Lonely Planet has just released its eagerly awaited Best in Travel guide for 2025, highlighting 30 must-see destinations for the upcoming year. The globally respected travel authority has also shared its top 10 travel trends, with train hopping predicted to be a popular choice.
From grand cross-continent trips to relaxed branch line day trips, train hopping turns any journey into an adventure. One railway stretch ideal for a countryside to coast trip is located right here in Yorkshire.
Tucked away in the scenic landscape of northern England, The Bentham Line offers more than just a train ride; it’s a chance to soak up the peaceful allure of the countryside. Operating between Leeds, Lancaster and Morecambe, this historic route winds through quaint villages, lush green hills and ancient towns that transport travellers back in time.
For over 170 years, The Bentham Line has served as a vital link for local communities, connecting them to vibrant cities while maintaining their rural charm. The stunning 75-mile (120 km) trans-pennine journey starts from the heart of West Yorkshire, meanders through gorgeous valleys, past the Ribblehead Viaduct and the Yorkshire Dales National Park, before arriving at the beautiful shores of Morecambe Bay.
As part of Scenic Rail Britain, the Bentham Line is a community-led partnership that brings together local groups and organisations to enhance the rail experience for passengers. The journey begins at Leeds Station, where the train meanders westward, leaving the city’s bustle behind and revealing the tranquility of the Yorkshire Dales, reports the Manchester Evening News.
With stops at Shipley, Bingley, and Keighley, it takes just 30 minutes to reach Skipton, the “Gateway to the Dales”. This historic town boasts a 900 year old castle and charming cobbled High Street, attracting visitors from far and wide to explore its iconic landmarks, browse the marketplace, and discover a range of independent shops, pubs, and eateries.
Another popular stop is Giggleswick, a picturesque village near Settle, featuring fine houses, an historic church, and the stunning Giggleswick School Chapel with its copper dome. Each station along the line offers a unique experience, such as stepping back in time in Carnforth, where the railway station was famously featured in the 1945 film Brief Encounter, or exploring Lancaster’s Edwardian butterfly house and Lancaster Castle, known as the ‘Taj Mahal of the North’.
On their journey, travellers can admire traditional Yorkshire stone buildings and the awe-inspiring Ribblehead Viaduct, a testament to Victorian engineering. Further along lies the serene Lune Valley, an untouched stretch that follows the River Lune, offering picturesque views at every corner.
The trip ends in Morecambe, a coastal town where the vast skyline meets the Irish Sea. Renowned for its Winter Gardens, the iconic art deco Midland Hotel and its expansive sandy bay, visitors flock here to savour fish and chips on the seafront after a delightful train ride.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or simply seeking a breath of fresh air, The Bentham Line provides an easy route through some of England’s most enchanting landscapes. It serves as a reminder that the best travel experiences aren’t always about the destination but the journey itself.
So, jump on board, and let the rhythm of the rails whisk you away.