Do you love British steam trains? Then read on. From a journey on the Jacobite Steam Train and a chance to see the Flying Scotsman up close, 2021 looks like being a bumper year for our favourite steam trains and heritage railways. So get on board!
Bluebell Railway steam trains
Sussex’s famous Bluebell Railway has just announced some exciting events for 2021. First up beer lovers are in for a treat when the railway launches its first ever Beer Festival. The festival kicks off on May 14 and runs for three days so there’s lots to do. Firm favourite, the Model Railway weekend takes place on 26 and 27 June. And on 6-8 August there will be a big Diamond Jubilee celebration for the railway line. This was supposed to happen last year but has been postponed because of the Coronavirus pandemic. So book up now.
Northern Belle steam trains
There’s lots of great British steam train trips in store on the famous Northern Belle in 2021. Firstly, look out for a Settle & Carlisle steam special on 29 May 2021 where you’ll get to travel behind the historic Princess Elizabeth Locomotive. The journey includes stops in York, Leeds and Huddersfield. And if you’re hankering after a bit of glamour, put 5 July 2021 in your diary. On this day you’ll get to enjoy to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the famous Bournemouth Belle train. With a special day trip to Bournemouth on board a Northern Belle train, guests will get to enjoy all the glamour and glitz of this special journey. So book today.
Ffestiniog Railway steam trains
Founded in 1832, the Ffestiniog Railway is the world’s oldest independent railway company. And on the thirteen-mile journey you’ll get to travel through the spectacular North Wales countryside. So what better way to enjoy the journey than with a first-class trip on board the new Pullman First Class carriage ‘Gwyrfai’? You’ll get to see the countryside with a panoramic view and enjoy a tasty on-board lunch too. When the trains are allowed to run again, this is a journey that’s well worth booking. And because it’s so popular you should book ahead.
East Lancashire Railway
The world’s most iconic steam train, the Flying Scotsman, will be returning to the East Lancashire Railway in 2021. It will be the star of an Easter Weekend, designed to celebrate steam trains’ golden age. The train will be in operation between 2 and 6 April. Because it is such a popular train you should book ahead.
The Jacobite Steam Train
The Jacobite Steam Train has often been described as the greatest railway journey in the world. And those who have been lucky enough to enjoy a trip on this incredible train would agree. On an 84-mile round-trip, you’ll get to travel from Ben Nevis, via Loch Morar all the way to Loch Nevis. The service is due to begin again on 26 April 2021 so get booking now. It’s bound to be very popular – especially when lock-down is over.
Watercress Line
The popular Watercress Line is gearing up to a four-day Spring Steam Gala. Held over a weekend in Spring, the dates are yet to be confirmed. So be sure to keep an eye out on their website for details. Visitors can look forward to a weekend of fun with some great steam locomotives on display.
Lappa Valley Railway
The Lappa Valley railway in Cornwall is a great destination for families of all ages who love British steam trains. And here you’ll find some steam train fun. On 19 & 20 June, the line will be celebrating ‘Steam In Miniature’ for Father’s Day weekend. At Autumn Half Term kids will love a Peppa Pig extravaganza on 26 & 27 October.