This tour will leave Slough early in the morning, steam hauled by LNER A4 Class Pacific locomotive No.60009 Union of South Africa. We will follow the Great Western main line to Reading, where we will stop to pick up passengers. We continue to pick up via Didcot and Swindon to Bristol Parkway, where we will then pass through the Severn Tunnel and enter Wales, and continuing onwards to the outskirts of Newport. Here we turn northwards, crossing the River Usk, and join the Welsh Marches route to Shrewsbury. There will be time in either Ludlow or Shrewsbury to visit the Christmas festivities.
There is some truly beautiful scenery as we travel through Herefordshire and into Shropshire, passing through Leominster before we reach Ludlow, where passengers can chose to alight for the Medieval Christmas Fayre. The Fayre is set in the grounds of the Medieval Castle at Ludlow, and offers craft stalls, food and drink halls and festive entertainment. Mingle with medieval jesters and enjoy live music as you browse over 100 stalls selling quality wares, handmade gifts and seasonal products. You’re bound to find the perfect presents – and unique treats for yourself too! When you’ve worked up an appetite, why not tickle your taste buds with the tempting food and drink stalls? With a full timetable of entertainment including music, comedy, fighting knights, theatre and puppets, the Fayre is fantastic fun for all ages! We continue via Craven Arms and Church Stretton to Shrewsbury where the ‘listed’ Severn Bridge Junction Signal Box is the largest remaining mechanical signal box in the world. There will be time to explore this interesting city with its old quarter of over 660 listed buildings, famed by Charles Darwen, who was born here in 1809. Attractions in the town include pleasant walks along the river Severn, the Castle, its Tudor buildings and many shops and restaurants.
Whilst we have been exploring the city, our steam locomotive will have been serviced and turned ready for the return journey. Our train leaves Shrewsbury late afternoon, returning by the same route to Ludlow and stopping at the same stations as on the outward journey, to set down passengers. Look out for Father Christmas and his Elves who will be visiting the train during the day and handing out presents to all children on board. Please let us know your child’s age when booking.
Mulled wine and mince pies will be served to the first and standard class passengers on board.
Train Timings
Updated approximate timings shown
| Station | Outward | Return |
|---|
| Slough | 06:32 | 22:01 |
| Reading | 07:01 | 21:34 |
| Didcot | 07:21 | 21:09 |
| Swindon | 08:18 | 20:06 |
| Bristol Parkway | 09:15 | 19:25 |
| Ludlow | 12:00 | 16:49 |
| Shrewsbury | 12:42 | 15:55 |
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