It forms a key artery on the eastern side of the UK and broadly runs parallel to the A1 trunk road.
Classed as a high speed line, as it mostly meets the speed criteria of 125mph (201km/h), the route handles cross-country, commuter and local passenger services, and is a primary route for heavy tonnage of freight traffic between the north and south of the UK. Significant landmarks along the route also include the striking Alexandra Palace, the Emirates Stadium (home to Arsenal Football Club), Digswell Viaduct, Gasworks Tunnel at King’s Cross, Copenhagen Tunnels, Bounds Green train maintenance depot, and Peterborough’s large freight yard and Post Office depot. Train Simulator: East Coast Main Line London-Peterborough Route Add-On The full ECML covers 393 miles (632km) from London King’s Cross to Edinburgh, passing through Peterborough, Doncaster, York, Darlington and Newcastle.