Express Steam

Named after a short-lived British Railways Western Region Express at the end of steam, we are reviving this express for an exciting mainline steam experience. The Mayflower will leave from Birmingham, diesel hauled, to our pick-up stations through to Bristol and then will run double headed unassisted over the Devon Banks to Plymouth.

This Autumn we return to Carlisle, a 2,000 year old city with plenty of history to discover. While the city is famous for Hadrian’s Wall, there is much more besides including the Cathedral, Castle and several museums and galleries, all for you to explore.

The Cathedrals Express heads to the North East and the Cathedral city of Newcastle upon Tyne, a city with a rich history dating back to the 2^nd century AD, with the station itself being formally opened by Queen Victoria 175 years ago.

In November 1965, Clun Castle hauled the Farewell to Steam special out of London Paddington, marking the end of Western Region steam under British Railways.

60 years on, and as our final special train to celebrate Railway 200, we will recreate this train, following the route the original special took as closely as possible all those years ago.

Do you believe? We at Vintage Trains certainly do and that is why we are proud to be hosting an exciting magical experience like no other. THE POLAR EXPRESS™

In addition to its famous Christmas market around Stonegate and the Shambles, the ever popular city of York has many attractions for the day visitor.