2 minute read
The Cardiff Christmas Express
Tuesday 22nd November 2022
Join us on this scenic rail tour by steam train through the Thames Valley, the beautiful Cotswold Hills and along the river Severn, hauled by Princess Coronation class steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland. Our destinations will be the cathedral city of Gloucester, and Cardiff, the vibrant Capital of Wales. We should experience some fast running along the ex-GWR main line and some challenging climbs through the Cotswolds.
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Our steam hauled train leaves London Victoria in the morning and we make our way via Clapham Junction to Staines, our first call for more passengers. We take the Reading line and make further calls at Ascot and Reading. Following the Thames Valley, we head for Didcot, our final pick up station. Our journey continues through the Vale of White Horse to Swindon, where we take the Golden Valley line through Kemble and Duchess of Sutherland then tackles the steep climb to Sapperton Tunnel. On arrival at Gloucester, passengers have the choice of alighting here to visit the city with its centrepiece the 14th century cathedral, alongside the many shops and other attractions that the city has to offer. Our steam hauled train will call at Gloucester on the return to pick up passengers who choose to spend the afternoon here. Our journey will continue from Gloucester towards Cardiff along the banks of the river Severn through Lydney and Chepstow as we head for Wales via Newport. The Cardiff Christmas Market is located in the heart of the city along the pedestrianised streets of the main shopping area. Enjoy the atmosphere of the market with its craft stalls, food and drink outlets and fairy lights to add to the festive feel. We will return from Cardiff steam hauled by Duchess of Sutherland, and will pick up at Gloucester before returning via the Golden Valley route once again to Didcot, Reading, Ascot, Staines and terminating in London Victoria, ending what promises to be a varied and enjoyable day out. Approximate Timings Outward Return London Victoria 07:00 22:45 Staines 08:00 21:50 Ascot 08:30 21:15 Reading 09:00 20:45 Didcot Parkway 09:30 20:10 Gloucester 12:00 18:40 Cardiff 13:20 16:40
There are three classes available:
Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and four course dinner silver served at your seat. First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam. Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.
Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £30 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments.
