Railway systems are designed for a 50 - year lifespan, which is calculated on the integrity of the materials used, and most railways are built along one of two common track systems: rails set
on railway ties (U.S.A.) or sleepers (UK), which are then «ballasted» into beds of rock or gravel; or rails that are set onto concrete slabs.
For an extra special treat, board the Belmond British Pullman
on New Year's Eve, to celebrate with a black
tie dinner, enjoying five sumptuous courses and Champagne and entertainment, before pausing at a
railway station for a traditional Scottish ringing - in of the New Year with bagpipes.