Settle-Carlisle Railway
Settle-Carlisle Railway
4.6
Full view
About
he Settle to Carlisle railway is one of the world's greatest rail journeys. It carves its way through the magnificent landscape of the Yorkshire Dales and then descends to Cumbria's lush green Eden Valley with its views of the Pennines and Lakeland Fells. A seven day a week service of diesel sprinter units, operated by Northern, provides locals and visitors to the region plenty of choice of when to travel, and the opportunity to board and leave the train at many of the beautifully preserved stations along the route. Customers can also expect a refreshment trolley service on select train services running between Settle and Carlisle/Carlisle and Settle. This profile is managed by the Settle-Carlisle Railway Development Company (SCRDC). SCRDC is an accredited Community Rail Partnership, by the Department for Transport.
Settle, North Yorkshire, England
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Settle-Carlisle Railway
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.6
779 reviews
Excellent
536
Very good
180
Average
42
Poor
12
Terrible
9
Suratrichard
Surat Thani, Thailand2,674 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
We never tire of this railway journey! It must be one of the most picturesque railways in the UK and, of course, features the magnificent and awe inspiring Ribblehead viaduct. Spring, summer, autumn or winter, this really is a special journey in either direction.
From the Eden valley in Cumbria to the North Yorkshire dales, you will pass through wonderful scenery with stops at various stations en route including one of the highest stations in England at Dent. Following the meandering River Eden,the railway passes though attractive villages like Kirkoswald and Langwathby before reaching the Yorkshire Dales with superb views of Ingleborough and Pen Y Ghent.
The train can become busy particularly during the holiday periods but it is possible to book seats online.
More often than not, there is a refreshment trolley operated by the Friends of the Settle to Carlisle railway volunteers with profits used to preserve and maintain the trains etc.
Well worth the cost and very highly recommended.
From the Eden valley in Cumbria to the North Yorkshire dales, you will pass through wonderful scenery with stops at various stations en route including one of the highest stations in England at Dent. Following the meandering River Eden,the railway passes though attractive villages like Kirkoswald and Langwathby before reaching the Yorkshire Dales with superb views of Ingleborough and Pen Y Ghent.
The train can become busy particularly during the holiday periods but it is possible to book seats online.
More often than not, there is a refreshment trolley operated by the Friends of the Settle to Carlisle railway volunteers with profits used to preserve and maintain the trains etc.
Well worth the cost and very highly recommended.
Written May 19, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marie B
Rotherham, UK73 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
We travelled on a normal train as the steam train doesn't pick up passengers at Settle.
The views are stunning all along the route. The Ribblehead viaduct in particular stands out. The only downside was that on the outbound journey there was only 2 carriages and it had started the journey in Leeds so we were worried that we wouldn't get a seat as there was a few people waiting to get on at Settle. Luckily we got a seat, however further on the line it was standing room only.
The views are stunning all along the route. The Ribblehead viaduct in particular stands out. The only downside was that on the outbound journey there was only 2 carriages and it had started the journey in Leeds so we were worried that we wouldn't get a seat as there was a few people waiting to get on at Settle. Luckily we got a seat, however further on the line it was standing room only.
Written June 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marcia D
Doncaster, UK98 contributions
Lovely trip, exceptional scenery. Train nice and comfortable. We were able to have a good view of the Ribblehead viaduct and the Yorkshire Dales. Staff nice and friendly.
However we were unfortunate enough to be seating in carriage F where plates were dried and packed. This went on for almost an hour both ways, which spoiled the trip. We did not pay to seat inside the kitchen
However we were unfortunate enough to be seating in carriage F where plates were dried and packed. This went on for almost an hour both ways, which spoiled the trip. We did not pay to seat inside the kitchen
Written July 7, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steve R
Bolton, UK600 contributions
Aug 2024 • Friends
We caught the mid-morning train which was bang on time and got to Carlisle at noon. The scenery was excellent for the whole journey and the company of good friends made it a lovely way to spend a day. I've been going to and walking in the Dales for decades and this this was a great way to get a different perspective on the area. It's reasonably priced and I'd recommend it to you.
Written August 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lyn C
County Durham, UK52 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We did the Northern Belle Carlisle Settle steam train journey which was on my bucket list and it did not disappoint. We boarded at Durham Railway Station and paid for a twin seat so me and my daughter were at our own table for the whole duration. We has canapes and fizz upon arrival then 3 course brunch which was absolutely delicious. Drinks were brought round often. Carlisle was fabulous and we managed to see the Cathedral and Castle in the short time we were there. The views were spectacular. It was a beautiful sunny day and the scenery was perfect. We had a 5 course dinner on the way back and this was presented beautifully. The staff were lovely and friendly, our seats were luxurious, tableware exceptional and we absolutely loved our time aboard.
Written June 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
weekd09
Carryduff, UK465 contributions
Oct 2024 • Family
Gorgeous scenery. So beautiful and peaceful. Lovely train journey. A must do if the opportunity arises. Surprised at just how busy the trains were. Railway volunteers were doing a great job. Such a lovely touch. Very informative. Nice to hear local stories
Written October 31, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rob M
Scottish Borders, UK693 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We’ve always said we would do this journey for years and while on holiday in Skipton we decided to meet family for lunch in Carlisle. This gave us the opportunity and I have to say, the countryside and views are breathtaking. The sun was shining and it was the perfect day for it. It’s great this has survived and it’s great the line is so well used. It far exceeded our expectations.
Written May 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda D
5 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
This is a brilliant train trip a lovely experience. The staff were helpful and friendly. Fort william is a nice place to depart from plenty to see and do. We took the trip on a Saturday and were very disappointed with Mallaig there was very little open not even the cafe and restaurants the two that were open were full to capacity with the train being fully booked. It was a wet cold day so the majority of passengers made their way back to the train to wait for departure time. Mallaig wake up there is money to be made in such a short season. The rain stopped on the return journey and the scenery was beautiful.
Written January 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
machinmad
Yaxley, UK2,692 contributions
Mar 2022 • Couples
Been wanting to travel this line for sometime and got the chance on holiday to traverse the Kirkby Stephen to Settle section. The scenic views are spectacular, even on a wet day. Kirkby Stephen station is preserved to showcase it’s Victorian heritage; you can stay in a holiday cottage right on the station platform, if that’s your thing! Settle station has also worked hard to preserve all the components of his railway past. Qudos.
All the stops along that route are rural and of course, you get to ride over the famous Ribblehead viaduct, with loads of sightseers groping up at you.
Railcard prices were very reasonable, so we enjoyed this short journey on one of the most scenic rail lines in the country.
All the stops along that route are rural and of course, you get to ride over the famous Ribblehead viaduct, with loads of sightseers groping up at you.
Railcard prices were very reasonable, so we enjoyed this short journey on one of the most scenic rail lines in the country.
Written March 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David J
13 contributions
Jun 2021
Very Expensive at £180 per person.You actually sit on the train for 14 hours.
The scenic Settle to Carlisle route takes 2 hours each way and you have 2 hours in Carlisle ,the rest of the time you are sitting in railway sidings sometimes up to 1.45 hours and travelling in non scenic areas of Yorkshire. Why I have no idea but by the time you arrive back in york you have been on this excursion for 14 hours. Rediculous considering the time spent on the actual reason for it being settle to Carlisle return which lasts 4 hours.
It is very poor value for money. You get a dry bacon roll and tea or coffee on the way out and sandwiches,scone and tea or coffee on the way back.
The train is pulled from Carlisle to Hellifield by diesel engine and the steam engine is attached so on arrival at york station expecting to see a sream engine you will be dissapointed.It is also replaced at Hellifield on the return journey so the only opportunity to see the steam engine is in Carlisle.
Unless you enjoy sitting on a train for 14 hours I would recommend giving this trip a miss.
The scenic Settle to Carlisle route takes 2 hours each way and you have 2 hours in Carlisle ,the rest of the time you are sitting in railway sidings sometimes up to 1.45 hours and travelling in non scenic areas of Yorkshire. Why I have no idea but by the time you arrive back in york you have been on this excursion for 14 hours. Rediculous considering the time spent on the actual reason for it being settle to Carlisle return which lasts 4 hours.
It is very poor value for money. You get a dry bacon roll and tea or coffee on the way out and sandwiches,scone and tea or coffee on the way back.
The train is pulled from Carlisle to Hellifield by diesel engine and the steam engine is attached so on arrival at york station expecting to see a sream engine you will be dissapointed.It is also replaced at Hellifield on the return journey so the only opportunity to see the steam engine is in Carlisle.
Unless you enjoy sitting on a train for 14 hours I would recommend giving this trip a miss.
Written June 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Are there toilets on the train
Written June 26, 2024
Hi, we’re staying at an Airbnb near Kirkby Stephen for 3 days in June, specifically to spend a day on the Settle to Carlisle railway. We just want to use the service train and obviously Kirkby Stephen is the nearest station. Can we travel one way and then back, and continue on and back again on one ticket? Is it worth travelling up to Carlisle, or maybe just as far as Appleby that way? As far as Settle the other? Which stations are the best to get off for a look around, we are not great walkers, more gentle amblers.
Written May 25, 2023
Hi, I'm planning to travel from settle to Carlisle on the railway on day between Fri 24th Feb to Mon 27th Feb and would prefer to go at the quieter times if possible. Is the rail journey busiest at weekends or during the week, I'm wondering if a Friday is better than sat or Sunday? Are there particular train times which are busiest to try and avoid? With thanks
Written January 31, 2023
I’d say weekdays are less busy and go outside of commute times to get cheaper tickets. We caught a 10am ish train spent a couple of hours in Settle and got something like a 2pm train back. It is an amazing trip so enjoy
Written February 1, 2023
Colin D
Dalton-in-Furness, United Kingdom
She mentioned the Statesman. Which days does it run?
Written July 8, 2021
Hi, never been to this part of the country, Coming up to Settle with friends for five days and this train journey looks good. How long does it take to get from Settle to Carlisle by train and does anybody know approx how much it cost for a return ticket, we are coming 8th December. Many Thanks for your answers.
Written October 16, 2019
About 1 hour 40 mins each way.
Think it’s about £22 return approx
Written October 16, 2019
Does the train run throughout the Christmas and New year holidays....as the timetable currently stops mid December....will the timetable be updated to show all of December?
Written September 16, 2019
I am really sorry I dont know. My wife booked the ticket as a surprise. She said phone them they are really helpful.
Written September 19, 2019
Is there much opportunities for landscape pictures along the route
I’m booked on with Dave New Tours in September
Written August 6, 2019
Not sure what your tour involves, would have to get off the train for some time to get some good landscape shots away from the stations and moving train.
Written August 12, 2019
I live in Leeds. I am looking at travelling to settle. Is there much to do there? Happy to walk around, go to the pub, have lunch etc. Is the settle to Carlisle part of the journey the better part? Struggling for time to cram it all into one day
Written June 27, 2019
Not much to do in settle. We had 6 hours to kill and it was the longest 6 hours of my life as it poured down all day. There are are some nice walks nearby but when we couldn't try them as it was too wet. Some nice cafes to kill an hour thoug. If it was a nice dry day we could have explored more. Just don't leave too much time between your return journey like we did. if I was you i would carry on to Carlisle and enjoy the ride. We stayed in Carlisle and really enjoyed our time there. Hope this helps.
Written June 27, 2019
Yes, I am pleased to say that you will obtain a 50% reduction with your EUrail Global pass. The Leeds-Settle-Carlisle Line is part of the UK National Network.
We hope you enjoy your journey on this beautiful line.
Written June 23, 2019
Is it more expensive to buy tickets at the station on the day of travel
Written May 16, 2019
Do not think it is more expensive - we got on at Horton in Ribblesdale where there was no ticket machine - paid the conductor on board which a number of other locals did so if locals do it would think it is OK - please note this was the normal daily train, not a special tourist train - hope this helps
Written May 27, 2019
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