Escape to a new city by steam this Summer

Take a mini staycation with the Steam Dreams Rail Co and experience the joy of visiting a historic British city during the summer months. With news of flight cancellations and rising fuel costs, a day out by steam could be the perfect opportunity to enjoy a relaxed and stress-free break this summer.

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.