Breathtaking hidden rail journey through stunning scenery ranked among the UKs best

A little-known train ride in Sussex has just been named one of the best in the whole of the UK.

This train ride, which takes passengers through the lovely countryside, was picked for a top list by Condé Nast Traveller.

The magazine said the list includes 17 amazing train trips across Britain; from Scotland’s mountains to the beaches in Cornwall. It features short journeys, overnight trips and even a new route in Edinburgh that’s budget-friendly.

Photo © Ben Brooksbank (cc-by-sa/2.0)

This special train line is 11 miles long and runs through West Sussex. It’s looked after by the Bluebell Railway Preservation Society and uses old-fashioned steam trains between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead.

It was also the first train line in the world to bring back steam trains for public use on a normal-sized track.

Besides regular rides, the railway also has fancy options like the Golden Arrow Pullman dining train. There are also fun choices like the Wealden Rambler lounge car, Fish & Chip nights, and Rail Ale trips, plus loads of events for families.

Photo © Roger Cornfoot (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Most of the people who help run the trains are volunteers. The very first train on this line set off in 1960, and it’s been a popular trip for visitors ever since.

One of the platforms, Sheffield Park, even appeared on the cover of Elton John’s album, Tumbleweed Connection.

Other stops along the line have shown up in hit Netflix shows too, including Downton Abbey.

If you'd like to go for a ride and see it for yourself, you can find out more on the Bluebell Railway website.

Remember - LeaveNoTrace!

As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!

Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.

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