Train Days Out Across the UK
Happy New Year and welcome to 2017. We thought we’d start the year with a post to introduce you to some fantastic days out to in the UK that celebrate our iconic railways right here in Blighty.
We are lucky to have such fascinating history in this country, – from the innovative beginnings of late Georgian steam engineers to the completion of ‘’High Speed 1’ linking London to the European high-speed rail network.
Have a look at our choice of great days out for all ages with an interest in the marvels of rail travel (no anoraks required!)
Firstly, the famous National Railway Museum in York. Located a mere 13 miles from our offices here at Planet Rail, this is a firm favourite. A thoroughly great day out for all ages, this free museum displays a collection of over 100 locomotives and is home to the ‘Mallard’, the fastest steam train in the world. Dine in a Victorian inspired dining car or perhaps go for coffee and cake in the 1920’s lounge. With a ride on miniature train, numerous exhibitions and tours, we can’t recommend this highly enough.
The National Railway Museum Shildon is the sister of the National Railway Museum in York and located in…you guessed it – Shildon.
Believed to be the world’s oldest railway town, Shildon is nestled between Darlington and Bishop Auckland and in the early 19th century, railway lines ran through the heart of this town.
The National Railway Museum offers free entry to all & houses a permanent exhibition of the Royal Coaches used by the royal family in the beginning of the 20th century, a huge collection of locomotives and lots of fun activities for all the family.
The London Transport Museum is one of the main attractions at the Covent Garden Piazza in London. Dedicated to the 200-year history of public transport in the city including over-line railways, the Underground, the famous red buses and black London cabs, the museum looks at how transport has shaped London’s society and culture. With a stylish two storey shop and café overlooking the Piazza and a vast array of memorabilia and hands on activities you really could spend all day here.
Bo’ness and Kinneil museum and Railway
Scotland’s largest train museum is located just on the outskirts of Edinburgh and houses three large buildings full of railway locomotives, carriages and wagons. Climb aboard heritage locomotives or take a stroll to the display shed which houses the last remaining ‘Glasgow Blue Train’ and other items of heritage stock.
The Scottish Railway Preservation Society operates the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway, and offers the chance to board a vintage steam or diesel hauled train. Sit back and relax whilst you enjoy the beautiful countryside, perhaps enjoying a hot drink and snack from the on board cafe whilst enjoying travelling by old fashioned steam rail.
Perhaps you you’d like to fulfil an ambition of driving a steam locomotive? Then book onto a ‘Footplate Experience’ – an adventurous course which teaches you how to prepare and drive a steam locomotive. Guided by fully qualified staff the course enables you to capture the sights, smells and sights of driving a steam train.
If all that seems like too much hard work and you fancy a little something more luxurious and genteel, then maybe you would like to consider one of our own day trips in the UK we can offer here at Planet Rail.
Perhaps travel back in time on board the vintage carriages of the Belmond British Pullman, the sister train to the Venice Simplon Orient Express, for afternoon tea with Mary Berry.
Or why not try our round trip departing from London Victoria including a spectacular five course lunch accompanied by Champagne and wine as you step back in time into the ‘golden age of travel’. The Belmond Northern Belle provides the ultimate in luxurious comfort and sophistication. Commencing service in 2000 to provide stylish short breaks and day excursions, this iconic train departs from various cities in the Midlands and the North. Offering a round trip with a champagne reception and five course lunch with wine, you can soak up the history and atmosphere whilst enjoying the delights of luxury rail travel.
To have a chat with any of our friendly team, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01347 825292 or browse the rest of our site to find inspiration for your next adventure.
