SATURDAY 1 MARCH 2025

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?

Beginning our day, diesel hauled at Newport, with pick-ups through Cheltenham and Birmingham to Stafford, we soon head north where, upon arrival at Carnforth, Lancashire, we swap our diesel locomotive for the ‘poetry in motion’ of steam haulage, from the West Coast Railways pool.

We steam through the Lune Gorge and up to the 916ft Shap Summit. Our train then heads down towards the border city of Carlisle for a lunchtime break (estimated 1240 – 1420*). Here, you can perhaps visit the Cathedral or Castle, or take a wander around the shops and eateries in the city centre. After the break, with everyone back on board, we begin our return journey along the Eden Valley and over the scenic Settle and Carlisle Railway. *Subject to final timings

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 of the lofty Arten Gill and Dent Head viaducts, before a panoramic sight of the Three Peaks as we cross the magnificent 24 arch Ribblehead Viaduct – hopefully with a sprinkling of snow too!

There is much delight to come, as our train heads down Ribblesdale to Settle and Hellifield, across to Clitheroe, over the 48 arch Whalley Viaduct, up the hard climb to Wilpshire, then down through the cotton town of Blackburn and soon after, Preston. Here we revert back to our diesel locomotive, and after a reversal, it will take us homeward.

As we sample the delights of the winter Cumbrian Fells, we are offering head chef Graham Osborne, the opportunity to serve a menu with a difference!

An inspired culinary excellence of six courses (including canapes on departure from Carlisle), will be silver served at your seat by Julie Osborne and her team of fine stewards.

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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!

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