Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about travelling with Vintage Trains. If you cannot find what you are looking for here, contact the team directly at bookings@vintagetrains.co.uk or call 0121 708 4960 (10am to 2pm, Monday to Friday).
Booking Tickets
How do I book a ticket?
Tickets for all Vintage Trains journeys can be booked online through the Vintage Trains website. For group bookings and private charter enquiries, contact the team directly at bookings@vintagetrains.co.uk or call 0121 708 4960 (10am to 2pm, Monday to Friday).
Can I transfer or cancel my booking?
Yes. Transfers and cancellations are subject to our standard booking terms and conditions. Please note that cancellations or transfers made within 31 days of travel may be subject to charges. Full details are in our booking terms and conditions.
Can I book a guaranteed table for two?
Guaranteed tables for two are available at a supplement on selected services in Pullman Dining and First Class, subject to availability. Passengers who book a table for two may on occasion be seated at a table of four, but will always be seated as a pair with no other passengers at their table.
Is there a booking fee?
Yes. A 6% booking fee is applied at checkout on all tickets.
On the day
What time should I arrive at the station?
Please allow plenty of time to reach the platform before your booked departure time. Our train will not wait beyond the scheduled departure time under any circumstances.
Is parking available?
Free car parking should be available at Tyseley Locomotive Works for trains starting from Tyseley mainline station. For other departure stations, parking may usually be obtained at the respective Network Rail station, but this may be subject to local arrangements, restrictions, and additional charges. Please ensure you allow enough time to park your car, as our train will not wait beyond the booked departure time under any circumstances.
When will I receive confirmed timings for my journey?
Timings for the Shakespeare Express are published on the Vintage Trains website. Occasionally these may vary slightly due to engineering works, in which case passengers will be notified a day or so before travel. For all other journeys, timings are approximate until confirmed by Network Rail. We aim to advise all passengers of confirmed times by email within two days of travel.
ON BOARD
Is there food and drink available on board?
All Vintage Trains journeys include buffet car access for Standard passengers, with hot drinks, soft drinks, light refreshments, and alcoholic drinks available for purchase. On selected journeys, bacon rolls and afternoon tea in a box can be pre-ordered. Pullman Dining and First Class tickets include meals served at your seat. Full details of what is available on each journey are listed on the individual journey pages.
Can I bring a pet on board?
Pets are not permitted on Vintage Trains services. Assistance dogs are welcome, but must be noted in the comments section at the time of booking.
Is there a buffet car on every train?
Yes. All Vintage Trains journeys include a buffet car for Standard passengers.
Accessibility
Are your trains accessible for wheelchair users and passengers with restricted mobility?
All our trains carry limited wheelchair facilities but do not have disabled toilet facilities. Passengers travelling in a wheelchair or with restricted mobility are asked to contact the booking office before purchasing tickets, so the team can ensure ease of accessibility and that sufficient seating space is arranged prior to arrival. Please be aware that some Network Rail stations on our routes are unsuitable for passengers with restricted mobility. Tyseley mainline station in particular has no lifts to the platforms, only steep stairs.
Are mobility scooters permitted on board?
Generally speaking, mobility scooters are not permitted on our trains due to limited storage space. Please contact the team before booking if you have any questions about this.
The Trains
What locomotives haul Vintage Trains services?
Vintage Trains operates a fleet of restored steam and diesel locomotives, all maintained at Tyseley Locomotive Works in Birmingham. Details of each locomotive in the fleet are on the About Our Locomotives page.
Where does Vintage Trains operate from?
Vintage Trains is based at Tyseley Locomotive Works, 670 Warwick Road, Tyseley, Birmingham, B11 2HL. Passenger departures take place from a range of stations depending on the journey. Full departure details are listed on each individual journey page.
Is Vintage Trains a charity?
Yes. Vintage Trains is a registered charity (no. 1040904). Revenue from journeys supports the preservation and operation of the locomotive fleet.
Private and Group Bookings
Can I hire a private train for an event or group?
Yes. Vintage Trains offers fully private charters for corporate events, away days, client entertainment, celebrations, and group travel. Full details are on the Private and Group Bookings page.
How far in advance do I need to book a private charter?
A minimum of three months’ notice is required for a fully bespoke private charter. For group reservations on scheduled excursions, contact the team as early as possible as availability is limited.
Still have a question?
If your question is not answered here, get in touch with the team directly.
Featured Rides
