7 scenic railway journeys to enjoy with a group

1. Brecon Mountain Railway

Take a vintage steam train ride through the Brecon Beacons National Park with a journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway. The 9.5 mile return journey takes you into the Brecon Beacons National Park, through Pontsticill and along the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir before climbing to Torpantau high in the Brecon Beacons and the summit of the original line. 

Visitors can pick from a one-way or return journey on the railway and take in the countryside of south Wales. The main station in Pant offers refreshments from its tearooms and gifts and souvenirs are also available from the shop.

2. The Kyle Line 

Running 57 miles coast to coast from Inverness, the Kyle Line passes lochs, mountains, moorland and shore before reaching the harbour village of Kyle of Lochalsh. The journey, which was included in Michael Palin’s Great Railways Journeys, takes approximately 2 hours 40 minutes.

On arrival in Kyle of Lochalsh groups can explore the Kyle Station Museum, with discounts for pre-booked groups of ten or more. Each guest also receives a complimentary certificate of travel and you can upgrade to an inclusive group package, which includes a souvenir map and choice of refreshments.

3. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Groups can experience the age of steam as they travel through the beautiful vistas of the North York Moors National Park on board the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. See classic stations, including the 1930s themed Pickering Station, Goathland, which became Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film, as well as Grosmont Station which is home to the operating and engineering of the railway.

Upgrade to a Pullman Dining Experience and enjoy food and drink on board heritage carriages which transport guests back in time to the golden age of train travel.

4. The Vale of Rheidol Railway 

The Vale of Rheidol Railway operates regular services from mid March through to the beginning of November, taking passengers on a 12-mile journey from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, travelling up 700 feet through some of stunning Welsh scenery on a narrow-gauge steam railway.

Tour groups are recommended to start their journey from either Aberystwyth or Devil’s Bridge stations as both have free parking for coaches. Reduced fares apply for pre-booked groups of 20 or more and specialist tours including visits to the engineering workshop and bespoke tours are available. 

5. Settle-Carlisle Railway

This historic Settle-Carlisle Railway travels from Settle in North Yorkshire to Carlisle in Cumbria, with views of the Yorkshire Dales and the Pennines during the scenic journey. Start at any of the stations between Carlisle and Leeds, with the diesel sprinter train service operating daily. Along the route stop off at stations and visit tourist attractions, including Carlisle Cathedral and Skipton Castle.

Discounted rates are available to groups of ten or more fare-paying passengers and a refreshment trolley service is available on select journeys. Groups are encouraged to get in touch in advance to discuss additional refreshments and catering. 

6. Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

Travel on board the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway and explore seven miles of spectacular scenery aboard a narrow gauge steam train beginning in Ravenglass, the only coastal village in the Lake District National Park.

The 40-minute journey offers expansive views over the coastal estuary before the line winds through ancient woodlands. terminating at Dalegarth for Boot at the foot of England’s highest mountains.

Bespoke group tours and itineraries can be tailored, including premium carriage hire and full train charter, return trips, cream tea picnic boxes, or experiences and tours of Ravenglass Railway Museum.

7. North Norfolk Railway

Passengers can go back in time when they travel on board a classic steam train on the North Norfolk Railway. Known as the Poppy Line, the route takes passengers on a five-and-a-half mile journey through Norfolk’s coastal countryside between the seaside community of Sheringham and Georgian town of Holt.

Groups can enjoy discounted tickets when booking for 15 or more and upgrade to have hot drinks, pastries and cakes served at their table. There is also free travel for coach drivers or tour leaders.