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- Sat 14 Dec 2019 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Christmas White Rose
Saturday 14th December 2019
** Fully booked in PREMIER & STANDARD. Only 2 available in FIRST **
We will travel along the East Coast Main Line to York, the former operating lines of the famous LNER Express Passenger Pacifics in the heyday of steam hauled expresses to and from London.
We will make our way northwards steam hauled from London King's Cross as far as York by A1 class steam locomotive No.60163 Tornado. We will make convenient pickup calls at Stevenage and Peterborough, before heading up the famous Stoke Bank, the scene where in 1938 Mallard achieved the world speed record for a steam locomotive at 126 mph.
We will follow the ECML through Grahtham, Newark and Retford before we reach Doncaster, famous in railway history as the location of the LNER's works where such iconic locomotives as Mallard and Flying Scotsman were built. Continuing northwards from Doncaster, Tornado will be able to show its strength by achieving maximum speed as we race along towards York, our destination for the afternoon.
York is world famous as a tourist destination with its many sights, including the Minster, Castle, Yorvic centre and the quaint medieval alleyways and riverside walks. Railway enthusiasts are not forgotten, as York is the location of the National Railway Museum, reflecting the history of railways in this country. The York Christmas Market will also be in full swing adding a pre festive atmosphere to the city with its many market stalls and food outlets.
After time in York, we will return south with A4 Pacific No.60009 Union of South Africa and follow our outward route back to London King's Cross, stopping as outward to set down passengers.
Look out for Father Christmas and his Elves who will be visiting the train during the day and handing out presents to all children on board. Please let us know your child's age when booking.
Mulled wine and mince pies will be served to the first and standard class passengers on board.
Railway Touring Company
- Wed 18 Dec 2019 UK Railtours (Railtour) More...
- The LNER HST Farewell
Wednesday 18 December to Saturday 21 December 2019
After more than 40 years of service on the East Coast route, the age of the InterCity 125 High Speed Trains is rapidly nearing its end as the sleek new Azuma trains gradually take over.
To mark the end of an era, LNER is restoring an InterCity 125 set to its original British Rail livery and undertaking a special four-day tour around the LNER network. As a special treat for those onboard, for the first time LNER will take the train 'across the top' from Aberdeen to Inverness to kick off Day One of the Farewell Tour.
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS - WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER 2019:
From Edinburgh, departing 09.46, we travel via the Forth and Tay Bridges to Dundee, then all the way up the East Coast to the Granite City of Aberdeen. We then enjoy a journey along the 'Great North of Scotland' route through Elgin, to the reach the Highland Capital, Inverness at 16.44.
UK Railtours
- Thu 19 Dec 2019 UK Railtours (Railtour) More...
- The LNER HST Farewell
Wednesday 18 December to Saturday 21 December 2019
After more than 40 years of service on the East Coast route, the age of the InterCity 125 High Speed Trains is rapidly nearing its end as the sleek new Azuma trains gradually take over.
To mark the end of an era, LNER is restoring an InterCity 125 set to its original British Rail livery and undertaking a special four-day tour around the LNER network. As a special treat for those onboard, for the first time LNER will take the train 'across the top' from Aberdeen to Inverness to kick off Day One of the Farewell Tour.
THE HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN - THURSDAY 19 DECEMBER 2019:
Departing from Inverness at 12.14 we enjoy scenery on a truly grand scale as we head south on the Highland Main Line. We top the famous summits at Slochd and Druimuachdar before descending to Perth and Stirling. Finally we cross Scotland's lowland belt to arrive in Edinburgh at 16.39.
UK Railtours
- Thu 19 Dec 2019 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Chester Christmas Express
Thursday 19th December 2019
** FULLY BOOKED IN ALL CLASSES **
Join us on seasonal 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, with a large choice of designer and main stream shopping on offer. Our steam hauled train will be pulled by 46233 Duchess of Sutherland from Stevenage to Chester via an interesting route.
Our journey commences at Stevenage early morning where at Hitchin we take the line to Cambridge. We then call to pick up Ely, 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, 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 three and a half hours for passengers to visit the city with all its attractions. The Chester Christmas Market with over 70 traditional wooden chalets is situated in the heart of Chester. There will be an abundance of festive treats and gifts on offer, including quality local and regional products, crafts, clothing, accessories, jewellery, unique gifts and stocking fillers which are sure to make the perfect present! Don't forget to sample the delicious hot food and drink, including tasty mulled wine and hot chocolate; the perfect way to keep warm whilst enjoying the market.
We depart Chester, steam hauled, early evening for the journey home. We say goodbye to our steam locomotive at Leicester and continue diesel hauled to Stevenage, where our tour today terminates.
Mulled wine and mince pies will be served to the first and standard class passengers on board.
Railway Touring Company
- Thu 19 Dec 2019 The Wind Up (Social Gathering) More...
- 1987 - 19 December 2019 DEPTFORD (DEP)
Dog & Bell, 116 Prince Street, SE8 3JD ?
It has now become tradition for our pre-Christmas wind-up to be held at the popular 'Dog & Bell' (Free), and this year is no exception. As usual a mild should be available for us, along with a selection of other beers including interesting local brews. The usual home cooked food is also on offer. Note that dogs are only allowed in the bar area.
Both Southeastern and Thameslink services from London Bridge call at Deptford, doubtless competing for the reliability crown?
- Thu 19 Dec 2019 Wind Up North (Social Gathering) More...
- Wind Up North #155 The Blind Pig 19th December 2019
4 Tower Hill, Sowerby Bridge, HX6 2EQ
This stylish bar occupies a former bank building. Under new management since 2014 they specialise in Real Ales, cocktails, bottled world beers and ciders. The downstairs bar area has seating around the edge in boothed areas and at the bar. A separate secret room is also available for hire. This pub serves three changing beers typically from Nightjar, Vocation or Worsthorne. 7 minutes walk from Sowerby Bridge Station. Coincides with Mini Wood Fest at Jubilee Refreshment Rooms.
- Fri 20 Dec 2019 UK Railtours (Railtour) More...
- The LNER HST Farewell
Wednesday 18 December to Saturday 21 December 2019
After more than 40 years of service on the East Coast route, the age of the InterCity 125 High Speed Trains is rapidly nearing its end as the sleek new Azuma trains gradually take over.
To mark the end of an era, LNER is restoring an InterCity 125 set to its original British Rail livery and undertaking a special four-day tour around the LNER network. As a special treat for those onboard, for the first time LNER will take the train 'across the top' from Aberdeen to Inverness to kick off Day One of the Farewell Tour.
THE NORTHUMBRIAN - FRIDAY 20 DECEMBER 2019:
Today we leave Edinburgh at 09.37 and, with wonderful views over the North Sea, we're bound for England! We cross the Royal Border Bridge at Berwick-upon-Tweed, see the Tyne Bridges at Newcastle and glimpse Durham Castle high above the River Wear. Then it's on through York to arrive in Leeds at 16.20.
UK Railtours
- Sat 21 Dec 2019 UK Railtours (Railtour) More...
- The LNER HST Farewell
Wednesday 18 December to Saturday 21 December 2019
After more than 40 years of service on the East Coast route, the age of the InterCity 125 High Speed Trains is rapidly nearing its end as the sleek new Azuma trains gradually take over.
To mark the end of an era, LNER is restoring an InterCity 125 set to its original British Rail livery and undertaking a special four-day tour around the LNER network. As a special treat for those onboard, for the first time LNER will take the train 'across the top' from Aberdeen to Inverness to kick off Day One of the Farewell Tour.
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THE WEST RIDING LIMITED - SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER 2019:
The grand finale! Our special HST leaves Leeds at 11.01 for a special run south via Doncaster and Peterborough, pausing at most of the major stations along the way. The era of the LNER InterCity 125 finally comes to an end at London King's Cross at 15.09.
UK Railtours
- Sat 21 Dec 2019 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Edinburgh Christmas Market
Saturday 21st December 2019
**FULLY BOOKED IN ALL CLASSES**
A rare opportunity is on offer with this special steam hauled train using an A4 Pacific No.60009 Union of South Africa running at speed both ways over its former territory from York to Edinburgh and return.
There will be time in Edinbugh to visit the sights before we return south, including the fabulous Christmas Market. A marvelous Winter Wonderland with Wooden Chalets, Ice Skating Rink and even a Big Wheel.
Our steam hauled journey will commence at the historic city of York, with its long association with railways, including the location of the National Railway Museum. Heading north away from York, we will travel on the East Coast main line through to Northallerton, where 60009 Union of South Africa will build up speed to its maximum on the straight alignment of the tracks. We will pause at Durham momentarily to pick up further passengers, before heading towards Tyneside and over the river Tyne to Newcastle, our final pick up point.
Leaving Newcastle, we head northwards and pass through Morpeth, with our speed running at the maximum along this former LNER racetrack, the preserve of the A4 Pacifics up to their withdrawal in the mid 1960s. With coastal views and quaint villages along the way, we make our way through Northumberland, with views of Bamburgh Castle and Lindisfarne Island simmering in the distance. Continuing towards Berwick on Tweed, we cross the spectacular 28-arch Royal Border Bridge, designed by Robert Stephenson. Just after Berwick, we cross the border and enter Scotland. Union of South Africa will now be getting steam up ready for the long climb up to Grantshouse, a stiff climb at gradients of 1 in 190/200 and a test of the stamina of locomotives heading towards Edinburgh.
We pass through the Scottish Borders, with more coastal views along the way before we reach Edinburgh, the Capital of Scotland. Time will be available here for passengers to visit the city and its Christmas market, located in Prices Street Gardens, whilst Union of South Africa is serviced for the return journey back to York. Apart from its many shops and restaurants along Princes Street, there are many sights to see and vist, including the Palace of Holyrood, the Castle on the Royal Mile, Galleries and Museums and Princes Street Gardens.
We will return south with Union of South Africa and follow our outward route. Highlight of the jorney back to Newcastle will be the southbound climb to Grantshouse, graded at 1 in 96 for over four miles. In no time at all, we will be back at Newcastle to set down passengers, followed by Durham and finally York.
Look out for Father Christmas and his Elves who will be visiting the train during the day and handing out presents to all children on board. Please let us know your child's age when booking.
Mulled wine and mince pies will be served to the first and standard class passengers on board.
Railway Touring Company
- Tue 31 Dec 2019 Great Central Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Night Rider - New Year's Eve
Join us for an evening train with both steam and diesel haulage to see in the New Year. Departing Loughborough Central at 19:00, enjoy an evening travelling through the night and into 2020.
Click here to buy tickets online
On the final trip of the evening, we will arrive at Leicester North station at approximately 23:50. Here we will pause the celebrate the arrival of the New Year at midnight before departure again at 00:15.
Great Central Railway
- Thu 02 Jan 2020 The Wind Up (Social Gathering) More...
- 1988 - 2 January 2020 WESTMINSTER
The Speaker, 46 Great Peter St, SW1P 2HA
We last visited The Speaker 18 months ago shortly before the lease with Pleisure expired. Following a brief closure last summer for refurbishment, which preserved the character and enhanced the decor, it re-opened under Bermondsey Pub Company management. Still popular and hence busy, this is probably the best time of year for our group to visit !
There are five hand pumps dispensing real ale, amongst which there is always a dark beer, and the landlord is aware that will be our preference ! Note that food is no longer available.
The pub is situated near St James's Park station.
- Thu 02 Jan 2020 Wind Up North (Social Gathering) More...
- Wind Up North #156 The Cuckoo's Nest 2nd Januray 2020
111 Market Street, Chorley, PR7 2SQ
One of the town's growing number of micropubs the Cuckoo's Nest (previously known as the ''D'Owd Inn' and 'Toastie Tavern') opened its doors in March 2019. Situated in a corner shop unit on Market Street, the pub is on a split level, with comfortable seating on the upper level and a more 'public bar' feel to the lower level. Up to three changing real ales are available with an emphasis on sourcing from local microbreweries with plans to expand the range to four and an additional real cider in the near future. The house beer is an amber ale, One Brew over the Cuckoo's Nest, and is usually available. 8 minutes walk from Chorley Station.
- Fri 24 Jan 2020 Great Central Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Winter Steam Gala - 24th to 26th January 2020
Our Winter Steam Gala takes place from 24th to 26th January 2020.
We are expecting at least one guest locomotive, with up to 9 locomotives in steam.
More details will be available soon.
Great Central Railway
- Sat 25 Jan 2020 Great Central Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Winter Steam Gala - 24th to 26th January 2020
Our Winter Steam Gala takes place from 24th to 26th January 2020.
We are expecting at least one guest locomotive, with up to 9 locomotives in steam.
More details will be available soon.
Great Central Railway
- Sun 26 Jan 2020 Great Central Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Winter Steam Gala - 24th to 26th January 2020
Our Winter Steam Gala takes place from 24th to 26th January 2020.
We are expecting at least one guest locomotive, with up to 9 locomotives in steam.
More details will be available soon.
Great Central Railway
- Sat 22 Feb 2020 Keighley and Worth Valley Railway (Steam Railtour) More...
- 'Bahamas' Railtour to Carlisle 22nd February 2020
After two sell-out tours in 2019 of KWVR 'Bahamas' rail tours from Oxenhope to Carlisle, we are returning in 2020 for a journey over the Settle & Carlisle Railway behind 45596.
Following the great success of the two 2019 KWVR 'Bahamas' Railtours, we have decided to launch a third tour so that all our wonderful enthusiasts are able to have another chance to enjoy a trip over the Settle & Carlisle Railway behind 45596.
LMS 'Jubilee' Class locomotive 45596 'Bahamas, was the first of the four Jubilees of the class to be preserved and occupies a special place in railway history as it was the very last steam engine to be modified by BR in its attempts to improve the performance of its steam fleet with the fitting of its unique double chimney and blastpipe in 1961. The Bahamas Locomotive Society (BLS) bought 45596 in 1967.
'Bahamas' ran on the main line (1989 - 1994) before retiring to Oxenhope Exhibition Shed in 1997. 45596 moved to Tyseley Locomotive Works in November 2013 as a result of the BLS's successful GBP996k bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund for help to give it the most extensive overhaul since 1961. Returning to action in 2019, 45596 operated on the main line throughout the year and will once again grace the northern fells, starting from our terminus at Oxenhope.
Oxenhope - Carlisle - Tour Details
BOOK ONLINE NOW!
Date: Saturday 22nd February 2020.
Please see timetable below:
Outward
Oxenhope dep. 0815.
Haworth dep. 0820.
Keighley dep. 0850.
Skipton dep. 0920.
Appleby arr. 1152.
Appleby dep. 1211.
Carlisle arr. 1255.
Return
Carlisle dep. 1530.
Appleby arr. 1620.
Appleby dep. 1640.
Skipton arr. 1905.
Keighley arr. 1945.
Haworth arr. 2015.
Oxenhope arr. 2025.
Please note that these times are approximate with precise timings announced a few weeks prior to the tour, when Network Rail release the final details.
Due to operational restrictions, the return journey from Carlisle will terminate at Keighley. A connecting steam hauled service from Keighley will return customers to Haworth and Oxenhope.
Our special train will depart Oxenhope, terminus of the KWVR, at 08.15 stopping to collect passengers at Haworth and Keighley on the KWVR and Skipton. On leaving Skipton the train heads to Hellifield and onto Settle Junction where the climb over the famous Settle & Carlisle Railway begins. The Settle & Carlisle Line, one of the most spectacular and best loved stretches of railway line in Britain boasts the highest railway summit in England at Ais Gill, 1,169 feet above sea level. We pass over numerous viaducts, including the most famous of them all, Ribblehead, and plunge into tunnels on our climb to the summit and descent towards our destination. There are magnificent views across the north Pennines and to the peaks of Pen-y-ghent to the east, Ingleborough and Whernside to the west.
We stay in the border city of Carlisle for approximately two and half hours, providing time to visit the castle, cathedral, museum and shops, or spend your time at leisure in one of the coffee shops, restaurants or bars that are aplenty in the city centre.
Tickets:
?First Class: GBP149.00
?Standard Class: GBP79.00
?GBP3.50 booking charge for phone bookings
BOOK ONLINE NOW!
First Class
Enjoy First Class carriages with complimentary refreshments including light breakfast on the outward and sandwiches and snacks on the return with tea and coffee.
Dietary requirements: On receipt of your booking confirmation, customers requiring a vegetarian alternative should email our Haworth office, bookings@kwvr.co.uk, quoting your booking reference number and requesting the vegetarian option to be provided.
Regretfully, due to the constraints associated with on train catering, we are unable to offer any other special dietary requirements.
Standard class
A wide selection of refreshments will be available for purchase on board the train with further details available on our website prior to the railtour.
Terms & Conditions and Cancellation Policy
Click HERE to download the terms and conditions applicable to your booking for 'Bahamas' Railtour to Carlisle.
Bahamas Locomotive Society
The Society was formed in 1967 with the aim of purchasing and maintaining in working order the former LMS Railway 'Jubilee' class steam locomotive No. 45596 'Bahamas' and have been the proud custodians of the locomotive for the last 51 years.
Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
- Sun 23 Feb 2020 Epping Ongar Railway (Buses) More...
- 50 Years of London Country Bus Services
Bus Running Day 23 February
This event, based at North Weald Station, will feature new routes running to local towns and villages. It will commemorate fifty years of London Country Bus Services Ltd. Expect visiting vehicles and possibly a surprise or two!
London Country Buses
Further details to follow.
There will be a departure from Chingford station on route 718 at 10.00.
Our route 339 buses will run to connect Epping Underground station (Central Line, Zone 6) with North Weald station at regular intervals throughout the event.
Fares
A special 'Green Rover' ticket will be available for just GBP10 per adult and GBP1 per accompanied child providing unlimited travel on all bus services, including the 339 service, all day. These can be purchased in advance early in 2020, or on the day from the bus conductor (cash only).
If you wish to travel on the trains as well, then standard fares apply, giving unlimted travel on all train and bus services all day.
Admission to North Weald station will only be available to ticket holders.
Epping Ongar Railway
- Sat 07 Mar 2020 Saphos Trains (Steam Railtour) More...
- THE WHITE ROSE
SATURDAY 7 MARCH 2020
DEPARTING FROM: Shrewsbury (07.00/22.40) Whitchurch (07.20/22.20) Crewe (08.10/21.30) Hartford (08.35/21.10) 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'
Saphos Trains
- Wed 11 Mar 2020 Vintage Trains (Steam Railtour) More...
- Cheltenham Festival Ladies Day - Wednesday 11th March
EARLY BIRD FARES AVAILABLE
A unique way to travel to a world famous event - and it's not just for ladies!
Board at Stratford Upon Avon, Dorridge, Solihull or Birmingham New Street and travel in vintage style aboard our heritage coaches, hauled by a magnificent steam locomotive.
A local bus shuttle service runs frequently between Cheltenham station and Cheltenham Racecourse during festival week.
For a really special day out, consider booking your own private coach. Contact us for more details.
Vintage Trains
- Sat 14 Mar 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Cumbrian Coast Express
Saturday 14th March 2020
With these trains we expect to recreate the early days of steam rail tours in the 1980s when travelling over the Cumbrian Fells was the icing on the cake in the main line steam calendar.
We have a high-speed journey down the West Coast Main Line to Carlisle, hauled by a blue Class 86 electric locomotive. We then enjoy a steam tour from Carlisle back to Carnforth via the Cumbria Coast. We return from Carnforth to London behind our blue electric locomotive.
We leave London Euston 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 caf? 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 an assortment of shops and cafes.
We leave Carlisle steam hauled 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 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 14 Mar 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Half Price Weekend
14th and 15th March 2020
We celebrate the start of our steam trains running with our popular Half Price Weekend.
South Devon Railway
- Sun 15 Mar 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Half Price Weekend
14th and 15th March 2020
We celebrate the start of our steam trains running with our popular Half Price Weekend.
South Devon Railway
- Sun 22 Mar 2020 Saphos Trains (Steam Railtour) More...
- PENNINE PEAKS & VALLEYS MOTHERS DAY EXPLORER
SUNDAY 22 MARCH 2020
DEPARTING FROM: Crewe (09.30/19.25) Hartford (09.50/19.05) Runcorn (10.05/18.50) Liverpool South Parkway (10.20/18.30) Liverpool Lime Street (11.00/17.50) Huyton (11.25/17.25) St Helens Central (11.40/17.10) Wigan North Western (12.00/16.50)
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 steam hauled circular tour through the magnificent pennines with travel in our immaculately restored vintage carriages for a journey through deep valleys and the spectacular Yorkshire Dales offering stunning views of the three peaks, plus taxing climbs to make the engine work hard - Our Premier dining experience offers the ideal gift for the special lady in your life with a sumptuous five course Luncheon accompanied with champagne and wine.
The train is steam hauled from Liverpool Lime Street with the steep climb through the cutting to Edge Hill and sounds of the locomotive working hard reverberating from the tunnel walls. At Wigan we join the West Coast Main line and passing through Preston, then travelling north past imposing Lancaster Castle we cross the River Lune and at Bolton-le-Sands there are spectacular views across Morecambe Bay toward the Lakeland mountains. At Carnforth we pass the famous station used in the 1945 movie 'Brief Encounter' and take the secondary line into open countryside and through dramatic scenery on the edge of the forest of Bowland towards the beautiful Yorkshire Dales crossing rivers and moorland as we climb through Wennington and Gigglewick to Settle Junction with amazing views of the three peaks. At Hellifield we join the normally freight only line as it crosses the River Ribble through the stunning valley with Pendle Hill, home to the Lancashire witches, towering over the route.
Passing historic Clitheroe and Whalley, we cross the 48 arch viaduct and the engine works hard to climb the taxing Wilpshire Bank with the sounds echoing back from the surrounding hills. Travelling onward through Blackburn on easier gradients we take the line to Leyland and re-join the West Coast main line to our homeward stations.
The train is steam hauled from Liverpool 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'
Saphos Trains
- Fri 27 Mar 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Fri 27 Mar 2020 Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Diesel Gala
We will be raising the roof with yet another diesel spectacular on the weekend of 27 to 29 March 2020!
With an expected four or more locomotives operating and also selected locos hauling a good couple of hundred ton special up our 1 in 68 inclines means that you'll certainly get the full music of the selected locomotives. Our service will be very intensive to allow you to sample all of the fine machines on our scenic and nicely graded route.
We're delighted to announce Class 33 '33201' as the first guest locomotive, courtesy of Ian Mandley. 33201 will line up with 97205, 37227 and 08825/97808. More announcements in due course!
We will also be offering Cab rides on each service to enable you to really enjoy the atmosphere and get a driver's view of the line. Depending on crewing levels, there will be Brake van rides with our NSE Class 08 08825/97808 with our shark brake van running up Risborough South Siding 1 (rare track) between departures and arrivals at Princes Risborough.
We will have barrels of real ale on offer with some local cider on tap too! Exact ales and ciders to be announced nearer the time.
Please note: there will be no steam locomotive running and only vintage diesels will operate over this weekend - therefore there will be no steam heating in our carriages, but should the weather be stacked against us... our Cambrian Caf? at Chinnor will be serving plenty of hot coffee and tea, plus hot bacon and sausage baps, all at our usual moderate catering prices!
If you are looking for something more to do whilst in Chinnor then see our guide 'Stroll Around Chinnor Village' which includes links to the Wee Bookshop and The Village Centre for food and drink, ditto Bar/Restaurant meals in local pubs, or say visit the local Church, and the guide also lists other places that may be of interest.
Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway
- Sat 28 Mar 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sat 28 Mar 2020 Ribble Steam Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sat 28 Mar 2020 Swindon & Cricklade Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Steam Gala
28 March 2020 - 29 March 2020
- Sat 28 Mar 2020 Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Diesel Gala
We will be raising the roof with yet another diesel spectacular on the weekend of 27 to 29 March 2020!
With an expected four or more locomotives operating and also selected locos hauling a good couple of hundred ton special up our 1 in 68 inclines means that you'll certainly get the full music of the selected locomotives. Our service will be very intensive to allow you to sample all of the fine machines on our scenic and nicely graded route.
We're delighted to announce Class 33 '33201' as the first guest locomotive, courtesy of Ian Mandley. 33201 will line up with 97205, 37227 and 08825/97808. More announcements in due course!
We will also be offering Cab rides on each service to enable you to really enjoy the atmosphere and get a driver's view of the line. Depending on crewing levels, there will be Brake van rides with our NSE Class 08 08825/97808 with our shark brake van running up Risborough South Siding 1 (rare track) between departures and arrivals at Princes Risborough.
We will have barrels of real ale on offer with some local cider on tap too! Exact ales and ciders to be announced nearer the time.
Please note: there will be no steam locomotive running and only vintage diesels will operate over this weekend - therefore there will be no steam heating in our carriages, but should the weather be stacked against us... our Cambrian Caf? at Chinnor will be serving plenty of hot coffee and tea, plus hot bacon and sausage baps, all at our usual moderate catering prices!
If you are looking for something more to do whilst in Chinnor then see our guide 'Stroll Around Chinnor Village' which includes links to the Wee Bookshop and The Village Centre for food and drink, ditto Bar/Restaurant meals in local pubs, or say visit the local Church, and the guide also lists other places that may be of interest.
Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway
- Sun 29 Mar 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sun 29 Mar 2020 Ribble Steam Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sun 29 Mar 2020 Swindon & Cricklade Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Steam Gala
28 March 2020 - 29 March 2020
- Sun 29 Mar 2020 Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Diesel Gala
We will be raising the roof with yet another diesel spectacular on the weekend of 27 to 29 March 2020!
With an expected four or more locomotives operating and also selected locos hauling a good couple of hundred ton special up our 1 in 68 inclines means that you'll certainly get the full music of the selected locomotives. Our service will be very intensive to allow you to sample all of the fine machines on our scenic and nicely graded route.
We're delighted to announce Class 33 '33201' as the first guest locomotive, courtesy of Ian Mandley. 33201 will line up with 97205, 37227 and 08825/97808. More announcements in due course!
We will also be offering Cab rides on each service to enable you to really enjoy the atmosphere and get a driver's view of the line. Depending on crewing levels, there will be Brake van rides with our NSE Class 08 08825/97808 with our shark brake van running up Risborough South Siding 1 (rare track) between departures and arrivals at Princes Risborough.
We will have barrels of real ale on offer with some local cider on tap too! Exact ales and ciders to be announced nearer the time.
Please note: there will be no steam locomotive running and only vintage diesels will operate over this weekend - therefore there will be no steam heating in our carriages, but should the weather be stacked against us... our Cambrian Caf? at Chinnor will be serving plenty of hot coffee and tea, plus hot bacon and sausage baps, all at our usual moderate catering prices!
If you are looking for something more to do whilst in Chinnor then see our guide 'Stroll Around Chinnor Village' which includes links to the Wee Bookshop and The Village Centre for food and drink, ditto Bar/Restaurant meals in local pubs, or say visit the local Church, and the guide also lists other places that may be of interest.
Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway
- Fri 03 Apr 2020 Mid-Norfolk Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Spring Diesel Event - 3rd-5th April 2020
15th October 2019 - Our 2020 Spring Diesel Event takes place between 3rd and 5th April 2020. We are pleased to announce two visiting locomotives that plan to visit, subject to availability: D400 (50050) and 37240 with thanks to Neil Boden, we are in contact with other owners including mainline operators, we'll announce further information nearer the event.
Mid-Norfolk Railway
- Fri 03 Apr 2020 Bluebell Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Branch Line Weekend - 3rd to 5th April 2020
Come along for a fun-packed weekend showcasing Bluebell Railway's small locomotives and some very special visitors!
A busy timetable will recreate the branch line feel of our Railway in its heyday by concentrating on the use of our smaller Bluebell locomotives, plus our very special visitors?.
We will be operating a different timetable on each of the three days so why not take the opportunity to spend a long weekend sampling the variety of what our Railway can offer, including locomotives, coaches and stations from the 1880s right through until the mid-1950s.
Come along and see the 'small but mighty' engines at their best.
Bluebell Railway
- Sat 04 Apr 2020 Mid-Norfolk Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Spring Diesel Event - 3rd-5th April 2020
15th October 2019 - Our 2020 Spring Diesel Event takes place between 3rd and 5th April 2020. We are pleased to announce two visiting locomotives that plan to visit, subject to availability: D400 (50050) and 37240 with thanks to Neil Boden, we are in contact with other owners including mainline operators, we'll announce further information nearer the event.
Mid-Norfolk Railway
- Sat 04 Apr 2020 Bluebell Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Branch Line Weekend - 3rd to 5th April 2020
Come along for a fun-packed weekend showcasing Bluebell Railway's small locomotives and some very special visitors!
A busy timetable will recreate the branch line feel of our Railway in its heyday by concentrating on the use of our smaller Bluebell locomotives, plus our very special visitors?.
We will be operating a different timetable on each of the three days so why not take the opportunity to spend a long weekend sampling the variety of what our Railway can offer, including locomotives, coaches and stations from the 1880s right through until the mid-1950s.
Come along and see the 'small but mighty' engines at their best.
Bluebell Railway
- Sun 05 Apr 2020 Mid-Norfolk Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Spring Diesel Event - 3rd-5th April 2020
15th October 2019 - Our 2020 Spring Diesel Event takes place between 3rd and 5th April 2020. We are pleased to announce two visiting locomotives that plan to visit, subject to availability: D400 (50050) and 37240 with thanks to Neil Boden, we are in contact with other owners including mainline operators, we'll announce further information nearer the event.
Mid-Norfolk Railway
- Sun 05 Apr 2020 Bluebell Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Branch Line Weekend - 3rd to 5th April 2020
Come along for a fun-packed weekend showcasing Bluebell Railway's small locomotives and some very special visitors!
A busy timetable will recreate the branch line feel of our Railway in its heyday by concentrating on the use of our smaller Bluebell locomotives, plus our very special visitors?.
We will be operating a different timetable on each of the three days so why not take the opportunity to spend a long weekend sampling the variety of what our Railway can offer, including locomotives, coaches and stations from the 1880s right through until the mid-1950s.
Come along and see the 'small but mighty' engines at their best.
Bluebell Railway
- Sun 12 Apr 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Behind the Scenes and Recruitment Days
12th and 13th April 2020
A chance to find out how we run the railway and perhaps join us as a volunteer or supporting member. There will be plenty to see behind the scenes, such as signal boxes, the workshop, our permanent pay equipment and more. There will also be trains running all day and lots of opportunities to learn more about us.
South Devon Railway
- Mon 13 Apr 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Behind the Scenes and Recruitment Days
12th and 13th April 2020
A chance to find out how we run the railway and perhaps join us as a volunteer or supporting member. There will be plenty to see behind the scenes, such as signal boxes, the workshop, our permanent pay equipment and more. There will also be trains running all day and lots of opportunities to learn more about us.
South Devon Railway
- Sat 18 Apr 2020 Vintage Trains (Steam Railtour) More...
- Settle & Carlisle - Saturday 18th April
EARLY BIRD FARES AVAILABLE
The Settle to Carlisle Railway is one of the most scenic and impressive railways in the UK, with viaducts, tunnels and wild scenery of the North Pennines, Eden Valley and Yorkshire Dales. Consisting of 72 miles of track with 21 viaducts spanning the ravines and 14 tunnels, the line is considered to be the most picturesque route to Scotland.
On this full day tour, travel to Appleby or Carlisle on our heritage coaches, hauled by a class 47 diesel as far as Hellifield. There we will swap our diesel for Clun Castle, one of our magnificent GWR Castle class steam locomotives, which will haul us on the route via Settle to Carlisle.
An opportunity to stretch your legs and photograph the engine is offered at Appleby before we retrace our steps and head home.
This is a spectacular full day trip, all the more special as 'Clun Castle' makes her first return to the Settle and Carlisle line since 1967.
Passengers can join the train at Birmingham New Street, Coleshill Parkway, Tamworth, Burton-on-Trent, Derby and Chesterfield.
Passengers can alight at Appleby or Carlisle.
Steam hauled over the S&C from Hellifield to Catlisle and return by No: 7029 'Clun Castle'
Vintage Trains
- Sat 18 Apr 2020 Epping Ongar Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Spring Diesel Gala
18, 19 April 2020
featuring:
?visiting locomotives (to be confirmed)
?the possible return to traffic of 45132 (to be confirmed and subject to generator repairs)
?our homefleet of 20001, 31438, 37029 and 47635
This is the first of our ever popular Diesel Galas for 2020, where the home fleet, along with some interesting visiting locomotives, come out to be put through their paces over some of the most challenging gradients in preservation.
This gala may see the return of Class 45 'Peak' locomotive 45132 (subject to completion of generator repairs). Keep an eye on this page or follow us on social media for updates.
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.
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 GBP5; we also hope to be offering brake van rides (an additional fare of GBP5 per return trip applies).
Cab rides and Brake Van trips will be offered on a first come first served basis. These can't be pre-booked. Simply speak to the crew on the day to reserve your place.
Epping Ongar Railway
- Sun 19 Apr 2020 Epping Ongar Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Spring Diesel Gala
18, 19 April 2020
featuring:
?visiting locomotives (to be confirmed)
?the possible return to traffic of 45132 (to be confirmed and subject to generator repairs)
?our homefleet of 20001, 31438, 37029 and 47635
This is the first of our ever popular Diesel Galas for 2020, where the home fleet, along with some interesting visiting locomotives, come out to be put through their paces over some of the most challenging gradients in preservation.
This gala may see the return of Class 45 'Peak' locomotive 45132 (subject to completion of generator repairs). Keep an eye on this page or follow us on social media for updates.
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.
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 GBP5; we also hope to be offering brake van rides (an additional fare of GBP5 per return trip applies).
Cab rides and Brake Van trips will be offered on a first come first served basis. These can't be pre-booked. Simply speak to the crew on the day to reserve your place.
Epping Ongar Railway
- Sat 25 Apr 2020 UK Railtours (Railtour) More...
- The Doctor Syn
Saturday 25 April 2020
In response to many requests from our friends in the Midlands, here is an unmissable railtour from Derby and other Midland Main Line stations, travelling around West London for a meander around the railways of Kent. It is named after the mythical Doctor Syn, a notorious Romney Marsh vicar who turned to smuggling to help fund his parish in Dymchurch.
After our final joining station of St Albans we take an interesting route through the London suburbs via Brent, Dudding Hill, Acton Canal Wharf, Kew, Clapham, Factory Junction, Nunhead and Lewisham. Heading out of the capital now, and with the Thames Estuary never far away, we pass Dartford and Gravesend to reach Hoo Junction.
Here we begin a journey along our first freight-only line, the eleven mile branch through the 'Hundred of Hoo'. The surroundings are remarkably rural for most of the way, passing through peaceful farmland, but with the tall chimneys of the riverside oil refineries clearly visible in the distance. Our train runs to the former passenger station at Grain, closed in 1961.
We head back through Dartford to Lee, where we take the sharply curved Lee Spur leading on to the South Eastern Main Line. We then travel via Chislehurst, Swanley, Maidstone East and Ashford, where we can step off the train for twenty minutes or so to stretch our legs.
Heading south to Appledore we reach our second freight-only branch, the nine mile Dungeness line. We will be crossing the largest expanse of shingle in the world, of international conservation importance. It is the only English habitat of bombus subterraneus, the short-haired bumblebee. Look out for the derelict remains of Lydd Town station as we head for the end of the line at Dungeness, with its iconic lighthouses dominating the distinctive terrain.
We return via Ashford and Tonbridge before retracing our outward route around London then northwards on the Midland Main Line.
The train will be formed of the attractive blue and grey liveried InterCity carriages and will be topped and tailed with DB Class 66 locomotives. There will be three classes of accommodation, First Class Dining, First Class Non-Dining and Standard Class.
As a special offer on what we hope will be the first of several more Midland starts, we have knocked GBP20 off the usual First Class Dining fare!
First Class Dining includes The Great British Breakfast, light lunch and a four course dinner.
UK Railtours
- Sat 25 Apr 2020 Ribble Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Sun 26 Apr 2020 Ribble Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Sat 02 May 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Aberdeen Flyer
Saturday 2nd May 2020
Visit the Granite City of Aberdeen on this day trip from Edinburgh, steam hauled by Princess Coronation Class steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland.
The highlights of the day will be the passage over the world famous Forth Bridge and the attractive coastal line through Fife.
Our special train leaves Edinburgh Waverley steam hauled by No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland as we head for the world famous Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You follow the scenic Fife coastline through Burntisland and Kirkcaldy, with outstanding views across the Forth estuary. Cutting inland via Thornton and Markinch, you pass through Ladybank and head across the Howe of Fife towards the Fair City of Perth.
Running along the north bank of the Tay through the Carse of Gowrie, we reach Dundee where Captain Scott's Antarctic expedition ship 'RRS Discovery' is housed on the quayside. There are also views of the Tay road and rail bridges.
Leaving the Tay estuary, you follow the coast towards Arbroath, famous for its culinary 'Smokies'. There are steep gradients to negotiate as we head away from Arbroath through Lunan Bay to Montrose. The Aberdeen line was one of the last stamping grounds of the Gresley A4 Pacifics that worked the crack expresses from Glasgow in 3 hours. Reaching Montrose, which sits on a land-locked lagoon, you move inland through the Howe of Mearns via the former Caledonian Railway's line to reach the North Sea again at Stonehaven. This section of line includes more severe gradients that will require some hard work from our steam locomotive and its crew to keep to the schedule.
Your route follows the coastline before entering the 'Granite City' of Aberdeen, where you'll have around two hours to sightsee and shop, before your steam locomotive departs Aberdeen around 15:40. We shall now retrace our outward route back to Edinburgh, arriving there around 21:00.
Railway Touring Company
- Thu 07 May 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Spring Rails & Ales
7th to 10th May 2020
A great 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!
South Devon Railway
- Fri 08 May 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Spring Rails & Ales
7th to 10th May 2020
A great 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!
South Devon Railway
- Sat 09 May 2020 UK Railtours (Railtour) More...
- Shrewsbury in Springtime
Saturday 9 May 2020
This is an ideal springtime day out, offering you a choice of three top-class destinations, namely Shrewsbury, Attingham Park (NT) or Ironbridge and Blists Hill Museum. If there was ever a tour that could claim to offer something for everyone, surely this is it!
Our journey takes us via Peterborough where we veer westward to pass through the ancient county of Rutland and on via Leicester and Nuneaton. We skirt Birmingham via the surprisingly rural Sutton Park Line, and once past Wolverhampton we head through lovely countryside bound for Shropshire.
SHREWSBURY
Is it pronounced 'Shroozbury' or 'Shrowsbury'? It's not worth worrying about as even people who live here don't agree. What can't be disputed is that it's a really delightful place, famous for its beautiful gardens, its frontage on the meandering River Severn and of course for its connections with its most famous citizen Charles Darwin.
There's a great range of shops and plenty of welcoming bars and cafes, and the river cruise is especially pleasant. The station is not far from the centre, so it really is an ideal place to while away an afternoon. You will have some four and a half hours at leisure.
IRONBRIDGE AND BLISTS HILL MUSEUM
Coaches meet our train at Telford Central. Our first stop is in the village of Ironbridge where you can see and walk across the famous bridge that has come to symbolise the Industrial Revolution and its birthplace. You'll have time to pick up a souvenir or two before rejoining the coaches for a very short journey to Blists Hill Museum, a truly amazing recreated Victorian town.
Here you'll experience what life was like when Britain ruled the world. Meet some (almost) real Victorians in their authentic shops and cottages, buy curious goods from a bygone era and watch tradespeople in action in their atmospheric workshops and factories. You will have well over two hours here.
ATTINGHAM PARK
Another of our National Trust Specials - visit a lavish 18th Century Mansion shaped by a story of love and neglect
Built for the first Lord Berwick in 1785, Attingham was owned by one family for more than 160 years. As fortunes rose and fell they proved themselves to be spenders, savers and saviours, leaving a tantalising story of love and neglect whose mark still shows in Attingham's fascinating rooms today. Outside, discover the tranquil space of the Walled Garden and bring some produce home with you from our shop. Or walk through the woodlands and deer park to see what wildlife you can spot.
At Telford Central coaches will be waiting for the transfer to Attingham Park, taking around twenty five minutes. You will have around four hours to explore this enchanting place.
Attingham is now owned by the National Trust and we are pleased to offer an appropriate discount for NT members.
UK Railtours
- Sat 09 May 2020 Vintage Trains (Steam Railtour) More...
- Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza - Saturday 9th May
EARLY BIRD FARES AVAILABLE
The ever popular North Wales destination of Llandudno is again hosting their annual Victorian Extravaganza & Transport festival, and whilst not exactly Victorian, what better way to travel to the festival than on a steam train hauled by our own No: 7029 'Clun Castle'
.
With over four hours at our destination, the Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza & Transport Festival offers a fun packed day for all the family. You are more than welcome to join in the daily parade, as long as you are appropriately attired!
The transport festival offers great opportunity to experience a huge selection of exhibits such as steam engines, early vehicles, traditional steam organs and much more. Whether you are an enthusiast or just have a casual interest, The Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza gives you the chance to step back in time to see, hear, smell and learn about the Victorian era.
For additional details of both festivals including events and attractions, please visit;
https://victorian-extravaganza.com
Commencing Dorridge, the train picks up at Solihull, Tyseley (Mainline Station), Birmingham New Street and Wolverhampton.
If you wish to explore the north Wales coast by train, it will also be possible to alight the train at Llandudno Junction.
Steam Hauled by No. 7029 'Clun Castle'. Diesel Hauled in part on the return from Llandudno to Chester.
Vintage Trains
- Sat 09 May 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Spring Rails & Ales
7th to 10th May 2020
A great 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!
South Devon Railway
- Sun 10 May 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Spring Rails & Ales
7th to 10th May 2020
A great 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!
South Devon Railway
- Sat 16 May 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Cumbrian Mountain Express
Saturday 16th May 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 caf? 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 caf?s.
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.
*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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 23 May 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Pennine Limited
Saturday 23rd May 2020
Join us on this varied and interesting tour from East Anglia to the border town of Carlisle.
We shall feature steam haulage by a Carnforth pool locomotive from Hellifield to Carlisle and return. This will include the world famous Settle & Carlisle Railway, one of the great railway journeys in Britain. There will be time in Carlisle before returning to Hellifield, steam hauled, with diesel haulage back to Norwich.
We leave Norwich early in the morning and make our way across rural Norfolk to York diesel-hauled, calling at Wymondham, Attleborough, Thetford, March and Peterborough to pick up passengers. We shall then make our way northwards towards the Leeds area where we pick up the Aire Valley line through Skipton to Hellifield. Here we will attach our Carnforth pool steam locomotive for the run to Carlisle over the famous 72-mile long Settle to Carlisle line.
Passing over Settle Junction, we begin 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 station in England at Dent, travelling through tunnels and crossing valleys on lofty viaducts. There are 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. Appleby is a historic market town, which lies in a loop of the picturesque river Eden.
Continuing through the meandering Eden Valley to Carlisle will have around two hours to explore the Border City, possibly visiting the castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum or the Lanes Shopping Centre.
Our train leaves Carlisle for the return journey at around 16:15 and climbs almost continually 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 ready for the arduous climb to Ais Gill Summit. Once through Garsdale and spectacular Dent Dale, we pass through Blea Moor tunnel and cross Ribblehead Viaduct once again. We shall now retrace our earlier route back to Hellifield, where we shall reluctantly have to say goodbye to our steam locomotive.
We now continue our journey back to Norwich with a diesel locomotive, setting down at our earlier calling points.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 23 May 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Cotswold Festival of Steam 2020
8th November 2019
Saturday, Sunday and Monday 23rd, 24th and 25th May 2020
At least EIGHT locomotives in steam!
Special guests planned for another amazing Late May Bank Holiday weekend
The small team behind the Cotswold Festival of Steam is planning yet another outstanding show with at least three visiting locomotives planned along with all of the 'home fleet'. An intensive timetable will allow plenty of opportunity to ride behind all of the locomotives and some trains will feature double-heading and interesting combinations of motive power. Once again, engines that have never visited the railway are being invited.
It's a bit too early to give any clues as to what the team hopes will be running but you may be sure of an exceptional show with the usual attractions, including the North Gloucestershire Narrow Gauge Railway which could feature up to three locos in steam; trade and preservation stands; traction engines; beer tent; 'behind the scenes' visits to the railway's large Carriage & Wagon workshops and much more. The team also hopes that the freight will once again feature in the timetables.
Online tickets will be offered early in the New Year but make a note in your diary now - clear the decks and don't miss it!
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
- Sun 24 May 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Cotswold Festival of Steam 2020
8th November 2019
Saturday, Sunday and Monday 23rd, 24th and 25th May 2020
At least EIGHT locomotives in steam!
Special guests planned for another amazing Late May Bank Holiday weekend
The small team behind the Cotswold Festival of Steam is planning yet another outstanding show with at least three visiting locomotives planned along with all of the 'home fleet'. An intensive timetable will allow plenty of opportunity to ride behind all of the locomotives and some trains will feature double-heading and interesting combinations of motive power. Once again, engines that have never visited the railway are being invited.
It's a bit too early to give any clues as to what the team hopes will be running but you may be sure of an exceptional show with the usual attractions, including the North Gloucestershire Narrow Gauge Railway which could feature up to three locos in steam; trade and preservation stands; traction engines; beer tent; 'behind the scenes' visits to the railway's large Carriage & Wagon workshops and much more. The team also hopes that the freight will once again feature in the timetables.
Online tickets will be offered early in the New Year but make a note in your diary now - clear the decks and don't miss it!
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
- Mon 25 May 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Cotswold Festival of Steam 2020
8th November 2019
Saturday, Sunday and Monday 23rd, 24th and 25th May 2020
At least EIGHT locomotives in steam!
Special guests planned for another amazing Late May Bank Holiday weekend
The small team behind the Cotswold Festival of Steam is planning yet another outstanding show with at least three visiting locomotives planned along with all of the 'home fleet'. An intensive timetable will allow plenty of opportunity to ride behind all of the locomotives and some trains will feature double-heading and interesting combinations of motive power. Once again, engines that have never visited the railway are being invited.
It's a bit too early to give any clues as to what the team hopes will be running but you may be sure of an exceptional show with the usual attractions, including the North Gloucestershire Narrow Gauge Railway which could feature up to three locos in steam; trade and preservation stands; traction engines; beer tent; 'behind the scenes' visits to the railway's large Carriage & Wagon workshops and much more. The team also hopes that the freight will once again feature in the timetables.
Online tickets will be offered early in the New Year but make a note in your diary now - clear the decks and don't miss it!
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
- Sat 30 May 2020 Vintage Trains (Steam Railtour) More...
- Minehead & The West Somerset Railway - Saturday 30th May
Hauled by our flagship steam locomotive 'Clun Castle', we pick up at Dorridge, Solihull and Birmingham Moor Street before heading south along the Birmingham & Gloucester Railway and on to Cheltenham and Bristol.
After a brief stop, we continue towards Taunton, turning onto the preserved West Somerset Railway (WSR). At Bishop's Lydeard, we swap Clun Castle for a WSR preserved steam loco before continuing on to Minehead, setting down at Blue Anchor on the way.
After nearly 3 hours in Minehead, our return journey retraces our steps.
Station pick ups: Dorridge, Solihull, Birmingham Moor Street and Snow Hill, Worcester Shrub Hill.
Passengers can join the train at Dorridge, Solihull, Tyseley (Mainline Station), Birmingham Moor Street & Snow hill stations and Worcester Shrub Hill.
Passengers can alight at Bishops Lydeard, Dunster, Blue Anchor and Minehead.
Steam hauled throughout by No: 7029 'Clun Castle'
Vintage Trains
- Sat 30 May 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Buxton Spa Express
Saturday 30th May 2020
Join us for a contrasting main line steam run from Ealing Broadway to the Peak District of Derbyshire and the spa town of Buxton.
We will travel via the Midland Main Line to Kettering, and through Melton Mowbray, to Chesterfield, before heading westwards through the scenic Hope Valley and Peak Forest routes to Buxton.
Leaving Ealing Broadway early in the morning, diesel hauled, we join the Midland main line and pick up at St.Albans, Luton, Bedford and Kettering. Heading northwards away from Kettering, we now head for Leicester. At Leicester Humberstone Road sidings, Tornado will be waiting to take us on our journey to Buxton.
We pass through Loughborough and join the Erewash Valley Line at Trent Junction. After Chesterfield with its crooked spire we take the Hope Valley line at Dore. We pass through the heart of the Peak District before leaving the main line at Chinley East Junction and take the Peak Forest line past the huge stone quarry at Tunstead. We now run through Ashwood Dale towards Buxton, our destination for the afternoon. Buxton is famous as a market town and also for its spa waters and Georgian architecture. An interesting town to explore during your stay Tornado is serviced for the return journey.
You will have ample time in Buxton, the highest market town in England, during the afternoon break for you to explore this attractive market town, famous for its spa waters in the Pump Room, The Crescent, and the Pavillion with its extensive gardens.
We will return from Buxton via the former London & North Western route through Whaley Bridge to Stockport. After Denton, we head for Guide Bridge and Romiley before rejoining the Hope Valley line again to travel through the Peak District. Running through Sheffield, we leave the main line at Nunnery Main Line Junction and pass through Woodhouse, were we join the Barrow Hill line at Beighton Junction. Our steam locomotive Tornado will be detached at Barrow Hill and we will now return to Ealing Broadway diesel hauled, setting down at our earlier calling points.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 31 May 2020 Oxford Bus Museum & Morris Museum (Buses) More...
- Bus Rally
10.30am - 4.30pm
Visiting buses and regular bus rides
The buses will depart from Oxford Bus Museum
- Fri 05 Jun 2020 Welsh Highland Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Rail Ale Festival
5 - 7 June
Our 'not to be missed' annual beer festival at Dinas has moved to the first weekend in June this year, but will continue the now traditional, vibrant mix of steam trains, live music, real ales, ciders and tasty food?
Welsh Highland Railway
- Sat 06 Jun 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Scarborough Flyer
Saturday 6th June 2020
This exciting trip by steam train offers an opportunity for passengers from the Greater Manchester and Sheffield areas to visit the seaside town of Scarborough.
The circular route cuts across the rugged Pennine terrain to York, and then on to the popular east coast seaside resort of Scarborough. Our train will be hauled by a locomotive from the Carnforth Pool.
Our train leaves Manchester Victoria, hauled by our lovingly restored steam locomotive, and heads for Romiley, where we stop to pick up more passengers. We join the former Midland Railway line across the Peak District and pass through Cowburn Tunnel into the beautiful Vale of Edale. We stop again at Hathersage, for more passengers, before passing through the 3?-mile long Totley Tunnel and arrive at Sheffield, our final stop for passengers. We then travel northwards through Swinton and Moorthorpe to York, where passengers will have the option of alighting here to visit the city or the National Railway Museum.
Leaving York, we follow the River Derwent through pleasant Yorkshire scenery to Scarborough via Malton. The station at Scarborough features the longest station seat in the world! Scarborough is a Victorian spa town and the largest holiday resort on the East Yorkshire coast. It provides all the facilities that you would expect at an established seaside resort. It has two beautiful bays providing safe sandy beaches, and a busy harbour with an active fish quay.
Our train leaves Scarborough late afternoon, hauled by our steam locomotive, for the return journey to Manchester. We travel westwards through Malton and Castle Howard to York. At Milford Loop we say farewell to our steam locomotive and continue our journey home diesel hauled. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey, to set down passengers.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 06 Jun 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Dartmouth Express
Saturday 6th June 2020
The Dartmouth Express offers an exceptional day out travelling by train from stations in Surrey and Berkshire to Kingswear in South Devon.
We travel along the famous 'sea wall' from Dawlish to Teignmouth and over the 'Heritage' Dartmouth Steam Railway. Train fares include a return ferry crossing to the picturesque town of Dartmouth. The special train will be hauled from Bristol to Kingswear and back by steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland.
Our train starts from Woking in Surrey and will be diesel hauled from there to Bristol. En route, we stop at Guildford, Reading and Newbury to pick up more passengers. The route follows the river Kennet through attractive countryside and then runs beside the Kennet and Avon Canal for some distance before we make our final stop for passengers at Westbury. We change motive power at Bristol where steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland will take over the train.
We shall soon be speeding along through the Somerset countryside and across the Somerset Levels to Taunton, where we make a brief stop for our steam locomotive to take on water. Our steam locomotive will be working hard as we climb to Whiteball Summit on the Somerset and Devon border before descending through the Culm Valley to Exeter.
We then follow the Exe Estuary, passing the picturesque Cockwood Harbour, and run along the famous sea wall from Dawlish to Teignmouth. This is one of the most famous and scenic stretches of railway line in Britain, which gained international prominence when part of it was washed away in the 2014 storms. After Newton Abbot, we leave the main line to Plymouth and take the Kingswear branch line to Torbay.
We pass through the famous holiday resort of Torquay and stop at Paignton where passengers, who wish to spend the time there, may alight. We then join the Dartmouth Steam Railway and our steam locomotive faces a stiff challenge as it climbs the steep gradient of 1 in 60 up to the summit of this line at Churston. The line then drops down to the river Dart and the terminus at Kingswear.
The Dartmouth Express fare includes a return journey on the ferry across the river Dart to the picture postcard town of Dartmouth. There will be ample time to explore this historic port town, set on the banks of the tidal river Dart. It has a castle, a railway station where no railway has ever run, now a restaurant, and winding narrow streets with good bistros and specialist shops.
We leave Kingswear, steam hauled, for the journey back to Bristol. From there the train will be diesel hauled to Woking. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey, to set down passengers.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 06 Jun 2020 Welsh Highland Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Rail Ale Festival
5 - 7 June
Our 'not to be missed' annual beer festival at Dinas has moved to the first weekend in June this year, but will continue the now traditional, vibrant mix of steam trains, live music, real ales, ciders and tasty food?
Welsh Highland Railway
- Sat 06 Jun 2020 Swindon & Cricklade Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Diesel Gala
6 June 2020 - 7 June 2020
- Sun 07 Jun 2020 Welsh Highland Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Rail Ale Festival
5 - 7 June
Our 'not to be missed' annual beer festival at Dinas has moved to the first weekend in June this year, but will continue the now traditional, vibrant mix of steam trains, live music, real ales, ciders and tasty food?
Welsh Highland Railway
- Sun 07 Jun 2020 Swindon & Cricklade Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Diesel Gala
6 June 2020 - 7 June 2020
- Fri 12 Jun 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 13 Jun 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 13 Jun 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Tynesider
Saturday 13th June 2020
This excursion provides a rare opportunity to travel by special train from the North Lincolnshire area to Tyneside.
The route is via the East Coast Main Line through York. Passengers have the option of spending time in Newcastle-upon-Tyne or staying on the train to travel over the Blyth & Tyne Railway line to Morpeth, a route no longer used by passenger services. Our train will be steam hauled from Cleethorpes to Newcastle and Morpeth and then back to York.
Our train leaves Cleethorpes at around 07:30 hauled by a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool. It stops at Grimsby, Barnetby and Scunthorpe, to pick up more passengers. At Stainforth Junction we take the direct Wakefield line avoiding Doncaster, normally used only by freight trains, to Applehurst Junction. Here our train branches off to the right to join the East Coast Main Line (ECML) at Joan Croft Junction. Soon we shall arrive in York where more passengers can join the train. There will be a half hour break for our steam locomotive to take on water.
We continue steam-hauled northwards from York across the Plain of York where we can expect some fast running, especially through Thirsk and Northallerton. We pass through Darlington and Durham, famous for its Norman Cathedral, en route to Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Here passengers may choose to alight and spend time visiting the city. It is famous for a series of dramatic bridges over the river Tyne and its quayside along the banks of the river. Other well known attractions include the Tyne & Wear Metro, Eldon Square Shopping Centre, Cathedral, Castle, Grainger Market, and the largest indoor shopping centre in Europe, the Metro Centre, located nearby in Gateshead.
Our train continues, steam hauled, travelling north from Newcastle Central to Benton Junction. Here we leave the ECML and take the Blyth and Tyne Railway route which was chiefly constructed to link collieries in the area to the river Tyne. This is now a 'freight only' railway line, which parallels the Tyne & Wear Metro route to Northumberland Park and then runs northwards through Newsham to Bedlington. At Bedlington North Junction we branch left and head for Morpeth where we stop for our steam locomotive to take on water. We return to Newcastle-upon-Tyne via the ECML.
We stop at Newcastle Central station, to pick up those passengers who chose to visit the city, before setting off across the river Tyne on the King Edward VII Bridge. We return south, steam hauled, up the ECML to York. Here a diesel locomotive takes over the train for the remainder of the journey back to Cleethorpes. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 13 Jun 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Cotswold Venturer
Saturday 13th June 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 steam locomotive No.60103 Flying Scotsman 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 14 Jun 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Fri 19 Jun 2020 Ffestiniog Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 20 Jun 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Yorkshireman
Saturday 20th June 2020
Join us for a main line steam run from London's Ealing Broadway station to York.
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 will be hauled between Ealing Broadway and York by 60103 Flying Scotsman, and diesel hauled on the return.
Our train leaves London Ealing Broadway at around 06:30 hauled by 60103 Flying Scotsman. At Dudding Hill Junction we take the Brent curve and join the Midland Main Line (MML) at 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.
Our last stop to pick up passengers is at Melton Mowbray. 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 17:25 and returns to London Ealing Broadway diesel hauled. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey, to set down passengers.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 20 Jun 2020 Ffestiniog Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sun 21 Jun 2020 Ffestiniog Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Fri 26 Jun 2020 Mid-Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 27 Jun 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Cheshireman
Saturday 27th June 2020
This tour offers a wonderful opportunity to travel by a special charter train to the historic city of Chester.
The train will be steam-hauled throughout from London Euston to Chester by an A1 Class Pacific No.60163 Tornado. We will follow the route of the famous express such as the Royal Scot along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) to Crewe and then onwards to Chester.
'The Cheshireman' will leave London Euston at around 07:00 steam hauled behind Tornado. Initially on departure we shall hear our locomotive working hard on the climb up Camden Bank. We stop to pick up more passengers at Watford Junction and then continue through Watford Tunnel into rural Hertfordshire. We stop to pick up further passengers at the 1960s 'new town' of Milton Keynes. At Hanslope Junction, we leave the West Coast Main Line (WCML) and take the Northampton loop line where we stop again for passengers.
We continue northwards and pass the Daventry Railfreight Terminal (DIRFT) before rejoining the WCML at Rugby, a further pick up stop, and the birthplace of rugby football and the jet engine. We then follow the Trent Valley Line to Nuneaton, our final stop to pick up passengers. We pass through Lichfield, notable for its three-spired medieval cathedral, and soon after Rugeley is Shugborough Tunnel. This has ornamental grand entrances, the result of conditions required by the Earl of Lichfield for building the line across his estate. We continue northwards through Stafford to the famous railway junction town of Crewe where we take the North Wales Coast Line to Chester.
There will be around four hours to explore the Roman city of Chester, one of the most visited places in the UK. Chester lies on the river Dee, close to the border with Wales, and is one of the best preserved walled cities in Britain. The city contains a number of medieval buildings and is famous for its 14th Century 'Rows', the first floor level galleried walkways connecting shops and caf?s. Other places of interest include the Castle, the Cathedral, and the picturesque racecourse, which is located between the city walls and the river Dee.
Our special train, hauled on the return journey by our steam locomotive Tornado, leaves Chester late afternoon for the return journey to London Euston. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers, and this tour promises to be one of excitement as Tornado is allowed to reach its maximum permitted speed along the WCML.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 27 Jun 2020 Mid-Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sun 28 Jun 2020 Mid-Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 04 Jul 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Buses) More...
- Sat 04 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Bournemouth Express
Saturday 4th July 2020
This not to be missed tour commences at London's Waterloo terminus from where we will be steam hauled throughout down to Bournemouth.
This not to be missed tour commences at London's Waterloo terminus from where we will be steam hauled throughout down to Bournemouth, following the route of the old Bournemouth Belle. Our locomotive will be Ex Southern Region 'Merchant Navy' Class Pacific locomotive No.35018 British India Line, for our journey to the popular seaside resort.
Our journey to Bournemouth commences from the former London & South Western Railway's terminus at London Waterloo. We thread our way through Clapham Junction and head along the L&SWR main line towards Weybridge and Woking. We will pause for water at Winchfield before heading through Basingstoke to Worting Junction, were we will take the main line to Southampton and Bournemouth.
The long straight sections of line will allow our locomotive to run at its maximum speed through Winchester and Eastleigh, recreating the days of the fast expresses to the south coast resorts. We pass through Southampton and run through the New Forest at Brokenhurst and reach the south coast at Christchurch.
Our arrival in Bournemouth will now provide passengers with an afternoon break in this popular Dorset seaside resort, made fashionable by the Victorians and the arrival of the railway in 1870. The town has a number of attractions to entertain visitors, including its extensive seafront with its Chimes, pier, parks and the pavillion, oceanarium, museums and galleries, plus many shops and restaurants to cater for all tastes.
Our steam locomotive will be serviced whilst we have free time in Bournemouth before we return to London Waterloo by way of our outward route. We can expect some fast running as we head towards the Capital with the Bournemouth Express, thus ending a memorable day out from a former era with our special train over classic Southern Railway routes.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 04 Jul 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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.
South Devon Railway
- Sat 04 Jul 2020 Mid-Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sun 05 Jul 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sun 05 Jul 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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.
South Devon Railway
- Sun 05 Jul 2020 Mid-Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sun 05 Jul 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Buses) More...
- 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.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
- Thu 09 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 11 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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 caf? 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 caf?s.
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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 12 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Fri 17 Jul 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 18 Jul 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 18 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 19 Jul 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sun 19 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Royal Duchy
Sunday 19th July 2020
Prices from: GBP119
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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 19 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The North Wales Coast Express
Sunday 19th July 2020
Prices from: GBP99
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.
Railway Touring Company
- Tue 21 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Thu 23 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Dorset Coast Express
Thursday 23rd July 2020
Prices from: GBP99
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.
Railway Touring Company
- Fri 24 Jul 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Sat 25 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Hadrian
Saturday 25th July 2020
Prices from: GBP144
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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 25 Jul 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 25 Jul 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Sun 26 Jul 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Sun 02 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Thu 06 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Fri 07 Aug 2020 Bluebell Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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!
Bluebell Railway
- Sat 08 Aug 2020 Bluebell Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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!
Bluebell Railway
- Sat 08 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Cumbrian Mountain Express
Saturday 8th August 2020
Prices from: GBP99
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 caf? 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 caf?s.
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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 09 Aug 2020 Bluebell Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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!
Bluebell Railway
- Sun 09 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 15 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 16 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Thu 20 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- The Dorset Coast Express
Thursday 20th August 2020
Prices from: GBP99
We are offering a number of attractive summer day trips from London to Weymouth by steam train.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 22 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 23 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Wed 26 Aug 2020 Talyllyn Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Fri 28 Aug 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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!
South Devon Railway
- Sat 29 Aug 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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!
South Devon Railway
- Sat 29 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sat 29 Aug 2020 Bala Lake Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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 GBP5 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
- Sun 30 Aug 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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!
South Devon Railway
- Sun 30 Aug 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 30 Aug 2020 Bala Lake Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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 GBP5 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
- Mon 31 Aug 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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!
South Devon Railway
- Mon 31 Aug 2020 Bala Lake Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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 GBP5 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
- Thu 03 Sep 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Fri 04 Sep 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sat 05 Sep 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sat 05 Sep 2020 Ribble Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Sat 05 Sep 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 06 Sep 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sun 06 Sep 2020 Ribble Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Thu 10 Sep 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Fri 11 Sep 2020 Welsh Highland Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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.
Welsh Highland Railway
- Sat 12 Sep 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Models & Miniatures
12th and 13th September 2020
Models & Miniatures is a celebration of all things model and miniature - including trains, road vehicles and ships.
It is a delight for all ages and a fantastic opportunity to see everything from fine scale engineering to much loved toys and models.
South Devon Railway
- Sat 12 Sep 2020 Welsh Highland Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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.
Welsh Highland Railway
- Sat 12 Sep 2020 Epping Ongar Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- 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 GBP5
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 GBP5. 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 GBP5 per return trip will be payable. Simply pay the guard on your trip of choice.
Epping Ongar Railway
- Sun 13 Sep 2020 South Devon Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Models & Miniatures
12th and 13th September 2020
Models & Miniatures is a celebration of all things model and miniature - including trains, road vehicles and ships.
It is a delight for all ages and a fantastic opportunity to see everything from fine scale engineering to much loved toys and models.
South Devon Railway
- Sun 13 Sep 2020 Welsh Highland Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- 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.
Welsh Highland Railway
- Sun 13 Sep 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 13 Sep 2020 Epping Ongar Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- 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 GBP5
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 GBP5. 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 GBP5 per return trip will be payable. Simply pay the guard on your trip of choice.
Epping Ongar Railway
- Sat 19 Sep 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Fri 25 Sep 2020 North Yorkshire Moors Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Fri 25 Sep 2020 Bluebell Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- 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.
Bluebell Railway
- Sat 26 Sep 2020 North Yorkshire Moors Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sat 26 Sep 2020 Bluebell Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- 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.
Bluebell Railway
- Sat 26 Sep 2020 Ribble Steam Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sat 26 Sep 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Sat 26 Sep 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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 caf? 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 caf?s.
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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 27 Sep 2020 North Yorkshire Moors Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sun 27 Sep 2020 Bluebell Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- 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.
Bluebell Railway
- Sun 27 Sep 2020 Ribble Steam Railway (Steam Gala) More...
- Sun 27 Sep 2020 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Diesel Gala) More...
- Sat 03 Oct 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 03 Oct 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 04 Oct 2020 North Norfolk Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sun 04 Oct 2020 Bluebell Railway (Buses) More...
- 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?
Bluebell Railway
- Fri 09 Oct 2020 Ffestiniog Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 10 Oct 2020 Ffestiniog Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 10 Oct 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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 caf? 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 caf?s.
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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 11 Oct 2020 Ffestiniog Railway (Heritage Line Event) More...
- Sat 17 Oct 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company
- Sun 25 Oct 2020 Railway Touring Company (Steam Railtour) More...
- 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.
Railway Touring Company