All aboard! The best train movies ever!
Since the dawn of the moving picture, trains have often had starring roles in our movies. From the meeting point of two lovers in romance and drama films, to the scene of a crime in a murder mystery, the humble train frequently plays a crucial part.
Whether it’s a black and white classic or an action-packed modern thriller, locomotive lovers rejoice at the inclusion of their favourite mode of transport! So settle down on the sofa for a thrilling compilation of famous trains in movies and discover how our train experiences can make the films come to life.
Murder on the Orient Express (1974, 2017)
Perhaps the most famous movie on a train features one of the most iconic trains of all time, the Orient Express. The transcontinental train offers long-distance travel across Europe and was the setting for one of Agatha Christie’s most revered books, Murder on the Orient Express featuring the indomitable fictional detective Hercule Poirot.
This classic whodunnit novel was recreated on the big screen in 1974 and once more in 2017 featuring the famous train and a band of suspects pointing fingers at each other for the murder of a fellow passenger.
Only the wits of Poirot can solve this mystery before the train reaches its final destination and allows the killer to get away with it. Indulge your inner detective in our Murder Mystery on the Belmond British Pullman which offers a five-course lunch, a day of luxury rail travel and an on-board mystery to be solved.
The Railway Children (1970)
The much-loved The Railway Children tells the tale of a down-on-their-luck family whose journey from riches to rags is an endearing one. At the heart of the story is the gentile nature of the children who charm and enchant the Yorkshire village they live in, having been forced to relocate from London.
The children warm the heart of a wealthy businessman, save an injured boy on the tracks and prevent a train from colliding with a landslide.
Set in the early 20th century, it features industrial steam engines and a luxury compartment fit for the well-to-do of the age. Our Luxury Day Trip with Afternoon Tea on the Northern Belle perfectly captures that spirit as you enjoy the view of the rolling hills as a backdrop to your day traverse across the countryside.
Strangers on a Train (1951)
Alfred Hitchcock’s Strangers on a Train is a thriller based on Patricia Highsmith’s 1950 novel of the same name. In the noir-style thriller, two strangers meet on a train and propose to swap murders to ensure they both get away with it. Set in the ‘50s, the train is the meeting point for the chaos that unravels following the chance meeting between the strangers.
Transport yourself back in time to when train journeys were a more formal affair with our Golden Age of Travel experience which includes silver service dining, a Champagne reception and a trip through the English countryside.
The General (1926)
A heist and chase movie rolled into one, 1926’s The General follows Buster Keaton’s character, Johnny Gray, who has two loves in his life: his fiancée and his locomotive. Both are stolen from him and he does whatever he can to get them back in this classic silent movie caper.
There is plenty of comedy and stunt work to keep you entertained throughout this chase across the American landscape. Recreate the spirit of Johnny Gray in our Ultimate Steam Train Day, which gives locomotive enthusiasts the opportunity to drive a steam train and become part of the crew for a day.
Sliding Doors (1998)
Rom-com Sliding Doors focuses on the life of Helen Quilley, whose life is at a crossroads thanks to fate. In one reality she just catches the tube home and in another she misses it, making her 10 minutes late. The first reality sees Helen discover her partner in bed with another woman, while in the other she is oblivious.
It’s a story that highlights the impact fate can have on our lives and where we might find ourselves if those chance encounters went slightly differently. Of course, the Underground is one of London’s most famous transport links and our London Tours and Experiences allow you to discover the city in all of its glory.
Harry Potter (Various)
When it comes to famous trains in movies, few rank as highly as the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter franchise. Taking off at platform 93/4 from London’s Kings Cross station, the Hogwarts Express whisks the young witches and wizards away to the magical school.
We can take you deep into the wizarding world with our Wizards London Bus Tour of Harry Potter Locations and Warner Bros. Studio Tour London with Lunch for Two.
Train to Busan (2016)
For something a little different (and terrifying), you might enjoy a similar experience to those who catch the Train to Busan. This Korean horror film loads zombies onto a train, creating a truly terrifying situation for those who are living and breathing on board.
We like to cater to all interests and adventurous spirits which is why we provide a selection of Zombie Experience Days to test your post-apocalyptic instincts. Think you have what it takes to survive the apocalypse? Try our zombie experiences to find out!
Train Experience Days at Into the Blue
Whether you are interested in a luxury train journey, Diesel Locomotive Driving or enjoying a murder mystery while you travel, we can help.
If our collection of famous movie trains has inspired your appetite for adventure then consider booking a train driving experience today.