The Easterling - Steam returns to Norfolk

From 1950 to 1958 the summer holiday express, The Easterling, ran over the East Suffolk line non-stop from London Liverpool Street to Beccles, whence portions continued to Yarmouth South Town and Lowestoft. This was a classic 1950s holiday train that transported many thousands of Londoners to the popular Norfolk Broads and the seaside during the summer months.

For just one day in March we will recreate this classic train which will be hauled by a former British Railways Britannia ‘Pacific’ Class No. 70013 Oliver Cromwell.
 

Our special steam hauled train will depart from Norwich at around 08:30 in the morning and call to pick up passengers at Reedham, Haddiscoe and Lowestoft, the terminal junction for the East Suffolk line and the most easterly point of the British Isles. Here we shall reverse and make a further pick up at Beccles. From Beccles we will steam along the 49 mile-long scenic East Suffolk line through Saxmundham and Woodbridge. Woodbridge Tide Mill was certainly the last working Tide Mill in the UK, dating from 1793.
 

We join the main line from Norwich at Ipswich before calling for water at Colchester. A fast run will then follow along the Great Eastern Railway’s main line to London, passing through Romford and Stratford. We expect to arrive at London Liverpool Street station at around 12:15 where there will be a break in the Capital. Whilst Oliver Cromwell is being serviced for the return journey, you will have ample opportunity to visit the many easily accessible attractions of London.

 

We return from London Liverpool Street station steam hauled at around 16:45 and follow the main line through suburban Essex. We expect a fast run over Brentwood Bank to Colchester where we shall stop for water. From Colchester we will experience a fast run along the main line through Diss to Norwich where we should arrive before 20:00. From Norwich our train continues to Lowestoft setting down as outwards.

• 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)