HOLIDAYS BY STEAM 2016 - 2018
& DAY TRIPS 2016
H
A
F EX RZ ea PL M tur O OU ing RE N R TA 20 IN 18
THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO CORNWALL 2016
Booking Office 01483 209888
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Having recently been awarded a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence, we are proud to present this new brochure in which you will find details of all our Holidays by Steam for 2016/17, day trips for 2016 and some exclusive information about our first ever Cathedrals Explorer to mainland Europe in 2018, so you can travel on an unforgettable holiday whenever it suits you.
Our Holidays by Steam are designed to combine scenic countryside, fascinating cities, welcoming hotels, great food and wine, comfortable travel in historic carriages, interesting locomotives – and above all the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed and stress free holiday. Along the way there will be optional group excursions or free time to explore cities, historic castles, National Trust properties and other attractions at your leisure.
Dining on board The menu served from our bespoke kitchen is devised by our Head Chef, who refreshes beloved British dishes with a modern twist, using seasonal local ingredients whenever possible. Meals are served at a leisurely pace, allowing for pick up and drop off stations along the way and any opportunities to alight the train. We offer a single set menu on all our trips, but if notified in advance, we can cater to a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian and coeliac options.
Excursions Off train excursions are specially selected to add to the enjoyment of your holiday and allow you to see more of your chosen destination. On all excursions you will be accompanied by a Tour Manager.
Pullman Style Dining passengers are seated in1960’s carriages with table lamps and curtains at the windows with either the original 60’s Pullman décor or elegant woodpanelling. They provide our most comfortable seats with the most leg room, and combined with the highest level of service, the atmosphere evokes memories of a bygone era. Premier Dining passengers are seated in comfortable vintage carriages on tables for two or four passengers. In First Class, passengers are seated in vintage carriages, almost always in compartments for up to six people. Champagne and orange juice is served shortly after boarding, along with teas and coffees throughout the day, accompanied by a small selection of cakes or biscuits. In Premium Standard Class, passengers are seated in an open carriage at tables of four laid with crisp, white tablecloths, and are served complimentary tea or coffee at their seats. Passengers are welcome to bring their own food or drink on-board, or can order food and drink from the on-board selection.
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Hotels We recognise that the hotels and surrounding locations on our tours are vitally important to making your holiday memorable. We carefully select interesting hotels in convenient and picturesque settings, allocated dependent on the class of travel. Breakfast will be taken in the hotel and dinner may be included at your hotel. See individual trips for details. Day Trips On all Cathedrals Express day trips we aim to give passengers a minimum of 3 hours in the destination of their choice. On day trips, passengers in Pullman style or Premier Dining typically receive a full breakfast or brunch on the outward and a four or five course dinner on the return journey. Remember, it is an adventure! A trip on The Cathedrals Express is always an adventure and like any train, vintage or modern, we are dependent on third parties such as Network Rail, our Train Operating Company, locomotive owners and of course the good old British weather! Our full Terms and Conditions (p.31) outline how we deal with any given situation– we take pride in always ensuring that whatever the day has in store we will make it fun, give passengers an enjoyable day out and ensure the onboard service is unbeatable.
Duke of Gloucester © Mark Walker
CONTENTS DAY TRIPS 2016 Page 4 - 7 THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO CORNWALL - SEPTEMBER 2016 Page 8 - 11 THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO EDINBURGH - SPRING 2017 Page 12 - 13 THE EMERALD ISLE EXPLORER - JUNE 2017 Page 14 - 17 THE EMERALD MANX EXPLORER - JUNE 2017
Page 18 - 19
Page 20 - 23 THE DEVON BELLE - JULY 2017 THE MOORS & DALES EXPRESS - SEPTEMBER 2017 Page 24 - 27 HARZ MOUNTAIN EXPLORER - SPRING 2018 Page 28 - 29 CHRISTMAS DAY TRIPS - 2016 Page 30
TERMS AND CONDITIONS Page 31
We hope you find something of interest in this brochure. If you would like further information on any of these tours please call our Booking Office on 01483 209888. We will be happy to discuss options with you.
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JOURNEYS WITH THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS SUNNY SOUTH SPECIALS TUESDAY 28 JUNE
TUESDAY 19 JULY
LONDON TO BOURNEMOUTH, CORFE CASTLE & SWANAGE
LONDON TO BOURNEMOUTH & WEYMOUTH
Calling at Woking, Farnborough, Basingstoke, SouthamptonF & BournemouthF
Calling at Woking, Winchfield, Basingstoke, SouthamptonF, BrockenhurstF & BournemouthF
DAY TRIPS 2016
FARES Bournemouth Pullman Style Dining £239 Premier Dining £189 First Class £139 Premium Standard £89
Corfe Castle/Swanage £249 £209 £159 £109
FARES Brockenhurst/Bournemouth Weymouth Pullman Style Dining £239 £249 Premier Dining £189 £209 First Class £139 £159 Premium Standard £89 £109
These trips are expected to depart from London Victoria and return to London Wareloo.
FRIDAY 15 JULY
SATURDAY 9 JULY
LONDON VICTORIA TO BATH & BRISTOL
SOUTHEND TO OXFORD & WORCESTER
Calling at Hounslow, Staines, Bracknell & Reading
Calling at Hockley, Wickford, Shenfield, Stratford (London) & OxfordF
FARES Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
Bath & Bristol £249 £209 £159 £109
FARES Oxford Pullman Style Dining £239 Premier Dining £199 First Class £149 Premium Standard £99
Worcester £249 £209 £159 £109
From Oxford £189 £159 £109 £69
F Reduced fares are sometimes available for passengers boarding along the route. Please call the Booking Office or refer to our website for further details.
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www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
DAY TRIPS 2016
SUNDAY 24 JULY
THURDAY 28 JULY
LONDON VICTORIA TO CANTERBURY, WHITSTABLE, FAVERSHAM & MARGATE Calling at Bromley South, Borough Green & Wrotham & CanterburyF FARES Canterbury Pullman Style Dining £225 Premier Dining £189 First Class £139 Premium Standard £89
Whitstable/Fav/ Mar £239 £199 £149 £99
LONDON PADDINGTON TO GLOUCESTER, LYDNEY & CARDIFF Calling at Slough, Twyford, Reading, Didcot, Swindon, GloucesterF & LydneyF FARES Gloucester Lydney Cardiff Pullman Style Dining £225 £239 £249 Premier Dining £189 £199 £209 First Class £139 £149 £149 Premium Standard £89 £99 £109
WHITSTABLE OYSTER FESTIVAL
Alight at Lydney to visit the Dean Forest Railway or Tintern Abbey.
SUNDAY 14 AUGUST
TUESDAY 23 AUGUST
LONDON KINGS CROSS TO YORK
LONDON VICTORIA TO THE WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY
Calling at Potters Bar, Stevenage, St Neots, GranthamF & RetfordF
Calling at Hounslow, Virginia Water, Ascot, Reading, & Newbury Racecouse & Castle CaryF
FARES Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
York £249 £209 £159 £109
DAY TRIPS 2016
Alight at Whitstable for the Oyster Festival.
FARES Minehead Pullman Style Dining £249 Premier Dining £209 First Class £159 Premium Standard £109
Alight at Castle Cary for a coach transfer to Wells. F Reduced fares are sometimes available for passengers boarding along the route. Please call the Booking Office or refer to our website for further details.
Booking Office 01483 209888
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JOURNEYS WITH THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS SUNDAY 28 AUGUST
LONDON KINGS CROSS TO MATLOCK & ROWSLEY Calling at Stevenage, Huntingdon & Peterborough FARES Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
Matlock £249 £209 £159 £109
SATURDAY 3 SEPTEMBER
LONDON PADDINGTON TO KINGSWEAR Calling at Slough, Reading, Hungerford, TauntonF & Exeter St DavidsF FARES Exeter Kingswear Pullman Style Dining £239 £255 Premier Dining £199 £215 First Class £149 £165 Premium Standard £99 £115 This trip will be steam hauled between London and Kingswear on the outward journey and between Kingswear and Exeter on the return.
DAY TRIPS 2016
WEDNESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER
TONBRIDGE TO OXFORD & WORCESTER Calling at Penshurst, Edenbridge, Redhill, Purley, West Brompton & OxfordF FARES to Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
Oxford £239 £199 £149 £99
Worcester £249 £209 £159 £109
This trip will be diesel hauled between London and Tonbridge on the return journey.
SATURDAY 10 SEPTEMBER
PADDINGTON TO LUDLOW & SHREWSBURY Calling at Slough, Reading, Goring & Streatley, Swindon, Bath SpaF & BristolF FARES Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
Hereford Shrewsbury £239 £255 £199 £215 £149 £165 £99 £115
This trip will be diesel hauled between London and Bristol in both directions.
SATURDAY 24 SEPTEMBER
BANBURY TO EXETER, PAIGNTON & KINGSWEAR Calling at Radley, Swindon, Chippenham, Melksham & TauntonF FARES Exeter Pullman Style Dining £239 Premier Dining £199 First Class £149 Premium Standard £99
Paington/Kingswear £249 £209 £149 £109
This trip will be diesel hauled between Banbury & the West Country in both directions.
F Reduced fares are sometimes available for passengers boarding along the route. Please call the Booking Office or refer to our website for further details.
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www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
DAY TRIPS 2016
SATURDAY 1 OCTOBER
LONDON EUSTON TO CARLISLE VIA THE CUMBRIAN COAST Calling at Milton Keynes, Rugby, Lichfield, Trent Valley & Crewe FARES Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
Carlisle £255 £215 £165 £115
This trip will be diesel or electric hauled between London and Carnforth in both directions.
WEDNESDAY 5 OCTOBER
HORSHAM TO GLOUCESTER Calling at Horsham, Dorking, Leatherhead, Epsom, Cheam & West Brompton FARES Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
Gloucester £249 £209 £159 £109
This trip will be diesel hauled between Horsham and West London in both directions.
SATURDAY 15 OCTOBER
DAY TRIPS 2016
NORTH KENT TO OXFORD & WORCESTER Calling at Rainham, Rochester, Meopham, Bromley South, West Brompton & OxfordF FARES Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
Oxford Worcester £239 £249 £199 £209 £149 £159 £99 £109
This trip will be diesel hauled between Kent and West London in both directions.
THURSDAY 20 OCTOBER
LEWES TO BATH & BRISTOL Calling at Haywards Heath, Redhill & East Croydon FARES to Pullman Style Dining Premier Dining First Class Premium Standard
Bath & B ristol £249 £209 £159 £109
This trip will be diesel hauled between Lewes and West London in both directions.
SUNDAY 23 OCTOBER
LONDON TO SALISBURY & SHERBORNE Calling at Woking, Basingstoke, Andover & Salisbury FARES Salisbury Sherborne Salisbury to Sherborne Pullman Style Dining £239 £249 £239 Premier Dining £189 £209 £189 First Class £139 £159 £139 Premium Standard £89 £109 £89
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LONDON TO CAMBRIDGE, ELY & NORWICH Calling at London Kings Cross, Broxbourne, Whittlesford & CambridgeF FARES Cambridge/Ely Whittlesford/Norwich Pullman Style Dining £239 £249 Premier Dining £189 £209 First Class £139 £159 Premium Standard £89 £109 Alight at Whittlesford for Duxford Museum
F Reduced fares are sometimes available for passengers boarding along the route. Please call the Booking Office or refer to our website for further details.
Booking Office 01483 209888
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THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO CORNWALL Saturday 17 - Tuesday 20 September 2016
THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO CORNWALL 2016
For our late Summer Holiday by Steam we return to Cornwall and the lovely coastal towns of Newquay and Padstow. A scenic route, wonderful locomotives, beautiful hotels and stunning seaside views will make this the perfect way to soak up the last rays of summer.
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Royal Albert Bridge ©Paul Gerrard
www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Day 1 Saturday 17 September London Victoria to Cornwall by steam We head out from London behind our rostered steam locomotive, picking up passengers along the way at Reading and Westbury. We travel through the rolling downs of Berkshire and Wiltshire past the White Horses in the Vale of Pewsey and on to the Somerset Levels to Taunton. Soon, we are in Devon and racing along the sea wall at Dawlish, so wonderfully rebuilt after the 2014 storms. After climbing up the edge of Dartmoor we descend past Plymouth and cross Brunel’s famous Royal Albert Bridge over the River Tamar and cross into Cornwall. Our train will take us to Newquay via Par for coaches to Steam Dreams hotels in Newquay and Padstow.
Days 2 and 3 Sunday 18 & Monday 19 September A couple of days at leisure in Cornwall
Newquay is known as one of the nation’s favourite seaside towns, and exudes the laid back atmosphere you would expect from a town perched on Cornwall’s Atlantic cliffs and bordered by 7 miles of glorious golden sandy beaches.
Other excursions are likely to include a day trip to Tintagel Castle, set high on the rugged North Cornwall coast, the Eden Project, the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Bodmin & Wenford Railway.
Day 4 Tuesday 20 September Homeward bound with steam from Penzance We depart Penzance just after breakfast behind steam with wonderful views as the sun rises over St Michael’s Mount as we head back to the Great Western Main Line at Par. We then retrace our footsteps across the South-West peninsula to Exeter and onwards to Reading and Victoria for an early evening arrival in the capital.
Booking Office 01483 209888
THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO CORNWALL 2016
The train will be at rest, but these next two days will give you a chance to enjoy the best that Cornwall has to offer.
You can choose to explore this area independently, or join one of our specially chosen optional excursions. These excursions will include a day trip to the Scilly Isles, described as outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt. Alternatively, head to Padstow, a friendly town where you’ll find a pretty harbour and a great mixture of houses, quays, boat slips, cafés and craft shops. Enjoy lunch at Rick Stein’s seafood restaurant or take the ferry across the river to Rock for some of the loveliest sandy beaches in Cornwall.
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Rostered Locomotives This trip to Cornwall is planned to be hauled by Merchant Navy British India Line, which is currently being restored. It may be accompanied or replaced by a locomotive from our pool, including Princess Elizabeth, Mayflower or Braunton.
THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO CORNWALL 2016
Bodmin & Wenford Steam Railway
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Eden Project, St. Austel
www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Lost Gardens of Heligan
Hotels You can choose to book your hotels in Cornwall independently or with Steam Dreams. If you book with Steam Dreams, you will be escorted to and from your hotels and the railway station, as well as any excursions. The accommodation is booked on a bed and breakfast basis. Steam Dreams Hotels will include: Headland Hotel & Spa, Newquay The Headland is Cornwall’s iconic hotel. Behind the dramatic red brick facade of the 4-star hotel the Victorian grandeur continues, welcoming guests into a relaxed home from home, complete with roaring fires, comfy sofas, an excellent dining experience and panoramic views.
Located directly above Great Western Beach, many of the rooms face the sea or the harbour providing stunning views to make every morning the perfect start to the day. The public bar and restaurant has some of Newquay’s best sea views and the large garden terrace provides al fresco eating and drinking overlooking the sea.
Padstow – Rooms at Rick Stein’s St Petrocs Hotel are now fully booked. Please call the Booking Office if you are interested in staying in Padstow.
THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO CORNWALL 2016
Great Western Hotel, Newquay
Dawlish
Fares with hotel
Fares without hotel
Class of travel
Based on two sharing
Single supplement
Table for 2 supplement
Pullman Style Dining
£999
£265
£150
£699
Premier Dining
£849
£230
£100
£575
First Class
£749
£200
-
£499
Premium Standard
£499
£160
-
£299
50% non-refundable deposit to be paid at time of booking. Balance to be paid by 31 May 2016
Booking Office 01483 209888
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FLYING SCOTSMAN TO EDINBURGH 2017
THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO EDINBURGH 2017
May 2017
Following the popularity of our 2016 trip to Edinburgh with Flying Scotsman, we are planning to use the famous engine to journey from London to Edinburgh once again and enjoy 3 nights and 2 full days in the Scottish capital.
Flying Scotsman
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www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Day 1
London to York and Edinburgh
We leave London’s Kings Cross in the morning hauled by a vintage diesel for a quick run up the East Coast Main Line to York. We set off by steam on the scenic route past the distant Yorkshire Moors, steam high over the city of Durham and its beautiful Cathedral and on to views of the Angel of the North before crossing high above the River Tyne in Newcastle. If anything, further North the scenery is even better as we enjoy views of the sea and pretty Northumbrian towns and villages as we approach and cross the Royal Border Bridge at Berwick. The run down into Edinburgh winds along the Scottish cliffs before the journey finishes with views of the distant Firth of Forth before emerging into the heart of the capital in Edinburgh Waverley station, close to the hotels where you can opt to stay with Steam Dreams.
Days 2 & 3 A day at leisure in Edinburgh & optional steam trips Passengers are free to make their own plans for the day in Edinburgh. With streets steeped in history, superb shopping and a thriving cultural scene, the city offers something for everyone. Optional excursions may include a trip to see the Falkirk Wheel, the Kelpies or some of the region’s distilleries, or a steam trip over the Forth Rail Bridge. Day 4
Homeward bound
FLYING SCOTSMAN TO EDINBURGH 2017
Royal Border Bridge © David Rodgers
On the return journey, we plan to take the West Coast Main Line route, with a stop at Carlisle before continuing through Cumbria for a steam-hauled journey over the famous Settle & Carlisle Railway. From North Yorkshire, we will be whisked back to London by modern traction.
If you would like further details or wish to be placed on our interest list for this tour, please call the Booking Office on 01483 209888. No commitment is necessary and no deposit will be taken at this stage.
Edinburgh
Class of travel Pullman Style Dining
Guide prices with hotel £1,249
Guide prices without hotel
Premier Dining
£929
£629
First Class
£799
£499
Premium Standard
£599
£349
Booking Office 01483 209888
£749
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THE EMERALD ISLE EXPLORER Wednesday 14 – Thursday 22 June 2017 An opportunity to join Steam Dreams on its third adventure around the beautiful green isle, The Emerald Isle Explorer will be visiting both old favourites and exciting new parts of Ireland.
EMERALD ISLE EXPLORER 2017
2 nights in Dublin • 2 nights in Killarney • 2 nights in Westport • 1 night in Belfast & 1 night in Dublin (or 2 nights in Dublin) Timed to coincide with mid-summer, this trip is the ultimate in beautiful scenery, exceptional hotels, relaxing days and great company.
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www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Starting with 2 nights in Dublin, passengers will have the opportunity to see plenty of the city’s sights as well as an optional return trip by steam along the scenic coastal line from Dublin to Wexford and Rosslare. We head off then to Killarney, probably Ireland’s most famous tourist destination adjacent to the world famous Ring of Kerry and set among beautiful lakes and mountains. The hotels here are of exceptional quality and it is by popular demand that we have decided to make this return. We then head across the country for our first visit to the North West Irish town of Westport, set on the Atlantic Coast and surrounded by stunning scenery – not least the 13th Century Ashford Castle, named ‘the best hotel in the world’, where Pullman Style Dining passengers will be staying at the Lodge.
The tour finishes with a trip to Belfast and an opportunity to visit the North Coast of Antrim or the Giants Causeway. Passengers who would like to see more of the Irish Republic have the option of a further night in Dublin instead. We will be working with our good friends and colleagues at the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland whose hospitality seems to know no bounds! Their carriages are a delight to travel in and every year there seems to be another steam locomotive to use and we are hoping on this trip we might have as many as four locomotives at different times.
EMERALD ISLE EXPLORER 2017
Booking Office 01483 209888
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Day 1 Wednesday 14 June London to Dublin
Day 6 Monday 19 June Westport
Passengers have the choice of either travelling by service train to Holyhead and sailing to Dublin, or flying to Dublin direct. Hotels in Dublin may include The Merrion and Jurys Inn.
Day at leisure in the West of Ireland, with the option of travelling by steam on an evening trip to Ballina, or travelling by road coach around the breath-taking Connemara Loop.
Day 2 Thursday 15 June Dublin
Day 7 Tuesday 20 June Westport to Belfast via Dublin
Passengers can join an optional day trip by steam along the coast to Wexford or Rosslare, or enjoy excursions in Dublin such as a visit to the Guinness Storehouse.
Day 3 Friday 16 June Dublin to Killarney Travel by steam from Dublin to Killarney. Hotels in Killarney are likely to include the Aghadoe Heights, The Lake Hotel and the Malton.
Day 8 Wednesday 21 June Dublin or Belfast
Day at leisure in Ireland’s lake district, with the option of a steam trip to Tralee or a coach tour around the Ring of Kerry.
Morning at leisure in Belfast, with the option of visiting the Titanic exhibition or the Giant’s Causeway before returning by steam to Dublin. Passengers who have opted to spend the night in Dublin will have a choice of optional excursions including a visit to the famous Trinity College.
Day 5 Sunday 18 June Killarney to Westport via Portarlington
Day 9 Thursday 22 June Journey Home
Day 4 Saturday 17 June Killarney
EMERALD ISLE EXPLORER 2017
We set off by steam from Westport to Dublin, where there will be a short break before we continue northwards by steam to Belfast. Passengers have the choice of spending two nights in Dublin or one night in Belfast and one night in Dublin.There is a supplement for the Belfast option due to the extra steam mileage. Hotels in Belfast are likely to include The Merchant House.
We set off from Killarney to Portarlington, where we continue our journey across country to Westport. Hotels in West Ireland are likely to include The Lodge at Ashford Castle. Pullman Style Dining passengers wishing to stay in the main building at Ashford Castle can do so at a supplement.
Passengers not wishing to fly will be taken by ferry and train back to London. Flights will be available to a limited number of airports in the South East.
Dublin
Giant’s Causeway
What’s included? • 8 night’s hotel accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis • Pullman Style and Premier Dining passengers will receive dinner every day either in the hotel or on the train. • Coach transfers between the train and your hotels • Luggage courier service throughout, transporting all luggage directly to and from your hotel rooms. • A team of helpful staff on board the train and at your hotel to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable journey with us. • Flying to and from Ireland can be organised at cost.
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www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Portrush Main Route
Coleraine
Londonderry
Optional Tours
Antrim
Bangor
Belfast
Lisburn
Sligo
Ballina
Enniskillen
Newry Dundalk
Castlebar
Westport
Portadown
EMERALD ISLE EXPLORER 2017
Connemara Lake
Claremorris
Ashford Castle
Athlone
Galway
Dublin
Portarlington
Newbridge Athy
Templemore
Ennis
Limerick
Wicklow
Kilkenny
Limerick Junction
Tralee
Charleville Mallow
Farranfore
Waterford
Wexford Rosslare Europort
Killarney Cork
City Hall, Belfast
Class of travel
Fares
Table for 2
Party of 4 special offer price (double/twin rooms only)
Single Supplement
Dublin Rosslare
Westport Ballina
Belfast Option
Pullman Style Dining
£2,995
£1,000
£9,999
£1,000
£199
£199
£199
Premier Dining
£2,395
-
£7,999
£750
£149
£149
£149
£75
£75
Non Dining
£1,795 £6,499 £300 £75 25% non-refundable deposit to be taken at time of booking. Final balance due 17 February 2017
Booking Office 01483 209888
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THE EMERALD MANX EXPLORER Wednesday 14 – Thursday 22 June 2017 A rare opportunity to discover some of the gems in the Islands surrounding the British Isles on this unique two holidays in one tour. Starting with 3 nights in Douglas, Isle of Man, passengers will have the opportunity to experience the diverse culture and fascinating heritage of this sea-bound kingdom. Indulge your love for trains at one of the islands heritage railways or electric networks, get an excellent view of England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland all at once from the Summit of Snaefell, or go seal and shark spotting at Peel Castle.
THE EMERALD MANX EXPLORER 2017
We then fly to Ireland’s capital, Dublin for an afternoon to see plenty of the city’s sights and to spend the night. We then head across Ireland by steam for a visit to the North West town of Westport, set on the Atlantic Coast and surrounded by stunning scenery – not least the 13th Century Ashford Castle, named ‘the best hotel in the world’, where Pullman Style Dining passengers will be staying.
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The tour finishes with a trip to Belfast and an opportunity to visit the North Coast of Antrim or the Giant’s Causeway. Passengers who would like to see more of the Irish Republic have the option of a further night in Dublin instead.
3 nights in Douglas, Isle of Man • 1 night in Dublin • 2 nights in Westport • 1 night in Belfast and 1 night in Dublin (or 2 nights in Dublin)
Castletown, Isle of Man
www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Day 1 Wednesday 14 June London to the Isle of Man
Day 6 Monday 19 June
Passengers have the choice of either flying to Douglas from a limited choice of airports in the South East, or joining a modern train service to Liverpool for the short three hours ferry crossing. Hotels in Douglas are likely to include The Sefton and The Palace Hotel.
Day 2 Thursday 15 June Douglas Enjoy a day out on the Isle of Man Steam Railway, the longest narrow gauge steam line in Britain that still uses its original locomotives and carriages. Passengers will also get a chance to visit Castle Rushen in the ancient capital, Castletown.
Westport Day at leisure in the West of Ireland, with the option of travelling by steam on a day trip to Ballina, or travelling by road coach around the breath-taking Connemara Loop.
Day 7 Tuesday 20 June Westport to Belfast via Dublin We set off by steam from Westport to Dublin, where there will be a short break before we continue northwards by steam to Belfast. Passengers have the choice of spending two nights in Dublin or one night in Belfast and one night in Dublin. There is a supplement for the Belfast option due to the extra steam mileage.
Day 3 Friday 16 June
Day 8 Wednesday 21 June
Douglas
Dublin or Belfast
There will be optional trips on The Manx Electric Railway, to the Great Laxey Water Wheel and the Snaefell Mountain Railway.
Day 4 Saturday 17 June
Day 9 Thursday 22 June
Travel by air from Douglas to Dublin.
Journey Home
Day 5 Sunday 18 June Dublin to Westport Passengers will join the Emerald Isle Explorer for a steam journey across country to Westport.
Passengers not wishing to fly will be taken by ferry and train back to Euston. Flights will be available to a limited number of airports in the South East.
461 near Dublin
THE EMERALD MANX EXPLORER 2017
Douglas to Dublin
Morning at leisure in Belfast, with the option of visiting the Titanic exhibition or the Giant’s Causeway before returning by steam to Dublin. Passengers who have opted to spend the night in Dublin will have a choice of optional excursions including a visit to the famous Guinness Storehouse.
Isle of Man Steam Railway © Ian Cawthorne
If you would like further details or wish to be placed on our interest list for this tour, please call the Booking Office on 01483 209888. No commitment is necessary and no deposit will be taken at this stage. Guide Prices Class of travel
Fares
Party of 4 special offer price (double/twin rooms only)
Single Supplement
Westport Ballina
Belfast Option
Pullman Style Dining
£2,995
£9,999
£1,000
£199
£199
Premier Dining
£2,395
£7,999
£750
£149
£149
£75
£75
Non Dining
£1,795 £6499 £300 25% non-refundable deposit to be taken at time of booking. Final balance due 17 February 2017
Booking Office 01483 209888
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THE DEVON BELLE Thursday 6 – Sunday 9 July 2017 50th Anniversary of the end of Southern Steam
THE DEVON BELLE 2017
An opportunity to enjoy a 3 night mid-summer break in the beautiful South Devon resorts of Dartmouth and Torbay, the Devon Belle also celebrates 50 years since the end of British Rail steam in the South of England.
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www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Day 1 Thursday 6 July London to Kingswear via Salisbury & Exeter From London we take the route of the original Devon Belle on the old London and South Western Main Line through the suburbs, past Woking and Basingstoke and into the beautiful rolling countryside of Southern England for a short stop in Salisbury. As we head further west into Hardy Country the scenery becomes even more tranquil and redolent of a different age. We race past lovely old towns such as Sherborne and Crewkerne before climbing up the famous Honiton bank, hopefully hauled by a Merchant Navy class locomotive, such as 35018 British India Line, before descending down onto the Cathedral City of Exeter. Exeter sees a change of steam locomotive before we head along one of the world’s most scenic stretches of coastal railway – Brunel’s South Devon Railway – which takes us along the River Exe to Dawlish Warren, runs beneath the sea cliffs to Teignmouth, and then follows the River
Teign inland. We climb above the resorts of Torquay and Paignton that make up the Torbay seaside before joining the Dartmouth steam railway line and climbing once again high up onto the top of the cliffs and then descending into the Dart Valley at Kingswear.
Day 2 Friday 7 July Day at Leisure in the English Riviera The train will be at rest, and you have a chance to explore Devon and discover some of the area’s best attractions. You can choose to explore the area independently, or join one of our optional excursions. Optional Excursions are likely to include visits to Greenway House, ‘the loveliest place in the world’, Torre Abbey House, the South Devon Railway, a guided walk of Dartmoor or boat trips from Torbay.
THE DEVON BELLE 2017
Booking Office 01483 209888
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Day 3 Saturday 8 July Optional Steam Trip to Penzance The Cathedrals Express will likely be in the hands of 8F 48151 for most of the day first of all from Kingswear to Newton Abbot, and then from there all the way up over the edge of Dartmoor across Brunel’s famous Tamar Bridge into Cornwall and along the beautiful Great Western route to Penzance. Passengers will have the option to visit many of the lovely tourist attractions of Cornwall such as St. Michael’s Mount and the pretty harbour side. On the way back, we head diesel hauled to St Blazey before our steam locomotive takes over again for the run home.
THE DEVON BELLE 2017
Day 4 Sunday 9 July Kingswear to London via Weymouth
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Steam aficionados will recognise the significance of the date as our return of the Devon Belle to the South East will be also marking 50 years to the day since the last steam ran from Weymouth to Waterloo, on 9 July 1967, and our trip will conclude by repeating this momentous day. Setting out from Kingswear, we follow our footsteps as far as Exeter then carry on up the Great Western Main Line to Castle Cary. Here it is hoped that the 8F will join us to take the train through the heart of Somerset and Dorset to the seaside town of Weymouth, for a short break by the seaside. Finally, as the afternoon draws to a close, we hope to be rejoined by a Merchant Navy class locomotive, while the 8F remains on the back to assist with the climb to the county town of Dorchester, replicating the last main line steam train into London with sister locomotive Merchant Navy Class 35030 Elder Dempster Lines.
Greenway House
Kingswear
www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Hotels You can choose to book your hotels in The English Riviera independently or to book them with Steam Dreams. If you book your hotels with Steam Dreams, you will be escorted to and from your hotels and the railway station, as well as any excursions, and the accommodation is booked on a bed and breakfast basis. Your hotel accommodation is allocated by class of travel. The hotels listed below are intended to give an idea of the type of accommodation which would be booked for you.
Dart Marina Hotel & Spa, Dartmouth Pullman Style Dining passengers will have the choice to stay in one of the 20 rooms in this luxury hotel overlooking the waterfront. It is a 2-minute walk from the Kingswear ferry terminal and a 9-minute walk from the main street. Chic, polished rooms have river views, some with balconies and there’s an upscale restaurant on-site, as well as a spa with indoor exercise pool, steam room and fitness room.
THE DEVON BELLE 2017
Royal Dartmouth Hotel, Dartmouth This award winning 17th century hotel is at the very heart of Dartmouth. Located in the very centre of town, an iconic and unmissable building, The Royal Castle Hotel is perfectly placed to enjoy everything that South Devon has to offer.
The Imperial Park Hotel,Torquay This magnificent 19th Century Victorian four-star hotel commands a clifftop position, overlooking the bay and the beautiful Devon coast. Built in the town’s Victorian heyday, The Imperial Hotel, Torquay, is a reminder of why this part of Devon became known as the English Riviera. The hotel offers wonderful sea views, plus a host of leisure facilities, making it the perfect setting for a traditional seaside holiday with all the contemporary comforts.
Premier Inn Paignton Seafront, Paignton Located right on the beach, the Premier Inn Hotel Paignton Seafront is a great base for weekend away. After a day of adventure, relax in the restaurant, spacious rooms and comfortable beds.
Fares with hotels Class of travel
Fares without hotels per person
Single supplement
Table for 2 supplement Optional trip to Penzance
Pullman Style Dining
£749
£1249
£295
£150
£249
Premier Dining
£629
£929
£170
£100
£209
First Class
£499
£799
£170
-
£159
Premium Standard
£349
£599
£125
-
£109
25% non-refundable deposit to be taken at time of booking. Final balance due 6 April 2017
Booking Office 01483 209888
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THE MOORS AND DALES EXPRESS Friday 15 – Monday 18 September 2017 Journey by steam to the North of England, where you will be taken on some of the UK’s finest heritage railways, and will spend 3 nights exploring Yorkshire’s stunning countryside and vibrant historic cities. We plan to take the unusual route from London Victoria on to the Midland main line across the famous Harringworth Viaduct in Rutland and then on to a short break in York in the early afternoon.
THE MOORS & DALES EXPRESS 2017
From York we set out on a journey that will give us a succession of views of the Dales and Moors of Northern England. Continuing on the East Coast Main Line to Darlington, where our train will divide.
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You have the option of either spending 3 nights in the Yorkshire Dales, or in Whitby near the Yorkshire Moors.
www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Dales Option Day 1 Friday 15 September London to Redmire Your section of the train will head off with a diesel locomotive to the 20-mile Wensleydale Railway, where steam joins once again to take you to the end of the line at Redmire, the edge of the Dales National Park.
Day 2 Saturday 16 September Day at leisure in the Dales Excursions in North Yorkshire will include trips to the waterfalls and houses of the Dales.
Day 3 Sunday 17 September Optional Daytrip on Weardale Railway Today we take a nostalgic journey on the Weardale Railway along the line to Stanhope.
Day 4 Monday 18 September The Yorkshire Dales to London
Booking Office 01483 209888
THE MOORS & DALES EXPRESS 2017
After breakfast, we head south towards Lincoln by steam. At Lincoln, there will be a short break before our train whisks us back to London Victoria by early evening.
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Whitby - Yorkshire Moors Option Day 1 Friday 15 September London to Whitby Your section of the train will climb up to the unique little station on the edge of the Moors at Battersby where it is hoped you will be hauled by one of the locomotives from the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. You then carry on to the beautiful coastal town of Whitby. Whitby is one of those historic British seaside resorts that has lost none of its glamour, and is a treasure trove of beautiful buildings and lovely places to stay.
THE MOORS & DALES EXPRESS 2017
Day 2 Saturday 16 September Optional trip Today we take a nostalgic journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway along the line to Pickering. We board our heritage steam-hauled train in Whitby and make the wonderful journey through the stunning North York Moors National Park. Our route takes us through Goathland, a charming place perhaps best known as ‘Aidensfield’ in TV’s Heartbeat. We pass over undulating moorland and through the winding Esk Valley on this beautiful heritage line.
Day 3 Sunday 17 September Day at leisure in North Yorkshire Today we take a day to explore North Yorkshire.
Day 4 Monday 18 September Scarborough to London After breakfast, we head south towards Lincoln by steam. At Lincoln, there will be a short break before our train whisks us back to London Victoria by early evening.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Whitby
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www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Hotels
Hotels in Whitby
Choose to book your hotels independently or with Steam Dreams. If you book your hotel with Steam Dreams, you will be escorted to and from your hotel and the railway station, as well as any excursions. Your hotel accommodation is booked on a bed and breakfast basis and allocated by class of travel. The hotels listed below are intended to give an idea of the type of accommodation which would be booked for you.
Raithwaite Hall, Whitby
Swinton Park Hotel, Masham
The Coniston Hotel Country Estate, Skipton This elegant countryside estate spread across 1,400 acres is 7 miles from Skipton Castle and 13 miles from Bolton Abbey. The estate comprises the magnificent Coniston Hall, The Coniston Hotel, Coniston Shooting Ground, Falconry Centre and much more.
Bay Royal Hotel, Whitby The Royal Hotel is an elegant building, set in an ideal cliff-top position with exceptional views of the sea.
Bagdale Hall, Whitby
Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, Skipton Located on the Duke of Devonshire’s Bolton Abbey Estate, covering over 30,000 acres of stunning beauty set within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Every last detail has been designed to ensure your stay with them exceeds every expectation.
Bagdale Hall is situated in the heart of Whitby. This atmospheric Tudor Manor House, which was built in 1516, offers guests the opportunity to relax in a historic house with a long and fascinating history whilst enjoying a high level of service and comfort.
Fares with hotels - Whitby
Fares with hotels - Dales
£749
per person £1249
Single Supplement £225
per person £1249
Table for 2 Single Supplement Supplement £350 £125
Premier Dining
£629
£929
£160
£929
£200
£100
Non Dining
£499
£799
£160
£799
£200
-
Premium Standard
£349
£599
£50
£599
£125
-
Class of travel
Fares without hotels
Pullman Style Dining
THE MOORS & DALES EXPRESS 2017
A luxury castle hotel with fine dining, cookery school, spa and extensive grounds. Owned by the Cunliffe-Lister family since the 1880s and the ancestral seat of the Earl of Swinton, guests enjoy an authentic stately home experience. Rooms are furnished with antiques and family portraits, with the warmth and grandeur of a traditional English house.
Pullman Style Dining passengers will have the choice to stay in one of the 28 woodland- facing rooms in The Keep, a private building in the beautiful gardens of this plush country house hotel. It is just 2.3 miles from Whitby Museum and 4 miles from Whitby Abbey.
10% non-refundable deposit to be taken at time of booking with a further 15% of the total amount to be paid by 15 Sept 2016. Final balance due 15 June 2017
Booking Office 01483 209888
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HARZ MOUNTAIN EXPLORER April 2018 Steam Dreams is planning to run its first nine day trip across Western Europe with a 3 night stay in the Harz Mountains in April 2018, when spring is at its height but the mountain tops are still cloaked in snow. For many the highlight will be a steam hauled trip to the summit of Mount Brocken for a private dinner in the fabulous mountain top restaurant. However, this trip is about much more than just the Harz Mountains and their famous steam railway network, and will include stays in some of Germany’s most historic cities Cologne and Dresden. Our trip finishes in the lovely Czech capital of Prague reached with a steam hauled journey along the banks of the River Elbe.
HARZ MOUNTAIN EXPLORER 2018
1 night in Cologne • 3 nights in Harz Mountain National Park 2 nights in Dresden • 2 nights in Prague
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Harz Mountain Express © Gerry Balding
www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
Day 1 London to Cologne
Day 6 Day at leisure at Dresden
The wonders of modern high speed trains will no doubt be the favoured option for many as we set out from London by Eurostar, and after a quick change in Brussels to a high speed German ICE train we will arrive in the lovely Cathedral City of Cologne in less than 5 hours from London. Arrangements will also be made for passengers who wish to fly direct to Cologne.
Day 2 C ologne to The Harz Mountains Mid-morning we will set out from Cologne and while plans are at an early stage it is hoped that most of the tour will be steam hauled on the German national network. We head across Germany to the Harz Mountains and passengers will be taken by coach to some of the loveliest hotels in the National Park for the next 3 nights.
Days 3 and 4 Exploring the Harz Mountains
However, if you’d rather explore the many cultural interests of the region, the national park has plenty to offer. Among the many places to visit is the fascinating and unspoilt medieval German town of Quedlinburg. With over 1,300 pre- 16thcentury buildings, it gives off a fairytale atmosphere so associated with this region.
Day 4 Brocken Mountain Day 4 culminates with the Brocken Mountain Dinner Express where all passengers will be invited to join us for dinner on the highest point for many hundreds of miles around at the top of the Brocken Mountain.
Day 5 Wernigerode to Dresden We head east, steam hauled, to the fascinating city of Dresden in pretty Saxony. It is probably a name that conjures some grainy images of British bombers in World War Two, but the modern Dresden is a an inspiring place of rebirth, hope and reconciliation.
Passengers will have the opportunity to make the most of the sights of Dresden which will provide some of the most amazing memories of their time in Germany, including plans to visit Dresden’s ‘Commuter Railways’ that are still steam hauled.
Day 7 Dresden to Prague by steam Today we make our last journey by steam of the holiday, along the banks of the River Elbe from Dresden to Prague, past the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and the Saxon Switzerland National Park. Dining passengers will be treated to a leisurely lunch on board before we arrive mid-afternoon in the Czech capital, giving all passengers plenty of time to explore some of the beautiful sights of this remarkable city.
Day 8 Day at leisure in Prague Prague is now one of the great cities of Europe where there truly is a visual delight around every corner. The Baroque architecture and cobbled lanes of Old Town are a must see, as is St Vitus Cathedral. Take a stroll over scenic Charles Bridge and visit Prague Castle within whose walls lies a varied and fascinating collection of historic buildings, museums and galleries. Not forgetting Wenceslas Square where the fall of communism was announced in 1989, but which is now a bustling broad boulevard.
Day 9 Journey Home Passengers will have the option of flying directly back from Prague or again being escorted by fast service trains to London St Pancras.
HARZ MOUNTAIN EXPLORER 2018
During these 2 days there will be plenty of time for passengers to explore this picturesque part of old East Germany. Locked away behind the Iron Curtain until 1989, the Harz Mountains turned out to be a treasure trove, and particularly so for those who love steam. There is a network of over 140 kilometres of narrow gauge steam railway that winds through the rich green forests, and rugged rocky outcrops.
Dresden has a long history as the capital and royal residence for the Electors and Kings of Saxony, who for centuries furnished the city with cultural and artistic splendour. The city was known as the Jewel Box, because of its baroque and rococo city centre. Restoration work has helped to reconstruct much of the historic inner city, including the Katholische Hofkirche, the Semper Oper and the Dresdner Frauenkirche, with its distinctive grand dome.
If you would like further details or wish to be placed on our interest list for this tour, please call the Booking Office on 01483 209888. No commitment is necessary and no deposit will be taken at this stage. Class of travel
Guide prices
Pullman Style Dining
£2,995
Premier Dining
£2,395
Non Dining
£1,795
Prague
Booking Office 01483 209888
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FESTIVE JOURNEYS WITH THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS This winter, discover the magic of a Christmas steam train journey. Watch the frosty landscape pass by whilst enjoying a glass of hot mulled wine and a mince pie in a beautifully decorated vintage carriage. With a wonderful choice of some of the UK’s favourite Christmas Markets, Cathedral Cities and shopping destinations including Salisbury, Lincoln, Winchester and Minehead, you can explore a new city or visit one of your favourites. TUESDAY 29 NOVEMBER LONDON VICTORIA TO SALISBURY VIA THE SURREY HILLS Calling at East Croydon, Redhill, Reigate, Shalford, Guildford & Wokingham
WEDNESDAY 14 DECEMBER ASHFORD TO WINCHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET Calling at Charing, Maidstone East, Borough Green & Wrotham & Bromley South
THURSDAY 1 DECEMBER LONDON TO LINCOLN CHRISTMAS MARKET Calling at Hertford North, Stevenage & Huntingdon
CHRISTMAS 2016
SATURDAY 3 DECEMBER SOUTHEND EAST TO WINCHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET Calling at Upminster & West Hampstead
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TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER HORSHAM TO ELY CHRISTMAS CAROLS Calling at Dorking, Leatherhead, Cheam & Kensington Olympia
SATURDAY 17 DECEMBER LONDON PADDINGTON TO DUNSTER & MINEHEAD Calling at Maidenhead, Twyford, Reading & Newbury
SATURDAY 10 DECEMBER LONDON TO BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET Calling at Slough & Reading
THURSDAY 22 DECEMBER WHITE CLIFFS CHRISTMAS CIRCULAR Calling at London Victoria & Bromley South
www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk
TERMS & CONDITIONS non-transferable. Other payment methods including paying by cash or cheque* are still be available for telephone bookings only and remain free of charge, although cleared funds must be received at least 14 days prior to travel. Cash payments may be made by arrangement with the Booking Office or on-train staff. *We are unable to accept payment by cheques less than 21 days prior to departure. This is to allow for postage and time to process the payment. Gift Vouchers, Credit Notes & Discounts All third party gift vouchers, Steam Dreams gift vouchers, credit notes or discounts must be redeemed through the Booking Office by telephone and cannot be used for online bookings. In the event of a train being cancelled or you cancelling your booking, vouchers are non-refundable as a cash payment, however vouchers can be transferred for use against another Steam Dreams trip. In the event of a customer cancellation, the cancellation/transfer conditions stated below will apply. Third party vouchers may only be redeemed on particular trips, as specified by Steam Dreams. If you choose to cancel a booking made with a third party voucher within 7 days of departure, the third party voucher is non-transferrable. Discounts may only be used against bookings made after the date of issue and cannot be retrospectively added to any previous bookings. Deposits All deposits are non-transferrable or refundable, even if subsequent payment has been made for the full balance. Customer Cancellation for day trips Should the customer choose to cancel their booked trip for whatever reason, the greater of the following charges will apply: • Up to 2 months before travel - 15% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 2 months and 1 month before travel - 25% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 1 month and 14 days before travel - 50% fee • Within 14 days of travel - 100% fee. Customer Transfers for day trips Should the customer choose to transfer from one booked trip to another for whatever reason, the greater of the following charges will apply: • Up to 2 months before travel - 10% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 2 months and 1 month before travel- 20% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 1 month and 14 days before travel - 30% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 14 days and 48 hours of travel - 50% fee • Within 48 hours of travel - 75% fee • On or after the day of travel - bookings are non-transferable. Outstanding balances should be paid in full two months before departure to ensure your booking is not cancelled. Terms & Conditions for Short Breaks (2-4 Days) Customer Cancellation Should the customer choose to cancel their booked short break for whatever reason, the greater of the following charges will apply: • Up to 4 months before travel - 10% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 4 months and 3 months before travel - 15% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 3 months and 2 months travel - 40% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 2 months and 1 month before travel - 75% fee. • Within 1 month before travel - 100% fee. All hotel payments are non-refundable within 3 months before the date of travel. Customer Transfers Should the customer choose to transfer from one booked short break to another trip for whatever reason, the greater of the following charges will apply: • Up to 3 months before travel - 10% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 3 months and 2 months before travel - 30% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 2 months and 1 month before travel - 50% fee • Between 1 month and 14 days before travel - 75% fee • Within 14 days of travel - 100% fee All hotel payments are non-transferable within 3 months before the date of travel. Outstanding balances should be paid in full 3 months before departure to ensure your booking is not cancelled. Terms & Conditions for Holidays (8-9 days) Customer Cancellation Should the customer choose to cancel their booked trip on The Cathedrals Explorer for whatever reason, the greater of the following charges will apply: • Up to 4 months before travel - 10% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 4 months and 3 months before travel - 25% fee (or loss of deposit) • Between 3 months and 2 months before travel - 50% fee • Between 2 months and 1 month before travel - 75% fee • Within 1 month of the departure date - 100% fee Outstanding balances should be paid in full 4 months before the departure date to ensure your booking is not cancelled. During your time with us, please bring any problems you may experience to the attention of the management so that we may try to rectify them swiftly.
Bryherley Ltd trading as Steam Dreams, operators of The Cathedrals Express. Registered in England. Registered No. 4036827
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
General Conditions Steam Dreams will use its best efforts to ensure that the proposed locomotives, coaching stock, route and times run as advertised but we reserve the right to amend or cancel any part of the tour at any time. Steam Dreams cannot accept any responsibility for the action of third parties and strongly recommends that all passengers take out travel/cancellation insurance. Charges do apply should passengers need to cancel or postpone their trip for whatever reason, whether their plans change due to ill-health, travel issues or weather conditions. To avoid disappointment or unnecessary expense, passengers are advised not to pre-book transport links or accommodation, unless the costs associated with cancelling these arrangements are covered by the passengers own insurance, as Steam Dreams cannot be held liable for additional costs incurred in passengers travel plans. Timings, routes and locomotives are subject to change as Steam Dreams is dependent on third parties and these are not within their control. Timings displayed in Steam Dreams brochures and on the Steam Dreams website are approximate and subject to change. Timings and platform numbers are confirmed by Network Rail normally 5-7 days before travel and once details are confirmed tickets will be issued with the final timings and platform numbers. Steam Dreams will use its best endeavours to ensure the boarding/alighting stations listed in their brochure and website are those which are used on the day. However, due to operational reasons, occasionally Network Rail’s final timings do not include one of the boarding stations we have requested. In these circumstances, Steam Dreams will take responsibility for ensuring that passengers are able to join the train at the nearest available boarding station at no additional cost (usually by service train). Booking your trip Passengers may book by telephone or on our website. Passengers booking by telephone will receive a booking confirmation by email the same day. Passengers booking online will, subject to availability, receive a booking confirmation by email within 48 hours of booking. Booking confirmations/invoices are not sent by post unless requested. Steam Dreams does not allow passengers to make provisional bookings. Timings and platform numbers are confirmed by Network Rail normally 5-7 days before travel and once details are confirmed tickets will be issued with the final timings and platform numbers. If information is not received from Network Rail by 5-7 days before departure, tickets may be issued closer to the departure date. Passengers are advised to call the Booking Office if no tickets have been received 1-2 working days prior to departure. Please note that, when an email address has been provided, tickets for all day trips are sent out by email unless requested to be sent out by post. Steam Availability Steam Dreams will use its best efforts to provide steam traction on trips rostered for steam haulage, for the sector(s) advertised as such, but this cannot be guaranteed. On occasion a diesel locomotive may be substituted, mainly due to fire risk, drought, route restrictions or locomotive failure. All steam locomotives are subject to a Fitness to Run (FTR) exam 24 hours prior to running on the main line, which means it is sometimes necessary for a substitute to be made at the last minute. On some tours it may be necessary for a part of the journey to be diesel hauled, normally at the request of Network Rail, the train operating company or the locomotive owner. Where possible we will try to make this clear at the time of booking but it may be necessary for changes to be made at a later stage for operational reasons. If for reasons beyond our control a trip has no steam traction a partial refund of £15 in Premium Standard, £20 in First Class, £25 in Premier Dining and £30 in Pullman Style Dining may be offered. Alternatively we may offer a credit note for treble this amount to be used against a future trip. The nature of the compensation must be agreed on the date of the trip, otherwise the credit note will be issued. Passengers who have booked using a Steam Dreams or third party voucher will be issued with a credit note for the amounts stated above. Diesel Assistance Occasionally, on steam hauled trips, a diesel engine may be attached to the train for operational reasons or due to adverse weather. Steam Dreams will not offer a discount or compensation in this instance. Traveller Health Conditions To get the most out of our trips, passengers must be able to board the train and walk through the carriage(s) to their allocated seat unassisted. Passengers must make Steam Dreams staff aware of any mobility assistance required at least a week prior to the date of the tour. Mobility assistance includes the use of wheelchairs, walking frames and walking sticks. Wheelchairs, walking frames and mobility scooters must be of the fold-up variety and will be issued with an identity tag before being stored in the guards van and cannot be used on board the train. If in doubt, please contact the Booking Office for advice. Dining on board Please check the individual day trip itinerary and the ‘Your Route’ section to see what meals are included on each trip. Steam Dreams will endeavour to ensure delivery of the dining service to Pullman Style and Premier Dining Passengers as listed in our publicity material. On-board meal service is dependent on train timings (issued to Steam Dreams by third parties), provision of utilities and access to re-stock, and therefore on very rare occasions may be subject to revisions from what has been advertised. Steam Dreams will endeavour to cater for allergies or severe dislikes of some foods, but cannot guarantee that all our food will be totally free of specific allergens (such as nut, garlic or gluten) as it is prepared in kitchens where traces of allergens may be found. Payment Bookings may be paid for by debit or credit cards. Debit card payments do not incur extra charges, but a transaction fee is charged for credit card payments; 2% for Mastercard and Visa card payments, and 2.6% for American Express card payments. This covers the costs incurred by Steam Dreams for providing this service. In the event of a customer cancellation, this charge is non-refundable and
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Steam Dreams, PO Box 169, Albury, Guildford, Surrey GU5 9YS Booking Office: 01483 209888 www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk Email info@steamdreams.co.uk Follow us on Facebook
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