The Settle and Carlisle Railway is famed for its stunning scenery, and what better way to see this marvel of Victorian engineering than from a steam hauled train?

After joining points from Bristol Temple Meads, through Cheltenham and Birmingham to Stafford, we soon reach Carnforth in Lancashire to exchange our prosaic diesel locomotive for the ‘poetry in motion’ of steam locomotion, Battle of Britain Class No. 34067 ‘Tangmere’.

Underway again, we steam through the Lune Gorge and up to the 916ft Shap Summit, then head down towards the Border City of Carlisle (12:45-14:15) for a lunchtime break. There will be time to visit the Cathedral or Castle or take a wander around the shops and eateries in the city centre.

After the break, we begin our return journey, along the Eden Valley and over the scenic Settle and Carlisle Railway. From Appleby, we journey high along the roof of England. Our steam locomotive will be working extremely hard through Kirkby Stephen and along a ledge on the flanks of the Wild Boar Fell, with Mallerstang Edge towering across the now diminutive river Eden.

At Ais Gill we reach the summit with superb views from the lofty Arten Gill and Dent Head viaducts before a panoramic view of the Three Peaks as we cross the magnificent 24 arch Ribblehead Viaduct – hopefully with a sprinkling of snow too!

And still there is much delight to come, as our train heads down Ribblesdale to Settle then Hellifield, across to Clitheroe, over the 48 arch Whalley Viaduct, up the hard climb to Wilpshire, then down to the cotton town of Blackburn and soon to Preston, from where a diesel will take us homeward, after a reversal.

As we sample the delights of the Cumbrian Fells in Winter, we are offering head chef Graham Osbourne the opportunity to serve a Premier Dining menu with a difference. An inspired culinary excellence of six courses including canapes on departure from Carlisle will all be silver-served at seat by Paul Brookes, Julie Osborne and their team of fine stewards.

For those in First Class, this will be the first of many trains in our 2024 program to sample a new offering, with Bacon Rolls served on the outward, and a sweet treat on the return all served at your seat with a tea or coffee in each direction. The buffet will continue to serve a range of refreshments.

ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE:
– Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows
– A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone
– A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks 
– The Premier Dining service includes The Great British Breakfast, Elevenses and four course Evening Dinner
– Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards!