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The Atlantic Coast Express Saturday 23 May 2026 Join us on this classic rail journey, following part the route of the old Atlantic Coast Express (ACE) that ran from London to the seaside resorts of Devon and Cornwall in South West England. We will leave London Waterloo steam hauled by Merchant Navy Class No.35028 Clan Line in the morning and make our way to Exeter where there will be a break to visit the historic city centre. Our return route will be via Bristol, Bath and Salisbury back to London Waterloo. Departing from London Waterloo, we will thread our way steam hauled through the west London suburbs towards Woking and Basingstoke, where there will be stops to pick up passengers. We continue to follow the London & South Western Railway's main line to Salisbury and Exeter, following the route of the old ACE expresses. After the Salisbury water stop, we will follow the main line through to Templecombe, which will give our steam locomotive an opportunity to get up to its maximum permitted speed. We will pass the Yeovil Junction steam centre as we continue westwards and take on the challenging 1 in 80 climb up Crewkerne Bank. After Axminster, there is further adverse climbing as we encounter the testing eight miles of mainly 1 in 80 up to Honiton Summit. Descending gradients then lead to Exeter, where we will have an afternoon break to visit this historic city, with its Cathedral at the very centre of the city. ?With our steam locomotive serviced ready for our return journey, we will now follow the Great Western Railway's Exeter to Bristol route, which includes the long climb up Wellington Bank towards Taunton. A fast run across the Somerset Levels then brings us to Bristol. We pass through Bath and Westbury before reaching Salisbury once again. The ACE will now retrace our earlier steps back to London Waterloo, setting down as outwards, and thus ending a varied and interesting day out over classic railway routes. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £345 £250 £1065 First £240 £175 £745 Standard £135 £95 £415 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route map of the destinations on route Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Waterloo 07:15 22:15 Woking 07:50 21:30 Basingstoke 08:55 21:00 Salisbury 10:10 19:55 Exeter St. Davids 13:30 16:40
The Lakelander Saturday 23 May 2026 Departing from Rugby, Coventry, Birmingham International, Tame Bridge Parkway, Wolverhampton, Penkridge, Crewe, Warrington Bank Quay, Preston Travelling through the county town of Lancaster our steam locomotive works hard to climb the severe gradients of Grayrigg and Shap Summit with splendid views over the Cumbrian Fells before we descend to Penrith, and head for Carlisle. There will be around two hours available to explore this ancient border city with its castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum, and shopping centre. Our return journey takes the scenic coastal route around the Cumbrian Coast running along the shoreline through Workington with spectacular cliff edge views as we journey south and the Isle of Man visible across the Irish Sea. We run close to the shoreline passing Sellafield, and Ravenglass. After Ulverston, we curve along the edge of Morecambe Bay through Grange-over-Sands. There are views across the bay as we cross the lengthy Kent Viaduct at Arnside and approach Carnforth and a fast run homeward along the west coast main line. The train is steam hauled from Preston by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Lakelander - 23 May 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Carlisle Carlisle Once in the ancient city, which dates back to Roman times, there is much to see and do. Highlights include the magnificent castle founded in 1092 and nearby citadel built by Henry VIII, as well as the beautiful cathedral with its famous 14th Century stained glass window. For art lovers, there is no better place to begin exploring the city's fascinating past than the award winning Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. The classical Grade One Listed Jacobean building is full of exciting exhibits and interactive displays. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Rugby 05.50 23.45 Coventry 06.05 23.25 Birmingham International 06.20 23.10 Tame Bridge Parkway 06.50 22.45 Wolverhampton 07.10 22.30 Penkridge 07.20 22.20 Crewe 08.20 21.40 Warrington Bank Quay 08.50 21.10 Preston 09.55 20.30 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Carlisle 13.00 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
Settle-Carlisle 150 anniversary steam train from Carlisle to York Monday 25th May 2026. The Settle-Carlisle Railway Development Company invites you to join us for a very special steam-hauled journey celebrating 150 years of passenger railway on the world-famous Settle-Carlisle line. On Bank Holiday Monday, 25 May 2026, step back in time as our magnificent steam locomotive departs from Carlisle, travelling south through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK, with pick-up stops at Appleby, Settle, and Skipton, before arriving in the historic city of York. Sit back and enjoy sweeping views of the Eden Valley, the Yorkshire Three Peaks - Pen-y-Ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside - and the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, one of Britain's most celebrated railway structures. On arrival in York, you'll have several hours of leisure time to explore this remarkable city. Wander the awe-inspiring Gothic halls of York Minster, uncover the city's Viking heritage, or immerse yourself in railway history at the National Railway Museum. For something a little more relaxed, browse York's independent shops and cafés, including the postcard-perfect medieval street, The Shambles. After our time in York, we'll rejoin the steam train for a scenic return journey to Carlisle, retracing our earlier route through the Dales and Eden Valley. Locomotive requested - Battle of Britain Class 'Tangmire' Approximate timings (TBC) Depart Carlisle - 7.45, Appleby - 8.30, Settle - 9.40, Skipton - 10.40 Arrive York - 12.25 Depart York - 17.00, Skipton - 19.25, Settle - 20.30, Appleby - 21.30, Arrive Carlisle - 22.10 For any queries, please email special@settle-carlisle.co.uk
The Whistling Ghost to Minehead Saturday 30 May 2026 A returning favourite, The Whistling Ghost, sees this steam hauled express head south to the West Country, giving passengers the opportunity to enjoy an early Summer Saturday on the way to the Somerset seaside town of Minehead. Included with your ticket is the trip along the West Somerset Railway, offering passengers a relaxing journey through the Somerset countryside before alighting at Minehead. It is hoped that a pair of Manors, two of 7802 'Bradley Manor', 7812 'Erlestoke Manor' and 7828 'Odney Manor', will be double-heading the train over the West Somerset Railway, subject to availability. Departing From Birmingham Snow Hill, Stourbridge Junction, Droitwich Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill, Cheltenham Spa Approximate Travel Timings Station Departs Returns Birmingham Snow Hill 07:36 22:50 Stourbridge Junction 08:01 22:25 Droitwich Spa 08:26 22:00 Worcester Shrub Hill 08:36 21:50 Cheltenham Spa 09:11 21:25 Approximate Destination Timings Station Arrives Departs Bishops Lydeard 12:40 18:40 Minehead 14:30 16:50
English Riviera Express Saturday 30 May 2026 Departing from Wolverhampton, Tame Bridge Parkway, Stourbridge Junction, Kidderminster, Droitwich Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill, Cheltenham Spa, Cam and Dursley, Bristol Parkway Booked to be hauled by 60007 SIR NIGEL GRESLEY from Taunton to Kingswear and return. We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a steam hauled journey on our luxury train through Somerset and around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resort of Dartmouth. Travelling through the remote Blackdown hills and along the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading beside the estuary with its pretty fishing boats and stunning views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic coast. Continuing past Powderham Castle and along the famous sea wall line we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock at Dawlish and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel alongside the beautiful River Dart with views of HMS Britannia - not a ship but the college that has trained generations of naval officers. We soon arrive at the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth - there are antique shops, galleries, and cafes to explore or perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the river Dart. There should be around three hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled from Taunton by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | English Riviera Express - 30 May 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Dartmouth Dartmouth The beautiful and romantic town of Dartmouth sits on the picturesque River Dart and features ancient narrow streets housing boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled marketplace features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on board Britain's only coal fired paddle steamer 'Kingswear Castle' or a short walk to the 600 year old fortress of Dartmouth Castle. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Wolverhampton 06.40 23.35 Tame Bridge Parkway 06.55 23.20 Stourbridge Junction 07.35 22.45 Kidderminster 07.45 22.30 Droitwich Spa 08.00 22.10 Worcester Shrub Hill 08.15 21.50 Cheltenham Spa 08.40 21.25 Cam and Dursley 09.15 20.50 Bristol Parkway 09.35 20.25 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS KIngswear 13.30 16.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Royal Duchy Sunday 31 May 2026 These ever-popular summer day trips by steam train run from Bristol Temple Meads, Yatton and Taunton to Devon & Cornwall. The route includes travelling along the internationally famous sea wall at Dawlish, crossing Brunel's famous Saltash Bridge into Cornwall, and some of the most varied and exciting scenery in the country. Passengers can choose to spend time in Plymouth or travel on to Par, where buses are provided for visits to Fowey or Charlestown. Our train leaves Bristol Temple Meads steam hauled by the iconic No. 34028 Eddystone and stops to pick up further passengers at Yatton and Taunton. Almost immediately on departure from Taunton, our steam locomotive will be working hard as it tackles the climb to Whiteball Summit. We stop at Exeter St. David's station for our locomotive to take on water and for more passengers to join the train. We leave Exeter and follow the Exe Estuary to the seaside. We then travel along the famous sea wall between Dawlish and Teignmouth, an experience not to be missed. After Newton Abbot, our steam locomotive will demonstrate her real strength as she powers up some of the steepest main line gradients in the country. First there is the difficult climb to the summit at Dainton Tunnel, followed by a dramatic drop down to Totnes, then an equally difficult climb up Rattery Bank before descending to Plymouth. Passengers have the option to alight at Plymouth or remain on the train to Par. There will be over five hours free time to explore the historic maritime city of Plymouth which includes the Hoe, the ancient Barbican and seafront areas, and the National Marine Aquarium. We leave Plymouth, steam hauled, and cross the river Tamar on Brunel's masterpiece, the Royal Albert Bridge, to enter Cornwall. Our train continues through the magnificent Cornish countryside to Par, where there will be a break of more than three hours. Buses will take passengers from Par, at no extra charge, to visit either the picturesque seaside town of Fowey or the harbour village of Charlestown. The latter is a working port and home to the Shipwreck, Rescue & Heritage Centre. Our locomotive will turn and service at St Blazey's before we embark on our return journey. We leave Par steam hauled by our locomotive and stop at Plymouth to pick up those passengers who chose to alight there. Our train then returns to Bristol, stopping to set down passengers at Exeter, Taunton and Yatton enroute. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £349 £265 £1096 First £249 £195 £791 Standard £149 £125 £486 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of southwest England and Wales, with locations labeled. Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return Bristol Temple Meads 08:50 22:10 Yatton 09:10 21:45 Taunton 10:00 21:10 Exeter St. Davids 11:30 19:55 Plymouth 12:40 18:30 Par 14:00 16:50
Settle & Carlisle Fellsman Wednesday 3 June 2026 The train is steam hauled throughout from Chester by LNER Pacific 60532 'Blue Peter' (subject to availability) Departing from Crewe, Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan North Western, Leyland, Blackburn, Clitheroe The popular 'Fellsman' runs again in summer 2026 for its 18th season offering a return steam hauled journey on the spectacular 'Settle to Carlisle Railway' as we travel through the Yorkshire Dales and climb high towards the roof of England. With great limestone peaks and deep valleys, the legendary 'Settle to Carlisle' line is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering including the magnificent 24 arch viaduct at Ribblehead. Time will be available for sightseeing in the historic border city of Carlisle. The Settle & Carlisle line is known for its magnificent scenery and steep gradient, so our engine will be working hard as we climb to the magnificent Ribblehead Viaduct with stunning views of the three peaks. Passengers get a marvellous view down Dent Dale as the train emerges from Blea Moor tunnel and approaching Garsdale you will see sweeping views of Wensleydale - with our engine in full flight we climb at 1 in 100 towards the summit of the line at Ais Gill. Travelling on through the lush Eden Valley to the historic border city of Carlisle where we arrive about 13.10. You may choose to stroll between the castle and cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - all surrounded by great places to shop, eat, or be entertained so creating the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Returning from Carlisle about 15.45 we travel over the same spectacular route giving another opportunity to experience the beauty of the high Pennines and pretty Ribble Valley as our locomotive works hard up the steep and taxing climb of Wilpshire Bank being a fitting end to a perfect day. The train is steam hauled throughout from Chester by LNER Pacific 60532 'Blue Peter' (subject to availability) Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | Settle & Carlisle Fellsman - 3 June 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Carlisle Carlisle Once in the ancient city, which dates back to Roman times, there is much to see and do. Highlights include the magnificent castle founded in 1092 and nearby citadel built by Henry VIII, as well as the beautiful cathedral with its famous 14th Century stained glass window. For art lovers, there is no better place to begin exploring the city's fascinating past than the award winning Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. The classical Grade One Listed Jacobean building is full of exciting exhibits and interactive displays. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Crewe 07.00 21.35 Chester 07.40 20.45 Frodsham 07.55 20.30 Warrington Bank Quay 08.05 20.15 Wigan North Western 08.20 20.00 Leyland 08.35 19.45 Blackburn 09.10 19.10 Clitheroe 09.35 18.40 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Carlisle 13.10 15.45 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Coast to Coast Express Saturday 6 June 2026 The 'Coast to Coast Express' is a day trip by special train travelling from Liverpool to Scarborough and back, thus linking the Irish Sea with the North Sea. The journey includes some spectacular scenery crossing the Pennines and the option of visiting either York or Scarborough. The train will be hauled by a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool. The 'Coast to Coast Express' will leave Liverpool Lime Street, hauled by a powerful steam locomotive. We travel via Edge Hill and Rainhill. Heading eastwards, we run via Chat Moss to Manchester Victoria, where we stop to pick up further passengers. From Manchester we now run via Guide Bridge and Woodley, where we will pause to take on water. Running via New Mills, we now head for Chinley and join the former Midland Railway's 'Hope Valley' line to Sheffield, our final pick up station. We pass through Hathersage, a charming village associated with Robin Hood and the Eyre family of Bronte fame. This route is spectacularly scenic and encompasses a number of long tunnels, including the passage through the 3½ mile-long Totley Tunnel, first opened in 1892, before arrival at Sheffield. On leaving Sheffield we head northwards through Meadowhall, adjacent to the famous Meadowhall Shopping Centre, and onwards, avoiding Rotherham, towards Swinton. We make our way northwards through Church Fenton and follow the East Coast Main Line towards York. Passengers may leave the train at York or continue to Scarborough. York is a fascinating city to visit at any time of the year, with a huge variety of interesting places to see. It has some of the best preserved historical buildings in Europe, the city walls, Minster, Shambles, Jorvik Centre and the superb National Railway Museum. Open-topped buses leave from York Railway Station for tours around the city. For those passengers who choose to travel to Scarborough, we leave York and take the Scarborough line, immediately crossing the River Ouse, with views of the Minster. We should have a fast run through the Vale of York before slowing for the curves that follow the River Derwent past Kirkham Abbey. We pass through Malton and Seamer before arriving in Scarborough. Scarborough is a Victorian spa town and the largest holiday resort on the Yorkshire coast. It has been named as the most enterprising town in Britain and provides all the facilities you would expect at an established seaside resort. It has two beautiful bays, the North Bay and South Bay, providing safe sandy beaches, and a busy harbour with an active fish quay. Our train leaves Scarborough, steam hauled late afternoon and stop at York to pick up those passengers who chose to visit the city. We change motive power at Milford Loop and return to Liverpool, diesel hauled, via Wakefield Kirkgate, from where passengers from Sheffield* will return by service train, and then onward as our outward journey to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments.? catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of England showing a blue route connecting Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, and Scarborough. Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return Liverpool Lime Street 06:20 21:40 Manchester Victoria 07:20 20:55 Sheffield 09:50* ------- Wakefield Kirkgate ------- 18:50 York 11:50 16:50 Scarborough 13:10 15:50
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the Settle to Carlisle line, (with steam from Hellifield). The return journey is via the West Coast Mainline, (with steam to Carnforth): Running Thursdays on 11th June, 6th August and 10th September 2026. Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Leyland and Preston.
The Cathedrals Express to Newcastle Friday 12th June 2026 Destination: York or Newcastle Departing from: Birmingham New Street, Coleshill Parkway, Tamworth, Burton-on-Trent, Derby, York Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard (Non-Dining) The Cathedrals Express heads to the North East and the Cathedral city of Newcastle upon Tyne, a city with a rich history dating back to the 2nd century AD, with the station itself being formally opened by Queen Victoria 175 years ago.
Haywards Heath to Cambridge & Ely Saturday 13 June 2026 Scheduled locomotive Duke of Gloucester 71000 Departs: Haywards Heath / Three Bridges / Redhill / East Croydon Step back in time as you board our exquisite vintage carriages offering the highest level of comfort in sumptuous surroundings. Settle into your seats as our liveried stewards take care of your every need as we traverse mile after mile of scenic countryside on our way to the beautiful city of Cambridge, renowned for its ancient colleges and architecture as well as the picturesque 'Backs' along the River Cam. Alternatively, travel a little further to Ely with its majestic Cathedral and quaint independent shops. This trip will be steam-hauled between West London and Cambridge/Ely in both directions. Destinations Cambridge Cambridge is a city of timeless beauty and academic prestige, nestled along the tranquil River Cam. Its historic colleges, cloistered courtyards, and soaring spires reflect centuries of scholarly tradition and architectural grace. Visitors can stroll the cobbled lanes, admire the intricate façades of King's College Chapel, or enjoy a leisurely punt past the leafy gardens of the 'Backs'. Independent bookshops, artisan cafés, and riverside walks offer moments of quiet charm, while the city's vibrant cultural scene adds a modern flourish to its storied past. Cambridge invites exploration, reflection, and a touch of inspiration at every turn. Ely Perched above the surrounding fenland, Ely is a hidden gem of historic charm and quiet elegance. Dominated by its magnificent cathedral?often called the 'Ship of the Fens'?the city offers a rich sense of heritage and tranquillity. Wander through cobbled streets lined with independent shops, explore the riverside meadows, or visit the former home of Oliver Cromwell. With its welcoming atmosphere, scenic walks, and striking architecture, Ely provides a peaceful escape where history and countryside meet in perfect harmony. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Haywards Heath 08.30 20.45 Three Bridges 08.45 20.30 Redhill 09.05 20.15 East Croydon 09.30 19.50 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Cambridge 12.00 17.20 Ely 12.25 17.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive BR Standard Class 8 Prototype 71000 'Duke of Gloucester' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The Portsmouth Flyer Saturday 13 June 2026 Join us on this special steam hauled train that will leave London Victoria early on Saturday morning for a scenic journey with a nostalgic steam hauled train to the attractive city of Portsmouth. You can chose to alight at Portsmouth and Southsea or continue to the end of the line at Portsmouth Harbour. We depart from London Victoria behind our steam locomotive, which will be working hard as we make our way out of the Capital and run through Clapham Junction to make our way via Barnes and the bridge over the Thames towards Staines, our next pickup point. We thread our way through Virginia Water and Chertsey and join the LSWR main line at Byfleet. After a fast run along the South Western main line towards Woking, our final stop for passengers, we leave the Basingstoke line here and make our way towards Guildford. We now take the Portsmouth Direct line away from Guildford which is renowned for its pleasant scenery and undulating gradients which include a 4 mile climb at 1 in 80 up to Haslemere. Running across country via Godalming to Haslemere, we will pause here to water the loco. We will climb hard to Buriton Summit before descending through Rowlands Castle towards the coastline at Havant, where the main south coast line is joined. The Portsmouth Flyer now leaves the main line to Fareham and Southampton at Farlington Junction as we make our way towards Portsmouth and Southsea station, where you will have the option of alighting here to visit this historic city. Apart from the shops and museums, the city has a navel feel about it. Continue to the end of the line at Portsmouth Harbour and experience its true navel heritage. Portsmouth is a port city and naval base on the south coast, mostly spread across Portsea Island. It is known for its maritime heritage and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. The dockyard is home to the interactive National Museum of the Royal Navy, the wooden warship HMS Victory, where Nelson died in the Battle of Trafalgar, and HMS Warrior 1860. The Tudor ship Mary Rose is also conserved in a dockyard museum. The harbour is a busy place and you can take a trip up the Spinnaker Tower for the best view over the Solent. After time in Portsmouth, we return to London via Fareham and Southampton steam hauled, calling at our outward pick up stations to set down before arriving back into London Victoria. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £740 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments.? catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Victoria 08:45 20:40 Staines 09:30 20:05 Woking 10:05 19:30 Portsmouth and Southsea 12:10 16:05 Portsmouth Harbour 12:15 16:00
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth or Lancaster, to York or Scarborough - Steam Hauled all the way! Two Routes to choose from: North Route To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Wednesdays on 17th June, 29th July and 19th August 2026. Departing from Carnforth, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds), Church Fenton and York. View Journey South Route To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Wednesday 15th July and 2nd September 2026. Departing from Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Brighouse, Wakefield (Kirkgate), Castleford and York. View Journey
Waterloo to Paignton & Kingswear via Dawlish Saturday 20 June 2026 Scheduled locomotive Mayflower 61306 Departs: London Waterloo / Surbiton / Woking / Basingstoke / Andover / Salisbury Step into a world of timeless elegance as you embark on a nostalgic journey to the picture postcard seaside village of Paignton or Kingswear. As you settle into the beautifully restored heritage carriages we will make our way west through rolling countryside to Taunton where we are joined by our steam locomotive for the scenic run along one of England's most breathtaking coastal routes. We follow the estuary of the River Exe, sweeping around its mouth and running beside the shoreline for mile after mile. The journey continues on the Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway, where our steam engine is put through its paces, climbing high above the Devon hills before descending into the Dart Estuary at Kingswear. Whether you opt for Kingswear or Paignton, your day will be enriched by coastal charm, heritage attractions, and the relaxed rhythm of seaside life. This trip will be steam-hauled between Taunton and Kingswear in both directions. Destinations Paignton One of the brightest jewels in the English Riviera's crown, as you arrive in the seaside resort of Paignton, you are met with the welcoming sight of its long stretch of beautiful and easily accessible beachfront, promenade, traditional pier, colourful beach huts and green. Kingswear for Dartmouth Set opposite the town of Dartmouth, on the banks of the River Dart, Kingswear is a charming characterful village that has some of the most beautiful views across the Dart. The village is the perfect place to while away a few hours in this pretty seaside destination. For those who like to explore a little further afield, it is just a short ferry crossing from Kingswear to Dartmouth, a vibrant harbour town with pretty cobbled streets lined with independent shops and galleries. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS London Waterloo 07.00 22.15 Surbiton 07.20 21.55 Woking 07.35 21.35 Basingstoke 08.10 21.05 Andover 08.35 20.35 Salisbury 09.05 20.15 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Paignton 12.30 17.20 Kingswear 13.15 16.35 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive B1 Class 61306 'Mayflower' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The Cumbrian Mountain Express Saturday 20 June 2026 The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about during the summer months, with the added bonus of steam haulage over the Northern Fells, including the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway. We have a high speed journey down the West Coast Main Line to Carnforth, hauled by a blue Class 86 electric locomotive. We then enjoy a circular steam tour outwards via Shap to Carlisle and back via the Settle and Carlisle line. We return from Preston to London behind our blue electric locomotive. We leave London Euston with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Watford Junction, Milton Keynes, Rugby (where passengers from Northampton join by service train), Nuneaton and Crewe. We continue north along the WCML to Preston, our final stop to pick up passengers. We continue through Lancaster to Carnforth, where we change motive power to a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool. Leaving Carnforth, our steam locomotive will be working hard when we climb the first severe gradient up to Grayrigg. We then travel through the beautiful Lune Gorge to Tebay, gaining speed for the ascent to Shap. This well-known section of the WCML has a gradient of 1 in 75 and, in the former days of steam locomotives, banking engines from Tebay were often used to assist trains. After crossing the Cumbrian Fells we descend to Penrith, and then head for Carlisle. There will be around two hours in Carlisle, providing time to explore this ancient 'Border' city with its castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum, and shopping centre. We leave Carlisle and join the Settle & Carlisle Railway, one of the most well known and best loved stretches of railway line in Britain. We soon begin climbing, and then at Appleby, we stop for our steam locomotive to take on water. The climbing continues through scenic Kirkby Stephen towards the highest railway summit in England at Ais Gill, 1169 feet above sea level. We pass over tall viaducts, including the famous one at Ribblehead, and through tunnels. There are magnificent views across the Fells and to the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. We should have a fast run out of the hills, through Settle, until we stop again for our locomotive to take on water. ?Our journey continues through Hellifield and Clitheroe to Preston where we say goodbye to our steam locomotive. We pass though Wigan and Warrington en route to Crewe hauled by our blue class 86 electric locomotive with a fast run to London expected. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. *Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map showing a railway line from Carlisle to London, England. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Euston 06:35 22:25 Watford Junction 07:05 21:55 Milton Keynes 07:30 21:25 Northampton* 07:10 21:35 Rugby 08:00 20:45 Nuneaton 08:20 20:25 Crewe 09:20 19:30 Preston 10:15 18:00 Carlisle 12:40 14:20
The Shakespeare Express - Morning Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford upon Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
The Shakespeare Pullman - 12:30pm Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Departing from: Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard Join us aboard The Shakespeare Pullman for a Summer Sunday afternoon steam hauled journey from historic Stratford-upon-Avon to the heart of Birmingham and return. Make it extraordinary: Choose a three course Sunday lunch in our luxurious Pullman dining cars or savour afternoon tea in elegant First Class. Both served to your seat while you watch the beautiful countryside pass by. Discover your ideal experience and book today.
The Shakespeare Express - Afternoon Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for a delightful Sunday afternoon in First Class. Experience steam hauled travel from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford-upon-Avon, with afternoon tea served to your seat. Book your First Class experience today and travel in style.
The Welsh Marches Express Wednesday 24 June 2026 Departing from Paignton, Torquay, Newton Abbot, Dawlish, Exeter St David's, Tiverton Parkway, Taunton, Bridgwater, Bristol Temple Meads Traversing the breath-taking beauty of the Welsh Marches route our steam hauled train offers a totally unique day out as we travel through the rolling hills of the pretty Herefordshire and Shropshire countryside dividing England and Wales for a visit to historic Shrewsbury. Passing through the Severn Tunnel we take the fast line to Newport where we cross the river Usk with superb views of the Brecon Beacons as the black mountains tower above the train. Continuing through the historic towns of Hereford and Ludlow we pass magnificent Stokesay Castle and through Church Stretton with outstanding views of the Long Mynd - we then arrive at Shrewsbury for an afternoon break. The train is steam hauled from Bristol by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia' Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Welsh Marches Express - 24 June 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Shrewsbury Shrewsbury Founded by the Saxons and most extensively developed by the Tudors the town lies within a giant loop of the River Severn, and is famed for its castle, spires, abbey, parklands, and half-timbered medieval houses. There are gorgeous black & white buildings, remaining just the way they have always been. Shrewsbury is stunning historic town with over 660 listed buildings and some very strange street names - Dogpole and Mardol, Gullet Passage and Grope Lane. There are beautiful walks beside the river and perhaps take a boat trip or just unwind in the stunning parks and gardens. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Paignton 06.10 23.30 Torquay 06.20 23.20 Newton Abbot 06.30 23.10 Dawlish 06.40 23.00 Exeter St David's 07.10 22.30 Tiverton Parkway 07.25 22.15 Taunton 07.40 22.00 Bridgwater 07.50 21.50 Bristol Temple Meads 09.10 20.30 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Shrewsbury 13.00 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Cumbrian Coast Express Saturday 27 June 2026 Our journey will combine the scenic grandeur of the Cumbrian Fells with the exposed Cumbrian coastline that skirts the western edge of the Lake District. We have a high-speed journey down the West Coast Main Line to Carlisle, hauled by a blue Class 86 electric locomotive. We then enjoy a steam tour from Carlisle back to Carnforth via the Cumbria Coast. We return from Carnforth to London behind our blue electric locomotive. We leave London Euston with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Milton Keynes, Rugby (where passengers from Northampton join by service train), Nuneaton and Crewe. ?We continue north along the WCML to Preston, our final stop to pick up passengers. We pass through Lancaster and along the edge of Morecambe Bay before we arrive at Carnforth. Leaving Carnforth, we pass the Brief Encounter cafeand commence the long climb up to Grayrigg. We then travel through the beautiful Lune Gorge to Tebay, before the notoriously steep ascent to Shap. After crossing the Cumbrian Fells we descend to Penrith, and then head for Carlisle. There will be time available in Carlisle to explore this ancient city with its cathedral and castle, plus an assortment of shops and cafes. We leave Carlisle steam hauled and our return journey to Carnforth takes the scenic coastal route around the Cumbrian Coast. After Maryport, we run along the shoreline through to the industrialised port town of Workington, once a centre for the production of iron and steel. There are spectacular cliff edge views as we journey southwards from Workington through to Whitehaven, with the Isle of Man visible on a clear day across the Irish Sea. We run very close to the shoreline for several miles prior to St Bees, famous for its priory and school. We pass Sellafield, where the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority plant dominates the landscape. At Ravenglass, we might catch a glimpse of the narrow gauge Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway which is normally steam operated. At Millom, we head inland and follow the sweeping estuary through Foxfield and Kirkby in Furness. After Ulverston, we cross Leven Viaduct and curve along the edge of the bay through to Grange-over-Sands. There are more views across Morecambe Bay as we cross the lengthy Kent Viaduct at Arnside and approach Carnforth. Here, we shall say farewell to our gallant steam locomotive and our blue Class 86 electric locomotive will take over for a fast run to London Euston. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. *Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of Great Britain, tracing a north-south path through England, with labeled cities along the route. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Euston 06:45 22:10 Milton Keynes 07:30 21:10 Northampton** 07:10 21:40 Rugby 08:00 20:45 Nuneaton 08:20 20:25 Crewe 09:20 19:15 Preston 10:15 18:25 Carlisle 11:40 13:15
Settle & Carlisle Fellsman Wednesday 1 July 2026 The train is steam hauled throughout from Chester by LNER Pacific 60532 'Blue Peter' (subject to availability) Departing from Crewe, Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan North Western, Leyland, Blackburn, Clitheroe The popular 'Fellsman' runs again in summer 2026 for its 18th season offering a return steam hauled journey on the spectacular 'Settle to Carlisle Railway' as we travel through the Yorkshire Dales and climb high towards the roof of England. With great limestone peaks and deep valleys, the legendary 'Settle to Carlisle' line is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering including the magnificent 24 arch viaduct at Ribblehead. Time will be available for sightseeing in the historic border city of Carlisle. The Settle & Carlisle line is known for its magnificent scenery and steep gradient, so our engine will be working hard as we climb to the magnificent Ribblehead Viaduct with stunning views of the three peaks. Passengers get a marvellous view down Dent Dale as the train emerges from Blea Moor tunnel and approaching Garsdale you will see sweeping views of Wensleydale - with our engine in full flight we climb at 1 in 100 towards the summit of the line at Ais Gill. Travelling on through the lush Eden Valley to the historic border city of Carlisle where we arrive about 13.10. You may choose to stroll between the castle and cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - all surrounded by great places to shop, eat, or be entertained so creating the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Returning from Carlisle about 15.45 we travel over the same spectacular route giving another opportunity to experience the beauty of the high Pennines and pretty Ribble Valley as our locomotive works hard up the steep and taxing climb of Wilpshire Bank being a fitting end to a perfect day. The train is steam hauled throughout from Chester by LNER Pacific 60532 'Blue Peter' (subject to availability). Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | Settle & Carlisle Fellsman - 1 July 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Carlisle Carlisle Once in the ancient city, which dates back to Roman times, there is much to see and do. Highlights include the magnificent castle founded in 1092 and nearby citadel built by Henry VIII, as well as the beautiful cathedral with its famous 14th Century stained glass window. For art lovers, there is no better place to begin exploring the city's fascinating past than the award winning Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. The classical Grade One Listed Jacobean building is full of exciting exhibits and interactive displays. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Crewe 07.00 21.35 Chester 07.40 20.45 Frodsham 07.55 20.30 Warrington Bank Quay 08.05 20.15 Wigan North Western 08.20 20.00 Leyland 08.35 19.45 Blackburn 09.10 19.10 Clitheroe 09.35 18.40 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Carlisle 13.10 15.45 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The White Rose to York & Scarborough Saturday 4 July 2026 Travel to the historic city of York this Summer, with the afternoon free to stroll down the famous 'Shambles', marvelling at York Minster or visiting the admission-free National Railway Museum. Alternatively, why not continue onboard to the East coast seaside resort of Scarborough, with time to enjoy an afternoon exploring the harbour or relaxing on the beach. For those in Yorkshire looking for a steam hauled trip to the seaside, tickets are available for passengers to join at York, for a return trip to Scarborough. Departing From Birmingham New Street, Coleshill Parkway, Tamworth, Burton-on-Trent, Derby, York (York - Scarborough & return only) Approximate Travel Timings Station Departs Returns Birmingham New Street 08:10 22:00 Coleshill Parkway 08:30 21:35 Tamworth 08:50 21:12 Burton-on-Trent 09:05 20:55 Derby 09:45 20:25 York 12:25 17:35 Approximate Destination Timings Station Arrives Departs/Returns York 12:10 17:40 Scarborough 13:30 16:35 *Please Note All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Tynesider Saturday 4 July 2026 Join us for an interesting trip from London's King's Cross to travel steam hauled on the Blyth and Tyne line to Morpeth. Passengers have the option of spending time in Newcastle-upon-Tyne or staying on the train to travel over the Blyth & Tyne Railway to Morpeth, a freight route that reopened to passengers in 2025. Our train will be steam hauled for the sections from York to Morpeth and then back to York. ?We leave London King's Cross in the morning behind vintage electric locomotive Les Ross and follow the East Coast Main Line route, calling at Stevenage, Huntingdon and Peterborough to pick up more passengers. At York we change motive power to a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool. We continue steam-hauled northwards from York across the Plain of York where we can expect some fast running, especially through Thirsk and Northallerton. We pass through Darlington and Durham, the latter being famous for its Norman Cathedral, en route to Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Here passengers may choose to alight and spend time visiting the city. It is famous for a series of dramatic bridges over the river Tyne and its quayside along the banks of the river. Other well known attractions include the Tyne & Wear Metro, Eldon Square Shopping Centre, Cathedral, Castle, Grainger Market, and the largest indoor shopping centre in Europe, the Metro Centre, located nearby in Gateshead. Our train continues, steam hauled, travelling north from Newcastle Central to Benton Junction. Here we leave the ECML and take the Blyth and Tyne Railway route which was chiefly constructed to link collieries in the area to the river Tyne. This is line reopened to passenger traffic in 2025, which parallels the Tyne & Wear Metro route to Northumberland Park and then runs northwards through Newsham to Bedlington. At Bedlington North Junction we branch left and head for Morpeth where we stop for our steam locomotive to take on water. We return to Newcastle-upon-Tyne via the ECML. We stop at Newcastle Central station, to pick up those passengers who chose to visit the city, before setting off across the river Tyne on the King Edward VII Bridge. We return south, steam hauled, up the ECML to York. Here the vintage electric locomotive takes over the train for the remainder of the journey back to London. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of England showing a north-south line connecting: Newcastle, York, Nottingham, and London. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London King's Cross 07:30 22:30 Stevenage 08:00 22:00 Huntingdon 08:30 21:30 Peterborough 09:00 21:00 York 10:30 19:25 Newcastle 12:15 17:15 Morpeth 13:30 16:50
The Lakelander Saturday 4 July 2026 Departing from Nottingham, Attenborough, Derby, Belper, Chesterfield, Chinley, Stockport, Manchester Piccadilly, Preston Travelling through the county town of Lancaster our steam locomotive works hard to climb the severe gradients of Grayrigg and Shap Summit with splendid views over the Cumbrian Fells before we descend to Penrith, and head for Carlisle. There will be around two hours available to explore this ancient border city with its castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum, and shopping centre. Our return journey takes the scenic coastal route around the Cumbrian Coast running along the shoreline through Workington with spectacular cliff edge views as we journey south and the Isle of Man visible across the Irish Sea. We run close to the shoreline passing Sellafield, and Ravenglass. After Ulverston, we curve along the edge of Morecambe Bay through Grange-over-Sands. There are views across the bay as we cross the lengthy Kent Viaduct at Arnside and approach Carnforth and a fast run homeward along the west coast main line. The train is steam hauled from Preston by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Lakelander - 4 July 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Carlisle Carlisle Once in the ancient city, which dates back to Roman times, there is much to see and do. Highlights include the magnificent castle founded in 1092 and nearby citadel built by Henry VIII, as well as the beautiful cathedral with its famous 14th Century stained glass window. For art lovers, there is no better place to begin exploring the city's fascinating past than the award winning Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. The classical Grade One Listed Jacobean building is full of exciting exhibits and interactive displays. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Nottingham 05.40 23.55 Attenborough 05.50 23.50 Derby 06.10 23.30 Belper 06.20 23.15 Chesterfield 06.40 23.00 Chinley 07.15 22.20 Stockport 07.30 22.10 Manchester Piccadilly 08.20 21.30 Preston 09.55 20.30 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Carlisle 13.00 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The William Shakespeare Express Wednesday 8 July 2026 Departing from Barrow-in-Furness, Dalton, Ulverston, Grange-over-Sands, Arnside, Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Wigan North Western, Warrington Bank Quay Travel in style on our steam hauled train to enjoy a wonderful day out to Stratford-upon-Avon, one of England's most historic and vibrant towns. Situated in the heart of the Midlands on the River Avon Stratford is today most famous as the home of Elizabethan playwright William Shakespeare. The train is diesel hauled by a heritage locomotive to Crewe where one of our famous steam locomotives takes over for a fast run down the West Coast main line passing Stafford and Walsall and then through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside for a lunchtime arrival at historic Stratford-upon-Avon. The train is steam hauled from Crewe by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia' Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The William Shakespeare Express - 8 July 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Stratford-upon-Avon Stratford-upon-Avon Dating from Tudor times, Stratford still looks like a small half-timbered market town and there are many fantastic areas to explore, all within easy walking distance of the station which is why visitors flock back year after year. From quaint side streets with unique curio shops to open parkland along the river, there is something for everyone. Perhaps enjoy one of the numerous tea rooms for a traditional afternoon tea or why not visit the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford Butterfly Farm or take an open top bus tour. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Barrow-in-Furness 06.50 23.10 Dalton 07.10 23.00 Ulverston 07.30 22.50 Grange-over-Sands 07.40 22.40 Arnside 07.50 22.30 Carnforth 08.05 22.15 Lancaster 08.20 22.00 Preston 08.40 21.40 Wigan North Western 09.00 21.20 Warrington Bank Quay 09.20 21.00 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Stratford-upon-Avon 13.00 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The End of Southern Steam Thursday 9 July 2026 This day trip by steam train provides a unique opportunity to visit the Yeovil Railway Centre and the popular seaside resort of Weymouth for the afternoon. This special train to mark the anniversary of the end of Southern steam will be hauled by steam by Merchant Navy Class No.35028 Clan Line from London Victoria to Yeovil. We continue to Weymouth diesel hauled before our steam locomotive hauls us back to London via Bournemouth. Our train leaves London Victoria station behind our splendid Southern steam locomotive. We travel out of London through the suburbs and then stop for further passengers at Woking and Basingstoke. At Worting Junction we take the West of England Main Line to Andover and Salisbury. At Wilton Junction the line becomes single track. We cross the edge of Salisbury Plain and pass through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty at Tisbury and Gillingham in Dorset. We cross Gillingham Viaduct and pass through Buckhorn Weston Tunnel before Templecombe, where once the iconic Somerset & Dorset Railway passed beneath our line. Travelling westwards through north west Dorset we pass through Sherborne, one of the most beautiful towns in England, before continuing with the train to Yeovil Junction where the steam locomotive will be serviced at Yeovil Railway Centre. Our train leaves Yeovil Junction, hauled by a diesel locomotive, and runs southwards through Maiden Newton towards Dorchester and the large seaside resort of Weymouth. There will be a break here to visit the town, with its many attractions and restaurants, before we return to London Waterloo instead of Victoria, steam hauled. ?Our return route will be via Bournemouth, Southampton and Eastleigh back to Basingstoke and Woking to set down passengers, followed by journey's end at London Waterloo. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £345 £250 £1065 First £240 £175 £745 Standard £135 £95 £415 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route map of the destinations on route Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Victoria 08:45 ------- London Waterloo ------- 22:10 Woking 10:05 21:35 Basingstoke 10:50 21:00 Weymouth 15:25 17:35
The Cathedrals Express to Liverpool Saturday 11 July 2026 This Summer, we will be taking one of our Castles from the industrial heartlands of the Midlands to the great port city of Liverpool. The Cathedrals Express departs Birmingham, where the train makes its way out to Nuneaton. Here it joins the West Coast Mainline and ventures to the North West via the famous railway town of Crewe. On arrival in Liverpool, a city steeped in maritime, musical, and railway history, there is time to explore the revitalised docks, museums, and city centre before the return journey south. The journey will be diesel hauled between Birmingham and Nuneaton in both directions, with steam leading the way from Nuneaton to Liverpool and return. Departing From Birmingham New Street, Coleshill Parkway, Nuneaton, Tamworth, Lichfield Trent Valley, Stafford, Crewe (Crewe - Liverpool & return only) Approximate Travel Timings Station Departs Returns Birmingham New Street 08:45 20:40 Coleshill Parkway 09:05 20:20 Nuneaton 09:35 19:50 Tamworth 09:55 19:25 Lichfield Trent Valley 10:05 19:15 Stafford 10:30 18:50 Crewe 11:50 18:15 Approximate Destination Timings Station Arrives Departs Liverpool 12:40 17:15
The White Rose Saturday 11 July 2026 Join us for an exhilarating main line steam run from London's King's Cross to the historic city of York. York is world famous for its variety of visitor attractions and home to the National Railway Museum. Our train will be steam hauled throughout from London. We leave London King's Cross in the morning steam hauled by the iconic No. 34028 Eddystone and follow the East Coast Main Line route of famous express trains like the Flying Scotsman. We storm up the gradient through Gasworks Tunnel and Finsbury Park, and northwards, calling at Stevenage, Huntingdon and Peterborough to pick up more passengers. As we head north we leave the ECML at Werrington Junction and travel north easterly to Spalding. Following the Great Northern line to Spalding North Junction where we take the Sleaford line to Sleaford. From here we head in a westbound direction to continue our journey to Lincoln. We steam through Doncaster and continue northwards for our early afternoon arrival in York. There will be plenty of time for passengers to enjoy the city and all it has to offer. York has some major tourist attractions including the National Railway Museum, the largest museum of its type in Britain; the Shambles; the splendid Gothic York Minster, one of the largest of its kind in northern Europe; and the city walls. There are a number of other interesting museums, quaint alleyways, and a good variety of shops. Our train leaves York late afternoon, and we will return via the same route, running through Lincoln and Spalding. We will be stopping to set down passengers at the same stations as on the northbound journey, arriving at King's Cross in the evening. **UPDATED 31/3/26** Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of England showing a blue route from London to York. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London King's Cross 07:20 21:35 Stevenage 08:20 20:55 Huntingdon 09:10 20:15 Peterborough 10:00 19:05 York 13:05 16:10
The Cumbrian Mountain Express Saturday 11 July 2026 This is a wonderful opportunity for passengers from Merseyside and Lancashire to travel by steam train over two of England's most scenic railway routes. Our train travels north to Carlisle via the West Coast Main Line over Shap and returns by the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway line. We have a magnificent steam locomotive to haul these trains, which recall the glorious days of steam train travel. It promises to provide a memorable day out. Our train will be diesel hauled from Crewe to Liverpool via Runcorn, where we stop to pick up further passengers. We leave Liverpool Lime Street, diesel hauled and stop to pick up passengers at Broad Green and St. Helens Central. We join the West Coast Main Line (WCML) before stopping for more passengers at Wigan. Our final stop for passengers is Preston. From Preston we continue up the WCML and pass through Lancaster and along the edge of Morecambe Bay before we arrive at Carnforth where we change motive power to our steam locomotive for the day, taken from the Carnforth pool. Leaving Carnforth, we pass the Brief Encounter cafeand commence the climb of our first severe gradient up to Grayrigg. ?We then travel through the beautiful Lune Gorge to Tebay, gaining speed for the ascent to Shap. This well-known section of the WCML has a gradient of 1 in 75 and in the former days of steam locomotives banking engines from Tebay were often used to assist trains. After crossing the Cumbrian Fells we descend to Penrith, and then head for Carlisle. There will be time available in Carlisle to explore this ancient city with its cathedral and castle, plus an assortment of shops and cafes. We leave Carlisle and join the Settle & Carlisle Railway, one of the most well known and best loved stretches of railway line in Britain. We soon begin climbing, and then at Appleby, we stop for our steam locomotive to take on water. The climbing continues through scenic Kirkby Stephen towards the highest railway summit in England at Ais Gill, 1169 feet above sea level. We pass over high viaducts, including the famous one at Ribblehead, and through many tunnels. There are magnificent views across the Fells and to the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. We should have a fast run out of the hills, through Settle, until we stop again for our locomotive to take on water. Our journey continues through Hellifield and Clitheroe to Preston where we say goodbye to our steam locomotive. Our train returns to Liverpool, diesel hauled, stopping to set down passengers at Wigan, St. Helens Central, Broad Green and Liverpool Lime Street. Our train continues on to Runcorn and Crewe diesel hauled. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of the United Kingdom with a blue line tracing a route from Crewe to Carlisle for the Cumbrian Mountain Express Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return Crewe 07:45 21:55 Runcorn 08:15 21:25 Liverpool Lime Street 09:05 20:50 Broad Green 09:15 20:35 St.Helens Central 09:30 20:20 Wigan North Western 09:50 20:05 Preston 10:15 18:55 Carlisle 12:40 15:00
English Riviera Express Saturday 11 July 2026 Departing from High Wycombe, Princes Risborough, Haddenham & Thame Parkway, Bicester Village, Oxford Parkway, Oxford, Swindon, Chippenham, Bath Spa, Bristol Temple Meads We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a steam hauled journey on our luxury train through Somerset and around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resort of Dartmouth. Travelling through the remote Blackdown hills and along the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading beside the estuary with its pretty fishing boats and stunning views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic coast. Continuing past Powderham Castle and along the famous sea wall line we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock at Dawlish and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel alongside the beautiful River Dart with views of HMS Britannia - not a ship but the college that has trained generations of naval officers. We soon arrive at the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth - there are antique shops, galleries, and cafes to explore or perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the river Dart. There should be around three hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled from Taunton by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | English Riviera Express - 11 July 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Dartmouth Dartmouth The beautiful and romantic town of Dartmouth sits on the picturesque River Dart and features ancient narrow streets housing boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled marketplace features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on board Britain's only coal fired paddle steamer 'Kingswear Castle' or a short walk to the 600 year old fortress of Dartmouth Castle. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS High Wycombe 05.40 23.00 Princes Risborough 05.55 22.45 Haddenham & Thame Parkway 06.05 22.30 Bicester Village 06.20 22.15 Oxford Parkway 06.35 22.05 Oxford 06.45 21.55 Swindon 07.45 21.10 Chippenham 08.05 20.40 Bath Spa 09.20 20.25 Bristol Temple Meads 09.35 20.05 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS KIngswear 13.30 16.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The North Wales Coast Express Sunday 12 July 2026 The North Wales Coast Express is a special steam hauled summer train that runs from Liverpool and Chester to Holyhead. It provides an excellent opportunity for passengers from Merseyside and Cheshire to experience the excitement of travelling by steam train along the picturesque North Wales Coast railway line. Passengers have a choice of three destinations: the seaside town of Llandudno, the historic city of Bangor, or the port of Holyhead. Our train leaves Liverpool Lime Street Sunday morning, hauled by a magnificent steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool, and then makes its way through Edge Hill cutting to Broad Green, where we will make a stop to pick up. Next we pick up at Warrington Bank Quay. Running via Frodsham, we reach Chester, where we pick up further passengers. On leaving Chester, we pass through the ancient city walls and cross the River Dee into Wales. We steam alongside the Dee Estuary, with views across to the Wirral Peninsula. We pass through the coastal resorts of Prestatyn, Rhyl, and Colwyn Bay along the delightful Irish Sea coastline, which is well known for its fine beaches. We stop at Llandudno Junction where passengers for Llandudno can take the service train to spend time at this popular seaside resort. From Llandudno Junction, we continue westwards along the North Wales Coast Line, crossing the Conwy estuary on Robert Stephenson's Tubular railway bridge, with Edward 1's castle overlooking the town and bridge. The railway line runs very close to the Irish Sea as we pass through Penmaenmawr and Llanfairfechan, with magnificent sea views across to the Island of Anglesey. We stop at Bangor station to set down those passengers who may wish to spend time visiting this historic city, with its cathedral and restored pier. Our train crosses the Menai Strait on the Britannia Bridge and enters the Isle of Anglesey. ?We now run across the Island through Valley to enter the sea port of Holyhead, where there will be time to visit the town or marina whilst our steam locomotive is turned and serviced for the return journey. Our train leaves Holyhead, steam hauled late afternoon, and stops at Bangor and then Llandudno Junction, to pick up passengers who opted for a visit to Llandudno. It continues via Chester and Warrington Bank Quay to Liverpool Lime Street, stopping at the same stations as on the outward journey, to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. *Premier dining is not available from Chester **By service train from Llandudno Junction catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of Northwest England and Wales, highlighting cities along a route. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return Liverpool Lime Street 10:00 22:35 Broad Green 10:15 22:15 Warrington Bank Quay 10:50 21:35 Chester* 11:35 20:35 Llandudno Junction 12:25 19:35 Llandudno** 13:00 18:55 Bangor 13:20 18:45 Holyhead 14:10 18:05
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth or Lancaster, to York or Scarborough - Steam Hauled all the way! Two Routes to choose from: North Route To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Wednesdays on 17th June, 29th July and 19th August 2026. Departing from Carnforth, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds), Church Fenton and York. View Journey South Route To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Wednesday 15th July and 2nd September 2026. Departing from Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Brighouse, Wakefield (Kirkgate), Castleford and York. View Journey
The Spirit of Summer Lunch Thursday 16 July 2026 Scheduled locomotive Duke of Gloucester 71000 Departs: London Paddington Step on board for a magical lunchtime journey that captures the spirit of yesteryear. Welcomed by our liveried stewards under the grand roof of Brunel's London Paddington station, you settle into the beautifully appointed vintage carriages, complete with exquisite marquetry and plush interiors. Our steam locomotive leads the way as we glide through the Thames Valley, bound for the dreaming spires of Oxford. Along the route, the Chiltern Hills burst into life with the season ? a patchwork of vibrant flora, peaceful woodland, and sweeping views. The rhythmic beat of the engine and the ever-changing scenery beyond the window create a truly enchanting experience. Savour a sumptuous seasonal lunch menu in Pullman Dining, or if you're in First Class, bring your own picnic or treat yourself to a classic afternoon tea (supplement applies). TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS London Paddington 10.15 14.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive BR Standard Class 8 Prototype 71000 'Duke of Gloucester' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The Sunset Steam Express Thursday 16 July 2026 Scheduled locomotive Duke of Gloucester 71000 Departs: London Paddington Our popular Sunset Steam Express tours return to London Paddington, offering a unique and nostalgic evening out. Step aboard for a steam-hauled journey through the Chiltern Hills, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The experience begins beneath the iconic roof of London Paddington station, where our liveried stewards welcome you into beautifully restored vintage carriages. As the train glides out of the city, we pass through the leafy outskirts of West London before the Chiltern Hills rise around us ? a landscape rich in history and character. As the sun sinks towards the horizon, the scenery transforms into a golden patchwork of rolling chalk hills, ancient woodland, Iron Age hillforts, and elegant Elizabethan homes. As twilight settles over the countryside, enjoy a relaxed evening of seasonal dining and fine wine in Pullman Dining. First Class passengers may order drinks and snacks from our stewards to enjoy at their table, or are welcome to bring their own picnic on board. We complete our circular tour with a return journey through the peaceful Thames Valley, rounding off a truly memorable evening. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS London Paddington 18.00 21.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive BR Standard Class 8 Prototype 71000 'Duke of Gloucester' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The West Somerset Steam Express Saturday 18 July 2026 This series of trains from London Paddington to Minehead features haulage by two steam locomotives in one day. ?One steam locomotive will haul our train from London Paddington to the West Somerset Railway at Bishops Lydeard. *The Heritage Railway will then provide a steam locomotive to haul our train to Minehead and back. This provides a truly fascinating day out travelling through beautiful scenery to the Bristol Channel coast. We leave London Paddington steam hauled, and stop at Slough and Reading to pick up more passengers. At Reading we join the Berks and Hants line which runs through picturesque rural countryside. We pass the celebrated Newbury Racecourse before making our final stop for passengers at Newbury station. We continue westwards, travelling beside the tranquil Kennet & Avon Canal, and climbing steadily to Savernake Summit. We pass through the Vale of Pewsey, with views of one of the famous Wiltshire White Horses as we approach Westbury and continue through undulating agricultural countryside to Taunton. Soon after leaving Taunton, we arrive at Norton Fitzwarren, where we transfer to the West Somerset Railway (WSR), the longest Heritage Railway in the country. We continue to Bishops Lydeard, where a WSR steam locomotive will take over our train for the remainder of the journey to Minehead. The WSR runs along the edge of the Quantock Hills between Bishops Lydeard and Watchet where it meets the coast. The line then turns inland to Washford and returns to the coast at Blue Anchor, passing near to Dunster with its magnificent castle, and terminating at Minehead. On arrival at Minehead, there will be about two hours to explore this delightful Bristol Channel seaside resort, where the railway station is close to the beach. A WSR steam locomotive will haul our train from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard, where our main line steam locomotive will take over for the return journey to London Paddington. The train will stop at Newbury, Reading and Slough to set down passengers. *Please note these trains may run with the main steam locomotive hauling the charter all the way to Minehead and return. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Text Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Paddington 07:15 21:30 Slough 07:40 21:00 Reading 08:05 20:30 Newbury 08:45 19:15 Minehead 13:05 15:20
English Riviera Express Saturday 18 July 2026 Departing from Woking, Guildford, Haslemere, Petersfield, Havant, Cosham, Fareham, Eastleigh, Salisbury Booked to be hauled by 60007 SIR NIGEL GRESLEY from Taunton to Kingswear and return. We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a steam hauled journey on our luxury train through Somerset and around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resort of Dartmouth. Travelling through the remote Blackdown hills and along the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading beside the estuary with its pretty fishing boats and stunning views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic coast. Continuing past Powderham Castle and along the famous sea wall line we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock at Dawlish and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel alongside the beautiful River Dart with views of HMS Britannia - not a ship but the college that has trained generations of naval officers. We soon arrive at the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth - there are antique shops, galleries, and cafes to explore or perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the river Dart. There should be around three hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled from Taunton by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | English Riviera Express - 18 July 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Dartmouth Dartmouth The beautiful and romantic town of Dartmouth sits on the picturesque River Dart and features ancient narrow streets housing boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled marketplace features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on board Britain's only coal fired paddle steamer 'Kingswear Castle' or a short walk to the 600 year old fortress of Dartmouth Castle. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Woking 06.55 22.25 Guildford 07.05 22.15 Haslemere 07.25 21.55 Petersfield 07.40 21.40 Havant 07.55 21.25 Cosham 08.05 21.15 Fareham 08.15 21.05 Eastleigh 08.35 20.45 Salisbury 08.50 20.30 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS KIngswear 13.30 16.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Waverley Sunday 19 July 2026 This summer series of steam hauled trains provides an opportunity for passengers from York, Leeds and the Aire Valley to travel over the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway, probably the most famous railway route in Britain. These day trips revive the nostalgic former days of steam when travel by train through magnificent scenery was an experience to savour. Our steam hauled train leaves York, hauled by a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool and heads for Church Fenton where we take the direct route to Leeds. We stop to pick up more passengers at Leeds, Keighley, and Skipton. There will be a stop at Hellifield for our steam locomotive to take on water before we join the famous Settle & Carlisle Railway at Settle Junction. Here begins one of the most arduous climbs on Britain's railway network, a total of 15 miles mainly at a gradient of 1 in 100. Once through Settle station, there are magnificent views across the Fells to the Pennine Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. We cross the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel. We pass through Dent Dale and the highest open station in England at Dent, travelling through tunnels and crossing valleys on numerous lofty viaducts, as we make the final ascent to Ais Gill Summit (1,169 feet). We travel high above the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen and Appleby, to Lazenby where our locomotive takes on water. We continue to Carlisle and passengers will have about two hours to explore the Border City, possibly visiting the castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum or the Lanes Shopping Centre. ?Our train leaves Carlisle for the return journey late afternoon and climbs almost continuously for just under 50 miles back up to Ais Gill summit. We stop, en route, at Appleby for our steam locomotive to take on water. We continue to stops at Skipton, Keighley, Leeds, and York, to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of the UK showing a route through several cities, starting in York and ending in Carlisle. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return York 09:50 21:30 Leeds 10:35 20:35 Keighley 11:25 20:05 Skipton* 11:40 19:45 Carlisle 14:10 16:30
The Dorset Coast Express Wednesday 22 July 2026 We are offering a number of attractive summer day trips from London to Weymouth by steam train. These trains provide plenty of opportunity to visit the beautiful Dorset coast and relive the 'golden age' of steam. Passengers have the option of spending time at the celebrated seaside resorts of either Bournemouth or Weymouth, where both have fine sandy beaches. Each train will be hauled by a steam locomotive that was built for express passenger train work. Our train leaves London Victoria station steam hauled by the iconic No. 34028 Eddystone and travels westwards, crossing the river Thames at Barnes Bridge, through Kew and Feltham. We stop at Staines and Woking to pick up further passengers. At Winchfield, we pause for our steam locomotive to take on water before continuing to our final pick up point at Basingstoke. From Basingstoke we continue through Andover, bypassing Salisbury and on through Romsey to Southampton. We reverse direction of travel at Southampton and continue towards Weymouth, diesel hauled, with our steam locomotive on the rear. We stop at Bournemouth to set down those passengers wishing to visit this coastal resort, a spa town famous for its parks and pine trees. After leaving Bournemouth, there are spectacular views of Poole Harbour. We continue to Wareham and Dorchester travelling through classic Dorset countryside and delightful scenery. We arrive at Weymouth and have around three hours there to discover much of what this seaside town has to offer. The railway station is close to the beach and shops. We return from Weymouth steam hauled for the entire journey. We stop for our locomotive to take on water at Southampton and then continue through Winchester to Basingstoke, where we stop to set down passengers and for our steam locomotive to again take on water. We then continue to Woking and Weybridge, from where Staines passengers will return by service train and on to our final destination at London Waterloo. *By service train from Weybridge. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of southern England with labeled cities and train route highlighted in blue. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Victoria 08:45 ------- London Waterloo ------- 22:40 Staines 09:35 22:30* Weybridge ------- 21:50 Woking 10:05 21:40 Basingstoke 10:50 21:00 Bournemouth 13:15 18:30 Weymouth 14:10 17:35
Southend to Paignton & Kingswear via Dawlish Saturday 25 July 2026 Scheduled locomotive Sir Nigel Gresley 60007 Departs: Southend Central / Leigh-on-Sea / Barking / Stratford Embark on one of the most picturesque railway journeys in England and savour a day filled with nostalgia. Having been welcomed on board by your liveried steward, sink into your comfortable seat as we travel mile upon mile through picturesque British countryside with stunning coastal views on our way to the English Riviera. Our train will travel across the Capital and along the Thames Valley to Taunton, where we will be joined by our steam locomotive. Panoramic views unfold as we follow the estuary of the River Exe, sweeping around its mouth and travelling beside the seashore for mile upon mile. The journey continues on the Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway, where our steam engine climbs high above the Devon hills before descending into the Dart Estuary at Kingswear. With the option to explore either Kingswear or Paignton, your day promises nostalgia and plenty of fresh sea air. This trip will be steam-hauled from Taunton to Kingswear ? in both directions. Destinations Paignton One of the brightest jewels in the English Riviera's crown, as you arrive in the seaside resort of Paignton, you are met with the welcoming sight of its long stretch of beautiful and easily accessible beachfront, promenade, traditional pier, colourful beach huts and green. Kingswear for Dartmouth Set opposite the town of Dartmouth, on the banks of the River Dart, Kingswear is a charming characterful village that has some of the most beautiful views across the Dart. The village is the perfect place to while away a few hours in this pretty seaside destination. For those who like to explore a little further afield, it is just a short ferry crossing from Kingswear to Dartmouth, a vibrant harbour town with pretty cobbled streets lined with independent shops and galleries. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Southend Central 06.30 00.05 Leigh-on-Sea 06.35 00.00 Barking 07.00 23.35 Stratford 07.15 23.20 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Paignton 12.30 17.20 Kingswear 13.15 16.35 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive A4 Class 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The Shakespeare Express - Morning Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford upon Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
The Shakespeare Pullman - 12:30pm Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Departing from: Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard Join us aboard The Shakespeare Pullman for a Summer Sunday afternoon steam hauled journey from historic Stratford-upon-Avon to the heart of Birmingham and return. Make it extraordinary: Choose a three course Sunday lunch in our luxurious Pullman dining cars or savour afternoon tea in elegant First Class. Both served to your seat while you watch the beautiful countryside pass by. Discover your ideal experience and book today.
The Shakespeare Express - Afternoon Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for a delightful Sunday afternoon in First Class. Experience steam hauled travel from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford-upon-Avon, with afternoon tea served to your seat. Book your First Class experience today and travel in style.
The Royal Duchy Sunday 26 July 2026 These ever-popular summer day trips by steam train run from Bristol Temple Meads, Yatton and Taunton to Devon & Cornwall. The route includes travelling along the internationally famous sea wall at Dawlish, crossing Brunel's famous Saltash Bridge into Cornwall, and some of the most varied and exciting scenery in the country. Passengers can choose to spend time in Plymouth or travel on to Par, where buses are provided for visits to Fowey or Charlestown. Our train leaves Bristol Temple Meads steam hauled and stops to pick up further passengers at Yatton and Taunton. Almost immediately on departure from Taunton, our steam locomotive will be working hard as it tackles the climb to Whiteball Summit. We stop at Exeter St. David's station for our locomotive to take on water and for more passengers to join the train. ?We leave Exeter and follow the Exe Estuary to the seaside. We then travel along the famous sea wall between Dawlish and Teignmouth, an experience not to be missed. After Newton Abbot, our steam locomotive will demonstrate her real strength as she powers up some of the steepest main line gradients in the country. First there is the difficult climb to the summit at Dainton Tunnel, followed by a dramatic drop down to Totnes, then an equally difficult climb up Rattery Bank before descending to Plymouth. Passengers have the option to alight at Plymouth or remain on the train to Par. There will be over five hours free time to explore the historic maritime city of Plymouth which includes the Hoe, the ancient Barbican and seafront areas, and the National Marine Aquarium. We leave Plymouth, steam hauled, and cross the river Tamar on Brunel's masterpiece, the Royal Albert Bridge, to enter Cornwall. Our train continues through the magnificent Cornish countryside to Par, where there will be a break of more than three hours. Buses will take passengers from Par, at no extra charge, to visit either the picturesque seaside town of Fowey or the harbour village of Charlestown. The latter is a working port and home to the Shipwreck, Rescue & Heritage Centre. Our locomotive will turn and service at St Blazey's before we embark on our return journey. We leave Par steam hauled by our locomotive and stop at Plymouth to pick up those passengers who chose to alight there. Our train then returns to Bristol, stopping to set down passengers at Exeter, Taunton and Yatton enroute. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £349 £265 £1096 First £249 £195 £791 Standard £149 £125 £486 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of southwest England and Wales, with locations labeled. Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return Bristol Temple Meads 08:50 22:10 Yatton 09:10 21:45 Taunton 10:00 21:10 Exeter St. Davids 11:30 19:55 Plymouth 12:40 18:30 Par 14:00 16:50
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth or Lancaster, to York or Scarborough - Steam Hauled all the way! Two Routes to choose from: North Route To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Wednesdays on 17th June, 29th July and 19th August 2026. Departing from Carnforth, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds), Church Fenton and York. View Journey South Route To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Wednesday 15th July and 2nd September 2026. Departing from Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Brighouse, Wakefield (Kirkgate), Castleford and York. View Journey
The Cumbrian Mountain Express Saturday 1 August 2026 The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about during the summer months, with the added bonus of steam haulage over the Northern Fells, including the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway. We have a high speed journey down the West Coast Main Line to Carnforth, hauled by a blue Class 86 electric locomotive. We then enjoy a circular steam tour outwards via Shap to Carlisle and back via the Settle and Carlisle line. We return from Preston to London behind our blue electric locomotive. We leave London Euston with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Watford Junction, Milton Keynes, Rugby (where passengers from Northampton join by service train), Nuneaton and Crewe. We continue north along the WCML to Preston, our final stop to pick up passengers. We continue through Lancaster to Carnforth, where we change motive power to a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool. Leaving Carnforth, our steam locomotive will be working hard when we climb the first severe gradient up to Grayrigg. We then travel through the beautiful Lune Gorge to Tebay, gaining speed for the ascent to Shap. This well-known section of the WCML has a gradient of 1 in 75 and, in the former days of steam locomotives, banking engines from Tebay were often used to assist trains. After crossing the Cumbrian Fells we descend to Penrith, and then head for Carlisle. There will be around two hours in Carlisle, providing time to explore this ancient 'Border' city with its castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum, and shopping centre. We leave Carlisle and join the Settle & Carlisle Railway, one of the most well known and best loved stretches of railway line in Britain. We soon begin climbing, and then at Appleby, we stop for our steam locomotive to take on water. The climbing continues through scenic Kirkby Stephen towards the highest railway summit in England at Ais Gill, 1169 feet above sea level. We pass over tall viaducts, including the famous one at Ribblehead, and through tunnels. There are magnificent views across the Fells and to the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. We should have a fast run out of the hills, through Settle, until we stop again for our locomotive to take on water. ?Our journey continues through Hellifield and Clitheroe to Preston where we say goodbye to our steam locomotive. We pass though Wigan and Warrington en route to Crewe hauled by our blue class 86 electric locomotive with a fast run to London expected. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. *Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map showing a railway line from Carlisle to London, England. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Euston 06:35 22:25 Watford Junction 07:05 21:55 Milton Keynes 07:30 21:25 Northampton* 07:10 21:35 Rugby 08:00 20:45 Nuneaton 08:20 20:25 Crewe 09:20 19:30 Preston 10:15 18:00 Carlisle 12:40 14:20
English Riviera Express Saturday 1 August 2026 Departing from Shrewsbury, Church Stretton, Craven Arms, Ludlow, Leominster, Hereford, Abergavenny, Cwmbran, Severn Tunnel Junction We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a steam hauled journey on our luxury train through Somerset and around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resort of Dartmouth. Travelling through the remote Blackdown hills and along the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading beside the estuary with its pretty fishing boats and stunning views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic coast. Continuing past Powderham Castle and along the famous sea wall line we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock at Dawlish and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel alongside the beautiful River Dart with views of HMS Britannia - not a ship but the college that has trained generations of naval officers. We soon arrive at the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth - there are antique shops, galleries, and cafes to explore or perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the river Dart. There should be around three hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled from Taunton by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | English Riviera Express - 1 August 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Dartmouth Dartmouth The beautiful and romantic town of Dartmouth sits on the picturesque River Dart and features ancient narrow streets housing boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled marketplace features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on board Britain's only coal fired paddle steamer 'Kingswear Castle' or a short walk to the 600 year old fortress of Dartmouth Castle. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Shrewsbury 05.50 22.50 Church Stretton 06.15 22.30 Craven Arms 06.30 22.15 Ludlow 06.40 22.05 Leominster 07.00 21.55 Hereford 07.25 21.40 Abergavenny 07.50 21.10 Cwmbran 08.10 20.55 Severn Tunnel Junction 08.35 20.35 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS KIngswear 13.30 16.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Shakespeare Express - Morning Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford upon Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
The Shakespeare Pullman - 12:30pm Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Departing from: Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard Join us aboard The Shakespeare Pullman for a Summer Sunday afternoon steam hauled journey from historic Stratford-upon-Avon to the heart of Birmingham and return. Make it extraordinary: Choose a three course Sunday lunch in our luxurious Pullman dining cars or savour afternoon tea in elegant First Class. Both served to your seat while you watch the beautiful countryside pass by. Discover your ideal experience and book today.
The Shakespeare Express - Afternoon Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for a delightful Sunday afternoon in First Class. Experience steam hauled travel from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford-upon-Avon, with afternoon tea served to your seat. Book your First Class experience today and travel in style.
Settle & Carlisle Fellsman Wednesday 5 August 2026 Departing from Crewe, Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan North Western, Leyland, Blackburn, Clitheroe The popular 'Fellsman' runs again in summer 2026 for its 18th season offering a return steam hauled journey on the spectacular 'Settle to Carlisle Railway' as we travel through the Yorkshire Dales and climb high towards the roof of England. With great limestone peaks and deep valleys, the legendary 'Settle to Carlisle' line is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering including the magnificent 24 arch viaduct at Ribblehead. Time will be available for sightseeing in the historic border city of Carlisle. The Settle & Carlisle line is known for its magnificent scenery and steep gradient, so our engine will be working hard as we climb to the magnificent Ribblehead Viaduct with stunning views of the three peaks. Passengers get a marvellous view down Dent Dale as the train emerges from Blea Moor tunnel and approaching Garsdale you will see sweeping views of Wensleydale - with our engine in full flight we climb at 1 in 100 towards the summit of the line at Ais Gill. Travelling on through the lush Eden Valley to the historic border city of Carlisle where we arrive about 13.10. You may choose to stroll between the castle and cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - all surrounded by great places to shop, eat, or be entertained so creating the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Returning from Carlisle about 15.45 we travel over the same spectacular route giving another opportunity to experience the beauty of the high Pennines and pretty Ribble Valley as our locomotive works hard up the steep and taxing climb of Wilpshire Bank being a fitting end to a perfect day. The train is steam hauled from Chester by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia' Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | Settle & Carlisle Fellsman - 5 August 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Carlisle Carlisle Once in the ancient city, which dates back to Roman times, there is much to see and do. Highlights include the magnificent castle founded in 1092 and nearby citadel built by Henry VIII, as well as the beautiful cathedral with its famous 14th Century stained glass window. For art lovers, there is no better place to begin exploring the city's fascinating past than the award winning Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. The classical Grade One Listed Jacobean building is full of exciting exhibits and interactive displays. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Crewe 07.00 21.35 Chester 07.40 20.45 Frodsham 07.55 20.30 Warrington Bank Quay 08.05 20.15 Wigan North Western 08.20 20.00 Leyland 08.35 19.45 Blackburn 09.10 19.10 Clitheroe 09.35 18.40 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Carlisle 13.10 15.45 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the Settle to Carlisle line, (with steam from Hellifield). The return journey is via the West Coast Mainline, (with steam to Carnforth): Running Thursdays on 11th June, 6th August and 10th September 2026. Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Leyland and Preston.
The West Somerset Steam Express Saturday 8 August 2026 This series of trains from London Paddington to Minehead features haulage by two steam locomotives in one day. ?One steam locomotive will haul our train from London Paddington to the West Somerset Railway at Bishops Lydeard. *The Heritage Railway will then provide a steam locomotive to haul our train to Minehead and back. This provides a truly fascinating day out travelling through beautiful scenery to the Bristol Channel coast. We leave London Paddington steam hauled by the iconic No. 34028 Eddystone, and stop at Slough and Reading to pick up more passengers. At Reading we join the Berks and Hants line which runs through picturesque rural countryside. We pass the celebrated Newbury Racecourse before making our final stop for passengers at Newbury station. We continue westwards, travelling beside the tranquil Kennet & Avon Canal, and climbing steadily to Savernake Summit. We pass through the Vale of Pewsey, with views of one of the famous Wiltshire White Horses as we approach Westbury and continue through undulating agricultural countryside to Taunton. Soon after leaving Taunton, we arrive at Norton Fitzwarren, where we transfer to the West Somerset Railway (WSR), the longest Heritage Railway in the country. We continue to Bishops Lydeard, where a WSR steam locomotive will take over our train for the remainder of the journey to Minehead. The WSR runs along the edge of the Quantock Hills between Bishops Lydeard and Watchet where it meets the coast. The line then turns inland to Washford and returns to the coast at Blue Anchor, passing near to Dunster with its magnificent castle, and terminating at Minehead. On arrival at Minehead, there will be about two hours to explore this delightful Bristol Channel seaside resort, where the railway station is close to the beach. A WSR steam locomotive will haul our train from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard, where our main line steam locomotive Eddystone will take over for the return journey to London Paddington. The train will stop at Newbury, Reading and Slough to set down passengers. *Please note these trains may run with the main steam locomotive hauling the charter all the way to Minehead and return. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route route map Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Paddington 07:15 21:30 Slough 07:40 21:00 Reading 08:05 20:30 Newbury 08:45 19:15 Minehead 13:05 15:20
English Riviera Express Saturday 8 August 2026 Departing from Ely, Cambridge, Royston, Letchworth Garden City, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, Potters Bar Booked to be hauled by 60007 SIR NIGEL GRESLEY from Taunton to Kingswear and return. We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a steam hauled journey on our luxury train through Somerset and around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resort of Dartmouth. Travelling through the remote Blackdown hills and along the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading beside the estuary with its pretty fishing boats and stunning views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic coast. Continuing past Powderham Castle and along the famous sea wall line we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock at Dawlish and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel alongside the beautiful River Dart with views of HMS Britannia - not a ship but the college that has trained generations of naval officers. We soon arrive at the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth - there are antique shops, galleries, and cafes to explore or perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the river Dart. There should be around three hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled from Taunton by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | English Riviera Express - 8 August 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Dartmouth Dartmouth The beautiful and romantic town of Dartmouth sits on the picturesque River Dart and features ancient narrow streets housing boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled marketplace features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on board Britain's only coal fired paddle steamer 'Kingswear Castle' or a short walk to the 600 year old fortress of Dartmouth Castle. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Ely 05.40 23.55 Cambridge 06.10 23.40 Royston 06.30 23.20 Letchworth Garden City 06.50 23.00 Stevenage 07.10 22.40 Welwyn Garden City 07.30 22.20 Potters Bar 07.50 22.00 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS KIngswear 13.30 16.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Shakespeare Express - Morning Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford upon Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
The Shakespeare Pullman - 12:30pm Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Departing from: Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard Join us aboard The Shakespeare Pullman for a Summer Sunday afternoon steam hauled journey from historic Stratford-upon-Avon to the heart of Birmingham and return. Make it extraordinary: Choose a three course Sunday lunch in our luxurious Pullman dining cars or savour afternoon tea in elegant First Class. Both served to your seat while you watch the beautiful countryside pass by. Discover your ideal experience and book today.
The Shakespeare Express - Afternoon Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for a delightful Sunday afternoon in First Class. Experience steam hauled travel from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford-upon-Avon, with afternoon tea served to your seat. Book your First Class experience today and travel in style.
The Waverley Sunday 9 August 2026 This summer series of steam hauled trains provides an opportunity for passengers from York, Leeds and the Aire Valley to travel over the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway, probably the most famous railway route in Britain. These day trips revive the nostalgic former days of steam when travel by train through magnificent scenery was an experience to savour. Our steam hauled train leaves York, hauled by a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool and heads for Church Fenton where we take the direct route to Leeds. We stop to pick up more passengers at Leeds, Keighley, and Skipton. There will be a stop at Hellifield for our steam locomotive to take on water before we join the famous Settle & Carlisle Railway at Settle Junction. Here begins one of the most arduous climbs on Britain's railway network, a total of 15 miles mainly at a gradient of 1 in 100. Once through Settle station, there are magnificent views across the Fells to the Pennine Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. We cross the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel. We pass through Dent Dale and the highest open station in England at Dent, travelling through tunnels and crossing valleys on numerous lofty viaducts, as we make the final ascent to Ais Gill Summit (1,169 feet). We travel high above the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen and Appleby, to Lazenby where our locomotive takes on water. We continue to Carlisle and passengers will have about two hours to explore the Border City, possibly visiting the castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum or the Lanes Shopping Centre. ?Our train leaves Carlisle for the return journey late afternoon and climbs almost continuously for just under 50 miles back up to Ais Gill summit. We stop, en route, at Appleby for our steam locomotive to take on water. We continue to stops at Skipton, Keighley, Leeds, and York, to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of the UK showing a route through several cities, starting in York and ending in Carlisle. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return York 09:50 21:30 Leeds 10:35 20:35 Keighley 11:25 20:05 Skipton* 11:40 19:45 Carlisle 14:10 16:30
The Dorset Coast Express Thursday 13 August 2026 We are offering a number of attractive summer day trips from London to Weymouth by steam train. These trains provide plenty of opportunity to visit the beautiful Dorset coast and relive the 'golden age' of steam. Passengers have the option of spending time at the celebrated seaside resorts of either Bournemouth or Weymouth, where both have fine sandy beaches. Each train will be hauled by a steam locomotive that was built for express passenger train work. Our train leaves London Victoria station steam hauled and travels westwards, crossing the river Thames at Barnes Bridge, through Kew and Feltham. We stop at Staines and Woking to pick up further passengers. At Winchfield, we pause for our steam locomotive to take on water before continuing to our final pick up point at Basingstoke. From Basingstoke we continue through Andover, bypassing Salisbury and on through Romsey to Southampton. We reverse direction of travel at Southampton and continue towards Weymouth, diesel hauled, with our steam locomotive on the rear. We stop at Bournemouth to set down those passengers wishing to visit this coastal resort, a spa town famous for its parks and pine trees. After leaving Bournemouth, there are spectacular views of Poole Harbour. We continue to Wareham and Dorchester travelling through classic Dorset countryside and delightful scenery. We arrive at Weymouth and have around three hours there to discover much of what this seaside town has to offer. The railway station is close to the beach and shops. ?We return from Weymouth steam hauled for the entire journey. We stop for our locomotive to take on water at Southampton and then continue through Winchester to Basingstoke, where we stop to set down passengers and for our steam locomotive to again take on water. We then continue to Woking and Weybridge, from where Staines passengers will return by service train and on to our final destination at London Waterloo. *By service train from Weybridge. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of southern England with labeled cities and train route highlighted in blue. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Victoria 08:45 ------- London Waterloo ------- 22:40 Staines 09:35 22:30* Weybridge ------- 21:50 Woking 10:05 21:40 Basingstoke 10:50 21:00 Bournemouth 13:15 18:30 Weymouth 14:10 17:35
English Riviera Express Saturday 15 August 2026 Departing from Three Bridges, Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Hove, Worthing, Barnham, Chichester Booked to be hauled by 60007 SIR NIGEL GRESLEY from Taunton to Kingswear and return. We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a steam hauled journey on our luxury train through Somerset and around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resort of Dartmouth. Travelling through the remote Blackdown hills and along the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading beside the estuary with its pretty fishing boats and stunning views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic coast. Continuing past Powderham Castle and along the famous sea wall line we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock at Dawlish and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel alongside the beautiful River Dart with views of HMS Britannia - not a ship but the college that has trained generations of naval officers. We soon arrive at the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth - there are antique shops, galleries, and cafes to explore or perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the river Dart. There should be around three hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled from Taunton by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | English Riviera Express - 15 August 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Dartmouth Dartmouth The beautiful and romantic town of Dartmouth sits on the picturesque River Dart and features ancient narrow streets housing boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled marketplace features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on board Britain's only coal fired paddle steamer 'Kingswear Castle' or a short walk to the 600 year old fortress of Dartmouth Castle. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Three Bridges 06.15 23.05 Haywards Heath 06.25 22.55 Burgess Hill 06.35 22.45 Hove 06.50 22.30 Worthing 07.10 22.10 Barnham 07.30 21.50 Chichester 07.40 21.40 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS KIngswear 13.30 16.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Cumbrian Coast Express Saturday 15 August 2026 This is a wonderful opportunity for those from the Crewe and Manchester areas to travel by steam train on a journey combining the scenic grandeur of the Cumbrian Fells with the exposed Cumbrian coastline that skirts the western edge of the Lake District. We travel from Carnforth steam hauled around the very scenic Cumbrian Coastal line. Our train leaves Crewe, diesel hauled, at around 07:00 and calls at Wilmslow, Stockport and Manchester Piccadilly to pick up passengers. We join the West Coast Main Line (WCML) and travel north to Preston, our final stop to pick up passengers. We pass through Lancaster and along the edge of Morecambe Bay before we arrive at Carnforth, where a locomotive from the pool will take over hauling our train. Leaving Carnforth steam hauled, we take the scenic coastal route around the Cumbrian Coast. We cross the lengthy Kent Viaduct at Arnside with views across the Morecambe Bay. We continue through Grange-over-Sands and follow the curve along the edge of the bay to the Leven Viaduct before heading through Ulveston to Kirkby-in Furness and Millom. We continue around the Cumbrian Coast through Ravenglass, where you might catch a glimpse of the narrow gauge Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, to Sellafield, where the British Nuclear Fuels plant dominates the landscape. We continue through St Bees and Whitehaven, running very close to the shoreline at times and with the Isle of Man visible on a clear day across the Irish Sea. There are spectacular cliff edge views as we journey northwards from Whitehaven through to Workington, once a centre for the production of iron and steel. We then continue through Maryport to Carlisle. There will be time available in Carlisle to explore this ancient city with its cathedral and castle, plus an assortment of shops and cafes. We depart Carlisle in the afternoon and travel via Penrith crossing the Cumbrian Fells as we head for Shap Summit. After Shap we continue through Tebay and the beautiful Lune Gorge as we return to Carnforth via Grayrigg. ?Here, we shall say farewell to our gallant steam locomotive and we continue our journey to Crewe, diesel hauled, stopping at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. (not available from Preston) First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. ? catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map showing a route through Wales and England with labeled locations. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return Crewe 07:00 21:55 Wilmslow 07:30 21:15 Stockport 07:55 21:00 Manchester Piccadilly 09:00 20:20 Preston 10:15 19:05 Carlisle 15:15 16:45
The Shakespeare Express - Morning Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford upon Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
The Shakespeare Pullman - 12:30pm Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Departing from: Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard Join us aboard The Shakespeare Pullman for a Summer Sunday afternoon steam hauled journey from historic Stratford-upon-Avon to the heart of Birmingham and return. Make it extraordinary: Choose a three course Sunday lunch in our luxurious Pullman dining cars or savour afternoon tea in elegant First Class. Both served to your seat while you watch the beautiful countryside pass by. Discover your ideal experience and book today.
The Shakespeare Express - Afternoon Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for a delightful Sunday afternoon in First Class. Experience steam hauled travel from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford-upon-Avon, with afternoon tea served to your seat. Book your First Class experience today and travel in style.
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth or Lancaster, to York or Scarborough - Steam Hauled all the way! Two Routes to choose from: North Route To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Wednesdays on 17th June, 29th July and 19th August 2026. Departing from Carnforth, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds), Church Fenton and York. View Journey South Route To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Wednesday 15th July and 2nd September 2026. Departing from Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Brighouse, Wakefield (Kirkgate), Castleford and York. View Journey
The Spirit of Summer Lunch Thursday 20 August 2026 Scheduled locomotive Britannia 70000 Departs: London Paddington Experience the heyday of rail travel as you settle in for an enchanting journey on board our vintage steam train with its exquisite marquetery, sumptuous interiors and impeccable service. This captivating lunchtime adventure showcases the charm of the Chiltern Hills as they burst into life for the season, featuring picturesque landscapes teeming with vibrant flora and fauna, and the dynamic beauty of distant dreaming spires. Our journey begins under the overall roof of Brunel's London Paddington station, where our liveried stewards warmly welcome you aboard the opulent vintage carriages. As you sink into your cushioned seat and the train glides along the Thames Valley and towards the Dreaming Spires of Oxford, let the rhythmic chug of the engine and the scenic vistas beyond the windows transport you to a world of nostalgia and comfort, creating cherished memories with every moment onboard. We'll return to London Paddington via the rolling countryside and ancient woodland of the scenic Chiltern Hills. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS London Paddington 10.15 14.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive Britannia Class 70000 'Britannia' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The Sunset Steam Express Thursday 20 August 2026 Scheduled locomotive Britannia 70000 Departs: London Paddington Our popular Sunset Steam Express tours return to London Paddington, offering a unique and nostalgic evening out. Step aboard for a steam-hauled journey through the Chiltern Hills, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The experience begins beneath the iconic roof of London Paddington station, where our liveried stewards welcome you into beautifully restored vintage carriages. As the train glides out of the city, we pass through the leafy outskirts of West London before the Chiltern Hills rise around us - a landscape rich in history and character. As the sun sinks towards the horizon, the scenery transforms into a golden patchwork of rolling chalk hills, ancient woodland, Iron Age hillforts, and elegant Elizabethan homes. As twilight settles over the countryside, enjoy a relaxed evening of seasonal dining and fine wine in Pullman Dining. First Class passengers may order drinks and snacks from our stewards to enjoy at their table, or are welcome to bring their own picnic on board. We complete our circular tour with a return journey through the peaceful Thames Valley, rounding off a truly memorable evening. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS London Paddington 18.00 21.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive Britannia Class 70000 'Britannia' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
English Riviera Express Saturday 22 August 2026 Departing from Bedford, Luton, St Albans City, Slough, Maidenhead, Reading, Newbury, Hungerford, Pewsey We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a steam hauled journey on our luxury train through Somerset and around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resort of Dartmouth. Travelling through the remote Blackdown hills and along the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading beside the estuary with its pretty fishing boats and stunning views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic coast. Continuing past Powderham Castle and along the famous sea wall line we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock at Dawlish and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel alongside the beautiful River Dart with views of HMS Britannia - not a ship but the college that has trained generations of naval officers. We soon arrive at the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth - there are antique shops, galleries, and cafes to explore or perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the river Dart. There should be around three hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled from Taunton by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | English Riviera Express - 22 August 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Dartmouth Dartmouth The beautiful and romantic town of Dartmouth sits on the picturesque River Dart and features ancient narrow streets housing boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled marketplace features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on board Britain's only coal fired paddle steamer 'Kingswear Castle' or a short walk to the 600 year old fortress of Dartmouth Castle. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Bedford 05.30 23.25 Luton 06.00 23.00 St Albans City 06.15 22.40 Slough 07.30 21.20 Maidenhead 07.40 21.10 Reading 08.05 21.45 Newbury 08.45 21.15 Hungerford 09.00 21.00 Pewsey 09.15 20.45 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS KIngswear 13.30 16.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Blackpool Steam Express Saturday 22 August 2026 Join us on this special train to the Fylde Coast and the vibrant seaside resort of Blackpool. We have a high speed journey down the West Coast Main Line, hauled by a blue Class 86 electric locomotive as far as Crewe. Here, we will attach our steam locomotive for a direct run via Preston to Blackpool. We return from Blackpool steam hauled to Preston, and then via Manchester back as far as Crewe, and then onwards by electric traction to London Euston. We leave London Euston with electric traction and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Milton Keynes, Rugby (where passengers from Northampton join by service train), Nuneaton and Crewe, where we change motive power to a steam locomotive chosen from the Carnforth based pool. We continue north along the WCML through Warrington Bank Quay and on to Preston. From Preston, we will join the line to Blackpool North, recently electrified to serve local trains and also to allow through trains to and from London. We will head westwards across The Fylde and pass through Kirkham, the junction for the Blackpool South branch. We will take the Blackpool North line and pass through Poulton-le-Fylde station, where there should be by now views of the famous 518ft tall tower at Blackpool. Time will be available to visit the town and some of its attractions, including the Tower, the Winter Gardens, Madame Tussauds, the three piers or perhaps take a vintage tram ride along the sea front. Shops are also nearby along with many restaurants and pubs to cater for all tastes. After a refreshing break, we will return from Blackpool North through Preston to Wigan North Western, where we will take a diversion away from the WCML to run via Hindley and Eccles towards Manchester. We pass through Manchester Piccadilly station and then take the line through Styal at Slade Lane Jct towards Wilmslow and then on to Crewe to set down passengers. At Crewe, we say goodbye to our steam locomotive before continuing to London with our blue electric locomotive, stopping as outward to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £358 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. *Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of Great Britain with a blue line marking a route through various cities. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Euston 06:35 22:10 Watford Junction 07:05 21:50 Milton Keynes 07:30 21:15 Northampton* 07:10 21:30 Rugby 08:00 20:40 Nuneaton 08:20 20:25 Crewe 09:50 19:10 Blackpool 11:40 15:50
The Shakespeare Express - Morning Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford upon Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
The Shakespeare Pullman - 12:30pm Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Departing from: Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard Join us aboard The Shakespeare Pullman for a Summer Sunday afternoon steam hauled journey from historic Stratford-upon-Avon to the heart of Birmingham and return. Make it extraordinary: Choose a three course Sunday lunch in our luxurious Pullman dining cars or savour afternoon tea in elegant First Class. Both served to your seat while you watch the beautiful countryside pass by. Discover your ideal experience and book today.
The Shakespeare Express - Afternoon Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for a delightful Sunday afternoon in First Class. Experience steam hauled travel from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford-upon-Avon, with afternoon tea served to your seat. Book your First Class experience today and travel in style.
The Waverley Sunday 23 August 2026 This summer series of steam hauled trains provides an opportunity for passengers from York, Leeds and the Aire Valley to travel over the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway, probably the most famous railway route in Britain. These day trips revive the nostalgic former days of steam when travel by train through magnificent scenery was an experience to savour. Our steam hauled train leaves York, hauled by a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool and heads for Church Fenton where we take the direct route to Leeds. We stop to pick up more passengers at Leeds, Keighley, and Skipton. There will be a stop at Hellifield for our steam locomotive to take on water before we join the famous Settle & Carlisle Railway at Settle Junction. Here begins one of the most arduous climbs on Britain's railway network, a total of 15 miles mainly at a gradient of 1 in 100. Once through Settle station, there are magnificent views across the Fells to the Pennine Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. We cross the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel. We pass through Dent Dale and the highest open station in England at Dent, travelling through tunnels and crossing valleys on numerous lofty viaducts, as we make the final ascent to Ais Gill Summit (1,169 feet). We travel high above the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen and Appleby, to Lazenby where our locomotive takes on water. We continue to Carlisle and passengers will have about two hours to explore the Border City, possibly visiting the castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum or the Lanes Shopping Centre. ?Our train leaves Carlisle for the return journey late afternoon and climbs almost continuously for just under 50 miles back up to Ais Gill summit. We stop, en route, at Appleby for our steam locomotive to take on water. We continue to stops at Skipton, Keighley, Leeds, and York, to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of the UK showing a route through several cities, starting in York and ending in Carlisle. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return York 09:50 21:30 Leeds 10:35 20:35 Keighley 11:25 20:05 Skipton* 11:40 19:45 Carlisle 14:10 16:30
The Welsh Marches Express Wednesday 26 August 2026 Departing from Chesterfield, Belper, Derby, Tutbury and Hatton, Uttoxeter, Stoke-on-Trent, KIdsgrove, Crewe Traversing the breath-taking beauty of the Welsh Marches route our steam hauled train offers a totally unique tour as we travel through the rolling hills of the pretty Shropshire and Herefordshire countryside dividing England and Wales for a visit to the capital city of Cardiff. Crossing the Cheshire Plain and through historic Shrewsbury we join the Welsh Marches line and at Church Stretton there are outstanding views of the Long Mynd, continuing past magnificent Stokesay Castle and the historic towns of Ludlow and Hereford we enter South Wales and the county of Monmouthshire with superb views of the Brecon Beacons as the black mountains tower over the train. At Newport we cross the river Usk, continuing to Cardiff for an afternoon break. The train is steam hauled from Crewe by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia' Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Welsh Marches Express - 26 August 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Cardiff Cardiff The capital city of Wales offers spectacular shopping, museums, dining, and entertainment. Easy to explore on foot and close to the station you can visit the free Welsh National Museum and spectacular Cardiff Castle all within the city centre Cardiff Bay has restaurants, waterside views and Wales Millenium Centre and there is plenty to see and do in the three hours whilst our train is prepared for the return journey. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Chesterfield 06.15 22.05 Belper 06.30 21.50 Derby 06.45 21.35 Tutbury and Hatton 07.00 21.20 Uttoxeter 07.10 21.10 Stoke-on-Trent 07.40 20.40 KIdsgrove 07.50 20.30 Crewe 08.40 19.45 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Cardiff Central 13.00 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Lakelander Saturday 29 August 2026 Departing from Leicester, Narborough, Hinckley, Nuneaton, Tamworth, Lichfield Trent Valley, Rugeley Trent Valley, Stafford, Crewe, Preston Travelling through the county town of Lancaster our steam locomotive works hard to climb the severe gradients of Grayrigg and Shap Summit with splendid views over the Cumbrian Fells before we descend to Penrith, and head for Carlisle. There will be around two hours available to explore this ancient border city with its castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum, and shopping centre. Our return journey takes the scenic coastal route around the Cumbrian Coast running along the shoreline through Workington with spectacular cliff edge views as we journey south and the Isle of Man visible across the Irish Sea. We run close to the shoreline passing Sellafield, and Ravenglass. After Ulverston, we curve along the edge of Morecambe Bay through Grange-over-Sands. There are views across the bay as we cross the lengthy Kent Viaduct at Arnside and approach Carnforth and a fast run homeward along the west coast main line. The train is steam hauled from Preston by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Lakelander - 29 August 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Carlisle Carlisle Once in the ancient city, which dates back to Roman times, there is much to see and do. Highlights include the magnificent castle founded in 1092 and nearby citadel built by Henry VIII, as well as the beautiful cathedral with its famous 14th Century stained glass window. For art lovers, there is no better place to begin exploring the city's fascinating past than the award winning Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. The classical Grade One Listed Jacobean building is full of exciting exhibits and interactive displays. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Leicester 06.35 23.15 Narborough 06.45 23.05 Hinckley 06.55 22.55 Nuneaton 07.05 22.45 Tamworth 07.20 22.30 Lichfield Trent Valley 07.30 22.20 Rugeley Trent Valley 07.40 22.10 Stafford 08.00 21.50 Crewe 08.20 21.30 Preston 09.55 20.30 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Carlisle 13.00 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Shakespeare Express - Morning Service Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford upon Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
The Shakespeare Express - Afternoon Service Sunday 17th May, 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Join us aboard The Shakespeare Express for a delightful Sunday afternoon in First Class. Experience steam hauled travel from the heart of Birmingham through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford-upon-Avon, with afternoon tea served to your seat. Book your First Class experience today and travel in style.
The Shakespeare Pullman - 12:30pm Sunday 21st June, 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th August 2026 Departing from: Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard Join us aboard The Shakespeare Pullman for a Summer Sunday afternoon steam hauled journey from historic Stratford-upon-Avon to the heart of Birmingham and return. Make it extraordinary: Choose a three course Sunday lunch in our luxurious Pullman dining cars or savour afternoon tea in elegant First Class. Both served to your seat while you watch the beautiful countryside pass by. Discover your ideal experience and book today.
The Royal Duchy Sunday 30 August 2026 These ever-popular summer day trips by steam train run from Bristol Temple Meads, Yatton and Taunton to Devon & Cornwall. The route includes travelling along the internationally famous sea wall at Dawlish, crossing Brunel's famous Saltash Bridge into Cornwall, and some of the most varied and exciting scenery in the country. Passengers can choose to spend time in Plymouth or travel on to Par, where buses are provided for visits to Fowey or Charlestown. Our train leaves Bristol Temple Meads steam hauled and stops to pick up further passengers at Yatton and Taunton. Almost immediately on departure from Taunton, our steam locomotive will be working hard as it tackles the climb to Whiteball Summit. We stop at Exeter St. David's station for our locomotive to take on water and for more passengers to join the train. ?We leave Exeter and follow the Exe Estuary to the seaside. We then travel along the famous sea wall between Dawlish and Teignmouth, an experience not to be missed. After Newton Abbot, our steam locomotive will demonstrate her real strength as she powers up some of the steepest main line gradients in the country. First there is the difficult climb to the summit at Dainton Tunnel, followed by a dramatic drop down to Totnes, then an equally difficult climb up Rattery Bank before descending to Plymouth. Passengers have the option to alight at Plymouth or remain on the train to Par. There will be over five hours free time to explore the historic maritime city of Plymouth which includes the Hoe, the ancient Barbican and seafront areas, and the National Marine Aquarium. We leave Plymouth, steam hauled, and cross the river Tamar on Brunel's masterpiece, the Royal Albert Bridge, to enter Cornwall. Our train continues through the magnificent Cornish countryside to Par, where there will be a break of more than three hours. Buses will take passengers from Par, at no extra charge, to visit either the picturesque seaside town of Fowey or the harbour village of Charlestown. The latter is a working port and home to the Shipwreck, Rescue & Heritage Centre. Our locomotive will turn and service at St Blazey's before we embark on our return journey. We leave Par steam hauled by our locomotive and stop at Plymouth to pick up those passengers who chose to alight there. Our train then returns to Bristol, stopping to set down passengers at Exeter, Taunton and Yatton enroute. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £349 £265 £1096 First £249 £195 £791 Standard £149 £125 £486 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of southwest England and Wales, with locations labeled. Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return Bristol Temple Meads 08:50 22:10 Yatton 09:10 21:45 Taunton 10:00 21:10 Exeter St. Davids 11:30 19:55 Plymouth 12:40 18:30 Par 14:00 16:50
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth or Lancaster, to York or Scarborough - Steam Hauled all the way! Two Routes to choose from: North Route To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Wednesdays on 17th June, 29th July and 19th August 2026. Departing from Carnforth, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds), Church Fenton and York. View Journey South Route To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Wednesday 15th July and 2nd September 2026. Departing from Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Brighouse, Wakefield (Kirkgate), Castleford and York. View Journey
Settle & Carlisle Fellsman Wednesday 2 September 2026 Departing from Crewe, Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan North Western, Leyland, Blackburn, Clitheroe The popular 'Fellsman' runs again in summer 2026 for its 18th season offering a return steam hauled journey on the spectacular 'Settle to Carlisle Railway' as we travel through the Yorkshire Dales and climb high towards the roof of England. With great limestone peaks and deep valleys, the legendary 'Settle to Carlisle' line is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering including the magnificent 24 arch viaduct at Ribblehead. Time will be available for sightseeing in the historic border city of Carlisle. The Settle & Carlisle line is known for its magnificent scenery and steep gradient, so our engine will be working hard as we climb to the magnificent Ribblehead Viaduct with stunning views of the three peaks. Passengers get a marvellous view down Dent Dale as the train emerges from Blea Moor tunnel and approaching Garsdale you will see sweeping views of Wensleydale - with our engine in full flight we climb at 1 in 100 towards the summit of the line at Ais Gill. Travelling on through the lush Eden Valley to the historic border city of Carlisle where we arrive about 13.10. You may choose to stroll between the castle and cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - all surrounded by great places to shop, eat, or be entertained so creating the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Returning from Carlisle about 15.45 we travel over the same spectacular route giving another opportunity to experience the beauty of the high Pennines and pretty Ribble Valley as our locomotive works hard up the steep and taxing climb of Wilpshire Bank being a fitting end to a perfect day. The train is steam hauled from Chester by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia' Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | Settle & Carlisle Fellsman - 2 September 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Carlisle Carlisle Once in the ancient city, which dates back to Roman times, there is much to see and do. Highlights include the magnificent castle founded in 1092 and nearby citadel built by Henry VIII, as well as the beautiful cathedral with its famous 14th Century stained glass window. For art lovers, there is no better place to begin exploring the city's fascinating past than the award winning Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. The classical Grade One Listed Jacobean building is full of exciting exhibits and interactive displays. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Crewe 07.00 21.35 Chester 07.40 20.45 Frodsham 07.55 20.30 Warrington Bank Quay 08.05 20.15 Wigan North Western 08.20 20.00 Leyland 08.35 19.45 Blackburn 09.10 19.10 Clitheroe 09.35 18.40 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Carlisle 13.10 15.45 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
English Riviera Express Saturday 5 September 2026 Departing from Poole, Bournemouth, Brockenhurst, Southampton Central, Eastleigh, Salisbury, Warminster, Westbury Booked to be hauled by 60007 SIR NIGEL GRESLEY from Taunton to Kingswear and return. We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a steam hauled journey on our luxury train through Somerset and around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resort of Dartmouth. Travelling through the remote Blackdown hills and along the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading beside the estuary with its pretty fishing boats and stunning views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic coast. Continuing past Powderham Castle and along the famous sea wall line we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock at Dawlish and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel alongside the beautiful River Dart with views of HMS Britannia - not a ship but the college that has trained generations of naval officers. We soon arrive at the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth - there are antique shops, galleries, and cafes to explore or perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the river Dart. There should be around three hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled from Taunton by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | English Riviera Express - 5 September 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Dartmouth Dartmouth The beautiful and romantic town of Dartmouth sits on the picturesque River Dart and features ancient narrow streets housing boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled marketplace features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on board Britain's only coal fired paddle steamer 'Kingswear Castle' or a short walk to the 600 year old fortress of Dartmouth Castle. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Poole 06.35 22.55 Bournemouth 06.50 22.40 Brockenhurst 07.20 22.20 Southampton Central 07.40 22.00 Eastleigh 08.00 21.45 Salisbury 09.00 20.50 Warminster 09.25 20.30 Westbury 09.40 20.05 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS KIngswear 13.30 16.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Wensum and Thames Explorer Saturday 5 September 2026 This new tour from East Anglia will see a steam hauled train leave Norwich early in the morning for a leisurely cross country run via the Midlands to Warwick, Oxford and Reading. Our journey will leave Norwich and run across Norfolk to pick up passengers at Thetford and March before arriving at Peterborough for a further pickup. Our steam hauled journey continues westwards through attractive Stamford in Lincolnshire, Oakham and historic Melton Mowbray to Leicester, where we will pause to pick up further passengers. Traversing rural Leicestershire we now head for Nuneaton on the West Coast Main Line where we will call to pick up passengers before continuing via Water Orton to the West Midlands. Taking the suburban lines to the east of Birmingham, the HS2 construction sites are evident along the lineside, before we pass through Tyseley and follow the former Great Western Railway's main line through to Warwick, our first set down station. Warwick is ideal for those wishing to explore this interesting Warwickshire town located on the river Avon, with a well known preserved castle. Continuing our steam hauled journey southwards, we enter Oxfordshire and speed through Banbury and onwards to our next calling point at Oxford. The 'City of Dreaming Spires' is teeming with cultural character with its many famous universities and college buildings. Perhaps take a relaxing river trip along the Thames? Modern Oxford also has a vibrant shopping tradition along with many restaurants and bars. We continue through Didcot and along the Thames valley to our final set down destination of Reading. There are many shops and riverside restaurants dotted around the town centre. The Reading Museum contains exhibits on the town's history and displays a Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry. The ruins of the 12th-century Reading Abbey lie beside Forbury Gardens, a Victorian formal garden. ?We will return to Norwich diesel hauled and call to pick up and set down passengers at our morning stations, with our arrival in Norwich late evening concluding this varied and interesting rail day trip. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £345 £260 £1080 First £239 £170 £735 Standard £135 £95 £395 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Text: Book Now Approximate timings shown Approximate Timings Outward Return Norwich 06:03 22:40 Thetford 06:35 22:05 March 07:40 21:15 Peterborough 08:15 20:50 Leicester 10:20 19:15 Nuneaton 10:45 18:50 Oxford 13:40 16:40 Reading 14:10 16:10
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the Settle to Carlisle line, (with steam from Hellifield). The return journey is via the West Coast Mainline, (with steam to Carnforth): Running Thursdays on 11th June, 6th August and 10th September 2026. Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Leyland and Preston.
The Mayflower Saturday 12 September 2026 On Saturday 12th September, we will once again storm over the metals of South West England, with a double-headed express from Bristol to Plymouth and return, over the South Devon banks in both directions unassisted - offering the ultimate dream for enthusiasts of steam. This special Express, The Mayflower, named after a short-lived British Railways Western Region Express at the end of steam, presents an exciting mainline steam experience that is not often seen, re-creating scenes from the golden age of steam. Leaving Birmingham Snow Hill in the early morning, hauled by diesel locomotive, the train will pick up at Stourbridge Junction, Droitwich Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill, Cheltenham Spa, Bristol Parkway and finally Bristol Temple Meads. The return from Bristol will also be diesel hauled. Bristol is where the train really comes alive, as both of our Castle Class locomotives, Clun Castle and Earl of Mount Edgcumbe, will attach themselves on to the front of the train to haul it on the Bristol to Plymouth, and return, leg of the trip. This will see the locomotives working hard, unassisted by diesel locomotive, over the challenging gradients of South Devon as well as thundering along the sea wall at Dawlish. Departing From Birmingham Snow Hill, Stourbridge Junction, Droitwich Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill, Cheltenham Spa, Bristol Parkway, Bristol Temple Meads Approximate Travel Timings Station Departs Returns Birmingham Snow Hill 06:10 23:05 Stourbridge Junction 06:35 22:40 Droitwich Spa 07:00 22:15 Worcester Shrub Hill 07:10 22:05 Cheltenham Spa 07:45 21:40 Bristol Parkway 08:50 20:50 Bristol Temple Meads 09:50 20:00 Approximate Destination Timings Station Arrives Departs Plymouth 13:40 16:30 Please Note* All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Weardale Explorer Saturday 12 September 2026 Join us for a memorable day of classic railway adventure as our special train departs London King's Cross and journeys north toward the rugged beauty of County Durham. After a fast run up the East Coast Main Line, we reach York, where the true spectacle begins - our train will be taken forward by a magnificent steam locomotive for the onward trip. Our special train commences at London King's Cross in the morning and we make our way northwards along the East Coast Main Line towards York, picking up passengers at Potters Bar, Stevenage and Peterborough. We will be electrically hauled by the celebrity blue liveried Class 86 locomotive 'Les Ros' from London to York. Here, we will attach our steam locomotive for the onward northbound journey along the East Coast Main Line to Darlington, where we will pause to pick up further passengers. From Darlington, we will branch off the ECML and run along the historic Bishop Auckland 'Tees Valley' line, calling at Shildon, the world's first railway town. Passengers will have the opportunity to visit the National Railway Museum's Shildon 'Locomotion' museum, that houses many famous locomotives. You can also visit the Timothy Hackworth museum and the house formerly occupied by this famous locomotive engineer, who was the first locomotive superintendent of the Stockton and Darlington Railway. We continue along the branch line to Bishop Auckland to the present limit of the national network. Here we will take the special link line to join the 18 mile long Weardale Railway at Bishops Auckland West station for a run as far as Stanhope, where we will have a short break to service the locomotive and an opportunity to visit the station. Our return journey along the Weardale line will be diesel hauled back to Bishops Auckland and onwards to Darlington, calling at Shildon to pick up passengers who chose to alight there earlier. At Darlington, we will reverse our direction of travel and run steam hauled once again northwards along the ECML through Durham to Newcastle. At Newcastle, we will turn the train and head southwards once again, passing through Durham for a swift run southwards along the ECML back to York, where our steam locomotive will leave the train. Our return journey back to London will be with our blue electric once again, setting down at our earlier calling points. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £339 £235 £1030 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route route map Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London King's Cross 06:20 22:30 Potters Bar 06:40 22:15 Stevenage 07:00 22:00 Peterborough 08:00 21:00 York 10:30 19:30 Shildon 12:00 16:00 Stanhope 13:00 14:30
The Waverley Sunday 13 September 2026 This summer series of steam hauled trains provides an opportunity for passengers from York, Leeds and the Aire Valley to travel over the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway, probably the most famous railway route in Britain. These day trips revive the nostalgic former days of steam when travel by train through magnificent scenery was an experience to savour. Our steam hauled train leaves York, hauled by a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool and heads for Church Fenton where we take the direct route to Leeds. We stop to pick up more passengers at Leeds, Keighley, and Skipton. There will be a stop at Hellifield for our steam locomotive to take on water before we join the famous Settle & Carlisle Railway at Settle Junction. Here begins one of the most arduous climbs on Britain's railway network, a total of 15 miles mainly at a gradient of 1 in 100. Once through Settle station, there are magnificent views across the Fells to the Pennine Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. We cross the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel. We pass through Dent Dale and the highest open station in England at Dent, travelling through tunnels and crossing valleys on numerous lofty viaducts, as we make the final ascent to Ais Gill Summit (1,169 feet). We travel high above the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen and Appleby, to Lazenby where our locomotive takes on water. We continue to Carlisle and passengers will have about two hours to explore the Border City, possibly visiting the castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum or the Lanes Shopping Centre. ?Our train leaves Carlisle for the return journey late afternoon and climbs almost continuously for just under 50 miles back up to Ais Gill summit. We stop, en route, at Appleby for our steam locomotive to take on water. We continue to stops at Skipton, Keighley, Leeds, and York, to set down passengers. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of the UK showing a route through several cities, starting in York and ending in Carlisle. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return York 09:50 21:30 Leeds 10:35 20:35 Keighley 11:25 20:05 Skipton* 11:40 19:45 Carlisle 14:10 16:30
The Swanage Belle Wednesday 16 September 2026 A unique experience awaits those who join this day trip by steam train to Swanage. It uses the re-opened rail link from Wareham to the 'Heritage' Swanage Railway, which is available only to specially chartered trains. Swanage is a superb seaside destination where the railway station is situated close to the town centre. We leave London Victoria station hauled by our steam locomotive, and cross the river Thames at Battersea and at Barnes. ?We pass through Feltham and stop at Staines to pick up more passengers and then re-cross the river Thames. We join the South Western Main Line at Byfleet Junction and stop at Woking to pick up further passengers. At Winchfield, we stop for our steam locomotive to take on water. Our final stop to pick up passengers is at Basingstoke. We leave the West of England Main Line at Worting Junction and head through Winchester and Southampton to Bournemouth. We pass through Poole, where there are spectacular views of Poole Harbour, and continue to Wareham. We leave the Weymouth Line at Worgret Junction and take the re-opened link to Norden and the Swanage Railway. There are magnificent views of Corfe Castle as we head towards Swanage along this attractive Heritage Railway. There will be around three hours for passengers to explore the pleasant seaside resort of Swanage, with its sandy beach and Victorian pier. Durlston Castle is in Durlston Country Park & Nature Reserve from where there are stupendous views along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Park contains Anvil Point Lighthouse, the 40-ton stone Great Globe, fascinating artefacts from London, and an amazing diversity of wildlife. The Park is one mile from the town and can be reached by bus from the railway station or by walking via public footpaths. Our train leaves Swanage for the return journey late afternoon and is diesel hauled to Southampton where our steam locomotive takes over. We then take a different route from the outward journey, via Romsey to the outskirts of Salisbury where we join the West of England Main Line at Laverstock North Junction. We travel up the main line through Andover and then stop at Basingstoke, Woking, and Staines, to set down passengers. The train is due to arrive in London Victoria late evening. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Victoria 08:45 22:10 Staines 09:35 21:10 Woking 10:05 20:25 Basingstoke 10:55 19:40 Swanage 13:50 16:40
The West Somerset Steam Express Saturday 19 September 2026 This series of trains from London Paddington to Minehead features haulage by two steam locomotives in one day. ?One steam locomotive will haul our train from London Paddington to the West Somerset Railway at Bishops Lydeard. *The Heritage Railway will then provide a steam locomotive to haul our train to Minehead and back. This provides a truly fascinating day out travelling through beautiful scenery to the Bristol Channel coast. We leave London Paddington steam hauled, and stop at Slough and Reading to pick up more passengers. At Reading we join the Berks and Hants line which runs through picturesque rural countryside. We pass the celebrated Newbury Racecourse before making our final stop for passengers at Newbury station. We continue westwards, travelling beside the tranquil Kennet & Avon Canal, and climbing steadily to Savernake Summit. We pass through the Vale of Pewsey, with views of one of the famous Wiltshire White Horses as we approach Westbury and continue through undulating agricultural countryside to Taunton. Soon after leaving Taunton, we arrive at Norton Fitzwarren, where we transfer to the West Somerset Railway (WSR), the longest Heritage Railway in the country. We continue to Bishops Lydeard, where a WSR steam locomotive will take over our train for the remainder of the journey to Minehead. The WSR runs along the edge of the Quantock Hills between Bishops Lydeard and Watchet where it meets the coast. The line then turns inland to Washford and returns to the coast at Blue Anchor, passing near to Dunster with its magnificent castle, and terminating at Minehead. On arrival at Minehead, there will be about two hours to explore this delightful Bristol Channel seaside resort, where the railway station is close to the beach. A WSR steam locomotive will haul our train from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard, where our main line steam locomotive will take over for the return journey to London Paddington. The train will stop at Newbury, Reading and Slough to set down passengers. *Please note these trains may run with the main steam locomotive hauling the charter all the way to Minehead and return. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Text Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Paddington 07:15 21:30 Slough 07:40 21:00 Reading 08:05 20:30 Newbury 08:45 19:15 Minehead 13:05 15:20
The Cornish Riviera 2026 Tuesday 22 - Friday 25 September 2026 Departs: London Paddington As summer fades into a gentle glow, embark on a four-day holiday from London aboard The Cornish Riviera - a nostalgic adventure through the coastal charm of the West Country. Travel in timeless style past dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and glistening seas to the captivating Cornish coast where the sea whispers, time slows, and you can truly recharge. Enjoy three magical nights and two full days exploring the art, heritage and seaside allure of St Mawes and St Ives. By day, discover celebrated gardens, rugged landscapes, and heritage railways. By night, unwind in hand-picked hotels selected for their character, comfort, and charm. Destinations Discover the Charm of Cornwall: St Mawes & St Ives As two of Cornwall's most cherished coastal gems, St Mawes and St Ives enchant visitors with their picturesque harbours, golden beaches, and timeless seaside allure. This captivating region has stirred imaginations for generations. A rich tapestry of rugged coastline, rolling countryside, and artistic heritage invites you to explore at your own pace, while the welcoming towns and villages brim with local character and charm. Your holiday centres around these two delightful destinations. St Mawes, nestled on the Roseland Peninsula, offers tranquil waterside walks and panoramic views across the Fal Estuary. Meanwhile, St Ives, famed for its artistic legacy and vibrant streets, is a haven for galleries, cafés and coastal strolls. You may choose to explore independently or take part in organised excursions (supplement applies) to some of Cornwall's most iconic attractions. Full details of our optional excursions will be announced next year. Handpicked Hotels We have secured an exquisite selection of hotels in St Mawes and St Ives, each offering a unique blend of coastal charm, comfort and character, tailored to your chosen class of travel: Pullman Dining or First Class. Pullman Dining passengers will enjoy half-board stays at some of Cornwall's finest hotels. In St Mawes, accommodation is provided at either the Idle Rocks or the St Mawes Hotel, both situated on the waterfront with captivating views across the Fal Estuary. These boutique properties offer stylish interiors, acclaimed dining, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. In St Ives, Pullman guests will stay at either the Carbis Bay Hotel, set within its own Blue Flag beach estate, Tregenna Castle, a historic estate full of old-school charm and sea views; or the elegant Harbour Hotel, perched above the town with sweeping views and a luxurious spa. First Class passengers will stay on a bed and breakfast basis at carefully selected hotels that offer comfort, character, and excellent locations. In St Mawes, guests will be accommodated at the St Mawes Hotel or the charming Rising Sun, a traditional inn offering coastal views and a warm welcome. In St Ives, First Class accommodation includes Tregenna Castle, set in expansive grounds overlooking the bay, or Pedn Olva, a cliffside hotel (not suitable for guests with limited mobility, as there is no lift) with panoramic views and access to the town's galleries, shops and beaches. JOURNEY ITINERARY Day 1 - London to Cornwall - Your journey begins at London Paddington, where you're warmly welcomed by your liveried steward, setting the tone for an unforgettable escape. We depart aboard a diesel or electric-hauled locomotive gliding westward, passing through rolling countryside and historic towns. At Taunton our majestic steam locomotive, joins us. From here, you're treated to a sensory delight as steam fills the air and the whistle cries out across the lush Devon countryside. Settle into the gentle rhythm of steam travel as we meander towards Cornwall, skimming past coastal vistas and wild moorlands. En route, marvel at engineering landmarks like the Royal Albert Bridge, gateway to Cornwall, and let the romance of the rails envelop you as we cross viaducts and curve around estuaries. Our steam-hauled leg concludes with two enchanting stops: Truro, where guests bound for the coastal charm of St Mawes will disembark, and Penzance, the gateway to St Ives - followed by a short coach transfer to your welcoming hotel. Day 1 - London to Cornwall Days 2 & 3 - Discovering Cornwall's Coastal Treasures - With two full days to explore the rich tapestry of Cornwall, guests are invited to unwind and immerse themselves in the region's captivating blend of scenic beauty, celebrated gardens, and nostalgic railways. From dramatic coastlines to lush botanical havens and heritage journeys, each rich with charm and discovery. Optional excursions (supplement applies) on Days 2 and 3 offer thoughtfully curated experiences showcasing Cornwall's most iconic sights - from timeless coastal towns to treasured landscapes. It's a perfect chance to relax, explore, and savour the spirit of this enchanting corner of Britain. Final excursion details will be announced in 2026. Days 2 & 3 - Discovering Cornwall's Coastal Treasures Day 4 - Cornwall - London - After breakfast at your hotel, guests will board a morning coach transfer to our return station, where our distinguished steam locomotive awaits for the homeward leg of the journey. As the train departs, settle into the comfort of your carriage and watch as Cornwall's coastal splendour gently fades into the distance. The steam-hauled journey winds past quaint fishing villages and undulating countryside, tracing the Cornish coast before heading inland through patchwork fields and wooded valleys - a scenic farewell to the South West's rugged charm. Our steam locomotive concludes its run at Taunton, where a vintage diesel or electric engine takes over for the express journey eastward. As we glide through Somerset and the Thames Valley, guests are invited to reflect on the days gone by, share stories, and enjoy the final leg of this elegant escape. We arrive at London Paddington in the evening, bringing our Cornish adventure to a graceful close. Day 4 - Cornwall - London TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS London Paddington 08.30 20.30 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Truro 19.30 10.45 Penzance 20.15 10.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive BR Standard Class 8 Prototype 71000 'Duke of Gloucester' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The Dorset Coast Express Wednesday 23 September 2026 We are offering a number of attractive summer day trips from London to Weymouth by steam train. These trains provide plenty of opportunity to visit the beautiful Dorset coast and relive the 'golden age' of steam. Passengers have the option of spending time at the celebrated seaside resorts of either Bournemouth or Weymouth, where both have fine sandy beaches. Each train will be hauled by a steam locomotive that was built for express passenger train work. Our train leaves London Victoria station steam hauled and travels westwards, crossing the river Thames at Barnes Bridge, through Kew and Feltham. We stop at Staines and Woking to pick up further passengers. At Winchfield, we pause for our steam locomotive to take on water before continuing to our final pick up point at Basingstoke. From Basingstoke we continue through Andover, bypassing Salisbury and on through Romsey to Southampton. We reverse direction of travel at Southampton and continue towards Weymouth, diesel hauled, with our steam locomotive on the rear. We stop at Bournemouth to set down those passengers wishing to visit this coastal resort, a spa town famous for its parks and pine trees. After leaving Bournemouth, there are spectacular views of Poole Harbour. We continue to Wareham and Dorchester travelling through classic Dorset countryside and delightful scenery. We arrive at Weymouth and have around three hours there to discover much of what this seaside town has to offer. The railway station is close to the beach and shops. ?We return from Weymouth steam hauled for the entire journey. We stop for our locomotive to take on water at Southampton and then continue through Winchester to Basingstoke, where we stop to set down passengers and for our steam locomotive to again take on water. We then continue to Woking and Weybridge, from where Staines passengers will return by service train and on to our final destination at London Waterloo. *By service train from Weybridge. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £335 £240 £1025 First £225 £160 £690 Standard £120 £90 £375 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of southern England with labeled cities and train route highlighted in blue. Book Now Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return London Victoria 08:45 ------- London Waterloo ------- 22:40 Staines 09:35 22:30* Weybridge ------- 21:50 Woking 10:05 21:40 Basingstoke 10:50 21:00 Bournemouth 13:15 18:30 Weymouth 14:10 17:35
Lune Rivers Trust Saturday 26 September 2026 Carnforth to York Departing: Carnforth Operated by West Coast Railways on behalf of the Lune Rivers Trust, this annual special steam train, formerly known as "The Lune Habitat", begins its trip at Carnforth. The Lune Rivers Trust is an environmental charity. As the name implies, their work is focused on the Lune catchment. As well as the River Lune and its tributaries, their catchment also includes the River Keer, River Conder, River Cocker, Pilling Water and Ridgy Pool. For more details about the trust, please visit their website Lune Rivers Trust This year, the ´Lunes Rivers Trust´ Steam Special is destined for the ancient walled city of York. Picking up at Carnforth, our special charter will take you on a wonderful journey across some of England´s finest countryside. York - one of England's finest and most beautiful historic cities, with it's medieval castle and famous Cathedral. A vibrant city with Roman roots and a Viking past, offering an adventure for everyone, where ancient walls surround contemporary independent shops, eateries and charming cafes. Enjoy a visit to The Shambles, one of York's most famous landmarks and one of the best-preserved ancient shopping streets in Europe, with its cobbled streets and overhanging buildings. Or enjoy a scenic walk around the city walls with stunning views of the York Minster and surrounding gardens. York Shambles After a break in York of around 3 hours, we continue steam hauled for our return journey back to Carnforth. Once you have booked you will be given a booking reference, your tickets and confirmed timings will then be sent to you 7 days before travel. Early booking is advisable as this train has been oversubscribed in previous years. This day has always proved to be a terrific family day out. Provisional Timings Station Departs Return Carnforth 07:40 20:20 Destination Arrives Departs York 12:30 15:30
The Royal Duchy Sunday 27 September 2026 These ever-popular summer day trips by steam train run from Bristol Temple Meads, Yatton and Taunton to Devon & Cornwall. The route includes travelling along the internationally famous sea wall at Dawlish, crossing Brunel's famous Saltash Bridge into Cornwall, and some of the most varied and exciting scenery in the country. Passengers can choose to spend time in Plymouth or travel on to Par, where buses are provided for visits to Fowey or Charlestown. Our train leaves Bristol Temple Meads steam hauled and stops to pick up further passengers at Yatton and Taunton. Almost immediately on departure from Taunton, our steam locomotive will be working hard as it tackles the climb to Whiteball Summit. We stop at Exeter St. David's station for our locomotive to take on water and for more passengers to join the train. ?We leave Exeter and follow the Exe Estuary to the seaside. We then travel along the famous sea wall between Dawlish and Teignmouth, an experience not to be missed. After Newton Abbot, our steam locomotive will demonstrate her real strength as she powers up some of the steepest main line gradients in the country. First there is the difficult climb to the summit at Dainton Tunnel, followed by a dramatic drop down to Totnes, then an equally difficult climb up Rattery Bank before descending to Plymouth. Passengers have the option to alight at Plymouth or remain on the train to Par. There will be over five hours free time to explore the historic maritime city of Plymouth which includes the Hoe, the ancient Barbican and seafront areas, and the National Marine Aquarium. We leave Plymouth, steam hauled, and cross the river Tamar on Brunel's masterpiece, the Royal Albert Bridge, to enter Cornwall. Our train continues through the magnificent Cornish countryside to Par, where there will be a break of more than three hours. Buses will take passengers from Par, at no extra charge, to visit either the picturesque seaside town of Fowey or the harbour village of Charlestown. The latter is a working port and home to the Shipwreck, Rescue & Heritage Centre. Our locomotive will turn and service at St Blazey's before we embark on our return journey. We leave Par steam hauled by our locomotive and stop at Plymouth to pick up those passengers who chose to alight there. Our train then returns to Bristol, stopping to set down passengers at Exeter, Taunton and Yatton enroute. Available Classes Premier Dining Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. First Class First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam. Standard Class Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. Fares Fares Adult Junior Family Premier £349 £265 £1096 First £249 £195 £791 Standard £149 £125 £486 Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments. catering icon link to catering page On Board Catering Destinations Route Map of southwest England and Wales, with locations labeled. Approximate timings shown Station Outward Return Bristol Temple Meads 08:50 22:10 Yatton 09:10 21:45 Taunton 10:00 21:10 Exeter St. Davids 11:30 19:55 Plymouth 12:40 18:30 Par 14:00 16:50
The Golden Arrow Wednesday 30 September 2026 Departing from Norwich, Diss, Stowmarket, Ipswich, Manningtree, Colchester, Chelmsford, Shenfield This is a train with a real 'wow' factor offering a circular steam tour over the same route as the legendary 'Golden Arrow' boat train. Features include the journey through the picturesque Garden of England and around the beautiful Kent coast with the impressive white cliffs towering above the train - the highlight of the day being an afternoon break for sightseeing in historic Canterbury. After making our way through the London suburbs we continue into open countryside and through the pretty Garden of England, rich with an abundance of Oast Houses and Hop Fields. Passing Ashford, we soon arrive at historic Canterbury for an afternoon break of about three hours in this city of narrow streets and ancient buildings, the incomparable cathedral, setting for so many dramatic events stand at its heart. Travelling through the beautiful Kent countryside the engine works hard to haul the train over the stiff gradients along the coastal line through Dover and Folkestone with dramatic white cliffs and spectacular views across the English Channel. Continuing along the high-speed route through Tonbridge recreating the former 'Golden Arrow' from the glory days of rail travel. The train is steam hauled from West London by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world-famous West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' or Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. Mobility: This tour may not be suitable for guests requiring the use of a wheelchair or with serious mobility issues. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Golden Arrow - 30 September 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Canterbury Canterbury Historic Canterbury offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions including the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Explore the Roman and medieval heritage of the city, with its walls, museums, and ruins. May be enjoy a boat ride or a punt along the River Stour, or stroll through the charming streets and shops of the Old Town. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Norwich 06.00 23.25 Diss 06.15 23.10 Stowmarket 06.35 22.50 Ipswich 06.40 22.40 Manningtree 07.00 22.30 Colchester 07.10 22.20 Chelmsford 07.20 22.00 Shenfield 07.30 21.40 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Canterbury West 13.30 15.30 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Derby Shakespeare Express Sunday 26th April & Sunday 25th October 2026 Destination: Stratford-upon-Avon Departing from: Derby, Burton-on-Trent, Tamworth, Coleshill Parkway Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class (Non-Dining) & Standard (Non-Dining) Join us aboard The Derby Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey from the East Midlands through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to historic Stratford upon Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
The Shakespeare Pullman - 13:40pm Sunday 26th April, 17th May & 25th October 2026 Departing from: Stratford-upon-Avon Classes of Travel: Pullman, First Class & Standard Join us aboard The Shakespeare Pullman for a Summer Sunday afternoon steam hauled journey from historic Stratford-upon-Avon to the heart of Birmingham and return. Make it extraordinary: Choose a three course Sunday lunch in our luxurious Pullman dining cars or savour afternoon tea in elegant First Class. Both served to your seat while you watch the beautiful countryside pass by. Discover your ideal experience and book today.
The Worcester Shakespeare Express Sunday 17th May & 8th November 2026 Departing from: Worcester Shrub Hill, Droitwich Spa, Stourbridge Junction Classes of Travel: Pullman & Standard (Non-Dining) Join us aboard The Worcester Shakespeare Express for an unforgettable steam hauled journey through the beautiful Warwickshire and Worcestershire countryside to historic Stratford-upon-Avon, with dining options available. Book your journey today and experience the golden age of rail travel.
London to York Christmas Market Tuesday 17 November 2026 Departs: London Kings Cross / Potters Bar / Hatfield / Huntingdon / Peterborough Relive the elegance of yesteryear with an enchanting steam?hauled adventure to York's renowned Christmas Market. Our journey begins beneath the overall roof of the Great Northern Railway's London terminus, King's Cross Station, opened on 14 October 1852 and designed by Lewis Cubitt. Steam?hauled throughout, this classic journey follows the East Coast Main Line, passing Stoke Bank, where 4468 Mallard set the world speed record for a steam locomotive in 1938. The route continues through Grantham and Doncaster before heading north to the stunning cathedral city, arriving in the historic heart of York. Take in the sights and sounds of the season as carol singers and street performers entertain the crowds and the scent of spiced wine fills the air. After indulging in the magic and merriment of York, we steam gently homeward, reliving the nostalgic charm of this unforgettable journey. This journey is steam?hauled throughout. Destinations York Step into a festive wonderland as the medieval streets of York come alive with twinkling lights and the warm glow of seasonal garlands. At the heart of the celebration lies the city's renowned Christmas Market, where more than 75 beautifully decorated wooden chalets line the pedestrianised streets. Here you'll discover an irresistible array of handcrafted treasures, artisanal gifts and gourmet seasonal delicacies, all set against the enchanting backdrop of York's historic charm. Beyond the market, the city offers a wealth of festive delights. Wander through the atmospheric Shambles, explore the magnificent York Minster adorned for the season, or browse the many independent shops and boutiques that spill out onto the cobbled lanes. Street performers, carol singers and seasonal displays add to the magic, creating a truly unforgettable Christmas experience in one of England's most captivating historic cities. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS London Kings Cross 07.50 21.40 Potters Bar 08.20 21.15 Hatfield 08.30 21.10 Huntingdon 09.10 20.20 Peterborough 09.55 19.35 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS York 12.15 16.45
Southend to Chester Christmas Market Thursday 19 November 2026 DEPARTS: Southend Central / Leigh-on-Sea / Barking This unique tour offers a fascinating cross?country adventure as we traverse England, travelling past a rich tapestry of rivers, canals and fields to reach the historic city of Chester, where modern life is inextricably linked with its past. The city's handsome Tudor?and?Victorian centre provides the perfect setting for its magical Christmas Market. Our journey begins at Southend Central railway station, where our liveried steward welcomes you aboard the sumptuous vintage carriages. The train will stop at stations across Essex to pick up passengers before skirting London, where our steam locomotive joins us. From here, it takes us on an express run along the West Coast Main Line, through the suburbs and out into Warwickshire and Staffordshire. We pass beautiful countryside as the railway traverses the more rural parts of Cheshire, before arriving in the lovely city of Chester, where the Tudor streets come alive with festive splendour. This journey is steam hauled from West London to Chester on the outward journey. Destinations Chester Christmas Market Chester's handsome Tudor?and?Victorian heart is the perfect setting for its magical Christmas Market. Around 80 traders surround an iconic 90?ft sparkling tree in the square by the town hall, offering unique locally made produce, handmade crafts and festive stocking fillers. More shopping opportunities await in the city's unique 700?year?old Rows - a series of two?level galleried arcades home to an array of independent shops and boutiques. Once you've found the perfect gifts, don't miss Chester's other attractions, including the most complete city walls in Britain and a 1,000?year?old cathedral featuring some of Europe's finest medieval carvings. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Southend Central 06.35 22.50 Leigh-on-Sea 06.40 22.40 Barking 07.20 21.50 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Chester 14.00 17.20
The Christmas White Rose Monday 23 November 2026 Departing from Hereford, Leominster, Ludlow, Craven Arms, Church Stretton, Shrewsbury, Whitchurch, Warrington Bank Quay, Manchester Victoria Enjoy a fabulous day tour travelling through the impressive Pennines over two very different routes with the outward journey taking the spectacular Vale of Edale through the Peak District National Park to historic York for a sightseeing afternoon break. We return through Wakefield and the rugged Calder Valley. Travelling through Manchester our train takes the taxing climb up Miles Platting bank and threads its way through the suburbs to join the spectacular line across the Peak District. This route is particularly scenic and encompasses several long tunnels, before passing through Sheffield. We return in the late afternoon through Wakefield and the true Pennine scenery of the Calder Valley passing the preserved Lancashire & Yorkshire railway station at Hebden Bridge thence through Todmorden and Rochdale. The train is steam hauled from Crewe by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'. EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Christmas White Rose - 23 November 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to York York Nowhere in England says 'medieval' quite like York especially in the festive season with the famous St Nicholas Market in full swing. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider's web of narrow streets and at the heart of the city lies the immense, awe-inspiring Minster, one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. York's long history and rich heritage is woven into the modern, tourist-oriented city - with attractions including the Jorvik Centre and superb National Railway Museum. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Hereford 06.00 23.50 Leominster 06.15 23.35 Ludlow 06.30 23.20 Craven Arms 06.40 23.00 Church Stretton 06.50 22.50 Shrewsbury 07.10 22.40 Whitchurch 07.30 22.20 Warrington Bank Quay 08.50 20.50 Manchester Victoria 09.50 20.00 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS York 13.00 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
Edinburgh Christmas Market 2026 Thursday 26 - Sunday 29 November 2026 Departs: London Kings Cross Set off on an enchanting weekend tour, tracing the historic Flying Scotsman route from London King's Cross along the East Coast Main Line to the legendary city of Edinburgh. The journey unfolds through rolling countryside, offering striking views of Durham Cathedral, the Angel of the North, the Tyne Bridges, Holy Island, the Border Bridge, and miles of dramatic Scottish coastline. Over three nights, immerse yourself in the spirit of the season and discover Edinburgh's unique charm. Winter events transform the magnificent city centre into a Christmas wonderland, with natural scenery and architectural landmarks aglow with festive sparkle. Guests may also choose to enhance their stay with an exclusive private tour and dinner aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia on the Friday night, available for a supplement and with limited places. Whether you're visiting the Christmas market, with its artisan crafts and seasonal treats, or exploring Edinburgh's cultural side - from cobbled streets and historic landmarks to world?class museums and galleries - the city offers endless opportunities to delight and inspire.
Forth Bridge Lunchtime Tour Saturday 28 November 2026 Departs: Edinburgh Join us on this rare and beautiful trip through Fife and along the Firth of Forth featuring a journey over one of the great railway engineering masterpieces of the world, The Forth Bridge. This tour departs Edinburgh Waverley and takes us over the towering structure of the Forth Bridge, with striking views across to the road bridge and out to sea. We will then head in to Fife and make our way along the coast towards Kirkcaldy, passing the Castle and beach at Aberdour and the beaches at Burntisland and Kinghorn, before turning back inland via Dunfermline. The train will then head along the Forth Estuary onto a rarely used goods only line which has stunning views. This part of the route takes us along more than 5 miles of coastline, while passing the historic village of Culross and the edge of Torry Bay Local Nature Reserve. We then pass through Alloa and along the reopened route to Stirling, looping round the Western end of the estuary. Having crossed the Forth River at Stirling we head south through Falkirk, before arriving back into Edinburgh Waverley.
East Anglia to Highclere or Winchester Christmas Market Wednesday 2 December 2026 DEPARTS: Bury St Edmunds / Ipswich / Colchester North / Witham / Chelmsford / Shenfield This memorable seasonal journey carries us across the country as we steam through winter landscapes towards the historic city of Winchester or, for those wishing to visit Highclere Castle, there will be a brief stop at Basingstoke for an excursion to this world?famous stately home. Our day begins at Bury St Edmunds, where our liveried steward welcomes you aboard the beautifully restored vintage carriages. We make further pick?ups across Essex before threading our way around the capital, where our steam locomotive joins the train for the onward journey. Emerging into Surrey, the pace quickens as we head south?west through Hampshire, passing rolling countryside and treetops on our way to Winchester. This festive day out offers two wonderfully different ways to enjoy your time. Choose a visit to elegant Highclere Castle (supplement applies), famed as the setting of Downton Abbey, or explore Winchester Christmas Market. The journey is steam?hauled from West London in both directions. Destinations Winchester Christmas Market Winchester is a unique heritage city, home to a magnificent cathedral and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Its Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe, attracting visitors from around the world. Set within the historic grounds of the cathedral, the pretty wooden chalets offer festive food and drink, artisan gifts and locally made crafts, all wrapped in a wonderfully atmospheric winter setting filled with the scent of mulled wine. While in the city, you can also visit The Great Hall and its legendary Arthurian Round Table - the only surviving part of Winchester Castle. Highclere Highclere Castle (supplement applies), famed as the setting of Downton Abbey, offers a truly enchanting festive experience. Set amid sweeping parkland designed by Capability Brown, the iconic house is beautifully dressed for the season, with glittering trees, glowing fires and exquisitely decorated rooms. Visitors can wander through the opulent interiors, explore the fascinating Egyptian Exhibition and enjoy the rare opportunity to experience this remarkable stately home at its most magical time of year. For guests choosing to visit Highclere Castle, the journey will make a brief stop at Basingstoke Station, where you will disembark for a private coach transfer to the Castle. At the end of your visit, a private coach will transfer you directly from Highclere Castle to Winchester, where you will rejoin the train for your onward journey home. JOURNEY ITINERARY Highclere Castle - 02/12/2026 For guests choosing to visit Highclere Castle (supplement applies; details below), the journey will make a brief stop at Basingstoke Station, where you will disembark for a private coach transfer to the Castle. At the end of your visit, a private coach will transfer you directly from Highclere Castle to Winchester, where you will rejoin the train for your onward journey home. Highclere Castle OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS 02/12/2026 Visit to Highclere Castle £78 per person For guests choosing to visit Highclere Castle (supplement applies), the journey begins with a stop at Basingstoke Station, where you will transfer by coach to the Castle. Famous worldwide as the setting of Downton Abbey, Highclere offers an enchanting and truly memorable festive experience. Set within sweeping parkland landscaped by Capability Brown, the iconic house is beautifully adorned for the season. Expect glittering Christmas trees, crackling fires and exquisitely decorated state rooms that capture the magic of an English country Christmas. During your visit, you will have time to wander through the opulent interiors, explore the fascinating Egyptian Exhibition, and enjoy the rare opportunity to experience this remarkable stately home at its most atmospheric time of year. At the end of your visit, a private coach will transfer you directly from Highclere Castle to Winchester, where you will rejoin the train for your onward journey home. Visit to Highclere Castle Book TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Bury St Edmunds 06.30 23.30 Ipswich 07.00 23.00 Colchester North 07.25 22.25 Witham 07.45 22.05 Chelmsford 08.05 21.45 Shenfield 08.20 21.30 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Basingstoke 12.15 Winchester 13.00 17.25 Scheduled locomotive Locomotive to be confirmed The steam locomotive for this trip is still to be confirmed but will most likely be one of the following locomotives from our collection. A2 Class 60532 'Blue Peter' A4 Class 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' B1 Class 61306 'Mayflower' GWR Castle Class 5029 'Nunney Castle' Britannia Class 70000 'Britannia' West Country Class 34046 'Braunton' BR Standard Class 8 Prototype 71000 'Duke of Gloucester' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The Christmas White Rose to York Christmas Market Wednesday 2 December 2026 Overview Meeting point Join at Birmingham New Street, Coleshill Parkway, Tamworth, Burton-on-Trent, Derby Activity details Join us this December for a festive steam-hauled train journey, travelling through the East Midlands to the historic city of York. Visit the medieval city's award-winning Christmas Markets, explore the narrow, cobbled streets or marvel at the wonderful Minster, a beautiful Gothic Cathedral in the heart of the city. Alternatively, explore more of the city's heritage and history, where there is evidence of Roman, Viking and Medieval history within the 13th-century walls. And with attractions including the Jorvik Centre or the superb National Railway Museum, there is plenty to see and do for everyone. What's included Pullman Reserved seats in an original 1960s Pullman Car Full English Breakfast served on the outward journey 4-Course Evening Christmas Dinner served on the return Tea & Coffee served throughout with additional drinks available to purchase from servers First Class Reserved seats in an original 1960s British Railways Mk1 Carriage Bacon Rolls & Pastries served on the outward journey Afternoon Tea served on the return Tea & Coffee served throughout with additional drinks available to purchase from servers Standard Reserved seats in an original 1960s British Railways Mk2 Carriage Bacon Rolls & Afternoon Tea in a Box available to pre-order (subject to additional charge) Light refreshments available from the on-train buffet Family tickets available (2x Adult & 2x Child) Itinerary Birmingham New Street at 08:56 and returning at 21:03 Coleshill Parkway at 09:16 and returning at 20:43 Tamworth at 09:39 and returning at 20:14 Burton-on-Trent at 09:57 and returning at 19:34 Derby at 10:16 and returning at 19:15 Arrive York at 12:26 and departing at 16:15 Please note that these timings are approximate. Final timings will be confirmed 48 hours before departure Pricing Pullman Table for 2 | £826.80 Pullman Seat | £376.30 First Class Table for 2 | £572.40 First Class Seat | £254.40 Private Compartment | £1,144.80 Standard Adult | £132.50 Child | £100.70 Family | £418.70 The prices displayed include a 6% booking fee, which is applied at checkout
The Bath Christmas Market Express Friday 4 December 2026 Departing from Three Bridges, Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Hove, Shoreham-by-Sea, Worthing, Barnham, Chichester This is a unique steam hauled tour offering a journey through Brighton and along the south coast railway and gentle scenery of beautiful Wiltshire, then along the glorious countryside of the Avon Valley to visit the elegant Georgian city of Bath for an afternoon break of around three-hours at this festive time of year with the famous Christmas Market in full swing. At Christmas the beautiful Somerset city comes alive with its unique Christmas market where over 150 chalet style stalls offer quality products and brilliant gift ideas. The famous Abbey and Roman Baths provide an amazing backdrop to the city's festive event offering seasonal shopping, fine foods with stalls showcasing the talents of retailers from Britain and the Continent. If Christmas shopping is not your thing there is always the elegant and unforgettable city to discover which has attracted visitors since Roman times the highlights include the Pump Rooms, Carriage Museum and Royal Crescent along with the opportunity to take an open top bus tour. The train is steam hauled throughout by one of our immaculately restored engines which could include the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia' EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Bath Christmas Market Express - 4 December 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Bath Bath At Christmas the beautiful Somerset city comes alive with its unique Christmas market where over 150 chalet style stalls offer quality products and brilliant gift ideas. The famous Abbey and Roman Baths provide an amazing backdrop to the city's festive event offering seasonal shopping, fine foods with stalls showcasing the talents of retailers from Britain and the Continent. Bath Minster also provides regular carol concerts throughout some daytimes. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Three Bridges 08.00 21.15 Haywards Heath 08.15 20.40 Burgess Hill 08.25 20.30 Hove 08.55 20.00 Shoreham-by-Sea 09.10 19.45 Worthing 09.20 19.35 Barnham 09.40 19.10 Chichester 10.00 18.55 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Bath Spa 13.00 16.00
The Bath Christmas Market Express Friday 11 December 2026 Departing from Peterborough, March, Ely, Cambridge, Royston, Letchworth Garden City, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City This is a unique steam hauled tour offering a journey through the heart of England and rolling hills and gentle scenery of beautiful Wiltshire, then along the glorious countryside of the Avon Valley to visit the elegant Georgian city of Bath for an afternoon break of around three-hours at this festive time of year with the famous Christmas Market in full swing. At Christmas the beautiful Somerset city comes alive with its unique Christmas market where over 150 chalet style stalls offer quality products and brilliant gift ideas. The famous Abbey and Roman Baths provide an amazing backdrop to the city's festive event offering seasonal shopping, fine foods with stalls showcasing the talents of retailers from Britain and the Continent. If Christmas shopping is not your thing there is always the elegant and unforgettable city to discover which has attracted visitors since Roman times the highlights include the Pump Rooms, Carriage Museum and Royal Crescent along with the opportunity to take an open top bus tour. The train is diesel hauled to West London where one of our immaculately restored steam engines takes over. The featured locomotive could include the world famous LMS Royal Scot Class, No.46100 'Royal Scot' - West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia' EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Bath Christmas Market Express - 11 December 2026 JOURNEY DESTINATIONS Saphos Trains | Travel on a Luxury Train to Bath Bath At Christmas the beautiful Somerset city comes alive with its unique Christmas market where over 150 chalet style stalls offer quality products and brilliant gift ideas. The famous Abbey and Roman Baths provide an amazing backdrop to the city's festive event offering seasonal shopping, fine foods with stalls showcasing the talents of retailers from Britain and the Continent. Bath Minster also provides regular carol concerts throughout some daytimes. APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Peterborough 06.00 23.00 March 06.20 22.40 Ely 07.00 22.20 Cambridge 07.20 22.00 Royston 07.40 21.50 Letchworth Garden City 07.50 21.40 Stevenage 08.05 21.25 Welwyn Garden City 08.20 21.00 Destinations The following destination stations are available on this journey STATION ARRIVES DEPARTS Bath Spa 13.00 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The White Cliffs Christmas Lunch Tuesday 15 December 2026 DEPARTS: London Victoria / Bromley South Capture the magic of Christmas as you settle into our beautifully decorated vintage steam train, adorned with twinkling lights, festive garlands and all the charm of a bygone era. With exquisite marquetry, sumptuous interiors and attentive service throughout, this enchanting circular lunchtime journey offers a wonderfully nostalgic way to celebrate the season. We depart London Victoria steam?hauled, leaving the bustle of the capital behind as we head towards the Kent border. The route carries us through the North Downs, across the River Medway and along the North Kent Coast towards Canterbury, before climbing the southern tip of the Kent Downs and descending to the South Coast at Dover, where we steam beneath the famous White Cliffs beside the Channel. Turning northwards, we travel through the heart of Kent as the afternoon light softens, the festive glow inside the train becoming ever more captivating. Winter landscapes unfold beyond your window - from rolling fields and quiet woodland to dramatic coastal views ? while the warmth and elegance of the train create a truly memorable Christmas escape. This circular tour is steam?hauled throughout. TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS London Victoria 11.00 16.35 Bromley South 11.30 16.00 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change. Scheduled locomotive Locomotive to be confirmed The steam locomotive for this trip is still to be confirmed but will most likely be one of the following locomotives from our collection. A2 Class 60532 'Blue Peter' A4 Class 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' B1 Class 61306 'Mayflower' GWR Castle Class 5029 'Nunney Castle' Britannia Class 70000 'Britannia' West Country Class 34046 'Braunton' BR Standard Class 8 Prototype 71000 'Duke of Gloucester' Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
The Pennine Peaks Christmas Explorer - Thursday 17 December 2026 Departing from Rugby, Coventry, Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street, Wolverhampton, Penkridge, Stafford, Crewe We are pleased to present a truly memorable steam hauled circular tour through the magnificent Pennines and the spectacular Yorkshire Dales offering outstanding views and steep climbs to make the engine work hard. Following the last passenger boarding station at Crewe our train joins the West Coast Main line and passes through Preston, then travelling north past imposing Lancaster Castle we cross the River Lune and at Bolton-le-Sands there are spectacular views across Morecambe Bay toward the Lakeland mountains. At Carnforth we pass the famous station used in the 1945 movie 'Brief Encounter' and take the secondary line into open countryside and through dramatic scenery on the edge of the forest of Bowland towards the beautiful Yorkshire Dales crossing rivers and moorland as we climb through Wennington and Gigglewick to Settle Junction with amazing views of the three peaks. At Hellifield we join the normally freight only line along the Ribble Valley with Pendle Hill, home to the Lancashire witches, towering over the route. Passing historic Clitheroe we cross the 48-arch viaduct, and the engine works hard to climb the taxing Wilpshire Bank with the sounds echoing back from the surrounding hills. Travelling onward through Blackburn we take the line to Leyland and re-join the West Coast main line to our homeward stations. The train is steam hauled from Crewe by BR Pacific class No 71000 'Duke of Gloucester' (subject to availability) EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Pennine Peaks Christmas Explorer - 17 December 2026 APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Rugby 09.00 20.00 Coventry 09.10 19.50 Birmingham International 09.30 19.30 Birmingham New Street 10.00 19.00 Wolverhampton 10.15 18.45 Penkridge 10.30 18.30 Stafford 10.45 18.15 Crewe 11.45 17.15 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Pennine Moors Christmas Express Monday 21 December 2026 Departing from Leicester, Narborough, Hinckley, Nuneaton, Tamworth, Lichfield Trent Valley, Rugeley Trent Valley, Crewe We are pleased to present a truly memorable steam hauled circular tour as we travel in vintage carriages through deep valleys and over wild Pennine moors with taxing climbs to make the engine work hard - Our train crosses Chat Moss heading toward Manchester and after passing Victoria station there is the first of two steep inclines as the engine opens up to climb the 1 in 48 Miles Platting bank with the sounds echoing back from the surrounding buildings. Travelling through Stalybridge we continue into true Pennine scenery with the rugged and steep sided Diggle Valley towering over the train with its stone architecture clinging to the hillside as we pass through the 3-mile long Standedge Tunnel and past historic Hebden Bridge to commence the taxing 1 in 65 climb crossing viaducts and bridges, passing former Victorian textile mills. Our driver and fireman work hard to haul the heavy train as we climb over the Pennines to the summit at Copy Pit, located some 749 feet above sea level. On more favourable gradients, we continue westward along the former Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway through Burnley and Accrington to Blackburn, where we take the line via Hoghton Bank to Leyland onto the West Coast main line for an anticipated fast run through Wigan on this varied and interesting circular tour across the spectacular Pennines. The train is steam hauled from Crewe by LNER Pacific class No 60532 'Blue Peter'' (subject to availability) EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Pennine Moors Christmas Express - 21 December 2026 SOMETHING TO SUIT EVERYONE CLASSES OF TRAVEL Saphos Trains | Pullman Dining Pullman Dining FROM £395 Seating at a private window table for two is available at a supplement of £60 per person or £150 per person at a 'superior' private window table for two Bookings for parties of three passengers are accommodated at an 'exclusive table for three' with the fourth seat being unoccupied for your added privacy. A total supplement of £280 is applicable for this seating type CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 YEARS ARE NOT PERMITTED FOR TRAVEL IN PULLMAN DINING View Seating Plans Seating is at tables of 4 or 2 laid with crisp linen and fully dressed in fine crockery, fresh flowers, and glassware. After being welcomed aboard by your attentive liveried steward you will be served a glass of chilled champagne and selection of canapes as you relax in anticipation of the gastronomic journey ahead. A sumptuous six course seasonal luncheon created by our Executive Chef will be served including the Great British cheese board, biscuits, and chutney - all accompanied by our Sommelier's choice of a half bottle of wine per person. The memorable journey will conclude with service of coffee and homemade petits fours as you arrive back relaxed and refreshed. Book Saphos Trains | First Class First Class (non-dining) FROM £185 Seating at a private window table for two is available at a supplement of £60 per person or £150 per person at a 'superior' private window table for two Bookings for parties of three passengers are accommodated at an 'exclusive table for three' with the fourth seat being unoccupied for your added privacy. A total supplement of £180 is applicable for this seating type View Seating Plans Seating is at tables of 4 or 2 with wide seats and panoramic windows and includes complimentary tea/coffee and light snacks. You may bring on board your own picnic hamper and drinks for consumption during the journey. Book Saphos Trains | Standard Class Standard Class (non-dining) FROM £135 Seating is around a table of four with bookings for two persons seated side by side with one window and one aisle seat, bookings for one person are normally allocated an aisle seat. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee throughout your journey whilst items including light snacks, wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks may be purchased from the buffet bar. View Seating Plans Book APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Leicester 09.00 19.50 Narborough 09.15 19.35 Hinckley 09.30 19.20 Nuneaton 09.40 19.10 Tamworth 09.55 18.55 Lichfield Trent Valley 10.05 18.45 Rugeley Trent Valley 10.25 18.35 Crewe 11.45 17.15 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.
The Pennine Peaks Christmas Explorer Wednesday 23 December 2026 Departing from Bangor, Llandudno Junction, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl, Flint, Chester, Crewe We are pleased to present a truly memorable steam hauled circular tour through the magnificent Pennines and the spectacular Yorkshire Dales offering outstanding views and steep climbs to make the engine work hard. Following the last passenger boarding station at Crewe our train joins the West Coast Main line and passes through Preston, then travelling north past imposing Lancaster Castle we cross the River Lune and at Bolton-le-Sands there are spectacular views across Morecambe Bay toward the Lakeland mountains. At Carnforth we pass the famous station used in the 1945 movie 'Brief Encounter' and take the secondary line into open countryside and through dramatic scenery on the edge of the forest of Bowland towards the beautiful Yorkshire Dales crossing rivers and moorland as we climb through Wennington and Gigglewick to Settle Junction with amazing views of the three peaks. At Hellifield we join the normally freight only line along the Ribble Valley with Pendle Hill, home to the Lancashire witches, towering over the route. Passing historic Clitheroe we cross the 48-arch viaduct, and the engine works hard to climb the taxing Wilpshire Bank with the sounds echoing back from the surrounding hills. Travelling onward through Blackburn we take the line to Leyland and re-join the West Coast main line to our homeward stations. The train is steam hauled from Crewe by LNER Pacific class No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' (subject to availability) EXPLORE LOCOMOTIVES Saphos Trains | The Pennine Peaks Christmas Explorer - 23 December 2026 SOMETHING TO SUIT EVERYONE CLASSES OF TRAVEL Saphos Trains | Pullman Dining Pullman Dining FROM £395 Seating at a private window table for two is available at a supplement of £60 per person or £150 per person at a 'superior' private window table for two Bookings for parties of three passengers are accommodated at an 'exclusive table for three' with the fourth seat being unoccupied for your added privacy. A total supplement of £280 is applicable for this seating type CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 YEARS ARE NOT PERMITTED FOR TRAVEL IN PULLMAN DINING View Seating Plans Seating is at tables of 4 or 2 laid with crisp linen and fully dressed in fine crockery, fresh flowers, and glassware. After being welcomed aboard by your attentive liveried steward you will be served a glass of chilled champagne and selection of canapes as you relax in anticipation of the gastronomic journey ahead. A sumptuous six course seasonal luncheon created by our Executive Chef will be served including the Great British cheese board, biscuits, and chutney - all accompanied by our Sommelier's choice of a half bottle of wine per person. The memorable journey will conclude with service of coffee and homemade petits fours as you arrive back relaxed and refreshed. Book Saphos Trains | First Class First Class (non-dining) FROM £185 Seating at a private window table for two is available at a supplement of £60 per person or £150 per person at a 'superior' private window table for two Bookings for parties of three passengers are accommodated at an 'exclusive table for three' with the fourth seat being unoccupied for your added privacy. A total supplement of £180 is applicable for this seating type View Seating Plans Seating is at tables of 4 or 2 with wide seats and panoramic windows and includes complimentary tea/coffee and light snacks. You may bring on board your own picnic hamper and drinks for consumption during the journey. Book Saphos Trains | Standard Class Standard Class (non-dining) FROM £135 Seating is around a table of four with bookings for two persons seated side by side with one window and one aisle seat, bookings for one person are normally allocated an aisle seat. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee throughout your journey whilst items including light snacks, wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks may be purchased from the buffet bar. View Seating Plans Book APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIMINGS* Boarding Stations The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey STATION DEPARTS RETURNS Bangor 09.20 19.40 Llandudno Junction 09.40 19.20 Colwyn Bay 09.50 19.10 Rhyl 10.05 18.55 Flint 10.25 18.35 Chester 10.45 18.15 Crewe 11.45 17.15 PLEASE NOTE * All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.