). Those who want to spend more time with the birds can purchase any one of several packages designed to give you a more personalized encounter.

Things to See & Do in Thirsk, North Yorkshire

• The World of James Herriot Museum
• Thirsk Birds of Prey Centre
• Thirsk Museum

Which North Yorkshire Market Town Would You Choose?

In our opinion, all the market towns above are worth a visit. However, we know that in real life, holidays are almost always limited by either time or budget. Which market town would you choose?

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The 43 Best Places To Visit In North West England

Looking for the best places to visit in North West England? You’ve come to the right place!

Call me biased, but I think this region is pretty special. Whatever your interests, you will find it in North West England!

It has the perfect balance between cosmopolitan cities, towering peaks, relaxing countryside and a breathtaking coastline.

Oh, and that’s before you take into account the historical and cultural experiences!

Whether you’re planning a staycation, visiting the region for the first time or are looking for day trips, this blog post will help you discover the best places to visit in North West England.

So what are we waiting for? Time to start exploring!

Best Places To Visit In North West

1 – ambleside.

Located on the northern tip of Lake Windermere, it’s a good town to use as a base for exploring the rest of the Lake District.

Here you will find the remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, the picturesque 17th Century Bridge House, and the 70ft waterfall, Stock Ghyll Force.

Where? Ambleside is around 1 hour 50 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 2 hours 15 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

2 – Arnside

It has stunning natural beauty and you can climb to the top of Arnside Knott for panoramic views.

Alternatively, admire the coastline at Humphrey Head, Blackstone Point or Arnside Pier. Other attractions in this area include Levens Hall, an Elizabethan manor with a topiary garden and the medieval Arnside Tower.

Where? Arnside is around 1 hour 45 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 1 hour 25 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

3 – Blackburn

A former mill town in the Ribble Valley, Blackburn has a rich industrial history.

Some of the main attractions include Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery, Blackburn Cathedral, Corporation Park, Witton Country park and Hoghton Tower.

Where? Blackburn is around 55 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station or 1 hour 20 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street station.

4 – Blackpool

A vibrant seaside resort on the Irish Sea coast, Blackpool is jam-packed full of attractions to keep you entertained.

Get an adrenaline rush at the Pleasure Beach, see the resort from above at Blackpool Tower or enjoy classic seaside fun on the Piers

You could even walk on the Comedy Carpet or do some dancing at one of the ballrooms (as featured on Strictly Come Dancing!).

Where? Blackpool is about 1 hour 30 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station or 1 hour 10 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

5 – Bolton

One of the largest towns in Greater Manchester, Bolton is a former mill town with a rich industrial history.

Although the town centre has become a little neglected, there are still some great things to do here including admiring the view from Rivington Pike, see the architecture at Smithills Hall, Hall i’ th’ Wood Museum or Turton Tower, and spending a day at Bolton Museum, Art Gallery & Aquarium.

Where? It takes around 35 minutes by road to get to Bolton from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 1 hour 15 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

6 – Bowness-on-Windermere

Situated on the banks of Lake Windermere in the breathtaking Lake District, Bowness has to be one of the best places to visit in North West England.

One of the most popular towns for tourists, you’ll find rows of quaint shops and cafes to explore in addition to major attractions such as The World of Beatrix Potter, Lake District Cruises and Windermere Jetty Museum.

Where? It takes around 2 hours 15 minutes to get to Bowness by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station or around 1 hour 45 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

You might find my blog post about Lake Windermere Cruises helpful!

7 – Burnley

Situated at the confluence of the River Calder and the River Brun, Burnley is a town in Lancashire.

You could enjoy the huge park, art gallery and museum at Towneley Hall, take a tour around the national trust-managed Elizabethan manor Gawthorpe Hall or learn about Burnley’s industrial past at the Queen Street Mill Textile Museum.

Don’t forget to listen and take a selfie with the Singing Ringing Tree, a huge outdoor sculpture located in the Pennine hill range overlooking Burnley.

Where? Burnley is around 1 hour 20 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 50 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station.

8 – Bury

A large market town in Greater Manchester, Bury is located on the River Irwell and has an interesting industrial history.

A former mill town, you’ll be able to visit the Bury Transport Museum and The Fusilier Museum. I recommend riding the East Lancashire Railway to Ramsbottom (yes, it’s a place) to visit the quaint shops and cafes.

If you’re visiting for the first time, make sure you go to the open-air Bury market and try the traditional black puddings!

Where? Bury is around 40 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 1 hour 15 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

You might find my blog post about Christmas on the East Lancashire Railway or  Afternoon Tea on the East Lancs Railway helpful!

9 – Carlisle

Located just 10 miles south of the Scottish border, Carlisle has an incredible, rich history.

Step back in time at the 12th Century fortress and prison of Carlisle Castle or take a tour around the 15th-century house which is now home to the Guildhall Museum.

Other places you could visit include Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life or Carlie Cathedral.

Where? Carlisle is around 2 hours 30 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station or 2 hours by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

10 – Chester

A city famous for its incredible Roman history, Chester is one of the best places to visit in North West England.

Some of the amazing things you can do here include:

• The beautiful medieval Chester Cathedral
• Learn about Roman history at the Chester Roman Amphitheatre and the Roman Gardens. You could even visit the interactive museum, Dewa Roman Experience.
• Walk along the Chester City Walls for a unique view
• Visit the World’s oldest racecourse, Chester Racecourse, which was founded in 1539
• The world-famous Chester Zoo
• Explore Chester castle

You could also take a trip to the huge Blue Planet Aquarium or the outlet shopping at Cheshire Oaks!

Where? Chester is around 1 hour by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 40 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

You might find my blog post about Chester Zoo helpful!

11 – Chorley

A former mill town in Lancashire, Chorley is a small town, famous for the Chorley cake.

After sampling one of these delicious delicacies, take time to explore Astley Hall and Park, Yarrow Valley Country Park, Rivington Pike and Worden Park.

Where? It takes around 1 hour by road to get to Chorley from Liverpool Lime Street station or 45 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

12 – Clitheroe

A town in the Ribble Valley in Lancashire, Clitheroe is the perfect base for visiting the Forest of Bowland.

Visit the medieval Clitheroe Castle, take a tour around Browsholme Hall and Tithe Barn, explore the remains of the 10th-century abbey, Sawley Abbey and see the boar at Bowland Wild Boar Park.

Where? Clitheroe is approximately 1 hour 25 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 1 hour by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

13 – Crosby

It has a stunning sandy beach that is famous for the 100 cast-iron figures by Anthony Gormley. Alternatively, you could visit Rimrose Valley Country Park or the Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve.

Where? It takes around 1 hour 10 minutes by road to reach Crosby from Manchester Piccadilly station or 25 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station.

14 – Fleetwood

A coastal town on the Fylde coast, Fleetwood is a sleepish seaside resort in Lancashire. Famously the home of Fisherman’s Friend lozenge, fishing is a major industry in this town.

Some of the main attractions in the town are the Fleetwood Musume, Farmer Parrs Animal World, Fleetwood Beach, Fleetwood Market, Rossall Point Observation Tower and the 44-foot sandstone Lower Lighthouse.

You could also catch the ferry to Knott End, a small village across the Wyre estuary.

Where? Fleetwood is approximately 1 hour 35 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or around 1 hour 20 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station.

15 – Formby

A coastal town on the Sefton coast in Merseyside, Formby is one of the best places to visit in North West England.

The town boasts a stunning beach, complete with sand dunes that are perfect for exploring. You will also find Ainsdale Beach close by giving you even more options. Another popular attraction is the Red Squirrel sanctuary that is a must for nature lovers.

Where? Formby is around 40 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 1 hour 10 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station.

16 – Grasmere

If you’re looking for somewhere that looks like it’s straight off a chocolate box, Grasmere is for you.

A popular village in the centre of the Lake District, it’s famous for its gingerbread and people will queue up along the road just to buy from the tiny, traditional shop.

Other things to do in the area include visiting Dove Cottage, the former home of William Wordsworth (now known as Wordsworth Grasmere), and the National Trust owned Allan Bank, a Grade II listed villa.

Where? It takes around 2 hours 15 minutes to get to Grasmere by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station or Manchester Piccadilly Station.

17 – Heysham

A pretty coastal town overlooking Morecambe Bay, Heysham is in Lancashire.

Nature lovers will love the Heysham Coast Walk or the walking trails and wetlands at Heysham Nature Reserve. Another attraction is the ruins of the medieval St. Patrick’s Chapel which is a designated Grade I listed building.

You can also catch the ferry from here to the Isle of Man and Ireland.

Where? Heysham is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station or 1 hour 30 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime station.

18 – Kendal

Situated in Cumbria, Kendal is just 8 miles from Windermere making it a great place to visit whilst you’re in the Lake District.

Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this market town has a handful of attractions including Kendal Castle and Sizergh Castle.

You’ll also find the museums of Abbot Hall, Kendal Museum, Lakeland Museum and the Quaker Tapestry Museum here, along with the head office of the Cumbria Wildlife Trust.

Where?: It takes around 1 hour 40 minutes by road to reach Kendal from Manchester Piccadilly Station or Liverpool Lime Street Station.

19 – Keswick

A vibrant market town in the Lake District, Keswick is nestled between Skiddaw and Derwentwater, making it a must-visit for culture and nature lovers alike!

Some of the attractions you will find in this area include the Derwent Pencil Museum and the Castlerigg Stone Circle, a mysterious monument built around 3000 BC!

Where? It takes around 2 hours 10 minutes to reach Keswick by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 2 hours 30 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

20 – Knowsley

A large village in Merseyside, Knowsley is famous for Knowsley Safari Park.

Operating for over 45 years, it has both a safari drive and a foot safari, making it a fun day out.

Other attractions in this area include the Aerial Extreme high ropes course and Prescot Museum which highlights local history.

Where? Knowsley is around 30 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street or 50 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

21 – Knutsford

A leafy town in Cheshire, Knutsford is an affluent area, with some of the most expensive house prices outside London.

It has a pleasant enough high street, but the main attraction is Tatton Park, run by the National Trust. This stunning historic estate includes a sprawling mansion, 50 acres of landscaped gardens and even a deer park!

Other things to see close by including the Grade II listed building Arley Hall and the Jodrell Bank Observatory.

It’s also close to Alderley Edge and Wilmslow which are full of bustling shops and cafes.

Where? Knutsford is around 40 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 1 hour from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

22 – Lancaster

A city full of history, Lancaster is one of the best places to visit in North West England.

Its attractions include the medieval Lancaster Castle, the beautiful Williamson Park and the iconic Ashton Memorial. You can also learn about local maritime history at the Lancaster Maritime Museum at The Custom House.

Where? Lancaster is around 1 hour 30 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 1 hour 20 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

23 – Liverpool

A vibrant city on the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary, Liverpool is a must-visit when you’re in North West England.

Learn about the city’s music history at The Beatles Story, Cavern Club, Strawberry Field or British Music Experience. Alternatively, explore the Royal Albert Dock, where you will find attractions such as Tate Liverpool.

Other attractions include the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool Cathedral, Merseyside Maritime Museum, Speke Hall, Sefton Park, the Liver Building and Mersey Ferries.

Where? Liverpool is served by Liverpool Lime Street which takes you straight to the heart of the city. Alternatively, it takes around 1 hour 10 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station.

24 – Lytham St. Annes

Just 2 miles down the coast from Blackpool, Lytham St. Annes is a beautiful seaside charm. St Annes has the most beautiful, clean beaches and a traditional pier, whilst Lytham town centre is full of cafes and shops to explore.

Some of the main attractions in this area include the Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, St. Anne’s Pier, Lytham Hall, Lytham windmill and Fairhaven Boating Lake.

Where? Lytham St. Annes is around 1 hour 10 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 1 hour 30 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

25 – Manchester

A bustling cosmopolitan city, Manchester is one of the best places to visit in North West England.

There are tons of things to do in this city, but some of the most popular attractions are:

• Exploring the trendy shops and cafes in the Northern Quarter.
• Visiting one of the many museums such as the Science and Industry Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, Manchester Museum, The Whitworth, Greater Mancher Police Museum, the People’s History Museum or the National Football Museum.
• Relaxing in the sprawling Heaton Park.
• Checking out the books at John Rylands Library
• Admiring the stunning architecture of the Town Hall or Manchester Cathedral.
• Seeing the city from above from the top of Beetham Tower.
• Exploring Fletcher Moss Park
• Enjoying the nightlife in Deansgate.
• Relaxing by the canal in Castlefield.

Where? Manchester’s main train station is Manchester Piccadilly station, but it’s also around 1 hour 10 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station.

26 – Morecambe

A coastal town in Lancashire, Morecambe is the perfect place to experience the English seaside.

Take a selfie with the Eric Morecambe Statue before strolling along Morecambe Promenade and The Stone Jetty. I also recommend finding the Venus & Cupid sculpture by Shane A. Johnstone.

Where? Morecambe is around 1 hour 20 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or around 1 hour 40 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

27 – Nantwich

A market town in Cheshire, Nantwich has one the highest concentrations of listed buildings in the whole of England!

Located on the banks of the River Weaver, you’ll find stunning black and white Tudor and Georgian architecture right along the high street.

Aside from admiring the buildings, you’ll be able to learn more about local history at Nantwich Museum, which is housed in a former public library dating back to 1888. You could also take a tour around the stunning Dorfold Hall and gardens, a beautiful Grade I listed Jacobean house originally built in 1616.

Where? Nantwich is around 1 hour 5 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 1 hour 15 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street.

28 – Northwich

Not to be confused with Nantwich, Northwich is a town in West Cheshire, at the confluence of the Rivers Weaver and Dane.

There are several notable attractions here including the restored Victorian Anderton Boat Lift, the Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse and the Lion Salt Works.

You could also visit the nearby Delamere Forest which is the largest area of woodland in England.

Where? It takes approximately 55 minutes to get to Northwich by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or around 50 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

29 – Ormskirk

A market town in West Lancashire, Ormskirk has a bustling town centre full of shops and restaurants.

The market is one of the main attractions and has been running since 1286. Other things to do in the area include exploring Ruff Wood and shopping at Cedar Farm.

You could also visit Martin Mere which is an amazing wetland nature reserve nearby.

Where? Ormskirk is around 1 hour by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 40 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

You might find my blog post about Martin Mere helpful.

30 – Preston

A bustling city in Lancashire, Preston is a must-visit for culture lovers.

You could visit the Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library, the Lancashire Infantry Museum or even take a ride on the Ribble Steam Railway and Museum.

If you’re looking to relax, Preston has some beautiful parks including Avenham and Miller Park and Haslam Park.

Where? Preston is approximately 1 hour from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 1 hour 15 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

31 – Ribchester

A historic village in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire, Ribchester is one of the best places to visit in North West England.

Learn about the area’s Roman history by visiting Ribchester Roman Museum and exploring the remains of the Roman Baths. You could also take a tour around the Samlesbury Hall manor house which dates back to the 1300s.

Where? Ribchester is around 1 hour 15 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 1 hour by road from Manchester Piccadilly station.

32 – Rochdale

One of the largest towns in Greater Manchester, Rochdale sits at the foot of the South Pennines.

Some of the most popular attractions include Hollingworth Lake, Touchstones Art Gallery, Tandle Hill and Rochdale Pioneers Museum.

I recommend walking along Rochdale Canal and admiring the industrial architecture.

Where? Rochdale is around 1 hour 10 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 40 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station.

33 – Rossendale

The Rossendale area is in Lancashire and includes towns such as Bacup, Haslingden, Rawtenstall, as well as villages like Chatterton and Irwell Vale.

Some of the main attractions include the Helmshore Mills Textile Museum, The Whitaker art gallery, Ski Rossendale, Lee Quarry Mountain Bike Trail and Halo, a large-scale illuminated outdoor sculpture.

Where? It takes around 50 minutes by road to get to Rossendale from Manchester Piccadilly Train Station or around 1 hour 15 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station.

34 – Salford

Often confused as a town, Salford is in fact its own city and has some incredible attractions to keep you busy.

Some of the most popular things to do include:

• Exploring Salford Quays,
• Taking a tour of the BBC at MediaCityUK,
• Visiting Salford Museum and Art Gallery,
• Seeing the legendary set of Coronation Street,
• Learning about Tudor history at Ordsall Hall
• Taking a selfie outside Salford lads Club
• Admire Salford Cathedral

Where? Salford is around 1 hour by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 20 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly.

35 – Southport

Some of the most popular attractions are Southport Pleasureland, the British Lawnmower Museum, Southport Pier, Splash World, Southport Model Railway Village, Hesketh Park and the Royal Birkdale Golf Club.

Where? Southport is around 50 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station or 1 hour 20 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station.

36 – St. Helens

A large town in Merseyside, St. Helens is a former mining town, now famous for glass and rugby.

Learn about the town’s glass industry at the World of Glass, or see the many vintage buses, lorries and cars at the North West Museum of Road Transport.

Don’t forget to take a selfie with The Dream Sculpture by Jaume Plensa which is on the site of a former colliery.

Where? It takes approximately 45 minutes by road to reach St. Helens from Manchester Piccadilly station or 35 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station.

37 – Stockport

A vibrant town in Greater Manchester, Stockport has an incredible industrial history.

Some of the things you can do in the areas include:

• Learning about the Hat-making industry at the Hat Works.
• Taking a tour around the Stockport Air Raid Shelters.
• Visiting Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery or Stockport Museum
• Shopping at Stockport market.
• Exploring the grounds of Lyme Park, made famous by the Pride & Prejudice film.
• Admiring the architecture at Bramall Hall, Staircase House
• Learning about the textile industry at Quarry Bank Mill, run by the National Trust.

Where? Stockport is around 1 hour by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station or 30 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

38 – Trafford

One of the most famous areas of Manchester, there are plenty of things to do in Trafford .

Famously the home of the Old Trafford Stadium, Manchester United’s football ground, there’s much more to do in this area than sport.

In this area, you’ll find attractions such as:

• The Imperial War Museum North,
• Chill Factore (an indoor skiing and snowboarding slope),
• Dunham Massey (a National Trust Georgian estate and deer park)
• The Trafford Centre shopping complex
• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
• SEA LIFE Manchester
• Altrincham Market, an indoor food hall and craft stalls.

Where? This is a big area, but to give you an idea, it takes around 15 minutes to travel by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station to Old Trafford Stadium or around 1 hour from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

39 – Wallasey

Located on the northeast coast of the Wirral Peninsula in Merseyside, Wallasey is a great location for a day out in North West England.

Relax in Vale Park in New Brighton, or see the New Brighton Lighthouse. You could even visit neighbouring Birkenhead and explore Birkenhead Park, a huge park that is a Grade I listed landscape.

Where? Wallasey is around 1 hour 10 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station or 20 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station.

40 – Warrington

Located right in the middle of Manchester and Liverpool, Warrington is a great place to visit in North West England.

Spend a day exploring the beautiful Elizabethan-style Walton Hall and Gardens or the nearby historical site of Norton Priory Museums & Gardens in Runcorn.

You’ll also find the kid’s theme park, Gulliver’s World Theme Park here.

Where? It takes around 40 minutes by road to get to Warrington from Liverpool Lime Street Station or Manchester Piccadilly Station.

41 – Whalley

A large village in the Ribble Valley in Lancashire, Whalley is full of independent shops, cafes and restaurants.

You could explore the 14th-century monastery gatehouse at Whalley Abbey, climb neighbouring Pendle Hill or have a picnic at Spring Wood.

Don’t forget to walk over Cromwell’s Bridge, named after Oliver Cromwell after he marched the New Model Army over it to fight the Royalists at the Battle of Preston!

Where? Whalley is around 1 hour by road from Manchester Piccadilly station, or 1 hour 20 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

42 – Wigan

Some of the top attractions in this area are the Museum of Wigan Life, Mesnes Park, Wigan Pier, Haigh Woodland Park, Wigan Flashes, Haydock Park Racecourse, and Three Sisters Race Circuit.

Where? Wigan is around 45 minutes by road from Manchester Piccadilly station or 55 minutes by road from Liverpool Lime Street station.

43 – Worsley

Located on the banks of the Bridgewater Canal, Worsley is a stunning town in Salford. I know I’ve already included Salford, but, I couldn’t help but finish this list with a spotlight on Worsley.

It’s a beautiful place for a Sunday stroll, with a network of paths leading you through the peaceful Worsley Woods.

You’ll also find the RHS Garden Bridgewater here, which is one of Europe’s largest gardening projects.

Where? Worsley is a 20-minute journey by road from Manchester Piccadilly Station or a 45-minute journey by road from Liverpool Lime Street Station.

I hope this guide has given you some travel inspiration?

Where do you think are the best places to visit in North West England? Let me know in the comments below!

Other posts you might find interesting:

• 27 Haunted Places In The UK To Visit

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At Home in England

An English Lifestyle Blog

East , East Midlands , London , North East , North West , South East , South West , Travel , West Midlands · September 3, 2020

50 Best Small Towns in England by Train

Medieval spires, half-timbered inns and Georgian town halls are just some of the images conjured up by the phrase ‘English country town’. England is a nation of small towns with deep histories, charming buildings and country views. Having been all over the country, one of the things I’ve noticed is just how inaccessible many small towns in England are. That’s why I’ve come up with this article on 50 best small towns in England by train.

Despite the Beeching cuts, many small towns continue to enjoy railway access. This makes them great options for those without a car or wanting to travel green. If you’re looking for small towns in England by train then look no further. This guide covers the most historic, attractive and vibrant small towns with sites to explore. Any would make a splendid day trip, with enough to keep you going for a weekend. 50 is a big number so hopefully the list will uncover some previously unknown locations for you!

Best Small Towns in England by Train

Click on the regions below to jump to best small towns in England for your local area.

South East South West East of England East Midlands West Midlands Yorkshire & The Humber North East North West

Best Small Towns England by Train – South East England

Due to its proximity to London, the South East has many train stations meaning most towns enjoy railway access. Not all of these are dormitory towns however. Many have their own histories and characters, completely independent from London. Below are some of the best small towns in England by train in the South East region.

Arundel really is a fairytale town – all turrets, cobbled streets and countryside. Just look at that glorious castle and cathedral rising above its medieval streets! Arundel is a Saxon market town, however it really came into being with the Normans, who built a castle here. An ancient port, the town prospered until well into the 20th century. Despite its countryside location, there’s lots to do in the pretty town of Arundel. Places to visit include Arundel Castle (a stately home), Arundel Cathedral, Arundel Museum and Arundel Wetland Centre. All are within walking distance of the town and railway station. If that wasn’t enough, you’ve also got the south downs on your doorstep.

Nearest Train Station: Arundel Nearest Mainline Station: London Victoria Journey Time to London: 1hr 22m (direct)

Rye is one of the most picturesque small towns in England, along with Ludlow . It’s also one of the easiest towns to reach by train, with a direct line from London. Rye is an ancient port town with a history stretching back to the 12th century. It’s a labyrinth of cobbled streets, wonky buildings and historic sites. All the attractions are easily accessed from the town centre, of which Mermaid Street (pictured) is top. The town’s history can be found in the Rye Castle Museum and Ypres Tower (a medieval monument). Other ancient landmarks include Landgate (a medieval gateway) and Camber Castle (a Tudor fortress). There’s also Lamb House – a National Trust townhouse once home to author Henry James. Lovers of the picturesque will love Rye Harbour Nature Reserve – a spectacular marshland landscape with a discovery centre. 

Nearest Train Station: Rye Nearest Mainline Station: London St Pancras International Journey Time to London: 1hr 8m (direct)

Farnham is a must for any lover of Georgian Architecture. It’s a convenient town to visit with a direct line from London. Farnham is characterised by its numerous Georgian properties, built of local red brick. During the Tudor period, the town grew rich off the wheat trade. However later on hops (flowers used in beer production) became what it was known for. Besides its numerous Georgian properties and lovely tea rooms, there are a number of attractions accessible by foot from the town. The main attraction is Farnham Castle – a medieval castle managed by English Heritage. It’s free to visit. More information on the town’s history can be found in the Museum of Farnham, located in a beautiful Georgian town house. Arts and culture lovers will love Farnham Maltings – a complex that hosts film screenings, concerts and workshops. It even has its own pottery and kiln room! 

Nearest Train Station: Farnham Nearest Mainline Station: London Waterloo Journey Time to London: 51m (direct)

Fancy a town with two Michelins, a Thameside location and its own regatta? Well that’s Marlow for you. The origins of Marlow date to 1015, when it was known as Merelafan. The town grew into a centre of trade and many of its buildings date to the 17th century. It’s a perfect location for a day trip by train, with lots to do within walking distance. Hours can be spent walking alongside the banks of the Thames, ogling at the pretty houses here. Attractions include the town museum, All Saints Church and Rebellion Beer microbrewery. Boat trips are a popular feature in summer and the Chiltern Hills are just outside. Besides this, there’s lots of plush shops to visit and numerous places to eat. It really is a honeypot of a town.

Nearest Train Station: Marlow Nearest Mainline Station: London Paddington Journey Time to London: 44m (2 changes)

Lewes dates back to the Saxons when Alfred the Great built a ‘burgh’ here. The town lies on a hill between an ancient priory and castle, with narrow lanes running off the high street. Lewes is awash with pretty houses of timber, brick and flint, many dating to the 1500s. It’s a lovely place to lose yourself among winding streets with quaint tea rooms. Attractions include Lewes Castle and Museum, Lewes Priory, Southover Grange Gardens and Anne of Cleeves House (which she never actually visited!). The town is located in the south downs so there are lovely walks to be had. The National Trust’s Monk’s House and Bloomsbury Group’s Charleston House are within walking distance. Further culture can be found at Glyndebourne – the renowned opera house on the outskirts of the town. 

Nearest Train Station: Lewes Nearest Mainline Station: London Victoria Journey Time to London: 1hr 8m (direct)

Dorking is an easy town to visit as it has three stations! The town appears in Domesday Book of 1086 as the Manor of Dorchinges. Dorking grew prosperous from the coaching trade and its markets – wheat and cattle in particular. In 1750, the construction of a turnpike road made Dorking a staging post on the route from London to Brighton. The town lies within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty so is popular with walkers. Attractions include the Dorking Museum & Heritage Centre and St Martin’s Church. On the last Saturday of the month, the museum also runs tours of Dorking Caves – a network of man made tunnels beneath the town. The region is popular with vineyards and one of the best lies just oitside the town – the Denbies Wine Estate. Besides this, there’s lovely independent shops, cafes and art galleries, making it perfect for a day trip.

Nearest Train Station: Dorking, Dorking West or Dorking Deepdene Nearest Mainline Station: London Waterloo or Victoria Journey Time to London: 55m (direct)

Faversham’s enviable position leading to the Thames meant it was trading as far back as 1225. A monastery was founded by King Stephen and the town’s port exported produce eastwards. In the 18th century Faversham supplemented its trade in tea, pepper and coffee with smuggling. Today, the town retains a wonderful array of historic buildings and cobbled streets. The Fleur de Lis Heritage Centre provides a full history of the town, which can be supplemented at the Oare Gunpowder Works (which covers Faversham’s ammunition history). Besides this, hours can be spent browsing the town’s independent shops, galleries, inns and tea rooms in the historic market place or quayside. There’s also a weekly market and the Brogdale Collection – home to the National Fruit Collection. Everything is within walking distance, making it perfect for a day trip by train.

Nearest Train Station: Faversham Nearest Mainline Station: London St Pancras International Journey Time to London: 1hr 6m (direct)

Lymington is an ancient riverside town in south Hampshire. Founded by the Saxons in the 6th century, the town grew into a medieval market town and was famous for producing salt. A small but busy port, the town also witnessed its fair share of smugglers throughout much of its history.  Essentially Georgian in character, hours can be spent walking its pretty streets. You can learn more about the town’s history at the St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery or discover local produce at the Saturday Charter Market. Lymington is surrounded on three sides by the New Forest National Park, so offers the perfect mix of coast and country. Some of the pleasant areas to roam around include the New Forest National Park, Lymington Nature Reserve, Lymington Quay and the Solent Way Walk. If you fancy a dip then visit the Lymington Sea Water Baths – the oldest lido in the country.

Nearest Train Station: Lymington Pier or Lymington Town Nearest Mainline Station: London Waterloo or Southampton Journey Time to London: 1hr 53m (1 change)

The history of Sandwich stretches back to the Romans. The town’s location was ideal for a port and early wealth came from exporting wool. By the 15th century the river was silting up and wool was becoming less lucrative. In 1697 Celia Fiennes found Sandwich ‘a town all timber building’. Even today, it hasn’t managed to fill up the space inside its walls. Hours can be spent exploring Sandwich’s medieval streets and buildings. There is a museum inside the Guildhall and a Roman Fort and Amphitheatre just outside the town. Further insight its history can be found at the medieval St Clement’s church, old toll bridge and White Mill Rural Heritage Centre. Due to its estuary position, the town has its own beach – Sandwich Bay Beach with a bird observatory. It really is one of the most underrated small towns in England. Direct trains run from London.

Nearest Train Station: Sandwich Nearest Mainline Station: London St Pancras or Ashford International Journey Time to London: 1hr 30m (direct)

Romsey is an ancient market town that started as a Saxon village. In 907 AD a Benedictine abbey was founded – which today is Romsey’s star attraction. Other attractions include King John’s House (a heritage museum), Romsey signal box (a small railway museum) and Broadlands (a Georgian country house and former residence of Lord Palmerston). All of these are within walking distance of the town and railway station. Another attraction (just outside the town) is Mottisfont – a National Trust house. This can be accessed from the next station up (Mottisfont & Dunbridge), and a short walk. The town is one of less known about small towns in England meaning it’s perfect for those wanting to avoid crowds!

Nearest Train Station: Romsey Nearest Mainline Station: Southampton Journey Time to London: 1hr 42m (1 change)

Henley on Thames

Like nearby Marlow , Henley is another town with a Thames-side location. Henley one of the most desirable places to live in the South East and you can see why. It’s lovely! The town dates back to 1179 when King Henry II bought land here “for the making of buildings”. The town grew wealthy in Georgian times, thanks largely to the manufacture of glass and malt. The town is awash with pretty buildings, small galleries and plush shops to peruse. It’s very upmarket here. The highlight of the year is of course the Henley Regatta. Other attractions include the River & Rowing Museum, town theatre, Chiltern Hills and of course the Thames, with boat trips in the summer. A 45 minute walk through the Chilterns will also bring you to Grey’s Court – a Tudor country house and garden managed by the National Trust.

Nearest Train Station: Henley-on-Thames Nearest Mainline Station: London Paddington Journey Time to London: 44m (1 change)

Best Small Towns in England by Train -South West England

The South West is home to some of the most popular destinations in England, like the Cotswolds and Cornwall. Unfortunately a lot of towns here lost their train stations in the sixties. However, there are some which managed to hold on. Historically, the railway line extending West from London was termed ‘the holiday line’. It is possibly because of the high levels of tourism here that many towns still boast access to the network. Below are the best small towns in south west England by train.

Totnes is a real beauty just 30 minutes by train from Exeter. The town was a Saxon stronghold, minting its own coins by the 10th century. One of the richest towns in England, a castle was built following the Norman conquest.  Devilishly handsome, Totnes lies at the head of the Dart estuary and its high street is possibly the prettiest in England. The many fine houses here owe their existence to the wealth brought through its port in the 16th and 17th centuries. Places to visit include the castle, church, museum and photographic archive. You’ve also got steam railway trips and river boats frequenting the town. Totnes has distinctive character and you could spend hours exploring its streets and shops. The town even has its own currency. Further afield you’ll also find a rare breeds farm, vineyard and Dartington Hall – a destination in itself. 

Nearest Train Station: Totnes Nearest Mainline Station: Exeter Journey Time to London: 2hr 50m (direct)

St Ives is one of Cornwall’s chief attractions due to its picture-postcard aesthetic and sandy beach. It’s one of the most popular small towns in England. The town has ancient origins and was an important fishing port from medieval times. The arrival of the railway to St Ives encouraged more house building, meaning old fisherman cottages cluster nearby grand Victorian villas. The town’s main attractions are the Tate St Ives and Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden. Naturally the seaside location means water-sports and sandy beaches are plenty. For those interested in history, then there’s many old streets to explore, one of which houses The Sloop Inn – one of the oldest pubs in England. 

Nearest Train Station: St Ives Nearest Mainline Station: Plymouth Journey Time to London: 5hr 21m (1 change)

Bradford on Avon

Bradford-on-Avon must be one of the least appreciated of Cotswolds towns. It’s often overlooked due it’s proximity to Bath. However, take a 10 minute train journey south and you’ll stumble upon the beauty that is Bradford on Avon. The market town is full of beautiful vistas, with stone houses built into the hills. The town is seriously historic and made its medieval wealth on the wool trade. Georgian and medieval buildings abound with lots of historic landmarks like the ancient bridge and lockup. Attractions in the town include a 14th century Tithe Barn and a Saxon church (one of the oldest in England). A 30 minute walk through the countryside will also take you to the medieval Westwood Manor House and Ilford Peto Gardens. In the centre of the town is the lovely Bridge Tea Rooms which are a must for anyone visiting.

Nearest Train Station: Bradford-on-Avon Nearest Mainline Station: Bath Spa Journey Time to London: 1hr 44m (1 change)

Sherborne is quite possibly the dreamiest spot in England. Built of golden hamstone, this town shines all year round. Sherborne was the ancient capital of Wessex so the medieval town is packed with historical buildings. It’s the perfect place for a day trip, with enough attractions to keep you busy. The star attractions are Sherborne Old Castle (a ruin), Sherborne New Castle (a stately home), Sherborne Abbey (an ancient cathedral) and Sherborne Museum. All are within walking distance of the town and railway station. Besides this, the town is full of beautiful old buildings and lovely places to eat and drink. It really is one of the loveliest small towns in England.

Nearest Train Station: Sherborne Nearest Mainline Station: London Waterloo Journey Time to London: 2hr 19m (direct)

Truro is technically a city but it’s a small town at heart. One of the most desirable places to live in the South West, it is very pretty. Truro started as a Saxon village, growing to become a market town based on wool and tin. Development accelerated in the 18th century as Truro become fashionable with the gentry. Due to this growth, the town remains largely Georgian in character with some fine civic buildings. The chief attraction is the beautiful Victorian Cathedral, along with the Royal Cornwall Museum. The town is located in the Cornwall AONB meaning there’s beautiful walks to be had, along with boat trips in summer. A 90 minute walk through the landscape will take you to Trelissick Garden – a National Trust country estate . Besides this, there are some lovely shops, cafes and galleries in the town.

Nearest Train Station: Truro Nearest Mainline Station: Plymouth Journey Time to London: 4hr 33m (direct)

Frome is one of the most picturesque towns in Somerset. By the time of the Domesday Book (1086) it was already a bustling town. It prospered on the wool trade until the 17th century, after which it slowly declined. Today, the town is full of cobbled lanes and streets filled with creative independent shops. St Catherine’s Hill and Cheap Street are just two of the best. For a bit of culture, you have The Frome Museum (run by volunteers) and Black Swan Arts Centre –  home to many great exhibitions. There’s also an independent cinema for evening entertainment. Frome is surrounded by Somerset countryside so there’s plenty of walks to be had. You could take a dip in the river Frome or even take an extended walk to Nunney Castle – a 14th century fortress 2 miles away. It’s the perfect town for a leisurely day. You can’t not love it!

Nearest Train Station: Frome Nearest Mainline Station: Bath Spa Journey Time to London: 1hr 44m (1 change)

Barnstaple is a country town with a distinct character. The town owes its importance to its ancient port. Early wealth was derived from the wool trade, then herring fishing and later ship-building. This kept the town prosperous until the 1880s, when the river silted up. Today, Barnstaple is a town of Georgian shops and houses, lining a series of pretty lanes. After spending a while perusing its historic streets, the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon provides further insight into the town. Other attractions include the pannier market (showcasing local produce and art) and Queen Anne’s Walk (a spectacular Georgian meeting house with cafe inside). Other landmarks include the medieval St Anne’s Chapel, the town’s almshouses and Barnstaple long bridge (possibly the longest Medieval bridge in England). Besides this, there’s plenty of walks to be had, one being the South West Coast Path.

Nearest Train Station: Barnstaple Nearest Mainline Station: Exeter Journey Time to London: 3hr 54m (1 change)

Tewkesbury’s position just outside the Cotswolds means it’s often overlooked as a destination. However, it’s one of the most historic small towns i England. Tewkesbury is full of charm with timber buildings, stone cottages and a waterside location. There were monks here at the start of the 9th century, but it wasn’t until the 12th century that the great Tewkesbury Abbey was founded. This today is the town’s main attraction but there’s countless others – several museums, a heritage centre, baptist chapels and nature reserves. Besides this, the town is full of beautiful old buildings and lovely places to eat and enjoy life. All the attractions are in the town centre. The downside? The train station is a cool 3 miles out of the town centre, so you’ll need to put on your walking boots or take the hourly bus (journey time 10 minutes).

Nearest Train Station: Ashchurch for Tewkesbury Nearest Mainline Station: Gloucester Journey Time to London: 2hr 21m (1 change)

The county town of Dorset and the birthplace of author Thomas Hardy, Dorchester is a lovely place. The town’s location at a junction of roads and river crossing made it highly important throughout history. Unfortunately, most of Dorchester burnt down in the 1700s, meaning the town is characterised by 18th and 19th century brick buildings. There’s a wealth of museums in the town centre including the Dorset County Museum, Teddy Bear Museum, Military Keep Museum and Tutankhamun exhibition. There are also plenty of lovely shops, cafes and landmarks to lose yourself amongst. Take a short walk out of town and you’ll also find Max Gate – the former home of Thomas Hardy.

Nearest Train Station: Dorchester South or Dorchester West Nearest Mainline Station: Bournemouth Journey Time to London: 2hr 59m (direct)

Best Small Towns in England by Train – East Midlands

Peak District aside, the East Midlands is one of the most underrated areas of England. Unfortunately the rural nature of the region meant the axe went down on many of its rail stations. Nevertheless, some small towns within reach of larger cities (like Nottingham or Leicester) managed to hold on to their stations. Below are the best small towns in the East Midlands by train.

Stamford is the finest Georgian market town in England, built in honey limestone. The town dates back to the 9th Century when it was part of the Kingdom of Mercia. However, it prospered during the Georgian era as a coaching stop. There’s loads of things to do here. The star attraction is Burghley House – an Elizabeth stately home built by Elizabeth I’s Chief Advisor, William Cecil. Other attractions include Burghley deer park, Browne’s Hospital (a medieval almshouse), St Leonard’s Priory (a monastic ruin) and Stamford town hall (a Georgian town hall and courthouse). There are also countless medieval churches in the town. All of the above attractions are within walking distance of the town’s railway station.

Nearest Train Station: Stamford Nearest Mainline Station: Peterborough Journey Time to London: 1hr 13m (1 change)

Market Harborough

Market Harborough is a honeypot of period buildings built in stone, brick and timber. It is one of the prettiest and most desirable towns in this part of England. You could spend a good few hours exploring the town’s landmarks, streets and cafes. For a bit of history, there’s the Harborough Museum and the church of St Dionysius, a beautiful building that sits beside a 17th-century grammar school and Victorian factory. It’s a lovely town and perfect for a day trip, with pretty views and canal walks.

Nearest Train Station: Market Harborough Nearest Mainline Station: London St Pancras International Journey Time to London: 1hr 8m (direct)

Melton Mowbray

Melton Mowbray is a real country town, just 15 minutes by train from Leicester. Though it has a reputation for food, it’s also deeply historic. In the Domesday Book, it is recorded as Leicestershire’s only market. There are a number of attractions here, easily accessed from the centre of town. The star is its market, or market s – there’s loads, from food to antiques. Two delicacies to try are of course Melton Mowbray pork pies and Stilton cheese – both made in the town. For a bit of history there is Melton Mowbray’s town museum (housed in a former Carnegie Library). There’s also St Mary’s Church, the largest parish church in Leicestershire with a history stretching back to the 13th century.

Nearest Train Station: Farnham Nearest Mainline Station: Leicester Journey Time to London: 1hr 32m (1 change)

Buxton is Derbyshire’s answer to Bath. However, it never quite reached the same fame and remains a country town at heart. Buxton has ancient origins; pilgrims came here in the middle ages seeking miraculous cures from its waters. It became a market town and was popular in Elizabethan times. Things took a new turn however in the 18th century, when the Duke of Devonshire turned the town into a real spa. Unlike most towns in this area, Buxton retains its railway station with a direct line to Manchester. There are a number of sites to explore here, including St Anne’s Well, the Pavilion Gardens, Pump Room and Georgian crescent. There’s a museum and art gallery and also Poole’s Cavern – a landmark with subterranean caves. Besides this, you’ve got the Peak District on your doorstep so there are plenty of walks to be had.

Nearest Train Station: Buxton Nearest Mainline Station: Manchester Piccadilly Journey Time to London: 3hr 5m (1 change)

Oakham is a delightful country town in Rutland – England’s smallest county. The town’s history stretches as far back as the Normans, who built a castle here. Two of the town’s most ancient landmarks include the magnificent All Saints Church and the Buttercross – built in the 16th century. Both add an old world charm to Oakham among its thatched cottages and winding streets. Other attractions include Oakham Castle and Rutland County Museum. Oakham is surrounded by countryside so naturally there are lovely walks to be had. The spectacular Rutland Water reservoir is also on the town’s doorstep and boasts a Bird Watching Centre. This besides, the town is filled with independent shops, cafes and small galleries to browse around. Oakham is the only town in Rutland to enjoy rail access and has a direct line to Leicester and Peterborough.

Nearest Train Station: Oakham Nearest Mainline Station: Peterborough Journey Time to London: 1hr 20m (1 change)

Best Small Towns in England by Train – East England

East England is home to some of the most beautiful medieval towns in England. Termed ‘Constable Country’ due to the painter creating many of his works here, the region is a rural bliss. Unfortunately the area suffered badly in the sixties when many of its train stations were swept away. Nevertheless a few managed to hold on. Below are the best small towns in East England by train.

Woodbridge is a beautiful riverside town. It’s a little out on a limb but definitely worth the visit. The town is nestled in the Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty so there’s lovely walks to be had. Take a stroll along the riverside paths and you might even spot a seal! Besides being a lovely town with historic Georgian buildings and a market, there’s also the Woodbridge Tide Mill Museum to visit – one of only two tide mills in the country still in operation. There’s also a delightful independent riverside museum for the evening. Another attraction (just outside the town) is Sutton Hoo – a Royal Anglo Saxon Burial Ground with museum. This can be accessed from the next station up – Melton, and a short walk.

Nearest Train Station: Woodbridge Nearest Mainline Station: Ipswich Journey Time to London: 1hr 33m (1 change)

Saffron Walden 

Saffron Walden is a confection of medieval houses in colourful hues. Far removed from the TOWIE image that belies Essex, it’s a honey pot of wonky buildings on cobbled streets. The town takes its name from the Saffron crocus – a plant it grew in the 16th century for medicinal use. There’s comfortably enough to do here to fill a day. The nearest station is Audley End – a 40 minute walk away or 10 minutes bus. In the centre of the town you’ll find the town museum, ruined castle, Fry Art Gallery and Bridge End Gardens – a series of ornamental gardens. There are also countless buildings to admire, many of which house shops and cafes. Fifteen minutes walk away is Audley End House – an Elizabethan stately home accompanying miniature railway for kiddies.

Nearest Train Station: Audley End Nearest Mainline Station: London Liverpool Street Journey Time to London: 51m (direct)

Bury St Edmunds

In Saxon times Bury St Edmunds was the capital of the East Angles. A monastery was founded here in 1020 and a wealthy town sprung up. Though the abbey church became a ruin following the dissolution, Bury continued to do well. Timber-framed and Georgian properties line its pretty streets, many in pastel colours. Besides its swoon-worthy buildings and ruined abbey, there are ancient landmarks like the Norman Gate (an old entrance to the town). Other historic attractions include the town’s small cathedral and Moyse’s Hall – a town history museum. Those looking for something a bit different might enjoy the Greene King Brewery (which runs tours) or Theatre Royal (a regency playhouse). It really is a beautiful town and also home to England’s smallest pub!

Nearest Train Station: Bury St Edmunds Nearest Mainline Station: Cambridge Journey Time to London: 1hr 56m (1change)

Though Ely is officially a city, it really is a small town. Home to Ely Cathedral (filming location of Westminster Abbey in the Netflix series The Crown), it’s deeply historic. In medieval times the town was on the ‘Isle of Ely’ – a patch of high ground among watery fenland. It’s a pretty market town with historic buildings, good shops and quaint tea rooms. There’s also a host of attractions within walking distance. The chief one is the cathedral with its unique octagonal tower and lantern. Another is Ely Museum and Oliver Cromwell’s house (the Statesman lived in Ely between 1638 and 1646). There are also nice walks to be had with a country park and gardens. In summer you can also take a boat trip along the River Ouse. It really is a lovely town with a convenient railway station, just 15 minutes from Cambridge.

Nearest Train Station: Ely Nearest Mainline Station: Cambridge Journey Time to London: 1hr 17m (direct)

Sheringham is one of Norfolk’s most loved towns with a seaside location and beautiful countryside all round. The town features in the Domesday Survey and became a location of an Augustinian priory in 1216. Attractions include Sheringham Museum, Lifeboat Museum, Sheringham Beach and Sheringham Park – a 1,000 acre landscape park with stunning views towards the coast. Sheringham is also a top spot for steam trains with the Norfolk “Poppy Line” starting here. You can catch the steam train to the Georgian market town of Holt. 

Nearest Train Station: Sheringham Nearest Mainline Station: Norwich Journey Time to London: 2hr 53m (1 change)

Tring is a country town that retains a distinctive character despite its proximity to London. A market has been held here as far back as 1315 and the manor of Tring is recorded in the Domesday book. Today, the town is largely Victorian in character, with much prosperity brought in the 19th century through the silk industry and building of the canal. The town’s Chiltern Hills location means it’s prime walking country, with the National Trust’s Ashridge Estate and Tring Reservoirs within walking distance. Town centre attractions include the local history museum and Natural History Museum (started by the 2nd Baron Rothschild in the 19th Century). It’s a pleasant town to visit. The only catch is that the train station is a 30 minute walk away. It’s worth it though!

Nearest Train Station: Tring Nearest Mainline Station: London Euston Journey Time to London: 43m (direct)

Next door to Sheringham, Cromer is another lovely Norfolk small town. Though the town has a medieval parish church, it really came into being during the 19th century when it became a summer resort amongst Norwich’s wealthy. Due to its popularity as a holiday destination, the town has a number of attractions. These include Cromer Beach, Cromer Museum, and the Henry Blogg Museum – dedicated to famous lifeboatmen. In summer you’ll often find folk trying to catch Cromer Crab – the local delicacy. The town borders the 1000-acre Sheringham Park so there’s plenty of walks to be had. Lovers of English country houses will also appreciate Felbrigg Hall, though it’ll take you a cool 40 minutes to walk there (albeit it through pleasant countryside).

Nearest Train Station: Cromer Nearest Mainline Station: Norwich Journey Time to London: 2hr 42m (1 change)

Best Small Towns in England by Train – West Midlands

The West Midlands is home to some of the prettiest timber-framed buildings in England. A good number of small towns here managed to hold on to their stations, meaning railway access is generally good. Below are some of the best small towns in the West Midlands by train.

Ludlow is a vision of beauty – a confection of Georgian and Medieval buildings on sloping streets. The town’s hilltop location was perfect for governing the Welsh border so a castle was built in 1086. The town retains its medieval street plan, along with entry gates. Besides its historic beauty, the town is known for being a magnet for foodies with quality eating-joints and an incredible tri-weekly market. The main historic attraction is Ludlow Castle – a Norman fortress with fantastic views. The accompanying St Laurence church is also another top attraction with a 135 ft tower and glorious misericords (resting ledges beneath choir seats). For more history, there is a small museum just off the town square. Further delights can be found at Whitcliffe Common – a nature reserve on the edge of the town, with outstanding views of Ludlow Castle and the town.

Nearest Train Station: Ludlow Nearest Mainline Station: Hereford or Shrewsbury Journey Time to London: 3hr 27m (1 change)

Like nearby Ludlow, Ledbury is a foodie hotspot with a historic past. The Black and White Market Hall (Grade 1 listed) sets the tone for the rest of the town, with many timbered buildings and cobbled streets. Ledbury is principally a market town and the market is a great opportunity to sample the local produce. A handful of the buildings are open as museums. Pop into Ledbury Town Hall to view the stunning 16th century walls or visit Butcher Row House Museum for a glimpse into local Victorian life. Even more history can be found at The Heritage Centre on Church Lane. St Michael’s Church is yet another attraction revealing Ledbury’s past. Everything is within walking distance from the town station. For the more outdoorsy types, Ledbury hugs the eastern fringe of the Malvern Hills, so there’s fantastic walks and views to be had on the doorstep.

Nearest Train Station: Ledbury Nearest Mainline Station: Hereford Journey Time to London: 2hr 37m (direct)

Stratford-upon-Avon

Even if Stratford-upon-Avon wasn’t the birthplace of Shakespeare, it would continue to be one of the most beautiful towns in England. The gently flowing Avon attracted settlers as far back as the Bronze Age and fostered trading relations throughout the medieval era. Shakespeare grew up as the son of a local bailiff, ‘made-good’ in London and returned to make his mark. It’s probably thanks to the playwright that the town retains its railway station. As would be expected, there’s many Shakespeare-related attractions within walking distance of the station. Museums include Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Birthplace, Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall among countless other Tudor-themed ones. There’s also Holy Trinity Church where Shakespeare is buried. Stratford-upon-Avon is a very desirable place and there are countless shops, pubs and tea-rooms to enjoy like Hathaway Tea Rooms. If you’re there for the evening, then the Royal Shakespeare Theatre is a must-visit.

Nearest Train Station: Stratford-upon-avon Nearest Mainline Station: Leamington Spa or Birmingham Moor Street Journey Time to London: 2hr 7m (direct)

Warwick is famous for its magnificent castle. Most people think the town came first, though the town is far older. It was founded as a Saxon ‘burh’ (fortification) in 914 and controlled the outlying river valley and route to London. Much of the town was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1694 but several mediaeval buildings survive, complemented by fine 17th and 18th century houses. There are a lot of attractions here. The main ones are  Warwick Castle, St Mary’s Church and The Lord Leycester Hospital (a historic group of medieval timber-framed buildings). There’s also several free museums, gardens to enjoy and Guys Cliffe House (a ruined manor house). It’s one of the gems of this part of England and a lovely place to spend a day. With a direct line to London and Birmingham, it’s super easy to visit. 

Nearest Train Station: Warwick Nearest Mainline Station: Leamington Spa Journey Time to London: 1hr 30m (direct)

Great Malvern

Great Malvern has Norman origins. Two Benedictine priories were built following the conquest and a small town sprung up outside its walls. However, it wasn’t until 1756 when a certain Dr. Wall publicised the curative effects of the water in Malvern Wells that Malvern really came into being. A Victorian spa town soon emerged, with many properties built in the gothic style. Attractions in the town include the Priory Church, St Anne’s Well and the Malvern Museum (housed in the medieval abbey gateway). The town is also a draw with thespians as it boasts a large theatre complex. And of course, you can’t explore Malvern without frequenting the Malvern Hills (the so-called “English Alps”). The town has a direct line to both London and Birmingham so is very easy to visit. 

Nearest Train Station: Great Malvern Nearest Mainline Station: Worcester (Shrub Hill) Journey Time to London: 2hr 24m

Best Small Towns in England by Train – Yorkshire and the Humber

Like the East of England, Yorkshire suffered badly in the sixties when many of its stations were swept away. The region is home to some of the loveliest towns in England. However, many don’t have a station. Below are the best small towns in Yorkshire with train stations.

Knaresborough 

Knaresborough is located in what estate agents term ‘the golden triangle’ – the honeypot area between York, Leeds and Harrogate. It’s a wonderfully picturesque spot with regular trains and sweet places to eat.

Knaresborough was an ancient fortress and a town grew around its castle. Wool brought some wealth but flax made the town rich in medieval times. Houses built in the 17th century with a checkerboard pattern characterise the town, along with its railway viaduct. The top attractions include Knaresborough Castle (a fortress overlooking the River Nidd) and Mother Shipton’s cave (an ancient cave with a unique Petrifying Well). For a more leisurely day you can walk (or boat) along the River Nidd, visit the Bebra Garden and take in the landmarks like The Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag – a medieval chapel carved into rock. 

Nearest Train Station: Knaresborough Nearest Mainline Station: Leeds or York Journey Time to London: 2hr 45m (1 change)

The ancient seaport of Whitby is one of the most beautiful and picturesque seaside towns in England. The town is characterised by its cobbled streets and 15th century cottages. The numerous narrow alleyways and yards here provided escape routes for smugglers as far back as the 1400s. You could spend hours here exploring the streets. The ancient abbey (the inspiration for Dracula) dates back to 656 AD and is the chief attraction. There’s also several museums that document the history of the town, like the Captain Cook Memorial Museum. More leisurely activities include Whitby Beach or the Yorkshire Moors – both on your doorstep. The town’s also a hotspot for steam trains.

Nearest Train Station: Whitby Nearest Mainline Station: York Journey Time to London: 4hr 54m (2 changes)

Thanks to its Minster, Beverley looks like a medieval cathedral city from a distance. The town’s origins lie in the founding of a monastery, around which a town grew. Textiles, tanning and leatherwork made Beverley twice the size of Hull in the 14th century. Today, the town is a honeypot of Georgian and medieval buildings. You could spend a day exploring its picturesque streets and landmarks like the North Bar (an ancient gateway). The chief attraction is the glorious minister church, alongside the town museum, art gallery and Palladian guildhall. For outdoorsy types, you have the Beverley Beck (canal) and Beverley Westwood (open countryside). Further entertainment can be round at the Beverley Racecourse or East Riding Theatre. The town is a little remote (the nearest mainline station is Hull), however there are hopes to resurrect the ‘Minster Line’, linking Beverley to the cathedral city of York . 

Nearest Train Station: Beverley Nearest Mainline Station: Hull Journey Time to London: 3hr 15m (direct)

Like Appleby , Settle is another town along the famous Settle to Carlisle railway line. Settle is a town for those looking to escape tourists and take in the beauty of rural Yorkshire. Despite its small size, there are a number of things to do in this lovely town. The town dates back to the 1100s, though a number of Georgian houses and 17th century shambles give it its character today. You could spend hours here roaming the historic streets with quaint houses and shops. There are a number of landmarks to take in, however the main attractions are the Museum of North Craven Life and The Listening Gallery – an audio gallery in an old English telephone box. There are far too many beauty spots to name but some of the most accessible from the town include Scaleber Force Waterfall, Ingleborough Cave and Gordale Scar. 

Nearest Train Station: Settle Nearest Mainline Station: Carlisle or Leeds Journey Time to London: 3hr 43m (1 change)

Hebden Bridge

Hebden Bridge is Yorkshire’s most “woke” town, as well as one of the most charming. Hebden Bridge is just one of many old mill towns in this area of north England and has a river and a canal (essential for milling). The town has its own museum – the Heptonstall Museum – where you can discover more about its history. You’ll also find many artisan shops, galleries, cafés and pubs to enjoy here. There’s a real community to the place with a liberal atmosphere and good amenities – one being the independent Picture House. The star of the town however is to be found just outside the town in the moors surrounding it. A must for those visiting the town is a walk to Hardcastle Crags, where you can explore the woods and wander along a tranquil stream.

Nearest Train Station: Hebden Bridge Nearest Mainline Station: Manchester Victoria or Bradford Journey Time to London: 3hr 20m (1 change)

Skipton is another one of Yorkshire’s delightful small towns accessible by rail. The town dates back to as far as the domesday book and a castle was built here in the 11th century. The arrival of the canal in the 18th century brought great prosperity to the town and Skipton became a centre for trade and industry. Today it’s a pleasant stone-built town with historic attractions. These include Skipton Castle, Holy Trinity Church and the Craven Museum & Gallery. The town is a stone’s throw from the Yorkshire Dales so there are lovely walks to be had both in the country and along its canal. You could even take a long walk to Bolton Priory – a 12th-century Augustinian monastery six miles from the town. History aside, the town is full of pleasant shops, cafes and independent galleries for you to peruse at your leisure.

Nearest Train Station: Skipton Nearest Mainline Station: Leeds Journey Time to London: 3hr 6m (1 change)

Saltaire is a picture-perfect model village, located on the edge of Bradford. Despite its size, Saltaire has a railway station and is one of the prettiest small towns in Yorkshire. Saltaire is named after its founder, Sir Titus Salt, and the River Aire that runs through it. The town is home to a stunning mill building and various independent shops and cafés. The star attraction is Salts Mill, where you can view the largest permanent collection of David Hockney’s work in the UK, and wander along the Leeds-Liverpool canal. You could even take the Shipley Glen Tramway through the surrounding woodland.

Nearest Train Station: Saltaire Nearest Mainline Station: Leeds Journey Time to London: 2hr 37m (1 change)

Best Small Towns in England by Train – North East England

The North East of England is a largely rural area. Unfortunately many of the finest towns here don’t enjoy railway access. Nevertheless, these can still be visited with a little more effort. Below are the best small towns in North East England by train.

The town of Alnwick is most famous for the spectacular Alnwick Castle – Norman fortress and filming location of Harry Potter. The town was a continuous battleground between the Scots and English and town fortifications were licensed in 1424. Inside the walls, the town is full of handsomely paved streets with fine 18th-century houses. There’s also lovely shops and places to eat. Alnwick Castle and its gardens are the chief attractions but the town also has two museums – the Bailiffgate Museum and the Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland. Unfortunately the town lost its main railway station in the 60s. The nearest station is now Alnmouth which has a regular bus service to the town with a journey time of just 10 minutes. There’s also a pleasing cycle path linking the two towns should you prefer to walk. 

Nearest Train Station: Alnmouth Nearest Mainline Station: Newcastle Central Journey Time to London: 3hr 37m (direct)

Berwick upon Tweed

Berwick upon Tweed is one of the most contested towns in England. It changed hands 14 times from England to Scotland between 1174 and 1482! The most northerly town in England, Berwick upon Tweed offers coast, history and stunning scenery. The town’s heritage can be witnessed in the numerous historical buildings and landmarks. Attractions include the Elizabethan town walls, 13th century castle ruins and the Barracks and Main Guard. You can also take a tour of the town’s old courtroom and jail lockups in its Town Hall. Art lovers will appreciate the numerous galleries here, including the  Berwick Museum and Art Gallery. All attractions are easily accessible from the town’s train station making Berwick a great option for a trip by rail.

Nearest Train Station: Berwick-upon-Tweed Nearest Mainline Station: Newcastle Central or Edinburgh Waverley Journey Time to London: 3hr 35m (direct)

Hexham is one of the North East’s most desirable places to live. You can see why! The town is deliciously picturesque with many historical buildings. A monastery was founded here as far back as 674. Like many towns close to the Scottish border, it suffered a tumultuous past. William Wallace even burnt the town down in 1297. Today the town is largely Georgian in character with many fine properties. Attractions include Hexham Abbey (which dates back to the 12th century), Hexham Gaol (the oldest purpose-built prison in England) and many galleries. Besides this, the town has a host of independent shops and a weekly market sandwiched between the Abbey and 15th century Moot Hall.

Nearest Train Station: Hexham Nearest Mainline Station: Newcastle Central Journey Time to London: 3hr 40m

Best Small Towns in England by Train – North West England

The North West of England enjoys reasonably good access to the rail network. This is because many campaigners fought hard to retain some of its best and most scenic lines. Though some areas like the Lake District are difficult to access, there are still a good number of small towns with train stations. Below are the best small towns in North West England by train.

The train journey to Windermere from Oxenholme gives an impression of the spectacular scenery on offer here. Windermere is the town in the Lake District to have a railway station. It is very deserving. The town has spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Windermere (the largest natural lake in England). The town is full of pretty houses built in the 19th century of local slate stone. There was very little here until the poet Wordsworth promoted its beauty in his 18th century publications and tourists arrived. Mining brought more wealth. Along with the outdoor activities of boat rides and walks, there is The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, where the tales of Peter Rabbit come to life. There is also the Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories which displays an important collection of boats in a magnificent location overlooking Windermere Lake.

Nearest Train Station: Windermere Nearest Mainline Station: Preston Journey Time to London: 3hr 30m (1 change)

Cartmel is actually a village, not a town. However, it is one of the loveliest spots in the Lake District and perfect for walkers. The history of Cartmel goes back to at least the 7th century, when the King of Northumbria annexed the region. The priory was built in the 1100s and a village sprung up around it. Cartmel is a good 30 minutes walk from the nearest railway station, however you can take a pitstop at Holker Hall – a magnificent Victorian country house just outside the village. Other attractions include the ancient Cartmel priory with its interesting misericords (resting ledges beneath choir seats). There’s also the Cartmel Priory Gatehouse (a small Heritage Centre) and Cartmel racing course. Naturally, the village boasts stunning walks and the local produce makes it a centre for foodies. Cartmel is home to the famous sticky toffee pudding and even has a Michelin star restaurant. 

Nearest Train Station: Cark & Cartmel Nearest Mainline Station: Preston Journey Time to London: 3hr 22m (1 change)

Due to its position just outside the Lake District national park, Kendal is often overlooked as a place to visit. Most tourists pass it on their way from Oxenholme to Windermere. However, this town is strikingly handsome, with fine Georgian properties built in stone. Kendal has ancient origins. The town was granted a market charter in 1189 and grew rich off medieval wool. There’s lots to do in the small town. Museums include the Kendal Museum, Quaker Tapestry Museum, Lakeland Museum and Abbot Hall Art Gallery. There’s also Kendal Castle and a magnificent parish church. Besides this, you’ve got the beautiful Cumbrian landscape on your doorstep, so there are plenty of walks to be had. 

Nearest Train Station: Kendal Nearest Mainline Station: Preston Journey Time to London: 3hr 15m (1 change)

Appleby 

Appleby rarely features in typical ‘best small towns to visit’ lists, however it is a lovely place. Appleby lies in the valley of the Eden – the river that divides the Pennines from the Lake District. It’s a historic town with a castle, almshouses and a magnificent parish church. Appleby is located on the famous Settle to Carlisle railway line – one of the most scenic railway journeys in England. It’s also a popular spot for walkers, along the Pennine Way walking route. There are a number of things to do in the town. You can tour the castle, roam the St Lawrence’s church and visit The Courtyard Gallery – a small museum and art gallery. Naturally there are magnificent walks to be had and also quaint shops and tea rooms to visit.

Nearest Train Station: Appleby Nearest Mainline Station: Carlisle Journey Time to London: 4hr 40m (1 change)

Kirkby Stephen

Like Appleby and Settle , Kirkby Stephen is another town on the Settle to Carlisle railway line. It’s an ancient market town, with most of it a conservation area. It’s a pleasing town to wander round with historic buildings and a lovely Market Square which comes to life on Mondays.  Attractions include Kirkby Stephen East Station (the old railway station with vintage locomotives), Stenkrith Park (a beauty spot where the river drops into a dramatic gorge) and the Parish Church (known as the ‘Cathedral of the Dales’). Kirkby Stephen is also prime walking country and has an amazing range of flora and fauna, with four nature reserves within a 5 mile radius.

Nearest Train Station: Kirkby Stephen Nearest Mainline Station: Leeds Journey Time to London: 4hr 30m (1 change)

Cathedral Cities in England by Train

If you’re interested in more day trips by train, make sure to check out my article on 10 Prettiest Cathedral Cities near London . England has some of the prettiest Cathedral cities in Europe. Many of these are within easy reach of London. Discover the 10 prettiest Cathedral cities near London .

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This Snow-covered Winter Wonderland Train Route Is the Best Way to See the Pacific Northwest

Take in the stunning natural scenery from Vancouver to Oregon on the Amtrak Cascades route.

The Amtrak Cascades route travels through the Pacific Northwest from Vancouver to Eugene, Oregon, and showcases some of the most majestic scenery in North America. The railway parallels the Cascade Range, offering incomparable views of awe-inspiring lakes and the snow-capped Olympic Mountains. Winter is the perfect time to take a trip to experience the beautiful PNW landscape at its finest.

From Canada, the train crosses the U.S. border and the nature views ramp up. Take in the sights of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie and Olympic national forests from your window while you make your way to Seattle, then Tacoma. After that, you'll pass by Mount Saint Helens and cross the Columbia River Gorge before making stops in Portland and smaller Oregon cities.

Even coach class is quite cozy, thanks to reclining seats, reading lights, electrical outlets, and the absence of the middle seat. Business class is even more comfortable, offering extra legroom and larger seats. Ready to hit the open railway on Amtrak's Cascades line? Here's what to see and do along the route.

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Vancouver is a lively city situated between ocean and mountains, so there’s no shortage of adventures for any type of traveler. While you're in town, catch a thrilling Canucks hockey game at Rogers Arena, or take a ferry to Vancouver Island for outdoor sports like hiking and surfing (yes, even in winter!). One of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, Gastown, is just a one-mile walk from Pacific Central Station. Check out Gastown's most iconic landmark — the whistling steam clock — before exploring the area’s charming boutiques and chic dining scene.

Nicknamed the Emerald City, Seattle is an evergreen mecca of innovation, arts, and culture with a bit of everything when it comes to activities. Visitors can get a bird’s-eye view of the city from the iconic Space Needle or witness renowned fish slinging at Pike Place Market . If it’s one of those Pacific Northwest days when the sun stays in hiding, there are dozens of breweries to explore and stunning glass art to admire at Chihuly Garden and Glass . Outdoorsy types can trek to one of Washington state’s three national parks — all within a few hours' driving distance.

Tacoma, Washington

Just south of Seattle, Tacoma has all the charm of a big PNW city but with less of the hustle and bustle. Hop off the train to peruse the Museum District, unthaw with a craft brew in a cozy taproom, or stretch your legs on the walkable Ruston Way Waterfront. If you didn't get enough Chihuly in Seattle, visit the Museum of Glass to see more of the Tacoma native's work. Not only can you admire the delicate artworks on display, but you can also watch live demonstrations and get involved yourself.

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Soul-warming coffee, full-flavored microbrews, bewitching doughnuts , and proudly proclaimed weirdness make Portland the counterculture capital of the Pacific Northwest. Its thriving cultural scene includes spots like Powell’s Books and the Japanese Garden . Get a taste of the eclectic cuisine at the many food cart "pods” around the city. Wine aficionados might be inclined to venture beyond the city limits to the Willamette Valley , known for its world-class pinot noir and farm-to-fork fare.

Salem, Oregon

The state capital, Salem, is known for its many public gardens. While they're not as vibrant in the winter, some of these green spaces host holiday markets throughout December, giving them an enchanting feel even without the summer flowers. Any time of year is a good time to satisfy your sweet tooth at the Willamette Valley Pie Company and watch the stern-wheelers cruise down the Willamette River from the pedestrian bridge at Riverfront Park.

Eugene, Oregon

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The southern terminus of Amtrak's Cascades route is a lively, liberal college town known as the home of the Oregon Ducks and the birthplace of Nike. It’s a bit off the beaten path from typical touristy destinations, but you'll find some of the most expansive bike paths and running trails here. An array of artisanal eateries, shops, and bars are located at 5th Street Public Market , and since it’s no secret that the Pacific Northwest breeds quality ales, beer enthusiasts can tackle the Eugene Ale Trail to celebrate the end of their Amtrak Cascades adventure.

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The best train rides in the USA for seriously gorgeous views

It’s all about the journey on the best train rides in the USA, featuring mind-blowingly scenic routes

Of course, a road trip through America is one of the best ways to see the magnificent views on offer across the country, but from time to time it's just nice to take a break from being behind the wheel. Instead, how about taking one of the best train rides in the USA? Gently saunter across the country, leaving you free to contemplate life, ponder the meaning of existence or just spend a few hours thinking about nothing and staring out of the window.

Riding on a train can be a romantic, nostalgic, and best of all leisurely way to see the country. Even a commuter train between major cities can be a step up from a drive, but these scenic train rides are more than that. Geared towards long-haul trips from coast to coast, or specifically designed for enjoying the scenery, these train routes will let you take in all the glorious views.

Looking for a west coast adventure? Take the Coast Starlight from Los Angeles to Seattle . Heading to Alaska ? Catch all the highlights on the Denali Star’s 350-mile trek from Fairbanks to Anchorage. The Grand Canyon Railway and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will take you from quaint towns to national parks . There are even some shorter jaunts, like the Mt. Washington Cog Railway or the Hawaiian Railway that will give you a small taste of scenic train travel.

So hop aboard, enjoy the views, and take as many pics as you want without having to keep your hands on the wheel.

RECOMMENDED: The best camping in the USA

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Best train rides in the USA

1.  Rockies to the Red Rocks

Denver, co to moab, ut.

The first US offering from luxury Canadian company Rocky Mountaineer, the new 'Rockies to the Red Rocks' trip takes passengers on a two-day ride from Denver to Moab—passing through stunning Rocky Mountains and southwest scenery along the way. Best of all? Passengers will witness all that gorgeous nature from the train's glass-dome top! That's right, we're talking about unobstructed views of some of the most gorgeous scenery in the USA. The 2023 season will kick off in August and will run through October.

Discover the  best things to do in Denver

2.  Coast Starlight

Los angeles, ca to seattle, wa.

Put a spin on the classic left-coast road trip by traveling by train instead. The advantages? Zero wrong-turn fights and way more photo-ops. The 1,377-mile Coast Starlight route hits the best of the West: Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, Portland and more. On the 36-hour trip, bounce from your seat to the dining car and the 'sightseer lounge car' where all the seats face the panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Discover the best things to do in Seattle  

3.  The Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, az to the grand canyon, az.

Sure you may have been to the Grand Canyon already, but have you ever admired Grand Canyon country by train? On The Grand Canyon Railway, you’ll depart from Williams, Arizona, and roll through pine forests and prairies, spotting pronghorn and bald eagles, before arriving two hours and 15 minutes later at the epic South Rim. All of the historic cars of the Grand Canyon Railway have fascinating former lives, and some have glass-dome ceilings for unstoppable panoramas. 

Discover the best things to do in Arizona

4.  The Empire Builder

Chicago, il to portland, or.

There is only one word to describe this journey: epic. The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, mirroring much of Lewis and Clark’s original expedition. It passes through a greatest-hits list of must-see sites, from the urban (St. Cloud and Minneapolis) to the great outdoors (big-sky country and Glacier National Park ). The trip totals 46 hours, which warrants booking at least a roomette with seats that convert to beds, so you can fully stretch out once you’ve gotten your fill of landscapes under the moonlight. 

Discover the best things to do in Portland 

5.  The Alaska Denali Star

Anchorage, ak to fairbanks, ak.

This 350-mile stretch through the heart of Alaska highlights the state's beautiful, rugged wilderness. Between the birch forests, rushing rivers, caribou- and bear-spotting, views of Mt. McKinley and a stint through Denali National Park, there’s a reason this is the Alaska Railroad’s flagship sojourn. If you can swing it, splurge on a GoldStar upgrade and take in the spectacular scenery from an open-air viewing car, with absolutely nothing between you and the wild. 

Discover the best things to do in Alaska 

6.  The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson city, nc.

It may be pint-size, but Bryson City, the departure point for this rail-riding adventure, is rich with local gems like barbecue joints, a soda fountain and a brewery. Various routes originate here, but the four-and-a-half-hour Nantahala Gorge excursion is a scenery-serving star, snaking along the forested Nantahala River and crossing the Fontana Lake by bridge. Foliage lovers take note: The leaves here are breathtaking during the fall.

Discover the best things to do in North Carolina 

7.  The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bretton woods, nh.

Like the Little Engine That Could, this antique train chugs daily up Mount Washington , depositing its passengers at the 6,288ft peak, the highest in the Northeast. A working museum of sorts (the track dates to 1852), the Cog has the elevated feel of a gondola, only you’re in a sturdy little train. At the top, take in the sweeping views—of Canada and the Atlantic on a clear day. 

Discover the best thing to do in New Hampshire

8.  The Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa valley, ca.

On this California Wine Country track, you can get intoxicated by the scenery alone: picture-perfect wineries and hills carpeted in lush rows of vines. But you’ll have a little help, what with all the vino you’ll be sipping alongside your onboard multicourse meal—both lunch and dinner are options. The roving restaurant is made up of a collection of vintage Pullman railcars complete with mahogany panels and brass hardware. So go ahead and soak it all up—you’re not behind the wheel, after all.

Discover the best  things to do in Napa

9.  The Hawaiian Railway Society

Train travel takes a turn for the tropical on this 90-minute jaunt across Oahu in an old sugar-cane hauler traveling at the lickety-split speed of 15 miles an hour. The ride shows you a rarely-seen version of Hawaii, filled with old sisal plantations and ghost towns. Time your trip for the second Sunday of the month and you can book a seat in the elegant 1900 parlor car that was the personal ride of Oahu Railway & Land Co. founder Mr. Dillingham. It's worth noting, however, that reservations are now required to ride the train. 

Discover the best things to do in Oahu

10.  Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango, co to silverton, co.

One of the most scenic ways to experience one of the most scenic states; a ride on the Narrow Gauge Railroad isn’t merely photo fodder, but a full immersion into the wild, wild west. The train has been rolling between Durango and Silverton since 1882, when it was tasked with transporting silver and gold out of the San Juan Mountains. The 45.4-mile route runs in both directions along the Animas River, crisscrossing it five times, and passing by old stagecoach trails and long-deserted mining camps as it winds between 14,000ft high peaks.

Discover the best things to do in Colorado

11.  The Ethan Allen Express

New york city, ny to burlington, vt.

While the destination is a major draw, getting there is half the fun on this five-and-a-half-hour journey from New York City to Vermont. You’ll cruise through the postcard-perfect towns of New York’s Hudson Valley; hit Saratoga Springs, as famous for its horse races as its hot springs and snake around Vermont’s fittingly named Green Mountains before landing in charming little-big city Rutland, with its historic downtown and one helluva farmers' market.

Discover the best things to do in Vermont

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8 great rail journeys to take across the USA

Jan 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely sightseeing experience.© Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

There’s no getting around the sheer size and scale of the USA – it’s an absolute, supersized whopper – and the best way to see it all is via train.

The US has close to 3.8 million sq miles (10 million sq km) of sublime mountain ranges, parched desert, entire states engulfed in deep snow, you-gotta-go-see-it-to-believe-it cities, endless prairie land, six whole time zones and lakes so large you could lose whole countries down there. So while traveling around by plane might make sense from a convenience point of view – it’s not quite six hours to dart directly from New York to LA – there really is no better way to experience the sheer grandeur of the country than by taking one of these train vacations.

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely, nostalgic sightseeing experience, often passing through pristine landscapes inaccessible by other means. The US is rich with amazing train journeys, but the routes listed below are the cream of the crop. From California to New England ,  here are eight epic US train trips our editors have selected, taken from Lonely Planet's  Amazing Train Journeys .

1. The Sunset Limited

Route: New Orleans – San Antonio – Tucson – Phoenix – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1995 miles (3211 km); 2 days

Amtrak's Sunset Limited is the ultimate American railroad ride and one of its most famous train journeys: east to west, coast to coast, clean through from the bars of New Orleans to the breakers of the Pacific Ocean. If you’ve always dreamed of taking a journey across the USA, but don’t much relish the prospect of two weeks spent cooped up in an automobile, then a ride on the Sunset Limited is the answer.

Sit back and let America’s landscapes buzz by: from Louisiana ’s bayous, past the high-rises of Houston , across the deserts of Texas and Arizona , over the Californian hills all the way to LA’s golden beaches. Saddle up, pardner: it’s gonna be quite a ride.

2. The Coast Starlight

Route: Seattle – Portland – Sacramento – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1377 miles (2216 km); 35 hours

Trace America’s “left coast” in all its varied splendor. The 35-hour (OK, it’s Amtrak, so maybe more) trip between Seattle and Los Angeles curves alongside crashing Pacific waves, cuts through America’s lushest agricultural land and passes below snowcapped mountains and towering redwoods. Of all the Amtrak routes, the Coast Starlight offers the most scenic variety in the fewest hours.

It’s also the only Amtrak service with a dedicated parlor car, open only to passengers who book sleepers. The parlor conjures old-time rail romance, with wood paneling and soft lighting, plus a special menu and wine-and-cheese tastings. Highlights of this train ride include dramatic sunrise perspectives on 14,179ft (4322m)  Mt Shasta , and a gorgeous midday traverse of Oregon's Cascade Range.

3. Metro-North Hudson Line

Route: New York City – Poughkeepsie Distance and duration: 69 miles (111 km); 1½ hours

Depart from New York City ’s iconic beaux arts Grand Central Terminal , stopping to admire the ornate astronomical ceiling painting in the vaulted main concourse and to slurp up oysters and a martini at the famous Oyster Bar.

Then roll through Manhattan and the Bronx and into the glorious green Hudson River Valley. Hugging the eastern banks of the river, New York’s Metro-North's Hudson line travels deep into American history. The names of the stops along the way speak to the area’s origins: Native American (Ossining, Poughkeepsie); Dutch (Spuyten Duyvil, Yonkers, Cortlandt, Peekskill); English (Hastings-on-Hudson, Scarborough). It’s a land so famously beautiful an entire art movement – the Hudson River School – was once dedicated to capturing its glory. For the cost of a burger and a beer, this view can be yours for almost two hours.

4. The California Zephyr

Route: Chicago – Omaha – Denver – Salt Lake City – San Francisco Distance and duration: 2438 miles (3924km), 51 hours 20 minutes

For soaking up the scenic grandeur of the North American continent, nothing compares with Amtrak’s California Zephyr train. This classic three-day journey travels nearly 2500 miles (4000km) across prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada on its way from Chicago to San Francisco. The scenery is magnificent throughout – especially when seen through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the lounge car – but if you can only do one section, opt for the riveting 185-mile (298km) stretch between Denver and Glenwood Springs, where the train travels through an often roadless wilderness of deep, narrow gorges near the Colorado River’s headwaters.

Near sunset, the train emerges into the majestic red rock desert of eastern Utah , then crosses overnight into the forbidding vastness of Nevada's sagebrush country, with salt flats and stark, arid mountains as far as the eye can see. Sunrise on day three reveals an entirely different desert: the blinding-white alkali flats and ghostly grey mountains near Winnemucca, Nevada. Just beyond the gambling-happy little city of Reno, the Zephyr climbs into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, then enters California’s imposing granite high country beyond the photogenic frontier town of Truckee.

5. Amtrak Downeaster

Route: Boston – Portland – Brunswick Distance and duration: 145 miles (233 km); 3 hours 25 minutes

As car-free city breaks go, this train escape is hard to beat, chugging from the downtown main streets of urban Boston to Maine ’s rural greens in under four hours. That’s from the seventh most densely populated city in the US to the state with the highest percentage of forest coverage, all in less time than it takes to cook an old-style Yankee plum pudding.

Even better, every stop on the Amtrak Downeaster features historic New England cities and towns, parks and seascapes, cottage arts and crafts, world-class shopping and stellar foods fashioned from farm-and-sea-fresh ingredients.

6. The New Mexico Rail Runner

Route: Albuquerque – Santa Fe Distance and duration: 97 miles (156 km); 90 minutes

One of America’s great unsung commuter railways, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express is a regional train that runs down the Rio Grande Valley , connecting the state’s largest city, Albuquerque, with its cultural and political capital, Santa Fe.

On the way it crosses the wide, high desert, giving views of arid mountains in all directions, and even passes through several of the state’s Native American tribal lands. A no-nonsense, clean and quick journey, its highlights are the sweeping views from the upper seats of the double-decker carriages. Taken as a day trip or a scenic but practical form of intra-state transport, the Rail Runner is a wonderful introduction to New Mexico ’s epic landscapes.

7. The Empire Builder

Route: Chicago – St Paul or Minneapolis – Spokane – Portland or Seattle Distance and duration: 2764 miles (4448 km); 46 hours

The Amtrak Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle glides through Wisconsin 's woodlands, Minnesota's lake country and the North Dakota prairies en route to a western horizon swarming with snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks.

From Browning , Montana, an unforgettable 60-mile run along the southern edge of Glacier National Park leads to the park entrance at West Glacier, where nature lovers will want to break their journey before continuing to Seattle.

8. The Vermonter

Route: Washington, DC – New York City– Springfield – Essex Junction ( Burlington ) – St Albans Distance and duration: 611 miles (983 km); 13 hours 45 minutes

The Amtrak Vermonter runs once daily from Washington, DC to St Albans, VT. This is the most scenic route east of the Mississippi, especially in its northern reaches, where it snakes for four hours through the bucolic green hills and photogenic villages of rural Vermont.

Starting from the nation's capital, Washington, DC, the train runs north through one of the USA's greatest metropolises, New York City, before bowling out through Connecticut , Massachusetts and New Hampshire en route to the bucolic Vermont countryside and St Albans.

This article was first published December 2020 and updated January 2024

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Top 10 places to visit in North West England

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2022

Are you planning a visit to the North West of England? Consisting of the counties of Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside, Cheshire and Greater Manchester there are not only fantastic cities to visit but also areas of outstanding natural beauty to explore.

So whether you are in search of lakes, mountains and natural landscapes or the buzz of city life you will find what you are looking for in the North West.

1. Visit the Lake District

2. take a beatles tour in liverpool, 3. visit the seaside town of blackpool, 4. take a stroll around albert dock in liverpool.

• 5. Visit Anthony Gormley's "Another Place" on Crosby Beach

6. Take the Settle to Carlisle train journey and cross the Ribblehead Viaduct

7. go to a football match or take a tour of the grounds (liverpool & manchester).

• 8. Have a night out in Manchester's Northern Quarter after a day exploring the city

9. Step back into the past at Little Moreton Hall or Arley Hall and Gardens

10. visit the historic city of chester, fast facts – north west england, where will you go in north west england.

One of the most popular destinations for visitors to the UK is the beautiful Lake District.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017 the area is popular with walkers as well as those in search of stunning scenery, quaint villages , a wonderful literary heritage and landscapes more closely associated with Switzerland than England.

Read more |  A guide to visiting the Lake District

If you are a Beatles fan then make sure to visit Liverpool’s waterfront to snuggle up to the statue of the Fab Four. Unveiled in 2015 the statue and was donated by the famous Cavern Club where the Beatles were first discovered.

If you are a Beatles fan check out this Beatles-themed itinerary to Liverpool which includes what to see, where to stay and the best Beatles tours to take to make the most of your visit.

Read more | Complete guide and itinerary for Liverpool

You can’t miss the iconic Blackpool tower when you arrive in town. Inspired by the famous Eiffel Tower Blackpool’s version was opened in 1894.

Inside the tower, you will find a circus, a dungeon and a pretty spectacular view of the town. The main attraction is however the Blackpool Tower Ballroom which is one of the most beautiful in the world. It is here that the famous TV show “Strictly Come Dancing” holds one round of competitions every year.

Learn more | Blackpool Tower

Yes, we are back in Liverpool! The city was one of the largest trading ports in the world and the docks and Grade 1 listed buildings that surround it are now UNESCO World Heritage-listed.

If you visit the docks you will find a wide selection of restaurants, bars, cafes and shops as well as some excellent museums.

If you enjoy art head to the Tate Liverpool . Beatles fans will love “The Beatles Story.”

For those with an interest in history head to the Slavery Museum and the Merseyside Maritime Museum.

Learn more | Complete guide to visiting Liverpool

5. Visit Anthony Gormley’s “Another Place” on Crosby Beach

This is an absolutely fantastic sight and highly recommended if you enjoy art.

Take the train from Liverpool to Crosby Beach to see sculptor Anthony Gormley’s famous art installation.

Consisting of 100 life-size case iron identical figures placed along a  1 1/2 mile stretch of beach, and facing out to sea, Another Place is truly a sight to behold.

Read more | Another Place

Described as one of the most scenic train journeys in the UK the Settle to Carlisle route travels 73 miles through the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines.

Passing through 14 tunnels and over 20 viaducts including the Ribblehead viaduct in North Yorkshire this is one train journey any rail travel lover has to do when in the UK.

Of course, the best way to actually see the viaduct is to drive close to it, park the car and walk.

Read more – 10 train journeys to take in the UK

If you are a football fan taking a tour of one of these famous grounds will no doubt be on your bucket list?

Whilst not my cup of tea I could not leave this off the list as I am aware of just how popular football is and in particular these 2 football teams!

Make sure to book ahead if you want to join a tour.

Read more | Tour of Anfield | Tour of Old Trafford

8. Have a night out in Manchester’s Northern Quarter after a day exploring the city

Full of bars, restaurants, vintage shops and street art the Northern Quarter in Manchester is the hip and happening side of the city.

The Northern Quarter is the place to head for a night out if you are staying in Manchester.

During the day head for some of the city’s museums. Popular choices include the Science and Industry Museum or the Imperial War Museum North.

This beautiful Tudor half-timbered manor house is located in Cheshire. For those with an interest in Tudor England, this will be the perfect day out.

Owned by the National Trust this is a super summer destination with beautiful gardens as well as the hall to enjoy. Don’t miss a cup of tea and a cake at the tearooms.

Arley Hall is located in the heart of Cheshire and has some of the most beautiful gardens in England. With lots on around the year, this is the perfect destination for families. Arley Hall is dog friendly too with dogs on leads welcome on the grounds.

Read more | Little Moreton Hall

Chester is the perfect destination for a weekend break. The city has bags of character and historical interest.

In particular make time to visit the “Rows” – a shopping district comprised of 2 level arcades and Tudor buildings. The city walls are pretty neat too and date back to Roman times.

Read more | Chester Travel Guide

• WHAT TO READ – Best books to read before you visit the Lake District

• WHERE TO STAY : Click here to find the best accommodation in the Lake District – Best places to stay in the Lake District (Location & Accommodation Guide)
• WHAT TOURS TO BOOK : Click here for recommended tours of the North West
• WHAT TO EAT – Grasmere gingerbread, Lancashire Hotpot, Cumberland sausage, Morecambe Bay shrimps

• PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – Manchester Piccadilly & Oxford Road, Liverpool Lime Street & Central

ⓘ TIPS

• Avoid visiting Liverpool or Manchester during football home matches. Trains will be busy and there may be a heavier police presence.

I am confident these 10 North West England points of interest and places to visit will provide lots of ideas for your trip.

Want to explore some of England’s other regions ? Head over to my other area guides to England which include the North East , East Midlands , West Midlands , Yorkshire , South West , South East and East of England .

Visiting Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland? Check out my top 19 places to visit in Scotland and the top 10 choices to add to your travel itineraries for Wales and Northern Ireland.

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

Top 20 must-do experiences in North West USA

North west usa has some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. the states of washington and alaska, in the far north west of the usa, have so many places to explore. here are my top 20 must-do experiences in north west usa., disclaimer: some of the links below are affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and make a purchase, i’ll get a small commission at no extra cost to you. please note that all sales are processed by the linked website, not rays of adventure, so you’ll be subject to their privacy policy., 1. go whale watching in alaska.

The first of my top 20 must-do experiences in North West USA is to go whale watching in Alaska. This part of the USA has some of the best whale watching opportunities in the country. Throughout the year, different types of whales can be seen in the Alaskan waters. I visited in spring, and I was lucky to see Humpback Whales and also Orcas. It was such a magical experience.

2. See the views from Seattle’s Space Needle

Seattle is one of the biggest cities in North West USA, with loads of things to do in the city. The Space Needle is one of my favourite attractions in Seattle. The views from the top are just amazing. Walk all the way around to see the views from different angles, and see if you’re brave enough to lean against the glass! If you visit on a clear day, you can also see Mount Rainer in the distance behind the city. Check out tickets and opening times here .

3. Take photos of the views at Hurricane Ridge

Hurricane Ridge is my favourite place in the Olympic Mountains. The views are just incredible. It’s a winding road up the mountain, and when I was driving up it was foggy and cloudy for a lot of the drive. But when I got near the top, the clouds suddenly cleared and the most amazing view just opened up. The snowy mountains went on as far as you could see. The views across the snow were just incredible.

4. See Bald Eagles on top of buildings in Juneau

When I visited Juneau in Alaska, I was really hoping I’d be able to spot a Bald Eagle. They’re such a famous, iconic bird in the USA and I was desperate to see one. However, I wasn’t expecting them to just be sat on the top of buildings and the top of street lights! It was amazing to be able to get so close to these magnificent birds. When you’re in Juneau, make sure you keep looking up to see if you can spot one.

5. Drive up to Mount St Helens

Another great drive in Washington state is the drive up to Mount St Helens. This volcano famously erupted in 1980. When you drive up towards it, you can really see the edge of the crater, as well as where the lava tumbled down the side of the volcano in 1980. It’s a reminder of the power of nature.

6. Eat fresh seafood at Pike Place Market, Seattle

North West USA has some amazing fresh seafood. Pike Place Market in Seattle is one of the best places to get fresh seafood. There are stalls selling a huge variety of fish, which you can buy and take home to cook. Or there are also some restaurants as well, where you can eat while looking out over the Seattle bay.

7. Visit the original Starbucks in Seattle

Another famous sight in Seattle is the original Starbucks. It’s here that the giant coffee shop chain had its first small shop. And from here, it grew to become the global company it is today. Visiting the original Starbucks was definitely one of my top 20 must-do experiences in North West USA.

8. Look out for hummingbirds in Discovery Park

There’s just so much amazing wildlife in North West USA. Discovery Park, on the outskirts of Seattle, is another great place to spot wildlife. You can see lots of birds here, including American Robins. But my favourite bird was a hummingbird. These birds are so small and fast, with beautiful colours. Take a hike through Discovery Park and see what wildlife you can spot.

9. Find skeletons on the beach at West Point Lighthouse

The beach at West Point Lighthouse, on the edge of Discovery Park outside Seattle, can be a fascinating place to explore. As well as great views across the sea to the mountains, the beach itself can have some hidden treasures. Lots of skeletons of sea creatures get washed up on the beach here. Have a wander along the beach and see what you can find.

10. Walk around Silver Lake to see Mount St Helens

Another great view of Mount St Helens can be found from Silver Lake. The view of the volcano across the lake is just beautiful. There’s a lovely walk around Silver Lake as well, where you can see Mount St Helens but also enjoy the scenery and wildlife around the lake as well.

7 thoughts on “ Top 20 must-do experiences in North West USA ”

• Pingback: Travel: Exploring the Top Things to do in North West USA - XStreamed.tv Extreme Improv and pop culture

I have always wanted to do this section of the USA it looks incredibly beautiful.

There are so many great places to explore – I hope you’re able to visit soon!

This is a beautiful list! I’ve been to Pike’s Place market and it’s wonderful. I definitely have some adds to my list for the next time in the Seattle area. <3 Thanks!

Thank you! I loved so many places in this area!

Great list! I love the Pacific Northwest! One thing I didn’t get to do is go up the space needle. Next time for sure!

Thank you! I loved the views from the Space Needle so I’d definitely recommend visiting on your next trip.

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North West England

Landscapes filled with lakes, estuaries buzzing with birdlife and revolutionary cities with sporting histories: the North West has something for everyone. Explore iconic cities that are as famous for their music scenes as their grand industrial buildings and museums. Hear The Beatles resonate from street corners in Liverpool and the Stone Roses and Oasis rock in fashionable Manchester. Switch off the sound in the Lake District as you retrace trails between ethereal peaks, fells and tarn lakes. Or head for the bright lights of the seaside under hedonistic Blackpool's blazing seafront illuminations. Welcome to a sports lovers' paradise with county crickets grounds, iconic horse races and Premiership football clubs to boot.

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Get in touch with your inner Tarzan at Go Ape

Looking for some active fun? Stop monkeying around and spend the day at Go Ape where you can fly down a zip wire or leap off Tarzan Swings.

Location: Northwich, Cheshire

Explore Cheshire's slice of the Peak District

Push yourself to the limit hiking the Gritstone Trail. With outstanding countryside and amazing views, the 35-mile trail is a challenge and a pleasure.

Location: Lyme Park, Cheshire

Land Rover driving and falconry fun at Peckforton Castle

Always wanted to test drive the latest Land Rover? Spend the day at Peckforton Castle and get ready for the drive of your life.

Location: Tarporley, Cheshire

Walk Cheshire’s beautiful Sandstone Trail

Take a walk on the wild side discovering the ancient market town of Frodsham, Georgian Whitchurch and everything in between.

Location: Frodsham, Cheshire

Family fun at Blakemere Village

If you're looking for a day out that’s great for adults and also family-friendly, why not head to Blakemere Village?

Savour your scoops at The Ice Cream Farm

Keep the kids happy with more than 40 delicious flavours of ice cream, an outdoor play area, farm, quad bikes, mini golf and more...

Location: Tattenhall, Cheshire

Explore the tranquil gardens at Tatton Park

Spread across the grounds of a historic estate in Cheshire, Tatton Park have been carefully expanded and cultivated since Edwardian times.

Location: Knutsford, Cheshire

Enjoy a picnic, zoo & make pottery at Walton Hall & Gardens

Spend the day enjoying the gardens, testing your golf skills and entertaining the kids at Walton Hall and Gardens.

Location: Warrington, Cheshire

Discover 1,000 years of history at Chester Cathedral

Journey through hundreds of years of history and discover hidden spaces as you climb to the top of the cathedral tower.

Location: Chester, Cheshire

Discover Chester's Roman, heritage and spooky history

On a guided tour of Chester you’ll meet Roman soldiers, float along the River Dee and find out the spine-chilling tales of the city’s past.

View Chester from an open-top vintage bus

Ride the open-top vintage bus on a Chester Tour and see the city’s archaeological and architectural heritage.

Romans, racing and the famous Rows in Chester

Discover Roman walls, medieval shopping galleries and England’s oldest racecourse in the historic city of Chester.

Discover King Richard II's hidden fortune at Beeston Castle

A magical site with stunning views, long walks through rich woodland and plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.

Location: Beeston, Cheshire

Step into the Industrial Revolution at Quarry Bank

This fascinating industrial heritage site transports visitors back to 18th century Northern England and the life of a thriving cotton mill community.

Location: Styal, Cheshire

Head out on a Beatles Magical Mystery Tour

Follow in the footsteps of John, Paul, George and Ringo with this immersive tour of where they lived, met and played throughout Liverpool.

Location: Liverpool, Merseyside

Take the plunge canyoning in Cumbria

Ever looked at a waterfall and rather than reaching for the camera, thought ‘I’d like to climb down that’? If so, you’re about to discover your new favourite sport – canyoning.

Location: Bowness, Cumbria

Enjoy a boat trip on Canal River Trust's Waterways

Spend your weekend exploring Cheshire’s incredible waterways, at Anderton Boat Lift and the National Waterways Museum.

Location: Anderton, Cheshire

Glide through the waterways of unspoilt Cheshire

Take in quaint villages, welcoming country pubs, majestic industrial heritage sites and even castles on a boat trip through the county’s canals.

Location: Audlem, Cheshire

Climb up Tegg's Nose

Climb to the summit of Tegg’s Nose, admire the views, cycle the routes and even try your hand at rock climbing.

Location: Macclesfield, Cheshire

Picture Mr Darcy coming out of the lake

The magnificent house, gardens and deer park at Lyme Park was the filming location for the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice.

Location: Lyme Handley, Cheshire

June events: Country fair fun at the Royal Cheshire County Show

Spend the day tasting delicious local produce, watching monster truck displays and meeting birds of prey at the Royal Cheshire County Show.

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Lake District, England

Accessible guide to North West England

From cities to the countryside and coast, the North West of England has many jewels in its crown. From Manchester, with its international sporting heritage and buzzing gay scene, to Liverpool, home of The Beatles and host of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 on behalf of Ukraine – it’s no wonder that it’s a UNESCO City of Music. Admire in the bright lights of shoreside Blackpool, with its vintage ballroom inside the accessible Blackpool Tower. For tranquillity, head to scenic Cumbria and the Lake District. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is accessible to all and packed with peaks and, of course, lakes.

Accessible travel to North West England

Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport are international hubs which offer assisted travel.

It’s easy to reach the North West of England from London by train with Avanti West Coast . Routes include London to Manchester and London to Liverpool, all services are accessible.

Accessible trains and buses in North West England

There’s a good network of commuter and rural trains running throughout the North West operated by Northern Rail  and Avanti West Coast . North West Rail also has a selection of Ranger travel passes, offering discounted travel within the region.

Transport for Greater Manchester covers accessible travel by bus and train. There is an accessible tram service which runs from the city centre to Altrincham, Ashton-Under-Lyne, Bury, East Didsbury, Eccles and Manchester Airport.

Merseytravel operates accessible bus , train and ferry services for Liverpool.

To explore Cheshire, Lancashire Northern Rail offer Day Ranger or Round Robin tickets .

For other accessible scenic train journeys in the North West see Scenic Rail Britain .

From Merseyside to Manchester, there is an accessible route on the Arriva’s bus network .

Blackpool Council details the public transport available in the region, including buses, train and trams.

Accessible things to do in North West England

Discover our pick of accessible things to do in North West England.

VisitBritain/AccessOutdoorGuide

Adventure and sport

Horse riding, keswick, cumbria.

Take a canter in Keswick with qualified instructor and stay in the scenic Lakes surroundings at this accessible accommodation. Located next to the stunning Lakeland Fells, riding here is accessible. Trap-driving sessions are available, too, and can accommodate people using manual wheelchairs.

Calvert Lakes Adventure breaks, Lake District

For action-packed activities and adventures, Calvert Lakes adventure breaks have got you covered. Try abseiling in your wheelchair or the wheelchair obstacle course, a theatre break by the lake, zip-wiring at speed, or wildlife encounter with experts. Take adapted bikes around a nature reserve or have a go at bushcraft skills – including fire-making and spending the night in a bivouac shelter. There’s access to a hydro pool and sensory rooms, plus, accessible accommodation.

Alpacaly Ever After, Lake District

Take a 1.5-mile trek (2.4km) suitable for wheelchair users and people with learning difficulties and then hand-feed a herd of friendly alpacas. Alpacaly Ever After also run alpaca meet and greets for people unable to trek, and if you come along in September, you might even meet some baby alpacas (crias). There are three locations where you can meet the alpacas, all of which are accessible. Facilities include free accessible parking, accessible toilets, wheelchair loan is available at some locations.

The Chill Factore, Manchester

Whether you’re a regular on the slopes or tentatively learning to navigate the piste, Manchester’s Chill Factore supports all skiers getting on the snow. Home to Disability Snowsport UK , a national charity providing adaptive skiing for people with any requirements, it features adaptive equipment, such as sit skis, and specialist instruction and support. The location is accessible with Changing Places and accessible toilets, lifts and more.  

iFLY, Manchester

Be blown away by this high-octane thrill with iFLY Manchester . There’s no parachute, no jumping, and no aeroplanes, and you’ll be accompanied by two instructors, so no matter your ability or courage levels, the sky is the limit . Access to ground floors, lift and wind tunnel are made easy, and briefings are available in British Sign Language. There are iFLY centres in London, Milton Keynes and Basingstoke, too.

Sandcastle Water Park, Blackpool

Among the bright lights of Blackpool’s seafront, you’ll find water shoots and a whole lot more fun at one of the biggest indoor water parks in the country. Gold winners of the VisitEngland Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award, Sandcastle makes sure that everyone has the best possible experience. With lift access to all floors, or ramps in other areas of the water park. There are hoists, water wheelchairs and floatation aids, fast-track queues, subtitles and audio-commentary on key videos, hearing loops, Braille, a quiet room, Changing Places wet room, and so much more. The “relaxed” accessibility evenings offer a welcoming environment, plus, all staff are accessibility awareness trained, too.

Football Stadium Tour, Manchester

Manchester is home to not only one but two of the best known football teams of all time. Take an accessible tour of Old Trafford , Manchester United’s iconic football ground, or Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium . Both have accessible features, plus you can even arrange a tour with a Q&A with past legends.

Art and culture

The whitworth, manchester.

Part of the University of Manchester, this accessible museum , art gallery, shop, park and gardens hosts contemporary exhibitions and regular collections. The museum is calm and relaxed, with facilities including accessible toilets, ear defenders and wheelchairs to borrow, large print information and accessible parking, plus there are designated “Quieter Hours”.

The Hepworth, Wakefield

Covering an expansive of 1,600 square metres, this light-filled contemporary art gallery celebrates the life and work of northern artist Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore and others. The biggest all-purpose built exhibition space outside of the capital, the site is accessible to wheelchairs and scooters with ramps to all areas. It has a Changing Places toilet, induction loops, a sensory garden, and more.

Theatre by the Lake, Cumbria

For an arts centre and theatre with a difference, head to Theatre by the Lake . Set beside the banks of the beautiful Derwentwater, Keswick, there’s a good stock of quality productions with BSL and relaxed performances for people who prefer a more easy-going setting. The theatre is wheelchair accessible with drop counters, a lift and accessible toilets on each floor. The site is dementia friendly and you can take a pre-performance familiarisation tour. Facilities include infra-red headsets, caption, and audio described shows and more.

History and heritage

Royal albert docks, liverpool.

Explore the iconic Royal Albert Docks , with world-class museums, crafts shops and restaurants. Step back in time and discover The Beatles Story . The museum hosts a treasure trove of memorabilia, including John Lennon’s original piano, and reconstructions of familiar locations, like Abbey Road. The Beatles Story is accessible with wheelchair hire, accessible toilets and more. Close by is the Tate Liverpool , with its regular collection and rotating exhibitions. There’s level access throughout, Changing Places and accessible toilets, ear defenders to borrow and other accessible facilities. Finally, no visit to The Docks would be complete without a visit to the Maritime Museum to learn about Liverpool’s nautical past. The museum is accessible with subtitles, British Sign Language, audio descriptions, relaxed sessions and other facilities.  

Outdoors and nature

Accessible hiking, lake district.

With 50 miles of accessible routes crafted by Miles without Stiles  anyone with a wanderlust for the countryside will love these accessible routes. Routes are graded into three types: for all (people in their own wheelchairs, with clear paths), for many (for assisted wheelchair users, rougher paths), for some (strong/confident wheelchair users, off-road wheelchairs, routes may have low steps or breaks). You can hire an all-terrain mobility scooter known as a tramper, with Lake District Mobility . The 2.2  kilometre Walls Drive, Ravenglass, route delves into Roman history and takes you through two World Heritage sites. You can also take the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway , a VisitEngland Gold award winning attraction, for a seven-mile (11km) steam train adventure. Some carriages are wheelchair accessible, assistance dogs are welcome and most staff have disability awareness training.

Accessible canoeing, Cumbria

Get back to nature and canoe your way over Lake Windermere, then light your own fire and cook up a three-course bushcraft feast for lunch. Afterwards there’s options to paddle back or hop on an accessible powerboat. Ablenet offer other activities for people who are blind and wheelchair users, including  sailing on the lake . There’s lots of systems in place to support mobility such as gantry hoists, as well as use of mountain trike wheelchairs.

Relaxation and wellbeing

Brickhouse farm cottages, lancashire.

Escape into blissful nature in one of 12 cottages located on Brickhouse Farm in Lancashire’s stunning countryside. You’ll find each cottage is wheelchair accessible, with disability aids available and ceiling track hoists, which are free of charge. For added relaxation, take a dip in the accessible hot tubs. There are some amenities that can be hired, on a first come first served basis, including a riser recliner armchair, profiling bed, air flow mattress and more. Brickhouse Cottages received a Silver Award for Accessible and Inclusive tourism at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023. Find out what’s in each of their 12 holiday cottages .

Discover accessible England

Accessible guide to london.

London is packed with accessible things to do, with plenty of ways to experience the buzz or calm of the capital.

VisitBritain

Accessible guide to North East England

Boasting a range of accessible adventures and places to explores, now's the time to visit North East England.

Newcastle Gateshead Initiative/Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle Gateshead, England

Accessible guide to the East of England

The East of England is a seaside and country get-away, with accessible rail journeys and epic cathedrals.

Getty Images

Accessible guide to Yorkshire and the Humber

From accessible adventures across the Yorkshire Coast and East Yorkshire to the North York Moors and historic cites, you’ll find a wealth of experiences in Yorkshire.

Accessible guide to South West England

There's something for everyone in the South West, from accessible coastal trails to adrenaline-pumping paragliding.

VisitBritain/Calvertexmoor.org.uk

Accessible guide to South East England

From seaside towns with beach-friendly wheelchairs to accessible castles, the South East has a broad range of activities for all.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Accessible guide to the Midlands

The Midlands is home to national treasures, from inclusive hiking, horseback-riding and the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

VisitBritain/Nemorin

Explore accessible Britain

Not found what you were looking for.

Visiting Wales By Train! 10 Best Places To Visit in Wales by Train!

Categories U.K , Wales

Are you wondering how much you can see in Wales by train and where to go in Wales by train?

There are so many amazing places to visit in Wales along the coast, in the countryside, mountains and cities and many of these places in Wales can be accessed by train.

In this Wales travel blog, I’m going to give you 10 great places to visit in Wales by train along with tips for the trains in Wales, getting the train to Wales, cheaper train tickets, and recommendations for your Wales train itinerary.

Wales by Train

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Train Tickets for Wales

There are a variety of tickets available for getting around Wales by train and the Transport for Wales (TfW) direct website is where I recommend you go to purchase your Welsh train tickets. You can also download the TfW app which makes buying and presenting tickets easy on your journey.

50% Advance Ticket Sale

TfW have 50% off their Advance tickets for journeys between 1st and 16th October 2023 when you book your ticket between 17th and 30th September !

Visit Transport for Wales for more information and book a sale ticket!

If you are looking to visit just 1 place in Wales, a return journey option will be the best option for you, and if you are looking to visit a few places in Wales by train, single journey tickets or Multiflex train tickets will be the best option depending on how many places you intend to visit.

Train to Wales

You’re probably reading this post because you live in England, are planning to visit Wales from England or visiting from one of the main airports in England.

When planning a train travel trip to Wales, there are a few good starting points in England which will make getting the train to Wales easier.

Cities in England you should look to start your trip from are:

Trains in Wales

Before we get into where to go in Wales by train, here are a few things you should note about the trains in Wales and train travel around Wales.

My top tips for getting the train around Wales are:

• Don’t try to visit too many places in one day
• Stick to exploring one part of the country in one trip
• Plan in plenty of time for cross-country journeys and journeys to and from Wales
• Be prepared to change trains (which TfW will make you aware of in advance)
• Look into the buses in Wales (which you can do via Transport for Wales too) when you can’t see a connecting train route
• Book accommodation close to the train station / in the town centre so you don’t need to take taxis from the train station
• Use a city or large town in Wales as your base as it will be easy to get the train there and then you can take separate day trips by train, bus, taxi and tour to places nearby

Railways in Wales Map

Below is a network map for all the railways in Wales and train stations in Wales. As you can see, Wales is well connected by train!

This is a Wales train map by TfW, if you want to download it as a PDF, visit the TfW website here .

Places to go in Wales by Train

South wales by train.

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and certainly one of the best and easiest places to visit in Wales by train due to its great railway connectivity to many major cities and towns in England and Wales.

Cardiff is a city worth visiting in itself, here are the top things to do in Cardiff like Cardiff Castle and Cardiff Bay, but it’s also a great base in Wales for a few days. From Cardiff, you can take the train or bus to many beaches , towns and mountains nearby for day trips from Cardiff . Or, take an organised tour with a local company.

If you’re coming from London, you can even do a day trip from London to Cardiff by train !

Best to visit from:

• London Paddington – 2 hours
• Birmingham International – 2 hours
• Shrewsbury – 2 hours
• Manchester Piccadilly – 3 hours 15 minutes
• Bristol – 35 minutes

Search for train tickets to Cardiff here using TfW

Tenby is a seaside gem in Wales and it’s so great that Tenby has a train station in the centre of town making it one of the top places to go in Wales by train!

Getting to Tenby by train does take a while because it is in the Southern West corner of Wales but once you get there it will be well worth it!

You’ll have a colourful town and 4 beaches right on your doorstep with many more beaches and walks close by. I really recommend the Tenby to Saundersfoot walk !

There are many cottages in Tenby close to town as well as hotels and B&B’s so Tenby works as a brilliant final destination in Wales for a few days or a base to see more of Pembrokeshire from.

• Swansea – 1 hour 40 minutes
• Cardiff – 2 hours 40 minutes
• Bristol – 3 hours 30 minutes
• London – 4 hours 50 minutes

Search for train tickets to Tenby here using TfW

3. Fishguard

If you want to get pretty far away in Wales by train then Fishguard is a great place to go!

Fishguard is a small town on the West Coast of Wales in North Pembrokeshire. It has a harbour and a few beaches nearby.

Fishguard is a good place to visit if you are planning a South West Wales itinerary by train because you can visit Carmarthen, Tenby and Narbeth in one trip by train around Wales.

Fishguard is also well connected by train because of the ferry over to Ireland so if you are travelling by public transport around Wales and want to continue, you could always jump on the ferry to Ireland next.

• Carmarthen – 50 minutes
• Tenby – 1 hour 15 minutes
• Swansea – 1 hour 45 minutes
• Cardiff – 2 hours 50 minutes
• London – 5 hours

Search for train tickets to Fishguard here using TfW

4. Carmarthen

I’ve spent a lot of my life in and around Carmarthen and used to get the train here a lot when I was younger so it has to feature on this list of places to go in Wales by train.

Carmarthen itself is a town with a few shops and not so much going on but it is a great base to see more of South West Wales from.

When planning your Wales itinerary by train I’d suggest basing yourself in Carmarthen for a few days close to the train station and then visiting places nearby on day trips like Tenby, Narbeth, Pembrey, Llanelli and Fishguard, all of which have their own central train stations.

• Tenby – 45 minutes
• Swansea – 50 minutes
• Cardiff – 1 hour 50 minutes
• Bristol – 2 hours 30 minutes
• London – 3 hours 40 minutes

Search for train tickets to Carmarthen here using TfW

Swansea works well as a base in South Wales to see more of the area from and it benefits from being further West than Cardiff so it’s quicker to access beautiful places in Pembrokeshire from by train, like Tenby .

A huge benefit to Swansea is Swansea Gower which is like an island off the coast of Swansea, it has a spectacular coastline and you can visit the cute town of The Mumbles or wild beaches like Three Cliffs Bay with the help of the TfW bus system.

• Cardiff – 50 minutes
• Bristol – 1 hour 30 minutes
• Birmingham – 3 hours
• London – 3 hours 45 minutes
• Manchester – 4 hours 10 minutes

Search for train tickets to Swansea here using TfW

6. Abergavenny

The Brecon Beacons National Park is one of the best places to visit in South Wales and to best access this area by train you can catch the train into Abergavenny and travel by bus or taxi to your desired village or hiking spot. The Pen-Y-Fan hike will take you to the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons. and in South Wales!

When planning your Wales train travel itinerary, you could travel from Cardiff to Abergavenny quite easily as it’s not far by train and then travel back into England from Abergavenny or back down to the South Coast

• Cardiff – 40 minutes
• London – 2 hours 10 minutes
• Birmingham – 2 hours 10 minutes
• Manchester – 2 hours 30 minutes

Search for train tickets to Abergavenny here using TfW

Remember to check out the Advance Ticket Sale now available here on Transport for Wales !

North Wales by Train

Visiting North Wales is an absolute must and Bangor is a great city in North Wales to travel to by train and base yourself in to see more of this stunning part of the country.

Bangor has a thriving University and University city feel and it’s the best gateway into Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) that you’ll get by train travel in Wales.

If you want to see more trains in Wales and Welsh train stations, from Bangor you could get yourself to Llanberis, a small town in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) and take a steam train around Llanberis Lake Railway , and, you can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the top of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), the highest point in Wales!

• Chester – 1 hour 10 minutes
• Liverpool – 2 hours
• London – 3 hours 20 minutes
• Cardiff – 4 hours 20 minutes

Search for train tickets to Bangor here using TfW

8. Llandudno

Llandudno is a Victorian seaside town and was very popular in its heyday! These days it’s still a great place to go and is high on my list of places to visit in North Wales , especially for families as there is plenty to do in the town and nearby!

Llandudno is located along the coast of North Wales and is a good place to add to your Wales by train itinerary if you plan to stop in a few locations along the North Coast, for example, you could stop at Llandudno before or after Conwy and Bangor.

One of the best things to do in Llandudno is to take the Great Orme Tramway to the summit of the Great Orme.

• Manchester – 2 hours 15 minutes
• London – 3 hours 30 minutes

Search for train tickets to Llandudno here using TfW

9. Holyhead

Anglesey is an island just off the North West Coast of Wales and Holyhead is at the very top of it. There is a well-located and well-connected train station in Holyhead which I recommend travelling to by train in Wales to see more of this stunning corner of Wales.

If you enjoy hiking you can walk the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path from here as well as visit beaches nearby.

Holyhead is not too far from Bangor and Llandudno by train so if you are looking to visit a few places in North Wales by train, you can plan your Wales train itinerary to take the train to each of these places and stay a few nights.

• Bangor – 30 minutes
• Liverpool – 2 hours 50 minutes
• Manchester – 3 hours 10 minutes
• Birmingham – 3 hours 45 minutes

Search for train tickets to Holyhead here using TfW

Mid-Wales by Train

10. aberystwyth.

This popular seaside town on the West coast of Wales is a great place to go in Wales by train because a train line runs directly there through the centre of Wales and once there, Aberystwyth train station is located right in the centre of town.

After your scenic train journey to Aberystwyth, you can spend a few days enjoying this seaside town as well as visiting other coastal destinations nearby using the train and bus services.

For train lovers, once in Aberystwyth, you can take the Vale of Rheidol Railway , a restored steam train service for a stunning journey along the Rheidol Valley.

• Birmingham – 3 hours 15 minutes
• Manchester – 4 hours
• Cardiff – 4 hours

Search for train tickets to Aberystwyth here using TfW

I hope this helps you with places to go in Wales by train and how to travel Wales by train!

This post is sponsored by Transport For Wales. All opinions, thoughts and suggestions are my own.

• To read more of my Wales blog posts see:
• 20 Things To Do In Cardiff, Cardiff Bay & Near Cardiff!
• 30 TOP Places To Visit in South Wales & South Wales Attractions!
• 30 BEST Places to Visit in North Wales & North Wales Attractions!
• 15 BEST Beaches in Pembrokeshire To Visit & A Map!
• Best Time To Visit Wales By Weather & Things To Do!

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Monday 18th of September 2023

Amazing. Thanjs

Train strikes in April and May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, also mean some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

Thursday 11 April 2024 08:46, UK

Drivers at 16 rail companies have started a fresh wave of strikes, plus overtime bans, causing disruption to the rail network.

Update: All rail strikes have now concluded, and the Tube strikes that were due to take place in May have been called off.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay and will take place across April and May.

Tube strikes planned for April and May have been called off.

In an "entirely separate dispute", ASLEF members will also strike and refuse to do overtime at LNER on specific dates in April "because of the company's failure to adhere to the agreed bargaining machinery", the union said.

LNER's alleged failure to adhere to bargaining machinery refers to it using managers to drive trains on strike days.

People are advised to check before they travel.

Here's what's happening when:

Rail strike dates

Friday 5 April

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, and CrossCountry.

Saturday 6 April

Strikes will affect Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern, and TransPennine Trains.

Monday 8 April

Strikes will affect Greater Anglia, c2c, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express, South Western Railway main line and depot drivers, and SWR Island Line.

Overtime ban dates

Thursday 4 April

Tuesday 9 April

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

LNER action dates

Members will strike on Saturday 20 April and refuse to work non-contractual overtime from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 April .

Why are the strikes happening?

ASLEF says the LNER strikes are because of "the company's persistent failure to comply with existing agreements".

Nigel Roebuck, an ASLEF organiser in the northeast, said the operator had been trying to get "every driver manager and driver instructor to work on strike days".

A spokesperson said: "LNER has used managers - paid £500 a shift - to drive trains on strike days and, after the expiry of the last non-contractual overtime agreement, on most days of the week now.

"There is no agreement in place for management to drive services on mainline infrastructure.

"It results in branch line services - such as Lincoln, Skipton, and Harrogate - being cancelled because of a lack of route knowledge and means virtually no driver training is being done."

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Mick Whelan, ASLEF general secretary, said of the rail strikes : "Last month, when we announced renewed mandates for industrial action, because under the Tories' draconian anti-union laws we have to ballot our members every six months, we called on the train companies, and the government, to come to the table for meaningful talks to negotiate a new pay deal for train drivers who have not had an increase in salary since 2019.

"Our members voted overwhelmingly - yet again - for strike action."

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A Rail Delivery Group spokesperson said: "Nobody wins when industrial action impacts people's lives and livelihoods, and we will work hard to minimise any disruption to our passengers.

"We want to resolve this dispute, but the ASLEF leadership need to recognise that hard-pressed taxpayers are continuing to contribute an extra £54m a week just to keep services running post-COVID.

"We continue to seek an agreement with the ASLEF leadership and remain open to talks to find a solution to this dispute."

When the strikes on the London Underground were announced, Finn Brennan, ASLEF's full-time organiser on the network, said in a statement: "ASLEF Tube train drivers will strike in April and May in a long-running dispute over London Underground's failure to give assurances that changes to our members' terms and conditions will not be imposed without agreement and that all existing agreements will be honoured.

"Despite a previous commitment to withdraw plans for massive changes to drivers' working conditions, London Underground management has established a full-time team of managers preparing to impose their plans.

Sadiq Khan said they had been called off after "talking and engaging with transport staff and trade unions rather than working against them".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes

GOBankingRates

6 Places To Retire That Are Just Like the West Coast but Cheaper

Posted: January 2, 2024 | Last updated: January 2, 2024

Many retirees dream of settling down in beautiful West Coast destinations like California, Oregon and Washington for the pleasant climate, coastal access, cultural amenities and relaxed pace of life. However, the high cost of living in these popular states can put a dent in retirement budgets. 

These 5 Cities Are Becoming Popular With Baby Boomers: Should You Consider Them for Your Retirement Years? More: 3 Ways To Recession-Proof Your Retirement

The good news is there are alternatives across the U.S. that offer vibrant retirement living at a fraction of the West Coast price tag. Whether you crave charming beach towns, dynamic urban hubs, access to nature and outdoor recreation or rich arts and culture scenes, you can find an inspiring location to call home.

Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington, North Carolina, provides a charming coastal town feel reminiscent of West Coast destinations, with greater affordability and mild weather year-round. This port city offers rich history and culture, including an energetic arts environment, galleries, museums and live music. 

"The area boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, historic neighborhoods and a mild climate perfect for outdoor activities," said Chris McGuire, founder of Real Estate Exam Ninja .

According to Payscale, the cost of living (COL) in Wilmington is 4% lower than the national average and the median home price is around $347,000. If you compare that to San Francisco, where the median home price is upward of $1.3 million and the COL is 79% higher than the national average, Wilmington is looking even more attractive. 

With a growing restaurant scene led by local chefs, Wilmington serves up delicious coastal cuisine focused on fresh regional seafood and produce. Those seeking an engaging but laidback lifestyle will feel at home in Wilmington at a fraction of the West Coast price tag.

Retirement Savings: How Much Money You Need for Every Year Past Age 65 Find Out: The 5 Things That Disappear When You Retire

Greenville, South Carolina

Named a best place to retire by Southern Living, Greenville offers city living with a small-town feel -- perfect for retirees. Greenville provides a blend of amenities like local wineries, a thriving arts scene, temperate weather ideal for year-round outdoor recreation, farmers markets and an award-winning culinary scene.  

"We have great subdivisions with community pools, tennis courts, pickleball and much more to do, making it a great place for active retirees," said Linda O'Brien, a Coldwell Banker Caine broker associate highlighting the connected, amenity-rich communities available. "Each community has a Facebook page that provides book clubs, bunco groups and other ways for everyone to get involved." 

And according to Payscale, COL in Greenville is 9% lower than the national average and the median house price is $322,403. Compare that to Los Angeles where the COL is 51% higher than the national average and the median house price is $1,083,995, you're getting a whole lot more for less in Greenville.

With abundant amenities to stay active and involved, paired with the wineries, arts and culinary diversity Greenville offers, retirees can tap into a tight-knit yet dynamic community reminiscent of West Coast living for a more affordable price. 

See: 7 Bills You Never Have To Pay When You Retire

Charleston, South Carolina

Also in South Carolina, Charleston exudes low-country charm with its cobblestone streets, antebellum manor homes and location on the Atlantic Ocean. Picturesque neighborhoods, award-winning eateries, galleries, boutiques and more add to Charleston's allure for retirees seeking an attractive coastal lifestyle.

"If coastal living, historic charm and cultural diversity are appealing, Charleston provides all of that at a more affordable price point," said Erik Wright, CEO of New Horizon Home Buyers . 

According to Payscale, Charleston's cost of living is 2% lower than the national average with homes having a median price of $436,033. Compare that to San Diego, California, where the COL is 44% higher than the national average and the median home cost is around $1 million. 

Though Charleston's popularity has increased home prices, the city still provides better affordability than many West Coast locations. Retirees can truly capture elegant coastal living in this special city for less.

Nashville, Tennessee

Known as Music City, Nashville offers retirees a creative arts community, tasty cuisine and plenty of green spaces and outdoor activities. 

"For those who appreciate a lively music scene and Southern hospitality, Nashville has it all at a lower cost," said Wright. 

According to Payscale, the COL in Nashville is 2% lower than the national average and the median price for a home is around $478,000. By comparison, the COL in Berkeley, California, is 77% higher than the national average and the median home price is $1,343,847.  

Between the rhythm of music on every block, the distinctive charm and flavors and community infrastructure, Nashville gives retirees a taste of West Coast artistry and enthusiasm through its own cultural identity at a better value. 

Boise, Idaho

Against the picturesque Rocky Mountains and next to the Boise River Greenbelt, Idaho's capital provides a vibrant downtown brimming with galleries, shops, cafes and more.  

"Surrounded by mountains and boasting a vibrant downtown area, Boise provides a West Coast-like experience at a more affordable price. The city offers a thriving arts community, a burgeoning food scene and a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including skiing, hiking and river rafting," said McGuire. 

According to Payscale, the cost of living (COL) in Boise is 8% higher than the national average and the median home price is around $566,347. However, if you compare that to Seattle, Washington, where the median home price is over $950,000 and the COL is 50% higher than the national average, a life in the Rockies looks pretty sweet.

Artistic souls and outdoor enthusiasts alike find everything they need in Boise's cultural offerings paired with natural splendor, available at a better price point than the coasts.

Compare: The Average Retirement Age in 2023 in the US vs. Canada

Austin, Texas

Austin has secured its status as the funky liberal oasis of Texas. Though housing costs are rising with its growing popularity, Austin home prices still pale in comparison to other tech hotspots. Austin backs up its ultra-hip reputation with substance -- including a mild climate ideal for year-round enjoyment of the outdoors. With a rich cultural tapestry and depth of amenities catering to retirees, Austin gives the West Coast a run for its money.  

According to Payscale, the COL in Austin is 1% higher than the national average and the median price for a home is around $520,805. However, even when you compare it to one of the cheaper West Coast metropolises -- Portland, Oregon -- it looks pretty affordable. The COL in Portland is 24% higher than the national average and the median home price runs about $730,000.

"Known for its vibrant music scene, thriving tech industry and eclectic culture, Austin offers a dynamic lifestyle reminiscent of cities like San Francisco or Seattle," said McGuire. "The city provides a lower cost of living, no state income tax and a range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking and kayaking along the Colorado River."

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

10 Surprising Facts About the 2024 Solar Eclipse

A total solar eclipse will sweep across North America on Monday, April 8, offering a spectacle for tens of millions of people who live in its path and others who will travel to see it.

A solar eclipse occurs during the new moon phase, when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, casting a shadow on Earth and totally or partially blocking our view of the sun. While an average of two solar eclipses happen every year, a particular spot on Earth is only in the path of totality every 375 years on average, Astronomy reported .

“Eclipses themselves aren't rare, it's just eclipses at your house are pretty rare,” John Gianforte, director of the University of New Hampshire Observatory, tells TIME. If you stay in your hometown, you may never spot one, but if you’re willing to travel, you can witness multiple. Gianforte has seen five eclipses and intends to travel to Texas this year, where the weather prospects are better.

One fun part of experiencing an eclipse can be watching the people around you. “They may yell, they scream, they cry, they hug each other, and that’s because it’s such an amazingly beautiful event,” Gianforte, who also serves as an extension associate professor of space science education, notes. “Everyone should see at least one in their life, because they’re just so spectacular. They are emotion-evoking natural events.”

Here are 10 surprising facts about the science behind the phenomenon, what makes 2024’s solar eclipse unique, and what to expect.

The total eclipse starts in the Pacific Ocean and ends in the Atlantic 

The darker, inner shadow the moon casts is called the umbra , in which you can see a rarer total eclipse. The outer, lighter second shadow is called the penumbra, under which you will see a partial eclipse visible in more locations.

The total eclipse starts at 12:39 p.m. Eastern Time, a bit more than 620 miles south of the Republic of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean, according to Astronomy . The umbra remains in contact with Earth’s surface for three hours and 16 minutes until 3:55 p.m. when it ends in the Atlantic Ocean, roughly 340 miles southwest of Ireland.

The umbra enters the U.S. at the Mexican border just south of Eagle Pass, Texas, and leaves just north of Houlton, Maine, with one hour and eight minutes between entry and exit, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) tells TIME in an email.

Mexico will see the longest totality during the eclipse 

The longest totality will extend for four minutes and 28 seconds on a 350-mile-long swath near the centerline of the eclipse, including west of Torreón, Mexico, according to NASA.

In the U.S., some areas of Texas will catch nearly equally long total eclipses. For example, in Fredericksburg, totality will last four minutes and 23 seconds—and that gets slightly longer if you travel west, the agency tells TIME. Most places along the centerline will see totality lasting between three and a half minutes and four minutes.

More people currently live in the path of totality compared to the last eclipse 

An estimated 31.6 million people live in the path of totality for 2024’s solar eclipse, compared to 12 million during the last solar eclipse that crossed the U.S. in 2017, per NASA .

The path of totality is much wider than in 2017, and this year’s eclipse is also passing over more cities and densely populated areas than last time. 

A part of the sun which is typically hidden will reveal itself

Solar eclipses allow for a glimpse of the sun’s corona —the outermost atmosphere of the star that is normally not visible to humans because of the sun’s brightness.

The corona consists of wispy, white streamers of plasma—charged gas—that radiate from the sun. The corona is much hotter than the sun's surface —about 1 million degrees Celsius (1.8 million degrees Fahrenheit) compared to 5,500 degrees Celsius (9,940 degrees Fahrenheit).

The sun will be near its more dramatic solar maximum 

During the 2024 eclipse, the sun will be near “solar maximum.” This is the most active phase of a roughly 11-year solar cycle, which might lead to more prominent and evident sun activity, Gianforte tells TIME.  

“We're in a very active state of the sun, which makes eclipses more exciting, and [means there is] more to look forward to during the total phase of the eclipse,” he explains. 

People should look for an extended, active corona with more spikes and maybe some curls in it, keeping an eye out for prominences , pink explosions of plasma that leap off the sun’s surface and are pulled back by the sun’s magnetic field, and streamers coming off the sun.

Streamers “are a beautiful, beautiful shade of pink, and silhouetted against the black, new moon that's passing across the disk of the sun, it makes them stand out very well. So it's really just a beautiful sight to look up at the totally eclipsed sun,” Gianforte says.

Two planets—and maybe a comet—could also be spotted

Venus will be visible 15 degrees west-southwest of the sun 10 minutes before totality, according to Astronomy. Jupiter will also appear 30 degrees to the east-northeast of the sun during totality, or perhaps a few minutes before. Venus is expected to shine more than five times as bright as Jupiter. 

Another celestial object that may be visible is Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks , about six degrees to the right of Jupiter. Gianforte says the comet, with its distinctive circular cloud of gas and a long tail, has been “really putting on a great show in the sky” ahead of the eclipse.

The eclipse can cause a “360-degree sunset” 

A solar eclipse can cause a sunset-like glow in every direction—called a “360-degree sunset”—which you might notice during the 2024 eclipse, NASA said . The effect is caused by light from the sun in areas outside of the path of totality and only lasts as long as totality.

The temperature will drop 

When the sun is blocked out, the temperature drops noticeably. During the last total solar eclipse in the U.S. in 2017, the National Weather Service recorded that temperature dropped as much as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. In Carbondale, Ill. for example, the temperature dropped from a peak of 90 degrees Fahrenheit just before totality to 84 degrees during totality.

Wildlife may act differently 

When the sky suddenly becomes black as though nighttime, confused “animals, dogs, cats, birds do act very differently ,” Gianforte says.

In the 2017 eclipse, scientists tracked that many flying creatures began returning to the ground or other perches up to 50 minutes before totality. Seeking shelter is a natural response to a storm or weather conditions that can prove deadly for small flying creatures, the report said. Then right before totality, a group of flying creatures changed their behavior again—suddenly taking flight before quickly settling back into their perches again.

There will be a long wait for the next total eclipse in the U.S.

The next total eclipse in the U.S. won’t happen until March 30, 2033, when totality will reportedly only cross parts of Alaska . The next eclipse in the 48 contiguous states is expected to occur on Aug. 12, 2044, with parts of Montana and North Dakota experiencing totality.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.