The Bournemouth Belle

Join us for a memorable steam-hauled journey from London's Waterloo station to the Dorset coast behind 34028 Eddystone, one of Oliver Bulleid's iconic West Country Class Pacifics. Inspired by the spirit of the famous Bournemouth Belle, this special train follows the former London & South Western Railway main line to Bournemouth before continuing to the charming seaside town of Swanage.

The original Bournemouth Belle was introduced by the Southern Railway in 1931 as its prestigious non-stop express between London and Bournemouth. Renowned for its speed and elegance, it remained one of the Southern Region's best-loved named trains until its withdrawal in 1967.

Leaving Waterloo, we pass through Clapham Junction before following the historic main line via Woking, Basingstoke, Winchester and Southampton. Crossing the beautiful New Forest through Brockenhurst, we continue to Bournemouth before travelling along the scenic Dorset coast to Wareham and joining the Swanage Railway for the final miles into Swanage.

Passengers may choose to spend their afternoon at either Bournemouth or Swanage. Enjoy Bournemouth's award-winning beaches, gardens, pier and town centre, or remain on board to Swanage, where you can explore this traditional seaside town with its sandy beach, Victorian promenade and independent shops and cafés.

For the return journey, the train will be diesel hauled from Swanage to Fareham, where 34028 Eddystone will resume its place at the head of the train for the steam-hauled run back to London Waterloo.

Combining classic Southern main line running, a visit to the Swanage Railway and the opportunity to travel behind 34028 Eddystone, this promises to be a memorable day out on one of Britain's most historic railway routes.

On Board Catering