Celebrate the festive season with a steam-hauled journey from East Croydon to the beautiful city of Bath, with the option of continuing on to Bristol. Enjoy over four hours to soak up the Christmas atmosphere, browse Bath's famous Christmas Market or explore the many attractions of either destination.
Our train departs from East Croydon, calling at Three Bridges, Haywards Heath, Preston Park, Hove and Worthing before following the scenic West Coastway Line through historic Chichester and along the South Coast to Southampton. From there, we head via Romsey, Salisbury and Westbury, following the picturesque Avon Valley to Bath Spa station, conveniently situated in the heart of the city.
Bath is a magical place to visit at Christmas. Its renowned Christmas Market features more than 170 traditional wooden chalets selling handcrafted gifts, festive food and seasonal treats. The market surrounds the city's iconic Abbey, Roman Baths and historic Pump Room, while elegant Georgian streets, independent boutiques and excellent restaurants are all within easy walking distance. If you prefer, take an open-top sightseeing bus and discover Bath's many architectural treasures at your leisure.
Passengers wishing to travel further can remain on board to Bristol, a vibrant city with attractions including Brunel's SS Great Britain, the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, the historic harbourside and the fascinating M Shed museum. Bristol also offers first-class Christmas shopping, with a wide range of stores in Broadmead and Cabot Circus.
In the afternoon, our steam-hauled train departs Bristol, calling at Bath to collect returning passengers before retracing our scenic route via Salisbury, Southampton and the South Coast, returning to East Croydon in the evening after a memorable festive day out.
Available Classes
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Premier DiningList Item 1
Premier Dining includes full English breakfast and four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.
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First ClassList Item 2
First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a sweet treat and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.
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Standard ClassList Item 3
Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.
Fares
| Fares | Adult | Junior | Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premier | £339 | £240 | £1030 |
| First | £225 | £164 | £705 |
| Standard | £120 | £90 | £375 |
Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £50 per person (subject to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments.
Approximate timings shown
| Station | Outward | Return |
|---|---|---|
| East Croydon | 07:00 | 21:50 |
| Three Bridges | 08:00 | 21:15 |
| Haywards Heath | 08:20 | 20:40 |
| Preston Park | 08:30 | 20:10 |
| Hove | 09:00 | 20:00 |
| Worthing | 09:20 | 19:30 |
| Bath | 13:00 | 16:00 |
| Bristol Temple Meads | 13:20 | 15:30 |
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