UK Rail Holidays 2024

The Railway Touring Company

Welcome

Dear Customer,

A very warm welcome to our 2024 UK Holiday Brochure.

It is our pleasure to share our new and exciting programme of UK holidays with you. With updated itineraries, we bring you the best this splendid country has to offer. We pride ourselves on the fact the variety and quality of our itineraries means we are able to offer something to suit all tastes.

Our varied holidays span the entirety of the United Kingdom, offering you the choice of holidays in England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Isle of Man, Shetland and Orkney. Using a wide variety of train travel we combine ample leisure time with beautiful landscapes and historic monuments which will both intrigue and delight you.

We are confident that our amazing breaks will fulfil all your holiday needs.

With 27 years’ experience delivering high-quality holidays, we are confident that we can give you an experience to remember for many years to come, providing precious memories that will last a lifetime.

We are members of the Travel Trust Association and ATOL so you can rest assured that by booking with us you will have financial protection.

Settle back and take a look inside to begin planning your 2024 getaway. A world of wonder awaits, and my team and I are here to help and assist you every step of the way.

I look forward to welcoming new and old customers in 2024.

Kelly Osborne Managing Director The Railway Touring Company

Front cover image: Visit Scotland EST. 1997

THE RAILWAY TOURING COMPANY, THE OLD STABLES, ESTUARY ROAD, KING’S LYNN, NORFOLK, PE30 2HL Phone: 01553 661 500 • Fax: 01553 661 800 • E-mail: enquiries@railwaytouring.co.uk • Website: www.railwaytouring.net Visit our website, railwaytouring.net for online booking or to download printable booking forms. Tours The Great Britain XVI 4 – 7 The Western Isles 8 – 9 The Shetlander 10 – 11 The Cock O’the North 12 – 13 The Summer Highlander 14 – 15 The Shetlander 16 – 17 English Lake District 18 – 19 Arran and Kintyre 20 – 21 The Western Isles 22 – 23 The Far North and Orkney 24 – 25 The Isle of Man Adventure 26 – 27 Heart of Scotland 28 – 29 The Cock O’the North 30 – 31 Snowdonia and the Northern Fells 32 – 33 UK Tours Information Booking Information 62 – 66 The Far North and Orkney 34 – 35 The Emerald Explorer 36 – 37 The Far North and Orkney 38 – 39 Heart of Scotland 40 – 41 The Far North and Orkney 42 – 43 The West Country Explorer 44 – 45 The Cock O’the North 46 – 47 The Emerald Explorer 48 – 49 The East Anglian 50 – 51 The Summer Highlander 52 – 53 The Shetlander 54 – 55 English Lake District 56 – 57 The Isle of Man Adventure 58 – 59 Meet the Team – Online Brochures 60 – 61 Reservation Form 67

UK Rail Holidays 2024

The Great Britain XVI

Saturday 13th April to Sunday 21st April 2024

Discover all that British culture and countryside can offer on this spectacular nine-day tour of Great Britain. As you journey steam-hauled across the country, enjoy delicious food as you watch the scenery go by from the comfort of your Premier or First-Class coach. With overnight stays in quality hotels to enjoy, steep gradients to negotiate, coastal views and inland panoramas to discover, this tour is sure to appeal to seasoned travellers and steam newcomers alike.

• From London Victoria you travel cross-country to Worcester via Kent, with an overnight stay in the Lake District before continuing North along the western coast to Carlisle, crossing the border at Gretna en route to Glasgow.

• In Scotland your steam locomotive tackles famous inclines at Druimuachdar and Slochd on the way to a two day stay at Inverness, with an optional trip steam-hauled from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, over the Caledonian Canal.

• Leaving Scotland, you head south to Liverpool via Berwick-on-Tweed and the Tyne Bridge at Newcastle to the West Coast Main Line. Past Penrith you climb to Shap Summit, then head into scenic Wales on the Central Wales railway, a true crosscountry line en route to Swansea.

• The final leg of your grand tour takes you to Cardiff, then across the border and along the Severn Estuary, and over the Golden Valley line to Swindon. The long climb to Sapperton Tunnel is a last highlight to savour before a main-line workout through Maidenhead and Slough back to London.

Saturday

13th April

Victoria to Worcester via Kent and Oxford

London

Your grand Great Britain tour begins early today at London Victoria station. Steamhauled through the South London suburbs towards Dartford and Gravesend, you cross the river Medway and pass the imposing castle and cathedral at Rochester. After Chatham, famous for its historic Dockyards, you head for Faversham, the oldest market town in Kent. Along the north Kent coast you pass Whitstable, famous for its oysters, and the popular seaside resorts of Herne Bay, Margate and Ramsgate. Cutting across the Isle of Thanet you head south along the coast through Sandwich and

Deal towards Dover, famous for its lofty castle overlooking the English Channel. From Dover, you follow the chalk cliffs route through to Folkestone and Ashford, meeting up with the busy Channel Tunnel Eurostar lines. Your train turns back towards the London area via Maidstone East and Swanley before passing through Clapham Junction to reach Kensington Olympia. You now follow the Great Western Railway’s main line through Reading and Oxford before joining the attractive rural Cotswold line through Charlbury and Moreton-in-Marsh. On arrival at Worcester, you book into your hotel for the evening.

Sunday 14th April

Steam hauled to Lancaster via Crewe This morning, you leave Worcester and travel northwards towards Bromsgrove to face the formidable 1-in-37 gradient of the Lickey Incline. The substantial power of a steam locomotive will be demonstrated as it tackles the steepest main-line railway incline in Britain. In steam days a banking locomotive would be attached to the rear to help get the load up the gradient. Skirting the industrial and residential Birmingham suburbs, you travel through the West Midlands northwards towards Stafford to follow the West Coast Main Line through to Crewe. There will be some fast running as you fit in with other expresses along the route. A well-earned water

Bob Green Bob Green

Bob Green

stop is taken at Crewe before you continue to Preston and Lancaster, touching the edge of Morecambe bay near Carnforth. Here, you alight for the evening.

Monday 15th April Lancaster to Glasgow via the Cumbrian Coast

After a relaxing evening, you continue on the Great Britain steam-hauled around the scenic Cumbria Coast Line to Carlisle. There will be coastal running for miles as you follow the estuaries inland and along sea walls, crossing lengthy viaducts in the process. Morecambe Bay leads to the Irish Sea, where on a clear day you can see across to the Isle of Man. Once a busy industrial line serving mines and steelworks, it’s a more relaxed route these days, although you do pass the massive Sellafield Nuclear Fuels plant. You pass the pretty seaside village of St Bees on the way to Carlisle, and a scheduled stop to service the locomotive. This border city has several attractions to visit, including its busy market place, cathedral, and castle, along with many shops and pubs. From Carlisle, you cross the border at Gretna and take the former Glasgow & South Western Line along the north banks of the Solway Firth through to Dumfries. Your journey northwards passes through a wild and remote landscape of trees and agricultural lands heading for Kilmarnock. You continue towards Glasgow to spend the night in this vibrant city on the river Clyde.

Tuesday 16th April

Glasgow to Inverness over the Druimuachdar and Slochd summits

Leaving Glasgow, you head eastwards through the suburbs towards Larbert to follow the line to Stirling. On the outskirts its castle sits high on the hillside and is overlooked by the Wallace Monument. You next pass through the golfing town of Gleneagles and head for the Fair City of Perth on the river Tay. After Perth the line winds towards the Highlands travelling through Kingswood Tunnel, Inver Tunnel, Piltlochry and Killiecrankie Tunnel before reaching Blair Atholl, home of the famous castle. After Blair Atholl, you climb to Druimuachdar summit at 1484 feet above sea level, the highest main line summit in Britain. The climb from Pitlochry to the summit provides a formidable challenge to your locomotive and its crew, with the majestic power of steam fully utilised. The next section of your journey takes you through Newtonmore, Kingussie and Kincraig, before arriving in Aviemore, home to the Strathspey Railway. From Aviemore you continue through the

Highlands over Slochd Summit, 1315 feet above sea level, to your destination for the day, Inverness. You’ll spend two nights in Inverness and can either enjoy the next day at leisure or take the optional excursion by steam train to Kyle of Lochalsh.

Wednesday 17th April (Optional day) Inverness stay with optional return trip to Kyle of Lochalsh

Your optional excursion today is a return trip steam-hauled from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, with superb scenery all the way. Your first point of interest out of Inverness is the crossing of the Caledonian Canal, which has a swing bridge carrying the railway across the canal. There will be extensive views across Beauly Firth towards the Black Isle as you head westwards to Dingwall, the junction station for the Kyle of Lochalsh and Far North lines.

From Dingwall, there’s a very steep climb of five miles through to Ravens Rock as you head for Garve, with Loch Garve as a backdrop. Another steep climb follows to Corriemuillie Summit before the descent to the head of Loch Luichart. Barren moorlands populated only by sheep follow through to Achnasheen, where you’ll pause for water.

A steady climb to Luib Summit is followed by more dense forestry as you descend to Achnasellach and Strathcarron. There are views of Loch Carron all the way to Stromeferry before the line cuts inland and arrives at Kyle of Lochalsh. Once an important ferry crossing point to the Isle of Skye, today the new road bridge takes all the traffic. You will have free time to explore Kyle while your steam locomotive is serviced for the journey back to Inverness, where you’ll stay overnight in your comfortable, centrally located hotel.

Thursday 18th April

Inverness to Edinburgh. Free time in Aberdeen, the

‘Granite City’

After a night in the Capital of the Highlands, you head eastwards from Inverness and follow the coastal route overlooking the Moray Firth through Nairn and Forres. With the North Sea not very far away, the attractive town of Elgin is reached before you head inland towards Keith. Keith is the junction station for the Dufftown branch that is now a preservation line, known as the Whisky Line, due to the presence of the Dufftown Distillery. The line continues to wind across country through Insch to Inverurie, formerly the site of the Great North of Scotland Railway’s locomotive works. After Dyce, near to the airport, you reach the Granite City of

Tour Summary

Premier Class £3895

Kyle of Lochalsh* £299

Single supplement £495

First Class £3295

Kyle of Lochalsh* £199

Single supplement £475

Premier Class price includes:

• Eight nights accommodation and breakfast (when not served on the train) in 3 and 4star hotels

• 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners silver served at your seat

• At seat drinks service

• Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage

• Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels

• Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel

• Escorted throughout

First Class price includes:

• Eight nights accommodation and breakfast in 3-star hotels

• Morning and afternoon tea service

• At seat drinks service

• Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage

• Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels

• Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel

• Escorted throughout

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing. Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Class and First Class for a supplement of £185 per person (subject to availability).

Please note: *The Kyle of Lochalsh excursion tour is optional and priced per person. All routes and locomotive selections are subject to change, changes will be advised in advance.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

April 2024

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 UK TOUR – 9 Days 5

Aberdeen. There will be time to pay a visit to this fascinating town, famed for its oil industry and busy shipping port. Your route to Edinburgh now follows the North Sea coastline through to the natural harbour at Montrose. After Arbroath, famed for its culinary ‘smokies’, you head for Dundee, where the Tay Bridge crosses the Tay. Following the north bank of the Tay towards Perth, you pass through the fruitgrowing Carse of Gowrie before crossing the Tay at Perth. Your route back to Edinburgh is via Stirling and Linlithgow, arriving in Edinburgh Waverley late evening. Here you retire to your centrally located hotel for the evening.

Friday 19th April 2024

Edinburgh to Liverpool via the Upperby Curve and Shap Summit

Today you leave Edinburgh and continue your steam-hauled journey along the east coast of Scotland, south towards the border near Berwick-on-Tweed. With views of Lindisfarne and Bamburgh castles, you pass through Morpeth and cross the Tyne at Newcastle, overseeing its iconic road bridge from the lofty railway version. Your route now diverges westwards and follows the Tyne Valley line to Carlisle. This railway closely follows the sweep of Hadrian’s Wall, which the railway crosses several times. You bypass Carlisle by way of

the Upperby Curve and gain access to the West Coast Main Line. Heading south you pass through Penrith and begin the southbound climb to Shap Summit, 916 feet above sea level. You’ll descend the dramatic Shap Fells and run through the scenic Lune Gorge, with the Howgill Hills as a spectacular back drop. You’ll pass above Kendal and through Oxenholme on the edge of the Lakes to make your way to Lancaster and Preston. From Preston you head for Wigan to leave the West Coast Main Line and take the Liverpool line via St Helens. On arrival in Liverpool you transfer to your hotel to spend the evening on Merseyside.

Bob Green

Saturday 20th April 2024

Liverpool through Central Wales to Swansea

Leaving Liverpool Lime Street station, you’ll be steam-hauled away through the famous Edge Hill cutting before heading towards Runcorn and over the river Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal on Runcorn Bridge. Running along the West Coast Main Line to Crewe, you’ll stop to take on water. Next, you follow the Great Western Railway line to Shrewsbury to encounter the river Severn, which passes beneath the station here. Heading southwards, you climb up to Church Stretton and pass the Long Mynd, before descending to Craven Arms, the junction station for the Central Wales line. This mostly single-track Central Wales line is a true cross-country route serving remote towns and villages and passing through some very scenic landscapes. You cross the border between England and Wales at Knighton, with a pause for water supplies. The castellated Knucklas Viaduct is crossed on the steep climb to Llangunllo tunnel as you make your way to Llandrindod Wells. This sizeable town in Central Wales has its 19th century mineral-rich spa wells still functioning. More small rural stations follow as you make our way to the summit at the Sugar Loaf tunnel south of Llanwrtyd. It is now downhill all the way through Llandovery and Llandeilo on the way to Swansea and your final overnight stay.

Sunday 21st April 2024

Vale of Glamorgan Line via Barry to Cardiff; Severn Estuary via Swindon to London Paddington

Leaving Swansea, you follow the Great Western Main Line past the extensive Port Talbot steel works and head for Bridgend. Here you divert from the main line and follow the Vale of Glamorgan line via Barry to Cardiff. There will be spectacular views across the Bristol Channel towards Somerset to enjoy. After Cardiff you head for Newport and Chepstow, crossing the border from Wales to England at the river Wye. The run along the Severn Estuary through Lydney to Gloucester is very scenic, with a splendid view of its 14th century cathedral as we approach the city. Your train pauses to water the steam locomotive here before you leave, steamhauled, over the Golden Valley line to Swindon. A highlight of this run will be the long climb up through the valley to Sapperton Tunnel, with your locomotive in full steam against the steep gradient. Passing through Swindon, a railway town created by the presence of the Great Western Railway’s Swindon Works, you follow the GWR main line through the Vale of White Horse to Didcot, and then the Thames Valley to Reading. The final leg of your marathon steamhauled Great Britain tour is a main-line workout through Maidenhead and Slough to London Paddington.

Tour Summary

Premier Class £3895

Kyle of Lochalsh* £299

Single supplement £495

First Class £3295

Kyle of Lochalsh* £199

Single supplement £475

Premier Class price includes:

• Eight nights accommodation and breakfast (when not served on the train) in 3 and 4star hotels

• 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners silver served at your seat

• At seat drinks service

• Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage

• Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels

• Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel

• Escorted throughout

First Class price includes:

• Eight nights accommodation and breakfast in 3-star hotels

• Morning and afternoon tea service

• At seat drinks service

• Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage

• Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels

• Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel

• Escorted throughout

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing. Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Class and First Class for a supplement of £185 per person (subject to availability).

Please note: *The Kyle of Lochalsh excursion tour is optional and priced per person. All routes and locomotive selections are subject to change, changes will be advised in advance.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D

Dinner April 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 UK TOUR – 9 Days

Bob Green

The Western Isles

Monday 20th May to Tuesday 28th May 2024

Discover the scenic splendour of the mountains, glens and lochs of Northwest Scotland and the Western Isles on this unique holiday travel tour.

• Enjoy a lake cruise and excursion on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, following an overnight stay next to Loch Lomond.

• Cross remote Rannoch Moor as you head for Fort William to stay by Loch Linnhe with Britain’s highest mountain, majestic Ben Nevis, as the backdrop.

• Savour a sea ferry transfer and epic coach tour of the Isle of Skye, before you head to Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides for two nights, including a guided tour of the outstanding local sights.

• Explore the North West Highlands with a ride to Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, featuring some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular coastlines.

• Other tour highlights include a road trip to Dunrobin Castle, a falconry display, dolphin sightings and photo opportunities galore on this ultimate Scottish travel tour.

Monday 20th May

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London’s King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland, following the East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First-Class style. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue your journey along the ECML via Newcastle and Edinburgh and on to Stirling. From there a coach takes you to The Lodge on Loch Lomond for dinner and overnight accommodation. The Lodge prides itself on excellent customer service and is located in beautiful countryside on the banks of Loch

Lomond with stunning views of both the Loch and Ben Lomond. (L D)

Tuesday 21st May

Lake Cruise on Loch Lomond; north to Fort William

After a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a stroll by the Loch, a road coach takes you the short distance to Tarbet. From here a private cruise on Loch Lomond is scheduled, with a light lunch taken on board. Afterwards you rejoin the coach for the return trip to Arrochar and Tarbet Station to catch a train north to Fort William. The route passes through spectacular scenery, crossing the remote Rannoch Moor. Fort William is located in a prime position on Loch Linnhe with the majestic Ben Nevis, which at 4,406 feet is Britain’s highest mountain, as the backdrop.

Your train arrives late afternoon when you check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Wednesday 22nd May

‘The Jacobite’ and over the Sea to Skye

A major tour highlight is a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train. This unforgettable 42-mile route has been described as one of the great railway journeys of the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig through some of the most magnificent scenery that Scotland has to offer. Mountains, glens, streams, lochs and the sea combine to provide an unending collage of outstanding views. En route you cross the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete and featured in a number of films and TV series. You’ll have around two hours in

Bob Green

Mallaig to explore the village and fishing port and find lunch, before boarding the ferry for Armadale on the Isle of Skye. You then travel on the road coach, which has followed the tour with the luggage, to your hotel in Skye. (B D)

Thursday 23rd May

Coach tour of Skye; Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides

This morning you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides and the island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Your coach pauses a few times for photo opportunities as it crosses Trotternish, the northern peninsula of Skye, to Uig. Here you join a ferry for the one and half hour crossing to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. Although not an island itself, Harris is the southern and more mountainous part of Lewis and Harris. You travel through the rugged countryside to the island’s capital, Stornoway, and the hotel where you will stay and dine for the next two nights. (B D)

Friday 24th May

Guided tour of The Isle of Lewis

Today a guided coach tour of the Isle of Lewis awaits you. The Isle of Lewis is at the North west corner of the Hebrides and has a rich cultural heritage. From the neat Victorian homes lining the streets of Stornoway, to the stretching white sands of Bosta on Great Bernera in the east, where the clear Atlantic waters sound the evocative toll of the Time and Tide Bell, Lewis is an island of exciting contrasts and diverse experiences. Places of particular interest include the Butt of Lewis cliffs and lighthouse, Carloway Broch, Lewis Bridge and the Callinish Standing Stones, an impressive stone circle comparable to Stonehenge. Lunch will be taken during the tour and dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B L D)

Saturday 25th May

Free time in Stornaway; ferry to Ullapool; north to Lochinver

This morning you’ll have some free time to explore Stornoway and a choice of visiting Lews Castle and grounds, the impressive war memorial, or the harbour area. Observance of the Christian Sabbath, Sunday, had long been a unique aspect of the island’s culture and until July 2009 there were no Sunday ferry services

to or from Stornoway. You’ll then take a ferry across ‘The Minch’, maybe sighting dolphins en route, and return to the mainland at Ullapool. The road coach from Ullapool then goes north to Lochinver, a pleasant village with a beautiful harbour and a magnificent mountain backdrop. You’ll stay at the welcoming Inverlodge Hotel, set on a hillside overlooking the bay, for the next two nights. All rooms present amazing views and deer often appear on the lawns outside. (B D)

Sunday 26th May

By road to the North West Scottish Highlands

There’s a day trip by road coach today, to discover the remote and impressive landscape of the North West Highlands. You pass through magnificent mountain scenery with striking lochs and glens, and maybe catch a glimpse of some rare wildlife. You begin to notice the wild sea as you travel near to the coast at Scourie. Your destination is Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, an area of unspoilt beaches backed by cliffs. The surrounding coastline is some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular, where sea birds, seals, porpoises and minke whales may be seen. You stop in the village and take time for lunch. In the afternoon you return by coach to the hotel at Lochinver. (B D)

Monday 27th May

Dunrobin Castle and Inverness

Today you travel east by road coach along isolated mountain roads passing through Lairg and Golspie before arriving at Dunrobin Castle, the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland, on the east coast. This impressive castle stands on high terraces with wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There will be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch after which you transfer to Golspie Station to board a train to Inverness. You then transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Tuesday 28th May

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London

After an early breakfast at the hotel you transfer to the railway station to join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the return journey to London. You can relax again in First Class seats as you leave Inverness and pass through the wonderful Highlands en route to Perth, Edinburgh, Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on the journey south.

(B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £2295

Single supplement £425

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London to Stirling and Inverness to London with at-seat dining

• 8 nights bed and breakfast accommodation in 3-star hotels

• 5 lunches and 8 dinners

• All visits, train, boat and ferry travel, and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary

• First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Fort William to Mallaig

• Standard Class rail travel between Arrochar and Fort William and Golspie and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

May 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 UK TOUR – 9 Days 9

The Shetlander

Wednesday 22nd May to Wednesday 29th May 2024

Discover the timeless beauty of the remote Shetland Islands on this ever-popular tour to the most northern outpost of the United Kingdom.

• Following a high-speed trip north to Aberdeen, you cross to Shetland for a 4-day exploration of its rugged shorelines, windswept rolling hills and rich cultural heritage.

• Visit the island’s outstanding natural and historical attractions and discover its stunning rock formations, unspoiled beaches and ancient archaeological sites.

• Enjoy the local arts and crafts, breath-taking landscapes and local wildlife, with highlights including trips to ancient Scalloway Castle, St Ninian’s Isle and Isbister, the most northerly point on Shetland accessible by coach.

• On your return to the Scottish mainland you’ll conclude this fascinating holiday with a relaxing stay in Dundee, one of Scotland’s most historic and elegant cities, steeped in golfing lore and brimming with beautiful architecture.

• With added extras including a visit Captain Scott’s ship HMS Discovery and a steam trip on the Caledonian Railway at Brechin, this highlight-packed Scottish holiday is not to be missed!

Wednesday 22nd May

London to Aberdeen

Your adventure begins in the First-Class lounge at London Kings Cross, for a midmorning departure from London to Aberdeen. Travelling along the East Coast Main Line LNER service, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as the train travels north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. You cross the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges and arrive in Aberdeen late afternoon, checking into your conveniently located city centre hotel. The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure in the ‘Granite City’, exploring this hub of Northeast Scotland. (L)

Thursday 23rd May

Steam at the Caledonian Railway and

Ferry Crossing to Shetland

After breakfast, a road coach transfers you from your hotel to Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway. A privately chartered steam train then takes you on the eight-mile round trip from Brechin to Bridge of Dun and back. Freshly prepared sandwiches and refreshments will be provided at the railway buffet. After lunch you return to Aberdeen and visit the ‘Fitties’, a charming old fishing village nestling on the north side of the harbour. In the afternoon you return to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for an overnight crossing to Lerwick. The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of Scotland before passing through the open North Sea. After dinner you retire to your private cabin for the night. (B L D)

Friday 24th May

Tour of the Central Shetland Mainland; Scalloway Castle and Museum

After an all-night sail you reach Lerwick on the Shetland mainland and have breakfast on the ship before disembarking. Your tour of the Central Mainland of Shetland starts with a brief coach tour of Lerwick before heading west to Tingwall, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit to ‘Carol’s Ponies’, a local crofter who breeds Shetland ponies. Moving on, you head to the island of West Burra to view the beautiful sandy beach of Banna Minn, after which you make your way back to visit Scalloway Castle and museum. In early afternoon you have a scenic drive to Lerwick to visit the Iron Age tower ruins of the Broch of Clickimin on its outskirts. To round off an activity-packed day, you’ll visit the impressive

Fort Charlotte, built between 1652-1653 during the First Anglo-Dutch War to keep the Dutch fleet at bay. In the late afternoon, you check in to your hotel and later dine there with your fellow travellers. (B D)

Saturday 25th May

South Shetland Mainland

Shetland’s largest island has a size of 967 km2 (373 square miles), making it the third largest Scottish and fifth largest British island. Today you’ll explore the scenic highlights of its southern mainland. You first head for the unspoilt beaches at St Ninian’s Isle, connected to the mainland by the longest ‘tombolo’ in the UK. Look out for the seal colony on the beach as you go past. At the Croft Museum at Dunrossness you’ll experience what life was like in a 19th century croft. Continuing south to Sumburgh Head, the coach stops for you to photograph the sea birds, with the possibility of seeing puffins, nesting on the steep cliffs. You may never get so close to puffins again! In the afternoon you visit the wonderfully preserved prehistoric and Norse settlement of Jarlshof, before heading back to Lerwick. En route you’ll stop off at the Hoswick Visitor Centre in Sandwick and take in the views of the uninhabited island of Mousa, which has one of the best preserved brochs (round tower) in Shetland. In the late afternoon you return by road coach to Lerwick and dine at your hotel.

(B D)

Sunday 26th May

Northern Mainland

Today is dedicated to the exploration of the natural wonders of Shetland’s northern mainland. Heading north through the wild landscape, you make your way to Hellister and visit the amazing Shetland Jewellery centre, where traditional Celtic rings and pendants are crafted. You now head up to North Roe passing glorious scenery and, if conditions are amenable, you press on to Isbister, the most northerly point on Mainland accessible by coach. On the return journey you’ll visit Hillswick, where you can see the hooch kettles that were used to treat nets and sails, and then the stunning, rugged cliffs at Esha Ness. You then pay a quick visit to Tangwick Haa Museum, which preserves the history of Northmavine peninsula. There’ll be no shortage of photographic opportunities today to capture the amazing wildlife and scenery. After a very full day you return to your hotel for an evening meal. (B D)

Monday 27th May

Western Mainland

On your last day on Shetland you explore the westernmost part of the mainland. On your journey west, you first stop at Mavis Grind for a photo stop. This is a narrow isthmus separating the North Sea from the Atlantic, just 108 ft wide at its narrowest point. Continuing on you’ll visit the visitor centre at Jamieson’s Spinning Mill at Sandness, a fantastic retail outlet for Shetland knitwear. Still further on you see the coastline at its best with views across to the island of Papa Stour. Returning to Lerwick you stop off at the scenic fishing villages of Walls and Voe, before rounding off your visit to these wonderful Isles with a visit to the awesome Shetland Museum. You’ll sail back to Aberdeen on a late afternoon departure by ferry enjoying a unique opportunity to watch Fair Isle slip by on the port side as you enjoy your evening meal. (B D)

Tuesday 28th May

Aberdeen to Dundee

After your overnight crossing you arrive in Aberdeen. Following breakfast on board the ferry, your coach takes you south to Dundee for a visit to Captain Scott’s ship HMS Discovery. After visiting HMS Discovery, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Dundee and it’s many attractions before checking into your hotel for a farewell dinner with the group. (B D)

Wednesday 29th May

Return to London

Your Scottish adventure concludes with a return to London, travelling First Class on an East Coast Main Line Azuma train. You board the train at Dundee and again travel over the Forth Bridge via Edinburgh and Newcastle southwards. Lunch will be served on the train in First Class as you travel. (B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1845

Single supplement £325

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London to Aberdeen and return from Dundee with at-seat dining

• 5 nights bed and breakfast at good quality 3-star hotels

• 2 nights bed and breakfast in a private cabin during our ferry crossings

• 6 dinners and 3 lunches

• All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

May 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 UK TOUR – 8 Days 11

The Cock O’the North

Thursday 23rd May to Wednesday 29th May 2024

Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Scotland’s northern outposts on our ever-popular ‘Cock O’ the North’ rail and road tour.

• Explore this rugged terrain by extensive train, road coach and ferry transport, starting with a First-Class journey on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ from London to Inverness.

• Steam on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William, taking in the famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct on one of the greatest railway journeys in the world.

• Enjoy two heritage rail trips in one day, on the Strathspey Railway in the shadow of the Cairngorms, and on the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK.

• Discover the Kyle of Lochalsh on a trip along the most scenic line in Britain, followed by a fascinating two-day stay on the Isle of Skye, including a guided tour highlighting its vibrant culture and spectacular attractions.

• With overnight stays at comfortable hotels, outstanding cuisine, and point-to-point road coach transport for your luggage included, this is a Scottish holiday tour not to be missed!

Thursday 23rd May

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Inverness

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London’s King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland. This train follows the route of the East Coast Main Line (ECML) via historic connections and through magnificent landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First Class comfort. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue via Newcastle, Edinburgh and Perth, and join the Highland Main Line to travel through the beautiful Scottish Highlands to Inverness. At Inverness you check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for two nights. Dinner will be served this evening in the hotel restaurant. (L D)

Friday

24th May

Strathspey

Railway; Keith & Dufftown Railway

This morning you travel by road coach to Aviemore to join a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage railway line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip affords outstanding views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join your road coach to travel from Aviemore to Dufftown, and have lunch in the ‘Buffer Stop’, a railway restaurant car. The return trip by vintage diesel rail car takes you on the 11-mile long Keith and Dufftown Railway, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. This so-called ‘Whisky Line’ passes through dense pine forests, by the tranquil

waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. You re-join your coach and return to the hotel in Inverness for dinner.

(B L D)

Saturday 25th May

Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh by Train

After a traditional Scottish breakfast your luggage is collected from the hotel and transported by privately chartered road coach to your next hotel. You then leave Inverness and travel by train to Kyle of Lochalsh, an idyllic location on the northwest coast of Scotland at the entrance to another sea inlet, Loch Alsh. This line has been voted one of the most scenic in Britain and passes through forests, alongside lakes overshadowed by mountains, and along the shores of Loch Carron, a sea inlet. A road

Bob Green

coach then takes you over the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye and on to Portree. On the way there are spectacular views inland of mountains and seaward of the islands in the Sound of Raasay, which boasts the deepest water in the UK Continental Shelf at 1,062 feet, Portree is the island’s main town and is known for its picturesque harbour. Here you check in to your 3-star hotel, your base for the next two nights.

(B D)

Sunday 26th May

Tour of Skye

You have the benefit of a tour guide today as you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. The island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Afterwards, you’ll visit the north of the island, with highlights including the Flora MacDonald Memorial Cross and enjoy lunch before visting the romantic and historic Dunvegan Castle, ancient home of the MacLeods. Skye is rightly renowned for its vibrant culture, spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, examples being the golden eagle, sea eagle, red deer and otter, and your coach will stop whenever possible for film and photo opportunities. After an exciting day you return to your hotel on Skye. (B L D)

Monday 27th May

Ferry to Mallaig;

‘The Jacobite’ Steam Train

After breakfast, say farewell to Skye as you head south by road coach to Armadale to catch the ferry to Mallaig, a boat journey of around thirty minutes. On arrival at Mallaig there’ll be time to explore the village and have lunch before joining ‘The Jacobite’ steam train to Fort William. This unforgettable 42-mile route has been described as one of the great railway journeys of the world. ‘The Jacobite’ takes you through some of Scotland’s most outstanding scenery, beginning

with the sea views to the islands of Eigg and Rum. It crosses the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete, and offers a spectacular vista down Lochaber’s Loch Shiel. On arrival at Fort William you rejoin the road coach for the journey to Inverness. En route you pass through the many lochs of the Great Glen and travel the whole length of the famous Loch Ness.

At Inverness you once again check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Tuesday 28th May

Leisurely Morning, Loch Cruise and Inverness

After a leisurely breakfast you embark on a Canal & Loch cruise with an inclusive visit to the Urquhart Castle. After a short transfer from the hotel, your journey starts at Dochgarroch Lock, sailing through the famous man-made part of the Caledonian Canal onto the world-famous waters of Loch Ness. Once ashore you have the opportunity to explore the ruin of the historic Urquhart Castle. After your visit, you’ll have ample time to explore the town of Inverness with an opportunity to enjoy some retail therapy. To end the day, you’ll enjoy a traditional Highland whisky experience before returning to the hotel in Inverness for a farewell dinner in the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Wednesday 29th May

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ back to London

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the return journey to London. Relax in your First-Class seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth. You continue to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on the journey south. (B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1895

Single supplement £395

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel to Inverness and return, from London, Peterborough or York, with at-seat dining

• 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at The Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness

• 2 nights bed and breakfast at a good quality 3-star hotel in Skye

• 4 lunches and 2 dinners at a local restaurant

• Our own road coach to transport luggage for the duration in Scotland leaving you free to enjoy the train rides and other journeys

• First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William

• Standard Class rail travel between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh (First Class not provided on this train)

• All visits, train travel, transfers and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• Reserved seats

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

May 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 UK TOUR – 7 Days 13

The Summer Highlander

Monday 3rd June to Saturday 8th June 2024

Explore the splendour of Scotland’s culture and landscape on this unique summer tour to the scenic Scottish Highlands.

• Tour highlights include a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, and rail journeys from both the Kyle of Lochalsh and on the ‘Far North’ to Inverness.

• Discover the inherent romance of the picturesque Isle of Skye on a ferry and road trip and explore the famous northern outpost of John O’Groats.

• Immerse yourself in Scottish heritage at Dunrobin Castle and the Castle of Mey, and sample traditional Scottish culinary delights at diverse venues, including a whisky distillery.

• Visits to both the Strathspey and the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’ heritage railways are included, the latter being the most northerly heritage railway in the UK.

• With a wide variety of cultural and culinary delights also on offer, you’ll experience first-hand the wonderous appeal of this rugged land when you book for this outstanding holiday travel tour.!

Monday 3rd June

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London’s King’s Cross Station, you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ passenger train for the journey north to Scotland, following the route of the scenic East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First Class comfort. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue along the ECML to Darlington and on to Newcastle and Edinburgh. At Perth you join the Highland Main Line and travel through the amazing Scottish Highlands. Leaving the train at Kingussie a road coach takes you to Fort William where you check in to your hotel, where dinner will be served in the restaurant this evening. (L D)

Tuesday 4th June

‘The

Jacobite’; the Isle of Skye; by train to Inverness

Today a major tour highlight awaits with a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig through magnificent Scottish scenery. Mountains, glens, streams, lochs and the sea combine in an unending collage of outstanding views. En route you cross the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete and featured in a number of films and TV series. You’ll have an hour in Mallaig to explore this attractive fishing port and take lunch before boarding the ferry for Armadale on Skye. A road coach then transports you through Kyleakin and Broadford along the coast of this picturesque island. You cross the famous Skye Bridge and return to the mainland

at Kyle of Lochalsh. The late afternoon service train to Inverness then takes you along one of Europe’s most scenic railway lines. Running alongside Loch Carron, with superb views of lochs and mountains, you’ll pass through dense forests en route to Inverness. You then transfer to the Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness, your base for the next four nights. (B)

Wednesday 5th June

Dunrobin Castle

After breakfast you depart by road coach for Dunrobin Castle. Travelling north, you cross Kessock Bridge on to the Black Isle, travel alongside Cromarty Firth and over Dornoch Firth to the village of Golspie on the North Sea coast. You arrive at Dunrobin Castle, this impressive castle stands on high terraces and affords

Bob Green

wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There’ll be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch at the Golspie Inn.

To end a wonderful day, you’ll enjoy a traditional Highland whisky experience before returning to the hotel in Inverness (B L)

Thursday 6th June

The Far North

Today there’s a trip by road coach to the iconic village of John O’Groats. The route from Inverness follows the A9 trunk road, which hugs the North Sea coast for much of the way from Golspie to Wick, giving spectacular views. John O’Groats is the well-known starting point for charity events travelling the greatest length of Britain to Land’s End. It has a tiny harbour and, if the weather is good, there are views across the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands. You continue a few miles west to the Castle of Mey, where a light lunch will be served. The castle was restored from a near ruin by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother for use as a holiday home. Further on, at Thurso Railway Station, you join a ScotRail service train for Inverness. The railway takes a different route to the road, initially crossing isolated moorland, providing a fresh perspective on the region’s wonderful scenery. The railway line meets the North Sea coast at Helmsdale and follows the coastline, often running between the road and the sea. It’s not uncommon to see seals basking on the shore on this section of the route. On arrival at Inverness you return to your hotel where dinner is served. (B L D)

Friday 7th June

The Strathspey and Keith & Dufftown Railways

(B L D)

Saturday 8th June

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the return journey to London. Relax in your First-Class seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth and then to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London’s King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on your journey south. (B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1795

Single supplement £345

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ and on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train

• Standard Class rail travel between Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness and between Thurso and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains)

• 5 nights accommodation in hotels

• 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinners

• All visits, train and ferry travel and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

June 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 UK TOUR – 6 Days 15

The Shetlander

Wednesday 5th June to Wednesday 12th June 2024

Discover the timeless beauty of the remote Shetland Islands on this ever-popular tour to the most northern outpost of the United Kingdom.

• Following a high-speed trip north to Aberdeen, you cross to Shetland for a 4-day exploration of its rugged shorelines, windswept rolling hills and rich cultural heritage.

• Visit the island’s outstanding natural and historical attractions and discover its stunning rock formations, unspoiled beaches and ancient archaeological sites.

• With added extras including a visit Captain Scott’s ship HMS Discovery and a steam trip on the Caledonian Railway at Brechin, this highlight-packed Scottish holiday is not to be missed!

Wednesday 5th June

London to Aberdeen

Your adventure begins in the First-Class lounge at London Kings Cross, for a midmorning departure from London to Aberdeen. Travelling along the East Coast Main Line LNER service, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as the train travels north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. You cross the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges and arrive in Aberdeen in late afternoon, checking into your conveniently located city centre hotel. The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure in the ‘Granite City’, exploring this hub of Northeast Scotland. (L)

Thursday 6th June

Steam at the Caledonian Railway and

Ferry Crossing to Shetland

Friday 7th June

Tour of the Central Shetland Mainland; Scalloway Castle and Museum

Saturday 8th June

South Shetland Mainland

(B D)

Sunday 9th June

Northern Mainland

Today is dedicated to the discovery of the natural wonders of Shetland’s northern mainland. Heading north through the wild landscape, you make your way to Hellister and visit the amazing Shetland Jewellery centre, where traditional Celtic rings and pendants are crafted. You now head up to North Roe passing glorious scenery and, if conditions are amenable, you press on to Isbister, the most northerly point on Mainland accessible by coach. On the return journey you’ll visit Hillswick, where you can see the hooch kettles that were used to treat nets and sails, and then the stunning, rugged cliffs at Esha Ness. You then pay a quick visit to Tangwick Haa Museum, which preserves the history of Northmavine peninsula. There’ll be no shortage of photographic opportunities today to capture the amazing wildlife and scenery. After a very full day you return to your hotel for an evening meal. (B D)

Monday 10th June

Western Mainland

Tuesday 11th June

Aberdeen to Dundee

Wednesday 12th June

Return to London

Tour Summary

Tour price £1845

Single supplement £325

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London to Aberdeen and return from Dundee with at-seat dining

• 5 nights bed and breakfast at good quality 3-star hotels

• 2 nights bed and breakfast in a private cabin during our ferry crossings

• 6 dinners and 3 lunches

• All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

June 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 UK TOUR – 8 Days 17

English Lake District

Thursday 6th June to Tuesday 11th June 2024

Discover the delights of English Lake District by vintage motor vessel, steam train and steam yacht on this feature-packed holiday tour to Cumbria.

• Visit Windermere where you’ll enjoy cruises on vintage vessels on Lake Windermere and Ullswater.

• Steam train highlights include a trip on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and an exclusive exploration of the legendary 15-inch narrow gauge railway ‘La’al Ratty’.

• Enjoy a lake-themed cruise on Coniston Water aboard the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’, followed by lunch at the 400-year-old ‘Sun’ pub in Coniston.

• Other holiday highlights include visits to Hill Hop House, Haverthwaite engine shed and Muncaster Castle.

• Outstanding scenery, excellent cuisine and the convenience of short point-to-point travel distances by private road coach all add to your enjoyment on this relaxed, highlight-packed holiday in England’s idyllic Lakeland.

Thursday 6th June

First Class rail travel to Oxenholme, Coach transfer to Windermere

Your holiday begins in the First-Class lounge at London Euston Station before boarding a morning Avanti Trains Pendolino service.

You’ll travel in comfort at a top speed of 125mph along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) to Oxenholme in the Lake District. Here you’ll have a short coach transfer to the delightful village of Bowness-on-Windermere, located on the banks of Lake Windermere.

Your hotel for the duration of the tour will be The Belsfield Hotel. You then have some leisure time to explore Bowness before dinner at your hotel in the evening. (D)

Friday 7th June

Lake Windermere cruise; Steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

After breakfast you board the stylish vintage motor vessel ‘Swan’ for a forty-minute cruise through outstanding Cumbrian lake scenery to Lakeside at the southern end of Lake Windermere. This triple-deck ship was originally built by Vickers in 1938, and is now an iconic fixture on England’s largest lake. The lake pier is adjacent to Lakeside Railway Station and here you join a connecting steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, a former branch line of the Furness Railway (FR), originally opened in 1869. You’ll travel the entire length of the line to Haverthwaite with plenty of time to visit the impressive engine shed there, with its collection of historic steam and diesel locomotives. Crossing the footbridge to the woodland viewing and picnic area you can buy

souvenirs in the gift shop. Afterwards, transfer by coach to the Lakeland Motor Museum, where you will have time to explore and purchase lunch. In the afternoon you return by steam train to Lakeside and from there by connecting ship to Bowness. You’ll dine at The Belsfield Hotel this evening. (B D)

Saturday 8th June

Steam boat cruise on Coniston Water; Hill Top House

Today you visit Coniston Water, the third largest lake in the Lake District, for a lake-themed cruise on the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’. Originally launched in 1859 to carry railway passengers, The Illustrated London News at the time described it as “a perfected combination of the Venetian gondola and the English steam yacht”. The preserved steamer is now cared for and operated by the National

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

Trust. Following the cruise, you’ll have lunch in Coniston, a 400-year-old pub with exposed beams, stone walls, flagstone floors and a local Brathay slate bar top. It’s situated beneath the Cumbrian Fells and has an elevated view over the village of Coniston. Later you transfer by road coach to Hill Top House, the former home of Beatrix Potter. Visit Beatrix Potter’s beloved farmhouse, inspiration for her children’s books, you’ll recognise the rhubarb patch where Jemima Puddle-Duck laid her egg and the garden where Tom Kitten and his sisters played! You return to your hotel in Bowness for dinner. (B L D)

Sunday 9th June

Scenic cruises on Lake Windermere and Ullswater

This morning you explore the northern half of Lake Windermere on board a classic motor vessel sailing from Bowness to Ambleside at the northernmost extremity of the lake. MV ‘Tern’, is a steam powered yacht built in 1891 and converted to diesel in 1956. After the 30-minute voyage to Ambleside Pier you’ll join a private road coach for the onward journey to Grasmere, where there will be a coffee stop. Continue by coach from Grasmere to Keswick, travelling via Dunmail Raise and Thirlmere. On arrival at Keswick, you enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant before your road coach takes you on to Pooley Bridge. Here, you have an afternoon cruise on one of the celebrated Ullswater ‘Steamers’ on the second largest lake in the Lake District. Ullswater is one of the most beautiful English lakes, comparable to Lake Lucerne in Switzerland because of its mountainous backdrop. You’ll see the spectacular waterfall of Aira Force, midway along the lake on the western side and

cruise the length of the lake from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding. You rejoin the road coach for the return journey via scenic country roads to Bowness and dinner at your hotel in the evening.

(B L D)

Tour Summary

Monday

10th June Steam train on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, visit to Muncaster Castle

A tour highlight awaits today as you travel by road coach to Ravenglass, a small coastal village with Roman connections located at the estuary of the rivers Esk, Mite and Irt. The famous 15inch gauge Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (La’al Ratty) has its terminus adjacent to the Cumbrian Coast railway line station. The line runs for 7 miles (11.3 km) from Ravenglass to Dalegarth Station near Boot in the Eskdale Valley. You’ll travel the full length of the line and back again. The railway is popular for its open carriages providing superb sightlines of the surrounding scenery, but there are enclosed carriages depending on the weather. Afterwards transfer by coach to Muncaster Castle, where you spend the rest of the afternoon, before returning by coach back to Windermere. You dine with fellow guests at your hotel this evening – a fitting climax to a fabulous tour. (B D)

Tuesday 11th June

Homeward bound

After breakfast at the hotel you transfer by road coach to Oxenholme Lake District for the return to London Euston again in the First-Class comfort of an Avanti Pendolino train. (B)

Tour price £1575

Single supplement £275

Ground only £1365

(Windermere to Windermere with own travel to/from Windermere)

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District and return by Avanti Pendolino Trains

• Coach transfer from Oxenholme to Windermere, Windermere to Oxenholme

• 5 nights Half-Board hotel accommodation

• 2 lunches

• All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary

• Travel on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

June 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 UK TOUR – 6 Days 19

Arran and Kintyre

Saturday 8th June to Friday 14th June 2024

Explore the diverse delights of Western Scotland on this unique holiday to the picturesque Isle of Arran and the scenic peninsula of Kintyre.

• Discover the striking landscapes of Arran, ranging from sandy beaches and rolling fields to an interior capped by the towering Goatfell peak. Arran truly is ‘Scotland in Miniature’!

• Enjoy three days based in Brodick at the refined Douglas Hotel, and visit Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park with a later excursion to Lochranza distillery, and the chance to watch and photograph some stunning wildlife.

• Other Arran highlights include the double cascade at Glenashdale Falls, the ancient stones at Machrie Moor and the grand, converted villas along the 2-mile-long Whiting Bay.

• Moving on to Kintyre for three nights you’ll visit remote Davaar Island, see the famous Mull of Kintyre and explore Campbeltown with its three whisky distilleries, all the while enjoying some of the finest scenery in all Scotland.

• From exquisite cuisine to off-the-beaten-path excursions along coast and fell, this quintessential Scottish holiday is definitely not to be missed.

Saturday 8th June

London to Brodick

Your holiday starts in the First-Class lounge at London Kings Cross Station where you board an LNER service to Edinburgh. You then travel in comfort up the East Coast Main Line (ECML), with an easy interchange at Edinburgh Waverley onto a ScotRail service to Glasgow Central and onto Ardrossan Harbour.

There you change onto the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry for the one-hour crossing to Brodick, Arran’s principal town. Here you check into the welcoming Douglas Hotel, where you’ll be based for the next three nights. Dinner is at your hotel this evening. (L D)

Sunday 9th June

Brodick Castle and Gardens; Goatfell and Lochranza Distillery

After a leisurely breakfast this morning you’ll have time to look around bustling Brodick before a scheduled late morning visit to Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park. A quintessential Victorian estate, this is the only island country park in the whole of Britain. The Castle houses an outstanding collection of period furniture, silverware, porcelain, paintings and sporting trophies. The estate features a range of habitats from the formal walled gardens to wild woodland walks, all against a backdrop of stunning views over Brodick Bay. You’ll see the wild Ayrshire coast on one side, with towering Goatfell peak on the other. After your visit you’ll have a coach trip along the east and north coasts of the

island to the whisky distillery at Lochranza, for a guided tour and a ‘wee dram’. There’ll be several stops along the way for bird watching and photography at scenic vantage points, so you can begin to immerse yourself in the amazing landscapes of Arran. Dinner will be served back at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Monday 10th June

Nature and scenery of southern and central Arran

Today a relaxed tour of the south of Arran awaits, with stops at the sweeping 2-milelong Whiting Bay, the village of Kildonan, the atmospheric Glenashdale Falls and the Standing Stones at Machrie Moor. Whiting Bay is the third largest of Arran’s settlements after Lamlash and Brodick and retains much of the quiet gentility of

an earlier era, although many grand villas have since been converted to hotels, guest houses and restaurants. The double cascade at Glenashdale Falls is a delight to view and the ancient stones at Machrie Moor are a fine example of a Neolithic centre of ritual and domestic activity, scattered across a lonely moorland. It’s a day for trail walking, bird watching, wildlife photography and marvel at the views and countless natural highlights. Dinner will be served back at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Tuesday 11th June

Western Arran and on to Kintyre

Today you travel through the heart of Arran by coach, with road stops at some striking vantage points, before taking the island’s main road for a drive along Arran’s West coast. At Lochranza village you’ll enjoy the views of the ruined stone castle, originally built as a hall-house in the late 1200s or early 1300s, before boarding the CalMac ferry for a 30-minute crossing over to Claonaig on Kintyre. Your comfortable road coach then takes the scenic main road along the west coast of Kintyre south to Campbeltown, once again stopping at the most picturesque nature spots. You arrive later at the graceful Royal Hotel in Campbeltown, overlooking the delightful working harbour, replete with fishing boats and leisure craft. Dinner is at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Wednesday 12th June

Davaar Island, Dunaverty Beach and Mull of Kintyre

Today is dedicated to exploring the very southern tip of the Kintyre peninsula, including rocky Davaar Island, located just east of Campbeltown and only accessible by a causeway road. You’ll also discover Dunaverty Beach and the famous Mull of Kintyre, made famous

by Paul McCartney’s song of the same name. This is a beautiful area, combining rugged cliffs and coastline facing the North Atlantic, with secluded and often deserted, golden sandy beaches. It enjoys a special climate all of its own, as evidenced by the many palm trees growing out in the open, and often has better weather than much of the rest of Scotland. You return to Campbeltown in the late afternoon and look forward to a silver-served dinner at your Royal Hotel. (B D)

Thursday 13th June

Leisure in Campbeltown and Machrihanish Dunes

After several active days, it’s time for a more relaxing morning at leisure in wonderful Campbeltown. Located on a deep bay sheltered by Davaar Island and the surrounding hills, Campbeltown has three whisky distilleries (out of a one-time 28) and was once the whisky capital of the world! In the afternoon your coach then takes you to the sandy Machrihanish Dunes on the western coast of Kintyre, just outside Campbeltown and home to a famous links golf course. Enjoy the undulating dunes and the wonderful coastline scenery. Dinner is back at your hotel tonight. (B D)

Friday 14th June

Return to London

You’ll rise early today for the crossing on the direct CalMac ferry from Campbeltown to Ardrossan Harbour, which only runs on two days of the week. During the trip, you’ll again have excellent views of Arran as the ferry rounds the island to the south. From Ardrossan Harbour you continue on to Glasgow Central on a fast, electric service with ScotRail. From there it’s a trip on an Avanti Pendolino train in First Class comfort back to London. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1695

Single supplement £275

Price includes:

• 6 nights accommodation with breakfast at hotels

• 1 lunch

• 6 dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as mentioned in the itinerary

• All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• Rail travel from London to Brodick and from Glasgow to London

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

June 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 UK TOUR – 7 Days 21

The Western Isles

Monday 1st July to Tuesday 9th July 2024

Discover the scenic splendour of the mountains, glens and lochs of Northwest Scotland and the Western Isles on this unique holiday travel tour.

• Enjoy a lake cruise and excursion on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, following an overnight stay next to Loch Lomond.

• Cross remote Rannoch Moor as you head for Fort William to stay by Loch Linnhe with Britain’s highest mountain, majestic Ben Nevis, as the backdrop.

• Explore the North West Highlands with a ride to Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, featuring some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular coastlines.

• Other tour highlights include a road trip to Dunrobin Castle, a falconry display, dolphin sightings and photo opportunities galore on this ultimate Scottish travel tour.

Monday 1st July

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London’s King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland, following the East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in sumptuous First-Class style. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue your journey along the ECML via Newcastle and Edinburgh and on to Stirling. From there a coach takes you to The Lodge on Loch Lomond for dinner and overnight accommodation. The Lodge prides itself on excellent customer service and is located in beautiful countryside on the banks of Loch

Lomond with stunning views of both the Loch and Ben Lomond. (L D)

Tuesday 2nd July

Lake Cruise on Loch Lomond; north to Fort William

Your train arrives late afternoon when you check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Wednesday 3rd July

‘The Jacobite’ and over the Sea to Skye

Bob Green

Thursday 4th July

Coach tour of Skye; Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides

This morning you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides and the island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Your coach pauses a few times for photo opportunities as it crosses Trotternish, the northern peninsula of Skye, to Uig. Here you join a ferry for the one and half hour crossing to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. Although not an island itself, Harris is the southern and more mountainous part of Lewis and Harris. You travel through the exposed countryside to the island’s capital, Stornoway, and the hotel where you will stay and dine for the next two nights. (B D)

Friday 5th July

Guided tour of The Isle of Lewis

Saturday 6th July

Free time in Stornaway; ferry to Ullapool; north to Lochinver

Sunday 7th July

By road to the North West Scottish Highlands

Monday 8th July

Dunrobin Castle and Inverness

Today you travel east by road coach along isolated mountain roads passing through Lairg and Golspie before arriving at Dunrobin Castle, the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland, on the east coast. This impressive castle stands on high terraces with wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There’ll be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch after which you transfer to Golspie Station to board a train to Inverness. You then transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Tuesday 9th July

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London

(B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £2295

Single supplement £425

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London to Stirling and Inverness to London with at-seat dining

• 8 nights bed and breakfast accommodation in 3-star hotels

• 5 lunches and 8 dinners

• All visits, train, boat and ferry travel, and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary

• First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Fort William to Mallaig

• Standard Class rail travel between Arrochar and Fort William and Golspie and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

= Breakfast - L =

- D =

Dinner July 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 UK TOUR – 9 Days 23

Lunch

The Far North and Orkney

Thursday 4th July to Friday 12th July 2024

The rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands take centre-stage on this popular tour to one of the most extraordinary places in Northern Europe.

• Explore both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways, the Royal Deeside Railway west of Aberdeen and the Caledonian Railway at Brechin.

• Experience a midsummer ‘White Night’ when the sun never entirely sets, on a sea ferry trip to the enchanting island of Orkney.

• Explore Orkney’s pristine beaches, stunning coastline and mystical rock formations during your 3-day visit, including a distillery visit and a trip to the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage Site.

• Journey back to the mainland over the most northerly railway in the UK, taking in lunch at John O’ Groats before travelling on the spectacular Far North Line via Thurso to Inverness.

• Cap your memorable holiday with a trip on the nostalgic heritage Strathspey Steam Railway and a visit to the formidable artillery fortification at Fort George.

Thursday 4th July

London to Aberdeen

Your adventure begins in the First-Class lounge at London Kings Cross, for a mid-morning departure from London to Aberdeen. Travelling along the East Coast Main Line, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as you travel north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh, crossing the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges. You arrive in Aberdeen late afternoon and check into your city centre hotel. The rest of the evening is spent at leisure. (L)

Friday 5th July

Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Crathes Castle

You’ll visit both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways during the next two

days, starting with the Royal Deeside Railway. This delightful standard gauge railway features a two-mile round trip through rural scenery and gentle rolling hills, running close to its namesake river. There’ll be photo opportunities en route and a ‘false arrival’ staged at the station. Afterwards, lunch is taken at the Milton Crathes Brasserie followed by a visit to Crathes Castle, replete with turreted towers and walled gardens. There’ll be plenty of time to explore this stylish estate before your road coach takes you back to Aberdeen. (B L)

Saturday 6th July

Steam at the Caledonian Railway and ferry crossing to Orkney

After breakfast your coach transfers you to Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway.

A privately chartered steam train takes you on the eight-mile round trip from Brechin to Bridge of Dun and back. Light snacks and refreshments are provided, afterwards there’s time to visit Brechin’s historic Cathedral and Round Tower. You then return to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for a six-hour evening crossing to Kirkwall. The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of Scotland before entering the open North Sea. Dinner is served on board. You reach Kirkwall at 11pm, as the sun is setting, an experience common to the far north during summer solstice. You disembark and transfer to your centrally located hotel. (B L D)

Sunday 7th July

At leisure in Kirkwall and a visit to a distillery

You are free to relax and explore the quaint town of Kirkwall at your own pace. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vibrant artisan scene, diverse galleries and craft shops.

Orkney’s capital boasts many historical buildings, such as the 12th century St. Magnus Cathedral, the most northern cathedral in the British Isles. In the afternoon you visit a local distillery. Dinner is served at your hotel. (B D)

Monday 8th July

Exploration of neolithic Orkney

You embark this morning on an exciting exploration of mainland Orkney by coach. Among the highlights are the wonderful and fascinating landmarks that form the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage Site to the west of Kirkwall. You’ll have plenty of time to discover the tremendous natural beauty and cultural legacy at Maes Howe, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. You’ll visit the delightful fishing port of Stromness, where you can explore and purchase lunch. In the afternoon, following your visit to Skara Brae, you’ll see the breathtaking sea cliffs at Yesnaby before returning to Kirkwall. (B)

Tuesday 9th July

Orkney beaches, Italian Chapel, Broch of Gurness and Brough of Birsay

Today you’ll discover the pristine beaches of the southern, eastern and northern Orkney shores and the so-called ‘Churchill Barrier’ causeway roads, built for defensive purposes during World War II. En route you’ll visit the iconic Italian chapel, one of the most loved cultural attractions on Orkney. In South Ronaldsay you venture south to the fishing town of Burwick, with fine views across the Pentland Firth to John O’ Groats. After lunch back in Kirkwall it’s time to explore the outstanding archaeological site at Broch of Gurness, just across the water from the sparsely populated Orkney island of Rousay. You end the day by experiencing the natural beauty of the Brough of Birsay, on the northern tip of mainland Orkney. At low tide you can even walk over to the uninhabited island of Birsay. After your exciting day out, reconvene back at the hotel for dinner. (B D)

Wednesday 10th July

Ferry Crossing over the Pentland Firth, train journey to Inverness

This morning you return to the Scottish mainland. Your coach takes you from Kirkwall to

Stromness for the ferry crossing over the famed Pentland Firth, past the Old Man of Hoy and St. John’s Head to Scrabster, near Thurso. From Scrabster you continue by coach to the iconic village of John O’ Groats, the most north eastern village on the British mainland, where you can buy lunch. Afterwards you continue to Wick and board a ScotRail service train on the stunning Far North Line for the spectacular railway journey via Thurso to Inverness. Initially the tracks cross over moorland, passing through isolated mountain landscapes, before hugging the coast again and running within sight of seals basking on the rocky shores. Numerous firths are navigated before the train eventually reaches Inverness, hub of the Scottish Highlands. You’ll spend two nights at the Best Western Hotel and Spa in the heart of the city, with ample time to explore in the evening. (B)

Thursday 11th July

Strathspey Steam Railway and Fort George

Today you travel by coach to nearby Aviemore before joining a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip provides wonderful views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join the coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park, where you stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich. You return back to the hotel, where lunch will be served, before enjoying an afternoon visit to Fort George. Following the 1746 defeat at Culloden of Bonnie Prince Charlie, George II created the ultimate defence against further Jacobite unrest. The result, Fort George, is the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, if not Europe. Afterwards, you enjoy a Farewell meal at the hotel. (B L D)

Friday 12th July

Return to London on the Highland Chieftain

After an early breakfast you transfer to Inverness Railway Station to join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ train for your return journey. Relax in your comfortable First-Class seats as you travel through the scenic Highlands. The train climbs to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and then follows the valley of the River Tay to Perth. You continue to Edinburgh where you join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on the journey south. (B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1995

Single supplement £425

Price includes:

• 8 nights accommodation with breakfast at hotels

• 5 lunches and 4 dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• Rail travel from London to Aberdeen and from Inverness to London

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

July 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 UK TOUR – 9 Days 25

The Isle of Man Adventure

Friday 5th July to Thursday 11th July 2024

The Isle of Man has a story for every season, but late summer is one of the best times to enjoy this idyllic destination. Discover glens and lush foliage on relaxed walks and visit sun-kissed beaches alive with wildlife. The island stretches 32 miles north to south and 14 miles east to west, and is packed with scenery, history and industrial gems, including a horse tram, the largest working waterwheel in the world, miniature railways and an offshore Viking castle. Humans have lived here since 6500 BC, and smugglers, pirates and Nordic invaders have all been common at various times in Manx history, with the evidence for them all about.

• You’ll be based in a 3-star hotel in Douglas for the extent of your holiday.

• Enjoy charter trips on the Manx Electric Railway, Groudle Glen Steam Railway, and the Isle of Man Railway.

• Visit the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest working waterwheel in the world, built by Victorian engineers in 1854.

• Ascend to the summit of Snaefell, the island’s only mountain, on its Mountain Railway.

• Follow the scenic roads of the famous Isle of Man TT course on a coach trip covering the length of the island.

• Visit the island towns of Ramsey in the north, and the seaside resort of Port Erin on the south of the island.

• Use your complimentary Go Explore Heritage Pass to explore all the island has to offer on your free days.

Friday 5th July

Avanti West Coast from London Euston to Heysham, ferry to Isle of Man

Your holiday will start from London’s Euston station. You’ll be greeted by the Tour Manager before departing on the West Coast Avanti service to Lancaster, at Lancaster you change trains and join a Northern rail service to Heysham. The Heysham train station is a few minutes’ walk from the ferry terminal, from where you travel in *premium lounge onboard the ferry to Douglas. Here you check in to the 3-star Hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to investigate Douglas at your leisure. Douglas is situated on the east coast of the Isle of Man and has been the island’s capital since 1863. The sea front is lined with picturesque

hotels and restaurants and there are plenty of shops to visit. A welcome dinner will be served in your hotel restaurant this evening. (B D)

Saturday 6th July

Great Laxey Wheel, Snaefell Mountain Railway

After breakfast you transfer to Derby Castle Station. On arrival, you take the historic Manx Electric Railway to Laxey. The railway was built between 1893 and 1899 and connects Douglas with Laxey in the east and Ramsey in the north. It’s also the longest narrow gauge vintage electric railway system in the British Isles and still uses original Victorian and Edwardian rolling stock. From Laxey station it’s a short walk to the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest working

waterwheel in the world. She was built by Victorian engineers in 1854 to pump water from the Laxey mines. A climb to the top is rewarded with panoramic views across the Laxey Valley. After the Wheel you’ll enjoy a return trip on the nearby Laxey Mine Railway. This restored railway runs along the surface section of the tramway which once carried lead and zinc ores from deep inside the Great Laxey Mine. Snaefell is the IOM’s only mountain, and its Mountain Railway will next take you to the summit where you can enjoy the views and buy refreshments. You then descend back to Douglas to take the Horse Tram to the Villa Marina stop, The horse tram is a quiet, eco-friendly way to enjoy the trip around the bay and seafront of Douglas. You then have a short walk back to your hotel

where a three-course dinner will be served in the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Sunday 7th July

Manx Electric Railway, Groundle Glen Steam Railway

Following breakfast, you walk to the nearby Horse tram stop for the journey to Derby Castle station, so named because of the vast entertainment complex of the same name that used to be sited nearby. You then take the Manx Electric Railway, this time to Groudle Glen, two miles north of Douglas on the coast road. On arrival you walk to Groudle Glen Steam Railway for a full round trip of this narrow gauge (610 mm) railway, owned and operated by a small group of enthusiastic volunteers. Afterwards a group lunch is served in the tearoom. You depart Groudle Glen by Manx Electric Railway heading to Ramsey, on the north of the island. You will have free time to explore Ramsey, perhaps visiting the Grove Museum of Victorian Life, Milntown House and Gardens, or simply strolling along the seafront. Later you return to Douglas and a 3-course dinner served in the hotel restaurant. (B L D)

Monday 8th July

Coach tour of the Isle of Man, Jurby Transport Museum

Today you experience an exclusive coach tour travelling down the scenic roads of the famous TT race course. Your coach first takes you from your hotel in Douglas to the Calf of Man on the south tip of the island, with photo stops on the way. The Calf of Man is a small island separated from the mainland by the Calf Sound. Travel along the beautiful west coast of Man to the town of Peel. Your excursion includes a visit to the 11th century Castle Peel, a ruined castle originally built by the Vikings, sited on St Patrick’s Isle, which is connected to the town by a causeway. You’ll have a group lunch in a nearby restaurant before continuing by coach to Curraghs wildlife park, and a private charter trip on its miniature railway. You then travel to the Point of Ayre to view and take pictures of the lighthouse. Here you are at the Island’s most northerly tip and closer to Scotland (14 miles) than you are to Douglas! You travel back southwest to visit the Jurby Transport Museum. You then return to Douglas for a dinner at your hotel. (B D)

Tuesday 9th July

Free Day to Explore Isle of Man using your Travel Pass

You are free today to use your railway rover to

revisit any of the railways you have already seen (Isle of Man Railway, Manx Electric Railway, Snaefell Mountain Railway, Douglas Bay Horse Tramway). Why not visit the fascinating Cregneash Medieval Village or you can use the time to relax and explore the island at your own pace. Dominated by sky and sea, the island has a stunning natural landscape with everything from rolling hills to patchwork fields and sheltered bays. Today is an ideal opportunity to take some unique and memorable photos. You can also use your visitor’s pass to enjoy any of the included island attractions. Dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D)

Wednesday 10th July

Isle of Man Railway, Castle Rushen

Your tour gathers in the hotel reception after breakfast, and you transfer from the hotel to the Isle of Man Railway. Your first stop is Castletown for a visit to the Old House of Keys and the mediaeval Castle Rushen, once used as a prison before being restored, and now a Manx National Heritage site. Afterwards you continue on the Isle of Man Railway to Port Erin, a lovely seaside resort on the south of the island. On arrival you’re free to explore the area at your leisure. The heart of the village is around Station Road and Church Road. There are shops, cafes, bars and activities operating from Shore Road by the beach, with views to the Mountains of Mourne in Northern Ireland past Bradda Head. At Port Erin Railway Museum, you’ll discover the history of the Island’s steam railways over the last 140 years. You can then enjoy multiple rides on the different engines and services with your complimentary rail rover tickets. Join your fellow travellers back at the hotel for a farewell dinner.

(B D)

Thursday 11th July

Ferry from Isle of Man, Northern Rail from Heysham to Lancaster, Avanti West Coast from Lancaster to London Euston

After breakfast at the hotel, you check out and transfer to the ferry terminal. Your ferry departs Douglas at 08:45 am and arrives Heysham ferry port. From Heysham port you join the * Northern Rail service to Lancaster, where you change trains to take the Avanti West Coast Service to London Euston for an approximated arrival of 17:00 hrs. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1595

Single supplement £195

Price includes:

• 6 nights accommodation half board

• 1 lunch

• First Class Travel from London to Lancaster and from Lancaster back to London

• All visits, train, coach and ferry travel as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

*Northern Rail service from Lancaster to Heysham and from Heysham back to Lancaster in standard class only.

Premium Lounge seats are subject to availability and cannot always be guaranteed due to limited capacity.

The itinerary may vary depending on the sailing times that are available, this will be confirmed and updated once the sailing times are confirmed. Alternative sailings that may be scheduled: Heysham – Liverpool.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

July 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 UK TOUR – 7 Days 27

Heart of Scotland

Wednesday 10th July to Thursday 18th July 2024

Scotland is a rugged country full of scenic and cultural surprises, as you’ll discover for yourself on this highlight-packed holiday tour to its wild, spectacular heart.

• Based in the historic city of Stirling, then Rothesay on the Isle of Bute, you’ll explore the unique cultural and natural attractions grouped around the Trossachs, the Cairngorms, and Bute itself.

• Steam highlights include a cruise on Loch Katrine aboard steam launch ‘Sir Walter Scott’, steam train on the Strathspey Railway and a transfer to the Isle of Bute on the sea-going paddle steamer ‘Waverley’.

• Ascend rugged Cairngorm mountain on the UK’s highest funicular railway and visit the neo-gothic Victorian Gothic Revival estate at Mount Stuart on Bute.

• Tour highlights include a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world.

• You’ll also discover the diverse wildlife in and around both of Scotland’s National Parks, showcasing the variety of flora and fauna in the rugged Scottish landscape.

• From unspoilt beaches to inspiring coastlines, with convenient point-to-point transfers on ScotRail service trains and by private coach included, this is a unique holiday opportunity for seasoned traveller and newcomer alike.

Wednesday 10th July

London to Stirling on the ‘Highland Chieftain

’From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London’s King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ passenger train for the journey north to Scotland, following the route of the scenic East Coast Main Line (ECML). A light lunch will be served at your seat as you travel First Class in relaxed, spacious comfort, as nearly the length of Britain rattles past. Your train stops at York, taking on those connecting by service train from Peterborough before continuing via Newcastle and Edinburgh to historic Stirling, where you book into your hotel for the next three nights. A welcome dinner is served at the hotel this evening. (L D)

Thursday 11th July

Steam Cruise on Loch Katrine and Stirling Castle

This morning you transfer by coach from Stirling along scenic roads to nearby Loch Katrine, set in the Centre of the Trossachs National Park. You’ll then enjoy a 2-hour lake cruise on the world-famous steamship ‘Sir Walter Scott’ to Stronachlachar from Trossachs Pier, taking in the inspiring landscape that influenced Sir Walter Scott, Coleridge and Wordsworth. On returning you’ll take a light lunch at the restaurant on the Pier. Afterwards you transfer by coach again to Stirling Castle for a guided tour of the grounds of one of the largest castles in Scotland, surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs. The castle sits atop Castle Hill, an intrusive crag,

which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation. After your tour there’ll be time to look around Stirling, taking in the historic Old Town and the picturesque Back Walk footpath that encircles it. Dinner will be taken at your hotel this evening. (B L D)

Friday 12th July

Strathspey Steam Railway and Cairngorm Mountain Railway

This morning you travel on a ScotRail service train over the iconic Highland Main Line from Stirling to Aviemore before joining a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series

Visit Scotland

Monarch of the Glen). The return trip on the railway offers wonderful views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join the road coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park and stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich. From here it’s just a short onward journey to the Cairngorm Mountain Railway, a 2 km long funicular and Britain’s highest mountain railway. In appearance and design it’s reminiscent of the famed Alpine funiculars in Switzerland. Enjoy the magnificent views of the snow-capped Scottish mountains as the line ascends Cairn Gorm. After an equally enjoyable descent on the mountain railway, your road coach returns you to Stirling, where dinner will be served at your hotel. (B L D)

Saturday 13th July

Clyde Cruise and Isle of Bute aboard Paddle Steamer ‘Waverley’

After breakfast you transfer by road coach from Stirling to Glasgow. The coach drops you off at the steamboat pier and continues with your luggage by motor ferry to your next hotel at the Isle of Bute. You then enjoy an all-day cruise aboard the iconic, double-funnel steamer ‘Waverley’, the last ocean-going paddle steamer in the world. You go ‘doon the watter’ on a sail from Glasgow over the Clyde to Rothesay and Tighnabruaich. The steamer has multiple bars and galleys, and a restaurant where you can buy drinks and meals. You can watch the fully visible marine steam engine as it works, the largest of its kind still in operating condition. You can also go ashore at Tighnabruaich, a lovely coastal village dominated by grand villas built in Victorian times for wealthy merchants, for a one-hour visit before the steamer drops you off again at Rothesay, the principal town of Bute. You’ll stay at an elegant hotel here for the rest of the tour to enjoy the exotic island charm of the ‘Madeira of Scotland’. Dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Sunday 14th July

Mount Stuart

and the scenery of South Bute

Today you discover the outstanding natural and cultural highlights on the Isle of Bute south of Rothesay. Bute is only 33 miles from Glasgow and is the most accessible of the westerly isles from the Scottish Central Belt. Highlights include the impressive Victorian Gothic Revival estate at Mount Stuart and the scenic beaches and coves at Kilchattan Bay. The spirit of nineteenthcentury invention is embodied in Mount Stuart, and this neo-gothic mansion was one of the

most technologically advanced houses of its age. It was the first home in the world to have a heated swimming pool and be purpose-built with electric lights and central heating. Kilchattan Bay is a settlement of Victorian houses and villas that lies on the south west shore of a largely east facing bay with a mile-wide mouth offering views to the isle of Great Cumbrae, three miles to the east. After your rewarding day, dinner will again be served at your hotel in Rothesay. (B D)

Monday 15th July

Ferry crossing to Wemyss Bay

In the morning you’ll have some leisure time in Rothesay before taking the lunchtime CalMac ferry from Rothesay to Wemyss Bay. From Wemyss Bay you will transfer by coach to Fort William for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Tuesday 16th July

Jacobite

Wednesday 17th July

Free time in Inverness

After a leisurely breakfast, your coach will transfer you to Inverness, sit back and relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery as you travel north to Inverness. On arrival, you will have time to explore this interesting city before a final dinner with your fellow passengers. (B D)

Thursday 18th July

Train travel from Inverness

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station for your return journey to London. Relax in your First-Class seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth and then to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London’s King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on your journey south. (B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1895

Single supplement £345

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London King’s Cross to Stirling by East Coast express train and from Inverness to London King’s Cross

• 8 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast

• 4 lunches and 8 dinners

• All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary

• All road coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 UK TOUR – 9 Days 29

July

The Cock O’the North

Thursday 11th July to Wednesday 17th July 2024

Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Scotland’s northern outposts on our ever-popular ‘Cock O’ the North’ rail and road tour.

• Explore this rugged terrain by extensive train, road coach and ferry transport, starting with a First-Class journey on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ from London to Inverness.

• Steam on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William, taking in the famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct on one of the greatest railway journeys in the world.

• Enjoy two heritage rail trips in one day, on the Strathspey Railway in the shadow of the Cairngorms, and on the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK.

• With overnight stays at comfortable hotels, outstanding cuisine, and point-to-point road coach transport for your luggage included, this is a Scottish holiday tour not to be missed!

Thursday 11th July

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Inverness

Friday

12th July

Strathspey Railway; Keith & Dufftown Railway

waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. You re-join your coach and return to the hotel in Inverness for dinner.

(B L D)

Saturday 13th July

Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh by Train

Bob Green

(B D)

Sunday 14th July

Tour of Skye

Monday 15th July

Ferry to Mallaig;

‘The Jacobite’ Steam Train

At Inverness you once again check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Tuesday 16th July

Leisurely Morning, Loch Cruise and Inverness

Wednesday 17th July

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ back to London

Tour Summary

Tour price £1895

Single supplement £395

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel to Inverness and return, from London, Peterborough or York, with at-seat dining

• 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at The Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness

• 2 nights bed and breakfast at a good quality 3-star hotel in Skye

• 4 lunches and 2 dinners at a local restuarant

• Our own road coach to transport luggage for the duration in Scotland leaving you free to enjoy the train rides and other journeys

• First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William

• Standard Class rail travel between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh (First Class not provided on this train)

• All visits, train travel, transfers and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• Reserved seats

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

July 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 UK TOUR – 7 Days 31

Snowdonia and Northern Fells

Friday 12th July to Friday 19th July 2024

Experience the very best of British steam on this highlight-packed steam rail tour through the magnificent landscapes of Cumbria and North Wales.

• While based for 2 nights in historic Liverpool you’ll travel on main line steam over the famous Settle to Carlisle Railway, with major attractions along the line including the magnificent 24-arch Ribblehead Viaduct.

• Enjoy a steam trip along the picturesque North Wales Coast line to Bangor, running beside the Irish Sea and passing through several seaside resorts before transferring to Llandudno.

• Discover the endless variety of ‘Great Little Trains’ on the railways of Snowdon Mountain, Ffestiniog, Fairbourne, Talyllyn, Welshpool and Llanfair, and the Vale of Rheidol.

• A definitive tour highlight is a trip over the rebuilt Welsh Highland Railway, one of the rail wonders of the 21st century, from Caernarfon to Porthmadog through the magnificent Snowdonia National Park.

• With overnight stays in comfortable hotels, fine cuisine and efficient luggage transfers, this unique steam tour is the ideal way to explore these outstanding landscapes in relaxed comfort and style.

Friday 12th July

Exploring Liverpool

Your tour begins at a City Centre Hotel in Liverpool, located opposite Lime Street Station and your base for the next two nights. Arrive as early as possible and explore this fine city at your leisure. Dinner will be at your hotel this evening.

(D)

Saturday 13th July

The Settle to Carlisle Railway

Today you join the ‘Cumbrian Mountain Express’ charter train at Lime Street Station. Breakfast will be served at your seat soon after. You head north to Carnforth, where you’ll pick up your steam locomotive and skirt the Lake District before entering the Lune Valley. Your fully

extended steam locomotive ascends to the summit of Shap Fell before descending through Penrith North Lakes, pausing at Carlisle for a two-hour break to explore this Border City. Leaving Carlisle you join the Settle and Carlisle Railway, climbing up through Langwathby and Culgaith and pausing for water at the market town of Appleby. Through stunning scenery you climb the steep gradient to Ais Gill summit and traverse Dent Dale, from where the Peaks of Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-Ghent dominate the landscape. There are over twenty major viaducts and fourteen tunnels on the line culminating in the magnificent 24-arch Ribblehead Viaduct. On the way back to Liverpool you enjoy a four-course dinner, silverserved at your seat, before returning to the

Holiday Inn for the night. (B D)

Sunday 14th July

Steam along the North Wales Coast

After breakfast you take your reserved FirstClass seat on the ‘North Wales Coast Express’ special steam train at at Liverpool Lime Street Station and journey along the West Coast Main Line to Warrington. On leaving Chester you cross the River Dee and enter Wales, running along the Dee Estuary and then beside the Irish Sea as your train passes Prestatyn and Rhyl. This coastline is known for its stunning beaches and, at Colwyn Bay, fantastic views of the Great Orme headland. You pass through several small seaside resorts on the Irish Sea coast before arriving at Bangor. Here you

Georg Trueb

Phil Jones

transfer by road coach to Penrhyn Castle for a short visit. This dramatic neo-Norman castle was built in the early 19th century for a wealthy Welsh family. Crammed with fascinating objects, its stable block contains an industrial railway, a doll collection, and model railway museums. Afterwards your coach takes you across Anglesey to Holyhead to rejoin your steam train for the return journey to Llandudno. You take the short walk to the Imperial Hotel there and check in for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Monday 15th July

Steam on the Snowdon Mountain and Welsh Highland Railways

This morning you transfer to Llanberis Station for a steam-hauled trip on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, with superb summit views, weather permitting. Back in Llanberis there is free time to explore this delightful Snowdonian town and have lunch. In the afternoon you take a trip on the Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon to Porthmadog, through the magnificent Snowdonia National Park. This fantastic 25-mile journey, steam hauled by a two-foot narrow gauge Garratt locomotive, begins close to Caernarfon Castle. It takes you through spectacular mountain scenery, the village of Beddgelert, which owes its fame to the legendary tale of Prince Llewelyn ap Iorwerth, and the famous Aberglaslyn Pass. On arrival at Porthmadog you return by road coach to the Imperial Hotel in Llandudno for dinner. (B D)

Tuesday 16th July

Great Orme Tramway; Steam on the Ffestiniog Railway

After breakfast you take a ride on the 3’6” gauge Great Orme Tramway, Britain’s only cablehauled street tramway, from Llandudno Victoria Station to Great Orme Summit Station. Afterwards you transfer by coach from Llandudno to the Blaenau Ffestiniog for lunch before travelling on the Ffestiniog Railway, where you will travel by steam to Porthmadog. On arrival, you transfer to Portmeirion, where the surreal TV spy drama ‘The Prisoner’ was filmed in the 1960s, for dinner and an overnight stay at The Hotel Portmeirion. (B D)

Wednesday 17th July

Steam on the Fairbourne and Talyllyn Railways

After breakfast you transfer by road coach to Fairbourne for a return journey on the Fairbourne Railway. This 12¼” gauge railway runs for 3.2 km (2 miles) alongside the beach to the end of a peninsula at the mouth of the

Mawddach Estuary, one of the most spectacular locations along the Cambrian Coast. You continue by coach to nearby Tywyn where you travel on the narrow gauge Talyllyn Railway (TR). The TR is notable for being the first preserved railway in the United Kingdom. This 2’ 3” gauge railway runs for 11.7 km (7.25 miles) to Nant Gwernol. On return to Tywyn there’ll be time for lunch and a visit to the narrow-gauge railway museum there. You then transfer by coach to the Tyn Y Cornel Hotel, where you will be based for the next two nights.

(B D)

Thursday 18th July

Vale of Rheidol and Welshpool and Llanfair Railways

Today you travel steam-hauled on the Vale of Rheidol Railway from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, where unique waterfalls have attracted many thousands of visitors since the 18th century, including William Wordsworth, who wrote about the ‘Torrent at the Devil’s Bridge’. From Devil’s Bridge you transfer by road coach to Welshpool and after lunch in the town you begin your journey on the picturesque 2’6” gauge Welshpool and Llanfair Railway. There’s an enjoyable steam-hauled ride through the delightful Banwy Valley to Llanfair Caereinion to follow, before you return to Welshpool. From there you return back to your hotel. (B D)

Friday 19th July

Return

After breakfast at your hotel, you depart by coach, travelling back to Liverpool via Chester for your homeward journey.

Tour Summary

Tour price £1995

Single supplement £425

Price includes:

• 7 nights accommodation with breakfast in 3 or 4-star hotels

• 6 breakfasts in hotels and one on the train

• 7 dinners

• All train and tramway travel as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and coach transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

July 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 UK TOUR – 8 Days 33

The Far North and Orkney

Thursday 18th July to Friday 26th July 2024

The rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands take centre-stage on this popular tour to one of the most extraordinary places in Northern Europe.

• Explore both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways, the Royal Deeside Railway west of Aberdeen and the Caledonian Railway at Brechin.

• Experience a midsummer ‘White Night’ when the sun never entirely sets, on a sea ferry trip to the enchanting island of Orkney.

• Journey back to the mainland over the most northerly railway in the UK, taking in lunch at John O’ Groats before travelling on the spectacular Far North Line via Thurso to Inverness.

• Cap your memorable holiday with a trip on the nostalgic heritage Strathspey Steam Railway and a visit to the formidable artillery fortification at Fort George.

Thursday 18th July

London to Aberdeen

Friday 19th July

Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Crathes Castle

You’ll visit both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways during the next two

Saturday 20th July

Steam at the Caledonian Railway and ferry crossing to Orkney

After breakfast your coach transfers you to Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway.

Sunday 21st July

At leisure in Kirkwall and a visit to a Distillery

You are free to relax and explore the quaint town of Kirkwall at your own pace. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vibrant artisan scene, diverse galleries and craft shops.

Monday 22nd July

Exploration of neolithic Orkney

Tuesday 23rd July

Orkney beaches, Italian Chapel, Broch of Gurness and Brough of Birsay

Wednesday 24th July

Ferry Crossing over the Pentland Firth, train Journey to Inverness

This morning you return to the Scottish mainland. Your coach takes you from Kirkwall to

Thursday 25th July

Strathspey Steam Railway and Fort George

Friday 26th July

Return to London on the Highland Chieftain

Tour Summary

Tour price £1995

Single supplement £425

Price includes:

• 8 nights accommodation with breakfast at hotels

• 5 lunches and 4 dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• Rail travel from London to Aberdeen and from Inverness to London

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

July 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 UK TOUR – 9 Days 35

The Emerald Explorer

Thursday 25th July to Friday 2nd August 2024

From Dublin to Westport, Waterford to the Cliffs of Moher, this rail tour distils Ireland’s proud culture, heritage, and history into 9 days of memorable highlights. Starting and ending in Dublin, you’ll cover the length and breadth of this stunning country by rail and coach and discover first-hand the legends, traditions and outstanding hospitality Ireland is renowned for.

• Enjoy a guided tour of Dublin and the Teeling Whisky Distillery.

• On the Atlantic seafront tour Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, Connemara Celtic Crystal and explore Galway.

• Travel highlights include the Waterford Suir Valley Railway and a cruise on the River Shannon.

• Marvel at the wild Cliffs of Moher and visit West Clare Railway and Museum.

• Experience the mysteries of Blarney Castle and Clonmacnoise Monastery.

• Finish the tour on a high with traditional Irish music and dancing at Dublin’s famous Arlington Hotel.

Thursday 25th July

First class Avanti service to Holyhead and ferry crossing to Dublin

Meet your Tour Manager this morning in the First Class Lounge at London Euston, before you travel First Class on an Avanti Service to Holyhead. On arrival, you transfer to Holyhead Ferry Terminal for a ferry crossing over the Irish Sea to Dublin. On arrival, you transfer to a comfortable hotel where you’ll stay for the next two nights. There will be a welcome dinner at the hotel this evening. (D)

Friday 26th July

Guided tour of Dublin and whiskey distillery visit

Today after your hotel breakfast you’ll enjoy a guided coach tour of Dublin, with a refreshment break in Phoenix Park. One of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city, it was originally designed for royal hunting

in the 1660s. After the tour you’ll have time for lunch before a scheduled tour of the Teeling Whiskey Distillery. Dublin was once home to over 37 distilleries, and this is the first new distillery here for over 125 years. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the city at leisure. Dublin has a compact centre, so most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walk in ‘Stephen’s Green’ or check out the shops and cafes on Grafton Street, perhaps stopping to take a picture alongside Molly Malone, one of Dublin’s most famous statues. Visit Leinster House, where the current parliament sits, or Dublin Castle, the seat of English rule from the 13th Century. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Saturday 27th July

Guided tour of Athlone Castle, River Shannon cruise and visit to Clonmacnoise Monastery

Following breakfast, you transfer from Dublin to Athlone and enjoy a guided tour of Athlone Castle. Here the Great Siege of Athlone is brought to life through interactive exhibits and an immersive 360-degree cinematic experience. Climb the steps to the castle keep and enjoy the views across the majestic River Shannon. After lunch you leave Athlone Castle for a private charter cruise along the River Shannon. Named after the Celtic goddess ‘Sionna’, the Shannon is a series of lakes, rivers, and canals almost 200 miles in length and is Ireland’s longest river. Later you transfer by coach to Clonmacnoise Monastery. St Ciarán founded this ancient monastery on the banks of the Shannon in the 6th Century. It was once a great seat of learning, a university in its time with students from all over Europe. After your tour you transfer by coach to a comfortable hotel, your base for the next two nights. Dinner will be at the hotel this evening. (B D)

Sunday 28th July

Visit to Connemara Celtic Crystal and visit to Galway

After a leisurely breakfast you leave the hotel for a short walk to the train station. You travel westward to Westport, at the south-east corner of Clew Bay on the west coast of Ireland. You then have a visit scheduled to the enigmatic Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, a nineteenthcentury castle now owned by Benedictine nuns but originally part of Kylemore Castle, built in 1868 as a private home. There’ll be time to explore and buy lunch before you visit Connemara Celtic Crystal, one of the last surviving Irish Crystal factories. It incorporates Celtic designs and Gaelic motifs on ornate, beautifully crafted crystal pieces. You then depart by coach to Galway. Located near an earlier settlement, Galway grew around a fortification built by the King of Connacht in 1124. You’ll have time to explore some of the ancient sites such as St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, the largest medieval church still in everyday use in Ireland, before returning by train to Athlone and dinner at your hotel. (B D)

Monday 29th July

Cliffs of Moher and The West Clare Railway

After breakfast you leave Athlone by coach for a scenic tour of the stunning Cliffs of Moher with photo stops, pausing in the sea port village of Kinvara for refreshments. Afterwards you head to Kilkee, where you will have time to enjoy lunch before moving on to visit the West Clare Railway and Museum. The West Clare Railway was one of a network of narrow gauge lines built across rural West Ireland in the wake of the 1883 Tramways Act. The line was closed in 1961. Afterwards you travel to Bunratty Castle Hotel, where you’ll stay for the next two nights. A tour highlight this evening is a magnificent Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle. (B D)

Tuesday 30th July

Visit to Cobh Titanic Experience and Blarney Castle

You leave your hotel by coach after breakfast to visit the Cobh Titanic Experience. Cobh is a picturesque town in Cork Harbour. It’s also famous for having been the last port of call for the ocean liner ‘Titanic’. The Experience is in two parts, the first retracing the steps of the 123 passengers who boarded Titanic from Cobh on April 11th, 1912. Part two examines the almost impossible sequence of events that caused Titanic to sink. After lunch you leave Cobh and travel to Blarney Village and historic

Blarney Castle & Gardens, built in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You’ll have time to kiss the famous stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eternal eloquence on those lucky enough to do so. A must see is the Rock Close area and Poison Garden where the world’s most poisonous plants are kept. After your visit you return to your hotel where dinner will once again be served in the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Wednesday 31st July

Waterford Crystal and private charter on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway

After breakfast you travel by coach to Limerick Station for a train trip to Waterford in the south of Ireland and a guided tour of The House of Waterford Crystal. See in detail how this stunning crystal has been made since 1783 and the traditional methods still used to this day. After your Waterford tour you enjoy a private charter on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway, Ireland’s longest narrow-gauge railway. Enjoy the panoramic views of the River Suir as you journey to and from Carriganore, where the merchants of Waterford are said to have hidden their treasures from Cromwell’s soldiers. Later you transfer to Wexford Town and a local hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation.

(B D)

Thursday 1st August

Explore Wexford and Celtic dinner and music evening at the Arlington Hotel

This morning you have leisure time to spend exploring Wexford. Walk around the vibrant centre and indulge in the many cafes, pubs and eating places. You then depart Wexford by train and travel to Dublin before transferring to your hotel. In the evening you have a final tour treat with an unforgettable Celtic night with dinner, traditional Irish music, and dancing at the famous Arlington Hotel. Later you return to your hotel for overnight accommodation. (B D)

Friday 2nd August

Ferry crossing to Holyhead and first class Avanti service to London Euston

After breakfast at the hotel, you meet with the rest of your group in reception with your cases. You then have a coach transfer to the ferry terminal and depart Dublin by ferry to Holyhead. On arrival, you transfer to Holyhead train station where you depart on a First Class Avanti Service to London Euston. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price £2295

Single supplement £325

Ground only £2095

(Holyhead to Holyhead)

Price includes:

• First class rail travel from London Euston to Holyhead and return

• 8 nights accommodation

• 8 breakfasts

• 8 dinners

• All visits, train, coach and ferry travel as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

July/August 2024

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 UK TOUR – 9 Days 37

The Far North and Orkney

Thursday 1st August to Friday 9th August 2024

The rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands take centre-stage on this popular tour to one of the most extraordinary places in Northern Europe.

• Explore both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways, the Royal Deeside Railway west of Aberdeen and the Caledonian Railway at Brechin.

• Experience a midsummer ‘White Night’ when the sun never entirely sets, on a sea ferry trip to the enchanting island of Orkney.

• Journey back to the mainland over the most northerly railway in the UK, taking in lunch at John O’ Groats before travelling on the spectacular Far North Line via Thurso to Inverness.

• Cap your memorable holiday with a trip on the nostalgic heritage Strathspey Steam Railway and a visit to the formidable artillery fortification at Fort George.

Thursday 1st August

London to Aberdeen

Friday 2nd August

Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Crathes Castle

You’ll visit both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways during the next two

Saturday 3rd August

Steam at the Caledonian Railway and ferry crossing to Orkney

After breakfast your coach transfers you to Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway.

Sunday 4th August

At leisure in Kirkwall and a visit to a Distillery

You are free to relax and explore the quaint town of Kirkwall at your own pace. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vibrant artisan scene, diverse galleries and craft shops.

Monday 5th August

Exploration of neolithic Orkney

Tuesday 6th August

Orkney beaches, Italian Chapel, Broch of Gurness and Brough of Birsay

Wednesday 7th August

Ferry Crossing over the Pentland Firth, train Journey to Inverness

This morning you return to the Scottish mainland. Your coach takes you from Kirkwall to

Thursday 8th August

Strathspey Steam Railway and Fort George

Friday 9th August

Return to London on the Highland Chieftain

Tour Summary

Tour price £1995

Single supplement £425

Price includes:

• 8 nights accommodation with breakfast at hotels

• 5 lunches and 4 dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• Rail travel from London to Aberdeen and from Inverness to London

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

August 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 UK TOUR – 9 Days 39

Heart of Scotland

Wednesday 7th August to Thursday 15th August 2024

Scotland is a rugged country full of scenic and cultural surprises, as you’ll discover for yourself on this highlight-packed holiday tour to its wild, spectacular heart.

• Ascend rugged Cairngorm mountain on the UK’s highest funicular railway and visit the neo-gothic Victorian Gothic Revival estate at Mount Stuart on Bute.

• Tour highlights include a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world.

• You’ll also discover the diverse wildlife in and around both of Scotland’s National Parks, showcasing the variety of flora and fauna in the rugged Scottish landscape.

Wednesday 7th August

London to Stirling on the ‘Highland Chieftain

Thursday 8th August

Steam Cruise on Loch Katrine and Stirling Castle

Friday 9th August

Strathspey Steam Railway and Cairngorm Mountain Railway

Monarch of the Glen). The return trip on the railway offers wonderful views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join the road coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park and stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich. From here it’s just a short onward journey to the Cairngorm Mountain Railway, a 2 km long funicular and Britain’s highest mountain railway. In appearance and design it’s reminiscent of the famed Alpine funiculars in Switzerland. Enjoy the magnificent views of the snow-capped Scottish mountains as the line ascends CairnGorm. After an equally enjoyable descent on the mountain railway, your road coach returns you to Stirling, where dinner will be served at your hotel. (B L D)

Saturday 10th August

Clyde Cruise and Isle of Bute aboard Paddle Steamer ‘Waverley’

Sunday 11th August

Mount Stuart

and the scenery of South Bute

Monday 12th August

Ferry crossing to Wemyss Bay

Tuesday 13th August

Jacobite

Wednesday 14th August

Free time in Inverness

Thursday 15th August

Train travel from Inverness

Tour Summary

Tour price £1895

Single supplement £345

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London King’s Cross to Stirling by East Coast express train and from Inverness to London King’s Cross

• 8 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast

• 4 lunches and 8 dinners

• All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary

• All road coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

August 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 UK TOUR – 9 Days 41

The Far North and Orkney

Thursday 8th August to Friday 16th August 2024

The rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands take centre-stage on this popular tour to one of the most extraordinary places in Northern Europe.

• Explore both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways, the Royal Deeside Railway west of Aberdeen and the Caledonian Railway at Brechin.

• Experience a midsummer ‘White Night’ when the sun never entirely sets, on a sea ferry trip to the enchanting island of Orkney.

• Journey back to the mainland over the most northerly railway in the UK, taking in lunch at John O’ Groats before travelling on the spectacular Far North Line via Thurso to Inverness.

• Cap your memorable holiday with a trip on the nostalgic heritage Strathspey Steam Railway and a visit to the formidable artillery fortification at Fort George.

Thursday 8th August

London to Aberdeen

Friday 9th August

Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Crathes Castle

You’ll visit both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways during the next two

Saturday 10th August

Steam at the Caledonian Railway and ferry crossing to Orkney

After breakfast your coach transfers you to Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway.

Sunday 11th August

At leisure in Kirkwall and a visit to a Distillery

You are free to relax and explore the quaint town of Kirkwall at your own pace. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vibrant artisan scene, diverse galleries and craft shops.

Monday 12th August

Exploration of neolithic Orkney

Tuesday 13th August

Orkney beaches, Italian Chapel, Broch of Gurness and Brough of Birsay

Wednesday 14th August

Ferry Crossing over the Pentland Firth, train Journey to Inverness

This morning you return to the Scottish mainland. Your coach takes you from Kirkwall to

Thursday 15th August

Strathspey Steam Railway and Fort George

Friday 16th August

Return to London on the Highland Chieftain

Tour Summary

Tour price £1995

Single supplement £425

Price includes:

• 8 nights accommodation with breakfast at hotels

• 5 lunches and 4 dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• Rail travel from London to Aberdeen and from Inverness to London

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

August 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 UK TOUR – 9 Days 43

The West Country Explorer

Saturday 10th August to Thursday 15th August 2024

Explore the delightful coastal and moorland scenery of the counties of Somerset, Devon and Cornwall on this outstanding holiday tour to the West Country.

• Your adventure begins and ends on special steam trains to and from London and features visits to iconic locations such as St. Michael’s Mount and Lands’ End.

• Enjoy a paddle steamer cruise on the River Dart and steam train trips on a variety of heritage railways, like the West Somerset and the Dartmouth Steam Railways.

• Other tour highlights include travel by train over the legendary sea wall at Dawlish, and overnight stays in St. Ives, regularly voted the Best UK Seaside Town, and Torquay, sited on the famed ‘English Riviera’.

• Other railways to discover include the Bodmin & Wenford, and the South Devon Railway running along the stunning River Dart valley between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.

• You’re also sure to savour the many culinary delights of a region famous for its traditional production of cider, clotted cream, and pasties, on this wonderfully idyllic travel holiday.

Saturday 10th August

London Paddington to Exeter

Your adventure begins on a steam train from London Paddington Station for the trip to the West Country. You will travel in the comfort of ‘Premier Dining’ where breakfast will be served at your seat soon after departure. The route runs fast to Reading before taking the Berks and Hants Line through the Vale of the White Horse to Westbury. Crossing the Somerset Levels, you reach Taunton and at Norton Fitzwarren join the ‘Heritage’ West Somerset Railway. At Bishops Lydeard Station a ‘Manor’ class 4-6-0 steam locomotive will be attached to the front of your train. You then continue ‘double-headed’ on this scenic line to Minehead. Here a road coach transfers you to the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway at Woody Bay in Devon. There you

enjoy a steam train journey along this narrowgauge railway line. You continue by road coach to Exeter. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at a hotel in Exeter this evening. (B D)

Sunday 11th August

Free time in Exeter

Today is a free day to explore the sights of Exeter. The morning can be dedicated to visiting the historical sites of the city, including one of the oldest and most beautiful Cathedrals in the country. Stay in Cathedral quarter or head to Princess Hay where you will find a selection of lunch options to suit any taste. The afternoon can be spent in one of many excellent museums, galleries, or beautiful city parks. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your hotel in Exeter this evening. (B D)

Monday 12th August

St Michael’s Mount and Lands’ End

This morning you travel by service train from Exeter to Penzance. En route you pass along the famous sea wall at Dawlish and cross the Royal Albert Bridge over the River Tamar to enter Cornwall at Saltash. Travelling through the glorious Cornish countryside you can still see the evidence of its illustrious mining heritage. At Penzance a road coach takes you to St. Michael’s Mount, a small tidal island in Mount’s Bay. Depending on the tide, you may be able to walk across the causeway to the island from Marazion, otherwise the boat will take you to the island, where you can purchase lunch. After the visit you continue by coach to Lands’ End, the most westerly point of mainland England. It’s also the iconic location for

Bob Green

charitable events to and from John O’Groats in northeast Scotland. Later you return to Penzance with time to look around the town, with its Regency and Georgian architecture, working harbour and terminus railway station. You transfer to St. Ives and book in to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. (B D)

Tuesday 13th August

St Ives, the Bodmin & Wenford Railway, and South Devon Railway

After a leisurely breakfast and time to have a look around St Ives, you travel by road coach to Bodmin Parkway Station for a steam-hauled return trip to Boscarne Junction on the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. This includes a visit to the beautifully restored Bodmin General Station, the headquarters of the railway, where trains reverse direction of travel. In the afternoon you continue to the South Devon Railway for a return journey on the 7-mile track which runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. Afterwards, the coach transfers you to Torquay in Devon, again crossing the road bridge over the River Tamar at Saltash, with great views from a different vantage point of Brunel’s famous railway bridge. You check in to a hotel in Torquay for dinner and overnight stay. (B D)

Wednesday 14th August

Steam on the Dartmouth Steam Railway and a paddle steamer cruise

After breakfast you join a steam train at Paignton Railway Station for a scenic journey along the English Riviera on the Dartmouth Steam Railway. This standard gauge heritage

railway runs from Paignton to Kingswear, connecting with ferries crossing the River Dart to Dartmouth. There are expansive views over Torbay as the line climbs to Churston before it descends, passing Agatha Christie’s Estate at Greenway Halt, to the River Dart. It’s an aptly named Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You then take the ferry to Dartmouth and board the coal-fired paddle steamer ‘Kingswear Castle’ for a leisurely estuary cruise. On returning there’s time to explore the narrow lanes and stone stairways of Dartmouth and discover its magical history. You return to Paignton by steam train and your hotel in Torquay. (B D)

Thursday 15th August

A visit to Dawlish, the Seaton Tramway and return to London Waterloo

This morning you travel by road coach to Dawlish for a few hours of free time. You can stroll on the expansive sands and along the famous sea wall right beside Brunel’s railway line. There will be time to watch and photograph the trains or simply enjoy the beaches and traditional refreshments. You continue by coach to Seaton, on the South Devon coast, to visit the Seaton Tramway. There’s a return trip on this narrow-gauge electric tramway, which operates open top double-deck trams over part of the former railway branch line to Seaton. In the afternoon your road coach takes you to Weymouth. Here you board the ‘Dorset Coast Express’ steam train for the journey to London Victoria. En route you travel in the comfort of ‘Premier Dining’ and have a four-course meal silver served at your seat, an appropriate finale to your glorious ‘West Country’ tour. (B D)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1795

Single supplement £295

Price includes:

• Rail travel from and to London by special steam trains

• 5 nights hotel accommodation with breakfasts

• 6 dinners

• All rail and road coach journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

August 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 UK TOUR – 6 Days 45

The Cock O’the North

Thursday 29th August to Wednesday 4th September 2024

Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Scotland’s northern outposts on our ever-popular ‘Cock O’ the North’ rail and road tour.

• Explore this rugged terrain by extensive train, road coach and ferry transport, starting with a First-Class journey on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ from London to Inverness.

• Steam on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William, taking in the famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct on one of the greatest railway journeys in the world.

• Enjoy two heritage rail trips in one day, on the Strathspey Railway in the shadow of the Cairngorms, and on the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK.

• With overnight stays at comfortable hotels, outstanding cuisine, and point-to-point road coach transport for your luggage included, this is a Scottish holiday tour not to be missed!

Thursday 29th August

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Inverness

Friday

30th August

Strathspey Railway; Keith & Dufftown Railway

waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. You re-join your coach and return to the hotel in Inverness for dinner.

(B L D)

Saturday 31st August

Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh by Train

Bob Green

(B D)

Sunday 1st September

Tour of Skye

Monday 2nd September

Ferry to Mallaig;

‘The Jacobite’ Steam Train

At Inverness you once again check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Tuesday 3rd September

Leisurely Morning, Loch Cruise and Inverness

Wednesday 4th September

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ back to London

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express for the return journey to London. Relax in your FirstClass seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth. You continue to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on the journey south. (B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1895

Single supplement £395

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel to Inverness and return, from London, Peterborough or York, with at-seat dining

• 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at The Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness

• 2 nights bed and breakfast at a good quality 3-star hotel in Portree

• 4 lunches and 2 dinners at a local restaurant

• Our own road coach to transport luggage for the duration in Scotland leaving you free to enjoy the train rides and other journeys

• First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William

• Standard Class rail travel between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh (First Class not provided on this train)

• All visits, train travel, transfers and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• Reserved seats

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

September 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 UK TOUR – 7 Days 47

The Emerald Explorer

Thursday 29th August to Friday 6th September 2024

• Enjoy a guided tour of Dublin and the Teeling Whisky Distillery.

• On the Atlantic seafront tour Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, Connemara Celtic Crystal and explore Galway.

• Travel highlights include the Waterford Suir Valley Railway and a cruise on the River Shannon.

• Marvel at the wild Cliffs of Moher and visit West Clare Railway and Museum.

• Experience the mysteries of Blarney Castle and Clonmacnoise Monastery.

• Finish the tour on a high with traditional Irish music and dancing at Dublin’s famous Arlington Hotel.

Thursday 29th August

First class Avanti service to Holyhead and ferry crossing to Dublin

Friday 30th August

Guided tour of Dublin and whiskey distillery visit

Saturday 31st August

Guided tour of Athlone Castle, River Shannon cruise and visit to Clonmacnoise Monastery

Sunday 1st September

Visit to Connemara Celtic Crystal and visit to Galway

Monday 2nd September

Cliffs of Moher and The West Clare Railway

Tuesday 3rd September

Visit to Cobh Titanic Experience and Blarney Castle

Wednesday 4th September

Waterford Crystal and private charter on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway

(B D)

Thursday 5th September

Explore Wexford and Celtic dinner and music evening at the Arlington Hotel

Friday 6th September

Ferry crossing to Holyhead and first class Avanti service to London Euston

Tour Summary

Tour price £2295

Single supplement £325

Ground only £2095

(Holyhead to Holyhead)

Price includes:

• First class rail travel from London Euston to Holyhead and return

• 8 nights accommodation

• 8 breakfasts

• 8 dinners

• All visits, train, coach and ferry travel as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

September 2024

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 UK TOUR – 9 Days 49

The East Anglian

Friday 6th September to Thursday 12th September 2024

Experience the very best of East Anglia’s small railways and explore its unique landscape, from delightful coastal towns to vibrant cities, on this inspiring UK tour.

• Based in the historic towns of Norwich and King’s Lynn, you’ll enjoy steam trips on the Bure Valley, Mid Norfolk, Wells & Walsingham and North Norfolk lines.

• Discover ancient castles, quaint villages and unspoilt seaside towns as you steam across the stunning landscapes of the region behind historic steam locomotives.

• Enjoy an afternoon boat cruise on the Norfolk Broads, an extended visit to Her Majesty The Queen’s country estate at Sandringham, and a timeless trip to the North Norfolk seaside town Wells-next-the-Sea.

• Other tour highlights include an epic steam-hauled excursion to Windsor on the Windsor Flyer, a guided tour of Norwich Castle and visits to historic Castle Rising and Wymondham Abbey.

• With accommodation in 4-star hotels, sumptuous dining, plenty of time for sightseeing and the services of a tour manager included, this outstanding East Anglian tour holiday is a must for seasoned traveller and steam newcomer alike.

Friday 6th September

From London to Norwich in First Class comfort; tour of Norwich Castle

Your tour starts at Liverpool Street Station, London this morning with a greeting from your Tour Manager. You then travel north in First Class accommodation through the scenic East Anglian countryside to Norwich. On arrival you check in to a centrally located 4-star hotel, your base for the next four nights. After check in you depart on a tour around Norwich, where refreshments will be provided. A welcome dinner is served at your historic hotel this evening. (D)

Saturday 7th September

Windsor Flyer over the East Coast Mainline, North London Suburban line and London & Former South Western Railway’s Windsor Branch to Windsor

This morning you join The Windsor Flyer steam train at Norwich train station for an impressive steam-hauled departure. Breakfast is served on the train. You cross the Trowse swing bridge over the river Wensum. You travel through Wymondham, Attleborough, Thetford and Brandon before approaching Ely. You cross over the River Great Ouse where there are fine views of Ely Cathedral before heading southwards, passing through Cambridge, famous for its many universities including King’s and Trinity. Carrying on via Royston and Hitchin, you join the East Coast Main Line heading southwards to

Stevenage, Potters Bar and Finsbury Park where there will be a set down should you wish to spend the day in London. From here you follow the north London suburban line via Hampsted Heath to Willesden and Acton.

We thread our way towards Brentford and follow the Hounslow Loop line through to Staines. From Staines, you join the former London and South Western Railway’s Windsor branch to Windsor and Eton Riverside station, Windsor sits on banks of the Thames and is home to Windsor Castle, a residence of the British Royal Family. Here you have plenty of time to enjoy the local sights before enjoying a four-course, silverserved dinner at your seat on the return trip to Norwich. (B D)

Sunday 8th September

Free time in historic Norwich; steamhauled to Wymondham Abbey

This morning is free for you to explore the wonderful medieval city of Norwich, which boasts a magnificent Cathedral right next to your hotel, with the bustling town centre only a short walk away. There are craft shops, department stores and the famous market to discover, with countless quaint pubs and cafes to relax in. Cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and winding lanes all add to the charm and timeless history of this vibrant University city. After lunch, a private coach takes you to Dereham for a steam-hauled trip on the MidNorfolk Railway. Savour an afternoon travelling under steam from Dereham to Wymondham Abbey, one of the grandest religious buildings in East Anglia.

You’ll soak up the sights and sounds of the Norfolk countryside en route, and on the trip back to Dereham enjoy a delicious cream tea served at your seat before returning to Norwich and your hotel for dinner. (B D)

Monday 9th September

Steam-hauled on the Bure Valley Railway; boat cruise on the Norfolk Broads

After breakfast today you travel by coach to Aylsham and board a steam-hauled train on the Bure Valley Railway to Wroxham, a delightful town situated on the Norfolk Broads. The man-made landscape of the Broads comprises over 125 miles of navigable lock-free waterways and a quick coach ride takes you to the bridge at Wroxham for an afternoon of cruising on the serene rivers and placid, reedfringed lakes of this National Park. After an adventurous afternoon you return to Wroxham with time to explore this charming little town on the river Bure, before heading back once more to your hotel in Norwich for dinner. (B L D)

Tuesday 10th September

Day trip to Wells-next-the-Sea; steamhauled along the North Norfolk coast Today you depart by coach to Wells-next-theSea, a timeless little seaside town on the North Norfolk Coast with harbour front and fishing vessels, long sandy beach and famous brightly coloured beach huts. From here you depart steam-hauled on the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway to Walsingham, before returning back to Wells for a leisurely lunch at one of its many restaurants, or to enjoy fish and chips on the sea front by the harbour. After lunch you travel by coach eastward along the coast

to Sheringham, for a steam-hauled trip on the North Norfolk Railway to Holt, travelling by the coast and through the North Norfolk countryside before returning to Sheringham. Here a private coach takes you to King’s Lynn where you checkin to a 4-star hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Wednesday 11th September

Trip to Castle Rising; Afternoon exploration of Sandringham House and Gardens

Following breakfast at your hotel this morning, you depart by coach to Sandringham, home of the King’s Norfolk Country House. Here you’ll have time to explore the history and elegance of Sandringham House and its grounds. Sandringham is the country retreat of His Majesty The King and has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs since 1862. The house is set in 24 hectares of stunning gardens and is at the heart of the 8,000-hectare Sandringham Estate. Lunch is served in the restaurant, before departing back to King’s Lynn. On arrival at Kings Lynn you will visit the ‘What A Hoot’ gin distillery for a tour and gin tasting, dinner is served back at your hotel. (B L D)

Thursday 12th September

Exploration of King’s Lynn; return to London

You’ll enjoy breakfast at your hotel before you spend the morning exploring and shopping in the town centre. King’s Lynn was one of England’s most important ports from as early as the 12th century, and fine old merchants’ houses stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House that overlooks the harbour. After a morning of discovery, you board a coach to take you back to Norwich before heading to the station to catch a train home. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1795

Single supplement £235

Price includes:

• 6 nights accommodation with breakfast in 4-star hotels

• 5 breakfasts in hotels and 1 on the train

• 5 dinners in hotels and 1 on the train

• 2 lunches

• All train travel as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and coach transfers

• The services of a tour manager

Seat reservations from London and return are non reserveable. Return travel from Kings Lynn to Kings Cross is available upon request.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

September 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 UK TOUR – 7 Days

The Summer Highlander

Monday 9th September to Saturday 14th September 2024

Explore the splendour of Scotland’s culture and landscape on this unique summer tour to the scenic Scottish Highlands.

• Discover the inherent romance of the picturesque Isle of Skye on a ferry and road trip and explore the famous northern outpost of John O’Groats.

• Immerse yourself in Scottish heritage at Dunrobin Castle and the Castle of Mey, and sample traditional Scottish culinary delights at diverse venues, including a whisky distillery.

• Visits to both the Strathspey and the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’ heritage railways are included, the latter being the most northerly heritage railway in the UK.

• With a wide variety of cultural and culinary delights also on offer, you’ll experience first-hand the glorious appeal of this rugged land when you book for this outstanding holiday travel tour.!

Monday 9th September

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland

Tuesday 10th September

‘The Jacobite’; the Isle of Skye; by train to Inverness

Wednesday 11th September

Dunrobin Castle

Bob Green

wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There’ll be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch at the Golspie Inn. To end an eventful day, you’ll enjoy a traditional Highland whisky experience before returning to the hotel in Inverness (B L)

Thursday 12th September

The Far North

Today there’s a trip by road coach to the iconic village of John O’Groats. The route from Inverness follows the A9 trunk road, which hugs the North Sea coast for much of the way from Golspie to Wick, giving spectacular views. John O’Groats is the well-known starting point for charity events travelling the greatest length of Britain to Land’s End. It has a tiny harbour and, if the weather is good, there are views across the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands. You continue a few miles west to the Castle of Mey, where a light lunch will be served. The castle was restored from a near ruin by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother for use as a holiday home. Further on, at Thurso Railway Station, you join a ScotRail service train for Inverness. The railway takes a different route to the road, initially crossing isolated moorland, thus providing a fresh perspective on the region’s wonderful scenery. The railway line meets the North Sea coast at Helmsdale and follows the coastline, often running between the road and the sea. It’s not uncommon to see seals basking on the shore on this section of the route. On arrival at Inverness you return to your hotel where dinner is served. (B L D)

Friday 13th September

The Strathspey and Keith & Dufftown Railways

(B L D)

Saturday 14th September

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the return journey to London. Relax in your First-Class seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth and then to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London’s King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on your journey south. (B L)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1795

Single supplement £345

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ and on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train

• Standard Class rail travel between Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness and between Thurso and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains)

• 5 nights accommodation in hotels

• 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinners

• All visits, train and ferry travel and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 UK TOUR – 6 Days 53

September

The Shetlander

Saturday 14th September to Saturday 21st September 2024

Discover the timeless beauty of the remote Shetland Islands on this ever-popular tour to the most northern outpost of the United Kingdom.

• Following a high-speed trip north to Aberdeen, you cross to Shetland for a 4-day exploration of its rugged shorelines, windswept rolling hills and rich cultural heritage.

• Visit the island’s outstanding natural and historical attractions and discover its stunning rock formations, unspoiled beaches and ancient archaeological sites.

• On your return to the Scottish mainland you’ll cap this fascinating holiday with a relaxing stay in Dundee, one of Scotland’s most historic and elegant cities, steeped in golfing lore and crammed with beautiful architecture.

• With added extras including a visit Captain Scott’s ship HMS Discovery and a steam trip on the Caledonian Railway at Brechin, this highlight-packed Scottish holiday is not to be missed!

Saturday 14th September

London to Aberdeen

Your adventure begins in the plush First-Class lounge at London Kings Cross, for a midmorning departure from London to Aberdeen. Travelling along the East Coast Main Line LNER service, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as the train travels north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. You cross the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges and arrive in Aberdeen in late afternoon, checking into your conveniently located city centre hotel. The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure in the ‘Granite City’, exploring this hub of Northeast Scotland. (L)

Sunday 15th September

Steam at the Caledonian Railway and

Ferry Crossing to Shetland

Monday 16th September

Tour of the Central Shetland Mainland; Scalloway Castle and Museum

Tuesday 17th September

South Shetland Mainland

(B D)

Wednesday 18th September

Northern Mainland

Thursday 19th September

Western Mainland

Friday 20th September

Aberdeen to Dundee

Saturday 21st September

Return to London

Tour Summary

Tour price £1845

Single supplement £325

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London to Aberdeen and return from Dundee with at-seat dining

• 5 nights bed and breakfast at good quality 3-star hotels

• 2 nights bed and breakfast in a private cabin during our ferry crossings

• 6 dinners and 3 lunches

• All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

September 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 UK TOUR – 8 Days 55

English Lake District

Thursday 19th September to Tuesday 24th September 2024

Discover the delights of English Lake District by vintage motor vessel, steam train and steam yacht on this feature-packed holiday tour to Cumbria.

• Windermere, you’ll enjoy cruises on vintage vessels on Lake Windermere and Ullswater.

• Steam train highlights include a trip on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and an exclusive exploration of the legendary 15-inch narrow gauge railway ‘La’al Ratty’.

• Enjoy a lake-themed cruise on Coniston Water aboard the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’, followed by lunch at the 400-year-old ‘Sun’ pub in Coniston.

• Other holiday highlights include visits to Hill Hop House, Haverthwaite engine shed and Muncaster Castle.

Thursday 19th September

First Class rail travel to Oxenholme, Coach transfer to Windermere

Your holiday begins in the First-Class lounge at London Euston Station before boarding a morning Avanti Trains Pendolino service.

You’ll travel in sumptuous comfort at a top speed of 125mph along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) to Oxenholme in the Lake District. Here you’ll have a short coach transfer to the delightful village of Bowness-on-Windermere, located on the banks of Lake Windermere. Your hotel for the duration of the tour will be The Belsfield Hotel. You then have some leisure time to explore Bowness before dinner at your hotel in the evening. (D)

Friday 20th September

Lake Windermere cruise; Steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

Saturday

21st September

boat cruise on Coniston Water; Hill Top House

Steam

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

Sunday 22nd September

Scenic cruises on Lake Windermere and Ullswater

cruise the length of the lake from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding. You rejoin the road coach for the return journey via scenic country roads to Bowness and dinner at your hotel in the evening.

(B L D)

Monday

23rd September

Steam train on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, visit to Muncaster Castle

Tuesday 24th September

Homeward bound

After breakfast at the hotel you transfer by road coach to Oxenholme Lake District for the return to London Euston again in the First-Class comfort of an Avanti Pendolino train. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price £1575

Single supplement £275

Ground only £1365

(Windermere to Windermere with own travel to/from Windermere)

Price includes:

• First Class rail travel from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District and return by Avanti Pendolino Trains

• Coach transfer from Oxenholme to Windermere, Windermere to Oxenholme

• 5 nights Half-Board hotel accommodation

• 2 lunches

• All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary

• Travel on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

September 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 UK TOUR – 6 Days 57

The Isle of Man Adventure

Friday 20th September to Thursday 26th September 2024

The Isle of Man has a story for every season, but late summer is one of the best times to enjoy this idyllic destination. Discover glens and lush plantations on relaxed walks and visit sun-kissed beaches alive with wildlife. The island stretches 32 miles north to south and 14 miles east to west, and is packed with scenery, history and industrial gems, including a horse tram, the largest working waterwheel in the world, miniature railways and an offshore Viking castle. Humans have lived here since 6500 BC, and smugglers, pirates and Nordic invaders have all been common at various times in Manx history, with the evidence for them all about.

• You’ll be based in a 3-star hotel in Douglas for the extent of your holiday.

• Enjoy charter trips on the Manx Electric Railway, Groudle Glen Steam Railway, and the Isle of Man Railway.

• Visit the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest working waterwheel in the world, built by Victorian engineers in 1854.

• Ascend to the summit of Snaefell, the island’s only mountain, on its Mountain Railway.

• Follow the scenic roads of the famous Isle of Man TT course on a coach trip covering the length of the island.

• Visit the island towns of Ramsey in the north, and the seaside resort of Port Erin on the south of the island.

• Use your complimentary Go Explore Heritage Pass to explore all the island has to offer on your free days.

Friday 20th September

Avanti West Coast from London Euston to Heysham, ferry to Isle of Man

hotels and restaurants and there are plenty of shops to visit. A welcome dinner will be served in your hotel restaurant this evening. (B D)

Saturday 21st September

Great Laxey Wheel, Snaefell Mountain Railway

where a three-course dinner will be served in the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Sunday 22nd September

Manx Electric Railway, Groundle Glen Steam Railway

Monday 23rd September

Coach tour of the Isle of Man, Jurby Transport Museum

Tuesday 24th September

Free Day to Explore Isle of Man using your Travel Pass

You are free today to use your railway rover to

Wednesday 25th September

Isle of Man Railway, Castle Rushen

Your tour gathers in the hotel reception after breakfast, and you transfer from the hotel to the Isle of Man Railway. Your first stop is Castletown for a visit to the Old House of Keys and the mediaeval Castle Rushen, once used as a prison before being restored, and now a Manx National Heritage site. Afterwards you continue on the Isle of Man Railway to Port Erin, a lovely seaside resort on the south of the island. On arrival you’re free to explore the area at your leisure. The heart of the village is around Station Road and Church Road. There are shops, cafes, bars and activities operating from Shore Road by the beach, with views to the Mountains of Mourne in Northern Ireland past Bradda Head. At Port Erin Railway Museum, you’ll discover the history of the Island’s steam railways over the last 140 years. You can then enjoy multiple rides on the different engines and services with your complimentary rail rover tickets. Dinner is once more at your hotel in the evening. (B D)

Thursday 26th September

Ferry from Isle of Man, Northern Rail from Heysham to Lancaster, Avanti West Coast from Lancaster to London Euston

Tour Summary

Tour price £1595

Single supplement £195

Price includes:

• 6 nights accommodation half board

• 1 Lunch

• First Class Travel from London to Lancaster and from Lancaster back to London

• All visits, train, coach and ferry travel as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

*Northern Rail service from Lancaster to Heysham and from Heysham back to Lancaster in standard class only.

Premium Lounge seats are subject to availability and cannot always be guaranteed due to limited capacity.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

September 2024 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 UK TOUR – 7 Days 59

Our friendly team are available to answer any questions and to help you make a booking –please feel free to contact us on 01553 661 500 Monday to Friday 9am–5pm or by email to enquiries@railwaytouring.co.uk Visit our online shop to purchase themed Railway Touring Company merchandise. Currently Bookmarks, Greeting Cards and Postcards. We will be adding to our range as new products become available. www.railwaytouring.net/shop/

Meet the Team

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Kelly Osborne Managing Director Rachel Jackson Operations Manager Hollie Kimber Operations Manager Allison Sanders Operations Manager Julia Barrett Office Assistant Jade Mott Operations Assistant

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EST. 1997

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Booking Information

The attraction of trains.

By their very nature, trains, especially steam hauled trains, attract enthusiasts. Our tours will always include a number of photographic opportunities in the form of false starts and run pasts where this is practical and possible. Where possible, we also arrange locomotive footplate rides, museum and depot visits. Many of our customers do not have the same exclusive interest in trains shown by some enthusiasts; therefore, we keep in mind the need to diversify our tour programmes. We do this by including visits to castles and historic houses, and to wildlife parks, using accommodation in resort style hotels, and providing free time for shopping and exploring. Nevertheless the main attraction and therefore the emphasis of our tours is travel by train, which includes the nostalgia, the companionship on board, and the passing scenery. We consider that those travelling on our tours will see more scenery and in greater comfort than by road coach or cruise liner.

Schedules and services.

We arrange and advertise tours in good faith. Many scheduled railway organisations – train operators and track operators – only work two months ahead and therefore cannot confirm final schedules to us until that ‘window’.Likewise we cannot confirm and advise final numbers for a tour until full balances have been received from tour customers. Tours may be subject to occasional rescheduling or re-routing. The nature of steam trains is that breakdowns, delays and substitutions have to be accepted. Every genuine effort will be made to ensure that each of our tours runs as planned and advertised, or as close to it as possible.

Fire risk.

In many countries at times of exceptionally dry weather, coal fired steam locomotives may be banned from operating and diesel or electric traction may have to be substituted. Oil fired steam locomotives however are normally still allowed to operate. The Railway Touring Company cannot accept any responsibility for steam bans during times of high fire risk.

Overnight travel arrangements.

Where overnight travel is necessary we will arrange either to stay in a convenient hotel en route, to use one of the newer ‘hotel trains’, or to book Standard Class twin berth sleeper car trains (First Class is often single berth). These decisions are made on the basis of the length of the journey, the range of scenery likely to be missed by overnight travel, and the accommodation options available.

Luggage and Passenger Assistance.

Whilst most major stations are equipped with lifts, escalators or walking ramps, not all smaller stations feature these facilities. We therefore recommend that you use a lightweight case with wheels, to allow you to best handle it. Please also ensure that your packed case is still light enough for you to successfully lift it in and out of trains and to enable you to walk comfortably with it. You will be responsible for your own luggage whilst on holiday. Passenger Assistance can be booked upon request, if required and necessary. Please let us know prior to the start of the holiday, should you require assistance.

Porterage.

Some tours include porterage between stations and hotels; some include full luggage transfers between hotels, using either a supplementary road coach or scheduled ‘luggage in advance’ facilities. Porterage, where advertised, is included in the cost. However, there will be occasions when porters are not available or included and it will be each customer’s responsibility to handle their own luggage.

Accommodation.

We aim to use 3 or 4-star designated hotels throughout our tours as this offers us the standards of hospitality, catering and service that we would wish for our customers.

We also seek out establishments which are either conveniently located for the railways in order to minimize transfers, or which afford some unique character. Where we cannot meet either of these criteria we ensure the best and most comfortable accommodation is available. Single supplements.

We are pleased to advise that we do not financially benefit from single supplement charges. Supplement charges only apply due to hoteliers charging higher rates for rooms that are solely occupied. All of our prices listed are per person based on two persons sharing. Therefore, any room that is solely occupied does incur a charge, whether it be a single or double room. If a double room is preferred please state your preference at the time of booking in order for us to obtain a quote, double rooms for single use may be slightly more expensive than the single supplement stated. All other elements of our tours are priced on a per person rate, so no extra fees are applied for solo travellers. Food and drink.

Meals will be taken on trains, boats, planes, in hotels and restaurants and even al-fresco, picnic or packed! Mindful of the diversity of our customer’s tastes we try to adopt a ‘middle of the road’ approach when choosing menus. We must also accept the limitations of on-board catering and marvel at the success that chefs regularly achieve in the confines of train kitchens. Hotel and restaurant meals are usually a set menu, with options for special dietary needs. If customers have any special dietary requirements they must please ensure we know them at the time of booking. In this way we can make the necessary arrangements for customers with special requirements. Some of our tours include alcoholic and soft drinks and coffee, in which case this is clearly stated in tour information. Otherwise customers are responsible for their own refreshments.

Booking Information

Passports, visas and health issues.

Customers are responsible for holding the necessary and appropriate travel documentation for their journey. For tours outside the UK, customers must ensure that there is at least six months validity remaining on their passports after returning back to the UK. We assume our customers are British Citizens whose passport shows they have a right to reside in the UK. If a customer has a passport of another country or state, or one that indicates restrictions on return to their country of origin, then they must please contact us prior to booking and well in advance of intended use. We will advise customers of the requirements and processing arrangements for visas where they are required. We will offer any help we can in arranging customers’ visas. Health advice is dependent upon the destination, medical history and current health of each customer participating in a tour and we cannot assume any responsibility. Customers MUST seek advice from their GP or a travel medical centre.

Pre-tour and travel documents.

We will send out information to tour customers for visa and general planning purposes when appropriate, usually at the ‘balance due’ time. If there is nothing significant to communicate then we will simply acknowledge that the customer’s balance of payment has been received. We prepare and send a booklet of information to tour customers for all tours. This includes a passenger list with first or ‘known as’ names, where advised, (to check on an old acquaintance, aide-memoir for names during the tour); the latest known itinerary with as much detail as necessary (including meal times/locations); emergency and general contact details; and usually some general and specific information about features of the tour programme. This is intentionally a small part of the information available and tour customers are advised to research and obtain detailed reference material, maps, schedules etc. appropriate to their particular interests. Air travel tickets are usually sent to us for onward despatch less than two weeks before travel – please don’t panic! Rail tickets are often group travel documents held by the Tour Manager. In this case tour customers will be provided with joining instructions, which must please be observed since the party cannot progress until all members are present. Tickets, vouchers and coupons for onward travel during a tour, are usually held and distributed by the Tour Manager.

Travel insurance.

Many customers arrange their own travel insurance. The Railway Touring Company cannot assume any responsibility relating to travel insurance issues and customers should ensure that they are familiar with procedures should an incident occur. This is especially important with medical cover since we do not undertake to obtain medical attention, but to hand over the customer to an appropriate and suitable authority. You will need to double check with your insurance providers that your terms cover you for such things like a pandemic i.e Covid-19 or if you fall ill whilst away and need emergency medical treatment, if you are unsure we highly advise you to contact your provider to see if you are covered, not all policies cover for this.

• If you have not purchased your holiday insurance you will be looking for the following standard of cover, Medical and repatriation costs if you become unwell with any coronavirus (including Covid-19) or contagious disease.

• If your trip or holiday has to be cancelled because you or a travelling companion are diagnosed with any coronavirus (including Covid-19) or contagious disease and are unable to travel.

• Emergency repatriation costs to bring you home if the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) impose travel restrictions (while you’re at your destination), either in the UK or at your destination, and has requested you to return to the UK. Cancellations due to coronavirus will not be refunded less than 8 weeks prior to travel as per our terms and conditions. Claims for not travelling due to contracting Covid-19 or any other coronavirus or disease will need to be dealt with through your travel insurance provider. However, we can assist with providing any paperwork/cancellation forms that may be needed.

Infirmity and disability.

Tour managers are responsible for the general care and well-being of the whole group and are neither available, nor trained or insured for individual ‘personal’ care. Each tour, by way of the trains and terrain being visited, presents its own opportunities and restrictions. Customers should ascertain the suitability of the itinerary and facilities available relevant to their own needs. We are happy to discuss customers’ concerns with them before they commit to a booking. We will attempt to accommodate and resolve any needs or problems caused by undisclosed mobility/dietary/general health issues but cannot accept responsibilities beyond those stated above. We would especially draw the attention of customers to the tours that visit high-altitude locations and the resulting possibility of cardiovascular and respiratory problems.

Confidentiality, privacy and mailing lists.

Customers’ names and addresses have been obtained as a result of their response to advertisements, having been a previous customer or enquirer, or a referral from some other party. We do not share these details with anyone outside Warren Travel Ltd. trading as The Railway Touring Company or The Railway Touring Company Ltd. Customer’s personal details such as credit card numbers, travel arrangements, companions etc. will only be kept to be used within the requirements of tour operating. We are registered under the Data Protection Act. If one customer wishes to communicate with another customer, then please forward the stamped envelope/package to us. We will add the address and post on the mail. We will not divulge any addresses or telephone numbers. Please refer to our website for information regarding our Privacy Policy ensuring you fully understand it. Your acceptance of our Privacy Policy is deemed to occur upon your first use of Our Site.

Booking Information

Seat Reservations.

Whilst we do our very best to seat you as close to your preference as possible, all seating on the trains is allocated to us and therefore we cannot guarantee any seating requests. However, if you do have any concerns regarding the seats allocated to you, please do let us know. On some trains seat reservations are by individual seats, on others by block booking or complete carriage. Since the railways concerned make the allocations, we have to accept and be flexible about the seating arrangements.

Will I need to take a Covid-19 test to travel?

You may need to take a pre-holiday test before you leave the UK. The test required varies by destination country and is also subject to your vaccination status. Check the current requirements for your holiday destination via the foreign travel advice section of the UK Government website https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This will also advise you on the type of test you may need to take.

Financial protection The Travel Trust Association (TTA)

The TTA is a trade association of travel agents and travel organisers, established to provide financial protection for the customer. The TTA lays down strict guidelines on how the customer’s funds should be handled, and each member must adhere to those guidelines. Every TTA member pays the customer’s funds into a designated trust account which is supervised by an independent trustee; a Banker, Chartered or certified Accountant or Solicitor.

Why your travel arrangements are totally safe with the Travel Trust Association

The Travel Trust Association (TTA) recognises that for many people a holiday is the one chance to really relax – so it is important that customers are able to feel completely confident about their travel arrangements from the moment they make their booking. By choosing an approved TTA Member, customers can be sure that their travel plans are totally secure. These arrangements exceed the statutory levels of consumer protection.

Customer’s funds are secured in Trust by the Travel Trust Association Trustees.

Travel Trust Association

2 Crown Square Woking GU21 6HR 01483 545 780 www.traveltrust.co.uk

The holidays in this brochure that include air travel are ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is T7149. ATOL protects customers from losing their money or being stranded abroad. It does this by carrying out financial checks on the firms it licenses and requiring a guarantee, called a bond, to be lodged with them. If a firm goes out of business, the CAA will make a refund to the customer, or if already abroad on holiday, arrange for the customer to complete their holiday and fly home.

Status

The Railway Touring Company is a direct sell tour operator and retail travel agent. All parts of a customer’s holiday are covered by our TTA membership (number T726X), and the air travel for all of our customers’ holidays is covered by our ATOL membership (number T7149). Warren Travel Ltd, trading as The Railway Touring Company, acts as a booking agent for the service providers whose terms and conditions of booking and carriage apply to our tours. Copies of these terms and conditions will be obtained from the relevant service providers and forwarded to customers on request. Tours will be confirmed and take place subject to minimum and maximum numbers booking. Railway components of a tour are provided subject to the serviceability of motive power and stock, and the operating conditions prevailing at the time of the tour. In the event of a failure to operate services as advertised then ‘best’ alternatives will be provided.

Programme and prices

Details of each tour programme and its cost are published in our tour brochure, in leaflets, by correspondence, or by amendments notified to customers. Customers are required to acknowledge their acceptance of this information.

Payments

All tour bookings should be accompanied by payment of a deposit per person as follows:

£200 for travel in the UK

£250 for travel within Europe

£350 for travel beyond Europe

A confirmation of booking will be sent to customers which includes a statement of their account and a balance due date. The balance of payment is required in time for us to pay our suppliers, usually twelve weeks before travel. There are occasions when we are required to pay for group tickets earlier than this and the balance due date will reflect this. During the period of time that we are establishing a viable tour group, deposits are fully refundable. Once we have confirmed the operation of a tour then deposits are not refundable. Due to

Booking Information

the high costs involved with debit and credit card transactions our preferred methods of payments for balance payments are cheque or bank transfer.

Fidelity insurance

It is a requirement that all tour bookings be covered by Fidelity Insurance. This is a financial protection insurance that protects the customer’s money until the tour takes place.

The cost of this insurance is included in the tour price.

Customer cancellation

We have the following customer cancellation policy for all of our tours: Cancellation prior to 12 weeks before tour departure – loss of deposit

Cancellation between 8-12 weeks prior to tour departure – 25% refund of tour cost

Cancellation less than 8 weeks prior to tour departure – no refund

Passports, visas and health

Customers are responsible for ensuring that they have the correct travel documentation for tours, and this includes passports, visas and health certificates. We are willing to give advice on passport and visa requirements but customers should seek professional guidance on medical related matters. We shall obtain guidance from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and tourist board where a security risk exists or arises in respect of a tour destination. This information will then be passed on to tour customers.

Prices

Prices are determined against known exchange rates, fuel costs and tax regimes prevailing at 15th April 2022. The exchange rates used for prices quoted in this brochure are as follows:

£1 = 1.13 Euros

In the event of significant changes we must reserve the right to amend prices. A NO SMOKING policy will be pursued where we have the control or influence over the service that we are providing on our tour.

Our chartered steam trains

Whenever possible we hire steam trains for our exclusive use. This allows us the flexibility, within operational parameters, to run to our requirements. It also enables us to stop the train for photographs of the scenery; the train itself; and sometimes staged train movements, known as run-pasts. We can often arrange for tour customers to ride on the footplate of the locomotive, should they wish, but at their own risk. Since our tours often number around 40 customers there are occasions when we have access to older trains with limited capacity, and sometimes to facilities not normally available to large groups or individuals. However, on occasions due to popularity and where space permits this number can be exceeded.

Scheduled trains

Where we travel by scheduled train, with few exceptions, we travel First Class in reserved seats or reserved carriages. This has proven to be much better value for money since the additional space, comfort and lack of crowding are obtained at a worthwhile supplement compared with Standard Class travel.

Alternative airports, independent travel and extensions

Our customers come from throughout the UK and overseas. Wherever possible we choose flights which allow connections from local airports, and prices for these connecting flights start at around £149 return. Most tours allow for independent travel arrangements whereby customers may extend their stay, stop en route, or make their own travel arrangements. We can provide a ‘ground only’ quotation for all of our tours so that overseas customers and independent travellers can make their own way to and from the tour joining point.

Booking Information

Extra tours and tour updates

Throughout the year we keep pace with an ever-changing world. It is often possible to initiate new tours after our brochure has gone to press, and to make alterations to published information, so please check our website for the most up-to-date information.

Website – www.railwaytouring.net

Our web site provides details of all our tours plus information about additional tours and amendments to our tour programme. Don’t forget to bookmark our web site amongst your favourites. We welcome contributions of photographs that customers have taken on our tours and that they are willing for us to use in publicity materials.

Booking information

Customers should ensure that they read all our Booking Information before booking a holiday with us.

Pre-tour and post-tour UK hotels and holiday parking

We are able to arrange customers’ pre-tour and post-tour hotel accommodation, car parking, coach and train travel, and connecting flights. Customers may wish to consider staying overnight before and/or after travel on one of our tours. A night in a conveniently located hotel before departure or after return can mean that the customer begins or ends the tour more rested and relaxed. It may also avoid the frustrations and anxieties of early morning and late evening travel.

Pre-booked car parking can also be arranged for customers.

Examples:-

Airport hotels with holiday parking

• Gatwick from £110 per room

• Heathrow from £139 per room

• Stansted from £125 per room

Secured airport parking

• Gatwick from £8.75 per day

• Heathrow from £9.00 per day

• Stansted from £6.25 per day

Travel by road coach from and to the customer’s local town together with overnight hotel accommodation can be arranged. Prices are available on request. Rail tickets from and to the customer’s home railway station to the tour departure point can only be booked where two or more passengers are travelling together. Prices are available on request.

The prices quoted above are correct at the time of print and may be subject to change and can vary depending on your preferences.

UK connecting flights

We are willing to make enquiries and, where possible, arrange connecting flights from the customer’s local airport to the main tour departure point. Prices are available on request.

Travel insurance

Due to changes in the travel insurance regulations we are no longer able to sell travel insurance direct to our customers. We can however recommend and send to customers details of travel insurance through Holiday Extras, in conjunction with the Travel Trust Association. Please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to receive details of this insurance.

EST. 1997 66

Reservation Form

*DOB = Date of Birth

Please ensure your names are as they appear in your passport.

Address of first named .................................................................................................................................................................................

Please reserve the (tour title)

Indicate your requirements/preferences: Twin bedded room ■ Double bedded room ■ Single room(s) ■ (Please tick)

Where options are available for the tour (i.e. choice of travel) please clearly state your choice(s).

Please also specify any dietary or health related requirements. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The deposit is £350 per person outside Europe, £250 per person within Europe and £200 per person for UK tours. The balance/full fare is due 12 weeks before travel; dates will be advised on your confirmation. As stated in our booking information a Fidelity Policy will be added at the time of booking.

I enclose a cheque (payable to THE RAILWAY TOURING COMPANY CLIENT ACCOUNT).

Please charge my credit or debit card for:

£ deposit ■ full fare ■ (Please tick)

Card Number

Expires

Start Date

Please accept my booking on the terms and conditions as stated in this brochures booking information pages and on our website, railwaytouring.net

Please sign and date

Please send this form to: The Railway Touring Company, The Old Stables, Estuary Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2HL

T itle .................... Forename .................................................................. Surname ................................................................ DOB * ................

Forename Surname DOB *

Title

Phone

The Railway Touring Company The Old Stables, Estuary Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2HL Phone: 01553 661 500 – Fax: 01553 661 800 Web: www.railwaytouring.net – E-mail: enquiries@railwaytouring.co.uk Design and Artwork - LucidSynergy Ltd - www.lucidsynergy.com