It is often said that it is not the destination that matters but the journey - and in the UK, some train rides are so beautiful that they are an experience in their own right. The Riviera Line is a railway route in Devon, England, known for its breathtaking views, as it is one of the few railways in Britain that runs directly beside the sea.

This train journey goes 28 miles from Exeter city centre to Paignton, a town, and takes roughly 50 to 60 minutes. It is one of the cheapest ways to experience the most photogenic scenery in the English Riviera, as waves are known to fall across the train tracks. A one-way ticket will cost around £8 for an adult ticket, as most websites were priced at £8.40, with returns priced at £10.70.

It has also been named one of the "most scenic train journeys" in Britain by National Geographic as it showcases "the best views the English Riviera has to offer."

They said: "South Devon's Riviera Line connects Exeter with Paignton, threading its way past towering cliffs, numerous estuaries (look out for egrets, one of the UK's rarest birds), quaint market towns and Powderham Castle, with its deer-filled grounds."

Once you leave Exeter, the train will run right beside the Exe Estuary, a wide stretch of water where the River Exe meets the English Channel.

You will see beautiful views of the sea glistening in the sun, and you will also be able to see many boats travelling along the riverbanks.

It is important to get your camera ready as soon as you reach Starcroos, a quiet countryside village, as you will read the famous sea wall at Dawlish.

Waves often crash dramatically right across the train tracks, which looks spectacular, and you will also see the famous sandstone cliffs, known for their bright rusty red colour.

Dawlish is also famous for its black swans, but the area is a haven for unique birdlife as you can often spot egrets, herons and waders along the shore.

The train will also goes past Teignmouth, a seaside town known for its colourful homes and giant Victorian pier that stretches into the ocean.

You will next whirl past the English countryside, where you will see lots of green forestry, farmland, small villages, and you will also be able to glimpse the Dartmoor hills in the distance.

As you approach Paignton, you will start to spot palm trees as the area is known to have milder weather compared to the rest of the UK and has summers warm enough for tropical plants

Make sure to sit on the right side of the train at Exeter for the best view, and you will be able to experience the best of Britain's coastal scenery without needing a car or ferry.