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- Last updated: Thu 12 Mar 2020
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South Devon 1940s Festival 4th and 5th July 2020 Once a year the South Devon Railway is transported back to the 1940s for the South Devon 1940s Festival. The show has grown and developed greatly and now boasts a large amount of displays, vehicles, trade stands, entertainment and atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else! A fun filled day out that will transport you back to the 40s.
Ale Trail Saturday/Sunday 4/5 July 2020 Our annual beer and cider festival will return on the weekend of Saturday and Sunday 4 and 5 July 2020 , with a variety of styles of beers and ciders available over the weekend.Check back here nearer the time for full details. We'll be running our blue service, with departures from Page's Park every hour from 1030 until 1530. On the Saturday, there will also be extra evening departures at 1630 and 1730 from Page's Park (1725 and 1815 from Stonehenge Works) to allow for some early-evening drinking. The Engine Shed Bar at Page's Park will provide an indoor seating area where customers can enjoy a pint in the vicinity of vintage steam engines, while the Top Yard Beer Tent at Stonehenge Works offers an outdoor viewing point to observe (and hear) departing service trains and our collection of internal combustion locomotives.
Classic Bus Rally Toddington's 13th Bus Rally - 5th July 2020 Welcome to the 2020 GWSR Classic Bus Rally web page. This year's bus rally will be on the first Sunday of July and will follow a similar format to previous years with up to 40 buses attending and running regular trips for visitors. We will be operating three trains in service on a Green timetable. THE EVENT The buses will be on display in Toddington car park between about 10.00 and 16.00 on the day. Some of them will be operating a frequent bus service from Toddington on a tour of the local countryside, as we are unable to run to Broadway due to a weak bridge. You get such a wider view of the countryside from a bus, even a single deck one, rather than sitting in a car - it's often a new experience for your children & grand-children - whichever outing you take! If you enjoyed your bus journey, your appreciation can be shown by any donation put into collection boxes on the buses and help towards the upkeep of these superb samples of our transport heritage or support their owners' nominated charity.
Annual Railway Gala and Heritage Transport Show
1950s Weekend
Vintage Bus Days Free vintage bus ride around Alresford On the first Sunday of the month from May to October a FREE vintage bus service operates from Alresford Station. You do not need to purchase a train ticket to ride this service. The vintage bus leaves Alresford Station on a circular route through Bishop's Sutton at the following times on a trip lasting 20 minutes: 11.30 12.00 12.30 13.00 13.30 then 14.30 15.00 15.30 16.00 Unfortunately, due to their age these buses do not have provision for wheelchairs. This vintage bus service is operated by the Medstead Depot Omnibus Group, who are one of three groups under the Working Omnibus Museum Project Ltd, and their buses frequently visit running days and rallies around the South. MDOG is part of a charity established in the late 1980's which provides a storage depot for 18 vintage buses originally running bus services in the south of England. The buses are owned and maintained by individuals or small groups.
Steam & Beer It's Steam & Beer time again on 4-5th July a wide selection of real ales and ciders from across the UK will be available - while stocks last. Live music on Saturday and family fun on Sunday. Timetable All passengers must buy their tickets and board the train from Sittingbourne Viaduct station, there will be no entry at Kemsley Down. Each journey takes around 15 mins. The beer tent is at Kemsley Down. A downloadable version of the timetable for each day is available below. Saturday: Trains will run from 11am until late. You may download a copy of the timetable here closer to the time. Food available all day from the Footplate cafe. In addition BBQ from 12 midday. There will be live music - further details will appear here nearer the time. Sunday: Trains will run from 11am until 5pm. The timetable may be downloaded here closer to the time. There will be lots of pirate family fun with Captain Jack Sparrow.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
The End of Southern Steam Thursday 9th July 2020 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 a powerful ex-Southern Railway Pacific type steam locomotive from Waterloo to Yeovil. We continue to Weymouth diesel hauled before our steam locomotive hauls us back to London via Bournemouth. Our train leaves London Waterloo station at around 08:45 behind our splendid steam locomotive, 35018 British India Line. We pass through Clapham Junction, and continue along the South Western Main Line (SWML) with fast running expected from our steam locomotive, and then stop for further passengers at Woking and Basingstoke. From 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 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.
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
Travel Back in Time 10th July 2020 Come and celebrate our 30th Birthday and travel at same fares when we first opened We will operate Travel Back in time on Friday 10th July, our actual anniversary of opening where two Romney locos will be visiting and in action as well as all available BVR engines. 1990 fares will apply.
The Cumbrian Mountain Express Saturday 11th July 2020 The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about during the summer and autumn months. The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about during the summer and autumn 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 leave London Euston at around 07:10 with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Milton Keynes (where passengers from Watford Junction join by service train), 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. Here, we will change over our electric locomotive for today's steam locomotive, taken from the Carnforth pool. Leaving Carnforth, we pass the Brief Encounter cafe and 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. 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. Premier Dining not applicable from Preston. *Passengers from Watford Junction will travel to Milton Keynes by service train to join our train. **Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train.
30th Anniversary Gala 11th & 12th July 2020 Celebrating our 30th Birithday with intensive timetable and visiting engines Celebrating our 30th Birithday with intensive timetable and visiting engines. We will be operating an intensive timetable for our birthday weekend where two Romney locos will be visiting and in action as well as all available BVR engines. Travel on any train, any time - fares allow unlimited travel on day of issue so you can ride as many Locos as possible! This year is the first year that visiting locos Samson and Churchill have both been in ticket at the same time for a BVR anniversary.
35th Anniversary of Line Closure Weekend Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July 2020 PLEASE NOTE THE DATE OF THIS EVENT HAS CHANGED DUE TO ENGINEERING WORK AT OXTED VIADUCT. 6th July 1985... The end of the Spa Valley line... 35 years ago on 6th July 1985 the line between Tunbridge Wells Central and Eridge closed, many thought that was the end... Now the Spa Valley Railway is Tunbridge Wells' biggest tourist attraction carrying thousands of visitors per year through the glorious High Weald! To commemorate 35 years since the line closed we are operating our very own historic Class 207 DEMU 1317 between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge, with perhaps a surprise or two in store for this special occassion... Due to a variety of engineering work dates put in place, we can't operate to Eridge on the closest to the closure date weekend. We originally moved it back to June but then further engineering works were annouced so instead of taking it an unrealistic distance away from the orignal date we've settled with a weekend in July where we can still operate to Eridge on the Saturday. Full details are below. Class 207 DEMU 1317 Known as a 'Thumper' because of the engine note, 1317 is a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit built specifically to operate on the Oxted Line. It consists of 3 carriages with a driving cab at each end and in one carriage there is a 4 cylinder English Electric engine that provides the power. Back in the 1980s Tunbridge Wells West was a huge depot full of 'Thumpers' and 1317 along with others regularly ran trains along what is now the Spa Valley Railway, down to Uckfield and up to London. When our line closed there was still a need for these versatile units and up until 2004 they could regularly be seen operating to Uckfield. Preserved in 2004, two of 1317s carriages have been lovingly restored following major bodywork back to its 1985 British Rail Blue & Grey colours, complete with a fully overhauled interior. Ongoing at our Tunbridge Wells West depot is the restoration of 1317s middle carriage, often called 'the Centre Car' and many people ask us when will it return to service. Our volunteers are working every week on the return to traffic of this historic vehicle which when complete will make 1317 the only 3 car 'Thumper' in preservation, if time is on our side then there is a possibility (not a guarantee) it might operate during this event. Full details of our 35th Anniversary of Line Closure plans will be published in Spring 2020 but for now, make sure you save the latest dates! Saturday 11th July Join us for a day of pure Diesel Electric Multiple Unit action, just as it was back in July 1985, our train service will operate from Tunbridge Wells West to Eridge throughout the day, finishing up back at Tunbridge Wells West in the late evening, much like the units did in 1985. Sunday 12th July Due to engineering work the line between Birchden Junction and Eridge is closed on Sunday 12th July 2020 (ironic really!) so we are restricted to our section of line from Tunbridge Wells West to Birchden Junction, 4 miles instead of the usual 5. We will however be running an intensive timetable using our DEMU, Birchden Bank and even one of the Steam Engines hauling a train with the award winning bar car 'Kate' in the consist.
SEVERN VALLEY ENTERPRISE SATURDAY 11 JULY 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Crewe (07.00/23.00) Stafford (07.30/22.30) Lichfield Trent Valley (08.00/22.00) Tamworth (08.10/21.50) Nuneaton (08.30/21.30) Hinckley (08.40/21.20) Leicester (09.00/21.00) Loughborough (09.20/20.40) East Midlands Parkway (09.30/20.30) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure This is a truly amazing and unique steam hauled tour offering a very unusual journey from Crewe and through the Midlands to Kidderminster for a trip over the full length of the preserved Severn Valley Railway to Bridgnorth for a three-hour afternoon break. Upon departure from East Midlands stations we take the rarely used line between Sheet Stores Junction and Stenson Junction and after passing the beer brewing town of Burton-on-Trent we continue through Shenstone and towards Birmingham, thence past Soho Junction and through Stourbridge Junction to Kidderminster where we leave the main line and join the preserved Severn Valley Railway for a stunning 16 mile journey through the Wyre Forest as the line accompanies the pretty River Severn passing numerous beautifully restored stations to Bridgnorth. Bridgnorth - is two towns: The high town and the low town connected by the steepest inland funicular railway in Britain. The low town was once a thriving port along the banks of the River Severn, while the high town held the castle, the churches, and many fine 16th and 17th century mansions. The more energetic may amble up one of the seven sets of steps, or the steep old Cartway, where goods were once hauled to the market above. The carts are gone, but the markets remain. Antiques and local produce are specialities. What's left of the castle leans at an alarming angle. There is an iron footbridge connecting to the Severn Valley Railway Station. We return in the late afternoon and re-trace the outward journey but this time with the taxing and impressive 1 in 45 climb of Old Hill Bank as the locomotive works hard to haul our heavy train to the summit at Rowley Regis. The train is steam hauled throughout 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' - LNER A4 Pacific No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Railway Gala Weekend
Summer Steam Extravaganza Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July 2020 A weekend steam enthusiasts will not want to miss! With all available locomotives in service operating to a special timetable, shuttle trains and visiting steam attractions. Visiting locomotives will be making appearances from other 15 inch gauge railways, their identities will be revealed very soon on social media - keep checking our pages for updates! Travel behind a visiting locomotive or one of the home fleet on the full railway, taking advantage of gala rover tickets to jump on and off the train as many times as you like. Or ride behind one of the smaller engines on the Discovery Shuttle. Appreciate the model engineering skills of miniature locomotives on the demonstration 7 ? inch gauge railway at Lakeside Station. Marvel at the fantastic Model Railway Layouts in Griffin Hall, or the traction engines of all sizes on display outside. Entertainment will be provided by the delightful Fairground Organ and why not let the children try one of the traditional funfair rides on offer. For beer lovers, a delightful range of first class ales will be just the ticket from our award winning pub 'The Signal Box Inn'. Day rover tickets will be available and a very special timetable will be in operation.
The Pembroke Coast Express 2020 Sunday 12 July 20200 To Tenby and Pembroke Dock behind no. 35028 'Clan Line'. Joining Stations: Bristol Temple Meads, Severn Tunnel Junction, Newport & Cardiff To Tenby and Pembroke Dock along the Pembroke Coast behind no. 35028 'Clan Line', breaking new ground for this popular 'Southern' Railway steam locomotive. We take a westerly and undulating route past Cardiff, Bridgend and Port Talbot, before heading around the northern edge of Swansea to Llanelli, with industrial, rural and coastal views along the way. At Carmarthen we avoid the station and run direct to Whitland to take the graded single line branch to Tenby (1230/1550). You can enjoy a three hour afternoon break in this traditional seaside resort. Our train will continue beyond Tenby to'Pembroke Dock, the end of the branch line, where 'Clan Line' and the coaches will be serviced, offering an alternative break of about two hours here. Later in the day we will re-trace our outward route , but this time going into Carmarthen to reverse and detach the diesel loco that will have brought us back from Tenby. From here 'Clan Line' will head us all the way back to Bristol, with a different route through Swansea, to conclude what we hope will be a lovely summer's day outing. Option A - TENBY (1230/1550): A traditional seaside resort with glorious beaches, a warm atmosphere and fine Victorian houses, a the 15th century church, and walks along the beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Option B - PEMBROKE DOCK: A fine Victorian town with a grid-like street pattern and impressive buildings with connections to its illustrious industrial past. Today the former dockyard is a commercial port and a gateway by ferry to Ireland Motive power is expected to be a steam locomotive No. 35028 'Clan Line' (subject to last minute availability). The carriages will be mark 1s.
The Waverley Sunday 12th July 2020 This steam hauled train 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. There is also the option of visiting the Cumbrian market town of Appleby or the border city of Carlisle. 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 steam locomotive No.60103 Flying Scotsman at 09:30 and heads for Church Fenton where we take the direct route to Leeds. We stop to pick up more passengers at Leeds, Shipley, Keighley and Skipton. There will be a stop 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. We cross the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel. We pass through the highest station open in England at Dent, travelling through tunnels and crossing valleys on numerous viaducts. There are magnificent views across the Fells to the Pennine Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough as we make the final ascent to Ais Gill Summit (1169 feet). We travel high above the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen to Appleby, where our locomotive takes on water. Passengers who choose to alight at Appleby will have around four hours to visit this historic market town that lies in a loop of the picturesque river Eden. Passengers choosing to continue to Carlisle will have over one and a half 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 at around 16:15 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 and to pick up those passengers who spent the afternoon there. We continue our journey back to York, stopping at Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Leeds, and York, to set down passengers.
30th Anniversary Gala 11th & 12th July 2020 Celebrating our 30th Birithday with intensive timetable and visiting engines Celebrating our 30th Birithday with intensive timetable and visiting engines. We will be operating an intensive timetable for our birthday weekend where two Romney locos will be visiting and in action as well as all available BVR engines. Travel on any train, any time - fares allow unlimited travel on day of issue so you can ride as many Locos as possible! This year is the first year that visiting locos Samson and Churchill have both been in ticket at the same time for a BVR anniversary.
35th Anniversary of Line Closure Weekend Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July 2020 PLEASE NOTE THE DATE OF THIS EVENT HAS CHANGED DUE TO ENGINEERING WORK AT OXTED VIADUCT. 6th July 1985... The end of the Spa Valley line... 35 years ago on 6th July 1985 the line between Tunbridge Wells Central and Eridge closed, many thought that was the end... Now the Spa Valley Railway is Tunbridge Wells' biggest tourist attraction carrying thousands of visitors per year through the glorious High Weald! To commemorate 35 years since the line closed we are operating our very own historic Class 207 DEMU 1317 between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge, with perhaps a surprise or two in store for this special occassion... Due to a variety of engineering work dates put in place, we can't operate to Eridge on the closest to the closure date weekend. We originally moved it back to June but then further engineering works were annouced so instead of taking it an unrealistic distance away from the orignal date we've settled with a weekend in July where we can still operate to Eridge on the Saturday. Full details are below. Class 207 DEMU 1317 Known as a 'Thumper' because of the engine note, 1317 is a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit built specifically to operate on the Oxted Line. It consists of 3 carriages with a driving cab at each end and in one carriage there is a 4 cylinder English Electric engine that provides the power. Back in the 1980s Tunbridge Wells West was a huge depot full of 'Thumpers' and 1317 along with others regularly ran trains along what is now the Spa Valley Railway, down to Uckfield and up to London. When our line closed there was still a need for these versatile units and up until 2004 they could regularly be seen operating to Uckfield. Preserved in 2004, two of 1317s carriages have been lovingly restored following major bodywork back to its 1985 British Rail Blue & Grey colours, complete with a fully overhauled interior. Ongoing at our Tunbridge Wells West depot is the restoration of 1317s middle carriage, often called 'the Centre Car' and many people ask us when will it return to service. Our volunteers are working every week on the return to traffic of this historic vehicle which when complete will make 1317 the only 3 car 'Thumper' in preservation, if time is on our side then there is a possibility (not a guarantee) it might operate during this event. Full details of our 35th Anniversary of Line Closure plans will be published in Spring 2020 but for now, make sure you save the latest dates! Saturday 11th July Join us for a day of pure Diesel Electric Multiple Unit action, just as it was back in July 1985, our train service will operate from Tunbridge Wells West to Eridge throughout the day, finishing up back at Tunbridge Wells West in the late evening, much like the units did in 1985. Sunday 12th July Due to engineering work the line between Birchden Junction and Eridge is closed on Sunday 12th July 2020 (ironic really!) so we are restricted to our section of line from Tunbridge Wells West to Birchden Junction, 4 miles instead of the usual 5. We will however be running an intensive timetable using our DEMU, Birchden Bank and even one of the Steam Engines hauling a train with the award winning bar car 'Kate' in the consist.
Summer Steam Extravaganza Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July 2020 A weekend steam enthusiasts will not want to miss! With all available locomotives in service operating to a special timetable, shuttle trains and visiting steam attractions. Visiting locomotives will be making appearances from other 15 inch gauge railways, their identities will be revealed very soon on social media - keep checking our pages for updates! Travel behind a visiting locomotive or one of the home fleet on the full railway, taking advantage of gala rover tickets to jump on and off the train as many times as you like. Or ride behind one of the smaller engines on the Discovery Shuttle. Appreciate the model engineering skills of miniature locomotives on the demonstration 7 ? inch gauge railway at Lakeside Station. Marvel at the fantastic Model Railway Layouts in Griffin Hall, or the traction engines of all sizes on display outside. Entertainment will be provided by the delightful Fairground Organ and why not let the children try one of the traditional funfair rides on offer. For beer lovers, a delightful range of first class ales will be just the ticket from our award winning pub 'The Signal Box Inn'. Day rover tickets will be available and a very special timetable will be in operation.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
THE FELLSMAN WEDNESDAY 15 JULY 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Crewe (07.35/21.30) Warrington Bank Quay (08.15/20.30) Wigan North Western (08.30/20.05) Leyland (08.50/19.45) Blackburn (09.10/19.20) Clitheroe (09.35/18.50) Hellifield (10.40/17.35) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure The popular 'Fellsman' runs again in summer 2020 for its 12th season offering a 300-mile return steam hauled journey from Crewe on the spectacular 'Settle to Carlisle Railway' as we travel through the Yorkshire Dales and climb high towards the roof of England. With its 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 - or perhaps alight at Appleby and take an optional tour of the Lake District by vintage bus with a cruise on beautiful Ullswater. 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 and following a stop for water at Appleby 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 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'.
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
The Caledonian Join Tornado for a wonderful day out from the West Midlands to Scotland's second city. Steam north to discover Glasgow's vibrant city centre packed with shops, museums and bars. Saturday 18th July Join us from: Birmingham New Street, Tame Bridge Parkway, Wolverhampton, Stafford and Crewe. Our tour departs from Birmingham New Street behind an electric locomotive and is routed via Wolverhampton and Stafford before arriving into Crewe where Tornado will be waiting. We leave Crewe and follow the route of the West Coast Main Line. Whilst away from more familiar A1 territory, it was a regular route for the class when three were allocated to Polmadie shed in Glasgow and worked south. After passing through Warrington and Preston we will pause at Carnforth for our locomotive to take on water. Once underway again we will tackle the long climb to Shap Summit via the formidable Grayrigg bank, the beautiful Lune Gorge and the steep Shap Bank itself. The scenery unfolds across the Lakes to the west and the Pennine ridge to the east during the climb and the descent to Carlisle. We then cross into Scotland and race through the borders before taking water at Lockerbie. From there we again pick up speed before ascending the long ten mile climb to Beattock Summit, a real test for any locomotive. After cresting the summit we can enjoy the scenery further as we run downhill and across the open spaces toward Carstairs where we continue onto Glasgow via Motherwell and across the Clyde into the award winning station. After a break of around three hours our electric locomotive will be on hand to whisk our train south to Birmingham following the outward route.
The Shakespeare Limited Saturday 18 July 2020 To Stratford-upon-Avon with no. 35028 'Clan Line'. Joining Stations: Eastleigh, Romsey, Salisbury, Warminster, Westbury, Trowbridge, Bradford-on-Avon, Bath Spa & Bristol Temple Meads Not for many a year have we enjoyed a steam hauled excursion to Stratford-upon-Avon, so let's go and have a fabulous day out! Featuring the Southern Railway designed no. 35028 'Clan Line', which was built at Eastleigh in 1938 and is now lovingly cared for by the Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society. We start off diesel hauled Eastleigh to Bristol, where 'Clan Line' will take over. The outward routing is via Swindon, Oxford and Leamington Spa, arriving at Stratford-upon-Avon around 1230, giving you about three hours to explore this famous old Warwickshire town, set on the River Avon and birth place of William Shakespeare - there are lots of attractions to visit, plus boat trips, eateries and shops to enjoy. The return journey continues our circular itinerary as we travel over mainly ex-GWR metals via Henley-in-Arden, the heart of Birmingham, the Worcester and through Gloucestershire before arrival back at Temple Meads, where the diesel will take over to complete our homeward journey. Motive power is expected to be a steam locomotive No. 35028 'Clan Line' (subject to last minute availability) from Bristol Temple Meads to Stratford-upon-Avon and return, with diesel haulage from Eastleigh to Bristol Temple Meads and back.. The carriages will be mark 1s
ENGLISH RIVIERA STATESMAN SATURDAY 18 JULY 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Peterborough (06.30/23.50) Huntingdon (06.45/23.40) St Neots (06.55/23.30) Hitchin (07.25/23.00) Stevenage (07.35/22.50) Welwyn Garden City (07.45/22.40) Potters Bar (08.00/22.25) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change Join us for a wonderful day out with a journey along the Vale of the White Horse, then passing through pretty Somerset with its apple orchards and around the beautiful Devon coast. Time is available to discover the many charms of the 'English Riviera' for an afternoon sightseeing break of around three hours in the seaside resorts of either Torquay or Paignton - Passing Powderham Castle and travelling alongside the stunning Exe Estuary with its pretty fishing boats and views across to the Jurassic coast our train takes the exciting sea wall line as we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock and along beaches and coves at Dawlish with the sea keeping company all the way to Newton Abbot. There is a choice of two destinations in which to relax before 'The Statesman' returns homeward in the late afternoon. Torquay - One of Britain's top tourist resorts and a jewel in the English Rivera's crown made popular by the Victorians with sparkling white Villas perched on verdant hilltops overlooking pure sandy beaches and an azure sea it matches anything you'll find on the French Riviera. There are beautiful gardens and a palm tree lined promenade leading to a lively harbour and international marina with an abundance of pavement cafes, pubs, shops and quality restaurants. Paignton - There is no shortage of things to do with gorgeous long sandy blue flag beaches, paddler friendly waters, a traditional pier and seafront alive with holiday fun, alternatively take a steam train ride (payable locally) along one of the most idyllic stretches of coastline in the country and through the woodland estate once owned by Agatha Christie to the riverside station at Kingswear.
The Cumbrian Mountain Express Saturday 18th July 2020 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 by the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway line and returns via the West Coast Main Line over Shap. 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, steam hauled by a locomotive from the Carnforth pool, just after 07:00 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. We head north, leaving the WCML at Farington Junction, and call at Blackburn, where passengers who have travelled by service train from Preston join our train. We continue to Clitheroe and then stop at Hellifield for our steam locomotive to take on water. We join the Settle & Carlisle Railway at Settle Junction and then begin one of Britain's most arduous climbs, a total of 15 miles mainly at a gradient of 1 in 100. This will be a tough test for our locomotive, which we shall see - and hear - working very hard! There are magnificent views of the Pennine 'Three Peaks' of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. We cross the spectacular Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel. We pass the highest railway station in England at Dent, crossing over viaducts and passing through tunnels amongst the Yorkshire Dales as we make the final climb to Ais Gill Summit, 1169 feet above sea level. We travel above the valley at Mallerstang and descend to Kirkby Stephen and Appleby, where we stop for our locomotive to take on water. We pass through the Eden Valley and arrive in the Border City of Carlisle shortly before 13:00. There will be more than three hours in Carlisle, providing ample time to explore this ancient city. Our train returns to Liverpool, steam hauled, via the steeply graded route over Shap summit on the WCML. We stop to set down passengers at Preston, Wigan, St. Helens Central, Broad Green and Liverpool Lime Street where we arrive around 20:00. Our train continues to Runcorn and Crewe diesel hauled. Premier Dining not available from Preston. *Passengers from Preston travel by service train to Blackburn on the outward journey. **Passengers for Blackburn travel by service train from Preston on the return journey.
Celebrating 60th anniv of LCLRs opening - S
The Shakespeare Express 2020 Summer Sundays 19th July ~ 26th July ~ 2nd August ~ 9th August ~ 16th August ~ 23rd August ~ 30th August ~ 6th September Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford Upon Avon and return Enjoy a return trip to world famous Stratford upon Avon with hot breakfast rolls on the way there. In Stratford you have around 4 hours to explore before we take you back to Birmingham Snow Hill. Treat yourself to a packed lunch picnic box containing a selection of sandwiches, cake and scones with jam and cream to unpack in Stratford or eat on the journey back to Birmingham. Return Ticket Prices: Standard Class ?35 per person; First Class ?45 per person plus the cost of at least one meal choice. Every Standard Class adult ticket holder can take a child of 12 years or under with them for free. Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham Snow Hill and return A steam trip to central Birmingham and back, enjoying a picnic lunch on the way. Choose between 'The Castle' or 'The Hall' hampers for two persons, both of which are presented in a traditional wicker hamper for you to unpack, enjoy and keep. 'The Castle' includes a premium selection of freshly prepared seasonal dishes; while 'The Hall' contains a selection of fresh sandwiches, cake and scones with clotted cream and jam.
The Royal Duchy Sunday 19th July 2020 Prices from: ?119 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 locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland at around 08:45 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, diesel 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. We leave Par steam hauled by Duchess of Sutherland at around 17:45 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 en route. If the St. Blazey turntable is re-opened we will revert to steam haulage throughout on both these trips.
The North Wales Coast Express Sunday 19th July 2020 Prices from: ?99 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.
Fleetwood Tram Sunday
The Welsh Mountaineer Tuesday 21st July 2020 This day trip provides a rare opportunity for passengers from Lancashire and Cheshire to travel by steam train to Blaenau Ffestiniog, in the heart of the spectacular Snowdonia National Park. The route is via Chester, providing connections from other parts of the country, and along the scenic North Wales Coast Line. From Llandudno Junction, our steam train heads up the beautiful Conwy Valley to the mountains at Blaenau Ffestiniog. Our train is steam hauled by a locomotive from the Carnforth pool and leaves Preston at around 06:50 and heads up the West Coast Main Line to Warrington Bank Quay, where we stop to pick up more passengers. We continue to Frodsham, where further passengers may join the train and our steam locomotive takes on water. Chester is our final pick up point for passengers and as we leave, we pass through the ancient city walls and cross the river Dee into Wales. We continue westwards beside the Dee Estuary and then travel along the delightful Irish Sea coastline, which is well known for its beaches. We pass through the coastal resorts of Prestatyn and Rhyl. Approaching Colwyn Bay, we enjoy wonderful views of the Little Great Orme. At Llandudno Junction station, we change direction of travel as our steam locomotive needs to 'run round' our train for the run up the Conwy Valley. We set off for Blaenau Ffestiniog behind our steam locomotive, following the pretty Conwy Valley through to Llanrwst. We enter the Snowdonia National Park before Betws-y-Coed. The next part of our journey is extra special; we enter the very heart of the Welsh mountains as our train climbs up the very steep gradients to Blaenau Ffestiniog Tunnel. At over two miles long, this impressive piece of engineering is the longest single-track tunnel in the country. We pass through the substantial waste heaps of an old slate quarry before arriving at Blaenau Ffestiniog. Blaenau Ffestiniog Railway station is the terminus of the Conwy Valley Line and also the adjacent narrow gauge Ffestiniog Railway. We stay for almost three hours in Blaenau Ffestiniog, a town known as the Victorian slate capital of the world. The industry declined so that only the Llechwedd Slate Caverns, a former slate mine, remain today as a popular tourist attraction open to visitors. Our train leaves Blaenau Ffestiniog, steam hauled, at around 16:00 and returns to Llandudno Junction. After changing direction of travel we continue eastwards, still steam hauled, stopping at Chester, Frodsham, and Warrington Bank Quay to set down passengers. Our final calling point is Preston and so ends a memorable day out to Snowdonia.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
The Aberdonian NEW PROGRAMME OF TOURS - Steam from Edinburgh to Aberdeen Let the 'The Aberdonian' whisk you away as we take in some of the best that Scotland has to offer, both on train and off. Crossing the Forth Bridge, the train runs along the coast for much of its route making it an unrivalled way to experience Scotland. In Aberdeen there is a chance to explore this historic city, or take one of our off train excursions that include a castle or distillery visit. On board the train you can sit back in comfortable seats and large windows through which to admire the scenery. Our friendly team will look after you, and if you choose to dine with us you will be treated to fine Scottish fare. Come and travel with us as Tornado runs regularly over this historic route. *New* Dates available in 2020: Thursday 23rd July - Thursday 3rd September - Thursday 10th September. Prices start from ?99.00
The Dorset Coast Express Thursday 23rd July 2020 Prices from: ?99 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 at around 08:45 steam hauled by steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland 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. We leave the South Western Main Line at Worting Junction and take the Bournemouth Line, heading south through Winchester and Southampton. 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 around 13:45 and have almost 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 hauled by U Class steam locomotive No.31806 at around 16:35 as far as Southampton* with our main steam locomotive banking on the rear, from here the main steam locomotive will take over for the remainder of the return journey. We continue through Andover to Basingstoke, where we stop to set down passengers and for our steam locomotive to take on water. We then continue to Woking and Staines, where we stop to set down passengers, and on to our final destination at London Victoria. *In the event of a high fire risk the section from Weymouth to Southampton on the return leg would be diesel hauled.
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
Sixties Weekend Sat 25 & Sun 26 July - live music, steam and diesel trains recall the swinging 60s Relive the final days of steam and the introduction of 'modern' diesels, come dressed in the distinctive fashions of the era and dance to a live band playing new-fangled 'pop' music - more details coming soon. Don't miss the opportunity to get hands-on and control trains using the 1960s technology of the Swindon Panel. The equipment was once the heart of Swindon signalbox has been saved and restored so, guided by one of our experts, you can keep trains running safely and to time on a virtual Great Western mainline!
The Exe-Parrett Saturday 25 July 2020 The Exe-Parrett To Exeter with no. 35028 'Clan Line'. Joining Stations: Stourbridge Junction, Kidderminster, Droitwich Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill, Cheltenham Spa, Cam & Dursely, Bristol Parkway, Bristol Temple Meads & Bath Spa A lovely day out behind no. 35028 'Clan Line' to the west country, featuring three good climbs along the way to test this popular steam locomotive - Honiton, Whiteball and Brewham. This is a re-run of a popular Pathfinder excursion from way back in October 1994. The train name struck a definite chord with fans of Monty Python (by pure co-incidence!), but in fact reflects two important rivers in Somerset and Devon that are crossed during our day. After the pick-ups we swap the diesel traction at Bristol Temple Meads and take the powerful Merchant Navy steamer no. 35028 'Clan Line', for a grand circular tour to Exeter, travelling out via Westbury and Honiton, with a break en-route at the Yeovil Railway Centre. Arrival into Exeter (Central) is expected around 1300, allowing a three hour break in this old cathedral city, with many interesting buildings at its heart. The return route behind 'Clan Line' takes us through Taunton, Castle Cary and Bath to Bristol, where the diesel loco will take over to complete the day. Search ? Motive power is expected to be a steam locomotive No. 35028 'Clan Line' (subject to last minute availability) from Bristol Temple Meads to Exeter and return, with diesel haulage from Stourbridge to Bristol Temple Meads and back.. The carriages will be mark 1s.
The Hadrian Saturday 25th July 2020 Prices from: ?144 Breathtaking landscape and nostalgic steam locomotive haulage combine in one of our most exciting and varied tours by special train. Our train will be hauled from Doncaster to Carlisle and from Carlisle to Darlington by steam locomotive No.60103 Flying Scotsman. Passengers will experience the magnificent and world famous Settle to Carlisle Railway, travel on the 182-year old Tyne Valley Line, and speed along the East Coast Main Line. Our train leaves Derby, diesel hauled, early in the morning and stops to pick up more passengers at Long Eaton, Beeston, Ilkeston, Alfreton and Chesterfield. We continue through to Doncaster, where we change locomotives, with steam locomotive No.60103 Flying Scotsman replacing the diesel locomotive on our train for the onward journey, via Leeds, over the spectacular Settle to Carlisle Railway. Between Hellifield and Carlisle there is scarcely a level mile but our powerful steam locomotive will negotiate the 78 miles of rising and falling gradients in truly classic style. Settle Junction marks the beginning of one of Britain's most arduous climbs, a total of 15 miles, mainly at a gradient of 1 in 100. This will be a tough test for our locomotive, which we will see - and hear - working very hard! We cross the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel. The route runs high above valleys, and over numerous viaducts to Dent, the highest main line station open in England. We make the final climb to Ais Gill Summit, all 1,169 feet of it, the dramatic peak of our journey! We descend through the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen to Appleby, where our steam locomotive pauses to take on water. We can expect a fast run downhill from Appleby along the Eden Valley to Carlisle, where we arrive at around 14:00. There will be time to explore the 'Border' city with its many attractions that include the castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum, the pedestrianised English Street and the Lanes Shopping Centre. We leave Carlisle at around 16:00 and take the scenic Tyne Valley Line towards Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The Newcastle & Carlisle Railway opened this line in June 1838 and it runs eastwards, following the river Tyne just a few miles south of Hadrian's Wall. We pass through Wylam, the birthplace of railway engineer George Stephenson, before we join the East Coast Main Line at Low Fell. We can expect some fast running as we head south through Durham to Darlington, where reluctantly, we shall have to say farewell to Flying Scotsman. Our diesel locomotive will now continue to York, home to the National Railway Museum, and back to our outward stations before arriving in Derby late evening.
The West Somerset Steam Express Saturday 25th July 2020 This series of trains from London Paddington to Minehead features haulage by two steam locomotives in one day. An express 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 at around 08:05, steam hauled by Princess Coronation class steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland 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 more than 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.
Sixties Weekend Sat 25 & Sun 26 July - live music, steam and diesel trains recall the swinging 60s Relive the final days of steam and the introduction of 'modern' diesels, come dressed in the distinctive fashions of the era and dance to a live band playing new-fangled 'pop' music - more details coming soon. Don't miss the opportunity to get hands-on and control trains using the 1960s technology of the Swindon Panel. The equipment was once the heart of Swindon signalbox has been saved and restored so, guided by one of our experts, you can keep trains running safely and to time on a virtual Great Western mainline!
The Shakespeare Express 2020 Summer Sundays 19th July ~ 26th July ~ 2nd August ~ 9th August ~ 16th August ~ 23rd August ~ 30th August ~ 6th September Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford Upon Avon and return Enjoy a return trip to world famous Stratford upon Avon with hot breakfast rolls on the way there. In Stratford you have around 4 hours to explore before we take you back to Birmingham Snow Hill. Treat yourself to a packed lunch picnic box containing a selection of sandwiches, cake and scones with jam and cream to unpack in Stratford or eat on the journey back to Birmingham. Return Ticket Prices: Standard Class ?35 per person; First Class ?45 per person plus the cost of at least one meal choice. Every Standard Class adult ticket holder can take a child of 12 years or under with them for free. Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham Snow Hill and return A steam trip to central Birmingham and back, enjoying a picnic lunch on the way. Choose between 'The Castle' or 'The Hall' hampers for two persons, both of which are presented in a traditional wicker hamper for you to unpack, enjoy and keep. 'The Castle' includes a premium selection of freshly prepared seasonal dishes; while 'The Hall' contains a selection of fresh sandwiches, cake and scones with clotted cream and jam.
ENGLISH RIVIERA EXPRESS SUNDAY 26 JULY 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Bristol Temple Meads (08.40/20.40) Bath Spa (09.00/20.20) Bradford on Avon (09.20/20.00) Westbury (09.35/19.45) Frome (09.45/19.35) *Taunton (10.40/19.00) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure We recreate one of the great steam hauled holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a journey around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resorts of Paignton or Dartmouth. The train departs from Bristol hauled by one of our famous steam locomotives for the journey across the lush Somerset levels, then through the remote Blackdown hills and down the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading along 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 and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel through the woodland estate once owned by Agatha Christie, then 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 into 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 - why not take a leisurely cruise on the River Dart or explore Dartmouth Castle before perhaps indulging in a delicious Devon cream tea. There should be around four hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled throughout 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' - LNER A4 Pacific No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Open Days We open at 10:00 and operate our frequent train service between 10:30 and 16:30.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
PEMBROKE COAST EXPRESS WEDNESDAY 29 JULY 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Exeter St David's (06.50/21.55) Tiverton Parkway (07.05/21.40) Taunton (07.20/21.20) Weston super Mare (07.50/20.50) Bristol Temple Meads (09.05/19.55) Patchway (09.20/19.35) Severn Tunnel Jct (09.35/19.20) Newport (09.55/19.00) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure Enjoy a summer day tour to glorious South Wales as our train is diesel hauled from Exeter to Bristol and then following a locomotive change we are steam hauled through the Severn Tunnel and into Wales, travelling through Cardiff and via Bridgend and Port Talbot we take the Swansea District Line to run beside the Bristol Channel and around the coast offering splendid views across Carmarthen Bay to the beautiful Pembrokeshire countryside with miles of sand dunes and vast golden beaches. We arrive into Carmarthen for an afternoon break whilst our steam locomotive is turned, watered and coaled for the return journey. Carmarthen is an attractive town set on the banks of the River Towy, with a pedestrianised shopping area and a large modern covered market. From the old Quay, narrow winding lanes lead up between old houses to the gatehouse of a ruined 14th-c Norman castle. One of the oldest buildings in the town is 12th-c St Peter's Church. The many splendid houses beside the church and the elegant buildings around the Guildhall Square, testify to the town's distinguished past. The River Towy (Welsh: Afon Tywi), the second largest in Wales, flows on down to the south coast, leading out into the Bay of Carmarthen, which is lined with many fine beaches. These include the wide stretch of Pendine Sands, where in the 1920s it was the scene of several thrilling attempts at the land speed record. With our locomotive refreshed we head homeward through Llanelli with views of the Gower and at Swansea take the line through Cockett and the Vale of Glamorgan line. 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' - LNER A4 Pacific No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Manx Heritage Transport Festival 2020
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
Manx Heritage Transport Festival 2020
YORKSHIRE COAST STATESMAN FRIDAY 31 JULY 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Westbury (06.00/00.20) Melksham (06.15/00.05) Chippenham (06.35/23.50) Swindon (07.05/23.20) Oxford (08.00/22.25) Banbury (08.35/21.50) Leamington Spa (09.00/21.25) Warwick Parkway (09.10/21.05) Solihull (09.45/20.30) Tamworth (10.25/19.50) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change This very special tour offers a delightful journey through the heart of England and into Yorkshire to visit the quintessential seaside resort of Scarborough. Passing through historic York we cross the River Ouse with magnificent views of the Minster towering over the city, then cross the Vale of York and follow the River Derwent past Kirkham Abbey with views of the North Yorkshire Moors and through the historic market town of Malton to delightful Scarborough for an afternoon break of around three hours. Scarborough was Britain's first resort and has been welcoming visitors for 360 years with its two long curved sandy bays, ancient Castle, beautiful gardens, Victorian Cliff Railway and historic harbour surrounded with numerous fresh seafood stalls there is plenty to see and do - don't forget to sample the legendary Yorkshire fish n chips rightly regarded as the best in Britain.
Manx Heritage Transport Festival 2020
Newark and Notts Showground
Manx Heritage Transport Festival 2020
The Shakespeare Express 2020 Summer Sundays 19th July ~ 26th July ~ 2nd August ~ 9th August ~ 16th August ~ 23rd August ~ 30th August ~ 6th September Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford Upon Avon and return Enjoy a return trip to world famous Stratford upon Avon with hot breakfast rolls on the way there. In Stratford you have around 4 hours to explore before we take you back to Birmingham Snow Hill. Treat yourself to a packed lunch picnic box containing a selection of sandwiches, cake and scones with jam and cream to unpack in Stratford or eat on the journey back to Birmingham. Return Ticket Prices: Standard Class ?35 per person; First Class ?45 per person plus the cost of at least one meal choice. Every Standard Class adult ticket holder can take a child of 12 years or under with them for free. Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham Snow Hill and return A steam trip to central Birmingham and back, enjoying a picnic lunch on the way. Choose between 'The Castle' or 'The Hall' hampers for two persons, both of which are presented in a traditional wicker hamper for you to unpack, enjoy and keep. 'The Castle' includes a premium selection of freshly prepared seasonal dishes; while 'The Hall' contains a selection of fresh sandwiches, cake and scones with clotted cream and jam.
The Weymouth Seaside Express Sunday 2nd August 2020 A trip down memory lane awaits those who join this special train, which recreates the days of seaside excursions run by British Railways in the 1950s. The train will be hauled by a steam locomotive that will evoke the past and complete this nostalgic experience. Our destination is the attractive seaside town of Weymouth - a traditional English seaside resort that has managed to preserve much of its charm. This is a lovely outing for a summer day. Our special train leaves Bristol Temple Meads at around 08:20, hauled by our steam locomotive 46233 Duchess of Sutherland and heads eastwards. We stop to pick up passengers at Keynsham and Bath. We then take the route up the picturesque Avon Valley, travelling southwards to Trowbridge and Westbury, where we make stops to pick up more passengers. We head westwards from Westbury, pausing briefly at Frome, before continuing along the West of England main line to Bruton. At Castle Cary, we leave the main line and head south on the single track Weymouth Branch. We stop at Yeovil Pen Mill for our steam locomotive to take on water, and then there follows a long steep climb through the Dorset Hills up to the summit at Evershot Tunnel. Our steam locomotive will be working flat out on this exhilarating climb. It is mainly downhill from Evershot Summit through Maiden Newton, and the picturesque town of Dorchester, to Weymouth. There will be around five hours in Weymouth to explore this much-loved south coast seaside resort. It is located on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has a beautifully wide sandy beach near to the railway station. Other attractions include the Old Harbour, Brewers Quay, shopping village and Nothe Fort, where there are spectacular views over both Weymouth and Portland harbours. Open top buses operate to the Isle of Portland, where there is a castle and lighthouse, and there are boat trips from Weymouth Harbour around Portland Harbour. We leave Weymouth for our return journey at around 16:30 and head north up the steep Bincombe Bank (1 in 50) to Dorchester. Later we climb up to Evershot Summit from the south side before the descent to Yeovil Pen Mill. We stop at Westbury, Trowbridge, Bath and Keynsham to set down passengers. Finally we arrive at Bristol Temple Meads where we say goodbye to our steam locomotive.
ENGLISH RIVIERA EXPRESS SUNDAY 2 AUGUST 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Bristol Temple Meads (09.00/20.25) Yatton (09.25/20.00) Weston super Mare (09.40/19.40) Bridgwater (10.00/19.20) *Taunton (10.40/19.00) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure We recreate one of the great steam hauled holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a journey around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of the pretty 'English Riviera' resorts of Paignton or Dartmouth. The train departs from Bristol hauled by one of our famous steam locomotives for the journey across the lush Somerset levels, then through the remote Blackdown hills and down the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading along 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 and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel through the woodland estate once owned by Agatha Christie, then 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 into 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 - why not take a leisurely cruise on the River Dart or explore Dartmouth Castle before perhaps indulging in a delicious Devon cream tea. There should be around four hours at leisure before we return in the late afternoon. The train is steam hauled throughout 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' - LNER A4 Pacific No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Manx Heritage Transport Festival 2020
Vintage Bus Days Free vintage bus ride around Alresford On the first Sunday of the month from May to October a FREE vintage bus service operates from Alresford Station. You do not need to purchase a train ticket to ride this service. The vintage bus leaves Alresford Station on a circular route through Bishop's Sutton at the following times on a trip lasting 20 minutes: 11.30 12.00 12.30 13.00 13.30 then 14.30 15.00 15.30 16.00 Unfortunately, due to their age these buses do not have provision for wheelchairs. This vintage bus service is operated by the Medstead Depot Omnibus Group, who are one of three groups under the Working Omnibus Museum Project Ltd, and their buses frequently visit running days and rallies around the South. MDOG is part of a charity established in the late 1980's which provides a storage depot for 18 vintage buses originally running bus services in the south of England. The buses are owned and maintained by individuals or small groups.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
The Woodman, Birmingham
WELSH BORDERS EXPRESS WEDNESDAY 5 AUGUST 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Exeter St David's (06.50/22.10) Tiverton Parkway (07.05/21.55) Taunton (07.20/21.40) Weston super Mare (07.50/21.10) Bristol Temple Meads (08.50/20.10) Patchway (09.10/19.50) Severn Tunnel Jct (09.30/19.30) Cwmbran (10.00/19.00) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure 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 Shropshire countryside dividing England and Wales. Passing through the Severn Tunnel we take the fast line to Maindee Junction where we turn north and crossing the River Usk there are 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 it was known in Victorian times as 'Little Switzerland' - we then soon arrive into Shrewsbury for an afternoon break. Shrewsbury - founded by the Saxons and most extensively developed by the Tudors, 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've 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. 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' - LNER A4 Pacific No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
The Kentish Belle Thursday 6th August 2020 This day trip by steam train provides an interesting day out to the historic city of Canterbury and the popular north Kent coast resorts. We follow a rambling route across Kent to Canterbury West, where you can opt to visit this famous cathedral city. The Kentish Belle then continues to Ramsgate, Margate, Broadstairs and terminates at Faversham. You have the option to detrain at any of these attractive destinations. The Kentish Belle will leave London Victoria station steam hauled in the morning and thread its way across the south London suburban lines through Bromley South, where we will join the Maidstone East line. Cutting across central Kent, we will reach Ashford where we take the line to Canterbury West. Canterbury is a world famous cathedral city. It was a pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages. Ancient walls, originally built by the Romans, encircle its medieval centre with cobbled streets and timber-framed houses. Canterbury Cathedral, founded 597 A.D., is the headquarters of the Church of England. We continue across Thanet to the coastal resort of Ramsgate, a popular seaside resort and a busy ferry terminal for ferries to Ostende and Boulogne. Alternatively, stay aboard and alight at Broadstairs, with its magnificent horse shoe shaped bay which is the main attraction. Margate is a busy seaside resort that has all the trappings to provide entertainment in all weathers, and a wide beach with a sweeping promenade. You have the option to continue to our destination at Faversham, a town famous for its maritime history. It is the oldest market town in the country and recorded in the Domesday Book and is located on a winding creek. By 1900, and after 400 years of manufacturing gunpowder for famous battles such as Trafalgar and Waterloo, Faversham had grown to be the centre of the nation's explosives industry. With an amazing array of independent shops, regular markets, walking and a reputation for fine foods, Faversham is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a short break. We retrace our earlier route back to Canterbury, picking up at each set down station, before continuing back to Ashford. We join the main line to Tonbridge this time, where you will see the orchards and characteristic Oast house of Kent. We return to London Victoria by way of Sevenoaks and Bromley South to conclude a variable-option day in delightful Kent.
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
Diamond Anniversary - Steaming Through 60 7th - 9th August 2020 Bluebell Railway is turning 60 years old in 2020! Help celebrate our volunteer (and staff!) achievements from over the last 60 years with a packed weekend of displays, activities, music, festivities and, of course, steam engines. A celebration of what Bluebell Railway does best for the whole family!
Diamond Anniversary - Steaming Through 60 7th - 9th August 2020 Bluebell Railway is turning 60 years old in 2020! Help celebrate our volunteer (and staff!) achievements from over the last 60 years with a packed weekend of displays, activities, music, festivities and, of course, steam engines. A celebration of what Bluebell Railway does best for the whole family!
The Cumbrian Mountain Express Saturday 8th August 2020 Prices from: ?99 he Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about during the summer and autumn months. The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about during the summer and autumn 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 leave London Euston at around 07:10 with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Milton Keynes (where passengers from Watford Junction join by service train), 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. Here, we will change over our electric locomotive for today's steam locomotive, taken from the Carnforth pool. Leaving Carnforth, we pass the Brief Encounter cafe and 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. 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. Premier Dining not applicable from Preston. *Passengers from Watford Junction will travel to Milton Keynes by service train to join our train. **Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
The Shakespeare Express 2020 Summer Sundays 19th July ~ 26th July ~ 2nd August ~ 9th August ~ 16th August ~ 23rd August ~ 30th August ~ 6th September Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford Upon Avon and return Enjoy a return trip to world famous Stratford upon Avon with hot breakfast rolls on the way there. In Stratford you have around 4 hours to explore before we take you back to Birmingham Snow Hill. Treat yourself to a packed lunch picnic box containing a selection of sandwiches, cake and scones with jam and cream to unpack in Stratford or eat on the journey back to Birmingham. Return Ticket Prices: Standard Class ?35 per person; First Class ?45 per person plus the cost of at least one meal choice. Every Standard Class adult ticket holder can take a child of 12 years or under with them for free. Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham Snow Hill and return A steam trip to central Birmingham and back, enjoying a picnic lunch on the way. Choose between 'The Castle' or 'The Hall' hampers for two persons, both of which are presented in a traditional wicker hamper for you to unpack, enjoy and keep. 'The Castle' includes a premium selection of freshly prepared seasonal dishes; while 'The Hall' contains a selection of fresh sandwiches, cake and scones with clotted cream and jam.
SRPS RAILTOURS : PROVISIONAL 2020 PROGRAMME Sunday 9 August : THE FORTH CIRCLE - Forth Bridge, Fife, Clackmannan & Stirling Steam-hauled by A1 Class 60163 Tornado From LINLITHGOW (morning train) / DALMENY & INVERKEITHING (afternoon train) Morning and afternoon steam specials round the 'Forth Circle'; over the Forth Bridge, along the Fife Coast and round the Fife Circle then along the railway through Culross, Kincardine and Alloa to Stirling, returning through Falkirk.
Diamond Anniversary - Steaming Through 60 7th - 9th August 2020 Bluebell Railway is turning 60 years old in 2020! Help celebrate our volunteer (and staff!) achievements from over the last 60 years with a packed weekend of displays, activities, music, festivities and, of course, steam engines. A celebration of what Bluebell Railway does best for the whole family!
The Waverley Sunday 9th August 2020 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. There is also the option of visiting the Cumbrian market town of Appleby or the border city of Carlisle. 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, at 09:30 and heads for Church Fenton where we take the direct route to Leeds. We stop to pick up more passengers at Leeds, Shipley, 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 (1169 feet). We travel high above the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen to Appleby, where our locomotive takes on water. Passengers who choose to alight at Appleby will have around four hours to visit this historic market town, which lies in a loop of the picturesque river Eden. Passengers choosing to continue to Carlisle will have over one and a half 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 at around 16:15 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 and to pick up those passengers who spent the afternoon there. We continue to stops at Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Leeds, and York, to set down passengers.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
Heritage Diesel Service and Steam For diesel enthusiasts and general visitors alike! On selected dates throughout our running season we offer the bonus of a Heritage Diesel Service for you to enjoy. Your day rover ticket allows you to ride one or all of the Heritage Diesel Services and Steam Trains on the day. The Heritage Diesel Service runs at 11.45am & 2.45pm on the dates below. Standard ticket prices apply. If you would like to know more information about the Heritage Diesel Multiple Unit please click on the 'About Us' menu at the top of the page and scroll down to 'Our Locomotives and Stock'.
DEVONIAN EXPRESS WEDNESDAY 12 AUGUST 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Cardiff (07.00/21.45) Newport (07.15/21.30) Severn Tunnel Jct (07.30/21.15) Patchway (07.45/21.00) Bristol Temple Meads (08.30/20.15) Bath Spa (09.00/19.40) Bradford on Avon (09.20/19.20) Westbury (09.35/19.05) *Taunton (10.40/18.20) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure We recreate one of the classic steam hauled holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel for a journey around the beautiful Devon coast with time available to discover the many charms of maritime Plymouth. The train is diesel hauled from Cardiff to Bristol and then departs double headed with two of our famous steam locomotives for the journey across the lush Somerset levels, then through the remote Blackdown hills and down the Exe Valley to Exeter, before heading along 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 and beside beaches and coves with the sea keeping company with the train. At Newton Abbot we join the steeply graded main line over the Devon banks where our engines work hard to haul the heavy train over Dainton, Rattery and Hemerdon with gradients as steep as 1 in 36. There are spectacular views of Dartmoor as we descend through Ivybridge to Plymouth for an afternoon break. With its rich maritime heritage and status as the regional capital for culture, Plymouth is one of the most dynamic and fascinating places to visit in Devon. Why not visit Plymouth Hoe where Sir Francis Drake played bowls before defeating the French navy and there are incredible views of one of the worlds most beautiful natural harbours from Smeaton's tower. Take a walk down to the Barbican, a bustling array of specialist shops, restaurants, cafes and National Marine Aquarium - not forgetting the historic Mayflower steps where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for the New World in 1620. Our train departs for the return journey in the late afternoon with the engines working hard to haul the heavy carriages over the taxing and twisting Devon banks and the run along the sea wall through Dawlish and beside the pretty River Exe with the setting sun casting a golden glow over the Jurassic coast. The train is steam hauled throughout by two 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' - LNER A4 Pacific No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
SUSSEX COAST STATESMAN SATURDAY 15 AUGUST 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Shrewsbury (06.10/22.50) Wellington (06.30/22.30) Telford (06.45/22.10) Wolverhampton (07.05/21.45) Tame Bridge Parkway (07.20/21.30) Birmingham International (07.50/21.00) Coventry (08.05/20.40) Rugby (08.20/20.10) Northampton (08.40/19.50) Milton Keynes (09.00/19.30) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change This is a day out not to be missed as we travel through the heart of England to Eastbourne on the sunny Sussex coast where the biggest annual 'free' airshow in Britain is staged on the promenade and seashore. Aerial displays could include the 'Red Arrows', 'Battle of Britain Memorial flight', the 'Falcon freefall parachute team' and many, many more international aircraft offering acrobatic and land displays. Our train takes the North London line to Clapham Junction where we join the Brighton line for a fast run past Gatwick Airport and towards the lovely Sussex Downs National Park and through the pretty town of Lewes prior to our arrival in the elegant resort of Eastbourne about lunch time. Around four hours will be available at your leisure to view the spectacle of 'Airbourne 2020'. Held to be one of the sunniest resorts in England award winning Eastbourne, which nestles at the foot of the south downs next to the national beauty spot Beachy Head, owes much to the Victorians and the 7th Duke of Devonshire who laid out many beautiful parks and gardens and built the pier. If the airshow does not appeal this elegant town has many charms awaiting discovery including an excellent shopping centre and traditional seaside bandstands. Our train returns in the late afternoon as we retrace our outward journey.
The West Somerset Steam Express Saturday 15th August 2020 This series of trains from London Paddington to Minehead features haulage by two steam locomotives in one day. An express 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 at around 08:05, steam hauled by Princess Coronation class steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland 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 more than 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.
Katie & Sian Weekends Join the beautiful ex-Fairbourne sister locomotives, Katie & Sian, as they work together exclusively on these special weekends in 2020. The locomotives will be hauling the scheduled passenger services on the following weekends: 7-8 March 2020 13-14 June 2020 15-16 August 2020 Standard ticket fares apply and tickets can be purchased on the day. Tickets need not be purchased in advance but, if you would prefer to do so, they may be purchased up to midnight the day before travel from here. Please note these services are subject to last minute changes relating to locomotive and driver availability.
2020 Open Weekend
The Shakespeare Express 2020 Summer Sundays 19th July ~ 26th July ~ 2nd August ~ 9th August ~ 16th August ~ 23rd August ~ 30th August ~ 6th September Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford Upon Avon and return Enjoy a return trip to world famous Stratford upon Avon with hot breakfast rolls on the way there. In Stratford you have around 4 hours to explore before we take you back to Birmingham Snow Hill. Treat yourself to a packed lunch picnic box containing a selection of sandwiches, cake and scones with jam and cream to unpack in Stratford or eat on the journey back to Birmingham. Return Ticket Prices: Standard Class ?35 per person; First Class ?45 per person plus the cost of at least one meal choice. Every Standard Class adult ticket holder can take a child of 12 years or under with them for free. Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham Snow Hill and return A steam trip to central Birmingham and back, enjoying a picnic lunch on the way. Choose between 'The Castle' or 'The Hall' hampers for two persons, both of which are presented in a traditional wicker hamper for you to unpack, enjoy and keep. 'The Castle' includes a premium selection of freshly prepared seasonal dishes; while 'The Hall' contains a selection of fresh sandwiches, cake and scones with clotted cream and jam.
SRPS RAILTOURS : PROVISIONAL 2020 PROGRAMME Sunday 16 August : AVIEMORE & INVERNESS Steam-hauled by A1 Class 60163 Tornado From LINLITHGOW, Dalgety Bay, Kirkcaldy, Ladybank, Perth Over the Forth Bridge and through Fife to Perth, then over the Highland Line via Blair Atholl, Drumochter, Aviemore and Culloden.
The Waverley Sunday 16th August 2020 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. There is also the option of visiting the Cumbrian market town of Appleby or the border city of Carlisle. 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, at 09:30 and heads for Church Fenton where we take the direct route to Leeds. We stop to pick up more passengers at Leeds, Shipley, 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 (1169 feet). We travel high above the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen to Appleby, where our locomotive takes on water. Passengers who choose to alight at Appleby will have around four hours to visit this historic market town, which lies in a loop of the picturesque river Eden. Passengers choosing to continue to Carlisle will have over one and a half 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 at around 16:15 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 and to pick up those passengers who spent the afternoon there. We continue to stops at Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Leeds, and York, to set down passengers.
Katie & Sian Weekends Join the beautiful ex-Fairbourne sister locomotives, Katie & Sian, as they work together exclusively on these special weekends in 2020. The locomotives will be hauling the scheduled passenger services on the following weekends: 7-8 March 2020 13-14 June 2020 15-16 August 2020 Standard ticket fares apply and tickets can be purchased on the day. Tickets need not be purchased in advance but, if you would prefer to do so, they may be purchased up to midnight the day before travel from here. Please note these services are subject to last minute changes relating to locomotive and driver availability.
2020 Open Weekend
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
THE FELLSMAN WEDNESDAY 19 AUGUST 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Crewe (07.35/21.30) Warrington Bank Quay (08.15/20.30) Wigan North Western (08.30/20.05) Leyland (08.50/19.45) Blackburn (09.10/19.20) Clitheroe (09.35/18.50) Hellifield (10.40/17.35) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure The popular 'Fellsman' runs again in summer 2020 for its 12th season offering a 300-mile return steam hauled journey from Crewe on the spectacular 'Settle to Carlisle Railway' as we travel through the Yorkshire Dales and climb high towards the roof of England. With its 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 - or perhaps alight at Appleby and take an optional tour of the Lake District by vintage bus with a cruise on beautiful Ullswater. 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 and following a stop for water at Appleby 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 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'.
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
The Return of the Shunter Hunter Gala Always popular with our faithful customers another Shunter Hunter Gala, with a mixed bag of diverse traction. We are hoping to debut either D2289 or D2229, depending on our ever-present workload. There are also prospects of 09001 coming back into the pool of working locos. We will have to see how things develop. Barring any unforeseen difficulties, at least eight shunters will be working each day of the Gala. These will be selected from the following; D2953, D2854, D2139, 03113, 03099, D2205, D2284, D2587, D2420, 07001, PWM654, D9525 and 'Bigga' our industrial loco, with 08016 acting as the Thunderbird Loco. Nearer the weekend we will be announcing a definitive list of locos working. Please note as far as possible all the locos chosen to work will work both days, in pairs or singly, topping and tailing on our brakevans. The Heritage Shunters Trust reserves the right to add/alter/cancel any of the details of this event without prior notice. For further information about this event please visit www.heritageshunterstrust.com Peak Rail trains will also be in operation from 11.00am and normal fares and timetable will apply to these.
The Cotswold Venturer Saturday 22nd August 2020 Join us on this scenic rail tour by steam train through the beautiful Cotswold Hills. Our destination is the cathedral city of Worcester, located on the banks of the River Severn and internationally famous as the home of Worcestershire Sauce. We travel outward via the Golden Valley line through Stroud and Kemble and also return the same way, which will include the steep climb up to Sapperton tunnel. Our steam hauled train leaves London Paddington at around 07:40 hauled by Princess Coronation Class steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland and heads down the ex-Great Western Railway (GWR) main line. We stop at Slough, Reading and Didcot to pick up more passengers. Our journey continues through the Vale of White Horse to Swindon, where we take the Golden Valley line through Kemble and up the climb to Sapperton Tunnel. We bypass Gloucester and head northwards through Cheltenham to Abbotswood Junction, were we leave the main line to Birmingham and head for Worcester Shrub Hill. There will be more than three hours to explore the fine city of Worcester. The river Severn runs through the city and is overlooked by the 12th century Worcester Cathedral. The site of the final battle of the Civil War between Oliver Cromwell and King Charles II was here. It is also the home of Royal Worcester Porcelain, and the birthplace of the composer Sir Edward Elgar is nearby at Lower Broadheath. Our steam hauled train leaves Worcester Shrub Hill in the late afternoon and returns to London via the Golden Valley line. We follow the former Great Western Railway route from Standish Junction and climb steadily through Stroud before the gradients increase dramatically to 1 in 74 at Chalford. We continue to climb through the Golden Valley at a gradient of 1 in 60 prior to entering Sapperton tunnel at the summit of the climb. On easier gradients, we descend through Kemble and onwards through Wiltshire to the former railway town of Swindon. We will now retrace our earlier route through the Vale of White Horse back to Didcot and Reading. Our final part of the journey calls at Reading and Slough before arriving back in London Paddington in the evening.
THE WHITE ROSE SATURDAY 22 AUGUST 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Wolverhampton (06.00/23.20) Codsall (06.10/23.10) Telford (06.30/22.55) Wellington (06.40/22.45) Shrewsbury (07.00/22.30) Whitchurch (07.30/22.10) Crewe (08.10/21.30) Warrington Bank Quay (09.05/20.50) Newton le Willows (09.25/20.35) Manchester Victoria (09.55/20.00) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure 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 with stunning views of Mam Tor and Kinder Scout and through Sheffield to historic York for a sightseeing afternoon break. We return through Wakefield and true Pennine scenery with the rugged and steep sided Calder Valley towering over the train with its stone architecture clinging to the hillside and the restored Rochdale Canal keeping company with the line. Continuing through Todmorden and Rochdale we head homeward toward Manchester. Our train leaves Manchester Victoria with the taxing climb up Miles Platting bank and threads its way through the suburbs to join the former Midland Railway line across the Peak District and into the beautiful Vale of Edale. This route is spectacularly scenic and encompasses several long tunnels, including passing through the 3?-mile long Totley Tunnel, opened in 1892, before arrival at Sheffield. On departure we head northwards through Meadowhall, adjacent to the famous Shopping Centre, and onwards, avoiding Rotherham towards Swinton and Pontefract. We make our way through Church Fenton and follow the East Coast Main Line towards York. Nowhere in northern England says 'medieval' quite like York, a city of extraordinary cultural and historical wealth that has lost little of its pre-industrial lustre. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider's web of narrow streets. At its heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster, one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. York's long history and rich heritage is woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city - with its myriad museums including the Jorvik Centre and superb National Railway Museum, restaurants, cafes including Bettys Tearoom which is a must for a divine afternoon tea. Our return in the late afternoon journeys west through Wakefield and the true Pennine scenery of the Calder Valley as we pass 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' - LNER A4 Pacific, No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Heritage Diesel Service and Steam For diesel enthusiasts and general visitors alike! On selected dates throughout our running season we offer the bonus of a Heritage Diesel Service for you to enjoy. Your day rover ticket allows you to ride one or all of the Heritage Diesel Services and Steam Trains on the day. The Heritage Diesel Service runs at 11.45am & 2.45pm on the dates below. Standard ticket prices apply. If you would like to know more information about the Heritage Diesel Multiple Unit please click on the 'About Us' menu at the top of the page and scroll down to 'Our Locomotives and Stock'.
The Return of the Shunter Hunter Gala Always popular with our faithful customers another Shunter Hunter Gala, with a mixed bag of diverse traction. We are hoping to debut either D2289 or D2229, depending on our ever-present workload. There are also prospects of 09001 coming back into the pool of working locos. We will have to see how things develop. Barring any unforeseen difficulties, at least eight shunters will be working each day of the Gala. These will be selected from the following; D2953, D2854, D2139, 03113, 03099, D2205, D2284, D2587, D2420, 07001, PWM654, D9525 and 'Bigga' our industrial loco, with 08016 acting as the Thunderbird Loco. Nearer the weekend we will be announcing a definitive list of locos working. Please note as far as possible all the locos chosen to work will work both days, in pairs or singly, topping and tailing on our brakevans. The Heritage Shunters Trust reserves the right to add/alter/cancel any of the details of this event without prior notice. For further information about this event please visit www.heritageshunterstrust.com Peak Rail trains will also be in operation from 11.00am and normal fares and timetable will apply to these.
The Shakespeare Express 2020 Summer Sundays 19th July ~ 26th July ~ 2nd August ~ 9th August ~ 16th August ~ 23rd August ~ 30th August ~ 6th September Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford Upon Avon and return Enjoy a return trip to world famous Stratford upon Avon with hot breakfast rolls on the way there. In Stratford you have around 4 hours to explore before we take you back to Birmingham Snow Hill. Treat yourself to a packed lunch picnic box containing a selection of sandwiches, cake and scones with jam and cream to unpack in Stratford or eat on the journey back to Birmingham. Return Ticket Prices: Standard Class ?35 per person; First Class ?45 per person plus the cost of at least one meal choice. Every Standard Class adult ticket holder can take a child of 12 years or under with them for free. Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham Snow Hill and return A steam trip to central Birmingham and back, enjoying a picnic lunch on the way. Choose between 'The Castle' or 'The Hall' hampers for two persons, both of which are presented in a traditional wicker hamper for you to unpack, enjoy and keep. 'The Castle' includes a premium selection of freshly prepared seasonal dishes; while 'The Hall' contains a selection of fresh sandwiches, cake and scones with clotted cream and jam.
SRPS RAILTOURS : PROVISIONAL 2020 PROGRAMME Sunday 23 August : THE FIFE CIRCLE - Edinburgh Suburban Circle, Forth Bridge, Fife Circle Steam-hauled by A1 Class 60163 Tornado From EDINBURGH Waverley (morning and afternoon trains) Morning and afternoon steam specials round the 'Fife Circle'; over the Forth Bridge, along the Fife Coast and round the Fife Circle to Dunfermline, then back across the Forth Bridge and round the Edinburgh South Suburban Circle to Waverley station.
The Waverley Sunday 23rd August 2020 This steam hauled train 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. There is also the option of visiting the Cumbrian market town of Appleby or the border city of Carlisle. 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 steam locomotive No.60103 Flying Scotsman at 09:30 and heads for Church Fenton where we take the direct route to Leeds. We stop to pick up more passengers at Leeds, Shipley, Keighley and Skipton. There will be a stop 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. We cross the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel. We pass through the highest station open in England at Dent, travelling through tunnels and crossing valleys on numerous viaducts. There are magnificent views across the Fells to the Pennine Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough as we make the final ascent to Ais Gill Summit (1169 feet). We travel high above the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen to Appleby, where our locomotive takes on water. Passengers who choose to alight at Appleby will have around four hours to visit this historic market town that lies in a loop of the picturesque river Eden. Passengers choosing to continue to Carlisle will have over one and a half 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 at around 16:15 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 and to pick up those passengers who spent the afternoon there. We continue our journey back to York, stopping at Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Leeds, and York, to set down passengers.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
It`s 1960!' 60th Anniversary of opening of LCLR - a World First!
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
DARTMOUTH REGATTA STATESMAN FRIDAY 28 AUGUST 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Rugby (06.20/23.40) Coventry (06.40/23.20) Hampton in Arden (06.50/23.10) Birmingham International 07.00/23.00) Birmingham New Street (07.20/22.40) Barnt Green (07.50/22.20) Bromsgrove (08.10/22.10) Droitwich Spa (08.35/21.40) Worcester Shrub Hill (08.50/21.25) Cheltenham Spa (09.10/20.55) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change We recreate one of the great holiday trains of the golden age of railway travel with a journey through pretty Somerset with its Apple orchards and around the beautiful Devon coast. Time is available to discover the many charms of the 'English Riviera' and the famous annual Royal Regatta at Dartmouth will be in full swing with over 200 yachts, steam ships and various events on land, sea and in the air. Travel alongside the stunning Exe & Teign estuary with its pretty fishing boats and views across to Exmouth and the Jurassic Coast, before our train takes the exciting sea wall line as we race through tunnels and cuttings of red rock and alongside beaches and coves at Dawlish with the sea keeping company with the train all the way to Newton Abbot. At Paignton we join the steeply graded heritage line and travel through the woodland estate once owned by Agatha Christie, then alongside the beautiful River Dart and into the riverside terminus at Kingswear, where it is a short crossing on the ferry (price included) to the historic and romantic port of Dartmouth bedecked in all its regatta finery - there are antique shops and cafes to explore - why not take a leisurely cruise on the River Dart or steam hauled journey on the Paignton & Dartmouth Railway. Following around three hours to enjoy the excitement of the regatta, our train will return in the late afternoon.
Summer Rails & Ales 28th to 31st August 2020 A great bank holiday treat; ride behind Steam & Heritage Diesel trains through the Dart Valley, or sit down and relax whilst enjoying a drink or two at our Staverton Station beer festival. Real Ales, Ciders, Wine and Prosecco, as well as, soft drinks are all available. There is plenty of seating in the station yard so you can spend the day watching the trains go by!
Bank Holiday Steam Up 29, 30 & 31 Aug - Three or more locos in steam. Photo opportunities & double-heading Three or more engines will be in steam working trains to provide unlimted rides on the Centre's two demonstration lines. Arrive early to see these and other locomotives lined up in front of the engine shed affording a host of photographic opportunities.
Summer Rails & Ales 28th to 31st August 2020 A great bank holiday treat; ride behind Steam & Heritage Diesel trains through the Dart Valley, or sit down and relax whilst enjoying a drink or two at our Staverton Station beer festival. Real Ales, Ciders, Wine and Prosecco, as well as, soft drinks are all available. There is plenty of seating in the station yard so you can spend the day watching the trains go by!
Summer Gala & Kids 4 A Quid 29th - 31st August Standard Travel Day Rovers give you unlimited travel for the day on the Northampton & Lamport Railway. Valid on normal service trains (non-event days - green on the timetable). Travel along our one and half miles of running line through the Northamptonshire countryside. Trains leave on the hour from Pitsford & Brampton Station located between the two villages behind the Brampton Halt Pub.
August Steam Gala 29th - 31st August 2020 Our entire home fleet of engines (subject to availability) will be taking part in a mini steam gala with an intensive passenger timetable and a chance to have a go yourself with our 'Driver for a Fiver'. We'll also be running some freight services between Llanuwchlyn and Llangower using slate wagons from our extensive historic collection. At Llangower, we will be undertaking a special shunting manoeuvre to allow two passengers trains to pass while the freight is also at the station. The features for the 2020 August gala are yet to be finalised, but in previous years, we have included the following: ?All available locos in steam ?Visiting loco(s) ?Frequent passenger services ?Demonstration freight trains ?Some trains double-headed ?A steam 7 ?' gauge miniature railway at Llanuwchllyn ?'Driver for a Fiver' - Drive one of our locomotives for ?5 at Llanuwchllyn ?Two free to ride heritage double decker buses running between Bala station and the town ?Some of the buses continue round the lake to Llanuwchllyn ?Others buses go on a sightseeing trip to Llyn Celyn reservoir
The Cumbrian Mountain Express Saturday 29th August 2020 This is a wonderful opportunity for those from the Crewe and Manchester areas to travel by steam train over two of England's most scenic railway routes. We travel north to Carlisle by the West Coast Main Line over Shap and return via the famous Settle & Carlisle Railway Line. Both routes pass through spectacular mountain scenery. A magnificent steam locomotive will haul these trains, which recall the glorious days of steam travel. Our train, which is hauled by a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool, leaves Crewe at around 06:00 and calls at Wilmslow, Stockport, Manchester Victoria and Bolton 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 continue through Lancaster and Carnforth, where beyond 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 three hours in Carlisle, providing time to explore this ancient 'Border' city with its castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum, and shopping centre. Our return train, hauled by our steam locomotive, leaves Carlisle and joins 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 numerous 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 at Hellifield for our locomotive to take on water. Our journey continues from Hellifield to Clitheroe and Blackburn, where passengers for Preston leave the train. We join the WCML at Farington Junction and, shortly afterwards, take the Manchester line, stopping at Bolton and Manchester Victoria to set down passengers. We continue our journey to Crewe stopping at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers. *Passengers for Preston travel by service train from Blackburn on the return journey.
THE LAKELANDER SATURDAY 29 AUGUST 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Dorridge (05.45/23.25) Solihull (05.55/23.15) Birmingham New Street (06.15/22.55) Sandwell & Dudley (06.30/22.40) Wolverhampton (06.45/22.25) Penkridge (06.55/22.15) Stafford (07.05/22.10) Crewe (08.05/21.25) Preston (09.45/20.15) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure Enjoy a fabulous day tour hauled entirely by steam all the way from Crewe and offering spectacular views of the Cumbrian mountains and high Pennines as we climb over the Lakeland fells to the historic border city of Carlisle for a lunchtime sightseeing break and return around the longest coastal line in Britain with splendid views across the Irish Sea and Morecambe Bay. Travelling through the county town of Lancaster our steam locomotive works hard when we climb up the first severe gradient to Grayrigg with splendid views over Kendal and then travel through the beautiful Lune Gorge to Tebay, gaining speed for the ascent to Shap. This well-known section of the west coast main line has a steep gradient and, in former steam days the banking engines from Tebay were often used to assist trains. After crossing the Cumbrian Fells, 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. After Maryport, we run along the shoreline through Workington, once a centre to produce iron and steel. There are spectacular cliff edge views as we journey south 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. Passing Sellafield, where the British Nuclear Fuels works dominates the landscape and at Ravenglass, we meet up with the narrow gauge Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway. At Millom, we head inland and follow the sweeping estuary through Foxfield and Kirkby in Furness. Avoiding Barrow in Furness by taking the diversionary line to Dalton 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 made famous as the location of the wartime movie 'Brief Encounter' and a fast run homeward down the west coast main line. 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' - LNER A4 Pacific No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Bank Holiday Steam Up 29, 30 & 31 Aug - Three or more locos in steam. Photo opportunities & double-heading Three or more engines will be in steam working trains to provide unlimted rides on the Centre's two demonstration lines. Arrive early to see these and other locomotives lined up in front of the engine shed affording a host of photographic opportunities.
Summer Rails & Ales 28th to 31st August 2020 A great bank holiday treat; ride behind Steam & Heritage Diesel trains through the Dart Valley, or sit down and relax whilst enjoying a drink or two at our Staverton Station beer festival. Real Ales, Ciders, Wine and Prosecco, as well as, soft drinks are all available. There is plenty of seating in the station yard so you can spend the day watching the trains go by!
Summer Gala & Kids 4 A Quid 29th - 31st August Standard Travel Day Rovers give you unlimited travel for the day on the Northampton & Lamport Railway. Valid on normal service trains (non-event days - green on the timetable). Travel along our one and half miles of running line through the Northamptonshire countryside. Trains leave on the hour from Pitsford & Brampton Station located between the two villages behind the Brampton Halt Pub.
August Steam Gala 29th - 31st August 2020 Our entire home fleet of engines (subject to availability) will be taking part in a mini steam gala with an intensive passenger timetable and a chance to have a go yourself with our 'Driver for a Fiver'. We'll also be running some freight services between Llanuwchlyn and Llangower using slate wagons from our extensive historic collection. At Llangower, we will be undertaking a special shunting manoeuvre to allow two passengers trains to pass while the freight is also at the station. The features for the 2020 August gala are yet to be finalised, but in previous years, we have included the following: ?All available locos in steam ?Visiting loco(s) ?Frequent passenger services ?Demonstration freight trains ?Some trains double-headed ?A steam 7 ?' gauge miniature railway at Llanuwchllyn ?'Driver for a Fiver' - Drive one of our locomotives for ?5 at Llanuwchllyn ?Two free to ride heritage double decker buses running between Bala station and the town ?Some of the buses continue round the lake to Llanuwchllyn ?Others buses go on a sightseeing trip to Llyn Celyn reservoir
The Shakespeare Express 2020 Summer Sundays 19th July ~ 26th July ~ 2nd August ~ 9th August ~ 16th August ~ 23rd August ~ 30th August ~ 6th September Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford Upon Avon and return Enjoy a return trip to world famous Stratford upon Avon with hot breakfast rolls on the way there. In Stratford you have around 4 hours to explore before we take you back to Birmingham Snow Hill. Treat yourself to a packed lunch picnic box containing a selection of sandwiches, cake and scones with jam and cream to unpack in Stratford or eat on the journey back to Birmingham. Return Ticket Prices: Standard Class ?35 per person; First Class ?45 per person plus the cost of at least one meal choice. Every Standard Class adult ticket holder can take a child of 12 years or under with them for free. Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham Snow Hill and return A steam trip to central Birmingham and back, enjoying a picnic lunch on the way. Choose between 'The Castle' or 'The Hall' hampers for two persons, both of which are presented in a traditional wicker hamper for you to unpack, enjoy and keep. 'The Castle' includes a premium selection of freshly prepared seasonal dishes; while 'The Hall' contains a selection of fresh sandwiches, cake and scones with clotted cream and jam.
The Royal Duchy Sunday 30th August 2020 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 locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland at around 08:45 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, diesel 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. We leave Par steam hauled by Duchess of Sutherland at around 17:45 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 en route. If the St. Blazey turntable is re-opened we will revert to steam haulage throughout on both these trips.
Bank Holiday Steam Up 29, 30 & 31 Aug - Three or more locos in steam. Photo opportunities & double-heading Three or more engines will be in steam working trains to provide unlimted rides on the Centre's two demonstration lines. Arrive early to see these and other locomotives lined up in front of the engine shed affording a host of photographic opportunities.
Summer Rails & Ales 28th to 31st August 2020 A great bank holiday treat; ride behind Steam & Heritage Diesel trains through the Dart Valley, or sit down and relax whilst enjoying a drink or two at our Staverton Station beer festival. Real Ales, Ciders, Wine and Prosecco, as well as, soft drinks are all available. There is plenty of seating in the station yard so you can spend the day watching the trains go by!
Open Days We open at 10:00 and operate our frequent train service between 10:30 and 16:30.
Summer Gala & Kids 4 A Quid 29th - 31st August Standard Travel Day Rovers give you unlimited travel for the day on the Northampton & Lamport Railway. Valid on normal service trains (non-event days - green on the timetable). Travel along our one and half miles of running line through the Northamptonshire countryside. Trains leave on the hour from Pitsford & Brampton Station located between the two villages behind the Brampton Halt Pub.
August Steam Gala 29th - 31st August 2020 Our entire home fleet of engines (subject to availability) will be taking part in a mini steam gala with an intensive passenger timetable and a chance to have a go yourself with our 'Driver for a Fiver'. We'll also be running some freight services between Llanuwchlyn and Llangower using slate wagons from our extensive historic collection. At Llangower, we will be undertaking a special shunting manoeuvre to allow two passengers trains to pass while the freight is also at the station. The features for the 2020 August gala are yet to be finalised, but in previous years, we have included the following: ?All available locos in steam ?Visiting loco(s) ?Frequent passenger services ?Demonstration freight trains ?Some trains double-headed ?A steam 7 ?' gauge miniature railway at Llanuwchllyn ?'Driver for a Fiver' - Drive one of our locomotives for ?5 at Llanuwchllyn ?Two free to ride heritage double decker buses running between Bala station and the town ?Some of the buses continue round the lake to Llanuwchllyn ?Others buses go on a sightseeing trip to Llyn Celyn reservoir
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
The Aberdonian NEW PROGRAMME OF TOURS - Steam from Edinburgh to Aberdeen Let the 'The Aberdonian' whisk you away as we take in some of the best that Scotland has to offer, both on train and off. Crossing the Forth Bridge, the train runs along the coast for much of its route making it an unrivalled way to experience Scotland. In Aberdeen there is a chance to explore this historic city, or take one of our off train excursions that include a castle or distillery visit. On board the train you can sit back in comfortable seats and large windows through which to admire the scenery. Our friendly team will look after you, and if you choose to dine with us you will be treated to fine Scottish fare. Come and travel with us as Tornado runs regularly over this historic route. *New* Dates available in 2020: Thursday 23rd July - Thursday 3rd September - Thursday 10th September. Prices start from ?99.00
The Dorset Coast Express Thursday 3rd September 2020 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 at around 08:45 steam hauled by steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland 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. We leave the South Western Main Line at Worting Junction and take the Bournemouth Line, heading south through Winchester and Southampton. 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 around 13:45 and have almost 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 hauled by U Class steam locomotive No.31806 at around 16:35 as far as Southampton* with our main steam locomotive banking on the rear, from here the main steam locomotive will take over for the remainder of the return journey. We continue through Andover to Basingstoke, where we stop to set down passengers and for our steam locomotive to take on water. We then continue to Woking and Staines, where we stop to set down passengers, and on to our final destination at London Victoria. *In the event of a high fire risk the section from Weymouth to Southampton on the return leg would be diesel hauled.
The Scarborough Spa Express Travel coast to coast across spectacular Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes from Carnforth, to York or Scarborough. Choice of two journeys To York or Scarborough Via Skipton and Leeds: Running Thursdays on 18th June, 9th and 23rd July, 6th and 20th August and 3rd September 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Hellifield, Skipton, Keighley, Shipley, Woodlesford (Leeds) and York. View Journey To York or Scarborough Via Preston and Wakefield: Running Thursdays on 25th June, 16th and 30th July, 13th and 27th August 2020 - Departing from Carnforth, Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn, Hebden Bridge, Brighouse, Wakefield KG and York. View Journey Join us for a scenic tour which combines a truly wonderful journey in traditional carriages across Lancashire and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the evocative smells and sounds of steam haulage from York and the beautiful scenery of North Yorkshire to the East Coast. From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail and some even featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel from Carnforth for the first part of the journey, then from York we pick up a steam engine taking us to Scarborough on a memorable journey. scarborough spa scarborough spa Due to the high demand for seats last year we are once more offering passengers the chance to travel from the West Coast of Britain en route to historic York then across North Yorkshire to the Spa town of Scarborough on the East Coast. Vintage Mark I and II carriages pull out of Carnforth on two routes, collecting passengers at various pick up stations. Arriving in York we pick up one of the oldest Steam engines in the world and continue by steam across North Yorkshire to Scarborough, where we have around three hours to enjoy and explore. Alternatively passengers may choose at alight at York and discover the many attractions of this historical, walled city. On the return journey, we leave Scarborough again by steam heading towards York before continuing on the same route, calling at the same stations before arriving back in Carnforth.
Gala Weekend - Friday Friday, September 4, 2020 The start of our biggest event of the year, again over three days. During the event, every operating engine will be in use. Traction engines, steam cars and lorries, a model railway exhibition, demonstrations and trade stands. Please note that not all attractions will be available on Friday.?
Steam in Miniature 5th & 6th September 2020 A celebration of steam on a small scale, with models in action and on display as well as visiting locos No Pre-booking required, just arrive 15 minutes before the departure time of the train Come and celebrate the heritage of steam in a small scale. Alongside our home fleet of 15' locomotives we will have two visiting locos and a selection of smaller scale models in action and on display. A special intensive timetable will be in operation throughout the weekend to allow visitors the opportunity to see as many different locomotives as possible hard at work over the nine miles between Aylsham and Wroxham. -Two visiting locos Sian and Katie from Kirklees. This will be only the second time that the three Twining valve gear locos have been together. -Wroxham Signal Box Trust -A range of live miniature steam engines -16mm Narrow Gauge Modellers
Gala Weekend - Saturday Saturday, September 5, 2020 Our biggest event of the year, again over three days. Every operating engine will be in use. Traction engines, steam cars and lorries, a model railway exhibition, demonstrations and trade stands, and a shuttle bus to the associated Llanfair Garden Railway Show up the hill at Llanfair High School.
Great Central Railwayana Live Auction at Stoneleigh Park: Saturday, 5 September 2020
Country Railway Gala
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
The Cheshireman Saturday 5th September 2020 Join us on this tour that provides an excellent opportunity to travel across the country from east to west, visiting the historic city of Chester. Apart from its cultural attractions, including the Cathedral, Castle and the Medieval Rows, Chester is a well-established shopping mecca. Our steam hauled train will be pulled by 46233 Duchess of Sutherland from Norwich to Chester and as far at Peterborough on the return. Our journey commences at Norwich around 07:00 where we take the line to Ely, calling at Wymondham, Attleborough and across the Fens to the market town of Thetford. We then make a further pick up at Brandon before we bypass Ely to call at March and Peterborough. We now follow the cross country line through Stamford, a town of outstanding architectural and historic interest that is of national importance. The town has over 600 listed buildings, more than half of the total for the County of Lincolnshire. We continue westwards and pass Rutland Water towards Oakham, in the small county town of Rutland. Entering Leicestershire, we run through Melton Mowbray, famous for its pork pies, and head for Leicester, our final pick up station. We follow the main line to London St Pancras for a while as far as Wigston Junction, where we branch off on the Nuneaton and Birmingham line. Our route now takes us westwards through Hinkley to Nuneaton, where we join the West Coast main line. Heading northwards, our steam locomotive can now get up to top speed as we head for Tamworth and Lichfield. Lines split at Colwich Junction and here we follow the WCML through Shugborough Park to round Queensville Curve at Stafford. The four tracks continue northwards through rural Staffordshire, with our steam locomotive working hard as it tackles the long climb to Whitmore Summit. After a few more miles, we slow down and approach the major railway junction of Crewe. Our final part of the journey takes us across the Cheshire Plain through Beeston Castle, with its lofty 13th Century castle overlooking the railway and the Shropshire Union Canal. In no time at all, we arrive at Chester, where there will be a break of around four hours for passengers to visit the city with all its attractions. We then return from Chester at around 17:20 for the steam hauled run back as far as Peterborough, where our steam locomotive leaves the train and from where we return to Norwich, diesel hauled, retracing our outward route.
WELSH MARCHES EXPRESS SATURDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Liverpool Lime Street (07.30/23.00) Liverpool South Parkway (07.40/22.50) Runcorn (07.50/22.40) Hartford (08.05/22.25) Crewe (08.40/21.55/ Whitchurch (09.10/21.30) Shrewsbury (09.30/21.10) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure 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 Shropshire countryside dividing England and Wales. Passing through Church Stretton with outstanding views of the Long Mynd it was known in Victorian times as 'Little Switzerland' - continuing along the Marches we pass magnificent Stokesay Castle and the historic towns of Ludlow and Hereford. Entering Monmouthshire and South Wales, there are superb views of the Brecon Beacons as the black mountains tower above the train. At Newport we cross the River Usk, joining the Great Western main line to Cardiff for an afternoon break. Cardiff Wales' capital city offers spectacular shopping, museums, dining and entertainment. Easy to explore on foot and close to the station you can visit the free National Museum Cardiff and spectacular Cardiff Castle all within the city centre. Top class entertainment is on offer at Cardiff Bay with its restaurants, waterside views and Wales Millennium Centre and there is plenty to see and do in the three hours whilst our train is serviced and locomotive turned for the return journey. 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' - LNER A4 Pacific No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Steam in Miniature 5th & 6th September 2020 A celebration of steam on a small scale, with models in action and on display as well as visiting locos No Pre-booking required, just arrive 15 minutes before the departure time of the train Come and celebrate the heritage of steam in a small scale. Alongside our home fleet of 15' locomotives we will have two visiting locos and a selection of smaller scale models in action and on display. A special intensive timetable will be in operation throughout the weekend to allow visitors the opportunity to see as many different locomotives as possible hard at work over the nine miles between Aylsham and Wroxham. -Two visiting locos Sian and Katie from Kirklees. This will be only the second time that the three Twining valve gear locos have been together. -Wroxham Signal Box Trust -A range of live miniature steam engines -16mm Narrow Gauge Modellers
Bus Rally Day Sun September 6 Make the most of your day by starting your journey from Hythe and enjoying breakfast in Hythe Coffee Shop before taking your seat on the train for New Romney to admire the vintage buses, coaches and taxis in the car park area. Don't forget to visit the Model Exhibition and spot the model buses on the layout. Perhaps take a trip on the ever-popular complimentary rides aboard vintage buses (including an open-top) that will be available between New Romney and Dungeness to take in the seaside views. Once at Dungeness join us in the End of the Line Restaurant to savour a warming lunch. Have a browse around our souvenir shops that will be stocked with collectable bus memorabilia and enjoy several trade stands specialising in bus books and models.
Gala Weekend - Sunday Sunday, September 6, 2020 Our biggest event of the year, again over three days. Every operating engine will be in use. Traction engines, steam cars and lorries, a model railway exhibition, demonstrations and trade stands, and a shuttle bus to the associated Llanfair Garden Railway Show up the hill at Llanfair High School.
Vintage Bus Days Free vintage bus ride around Alresford On the first Sunday of the month from May to October a FREE vintage bus service operates from Alresford Station. You do not need to purchase a train ticket to ride this service. The vintage bus leaves Alresford Station on a circular route through Bishop's Sutton at the following times on a trip lasting 20 minutes: 11.30 12.00 12.30 13.00 13.30 then 14.30 15.00 15.30 16.00 Unfortunately, due to their age these buses do not have provision for wheelchairs. This vintage bus service is operated by the Medstead Depot Omnibus Group, who are one of three groups under the Working Omnibus Museum Project Ltd, and their buses frequently visit running days and rallies around the South. MDOG is part of a charity established in the late 1980's which provides a storage depot for 18 vintage buses originally running bus services in the south of England. The buses are owned and maintained by individuals or small groups.
Country Railway Gala
The Shakespeare Express 2020 Summer Sundays 19th July ~ 26th July ~ 2nd August ~ 9th August ~ 16th August ~ 23rd August ~ 30th August ~ 6th September Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford Upon Avon and return Enjoy a return trip to world famous Stratford upon Avon with hot breakfast rolls on the way there. In Stratford you have around 4 hours to explore before we take you back to Birmingham Snow Hill. Treat yourself to a packed lunch picnic box containing a selection of sandwiches, cake and scones with jam and cream to unpack in Stratford or eat on the journey back to Birmingham. Return Ticket Prices: Standard Class ?35 per person; First Class ?45 per person plus the cost of at least one meal choice. Every Standard Class adult ticket holder can take a child of 12 years or under with them for free. Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham Snow Hill and return A steam trip to central Birmingham and back, enjoying a picnic lunch on the way. Choose between 'The Castle' or 'The Hall' hampers for two persons, both of which are presented in a traditional wicker hamper for you to unpack, enjoy and keep. 'The Castle' includes a premium selection of freshly prepared seasonal dishes; while 'The Hall' contains a selection of fresh sandwiches, cake and scones with clotted cream and jam.
The Sunset Steam Express London Victoria - Surrey Hills - London Victoria Join us for a round trip through the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
The Dalesman STEAM ON THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE Running from 28th April until 8th September 2020 Choice of two journeys To Carlisle from York, via the Settle to Carlisle line (steam from Hellifield): Running on 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June, 7th & 21st July, 4th & 18th August, 1st September 2020 - Departing from York, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds (Central Station) and Skipton View Journey To Carlisle from Chester. Outbound journey via the West Coast Mainline, with steam from Carnforth. The return jouney is via the Settle to Carlisle line, with steam to Preston): Running on 12th May, 9th & 30th June, 14th & 28th July, 11th & 25th August, 8th September 2020 - Departing from Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan Leyland and Preston View Journey From the comfort of your seat in some of the oldest working carriages in operation today, your adventure begins! Some of these carriages served throughout the golden age of rail, some featured in the Harry Potter movies and have all been lovingly restored. These traditional carriages will be hauled by diesel for the first part of the journey, then from Hellifield/Carnforth the steam engine pulls the train to Carlisle. The train stops in historic border city of Carlisle in Cumbria for a break of around 2 hours. Stroll between the Castle and Cathedral or perhaps visit the famous Tullie House Museum - you will be surrounded by great places to shop, eat or be entertained, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The return trip is via the Settle to Carlisle line, England's most scenic railway. THE SETTLE TO CARLISLE LINE First opening to passengers in 1876, the Settle - Carlisle line takes in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track. This historic line travels across the stunning Pennine hills, showcasing the English countryside at its best. STEAM On the trip departing from Chester: Outbound Journey: From Carnforth one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, for the stunning journey to Carlisle line along the West Coast Mainline. Return Journey: It is steam all the way to Preston via the famous Settle to Carlisle line. This alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. On the trip departing from York: From Hellifield one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line.
Beer Festival - Thu 10th to Sun 13th September 2020 Great Central Railway's annual beer festival returns for its thirteenth year and is better than ever! Take your taste buds on a sentimental journey at our 4-day beer festival. This year SEVENTY guest beers are on offer, specially selected from different breweries; ciders and perry too. Trains are running on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with a variety of both steam and diesel power. Please note there are evening trains running on both Friday & Saturday to help visitors to return to where they'd most like to be!
The Aberdonian NEW PROGRAMME OF TOURS - Steam from Edinburgh to Aberdeen Let the 'The Aberdonian' whisk you away as we take in some of the best that Scotland has to offer, both on train and off. Crossing the Forth Bridge, the train runs along the coast for much of its route making it an unrivalled way to experience Scotland. In Aberdeen there is a chance to explore this historic city, or take one of our off train excursions that include a castle or distillery visit. On board the train you can sit back in comfortable seats and large windows through which to admire the scenery. Our friendly team will look after you, and if you choose to dine with us you will be treated to fine Scottish fare. Come and travel with us as Tornado runs regularly over this historic route. *New* Dates available in 2020: Thursday 23rd July - Thursday 3rd September - Thursday 10th September. Prices start from ?99.00
The Swanage Belle Thursday 10th September 2020 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. The train will be hauled by Princess Coronation Class steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland. We leave London Victoria station at around 08:45, 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 locomotive to take on water. Our final stop to pick up passengers is 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. Magnificent views of Corfe Castle can be seen as we head towards Swanage along this attractive Heritage Railway. There will be more than 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 and 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 at around 16:55 and is diesel hauled to Southampton where steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland 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 soon after 23:00.
THE SUSSEX BELLE THURSDAY 10 SEPTEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: London Victoria (10.00/19.45) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure This train recaptures the atmosphere of the legendary 'Brighton Belle' and summer seaside specials of yesteryear as it is steam hauled by one of our magnificent locomotives and visits the popular destinations of Brighton and Eastbourne with ample time available in both resorts for building sandcastles, a stroll on the promenade and perhaps an ice cream or two. Departing from London Victoria we head through Clapham Junction and take the Brighton line for a fast run, passing Gatwick Airport and through Haywards Heath we arrive into the terminal station at Brighton for a break of around two hours. Brighton - The station is just a short level walk from the promenade and the town is bursting with attractions from an outlandish former royal palace built for King George IV, interesting museums, a beautiful beach and superb shopping particularly in 'The Lanes' filled with antique and curio shops and cafes. Stretching out into the sea is the iconic neon lit Pier with amusements and invigorating ocean views. Our dedicated and immaculate train Stewards will welcome you back on board for the short 45-minute diesel hauled journey through the South Downs National Park and past the county town of Lewes to Eastbourne for a further break of around two hours. Eastbourne - Held to be one of the sunniest resorts in England award winning Eastbourne, nestling at the foot of the south downs next to the national beauty spot Beachy Head, owes much to the Victorians and the 7th Duke of Devonshire who laid out beautiful parks and gardens and built the pier. This elegant town has many charms awaiting discovery including an excellent shopping centre and traditional seaside bandstands. In the late afternoon our steam locomotive will be waiting to haul the train all the way back to London as we take the coastal line through Hastings and travelling across Romney Marsh and turning inland we pass the historic town of Rye and continue through Ashford International as our steam engine keeps company with modern Eurostar's. Continuing through Maidstone, Shoreham and Swanley we are due to arrive back into London Victoria around 19.45 after a relaxing day out to two of the south coasts most iconic seaside resorts. The train is steam hauled by one of our immaculately restored pool of engines including: West Country Class, No. 34046 'Braunton' - Britannia Pacific Class, No 70000 'Britannia'
Beer Festival - Thu 10th to Sun 13th September 2020 Great Central Railway's annual beer festival returns for its thirteenth year and is better than ever! Take your taste buds on a sentimental journey at our 4-day beer festival. This year SEVENTY guest beers are on offer, specially selected from different breweries; ciders and perry too. Trains are running on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with a variety of both steam and diesel power. Please note there are evening trains running on both Friday & Saturday to help visitors to return to where they'd most like to be!
SNOWDONIA STATESMAN FRIDAY 11 SEPTEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Swindon (05.35/23.55) Kemble (05.50/23.30) Stroud (06.10/23.15) Stonehouse (06.20/23.05) Cheltenham Spa (06.45/22.45) Worcester Shrub Hill (07.25/22.15) Droitwich Spa (07.35/22.00) Kidderminster (07.55/21.50) Stourbridge Jct (08.10/21.35) Rowley Regis (08.25/21.25) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change 'The Statesman' celebrated train heads into North Wales for a journey along the spectacular coastal route with its sweeping sea views and climbing high into the Snowdonia National Park and up the stunningly beautiful Conwy Valley passing through a region of haunting beauty and grandeur, of wild mountains, hidden valleys, cascading rivers, still glacial lakes and deep forests. There is the option of spending time at either the popular Victorian tourist centre of Betws-y-Coed, or Blaenau Ffestiniog. We also have an optional excursion available offering a steam hauled journey on the famous Ffestiniog Railway. Travelling across the Cheshire plain to Chester, we pass the Roman Walls and enter Wales running alongside the Irish Sea passing Rhyl on a coastline famed for its beaches and views. At Llandudno Junction the train reverses for the spectacular journey up the beautiful Conwy Valley where a breathtaking range of scenery unfolds, from historic castles through estuary rich in wildlife, to gentle slopes that give way to majestic crags with views of tumbling waterfalls and high mountains. The high peaks of Snowdonia are on view before our train enters the imposing slate landscape of Blaenau Ffestiniog. It is here you may join our optional tour or perhaps visit the Llechwedd Slate Caverns situated just outside the town. The train returns in the late afternoon retracing our journey over the same enchanting route. Ffestiniog Railway Adjacent to the main line station in Blaenau Ffestiniog is the terminus of one of the Great Little Trains of Wales - the narrow gauge Ffestiniog Railway which was built in 1836 to carry slate down to the coast. Our privately chartered steam train will be waiting to take you on a return journey to Tan-y-Bwlch as it twists and turns around the mountainside offering spectacular views across to Harlech and beyond. Seating is limited to 170 passengers so early booking is advised. Supplement: ?22 per person Mobility This tour is not suitable for guests with wheelchairs as the platforms at some stations are much shorter than our train or accessible only by a footbridge and it may be necessary to walk through several carriages when boarding or alighting. It is not possible to transfer between our train and the Ffestiniog Railway in a wheelchair. These points should be borne in mind for guests who may have mobility issues.
Super-Power 2020' 11 - 13 September Our popular enthusiasts event, which includes things of interest for all the family, will be making a welcome return in 2020. We are still working on the exact format of the weekend, but this will be an opportunity to catch up with all the latest developments on the WHR.
Beer Festival - Thu 10th to Sun 13th September 2020 Great Central Railway's annual beer festival returns for its thirteenth year and is better than ever! Take your taste buds on a sentimental journey at our 4-day beer festival. This year SEVENTY guest beers are on offer, specially selected from different breweries; ciders and perry too. Trains are running on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with a variety of both steam and diesel power. Please note there are evening trains running on both Friday & Saturday to help visitors to return to where they'd most like to be!
Steam & Diesel Gala 12th & 13th September 2020 Booking Information Please note a ?1.80 transaction fee will be added per booking for any tickets purchased online. The Friends of Kirklees Light Railway are hosting their 15th Annual Steam & Diesel Gala Weekend over the weekend of 12 & 13 September 2020. Further details including ticket information, theme and visiting locos will be announced nearer the time!
Super-Power 2020' 11 - 13 September Our popular enthusiasts event, which includes things of interest for all the family, will be making a welcome return in 2020. We are still working on the exact format of the weekend, but this will be an opportunity to catch up with all the latest developments on the WHR.
Autumn Diesel Gala 12,13 September 2020 featuring: ?Visiting locomotives (to be confirmed) ?Class 45 'Peak, 45132 ?our homefleet of 20001, 31438, 37029 and 47635 As usual we will be running a 3 train intensive service throughout the weekend with late running Real Ale trains on Saturday. All trains will be running in conjunction with our fleet of Heritage buses, which will be operating between Ongar, North Weald, Epping Underground and Shenfield National Rail stations. Our on train bars will be also be open, serving a selection of draught beers, as well as a range of wines, lagers and soft drinks, and, on the Saturday evening, we will be running our Real Ale Train. Cab rides for ?5 For those who would like to see the line from the unique vantage point of a loco cab, then we will be offering our popular cab rides for ?5. These can't be pre-booked, just see the crew of the locomotive to reserve your place. For safety reasons the number of people in the cab will be limited and may vary between locomotives. Brake Van Rides Brake van rides will operate between North Weald and Epping Forest. An additional charge of ?5 per return trip will be payable. Simply pay the guard on your trip of choice.
Farewell Joffre September 12th @ 11:30 am - September 13th @ 4:00 pm Apedale Valley Light Railway, Loomer Road, Chesterton Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire ST5 7LB United Kingdom We say farewell (for a while) to one of our steam locos - the Kerr, Stuart 'Joffre'. After ten years faithful service, the loco is due for an overhaul.
Road & Rail Festival 12th / 13th Sep 2020 Saturday 12th 10:00 - 17:00 & Sunday 13th September - 10:00-16:00 Arrive at Statfold and board the train to join us for one of the best Road and Rail Festival events, right here at Statfold this event promises to be one of the biggest events on the Statfold Calendar. The award winning Statfold Barn Railway will also be operating throughout the weekend. An intensive train service featuring passenger trains and goods trains will be operate on Saturday and Sunday. All trains rides are included with the entrance price.
'APT' - a talk by Kit Speakman THE AFTERNOON LECTURES Saturday, 12 September 2020 13:45 to 16:00
AUTUMN STEAM GALA Sat 12th & Sun 13th September
THE COTSWOLD EXPRESS - SATURDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: London Paddington (09.40/22.00) Slough (10.10/21.30) Maidenhead (10.25/21.10) Reading (10.45/20.45) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure Departing from London Paddington our steam hauled train travels west for a full day tour to the beautiful Cotswolds and a visit to historic Worcester. We travel outward through Oxford and Evesham, with a return through the Golden Valley and the challenging climb of Sapperton bank. Following departure from Reading we take the Great Western main line to Didcot and travel through Oxford, the city of dreaming spires and join the Cotswold line travelling through an area of outstanding Natural Beauty characterised by attractive small towns and villages built of Cotswold stone. Rare limestone grassland habitats as well as the old growth beech woodlands typify the area, which is a delight to behold. We face the five-mile climb of Honeybourne bank, graded at 1 in 100 then onward through Evesham to Worcester for a break of around three hours. The city of Worcester stands on the River Severn and is best known for its magnificent ornate cathedral but also famous for the world-renowned porcelain, the home of composer Edward Elgar and the piquant Worcestershire sauce. Perhaps visit the historic Guildhall and Tudor House Museum or take a stroll beside the beautiful river. Our train departs for the return in the late afternoon and we take the GWR main line through Cheltenham Spa before taking the Golden Valley line through picturesque Stroud and beside the River Frome. Next is the long twisting climb to Sapperton tunnel as our engine works hard up the severe gradient. We then descend through Kemble to Swindon and travel through the Vale of the white horse to Didcot and onward to Paddington. The train is steam hauled throughout 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' - LNER A4 Pacific, No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Beer Festival - Thu 10th to Sun 13th September 2020 Great Central Railway's annual beer festival returns for its thirteenth year and is better than ever! Take your taste buds on a sentimental journey at our 4-day beer festival. This year SEVENTY guest beers are on offer, specially selected from different breweries; ciders and perry too. Trains are running on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with a variety of both steam and diesel power. Please note there are evening trains running on both Friday & Saturday to help visitors to return to where they'd most like to be!
Steam & Diesel Gala 12th & 13th September 2020 Booking Information Please note a ?1.80 transaction fee will be added per booking for any tickets purchased online. The Friends of Kirklees Light Railway are hosting their 15th Annual Steam & Diesel Gala Weekend over the weekend of 12 & 13 September 2020. Further details including ticket information, theme and visiting locos will be announced nearer the time!
Super-Power 2020' 11 - 13 September Our popular enthusiasts event, which includes things of interest for all the family, will be making a welcome return in 2020. We are still working on the exact format of the weekend, but this will be an opportunity to catch up with all the latest developments on the WHR.
Autumn Diesel Gala 12,13 September 2020 featuring: ?Visiting locomotives (to be confirmed) ?Class 45 'Peak, 45132 ?our homefleet of 20001, 31438, 37029 and 47635 As usual we will be running a 3 train intensive service throughout the weekend with late running Real Ale trains on Saturday. All trains will be running in conjunction with our fleet of Heritage buses, which will be operating between Ongar, North Weald, Epping Underground and Shenfield National Rail stations. Our on train bars will be also be open, serving a selection of draught beers, as well as a range of wines, lagers and soft drinks, and, on the Saturday evening, we will be running our Real Ale Train. Cab rides for ?5 For those who would like to see the line from the unique vantage point of a loco cab, then we will be offering our popular cab rides for ?5. These can't be pre-booked, just see the crew of the locomotive to reserve your place. For safety reasons the number of people in the cab will be limited and may vary between locomotives. Brake Van Rides Brake van rides will operate between North Weald and Epping Forest. An additional charge of ?5 per return trip will be payable. Simply pay the guard on your trip of choice.
Road & Rail Festival 12th / 13th Sep 2020 Saturday 12th 10:00 - 17:00 & Sunday 13th September - 10:00-16:00 Arrive at Statfold and board the train to join us for one of the best Road and Rail Festival events, right here at Statfold this event promises to be one of the biggest events on the Statfold Calendar. The award winning Statfold Barn Railway will also be operating throughout the weekend. An intensive train service featuring passenger trains and goods trains will be operate on Saturday and Sunday. All trains rides are included with the entrance price.
AUTUMN STEAM GALA Sat 12th & Sun 13th September
The Weymouth Seaside Express Sunday 13th September 2020 A trip down memory lane awaits those who join this special train, which recreates the days of seaside excursions run by British Railways in the 1950s. The train will be hauled by a steam locomotive that will evoke the past and complete this nostalgic experience. Our destination is the attractive seaside town of Weymouth - a traditional English seaside resort that has managed to preserve much of its charm. This is a lovely outing for a summer day. Our special train leaves Bristol Temple Meads at around 08:20, hauled by our steam locomotive 46233 Duchess of Sutherland and heads eastwards. We stop to pick up passengers at Keynsham and Bath. We then take the route up the picturesque Avon Valley, travelling southwards to Trowbridge and Westbury, where we make stops to pick up more passengers. We head westwards from Westbury, pausing briefly at Frome, before continuing along the West of England main line to Bruton. At Castle Cary, we leave the main line and head south on the single track Weymouth Branch. We stop at Yeovil Pen Mill for our steam locomotive to take on water, and then there follows a long steep climb through the Dorset Hills up to the summit at Evershot Tunnel. Our steam locomotive will be working flat out on this exhilarating climb. It is mainly downhill from Evershot Summit through Maiden Newton, and the picturesque town of Dorchester, to Weymouth. There will be around five hours in Weymouth to explore this much-loved south coast seaside resort. It is located on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has a beautifully wide sandy beach near to the railway station. Other attractions include the Old Harbour, Brewers Quay, shopping village and Nothe Fort, where there are spectacular views over both Weymouth and Portland harbours. Open top buses operate to the Isle of Portland, where there is a castle and lighthouse, and there are boat trips from Weymouth Harbour around Portland Harbour. We leave Weymouth for our return journey at around 16:30 and head north up the steep Bincombe Bank (1 in 50) to Dorchester. Later we climb up to Evershot Summit from the south side before the descent to Yeovil Pen Mill. We stop at Westbury, Trowbridge, Bath and Keynsham to set down passengers. Finally we arrive at Bristol Temple Meads where we say goodbye to our steam locomotive.
Diesel Day A day for diesel enthusiasts! Tuesday 15th September The DMU will run at 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm & 3.30pm. Standard ticket prices apply. You will be able to ride the diesel train as many times as you like, look around our Engine Shed and Workshop, visit our shop, before putting your feet up for a bite in the Whistlestop Cafe.
The Conwy Valley Explorer Dumfries to Betws-y-Coed or Blaenau Ffestiniog Wednesday 16 September 2020 From Dumfries, Annan, Gretna, Carlisle, Penrith and Lancaster. Please Note: This trip is hauled by vintage diesel Join us for a scenic day out to remember as our stylish heritage train travels from Dumfries and down the scenic West Coast Main Line, past Morecambe Bay and through Wigan, our last pick up point, towards Chester. From Chester we head west along the beautiful North Wales coast. This section of line offers open sea views to enjoy as we race through the resorts of Prestatyn, Rhyl and Colwyn Bay before arriving at Llandudno Junction. Here we join the Conwy Valley Line for a breathtaking run and steep climb to the pretty mountain resort of Betws-y-Coed. The line from Llandudno first follows the gentle curve of the Conway Estuary. However we soon begin to twist and turn and our engine has to labour hard to climb the steep gradients to our destination with the views becoming more dramatic with each mile that passes. In Betws-y-Coed you will find plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants plus some lovely riverside paths. Alongside the station there is a small railway museum and a miniature railway to enjoy. After our visit we return to the comfort of our reserved seats to once more enjoy the glorious scenery that North Wales has to offer. Alternatively enjoy a bit more of the local scenery as you travel to our journey's end at Blaenau Ffestiniog via a Roman Bridge and a deep mountain tunnel for a break of up to 3 hours. This town, set among huge mountains of slate waste and fabulous views of the nearby area, is home of the Ffestiniog narrow gauge steam railway and just on the edge of town the brilliant Llechwedd Slate Caverns. There should be time to relax and perhaps visit a few local gift shops and take a bite to eat before return departure as well as possibly exploring one of these attractions.
Rail Ale and Blues Festival Friday 18th to Sunday 20th September 2020 The Rail Ale and Blues Festival returns to Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway for its sixth year! A stunning line up of blues musicians from around the country will be making their way to the stage at Lakeside Station to put on a show you will not forget. The award winning 'Signal Box Inn' will be bursting at the seams with a superb variety of real ales, ready to tick off the list of your favourites? And they'll be even more ales available from our new external bar! Then if you fancy a relaxing trip along the coast, take a ride on the light railway, where steam trains will be in action all weekend. A perfect combination, not to be missed! Make sure you visit our Facebook event page for further announcements and make sure to hit the attending button! The event is free to enter with charges applying for drinks and train rides.
Victorian Weekend Sat 19 & Sun 20 Sept - Come and discover how railways changed everyday life Come and be transported back in time to the 19th Century and ride aboard historic steam trains, see original Victorian locomotives and carriages, find out more about everyday life from award-winning period re-enactors the Ragged Victorians, discover basic signalling apparatus from the early Great Western Railway and see surviving track from Brunel's broad gauge - complete with a display of painstakingly recreated locomotives and carriages. Steam trains will be in action offering unlimited rides on the Centre's two passenger lines with award-winning 'Saint' class locomotive 2999 'Lady of Legend' hauling a train including Victorian carriages on the main demonstration line while services on the Centre's branch line will be provided by a locomotive dating from Victorian times. Locomotives on display include Victorian examples No 5 'Shannon' - a remarkable survivor having been built in 1857 and which spent many years working on the nearby Wantage Tramway and No. 1338. Visitors can also see some surviving track from Brunel's broad gauge along with replica locomotives Fire Fly and Iron Duke - the high speed trains of the Victorian era! Be sure to look out for the characteristic disc and crossbar signal and the Railway Policeman's Hut and find out how trains were controlled in the early days of the railways.
BEAMISH & DURHAM STATESMAN SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Shrewsbury (06.10/22.05) Gobowen (06.40/21.35) Chirk (06.45/21.30) Ruabon (06.50/21.25) Wrexham General (07.00/21.15) Chester (07.20/20.55) Frodsham (07.40/20.30) Warrington Bank Quay (07.50/20.20) Newton-le-Willows (08.05/20.05) Manchester Victoria (08.40/19.40) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change We present a scenic journey to the spectacular and beautiful North East with its landscape of iconic landmarks as we travel through the Vale of York with views of the Yorkshire Moors to the historic city of Durham for an afternoon sightseeing break. This tour offers a choice of leisure time in Durham - or an optional visit to the award winning Beamish Open-Air Museum. On arrival at historic Durham, which has been voted as 'the best city in the UK' around four hours will be available at leisure to enjoy the many delights with its cobbled streets, Norman Cathedral & dramatic Castle that were founded in 1072 and today are a World Heritage Site as they stand high above the River Wear where relaxing cruises and riverside walks are available - The city is alive with boutiques, galleries, museums and shops selling local food. Alternatively, enjoy an exclusive visit to the award-winning Beamish Museum which should be booked at the same time as the main tour as space is limited: Beamish Open-Air Museum Leaving the train at Durham road coaches will transport you on the short journey to the award winning 300-acre Beamish Museum for a totally unique day out. It's a vast, living, working experience of life as it was in the North East of the late 1800's and early 1900's where the past comes to life with costumed guides and the opportunity to travel by Tram or omnibus to the Town, Colliery Village, Home Farm, Pockerley Manor and a 1825 Railway complete with the Puffing Billy locomotive. Perhaps enjoy a pint in the restored Sun Inn or sample traditional fish n' chips cooked on an Edwardian coal fired range. Supplement: ?32 per person
1940s weekend Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 September 2020 19 & 20 September sees the return of our annual 1940s weekend. Admire the vintage vehicle and re-enactor displays, enjoy music from Jayne Darling and the Goodnight Sweethearts. Meet 'Winston Churchill' and 'Field Marshall Montgomery' just generally soak up the atmosphere on this special weekend. Bitton Blitz Boogie Join our evening dance at Bitton Sports & Social Club (just a few hundred metres from the railway) where you will be able to swing along to your 40s favourites! Saturday 19 7pm:- Tickets, ?10.00 per head Call the office on 0117 932 5538 to get yours today! Steam train rides also taking place throughout the day from 11am - 4pm. Don't forget, our station car park is not in use this weekend. Enjoy a FREE vintage bus ride from Keynsham (near the Lock Keeper pub and Keynsham mainline railway station). Follow AVR event parking signs. Due to this special event the entire station site will be access by ticket only, purchased on the day. We will, however be providing temporary toilet facilities at the station entrance for users of the Railway path. Tickets, Adult ?12.00 Senior ?11.00 Child ?9.00, Family ?35.00 If you're a re-enactor and would like to attend this event we'd love to see you. All we ask is that you register your attendance with our form below and return to the office in advance.
Batemans Brewery, Wainfleet, Skegness
Sale of Railwayana
Rail Ale and Blues Festival Friday 18th to Sunday 20th September 2020 The Rail Ale and Blues Festival returns to Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway for its sixth year! A stunning line up of blues musicians from around the country will be making their way to the stage at Lakeside Station to put on a show you will not forget. The award winning 'Signal Box Inn' will be bursting at the seams with a superb variety of real ales, ready to tick off the list of your favourites? And they'll be even more ales available from our new external bar! Then if you fancy a relaxing trip along the coast, take a ride on the light railway, where steam trains will be in action all weekend. A perfect combination, not to be missed! Make sure you visit our Facebook event page for further announcements and make sure to hit the attending button! The event is free to enter with charges applying for drinks and train rides.
Tram Day Sat 19th September @ 10:00 am - 5:30 pm An exciting day for those who love tram rides! Many of our operational trams will be running, so ride on as many as you wish! In addition, the large scale Robert Whetstone tram models will be running in the Exhibition Hall. From 10.30am - 4.30pm there will be a sale of books, Journals and photographs - last chance to buy the Journals dating from the 1930s to 2000, so don't miss this opportunity! 869 180 762 at Glory Mine
The Pennine Blackpool Express Saturday 19th September 2020 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 to Preston, where we take the branch to Blackpool North. Our return journey will be steam hauled to Preston and then via the Ribble Valley through Clitheroe to Hellifield and onwards to Carnforth. Our electric locomotive will then return the train back to London. We leave London Euston at around 07:10 with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Milton Keynes (where passengers from Watford Junction join by service train), 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. At Preston, our steam locomotive allocated from the Carnforth Pool will be attached at the rear of the train and will be hauled by our class 86 electric to Blackpool North. The recently electrified line serves local trains and also allows 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. Around three hours should 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. Returning to Preston, now steam hauled, we will detach the class 86 electric locomotive, which will then go to Carnforth to await our return later in the day. Steam haulage will now continue via Bamber Bridge and the long climb of Hoghton Bank to Blackburn. We will join the Hellifield line at Daisyfield Junction and tackle the steep climb up to Whilpshire Tunnel. A long descent follows towards the impressive 48-arch viaduct over the river Calder at Whalley. After Clitheroe, we continue to follow the scenic Ribble Valley towards Hellifield where there will be a water stop. The last section of our journey to Carnforth will include the steep climb at 1 in 100 from Settle Junction up Giggleswick Bank. We follow the Bentham Line via Wennington and reach Carnforth where we say goodbye to our steam locomotive. The class 86 electric locomotive will be waiting to take our train back to Preston and calling stations to London Euston. *Passengers from Watford Junction will travel to Milton Keynes by service train to join our train. **Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train.
Victorian Weekend Sat 19 & Sun 20 Sept - Come and discover how railways changed everyday life Come and be transported back in time to the 19th Century and ride aboard historic steam trains, see original Victorian locomotives and carriages, find out more about everyday life from award-winning period re-enactors the Ragged Victorians, discover basic signalling apparatus from the early Great Western Railway and see surviving track from Brunel's broad gauge - complete with a display of painstakingly recreated locomotives and carriages. Steam trains will be in action offering unlimited rides on the Centre's two passenger lines with award-winning 'Saint' class locomotive 2999 'Lady of Legend' hauling a train including Victorian carriages on the main demonstration line while services on the Centre's branch line will be provided by a locomotive dating from Victorian times. Locomotives on display include Victorian examples No 5 'Shannon' - a remarkable survivor having been built in 1857 and which spent many years working on the nearby Wantage Tramway and No. 1338. Visitors can also see some surviving track from Brunel's broad gauge along with replica locomotives Fire Fly and Iron Duke - the high speed trains of the Victorian era! Be sure to look out for the characteristic disc and crossbar signal and the Railway Policeman's Hut and find out how trains were controlled in the early days of the railways.
1940s weekend Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 September 2020 19 & 20 September sees the return of our annual 1940s weekend. Admire the vintage vehicle and re-enactor displays, enjoy music from Jayne Darling and the Goodnight Sweethearts. Meet 'Winston Churchill' and 'Field Marshall Montgomery' just generally soak up the atmosphere on this special weekend. Bitton Blitz Boogie Join our evening dance at Bitton Sports & Social Club (just a few hundred metres from the railway) where you will be able to swing along to your 40s favourites! Saturday 19 7pm:- Tickets, ?10.00 per head Call the office on 0117 932 5538 to get yours today! Steam train rides also taking place throughout the day from 11am - 4pm. Don't forget, our station car park is not in use this weekend. Enjoy a FREE vintage bus ride from Keynsham (near the Lock Keeper pub and Keynsham mainline railway station). Follow AVR event parking signs. Due to this special event the entire station site will be access by ticket only, purchased on the day. We will, however be providing temporary toilet facilities at the station entrance for users of the Railway path. Tickets, Adult ?12.00 Senior ?11.00 Child ?9.00, Family ?35.00 If you're a re-enactor and would like to attend this event we'd love to see you. All we ask is that you register your attendance with our form below and return to the office in advance.
Rail Ale and Blues Festival Friday 18th to Sunday 20th September 2020 The Rail Ale and Blues Festival returns to Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway for its sixth year! A stunning line up of blues musicians from around the country will be making their way to the stage at Lakeside Station to put on a show you will not forget. The award winning 'Signal Box Inn' will be bursting at the seams with a superb variety of real ales, ready to tick off the list of your favourites? And they'll be even more ales available from our new external bar! Then if you fancy a relaxing trip along the coast, take a ride on the light railway, where steam trains will be in action all weekend. A perfect combination, not to be missed! Make sure you visit our Facebook event page for further announcements and make sure to hit the attending button! The event is free to enter with charges applying for drinks and train rides.
The Stratford Flyer Southport to Stratford upon Avon Wednesday 23 September 2020 From Southport, Burscough, Parbold and Wigan Please Note: This trip is hauled by vintage diesel Join us for a nostalgic day out aboard our heritage diesel hauled special direct to Stratford upon Avon which is, of course, famous for its connections with William Shakespeare and rightly so. Being the birthplace of the famous Bard and now the home of the Royal Shakespeare Company makes this town a big draw. You may wish to visit Shakespeare's birthplace with its museum collection or maybe take a tour of Anne Hathaway's cottage with its gardens. All these attractions are on the route of the hop-on hop-off open top bus which operates around the town. However there is so much more to Stratford than just William Shakespeare. A charming medieval centre with timber framed buildings and lots of independent shops makes for a lovely afternoon visit. Add to this the canal with its boat trips and also the river, which makes its way through the central park, then Stratford has a most attractive centre worthy of a visit in its own right.
GBRf 2020 GBRf Charity Railtours is excited to announce that it will return in 2020 with another 4-day Charity Railtour. Operating from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th September inclusive, we are aiming to raise as much money as possible for a very worthy cause, Prostate Cancer UK. As before, our train will visit many parts of the country following interesting routes and with unusual locomotives, a recipe that we know works well. Thursday 24th September 2020 GBRf 2020 - Day 1 Our first day begins in familiar fashion, departing from London Victoria with a Class 66. We head around North London and into Essex for a visit to London Gateway, then two Class 73/9 locomotives will take charge for the journey back to Temple Mills Loop. Next, we head down the Great Eastern Main Line to Harwich International for a short break. The 73s then take us through Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Cambridge, up the West Anglia route and back into North London where there is the option to alight at Highbury and Islington. The train however will continue to the Wembley area before one last reversal. Our Class 66 then takes us into London Euston where Day 1 will end.
Giants of Steam Autumn Gala 25th to 27th September 2020 Return of the Giants! We are very pleased to announce the return of the giants at our Giants of Steam Autumn Gala on 25th - 27th September. A special intensive timetable will be operating over the weekend so there will be lots of opportunities to travel behind these magnificent Giants and to watch them in action! A selection of our own wonderful locomotives will also be running.
GBRf 2020 GBRf Charity Railtours is excited to announce that it will return in 2020 with another 4-day Charity Railtour. Operating from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th September inclusive, we are aiming to raise as much money as possible for a very worthy cause, Prostate Cancer UK. As before, our train will visit many parts of the country following interesting routes and with unusual locomotives, a recipe that we know works well. Friday 25th September 2020 GBRf 2020 - Day 2 Our second day begins in most unusual fashion with a pair of Class 73/1 locomotives hauling our train out of London Euston down to the Wembley area. We then reverse and a Class 59 locomotive will take the train onto the Southern Region. We'll have a pick up at Hounslow should anyone prefer a slightly later start before heading onwards via Woking, Guildford, Fareham and into Eastleigh Yard. Here we will look to cover some of the sidings whilst being shunted by one of our Class 08 locomotives. This visit will also allow us to change the Class 73/1s for a fresh pair which will then lead us back via Basingstoke, Woking, Virginia Water, Clapham Junction and Kensington Olympia, where you will have the option to alight. The train will continue to Acton Lane Reception to reverse and service the coaching stock, before the 73/1s take us into London Euston in the early evening where Day 2 will end, with the train then ready for the overnight leg (Day N).
GBRf 2020 GBRf Charity Railtours is excited to announce that it will return in 2020 with another 4-day Charity Railtour. Operating from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th September inclusive, we are aiming to raise as much money as possible for a very worthy cause, Prostate Cancer UK. As before, our train will visit many parts of the country following interesting routes and with unusual locomotives, a recipe that we know works well. Friday 25th September 2020 (Overnight) GBRf 2020 - Day N Perhaps Day N provides for some of the most unusual elements of GBRf 2020. We begin our journey from London Euston with a Class 92 locomotive taking us down the West Coast Main Line to Birmingham International. Here the 92 will detach and make way for a Class 86 locomotive which will continue via Stechford, Aston, Soho Bank and into Birmingham New Street. The 73/1s will then venture into more uncharted territory, departing Birmingham New Street through Five Ways, Longbridge and down the Lickey Incline to Bromsgrove. In another first, the Class 86 will then take the train from Bromsgrove, back up the Lickey Incline, through Five Ways, Birmingham New Street, Duddeston and Aston and into Bescot Loop. Here we say goodbye to the Class 73/1s and the 86 continues over more newly-electrified route, with a trip over the Cannock Line, then via Rugeley, Stafford, Crewe Independent Lines, Wilmslow, Styal, Manchester Piccadilly and Bolton to Preston. The 86 will detach here and our journey onward will be with one of our recently re-instated Class 60s, heading north via Lancaster and Penrith to Carlisle where Day N concludes in the early hours.
Giants of Steam Autumn Gala 25th to 27th September 2020 Return of the Giants! We are very pleased to announce the return of the giants at our Giants of Steam Autumn Gala on 25th - 27th September. A special intensive timetable will be operating over the weekend so there will be lots of opportunities to travel behind these magnificent Giants and to watch them in action! A selection of our own wonderful locomotives will also be running.
GBRf 2020 GBRf Charity Railtours is excited to announce that it will return in 2020 with another 4-day Charity Railtour. Operating from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th September inclusive, we are aiming to raise as much money as possible for a very worthy cause, Prostate Cancer UK. As before, our train will visit many parts of the country following interesting routes and with unusual locomotives, a recipe that we know works well. Saturday 26th September 2020 GBRf 2020 - Day 3 Our third day starts with a twist. On departure from Carlisle the train will be hauled by a Class 37 and Class 33 in multiple, heading north via the G&SW route through Dumfries. At Kilmarnock we will turn left and head to the Ayrshire coast, passing through Troon and Newton-on-Ayr before heading inland again. We take the route through Annbank retuning back to the G&SW route at Mauchline where we will continue south back to Carlisle. From Carlisle we will take the Tyne Valley route to Newcastle, where we expect to arrive in the early afternoon. You have the option to alight here for a circa 3hr break if you wish. The train will then be hauled by a Class 60 and Class 66 via Benton, Newsham, Bedlington and Morpeth to Heaton Loop. Here, the 37/33 combination will re-attach and we will head back into Newcastle to pick up those who chose to take a break. We then head south along the East Coast Main Line, passing through Durham, Darlington, York (avoider), the S&K, Sheffield, Chesterfield, Derby and Tamworth before a set down at Birmingham New Street. The train will continue via Rowley Regis and Stourbridge to Kidderminster where it will run onto the Severn Valley Railway and terminate in the Severn Valley platform after another mammoth day.
Diesel Day
Vintage Working Weekend 26th and 27th September 2020 An action packed weekend with intensive train timetable and lots of engines in use, including a visitor or two! There will be a working display area of steam traction equipment. Special Fares apply but if you book in advance there is a discount! Open from 10.30am-5pm. Visiting engine TBC - watch this space! We have steam driven saw benches, stone crushing and road rolling and a display of vintage vehicles and equipment, there will be trailer rides as well. It's our biggest event of the year! If you have a vehicle you would like to bring along drop us an email at info@perrygrove.co.uk
Autumn Gala 26 and 27 September 2020 Several engines in steam, special trains, marquee attractions, real ale, and much more
Gala The Railway will be holding its annual End of Season Gala Weekend on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September. Further details will be published here closer to the date of the event. Timetable Trains depart frequently Sittingbourne Viaduct from 11am until 4pm. There will be passenger trains hauled by steam (Leader and Melior) or diesel (Victor) locomotives.
The Cumbrian Coast Express Saturday 26th September 2020 Our journey will combine the scenic grandeur of the Cumbria 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 hauled 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 at around 07:00 with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Milton Keynes (where passengers from Watford Junction join by service train), 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 cafe and commence the climb up to Grayrigg. We then travel through the beautiful Lune Gorge to Tebay, before the 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 a varied assortment of shops and cafes. We leave Carlisle steam hauled by a locomotive from the Carnforth pool and our return steam hauled journey to Carnforth takes the scenic coastal route around the Cumbrian Coast. After Maryport, we run along the shoreline through to the industrialised district 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 British Nuclear Fuels plant dominates the landscape. At Ravenglass, we meet up with 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. We will avoid Barrow in Furness by taking the 'Park' cut off line to Dalton 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 back to London Euston. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers. *Passengers from Watford Junction will travel to Milton Keynes by service train to join our train. **Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train.
Giants of Steam Autumn Gala 25th to 27th September 2020 Return of the Giants! We are very pleased to announce the return of the giants at our Giants of Steam Autumn Gala on 25th - 27th September. A special intensive timetable will be operating over the weekend so there will be lots of opportunities to travel behind these magnificent Giants and to watch them in action! A selection of our own wonderful locomotives will also be running.
Heritage Diesel Service and Steam For diesel enthusiasts and general visitors alike! On selected dates throughout our running season we offer the bonus of a Heritage Diesel Service for you to enjoy. Your day rover ticket allows you to ride one or all of the Heritage Diesel Services and Steam Trains on the day. The Heritage Diesel Service runs at 11.45am & 2.45pm on the dates below. Standard ticket prices apply. If you would like to know more information about the Heritage Diesel Multiple Unit please click on the 'About Us' menu at the top of the page and scroll down to 'Our Locomotives and Stock'.
GBRf 2020 GBRf Charity Railtours is excited to announce that it will return in 2020 with another 4-day Charity Railtour. Operating from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th September inclusive, we are aiming to raise as much money as possible for a very worthy cause, Prostate Cancer UK. As before, our train will visit many parts of the country following interesting routes and with unusual locomotives, a recipe that we know works well. Sunday 27th September 2020 GBRf 2020 - Day 4 Our final day will start from the Severn Railway platform at Kidderminster, from where we will head off the Severn Valley Railway with two Class 50 locomotives provided by our friends at the Class 50 Alliance. We will call briefly in the platform of the National Rail station to pick up anyone who may have slept in, then we tackle Old Hill Bank and head into Birmingham New Street for a pick up there. We depart Birmingham via Camp Hill, head south through Bromsgrove and Worcester before heading across the Cotswold Line through Evesham. We pass through Oxford before turning right at Foxhall and heading via Swindon, Kemble, Gloucester and Lydney to Newport, where we will offer the opportunity to leave the train for a few hours. For those staying on, the train will continue to Pengam Sidings, where the Class 50s will detach and return home. Here a Class 92 will be attached to the rear, and a Class 66 will attach to the front to take us forward through Cardiff Central and into Cardiff West. We will then reverse, and in another first, our Class 92 will be the inaugural electric locomotive to haul a passenger train from the Welsh capital. We will head east along the Great Western Main Line, picking up at Newport and then on through Bristol Parkway and Swindon. There will be an option to leave the train at Reading before we continue on the last stretch of the journey. The Class 92 will haul us into Brunel's famous canopy at London Paddington, marking the end of another monumental trip.
Showbus International 2020
Open Days We open at 10:00 and operate our frequent train service between 10:30 and 16:30.
Vintage Working Weekend 26th and 27th September 2020 An action packed weekend with intensive train timetable and lots of engines in use, including a visitor or two! There will be a working display area of steam traction equipment. Special Fares apply but if you book in advance there is a discount! Open from 10.30am-5pm. Visiting engine TBC - watch this space! We have steam driven saw benches, stone crushing and road rolling and a display of vintage vehicles and equipment, there will be trailer rides as well. It's our biggest event of the year! If you have a vehicle you would like to bring along drop us an email at info@perrygrove.co.uk
Autumn Gala 26 and 27 September 2020 Several engines in steam, special trains, marquee attractions, real ale, and much more
Gala The Railway will be holding its annual End of Season Gala Weekend on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September. Further details will be published here closer to the date of the event. Timetable Trains depart frequently Sittingbourne Viaduct from 11am until 4pm. There will be passenger trains hauled by steam (Leader and Melior) or diesel (Victor) locomotives.
The Stratford Flyer Barrow to Stratford upon Avon Wednesday 30 September 2020 From Barrow, Ulverston, Grange over Sands, Carnforth, Lancaster and Preston. Please Note: This trip is hauled by vintage diesel Join us for a nostalgic day out aboard our heritage diesel hauled special direct to Stratford upon Avon which is, of course, famous for its connections with William Shakespeare and rightly so. Being the birthplace of the famous Bard and now the home of the Royal Shakespeare Company makes this town a big draw. You may wish to visit Shakespeare's birthplace with its museum collection or maybe take a tour of Anne Hathaway's cottage with its gardens. All these attractions are on the route of the hop-on hop-off open top bus which operates around the town. However there is so much more to Stratford than just William Shakespeare. A charming medieval centre with timber framed buildings and lots of independent shops makes for a lovely afternoon visit. Add to this the canal with its boat trips and also the river, which makes its way through the central park, then Stratford has a most attractive centre worthy of a visit in its own right.
Autumn Steam Gala - Thurs 1st to Sun 4th October 2020 Our Autumn Steam Gala takes place from 1st to 4th October 2020, with a busy passenger service on Thursday, stepping up a gear on Friday with the addition of freight trains, and on Saturday and Sunday a very intensive timetable indeed, including a very frequent passenger service with goods trains and Travelling Post Office demonstrations. An event not to missed! Up to 9 locomotives in steam!
Autumn Steam Gala - Thurs 1st to Sun 4th October 2020 Our Autumn Steam Gala takes place from 1st to 4th October 2020, with a busy passenger service on Thursday, stepping up a gear on Friday with the addition of freight trains, and on Saturday and Sunday a very intensive timetable indeed, including a very frequent passenger service with goods trains and Travelling Post Office demonstrations. An event not to missed! Up to 9 locomotives in steam!
LOCHS AND GLENS STATESMAN SATURDAY 3 TO MONDAY 5 OCTOBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Milton Keynes (06.10/23.00) Northampton (06.30/22.40) Rugby (06.55/22.20) Coventry (07.45/21.55) Birmingham International (08.00/21.40) Wolverhampton (08.40/21.00) Stafford (09.00/20.40) Crewe (09.30/20.10) Warrington Bank Quay (10.00/19.35) Preston (10.40/18.55) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change Welcome aboard the celebrated 'Statesman' train for a fabulous autumnal weekend tour to the Scottish Highlands with off train excursions through the beautiful Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, offering some of the most stunning scenery in the world. From breathtaking mountains and glens, to the vast tranquil beauty of Loch Katrine with an awe-inspiring private cruise on the restored steamship 'Sir Walter Scott', or visit the Famous Grouse distillery and historic Scone Palace - Accommodation for two nights is at the magnificent 4-star Crieff Hydro Resort, built in 1868 and set in 900 acres of beautiful Perthshire countryside. Saturday: Our train travels north over the Cumbrian Fells with views of the Lakeland mountains to Carlisle where there will be a sightseeing stop in this historic border city, then continuing through the beautiful Scottish Lowlands and over Beattock Summit we join the Highland line and travel through Stirling to arrive into Gleneagles around 17.30 where we alight for the short road coach transfer to Crieff and dinner in the hotel.
Autumn Steam Gala - Thurs 1st to Sun 4th October 2020 Our Autumn Steam Gala takes place from 1st to 4th October 2020, with a busy passenger service on Thursday, stepping up a gear on Friday with the addition of freight trains, and on Saturday and Sunday a very intensive timetable indeed, including a very frequent passenger service with goods trains and Travelling Post Office demonstrations. An event not to missed! Up to 9 locomotives in steam!
Diesel Event October 3rd @ 11:30 am - October 4th @ 4:00 pm Apedale Valley Light Railway, Loomer Road, Chesterton Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire ST5 7LB United Kingdom We have one of the UK's largest collection of internal combustion locos. During this weekend, we'll run as many as possible, and there will be a rare opportunity to ride behind some of them on the passenger trains. It's a kettle-free zone!
The Easterling Saturday 3rd October 2020 Join us on a journey by steam train to rural Norfolk and Suffolk, a scenic area of undulating farmland, market towns, picturesque villages and waterways. The Easterling recalls the days of an express train that ran from London to Yarmouth and Lowestoft, taking Londoners to the Norfolk Broads and the famous East Anglian seaside resorts. The train will be hauled by A1 Class Pacific 60163 Tornado. Our steam train will depart from London King's Cross station at around 08:00 and immediately begins climbing through tunnels and cuttings as it makes its way up the East Coast Main Line (ECML). There are stops at Potters Bar and Stevenage for more passengers to join the train. At Hitchin, we leave the ECML and head for Cambridge, our final stop for passengers. We continue north to Ely and then take the Breckland Line through Thetford to Norwich. The Breckland area is of considerable interest for its unusual flora and fauna, and is characterised by gorse-covered sandy heath land and Scots Pine trees. We arrive at Norwich around mid-day and our steam locomotive 'runs round' our train as we change direction of travel here. We continue our steam hauled journey taking one of the 'Wherry Lines' from Norwich to Lowestoft. The Norfolk Wherry is a type of boat that was widely used in the area. Lowestoft is the most easterly town in the UK and terminus for the East Suffolk Line (ESL). Our train stops here for well over an hour giving passengers time to explore the town and harbour, once a bustling fishing port. Our return journey is along the 49 mile-long scenic ESL through Beccles, Saxmundham and Woodbridge, famous for having the only working Tide Mill in the UK, dating from 1793. Westerfield Junction is where the branch line from Felixstowe joins the ESL; the branch is heavily used by freight trains to and from Felixstowe Docks. Approaching Ipswich, we take the newly built 'Bacon Factory Chord' to join the Great Eastern Main Line (GEML) going northwards from London Liverpool Street to Norwich. We continue northwards to Stowmarket and leave the GEML at Haughley Junction. We pass through Bury St. Edmunds station, with its distinctive pair of towers. At Snailwell Junction we take the line for Newmarket and Cambridge, where we stop to set down passengers. We make further stops to set down passengers at Stevenage and Potters Bar before journeys end at London King's Cross.
LOCHS AND GLENS STATESMAN SATURDAY 3 TO MONDAY 5 OCTOBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Milton Keynes (06.10/23.00) Northampton (06.30/22.40) Rugby (06.55/22.20) Coventry (07.45/21.55) Birmingham International (08.00/21.40) Wolverhampton (08.40/21.00) Stafford (09.00/20.40) Crewe (09.30/20.10) Warrington Bank Quay (10.00/19.35) Preston (10.40/18.55) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change Welcome aboard the celebrated 'Statesman' train for a fabulous autumnal weekend tour to the Scottish Highlands with off train excursions through the beautiful Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, offering some of the most stunning scenery in the world. From breathtaking mountains and glens, to the vast tranquil beauty of Loch Katrine with an awe-inspiring private cruise on the restored steamship 'Sir Walter Scott', or visit the Famous Grouse distillery and historic Scone Palace - Accommodation for two nights is at the magnificent 4-star Crieff Hydro Resort, built in 1868 and set in 900 acres of beautiful Perthshire countryside. Sunday: Following a relaxing Scottish breakfast there is a choice of two tours which should be pre-booked: Option 1: Road coaches will depart mid-morning for a journey through Callandar and into the stunning scenery of the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, before boarding the 117-year-old restored steamship 'Sir Walter Scott' for an hour's cruise to relax and soak up the scenery on beautiful Loch Katrine. We return through Queen Elizabeth Forest and over the Dukes Pass to historic Stirling where there will be a couple of hours to discover the old town or perhaps visit the castle set high above the valley on a rocky crag, offering superb views across the River Forth. Option 2: Road coaches will depart mid-morning for a visit to the Famous Grouse Whisky experience with a guided tour of the distillery following which we continue through the scenic countryside to historic Scone Palace, the former crowning place of the Kings of Scotland and now one of the country's most important stately homes with a tour of the Palace interior and gardens followed by Afternoon Tea in the former kitchens. Please note: this trip is restricted to 45 guests so early booking is advised.
Autumn Steam Gala - Thurs 1st to Sun 4th October 2020 Our Autumn Steam Gala takes place from 1st to 4th October 2020, with a busy passenger service on Thursday, stepping up a gear on Friday with the addition of freight trains, and on Saturday and Sunday a very intensive timetable indeed, including a very frequent passenger service with goods trains and Travelling Post Office demonstrations. An event not to missed! Up to 9 locomotives in steam!
Vintage Bus Running Day Double the nostalgia, double the experience, double the fun - our Vintage Bus Day is back on 4th October! Relive happy times of travel in the 50s, 60s and 70s by taking a vintage bus to a heritage railway. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a past age. The unmistakable 'ding' of a bell and 'toot' of a whistle, the fine leather and moquette upholstery, and the colourful liveries and elegant coachwork. A wonderful day out with a difference - indefinably nostalgic for those who rode on them, as well as a world of fascination and wonder for younger generations, many of who may have never even been on a bus or a train! Hop aboard one of the many buses running on the day, settle back for a steam train ride and then travel in style on a bus back home. Or why not enjoy a steam train ride at the railway and then hop aboard a vintage bus for a scenic journey around the local countryside?
Vintage Bus Days Free vintage bus ride around Alresford On the first Sunday of the month from May to October a FREE vintage bus service operates from Alresford Station. You do not need to purchase a train ticket to ride this service. The vintage bus leaves Alresford Station on a circular route through Bishop's Sutton at the following times on a trip lasting 20 minutes: 11.30 12.00 12.30 13.00 13.30 then 14.30 15.00 15.30 16.00 Unfortunately, due to their age these buses do not have provision for wheelchairs. This vintage bus service is operated by the Medstead Depot Omnibus Group, who are one of three groups under the Working Omnibus Museum Project Ltd, and their buses frequently visit running days and rallies around the South. MDOG is part of a charity established in the late 1980's which provides a storage depot for 18 vintage buses originally running bus services in the south of England. The buses are owned and maintained by individuals or small groups.
LOCHS AND GLENS STATESMAN SATURDAY 3 TO MONDAY 5 OCTOBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Milton Keynes (06.10/23.00) Northampton (06.30/22.40) Rugby (06.55/22.20) Coventry (07.45/21.55) Birmingham International (08.00/21.40) Wolverhampton (08.40/21.00) Stafford (09.00/20.40) Crewe (09.30/20.10) Warrington Bank Quay (10.00/19.35) Preston (10.40/18.55) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change Welcome aboard the celebrated 'Statesman' train for a fabulous autumnal weekend tour to the Scottish Highlands with off train excursions through the beautiful Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, offering some of the most stunning scenery in the world. From breathtaking mountains and glens, to the vast tranquil beauty of Loch Katrine with an awe-inspiring private cruise on the restored steamship 'Sir Walter Scott', or visit the Famous Grouse distillery and historic Scone Palace - Accommodation for two nights is at the magnificent 4-star Crieff Hydro Resort, built in 1868 and set in 900 acres of beautiful Perthshire countryside. Monday: A full Scottish breakfast will be served in the hotel restaurant and road coaches will transport us to Perth station where 'The Statesman' will be waiting to leave for the journey around the Kingdom of Fife coastal route and over the iconic Forth Bridge to the beautiful and enchanting capital of Edinburgh for an afternoon break. There is something for everyone in this city with numerous attractions all within easy walking distance - from the famous shops on Princes Street or a stroll down the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, or the impressive fortress of Edinburgh Castle. We return homeward in the late afternoon retracing our outward journey.
Railways Remembered 19:30, The Benn Hall, Newbold Road, Rugby CV21 2LN
Railways Rememberd 19:30, The Palace Theatre, Appletongate, Newark. NG24 1JY
The Pendle Dalesman Scarborough to Carlisle Thursday 08 October 2020 From Scarborough, Seamer, Malton, York, Church Fenton, Pontefract and Wakefield Steam from Hellifield/Carnforth Join us for a nostalgic day to remember, travelling behind our splendid vintage steam engine along England's most famous railway. From our earlier pick up points we head north behind a vintage diesel engine to Hellifield/Carnforth where one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. The Settle-Carlisle Railway on which we will travel needs no introduction; this breath-taking journey will take you over 20 Viaducts, through 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas. The climb over Blea Moor and the crossing of the world renowned Ribblehead Viaduct are arguably the highlights of England?s most scenic Railway. CARLISLE: We anticipate an afternoon arrival time offering a couple of hours or so break. This great border city dominates the borderlands between England and Scotland, sitting within the vale between the Cumbrian Mountains and Scottish Southern Uplands. In Carlisle you'll find yourself at the centre of a stirring past and a vibrant present. Many of the city's eateries and licensed premises are just a few minutes' walk from the station entrance and if you visit www.historic-carlisle.org.uk you will find information to help you plan ahead. And for those who would prefer to use their short break to wander around in the beautiful and historic heart of the city you may choose to visit the Castle, cathedral or indeed the Tullie House Museum. After a break of around two hours in Carlisle, we head south across some of the finest countryside Great Britain has to offer, where we head to your home stations via the famous Settle to Carlisle line in the comfort of our beautifully restored MkI or MkII Carriages.
SETTLE & CARLISLE LUNCHEON CIRCULAR SATURDAY 10 OCTOBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Wolverhampton (08.30/18.40) Codsall (08.40/18.30) Telford (09.00/18.10) Wellington (09.10/18.00) Shrewsbury (09.40/17.30) Whitchurch (09.55/17.10) Crewe (10.20/16.50) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change Step aboard the celebrated 'Statesman' land cruise train for a very special circular tour including a journey over the entire majestic route of the famous Settle to Carlisle railway, with its great limestone peaks and deep valleys we travel over no fewer than 19 viaducts and through 12 tunnels on this masterpiece of Victorian engineering - including the famous Ribblehead Viaduct. Leaving behind the industrial architecture of the north our train heads into the Yorkshire Dales for a spectacular journey over the magnificent high Pennines. The sheer scale of the scenery is apparent as we pass such famous landmarks as Batty Moss, Wild Boar Fell and Mallerstang Edge, with views of the three peaks towering over the line. One magnificent sight follows another before we gradually descend into the tranquil Eden Valley and just south of Carlisle, we take the west coast line through Penrith, climbing over Shap summit and through the pretty Lune Gorge affording stunning views of the Cumbrian mountains.
Princes Risborough North Signal Box Open Day
The Cumbrian Mountain Express Saturday 10th October 2020 The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about during the summer and autumn months. The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about during the summer and autumn 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 leave London Euston at around 07:10 with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Milton Keynes (where passengers from Watford Junction join by service train), 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. Here, we will change over our electric locomotive for today's steam locomotive, taken from the Carnforth pool. Leaving Carnforth, we pass the Brief Encounter cafe and 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. 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. Premier Dining not applicable from Preston. *Passengers from Watford Junction will travel to Milton Keynes by service train to join our train. **Passengers from Northampton will travel to and from Rugby by service train to join our train.
The Pendle Dalesman Wolverhampton to Carlisle Wednesday 14 October 2020 From Wolverhampton, Stafford, Stoke on Trent and Crewe Steam from Hellifield/Carnforth Join us for a nostalgic day to remember, travelling behind our splendid vintage steam engine along England's most famous railway. From our earlier pick up points we head north behind a vintage diesel engine to Hellifield/Carnforth where one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. The Settle-Carlisle Railway on which we will travel needs no introduction; this breath-taking journey will take you over 20 Viaducts, through 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas. The climb over Blea Moor and the crossing of the world renowned Ribblehead Viaduct are arguably the highlights of England?s most scenic Railway. CARLISLE: We anticipate an afternoon arrival time offering a couple of hours or so break. This great border city dominates the borderlands between England and Scotland, sitting within the vale between the Cumbrian Mountains and Scottish Southern Uplands. In Carlisle you'll find yourself at the centre of a stirring past and a vibrant present. Many of the city's eateries and licensed premises are just a few minutes' walk from the station entrance and if you visit www.historic-carlisle.org.uk you will find information to help you plan ahead. And for those who would prefer to use their short break to wander around in the beautiful and historic heart of the city you may choose to visit the Castle, cathedral or indeed the Tullie House Museum. After a break of around two hours in Carlisle, we head south across some of the finest countryside Great Britain has to offer, where we head to your home stations via the famous Settle to Carlisle line in the comfort of our beautifully restored MkI or MkII Carriages.
Railways Remembered 19:30, Rolls Royce Pavilion, Moor Lane, Derby DE24 9HY
The Autumn West Highlander - 4 Day Luxury Railcruise 16 to 19 October 2020 A four-day railcruise passing through spectacular Scottish scenery, travelling in classic First Class Carriages with delicious food and a comfortable overnight hotel Friday to Monday Join us for a memorable trip to the scenic splendours of Western Scotland, travelling in classic First Class carriages. Enjoy freshly prepared on-board meals served at your seat, a choice of off-train options and a comfortable overnight hotel. The fare includes: ?First class rail travel aboard our special train, your choice of optional activity each day, hotel transfers and three nights hotel accommodation in a shared twin or double room (a supplement applies for single room occupancy). ?On train meals and refreshments as described. Breakfast is taken at the hotel on both Saturday and Sunday morning. Friday The weekend starts with a champagne English Breakfast as we set off northwards (something lighter will be served to those joining us later). There will be a light Luncheon before a journey break mid-afternoon. Then we cross into Scotland, and enjoy Evening Dinner as we head into the West Highlands on our way to Fort William and the comfortable hotels for our three night stay.
10th CAMRA Real Ale & Cider Festival! Friday 16th, Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October 2020 One of the biggest beer & cider festivals in Kent & Sussex is celebrating its 10th anniversary! 200+ Real Ales, 40+ Ciders, 35+ Green Hop Beers plus more beverages! Our major Real Ale and Cider event, only made possible through the support of West Kent CAMRA, celebrates it's 10th anniversary from Friday 16th to Sunday 18th October 2020. With 200+ Real Ales, 40+ Green Hop Beers, a craft beer bar featuring UK Keg & European Beers & 30+ Ciders, this is the event you do not want to miss. The main festival takes place in our Victorian Engine Shed at Tunbridge Wells West where you can enjoy a pint or two throughout the day in between train rides if you wish. We're operating our 45 minute interval train service and with the festival continuing on the trains and at Groombridge and Eridge Stations, the whole railway comes life with some wonderful local brews! Trains operate from 09:00 until around 23:00 on the Friday and Saturday evening and from 10:00 to 18:00 on the Sunday. Tickets are just ?20 per adult or ?10 per child for unlimited travel all day from the first to the last train. Members of CAMRA who produce their membership card can travel for just ?15*. Please note: This facility for CAMRA members to travel at ?15 is not available online and is only available from our Ticket Offices on the day of the event. Those wishing to purchase discounted train tickets should only do so from our Ticket Offices, asking for a CAMRA member rover and producing their in date CAMRA membership card. We are unable to refund the difference at our Ticket Offices should you choose to purchase a full price ticket online, a refund for any tickets purchased online will be in conjunction with our Refunds and Cancellations policy and will incur a ?10 admin fee.
Autumn Steam Gala
The Autumn West Highlander - 4 Day Luxury Railcruise 16 to 19 October 2020 A four-day railcruise passing through spectacular Scottish scenery, travelling in classic First Class Carriages with delicious food and a comfortable overnight hotel Saturday The day begins in leisurely style with breakfast at the hotel before we all step out to enjoy a day of exploration in this beautiful and rugged area. Choose from one of the options below: ?Option A - Rails to Mallaig and back The morning is yours to explore Fort William. Then, at lunchtime, our special train starts out along the 41 twisting and undulating miles to line's end at Mallaig (a light luncheon will be served en-route). The magnificent scenery along the way includes mountains, sea, lochs, moors and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. There should be a good two hours to explore before the return journey. . ?Option B - Sunart and Loch Shiel Cruise By road coach with local guide, travel firstly on the Corran ferry into Sunart and along its namesake loch to Acharacle. After a spot of lunch join the mv Sileas for the cruise of Loch Sheil, culminating in the panorama of the Glenfinnan Monument and viaduct. Look out for eagles! Rejoin the coach along the 'Road to the Isles' for a short afternoon break in Mallaig. ?Option C - Moidart and Loch Sheil Cruise Leave Fort William by coach, with a guide, along the 'Road to the Isles', making for Glenfinnan Pier to join the mv Sileas. for the Loch Sheil cruise - you may see eagles. Lunch will be taken in Acharacle. Your coach will then transport you around the Sound of Arisaig to Mallaig for a short afternoon break. ?Option D - Across the Sea to Eigg The distinctive island of Eigg lies 10 miles off the mainland. One of the Small Islands (along with Muck, Rum & Canna), it has a small community, craft shop and tea room. It is quiet and natural. A road coach with local guide will take you to join the mv Sheerwater at Arisaig for the cruise to Eigg, with around two hours ashore. The afternoon is rounded off with a short break in Mallaig. Stout footware and waterproofs are recommended! With everyone back on board at about five o'clock, we leave Mallaig for the fabulous rail journey back to Fort William. A three course dinner will be enjoyed along the way and we should be back at our hotels around 8pm.
CANTERBURY & WHITE CLIFFS STATESMAN SATURDAY 17 OCTOBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Leicester (05.30/22.05) Melton Mowbray (06.00/21.45) Oakham (06.20/21.25) Stamford (06.40/21.00) Peterborough (06.55/20.45) Huntingdon (07.10/20.30) St Neots (07.20/20.20) Hitchin (07.50/19.50) Stevenage (08.00/19.40) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change This is a fabulous train offering a circular tour through South East England with features including the journey through the picturesque Garden of England and around the beautiful Kent coast with the beautiful white cliffs towering above the train - the highlight of the day being an afternoon break for sightseeing in historic Canterbury. Our outward journey takes us through the London suburbs and into the open countryside of the pretty Garden of England which is rich with Oast Houses and Hop Fields. After passing Ashford we soon arrive at historic Canterbury, a UNESCO heritage site brimming with thousands of years of history. Today, the city famous for its traditional narrow streets and ancient buildings, including the cathedral, which provided the backdrop to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. After a couple of hours for exploration the Statesman train embarks on its scenic return journey, heading towards Minster and taking the junction for Dover and the Cinque Ports. The climb of Martin Mill Bank affords good views of Dover castle and port before our route plunges under Shakespeare's Cliff and emerge along the famous White Cliffs. Passengers will enjoy spectacular coastal views across the English Channel as we head back towards Folkestone, picking up the outward route and homeward through the London suburbs.
10th CAMRA Real Ale & Cider Festival! Friday 16th, Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October 2020 One of the biggest beer & cider festivals in Kent & Sussex is celebrating its 10th anniversary! 200+ Real Ales, 40+ Ciders, 35+ Green Hop Beers plus more beverages! Our major Real Ale and Cider event, only made possible through the support of West Kent CAMRA, celebrates it's 10th anniversary from Friday 16th to Sunday 18th October 2020. With 200+ Real Ales, 40+ Green Hop Beers, a craft beer bar featuring UK Keg & European Beers & 30+ Ciders, this is the event you do not want to miss. The main festival takes place in our Victorian Engine Shed at Tunbridge Wells West where you can enjoy a pint or two throughout the day in between train rides if you wish. We're operating our 45 minute interval train service and with the festival continuing on the trains and at Groombridge and Eridge Stations, the whole railway comes life with some wonderful local brews! Trains operate from 09:00 until around 23:00 on the Friday and Saturday evening and from 10:00 to 18:00 on the Sunday. Tickets are just ?20 per adult or ?10 per child for unlimited travel all day from the first to the last train. Members of CAMRA who produce their membership card can travel for just ?15*. Please note: This facility for CAMRA members to travel at ?15 is not available online and is only available from our Ticket Offices on the day of the event. Those wishing to purchase discounted train tickets should only do so from our Ticket Offices, asking for a CAMRA member rover and producing their in date CAMRA membership card. We are unable to refund the difference at our Ticket Offices should you choose to purchase a full price ticket online, a refund for any tickets purchased online will be in conjunction with our Refunds and Cancellations policy and will incur a ?10 admin fee.
Autumn Steam Gala
The Yorkshireman Saturday 17th October 2020 The city of York is world famous for its variety of visitor attractions and home to the National Railway Museum. We travel north via the Midland Main Line stopping at stations to pick up further passengers. Our train on this trip will be steam hauled between London and York by steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland. Our train leaves London Ealing Broadway at around 06:30 hauled by Duchess of Sutherland and travels around West London through Acton Wells and onwards to Neasden South Junction. At Dudding Hill Junction we take the Brent curve and join the Midland Main Line (MML) near Cricklewood. We head north and stop at St. Albans, Luton, Bedford and Kettering, to pick up further passengers. We leave the MML after Kettering and take the former Midland Railway Nottingham direct line. We pass through Corby station, opened in 2009 to replace the original which was closed in 1966. We climb to the famous Harringworth Viaduct, the longest masonry viaduct in Britain. From the end of the viaduct there is a long, stiff climb up to Wing Tunnel and then it is downhill to Manton Junction, and through Rutland's county town of Oakham. We stop to pick up passengers at Melton Mowbray before we continue to Syston Junction and take the sharp right curve to join the MML from Leicester. We pass through Loughborough and join the Erewash Valley Line at Trent Junction. After Chesterfield we take the 'old road' via barrow Hill to Rotherham and continue through Conisbrough to Doncaster. Here we join the East Coast Main Line and can expect a fast run to York, where we arrive in the early afternoon. York is well known for its Minster, Castle and city walls. The Snickelways, famous medieval alleys and narrow streets, and The Shambles, are well worth exploring. The National Railway Museum, the many shops and museums, ensure that there is something on offer for everybody. Our train leaves York at around 17:15 and returns to London Ealing Broadway diesel hauled. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey, to set down passengers.
The Autumn West Highlander - 4 Day Luxury Railcruise 16 to 19 October 2020 A four-day railcruise passing through spectacular Scottish scenery, travelling in classic First Class Carriages with delicious food and a comfortable overnight hotel The fare includes: ?First class rail travel aboard our special train, your choice of optional activity each day, hotel transfers and three nights hotel accommodation in a shared twin or double room (a supplement applies for single room occupancy). ?On train meals and refreshments as described. Breakfast is taken at the hotel on both Saturday and Sunday morning. Sunday Today, after breakfast in your hotel, we head west for more exploring of this wonderful part of the world via one of the options below: ?Option F - Rails to Oban and back This very special train journey features the West Highland Line in all its glory, climbing and twisting from sea level up onto desolate Rannoch Moor, before arrival into Crianlarich, then along the mountain passes to Oban for an afternoon visit of several hours. This small port serves as a lifeline to the offshore islands. Our return journey re-traces the outward route. ?Option G - Ferries to Mull & Oban This alternative way to Oban is by a road coach with a local guide, going via Strontian and taking three ferries. On the Isle of Mull you will visit Duart Castle, seat of Clan Maclean, before crossing back to the mainland for an afternoon break in Oban. ?Option H - Isle of Iona Iona sits off the western tip of Mull, and is an important religous centre. You will travel there on a coach, with a guide, direct to Oban, to take the Mull ferry and cross the island to Fionnphort for the foot ferry to Iona, where you will have 2-3 hours to explore and relax. The return journey will follow the outward route, and will include a stop for Evening Dinner at The Creagan Inn ?Option J - Lochaber Coach Tour This road coach tour (with a local guide) enjoys a leisurely itinerary, travelling via the 'old road' around Loch Leven to Glencoe for a visit to this historically important location, with its towering landscape. The visit is followed by a scenic journey alongside Loch Linnhe and the coast to Oban, arriving late lunchtime for a three hour do-as-you-please visit. By late afternoon everyone (except Option H) will be in Oban ready to rejoin our special train for our return to Fort William. Evening Dinner will be served whilst you journey through the grand vistas, arriving back at your hotel at about 9:30pm. Wherever you leave us we genuinely hope you will have a weekend full of delightful memories to look back on.
10th CAMRA Real Ale & Cider Festival! Friday 16th, Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October 2020 One of the biggest beer & cider festivals in Kent & Sussex is celebrating its 10th anniversary! 200+ Real Ales, 40+ Ciders, 35+ Green Hop Beers plus more beverages! Our major Real Ale and Cider event, only made possible through the support of West Kent CAMRA, celebrates it's 10th anniversary from Friday 16th to Sunday 18th October 2020. With 200+ Real Ales, 40+ Green Hop Beers, a craft beer bar featuring UK Keg & European Beers & 30+ Ciders, this is the event you do not want to miss. The main festival takes place in our Victorian Engine Shed at Tunbridge Wells West where you can enjoy a pint or two throughout the day in between train rides if you wish. We're operating our 45 minute interval train service and with the festival continuing on the trains and at Groombridge and Eridge Stations, the whole railway comes life with some wonderful local brews! Trains operate from 09:00 until around 23:00 on the Friday and Saturday evening and from 10:00 to 18:00 on the Sunday. Tickets are just ?20 per adult or ?10 per child for unlimited travel all day from the first to the last train. Members of CAMRA who produce their membership card can travel for just ?15*. Please note: This facility for CAMRA members to travel at ?15 is not available online and is only available from our Ticket Offices on the day of the event. Those wishing to purchase discounted train tickets should only do so from our Ticket Offices, asking for a CAMRA member rover and producing their in date CAMRA membership card. We are unable to refund the difference at our Ticket Offices should you choose to purchase a full price ticket online, a refund for any tickets purchased online will be in conjunction with our Refunds and Cancellations policy and will incur a ?10 admin fee.
Autumn Steam Gala
The Autumn West Highlander - 4 Day Luxury Railcruise 16 to 19 October 2020 A four-day railcruise passing through spectacular Scottish scenery, travelling in classic First Class Carriages with delicious food and a comfortable overnight hotel Monday Sadly, it's time to head home, so we leave Fort William and enjoy the on-board breakfast as our train climbs south through lonely landscapes and along lochs to Clydeside. Then we skirt around Glasgow and through the Southern Uplands to England, with a four course luncheon on the way. If you are travelling into the evening a supper will be served later on. Wherever you leave us we genuinely hope you will have a weekend full of delightful memories to look back on.
The Pendle Dalesman Bangor to Carlisle Wednesday 21 October 2020 From Bangor, Llandudno Junction, Flint, Chester, Frodsham and Warrington Bank Quay. Steam from Hellifield/Carnforth Join us for a nostalgic day to remember, travelling behind our splendid vintage steam engine along England's most famous railway. From our earlier pick up points we head north behind a vintage diesel engine to Hellifield/Carnforth where one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. The Settle-Carlisle Railway on which we will travel needs no introduction; this breath-taking journey will take you over 20 Viaducts, through 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas. The climb over Blea Moor and the crossing of the world renowned Ribblehead Viaduct are arguably the highlights of England?s most scenic Railway. CARLISLE: We anticipate an afternoon arrival time offering a couple of hours or so break. This great border city dominates the borderlands between England and Scotland, sitting within the vale between the Cumbrian Mountains and Scottish Southern Uplands. In Carlisle you'll find yourself at the centre of a stirring past and a vibrant present. Many of the city's eateries and licensed premises are just a few minutes' walk from the station entrance and if you visit www.historic-carlisle.org.uk you will find information to help you plan ahead. And for those who would prefer to use their short break to wander around in the beautiful and historic heart of the city you may choose to visit the Castle, cathedral or indeed the Tullie House Museum. After a break of around two hours in Carlisle, we head south across some of the finest countryside Great Britain has to offer, where we head to your home stations via the famous Settle to Carlisle line in the comfort of our beautifully restored MkI or MkII Carriages.
Bygone Britain 19:30, The Palace Theatre, Appletongate, Newark. NG24 1JY
Heritage Diesel Service and Steam For diesel enthusiasts and general visitors alike! On selected dates throughout our running season we offer the bonus of a Heritage Diesel Service for you to enjoy. Your day rover ticket allows you to ride one or all of the Heritage Diesel Services and Steam Trains on the day. The Heritage Diesel Service runs at 11.45am & 2.45pm on the dates below. Standard ticket prices apply. If you would like to know more information about the Heritage Diesel Multiple Unit please click on the 'About Us' menu at the top of the page and scroll down to 'Our Locomotives and Stock'.
Open Days We open at 10:00 and operate our frequent train service between 10:30 and 16:30.
The Tin Bath Sunday 25th October 2020 In honour of this immortal moment in one of the great TV comedies we have named this tour The Tin Bath, after the antics of Compo, Clegg and Foggy rolling down a Yorkshire hillside in a tin bath for the long-running TV series 'Last of the Summer Wine.' Our train takes in the railways of the South Pennines and the Peak District encompassing Derbyshire, Lancashire and South Yorkshire and visiting some routes rarely used by steam trains along the way. Our train leaves Preston steam hauled by a steam locomotive from the Carnforth Pool. We head south up the West Coast Main Line (WCML) to Wigan North Western, where we stop for more passengers. We then travel eastwards to Manchester Victoria and a further stop is made to pick up passengers. Our locomotive will be working hard as we leave Manchester and immediately commence the climb of the testing 1 in 47 gradient of Miles Platting bank. We shall then make our way towards Chinley on another long climb and join the former Midland Railway's 'Hope Valley' line to Sheffield. 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 3? mile-long Totley Tunnel, first opened in 1892, before arrival at Sheffield, where there is a brief stop. On leaving Sheffield we head northwards to Wincobank Junction, adjacent to the famous Meadowhall Shopping Centre, where we join the Barnsley Line. It is a long climb from here up to Chapeltown, Wombwell and Barnsley. But it doesn't end there! From Barnsley we take the single-track line that climbs steeply at gradients of 1 in 50 and 1 in 57 up to Dodworth, where the gradient eases to 1 in 100. Soon afterwards we approach the former junction at Penistone, where after, we pass over the magnificent 29-arch Penistone viaduct. We continue past Denby Dale, famous for its huge meat pies, and the junction for the Kirklees Light Railway. We descend to Huddersfield, crossing many fine bridges and viaducts on the way, including the listed 32-arch Lockwood Viaduct. We continue via Huddersfield to Brighouse where we pause for our steam locomotives to take on water. We then head through the Calder Valley through Hebden Bridge for Hall Royd Junction near Todmorden. Here we leave the main line to Manchester, and take the steeply graded 1 in 65 line to Copy Pit summit (749 feet above sea level), before descending through Burnley to Accrington and Blackburn. We pass through Darwen on the 1 in 71 climb up to Sough Tunnel, drop down to Bolton, and head back to Manchester Victoria. Following a reversal at Manchester Victoria, we now return to Preston via our earlier calling points.
Railways Remembered 19:30, Corn Market Hall, London Road, Kettering NN15 7QA
The Pendle Dalesman Chesterfield to Carlisle Wednesday 28 October 2020 From Chesterfield, Sheffield, Swinton, Wakefield, Brighouse and Blackburn Steam from Hellifield/Carnforth Join us for a nostalgic day to remember, travelling behind our splendid vintage steam engine along England's most famous railway. From our earlier pick up points we head north behind a vintage diesel engine to Hellifield/Carnforth where one of the oldest steam engines in service today will take over, this alone is a sight to behold as the engine builds up sufficient steam for the highlight of your journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle line. The Settle-Carlisle Railway on which we will travel needs no introduction; this breath-taking journey will take you over 20 Viaducts, through 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas. The climb over Blea Moor and the crossing of the world renowned Ribblehead Viaduct are arguably the highlights of England?s most scenic Railway. CARLISLE: We anticipate an afternoon arrival time offering a couple of hours or so break. This great border city dominates the borderlands between England and Scotland, sitting within the vale between the Cumbrian Mountains and Scottish Southern Uplands. In Carlisle you'll find yourself at the centre of a stirring past and a vibrant present. Many of the city's eateries and licensed premises are just a few minutes' walk from the station entrance and if you visit www.historic-carlisle.org.uk you will find information to help you plan ahead. And for those who would prefer to use their short break to wander around in the beautiful and historic heart of the city you may choose to visit the Castle, cathedral or indeed the Tullie House Museum. After a break of around two hours in Carlisle, we head south across some of the finest countryside Great Britain has to offer, where we head to your home stations via the famous Settle to Carlisle line in the comfort of our beautifully restored MkI or MkII Carriages.
SETTLE & CARLISLE LUNCHEON CIRCULAR SATURDAY 31 OCTOBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Shrewsbury (08.40/18.30) Gobowen (09.10/18.00) Chirk (09.20/17.50) Ruabon (09.30/17.30) Wrexham General (09.50/17.15) Chester (10.00/16.50) Warrington Bank Quay (10.30/16.20) Wigan North Western (11.00/16.10) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change Step aboard the celebrated 'Statesman' land cruise train for a very special circular tour including a journey over the entire majestic route of the famous Settle to Carlisle railway, with its great limestone peaks and deep valleys we travel over no fewer than 19 viaducts and through 12 tunnels on this masterpiece of Victorian engineering - including the famous Ribblehead Viaduct. Leaving behind the industrial architecture of the north our train heads into the Yorkshire Dales for a spectacular journey over the magnificent high Pennines. The sheer scale of the scenery is apparent as we pass such famous landmarks as Batty Moss, Wild Boar Fell and Mallerstang Edge, with views of the three peaks towering over the line. One magnificent sight follows another before we gradually descend into the tranquil Eden Valley and just south of Carlisle, we take the west coast line through Penrith, climbing over Shap summit and through the pretty Lune Gorge affording stunning views of the Cumbrian mountains.
Last Day to ride! The last chance to ride all the trains until next year! Sun 1 Nov 2020
SETTLE & CARLISLE LUNCHEON CIRCULAR SATURDAY 7 NOVEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Birmingham International (08.10/19.00) Tame Bridge Parkway (08.40/18.30) Walsall (08.50/18.20) Cannock (09.05/18.05) Rugeley Town (09.20/17.50) Stafford (09.50/17.20) Crewe (10.20/16.50) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change Step aboard the celebrated 'Statesman' land cruise train for a very special circular tour including a journey over the entire majestic route of the famous Settle to Carlisle railway, with its great limestone peaks and deep valleys we travel over no fewer than 19 viaducts and through 12 tunnels on this masterpiece of Victorian engineering - including the famous Ribblehead Viaduct. Leaving behind the industrial architecture of the north our train heads into the Yorkshire Dales for a spectacular journey over the magnificent high Pennines. The sheer scale of the scenery is apparent as we pass such famous landmarks as Batty Moss, Wild Boar Fell and Mallerstang Edge, with views of the three peaks towering over the line. One magnificent sight follows another before we gradually descend into the tranquil Eden Valley and just south of Carlisle, we take the west coast line through Penrith, climbing over Shap summit and through the pretty Lune Gorge affording stunning views of the Cumbrian mountains. There are three different classes of travel available on board our train, but whichever you choose please book early to avoid disappointment:
Railways Remembered 19:30, The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR
Railways Remembered 19:30, The Memorial Hall, Grimsby Road, Cleethorpes. DN35 8AH
SETTLE & CARLISLE LUNCHEON CIRCULAR SATURDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Hereford (08.20/18.45) Leominster (08.40/18.30) Ludlow (09.00/18.10) Craven Arms (09.10/18.00) Church Stretton (09.20/17.50) Shrewsbury (09.40/17.30) Crewe (10.20/16.50) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change Step aboard the celebrated 'Statesman' land cruise train for a very special circular tour including a journey over the entire majestic route of the famous Settle to Carlisle railway, with its great limestone peaks and deep valleys we travel over no fewer than 19 viaducts and through 12 tunnels on this masterpiece of Victorian engineering - including the famous Ribblehead Viaduct. Leaving behind the industrial architecture of the north our train heads into the Yorkshire Dales for a spectacular journey over the magnificent high Pennines. The sheer scale of the scenery is apparent as we pass such famous landmarks as Batty Moss, Wild Boar Fell and Mallerstang Edge, with views of the three peaks towering over the line. One magnificent sight follows another before we gradually descend into the tranquil Eden Valley and just south of Carlisle, we take the west coast line through Penrith, climbing over Shap summit and through the pretty Lune Gorge affording stunning views of the Cumbrian mountains.
Railways Rememberd 19:30, The Palace Theatre, Appletongate, Newark. NG24 1JY
Newark and Notts Showground
BATH & BRISTOL CHRISTMAS STATESMAN SATURDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Preston (06.15/22.30) Wigan North Western (06.35/22.10) Warrington Bank Quay (06.45/22.00) Crewe (07.15/21.30) Shrewsbury (07.55/20.50) Wellington (08.10/20.30) Telford (08.20/20.20) Wolverhampton (08.50/20.00) Tame Bridge Parkway (09.05/19.45) Birmingham International (09.45/19.10) All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change We are pleased to present a unique tour travelling through the heart of England direct to Bath Spa - the beautiful Somerset city of Georgian elegance, to discover its famous and unique Christmas market where over 150 stalls offer quality products and brilliant gift ideas. The famous Bath Abbey and Roman Baths provide an amazing backdrop to the city's festive event offering seasonal shopping, fine foods and family fun with stalls showcasing the talents of retailers from Britain and the Continent. In the Roman Baths Museum there will be 'Crafts in the Drawing Room' selling a selection of locally handcrafted items. There is the elegant and unforgettable city to discover which has attracted visitors since Roman times and we should have around three hours to discover highlights including the Pump Rooms and Abbey, The Carriage Museum and The Circus, Queen Square and Royal Crescent along with the opportunity to join the popular carol concert in the Abbey. Alternatively: remain on 'The Statesman' and continue to the magnificent seafaring city of Bristol where there are a further three Christmas markets and curio shops to discover or uncover its unique maritime history with perhaps a visit to Brunel's masterpiece the S.S Great Britain.
The Merchants' Inn, Rugby
Great Central Railwayana Live Auction at Stoneleigh Park: Saturday, 5 December 2020
PENNINE MOORS CHRISTMAS EXPLORER THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Birmingham International (09.30/19.30) Tame Bridge Parkway (10.00/19.00) Wolverhampton (10.15/18.45) Penkridge (10.30/18.30) Stafford (10.45/18.15) Crewe (11.45/17.15) Warrington Bank Quay (12.30/16.35) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure We are pleased to present a truly memorable circular tour offering a steam hauled journey time of over five hours 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 travels up the West Coast Main Line and at Wigan there is the first of two steep inclines as the engine opens to climb to Boars Head, this is then followed with the long assault to Hoghton Summit. Continuing through Blackburn and Burnley we enter into true Pennine scenery with the moors and hills towering over the line as we commence the 1 in 65 climb with our driver and fireman working hard to haul the heavy train as we thread our way over the Pennines to the summit at Copy Pit, some 749 feet above sea level. After crossing viaducts and passing former Victorian textile Mills we take the newly reinstated curve at Hall Royd Junction and travel through the Calder Valley beside the Rochdale Canal, passing Todmorden and through the 1.6 mile Summit Tunnel we travel to Manchester and continue west with a fast run over Chat Moss and at Earlestown re-join the West Coast line to Crewe where our trusty steam locomotive is changed for a slightly more modern form of traction. 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' - LNER A4 Pacific, No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
THE CHRISTMAS WHITE ROSE SATURDAY 19 DECEMBER 2020 DEPARTING FROM: Wolverhampton (06.00/23.20) Codsall (06.10/23.10) Telford (06.30/22.55) Wellington (06.40/22.45) Shrewsbury (07.00/22.30) Whitchurch (07.30/22.10) Crewe (08.10/21.30) Warrington Bank Quay (09.05/20.50) Newton le Willows (09.25/20.35) Manchester Victoria (09.55/20.00) All timings shown are approximate and may be subject to change - Tickets and confirmed timings will be forwarded by post 7 days prior to departure 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 with stunning views of Mam Tor and Kinder Scout and through Sheffield to historic York for a sightseeing afternoon break. We return through Wakefield and true Pennine scenery with the rugged and steep sided Calder Valley towering over the train with its stone architecture clinging to the hillside and the restored Rochdale Canal keeping company with the line. Continuing through Todmorden and Rochdale we head homeward toward Manchester. Our train leaves Manchester Victoria with the taxing climb up Miles Platting bank and threads its way through the suburbs to join the former Midland Railway line across the Peak District and into the beautiful Vale of Edale. This route is spectacularly scenic and encompasses several long tunnels, including passing through the 3?-mile long Totley Tunnel, opened in 1892, before arrival at Sheffield. On departure we head northwards through Meadowhall, adjacent to the famous Shopping Centre, and onwards, avoiding Rotherham towards Swinton and Pontefract. We make our way through Church Fenton and follow the East Coast Main Line towards York. Nowhere in northern England says 'medieval' quite like York, a city of extraordinary cultural and historical wealth that has lost little of its pre-industrial lustre. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider's web of narrow streets. At its heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster, one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. York's long history and rich heritage is woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city - with its myriad museums including the Jorvik Centre and superb National Railway Museum, restaurants, cafes including Bettys Tearoom which is a must for a divine afternoon tea - At this special time of year there is nowhere quite like York as scents of spiced mulled wine and delicious food fill the air. The Christmas Market and St Nicholas Fair won best large speciality market in 2019 and York was voted the UK's most festive city. Our return in the late afternoon journeys west through Wakefield and the true Pennine scenery of the Calder Valley as we pass 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' - LNER A4 Pacific, No 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'
Boxing Day Specials After a day of turkey, trimmings and telly why not bring the family along for a steam train trip along the beautiful Dart Valley on Boxing Day. Our Refreshment Rooms and Gift Shop are closed on Boxing Day, but the train will stop at 12.30 and 2.30 at Staverton, where the station's Buffet Car will be open. Standard fares apply. Our steam hauled services operate at 11:30, 13:30 and 15:30 from Buckfastleigh (where there's free parking) and return from Totnes at 12:15, 14:15 and 16:15.
Winter Steam Up & Kids for a Quid! Sunday 27th & Monday 28th December 2020 Taking to the rails after Christmas this year will be our popular Winter Steam Up! In 2018 this featured vistiting locomotive Great Western Railway No. 813 and for 2019 visiting Great Eastern Railway Y14 No. 564 so what will 2020 bring? Well, this will be the last event to use RSH No. 62 'Ugly' before her 10yr boiler ticket expires in early 2021 so catch this locomotive whilst you can before she's withdrawn for overhaul! Full details, as per previous years, will appear in the Summer of 2020. An intensive two train service is in operation with departures every 50 minutes from 09:30 until 17:00 on the Saturday and 10:20 until 17:00 on the Sunday from either end of the line.
Winter Steam Up & Kids for a Quid! Sunday 27th & Monday 28th December 2020 Taking to the rails after Christmas this year will be our popular Winter Steam Up! In 2018 this featured vistiting locomotive Great Western Railway No. 813 and for 2019 visiting Great Eastern Railway Y14 No. 564 so what will 2020 bring? Well, this will be the last event to use RSH No. 62 'Ugly' before her 10yr boiler ticket expires in early 2021 so catch this locomotive whilst you can before she's withdrawn for overhaul! Full details, as per previous years, will appear in the Summer of 2020. An intensive two train service is in operation with departures every 50 minutes from 09:30 until 17:00 on the Saturday and 10:20 until 17:00 on the Sunday from either end of the line.