SATURDAY 5 APRIL 2025

Our special excursion commences at Gloucester, with pick-ups northbound through the midlands to Derby. We continue travelling across country, running through landscapes adorned with rolling fields then changing to an industrial landscape before joining the East Coast mainline to arrive at York, offering passengers the chance to explore this historic town at leisure (Option A). 

Continuing north, we speed to Darlington before branching off to pause at North Road station, offering passengers time in Darlington, with perhaps a visit to the newly opened Hopetown Locomotive Works (Option B).

From here we amble along the Wear Valley Line, calling at Shildon – the world’s first railway town – where Locomotion (Option D) is a short walk from the station. You can, alternatively, take the fantastic opportunity to explore the Auckland Project (Option C) with its Palace and Gardens amongst other great venues.

We continue our run along this section of historic route to Bishop Auckland where we join the 18-mile long Weardale Railway (Option E), hugging the River Wear through the north Pennine landscape.

Our special train will be diesel hauled throughout by a pair of class 47 locomotives, workhorses of the British Railway scene for over 60 years, and a fitting tribute to celebrate a momentous occasion in railway history!

OFF TRAIN OPTIONS:

Option A: YORK (1115 to 1815 Estimated)

Alight at York for time to explore its Minster, the city walls, Clifford’s Tower or maybe just take in the local shops, eateries and river cruises. 

Option B: DARLINGTON (1215 to 1715 Estimated)

Explore Darlington at your leisure or perhaps visit the newly opened Hopetown Locomotive Works (free entry via pre-booked ticket online).

Option C: AUCKLAND PROJECT (1230 to 1700 Estimated)

Alight at Shildon and join our complimentary road coach for transfer to this venue, with several options to choose from (entry fees not included).

Option D: LOCOMOTION (1230 to 1700 Estimated)

Alight at Shildon and take the short walk to this venue where you can visit the museum. (Free entry).

Plenty of historic locomotives, rolling stock and artifacts to see. 

Option E: WEARDALE RAILWAY (1345 to 1545 Estimated)

Alight at Stanhope, with time to explore this pretty station, as well as the attractive cobbled marketplace and historic Church of St. Thomas.

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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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