PRESS INFORMATION
Date: April 2008

Let the (steam) train take the strain!

The hiss of steam, the screech of steel wheels on rails, the steady chuff-chuffing of a loco gaining speed and the high pitched whistle of a steam train thundering through the English countryside, smoke billowing in its wake – no its not just a ‘Railway Children’ fantasy or ‘Brief Encounter’ moment, but a Cathedrals Express on its way to one of England’s finest cathedral cities.

Now in its ninth year as England’s premier steam train operator, Steam Dreams is gearing up for its busiest and most exciting season ever. From Exeter to York, Chester to Canterbury, choose from over 20 destinations for a day out with a difference. 

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A journey with Cathedrals Express is so much more than a day out for railway enthusiasts, as each train goes to a beautiful and historic city, stopping for a few hours of shopping and sightseeing.  The brainchild of Marcus Robertson who has been a passionate stream enthusiast since childhood, his ambition has been to inject the magic back into train travel.

Says Marcus: “There are many people like me, looking to re-live the nostalgia of steam travel, and while my wife enjoys the steam experience, she was equally keen on finding an attractive destination, and it was this that got me thinking: why not combine the two? - steam travel for me and a great shopping and sightseeing destination for her.” 

Trains leave Central London with additional collections at outlying stations along the way, picking up speed to 75 mph as passengers sit back and relax in the traditional open saloons or compartment carriages of the classic 1950s and ‘60s coaches.  On the outward journey in Premier Dining, passengers can treat themselves to a glass of Champagne followed by breakfast or brunch, and on the return journey there is a leisurely four-course meal freshly prepared on-board.

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First Class passengers are seated in private compartments for up to six people and served complimentary Champagne and other drinks by a dedicated steward. In Standard passengers are seated in open carriages and a selection of drinks and snacks can be bought from the buffet bar, and there is also the option to pre-order in First and Standard, a delicious cold platter with a selection of meats and salads for the journey.

A day out with Cathedrals Express makes the perfect Father’s Day gift (Sunday June 15th this year), a unique birthday or retirement present or simply a memorable way to celebrate that special anniversary.

 

If you would like to enjoy the Cathedrals Express experience then why not join us on May 4th for a trip to Norwich, via Ely and Cambridge, with the option of taking in an afternoon at the races at Newmarket for the 1000 Guineas Festival.

Fares: Premier Dining £145-£155 per person; First Class £82.50-£95; Standard Class £49.50-£65.

For more information visit www.steamdreams.co.uk

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For more information, please contact:                

                                      Judy Brierley

                                      Steam Dreams

                                      Tel: 07768 072011

                                      E-mail: judy@judybrierley.co.uk

Issued by:                                                    

Jeremy Clarke
clarke@lawsonclarke.co.uk

Sally Rowland
sally.rowland@lawsonclarke.co.uk

Rachel Carter
rachel.carter@lawsonclarke.co.uk

LawsonClarke PR
Tel: 01285 658844
E-mail: info@lawsonclarke.co.uk

Ref: SD01/2008