september, 2023
Event Details
SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2023
JOIN US FOR A DAY OF CELEBRATION AND A BREAK IN THE SCOTTISH CAPITAL
Just over 25 years ago, 50031 ‘Hood’ made history by becoming the first ‘mainline certified’ class 50 in private ownership. It successfully led “The Pilgrim Hoover” railtour from Birmingham International to Plymouth and back, marking the start of a new chapter in the class 50 story.
Since then, the Class 50 Alliance and the Fifty Fund have operated numerous railtours over a wide range of routes all over the country.
To celebrate the 100th railtour for the Class 50 Alliance and the Fifty Fund, and the 50th Pathfinder excursion hauled by their locomotives, join us on a day out to Edinburgh.
Beginning our journey at Swindon, with pick-ups through the Golden Valley and LMS route from Cheltenham Spa to Birmingham and Crewe, our day of celebrations will see a pair of Class 50 locomotives traverse their former stomping ground, along the West Coast Mainline, over the arduous climbs of Shap and Beattock and through the stunning scenery of the Lakes and Lowlands to our day’s destination at Edinburgh.
Enjoy a break of around three hours to enjoy this beautiful capital of Scotland (1315-1705) with its many splendours – including the Royal Mile, the Castle or just enjoy some shopping or relaxation in one of the many cafes and eateries.
The return journey re-traces the outward to complete a rather special day out. Synonymous with the West Coast Mainline, the class 50’s were built for the London Midland Region, initially hauling express passenger trains on the then unelectrified section of the WCML between Crewe and Scotland. Our train is hauled throughout to Scotland at speeds of up to 100mph, just as they and the carriages were built to do!
An historic occasion, full of nostalgia, this journey is worth celebrating – come and join us!
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!
CONFIRMED TIMINGS
| Fares | Adult | Junior | Party x4 | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Class | £129 | £65 | £496 | LAST SEATS REMAINING |
| First Class | £185 | £145 | £720 | FULLY BOOKED |
| Premier Dining | £299 | £259 | £1176 | LAST SEATS REMAINING |
Table for Two seats are available at a supplement of £40 per person in Premier Dining and First Class.
First Class Passengers will each receive vouchers to collect refreshments from the buffet car during the journey.
Passengers will be able to enjoy the comfort of travelling in 1970’s ex-BR MK2 Intercity carriages.
Class 50’s Nos. 50007 and 50049 are expected to haul this excursion, courtesy of the Class 50 Alliance.
*We regret that Premier Dining is unavailable from Preston
Main Photograph: Jack Boskett
