Britain’s Steam Dreams Rail Co., which provides unique English countryside tours from London Victoria on a classic steam train, has launched its summer season and will continue with a limited series of weekly departures departing twice daily every Tuesday through Aug. 20.
The “Garden of England Lunchtime Tour” to Kent and the “Sunset Steam Express Evening Tour” through The Surrey Hills combine splendid scenery with unparalleled service, underpinned with the romance of rail travel in a historic train.
Passengers can travel in one of three classes:
- Pullman Dining features menus crafted from locally sourced seasonal produce, served in lovingly restored vintage carriages with plush, spacious armchair seating
- First Class, offering a sanctuary for those seeking a refined and leisurely journey without dining-on-board. New for 2024, First Class passengers will have access to the exclusive Hippocrene Bar; a private enclave where passengers can soak up the convivial atmosphere in this stylish bar with table and lounge seating, or
- Premium Standard, where comfort and the destination are equally enchanting
Garden of England Lunchtime Tour
Showcasing the beauty of the Kent countryside, this nostalgic tour offers passengers a view of Kent’s picturesque landscapes, vibrant fauna and Flora, dynamic coastline, and the majestic White Cliffs of Dover.
This day trip departs from London Victoria, before cutting eastward to the North Downs and crossing the River Medway to Canterbury. Leaving the Cathedral behind, the historic locomotive begins its final climb to the southernly tip of the Kent Downs before descending to meet the South Coast at Dover steaming beneath the famous White Cliffs alongside the Channel. The train will then run northwards, cutting across the heart of Kent to Tonbridge before passing through Sevenoaks on our way back to London Victoria.
Pullman guests are welcomed on board with a glass of Champagne and canapés, followed by a three-course lunch, accompanied by a half bottle of wine per person and concluding with coffee and petit fours. First Class guests are welcomed on board with Bucks Fizz and freshly brewed coffee and tea. Additional drinks can be purchased from the luxurious Hippocrene Bar.
Passengers also have the option to add a Traditional Afternoon Tea to their booking (supplement applies, subject to availability). Premium Standard passengers can enjoy the sights and sounds of steam travel and the camaraderie of fellow travellers, whilst enjoying complimentary tea and coffee.
The historic locomotive, 70000 Britannia departs London Victoria at 10 a.m. and returns at 15.15 p.m. Prices: Premium Standard (non-dining) from £85 p.p., First Class (non-dining) from £145 p.p., and Pullman Dining from £225 p.p..
Sunset Steam Express
Also departing from London Victoria, this popular odyssey offers a nostalgic steam voyage through The Surrey Hills, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Passengers will soak up stunning views as the train traverses the suburbs of London for the steep climb of the Surrey Hills at sunset. Often described as “one of England’s finest landscapes,” the Surrey Hills stretch across the chalk North Downs. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.
Pullman Dining guests will be welcomed on board with a glass of Champagne, followed by a three-course evening meal concluding with freshly brewed coffee. Special dietary requirements such as Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free and Pescatarian, can be catered for. First Class guests can sink into comfy seats as scenic vistas unfold, or venture through to the restored Hippocrene Bar (named after the fountain of Mount Helicon in Greek Mythology), available exclusively to First Class guests. Premium Standard passengers receive complimentary tea and coffee or can purchase hot and cold drinks and snacks from the Buffet Car.
The locomotive 70000 Britannia departs London Victoria at 18.15 and returns at 10 p.m. Prices: Premium Standard (non-dining) from £75 p.p., First Class (non-dining) from £100 p.p., and Pullman Dining from £175 p.p.
For more info, visit www.steamdreams.co.uk