Comparing key aspects of train travel

There are a number of differences between train travel in the UK and in the rest of the world, including the price, speed and amenities.

1. Pricing

Rail travel in the UK can sometimes feel pricey, especially when booking last-minute. However, there are plenty of ways to travel affordably. Advance tickets, Off-Peak fares, and tools like Avanti’s Best Fare Finder can help passengers find great value and plan ahead with confidence.

Across Europe, fare structures are often simpler, which can make travel feel more straightforward. Countries like Germany, France and Italy offer affordable regional networks, and for those travelling across multiple countries, passes like Interrail offer flexibility and savings.

2. Speed

When it comes to speed, the UK and Europe both have impressive rail systems, though each region has its own unique approach to high-speed travel.

In the UK, high-speed rail is represented by five key lines, with the Eurostar (HS1) being the fastest, reaching top speeds of 186 mph (300 km/h). This allows the Eurostar to carry passengers between London and Paris or Brussels in around two hours, making it a quick and convenient option for cross-boarder travel.

Europe has some of the most advanced high-speed networks, offering an array of trains that can reach extraordinary speeds. The TGV in France holds the record for the fastest conventional train and can read speeds of up to nearly 200 mph (320 km/h) on certain routes, making journeys swift and comfortable.

Spain’s AVE trains are fast also, with top speeds of 193 mph (310 km/h). They offer connectivity between major cities such as Madrid and Seville, making rail travel a viable alternative to flying.

It is not just Europe that leads the charge in fast trains. Over in Asia, Japan’s Shinkansen, often called the ‘bullet train’ is renowned for its speed and can reach up to 200 mph (320 km /h). They are integral to Japan’s efficient and reliable transport network.

China’s Shanghai Maglev is a magnetic levitation train that can reach top speeds of 268 mph (431 km/h) - making it the fastest train in the world in commercial use. Although currently limited to a single route, the Maglev offers a glimpse into the future of high-speed travel.

3. Punctuality

Like any rail system, UK services occasionally face delays from track maintenance and busy passenger demand. Fortunately, apps and real-time updates have made it easier than ever to stay informed and plan around disruption.

In Europe, several countries are known for their train punctuality. Switzerland stands out, with the Swiss-Federal Railways (SBB) boasting 93.2% on-time performance for long distance trains in 2024. Belgium also performs well, with a punctuality rate of 88.9% for its trains.

However, some countries face challenges with punctuality. Germany’s Deutsche Bahn had a notable decline in reliability, with only 62.5% of long-distance trains made it within 6 minutes.

4. Comfort and Amenities

In the UK, modern trains typically offer two classes: Standard Class and First Class. Both include onboard toilets and Wi-Fi, though First Class provides more comfort with large seats, extra legroom and complimentary food and drinks served at your seat.

Standard Class is still comfortable with reasonable legroom, but food is an extra charge, and seating arrangements vary. Standard Premium on Avanti trains provides a good middle ground, offering larger seats, guaranteed tables, and plug sockets without the full First Class Experience.

Internationally, First Class offers similar perks, such as access to lounges, and sometimes faster-track boarding. Second Class travel in many European countries can feel more spacious and comfortable compared to the UK. Seats are often larger, and the overall atmosphere may feel less crowded.

Standout train journeys

Some routes around the world have become renowned among enthusiasts. This might be due to the route, the train itself, or even a combination of the two. Let’s look at some of the best train routes.

Unmissable UK train routes

Given the UK’s history as a railway pioneer, it’s not surprising that we have some incredible routes right on our doorstep, such as:

• Caledonian Sleeper: This is an overnight service from London to various Scottish destinations that offers a mix of comfort and convenience. Passengers can relax in private cabins and wake up to views of the Highlands rolling past their window.
• Aberdeen to Penzance: At over 700 miles and 13 hours and 20 minutes long, this is the longest direct service in the UK. It’s a scenic ride that sweeps through the Cairngorms, brushes past historic cities like Newcastle and Bristol, and skirts the Cornish coast before reaching the country’s southwestern tip.

International counterparts

There are also unmissable railway experiences all around the world for enthusiasts. These are a few examples:

• Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: When we think of luxury trains, the Orient Express is often the first thing that comes to mind. This particular route links two of the most romantic cities in the world, Paris and Venice.

  This train offers Art Deco carriages, world-class service, and stunning scenery. If you want elegance, glamour, and history, look no further.

• The Rocky Mountaineer: This luxury train winds its way through some of Canada’s most dramatic landscapes. Along the route, passengers can spot glacier-fed lakes, sheer canyon walls, and wildlife like elk or even the occasional bear.

  Glass-domed carriages allow you to make the most of the scenery. From the turquoise waters of Lake Louise to the snow-dusted peaks of the Canadian Rockies, it’s a journey that puts nature centre stage.

Scenic journeys

Train Travel in the UK offers some of the most scenic journeys, including:

• The West Highland Line: Connecting Glasgow to Oban, Fort William, and Mallaig. This route boasts stunning views of Loch Lomond, The Trossachs National Park, and the Scottish highlands.
  
  Those going to Mallaig will also travel the Glenfinnan Viaduct, just like the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.

• The Looe Valley Line (Cornwall): A short, picturesque route offering stunning sea views, woodland, and birdlife.

Globally, there are equally breathtaking routes:

• Glacier Express (Switzerland) : This eight-hour journey through the Swiss Alps carries passengers from Zermatt between St. Moritz. It offers incredible Alpine views, including the spectacular Matterhorn.
• Coast Starlight (USA): Spanning Seattle to Los Angeles, this unforgettable route boasts coastal and mountain views
• The Ghan (Australia): This cross-country journey from Darwin to Adelaide showcases Australia’s vast and diverse wilderness. It offers immersive experiences, including scenic flights.

The future of UK train travel

The future is bright for UK trains, with ongoing projects looking focused on enhancing efficiency and passenger experience. Innovations like digital signalling and smart ticketing are paving the way for streamlined operations.

The UK’s rail network has the opportunity to combine aspects of its rich heritage with modern advancements seen in European and global systems. The right balance will ensure that the UK’s railways remain efficient, sustainable and uniquely British while offering speed, convenience and reliability enjoyed by train passengers in other parts of the world.