The Cumbrian Coast Express

Our journey will combine the scenic grandeur of the Cumbrian Fells with the exposed Cumbrian coastline that skirts the western edge of the Lake District. We have a high-speed journey down the West Coast Main Line to Carnforth, hauled by a blue Class 86 electric locomotive. We then enjoy a steam tour from Carnforth via the Cumbria Coast. We return from Carnforth to London behind our blue electric locomotive.

We leave London Euston with electric traction, and speed north along the West Coast Main Line (WCML). We stop to pick up passengers at Milton Keynes, Rugby (where passengers from Northampton join by service train), Nuneaton and Crewe.

We continue north along the WCML to Preston, our final stop to pick up passengers.

We pass through Lancaster and along the edge of Morecambe Bay before arriving at Carnforth. Leaving Carnforth steam hauled, we pass the famous Brief Encounter café before continuing to Arnside, crossing the Kent Viaduct to Grange-over-Sands. Our journey then continues over the Leven Viaduct through Ulverston and Dalton, before travelling via Kirkby-in-Furness and Millom along the spectacular Cumbrian Coast to Ravenglass.

At Ravenglass, we have arranged a private charter on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. Alternatively, for those who prefer, there is an optional excursion to visit Muncaster Castle.

After enjoying our time at Ravenglass, we rejoin our steam-hauled train for the return journey to Carnforth, once again taking in the scenic coastal route along the southern Cumbrian Coast.

At Millom, we head inland and follow the sweeping estuary through Foxfield and Kirkby in Furness. Once again we curve along the edge of the bay through to Grange-over-Sands. There are more views across Morecambe Bay as we cross the lengthy Kent Viaduct at Arnside and approach Carnforth. Here, we shall say farewell to our gallant steam locomotive and our blue Class 86 electric locomotive will take over for a fast run to London Euston. We stop at the same stations as on the outward journey to set down passengers.

**Updated 21/05/26

On Board Catering