Trainspotting: the view from the window

While the train journey from London isn't one of the world's classics - and, truth be told, the southern parts of the route are pretty boring - the final third of the trip passes through some fine scenery, where it's well worth putting down your book to stare out of the window.

Start to pay attention when you're close to Durham, the historic cathedral city which once dominated England's north-east. As your train approaches Durham station, keep a sharp eye out for a brief view of the castle and cathedral - a beautiful and impressive vista which, sadly, you will only get to enjoy for a few seconds.

The next major place of note is the twin-city area of Newcastle and Gateshead, where the railway crosses the River Tyne. Look both ways to see Newcastle's iconic bridges, most notably the green, coathanger-shaped Tyne Bridge which provides the main link for traffic between the two cities.

After calling at Newcastle station, the train passes through agricultural country before emerging onto the coast of Northumbria, where fleeting views of the county's famous dunes and beaches can be seen from the windows. Next comes the spectacular crossing of the River Tweed on the Royal Border Bridge, at the historic town of Berwick upon Tweed. Again, look along the river to see the squat sandstone Old Bridge - completed in 1634 - and the concrete, yet curiously elegant, New Bridge from 1928.

Although the bridge at Berwick no longer quite marks the Border, soon after departing the town the train crosses unremaked from England into Scotland. Once again it follows the coast, with views from time to time of the beautiful beaches of Berwickshire. Keep an eye out for the conical hill at North Berwick Law, which dominates the landscape for miles around.

On the final approach to Edinburgh, you'll see the green mass of Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat and your first glance at Edinburgh's famous Old Town. Finally, the train dips into a deep cutting before emerging at Waverley station.