North East England has some of the most picturesque and historical railway journeys in the United Kingdom. The region boasts of a vast network of rail tracks that allows visitors to experience the breathtaking scenery of the area while travelling onboard some of the most celebrated train rides in the world. From the rugged mountains of the North Pennines to the stunning coastline of the North Sea, the North East offers a vast range of train journeys that can cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the most celebrated train journeys in the North East of England that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
The Esk Valley Line
The Esk Valley line is a 35-mile train journey that travels between the port of Whitby and Middlesbrough. Known for its rugged landscapes and scenic countryside, the train ride offers a glimpse into the heart of the North York Moors National Park. The journey takes passengers through picturesque villages, dense forests and rolling hills, making it a favourite among nature enthusiasts and photographers. The highlight of the journey is the view of the stunning Esk Valley, where the train follows the River Esk as it meanders towards the North Sea. The line also passes through the historic town of Grosmont, which is home to the well-known North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
The Durham Coast Line
The Durham Coast line is a 16-mile train journey that runs from Newcastle to Middlesbrough. The train ride offers passengers stunning views of the North Sea as it hugs the coastline of County Durham. The journey takes passengers through quaint fishing villages and historic towns, offering a fascinating insight into the area’s maritime heritage. The highlight of the journey is the view of the historic Durham Cathedral and Castle, which are UNESCO world heritage sites. The train ride culminates in the historic port town of Middlesbrough, where visitors can explore the town’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Hadrian’s Wall Country Line
The Hadrian’s Wall Country line is an 84-mile train journey that runs between Newcastle and Carlisle. The train ride takes passengers through the stunning landscape of the Northumberland National Park, offering breathtaking views of the rugged Pennine Mountains. The highlight of the journey is the view of Hadrian’s Wall, which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The wall was built in AD122 to protect the Roman empire from invasion and spans over 70 miles. The train line passes through some of the most scenic parts of the wall, including the famous Roman forts at Chesters and Housesteads.
The Tees Valley Line
The Tees Valley line is a 33-mile train journey that runs from Darlington to Saltburn. The train ride takes passengers through the heart of Teesside, an area renowned for its heavy industries and steel production. The journey offers a fascinating insight into the area’s industrial heritage, with the train line passing through old ironworks, coal mines and steel mills. The highlight of the journey is the stunning coastline of Saltburn, which is known for its Victorian architecture and spectacular views of the North Sea. Visitors can take a stroll along the pier or relax on the beach after a long train ride through the heart of Teesside.
The Tyne Valley Line
The Tyne Valley line is a 60-mile train journey that runs from Newcastle to Carlisle. The train ride takes passengers through the scenic Tyne Valley, offering stunning views of the rolling hills of Northumberland National Park. The journey also passes through the historic towns of Hexham and Corbridge, which offer a fascinating insight into the region’s Roman heritage. The highlight of the journey, however, is the view of the iconic Hownsgill Viaduct, which spans over 600 feet across the valley and is a testament to the area’s engineering heritage.
Conclusion
The North East of England offers some of the most celebrated train journeys in the United Kingdom, with a vast network of rail tracks that crisscross the region’s rugged landscapes and historic towns. From the stunning coastline to the rolling hills of the North Pennines, the North East has something to offer all types of travelers. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or a history buff, these train journeys will take you on a journey through the heart of one of the most fascinating regions in the United Kingdom.