Riding a steam train is one of the most nostalgic and immersive ways to experience rail travel. There are many opportunities to ride on a steam train in Britain – probably more than in any other country in the world. To explain why, a little history is useful.

The history of riding on steam trains

Steam trains have long been at the heart of railway romance. Their clouds of steam, rhythmic chuffing and exposed moving parts gave them a character that a modern train simply cannot match.

When diesel locomotives were introduced, they never inspired the same affection. Unlike steam engines, they emitted only occasional bursts of black smoke, and mechanics were often hidden, so they did not seem alive compared to the steam locomotive.

Steam services ceased on the great majority of the British mainline in August 1968. After this, steam locomotives were largely banned from the mainline. The sole exception was the Flying Scotsman, which was already on its way to becoming the superstar engine it is today.

The loss of the steam engine was deeply felt by rail enthusiasts. Determined to preserve the past, they began restoring old railways and locomotives -  giving rise to Britain’s thriving network of heritage railways.

Preserving steam train trips for generations

Today, there are about 150 heritage railways, operated largely by volunteers. These railways run over 560 miles of track which is more than the London Underground network and the number continues to grow.

Many of these lines use locomotives that have been recovered from scrapyards by preservationists who then restore them to their former glory. The routes are extremely varied: the West Somerset Railway skirts the coast for 23 miles, whereas the Middleton Railway runs over just a mile through industrial South Leeds.

The preserved railway carriages are also historic, often British Rail Mark 1s. These were produced between 1951 and 1963, the earliest of which evoke the steam era with their wood panelling and ‘top lights’. The small, sliding windows above the main carriage windows, through which, on summer days, small clouds of steam might float into a carriage.

However, some of the lines boast even older carriages. The Isle of Wight Steam Railway guarantees passengers a ride in a carriage at least 90 years old. Meanwhile the North Yorkshire Moors Railway features elegant ‘teaks’ - wood-sided carriages from the old London & North Eastern Railway. Their armchair-like seats, Formica tables, and oval mirrors, reminiscent of a genteel 1930s team room.

Unique and seasonal steam train experiences

There are also plenty of unique stream train experiences to look out for. These make for great days out or special gifts for loved ones.

A few preserved railways run year-round, but most operate from spring to the end of summer, with a brief Christmas season for ‘Santa Specials’Booking is available in advance through the lines’ websites, where accessibility details are usually also given.

Seasonal occasions like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day can also be made extra special with steam train experiences. These can sometimes include indulgent meals and bubbles.

It’s a good idea to always check that steam traction is available on the day you’ve chosen. You can just turn up at quieter times without booking, but it’s recommended to purchase tickets ahead of time.

Some lines offer steam engine driving courses for a day or longer. Examples include the Bluebell Railway in Sussex and the Bodmin Railway in Devon. These are a real treat for railfans, offering an authentic experience.

Today, a variety of steam excursions run over the national network. Typically, a train charter promoter works with a train operating company, the latter operating the train to all the stringent safety specifications. Most charter trips involve diesels, now no longer regarded as brash interlopers but considered ‘classic’ traction.

Steam railway specialists

There are also steam specialists, such as the Railway Touring Company and Steam Dreams. These typically provide round-trips lasting a day, with meals on board and a few hours of free time at the destination.

One of the biggest names in this field is West Coast Railways (WCR), both a charter promoter and a train operator. Its best-known service is The Jacobite, which runs in summer along the West Highland line. This runs from Fort William to Mallaig and crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter films.

WCR also runs The Dalesman, between Carlisle and York, with steam haulage over Settle-Carlisle line.

On both trips, the chuffing of the loco seems to soundtrack a journey back in time. One that’s away from roads, cars, supermarkets, and most other signs of modernity, and into a wilderness that seems almost inconceivable in 2025.

Stepping back in time and riding a steam train in the modern day is the perfect way to celebrate nostalgic rail travel for its own sake.