UK's most scenic train journeys filled with snowy mountains and dolphins

The UK's most stunning natural landscapes can be best appreciated from the comfort of a train carriage. There's an iconic charm to observing the rolling countryside from your window, a sight that simply cannot be replicated in a car. Yet, one rail journey stands out from the rest, offering breathtaking views of snow-dusted peaks and sparkling dolphins emerging from crystal-clear seas.

These top five routes encapsulate the unique allure of winter rail travel in the UK. Coastal routes take centre stage, providing dramatic weather shifts and changing light conditions that are absent during the summer months. The Welsh and North West English coastlines emerge as the prime locations for experiencing Britain by train during the chillier seasons. Whether you're seeking wildlife, mountains, or simply wish to spend a few hours watching the world pass by, these journeys offer views and value that make them worth embarking on at least once.

The Cambrian Coast Railway has clinched the top spot with a score of 90.38, offering a scenic journey from Aberystwyth to Pwllheli along the stunning Welsh coast. This 3.75-hour journey is a steal at just £9.00, equating to excellent value at £2.40 per hour. Passengers have given it a glowing 4.7 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, and it's even earned a mention in National Geographic.

What sets it apart? You'll witness the breathtaking Dyfi Estuary at sunrise, possibly spot dolphins and ospreys if you're fortunate, and enjoy views of Snowdonia's majestic mountains. The route takes you through the quaint village of Y Friog and offers spectacular coastal winter scenery that transforms as the light changes throughout the day.

Hot on its heels in second place is the Cumbrian Coast Line with a score of 88.16, running from Barrow-in-Furness to Carlisle. This 3-hour journey costs a mere £8.90 (roughly £2.97 per hour), and passengers have awarded it the same impressive 4.7 rating as the winner.

This route treats you to views of the Irish Sea, dramatic cliffs and beaches, plus vistas across to the Lake District. You'll pass estuaries and historic sites, with winter lending an extra touch of magic to the coastal scenery.

It's the kind of journey where you'll be vying for a window seat.

The Furness Line from Lancaster to Barrow-in-Furness comes third with 58.86. It's shorter - just 1 hour - and cheaper at £4.50, working out at £4.50 per hour. The TripAdvisor rating sits at 3.4, which is lower than the top two, but it's also featured in the classic film Brief Encounter.

The journey takes you around Morecambe Bay, with tidal flats, estuaries and views of Arnside Knott. You'll pass through Leighton Moss and Ulverston, getting a peaceful coastal winter experience without the crowds.

In fourth place is the Esk Valley Railway, scoring 56.3 on the route from Middlesbrough to Whitby. This 1.5-hour trip costs £3.85 (£2.57 per hour) and has received a strong 4.5 rating from passengers.

National Geographic has also highlighted this route.

The North York Moors are the main attraction here, with the River Esk running alongside heather-covered hills. You'll see moorland villages and the ruins of Whitby Abbey.

Winter transforms the moors into a dramatic landscape, especially when mist rolls in across the scenery. Completing the top five is the Settle to Carlisle Line with a score of 53.63. The 2.5-hour journey costs £11.30 (£4.52 per hour) and scores 4.6 on TripAdvisor.

Lonely Planet has featured this route, which is renowned for its viaducts. You'll traverse the Yorkshire Dales and enter the Cumbrian countryside, passing the Three Peaks and beautifully restored stations. When snow blankets the dales in winter, this journey becomes particularly special. It's pricier per hour than some others, but the engineering and scenery make it worth considering.