The Hadrian

This train has an exciting run along the East Coast Main Line and offers the opportunity to travel on the Tyne Valley Line through Hexham to Carlisle  then over the Settle and Carlisle line with its spectacular countryside.
The train departs from Leicester and major stations to York from where it will be steam hauled by Duke of Gloucester. It will travel back to York using a different route maximising the amazing scenery you experience.

Our train departs Leicester and calls to pick up customers at Loughborough, Alfreton, Sheffield, Leeds and York where our diesel will be replaced by the Duke of Gloucester, the only class 8P steam locomotive designed by British Railways. We should have a fast run through Northallerton, Darlington and Durham, with splendid views from the train of Durham Cathedral seated on the River Wear. Our train will stop for water on the outskirts of Newcastle before proceeding through the picturesque Tyne Valley to Hexham and Haltwhistle and on to Carlisle. We will stay here for two hours giving you time to explore the largest settlement in Cumbria, perhaps to see the castle, built in 1092 and still relatively intact, the cathedral or the museum. Alternatively you might use the time to potter around the shops or find somewhere for refreshment.

At 15:40 we will embark on the Settle and Carlisle line, probably the most well known and beautiful stretch of railway line in the country.
The 48 mile climb begins soon after leaving Carlisle, and includes a nine mile stretch at 1 in 100.
Our train stops to take water at Appleby.
Leaving here we pass Kirkby Stephen and reach the highest railway summit in England, Ais Gill, which is 1,169 feet above sea level. We pass over high viaducts, including the famous Ribblehead, through tunnels and see Penyghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. The views of mountains and valleys are superb.

We should have a fast run out of the hills to Settle, and then continue through the Aire Valley to Leeds and on to York. Here the Duke will be exchanged for a diesel to return us to Leicester calling at the same stations as on the outward journey.

• 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)