Britain's 'poshest train' heads for Wolverhampton - here's when to look out for the Northen Belle
One of the most luxurious train journeys in the country will be starting out in the region.
Passengers are forking out up to £700 each for a champagne steam-hauled trip aboard Britain’s poshest train, which will be starting out from Wolverhampton on Saturday (July 27).
Tickets for the 1930s Pullman-style Northern Belle sold out within days of going on sale and the compnay said it could have sold twice the number of tickets.
The train, once described by actor Bill Nighy as “the Grand Dame of luxury travel”, will be hauled by a former British Railways steam engine called Tangmere over the picturesque Settle-Carlisle line.
Hundreds of rail enthusiasts are expected to turn out to photograph the amber-and-cream carriages, which once formed part of the Orient Express.
A red carpet will be laid over the platform as passengers board at Wolverhampton Station at 8.30am before further stops at Stafford at 8.50am and Crewe at 9.20am.
After being welcomed with a first glass of champagne, they will be provided with a three-course brunch during the journey north to Carlisle, where they will have the opportunity to explore the medieval castle and the 12th century cathedral.
Then, in the evening, a six-course dinner with wine will be served during the journey home through the North Yorkshire moors.
The Northern Belle spokesman said: “Our steam-hauled journeys are always incredibly popular and this one sold out in record time, although it’s always worth checking for last-minute cancellations.
“However, the train will be back in the Midlands in August for excursions to Weymouth, Torquay and the steam railway in Paignton.
“There will also be a special Christmas Lunch trip in December.”
Fares on the Northern Belle start at £295.
To find out more about the train and to book tickets, go to northernbelle.co.uk