Demand for rail travel has picked up steam in recent years – yet passengers are taking to the tracks for reasons beyond simple convenience.
As a rising number of travellers seek more meaningful, immersive, and sustainable trips, interest in rail vacations and slow travel has surged.
According to a report by Mintel, almost half (48 per cent) of UK holidaymakers express interest in long-distance journeys with stopovers and sleeper services, a preference that has remained consistent over 2025.
For those planning an epic rail journey for 2026 and seeking an adventure across the American West Coast without the stress of airports or freeways, a multi-day sleeper train journey offers a chance to slow down and see the best of the region.
The US West Coast is home to some of America’s most dramatic and diverse landscapes – from California’s golden coastline to Oregon’s snow-capped mountain ranges and the soaring forests scattered across Washington.
Keen on experiencing the beauty of these three highly scenic states in just one trip? A 35-hour sleeper train might be just the ticket.
Widely regarded as one of the most scenic rail routes in the US, the Coast Starlight offers a unique journey that links the ‘greatest cities on the West Coast.’
The train, operated by Amtrak, runs daily, departing from Seattle and travelling south through Portland, Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area and Santa Barbara, before finishing in Los Angeles.
Those on board are treated to an ever revolving backdrop of natural beauty, with dense forests, rolling valleys, famous beaches and dramatic mountain ranges all showcased.
Along the 1,400 mile route, travellers get a window seat on the snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, bypassing the stunning marine waterways of Puget Sound and long stretches of the Pacific Ocean coastline.
Although the train stops for only a couple of minutes at most stations, the route features ‘fresh air’ stops every few hours at designated stations, giving passengers the opportunity to disembark and soak up views for up to 20 minutes.
Accommodation options on the train range from spacious seats in coach, to private sleeper rooms and suites.
A Coach Class ticket allows passengers to choose any available seat once onboard, with wide reclining seats, generous legroom, no middle seats and features such as tray tables, reading lights and power outlets.
Restrooms are located in every carriage, and Amtrak Guest Rewards members have the opportunity to earn points on every dollar spent.
Those looking for extra comfort or privacy can opt for a Superliner Roomette, which includes two seats during the day that convert into upper and lower beds at night.
These premium rooms come with upgraded bedding, access to shared shower rooms, a dedicated attendant, priority boarding, lounge access and complimentary meals.
Families travelling in First Class can also book Family Rooms, which are as wide the carriage itself and sleeps up to two adults and two children.
These rooms offer the same perks as other sleeper options, as well as upgraded linens and flexible seating and sleeping arrangements.
Dining is another highlight, with both traditional dining car meals and a café service available onboard.
Northbound and southbound travellers are typically served breakfast, lunch and dinner each day, depending on their journey length.
Pet owners can also bring along their four-legged companions along for a small fee, though this is limited to small dogs and cats.
Before booking or travelling with pets, customers are advised to check Coast Starlight’s website for guidelines on the types of breeds allowed on board, pet reservations, approved pet carriers and additional details.
Luggage allowances are generous, with each passenger permitted one personal item and two carry-on bags, along with up to four checked bags – two of which are free, though they must weigh no more than 23kg and measure 75 linear inches.
Passengers travelling with checked luggage should plan ahead and confirm checked baggage service at specific stations, arrive early for check-in and make sure they fit in station sizers and in overhead racks.
Ticket prices vary depending on how far passengers are travelling, the time of year and how far in advance the booking is made.
Shorter coach journeys booked even months before travelling can cost under $100, while long-haul trips – such as Los Angeles to Seattle – typically range from $100 to $200 in Coach Class.
Private sleeper rooms can cost several hundred dollars, with full route journeys sometimes exceeding $1000 during peak seasons.
Winter travel is generally cheaper, and sleeper fares often include meals, making the Coast Starlight an appealing option for travellers seeking comfort, epic scenery and value in one trip.
Three closer to home rail adventures
England
Berwick-upon-Tweed to Newcastle, Northumberland and Tyne and Wear
This 62-mile journey goes from the Royal Border Bridge at Berwick (designed by George Stephenson’s son Robert) to the King Edward VII Bridge at Newcastle, spanning the Tyne and opened by its namesake in 1906. Between the bridges, the tracks skirt the North Sea cliffs – so make sure you book a sea?facing seat.
Don’t miss: Gazing out to Holy Island in the North Sea.
Wales
Llandudno Junction to Blaenau Ffestiniog, Conwy and Gwynedd
From Llandudno Junction, the station for the Victorian-era seaside town, it’s a 27-mile ride into the hills to the small town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. You follow the pretty River Conwy, slowly rising via farmsteads, woodland and rocky escarpments with former slate quarries dotted with rhododendron bushes.
Don’t miss: The lovely little platform cafe at Llandudno.
Scotland
Mallaig to Glasgow, Highlands and Lanarkshire
It’s a blockbuster five hour and 20 minutes, 130-mile journey from the peaceful west coast port of Mallaig to Glasgow. The highlight comes quickly: the Glenfinnan Viaduct, with its 21 spans and long curving shape – made famous thanks to journeys taken by the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.
Don’t miss: Booking a seat on a steam train ride, if you can get a space.