This tour offers passengers joining in Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds and Severnside an enjoyable day out, travelling in our festively decorated carriages, to one of Britain’s most historic cities. An expected 70 or so quality seasonal market stalls will be set out close to Chester Cathedral.

Commencing at Oxford Parkway, we speed along the Great Western Mainline to Swindon and through the Golden Valley of Stroud, where bare winter trees should give open views beyond Gloucester as we head along the north Severn Estuary. On the outskirts of Newport we head north along the Welsh Marches through Abergavenny to Hereford. On past Leominster and Ludlow to Church Stretton before crossing the more infant River Severn again at Shrewsbury.

Option A – Shrewsbury (1200 – 1735 estimated timing)

Here you may wish to alight to enjoy approximately 5 and a half hours in the Medieval market town where you can marvel at Shrewsbury Castle or shop, eat and browse at Market Hall.

Shrewsbury Castle. Photo by Virtual Shropshire

 The final leg of the outward journey takes us by way of Gobowen and Chirk to the Dee Viaduct. Then to Wrexham before dropping downhill to our days destination – Chester. We are expecting an estimated break here of around four hours, plenty of time to immerse yourself in all that’s on offer. Enjoy time to visit the cathedral, see important Roman remains, shop, or perhaps just take some time out in an eatery or hostelry. The city should look very seasonal with its lights and decorations.

Chester Christmas Market. Photo by Visit Chester

If Christmas markets aren’t your thing, why not stay on board as we turn the train ready for our evening journey home – by means of a ‘spin’ around the Pennines! We depart Chester, first heading to Manchester via Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay and Eccles. With the Mancunian cityscape surrounding us, the sound of our locos will be heard echoing around as we climb the steep grade of Miles Platting. Leaving the urban landscape behind, we continue through Rochdale and up into the wilds of Copy Pit, our second gruelling climb of our turning move! After dropping down through Blackburn, we pick up the West Coast Mainline and head south back through Warrington Bank Quay to Frodsham and finally to Chester.

Frodsham. Photo by Woodland Trust

A Christmas menu will be served to those in Premier Dining, whilst our special train re-traces the outward route back to the south.

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Motive power for the day will be very capable class 37 locomotives from the West Coast Railway’s fleet.

Our new caterers Gravy Train Catering will be providing the Silver Service on board this train in Premier Dining and First Class.

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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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