The Rochester Dickensian Christmas Express

This day trip by steam train provides an opportunity to visit the town of Rochester at Christmas time. The train will be steam hauled starting from Newbury Station in Berkshire and picks up more passengers at Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and West Brompton.

We leave Newbury, and travel through picturesque rural countryside as we make our way along the Thames Valley to Reading and Maidenhead to pick up passengers. The countryside gives way to the edge of London as we travel along the Great Western Main Line. At Acton in West London, we leave the main line to Paddington and climb Acton Bank, which will test our steam locomotives power, to get on to the West London Line. West Brompton is our final pick up stop as we wind our way across London and its suburban before we head east wards towards Kent.

The Kent countryside, with its many orchards, is travelled through as we make our way towards our destination for the day in Rochester. Rochester stands on the banks of the Medway and the town forms a conurbation with neighbouring towns Chatham, Rainham, Strood and Gillingham. The historic centre contains its fine Cathedral that was founded in 604 and Rochester Castle, with a 12th century Keep.

With around x hours in Rochester, this will provide ample time for you to explore the town and all it has to offer. The Victorian festivities in Rochester around Christmas, take the form of a Dickensian Christmas, where you can experience street entertainment, readings, song and dance. You’ll be captivated by Dickens’ characters as you explore the literary journey that was the great writer’s life. Enjoy the festive feel laid on for this special weekend and soak up the Christmas spirit with plenty to see and experience.

Our train leaves Rochester station in the late afternoon after an enjoyable day, hauled by our steam locomotive, for the return journey to the same stations as on the outward journey, to set down passengers.

Look out for Father Christmas and his Elves who will be visiting the train during the day and handing out presents to all children on board. If you have children with you on the trip, please let us know your child’s name and age when booking.

On Board Catering