SATURDAY 30 AUGUST 2025

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 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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