In a span of two hours and 24 minutes, you can experience some of the UK's most breathtaking landscapes.
The direct journey from Sheffield to Filey offers an especially picturesque ride for just £4 return, as per Split My Fare. However, if not booked well in advance, the fare can rise to nearly £20.
This Yorkshire route feels like a mini cross-country expedition. Trains depart from the industrial outskirts of Sheffield and glide into open moorland, traversing patchwork fields, stone villages and expansive skies that seem endless.
By the time you reach the coast, the landscape mellows into sea breezes and the sweeping sandy curve of Filey Bay. For the cost of a coffee and croissant, you can exchange city streets for cliffs, beach strolls and fish-and-chips on the promenade.
En route, you'll have the chance to absorb the iconic view of the colossal Humber Bridge, best admired from the elevated vantage point of the train bridge to fully appreciate its vast span against the surrounding estuary. From Hull, the train chugs up the coastline, passing through classic seaside towns such as Bridlington and Bempton, with the North Sea to the east and the undulating Yorkshire moors to the west, reports the Express.
Filey itself is a delightful coastal town that's perfect for whiling away a summer afternoon.
Filey Brigg path offers superb coastal rambles, whilst Filey Dams provides excellent birdwatching opportunities. The star attraction, though, remains the five-mile stretch of sandy beach.
Clocking in at two and a half hours, the Northern Rail service covering the 75-mile route won't be breaking any speed records, but it offers a brilliant and budget-friendly way to discover a delightful slice of Britain.
Whilst the Sheffield to Hull route serves as a busy commuter line, the Hull to Scarborough service remains surprisingly underused despite passing through numerous outstanding seaside destinations.
Analysis of Google search data bySplit My Fare reveals that queries for "best train journeys" have surged by over 70% in the last two years, whilst "day trips by train" has climbed more than 40%. Even "cheap train tickets " continues to attract high search volumes, indicating that Britons are actively seeking affordable yet scenic methods to discover the nation.
Pete Walls, co-founder of Split My Fare, commented: "People often assume the most scenic routes or holidays are the most expensive. But some of Britain's best views sit on everyday lines, and with smart ticketing, you can enjoy a full day out for well under a tenner."
This transformation is partly cultural. Content creators such as Geoff Marshall and TikTok sensation Francis Bourgeois have transformed rail travel into a form of slow-travel escapism, attracting millions of viewers eager to watch Britain's countryside sweep past carriage windows.
Nottingham to Hebden Bridge: £4.00 Return (2hr 40min Each Way).
For those who appreciate a touch of poetry in their landscapes, this Pennine journey is a treat. The route gradually ascends through valleys and over moorland ridges before descending into the artistic town of Hebden Bridge, nestled amidst steep hills and crisscrossed by canals. With independent bookshops, cafés, and riverside walks, it offers a tranquil retreat from urban life, all at an incredibly affordable price considering the diverse scenery en route.
Chester to Llandudno: £5.50 Return (1hr 7min Each Way).
This coastal classic departs from Chester's historic heart, tracing the North Wales coastline with moments where the sea and sky blend seamlessly, and the water appears tantalisingly close. At journey's end, Llandudno greets you with its grand Victorian promenade, pier, and the imposing Great Orme. It's one of the simplest ways to add a dash of seaside charm to your weekend without the need for a lengthy trip or hefty fare.
Carlisle to Oxenholme: £6.90 Return (34min Each Way).
Though one of the briefest journeys on our list, the Cumbrian landscape ensures every moment is worthwhile. The train slices through rolling farmland beneath expansive skies, and as Oxenholme nears, the Lake District fells start to appear on the horizon. Despite its short duration, this compact route delivers a surprising amount of scenic beauty.
Plymouth to Truro: £9.75 Return (1hr 11min Each Way).
The laid-back rhythm of Cornwall is embedded in this journey from the get-go. The route meanders past tranquil rivers, forested valleys and expansive estuary vistas, with graceful stone viaducts punctuating the scenery. Truro itself is a compact city that's easy to navigate, boasting a collection of independent shops and cafés nestled around the cathedral. Moreover, there are numerous other breathtaking train journeys across the UK that can be experienced for less than £10 and are definitely worth discovering.
