NOTHING beats the sight and sounds of a magnificent steam locomotive. The nostalgia and excitement of steam travel captivates young and old and, combined with a visit to the seaside, makes for a very special day out.
This summer from Woking there will be three great opportunities to relive the golden years of rail travel as The Dorset Coast Express stops enroute for the popular seaside resorts of Bournemouth and Weymouth on Wednesdays, July 26 and August 2, and Thursday, August 17.
Magnificent locos
Organised by heritage rail operator The Railway Touring Company, which has been arranging steam day trips for over 25 years, The Dorset Coast Express will be hauled by some of Britain’s finest historic steam locos. Watch out for magnificent No. 45596 Bahamas set to be in service on a number of the dates. Built in 1935, Bahamas is a Jubilee class loco.
Sit back and relax
On board the vintage rail coaches of The Dorset Coast Express you will be able to sit back and relax as you are transported south in comfort. The train will head through Winchester and Southampton with plenty to see along the way.
Steam, sand and sea
At Bournemouth passengers can choose to leave the train to visit this fine spa resort, famed for its fine sandy beach, flower filled parks and pine trees.
Alternatively, you can stay on board to enjoy spectacular views of Poole Harbour as the train travels onwards through classic Dorset countryside with delightful scenery to Weymouth, where you will have almost three hours to explore this Georgian seaside town with its own golden beach and pretty harbourside.
Treat yourself to on board dining
Passengers travelling Standard are welcome to take their own picnic to enjoy or purchase refreshments on board.
For a real treat book First Class. In First, during the morning you will be served tea or coffee, a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and, in the afternoon, tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.
For a truly special occasion, opt for Premier Dining. You will enjoy a full English breakfast and a four-course dinner, freshly prepared on board and silver served to you at your linen clad table. What better way to celebrate a birthday or anniversary or give family and friends a most memorable day!
Spring steam
Can’t wait for the summer? The Railway Touring Company’s Atlantic Coast Express stops at Woking on Saturday, May 20, for a steam journey to Exeter. On Bank Holiday weekend Saturday, May 27, The South Devon Explorer will depart from Woking to the maritime city of Plymouth with its famous Hoe and Mayflower Steps.
To find out more or book visit: www.railwaytouring.net