If you’re lucky enough to live in Yorkshire or Cumbria or happen to be on holidaying in these glorious counties this week, treat yourself to a wonderful trip on Britain’s newest rail service, the wonderful ‘Staycation Express’. Running three times a day until Saturday September 12, your journey will take you over the stunningly beautiful Settle to Carlisle railway line.
The ‘Staycation Express’ offers train fans the chance to travel in style in comfortable classic first-class former ‘Inter City’ carriages. Each carriage offers travellers large tables, reclining seats and big picture windows so you can take in the wonder of the Yorkshire countryside from the comfort of the train. There’s also no need to be worried about social distancing as each bay for two guests is separated by Perspex screens. Passengers will also be able to enjoy light refreshments on board including snacks, tea and coffee, beers and wines.
The one and a half hour journey which covers 56 miles will take you from Skipton to Appleby. On the way you’ll get to see the three peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. You will also pass over the famous Ribblehead viaduct and enjoy travelling through the Blea Moor tunnel where you enter in North Yorkshire and come out in Cumbria.
The journey continues onward with views over Dentdale and past England’s highest main line station, Ais Gill summit at a show-stopping height of 1,169 feet above sea level. On the descent down you will head through the picturesque Upper Eden Valley, passing Kirkby Stephen, before arriving in the bustling market town of Appleby.
You can travel one way or enjoy the journey again by crossing the station and travelling the route backwards.
The first train departs from Skipton at 8.35am, the last train leaves at 16.12. The first train leaves Appleby at 10.35 am; the last train leaves at 17.58
How to book
You can find details of how to book tickets for the journey at info@railcharterssrvices.co.uk but note, you can’t actually book online. You can also book tickets on the day at the stations. Fares are priced per couple or family group so that no strangers travel together on the train. Fares are £17.50 per person (one way) based on two people sharing a table. Family group fares for 4 people including at least one child (under the age of 16) start from £49 one way. Children under 6 travel free but are not guaranteed a seat.
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