As the UK marks 200 years since the first public passenger steam train, author and train enthusiast Tom Chesshyre has released a new book exploring Britain's slow train routes. In an interview with the BBC, Chesshyre discussed the enduring appeal of regional rail travel and highlighted some of his top picks for scenic journeys.
Chesshyre, who has travelled over 40,000 miles by train, emphasised the unique perspective slow trains offer: 'You see places off the beaten track out of the train window.' He noted that while cheap flights often undercut train fares, the romance of rail—harking back to the golden age of plush velvet seats and grand stations like St Pancras—still captivates travellers.
Reflecting on international trips, Chesshyre recalled his nine-day Trans-Siberian Railway journey from Moscow to Beijing, describing the train as 'its own ecosystem' where he encountered diverse characters and stunning landscapes, from the Ural Mountains to Siberian tundra.
Though the article does not list specific UK journeys, Chesshyre's book Slow Trains Around Britain offers a guide to the country's most scenic regional lines, perfect for those seeking a slower, more immersive travel experience.
