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The English Riviera Airshow Saturday 01 June 2024 Travel by special train to The English Riviera Airshow on the Torbay Coast: Joining Stations: Tame Bridge Parkway, Birmingham New Street, Dorridge, Leamington Spa, Banbury, Oxford, Swindon Pathfinder Railtours are delighted to announce that D1015 has successfully passed its loaded mainline test run on Sunday. We can also confirm that the locomotive is now cleared to haul 'The English Riviera Airshow' rail excursion on Saturday 01 June 2024. The train will be timed to run at 75mph with load 12 and a Class 50 on the rear for insurance. We are told that this will be common practice for every railtour with D1015 moving forward. With this breaking news, we anticipate that this excursion will now sell out very quickly, so if you intend on booking, do not delay as advanced sales are already high. We would like to thank GBRf, the DTG, Class 50 Alliance and Riviera Trains for their assistance in the testing of this locomotive to give us the ability to run these special rail excursions with Swindon's finest Hydraulic! EVENT DETAILS SATURDAY 1 JUNE 2024 WITH SUMMERTIME UPON US, LET THE TRAIN TAKE THE STRAIN FOR A DAY TRIP TO TORBAY AND THE ENGLISH RIVIERA Setting out from Tame Bridge Parkway behind heritage diesel traction, this train offers joining points through Birmingham, the West Midlands and the Cherwell Valley to a last pick-up at Swindon. From there we make our way from Wiltshire into Somerset, crossed from east to west, down onto the Levels through Taunton, over the Blackdown Hills into Devon and so to Exeter. Down the Exe Estuary then and out onto the sea-wall through Dawlish to Teignmouth, and soon to our destinations at TORQUAY and PAIGNTON. Stunning Torbay provides a superb amphitheatre for the free to watch air displays at the English Riviera Airshow due to take place during our visit, the skies filled with aircraft old and new. Or you can explore the superb beaches, visit Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves, sample world-class food, or from Paignton take the steam and diesel operated railway to Kingswear for Dartmouth (fare payable locally). The return journey is as outward back to Taunton, then across the Somerset Levels heading for Bristol, from where we make our way east back to Swindon and our morning joining points. --------- ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE: - Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows - A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone - A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks - The Premier Dining service includes The Great British Breakfast, Elevenses and four course Evening Dinner - Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards! Customers will be able to relax in the luxury of classic 1970's MK2 carriages throughout the journey.
The Bucket & Spade Charter Wednesday 5th June 2024 Hauled by Class 40 locomotive D213 'Andania' A charity train for the Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) We hope you will join RBF for a day at the seaside in Scarborough or the City of York if you don't fancy the beach! The Bucket & Spade charity charter will be hauled by Class 40 locomotive D213 'Andania' with First Class Intercity carriages. The charter will head to Scarborough from Crewe calling at Warrington Bank Quay and Manchester Victoria. There is also the option to stop off at York and spend the day there if you prefer. Scarborough on the stunning Yorkshire Coast has award winning sandy beaches, breath-taking coastline and wonderful attractions including the castle, Sea Life Centre and cliff tramways! https://www.visitscarborough.com York is one of England's finest and most beautiful historic cities. Renowned for it's chocolate, Viking history and of course the National Railway Museum. https://visityork.org/media/media-resources/about-york https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk Ticket options are £199 and £99 for First Class dining or non-dining respectively. A supplement to guarantee a seat at a table for two is available for an extra £25. First Class Dining includes a full traditional English breakfast on the outward journey and a 3 course supper on the return. First Class non-dining is the same comfortable seats with tables, with the option to purchase light refreshments from the buffet bar. When booking, please advise of any special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian or gluten free meals. With huge thanks to Locomotive Services Limited, all funds raised from the charter will help the Railway Benefit Fund continue to support railway workers, as it has been since 1858. The charity has a long history of helping railway families who are going through tough times and need a helping hand. There will be a fantastic charity raffle, with all proceeds donated to our good cause. Please note that all times and routing are indicative until confirmed by Network Rail. Final routing and timings are usually confirmed by Network Rail five days before travel and will be enclosed with your e-ticket. Crewe (PU 08.15) - Warrington Bank Quay (PU 08.35) - Manchester Victoria (PU 09.35) - York (SD 12.00) - Scarborough (SD 13.00) Scarborough (PU 16.00) - York (PU 17.00) - Manchester Victoria (SD 18.00) - Warrington Bank Quay (SD 18.45) - Crewe (SD 19.25) PU - pick up time. SD - set down time. The Branch Line Society is delighted to be supporting this charity charter as booking agent. To find out more about the Railway Benefit Fund, visit https://www.railwaybenefitfund.org.uk IMPORTANT FOR ALL BOOKINGS - PLEASE STATE WHERE YOU INTEND TO JOIN AND ALIGHT. (This is for coach stewarding purposes and can be changed subsequently by notification). FARES: First Class, Dining, at a guaranteed table for two £224.00 First Class, Dining £199.00 First Class, Non-Dining, at a guaranteed table for two £124.00 First Class, Non-Dining £99.00 All fares are per person. There is no surcharge for not being a Branch Line Society member on this fixture. Please note that any bookings from under 18s, who must be accompanied by an adult, will be charged at the adult rate. All queries should be directed to the Bookings Officer, by email bookings.officer@branchline.uk Note that tickets are NOT transferable and smoking/vaping is not permitted on the train. The Society will not accept any liability arising from changes imposed by any third parties (either before or on the day) or any consequences of any late running that may occur. Please be cautious about connections and buying advance train tickets. Please note no refunds will be entertained on cancellations within seven days of the fixture. Tickets will be sent out approximately five days before the fixture - where possible this will be an e-ticket. Standard Branch Line Society Terms and Conditions apply to all participants (these can be viewed from the online booking form).
The Holt Hoover Thursday 6th June 2024 Join us and travel to the North Norfolk Railway Rails and Ales event in style, with a locomotive hauled charter from Eastleigh via the Chilterns. The charter, operated by Hanson & Hall with Mk 1 stock, will feature Class 50 50008 operating top 'n tail with 33012, courtesy of the 71A Locomotive Group. Arrival in to Sheringham will allow ample time for an evening meal in one of the many bars and restaurants in the area, or alternatively alight in Norwich, famous for the Riverside area. You can find out more about the 'Poppy Line' event by visiting https://www.nnrailway.co.uk Highlights include Humberstone Road Goods, March Up Goods, Ely West Curve, Brandon Down Goods and the much sought after connection between the heritage railway and Network Rail at Sheringham. It is expected that 50008 will lead on departure from Eastleigh to Humberstone Road where it will run round to the rear of the train. All times and routing are indicative until confirmed by Network Rail. Final routing and timings are usually confirmed by Network Rail five days before travel and will be enclosed with your e-ticket. Eastleigh P2 (PU 08.34) - Wallers Ash Loop - Basingstoke P3 (PU 09.13) - Reading P15 (PU 10.03) - Slough P5 (PU 10.28) - Greenford West Jn - South Ruislip (PU 11.21) - High Wycombe P2 (PU 11.46) - Haddenham & Thame Parkway P1 (PU 12.06) - Bicester North - Banbury P1 (PU 12.43) - Warwick Parkway P2 (PU 13.14) - Dorridge - Tyseley - Landor Street Jn - Coleshill Parkway P2 (PU 14.16) - Nuneaton - Leicester P2 (PU 15.00) - Humberstone Road Goods - Melton Mowbray - Peterborough P6 (PU 16.38) - March Up Goods - Ely West Curve - Brandon Down Goods Loop - Norwich P6 (PU 18.35 / RM) - Cromer P1 (RM) - Sheringham (NNR) (SD 20.20) IMPORTANT FOR ALL BOOKINGS - PLEASE STATE WHERE YOU INTEND TO JOIN AND ALIGHT (this is for coach stewarding purposes and can be changed subsequently by notification). Please note that bookings are for a one way journey. A separate fixture for a corresponding return journey towards the West Midlands on Sunday 9th June 2024 is available to book separately. FARES: Standard Class £99.00 Standard Class (from Norwich) £30.00 No part fares are available for this charter other than the fare options shown above. There is no surcharge for not being a Branch Line Society member on this occasion. Accompanied under 18s benefit from a £15.00 reduction in all fares. Please note that we are unable to accept bookings from under 18s unless accompanied by an adult. Children under five years of age may accompany fare-paying adult passengers free of charge. However, children under five years of age who are travelling free may only occupy a seat which is not required by a fare-paying passenger. All queries should be directed to the Bookings Officer, by email bookings.officer@branchline.uk Please do NOT email the Bookings Officer to try and book or save spaces on our fixtures. Bookings CANNOT be made by email and must be booked online via the website. Note that tickets are NOT transferable and smoking/vaping is not permitted on the train. The Society will not accept any liability arising from changes imposed by any third parties (either before or on the day) or any consequences of any late running that may occur. Please be cautious about connections and buying advance train tickets. Please note no refunds will be entertained on cancellations within seven days of the fixture. Tickets will be sent out approximately five days before the fixture - where possible this will be an e-ticket. Standard Branch Line Society Terms and Conditions apply to all participants (these can be viewed from the online booking form).
The Blyth & Tyne or Beamish Open Air Museum Saturday 8th June 2024 UK Railtours are pleased to bring you a classic itinerary which has proved popular time and time again in years gone by, but this time with an added twist and three different options which even further broaden its appeal! Our guests can choose to visit cosmopolitan Newcastle, family favourite Beamish Museum, or to stay on the train to enjoy another of our 'Off the Beaten Track' mini tours! A few years ago, Class 43 haulage on the East Coast Main Line was not an unusual sight, as High Speed Trains carried passengers from London to the North of England and Scotland. In all the years they ran on this line though, they never ran quite like this! Rail Adventure is still a relative newcomer to the UK freight scene. Since 2021 they have been mainly engaged in moving empty multiple units around the country. To do so, they have a small fleet of Class 43 locomotives which are used in dual-car pairs. Whilst the very smart looking two-tone grey locomotives have therefore become a fairly regular sight on UK railways, they haven't hauled a charter service in this formation - until now! Our train, using our blue and grey ex-British Rail Mk2 carriages, will be hauled by double-headed class 43's throughout. Beginning at Finsbury Park, this very special train will first head north via the East Coast Main Line - the traditional 'stomping ground' of the Class 43, allowing us to run at 100mph for much of the tour. After pickups at Potters Bar, Stevenage and Peterborough we blast toward our final pickup at Doncaster (Standard Class and First Class Non-Dining only). We set down at Durham before passing Tyne Yard and the Angel of the North on the approach to Newcastle. After enjoying your selection from our supplementary options (see below), our return route is via the far less often used route following the North East coast, passing Sunderland and Hartlepool before we rejoin the ECML at Northallerton and head back toward London. OFF TRAIN OPTION - BEAMISH OPEN AIR MUSEUM Coaches will be awaiting our arrival at Durham for the nine-mile transfer to Beamish. Here we will have a break of around four hours. Once inside, you can make your way around the site on foot, by tram or by vintage bus - just as you would have done in bygone times. Step off the tram at Beamish Town and go shopping in beautifully restored gaslit shops, call in at an old fashioned bank or enjoy a drink at the Sun Inn. The tram can also drop you at the waggonway where you can take a ride on a steam train dating from 1823. Or get off at the colliery village with its school and chapel, or maybe Pockerley Manor where family life was very different from that of the servants. Since our last visit, the 'Remaking Beamish' project has been in full swing. You can now visit the 1950s town, meaning that once again Beamish includes a period within living memory. A fish and chip shop, café and hairdresser are already open, as well as a recreation of the home of celebrated artist Norman Cornish. The project is progressing all the time, so even more may be open before our visit. This option includes entry to Beamish Open Air Museum as well as the coach transfer from Durham. On the return the coaches will take you back to Newcastle to reboard the train, as our return route does not pass through Durham. OFF THE BEATEN TRACK MINI TOUR - THE BLYTH AND TYNE If freight only lines are your thing, you might choose to stay on the train for our mini tour. The network of lines surrounding the present-day Blyth and Tyne freight-only route was quite complex back in the day, but even in its reduced state the core circuit beginning at Benton Junction remains a valuable part of the rail network on the East coast. Proceeding north from Newcastle Central we recess into Heaton Down Goods Loop in order to service our stock before heading to the aforementioned Benton junction, veering right to follow the course of the Tyne & Wear Metro for a few miles before heading north along the Blyth and Tyne line through Newsham and Bedlington. Here the lines used to serve Lynemouth power station and the docks at North Blyth diverge to the right, whilst we take a left. Now heading toward Morpeth we rejoin the East Coast Main Line, with the added benefit of the locomotives now being at the south end of the train ready for the run back to London! Our trip around the Blyth and Tyne loop will take about two and a half hours, leaving a break of just under three hours after we return to Newcastle so there's plenty of time to grab a late lunch, or partake of a local public house perhaps? FREE TIME IN DURHAM AND/OR NEWCASTLE If you decide not to go for one of the aforementioned options then you could choose to spend the day in historic Durham or contempary Newcastle. The view of Durham Cathedral and Castle from the train is one of the East Coast Main Line's finest sights. The compact city is mounted upon a lofty sandstone outcrop, almost made an island by a tight-necked loop of the River Wear. The cobbled streets of Durham play host to shops, cafes and bars whilst those seeking a taste of history can visit the Museum of Archaeology or the Town Hall, central to life in Durham for more than 650 years. Newcastle-Upon-Tyne is the largest city and metropolitan borough in the northeast. Alongside the aforementioned bridges, the city also hosts a huge variety of museums and monuments such as the grade-1 listed Grey's Monument built in 1838. A great mix of independent boutiques, high street favourites and malls make Newcastle fantastic for shopping. Newcastle is also home to one of the five Chinatowns in the UK, a thriving district guarded by an 11m tall Chinese arch. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE TRAIN DOES NOT CALL AT DURHAM ON THE RETURN JOURNEY. Customers taking free time in Durham will need to make their own way to Newcastle to rejoin the train. There are regular service trains from Durham to Newcastle (not included in your tour fare). First Class Dining includes The Great British Breakfast and a four course dinner. A buffet car is available for those in Standard Class and First Class Non Dining. First Class Dining is not available from Doncaster. Class Price Availability Standard Class Adult £124 Good Standard Class Junior £84 Good First Class Non Dining £184 Good First Class Dining £289 Good First Class Dining Party of Four £1136 Good Off Train Option - Beamish Open Air Museum (Adult) £25 Good Off Train Option - Beamish Open Air Museum (Under 16) £16 Good Option - Off the Beaten Track Mini Tour £20 Good All timings are provisional and are intended only as a guide. Station Depart Arrive Finsbury Park 07.15 22.05 Potters Bar 07.30 21.45 Stevenage 08.00 21.20 Peterborough 08.35 20.40 Doncaster 09.35 19.30 Book Now
The Cromer Crompton Sunday 9th June 2024 With the North Norfolk Railway Rails and Ales event behind us, it's time to head home and finish the weekend in style with a locomotive hauled charter back to the West Midlands. The charter, operated by Hanson & Hall with Mk 1 stock, will feature Class 50 50008 operating top 'n tail with 33012, courtesy of the 71A Locomotive Group. You can find out more about the 'Poppy Line' event by visiting https://www.nnrailway.co.uk Highlights include the much sought after connection between the heritage railway and Network Rail at Sheringham, Trowse Up & Dn Loop and March Down Goods. It is expected that 33012 will lead on departure from Cromer. All times and routing are indicative until confirmed by Network Rail. Final routing and timings are usually confirmed by Network Rail five days before travel and will be enclosed with your e-ticket. Sheringham (NNR) (PU 17.05) - Cromer P2 (RM) - Norwich P4 (SD 18.09 / RM) - Trowse Up & Dn Loop - Ely P3 (SD 19.25 / RM) - March Down Goods - Peterborough P7 (SD 20.13) - Melton Mowbray - Leicester P3 (SD 21.13) - Nuneaton P6 (SD 21.39) - Coleshill Parkway (SD 22.01) - Water Orton P1 (SD 22.08) IMPORTANT FOR ALL BOOKINGS - PLEASE STATE WHERE YOU INTEND TO JOIN AND ALIGHT (this is for coach stewarding purposes and can be changed subsequently by notification). Please note that bookings are for a one way journey. A separate fixture for a corresponding outward journey from Eastleigh via the Chilterns and Midlands on Thursday 6th June 2024 is available to book separately. FARES: Standard Class £89.00 Standard Class (to Ely) £45.00 Standard Class (to Norwich) £30.00 No part fares are available for this charter other than the fare options shown above. There is no surcharge for not being a Branch Line Society member on this occasion. Accompanied under 18s benefit from a £15.00 reduction in all fares. Please note that we are unable to accept bookings from under 18s unless accompanied by an adult. Children under five years of age may accompany fare-paying adult passengers free of charge. However, children under five years of age who are travelling free may only occupy a seat which is not required by a fare-paying passenger. All queries should be directed to the Bookings Officer, by email bookings.officer@branchline.uk Please do NOT email the Bookings Officer to try and book or save spaces on our fixtures. Bookings CANNOT be made by email and must be booked online via the website. Note that tickets are NOT transferable and smoking/vaping is not permitted on the train. The Society will not accept any liability arising from changes imposed by any third parties (either before or on the day) or any consequences of any late running that may occur. Please be cautious about connections and buying advance train tickets. Please note no refunds will be entertained on cancellations within seven days of the fixture. Tickets will be sent out approximately five days before the fixture - where possible this will be an e-ticket. Standard Branch Line Society Terms and Conditions apply to all participants (these can be viewed from the online booking form).
Settle to Carlisle & Coastal Pullman Wednesday 12 June 2024 Departing from Gerrards Cross, Beaconsfield, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough, Haddenham and Thame Parkway, Bicester North, Banbury, Leamington Spa, Warwick Parkway, Dorridge, Solihull This special tour includes a journey over the entire majestic route of the famous Settle to Carlisle railway, with great limestone peaks and deep valleys we travel over viaducts and through tunnels on this masterpiece of Victorian engineering - including the famous Ribblehead Viaduct. Following a break in the historic border city of Carlisle our journey continues along the scenic Cumbrian coastal line. 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 Ribblehead Viaduct with stunning views of the three peaks. One magnificent sight follows another before we gradually descend into the tranquil Eden Valley and the border city of Carlisle for a break of around two hours. We return around the longest and most scenic coastal line in England - the beautiful twisting Cumbrian coast route hugs the coastline offering spectacular views across the Solway Firth and towards the Isle of Man, passing historic Whitehaven, pretty Ravenglass and around Morecambe Bay with the background of the Lake District Mountains aglow with the setting sun.
Dorset Coast Statesman Saturday 15 June 2024 Departing from Norwich, Diss, Stowmarket, Ipswich, Manningtree, Colchester, Chelmsford and Shenfield The celebrated 'Statesman' land cruise train travels to the south coast for a memorable journey through the beautiful New Forest with the opportunity to visit either Bournemouth, Poole, or Weymouth. We travel through maritime Southampton and across the beautiful New Forest to our first optional stop at Bournemouth where around four hours will be available to enjoy the elegant seaside resort with seven miles of golden sands, a vast variety of shops and beautiful award-winning gardens. Alternatively, alight at Poole where we offer a break of around three hours - with its bustling Quay and stunning natural harbour there are beautiful views across to the Isle of Purbeck. Perhaps take a boat trip to Brownsea Island, rich in wildlife and history or take a Jurassic coastal cruise. There are a multitude of eateries along the harbour where the local seafood is a speciality. The last destination of our train for a break of around two hours is the ancient seaside town of Weymouth and was a favourite haunt of King George III with historical buildings and Georgian seafront, a modern town centre complemented by quaint side streets, all of which is connected by over three miles of level promenade. The picturesque leisure harbour boasts fishing boats, yachts, and catamarans.
The Ancient Kingdom Saturday 15th June 2024 Taking full advantage of a long summer day we venture north to the Kingdom of Northumbria. We have three very different off-train options to choose from - the wonderful Holy Island of Lindisfarne, the Aln Valley Railway or a visit to picturesque Alnwick - along with an interesting 'Off the Beaten Track' mini tour for those who prefer to spend most of the day onboard our comfortable special train. Our journey takes us through York, past Durham Castle and Cathedral and we glimpse Antony Gormley's extraordinary 'Angel of the North' as we approach Newcastle. After pausing at Alnmouth we reach Berwick-upon-Tweed, the border town still redolent of centuries of conflict between the English and the Scots. OFF-TRAIN OPTION - THE HOLY ISLAND OF LINDISFARNE Perched tantalisingly just off the Northumberland coast and cut off by the tide twice a day, Holy Island and its Priory are considered one of the holiest sites in Britain. We leave the train at Berwick where coaches will be waiting for the fourteen mile journey which includes the narrow causeway that connects the island with the mainland. We can assure potential participants that we have checked the tide tables! We have some two and a half hours here, time to take a walk to the castle or just explore this extraordinary place. Don't forget to purchase a bottle of the local produce, Lindisfarne Mead. OFF TRAIN OPTION - THE ALN VALLEY RAILWAY Step aboard heritage carriages and embark on a steam train ride through the beautiful Northumbrian countryside from Lionheart Station to Greenrigg Halt, where passengers often see deer, hares, birds and other wildlife from the train. At Lionheart Station, friendly and knowledgeable volunteer guides will give passengers a tour of the site, including an introduction to the railway's small fleet of locomotives in the engine shed and the Directors Coach under the heritage canopy. Simon Hadden, a passionate railway volunteer, will give an insightful talk on the history of Aln Valley Railway. In addition to the train ride, tour and talk, passengers can relax and enjoy refreshments in the cafe or browse the railway's shop at their leisure. Whether you are a railway enthusiast, someone interested in history and nostalgia, or you enjoy nature and the outdoors, there is something for everyone at the Aln Valley Railway. Coaches will meet our train at Alnmouth for the transfer to the Aln Valley Railway. We plan to spend around three hours here before our coaches take us onward to the town of Alnwick where you will have a further hour or two to explore. The coaches will then return us to meet our train at Alnmouth. OFF TRAIN OPTION - ALNWICK AT LEISURE According to Country Life 'Alnwick is the most picturesque market town in Northumberland, and the best place to live in Britain'. The town dates back to about AD 600 and retains much of its original character. Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England, after Windsor. It is popular with film-makers; Blackadder, Robin Hood Prince of Thieves and Harry Potter are among films shot here. The Alnwick Garden is a complex of formal gardens adjacent to the castle. They have a long history under the Dukes of Northumberland but fell into disrepair until revived at the turn of the 21st century. The Garden now features various themed plantings designed around a central water cascade. It is the most ambitious new garden created in the UK post-war. The former railway station is now home to Barter Books, one of England's largest and most famous second hand bookshops. Some visitors spend all day here! There will be a transfer coach from Alnmouth station to Alnwick town centre. We have not included entry to any of the attractions in Alnwick as there is so much choice. You will have around four hours to explore. OFF THE BEATEN TRACK MINI TOUR - THE JOPPA JAUNT For those wishing to stay on the train we can offer a very interesting 'Off the Beaten Track' mini-tour across the border into Scotland and to the suburban lines of Edinburgh including plenty of non passenger track for the enthusiast. In particular, our tour will include access into Joppa Straight siding - a first for a passenger train we believe - where our train will be serviced in preparation for this evening's return trip to London. Leaving Berwick upon Tweed we head north and very quickly cross the border into Scotland. Continuing north through Dunbar and Drem we finally reach Monktonhall Junction. From here there are several alternative routings to access the Leith branch and we have requested an interesting option though we do not have confirmation of this as yet. Once we have accessed the Leith branch we expect to reverse into Joppa Straight Siding where the train will be serviced. Having returned to the East Coast Main Line we then start our journey south and for the track enthusiast we have asked to run through the Up Passenger Loops at Prestonpans, Drem and Granthouse as well as the Berwick Up Goods Loop where we will pause and wait for our path further south on the East Coast Main Line. FREE TIME IN ALNMOUTH OR NEWCASTLE If you decide not to go for one of the aforementioned options then you could choose to spend the day in either vibrant Newcastle or picturesque Alnmouth. You will have over five hours to explore either city.
Oban & West Highland Pullman Tuesday 18 June 2024 Departing from Preston, Lancaster, Oxenholme, Penrith, Carlisle, Lockerbie, Carstairs, Carluke, Motherwell Step aboard the Midland Pullman for a truly amazing and unusual day tour as we travel over the world-famous West Highland line, featuring some of the most dramatic and spectacular scenery in Scotland with magnificent waterfalls and peaceful lochs to Oban for an afternoon sightseeing break. Our train takes the route around the north of Glasgow and along the banks of the Clyde to join the West Highland line, thence crossing viaducts as the line twists and turns passing Loch Long and Loch Lomond, we climb into the highlands with stunning views of magnificent mountains and one memorable sight following another as we pass along tranquil Loch Awe and through the Pass of Brander to Oban. Oban affords magnificent views across the bay to the islands of the Inner Hebrides. It has become a magnet for tourists and is known as the holiday capital of the Highlands and seafood capital of Scotland. There is the Distillery with excellent visitor tours or perhaps wander along the seafront to the ruined Dunollie Castle or climb McCaig's Tower which dominates the skyline.
Snowdonia Statesman Wednesday 19 June 2024 Departing from Cardiff Central, Newport, Severn Tunnel Junction, Chepstow, Lydney, Gloucester, Cheltenham Spa, Worcestershire Parkway, Barnt Green and Birmingham New Street 'The Statesman' celebrated train heads to North Wales for a journey along the spectacular coast with sweeping sea views and then climbs high into the Snowdonia National Park and up the stunningly beautiful Conwy Valley. There is the option of spending an afternoon break of around 3 hours at the popular tourist centre of Betws-y-Coed or continue to Blaenau Ffestiniog where we have an optional steam excursion on the famous Ffestiniog Railway. Travelling across the Cheshire plain to Chester and passing the Roman Walls we enter Wales running alongside the Irish Sea 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 breath-taking range of scenery unfolds, from historic castles through estuary rich in wildlife, to majestic crags with views of tumbling waterfalls. The high peaks of Snowdonia are on view before our train finally enters the imposing slate landscape of Blaenau Ffestiniog. Mobility This tour is not suitable for guests with wheelchairs or serious mobility issues as the platforms at some stations are only accessible by a footbridge. It is not possible to transfer between our train and the Ffestiniog Railway in a wheelchair.
The Return of the Jolly Fisherman 125 Special Saturday 22nd June 2024 UK Railtours are proud to present a Seaside Special to bracing Skegness aboard an Intercity 125 High Speed Train at a really bargain price, so why not bring your friends and family and make a day of it? The concept of 125 Specials is not new, but in recent years one that has been difficult for us to offer. We are very grateful to our friends at The 125 Group and Rail Adventure for enabling us to bring back this much loved day out which is sure to delight customers of all ages! Noted for its well-tended seaside gardens and long sandy beaches, welcoming Skegness is a must for an early Summer visit before the school holidays start! Skegness was primarily a fishing village and small port until the arrival of the railway in 1875. In 1908, Great Northern commissioned a poster to advertise excursions to the resort, the first being on Good Friday that year. The 'Skegness is so Bracing' poster featuring The Jolly Fisherman helped to put Skegness on the map and is now world famous. The poster, derived from an old painting by John Hassall, was purchased by the railway company for just 12 guineas. Our Intercity 125 is very much in contrast to the Skegness excursion trains of bygone times. Whilst our carriages are provided by the 125 Group (see below), we will be hauled by the immaculate two-tone grey power cars of Rail Adventure. These are usually found moving empty trains around the country and rarely haul a passenger train - a real treat! The journey we take is an interesting one, via Nottingham to Sleaford and onward through the distinctive Lincolnshire countryside past wayside halts and little signal boxes controlling traditional semphore signals. Skegness station, very much a 'railway outpost' these days, is an easy level walk from Clock Tower Gardens, the promenade and the beach. Of course no visit here would be complete without sampling the local delicacy of fish and chips or maybe an ice cream! You will have around four hours at leisure in Skegness to explore this marvelous seaside resort. A QUICK HISTORY LESSON On the 30th January 1988 Hertfordshire Railtours (as we were formerly known) ran the inaugural '125 Special'. Starting at London St Pancras, the tour travelled over the Settle and Carlisle Railway northbound, and then on the return followed a circuitous route via York, Sheffield and Derby to return home. In the years following, both Hertfordshire Railtours and latterly UK Railtours ran almost two hundred 125 Specials, travelling all over the United Kingdom from Cornwall to Scotland. They became almost synonymous with the company, and continued long after the demise of BR Intercity with the assistance of Stagecoach's East Midlands Trains. Our final 125 Special ran on the 16th September 2017? or so everybody thought! Our association with the 125 Group goes back almost as far as our 125 Specials. Formed in 1994, the 125 Group sales stand was a popular guest onboard many of our 125 Specials. Since those days the Group has grown by leaps and bounds, and now are the proud owners of their very own set of High Speed Train Mk 3 carriages, including several class 43 power cars. Based at the Midland Railway at Butterley, the Group's set ran its first main line test run (pictured above) in October of last year with great results. Out of all 196(!) of our 125 Specials, the one that is best remembered is almost certainly 'The Lincolnshire Poacher' - our visit to Skegness on the 22nd February 1992. The first time an HST had visited the popular seaside resort, we were met by a brass band, the town mayor and the Jolly Fisherman himself! Over the years we've visited several more times and always received a warm welcome (such as in 2011, pictured above), so for our first 125 Special of the new era we really couldn't go anywhere else! A buffet car is available. There is no First Class Dining aboard this railtour.
Settle to Carlisle & Coastal Pullman Saturday 22 June 2024 Departing from Holyhead, Bangor, Llandudno Junction, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl, Flint, Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan North Western This special tour includes a journey over the entire majestic route of the famous Settle to Carlisle railway, with great limestone peaks and deep valleys we travel over viaducts and through tunnels on this masterpiece of Victorian engineering - including the famous Ribblehead Viaduct. Following a break in the historic border city of Carlisle our journey continues along the scenic Cumbrian coastal line. 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 Ribblehead Viaduct with stunning views of the three peaks. One magnificent sight follows another before we gradually descend into the tranquil Eden Valley and the border city of Carlisle for a break of around two hours. We return around the longest and most scenic coastal line in England - the beautiful twisting Cumbrian coast route hugs the coastline offering spectacular views across the Solway Firth and towards the Isle of Man, passing historic Whitehaven, pretty Ravenglass and around Morecambe Bay with the background of the Lake District Mountains aglow with the setting sun.
Torbay Riviera Pullman Thursday 27 June 2024 Departing from Crewe, Chester, Wrexham General, Ruabon, Chirk, Gobowen, Shrewsbury, Wellington, Telford Central, Codsall, Wolverhampton Join us for a wonderful day out with a journey through beautiful Somerset and around the stunning Devon coast with time 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. Travelling alongside the stunning Exe Estuary past Powderham Castle there are magnificent views across to the Jurassic coast as our train takes the exciting sea wall line racing 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 our return 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 - With gorgeous long sandy blue flag beaches, paddler friendly waters, a traditional pier and seafront alive with holiday fun there is no shortage of things to do, 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 where it's a short ferry crossing to historic Dartmouth.
Cornish Riviera Mazey Day Statesman Saturday 29 June 2024 Departing from Wolverhampton, Tame Bridge Parkway, Stourbridge Junction, Kidderminster, Droitwich Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill, Cheltenham Spa, Cam & Dursley We present a unique day tour to Cornwall the land of myths and legends on board 'The Statesman' train - with rugged coastlines and quaint fishing villages you will savour some of the most unspoilt countryside in Britain and the opportunity to visit either Truro, maritime Falmouth, pretty St Ives, or historic Penzance. The highlights of this tour include the twisting scenic line around the breath taking sea wall at Dawlish - views of the Dartmoor National Park - and the crossing of the iconic Royal Albert Bridge spanning the River Tamar designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel to historic Truro with its magnificent Cathedral and bustling shopping centre or perhaps take the local branch line service for a visit to maritime Falmouth (payable locally) with its deep-water harbour, curio shops, castles and perhaps a memorable boat trip. Our next optional stop is St Erth where you may join the regular service train (payable locally) on the beautiful journey around the Hayle Estuary with magnificent views of Godrevy Lighthouse to visit the ancient fishing town of St Ives - considered to be the prettiest holiday resort in Britain with beaches, quaint cobbled streets, Tate Gallery, sub-tropical gardens, and historic harbour. The final stop for 'The Statesman' is Penzance with spectacular views of St Michaels Mount as we arrive at the most westerly station in England with the annual Mazey Day celebrations in full swing. There is time to discover the charms of this famous Cornish port and perhaps enjoy a stroll along the promenade or coastal path towards Marazion.
The Mazey Day Cornishman Saturday 29 June 2024 Travel in style on this very special Pathfinder excursion to the annual Mazey Day celebrations in Penzance: Joining Stations: Dorridge, Birmingham New Street, Worcestershire Parkway, Cheltenham Spa, Cam & Dursley, Bristol Parkway, Bristol Temple Meads. EVENT DETAILS No-one quite knows how long ago it was the people of Cornwall started to celebrate Midsummer (Golowan in the Cornish language), but it was noted as 'an antiquity' in 1754. After the festival was banned on grounds of health and safety - in the 1890's(!) it 'slept' for near a century until revival in 1991, re-established now as a leading annual event. Journeying from the midlands, on our very special train, sit back and enjoy crossing the Somerset Levels to Taunton over the Blackdown Hills and down to Exeter. At the waters edge we now run along the Exe Estuary and out onto the famed seawall, the inland to Newton Abott and steeply up and down along the edge of Dartmoor to Plymouth before the crossing of the River Tamar on Brunes Royal Albert Bridge into Cornwall. There is little straight or level track now right through to journeys end, with deep valleys and lofty viaducts amidst delightful scenery as we pass through Liskeard to Lostwithiel and St. Austell to Truro. Option A: Par (Approx 1200-1710) You may alight here for a break to visit the local attractions. Why not take a look around the Eden Project or Lost Gardens of Heligan within this time (fare payable locally). Option B: Truro (Approx 1225-1645) Discover Truro: The Cathedral City! Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Truro, a city steeped in history and crowned by its magnificent Cathedral. But that's not all-your adventure doesn't end here: Hop aboard the local train and set off on a picturesque journey to the stunning maritime town of Falmouth. (Please note, fare payment required locally.) Enjoy the freedom of exploring Truro at your own pace, admiring its architectural wonders, shopping in quaint boutiques, and discovering hidden gems nestled within its historic streets. Experience the perfect blend of cultural heritage and modern vibrancy that defines both Truro and the picturesque coastal town of Falmouth. Embrace the allure of Truro and Falmouth, where history meets the sea! Option C: St Erth (for St. Ives) (Approx 1250-1610) Continuing West we reach St. Erth, where we set down passengers for the branch line train (fare payable locally) to St. Ives, a small coastal town that offers something for everyone: Seaside, specialist shops, harbour and even the Tate Gallery Option D: Penzance (Approx 1300-1625) Just five miles West is the end of the line at Penzance, where the Mazey Day festivities will be in full flow throughout the town and waterside. Discover Penzance, the enchanting town and bustling port that stands proudly at the end of the line! Known for its captivating pirate history, this vibrant destination promises a one-of-a-kind experience: Conveniently located adjacent to the railway station, the bus station opens doors to local escapades. Hop on board for thrilling journeys to must-see destinations such as Lands End, Mousehole, and the awe-inspiring Marazion, boasting the majestic St. Michaels Mount. Timings vary, ensuring an adventure that suits your schedule! Your visit grants you ample free time to delve into the heart of this quirky town. Meander through its charming streets, indulge in local delights, and uncover the tales that echo through its historic corners. This excursion is expected to be hauled by a pair of Class 50 diesel locomotives courtesy of the Class Fifty Alliance, once a regular of mainstay work to the West of England. --------- ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE: - Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows - A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone - A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks - The Premier Dining service includes The Great British Breakfast, Elevenses and four course Evening Dinner - Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards! --------- Table for Two seats are available at a supplement of £45 per person in First Class and Premier Dining. Passengers will be able to enjoy the comfort of travelling in 1970's ex-BR Intercity MK2 carriages.