The stunning £9 UK train ride crowned the nation’s most scenic journey

It’s no surprise that travellers call this breathtaking train journey one of the best in the world, with National Geographic even featuring it for its stunning views.

Stretching 120 miles through untouched countryside, this route offers endless beauty for just £2.40 an hour, making it one of the most affordable scenic trips in the UK.

The ride takes you past rugged mountains, charming market towns and ancient castles that look straight out of a storybook.

Photo © Ruth Sharville (cc-by-sa/2.0)

From your seat, you can enjoy the sound of birds and boats, watch mist roll across the hills, and see the light shift over the coast.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of dolphins, ospreys or porpoises playing in the water.

Running along the Welsh coastline from Aberystwyth to Pwllheli, this remarkable train route has earned an impressive score of 90.38 out of 100 in a study by Sweepstakes Table, which searched for the most beautiful winter rail journeys.

In just a few hours, the Cambrian Coast Railway treats passengers to sweeping views of Cardigan Bay and the snow-capped peaks of Snowdonia, all from the comfort of their seats.

There’s plenty of reason to step off and explore too. You can walk along golden beaches or hop off at Llwyngwril station to follow the Yarn Bombing Trail, where the village streets come alive with bright, hand-crocheted art displays.

Photo © Nigel Brown (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Whether you fancy sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding or simply wandering through cosy shops, local markets and seaside cafés, there’s something for everyone to enjoy along the way.

The Dyfi Estuary is especially magical at sunrise, while the cliffside stretch near Y Friog offers heart-stopping views. Pwllheli is known as a favourite surf spot, while Barmouth and Fairbourne are perfect for building sandcastles and enjoying the sea air.

One traveller on TripAdvisor shared: “The journey is spectacular, with the sea on one side and green mountains on the other. It’s like something from a dream.”

Another passenger added: “You couldn’t ask for a more beautiful or peaceful trip along this wonderful coastline.”

To reach the coast, you can start in Shrewsbury on the Cambrian Main Line, which crosses into Wales before joining the Cambrian Coast Line.

Other UK routes that ranked highly for scenic winter rail trips include the Cumbrian Coast Line, the Furness Line and the Esk Valley Railway.

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