Does sound like a great trip, indeed!
I grew up in a rail center in Oregon, but didn't often take the train.
Here in New England, now, we do have the Yankee Clipper and commuter rails and a lot of scenic rails that have been preserved with old engines and cars. Many of the old rail beds have become well maintained hiking trails crisscrossing the the hills and valleys. Now, in Korea we rode the rails a lot -- a very extensive and efficient rail system, esp the high speed KTX. On our first visit to England, we wanted to take the train from London to Manchester, but opted for the less expensive coach. Still a nice ride and then on up to Blackpool. We found the street where my wife's grandfather was born in Fleetwood.
Well, I digress....
