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PLAN YOUR JOURNEY

DEPARTS:

  • London Paddington /
  • Maidenhead /
  • Reading /
  • Swindon

Enjoy exemplary service and experience a wonderfully nostalgic day out aboard this magical Steam Dreams trip to the stunning city of Exeter. Travel across the rolling hills and verdant countryside of Wiltshire and Somerset as our historic locomotive transports you to Exeter, one of the most vibrant, attractive and historically interesting cities in England.

We depart London Paddington hauled by a vintage diesel locomotive which takes an express route along the Thames Valley towards Somerset. At Taunton, we are joined by the steam locomotive which will take us onwards to Exeter via Brunel’s Great Western Railway. After a wonderful break in the city, our return route wends its way through lush rolling countryside along the mostly single-track West of England Line, a rural railway reminiscent of days gone by. A tranquil start to an evening of relaxation and indulgence on board. At Bristol, we wave farewell to our steam locomotive and continue our journey diesel-hauled back to London.

Destinations

Exeter

Exeter was first settled over 2,000 years ago and has a wealth of architectural heritage. The vibrant life of the city is epitomised by its revitalised quayside, varied shopping centres and majestic Gothic St Peter’s Cathedral and the Roman City Wall.

Other historic buildings include the Exeter Guildhall and Tuckers Hall, or head down to Exeter’s Historic Quayside, a hub of leisure and activity, where you can explore the River Exe and Exeter ship canal and discover the historic Exe Island.

 

SOMETHING TO SUIT EVERYONE

Classes of travel

Pullman Dining

FROM £395
  

A sumptuous culinary experience amidst opulent surroundings, where guests can relax in plush, spacious armchair seating arranged around splendidly dressed tables of two and four. Attentive service adds an ambiance of old-world charm and sophistication, transporting you to a world of nostalgia and comfort.

On a full day journey, guests will be welcomed on board with our signature Champagne cocktail, followed by a multicourse breakfast. On the return journey, wine is served alongside a seasonal ‘carte de jour’, concluding with cheese board, coffee and petit fours.

First Class

FROM £195
 (non-dining) 

First Class offers guests an unparalleled journey into the past aboard elegantly restored carriages with comfortable and spacious seating around tables of two and four.

A sanctuary for those seeking a refined and leisurely journey without dining-on-board, First Class guests are welcomed on board with Bucks Fizz and freshly brewed coffee and tea. You can sink into your seat as scenic vistas unfold beyond the windows or toast your journey in our beautifully restored Buffet Car with its polished marquetry, large picture windows and convivial atmosphere.

Premium Standard

FROM £165
 (non-dining) 

Premium Standard offers a nostalgic and authentic journey onboard a beautifully restored carriage that embodies the charm of a bygone era, with its classic decor and comfortable seating around tables for four.

Passengers can enjoy the sights and sounds of steam travel and the camaraderie of fellow travellers, whilst enjoying complimentary tea and coffee. Passengers are invited to treat themselves at our Buffer Car where they will find a selection of hot and cold snacks and a selection of wine, beer, spirits, and cold drinks available for purchase.

TRAVEL TIMINGS*

Boarding Stations

The following pick-up and set-down stations are available on this journey

STATIONDEPARTSRETURNS
London Paddington 08.00 22.15
Maidenhead 08.30 22.35
Reading 09.00 21.15
Swindon 09.50 20.25

Destinations

The following destinations stations are available on this journey

STATIONARRIVESDEPARTS
Exeter Central N/A 15.40
Exeter St Davids 12.30 15.30

PLEASE NOTE *
All timings shown above are approximate and may be subject to change.

Scheduled locomotive

Blue Peter

60532

Blue Peter is the last remaining L.N.E.R. Class A2 Pacific and was one of the most powerful express passenger locomotives in the UK. She was one of 15 of the class designed by Arthur H Peppercorn and entered service in 1948 just weeks after the amalgamation of the Big Four railway companies into the newly nationalised British Railway.

 

Whilst this locomotive is rostered for the steam hauled sections of the trip listed, it cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine.
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