The Christmas Heart of Midlothian

This tour will provide an excellent opportunity to break away from the hectic preparations for Christmas by taking a steam hauled excursion to the bustling, cosmopolitan City of Edinburgh. The train is steam hauled from York to Edinburgh.

‘The Heart of Midlothian’ will depart early in the morning from Huddersfield, diesel-hauled, picking up passengers via Leeds before we arrive at York, where our steam locomotive will be attached.
We pass the National Railway Museum steam hauled as we head north towards Darlington.
The East Coast Main Line will allow our locomotive to run at its maximum speed, with our chime whistle sounding frequently as we race through stations packed with onlookers.
Durham Cathedral appears to the right as we head north, followed by the Angel of the North sculpture that heralds our approach to Newcastle. We cross the Tyne on King Edward Bridge and enter the busy metropolis of Newcastle.
 

Leaving Newcastle behind, we now follow the east coast through Morpeth towards the Border town of Berwick on Tweed. Beyond the coastal shoreline in the distance are views of Holy Island or Lindisfarne. The spectacular Royal Border Bridge crosses the Tweed as we reach the border and enter Scotland. A long climb through Granthouse before we make our final approach on Edinburgh Waverley station, located conveniently in the heart of the city. 

 

Edinburgh has many attractions to entertain visitors, including the famous mile-long shopping paradise of Princes Street. There are numerous art galleries, museums and interesting buildings, along with cathedrals and of course its famous Castle high on the mound at the end of the Royal Mile that overlooks Princes Street Gardens.
The Royal Palace at Holyrood, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, is also well worth a visit.
 

After a break in the Scottish Capital to savour the pre-Christmas flavour of Edinburgh, we shall return to York and Huddersfield by diesel traction. Expect a surprise visit from Santa with his Elves on the return!

• Premier Dining includes full English breakfast, light lunch and four course dinner silver served at your seat.
• First Class includes morning coffee and Danish pastries and tea and biscuits in the afternoon.
• Standard Class includes a reserved seat at a table for four.

A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments.
Tables for two can be guaranteed in first class and premier dining for a supplement of £15 per person.
(subject to availability)