Britain has a number of iconic railways that have become heritage attractions in their own right and canal ways which remain as evidence to our rich, industrial history.
You can discover more about this fascinating time in Britain’s history by visiting one of the many railway or transport museums or by heading to one of the many preserved stations or canals that can be found all over the UK. From incredible routes on a steam train across miles of Scottish highlands to lines that border the sea and canals explored by horse drawn barge – there is no end to adventures to the past with these heritage attractions.
Britain’s steam heritage
Recently popularised by the Harry Potter films with the Hogwarts Express, steam trains have an impressive air about them, whether you’re planning a long or short route. Britain has more than a hundred lines with steam trains, some of which even operate on the current national rail network.
There is something very special about experiencing a nostalgic trip on a steam train or sleeper train. With everything from Poirot themed excursions to visits into the countryside, there is something for everyone at steam heritage attractions.
Britain’s canals
There are over 2,000 miles of historic canals, rivers, viaducts and bridges to be found in the UK, many of which can be viewed as living museums where you can actually walk the paths and explore the architecture of the industrial revolution.
Canal building really started ramping up in the UK during the 18th century as a way to transport goods such as coal and textiles around the county and to the ports ready for exporting.
As rail and roads become more popular, the production of canals stopped and eventually, the routes were filled in and reused. Recently, there has been a surge in refurbishing former canals and bringing them back to their former glory for new generations to enjoy.