UK Rail Holidays 2022 - The Railway Touring Company

The Railway Touring Company UK Rail Holidays 2022

Welcome Dear Customer, Welcome to our 2022 UK Holiday Brochure.

Over the past few months we have been busy planning, preparing and looking forward to 2022 and we are very excited to share our new UK 2022 Holiday Brochure with you.

The UK is beautiful, varied and stunning. Providing a diverse choice of landscapes and steeped in history and intrigue. Our UK holidays span the whole of the UK from Shetland and Orkney, to the Lake District, Snowdonia and the West Country and many more in between. We are confident, that we have a holiday to suit all tastes.

We are also pleased to announce two brand new tours for 2022: The Isle of Man Adventure. Explore this beautiful little island and all it has to offer. Delve into its past and visit many of its attractions whilst enjoying half-board accommodation in Douglas. There is also the added benefit of a Tour Manager accompanying you throughout your holiday.

The Emerald Explorer. Immerse yourself in the rich history and awe inspiring scenery of the Isle of Ireland.

Discover the legends and stories that have made Ireland such an incredible place to visit. Truly, a holiday not to be missed.

With 25 years’ experience providing high-quality holidays, we are sure that we can give you an experience to remember for many years to come, providing those treasured memories that will last a lifetime.

We are members of the Travel Trust Association and ATOL so you can rest assured that by booking with us you will have financial protection.

Why not settle down and take a look inside and begin planning your 2022 getaway. My team and I are here to help and assist you every step of the way.

I look forward to welcoming you back in 2022.

Kelly Osborne Managing Director.

The Railway Touring Company.

25 EST. 1997

Front cover image: Bob Green

UK Rail Holidays 2022

Tours The Great Britain XIV

4–7

The Emerald Explorer

30 – 31

The Shetlander

8–9

Heart of Scotland

32 – 33

English Lakes

10 – 11

The Isle of Man Adventure

34 – 35

The Cock O’the North

12 – 13

The West Country Explorer

36 – 37

The Summer Highlander

14 – 15

The Shetlander

38 – 39

English Lakes

16 – 17

The Cock O’the North

40 – 41

The Far North and Orkney

18 – 19

The East Anglian

42 – 43

The Isle of Man Adventure

20 – 21

The Summer Highlander

44 – 45

Heart of Scotland

22 – 23

The Shetlander

46 – 47

The Far North and Orkney

24 – 25

English Lakes

48 – 49

Snowdonia and the Northern Fells

26 – 27

The Western Isles

50 – 51

The Western Isles

28 – 29

The Emerald Explorer

52 – 53

54 – 58

Reservation Form

UK Tours Information Booking Information

59

Visit our website, railwaytouring.net for online booking or to download printable booking forms.

THE RAILWAY TOURING COMPANY, 14A TUESDAY MARKET PLACE, KING’S LYNN, NORFOLK, PE30 1JN Phone: 01553 661 500 • Fax: 01553 661 800 • E-mail: enquiries@railwaytouring.co.uk • Website: www.railwaytouring.net

Bob Green

Bob Green

Bob Green

The Great Britain XIV Friday 22nd April to Saturday 30th April 2022 Our Great Britain tour this year is packed with steam highlights, transporting you in style through the magnificent landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales.

• Delight in a whirlwind first day travelling from London King’s Cross on the East Coast Main Line, through York, Newcastle and along the North Sea coast to Edinburgh.

• Experience the spectacular Forth Bridge crossing and Highland Main Line to Inverness via Perth, Pitlochry and over the Drumochter Summit, before heading south to Stirling, where we spend two nights.

• Enjoy the spectacular scenery and a night in the Lake District, before the North Wales coastal line takes you past Chester into Wales. After a comfortable stop in Cardiff you move through Somerset and Devon over some steep gradients to experience the famous sea wall run at Dawlish.

• Penzance is your next stop for a two-night stay in Cornwall before your epic holiday ends steam-hauled as always via Taunton and Westbury to join the ‘Berks & Hants’ line to Reading, travelling through the Vale of Pewsey to Newbury and back to London.

Friday 22nd April

Steam hauled London to Edinburgh via York

Your nine-day steam-hauled holiday tour starts from London King’s Cross station, heading northwards on the busy East Coast Main Line (ECML) through the North London suburbs steam hauled. Your steam locomotive picks up speed as you pass through Hertfordshire and into the open countryside. The towns of Welwyn and Stevenage flash by as you head towards the cathedral city of Peterborough. You continue along the ECML and pass through Little Bytham, where LNER A4 Pacific ‘Mallard’ achieved the world speed record for steam traction descending Stoke Bank in 1938. Grantham, Newark and Retford fly by as you near Doncaster, the ancestral home of such famous locomotives 4

as ‘Flying Scotsman’ and ‘Mallard’. Travelling through scenic South Yorkshire your train then steams to York, famous for its historic Minster cathedral, one of the largest in Northern Europe.

Leaving York, you continue on the ECML through Thirsk, Northallerton and Durham to Newcastle, crossing the Tyne on the lofty King Edward Bridge. You then follow the former North Eastern Railway route through Morpeth and past coastal Alnmouth, where you start to get glimpses of the North Sea. Speeding past Holy Island and Bamburgh Castle, your train crosses the famous Royal Border Bridge over the Tweed before reaching Berwick. Just after Berwick you cross the Scottish border and follow the spectacular coastline through Dunbar. Journey’s end today is at Edinburgh Waverley for overnight accommodation in a centrally-located hotel.

Saturday 23rd April

Travel further north over the Forth Bridge to Inverness

The scene is set today for a spectacular railway journey over the Forth Bridge and Highland Main Line to Inverness. We depart steam hauled, from Edinburgh Waverley in the morning and head towards the Firth of Forth, crossing the famous Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following the coastal route through Kirkcaldy you’ll have outstanding views across the Forth estuary. After Ladybank you follow the single-line through the Howe of Fife towards the ‘Fair City’ of Perth, located on the river Tay. You then travel northwards towards the site of Stanley Junction, and join the former Highland Railway’s route to Inverness. Working hard against the gradient, the line follows the river

Tay and the A9 through to Dunkeld.

You pass through Strathtay and reach the charming Victorian Highland town of Pitlochry.

Still climbing, you negotiate the narrow, wooded Pass of Killecrankie en route to Blair Atholl and its splendid castle. A severe 20-mile climb then follows through barren terrain to Drumochter Summit, 1484 feet above sea level. Descending gradients then take you past Dalwhinnie distillery to Aviemore, a popular modern skiing centre and the gateway to Speyside. Leaving Aviemore, there’s more climbing ahead as your steam locomotive tackles the 10-mile climb to Slochd Summit, 1315 feet above sea level. A long descent to Inverness follows, with tight curves and viaducts all the way. You’ll spend the night in Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands.

Sunday 24th April

Return over the highland line to Stirling

After your brief stay in Inverness, you retrace the previous day’s route over the Highland line back through Aviemore as far as Perth, steam hauled, before heading for Stirling via the Strathearn Valley, including a long climb to Gleneagles, famous for its golf course.

Now running through Strathallan to Dunblane, the train steams onwards to Stirling, with its historic castle overlooking the surrounding area.

We will spend two nights in the historic city of Stirling, noted for its well-preserved castle and cultural connections to William Wallace.

Monday 25th April

Optional excursion to Edinburgh and over the Forth Bridge to Fife

Today is free to explore the many sights of Stirling, or even venture a little further beyond to the Trossachs or perhaps visit the impressive Falkirk Wheel. There is also the option of a steam hauled excursion over a scenic circular route via Edinburgh, The Forth Bridge and through Fife back to Stirling. Your optional excursion heads southwards away from Stirling with Princess Elizabeth around 10am in the morning. We climb the steep gradient through Bannockburn, the scene of the famous 1314 battle between Robert the Bruce and the English, to Larbert, followed by another series of climbs through to the new town of Cumbernauld in North Lanarkshire. The industrial belt is traversed as we pass through Coatbridge and Mossend to join up with the West Coast Main Line at Motherwell. We now have a ten-mile climb through Wishaw and Carluke as we head for Carstairs, where there will be a stop for water. The WCML continues south as we take the former Caledonian Railway’s line to

Edinburgh. Another lengthy climb takes us over the summit at Cobbinshaw before we descent the gradient along the edge of the Pentland Hills through Midcalder and Slateford, with views in the distance towards the Forth estuary.

Our train will take the southern Suburban line around Edinburgh before we enter the Capital from the east via the tunnel beneath Calton Hill and approach Edinburgh Waverley.

We continue our journey westwards through Princes Street Gardens and onwards past the airport to Dalmeny, after which we cross the Firth of Forth on the spectacular Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entering Fife at North Queensferry, we follow the coastal route through Burntisland and Kirkaldy, were there are outstanding views across the Forth estuary.

At Thornton South Junction, we leave the main line to Dundee and Perth and take the North British line through Cardenden and Dunfermline.

At Charlestown Junction, we leave the main line to Edinburgh via the Forth Bridge and take the freight only north Forth line. This single-track line served the former Longanet power station and there are good views across the Forth as we follow the coastline through Culross.

The Kincardine road bridge crosses the Forth at Longanet, where we will pause to water our steam locomotive before heading towards the new station at Alloa Town. We now approach the suburbs of Stirling where we aim to arrive around 5pm, concluding our interesting and contrasting circular tour via the Central Lowlands of Scotland.

Tuesday 26th April

South into England to Grange over Sands via the Cumbrian Coast

Your journey southwards continues today across the upper and lower Clyde Valley, with the scenery changing from Borders greenery and rolling hills to coastal views across the Irish Sea. Your steam locomotive begins the journey south from Stirling, running via Cumbernauld to Law Junction, where we meet up with the West Coast Main Line. After Carstairs, you then face a steady climb along the Clyde Valley as far as Beattock Summit. The long descent of Beattock Bank will give your fireman a rest as the train picks up speed through Annandale towards Lockerbie. Crossing the border at Gretna, you’ll enjoy a break at Carlisle before continuing via the Cumbrian Coast line to Grange-over-Sands.

The Irish Sea is in view as you pass through Maryport, where on a clear day you can see across to Galloway and even the Isle of Man. Industrial Workington and Whitehaven still show the scars of the heavy industry once

Tour Summary Premier Class Firth of Forth Explorer option

£3495 £289

Single supplement £395 First Class £2695 Firth of Forth Explorer option £199 Single supplement £350 Premier Class price includes: • Eight nights accommodation and breakfast (when not served on the train) in 3 and 4-star hotels • 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 6 dinners silver served at your seat • At seat drinks service • Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage • Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Escorted throughout First Class price includes: • Eight nights accommodation and breakfast in 3-star hotels • Morning and afternoon tea service • A daily light meal served at your seat • At seat drinks service • Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage • Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Escorted throughout Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Class and First Class for a supplement of £185 per person (subject to availability). The Firth of Forth excursion tour is optional and priced per person.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing. All routes and locomotive selections are subject to change, changes will be advised in advance.

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UK TOUR – 9 Days

5

John Shuttleworth

Bob Green

extensive along this section of line. There are also tantalising views of the Lake District as you head south through Ravenglass, frequently cutting inland and around sharp bends on the approach to Barrow-in-Furness. The line then crosses the Leven Estuary on a lengthy viaduct beyond Ulverston, with views of Morecambe Bay indicating journey’s end at Grange-over-Sands.

It is now a coach transfer to your hotel and an overnight stay in Bowness-on-Windermere.

Wednesday 27th April

West Coast Main Line and the Welsh Marches

After a night in the heart of the Lake District, you transfer by coach to Grange-over-Sands to re-join your train for the journey to Cardiff, steam hauled. Skirting Morecambe Bay, the line passes through Carnforth and heads south through Lancaster to Preston. Following the West Coast Main Line, you reach Warrington, where your steam locomotive takes the Chester line through Frodsham, where it stops for water. After Chester, you follow the North Wales coastal line past the Chester ‘Roodee’ Racecourse and branch off at Saltney Junction to enter Wales. Reaching Rossett, there’s a long climb up a 1-in-82 gradient to Gresford Bank and the border town of Wrexham. Pleasant countryside follows through Chirk and Gobowen as the line follows the border, before moving into Shropshire and progressing southwards towards Shrewsbury on the river Severn. Now following the Welsh Marches route, your train climbs hard towards Church Stretton, overlooked by the 6

Long Mynd. Pretty Stokesay Castle flashes by after Craven Arms as you continue southwards through Ludlow and Leominster, arriving at historic Hereford in mid-afternoon. Your steam locomotive will be watered here while you stretch your legs. Continuing your journey along the ‘North and West’ line, you cross the England/Wales border a number of times.

The long climb from Pontrilas to Llanvihangel Summit will be the highlight of the day before passing through Abergavenny and on to more climbing up to the summits at Nantyderry and Pontypool Road. It’s then downhill all the way to Caerleon and over the river Usk to Newport.

Your final destination for the evening is the vibrant Welsh capital, Cardiff, just a short distance away.

Thursday 28th April

Steam to Cornwall via the Somerset Levels and Dawlish

Today, you leave Wales and make your way via the Severn Tunnel back to England and to the City of Bristol, from where you run across the Somerset Levels, passing through Bridgwater before a water stop is taken at Taunton.

Your steam locomotive is now faced with a steep climb through the Blackdown Hills to Whiteball tunnel, before entering Devon.

You proceed to Exeter, with its impressive cathedral, and follow the Exe Estuary through to Dawlish Warren, to reach the tidal waters of the English Channel. Here your train runs along the famous Dawlish sea-wall right through to Teignmouth, where you head inland and follow

Bob Green

the Teign Estuary to Newton Abbot. Climbing starts once again up the formidable Dainton Bank, graded at 1-in-36 in places. Speed will be built up through Totnes for the next major obstacle, the long climb to Rattery on the edge of Dartmoor. Passing through classic Devonshire countryside you have distant views over the sea before descending to the naval city of Plymouth and a water stop. Leaving Plymouth, the route now heads west and approaches the famous Royal Albert Bridge over the Tamar, built by Brunel and opened in 1859. Crossing the river into Cornwall you follow the twists and turns of the main line to Penzance, through wooded valleys and over numerous viaducts. Truro Cathedral greets you as you pass through this ancient Cornish county town. On the way derelict chimneys still stand to remind one of the vital tin mining industry once prevalent in the area.

Finally, with views across to St Michael’s Mount, you reach Penzance, the end of the line from London Paddington, 305 miles from London, where you’ll stay for two nights.

Friday 29th April

Free Day in Penzance

Today is a free day for you to explore the Penzance area and its many attractions and nearby towns.

Saturday 30th April

Dawlish and the South Devon Banks to London

The final day of your holiday sees you retracing steps steam hauled back to Plymouth and Exeter via the Dawlish sea wall and the South Devon Banks, before continuing via Taunton and Westbury to join the ‘Berks & Hants’ line to Reading. The line runs through pleasant countryside, including the Vale of Pewsey, with its many connections to Neolithic habitation.

There’s a gradual climb to contend with at Savernake to test your locomotive, but otherwise it’s a fairly easy run through the rolling valleys and alongside the Kennet and Avon Canal with the pumping station at Crofton visible from

the line. After Newbury, home of the famous racecourse, you pick up speed to Reading, where the train stops to set down passengers.

Continuing via Ascot towards London, you arrive at London Victoria in the evening, concluding your magnificent and unique nine-day steam hauled journey through England, Scotland and Wales.

Tour Summary Premier Class Firth of Forth Explorer option

£3495 £289

Single supplement £395 First Class £2695 Firth of Forth Explorer option £199 Single supplement £350 Please note all locomotives to be confirmed.

Premier Class price includes: • Eight nights accommodation and breakfast (when not served on the train) in 3 and 4-star hotels • 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 6 dinners silver served at your seat • At seat drinks service • Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage • Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Escorted throughout

Bob Green

First Class price includes: • Eight nights accommodation and breakfast in 3-star hotels • Morning and afternoon tea service • A daily light meal served at your seat • At seat drinks service • Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage • Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Escorted throughout

Bob Green

Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Class and First Class for a supplement of £185 per person (subject to availability). The Firth of Forth excursion tour is optional and priced per person.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing. All routes and locomotive selections are subject to change, changes will be advised in advance.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner April 2022

Bob Green

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UK TOUR – 9 Days

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The Shetlander Wednesday 4th May to Wednesday 11th May 2022 Discover the timeless beauty of the remote Shetland Islands on this ever-popular tour to the most northern outpost of the United Kingdom.

• Following a high-speed trip north to Aberdeen, you cross to Shetland for a 4-day exploration of its rugged shorelines, windswept rolling hills and rich cultural heritage.

• Visit the island’s outstanding natural and historical attractions and discover its stunning rock formations, unspoiled beaches and ancient archaeological sites.

• Enjoy the local arts and crafts, breath-taking landscapes and local wildlife, with highlights including trips to ancient Scalloway Castle, St Ninian’s Isle and Isbister, the most northerly point on Shetland accessible by coach.

• With added extras including a trip to Dundee to visit Captain Scott's ship HMS Discovery and a steam trip on the Royal Deeside Railway, this highlight-packed Scottish holiday is not to be missed!

Wednesday 4th May London to Aberdeen

Your adventure begins in the plush First-Class lounge at London King’s Cross, for a midmorning departure from London to Aberdeen.

Travelling along the East Coast Main Line LNER service, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as the train travels north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. You cross the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges and arrive in Aberdeen in late afternoon, checking into your conveniently located city centre hotel.

The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure in the ‘Granite City’, exploring this hub of Northeast Scotland. (L)

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Thursday 5th May

Friday 6th May

After breakfast, a road coach transfers you from your hotel to the Royal Deeside Railway.

This delightful standard gauge railway features a two-mile round trip through rural scenery and gently rolling hills, running close to its namesake river. There’ll be photo opportunities en route and a ‘false arrival’ staged at the station.

Afterwards, lunch is taken at a local restaurant.

After lunch you return to Aberdeen and visit the ‘Fitties’, a charming old fishing village nestling on the north side of the harbour. In the afternoon you return to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for an overnight crossing to Lerwick.

The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of Scotland before passing through the open North Sea. After dinner you retire to your private cabin for the night. (B L D)

After an all-night sail you reach Lerwick on the Shetland Mainland and have breakfast on the ship before disembarking. Your tour of the Central Mainland of Shetland starts with a brief coach tour of Lerwick before heading west to Tingwall, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit to ‘Carol’s Ponies’, a local crofter who breeds Shetland ponies. Moving on, you head to the island of West Burra to view the beautiful sandy beach of Banna Minn, after which you make your way back to visit Scalloway Castle and museum.

In early afternoon you have a scenic drive to Lerwick to visit the Iron Age tower ruins of the Broch of Clickimin on its outskirts. To round off a feature-packed day, you’ll visit the impressive Fort Charlotte, built between 1652-1653 during the First Anglo-Dutch War to keep the Dutch

Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Ferry Crossing to Shetland

Tour of the Central Shetland Mainland; Scallaway Castle and Museum

fleet at bay. In the late afternoon, you check in to your hotel and later dine there with your fellow travellers. (B D) Saturday 7th May

South Shetland Mainland

Shetland’s largest island has a size of 967 km2 (373 square miles), making it the third largest Scottish and fifth largest British island.

Today you’ll explore the scenic highlights of its southern Mainland. You first head for the unspoilt beaches at St Ninian’s Isle, connected to the mainland by the longest ‘tombolo’ in the UK. Look out for the seal colony on the beach as you go past. At the Croft Museum at Dunrossness you’ll experience what life was like in a 19th century croft. Continuing south to Sumburgh Head, the coach stops for you to photograph the sea birds, with a possibility of seeing puffins, nesting on the steep cliffs. In the afternoon you visit the wonderfully preserved prehistoric and Norse settlement of Jarlshof, before heading back to Lerwick. En route you’ll stop off at the Hoswick Visitor Centre in Sandwick and take in the views of the uninhabited island of Mousa, which has one of the best preserved brochs (round tower) in Shetland. In the late afternoon you return by road coach to Lerwick and dine at your hotel. (B D) Sunday 8th May

Northern Mainland

Today is dedicated to the discovery of the natural wonders of Shetland’s northern Mainland. Heading north through the wild landscape, you make your way to Hellister and visit the amazing Shetland Jewellery centre, where traditional Celtic rings and pendants are crafted. You now head up to North Roe passing glorious scenery and, if conditions are amenable, you press on to Isbister, the most northerly point on Mainland accessible by coach. On the return journey you’ll visit Hillswick, where you can see the hooch kettles that were used to treat nets and sails, and then the stunning, rugged cliffs at Esha Ness. You then pay a quick visit to Tangwick Haa Museum, which preserves the history of Northmavine peninsula. There’ll be no shortage of photographic opportunities today to capture the amazing wildlife and scenery.

After a very full day you return to your hotel for an evening meal. (B D)

Monday 9th May

Western Mainland

On your last day on Shetland you explore the westernmost part of the Mainland. On your journey west, you first stop at Mavis Grind for a photo stop. This is a narrow isthmus separating the North Sea from the Atlantic, just 108 ft wide at its narrowest point. Continuing on you’ll visit the visitor centre at Jamieson’s Spinning Mill at Sandness, a fantastic retail outlet for Shetland knitwear. Still further on you see the coastline at its best with views across to the island of Papa Stour. Returning to Lerwick you stop off at the scenic fishing villages of Walls and Voe, before rounding off your visit to these wonderful Isles with a visit to the awesome Shetland Museum.

You’ll sail back to Aberdeen on a late afternoon departure by ferry enjoying a unique opportunity to watch Fair Isle slip by on the port side as you enjoy your evening meal. (B D) Tuesday 10th May

Aberdeen to Dundee

After your overnight crossing you arrive in Dundee. Following breakfast on board the ferry, your coach takes you south to Dundee for a visit to Captain Scott’s ship HMS Discovery.

After visiting HMS Discovery, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Dundee and its many attractions before checking into your hotel for a farewell dinner with the group. (B D) Wednesday 11th May Return to London

Your Scottish adventure concludes with a return to London, travelling First Class on an East Coast Main Line HST. You board the train at Leuchars and again travel over the Forth Bridge via Edinburgh and Newcastle southwards. Lunch will be served on the train in First Class as you travel. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1795

Single supplement £325 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London to Aberdeen and return from Leuchars with at-seat dining • 5 nights bed and breakfast at good quality 3-star hotels • 2 nights bed and breakfast in a private cabin during our ferry crossings • 6 dinners and 3 lunches • All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 10:00 14:51 York 11:54* 12:56* Aberdeen 17:07 07:55 Leuchars ------- 09:21 * Passengers travelling from Peterborough change trains at York on both the outward and return journeys.

UK TOUR – 8 Days

9

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

English Lakes Thursday 19th May to Tuesday 24th May 2022 Discover the delights of the English Lake District by vintage motor vessel, steam train and steam yacht on this featurepacked holiday tour to Cumbria.

• Based at an elegant hotel in the resort town of Bowness-on-Windermere, you’ll enjoy cruises on vintage vessels on Lake Windermere and Ullswater.

• Steam train highlights include a trip on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and an exclusive exploration of the legendary 15-inch narrow gauge railway ‘La’al Ratty’.

• Enjoy a lake-themed cruise on Coniston Water aboard the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’, followed by lunch at the 400-year-old ‘Sun’ pub in Coniston.

• Other holiday highlights include visits to the Victorian neo-gothic Wray Castle and the Haverthwaite engine shed.

• Outstanding scenery, excellent cuisine and the convenience of short point-to-point travel distances by private road coach all add to your enjoyment on this relaxed, highlight-packed holiday in England’s idyllic Lakeland.

Thursday 19th May

First Class rail travel to Windermere

Your holiday begins in the First-Class lounge at London Euston Station before boarding a midmorning/early afternoon Avanti Trains Pendolino service. You’ll travel in sumptuous comfort at a top speed of 125mph along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) to Oxenholme in the Lake District. Here you change trains and take a First TransPennine Express service for the journey to Windermere. From Windermere station you’ll have a short coach transfer to the delightful village of Bowness-on-Windermere, located on the banks of Lake Windermere.

Your hotel for the duration of the tour will be The Belsfield Hotel. You then have some leisure time to explore Bowness before dinner at your hotel in the evening. (D)

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Friday 20th May

Lake Windermere cruise; Steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

After breakfast you board the stylish vintage motor vessel ‘Swan’ for a forty-minute cruise through outstanding Cumbrian lake scenery to Lakeside at the southern end of Lake Windermere. This triple-deck ship was originally built by Vickers in 1938, and is now an iconic fixture on England’s largest lake. The lake pier is adjacent to Lakeside Railway Station and here you join a connecting steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, a former branch line of the Furness Railway (FR), originally opened in 1869. You’ll travel the entire length of the line to Haverthwaite with plenty of time to visit the impressive engine shed there, with its collection of historic steam and diesel locomotives. Crossing the footbridge to the woodland viewing and picnic area you can buy

souvenirs in the gift shop. Afterwards, transfer by coach to the Lakeland Motor Museum, where you will have time to explore and purchase lunch. In the afternoon you return by steam train to Lakeside and from there by connecting ship to Bowness. You’ll dine at The Belsfield Hotel this evening. (B D) Saturday 21st May

Steam boat cruise on Coniston Water; Wray Castle

Today you visit Coniston Water, the third largest lake in the Lake District, for a lake-themed cruise on the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’. Originally launched in 1859 to carry railway passengers, The Illustrated London News at the time described it as “a perfected combination of the Venetian gondola and the English steam yacht”. The preserved steamer is now cared for and operated by the National

Trust. Following the cruise, you’ll have lunch at ‘The Sun’ in Coniston, a 400-year-old pub with exposed beams, stone walls, flagstone floors and a local Brathay slate bar top. It’s situated beneath the Cumbrian Fells and has an elevated view over the village of Coniston. Later you transfer by road coach to Ambleside for the ferry to Wray Castle, a Victorian neo-gothic building with grounds that include part of the shoreline of Lake Windermere. There will be a visit to the castle after which you can explore the adjacent gardens at your leisure. You return to The Belsfield Hotel in Bowness for dinner. (B L D) Sunday 22nd May

Scenic cruises on Lake Windermere and Ullswater

This morning you explore the northern half of Lake Windermere on board a classic motor vessel sailing from Bowness to Ambleside at the northernmost extremity of the lake. MV ‘Tern’, is a steam powered yacht built in 1891 and converted to diesel in 1956. After the 30-minute voyage to Ambleside Pier you’ll join a private road coach for the onward journey to Grasmere, where there will be a coffee stop. Continue by coach from Grasmere to Keswick, travelling via Dunmail Raise and Thirlmere. On arrival at Keswick, you enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant before your road coach takes you on to Pooley Bridge. Here, you have an afternoon cruise on one of the celebrated Ullswater ‘Steamers’ on the second largest lake in the Lake District.

Ullswater is one of the most beautiful English lakes, comparable to Lake Lucerne in Switzerland because of its mountainous backdrop.

You’ll see the spectacular waterfall of Aira Force, midway along the lake on the western side and cruise the length of the lake from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding. You rejoin the road coach for the return journey via scenic country roads to Bowness and dinner at The Belsfield Hotel in the evening. (B L D)

Monday 23rd May

Steam train on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

A tour highlight awaits today as you travel by road coach to Ravenglass, a small coastal village with Roman connections located at the estuary of the rivers Esk, Mite and Irt. The famous 15inch gauge Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (La’al Ratty) has its terminus adjacent to the Cumbrian Coast railway line station. The line runs for 7 miles (11.3 km) from Ravenglass to Dalegarth Station near Boot in the Eskdale Valley.

You’ll be given a day rover ticket for use on the line, which operates an intensive timetable of steam and diesel trains, so you can explore at your own pace. Options include alighting at intermediate stations to film or photograph the passing trains, and it’s only a short walk from the terminus at Dalegarth to the village of Boot and its two pubs. The railway is popular for its open carriages providing superb sightlines of the surrounding scenery, but there are enclosed carriages depending on the weather. After your day on the railway you return to Windermere by road coach in the late afternoon. You dine with fellow guests at The Belsfield Hotel this evening – a fitting climax to a fabulous tour. (B D) Tuesday 24th May Homeward bound

After breakfast at the hotel you transfer by road coach to Windermere Railway Station.

Those passengers who joined the tour at Windermere will travel home independently, the remainder will join a train to Oxenholme Lake District for the return to London Euston again in the First-Class comfort of an Avanti Pendolino train. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1495

Single supplement £165 Ground only £1385 (Windermere – Windermere with own travel to/from Windermere) Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District and return by Avanti Trains Pendolino • Standard Class rail travel from Oxenholme Lake District to Windermere (20 minutes)* • 5 nights Half-board hotel accommodation • 2 lunches • All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • A one day rover ticket for use on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager *The First Transpennine Express trains running the short distance between Oxenholme Lake District and Windermere have insufficient first class seats to accommodate our party.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner May 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings London Euston Oxenholme

Outward Return 09:43 14:10 13:21 11:23

UK TOUR – 6 Days

11

Bob Green

The Cock O’the North Thursday 26th May to Wednesday 1st June 2022 Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Scotland’s northern outposts on our ever-popular ‘Cock O’ the North’ rail and road tour.

• E xplore this rugged terrain by extensive train, road coach and ferry transport, starting with a First-Class journey on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ from London to Inverness.

• Steam on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William, taking in the famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct on one of the greatest railway journeys in the world.

• Enjoy two heritage rail trips in one day, on the Strathspey Railway in the shadow of the Cairngorms, and on the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. • Discover the Kyle of Lochalsh on a trip along the most scenic line in Britain, followed by a fascinating two-day stay on the Isle of Skye, including a guided tour highlighting its vibrant culture and spectacular attractions.

• With overnight stays at comfortable hotels, outstanding cuisine, and point-to-point road coach transport for your luggage included, this is a Scottish holiday tour not to be missed!

Thursday 26th May

Friday 27th May

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland. This train follows the route of the East Coast Main Line (ECML) via historic connections and through magnificent landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First Class comfort. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue via Newcastle, Edinburgh and Perth, and join the Highland Main Line to travel through the beautiful Scottish Highlands to Inverness.

At Inverness you check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for two nights. Dinner will be served this evening in the hotel restaurant. (L D)

This morning you travel by road coach to Aviemore to join a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage railway line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip affords outstanding views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join your road coach to travel from Aviemore to Dufftown, a packed lunch will be provided on the train.

The return trip by vintage diesel rail car takes you on the 11-mile long Keith and Dufftown Railway, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. This so-called ‘Whisky Line’ passes through dense pine forests, by the tranquil

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Inverness

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Strathspey Railway; Keith & Dufftown Railway

waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. To end an eventful day, you visit a traditional Highland whisky distillery before returning to the hotel in Inverness.

(B L D) Saturday 28th May

Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh by Train

After a traditional Scottish breakfast your luggage is collected from the hotel and transported by privately chartered road coach to your next hotel. You then leave Inverness and travel by train to Kyle of Lochalsh, an idyllic location on the northwest coast of Scotland at the entrance to another sea inlet, Loch Alsh.

This line has been voted one of the most scenic in Britain and passes through forests, alongside lakes overshadowed by mountains, and along

the shores of Loch Carron, a sea inlet. A road coach then takes you over the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye and on to Portree. On the way there are spectacular views inland of mountains and seaward of the islands in the Sound of Raasay, which boasts the deepest water in the UK Continental Shelf at 1,062 feet, Portree is the island’s main town and is known for its picturesque harbour. Here you check in to The Royal Hotel, your base for the next two nights.

(B D) Sunday 29th May

Tour of Skye

You have the benefit of a tour guide today as you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. The island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country.

The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Returning to Portree there’ll be ample time to look around and enjoy a picnic lunch. Afterwards you’ll visit the north of the island, with highlights including the Flora MacDonald Memorial Cross and the romantic and historic Dunvegan Castle, ancient home of the MacLeods. Skye is rightly renowned for its vibrant culture, spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, examples being the golden eagle, sea eagle, red deer and otter, and your coach will stop whenever possible for film and photo opportunities. After an exciting day you return to your hotel in Portree. (B L D) Monday 30th May

Ferry to Mallaig; ‘The Jacobite’ Steam Train

After breakfast, say farewell to Portree as you head south by road coach to Armadale to catch the ferry to Mallaig, a boat journey of around thirty minutes. On arrival at Mallaig there’ll be time to explore the village and have lunch before joining ‘The Jacobite’ steam train to Fort William. This unforgettable 42-mile route has been described as one of the great railway journeys of the world. ‘The Jacobite’ takes you

through some of Scotland’s most outstanding scenery, beginning with the sea views to the islands of Eigg and Rum. It crosses the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete, and offers a spectacular vista down Lochaber’s Loch Shiel. On arrival at Fort William you rejoin the road coach for the journey to Inverness. En route you pass through the many lochs of the Great Glen and travel the whole length of the famous Loch Ness.

At Inverness you once again check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1695

Single supplement £345 Price includes: • First Class rail travel to Inverness and return, from London, Peterborough or York, with at-seat dining • 4 nights dinner bed and breakfast at The Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness

Tuesday 31st May

Leisurely Morning, Loch Cruise and Inverness

After a leisurely breakfast you embark on a Canal & Loch cruise with an inclusive visit to the Urquhart Castle. After a short transfer from the hotel, your journey starts at Dochgarroch Lock, sailing through the famous man-made part of the Caledonian Canal onto the world-famous waters of Loch Ness. Once ashore you have the opportunity to explore the ruin of the historic Urquhart Castle. After your visit, you’ll have ample time to explore the town of Inverness with an opportunity to enjoy some retail therapy.

In the evening you will regroup for a Farewell dinner in the hotel restaurant.

Wednesday 1st June

• 2 nights dinner bed and breakfast at a good quality 3-star hotel in Portree • 4 lunches • Our own road coach to transport luggage for the duration in Scotland leaving you free to enjoy the train rides and other journeys • First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William • Standard Class rail travel between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh (First Class not provided on this train) • All visits, train travel, transfers and tours as detailed in the itinerary • Reserved seats • The services of a tour manager

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ back to London

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express for the return journey to London. Relax in your FirstClass seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth. You continue to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on the journey south.

(B L)

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner May 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:49 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:54 Inverness 20:04 07:55

* Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

Bob Green

UK TOUR – 7 Days

13

Bob Green

Bob Green

The Summer Highlander Monday 6th June to Saturday 11th June 2022 Explore the splendour of Scotland’s culture and landscape on this unique summer tour to the scenic Scottish Highlands.

• Tour highlights include a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, and rail journeys from both the Kyle of Lochalsh and on the ‘Far North’ to Inverness.

• Discover the inherent romance of the picturesque Isle of Skye on a ferry and road trip and explore the famous northern outpost of John O’Groats.

• Immerse yourself in Scottish heritage at Dunrobin Castle and the Castle of Mey, and sample traditional Scottish culinary delights at diverse venues, including a whisky distillery.

• Visits to both the Strathspey and the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’ heritage railways are included, the latter being the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. • With a wide variety of cultural and culinary delights also on offer, you’ll experience first-hand the glorious appeal of this rugged land when you book for this outstanding holiday travel tour.

Monday 6th June

Tuesday 7th June

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station, you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ passenger train for the journey north to Scotland, following the route of the scenic East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First Class comfort. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue along the ECML to Darlington and on to Newcastle and Edinburgh. At Perth you join the Highland Main Line and travel through the amazing Scottish Highlands. Leaving the train at Kingussie a road coach takes you to Fort William where you check in to your hotel, where dinner will be served in the restaurant this evening. (L D)

Today a major tour highlight awaits with a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig through magnificent Scottish scenery. Mountains, glens, streams, lochs and the sea combine in an unending collage of outstanding views. En route you cross the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete and featured in a number of films and TV series. You’ll have an hour in Mallaig to explore this attractive fishing port and take lunch before boarding the ferry for Armadale on Skye. A road coach then transports you through Kyleakin and Broadford along the coast of this picturesque island. You cross the famous Skye Bridge and return to the mainland

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland

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‘The Jacobite’; the Isle of Skye; by train to Inverness

at Kyle of Lochalsh. The late afternoon service train to Inverness then takes you along one of Europe’s most scenic railway lines.

Running alongside Loch Carron, with superb views of lochs and mountains, you’ll pass through dense forests en route to Inverness.

You then check in to the Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness, your base for the next four nights. (B) Wednesday 8th June Dunrobin Castle

After breakfast you depart by road coach for Dunrobin Castle. Travelling north, you cross Kessock Bridge on to the Black Isle, travel alongside Cromarty Firth and over Dornoch Firth to the village of Golspie on the North Sea coast.

A piper will greet you on arrival at Dunrobin Castle, the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland.

This impressive castle stands on high terraces and affords wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There’ll be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch.

Afterwards there’ll be more time to explore the castle gardens and museum before you return by road coach to your hotel in Inverness. (B L) Thursday 9th June

The Far North

Today there’s a trip by road coach to the iconic village of John O’Groats. The route from Inverness follows the A9 trunk road, which hugs the North Sea coast for much of the way from Golspie to Wick, giving spectacular views.

John O’Groats is the well-known starting point for charity events travelling the greatest length of Britain to Land’s End. It has a tiny harbour and, if the weather is good, there are views across the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands.

You continue a few miles west to the Castle of Mey, where a light lunch will be served.

The castle was restored from a near ruin by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother for use as a holiday home. Further on, at Thurso Railway Station, you join a ScotRail service train for Inverness. The railway takes a different route to the road, initially crossing isolated moorland, thus providing a fresh perspective on the region’s wonderful scenery. The railway line meets the North Sea coast at Helmsdale and follows the coastline, often running between the road and the sea. It’s not uncommon to see seals basking on the shore on this section of the route.

On arrival at Inverness you return to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Friday 10th June

The Strathspey and Keith & Dufftown Railways

This morning you travel by road coach to Aviemore to join a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage railway line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip affords outstanding views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join your road coach to travel from Aviemore to Dufftown, a packed lunch will be provided on the train. The return trip by vintage diesel rail car takes you on the 11-mile long Keith and Dufftown Railway, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. This socalled ‘Whisky Line’ passes through dense pine forests, by the tranquil waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. To end an eventful day, you visit a traditional Highland whisky distillery before returning to the hotel in Inverness. (B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1530

Single supplement £295 Price includes: • First Class rail travel on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ and on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train • Standard Class rail travel between Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness and between Thurso and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains) • 5 nights accommodation in hotels • 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinners • All visits, train and ferry travel, and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager

Saturday 11th June

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express for the return journey to London. Relax in your FirstClass seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth and then to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London’s King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on your journey south. (B L)

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London

June 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:48 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:57 Kingussie 19:15 ------Inverness ------- 07:55 * Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

UK TOUR – 6 Days

15

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

English Lakes Thursday 16th June to Tuesday 21st June 2022 Discover the delights of the English Lake District by vintage motor vessel, steam train and steam yacht on this featurepacked holiday tour to Cumbria.

• Based at an elegant hotel in the resort town of Bowness-on-Windermere, you’ll enjoy cruises on vintage vessels on Lake Windermere and Ullswater.

• Steam train highlights include a trip on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and an exclusive exploration of the legendary 15-inch narrow gauge railway ‘La’al Ratty’.

• Enjoy a lake-themed cruise on Coniston Water aboard the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’, followed by lunch at the 400-year-old ‘Sun’ pub in Coniston.

• Other holiday highlights include visits to the Victorian neo-gothic Wray Castle and the Haverthwaite engine shed.

• Outstanding scenery, excellent cuisine and the convenience of short point-to-point travel distances by private road coach all add to your enjoyment on this relaxed, highlight-packed holiday in England’s idyllic Lakeland.

Thursday 16th June

First Class rail travel to Windermere

Your holiday begins in the First-Class lounge at London Euston Station before boarding a midmorning/early afternoon Avanti Trains Pendolino service. You’ll travel in sumptuous comfort at a top speed of 125mph along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) to Oxenholme in the Lake District. Here you change trains and take a First TransPennine Express service for the journey to Windermere. From Windermere station you’ll have a short coach transfer to the delightful village of Bowness-on-Windermere, located on the banks of Lake Windermere.

Your hotel for the duration of the tour will be The Belsfield Hotel. You then have some leisure time to explore Bowness before dinner at your hotel in the evening. (D)

16

Friday 17th June

Lake Windermere cruise; Steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

After breakfast you board the stylish vintage motor vessel ‘Swan’ for a forty-minute cruise through outstanding Cumbrian lake scenery to Lakeside at the southern end of Lake Windermere. This triple-deck ship was originally built by Vickers in 1938, and is now an iconic fixture on England’s largest lake. The lake pier is adjacent to Lakeside Railway Station and here you join a connecting steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, a former branch line of the Furness Railway (FR), originally opened in 1869. You’ll travel the entire length of the line to Haverthwaite with plenty of time to visit the impressive engine shed there, with its collection of historic steam and diesel locomotives. Crossing the footbridge to the woodland viewing and picnic area you can buy

souvenirs in the gift shop. Afterwards, transfer by coach to the Lakeland Motor Museum, where you will have time to explore and purchase lunch. In the afternoon you return by steam train to Lakeside and from there by connecting ship to Bowness. You’ll dine at The Belsfield Hotel this evening. (B D) Saturday 18th June

Steam boat cruise on Coniston Water; Wray Castle

Today you visit Coniston Water, the third largest lake in the Lake District, for a lake-themed cruise on the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’. Originally launched in 1859 to carry railway passengers, The Illustrated London News at the time described it as “a perfected combination of the Venetian gondola and the English steam yacht”. The preserved steamer is now cared for and operated by the National

Trust. Following the cruise, you’ll have lunch at ‘The Sun’ in Coniston, a 400-year-old pub with exposed beams, stone walls, flagstone floors and a local Brathay slate bar top. It’s situated beneath the Cumbrian Fells and has an elevated view over the village of Coniston. Later you transfer by road coach to Ambleside for the ferry to Wray Castle, a Victorian neo-gothic building with grounds that include part of the shoreline of Lake Windermere. There will be a visit to the castle after which you can explore the adjacent gardens at your leisure. You return to The Belsfield Hotel in Bowness for dinner. (B L D) Sunday 19th June

Scenic cruises on Lake Windermere and Ullswater

This morning you explore the northern half of Lake Windermere on board a classic motor vessel sailing from Bowness to Ambleside at the northernmost extremity of the lake. MV ‘Tern’, is a steam powered yacht built in 1891 and converted to diesel in 1956. After the 30-minute voyage to Ambleside Pier you’ll join a private road coach for the onward journey to Grasmere, where there will be a coffee stop. Continue by coach from Grasmere to Keswick, travelling via Dunmail Raise and Thirlmere. On arrival at Keswick, you enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant before your road coach takes you on to Pooley Bridge. Here, you have an afternoon cruise on one of the celebrated Ullswater ‘Steamers’ on the second largest lake in the Lake District.

Ullswater is one of the most beautiful English lakes, comparable to Lake Lucerne in Switzerland because of its mountainous backdrop.

You’ll see the spectacular waterfall of Aira Force, midway along the lake on the western side and cruise the length of the lake from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding. You rejoin the road coach for the return journey via scenic country roads to Bowness and enjoy dinner at your hotel in the evening. (B L D)

Monday 20th June

Steam train on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

A tour highlight awaits today as you travel by road coach to Ravenglass, a small coastal village with Roman connections located at the estuary of the rivers Esk, Mite and Irt. The famous 15inch gauge Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (La’al Ratty) has its terminus adjacent to the Cumbrian Coast railway line station. The line runs for 7 miles (11.3 km) from Ravenglass to Dalegarth Station near Boot in the Eskdale Valley.

You’ll be given a day rover ticket for use on the line, which operates an intensive timetable of steam and diesel trains, so you can explore at your own pace. Options include alighting at intermediate stations to film or photograph the passing trains, and it’s only a short walk from the terminus at Dalegarth to the village of Boot and its two pubs. The railway is popular for its open carriages providing superb sightlines of the surrounding scenery, but there are enclosed carriages depending on the weather. After your day on the railway you return to Windermere by road coach in the late afternoon. You dine with fellow guests at The Belsfield Hotel this evening – a fitting climax to a fabulous tour. (B D) Tuesday 21st June Homeward bound

After breakfast at the hotel you transfer by road coach to Windermere Railway Station.

Those passengers who joined the tour at Windermere will travel home independently, the remainder will join a train to Oxenholme Lake District for the return to London Euston again in the First-Class comfort of an Avanti Pendolino train. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1495

Single supplement £165 Ground only £1385 (Windermere – Windermere with own travel to/from Windermere) Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District and return by Avanti Trains Pendolino • Standard Class rail travel from Oxenholme Lake District to Windermere (20 minutes)* • 5 nights Half-board hotel accommodation • 2 lunches • All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • A one day rover ticket for use on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager *The First Transpennine Express trains running the short distance between Oxenholme Lake District and Windermere have insufficient first class seats to accommodate our party.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner June 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings London Euston Oxenholme

Outward Return 09:43 14:10 13:21 11:23

UK TOUR – 6 Days

17

The Far North and Orkney Thursday 23rd June to Friday 1st July 2022 The rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands take centre-stage on this popular tour to one of the most extraordinary places in Northern Europe.

• E xplore both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways, the Royal Deeside Railway west of Aberdeen and the Caledonian Railway at Brechin.

• Experience a midsummer ‘White Night’ when the sun never entirely sets, on a sea ferry trip to the enchanting island of Orkney.

• Explore Orkney’s pristine beaches, stunning coastline and mystical rock formations during your 3-day visit, including a distillery visit and a trip to the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage Site.

• Journey back to the mainland over the most northerly railway in the UK, taking in lunch at John O’Groats before travelling on the spectacular Far North Line via Thurso to Inverness.

• Cap your memorable holiday with a trip on the nostalgic heritage Strathspey Steam Railway and a visit to the formidable artillery fortification at Fort George.

Thursday 23rd June Your adventure begins in the First-Class lounge at London King’s Cross, for a mid-morning departure from London to Aberdeen.

Travelling along the East Coast Main Line LNER service, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as you travel north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh, crossing the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges. You arrive in Aberdeen late afternoon and check into your city centre hotel.

The rest of the evening is spent at leisure. (L)

days, starting with the Royal Deeside Railway.

This delightful standard gauge railway features a two-mile round trip through rural scenery and gentle rolling hills, running close to its namesake river. There’ll be photo opportunities en route and a ‘false arrival’ staged at the station.

Afterwards, lunch is taken at the Milton Crathes Brasserie followed by a visit to Crathes Castle, replete with turreted towers and walled gardens.

There’ll be plenty of time to explore this stylish estate before your road coach takes you back to Aberdeen. (B L)

Friday 24th June

Saturday 25th June

You’ll visit both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways during the next two

After breakfast your coach transfers you to Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway.

London to Aberdeen

Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Crathes Castle

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Steam at the Caledonian Railway and Ferry Crossing to Orkney

A privately chartered steam train takes you on the eight-mile round trip from Brechin to Bridge of Dun and back. Light snacks and refreshments are provided, afterwards there’s time to visit Brechin’s historic Cathedral and Round Tower.

You then return to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for a six-hour evening crossing to Kirkwall. The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of Scotland before entering the open North Sea. Dinner is served on board.

You reach Kirkwall at 11pm, as the sun is setting, an experience common to the far north during summer solstice. You disembark and transfer to your centrally located hotel. (B L D)

Sunday 26th June

At leisure in Kirkwall and a visit to the Highland Park Distillery

You are free to relax and explore the quaint town of Kirkwall at your own pace. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vibrant artisan scene, diverse galleries and craft shops. Orkney’s capital boasts many historical buildings, such as the 12th century St. Magnus Cathedral, the most northern cathedral in the British Isles. In the afternoon you visit the Highland Park whisky distillery, where world-famous Scotch has been produced since 1798. Dinner is served at your hotel. (B D) Monday 27th June

Exploration of Neolithic Orkney

You embark this morning on an exciting exploration of mainland Orkney by coach.

Among the highlights are the wonderful and fascinating landmarks that form the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage Site to the west of Kirkwall. You’ll have plenty of time to discover the tremendous natural beauty and cultural legacy at Maes Howe, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. You’ll visit the delightful fishing port of Stromness, where you can explore and purchase lunch. In the afternoon, following your visit to Skara Brae, you’ll see the breathtaking sea cliffs at Yesnaby before returning to Kirkwall. (B) Tuesday 28th June

Orkney Beaches, Italian Chapel, Broch of Gurness and Brough of Birsay

Today you’ll discover the pristine beaches of the southern, eastern and northern Orkney shores and the so-called ‘Churchill Barrier’ causeway roads, built for defensive purposes during World War II. En route you’ll visit the iconic Italian chapel, one of the most loved cultural attractions on Orkney. In South Ronaldsay you venture south to the fishing town of Burwick, with fine views across the Pentland Firth to John O’ Groats. After lunch back in Kirkwall it’s time to explore the outstanding archaeological site at Broch of Gurness, just across the water from the sparsely populated Orkney island of Rousay.

You end the day by experiencing the natural beauty of the Brough of Birsay, on the northern tip of mainland Orkney. At low tide you can even walk over to the uninhabited island of Birsay.

After your exciting day out, reconvene back at the hotel for dinner. (B D) Wednesday 29th June

Ferry Crossing over the Pentland Firth, Train Journey to Inverness

This morning you return to the Scottish

mainland. Your coach takes you from Kirkwall to Stromness for the ferry crossing over the famed Pentland Firth, past the Old Man of Hoy and St. John’s Head to Scrabster, near Thurso.

From Scrabster you continue by coach to the iconic village of John O’ Groats, the most north eastern village on the British mainland.

On arrival at John O’Groats, lunch will be provided at the Seaview Hotel. Afterwards you continue to Wick and board a ScotRail service train on the stunning Far North Line for the spectacular railway journey via Thurso to Inverness. Initially the tracks cross over moorland, passing through isolated mountain landscapes, before hugging the coast again and running within sight of seals basking on the rocky shores. Numerous firths are navigated before the train eventually reaches Inverness, hub of the Scottish Highlands. You’ll spend two nights at the Best Western Hotel and Spa in the heart of the city, with ample time to explore in the evening. (B L)

Thursday 30th June

Tour Summary Tour price

£1795

Single supplement £295 Price includes: • 8 nights accommodation with breakfast at hotels • 5 lunches and 4 dinners • All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary • All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • Rail travel from London to Aberdeen and from Inverness to London • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager

Strathspey Steam Railway and Fort George

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Today you travel by coach to nearby Aviemore before joining a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip provides wonderful views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join the coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park, where you stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich.

You return back to the hotel, where lunch will be served, before enjoying an afternoon visit to Fort George. Following the 1746 defeat at Culloden of Bonnie Prince Charlie, George II created the ultimate defence against further Jacobite unrest. The result, Fort George, is the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, if not Europe. Afterwards, you enjoy a Farewell meal at the hotel. (B L D)

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner June 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 10:00 15:49 York 11:54 13:58 Aberdeen 17:07 ------Inverness ------- 07:55 * Passengers travelling from Peterborough change trains at York on both the outward and return journeys.

Friday 1st July

Return to London on the Highland Chieftain

After an early breakfast you transfer to Inverness Railway Station to join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express train for your return journey. Relax in your comfortable First-Class seats as you travel through the scenic Highlands. You continue to Edinburgh where you join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on the journey south. (B L) UK TOUR – 9 Days

19

The Isle of Man Adventure Friday 1st July to Thursday 7th July 2022 The Isle of Man has a story for every season, but late summer is one of the best times to enjoy this idyllic destination.

Discover glens and lush plantations on relaxed walks and visit sun-kissed beaches alive with wildlife. The island stretches 32 miles north to south and 14 miles east to west, and is packed with scenery, history and industrial gems, including a horse tram, the largest working waterwheel in the world, miniature railways and an offshore Viking castle. Humans have lived here since 6500 BC, and smugglers, pirates and Nordic invaders have all been common at various times in Manx history, with the evidence for them all about.

• You’ll be based in a 3-star hotel in Douglas for the extent of your holiday.

• Enjoy charter trips on the Manx Electric Railway, Groudle Glen Steam Railway, and the Isle of Man Railway.

• Visit the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest working waterwheel in the world, built by Victorian engineers in 1854.

• Ascend to the summit of Snaefell, the island’s only mountain, on its Mountain Railway.

• Follow the scenic roads of the famous Isle of Man TT course on a coach trip covering the length of the island.

• Visit the island towns of Ramsey in the north, and the seaside resort of Port Erin on the south of the island.

• Use your complimentary Visitor’s Pass and Go Explorer Heritage Pass to explore all the island has to offer on your free days.

Friday 1st July

Avanti West Coast from London Euston to Liverpool, ferry to Isle of Man

Your holiday will start from London Euston.

You’ll be greeted by the Tour Manager before departing on the West Coast Avanti service to Liverpool Lime Street and Merseyrail service to Liverpool St James Street. The Liverpool pier head ferry terminal is five minutes’ walk away, from where you take the ferry to Douglas.

Here you check in to the 3-star Ellan Vannin Hotel (a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal).

The rest of the afternoon is free for you to investigate Douglas at your leisure. Douglas is situated on the east coast of the Isle of Man and has been the island’s capital since 1863.

The sea front is lined with picturesque hotels and 20

restaurants and there are plenty of shops to visit.

A welcome dinner will be served in your hotel restaurant this evening. (D) Saturday 2nd July

Great Laxey Wheel, Snawfell Mountain Railway

After breakfast you transfer to the nearby Sea Terminal for a unique horse tram ride to Derby Castle Station. The horse tram is a quiet, ecofriendly way to enjoy the trip around the bay and seafront of Douglas. On arrival at Derby station, you take the historic Manx Electric Railway to Laxey. The railway was built between 1893 and 1899 and connects Douglas with Laxey in the east and Ramsey in the north. It’s also the longest narrow gauge vintage electric railway

system in the British Isles and still uses original Victorian and Edwardian rolling stock.

From Laxey station it’s a short walk to the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest working waterwheel in the world. She was built by Victorian engineers in 1854 to pump water from the Laxey mines.

A climb to the top is rewarded with panoramic views across the Laxey Valley. After the Wheel you’ll enjoy a return trip on the nearby Laxey Mine Railway. This restored railway runs along the surface section of the tramway which once carried lead and zinc ores from deep inside the Great Laxey Mine.

Snaefell is the IOM’s only mountain, and its Mountain Railway will next take you to the summit where you can enjoy the views and buy refreshments. You then descend back to Douglas

to take the Horse Tram to the Sea Terminal and the short walk back to your hotel to enjoy a sumptuous three course dinner in the hotel restaurant. (B D) Sunday 3rd July

Manx Electric Railway, Groundle Glen Steam Railway

Following breakfast, you walk to the Sea Terminal to take the horse tram to the Derby Castle station, so named because of the vast entertainment complex of the same name that used to be sited nearby. You then take the Manx Electric Railway, this time to Groudle Glen, two miles north of Douglas on the coast road.

On arrival you walk to Groudle Glen Steam Railway for a full round trip of this narrow gauge (610 mm) railway, owned and operated by a small group of enthusiastic volunteers.

Afterwards a group lunch is served in the tearoom. You depart Groudle Glen by Manx Electric Railway heading to Ramsey, on the north of the island. You will have free time to explore Ramsey, perhaps visiting the Grove Museum of Victorian Life, Milntown House and Gardens, or simply strolling along the seafront. Later you return to Douglas and a 3-course dinner served in the hotel restaurant. (B L D) Monday 4th July

Isle of Man Railway, the Old House of Keys and Castle Rushen

Your tour gathers in the hotel reception after breakfast, and you transfer from the hotel to the Isle of Man Railway. Your first stop is Castletown for a visit to the Old House of Keys and the mediaeval Castle Rushen, once used as a prison before being restored, and now a Manx National Heritage site. Afterwards you continue on the Isle of Man Railway to Port Erin, a lovely seaside resort on the south of the island.

On arrival you’re free to explore the area at your leisure. The heart of the village is around Station Road and Church Road. There are shops, cafes, bars and activities operating from Shore Road by the beach, with views to the Mountains of Mourne in Northern Ireland past Bradda Head.

At Port Erin Railway Museum, you’ll discover the history of the Island’s steam railways over the last 140 years. You can then enjoy multiple rides on the different engines and services with your complimentary rail rover tickets. Dinner is once more at your hotel in the evening. (B D)

Tuesday 5th July

Free Day to Explore Isle of Man using your Travel Pass

You are free today to use your railway rover to revisit any of the railways you have already seen (Isle of Man Railway, Manx Electric Railway, Snaefell Mountain Railway, Douglas Bay Horse Tramway). Why not visit the fascinating Cregneash Medieval Village or you can use the time to relax and explore the island at your own pace. Dominated by sky and sea, the island has a stunning natural landscape with everything from rolling hills to patchwork fields and sheltered bays. Today is an ideal opportunity to take some unique and memorable photos. You can also use your visitor’s pass to enjoy any of the included island attractions. Dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D) Wednesday 6th July

Coach Tour of the Isle of Man and Jurby Transport Museum

Today you experience an exclusive coach tour travelling down the scenic roads of the famous TT race course. Your coach first takes you to the Calf of Man on the south tip of the island, with photo stops on the way. The Calf of Man is a small island separated from the mainland by the Calf Sound. Travel along the beautiful west coast of Man to the town of Peel. Your excursion includes a visit to the 11th century Castle Peel, a ruined castle originally built by the Vikings, sited on St Patrick’s Isle, which is connected to the town by a causeway. You’ll have a group lunch in a nearby restaurant before continuing by coach to Curraghs wildlife park, and a private charter trip on its miniature railway. You then travel to the Point of Ayre to view and take pictures of the lighthouse. Here you are at the Island’s most northerly tip and closer to Scotland (14 miles) than you are to Douglas! You travel back southwest to visit the Jurby Transport Museum. You then return to Douglas and a farewell dinner at your hotel. (B D) Thursday 7th July

Tour Summary Tour price

£1695

Single supplement £195 Price includes: • 6 nights accommodation • 6 breakfasts • 6 dinners • 1 lunch • First Class Travel from London to Liverpool and from Lancaster back to London • All visits, train, coach and ferry travel as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner July 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings London Euston Liverpool St. James Lancaster Heysham

Outward Return 07:07 17:10 09:42 ------------- 14:39 ------- 13:20

Northern Service from Heysham to Lancaster is standard class only.

Merseyrail Service from Liverpool Lime Street to St James Street is standard class only.

Please note that this tour is not suitable for those who have restricted mobility as the hotel does not have lift facilities.

Ferry from Isle of Man, Northern Service from Heysham to Lancaster and Avanti West Coast Service from Lancaster to London Euston

After breakfast at the hotel, you transfer to the ferry terminal. Your ferry departs Douglas at 08.45 am and arrives Heysham ferry port.

From Heysham port you join the Northern Rail service to Lancaster, where you change trains to take the Avanti West Coast Service to London Euston for an approximated arrival of 17.00 hrs.

(B) UK TOUR – 7 Days

21

Heart of Scotland Wednesday 6th July to Tuesday 12th July 2022 Scotland is a rugged country full of scenic and cultural surprises, as you’ll discover for yourself on this highlight-packed holiday tour to its wild, spectacular heart.

• Based in the historic city of Stirling, then Rothesay on the Isle of Bute, you’ll explore the unique cultural and natural attractions grouped around the Trossachs, the Cairngorms, and Bute itself.

• Steam highlights include a cruise on Loch Katrine aboard steam launch ‘Sir Walter Scott’, steam train on the Strathspey Railway and a transfer to the Isle of Bute on the sea-going paddle steamer ‘Waverley’.

• Ascend rugged Cairngorm mountain on the UK’s highest funicular railway and visit the neo-gothic Victorian Gothic Revival estate at Mount Stuart on Bute.

• You’ll also discover the diverse wildlife in and around both of Scotland’s National Parks, showcasing the variety of flora and fauna in the rugged Scottish landscape.

• From unspoilt beaches to inspiring coastlines, with convenient point-to-point transfers on ScotRail service trains and by private coach included, this is a unique holiday opportunity for seasoned traveller and newcomer alike.

Wednesday 6th July

Thursday 7th July

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ passenger train for the journey north to Scotland, following the route of the scenic East Coast Main Line (ECML). A light lunch will be served at your seat as you travel First Class in relaxed, spacious comfort, as nearly the length of Britain rattles past. Your train stops at York, taking on those connecting by service train from Peterborough before continuing via Newcastle and Edinburgh to historic Stirling, where you book into the Stirling Highland hotel for the next three nights. A welcome dinner is served at the hotel this evening. (L D)

This morning you transfer by coach from Stirling along scenic roads to nearby Loch Katrine, set in the Centre of the Trossachs National Park.

You’ll then enjoy a 2-hour lake cruise on the world-famous steamship ‘Sir Walter Scott’ to Stronachlachar from Trossachs Pier, taking in the inspiring landscape that influenced Sir Walter Scott, Coleridge and Wordsworth. On returning you’ll take a light lunch at the restaurant on the Pier. Afterwards you transfer by coach again to Stirling Castle for a tour of the grounds of one of the largest castles in Scotland, surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs. The castle sits atop Castle Hill, an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation.

London to Stirling on the ‘Highland Chieftain

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Steam Cruise on Loch Katrine and Stirling Castle

After your tour there’ll be time to look around Stirling, taking in the historic Old Town and the picturesque Back Walk footpath that encircles it.

Dinner will be taken at your hotel this evening.

(B L D) Friday 8th July

Strathspey Steam Railway and Cairngorm Mountain Railway

This morning you travel on a ScotRail service train over the iconic Highland Main Line from Stirling to Aviemore before joining a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip on the railway offers wonderful views of the Cairngorm

Mountains. You re-join the road coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park and stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich.

From here it’s just a short onward journey to the Cairngorm Mountain Railway, a 2 km long funicular and Britain’s highest mountain railway.

In appearance and design it’s reminiscent of the famed Alpine funiculars in Switzerland. Enjoy the magnificent views of the snow-capped Scottish mountains as the line ascends CairnGorm.

After an equally enjoyable descent on the mountain railway, your road coach returns you to Stirling, where dinner will be served at your hotel. (B L D) Saturday 9th July

Clyde Cruise and Isle of Bute aboard Paddle Steamer ‘Waverley’

After breakfast you transfer by road coach from Stirling to Glasgow. The coach drops you off at the steamboat pier and continues with your luggage by motor ferry to your next hotel at the Isle of Bute. You then enjoy an all-day cruise aboard the iconic, double-funnel steamer ‘Waverley’, the last ocean-going paddle steamer in the world. You go ‘doon the watter’ on a sail from Glasgow over the Clyde to Rothesay and Tighnabruaich. The steamer has multiple bars and galleys, and a restaurant where you can buy drinks and meals. You can watch the fully visible marine steam engine as it works, the largest of its kind still in operating condition.

You can also go ashore at Tighnabruaich, a lovely coastal village dominated by grand villas built in Victorian times for wealthy merchants, for a one-hour visit before the steamer drops you off again at Rothesay, the principal town of Bute. You’ll stay at an elegant hotel here for the rest of the tour to enjoy the exotic island charm of the ‘Madeira of Scotland’. Dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (B D) Sunday 10th July

Mount Stuart and the scenery of South Bute

heated swimming pool and be purpose-built with electric lights and central heating. Kilchattan Bay is a settlement of Victorian houses and villas that lies on the south west shore of a largely east facing bay with a mile-wide mouth offering views to the isle of Great Cumbrae, three miles to the east. After your rewarding day, dinner will again be served at your hotel in Rothesay. (B D) Monday 11th July

Ettrick Bay, the seal colony at Scalpsie and the scenery of North Bute

Today you continue your exploration of Bute by privately chartered road coach, focusing on yet more of its scenic and cultural highlights, including the famed seal colony at Scalpsie.

The reddish sand of Scalpsie Bay is set against the wonderful backdrop of the Isle of Arran, and there are two viewpoints from which you can see the area’s fascinating resident wildlife and take in the amazing landscapes. At Seal View you can watch the large colony of seals on their rocky perches, and enjoy panoramic views over to Arran, the sandy beaches at Ettrick Bay and the remote scenery of North Bute as far as Rhubodach. After another feature-packed day, dinner this evening is back at the hotel in Rothesay. (B D) Tuesday 12th July

Ferry crossing to Wemyss Bay, train to Glasgow Central, return to London

In the morning you’ll have some leisure time in Rothesay before taking the lunchtime CalMac ferry from Rothesay to Wemyss Bay. From Wemyss Bay you take the direct ScotRail service to Glasgow Central. Here you transfer onto an Avanti service and continue in First Class luxury over the entire length of the West Coast Main Line back to London Euston.

For extra excitement this route passes through outstanding scenery at the mountain summits of Beattock and Shap. You arrive back in London in the evening. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1595

Single supplement £245 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London King’s Cross to Stirling by East Coast express train and from Glasgow Central to London Euston by Avanti service • Standard Class rail on Scotrail services • 6 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast • 4 lunches and 6 dinners • All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • All road coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner July 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 ------York 13:54 ------Stirling 17:19 ------London Euston ------- 19:09 Glasgow Central ------- 14:40

Today you discover the outstanding natural and cultural highlights on the Isle of Bute south of Rothesay. Bute is only 33 miles from Glasgow and is the most accessible of the westerly isles from the Scottish Central Belt. Highlights include the impressive Victorian Gothic Revival estate at Mount Stuart and the scenic beaches and coves at Kilchattan Bay. The spirit of nineteenthcentury invention is embodied in Mount Stuart, and this neo-gothic mansion was one of the most technologically advanced houses of its age. It was the first home in the world to have a UK TOUR – 7 Days

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The Far North and Orkney Thursday 14th July to Friday 22nd July 2022 The rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands take centre-stage on this popular tour to one of the most extraordinary places in Northern Europe.

• E xplore both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways, the Royal Deeside Railway west of Aberdeen and the Caledonian Railway at Brechin.

• Experience a midsummer ‘White Night’ when the sun never entirely sets, on a sea ferry trip to the enchanting island of Orkney.

• Explore Orkney’s pristine beaches, stunning coastline and mystical rock formations during your 3-day visit, including a distillery visit and a trip to the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage Site.

• Journey back to the mainland over the most northerly railway in the UK, taking in lunch at John O’Groats before travelling on the spectacular Far North Line via Thurso to Inverness.

• Cap your memorable holiday with a trip on the nostalgic heritage Strathspey Steam Railway and a visit to the formidable artillery fortification at Fort George.

Thursday 14th July

Your adventure begins in the First-Class lounge at London King’s Cross, for a mid-morning departure from London to Aberdeen.

Travelling along the East Coast Main Line LNER service, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as you travel north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh, crossing the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges. You arrive in Aberdeen late afternoon and check into your city centre hotel.

The rest of the evening is spent at leisure. (L)

days, starting with the Caledonian Railway.

Your coach transfers you to Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway. A privately chartered steam train takes you on the eight-mile round trip from Brechin to Bridge of Dun and back. Light snacks and refreshments are provided. Your road coach will then transfer you to Crathes for a visit to Crathes Castle, replete with turreted towers and walled gardens. There’ll be plenty of time to explore this stylish estate before your road coach takes you back to Aberdeen for a free evening.

(B L)

Friday 15th July

Saturday 16th July

You’ll visit both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways during the next two

After breakfast your road coach transfers you to the Royal Deeside Railway. This delightful

London to Aberdeen

Steam at the Caledonian Railway and Crathes Castle

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Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Ferry Crossing to Orkney

standard gauge railway features a two-mile round trip through rural scenery and gently rolling hills, running close to its namesake river.

There’ll be photo opportunities en route and a ‘false arrival’ staged at the station.

Afterwards, lunch is taken at the Milton Brasserie. Afterwards, you’ll travel back to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for a six-hour evening crossing to Kirkwall. The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of Scotland before entering the open North Sea. Dinner is served on board. You reach Kirkwall at 11pm, as the sun is setting, an experience common to the far north during summer solstice.

You disembark and transfer to your centrally located hotel. (B L D)

Sunday 17th July

At leisure in Kirkwall and a visit to the Highland Park Distillery

You are free to relax and explore the quaint town of Kirkwall at your own pace. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vibrant artisan scene, diverse galleries and craft shops. Orkney’s capital boasts many historical buildings, such as the 12th century St. Magnus Cathedral, the most northern cathedral in the British Isles. In the afternoon you visit the Highland Park whisky distillery, where world-famous Scotch has been produced since 1798. Dinner is served at your hotel. (B D) Monday 18th July

Exploration of Neolithic Orkney

You embark this morning on an exciting exploration of mainland Orkney by coach.

Among the highlights are the wonderful and fascinating landmarks that form the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage Site to the west of Kirkwall. You’ll have plenty of time to discover the tremendous natural beauty and cultural legacy at Maes Howe, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. You’ll visit the delightful fishing port of Stromness, where you can explore and purchase lunch. In the afternoon, following your visit to Skara Brae, you’ll see the breathtaking sea cliffs at Yesnaby before returning to Kirkwall. (B) Tuesday 19th July

Orkney Beaches, Italian Chapel, Broch of Gurness and Brough of Birsay

Today you’ll discover the pristine beaches of the southern, eastern and northern Orkney shores and the so-called ‘Churchill Barrier’ causeway roads, built for defensive purposes during World War II. En route you’ll visit the iconic Italian chapel, one of the most loved cultural attractions on Orkney. In South Ronaldsay you venture south to the fishing town of Burwick, with fine views across the Pentland Firth to John O’ Groats. After lunch back in Kirkwall it’s time to explore the outstanding archaeological site at Broch of Gurness, just across the water from the sparsely populated Orkney island of Rousay.

You end the day by experiencing the natural beauty of the Brough of Birsay, on the northern tip of mainland Orkney. At low tide you can even walk over to the uninhabited island of Birsay.

After your exciting day out, reconvene back at the hotel for dinner. (B D) Wednesday 20th July

Ferry Crossing over the Pentland Firth, Train Journey to Inverness

This morning you return to the Scottish

mainland. Your coach takes you from Kirkwall to Stromness for the ferry crossing over the famed Pentland Firth, past the Old Man of Hoy and St. John’s Head to Scrabster, near Thurso.

From Scrabster you continue by coach to the iconic village of John O’ Groats, the most north eastern village on the British mainland.

On arrival at John O’Groats, lunch will be provided at the Seaview Hotel.

Afterwards you continue to Wick and board a ScotRail service train on the stunning Far North Line for the spectacular railway journey via Thurso to Inverness. Initially the tracks cross over moorland, passing through isolated mountain landscapes, before hugging the coast again and running within sight of seals basking on the rocky shores. Numerous firths are navigated before the train eventually reaches Inverness, hub of the Scottish Highlands.

You’ll spend two nights at the Best Western Hotel and Spa in the heart of the city, with ample time to explore in the evening. (B L) Thursday 21st July

Tour Summary Tour price

£1795

Single supplement £295 Price includes: • 8 nights accommodation with breakfast at hotels • 5 lunches and 4 dinners • All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary • All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • Rail travel from London to Aberdeen and from Inverness to London • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager

Strathspey Steam Railway and Fort George

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Today you travel by coach to nearby Aviemore before joining a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip provides wonderful views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join the coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park, where you stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich.

You return back to the hotel, where lunch will be served, before enjoying an afternoon visit to Fort George. Following the 1746 defeat at Culloden of Bonnie Prince Charlie, George II created the ultimate defence against further Jacobite unrest. The result, Fort George, is the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, if not Europe. Afterwards, you enjoy a Farewell meal at the hotel. (B L D)

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner July 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 10:00 15:49 York 11:54 13:58 Aberdeen 17:07 ------Inverness ------- 07:55 * Passengers travelling from Peterborough change trains at York on both the outward and return journeys.

Friday 22nd July

Return to London on the Highland Chieftain

After an early breakfast you transfer to Inverness Railway Station to join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express train for your return journey. Relax in your comfortable First-Class seats as you travel through the scenic Highlands. You continue to Edinburgh where you join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on the journey south. (B L) UK TOUR – 9 Days

25

Phil Jones

Georg Trueb

Snowdonia and the Northern Fells Friday 15th July to Friday 22nd July 2022 Experience the very best of British steam on this highlight-packed steam rail tour through the magnificent landscapes of Cumbria and North Wales.

• While based for 2 nights in historic Liverpool you’ll travel on main line steam over the famous Settle to Carlisle Railway, with major attractions along the line including the magnificent 24-arch Ribblehead Viaduct.

• Enjoy a steam trip along the picturesque North Wales Coast line to Bangor, running beside the Irish Sea and passing through several seaside resorts before transferring to Llandudno.

• Steam up the dramatic Conway Valley to Blaenau Ffestiniog on The Welsh Mountaineer and discover the endless variety of ‘Great Little Trains’ on the railways of Snowdon Mountain, Ffestiniog, Fairbourne, Talyllyn, Welshpool and Llanfair, and the Vale of Rheidol.

• A definitive tour highlight is a trip over the rebuilt Welsh Highland Railway, one of the rail wonders of the 21st century, from Caernarfon to Porthmadog through the magnificent Snowdonia National Park.

• With overnight stays in comfortable hotels, fine cuisine and efficient luggage transfers, this unique steam tour is the ideal way to explore these outstanding landscapes in relaxed comfort and style.

Friday 15th July

Exploring Liverpool

Your tour begins at a City Centre Hotel in Liverpool, located opposite Lime Street Station and your base for the next two nights. Arrive as early as possible and explore this fine city at your leisure. Dinner will be at your hotel this evening.

(D) Saturday 16th July

The Settle to Carlisle Railway

Today you join our ‘Cumbrian Mountain Express’ train departing Liverpool Lime Street.

Breakfast will be served at your seat soon after departing. You head north to Preston and on to Carnforth, where your steam locomotive will take over.

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Skirt the Lake District before entering the Lune Valley. Your fully extended steam locomotive ascends to the summit of Shap Fell before descending through Penrith North Lakes, pausing at Carlisle for a two-hour break to explore this Border City. Leaving Carlisle you join the Settle and Carlisle Railway, climbing up through Langwathby and Culgaith and pausing for water at the market town of Appleby.

Through stunning scenery you climb the steep gradient to Ais Gill summit and traverse Dent Dale, from where the Peaks of Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-Ghent dominate the landscape. There are over twenty major viaducts and fourteen tunnels on the line culminating in the magnificent 24-arch Ribblehead Viaduct.

On the way back to Liverpool you enjoy a four-

course dinner, silver-served at your seat, before returning to your hotel for the night. (B D) Sunday 17th July

Steam along the North Wales Coast

After breakfast you take your reserved FirstClass seat on the ‘North Wales Coast Express’ special steam train at Liverpool Lime Street Station and journey along the West Coast Main Line to Warrington. On leaving Chester you cross the River Dee and enter Wales, running along the Dee Estuary and then beside the Irish Sea as your train passes Prestatyn and Rhyl. This coastline is known for its stunning beaches and, at Colwyn Bay, fantastic views of the Great Orme headland. You pass through several small seaside resorts on the Irish Sea

coast before arriving at Bangor. Here you transfer by road coach to Penrhyn Castle for a short visit. This dramatic neo-Norman castle was built in the early 19th century for a wealthy Welsh family. Crammed with fascinating objects, its stable block contains an industrial railway, a doll collection, and model railway museums.

Afterwards your coach takes you across Anglesey to Holyhead to rejoin your steam train for the return journey to Llandudno.

You take the short walk to the St. Georges Hotel and check in for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D) Monday 18th July

Steam on the Snowdon Mountain and Welsh Highland Railways

This morning you transfer to Llanberis Station for a steam-hauled trip on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, with superb views, weather permitting. Back in Llanberis there is free time to explore this delightful Snowdonian town and have lunch. In the afternoon you take a trip on the Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon to Porthmadog, through the magnificent Snowdonia National Park.

This fantastic 25-mile journey, steam hauled by a two-foot narrow gauge Garratt locomotive, begins close to Caernarfon Castle. It takes you through spectacular mountain scenery, the village of Beddgelert, which owes its fame to the legendary tale of Prince Llewelyn ap Iorwerth, and the famous Aberglaslyn Pass. On arrival at Porthmadog you return by road coach to the St. Georges Hotel in Llandudno for dinner. (B D) Tuesday 19th July

A steam spectacular to Blaneau Ffestiniog; the Ffestiniog Railway

After breakfast you take a ride on the 3’6” gauge Great Orme Tramway, Britain’s only cable-hauled street tramway, from Llandudno Victoria Station to Great Orme Summit Station. Then you go on to Llandudno Junction Station to join ‘The Welsh Mountaineer’ steam train to Blaenau Ffestiniog.

You’ll be hauled by a steam locomotive along this incredibly steep branch line, climbing uphill into Snowdonia through Betws-y-Coed and Pont-yPant to Blaeneau Ffestiniog. There’ll be a couple of hours to explore Blaeneau Ffestiniog and have lunch before you travel on the Ffestiniog Railway to Porthmadog. There you transfer to Portmeirion, where the surreal TV spy drama ‘The Prisoner’ was filmed in the 1960s, for dinner and an overnight stay at The Hotel Portmeirion. (B D)

Wednesday 20th July

Steam on the Fairbourne and Talyllyn Railways

After breakfast you transfer by road coach to Fairbourne for a return journey on the Fairbourne Railway. This 12¼” gauge railway runs for 3.2 km (2 miles) alongside the beach to the end of a peninsula at the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, one of the most spectacular locations along the Cambrian Coast.

You continue by coach to nearby Tywyn where you travel on the narrow gauge Talyllyn Railway (TR). The TR is notable for being the first preserved railway in the United Kingdom.

This 2’3” gauge railway runs for 11.7 km (7.25 miles) to Nant Gwernol. On return to Tywyn there’ll be time for lunch and a visit to the narrow-gauge railway museum there. You then transfer by coach to the Tyn Y Cornel Hotel, where you will be based for the next two nights.

(B D) Thursday 21st July

Tour Summary Tour price

£1995

Single supplement £325 Price includes: • 7 nights accommodation with breakfast • 6 breakfasts in hotels and one on the train • 6 dinners in hotels and one on the train • All train and tramway travel as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and coach transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Vale of Rheidol and Welshpool and Llanfair Railways

Today you travel steam-hauled on the Vale of Rheidol Railway from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, where unique waterfalls have attracted many thousands of visitors since the 18th century, including William Wordsworth, who wrote about the ‘Torrent at the Devil’s Bridge’.

From Devil’s Bridge you transfer by road coach to Welshpool and after lunch in the town you begin your journey on the picturesque 2’6” gauge Welshpool and Llanfair Railway.

There’s an enjoyable steam-hauled ride through the delightful Banwy Valley to Llanfair Caereinion to follow, before you return to Welshpool. Depart Welshpool and transfer to your hotel for a farewell dinner with the group.

(B D)

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Friday 22nd July Return home

After breakfast at your hotel, you depart by coach, travelling back to Liverpool via Chester for your homeward journey. (B)

Andrew Thompson

UK TOUR – 8 Days

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Bob Green

The Western Isles Monday 25th July to Tuesday 2nd August 2022 Discover the scenic splendour of the mountains, glens and lochs of Northwest Scotland and the Western Isles on this unique holiday travel tour.

• Enjoy a lake cruise and excursion on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, following an overnight stay next to Loch Lomond.

• Cross remote Rannoch Moor as you head for Fort William to stay by Loch Linnhe with Britain’s highest mountain, majestic Ben Nevis, as the backdrop.

• Savour a sea ferry transfer and epic coach tour of the Isle of Skye, before you head to Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides for two nights, including a guided tour of the outstanding local sights.

• Explore the North West Highlands with a ride to Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, featuring some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular coastlines.

• Other tour highlights include a road trip to Dunrobin Castle, a falconry display, dolphin sightings and photo opportunities galore on this ultimate Scottish travel tour.

Monday 25th July

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland, following the East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in sumptuous First-Class style. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue your journey along the ECML via Newcastle and Edinburgh and on to Stirling. From there a coach takes you to The Lodge on Loch Lomond for dinner and overnight accommodation. The Lodge prides itself on excellent customer service and is located in beautiful countryside on the banks of Loch 28

Lomond with stunning views of both the Loch and Ben Lomond. (L D)

Your train arrives late afternoon when you check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Tuesday 26th July

Lake Cruise on Loch Lomond; north to Fort William

Wednesday 27th July

After a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a stroll by the Loch, a road coach takes you the short distance to Tarbet. From here a private cruise on Loch Lomond is scheduled, with a light lunch taken on board. Afterwards you rejoin the coach for the return trip to Arrochar and Tarbet Station to catch a train north to Fort William.

The route passes through spectacular scenery, crossing the remote Rannoch Moor. Fort William is located in a prime position on Loch Linnhe with the majestic Ben Nevis, which at 4,406 feet is Britain’s highest mountain, as the backdrop.

A major tour highlight is a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train. This unforgettable 42-mile route has been described as one of the great railway journeys of the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig through some of the most magnificent scenery that Scotland has to offer.

Mountains, glens, streams, lochs and the sea combine to provide an unending collage of outstanding views. En route you cross the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete and featured in a number of films and TV series. You’ll have around two hours in

‘The Jacobite’ and over the Sea to Skye

Mallaig to explore the village and fishing port and find lunch, before boarding the ferry for Armadale on the Isle of Skye. You then travel on the road coach, which has followed the tour with the luggage, to your hotel in Portree, the island’s main town and well known for its picturesque harbour. (B D) Thursday 28th July

Coach tour of Skye; Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides

This morning you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides and the island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Your coach pauses a few times for photo opportunities as it crosses Trotternish, the northern peninsula of Skye, to Uig. Here you join a ferry for the one and half hour crossing to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. Although not an island itself, Harris is the southern and more mountainous part of Lewis and Harris. You travel through the exposed countryside to the island’s capital, Stornoway, and the hotel where you will stay and dine for the next two nights. (B D) Friday 29th July

Guided tour of The Isle of Lewis

Today a guided coach tour of the Isle of Lewis awaits you. The Isle of Lewis is at the North west corner of the Hebrides and has a rich cultural heritage. From the neat Victorian homes lining the streets of Stornoway, to the stretching white sands of Bosta on Great Bernera in the east, where the clear Atlantic waters sound the evocative toll of the Time and Tide Bell, Lewis is an island of exciting contrasts and diverse experiences. Places of particular interest include the Butt of Lewis cliffs and lighthouse, Carloway Broch, Lewis Bridge and the Callinish Standing Stones, an impressive stone circle comparable to Stonehenge. Lunch will be taken during the tour and dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B L D) Saturday 30th July

Free time in Stornaway; ferry to Ullapool; north to Lochinver

This morning you’ll have some free time to explore Stornoway and a choice of visiting Lews Castle and grounds, the impressive war memorial, or the harbour area. Observance of the Christian Sabbath, Sunday, had long been

a unique aspect of the island’s culture and until July 2009 there were no Sunday ferry services to or from Stornoway. You’ll then take a ferry across ‘The Minch’, maybe sighting dolphins en route, and return to the mainland at Ullapool.

On arrival at Ullapool your road coach will transfer you to your hotel where you will checkin for dinner and overnight accommodation.

(B D) Sunday 31st July

By road to the North West Scottish Highlands

There’s a day trip by road coach today, to discover the remote and impressive landscape of the North West Highlands. You pass through magnificent mountain scenery with striking lochs and glens, and maybe catch a glimpse of some uncommon wildlife. You begin to notice the wild sea as you travel near to the coast at Scourie.

Your destination is Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, an area of unspoilt beaches backed by cliffs. The surrounding coastline is some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular, where sea birds, seals, porpoises and minke whales may be seen. You stop in the village and take time for lunch. In the afternoon you checkin to the Inverlodge hotel at Lochinver. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2295

Single supplement £395 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London to Stirling and Inverness to London with at-seat dining • 8 nights half board accommodation in 3-star hotels • 5 Lunches • All visits, train, boat and ferry travel, and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Fort William to Mallaig • Standard Class rail travel between Arrochar and Fort William and Golspie and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains) • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Monday 1st August

Dunrobin Castle and Inverness

Today you travel east by road coach along isolated mountain roads passing through Lairg and Golspie before arriving at Dunrobin Castle, the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland, on the East coast. This impressive castle stands on high terraces with wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There’ll be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch after which you transfer to Golspie Station to board a train to Inverness. You then transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Tuesday 2nd August

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:49 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:54 Stirling 17:19 ------Inverness ------- 07:55 * Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

After an early breakfast at the hotel you transfer to the railway station to join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the return journey to London.

You can relax again in First Class seats as you leave Inverness and pass through the wonderful Highlands en route to Perth, Edinburgh, Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on the journey south.

(B L)

UK TOUR – 9 Days

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The Emerald Explorer Thursday 28th July to Friday 5th August 2022 From Dublin to Westport, Waterford to the Cliffs of Moher, this new rail tour distils Ireland’s proud culture, heritage, and history into 9 days of memorable highlights. Starting and ending in Dublin, you’ll cover the length and breadth of this stunning country by rail and coach and discover first-hand the legends, traditions and outstanding hospitality Ireland is renowned for.

• Enjoy a guided tour of Dublin and the Teeling Whisky Distillery.

• On the Atlantic seafront tour Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, Connemara Celtic Crystal and explore Galway.

• Travel highlights include the Waterford Suir Valley Railway and a cruise on the River Shannon.

• Marvel at the wild Cliffs of Moher and visit West Clare Railway and Museum.

• Savour a Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle.

• Experience the mysteries of Blarney Castle and Clonmacnoise Monastery.

• Finish the tour on a high with traditional Irish music and dancing at Dublin’s famous Arlington Hotel.

Thursday 28th July

First Class Avanti Service to Holyhead and Ferry Crossing to Dublin

Meet your Tour Manager this morning in the First Class Lounge at London Euston, before you travel First Class on an Avanti Service to Holyhead. On arrival, you transfer to Holyhead Ferry Terminal for a ferry crossing over the Irish Sea to Dublin. On arrival, you transfer to a comfortable hotel where you’ll stay for the next two nights. There will be a welcome dinner at the hotel this evening. (D) Friday 29th July

Guided Tour of Dublin and Whiskey Distillery Visit

Today after breakfast you’ll enjoy a thrilling guided coach tour of Dublin, with a refreshment break in Phoenix Park. One of the largest 30

enclosed public parks in any European capital city. After the tour you’ll have time for lunch before a scheduled tour of the Teeling Whiskey Distillery. Dublin was once home to over 37 distilleries, and this is the first new distillery here for over 125 years. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the city at leisure.

Dublin has a compact centre, so most attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Walk in ‘Stephen’s Green’ or check out the shops and cafes on Grafton Street, perhaps stopping to take a picture alongside Molly Malone, one of Dublin’s most famous statues. Visit Leinster House, where the current parliament sits, or Dublin Castle, the seat of English rule from the 13th Century. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Saturday 30th July

Guided Tour of Athlone Castle, River Shannon Cruise and Visit to Clonmacnoise Monastery

Following breakfast, you transfer from Dublin to Athlone and enjoy a guided tour of Athlone Castle. Here the Great Siege of Athlone is brought to life through interactive exhibits and an immersive 360-degree cinematic experience.

Climb the steps to the castle keep and enjoy the views across the majestic River Shannon.

After lunch you leave Athlone Castle for a private charter cruise along the River Shannon.

Named after the Celtic goddess ‘Sionna’, the Shannon is a series of lakes, rivers, and canals almost 200 miles in length and is Ireland’s longest river. Later you transfer by coach to Clonmacnoise Monastery. St Ciarán founded this ancient monastery on the banks of the Shannon

in the 6th Century. It was once a great seat of learning, a university in its time with students from all over Europe. After your tour you transfer by coach to your hotel, your base for the next two nights. Dinner will be at the hotel this evening. (B D)

Sunday 31st July

Visit to Connemara Celtic Crystal and visit to Galway

After breakfast you leave the hotel for a short walk to the train station. You travel westward to Westport, at the south-east corner of Clew Bay, on the west coast of Ireland. You then have a visit scheduled to Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, a nineteenth-century castle now owned by Benedictine nuns but originally part of Kylemore Castle, built in 1868 as a private home.

There’ll be time to explore and buy lunch before you visit Connemara Celtic Crystal, one of the last surviving Irish Crystal factories.

It incorporates Celtic designs and Gaelic motifs on ornate, beautifully crafted crystal pieces.

You then depart by coach to Galway.

Located near an earlier settlement, Galway grew around a fortification built by the King of Connacht in 1124. You’ll have time to explore some of the ancient sites such as St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, the largest medieval church still in everyday use in Ireland, before returning by train to Athlone and dinner at your hotel. (B D) Monday 1st August

Cliffs of Moher and The West Clare Railway

After breakfast you leave Athlone by coach for a scenic tour of the Cliffs of Moher with photo stops, pausing in the sea port village of Kinvara for refreshments. Afterwards you head to Kilkee, where you will have time to enjoy lunch before moving on to visit the West Clare Railway and Museum. The West Clare Railway was one of a network of narrow gauge lines built across rural West Ireland in the wake of the 1883 Tramways Act. The line was closed in 1961. Afterwards you travel to Bunratty Castle Hotel, where you’ll stay for the next two nights. A tour highlight this evening is a magnificent Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle. (B D)

two parts, the first retracing the steps of the 123 passengers who boarded Titanic from Cobh on April 11th, 1912. Part two examines the almost impossible sequence of events that caused Titanic to sink. After lunch you travel to Blarney Village and historic Blarney Castle & Gardens, built in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You’ll have time to kiss the famous stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eternal eloquence on those lucky enough to do so. A must see is the Rock Close area and Poison Garden where the world’s most poisonous plants are kept. After your visit you return to your hotel where dinner will once again be served in the hotel restaurant. (B D) Wednesday 3rd August

Tour price

£2295

Single supplement £325 Ground only £2095 (Holyhead to Holyhead) Price includes: • First Class Rail Travel from London Euston to Holyhead and return • 8 nights accommodation

Waterford Crystal and Private Charter on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway

• 8 breakfasts

After breakfast you travel by coach to Limerick Station for a train trip to Waterford and a guided tour of The House of Waterford Crystal. See in detail how this stunning crystal has been made since 1783 and the traditional methods still used to this day. After your Waterford tour you enjoy a private charter on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway, Ireland’s longest narrow-gauge railway.

Enjoy the panoramic views of the River Suir as you journey to and from Carriganore, where the merchants of Waterford are said to have hidden their treasures from Cromwell’s soldiers.

Later you transfer to Wexford Town and a local hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation.

(B D)

• All visits, train, coach and ferry travel as detailed in the itinerary

• 8 dinners

• The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Thursday 4th August

Explore Wexford and Celtic Dinner and Music Evening at the Arlington Hotel

This morning you have leisure time to spend exploring Wexford. Walk around the vibrant centre and indulge in the many cafes, pubs and eating places. You then depart Wexford by train and travel to Dublin before transferring to your hotel. In the evening you have a final tour treat with an unforgettable Celtic Night with dinner, traditional Irish music, and dancing at the famous Arlington Hotel. Later you return to your hotel for overnight accommodation. (B D)

Approx. timings London Euston Holyhead

Outward Return 09:10 17:36 13:10 13:57

Friday 5th August

Tuesday 2nd August

Ferry Crossing to Holyhead and First Class Avanti Service to London Euston

You leave your hotel by coach after breakfast to visit the Cobh Titanic Experience. Cobh is a picturesque town in Cork Harbour. It’s also famous for having been the last port of call for the ocean liner ‘Titanic’. The Experience is in

After breakfast at the hotel, you meet with the rest of your group in reception with your cases.

You then have a coach transfer to the ferry terminal and depart Dublin by ferry to Holyhead.

On arrival, you transfer to Holyhead train station where you depart on a First Class Avanti Service to London Euston. (B)

Visit to Cobh Titanic Experience and Blarney Castle

Tour Summary

UK TOUR – 9 Days

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Heart of Scotland Wednesday 10th August to Tuesday 16th August 2022 Scotland is a rugged country full of scenic and cultural surprises, as you’ll discover for yourself on this highlight-packed holiday tour to its wild, spectacular heart.

• Based in the historic city of Stirling, then Rothesay on the Isle of Bute, you’ll explore the unique cultural and natural attractions grouped around the Trossachs, the Cairngorms, and Bute itself.

• Steam highlights include a cruise on Loch Katrine aboard steam launch ‘Sir Walter Scott’, steam train on the Strathspey Railway and a transfer to the Isle of Bute on the sea-going paddle steamer ‘Waverley’.

• Ascend rugged Cairngorm mountain on the UK’s highest funicular railway and visit the neo-gothic Victorian Gothic Revival estate at Mount Stuart on Bute.

• You’ll also discover the diverse wildlife in and around both of Scotland’s National Parks, showcasing the variety of flora and fauna in the rugged Scottish landscape.

• From unspoilt beaches to inspiring coastlines, with convenient point-to-point transfers on ScotRail service trains and by private coach included, this is a unique holiday opportunity for seasoned traveller and newcomer alike.

Wednesday 10th August

Thursday 11th August

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ passenger train for the journey north to Scotland, following the route of the scenic East Coast Main Line (ECML). A light lunch will be served at your seat as you travel First Class in relaxed, spacious comfort, as nearly the length of Britain rattles past. Your train stops at York, taking on those connecting by service train from Peterborough before continuing via Newcastle and Edinburgh to historic Stirling, where you book into the Stirling Highland hotel for the next three nights. A welcome dinner is served at the hotel this evening. (L D)

This morning you transfer by coach from Stirling along scenic roads to nearby Loch Katrine, set in the Centre of the Trossachs National Park.

You’ll then enjoy a 2-hour lake cruise on the world-famous steamship ‘Sir Walter Scott’ to Stronachlachar from Trossachs Pier, taking in the inspiring landscape that influenced Sir Walter Scott, Coleridge and Wordsworth. On returning you’ll take a light lunch at the restaurant on the Pier. Afterwards you transfer by coach again to Stirling Castle for a tour of the grounds of one of the largest castles in Scotland, surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs. The castle sits atop Castle Hill, an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation.

London to Stirling on the ‘Highland Chieftain

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Steam Cruise on Loch Katrine and Stirling Castle

After your tour there’ll be time to look around Stirling, taking in the historic Old Town and the picturesque Back Walk footpath that encircles it.

Dinner will be taken at your hotel this evening.

(B L D) Friday 12th August

Strathspey Steam Railway and Cairngorm Mountain Railway

This morning you travel on a ScotRail service train over the iconic Highland Main Line from Stirling to Aviemore before joining a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip on the railway offers wonderful views of the Cairngorm

Mountains. You re-join the road coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park and stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich.

From here it’s just a short onward journey to the Cairngorm Mountain Railway, a 2 km long funicular and Britain’s highest mountain railway.

In appearance and design it’s reminiscent of the famed Alpine funiculars in Switzerland. Enjoy the magnificent views of the snow-capped Scottish mountains as the line ascends CairnGorm.

After an equally enjoyable descent on the mountain railway, your road coach returns you to Stirling, where dinner will be served at your hotel. (B L D) Saturday 13th August

Clyde Cruise and Isle of Bute aboard Paddle Steamer ‘Waverley’

After breakfast you transfer by road coach from Stirling to Glasgow. The coach drops you off at the steamboat pier and continues with your luggage by motor ferry to your next hotel at the Isle of Bute. You then enjoy an all-day cruise aboard the iconic, double-funnel steamer ‘Waverley’, the last ocean-going paddle steamer in the world. You go ‘doon the watter’ on a sail from Glasgow over the Clyde to Rothesay and Tighnabruaich. The steamer has multiple bars and galleys, and a restaurant where you can buy drinks and meals. You can watch the fully visible marine steam engine as it works, the largest of its kind still in operating condition.

You can also go ashore at Tighnabruaich, a lovely coastal village dominated by grand villas built in Victorian times for wealthy merchants, for a one-hour visit before the steamer drops you off again at Rothesay, the principal town of Bute. You’ll stay at an elegant hotel here for the rest of the tour to enjoy the exotic island charm of the ‘Madeira of Scotland’. Dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (B D) Sunday 14th August

Mount Stuart and the scenery of South Bute

heated swimming pool and be purpose-built with electric lights and central heating. Kilchattan Bay is a settlement of Victorian houses and villas that lies on the south west shore of a largely east facing bay with a mile-wide mouth offering views to the isle of Great Cumbrae, three miles to the east. After your rewarding day, dinner will again be served at your hotel in Rothesay. (B D) Monday 15th August

Ettrick Bay, the seal colony at Scalpsie and the scenery of North Bute

Today you continue your exploration of Bute by privately chartered road coach, focusing on yet more of its scenic and cultural highlights, including the famed seal colony at Scalpsie.

The reddish sand of Scalpsie Bay is set against the wonderful backdrop of the Isle of Arran, and there are two viewpoints from which you can see the area’s fascinating resident wildlife and take in the amazing landscapes. At Seal View you can watch the large colony of seals on their rocky perches, and enjoy panoramic views over to Arran, the sandy beaches at Ettrick Bay and the remote scenery of North Bute as far as Rhubodach. After another feature-packed day, dinner this evening is back at the hotel in Rothesay. (B D) Tuesday 16th August

Ferry crossing to Wemyss Bay, train to Glasgow Central, return to London

In the morning you’ll have some leisure time in Rothesay before taking the lunchtime CalMac ferry from Rothesay to Wemyss Bay. From Wemyss Bay you take the direct ScotRail service to Glasgow Central. Here you transfer onto an Avanti service and continue in First Class luxury over the entire length of the West Coast Main Line back to London Euston.

For extra excitement this route passes through outstanding scenery at the mountain summits of Beattock and Shap. You arrive back in London in the evening. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1595

Single supplement £245 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London King’s Cross to Stirling by East Coast express train and from Glasgow Central to London Euston by Avanti service • Standard Class rail on Scotrail services • 6 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast • 4 lunches and 6 dinners • All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • All road coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 ------York 13:54 ------Stirling 17:19 ------London Euston ------- 19:09 Glasgow Central ------- 14:40

Today you discover the outstanding natural and cultural highlights on the Isle of Bute south of Rothesay. Bute is only 33 miles from Glasgow and is the most accessible of the westerly isles from the Scottish Central Belt. Highlights include the impressive Victorian Gothic Revival estate at Mount Stuart and the scenic beaches and coves at Kilchattan Bay. The spirit of nineteenthcentury invention is embodied in Mount Stuart, and this neo-gothic mansion was one of the most technologically advanced houses of its age. It was the first home in the world to have a UK TOUR – 7 Days

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The Isle of Man Adventure Friday 12th August to Thursday 18th August 2022 The Isle of Man has a story for every season, but late summer is one of the best times to enjoy this idyllic destination.

Discover glens and lush plantations on relaxed walks and visit sun-kissed beaches alive with wildlife. The island stretches 32 miles north to south and 14 miles east to west, and is packed with scenery, history and industrial gems, including a horse tram, the largest working waterwheel in the world, miniature railways and an offshore Viking castle. Humans have lived here since 6500 BC, and smugglers, pirates and Nordic invaders have all been common at various times in Manx history, with the evidence for them all about.

• You’ll be based in a 3-star hotel in Douglas for the extent of your holiday.

• Enjoy charter trips on the Manx Electric Railway, Groudle Glen Steam Railway, and the Isle of Man Railway.

• Visit the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest working waterwheel in the world, built by Victorian engineers in 1854.

• Ascend to the summit of Snaefell, the island’s only mountain, on its Mountain Railway.

• Follow the scenic roads of the famous Isle of Man TT course on a coach trip covering the length of the island.

• Visit the island towns of Ramsey in the north, and the seaside resort of Port Erin on the south of the island.

• Use your complimentary Visitor’s Pass and Go Explorer Heritage Pass to explore all the island has to offer on your free days.

Friday 12th August

Avanti West Coast from London Euston to Liverpool, ferry to Isle of Man

Your holiday will start from London Euston.

You’ll be greeted by the Tour Manager before departing on the West Coast Avanti service to Liverpool Lime Street and Merseyrail service to Liverpool St James Street. The Liverpool pier head ferry terminal is five minutes’ walk away, from where you take the ferry to Douglas.

Here you check in to the 3-star Ellan Vannin Hotel (a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal).

The rest of the afternoon is free for you to investigate Douglas at your leisure. Douglas is situated on the east coast of the Isle of Man and has been the island’s capital since 1863.

The sea front is lined with picturesque hotels and 34

restaurants and there are plenty of shops to visit.

A welcome dinner will be served in your hotel restaurant this evening. (D) Saturday 13th August

Great Laxey Wheel, Snawfell Mountain Railway

After breakfast you transfer to the nearby Sea Terminal for a unique horse tram ride to Derby Castle Station. The horse tram is a quiet, ecofriendly way to enjoy the trip around the bay and seafront of Douglas. On arrival at Derby station, you take the historic Manx Electric Railway to Laxey. The railway was built between 1893 and 1899 and connects Douglas with Laxey in the east and Ramsey in the north. It’s also the longest narrow gauge vintage electric railway

system in the British Isles and still uses original Victorian and Edwardian rolling stock.

From Laxey station it’s a short walk to the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest working waterwheel in the world. She was built by Victorian engineers in 1854 to pump water from the Laxey mines.

A climb to the top is rewarded with panoramic views across the Laxey Valley. After the Wheel you’ll enjoy a return trip on the nearby Laxey Mine Railway. This restored railway runs along the surface section of the tramway which once carried lead and zinc ores from deep inside the Great Laxey Mine.

Snaefell is the IOM’s only mountain, and its Mountain Railway will next take you to the summit where you can enjoy the views and buy refreshments. You then descend back to Douglas

to take the Horse Tram to the Sea Terminal and the short walk back to your hotel to enjoy a sumptuous three course dinner in the hotel restaurant. (B D) Sunday 14th August

Manx Electric Railway, Groundle Glen Steam Railway

Following breakfast, you walk to the Sea Terminal to take the horse tram to the Derby Castle station, so named because of the vast entertainment complex of the same name that used to be sited nearby. You then take the Manx Electric Railway, this time to Groudle Glen, two miles north of Douglas on the coast road.

On arrival you walk to Groudle Glen Steam Railway for a full round trip of this narrow gauge (610 mm) railway, owned and operated by a small group of enthusiastic volunteers.

Afterwards a group lunch is served in the tearoom. You depart Groudle Glen by Manx Electric Railway heading to Ramsey, on the north of the island. You will have free time to explore Ramsey, perhaps visiting the Grove Museum of Victorian Life, Milntown House and Gardens, or simply strolling along the seafront. Later you return to Douglas and a 3-course dinner served in the hotel restaurant. (B L D) Monday 15th August

Isle of Man Railway, the Old House of Keys and Castle Rushen

Your tour gathers in the hotel reception after breakfast, and you transfer from the hotel to the Isle of Man Railway. Your first stop is Castletown for a visit to the Old House of Keys and the mediaeval Castle Rushen, once used as a prison before being restored, and now a Manx National Heritage site. Afterwards you continue on the Isle of Man Railway to Port Erin, a lovely seaside resort on the south of the island.

On arrival you’re free to explore the area at your leisure. The heart of the village is around Station Road and Church Road. There are shops, cafes, bars and activities operating from Shore Road by the beach, with views to the Mountains of Mourne in Northern Ireland past Bradda Head.

At Port Erin Railway Museum, you’ll discover the history of the Island’s steam railways over the last 140 years. You can then enjoy multiple rides on the different engines and services with your complimentary rail rover tickets. Dinner is once more at your hotel in the evening. (B D)

Tuesday 16th August

Free Day to Explore Isle of Man using your Travel Pass

You are free today to use your railway rover to revisit any of the railways you have already seen (Isle of Man Railway, Manx Electric Railway, Snaefell Mountain Railway, Douglas Bay Horse Tramway). Why not visit the fascinating Cregneash Medieval Village or you can use the time to relax and explore the island at your own pace. Dominated by sky and sea, the island has a stunning natural landscape with everything from rolling hills to patchwork fields and sheltered bays. Today is an ideal opportunity to take some unique and memorable photos. You can also use your visitor’s pass to enjoy any of the included island attractions. Dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D) Wednesday 17th August

Coach Tour of the Isle of Man and Jurby Transport Museum

Today you experience an exclusive coach tour travelling down the scenic roads of the famous TT race course. Your coach first takes you to the Calf of Man on the south tip of the island, with photo stops on the way. The Calf of Man is a small island separated from the mainland by the Calf Sound. Travel along the beautiful west coast of Man to the town of Peel. Your excursion includes a visit to the 11th century Castle Peel, a ruined castle originally built by the Vikings, sited on St Patrick’s Isle, which is connected to the town by a causeway. You’ll have a group lunch in a nearby restaurant before continuing by coach to Curraghs wildlife park, and a private charter trip on its miniature railway. You then travel to the Point of Ayre to view and take pictures of the lighthouse. Here you are at the Island’s most northerly tip and closer to Scotland (14 miles) than you are to Douglas! You travel back southwest to visit the Jurby Transport Museum. You then return to Douglas and a farewell dinner at your hotel. (B D) Thursday 18th August

Tour Summary Tour price

£1695

Single supplement £195 Price includes: • 6 nights accommodation • 6 breakfasts • 6 dinners • 1 lunch • First Class Travel from London to Liverpool and from Lancaster back to London • All visits, train, coach and ferry travel as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Approx. timings London Euston Liverpool St. James Lancaster Heysham

Outward Return 07:07 17:10 09:42 ------------- 14:39 ------- 13:20

Northern Service from Heysham to Lancaster is standard class only.

Merseyrail Service from Liverpool Lime Street to St James Street is standard class only.

Please note that this tour is not suitable for those who have restricted mobility as the hotel does not have lift facilities.

Ferry from Isle of Man, Northern Service from Heysham to Lancaster and Avanti West Coast Service from Lancaster to London Euston

After breakfast at the hotel, you transfer to the ferry terminal. Your ferry departs Douglas at 08.45 am and arrives Heysham ferry port.

From Heysham port you join the Northern Rail service to Lancaster, where you change trains to take the Avanti West Coast Service to London Euston for an approximated arrival of 17:00 hrs.

(B) UK TOUR – 7 Days

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Bob Green

Bob Green

The West Country Explorer Saturday 13th August to Thursday 18th August 2022 Explore the delightful coastal and moorland scenery of the counties of Somerset, Devon and Cornwall on this outstanding holiday tour to the West Country.

• Your adventure begins and ends on special steam trains to and from London and features visits to iconic locations such as St. Michael’s Mount and Lands’ End. • Enjoy a paddle steamer cruise on the River Dart and steam train trips on a variety of heritage railways, like the West Somerset and the Dartmouth Steam Railways.

• Other tour highlights include travel by train over the legendary sea wall at Dawlish, and overnight stays in St. Ives, regularly voted the Best UK Seaside Town, and Torquay, sited on the famed ‘English Riviera’.

• Other railways to discover include the Bodmin & Wenford, and the South Devon Railway running along the stunning River Dart valley between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.

• You’re also sure to savour the many culinary delights of a region famous for its traditional production of cider, clotted cream, and pasties, on this wonderfully idyllic travel holiday.

Saturday 13th August

London Paddington to Exeter

Your adventure begins on a steam train from London Paddington Station for the trip to the West Country. You will travel in the comfort of ‘Premier Dining’ where breakfast will be served at your seat soon after departure. The route runs fast to Reading before taking the Berks and Hants Line through the Vale of the White Horse to Westbury. Crossing the Somerset Levels, you reach Taunton and at Norton Fitzwarren join the ‘Heritage’ West Somerset Railway. At Bishops Lydeard Station a ‘Manor’ class 4-6-0 steam locomotive will be attached to the front of your train. You then continue ‘double-headed’ on this scenic line to Minehead. Here a road coach transfers you to the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway at Woody Bay in Devon. There you 36

enjoy a steam train journey along this narrowgauge railway line. You continue by road coach to Exeter. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at a hotel in Exeter this evening. (B D) Sunday 14th August Free time in Exeter

Today is a free day to explore the sights of Exeter. The morning can be dedicated to visiting the historical sites of the city, including one of the oldest and most beautiful Cathedrals in the country. Stay in Cathedral quarter or head to Princess Hay where you will find a selection of lunch options to suit any taste. The afternoon can be spent in one of many excellent museums, galleries, or beautiful city parks. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your hotel in Exeter this evening. (B D)

Monday 15th August

St Michael’s Mount and Lands’ End

This morning you travel by service train from Exeter to Penzance. En route you pass along the famous sea wall at Dawlish and cross the Royal Albert Bridge over the River Tamar to enter Cornwall at Saltash. Travelling through the glorious Cornish countryside you can still see the evidence of its illustrious mining heritage. At Penzance a road coach takes you to St. Michael’s Mount, a small tidal island in Mount’s Bay. Depending on the tide, you may be able to walk across the causeway to the island from Marazion, otherwise the boat will take you to the island, where you can purchase lunch.

After the visit you continue by coach to Lands’ End, the most westerly point of mainland England. It’s also the iconic location for charitable

events to and from John O’Groats in northeast Scotland. Later you return to Penzance with time to look around the town, with its Regency and Georgian architecture, working harbour and terminus railway station. You transfer to St. Ives and book in to the Tregenna Castle Hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. (B D) Tuesday 16th August

St Ives, the Bodmin & Wenford Railway, and South Devon Railway

After a leisurely breakfast and time to have a look around St Ives, you travel by road coach to Bodmin Parkway Station for a steam-hauled return trip to Boscarne Junction on the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. This includes a visit to the beautifully restored Bodmin General Station, the headquarters of the railway, where trains reverse direction of travel. In the afternoon you continue to the South Devon Railway for a return journey on the 7-mile track which runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. Afterwards, the coach transfers you to Torquay in Devon, again crossing the road bridge over the River Tamar at Saltash, with great views from a different vantage point of Brunel’s famous railway bridge.

You check in to a hotel in Torquay for dinner and overnight stay. (B D) Wednesday 17th August

Steam on the Dartmouth Steam Railway and a paddle steamer cruise

After breakfast you join a steam train at Paignton Railway Station for a scenic journey along the English Riviera on the Dartmouth Steam Railway. This standard gauge heritage railway runs from Paignton to Kingswear,

connecting with ferries crossing the River Dart to Dartmouth. There are expansive views over Torbay as the line climbs to Churston before it descends, passing Agatha Christie’s Estate at Greenway Halt, to the River Dart. It’s an aptly named Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

You then take the ferry to Dartmouth and board the coal-fired paddle steamer ‘Kingswear Castle’ for a leisurely estuary cruise. On returning there’s time to explore the narrow lanes and stone stairways of Dartmouth and discover its magical history. You return to Paignton by steam train and your hotel in Torquay. (B D) Thursday 18th August

A visit to Dawlish, the Seaton Tramway and return to London Waterloo

This morning you travel by road coach to Dawlish for a few hours of free time. You can stroll on the expansive sands and along the famous sea wall right beside Brunel’s railway line. There will be time to watch and photograph the trains or simply enjoy the beaches and traditional refreshments. You continue by coach to Seaton, on the South Devon coast, to visit the Seaton Tramway. There’s a return trip on this narrow-gauge electric tramway, which operates open top double-deck trams over part of the former railway branch line to Seaton.

In the afternoon your road coach takes you to Weymouth. Here you board the ‘Dorset Coast Express’ steam train for the journey to London Victoria. En route you travel in the comfort of ‘Premier Dining’ and have a four-course meal silver served at your seat, an appropriate finale to your glorious ‘West Country’ tour. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1495

Single supplement £295 Price includes: • Rail travel from and to London by special steam trains • 5 nights hotel accommodation with breakfasts • 6 dinners • All rail and road coach journeys as mentioned in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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UK TOUR – 6 Days

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The Shetlander Friday 19th August to Friday 26th August 2022 Discover the timeless beauty of the remote Shetland Islands on this ever-popular tour to the most northern outpost of the United Kingdom.

• Following a high-speed trip north to Aberdeen, you cross to Shetland for a 4-day exploration of its rugged shorelines, windswept rolling hills and rich cultural heritage.

• Visit the island’s outstanding natural and historical attractions and discover its stunning rock formations, unspoiled beaches and ancient archaeological sites.

• Enjoy the local arts and crafts, breath-taking landscapes and local wildlife, with highlights including trips to ancient Scalloway Castle, St Ninian’s Isle and Isbister, the most northerly point on Shetland accessible by coach.

• With added extras including a trip to Dundee to visit Captain Scott's ship HMS Discovery and a steam trip on the Royal Deeside Railway, this highlight-packed Scottish holiday is not to be missed!

Friday 19th August

London to Aberdeen

Your adventure begins in the plush First-Class lounge at London King’s Cross, for a midmorning departure from London to Aberdeen.

Travelling along the East Coast Main Line LNER service, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as the train travels north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. You cross the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges and arrive in Aberdeen in late afternoon, checking into your conveniently located city centre hotel.

The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure in the ‘Granite City’, exploring this hub of Northeast Scotland. (L)

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Saturday 20th August

Sunday 21st August

After breakfast, a road coach transfers you from your hotel the Royal Deeside Railway.

This delightful standard gauge railway features a two-mile round trip through rural scenery and gently rolling hills, running close to its namesake river. There’ll be photo opportunities en route and a ‘false arrival’ staged at the station.

Afterwards, lunch is taken at a local restaurant.

After lunch you return to Aberdeen and visit the ‘Fitties’, a charming old fishing village nestling on the north side of the harbour. In the afternoon you return to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for an overnight crossing to Lerwick.

The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of Scotland before passing through the open North Sea. After dinner you retire to your private cabin for the night. (B L D)

After an all-night sail you reach Lerwick on the Shetland Mainland and have breakfast on the ship before disembarking. Your tour of the Central Mainland of Shetland starts with a brief coach tour of Lerwick before heading west to Tingwall, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit to ‘Carol’s Ponies’, a local crofter who breeds Shetland ponies. Moving on, you head to the island of West Burra to view the beautiful sandy beach of Banna Minn, after which you make your way back to visit Scalloway Castle and museum.

In early afternoon you have a scenic drive to Lerwick to visit the Iron Age tower ruins of the Broch of Clickimin on its outskirts. To round off a feature-packed day, you’ll visit the impressive Fort Charlotte, built between 1652-1653 during the First Anglo-Dutch War to keep the Dutch

Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Ferry Crossing to Shetland

Tour of the Central Shetland Mainland; Scallaway Castle and Museum

fleet at bay. In the late afternoon, you check in to your hotel and later dine there with your fellow travellers. (B D) Monday 22nd August

South Shetland Mainland

Shetland’s largest island has a size of 967 km2 (373 square miles), making it the third largest Scottish and fifth largest British island.

Today you’ll explore the scenic highlights of its southern Mainland. You first head for the unspoilt beaches at St Ninian’s Isle, connected to the mainland by the longest ‘tombolo’ in the UK. Look out for the seal colony on the beach as you go past. At the Croft Museum at Dunrossness you’ll experience what life was like in a 19th century croft. Continuing south to Sumburgh Head, the coach stops for you to photograph the sea birds, with a possibility of seeing puffins, nesting on the steep cliffs. In the afternoon you visit the wonderfully preserved prehistoric and Norse settlement of Jarlshof, before heading back to Lerwick. En route you’ll stop off at the Hoswick Visitor Centre in Sandwick and take in the views of the uninhabited island of Mousa, which has one of the best preserved brochs (round tower) in Shetland. In the late afternoon you return by road coach to Lerwick and dine at your hotel. (B D) Tuesday 23rd August Northern Mainland

Today is dedicated to the discovery of the natural wonders of Shetland’s northern Mainland. Heading north through the wild landscape, you make your way to Hellister and visit the amazing Shetland Jewellery centre, where traditional Celtic rings and pendants are crafted. You now head up to North Roe passing glorious scenery and, if conditions are amenable, you press on to Isbister, the most northerly point on Mainland accessible by coach. On the return journey you’ll visit Hillswick, where you can see the hooch kettles that were used to treat nets and sails, and then the stunning, rugged cliffs at Esha Ness. You then pay a quick visit to Tangwick Haa Museum, which preserves the history of Northmavine peninsula. There’ll be no shortage of photographic opportunities today to capture the amazing wildlife and scenery.

After a very full day you return to your hotel for an evening meal. (B D)

Wednesday 24th August Western Mainland

On your last day on Shetland you explore the westernmost part of the Mainland. On your journey west, you first stop at Mavis Grind for a photo stop. This is a narrow isthmus separating the North Sea from the Atlantic, just 108 ft wide at its narrowest point. Continuing on you’ll visit the visitor centre at Jamieson’s Spinning Mill at Sandness, a fantastic retail outlet for Shetland knitwear. Still further on you see the coastline at its best with views across to the island of Papa Stour. Returning to Lerwick you stop off at the scenic fishing villages of Walls and Voe, before rounding off your visit to these wonderful Isles with a visit to the awesome Shetland Museum.

You’ll sail back to Aberdeen on a late afternoon departure by ferry enjoying a unique opportunity to watch Fair Isle slip by on the port side as you enjoy your evening meal. (B D) Thursday 25th August Aberdeen to Dundee

After your overnight crossing you arrive in Dundee. Following breakfast on board the ferry, your coach takes you south to Dundee for a visit to Captain Scott’s ship HMS Discovery.

After visiting HMS Discovery, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Dundee and its many attractions before checking into your hotel for a farewell dinner with the group. (B D) Friday 26th August Return to London

Your Scottish adventure concludes with a return to London, travelling First Class on an East Coast Main Line HST. You board the train at Leuchars and again travel over the Forth Bridge via Edinburgh and Newcastle southwards.

Lunch will be served on the train in First Class as you travel. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1795

Single supplement £325 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London to Aberdeen and return from Leuchars with at-seat dining • 5 nights bed and breakfast at good quality 3-star hotels • 2 nights bed and breakfast in a private cabin during our ferry crossings • 6 dinners and 3 lunches • All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 10:00 14:51 York 11:54* 12:56* Aberdeen 17:07 07:55 Leuchars ------- 09:21 * Passengers travelling from Peterborough change trains at York on both the outward and return journeys.

UK TOUR – 8 Days

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Bob Green

The Cock O’the North Thursday 25th August to Wednesday 31st August 2022 Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Scotland’s northern outposts on our ever-popular ‘Cock O’ the North’ rail and road tour.

• E xplore this rugged terrain by extensive train, road coach and ferry transport, starting with a First-Class journey on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ from London to Inverness.

• Steam on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William, taking in the famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct on one of the greatest railway journeys in the world.

• Enjoy two heritage rail trips in one day, on the Strathspey Railway in the shadow of the Cairngorms, and on the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. • Discover the Kyle of Lochalsh on a trip along the most scenic line in Britain, followed by a fascinating two-day stay on the Isle of Skye, including a guided tour highlighting its vibrant culture and spectacular attractions.

• With overnight stays at comfortable hotels, outstanding cuisine, and point-to-point road coach transport for your luggage included, this is a Scottish holiday tour not to be missed!

Thursday 25th August

Friday 26th August

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland. This train follows the route of the East Coast Main Line (ECML) via historic connections and through magnificent landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First Class comfort. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue via Newcastle, Edinburgh and Perth, and join the Highland Main Line to travel through the beautiful Scottish Highlands to Inverness.

At Inverness you check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for two nights. Dinner will be served this evening in the hotel restaurant. (L D)

This morning you travel by road coach to Aviemore to join a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage railway line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip affords outstanding views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join your road coach to travel from Aviemore to Dufftown, a packed lunch will be provided on the train.

The return trip by vintage diesel rail car takes you on the 11-mile long Keith and Dufftown Railway, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. This so-called ‘Whisky Line’ passes through dense pine forests, by the tranquil

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Inverness

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Strathspey Railway; Keith & Dufftown Railway

waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. To end an eventful day, you visit a traditional Highland whisky distillery before returning to the hotel in Inverness.

(B L D) Saturday 27th August

Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh by Train

After a traditional Scottish breakfast your luggage is collected from the hotel and transported by privately chartered road coach to your next hotel. You then leave Inverness and travel by train to Kyle of Lochalsh, an idyllic location on the northwest coast of Scotland at the entrance to another sea inlet, Loch Alsh.

This line has been voted one of the most scenic in Britain and passes through forests, alongside lakes overshadowed by mountains, and along

the shores of Loch Carron, a sea inlet. A road coach then takes you over the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye and on to Portree. On the way there are spectacular views inland of mountains and seaward of the islands in the Sound of Raasay, which boasts the deepest water in the UK Continental Shelf at 1,062 feet, Portree is the island’s main town and is known for its picturesque harbour. Here you check in to The Royal Hotel, your base for the next two nights.

(B D) Sunday 28th August

Tour of Skye

You have the benefit of a tour guide today as you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. The island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country.

The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Returning to Portree there’ll be ample time to look around and enjoy a picnic lunch. Afterwards you’ll visit the north of the island, with highlights including the Flora MacDonald Memorial Cross and the romantic and historic Dunvegan Castle, ancient home of the MacLeods. Skye is rightly renowned for its vibrant culture, spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, examples being the golden eagle, sea eagle, red deer and otter, and your coach will stop whenever possible for film and photo opportunities. After an exciting day you return to your hotel in Portree. (B L D) Monday 29th August

Ferry to Mallaig; ‘The Jacobite’ Steam Train

After breakfast, say farewell to Portree as you head south by road coach to Armadale to catch the ferry to Mallaig, a boat journey of around thirty minutes. On arrival at Mallaig there’ll be time to explore the village and have lunch before joining ‘The Jacobite’ steam train to Fort William. This unforgettable 42-mile route has been described as one of the great railway journeys of the world. ‘The Jacobite’ takes you

through some of Scotland’s most outstanding scenery, beginning with the sea views to the islands of Eigg and Rum. It crosses the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete, and offers a spectacular vista down Lochaber’s Loch Shiel. On arrival at Fort William you rejoin the road coach for the journey to Inverness. En route you pass through the many lochs of the Great Glen and travel the whole length of the famous Loch Ness.

At Inverness you once again check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1695

Single supplement £345 Price includes: • First Class rail travel to Inverness and return, from London, Peterborough or York, with at-seat dining • 4 nights dinner bed and breakfast at The Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness

Tuesday 30th August

Leisurely Morning, Loch Cruise and Inverness

After a leisurely breakfast you embark on a Canal & Loch cruise with an inclusive visit to the Urquhart Castle. After a short transfer from the hotel, your journey starts at Dochgarroch Lock, sailing through the famous man-made part of the Caledonian Canal onto the world-famous waters of Loch Ness. Once ashore you have the opportunity to explore the ruin of the historic Urquhart Castle. After your visit, you’ll have ample time to explore the town of Inverness with an opportunity to enjoy some retail therapy.

In the evening you will regroup for a Farewell dinner in the hotel restaurant. (B D) Wednesday 31st August

• 2 nights dinner bed and breakfast at a good quality 3-star hotel in Portree • 4 lunches • Our own road coach to transport luggage for the duration in Scotland leaving you free to enjoy the train rides and other journeys • First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William • Standard Class rail travel between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh (First Class not provided on this train) • All visits, train travel, transfers and tours as detailed in the itinerary • Reserved seats • The services of a tour manager

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ back to London

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express for the return journey to London. Relax in your FirstClass seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth. You continue to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on the journey south.

(B L)

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner August 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:49 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:54 Inverness 20:04 07:55

* Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

Bob Green

UK TOUR – 7 Days

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©Sandringham Estate

The East Anglian Friday 2nd September to Thursday 8th September 2022 Experience the very best of East Anglia’s small railways and explore its unique landscape, from delightful coastal towns to vibrant cities, on this inspiring UK tour.

• Based in the historic towns of Norwich and King’s Lynn, you’ll enjoy steam trips on the Bure Valley, Mid Norfolk, Wells & Walsingham and North Norfolk lines.

• Discover ancient castles, quaint villages and unspoilt seaside towns as you steam across the stunning landscapes of the region behind historic steam locomotives.

• Enjoy an afternoon boat cruise on the Norfolk Broads, an extended visit to Her Majesty The Queen’s country estate at Sandringham, and a timeless trip to the North Norfolk seaside town Wells-next-the-Sea. • Other tour highlights include an epic steam-hauled excursion to Chester on the Cheshireman, a guided tour of Norwich Castle and visits to historic Castle Rising and Wymondham Abbey.

• With accommodation in 4-star hotels, sumptuous dining, plenty of time for sightseeing and the services of a tour manager included, this outstanding East Anglian tour holiday is a must for seasoned traveller and steam newcomer alike.

Friday 2nd September

From London to Norwich in First Class comfort; tour of Norwich Castle

Your tour starts at Liverpool Street Station, London this morning with a greeting from your Tour Manager. You then travel north in First Class accommodation through the scenic East Anglian countryside to Norwich. On arrival you check in to a centrally located 4-star hotel, your base for the next four nights. A coach then takes you to nearby Norwich Castle for a private guided tour, before you enjoy a welcome dinner at your historic hotel this evening. (D) Saturday 3rd September

Cheshireman over the Fens to Nuneaton; West Coast Main Line to Chester

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This morning you join The Cheshireman steam train at Norwich train station for an impressive steam-hauled departure. Breakfast is served on the train as you cross the verdant Fenland landscape to the market town of Thetford.

Your train then follows the cross-country line through Stamford and continues westwards to pass Rutland Water towards Oakham. Carrying on into Leicestershire, you run through Melton Mowbray and follow the main line to Wigston Junction, where you branch off on to the Nuneaton and Birmingham line.

Your route continues westwards through Hinckley to Nuneaton, where it joins the West Coast Main Line. Heading northwards, your steam locomotive can now get up to speed as you make for Tamworth and Lichfield. The line splits at Colwich Junction and you follow the

WCML through Shugborough Park to round Queensville Curve at Stafford.

Continuing northwards through rural Staffordshire your steam loco works hard as it tackles the long climb to Whitmore Summit, before slowing to approach the major railway junction at Crewe. The final part of your journey takes you across the Cheshire Plain past Beeston Castle to Chester. Here you have plenty of time to enjoy the local sights before enjoying a fourcourse, silver-served dinner at your seat on the return trip to Norwich. (B D) Sunday 4th September

Free time in historic Norwich; steamhauled to Wymondham Abbey

This morning is free for you to explore the wonderful medieval city of Norwich, which

boasts a magnificent Cathedral, with the bustling town centre only a short walk away. There are craft shops, department stores and the famous market to discover, with countless quaint pubs and cafes to relax in. Cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and winding lanes all add to the charm and timeless history of this vibrant University city.

After lunch, a private coach takes you to Dereham for a steam-hauled trip on the Mid-Norfolk Railway. Savour an afternoon travelling under steam from Dereham to Wymondham Abbey, one of the grandest religious buildings in East Anglia. You’ll soak up the sights and sounds of the Norfolk countryside en route, and on the trip back to Dereham enjoy a delicious cream tea served at your seat before returning to Norwich and your hotel for dinner. (B D) Monday 5th September

Steam-hauled on the Bure Valley Railway; boat cruise on the Norfolk Broads

After breakfast today you travel by coach to Aylsham and board a steam-hauled train on the Bure Valley Railway to Wroxham, a delightful town situated on the Norfolk Broads.

The man-made landscape of the Broads comprises over 125 miles of navigable lock-free waterways and a quick coach ride takes you to the bridge at Wroxham for an afternoon of cruising on the serene rivers and placid, reedfringed lakes of this National Park. After an adventurous afternoon you return to Wroxham with time to explore this charming little town on the river Bure, before heading back once more to your hotel in Norwich for dinner. (B L D) Tuesday 6th September

Day trip to Wells-next-the-Sea; steamhauled along the North Norfolk coast

Today you depart by coach to Wells-next-theSea, a timeless little seaside town on the North Norfolk Coast with harbour front and fishing vessels, long sandy beach and famous brightly coloured beach huts. From here you depart steam-hauled on the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway to Walsingham, before returning back to Wells for a leisurely lunch at one of its many restaurants, or to enjoy fish and chips on the sea front by the harbour. After lunch you travel by coach eastward along the coast to Sheringham, for a steam-hauled trip on the North Norfolk Railway to Holt, travelling by the coast and through the North Norfolk countryside before returning to Sheringham. Here a private coach takes you to King’s Lynn where you checkin to a 4-star hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Wednesday 7th September

Trip to Castle Rising; Afternoon exploration of Sandringham House and Gardens

Following breakfast at your hotel this morning, you have free time before your coach transfers you to Castle Rising, a beautiful little village near King’s Lynn. It’s home to one of the largest, best preserved and most lavishly decorated keeps in England, surrounded by 20 acres of mighty earthworks. You’ll have time to visit the castle and explore before you continue by coach to Sandringham, home of the Queen’s Norfolk Country House.

Here you’ll have lunch in the restaurant before spending the afternoon immersed in the history and elegance of Sandringham House and its grounds. Sandringham is the country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen and has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs since 1862. The house is set in 24 hectares of stunning gardens and is at the heart of the 8,000-hectare Sandringham Estate.

After absorbing the atmosphere and culture of Norfolk’s most famous stately home you return to King’s Lynn for dinner and accommodation at your hotel. (B L D) Thursday 8th September

Exploration of King’s Lynn; return to London

You’ll enjoy another lavish breakfast at your hotel before you spend the morning exploring and shopping in the busy town centre and finding somewhere for lunch at one of Lynn’s many diverse eating places. King’s Lynn was one of England’s most important ports from as early as the 12th century, and fine old merchants’ houses stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House that overlooks the harbour. After a morning of discovery, you board a coach to take you back to Norwich before heading to the station to catch a train home. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1595

Single supplement £235 Price includes: • 6 nights accommodation with breakfast in 4-star hotels • 5 breakfasts in hotels and 1 on the train • 5 dinners in hotels and 1 on the train • 2 lunches • All train travel as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and coach transfers • The services of a tour manager Seat reservations from London and return are non reserveable. Return travel from Kings Lynn to Kings Cross is available upon request.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner September 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London Liverpool St. 12:00 17:58 Norwich 13:50 16:20

UK TOUR – 7 Days

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Bob Green

Bob Green

The Summer Highlander Monday 12th September to Saturday 17th September 2022 Explore the splendour of Scotland’s culture and landscape on this unique summer tour to the scenic Scottish Highlands.

• Tour highlights include a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, and rail journeys from both the Kyle of Lochalsh and on the ‘Far North’ to Inverness.

• Discover the inherent romance of the picturesque Isle of Skye on a ferry and road trip and explore the famous northern outpost of John O’Groats.

• Immerse yourself in Scottish heritage at Dunrobin Castle and the Castle of Mey, and sample traditional Scottish culinary delights at diverse venues, including a whisky distillery.

• Visits to both the Strathspey and the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’ heritage railways are included, the latter being the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. • With a wide variety of cultural and culinary delights also on offer, you’ll experience first-hand the glorious appeal of this rugged land when you book for this outstanding holiday travel tour.

Monday 12th September

Tuesday 13th September

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station, you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ passenger train for the journey north to Scotland, following the route of the scenic East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First Class comfort. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue along the ECML to Darlington and on to Newcastle and Edinburgh. At Perth you join the Highland Main Line and travel through the amazing Scottish Highlands. Leaving the train at Kingussie a road coach takes you to Fort William where you check in to your hotel, where dinner will be served in the restaurant this evening. (L D)

Today a major tour highlight awaits with a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig through magnificent Scottish scenery. Mountains, glens, streams, lochs and the sea combine in an unending collage of outstanding views. En route you cross the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete and featured in a number of films and TV series. You’ll have an hour in Mallaig to explore this attractive fishing port and take lunch before boarding the ferry for Armadale on Skye. A road coach then transports you through Kyleakin and Broadford along the coast of this picturesque island. You cross the famous Skye Bridge and return to the mainland

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland

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‘The Jacobite’; the Isle of Skye; by train to Inverness

at Kyle of Lochalsh. The late afternoon service train to Inverness then takes you along one of Europe’s most scenic railway lines.

Running alongside Loch Carron, with superb views of lochs and mountains, you’ll pass through dense forests en route to Inverness.

You then check in to the Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness, your base for the next four nights. (B) Wednesday 14th September Dunrobin Castle

After breakfast you depart by road coach for Dunrobin Castle. Travelling north, you cross Kessock Bridge on to the Black Isle, travel alongside Cromarty Firth and over Dornoch Firth to the village of Golspie on the North Sea coast.

A piper will greet you on arrival at Dunrobin Castle, the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland.

This impressive castle stands on high terraces and affords wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There’ll be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch.

Afterwards there’ll be more time to explore the castle gardens and museum before you return by road coach to your hotel in Inverness. (B L) Thursday 15th September

The Far North

Today there’s a trip by road coach to the iconic village of John O’Groats. The route from Inverness follows the A9 trunk road, which hugs the North Sea coast for much of the way from Golspie to Wick, giving spectacular views.

John O’Groats is the well-known starting point for charity events travelling the greatest length of Britain to Land’s End. It has a tiny harbour and, if the weather is good, there are views across the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands.

You continue a few miles west to the Castle of Mey, where a light lunch will be served.

The castle was restored from a near ruin by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother for use as a holiday home. Further on, at Thurso Railway Station, you join a ScotRail service train for Inverness. The railway takes a different route to the road, initially crossing isolated moorland, thus providing a fresh perspective on the region’s wonderful scenery. The railway line meets the North Sea coast at Helmsdale and follows the coastline, often running between the road and the sea. It’s not uncommon to see seals basking on the shore on this section of the route.

On arrival at Inverness you return to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Friday 16th September

The Strathspey and Keith & Dufftown Railways

This morning you travel by road coach to Aviemore to join a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage railway line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip affords outstanding views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join your road coach to travel from Aviemore to Dufftown, a packed lunch will be provided on the train. The return trip by vintage diesel rail car takes you on the 11-mile long Keith and Dufftown Railway, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. This socalled ‘Whisky Line’ passes through dense pine forests, by the tranquil waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. To end an eventful day, you visit a traditional Highland whisky distillery before returning to the hotel in Inverness. (B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1530

Single supplement £295 Price includes: • First Class rail travel on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ and on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train • Standard Class rail travel between Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness and between Thurso and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains) • 5 nights accommodation in hotels • 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinners • All visits, train and ferry travel, and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager

Saturday 17th September

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express for the return journey to London. Relax in your FirstClass seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth and then to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London’s King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on your journey south. (B L)

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:48 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:57 Kingussie 19:15 ------Inverness ------- 07:55 * Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

UK TOUR – 6 Days

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The Shetlander Wednesday 14th September to Wednesday 21st September 2022 Discover the timeless beauty of the remote Shetland Islands on this ever-popular tour to the most northern outpost of the United Kingdom.

• Following a high-speed trip north to Aberdeen, you cross to Shetland for a 4-day exploration of its rugged shorelines, windswept rolling hills and rich cultural heritage.

• Visit the island’s outstanding natural and historical attractions and discover its stunning rock formations, unspoiled beaches and ancient archaeological sites.

• Enjoy the local arts and crafts, breath-taking landscapes and local wildlife, with highlights including trips to ancient Scalloway Castle, St Ninian’s Isle and Isbister, the most northerly point on Shetland accessible by coach.

• With added extras including a trip to Dundee to visit Captain Scott's ship HMS Discovery and a steam trip on the Royal Deeside Railway, this highlight-packed Scottish holiday is not to be missed!

Wednesday 14th September London to Aberdeen

Your adventure begins in the plush First-Class lounge at London King’s Cross, for a midmorning departure from London to Aberdeen.

Travelling along the East Coast Main Line LNER service, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as the train travels north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. You cross the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges and arrive in Aberdeen in late afternoon, checking into your conveniently located city centre hotel.

The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure in the ‘Granite City’, exploring this hub of Northeast Scotland. (L)

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Thursday 15th September

Friday 16th September

After breakfast, a road coach transfers you from your hotel the Royal Deeside Railway.

This delightful standard gauge railway features a two-mile round trip through rural scenery and gently rolling hills, running close to its namesake river. There’ll be photo opportunities en route and a ‘false arrival’ staged at the station.

Afterwards, lunch is taken at a local restaurant.

After lunch you return to Aberdeen and visit the ‘Fitties’, a charming old fishing village nestling on the north side of the harbour. In the afternoon you return to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for an overnight crossing to Lerwick.

The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of Scotland before passing through the open North Sea. After dinner you retire to your private cabin for the night. (B L D)

After an all-night sail you reach Lerwick on the Shetland Mainland and have breakfast on the ship before disembarking. Your tour of the Central Mainland of Shetland starts with a brief coach tour of Lerwick before heading west to Tingwall, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit to ‘Carol’s Ponies’, a local crofter who breeds Shetland ponies. Moving on, you head to the island of West Burra to view the beautiful sandy beach of Banna Minn, after which you make your way back to visit Scalloway Castle and museum.

In early afternoon you have a scenic drive to Lerwick to visit the Iron Age tower ruins of the Broch of Clickimin on its outskirts. To round off a feature-packed day, you’ll visit the impressive Fort Charlotte, built between 1652-1653 during the First Anglo-Dutch War to keep the Dutch

Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Ferry Crossing to Shetland

Tour of the Central Shetland Mainland; Scallaway Castle and Museum

fleet at bay. In the late afternoon, you check in to your hotel and later dine there with your fellow travellers. (B D) Saturday 17th September

South Shetland Mainland

Shetland’s largest island has a size of 967 km2 (373 square miles), making it the third largest Scottish and fifth largest British island.

Today you’ll explore the scenic highlights of its southern Mainland. You first head for the unspoilt beaches at St Ninian’s Isle, connected to the mainland by the longest ‘tombolo’ in the UK. Look out for the seal colony on the beach as you go past. At the Croft Museum at Dunrossness you’ll experience what life was like in a 19th century croft. Continuing south to Sumburgh Head, the coach stops for you to photograph the sea birds, with a possibility of seeing puffins, nesting on the steep cliffs. In the afternoon you visit the wonderfully preserved prehistoric and Norse settlement of Jarlshof, before heading back to Lerwick. En route you’ll stop off at the Hoswick Visitor Centre in Sandwick and take in the views of the uninhabited island of Mousa, which has one of the best preserved brochs (round tower) in Shetland. In the late afternoon you return by road coach to Lerwick and dine at your hotel. (B D) Sunday 18th September Northern Mainland

Today is dedicated to the discovery of the natural wonders of Shetland’s northern Mainland. Heading north through the wild landscape, you make your way to Hellister and visit the amazing Shetland Jewellery centre, where traditional Celtic rings and pendants are crafted. You now head up to North Roe passing glorious scenery and, if conditions are amenable, you press on to Isbister, the most northerly point on Mainland accessible by coach. On the return journey you’ll visit Hillswick, where you can see the hooch kettles that were used to treat nets and sails, and then the stunning, rugged cliffs at Esha Ness. You then pay a quick visit to Tangwick Haa Museum, which preserves the history of Northmavine peninsula. There’ll be no shortage of photographic opportunities today to capture the amazing wildlife and scenery.

After a very full day you return to your hotel for an evening meal. (B D)

Monday 19th September Western Mainland

On your last day on Shetland you explore the westernmost part of the Mainland. On your journey west, you first stop at Mavis Grind for a photo stop. This is a narrow isthmus separating the North Sea from the Atlantic, just 108 ft wide at its narrowest point. Continuing on you’ll visit the visitor centre at Jamieson’s Spinning Mill at Sandness, a fantastic retail outlet for Shetland knitwear. Still further on you see the coastline at its best with views across to the island of Papa Stour. Returning to Lerwick you stop off at the scenic fishing villages of Walls and Voe, before rounding off your visit to these wonderful Isles with a visit to the awesome Shetland Museum.

You’ll sail back to Aberdeen on a late afternoon departure by ferry enjoying a unique opportunity to watch Fair Isle slip by on the port side as you enjoy your evening meal. (B D) Tuesday 20th September Aberdeen to Dundee

After your overnight crossing you arrive in Dundee. Following breakfast on board the ferry, your coach takes you south to Dundee for a visit to Captain Scott’s ship HMS Discovery.

After visiting HMS Discovery, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Dundee and its many attractions before checking into your hotel for a farewell dinner with the group. (B D) Wednesday 21st September Return to London

Your Scottish adventure concludes with a return to London, travelling First Class on an East Coast Main Line HST. You board the train at Leuchars and again travel over the Forth Bridge via Edinburgh and Newcastle southwards.

Lunch will be served on the train in First Class as you travel. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1795

Single supplement £325 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London to Aberdeen and return from Leuchars with at-seat dining • 5 nights bed and breakfast at good quality 3-star hotels • 2 nights bed and breakfast in a private cabin during our ferry crossings • 6 dinners and 3 lunches • All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner September 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 10:00 14:51 York 11:54* 12:56* Aberdeen 17:07 07:55 Leuchars ------- 09:21 * Passengers travelling from Peterborough change trains at York on both the outward and return journeys.

UK TOUR – 8 Days

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Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

English Lakes Thursday 15th September to Tuesday 20th September 2022 Discover the delights of the English Lake District by vintage motor vessel, steam train and steam yacht on this featurepacked holiday tour to Cumbria.

• Based at an elegant hotel in the resort town of Bowness-on-Windermere, you’ll enjoy cruises on vintage vessels on Lake Windermere and Ullswater.

• Steam train highlights include a trip on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and an exclusive exploration of the legendary 15-inch narrow gauge railway ‘La’al Ratty’.

• Enjoy a lake-themed cruise on Coniston Water aboard the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’, followed by lunch at the 400-year-old ‘Sun’ pub in Coniston.

• Other holiday highlights include visits to the Victorian neo-gothic Wray Castle and the Haverthwaite engine shed.

• Outstanding scenery, excellent cuisine and the convenience of short point-to-point travel distances by private road coach all add to your enjoyment on this relaxed, highlight-packed holiday in England’s idyllic Lakeland.

Thursday 15th September

First Class rail travel to Windermere

Your holiday begins in the First-Class lounge at London Euston Station before boarding a midmorning/early afternoon Avanti Trains Pendolino service. You’ll travel in sumptuous comfort at a top speed of 125mph along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) to Oxenholme in the Lake District. Here you change trains and take a First TransPennine Express service for the journey to Windermere. From Windermere station you’ll have a short coach transfer to the delightful village of Bowness-on-Windermere, located on the banks of Lake Windermere.

The Belsfield Hotel for the duration of the tour will be the MacDonald Old England Hotel and Spa. You then have some leisure time to explore Bowness before dinner at The Belsfield Hotel in the evening. (D) 48

Friday 16th September

Lake Windermere cruise; Steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

After breakfast you board the stylish vintage motor vessel ‘Swan’ for a forty-minute cruise through outstanding Cumbrian lake scenery to Lakeside at the southern end of Lake Windermere. This triple-deck ship was originally built by Vickers in 1938, and is now an iconic fixture on England’s largest lake. The lake pier is adjacent to Lakeside Railway Station and here you join a connecting steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, a former branch line of the Furness Railway (FR), originally opened in 1869. You’ll travel the entire length of the line to Haverthwaite with plenty of time to visit the impressive engine shed there, with its collection of historic steam and diesel locomotives. Crossing the footbridge to the woodland viewing and picnic area you can buy

souvenirs in the gift shop. Afterwards, transfer by coach to the Lakeland Motor Museum, where you will have time to explore and purchase lunch. In the afternoon you return by steam train to Lakeside and from there by connecting ship to Bowness. You’ll dine at The Belsfield Hotel this evening. (B D) Saturday 17th September

Steam boat cruise on Coniston Water; Wray Castle

Today you visit Coniston Water, the third largest lake in the Lake District, for a lake-themed cruise on the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’. Originally launched in 1859 to carry railway passengers, The Illustrated London News at the time described it as “a perfected combination of the Venetian gondola and the English steam yacht”. The preserved steamer is now cared for and operated by the National

Trust. Following the cruise, you’ll have lunch at ‘The Sun’ in Coniston, a 400-year-old pub with exposed beams, stone walls, flagstone floors and a local Brathay slate bar top. It’s situated beneath the Cumbrian Fells and has an elevated view over the village of Coniston. Later you transfer by road coach to Ambleside for the ferry to Wray Castle, a Victorian neo-gothic building with grounds that include part of the shoreline of Lake Windermere. There will be a visit to the castle after which you can explore the adjacent gardens at your leisure. You return to The Belsfield Hotel in Bowness for dinner. (B L D) Sunday 18th September

Scenic cruises on Lake Windermere and Ullswater

This morning you explore the northern half of Lake Windermere on board a classic motor vessel sailing from Bowness to Ambleside at the northernmost extremity of the lake. MV ‘Tern’, is a steam powered yacht built in 1891 and converted to diesel in 1956. After the 30-minute voyage to Ambleside Pier you’ll join a private road coach for the onward journey to Grasmere, where there will be a coffee stop. Continue by coach from Grasmere to Keswick, travelling via Dunmail Raise and Thirlmere. On arrival at Keswick, you enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant before your road coach takes you on to Pooley Bridge. Here, you have an afternoon cruise on one of the celebrated Ullswater ‘Steamers’ on the second largest lake in the Lake District. Ullswater is one of the most beautiful English lakes, comparable to Lake Lucerne in Switzerland because of its mountainous backdrop. You’ll see the spectacular waterfall of Aira Force, midway along the lake on the western side and cruise the length of the lake from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding. You rejoin the road coach for the return journey via scenic country roads to Bowness and dinner at The Belsfield Hotel in the evening. (B L D)

Monday 19th September

Steam train on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

A tour highlight awaits today as you travel by road coach to Ravenglass, a small coastal village with Roman connections located at the estuary of the rivers Esk, Mite and Irt. The famous 15inch gauge Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (La’al Ratty) has its terminus adjacent to the Cumbrian Coast railway line station. The line runs for 7 miles (11.3 km) from Ravenglass to Dalegarth Station near Boot in the Eskdale Valley.

You’ll be given a day rover ticket for use on the line, which operates an intensive timetable of steam and diesel trains, so you can explore at your own pace. Options include alighting at intermediate stations to film or photograph the passing trains, and it’s only a short walk from the terminus at Dalegarth to the village of Boot and its two pubs. The railway is popular for its open carriages providing superb sightlines of the surrounding scenery, but there are enclosed carriages depending on the weather. After your day on the railway you return to Windermere by road coach in the late afternoon. You dine with fellow guests at The Belsfield Hotel this evening – a fitting climax to a fabulous tour. (B D) Tuesday 20th September Homeward bound

After breakfast at the hotel you transfer by road coach to Windermere Railway Station.

Those passengers who joined the tour at Windermere will travel home independently, the remainder will join a train to Oxenholme Lake District for the return to London Euston again in the First-Class comfort of an Avanti Pendolino train. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1495

Single supplement £165 Ground only £1385 (Windermere – Windermere with own travel to/from Windermere) Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District and return by Avanti Trains Pendolino • Standard Class rail travel from Oxenholme Lake District to Windermere (20 minutes)* • 5 nights Half-board hotel accommodation • 2 lunches • All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • A one day rover ticket for use on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager *The First Transpennine Express trains running the short distance between Oxenholme Lake District and Windermere have insufficient first class seats to accommodate our party.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Approx. timings London Euston Oxenholme

Outward Return 09:43 14:10 13:21 11:23

UK TOUR – 6 Days

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Bob Green

The Western Isles Tuesday 20th September to Wednesday 28th September 2022 Discover the scenic splendour of the mountains, glens and lochs of Northwest Scotland and the Western Isles on this unique holiday travel tour.

• Enjoy a lake cruise and excursion on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, following an overnight stay next to Loch Lomond.

• Cross remote Rannoch Moor as you head for Fort William to stay by Loch Linnhe with Britain’s highest mountain, majestic Ben Nevis, as the backdrop.

• Savour a sea ferry transfer and epic coach tour of the Isle of Skye, before you head to Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides for two nights, including a guided tour of the outstanding local sights.

• Explore the North West Highlands with a ride to Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, featuring some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular coastlines.

• Other tour highlights include a road trip to Dunrobin Castle, a falconry display, dolphin sightings and photo opportunities galore on this ultimate Scottish travel tour.

Tuesday 20th September

‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland

From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland, following the East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in sumptuous First-Class style. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue your journey along the ECML via Newcastle and Edinburgh and on to Stirling. From there a coach takes you to The Lodge on Loch Lomond for dinner and overnight accommodation. The Lodge prides itself on excellent customer service and is located in beautiful countryside on the banks of Loch 50

Lomond with stunning views of both the Loch and Ben Lomond. (L D)

Your train arrives late afternoon when you check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Wednesday 21st September

Lake Cruise on Loch Lomond; north to Fort William

Thursday 22nd September

After a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a stroll by the Loch, a road coach takes you the short distance to Tarbet. From here a private cruise on Loch Lomond is scheduled, with a light lunch taken on board. Afterwards you rejoin the coach for the return trip to Arrochar and Tarbet Station to catch a train north to Fort William.

The route passes through spectacular scenery, crossing the remote Rannoch Moor. Fort William is located in a prime position on Loch Linnhe with the majestic Ben Nevis, which at 4,406 feet is Britain’s highest mountain, as the backdrop.

A major tour highlight is a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train. This unforgettable 42-mile route has been described as one of the great railway journeys of the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig through some of the most magnificent scenery that Scotland has to offer.

Mountains, glens, streams, lochs and the sea combine to provide an unending collage of outstanding views. En route you cross the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete and featured in a number of films and TV series. You’ll have around two hours in

‘The Jacobite’ and over the Sea to Skye

Mallaig to explore the village and fishing port and find lunch, before boarding the ferry for Armadale on the Isle of Skye. You then travel on the road coach, which has followed the tour with the luggage, to your hotel in Portree, the island’s main town and well known for its picturesque harbour. (B D) Friday 23rd September

Coach tour of Skye; Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides

This morning you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides and the island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Your coach pauses a few times for photo opportunities as it crosses Trotternish, the northern peninsula of Skye, to Uig. Here you join a ferry for the one and half hour crossing to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. Although not an island itself, Harris is the southern and more mountainous part of Lewis and Harris. You travel through the exposed countryside to the island’s capital, Stornoway, and the hotel where you will stay and dine for the next two nights. (B D)

a unique aspect of the island’s culture and until July 2009 there were no Sunday ferry services to or from Stornoway. You’ll then take a ferry across ‘The Minch’, maybe sighting dolphins en route, and return to the mainland at Ullapool.

The road coach from Ullapool then goes north to Lochinver, a pleasant village with a beautiful harbour and a magnificent mountain backdrop.

You’ll stay at the luxurious Inverlodge Hotel, set on a hillside overlooking the bay, for the next two nights. All rooms present amazing views and deer often appear on the lawns outside. (B D) Monday 26th September

By road to the North West Scottish Highlands

There’s a day trip by road coach today, to discover the remote and impressive landscape of the North West Highlands. You pass through magnificent mountain scenery with striking lochs and glens, and maybe catch a glimpse of some uncommon wildlife. You begin to notice the wild sea as you travel near to the coast at Scourie.

Your destination is Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, an area of unspoilt beaches backed by cliffs. The surrounding coastline is some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular, where sea birds, seals, porpoises and minke whales may be seen. You stop in the village and take time for lunch. In the afternoon you return by coach to the hotel at Lochinver. (B D)

Saturday 24th September

Guided tour of The Isle of Lewis

Today a guided coach tour of the Isle of Lewis awaits you. The Isle of Lewis is at the North west corner of the Hebrides and has a rich cultural heritage. From the neat Victorian homes lining the streets of Stornoway, to the stretching white sands of Bosta on Great Bernera in the east, where the clear Atlantic waters sound the evocative toll of the Time and Tide Bell, Lewis is an island of exciting contrasts and diverse experiences. Places of particular interest include the Butt of Lewis cliffs and lighthouse, Carloway Broch, Lewis Bridge and the Callinish Standing Stones, an impressive stone circle comparable to Stonehenge. Lunch will be taken during the tour and dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B L D) Sunday 25th September

Free time in Stornaway; ferry to Ullapool; north to Lochinver

This morning you’ll have some free time to explore Stornoway and a choice of visiting Lews Castle and grounds, the impressive war memorial, or the harbour area. Observance of the Christian Sabbath, Sunday, had long been

Tuesday 27th September

Dunrobin Castle and Inverness

Today you travel east by road coach along isolated mountain roads passing through Lairg and Golspie before arriving at Dunrobin Castle, the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland, on the East coast. This impressive castle stands on high terraces with wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There’ll be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch after which you transfer to Golspie Station to board a train to Inverness. You then transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2295

Single supplement £395 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London to Stirling and Inverness to London with at-seat dining • 8 nights half board accommodation in 3-star hotels • 5 Lunches • All visits, train, boat and ferry travel, and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Fort William to Mallaig • Standard Class rail travel between Arrochar and Fort William and Golspie and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains) • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner September 2022 Mon

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:49 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:54 Stirling 17:19 ------Inverness ------- 07:55 * Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

Wednesday 28th September

The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London

After an early breakfast at the hotel you transfer to the railway station to join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the return journey to London.

You can relax again in First Class seats as you leave Inverness and pass through the wonderful Highlands en route to Perth, Edinburgh, Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on the journey south.

(B L) UK TOUR – 9 Days

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The Emerald Explorer Thursday 22nd September to Friday 30th September 2022 From Dublin to Westport, Waterford to the Cliffs of Moher, this new rail tour distils Ireland’s proud culture, heritage, and history into 9 days of memorable highlights. Starting and ending in Dublin, you’ll cover the length and breadth of this stunning country by rail and coach and discover first-hand the legends, traditions and outstanding hospitality Ireland is renowned for.

• Enjoy a guided tour of Dublin and the Teeling Whisky Distillery.

• On the Atlantic seafront tour Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, Connemara Celtic Crystal and explore Galway.

• Travel highlights include the Waterford Suir Valley Railway and a cruise on the River Shannon.

• Marvel at the wild Cliffs of Moher and visit West Clare Railway and Museum.

• Savour a Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle.

• Experience the mysteries of Blarney Castle and Clonmacnoise Monastery.

• Finish the tour on a high with traditional Irish music and dancing at Dublin’s famous Arlington Hotel.

Thursday 22nd September

First Class Avanti Service to Holyhead and Ferry Crossing to Dublin

Meet your Tour Manager this morning in the First Class Lounge at London Euston, before you travel First Class on an Avanti Service to Holyhead. On arrival, you transfer to Holyhead Ferry Terminal for a ferry crossing over the Irish Sea to Dublin. On arrival, you transfer to a comfortable hotel where you’ll stay for the next two nights. There will be a welcome dinner at the hotel this evening. (D) Friday 23rd September

Guided Tour of Dublin and Whiskey Distillery Visit

Today after breakfast you’ll enjoy a thrilling guided coach tour of Dublin, with a refreshment break in Phoenix Park. One of the largest 52

enclosed public parks in any European capital city. After the tour you’ll have time for lunch before a scheduled tour of the Teeling Whiskey Distillery. Dublin was once home to over 37 distilleries, and this is the first new distillery here for over 125 years. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the city at leisure.

Dublin has a compact centre, so most attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Walk in ‘Stephen’s Green’ or check out the shops and cafes on Grafton Street, perhaps stopping to take a picture alongside Molly Malone, one of Dublin’s most famous statues. Visit Leinster House, where the current parliament sits, or Dublin Castle, the seat of English rule from the 13th Century. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Saturday 24th September

Guided Tour of Athlone Castle, River Shannon Cruise and Visit to Clonmacnoise Monastery

Following breakfast, you transfer from Dublin to Athlone and enjoy a guided tour of Athlone Castle. Here the Great Siege of Athlone is brought to life through interactive exhibits and an immersive 360-degree cinematic experience.

Climb the steps to the castle keep and enjoy the views across the majestic River Shannon.

After lunch you leave Athlone Castle for a private charter cruise along the River Shannon.

Named after the Celtic goddess ‘Sionna’, the Shannon is a series of lakes, rivers, and canals almost 200 miles in length and is Ireland’s longest river. Later you transfer by coach to Clonmacnoise Monastery. St Ciarán founded this ancient monastery on the banks of the Shannon

in the 6th Century. It was once a great seat of learning, a university in its time with students from all over Europe. After your tour you transfer by coach to your hotel, your base for the next two nights. Dinner will be at the hotel this evening. (B D)

Sunday 25th September Visit to Connemara Celtic Crystal and visit to Galway

After breakfast you leave the hotel for a short walk to the train station. You travel westward to Westport, at the south-east corner of Clew Bay, on the west coast of Ireland. You then have a visit scheduled to Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, a nineteenth-century castle now owned by Benedictine nuns but originally part of Kylemore Castle, built in 1868 as a private home.

There’ll be time to explore and buy lunch before you visit Connemara Celtic Crystal, one of the last surviving Irish Crystal factories.

It incorporates Celtic designs and Gaelic motifs on ornate, beautifully crafted crystal pieces.

You then depart by coach to Galway.

Located near an earlier settlement, Galway grew around a fortification built by the King of Connacht in 1124. You’ll have time to explore some of the ancient sites such as St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, the largest medieval church still in everyday use in Ireland, before returning by train to Athlone and dinner at your hotel. (B D) Monday 26th September

Cliffs of Moher and The West Clare Railway

After breakfast you leave Athlone by coach for a scenic tour of the Cliffs of Moher with photo stops, pausing in the sea port village of Kinvara for refreshments. Afterwards you head to Kilkee, where you will have time to enjoy lunch before moving on to visit the West Clare Railway and Museum. The West Clare Railway was one of a network of narrow gauge lines built across rural West Ireland in the wake of the 1883 Tramways Act. The line was closed in 1961. Afterwards you travel to Bunratty Castle Hotel, where you’ll stay for the next two nights. A tour highlight this evening is a magnificent Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle. (B D)

two parts, the first retracing the steps of the 123 passengers who boarded Titanic from Cobh on April 11th, 1912. Part two examines the almost impossible sequence of events that caused Titanic to sink. After lunch you travel to Blarney Village and historic Blarney Castle & Gardens, built in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You’ll have time to kiss the famous stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eternal eloquence on those lucky enough to do so. A must see is the Rock Close area and Poison Garden where the world’s most poisonous plants are kept. After your visit you return to your hotel where dinner will once again be served in the hotel restaurant. (B D) Wednesday 28th September

Tour price

£2295

Single supplement £325 Ground only £2095 (Holyhead to Holyhead) Price includes: • First Class Rail Travel from London Euston to Holyhead and return • 8 nights accommodation

Waterford Crystal and Private Charter on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway

• 8 breakfasts

After breakfast you travel by coach to Limerick Station for a train trip to Waterford and a guided tour of The House of Waterford Crystal. See in detail how this stunning crystal has been made since 1783 and the traditional methods still used to this day. After your Waterford tour you enjoy a private charter on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway, Ireland’s longest narrow-gauge railway.

Enjoy the panoramic views of the River Suir as you journey to and from Carriganore, where the merchants of Waterford are said to have hidden their treasures from Cromwell’s soldiers.

Later you transfer to Wexford Town and a local hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation.

(B D)

• All visits, train, coach and ferry travel as detailed in the itinerary

Thursday 29th September

Approx. timings London Euston Holyhead

Explore Wexford and Celtic Dinner and Music Evening at the Arlington Hotel

This morning you have leisure time to spend exploring Wexford. Walk around the vibrant centre and indulge in the many cafes, pubs and eating places. You then depart Wexford by train and travel to Dublin before transferring to your hotel. In the evening you have a final tour treat with an unforgettable Celtic Night with dinner, traditional Irish music, and dancing at the famous Arlington Hotel. Later you return to your hotel for overnight accommodation. (B D)

• 8 dinners

• The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner September 2022 Mon

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Outward Return 09:10 17:36 13:10 13:57

Friday 30th September

Tuesday 27th September

Ferry Crossing to Holyhead and First Class Avanti Service to London Euston

You leave your hotel by coach after breakfast to visit the Cobh Titanic Experience. Cobh is a picturesque town in Cork Harbour. It’s also famous for having been the last port of call for the ocean liner ‘Titanic’. The Experience is in

After breakfast at the hotel, you meet with the rest of your group in reception with your cases.

You then have a coach transfer to the ferry terminal and depart Dublin by ferry to Holyhead.

On arrival, you transfer to Holyhead train station where you depart on a First Class Avanti Service to London Euston. (B)

Visit to Cobh Titanic Experience and Blarney Castle

Tour Summary

EUROPE TOUR – 9 Days

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Booking Information The attraction of trains.

By their very nature, trains, especially steam hauled trains, attract enthusiasts. Our tours will always include a number of photographic opportunities in the form of false starts and run pasts where this is practical and possible. Where possible, we also arrange locomotive footplate rides, museum and depot visits. Many of our customers do not have the same exclusive interest in trains shown by some enthusiasts; therefore, we keep in mind the need to diversify our tour programmes. We do this by including visits to castles and historic houses, and to wildlife parks, using accommodation in resort style hotels, and providing free time for shopping and exploring. Nevertheless the main attraction and therefore the emphasis of our tours is travel by train, which includes the nostalgia, the companionship on board, and the passing scenery. We consider that those travelling on our tours will see more scenery and in greater comfort than by road coach or cruise liner.

Schedules and services.

We arrange and advertise tours in good faith. Many scheduled railway organisations – train operators and track operators – only work two months ahead and therefore cannot confirm final schedules to us until that ‘window’.Likewise we cannot confirm and advise final numbers for a tour until full balances have been received from tour customers. Tours may be subject to occasional rescheduling or re-routing. The nature of steam trains is that breakdowns, delays and substitutions have to be accepted. Every genuine effort will be made to ensure that each of our tours runs as planned and advertised, or as close to it as possible.

Fire risk.

In many countries at times of exceptionally dry weather, coal fired steam locomotives may be banned from operating and diesel or electric traction may have to be substituted. Oil fired steam locomotives however are normally still allowed to operate. The Railway Touring Company cannot accept any responsibility for steam bans during times of high fire risk.

Seat reservations and overnight travel arrangements.

On some trains seat reservations are by individual seats, on others by block booking or complete carriage. Since the railways concerned make the allocations, we have to accept and be flexible about the seating arrangements. Where overnight travel is necessary we will arrange either to stay in a convenient hotel en route, to use one of the newer ‘hotel trains’, or to book Standard Class twin berth sleeper car trains (First Class is often single berth). These decisions are made on the basis of the length of the journey, the range of scenery likely to be missed by overnight travel, and the accommodation options available.

Porterage.

Some tours include porterage between stations and hotels; some include full luggage transfers between hotels, using either a supplementary road coach or scheduled ‘luggage in advance’ facilities. Porterage, where advertised, is included in the cost. However, there will be occasions when porters are not available or included and it will be each customer’s responsibility to handle their own luggage.

Accommodation.

We aim to use 3 or 4-star designated hotels throughout our tours as this offers us the standards of hospitality, catering and service that we would wish for our customers.

We also seek out establishments which are either conveniently located for the railways in order to minimize transfers, or which afford some unique character. Where we cannot meet either of these criteria we ensure the best and most comfortable accommodation is available.

Single supplements.

We are pleased to advise that we do not financially benefit from single supplement charges. Supplement charges only apply due to hoteliers charging higher rates for rooms that are solely occupied. All of our prices listed are per person based on two persons sharing. Therefore, any room that is solely occupied does incur a charge, whether it be a single or double room. If a double room is preferred please state your preference at the time of booking in order for us to obtain a quote, double rooms for single use may be slightly more expensive than the single supplement stated. All other elements of our tours are priced on a per person rate, so no extra fees are applied for solo travellers.

Food and drink.

Meals will be taken on trains, boats, planes, in hotels and restaurants and even al-fresco, picnic or packed! Mindful of the diversity of our customer’s tastes we try to adopt a ‘middle of the road’ approach when choosing menus. We must also accept the limitations of on-board catering and marvel at the success that chefs regularly achieve in the confines of train kitchens. Hotel and restaurant meals are usually a set menu, with options for special dietary needs. If customers have any special dietary requirements they must please ensure we know them at the time of booking. In this way we can make the necessary arrangements for customers with special requirements. Some of our tours include alcoholic and soft drinks and coffee, in which case this is clearly stated in tour information. Otherwise customers are responsible for their own refreshments.

Passports, visas and health issues.

Customers are responsible for holding the necessary and appropriate travel documentation for their journey. For tours outside the UK, customers must ensure that there is at least six months validity remaining on their passports after returning back to the UK. We assume our customers are British Citizens whose passport shows they have a right to reside in the UK. If a customer has a passport of another country or state, or one that indicates restrictions on return to their country of origin, then they must please contact us prior to booking and well in advance of intended use. We will advise customers of the requirements and processing arrangements for visas where they are required.

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Booking Information We will offer any help we can in arranging customers’ visas. Health advice is dependent upon the destination, medical history and current health of each customer participating in a tour and we cannot assume any responsibility. Customers MUST seek advice from their GP or a travel medical centre.

Pre-tour and travel documents.

We will send out information to tour customers for visa and general planning purposes when appropriate, usually at the ‘balance due’ time.

If there is nothing significant to communicate then we will simply acknowledge that the customer’s balance of payment has been received.

We prepare and send a booklet of information to tour customers for all tours. This includes a passenger list with first or ‘known as’ names, where advised, (to check on an old acquaintance, aide-memoir for names during the tour); the latest known itinerary with as much detail as necessary (including meal times/locations); emergency and general contact details; and usually some general and specific information about features of the tour programme. This is intentionally a small part of the information available and tour customers are advised to research and obtain detailed reference material, maps, schedules etc. appropriate to their particular interests. Air travel tickets are usually sent to us for onward despatch less than two weeks before travel – please don’t panic! Rail tickets are often group travel documents held by the Tour Manager. In this case tour customers will be provided with joining instructions, which must please be observed since the party cannot progress until all members are present. Tickets, vouchers and coupons for onward travel during a tour, are usually held and distributed by the Tour Manager. With regards to the Covid-19 pandemic you will be required to follow all measures laid out by the transport providers on your holiday, we will send details of these to you along with your tour documents prior to travel. We will advise you of the specific requirements for the countries you are visiting before travel, adhering to the www.gov.uk/coronavirus government guidance at the time of travel.

Travel insurance.

Many customers arrange their own travel insurance. The Railway Touring Company cannot assume any responsibility relating to travel insurance issues and customers should ensure that they are familiar with procedures should an incident occur. This is especially important with medical cover since we do not undertake to obtain medical attention, but to hand over the customer to an appropriate and suitable authority. You will need to double check with your insurance providers that your terms cover you for such things like a pandemic i.e Covid-19 or if you fall ill whilst away and need emergency medical treatment, if you are unsure we highly advise you to contact your provider to see if you are covered, not all policies cover for this.

• If you have not purchased your holiday insurance you will be looking for the following standard of cover, Medical and repatriation costs if you become unwell with any coronavirus (including Covid-19) or contagious disease.

• If your trip or holiday has to be cancelled because you or a travelling companion are diagnosed with any coronavirus (including Covid-19) or contagious disease and are unable to travel.

• Emergency repatriation costs to bring you home if the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) impose travel restrictions (while you’re at your destination), either in the UK or at your destination, and has requested you to return to the UK. Cancellations due to coronavirus will not be refunded less than 8 weeks prior to travel as per our terms and conditions. Claims for not travelling due to contracting Covid-19 or any other coronavirus or disease will need to be dealt with through your travel insurance provider.

However, we can assist with providing any paperwork/cancellation forms that may be needed.

Infirmity and disability.

Tour managers are responsible for the general care and well-being of the whole group and are neither available, nor trained or insured for individual ‘personal’ care. Each tour, by way of the trains and terrain being visited, presents its own opportunities and restrictions.

Customers should ascertain the suitability of the itinerary and facilities available relevant to their own needs. We are happy to discuss customers’ concerns with them before they commit to a booking. We will attempt to accommodate and resolve any needs or problems caused by undisclosed mobility/dietary/general health issues but cannot accept responsibilities beyond those stated above. We would especially draw the attention of customers to the tours that visit high-altitude locations and the resulting possibility of cardiovascular and respiratory problems.

Confidentiality, privacy and mailing lists.

Customers’ names and addresses have been obtained as a result of their response to advertisements, having been a previous customer or enquirer, or a referral from some other party. We do not share these details with anyone outside Warren Travel Ltd. trading as The Railway Touring Company or The Railway Touring Company Ltd. Customer’s personal details such as credit card numbers, travel arrangements, companions etc. will only be kept to be used within the requirements of tour operating. We are registered under the Data Protection Act. If one customer wishes to communicate with another customer, then please forward the stamped envelope/package to us. We will add the address and post on the mail. We will not divulge any addresses or telephone numbers. Please refer to our website for information regarding our Privacy Policy ensuring you fully understand it. Your acceptance of our Privacy Policy is deemed to occur upon your first use of Our Site.

Financial protection.

We are licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority and hold ATOL Number T7149. This ensures that in the event of the failure of our Company, customers’ money will be protected. If customers are on holiday at the time of Company failure, arrangements will be made for them to complete their holiday and return home. The flights we provide are supplied by other ATOL holders and are protected by their bonds.

For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.

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Booking Information Payments for flights.

The payments that customers make for their flights are held by us in our trust account, on behalf of the ATOL holder who is supplying the flight, until the date that we pass the money to that ATOL holder. The ATOL holder supplying the flight will issue an ATOL confirmation invoice to confirm their contract with the customer. We will forward this to the customer no later than the day after we have received it.

Will I need to take a Covid-19 test to travel?

You may need to take a pre-holiday test before you leave the UK. The test required varies by destination country and is also subject to your vaccination status. Check the current requirements for your holiday destination via the foreign travel advice section of the UK Government website https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This will also advise you on the type of test you may need to take.

When you return from your holiday, you currently need to take a day 2 PCR* test (on or up to 2 days after arrival in the UK). There are multiple Covid-19 testing providers available. A full list is also available on the UK Government website. Alternatively, we can book your PCR/ Lateral flow tests for you in house at a discounted rate through Randox Health, for more information please contact us. *subject to change in government guidance The Travel Trust Association (TTA) The TTA is a trade association of travel agents and travel organisers, established to provide financial protection for the customer.

The TTA lays down strict guidelines on how the customer’s funds should be handled, and each member must adhere to those guidelines.

Every TTA member pays the customer’s funds into a designated trust account which is supervised by an independent trustee; a Banker, Chartered or certified Accountant or Solicitor.

Why your travel arrangements are totally safe with the Travel Trust Association The Travel Trust Association (TTA) recognises that for many people a holiday is the one chance to really relax – so it is important that customers are able to feel completely confident about their travel arrangements from the moment they make their booking. By choosing an approved TTA Member, customers can be sure that their travel plans are totally secure. These arrangements exceed the statutory levels of consumer protection.

Customer’s funds are secured in Trust by the Travel Trust Association Trustees.

Travel Trust Association 2 Crown Square Woking GU21 6HR 01483 545 780 www.traveltrust.co.uk The holidays in this brochure that include air travel are ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is T7149.

ATOL protects customers from losing their money or being stranded abroad. It does this by carrying out financial checks on the firms it licenses and requiring a guarantee, called a bond, to be lodged with them.

If a firm goes out of business, the CAA will make a refund to the customer, or if already abroad on holiday, arrange for the customer to complete their holiday and fly home.

Status The Railway Touring Company is a direct sell tour operator and retail travel agent. All parts of a customer’s holiday are covered by our TTA membership (number T726X), and the air travel for all of our customers’ holidays is covered by our ATOL membership (number T7149).

Warren Travel Ltd, trading as The Railway Touring Company, acts as a booking agent for the service providers whose terms and conditions of booking and carriage apply to our tours. Copies of these terms and conditions will be obtained from the relevant service providers and forwarded to customers on request. Tours will be confirmed and take place subject to minimum and maximum numbers booking.

Railway components of a tour are provided subject to the serviceability of motive power and stock, and the operating conditions prevailing at the time of the tour. In the event of a failure to operate services as advertised then ‘best’ alternatives will be provided.

Programme and prices Details of each tour programme and its cost are published in our tour brochure, in leaflets, by correspondence, or by amendments notified to customers. Customers are required to acknowledge their acceptance of this information.

Payments All tour bookings should be accompanied by payment of a deposit per person as follows: £100 for travel in the UK £150 for travel within Europe £350 for travel beyond Europe A confirmation of booking will be sent to customers which includes a statement of their account and a balance due date.

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Booking Information The balance of payment is required in time for us to pay our suppliers, usually twelve weeks before travel. There are occasions when we are required to pay for group tickets earlier than this and the balance due date will reflect this. During the period of time that we are establishing a viable tour group, deposits are fully refundable. Once we have confirmed the operation of a tour then deposits are not refundable. Due to the high costs involved with debit and credit card transactions our preferred methods of payments for balance payments are cheque or bank transfer.

Fidelity insurance It is a requirement that all tour bookings be covered by Fidelity Insurance. This is a financial protection insurance that protects the customer’s money until the tour takes place.

The cost of this insurance is included in the tour price.

Customer cancellation We have the following customer cancellation policy for all of our tours: Cancellation prior to 12 weeks before tour departure – loss of deposit Cancellation between 8-12 weeks prior to tour departure – 25% refund of tour cost Cancellation less than 8 weeks prior to tour departure – no refund Passports, visas and health Customers are responsible for ensuring that they have the correct travel documentation for tours, and this includes passports, visas and health certificates. We are willing to give advice on passport and visa requirements but customers should seek professional guidance on medical related matters. We shall obtain guidance from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and tourist board where a security risk exists or arises in respect of a tour destination. This information will then be passed on to tour customers.

Prices Prices are determined against known exchange rates, fuel costs and tax regimes prevailing at 18th October 2021. The exchange rates used for prices quoted in this brochure are as follows: £1 = 1.18 Euros £1 = 1.37 US Dollars £1 = 1.27 Swiss Francs £1 = 103.44 Indian Rupees £1 = 20.22 South African Rands £1 = 1.85 Australian Dollars £1 = 11.58 Norwegian Kroner £1 = 1.37 Cuban Pesos In the event of significant changes we must reserve the right to amend prices.

A NO SMOKING policy will be pursued where we have the control or influence over the service that we are providing on our tour.

Our chartered steam trains Whenever possible we hire steam trains for our exclusive use. This allows us the flexibility, within operational parameters, to run to our requirements. It also enables us to stop the train for photographs of the scenery; the train itself; and sometimes staged train movements, known as run-pasts. We can often arrange for tour customers to ride on the footplate of the locomotive, should they wish, but at their own risk. Since our tours often number around 40 customers there are occasions when we have access to older trains with limited capacity, and sometimes to facilities not normally available to large groups or individuals. However, on occasions due to popularity and where space permits this number can be exceeded.

Scheduled trains Where we travel by scheduled train, with few exceptions, we travel First Class in reserved seats or reserved carriages. This has proven to be much better value for money since the additional space, comfort and lack of crowding are obtained at a worthwhile supplement compared with Standard Class travel.

Alternative airports, independent travel and extensions Our customers come from throughout the UK and overseas. Wherever possible we choose flights which allow connections from local airports, and prices for these connecting flights start at around £149 return. Most overseas tours allow for independent travel arrangements whereby customers may extend their stay, stop en route, or make their own travel arrangements. We can provide a ‘ground only’ quotation for all of our tours so that overseas customers and independent travellers can make their own way to and from the tour joining point.

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Booking Information Extra tours and tour updates Throughout the year we keep pace with an ever-changing world. It is often possible to initiate new tours after our brochure has gone to press, and to make alterations to published information, so please check our website for the most up-to-date information.

Website – www.railwaytouring.net Our web site provides details of all our tours plus information about additional tours and amendments to our tour programme. Don’t forget to bookmark our web site amongst your favourites. We welcome contributions of photographs that customers have taken on our tours and that they are willing for us to use in publicity materials.

Booking information Customers should ensure that they read all our Booking Information before booking a holiday with us.

Pre-tour and post-tour UK hotels and holiday parking We are able to arrange customers’ pre-tour and post-tour hotel accommodation, car parking, coach and train travel, and connecting flights.

Customers may wish to consider staying overnight before and/or after travel on one of our tours. A night in a conveniently located hotel before departure or after return can mean that the customer begins or ends the tour more rested and relaxed. It may also avoid the frustrations and anxieties of early morning and late evening travel.

Pre-booked car parking can also be arranged for customers.

Examples:Airport hotels with holiday parking • Gatwick from £110 per room • Heathrow from £139 per room • Stansted from £125 per room Secured airport parking • Gatwick from £8.75 per day • Heathrow from £9.00 per day • Stansted from £6.25 per day Travel by road coach from and to the customer’s local town together with overnight hotel accommodation can be arranged. Prices are available on request. Rail tickets from and to the customer’s home railway station to the tour departure point can only be booked where two or more passengers are travelling together. Prices are available on request.

The prices quoted above are correct at the time of print and may be subject to change and can vary depending on your preferences.

UK connecting flights We are willing to make enquiries and, where possible, arrange connecting flights from the customer’s local airport to the main tour departure point.

Prices are available on request.

Travel insurance Due to changes in the travel insurance regulations we are no longer able to sell travel insurance direct to our customers. We can however recommend and send to customers details of travel insurance through Holiday Extras, in conjunction with the Travel Trust Association. Please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to receive details of this insurance.

Covid-19 All passengers are reminded to make themselves aware of our on-board safety measures surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, any social distancing measures or Government guidelines that are in place at the time of travel are to be adhered too in order to keep yourselves, other travellers and staff safe at all times. You can find all of this information on our website under Covid-19 – The Safe Way or by requesting a copy of our Covid-19 guidance leaflet. We do not accept any liability for travellers that are unable to participate on their pre-booked holidays, should they be taken ill, chose not to travel or decide to cancel their holiday.

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Reservation Form Title.....................Forename...................................................................Surname................................................................. DOB*.................

Title.....................Forename...................................................................Surname................................................................. DOB*................. *DOB = Date of Birth Please ensure your names are as they appear in your passport.

Address of first named.................................................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... Phone..............................................................

Please reserve the (tour title).........................................................................................................................................................................

Indicate your requirements/preferences: Twin bedded room ■ Double bedded room ■ Single room(s) ■ (Please tick) Where options are available for the tour (i.e. choice of travel) please clearly state your choice(s). .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Please also specify any dietary or health related requirements. .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The deposit is £350 per person outside Europe, £150 per person within Europe and £100 per person for UK tours. The balance/full fare is due 12 weeks before travel; dates will be advised on your confirmation. As stated in our booking information a Fidelity Policy will be added at the time of booking.

I enclose a cheque (payable to THE RAILWAY TOURING COMPANY CLIENT ACCOUNT).

Please charge my credit or debit card for: £.................................... deposit ■ full fare ■ (Please tick) Card Number..................................................................................................................

Expires...........................................................................................................................

Start Date.......................................................................................................................

Please accept my booking on the terms and conditions as stated in this brochures booking information pages and on our website, railwaytouring.net

Please sign and date.....................................................................................................................................................................................

Please send this form to: The Railway Touring Company, 14A Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1JN

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Meet the Team

Hollie Kimber

Operations Manager

Rachel Jackson

Alison Sanders

Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Kelly Osborne

Managing Director

Julia Barrett

Annabelle Benjamin

Office Assistant

Operations Assistant

Jade Mott

Office Assistant

Our friendly team are available to answer any questions and to help you make a booking – please feel free to contact us on 01553 661 500 Monday to Friday 9am–5pm or by email to enquiries@railwaytouring.co.uk

Online Shopping Visit our online shop to purchase themed Railway Touring Company merchandise.

Currently Bookmarks, Greeting Cards and Postcards. We will be adding to our range as new products become available. www.railwaytouring.net/shop/

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Online Brochures

Please visit our website www.railwaytouring.co.uk to view and download our latest UK Day Trips, UK and European Holiday Brochures for 2022.

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The Railway Touring Company 14a Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1JN Phone: 01553 661 500 – Fax: 01553 661 800 Web: www.railwaytouring.net – E-mail: enquiries@railwaytouring.co.uk Design and Artwork - LucidSynergy Ltd - www.lucidsynergy.com