Footage shows train driver’s of picturesque rail journey through the Lake District

  • Watch: Train journey through the Lake District from unique viewpoint of the driver.


Those nostalgic for a bit of travel can now take part in a popular train journey through the Lake District from the comfort of their homes.

Avanti West Coast has released rare footage of the route through the Cumbrian countryside from the viewpoint of a train driver.

People have been unable to use the country’s rail network except for essential travel since the start of the lockdown in March. 

The eight-part series, Tales from the Track, was recorded during the height of the pandemic and showcases the West Coast Main Line from inside the driver's cab.

Drivers, Darran Townsend and Dave Egerton, provide a voice-overs throughout the journey as the train travels through Preston into South Lakes and onto the stunnning landscape of the Lake District and Carlisle.


Credit: Avanti West Coast

A Pendolino 390001 featured in the footage has travelled from Euston on the 12:10pm service. It took four hours and 55 minutes to complete the journey at an average speed of 82mph.

Avanti hopes the videos will 'help comfort customers who have missed travelling' as well as inspire those considering a career as a train driver.

Speaking about filming the footage, Dave said: “I’m so proud to say I’m a train driver. I really couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else,

 “It’s a real privilege to have been able to chat with Darran and share some insight in what it’s like to drive high speed trains. There can’t be many better office windows.”

  • The series is available to watch on Avanti West Coast’s website and on social media.