28 Mar Charming days trips from Essex with Steam Dreams Rail Co.
The Steam Dreams Rail. Co, the provider of unique and magical steam train journeys, is delighted to announce its elegant collection of days trips departing from Essex locations this year. These blissful and sophisticated explorations will be steam hauled by locomotives departing from Shoeburyness, Southend-on-Sea and Colchester.
Guests will travel in vintage carriages reminiscent of a bygone area and can chose between three classes including new elevated dining led by Executive Chef, Nicholas Allen, in Pullman and First Class, with Premium Standard also available. The iconic and historic steam locomotives hauling these days trips include the Mayflower 61306, Duchess of Sutherland and Britannia 70000.
Shoeburyness to Portsmouth Harbour: Wednesday, 31st May 2023
Essex pick up locations: Shoeburyness, Southend East, Southend Central.
Steam Locomotive: Mayflower 61306
This journey begins at 06.50 at Shoeburyness railway station, the eastern terminus of the London, Tilbury and Southend Line, hauled by the magnificent steam locomotive Mayflower. Stopping at Southend East, Southend Central and Barking to collect passengers, the train traverses the outskirts of London before heading out through the picturesque Surrey Hills to join the Portsmouth Direct line. Guests can sit back in and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, taking in spectacular views. Upon arrival in Portsmouth at 12.50, guests are free to explore the city at leisure. From the naval and maritime heritage, to towering world-class visitor attractions, museums and galleries, unique shopping destinations, great places to eat and miles of beautiful waterfront, Portsmouth offers something for everyone. After a wonderful break, the homeward journey departs Portsmouth Harbour at 17.10 and arrives back at Shoeburyness at 23.20.
Costs: Pullman Style Dining (£350 per person), First Class (£185 per person) and Premium Standard (£165 per person).
Colchester to Carlisle: Saturday, 15th July 2023
Essex pick up locations: Colchester
Steam Locomotive: Duchess of Sutherland 46233
Hauled by vintage diesel from Chichester, the train travels through Suffolk and Cambridgeshire to Peterborough, before joining the West Coast Main Line at Nuneaton heading to Crewe. At Crewe, our steam locomotive; The Duchess of Sutherland joins us and hauls us north through Cumbria towards Blackburn and onwards to the sprawling Yorkshire Dales and the stunning world-famous Settle & Carlisle Railway. With the dramatic backdrop of breath-taking scenery and impressive architecture, including the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, this journey will not disappoint. Whilst in Carlisle, guests can uncover the historic city’s attractions including the ancient Castle, founded in 1092, and the Cathedral with its famous 14th-century stained glass window. On the return, the locomotive crosses the top of the Pennines through Hexham to the outskirts of Newcastle to join East Coach Main Line for a quick run south through Durham and York to Peterborough, before continuing back to Colchester.
Costs: Pullman Style Dining (£350 per person), First Class (£185 per person) and Premium Standard (£165 per person).
Shoeburyness to York: Saturday, 23rd September 2023
Essex pick up locations: Shoeburyness and Southend Central.
Steam Locomotive: Britannia 70000
Departing from Shoeburyness by vintage diesel or electric locomotive this journey joins the Thames Estuary through Southend and Leigh-on-Sea Estuary through Essex into East London. Merging onto the East Coast Main Line, the route heads north through Potters Bar & Stevenage to Peterborough where our locomotive; Britannia awaits to steam us up the East Coast Main Line passing Stoke Bank, where Mallard set the world speed record for a steam locomotive in 1938. Heading north and passing Grantham & Doncaster, the train arrives in York, an exquisite city of cobbled streets and renowned cultural attractions, including The National Railway Museum, home to a large collection of notable locomotives. On the return, the journey heads back south starting off steam hauled from York before a loco change once again at Peterborough back to a vintage diesel or electric locomotive for a swift run back to London and onwards to Shoeburyness.
Costs: Pullman Style Dining (£350 per person), First Class (£185 per person) and Premium Standard (£165 per person).
The three classes of travel: Pullman Style Dining, First Class and Premium Standard.
Pullman Style Dining offers the epitome of vintage steam travel in flawlessly restored wood-panelled carriages alongside a distinctive livery. The highest level of service and comfort creates an unforgettable experience reminiscent of a bygone era, enhanced by original windows and elegant armchair seating, laid with crisp linen and embellished with fine crockery, fresh flowers, and glassware.
Those indulging in Pullman Style Dining will be tantalized by the aromas and heavenly flavours from the new elevated dining experience which presents a bespoke, seasonal menu meticulously designed by our Executive Chef and prepared on-board. The menu abounds with delicious, locally sourced seasonal produce, inspired by the regional cuisine of our route alongside a choice of specially selected wines. This trip includes a traditional breakfast on the outward leg, late morning coffee and pastries as well as canapés and a four-course meal on the return journey.
In First Class, guests are welcomed onboard with a glass of Bucks Fizz in authentic carriages with a warm ambiance, followed by a selection of sweet and savoury treats to be enjoyed while taking in spectacular views of the passing countryside, from cushioned armchair seats.
Those in Premium Standard will be seated in a restored period carriage with large picture windows, boasting astounding views. Complimentary tea and coffee will be available, with a choice of refreshments at hand to purchase from the buffet bar. Guests travelling are welcome to bring their own picnics on-board.
