A steam train day-trip is set to whisk Essex passengers away on a festive journey through the countryside.
Departing on December 2, the seasonal journey from Steam Dreams Rail Co will see passengers board at Colchester North, Witham, Chelmsford and Shenfield before travelling to either Winchester or Basingstoke for Highclere Castle.
The train begins its journey at Bury St Edmunds, where guests are welcomed aboard restored vintage carriages by a liveried steward.
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Passengers will then be picked up at the stations across Essex before the train travels around London, where a steam locomotive will be coupled for the onward route.
The experience is steam-hauled from west London in both directions, offering travellers a nostalgic rail journey through scenic winter landscapes as it heads south-west through Surrey and Hampshire, passing rolling countryside and treetop views on the way to Winchester.
Travellers can choose between two festive experiences: a visit to the iconic Highclere Castle, best known as the filming location for Downton Abbey, or a day out in Winchester to explore its renowned Christmas market.
Set in the cathedral grounds, Winchester's famous market features wooden chalets selling festive food and drink, artisan gifts, and locally made crafts, all filled with the scent of mulled wine.
Visitors to Winchester can also explore The Great Hall, home to the legendary Arthurian Round Table and the only remaining part of Winchester Castle.
For those opting to visit Highclere Castle, the journey includes a short stop at Basingstoke, where passengers will transfer by private coach to the castle.
A supplementary charge of £78 per person applies for the Highclere Castle excursion.
The castle, set in parkland designed by Capability Brown, will be decorated for Christmas with glittering trees, glowing fires, and elegantly adorned rooms.
Guests can tour the castle’s grand interiors, explore the Egyptian Exhibition, and enjoy the rare opportunity to visit Highclere during the festive season.
After the castle visit, guests will be transferred by coach to Winchester to re-join the train for the return journey.
Steam Dreams offers two classes of travel for its experiences.
First Class, priced from £245, includes cushioned seating at tables for two or four, complimentary tea and coffee, and a welcome drink.
Passengers may bring their own picnic to enjoy on board.
Pullman Dining, starting at £465, offers a full dining experience with menus inspired by the regions travelled through, using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Guests are seated in plush armchairs at tables set with white linens, fine china, glassware, and fresh flowers.
The day begins with a Champagne Bellini and a multi-course breakfast, while the return journey features canapés, a four-course evening meal, and half a bottle of wine per person.
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