No-one quite knows how long ago it was that the people of Cornwall started to celebrate Midsummer (Golowan in the Cornish language), but it was noted as ‘an antiquity’ in 1754.

Once away from Gloucester, with the classic D1015 Western Champion at the helm, our journey is across the flats of Somerset and over the hills to Devon and Exeter. At the waters edge we now run along the Exe estuary and out onto the famed Dawlish Seawall, then inland to Newton Abbot and steeply up and down the edge of Dartmoor to Plymouth. We then cross the River Tamar on Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s Royal Albert Bridge and head for west Cornwall.

Choose from one of the following off-train options:

Option A: Truro (Confirmed Time: 1240-1640) for Falmouth

Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Truro, a city steeped in history, with architectural wonders, quaint boutiques and crowned by its magnificent Cathedral. Alternatively take the branch line train (payable locally) and enjoy the picturesque scenery on your way to the maritime town of Falmouth.

Option B: St. Erth (Confirmed Time: 1310-1605) for St. Ives

Continuing West, we reach St. Erth, where we set down for the branch line train (fare payable locally) to St. Ives, a small coastal town that offers something for everyone: seaside, specialist shops, harbour and even the Tate Gallery.

Option C: Penzance (Confirmed Time: 1320-1600)

The end of the line is at Penzance where the Mazey Day festivities will be in full flow throughout the town and waterside. 

Your visit grants you free time to delve into the heart of this quirky town. Meander through its charming streets, indulge in local delights and uncover the tales that echo through its historic corners.

Known for its captivating pirate history, this vibrant destination promises a one-of-a-kind experience and conveniently located adjacent to the railway station. 

The bus station opens doors to local escapades – hop on board for a thrilling journey to must see destinations such as Lands End, Mousehole and the awe-inspiring Marazion, boasting the majestic St. Michaels Mount (all dependant on confirmed timings).

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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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With convenient pick-ups from the south of England and Severnside, we travel north direct to Derby, a city rich in railway history, and making it the ideal location for the Greatest Gathering.

Those not attending this remarkable event are welcome to stay on the train to Duffield for connection to the Ecclesbourne Railway, or travel further with us to Chesterfield where there will be a guided coach tour of the Peak District.

Alternatively, stay on board through to Barrow Hill Railway Centre for a couple of hours exploring the stunning collection within one of the UK’s last remaining roundhouses.

Later in the day, our return journey will travel via Leicester from Derby back to Cheltenham to add to the days interest.

Option A: Derby – Railway 200 The Greatest Gathering (1130 – 1655 estimated)*

Supplementary Fare – £30 Adult / £15 Junior

With general sale sold out, we have secured a limited number of tickets to attend this significant event celebrating the significance of Britains railway history at Derby’s Alstom site!

Alight at Derby for the Railway 200 event, where passengers will have the chance to explore the exhibitions, displays and activities celebrating 200 years on the modern railway.

If you already have tickets, why not use our train to save hassle in getting to the event?

Option B: Derby Break (1130 – 1655 estimated)*

Option C: Ecclesbourne Railway (1145 – 1640 estimated)*

Supplementary Fare – £15.50

Alight at Duffield and transfer to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway platform for a round trip along the edge of the Peak District to Worksworth. Here you can explore the Town, Museum or experience the 1 in 27 grade up to Ravenstor!

Option D: Peak District Coach Tour (1200 – 1625 estimated)*

Supplementary Fare: £20 Adult / £15 Junior

Alight at Chesterfield to enjoy a guided scenic coach tour of the Peak District with a short break in Bakewell, the biggest town in the Peak District National Park.

Option E: Barrow Hill Railway Centre (1225 – 1545 estimated)*

Supplementary Fare – Adult £12 / Junior £8

While our train is being serviced, passengers are welcome to explore this unique and popular railway museum and it locomotives, rolling stock and memorabilia.

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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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The Heart of Wales line is a rambling railway that time forgets, a single track that sets course from the once disputed borderland and Marches of Herefordshire and Shropshire, right across the hills and valleys of rural central Wales. 

With everyone on board we glide along the South Wales Mainline, through Newport, Cardiff and industrial Port Talbot, as our excursion heads for the Swansea District Line. From here we bear north-east and join the 90 mile Heart of Wales line, meandering diagonally across the rural heartland of Wales. The line follows the Loughor River to Pantyffynnon then into the Towy Valley between the market towns of Llandeilo and Llandovery. A climb up the Afon Bran valley leads to Cynghordy viaduct and on to Sugar Loaf summit, before descent to Llanwrtyd Wells, famous for its annual Bog Snorkelling World Championships! 

From Victorian Llandrindod Wells we follow the rolling hill country to reach the tunnel marking the summit at Llangynllo, then down the Heyop Valley to cross the castellated Knucklas viaduct. From here we drop down to Knighton, where the station straddles both Wales and England! 

We then pass through sheep country and to Craven Arms, from where we make for Shrewsbury, our destination. Here there will be around 90 minutes to enjoy the splendour of this county market town, set in the loop of the river Severn, with the station near to the centre.

Under way again the route leads south along the picturesque Welsh Marches, with rolling hills providing the backdrop as we skirt the Welsh Border. Before too long we cross the River Usk at Newport and rejoin the South Wales mainline towards England, returning passengers to their joining stations to end this wonderful day out.

A pair of English Electric Class 37 locomotives, courtesy of West Coast Railway Company, are expected to haul this train throughout. 

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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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With joining stations starting from Westbury, this offers a rare opportunity for those in Wiltshire, Cherwell Valley and the Birmingham suburbs to experience the Settle and Carlisle Railway, famed for its stunning scenery and Victorian engineering throughout the fells.

With everyone comfortably on board, from Stafford, we venture north along the West Coast Mainline, bearing off at Farington Junction towards Blackburn. As we climb Wilpshire Bank crossing the impressive 48-arch Whalley Viaduct, the Pennine Hills present themselves through the window.

We soon pass Settle Junction and begin the climb of the ‘long drag’ to Ribblehead Viaduct (one of the highlights of the tour), with its 24-arches and panoramic views of the Yorkshire Three Peaks.

Passing Blea Moor, there will be superb views of Dent Head as we climb to Ais Gill, the summit of the line. We continue along the ‘Roof of England’ and the flanks of Wild Board Fell with Mallerstang Edge towering over.

We then journey into the scenic Eden Valley, arriving at the charming market town of Appleby for an afternoon break. During our visit, a local outdoor market will be taking place, adding extra atmosphere to your time here.

Take the opportunity to explore Appleby’s historic castle, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque riverside, or simply soak up the town’s inviting atmosphere at your own pace.

Please note we will be providing coach transfers (for those who require it) from Appleby railway station to Appleby town centre due to the hilly terrain at the station.

Leaving Appleby behind, our special train heads north through idyllic rolling countryside, skirting around Carlisle before turning southward for the return journey. We then travel along the iconic West Coast Main Line, ascending the renowned Shap Summit before descending through the stunning Lune Gorge and into the heart of Lancashire.

Just south of Preston, we rejoin our outward route, passing through Warrington and Crewe en route to Stafford, where we begin setting down passengers and bring a memorable day of scenic railway travel to a close.

We would like to thank Colas Rail for supplying one of their Class 56 locomotives from and to Stafford for this rail excursion.

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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Our journey begins in the Midlands at Dorridge, before heading southwest via Worcester Shrub Hill and on to the vibrant city of Bristol. As we leave Bristol Temple Meads, take in the breathtaking scenery as your journey unfolds through the rolling hills and picturesque countryside of Somerset and Devon. Gaze out at patchwork fields, quaint villages, and gently winding rivers as you travel deeper into the heart of the West Country.

The adventure continues as the train descends towards the historic naval city of Plymouth, where coastal views begin to emerge and the landscape hints at the dramatic beauty to come. Then, in one of the highlights of the route, the train crosses the magnificent Royal Albert Bridge—an engineering masterpiece designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel—spanning the River Tamar and marking your arrival into Cornwall.

The Tamar Bridge. Photo by Jack Boskett

From here, the far South West opens up before you, with rugged coastlines, charming seaside towns, and sweeping ocean vistas that define this unique and captivating corner of Britain. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this is a journey rich in heritage, natural beauty, and unforgettable views.

Choose from one of the following off-train options:

Option A – Plymouth* (1200 – 1800)

Plymouth. Photo by Visit Plymouth

Take the opportunity to enjoy some well-deserved free time in Plymouth at your leisure. Whether you choose to stroll along the historic Barbican waterfront, explore the shops and cafes of the city centre, or visit landmarks such as the Mayflower Steps and Plymouth Hoe, there’s plenty to see and do. From maritime history to modern attractions, Plymouth offers something for everyone during your unhurried visit.

Option B – Port Isaac (1240 – 1725)

Supplementary Fare – £25 Adult / £20 Junior

Photo by Shutterstock

Alight at Bodmin Parkway and transfer to road coach for a scenic guided tour to Port Isaac. This picturesque fishing village nestled on the rugged north coast of Cornwall. Steeped in history and charm, its narrow winding lanes, whitewashed cottages, and dramatic sea views have captivated visitors for generations. The village dates back to the Middle Ages and was once a bustling hub for fishing, slate export, and coastal trade.

Today, Port Isaac is perhaps best known as the filming location for the popular TV series Doc Martin, but its timeless character runs far deeper. Wander through the quaint streets, explore independent shops and galleries, or relax at one of the cosy pubs and seafood restaurants serving the freshest local catch. The working harbour remains the heart of the village, where you can often see fishing boats bringing in their daily haul.

Surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the South West Coast Path, Port Isaac is also a haven for walkers, nature lovers, and photographers. Whether you’re watching the sunset from the clifftops or listening to the Fisherman’s Friends sing sea shanties on the Platt, Port Isaac offers a truly authentic Cornish experience. Supplementary Fare Applies.

We will then return to Par where you rejoin the train.

Option D – Newquay (1400 – 1620)

Newquay Port. Photo by Visit Newquay

Journey all the way to the vibrant Cornish coastal town of Newquay, where you’ll have ample free time to explore and unwind at your own pace. Renowned for its golden sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back surf culture, Newquay is one of Cornwall’s most iconic seaside destinations.

Whether you’re looking to take a relaxing stroll along the beach, enjoy fresh local seafood, explore charming shops and cafés, or simply soak in the stunning ocean views, Newquay offers the perfect setting for a memorable day out. From the bustling harbour to the scenic coastal paths, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during your visit.

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Traction will be in the form of Class 47’s, reviving the days of Cross Country Summer Saturdays on the 80’s, 90’s and 00’s.

Pathfinder wishes to thank Great Western Railway for use of the name ‘The Atlantic Coast Express’ for which the 1135 departure from London Paddington and 1120 from Newquay bare the name.

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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