Settle-Carlisle Railway
A legendary railway line winding through the stunning Yorkshire Dales, famous for its viaducts and heritage steam trains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Steam trains run more often
Settle-Carlisle Railway
Best Time
Steam trains run more often
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary railway line winding through the stunning Yorkshire Dales, famous for its viaducts and heritage steam trains.
"The scenery was breathtaking, a true reminder of a bygone age. "
🎯 Book Steam Train Tickets Early
Special steam services are popular; book ahead to secure your spot on these nostalgic journeys.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy your own food on the train or at scenic spots. Many stations have local eateries too.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ribblehead Viaduct
Yorkshire Dales
Marvel at this iconic 24-arch viaduct, a masterpiece of Victorian engineering soaring over the moors.
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Scenic Train Journey
Settle to Carlisle Line
Experience breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and a glimpse into a bygone era of rail travel.
Heritage Steam Trains
Various departures
Relive the golden age of steam with a nostalgic ride on a beautifully restored locomotive.
Charming Railway Stations
Along the line (e.g., Settle, Carlisle)
Discover picturesque stations with old-style waiting rooms and gas lamps, offering a step back in time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Steam Train Experiences in Advance
Consider Off-Peak Travel for Scenery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Steam Train Tickets Early
Special steam services are popular; book ahead to secure your spot on these nostalgic journeys.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy your own food on the train or at scenic spots. Many stations have local eateries too.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore stations and potentially walk around viewpoints like Ribblehead.
📸 Capture the Views
The landscapes are stunning! Bring your camera or phone for unforgettable photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Steam Train Tickets Early
Special steam services are popular; book ahead to secure your spot on these nostalgic journeys.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy your own food on the train or at scenic spots. Many stations have local eateries too.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore stations and potentially walk around viewpoints like Ribblehead.
📸 Capture the Views
The landscapes are stunning! Bring your camera or phone for unforgettable photos.
🗺️ Check Timetables Carefully
Ensure you know your departure and arrival times, especially if connecting to other transport.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Settle-Carlisle Railway for its breathtaking scenery and nostalgic charm, especially when experiencing a heritage steam train. While some find it a pleasant journey, others feel it might not be 'mind-blowing' compared to other national parks, and can be an expensive outing. The picturesque stations and the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct are frequently highlighted as major attractions. +1
"From start to finish Its amazing the scenery was breathtaking past all the little railway stations still with old style waiting rooms and gas lamp posts and bridges across the railway reminders of a by gone age the excitement of going across the viaduct when it came in view saw lots of wildlife rabbits happy playing in fields deers herds of cows sheep so happy grazing in fields hourses roaming free alpacas running home up fields of flowers the rolling hills it's truely amazing every one should do this at least once in their lifetime it's been a dream of mine to come now I want to do it all over again on a winters day when frost covers the fields and the hills are covered in snow breathtaking excellent settle to Carlisle railway"
Veda Hardy
"Did Settle to Carlisle a few years back. To be honest, it’s a beautiful line going through some nice rolling scenery & was pleasant enough but I didn’t think it was a mindblowing experience. Maybe I’m spoiled by frequently driving through the Peaks, Snowdonia & The Lakes? So it’s ok, would be a good option for people without car access maybe. Anyhow, it was an expensive experience!"
Toxteth O' Grady
"A great day out. Book the special steam days which regularly throughout the summer and it makes a wonderful nostalgic journey in the old carriages pulled by steam engine. It travels through glorious Yorkshire countryside and of course over the famous Ribblehead viaduct which is a highlight of the journey.
The journey can be lengthened at either end on certain trips - we joined the train at Clitheroe in the Ribble Valley. It can also be extended by transferring in Carlisle to a vintage bus for a ride to Keswick then a boat trip on the lake.
We packed a picnic to eat with friends on the train then ate out at one of the many restaurants in Carlisle.
Certainly a thoroughly enjoyable trip I would highly recommend."
John Lancaster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the line from various stations, including Settle and Carlisle. Regular Northern Rail services connect to these hubs. For steam train experiences, check specific departure points like Hellifield or Bradford.
Absolutely! The railway is a fantastic option for car-free exploration of the Yorkshire Dales. Many stations offer access to walking routes and local amenities.
Key stations include Settle, Ribblehead (for viaduct access), Long Preston, and Carlisle. Each offers unique charm and access to surrounding areas.
Yes, some tours offer extensions like vintage bus rides to Keswick or boat trips on the lake from Carlisle, creating a multi-modal adventure.
Check the National Rail Enquiries website or the Northern Rail app for regular service timetables. Special heritage train schedules are usually found on dedicated railway operator websites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the service (regular vs. steam) and distance. Special steam train experiences can be more expensive, so booking in advance is recommended.
Tickets for regular services can be purchased at stations, online via National Rail Enquiries, or through the Northern Rail app. Special steam train tickets are usually booked directly with the operating company.
Look out for off-peak fares, group discounts, or railcards for potential savings on regular services. Special heritage train operators may also offer early bird discounts.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book steam train tickets well in advance as they are very popular and often sell out, especially during peak season.
A standard ticket grants you passage on the train. Special heritage or 'break' packages might include meals, accommodation, or guided tours.
📸 📸 Photography
Ribblehead Viaduct is a must-capture. Other scenic viewpoints include the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales and charming stations like Settle.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers dramatic views of the viaduct.
Some creators have captured stunning drone footage, particularly of the Ribblehead Viaduct. Always check local regulations and permissions before flying drones.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and the viaduct. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing trains in the distance. Don't forget extra batteries!
Yes, heritage steam trains offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially when crossing the Ribblehead Viaduct. Check steam train schedules for the best chances.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some special heritage trains may offer onboard catering. For regular services, it's best to pack a picnic or dine at stations or in the towns you visit.
Settle has several charming cafes and pubs. The Singing Kettle is a popular spot for a bite to eat and a drink.
Carlisle offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes, from traditional pubs to modern eateries, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery. Ensure you dispose of your rubbish responsibly.
Most towns along the line will have options, especially in larger hubs like Carlisle. Cafes in smaller villages might have more limited choices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to keep little ones happy and fueled. Many stations have open spaces nearby for them to stretch their legs. The Ribblehead Viaduct is also a marvel that can spark imagination about engineering and history.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic and drinks is a great way to save money on food. Look for off-peak travel times or consider railcards for further discounts on your journey.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to photograph the charming heritage stations and the iconic steam trains when they run. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Ribblehead Viaduct
+1Many visitors make a special trip just to witness the viaduct. You can access it via a short walk from Ribblehead station, allowing you to get up close and personal with its scale. Timing your visit to see a steam train crossing is a particularly magical experience, creating a scene straight out of a historical postcard.
+1Photographers and hikers alike are drawn to Ribblehead. The surrounding landscape of the Yorkshire Dales provides ample opportunities for exploration, with numerous walking routes offering different perspectives of the viaduct and the vast moorland.
Experiencing Heritage Steam Trains
These steam-hauled journeys offer a unique sensory experience – the chug of the engine, the scent of coal smoke, and the whistle echoing through the valleys all contribute to the magic. It's a chance to step back in time and appreciate the romance of rail travel.
It's crucial to book these popular steam train excursions well in advance, as they are a major draw and tickets sell out quickly. Checking the schedules of heritage railway operators is essential to plan your visit around these special services.
Exploring Along the Line
Further along, stations like Long Preston offer access to the picturesque Ribble Valley. The journey culminates in Carlisle, a historic city with a magnificent castle and cathedral, providing ample opportunities for exploration after your train ride.
Many visitors opt to stay in railway station cottages or explore local walking routes accessible from various stops, making the Settle-Carlisle Railway a perfect base for a longer exploration of the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbria.
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