This majestic steam engine, built in the mid-20th century, stands as a testament to the artistry and engineering prowess of a bygone era and has earned her place in history not only for her speed but also for her iconic design and enduring legacy. Built in 1937, she is part of the A4 Pacific Class, a family of streamlined, high speed locomotives designed for operation on the East Coast Main Line.

_{^{Her long, sweeping lines and a streamlined front evoke a sense of grace, reminiscent of a bygone era when trains were more than just a means of transportation—they were symbols of progress and modernity.}}

With her sleek exterior and distinctive BR blue livery, Sir Nigel Gresley exudes a timeless elegance that captures the imagination of both railway enthusiasts and casual observers.

Beyond her aesthetic appeal, 60007 has an impressive track record, quite literally. In her prime, she set a post-war speed record for steam locomotives, reaching an astounding 112 miles per hour in 1959. This accomplishment solidified her place in the annals of railway history, demonstrating the power and ability of steam-driven technology.

_{^{The LNER A4 Class locomotives, exemplars of steam-era engineering, epitomized speed and elegance.}}

Introduced in the 1930s by the acclaimed Chief Mechanical Engineer, Sir Nigel Gresley CBE, of the London and North Eastern Railway. These marvels, such as the renowned 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley, 60022 Mallard, 60009 Union of South Africa, and 60019 Bittern to name a few, were specifically crafted for express passenger services. Their distinctive design not only helped to set various speed records, but also captivated hearts with its aesthetic allure.

_{^{Fast forward to the present day, and 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley is not merely a relic of the past; she’s a living testament to the dedication of preservationists and
railway enthusiasts.}}

Restored and maintained with meticulous care by the Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Trust, she embarks on special excursions and charters, allowing a new generation to experience the magic of steam travel.

Every puff of steam, every rhythmic chug of her wheels, tells a story of a bygone era. It’s a journey back in time, a symphony of steam, coal, and iron that resonates with the romance of rail travel.

As 60007 continues to roll down the tracks, she carries with her not just passengers but the collective memories of an era when the world was bound together by the steel threads of railways, like the Second World War, when she was called to perform her duty, as were all locomotives of the age.

_{^{MT PRODUCTIONS | STEVE LEE – NYMR}}

^{_{World War II had a profound impact on rail transport, prompting significant changes.}}

Streamlined rail services ceased on August 31, 1939, as railways faced unprecedented demands for evacuation, freight, and troop transport amid wartime conditions^_. The iconic Kings Cross A4 locomotives, initially stored in 1939, were brought back into service due to escalating pressure on the rail network during the war.

Chief Mechanical Engineer Edward Thompson, succeeding Sir Nigel Gresley CBE , played a crucial role in 1942 by overseeing modifications to repurpose the A4s for heavier wartime loads. Thompson modified the valve gear to address starting issues under increased loads and removed the fairings from the A4s for easier maintenance access. These skirts were not replaced after the war, except for Mallard, who was restored to her original condition.

^{VARIOUS RAILWAY WARTIME POSTER – NRM} ,

_{^{During the war, most locomotives including the A4’s were repainted in ‘wartime black’. This was to be both less visible to enemy aircraft and for practical reasons. Dark paint proved cost-effective, required less maintenance, and represented a more efficient use of wartime resources.}}

During World War II, drivers and firemen confronted a myriad of dangers in their daily duties. Operating trains amidst air raids posed constant peril, with railway lines often targeted for strategic bombing. They often had to make split-second decisions, such as whether to continue their journey or seek shelter during an air raid. In many cases, they bravely pressed on, navigating through bombed-out landscapes and damaged infrastructure to their destinations. Compounding these dangers was the worsening quality of coal, a vital fuel for locomotives. As resources became scarce, the coal used varied in quality and consistency, increasing the risk of inefficient combustion and boiler explosions. Despite these adversities, drivers and firemen remained unsung heroes of the war, their courage and dedication ensuring that vital transportation links remained operational, playing a crucial role in sustaining the nation during one of its darkest periods.

_{^{(TOP L-R) PART OF A PHOTOGRAPH ISSUED TO LUFTWAFFE BOMBER CREWS CARRYING OUT DAYLIGHT RAIDS ON GRANTHAM. TARGETS IDENTIFIED IN THE KEY INCLUDE (A) RAILWAY ON THE WEST EDGE OF TOWN (B) INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT (B1) WEAPONS FACTORY – COLOPTICS.COM | A HEINKEL HE 111 BOMBER FLIES OVER THE THAMES RIVER AND THE EAST END DOCKLANDS AREA | BOMB DAMAGE TO SPITTLEGATE BRIDGE IN GRANTHAM – WALTER LEE, GRANTHAM LIBRARY COLLECTION © LINCOLNSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL}}

60007 glided through the war unscathed but severe bomb damage in 1942 led to the scrapping of her sister locomotive, 4469 Sir Ralph Wedgwood after a German bombing raid in York on 29th September 1942. You can see Sir Nigel Gresley running in ‘wartime black’ in 2022, in the video below from You Tube Channel and enthusiast @themodster.

On the 3rd of June 1956, three years after the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, 60007 was honoured with the responsibility of operating the Royal Train from King’s Cross to York overnight, with Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh on board. The train was enroute to Teesport, where they sailed to Sweden aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, on the 4th of June, for the young Queen’s inaugural State Visit as Monarch.

_{^{Standing proudly on the footplate that day, was Bill Hoole, who would later become renowned for setting 60007’s post-war speed record in 1959.}}

Unfortunately we cannot find any pictures of 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley on this auspicious occasion. However, this was not the last time an A4 Pacific would proudly lead the Royal Train.

On the 8th of June 1961 a fleet of A4’s smartly glided across the rails, transporting the Queen, Prince Philip and other notable guests to the wedding of Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent to Katherine Worsley. The wedding was held in York Minster, the first time a Royal wedding had been held there since the marriage of Edward III in 1328.

Three A4’s ran from London Kings Cross to York that day: the Royal Train itself, hauled by 60028 ‘Walter K Whigham,’ and two other trains, pulled by 60003 ‘Andrew K McCosh’ and 60015 ‘Quicksilver,’ carried notable guests, including Prime Minister Harold MacMillan and his party. A fourth A4, 60014 ‘Silver Link,’ stood by at Kings Cross in case it was required.

_{^{In 1958, the ascent of express diesels marked the end of A4s as the primary motive power on the
East Coast Mainline.}}

An idea surfaced for a farewell high-speed journey to commemorate the Stephenson Locomotive Society’s Golden Jubilee. 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley and driver Bill Hoole were selected, initiating planning with a general overhaul of 60007 in Doncaster in November 1958.

On May 23, 1959, an 8-coach train embarked from Doncaster to King’s Cross on this historic journey. On the locomotive’s footplate that day, driver Bill Hoole was accompanied by his fireman Alf Hancox, Chief Inspector Bert Dixon, Alan Pegler, and Cyril Palmer, the Motive Power Officer of the G.N. Line.

Departing Doncaster, the train swiftly reached 70mph within four miles and touched 80 after the 40mph restriction over Bawtry Viaduct, momentarily slowing at Retford. Speed again hit 80 at Dukeries Junction before easing. Near Newark, a track issue necessitated a reduction to 28mph at the base of the Stoke climb, impeding a higher speed through Grantham than the reported 75-80mph. Despite this, Stoke summit was passed at 75mph. On the footplate, Bill Hoole asked officials…

_{^{“Are we going to do it? You’ve got two minutes to make up your minds.”}}

Speeds surged to 99 before Corby Glen and peaked at 109 near Little Bytham, with Alf Hancox maintaining boiler pressure. Bill Hoole aimed to press on, but at 112mph, Alan Pegler signalled to ease off for safety.

A new post-war speed record was set, covering the 12.3 miles from Corby Glen to Tallington in just seven minutes and six seconds. Similar to Mallard’s record, this achievement occurred while descending southward from Stoke Bank. Notably, unlike Mallard’s run which was a special attempt, 60007’s accomplishment took place with a full train of passengers. The remainder of the journey proceeded smoothly, with the train arriving at King’s Cross four minutes ahead of schedule, covering the distance from Doncaster in 137 minutes and 38 seconds. This resulted in an actual average speed of 68mph over 156 miles.

In one crucial aspect, Sir Nigel Gresley surpassed Mallard and Silver Fox, the latter reaching 113mph on the Silver Jubilee on August 27, 1936. 60007 completed the trip in perfect condition and was ready for work the following day^_,while the others experienced issues with hot middle ends. Within the next week, Bill had Sir Nigel Gresley surpass the 100mph mark again with Jack Boston on the footplate. The remarkable success of the Golden Jubilee Special stood as a tribute, providing a fitting grand finale for steam power on the East Coast Mainline.

The lingering question from that day is whether 60007 could have surpassed or equalled Mallard’s 126mph record. Bill Hoole, believed it was possible to beat that record with Sir Nigel Gresley, especially with a faster run through Grantham than the usual 70mph allowed. Hoole had previously achieved approximately 117mph down the bank with the standard 70mph restriction through Grantham, and with the 80mph permitted for the attempt, he speculated a potential speed of 127mph.

_{^{The Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Trust, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of this renowned steam engine.}}

Through meticulous restoration efforts and a commitment to operational excellence, the Trust ensures the continued existence and appreciation of this iconic steam locomotive. The Trust undertook an overhaul, between 2015 and 2022 marking a significant chapter in 60007’s storied history. Undertaken with meticulous attention to detail, the restoration efforts focussed on ensuring operational excellence and preserving her iconic status.

Various components were carefully examined, refurbished, or replaced, contributing to the locomotive’s continued reliability and authenticity. The overhaul, a collaborative effort involving skilled engineers and enthusiasts, not only breathed new life into this historic steam engine but also allowed her to continue captivating railway enthusiasts with her timeless charm on the tracks.

^{_{60007 MAJESTICALLY HAULED OUR HOLIDAY TO THE EDINBURGH CHRISTMAS MARKET IN NOVEMBER 2023 | MILEPOST 90¼}}

In a world dominated by modern trains, 60007 stands tall, a reminder of the golden age of steam and design.

She’s more than a locomotive, she’s a piece of living history, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of those who built her. As long as the tracks stretch out before her, 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley will remain a symbol of the romance and grandeur of steam locomotion, echoing through time and captivating the hearts of all who witness her majestic journey.

We’re very proud to count this beautiful and iconic locomotive among the steam engines that sweep some of our magical journeys across the rails. Find out more about 60007 on our website and discover the other steam locomotives that proudly haul our journeys. If you have your heart set on travelling behind this famed beauty, you can discover the journeys she will be leading for us in 2024, here:

Should you ever be at King’s Cross station look out for this statue of Sir Nigel Gresley To mark the 75th anniversary of his death, by sculptor Hazel Reeves, unveiled at King’s Cross station in London on 5^th April 2016. The statue depicts Sir Nigel looking out across King’s Cross station, London terminus of the LNER and clutching a copy of The Locomotive magazine.

Step into a world of vintage excellence, where every journey is a testament to timeless elegance.

Including a mouth-watering selection of freshly crafted sandwiches, miniature sweet treats, pastries, and scones with clotted cream and seasonal jam, served with freshly brewed coffee and tea, the Afternoon Tea is an indulgent addition to the day. Add a sophisticated touch with a glass of Champagne.

These delightful additions are available on the day trips and Garden of England Tours. To make your booking, simply decide on your preferred journey, use the book button, select First Class and choose your preferred Afternoon Tea as an optional extra.

First Class passengers with an existing booking can call the Reservations Team on 01483 209888 to add the Afternoon Tea Experience.

Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free alternatives for the Afternoon Teas will be available, if requested at the time of booking and at least 14 days prior to travel.

Join us on a trip of a lifetime combining steam travel in atmospheric vintage carriages with beautiful countryside, fascinating destinations, lovely hotels, great food and wine – and above all – the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed and stress-free holiday.

As with all our holidays, this tour is designed to remove the pressure of planning an itinerary or worrying about driving. We’ve got it all covered – we’ve chosen the best routes and locations, we’ve researched the best hotels and must-see excursions, and we’ll organise your luggage and transfers so you can relax and savour every moment.

The Welsh Dragon holiday will traverse all the most beautiful lines of Wales. You will have four nights and five days to discover the natural beauty of Snowdonia and Wales along with the chance to explore the internationally famous Italianate village of Portmeirion, visit beautiful houses and gardens or indulge your passion for steam with visits to the many great little railways of North Wales.

Fill in the form at the bottom of this page to receive an email quote for your holiday.

Sunday 15^th – Thursday 19^th September 2024

Highlights

• Journey over Barmouth Bridge and The Cambrian Coast
• The North Wales Coast
• The Heart of Wales Line

Day 1 – Sunday 15th September – London to Snowdonia via Shrewsbury and the Cambrian Coast

Our holiday will start from London Paddington, steam hauled across the country to Shrewsbury. We pause here to say farewell to our steam locomotive, rostered to be 46100 Royal Scot, before resuming our journey diesel-hauled along one of the most beautiful journeys in Britain – the stunning Cambrian Coast Line. We travel up through the mountains of mid-Wales before we descend to the West side of the country to Machynlleth, shortly before we reach the coastline of the Irish Sea. For the rest of our journey we are never more than a short distance from the sea as we climb up and down cliffs – a dramatic backdrop for those enjoying their evening meal. We then cross the world famous two-mile-long Barmouth Bridge past the ancient capital of Wales, Harlech, and turn west towards the LLeyn peninsular before arriving at Porthmadog and Pwlhelli as the sun sets. From here, passengers will be transferred to hotels in Snowdonia, where they will stay for three nights.

Pullman Dining guests will have the opportunity to stay in the enchanting Italianate style Portmeirion Village. First Class passengers will stay at the stunning Chateau Rhianfa and Premium Standard guests will stay at the Grade I listed Bulkeley Hotel at Beaumaris.

Day 2 – In Snowdonia

Passengers have two days to marvel at Snowdonia’s towering peaks and breath-taking valleys, discover the rich heritage of the region or embark on a journey along some of the most famous little railways in the world.

On our first full day in North Wales, guests can choose between soaking up the scenery on the railway journey of a lifetime to the summit of Snowdon, or uncovering the chequered history of Penrhyn Castle & Gardens.

The majestic journey to the rooftop of Wales aboard new period style carriages will pass spectacular waterfalls on its way to the mountain peak. At 1085m, it dominates the landscape of Snowdonia National Park and, on a clear day, offers views as far as Ireland. Guests can also choose to visit the nearby Llanberis Lake Railway.

Penrhyn is a fantasy castle with luxurious interiors, a walled garden, Railway Museum and acres of parkland. It’s crammed with fascinating items, such as a one-ton slate bed made for Queen Victoria, elaborate carvings, plasterwork and mock-Norman furniture as well as an outstanding collection of paintings.

Day 3 – In Snowdonia

The second day in North Wales offers a new pair of equally exciting options for guests, who may choose from a journey on the superlative Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog Railways, or a visit to the imposing Caernarfon Castle followed by a guided tour of Portmeirion Village.

The UK’s longest heritage railway, the Welsh Highland Railway carves through the stunning Aberglaslyn Pass and past picture-postcard villages. Passengers will also have a chance to visit the Ffestiniog Railway, the world’s oldest narrow-gauge railway where 150-year old locomotives are still in use. Caernarfon Castle is recognised as one of the greatest buildings of the middle ages, with it’s commanding prescence and strategic location. guests will have time to explore the mostly intact structure and the town before travelling to the stunning Italianate village of Portmeirion. Inspired by the fishing village of Portofino on the Italian coast, the village is made up of around 50 buildings and is surrounded by almost 70 acres of sub-tropical woodland.

Day 4 – Wednesday 18th September – North Wales to Cardiff

After breakfast in your hotels, you will be transferred to Bangor or Llandudno Junction to meet our train. We then set off, steam hauled, likely to be the iconic 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley, along the stunning North Wales Coast Line, offering views to Snowdonia to the South and sandy beaches to the North. We cross back into England at Chester and south to Crewe. At Crewe we have a short stop to wave farewell to our steam locomotive and welcome the diesel locomotive which will join us for the next stretch of the journey.

Resuming our journey, we head south back through Shrewsbury and join the spectacular Heart of Wales Line, rarely used for passenger charters. Curving through dramatic scenery of mountains, forests, wild rivers, green meadows and pretty towns and villages, the railway crosses two impressive viaducts at Knucklas and Cynghordy. We’ll reach passenger stops in South Wales in the evening before terminating at Cardiff Central.

Pullman Dining guests will stay at the New House Country Hotel. First Class passengers will stay at Parkgate Hotel or similar and Premium Standard passengers will stay at a centrally-located Premier Inn or similar.

Day 5 – Thursday 19th September – Cardiff to London

After a relaxing morning in our hotels in South Wales, we set off steam hauled, rostered to be with 34046 Braunton, on our final adventure. The return journey is a truly a feast for the eyes as we steam westwards along the Severn Shores Line, with breath-taking views of the estuary. Winding our way past Chepstow Castle, beguilingly stretched along a limestone cliff, we’ll pass into the magical Cotswolds. From here, we continue along the Thames Valley back to the capital, returning just after rush hour.

For more information, or to book, please call the Reservations Office on 01483 209888.  Alternatively, fill in the form below to register your interest in the trip, and a member of the booking team will reply with your holiday quote.

Ready to book? You can book online using the link below.

Choose a Class of Travel

With three options to choose from, you can find a package which best suits you. Transfers, a tour manager and luggage porterage is included with all holiday packages, you can relax and savour every moment.

Premium Standard

from £995

Allocated seating around tables for four in our beautifully restored 1950s Buffet Car.

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Complimentary tea and coffee

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4 nights’ accommodation in three star hotels or similar

Find out more

First Class

from £1,450

Comfortable and spacious seating among well-appointed interiors, and attentive service creates a sophisticated ambiance.

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Complimentary tea, coffee and light snacks on board

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Welcome glass of Bucks Fizz each travel day

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A light evening meal in the hotel on the first night and an evening meal in the hotel on day three.

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4 nights’ accommodation in four star hotels or similar

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Evening access to the luxurious Mt Helicon Bar Car with lounge style seating, to mingle with travel companions and indulge in an evening drink

Find out more

Pullman Dining

from £2,750

A sumptuous culinary experience aboard lovingly restored vintage carriages, adorned with polished brass and fine woodwork.

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Champagne and wine alongside a multi-course ‘carte de jour’ on days 1, 4 and 5, accompanied by a cheese course and petit fours (when time allows)

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An evening meal in the hotel on days 2 and 3

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4 nights’ accommodation in exclusive four or five star accommodation

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Anytime access to the luxurious Mt Helicon Bar Car with lounge style seating, to mingle with travel companions and indulge in a drink whilst soaking up the views

Find out more

Payment terms: 50% deposit payable upon booking; Final balance due 1^st June 2024

Ready to book? You can book online using the link below.

Steam Dreams have been committed to providing memorable rail trips and holidays by steam train for over 20 years, perfectly combining the nostalgia of steam travel in atmospheric vintage carriages with beautiful countryside, fascinating destinations and great food and wine.

Head of Passenger Experience, Aimee Stevenson, commented: “We were delighted to be awarded a TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award in early 2022, following a challenging couple of years for the travel industry and customers alike, and we would love to be given another reason to celebrate.” She added: “These nominations are a testament to our fantastic team and our loyal customers and we’d like to thank all of them for their loyalty and support.  Now more than ever we would appreciate your support and votes to help us continue our success at the British Travel Awards and Silver Travel Awards”.

The BTAs are all about giving the consumer the opportunity to reward travel and tourism enterprises for outstanding performance in service delivery and product offering.  Voting closes on October 2nd and winners will be announced at the BTA Gala Awards Dinner on November 29th. Vote for us at the British Travel Awards here: https://britishtravelawards.com/vote_form.php

The Silver Travel Awards recognise and reward those travel companies who go the extra mile for mature travellers. Voting closes on September 11^th. Vote for us at the Silver Travel Awards here: https://silvertraveladvisor.com/silver-travel-awards-2022/

Usher in the festive season on board beautifully decorated carriages where you will be treated to a mince pie in addition to the enhanced service described below.

Whether you indulge in a Pullman Dining experience, choose the comfort of First Class or favour the simplicity of Premium Standard, we can guarantee a wonderful nostalgic experience with unforgettable added touches and an elevated level of service from our liveried staff.

Pullman Dining

Luxurious interiors await you in Pullman Dining. The tables are adorned with the finest glassware and crockery, complemented by fresh flowers and a brand new seasonal menu.

Passengers will be welcomed on board with a glass of bubbly before being served a traditional breakfast with all the trimmings. On the return journey, soak up the atmosphere from a bygone era as canapes are served before the sumptuous evening meal with a half bottle of wine per person.

First Class

You don’t need to dine on board to travel in style. In First Class you will be seated in elegant 1950s carriages with comfortable seating around tables for four and tables for two.

Our staff will welcome you on board the with a glass of Bucks Fizz as you sink into your comfortable seats.

Our culinary team are devising a delicious combination of sweet and savoury treats for both the outward and return journeys which will be confirmed before you book.

Premium Standard

Premium Standard tickets give you everything you need and more from a steam day out experience; complimentary tea and coffee, comfortable refurbished seating and a souvenir booklet about your day.

If you can draw your eyes away from the changing view, you can pay a visit to our new Buffet Car to purchase from a delectable selection of festive snacks or something from our drinks menu.

Our Christmas trips will be announced soon. To be among the first to be notified, click here to register your interest.

Whether you’re looking for a premium dining experience as a special treat, or simply to enjoy the views, our sunset tours never fail to create unforgettable memories.

Pullman Style dining carriages offer a tantalising glimpse into how travel was done in the early twentieth century, with armchair-style seating and table lamps. From your comfortable seat, you will be able to take in the beautiful Surrey Hills and as we leave the hustle and bustle of London behind, you can indulge in your favourite cocktail from our drinks menu. If formal dining isn’t for you, you’re more than welcome to bring your own picnic or take advantage of the on board bar menu.

The Surrey Hills, or more specifically the North Downs, is one of Britain’s best-kept secrets. The train will make a steep climb, before descending through the Vale of Holmesdale at the foot of the North Downs. You’ll have the chance to embrace an amazing variety of countryside, from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands. We then pass through the market towns of Dorking and Reigate before heading back to the capital.

It was great fun, we felt like embarking on a Poirot train journey. The service was fabulous and it was just perfect having our drinks ready for us for as soon as we sat down. There was an amazing buzz and atmosphere with champagne corks being popped with the lovely sound of the steam engine Mayflower!

Andrea, travelled August 2021

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for updates or book your tickets here.

Choose from a visit to England’s ancient capital, Winchester on Thursday 14 July or the walled Cathedral City of Canterbury on Thursday 11 August. On both the trips, you will have at least six hours to spend in the city of your choice to wander the ancient streets or relax by the pretty riverside.

You’ll also have plenty of time aboard the train to watch the scenery pass by whilst  being generously looked after by our friendly on board team. Pullman Style Dining and Premier Dining passengers will enjoy a sumptuous breakfast on the outward journey, served soon after our steam locomotive chugs out of London Victoria. On the return journey, dining passengers can look forward to an evening meal, along with a selection of delicious wines, spirits, and beers.

If you would prefer something a little more casual, our Premium Standard Class of travel is probably for you! Be sure to take full advantage of the complimentary tea and coffee and also dive into the snack menu.

Winchester is a unique heritage city, with a magnificent Cathedral and beautiful surrounding countryside. It is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys exquisite architecture, from the handsome Elizabethan and Regency buildings in the narrow streets to the wondrous Cathedral at its core. Its river valley location means there are charming waterside trails.

For those looking for a little retail therapy, Winchester boasts independent and big-name stores, chic boutiques and designer treasure troves alongside exclusive cafes, established restaurants and vibrant galleries.

For history buffs, there are plenty of historic options including the Grade II listed Winchester City Mill and Wolvesey Castle, also known as the “Old Bishop’s Palace”, which are both free to visit and come highly recommended.

To book your day trip to Winchester, click here

Canterbury is considered by many to be the ‘number one’ for English Cathedral Cities and is one of southern England’s top attractions. The World Heritage–listed cathedral, England’s oldest, dominates its centre and the town’s narrow medieval alleyways, riverside gardens and ancient city walls are a joy to explore. But Canterbury is so much more than a historic artefact – it’s a bustling, city with a wide choice of restaurants and independent shops.

The Cathedral gained notoriety in 1170 as the place where Archbishop Thomas Beckett was murdered.  In the proceeding centuries, people visited his shrine and this was immortalised during the 14th Century when The Canterbury Tales noted the visits of people to Beckett’s shrine in the Cathedral. Venture just outside the city walls to visit the tranquil ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey, which dates back to the Sixth Century.

If the weather is fine, you can while away the afternoon at the lush and quintessentially English Westgate Gardens, one of England’s oldest parks on the banks of the meandering River Stour. Alternatively, a river punt trip along the River Stour is the perfect way to view some of the city’s sights from a different perspective.

To book your day trip to Canterbury, click here

From the religious amongst you to the history enthusiast’s, from the shopping lovers to coffee addicts, England’s Cathedral Cities have plenty to offer the visitor.  The Steam Dreams Rail Co can’t wait to welcome you, your friends and family on board for a memorable day out.

See our full summer programme here.

Mayflower will continue to haul some of our trips but passengers can also expect to see a range of additional steam locomotives including Sir Nigel Gresley, Royal Scot, Britannia, Sherwood Forester and Braunton to name a few.

We are very committed to ensuring our current advertised programme runs as planned but will be in touch prior to your trip detailing any variations to the rostered locomotive and seating arrangements, should that be necessary.

All credit notes and gift vouchers will still be valid. You will still see the same friendly faces on board when you travel and will receive all the usual personal touches that make The Steam Dreams Rail Co. so special.

Our office team will be handling queries as usual by telephone and email, and taking bookings online via our website at www.steamdreams.co.uk.

We look forward to seeing you back on board in the very near future as we enter this new exciting chapter.