The Garden of England Lunchtime Tour

DEPARTS:

London Victoria

Capture the spirit of yesteryear as you settle in for a magical day out on board our vintage steam train with its exquisite marquetery, sumptuous interiors and impeccable service. This fabulous five hour journey captures all the beauty of the Kent countryside as it comes alive from its picturesque landscapes full of vibrant fauna and flora to the dynamic beauty of the coast and the majestic White Cliffs of Dover.

We depart London Victoria station steam hauled, behind one of our iconic locomotives, as we leave the hustle and bustle of London behind and make our way to the Kent border at Bromley. Cutting eastwards this picturesque journey takes us through the North Downs, crossing the River Medway enroute and heading out along the North Kent Coast before reaching Canterbury. Leaving the famous Cathedral behind us we begin our final climb up 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. We then run northwards cutting across the heart of Kent to Tonbridge before passing through Sevenoaks on our way back to London Victoria.

SOMETHING TO SUIT EVERYONE

Classes of travel

Pullman Dining

FROM £225

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 this journey, guests will be 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

FROM £145

(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, First Class guests are welcomed on board with sparkling wine and freshly brewed coffee and tea. You can sink into your seat as scenic vistas unfold beyond the windows, order a drink and delicious refreshments, and prepare to be looked after by our attentive stewards.

Premium Standard

FROM £85

(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 Buffet Car where they will find a selection of hot and cold snacks and a selection of wine, beer, and cold drinks available for purchase.

TRAVEL TIMINGS*

Boarding Stations

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

STATION	DEPARTS	RETURNS
London Victoria	10.00	15.15

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

Scheduled locomotive

Britannia

70000

70000 Britannia is a British Railways Standard class 7 engine, alternatively known as the Britannia class, and the first of 55 to be built by British Railways in Crewe.

Completed in January 1951 she was built for express passenger services between London and Norwich.

The BR Standard classes were designed by drawing on the best qualities from several previous locomotives to create an efficient engine that was produced with lower maintenance costs and weight saving measures to enable it to work across a wider geography.

Britannia has 2 cylinders, 6 driving wheels and a firebox of 42ft2 with most of the motion situated on the outside of the frames for ease of maintenance. Whilst limited to 75mph the locomotive is capable of reaching speeds up to 100mph.

For many years Britannia’s cab roof was painted white to commemorate her pulling the funeral train of King George VI from Sandringham to London in 1952. After 15 years of service in May 1966 Britannia was retired and after spells at preserved railways returned to the national network between 1991 and 1997 until major repairs were required and the locomotive was withdrawn for overhaul. In 2010 Britannia was steamed once more and 2011 marked the locomotive’s return to the main line after a 14 year absence.
In one of her most important roles, Britannia hauled The Royal Train from Preston to Wakefield in January 2012.

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.

VIEW ALL LOCOMOTIVES