Heritage Railways Today : Steam & Nostalgia

Train travel is always an adventure – and never more so than when it’s a trip on a heritage railway. Riding on a restored steam or diesel train on one of Britain’s hundreds of heritage railway lines is nostalgic and fun.

There are fabulous views to enjoy, natural beauty and magnificent scenery too. And of course, railway enthusiasts can admire the wonderful technology of the past. For an outing, heritage trains are both relaxing and exciting for all ages.

The most popular heritage railways in the UK

In fact, despite being an old invention, rail is one of the most popular trends in travel today. Trains are making a great comeback. The surge in popularity runs all the way from Japan’s 300mph Bullet Trains, to 25mph steam locos trundling through the Leicestershire countryside.

For a family trip, a heritage line is hard to beat. Thanks to the amazing efforts of enthusiasts, these often volunteer-run lines are flourishing all over the country. The noisy and steaming old engines fascinate old and young alike. Children love them. And for others, there’s a reminder of images from past times, including films, picture books, TV shows, novels and songs.

Miles of track & hundreds of stations

In the UK and Ireland there are about 130 heritage railways with 450 stations spanning 550 miles. Hundreds of thousands of passengers enjoy this country’s railway heritage every year. Their support keeps it all steaming along, together with donations and all kinds of grants.

The future is bright for these locomotives, carriages, listed buildings and viaducts of our amazing heritage rail sector. All this is thanks to huge volunteer commitment, and an amazing level of dedication to the cause. 

Keeping heritage railways running

Heritage railways use every skill known to the human hand! They include train drivers and firemen, guards and signalmen, ticket inspectors, footplate crew, steam and engineering maintenance, track maintenance to name just a few. 

And there’s no need to be a member. If you’re interested in being train crew for a day, you can buy a train driver experience at many UK heritage railways.

As for the journey itself, these railway lines pass through fabulous countryside, often through fields and land inaccessible by car or even on foot. For example, the scenery around the Churnet Valley Railway is known as ‘Little Switzerland’ – and it’s a delightful backdrop for a trip by rail. 

Luxury steam train voyages

Often they are top-notch excursions on celebrated trains such as the Belmond British Pullman and the Northern Belle, the sister trains to the Orient Express. Amazing scenic day trips will take you through everything from the Welsh mountains, to the Kent coast in luxury, with fine dining included. 

Indeed, food often goes hand-in-hand with a journey on a heritage railway train, with everything from cream teas and fish and chips, to tacos and tequila spicy night trips. There are also special events ranging from murder-mystery excursions to tea parties, to name just a few!

Visit a heritage railway near you & help preserve them

Whether you want to drive, or just sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere, a visit to a heritage railway near you is a great idea for a multigenerational day out. And don’t forget, the revenue from ticket sales and onboard dining will help ensure these heritage railways continue for generations to come.

If you’re interested in getting involved with heritage railway preservation, the Heritage Railway Association will lead you in the right direction.