HOLIDAYS BY STEAM 2019 2021 - Including May 2019 Highlands and Islands with Flying Scotsman - Steam Dreams
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HOLIDAYS BY STEAM
2019 – 2021
Including May 2019 Highlands and Islands with Flying Scotsman
Mayflower and Flying Scotsman head a special train across Newbiggin Viaduct in May 1976.
We will be re-uniting them in 2019.
WELCOME
Welcome to our 2019 Holidays by Steam brochure which begins with some
big news – for the first time in four years The Cathedrals Explorer will be
returning to the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and this time it is planned to
take Flying Scotsman not just to Edinburgh but through the Highlands to Inverness
and back – a first for this famous locomotive since it came back on the mainline.
This very special holiday offers options covering the highways and byways of Northern
and Western Scotland as well as the option to spend two days on the magical island of Skye.
Our 2019 programme is completed with the Angel of the North departing from London
where we will be travelling through and picking up across East Anglia as we head north to visit
a part of Britain that has both lots of history and is also a centre for modern culture.
After a two year break we also return to Ireland but this time for a shorter holiday of 5 nights
on The Emerald Isle Craic Express to Killarney and Galway as we explore the South and West
of Ireland and in particular the world famous Wild Atlantic Way.
Finally, we have further details of our proposed holidays in the USA and New Zealand which are now
scheduled for The Great Lakes Explorer in October 2020 and the Kiwi Explorer in October 2021.
CONTENTS
Highlands: Pages 4 – 9 & 12 – 15 Islands: Pages 4 – 5 & 10 – 15
May 2019 May 2019
WELCOME AND CONTENTS
Emerald Isle Craic Express to the
Angel of the North: Pages 16 – 19
Wild Atlantic Way: Pages 20 – 25
June 2019
September 2019
The Great Lakes Explorer – New Zealand: Pages 30 – 33
Fall 2020: Pages 26 – 29 October 2021
3
HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS WITH FLYING SCOTSMAN THURSDAY 9TH MAY 2019 – FRIDAY 17TH MAY 2019 This nine day holiday taking in some truly spectacular Highland scenery will be a magical tour. This is the first time Flying Scotsman has been to the Highlands since its refurbishment. In Fort William Pullman Style passengers will also be staying in the most luxurious accommodation Steam Dreams has yet offered and with long daylight hours, lakes, mountains, sea, islands and (hopefully!) sun this holiday is not to be missed. Day 1: London to Edinburgh with Day 2: Edinburgh to Inverness with Flying Scotsman Flying Scotsman Thursday 9th May 2019 Friday 10th May 2019 After leaving London Kings Cross behind modern After breakfast in our hotels we set out traction for a quick run to York we will be joined by mid morning over the World Heritage site, Flying Scotsman, on the scenic stretch of railway for the Forth Railway Bridge with Flying Scotsman which it was built. As dining passengers enjoy their and B1 Class 61306 Mayflower double heading. evening meal we will cruise along the East Coast Our route from here will take us to Perth, Main Line past beautiful vistas including Durham before taking the Highland and through the Cathedral, the Angel of the North, Holy Island, Cairngorms mainline travelling across the north over the Royal Border Bridge and into Edinburgh. east of Scotland to the capital of the Highlands.
Hotels in Inverness:
Pullman Style passengers will be staying in either
the Macdonald New Drumrossie Hotel or the
Kingsmills Hotel. Both these hotels are of a high
Dunrobin Castle standard and with a deserved reputation for
beautiful rooms and top quality dining.
Premier Dining passengers will be staying in
either the Macdonald New Drumrossie Hotel
Day 3: Inverness to Dunrobin Castle
or the Mercure.
or day at leisure
HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS WITH FLYING SCOTSMAN
Saturday 11th May 2019 Non dining passengers will be staying at
the Premier Inn in Inverness.
Today, B1 Class 61306 Mayflower, will take
our optional day trip north from Inverness
across the beautiful scenery to the famous
castle of Dunrobin. There will be time to
explore the magnificent castle and grounds,
ancestral home of the Dukes and Earls
of Sutherland.
Passengers who opt to remain for a day at
leisure in Inverness will be offered a choice
of excursions which will probably include a
trip to Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield,
a trip to Urquhart Castle and a boat trip on
Loch Ness.
Macdonald New Drumrossie Hotel
The Kingsmills Hotel
5
OPTION 1 HIGHLANDS SUNDAY 12TH MAY 2019 – TUESDAY 14TH MAY 2019 Day 4: Optional Day trip to Kyle of Lochalsh Sunday 12th May 2019 After breakfast in your hotel, we join the train where B1 Mayflower is once again hauling the train as we enjoy one of the great railway journeys of the world across the Highlands to the West Coast to the Kyle of Lochalsh as breathtaking scenery follows breathtaking scenery. Passengers will have the option to visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle before rejoining the train for the return to Inverness. Pullman Style and Premier Dining passengers will have dinner on the train. Day 5: Inverness to Fort William Monday 13th May 2019 After breakfast in your hotel, you have the option of enjoying a feast of unbeatable scenery as we move the Cathedrals Explorer from Inverness to Fort William, covering first the Highland Mainline and then after reaching the Central Lowlands we head west to the spectacular West Highland Line that climbs and winds its way across Western Scotland. Our train will be diesel-hauled ensuring the day can be completed before dusk. Passengers who wish for a more leisurely day can transfer by coach between Fort William and Inverness along the shores of Loch Ness.
Day 6: Day at leisure in Fort William
Tuesday 14th May 2019
Today is at leisure in Fort William or you may choose to join one of our excursions.
The Jacobite
Travel on The Jacobite across the world famous Glenfinnan Viaduct to the far north
west terminus of Mallaig. Truly a unique experience in world steam!
Optional Excursions
HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS WITH FLYING SCOTSMAN
There will also be optional excursions likely to include a cruise on Loch Linnhe, a trip to
Glencoe, Neptune’s staircase and the Glenfinnan Viaduct or a day trip to Iona or Mull.
Dining passengers will have dinner in their hotels.
Glencoe
7
Pullman Style passengers will be staying in one of three hotels – probably the most luxurious
hotels Steam Dreams has ever offered to passengers on any tour – and certainly will be an
experience to savour. When booking, please discuss your preferences with our Booking
Office staff as each of the hotels has a limited number of bedrooms.
Glencoe House
This grand Victorian House was built by Lord
Strathcona (who built the Canadian Pacific
Railway) as a shooting lodge and comprises 14
suites, some in the main house and some in an
adjacent building. Log fires, roll top baths, hot
tubs, private gardens, and wonderful public rooms
Glencoe House will make a stay here completely unforgettable.
Inverlochy Castle
A stunning 17 bedroom, 19th century castle
built to an exceptional standard of luxury,
with glorious views and the added bonus of
the Albert and Michel Roux Junior Restaurant
where dinner will be served on one evening.
Inverlochy Castle
Isle of Eriska Castle
The unique experience of staying on a private
island with glorious views across Loch Linnhe and
the Morven Mountains whilst enjoying the full
luxury of 5* accommodation, wonderful public
rooms with log fires and comfy sofas and an
exceptional restaurant is not to be missed. It is
also planned to arrange a day excursion to Iona
or Mull departing from the hotel’s own private
Isle of Eriska Castle
jetty just a couple of minutes
stroll from the hotel.
HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS WITH FLYING SCOTSMAN
Hollytree House Hotel Glenspean Lodge Hotel
Premier Dining passengers will have a number of options including the 4* Nevis Bank
Hotel in Fort William, Hollytree House Hotel, a beautifully modernised hotel with wonderful
views and a great restaurant on the shores of Loch Linnhe; the boutique Glenspean Lodge
Hotel just outside Spean Bridge with fabulous mountain views and which boasts Edward
VII amongst previous visitors. Premier Dining passengers who would like the opportunity
to have breakfast and dinner at Inverlochy Castle will be able to choose to stay in attractively
decorated lodges in the grounds of Inverlochy Castle.
Non Dining passengers will be staying in hotels in Fort William – either the Premier Inn
or the Travelodge.
9
OPTION 2
ISLE OF SKYE
Day 4: Inverness to Isle of Skye
via Kyle of Lochalsh
Sunday 12th May 2019
After breakfast in your hotel, we join the
train. B1 Mayflower will be hauling the train
as we enjoy one of the great railway journeys
of the world across the Highlands to the
West Coast to the Kyle of Lochalsh. We
will take the opportunity to visit the iconic
Eilean Donan Castle before travelling by
coach over the bridge to Skye and our hotels
in the North of the Island at Portree. Dining
passengers will enjoy dinner in their hotels.
Skeabost Hotel
Recently refurbished, the stunning Skeabost
hotel overlooking the loch and with
views out to sea is an oasis of peace and
tranquillity. The stylish rooms and delicious
food will make this a firm favourite with
Pullman Style and Premier Dining passengers.
Non Dining passengers will be staying at
The Royal Hotel in Portree.
Skeabost HotelDay 5: Day at Leisure on Skye
Monday 13th May 2019
There will be optional trips including (weather permitting) a full day trip to St Kilda
- the UK’s only UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site. It is home to north west Europe’s largest
seabird colony including the UK’s largest colony of Atlantic puffin, northern Fulmar and one
of the World’s largest Gannetaries. There will also be excursions to Dunvegan Castle
and Gardens, Flora MacDonald’s tomb and other historic points of interest.
Dining passengers will have dinner in their hotel.
HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS WITH FLYING SCOTSMAN
Day 6: Skye to Fort William including The Jacobite steam train
Tuesday 14th May 2019
After breakfast in the hotel we travel by coach the full length of Skye to Armadale where
we will visit Clan Donald on the Sleat Peninsula with spectacular views across to the
mainland. We will a have a break at The Museum of the Isles, which has beautiful gardens,
a café and shop. We will then catch the ferry to Mallaig and join The Jacobite for the world
famous railway journey to Fort William.
Dining passengers will be coached to the 4* Bridge of Orchy hotel where they will have
dinner and stay the night. Non Dining passengers will stay in Fort William either in the
Premier Inn or Travelodge.
Dunvegan Castle
11HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS WITH
FLYING SCOTSMAN
Day 7: Fort William to the Lake District
Wednesday 15th May 2019
All passengers are back together again and after breakfast in your hotel, we leave Fort William
double headed again with Mayflower and a Black 5 across the West Highland Line to the Firth
of Clyde. The Black 5 leaves us and Mayflower takes our train on unassisted past Glasgow over the
Fells past Beattock and Carlisle in to Penrith where we disembark for two nights in the Northern
Lakes. Dining passengers will have light lunch and dinner on the train.
Day 8: Optional Excursions in the Day 9: Penrith to London
Lake District Friday 17th May 2019
Thursday 16th May 2019
After a leisurely breakfast we return steam
A day at leisure or you may choose to join one of hauled from Penrith to London with Mayflower.
our optional excursions likely to include Dalemain Our route will take us over Shap and down the
House, a Grade 1 listed stately home near Penrith, West Coast Main Line with a stop at Crewe for
a cruise by paddle steamer on Ullswater as coal and water. We will arrive at London Euston
well as the Ravenglass and Eskdale railway and for mid evening. Dining passengers will have a
the Lakeside and Haversthwaite railway. light lunch and dinner on the train.The Macdonald
Inn on the Lake Hotel George Hotel, Penrith
Leeming Hotel
HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS WITH FLYING SCOTSMAN
Pullman Style passengers will stay at The Macdonald Leeming Hotel set amidst glorious countryside
with stunning views overlooking Ullswater, which is luxuriously and traditionally furnished.
Premier Dining passengers will stay either at The Glenridding or Inn on the Lake Hotel
set in 15 acres of landscaped grounds running down to the lake. Both hotels have breathtaking
views of Ullswater and Hellvelyn. The 2AA rosette restaurant at The Inn on the Lake and
comfort and style of the hotel will ensure a relaxing finale to your holiday.
Non Dining passengers and Premium Standard passengers will be staying in the George Hotel,
a 300 year old Grade 1 listed building in the centre of the pretty market town of Penrith.
13Dunrobin
INVERNESS
Isle of Skye
Kyle of Lochalsh
Mallaig
ABERDEEN
Fort William
Iona Isle of Mull
EDINBURGH
GLASGOW
Berwick
Penrith
Durham
YORK
Crewe
LONDONWhat is included?
Hotels & Travel
Highlands: All hotels on a bed and breakfast basis, transfers to and from the train and train travel on days 1, 2, 5, 7 & 9.
Islands: All hotels on a bed and breakfast basis, transfers to and from the train and train travel on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 7 & 9.
Catering
Highlands: Pullman Style & Premier Dining
Day One: Breakfast and Dinner on board the train. Day Five: Light Lunch and Dinner on board the
Day Two: Morning coffee and cake and Dinner on train. (For those who transfer by coach Dinner
board the train. will be included in their hotel)
HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS WITH FLYING SCOTSMAN
Day Three: Optional Trip to Dunrobin Castle. Day Six: Dinner in the hotel.
Morning coffee and cake and Dinner on board the train.* Day Seven: Light Lunch and Dinner on board the train.
Day Four: Optional Trip to Kyle of Lochalsh: Day Eight: Dinner in the Hotel.
Light Lunch and Dinner on board the train.* Day Nine: Light Lunch and Dinner on the train.
Isle Of Skye: Pullman Style & Premier Dining
Day One: Brunch and Dinner on board the train. Day Five: Dinner in the hotel.
Day Two: Morning coffee and cake and Dinner on Day Six: Dinner in the hotel.
board the train.
Day Seven: Light Lunch and Dinner on board
Day Three: Optional Trip to Dunrobbin Castle.
the train.
Morning coffee and cake and Dinner on board the train.*
Day Four: Trip to Kyle of Lochalsh: Light Lunch Day Eight: Dinner in the Hotel.
on board the train and dinner in the hotel. Day Nine: Light Lunch and Dinner on the train.
Highlands and Isle of Skye – Non Dining. Passengers will be served complimentary morning and afternoon
tea and coffee. There is the opportunity to purchase snacks from the on board menu on all days on board
the train (excluding the Jacobite).
Dining passengers not on train excursions will be free to make their own dinner arrangements.
*
Highland & Islands
Table for 2
Fares Single supplement Skye Supplement
supplement*
Pullman Style Dining £3495 £725 £750 £450
Premier Dining £2795 £450 £500 £350
Non Dining £1995 £350 – £250
Non Dining passengers – Highlands and Isle of Skye Optional Day trips
On train days, passengers will be served morning and Kyle of Lochalsh (Highlands) Pullman Style Dining
afternoon complimentary tea and coffee and will have the £249, Premier Dining £189, Non Dining £115.
opportunity to purchase snacks from the on board team. Dunrobin Pullman Style Dining £225, Premier Dining £169,
Non Dining £99. The Jacobite – (Highlands) (including
Steam Dreams reserves the right to alter the nominated coach transfers) £75 First Class & £50 Standard Class.
hotel at any destination provided the alternative hotel
is of an equivalent standard. Meal arrangements *
Supplement guarantees a table for 2 on days 1, 2, 7 & 9 for all
are dependent on timings, provision of utilities and passengers and day 5 for Highlands passengers. Additional supplements
access to re-stock and may be subject to change. apply for days 3 & 4. No tables for two available on the Jacobite.
15ANGEL OF THE NORTH SATURDAY 8 TH JUNE 2019 – TUESDAY 11 TH JUNE 2019 A four day long weekend from London and East Anglia taking in the stunning North East coastline with an optional trip by steam to Edinburgh. Day 1: London and East Anglia to Durham and Newcastle Saturday 8th June 2019 We head north from London Victoria in the morning and travel via East Anglia, picking up passengers as we go and enjoying a short break in pretty Ely while our locomotive, which is scheduled to be B1 61306 Mayflower, is replenished with coal and water. We then pass York and race up the East Coast Main Line to the beautiful Cathedral City of Durham where passengers who choose may spend the next three nights*. Remaining passengers stay on board for the remaining 10 miles to our final destination – Newcastle. Day 2: Optional Day trip to Edinburgh Sunday 9th June 2019 Today there will be the option of steaming into Scotland with a day trip to the Scottish capital Edinburgh. After a chance to explore this beautiful city we head back to Newcastle
along the East Coast Mainline with stunning views across the Scottish and English coasts,
including crossing the Border Bridge. Alternatively a number of coach excursions will be
available for those that choose to have a day away from the train.
Day 3: A day at leisure
Monday 10th June 2019
A day at leisure with many different excursions available for passengers to visit the North
East’s famous cultural and tourist hotspots including a day trip to one of Lindisfarne, Alnwick
Castle, Bamburgh Castle and Hadrian’s Wall.
For railway enthusiasts there will be an opportunity to travel along one of the preserved
lines in the Dales.
Alternatively you may choose to have a day at leisure in the city where you are staying.
ANGEL OF THE NORTH
Day 4: Newcastle and Durham to East Anglia and London
Tuesday 11th June 2019
Too soon our four day excursion to the beautiful North East of England is over and B1
Mayflower will retrace her steps to York and London. From York we then take the rural route
through Lincolnshire to the cathedral city of Lincoln where we enjoy a lunch break of a couple
of hours, before resuming our journey taking the route back through East Anglia, dropping
passengers at their joining stations and returning to London Victoria.
Passengers can board and leave the train at Shenfield, Colchester, Ipswich, Ely and Peterborough.
Newcastle
17Vermont Hotel, Newcastle Hotel Indigo, Newcastle
Vermont Hotel, Newcastle Hotel Indigo, Newcastle
Pullman Style passengers will stay at The Premier Dining passengers will stay in this modern
Vermont Hotel which combines 1930s hotel which is superbly located near the train station
grandeur with contemporary elegance and and right in the centre of this vibrant city. With
luxury. A hidden gem and next to the Castle décor inspired by Grainger town – the historic
Keep, you couldn’t be closer to the historic architect who designed the heart of Newcastle – its
design and decor celebrate the city’s culture and
heart of Newcastle.
the area’s neoclassical architecture. Glass and iron
columns in the lobby emulate local Tyneside styles
This impressive neo-classical building also with a modern twist, and artwork in the guest rooms
overlooks the Tyne and is conveniently depicts the fascinating history. You can be sure of
located near the train station. a comfortable and convenient stay at this hotel.Non dining passengers will stay in a 3 * hotel
in Newcastle.
Durham Cathedral
Passengers booking accommodation through
Steam Dreams will stay in Newcastle.
Fares Fares (with hotels, per person)
Table for
Fares (without hotel, Single
Double/Twin 2 supplement
per person) supplement
Pullman Style Dining £799 £1299 £350 £200
Premier Dining £649 £949 £300 £100
Non Dining £349 £599 £175 –
*
Passengers alighting in Durham should make their own hotel arrangements.
ANGEL OF THE NORTH
19EMERALD ISLE CRAIC EXPRESS to the Wild Atlantic Way FRIDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER 2019 – WEDNESDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER 2019 Enjoy a late summer holiday on the beautiful island of Ireland visiting the South and West Coast, famous for its Wild Atlantic Way in the unique environment of a steam hauled train. The main tour begins and ends in Dublin but for passengers who would like transfers arranged from the UK that additional option will be available. Day 1: Dublin to Killarney Friday 6th September 2019 Leaving Dublin around midday, steam hauled straight from the city centre we steam right across to the South West corner of Ireland to the wonderful Cathedral city of Killarney where we will be staying for the next two nights. Hauled by the magnificent Irish Express passenger locomotive No 85 Merlin, passengers will be treated to wonderful views of the verdant countryside with diners having the extra bonus of lunch and cream tea on the train and dinner in their hotels. Day 2: Optional trip to Cork or Kinsale Saturday 7th September 2019 Enjoy an optional trip by steam to the South East of Ireland and spend 3 or 4 hours exploring the city of Cork or Kinsale before returning to Killarney. Dining passengers will enjoy a light lunch and dinner on the train.
Wild Atlantic Way. For those wanting to explore the wonderful coastal scenery of Ireland we will
be offering trips along the Wild Atlantic Way. On Day 2 passengers taking this option will be coached
around the Ring of Kerry and then along the southern route to Kinsale where they will have a couple
of hours to explore before joining the rest of our passengers at Cork for the return by steam
to Killarney. Dining passengers will enjoy dinner on this train.
Killarney Hotels
EMERALD ISLE CRAIC EXPRESS TO THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY
Aghadoe Heights The Lakes Hotel
Aghadoe Heights The Lakes Hotel
Pullman Style passengers will stay at the Premier dining passengers will stay at The Lakes
multiple award winning 5 * luxury Aghadoe Hotel. Nestling on the shore of the lake, the 4*,
Heights Hotel, which overlooks the Lakes of family run Lakes Hotel enjoys the most magnificent
Killarney. Newly Refurbished and blessed with setting in Killarney with the backdrop of the
a breathtaking location and contemporary mountains, islands, woodlands and romantic 12th
elegance, the spectacular surroundings are century McCarthy Mor castle ruins. The Lakes Hotel
echoed by the hotel's beautifully appointed has proved itself a firm favourite with our passengers
bedrooms, lounges and fine dining. and this is the third time we will be staying here.
Non Dining passengers will be staying in The Eviston Hotel in Killarney.
21Day 3: Killarney to Limerick and Galway Day 5: Optional Trip to Westport
Sunday 8th September 2019 Tuesday 10th September 2019
After our two nights in Killarney we leave by Anyone who enjoyed our 2017 Emerald Isle
steam after breakfast still hauled by Merlin and Explorer will know that this is a highlight not
head for the poetically famous city of Limerick to be missed as Tank No. 4 takes us on a day
where we change engines to the famous No. 4 trip to the far north West Coast of Ireland at
Tank Engine which despite its diminutive size has Westport. Unspoilt scenery and spectacular
proved capable of speeds well in excess of 60 views are the order of the day as we speed
mph both forwards and backwards! across the Emerald Isle. Dining passengers
will have a light lunch and dinner on the train.
After lunchtime in Limerick we travel along the
recently rebuilt line through Ennis to the West Wild Atlantic Way Option
Coast city of Galway. Dining passengers will have
Today you can have a fantastic choice of
dinner in the hotels.
enjoying the Wild Atlantic Way by coach in the
morning before meeting up with the rest of the
Wild Atlantic Way Option passengers at Westport and then experiencing
the Tank in action as it races back across the
For those who wish to see more of the Wild country to Athlone and then back to Galway.
Atlantic Way leave at Limerick and enjoy a trip by
coach along the coastal route to Galway where
you will re-join the other passengers in our hotels.
Day 4: Day at leisure
Monday 9th September 2019
Today there are no railway excursions and passengers
can have a day at leisure in Galway or take one of
our optional trips out which will include a trip to
the Cliffs of Moher (Ireland’s most visited natural
attraction), a boat trip to the legendary Isles of Aran
Westport
(weather permitting) or remain in the city of Galway
and visit the Cathedral, museums and art galleries.Day 6: Galway to Dublin
Wednesday 11th September 2019
After breakfast in our hotels we head West to East across the whole of Ireland and back to Dublin
arriving shortly after lunch, giving passengers plenty of time to make their way back to the UK that evening.
Travel to Ireland and will be connecting with the Irish Ferries
EMERALD ISLE CRAIC EXPRESS TO THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY
arriving in Dublin for transfer to hotels.
For passengers from the UK who would like to Dining passengers will be on a dinner bed
have their travel to and from Britain organised and breakfast basis. On the return you will
for them, we will be booking on the Virgin train be staying in the same hotel as the outward.
leaving London on Thursday 5th September Please ask the booking office for more details.
Galway Hotels
Pullman Style passengers have the choice of
two hotels.
The g Hotel
Nothing will prepare you for the first time you step
inside the 5* g. You will be greeted by spectacular
surroundings. The g Hotel combines modern design The g Hotel
and comfort with impeccable service and cuisine.
Designed by the world renowned milliner and Galway
native Philip Treacy and featuring Andy Warhol fabrics.
Meyrick
The Meyrick is a traditional, grand hotel in
the centre of Galway. With panelled walls and
marble floors.
Meyrick
The Connemara Coast
Premier Dining passengers will stay at the spectacularly
located Connemara Coast set on the shores of Galway
Bay, the 4* Connemara Coast Hotel is only 10 minutes
from the city of Galway. The views will remain with
our Premier Dining passengers for a long time!
Non Dining passengers will stay at a 3* hotel in
Galway city.
The Connemara Coast
23BELFAST
Westport
Claremorris
DUBLIN
Sallins
Aran Isles Portarlington
Cliffs of Moher
Thurles
Junction
Kinsale
Wild Atlantic WayWhat is included? Day Four: Dinner in the hotel.
Day Five: Optional Tour. Light lunch and dinner
All hotels on a bed and breakfast basis and will be served on the train. Wild Atlantic way
transfers to and from the train and all train travel passengers will have lunch en route.
on Days 1, 3 and 6. Day Six: Lunch will be served on the train.
Due to the limited facilities of the kitchen car, Premier and
Irish Locomotives and Carriages Pullman Style Dining passengers will be served cold meals.
Throughout our time in Ireland we will be using the Steam Dreams reserves the right to alter the
locomotives and coaches of the Railway Preservation nominated hotel at any destination provided the
EMERALD ISLE CRAIC EXPRESS TO THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY
Society of Ireland (RPSI). The set of 64 seat Craven alternative hotel is of an equivalent standard.
Coaches are different to those used on our trains in Non Dining passengers
the UK with more basic seating and décor but also a Non dining passengers will be served complimentary
very singular Irish ambience with the only Bar Car in tea and coffee morning and afternoon on board
the world with draught Guinness. The RPSI owns a the train and will have the option to purchase snacks
number of steam locomotives and it is planned to use from the buffet.
No 85 Merlin and No 4 Tank Engine but others may be
substituted if for any reason these become unavailable. Travel to/from the UK
This tour starts and finishes in Dublin. Please ask the
Catering & Hotels Booking Office for details of transfers to/from London.
Irish hotels are of a very high standard. All
passengers will enjoy breakfast each morning in
their hotels.
Pullman Style and Premier Dining
Day One: Light lunch on board the train and dinner
in the hotel.
Day Two: Optional tour will include light lunch and
dinner on the train.
Day Three: Light lunch on board the train and
dinner in the hotel.
Emerald Isle Craic Express
Table for 2
Fares Single supplement
supplement
Pullman Style Dining £1995 £425 £500
Premier Dining £1695 £300 –
Non Dining £1195 £175 –
Cork and Kinsale Option (including Wild Atlantic Way)
Pullman Style Dining £199, Premier Dining £169, Non Dining £99. Table for 2 in Pullman Style
Dining £120.
Westport Option (including Wild Atlantic Way)
Pullman Style Dining £225, Premier Dining £189, Non Dining £119. Table for 2 in Pullman Style
Dining £120.
25THE GREAT LAKES EXPLORER – FALL 2020
Travel across the USA behind the World’s biggest coal fired
Locomotive - Milwaukee 261
Steam Dreams and the owners of the world’s largest coal fired steam locomotive,
Milwaukee 261, will be running the most adventurous steam hauled trip of
modern times in the USA – “The Great Lakes Explorer” – which is now
scheduled to take place during Fall 2020.
As the seasons change, you will have the chance seven-hour journey to the ‘twin cities’ of St
to travel by rail visiting two of the world famous Great Paul-Minneapolis in time to arrive at your hotels
Lakes – Lake Superior and Lake Michigan - as well as in the late evening. Enjoy the scenery and meet
seeing literally hundreds of lakes across Minnesota other travellers in the Lounge car.
which is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes although
even that underplays the true official number of 12,000!
Day 2: Minneapolis
You can join and leave our American adventure
in either Chicago or Minneapolis, and sample Passengers will have the morning at leisure to
the very different world of Midwest America, adjust to their new surroundings in the modern
as well as experience the vibrant cosmopolitan City of Minneapolis, which nestles on the
life of Chicago and the contrasting Centres of banks of the great Mississippi river. Those not
the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St Paul. familiar with American geography will maybe
not have realised that one of the world’s most
famous rivers starts so far north, and in fact in
Day 1: Chicago to Minneapolis Minneapolis itself, it is already much wider than
the Thames in London, and has a number of
Passengers arriving from all over the world fast flowing weirs and waterfalls. Minneapolis
can join the tour at lunchtime. We will leave itself has plenty of things for the tourist to see
Chicago’s spectacular Union Station on Amtrak including the Mall of the Americas the biggest
train 7, the westbound Empire Builder, for the shopping entertainment complex in the world.Milwaukee 261 Minneapolis to Duluth
At lunchtime, steam becomes the centre of
attention as, for the first time, we get to see
the world’s largest coal fired steam locomotive
Milwaukee 261. To put it in perspective, the
Flying Scotsman in the UK has a tender that
holds 7 tons of coal and 5,000 gallons of water;
261 carries an incredible 36 tons of coal and
45,000 gallons of water to help her on her
way. Our train is formed of the Milwaukee 261
Group’s own set of preserved coaches – many
of them double decked to enjoy superb views
of the surrounding countryside, particularly
THE GREAT LAKES EXPLORER – FALL 2020
from their Observation Cars.
We steam north from Minneapolis initially along the Duluth. It would not be the same without
Mississippi Valley and across the Mid-West Plains, the ability to get out on the Lake itself, so
passing countless lakes, before we start to climb into of course excursions by pleasure boat will
the hills South of Lake Superior. From here we cross be part of our plans.
into the State of Wisconsin before descending down
across trestle bridges and through narrow valleys
to the South side of the lake, before crossing to the Milwaukee 261 Evening Run to
north side of Lake Superior and arriving into Duluth Two Harbours
which nestles on the North shore of Lake Superior. For those who like to enjoy as much steam
action as possible, we will have the pleasure
Here our passengers will be taken to their of an optional scenic run along the edge of
hotels for a 2 night stay. Lake Superior to the town of Two Harbours,
which is 30 miles along Lake Superior
towards the Canadian border. For Dining
Day 3: Day at Leisure in Duluth passengers there will of course be plenty
to eat, and for those in ‘Coach’ class there
Enjoy a day sightseeing at leisure or on organised will also be buffet style snacks available
Steam Dreams tours in the historic City of from the kitchen.
27Day 4: Milwaukee 261 Duluth to
Gull Lake
We leave Lake Superior behind as we steam
‘inland’ back towards central Minnesota, and
an area famous for its incredibly beautiful lakes
spread across the landscape. After lunch we
St Paul’s Cathedral arrive at the town of Brainerd, where we
de-train. Like almost everywhere else in the
USA there is no actual station, so the train
finds a convenient spot where our road
coaches are available for the short 10 mile
journey to the tourist resort of Gull Lake.
For the next 2 nights, and the intervening
day, passengers will be able to enjoy the
tranquillity of the lakeside hotels that afford
great views not just of the sparkling clean
water but the foliage which should be in full
Fall colours at this time of year.
Day 5: Day at Leisure at Gull
The Gull Lake Lake Resort
There will be tours of the local surrounding
area to many of the local attractions
including Lindbergh House. There will also be
a cruise around Gull Lake, and also for those
who just cannot resist the allure of steam, a
short haul round trip of 25 miles each way
from Brainerd to the town of Staples, where
Milwaukee 261 will be turned.
Day 6: Milwaukee 261 Brainerd
to St Pauls
After a leisurely breakfast, our passengers
will all be transferred to Brainerd, from
where the train will run first due East, and
then after crossing into Wisconsin turn
South to St Pauls, arriving late afternoon for
dinner in our hotels.Day 7: A Day at Leisure in St Paul’s Day 8 & 9: Minneapolis to Chicago
Passengers will enjoy a day at leisure in St After breakfast in your hotel, passengers have
Paul, which is full of some fascinating history the option of making their own arrangements
and a few reminders for the British at home. to fly home from Minnesota, or joining a special
For there is indeed a St Paul’s Cathedral, train across the Amtrak network. Our coaches
with a large circular dome to visit, as well as from the Milwaukee 261 Tour will be specially
two other Cathedrals in Minneapolis itself. added to the morning Amtrak train to Chicago,
and passengers will spend the day enjoying
There is a fascinating tour of an unusual slice one final experience of the Steam Dreams /
of American history which can be found in St Milwaukee 261 hospitality, as we are diesel hauled
Paul, and that is following in the footsteps of from Minnesota across Wisconsin to Illinois and
many of Chicago’s famous gangsters. It is not then to Chicago where Lake Michigan awaits us.
well known outside the U.S., but many of the
THE GREAT LAKES EXPLORER – FALL 2020
famous ‘hoods’ of that time made their home Passengers will then be taken to their hotels,
in the state of Minnesota. The Governor stated and will have the choice of 1 or 2 nights in
that as long as they committed no crimes in his the famous ‘Windy City’ before the tour finally
state, they would not be prosecuted for any ends. There will be optional tours by both bus
committed in Chicago! and boat for passengers to explore Chicago.
29KIWI EXPLORER New Zealand OCTOBER 2021 New Zealand’s railways are an undiscovered and underused gem and our Kiwi Explorer will travel the length and breadth of these beautiful islands from Auckland in the North to Invercargill near the tip of South Island. North Island Days 1 & 2 We will meet in Auckland and spend two nights here with an optional day trip by steam to Whangerei. Day 3 We set out by steam from Auckland via Morrinsville and Mata Mata to Tirau where we join the coach for the last few miles to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal hot springs. We will spend two nights in Rotorua. Day 4 A day at leisure in the wonderful surroundings of Rotorua with ample time to visit the many attractions related to the hot springs. Day 5 We set off by coach to join our steam train that will be waiting to take us to National Park, one of the many reservations so lovingly tended by the New Zealand authorities.
Day 6 Day 9
A day at leisure in the National Park. We steam from Hawkes Bay down the
coastal route to the southern tip of North
Day 7 Island to Wellington, the capital of
New Zealand.
We travel by steam down the western side of
North Island before crossing to the East and
steaming to Hawkes Bay crossing some of the Day 10
most famous railway structures in New Zealand.
A day at leisure in Wellington while our steam
locomotives and carriages are transferred to
Day 8 the world famous rail ferry to Picton – certainly
Day of leisure in Hawkes Bay. a first for a Steam Dreams tour!
NEW ZEALAND
31South Island Days 17 & 18
Passengers will enjoy the opportunity to explore
Days 11 many of the exciting tourist attractions that the
Our time on North Island is at an end and we south of New Zealand has to offer including one
transfer by ferry (plane option for those who wish) optional steam trip from Invercargill to Ohai.
across to Picton. Here at the picturesque harbour
our steam train will be waiting for us for a beautiful
late afternoon run along the West Coast of Day 19
South Island to the beautiful town of Kaikoura. Passengers and all involved with this Kiwi
Explorer will congregate for a farewell dinner at
the marvellous Bill Richardson Motor Museum
Day 12
which is recognised as probably the best of its
A day at leisure in Kaikoura where the kind anywhere in the world.
breathtaking scenery can be explored or a trip
to go whale watching will be available as well.
Day 20
Day 13 We retrace our steps by steam from Invercargill
to a night in Oamaru with its museums, art
We steam further along the East Coast to the
galleries and cafés.
principal city of South Island, Christchurch, with
time in the afternoon to explore this vibrant sea
side city. Day 21
We return by steam again, to Christchurch from
Day 14 where passengers return home with the option
After further time in Christchurch we leave of making their own arrangements or travelling
mid morning by steam for the 220 mile trip to with the Steam Dreams group from the UK.
another fascinating South Island city, Dunedin.
Optional Excursion – Day 15-Day 18
Day 15 For those who wish to visit the famous New
There will be an optional excursion up the Zealand destinations of Queenstown and
privately owned Taieri Gorge Railway with also Wanaka and experience a cruise on either
plenty of time to explore. Milford or Doubtful Sound there will be an
optional excursion for four days. These parts of
the west of New Zealand are not rail connected
Day 16 but include some of the most famous tourist
We steam right along to the tip of South Island sights including the area made famous by the
to New Zealand’s southernmost city Invercargill. filming of Lord of the Rings.As is usual with these tours
our passengers will have the
option of being in 5*, 4* or 3*
accommodation with on board Whangarei
facilities to match.
Wellsford
There will be the option of travelling
Helensville
to either North or South Island
AUCKLAND
or staying with us throughout the
Pukekohe
entire tour. Initial estimates are Morrinsville
Huntly
that the fares for this trip will be
HAMILTON
about the same as our usual 9 day
Rotorua
Explorers for just one Island or
Tirau
double for both – all these prices
are exclusive of transfer to and Taumarunui
from New Zealand which will be National Park Ba
y
s
possible with Steam Dreams or NAPIER
ke
NEW ZEALAND
Ohakune
Haw
under your own “steam!” Taihape HASTINGS
Waipukurau
Marton
Please register for interest Woodville
with the Booking Office.
Masterton
Greytown
Picton
Blenheim WELLINGTON
Kaikoura
Waipara
CHRISTCHURCH
Ashburton
Timaru
Milford Sound Wanaka
Queenstown Oamaru
Middlemarch
Palmerston
(Taieri Gorge Railway)
Doubtful Sound Port Chalmers
Ohai DUNEDIN
Gore Milton
INVERCARGILL Balclutha
33TERMS AND CONDITIONS – FOR ALL HOLIDAYS General Conditions some tours it may be necessary for a part of the journey to Steam Dreams will use its best efforts to ensure that the be diesel hauled, normally at the request of Network Rail, the proposed locomotives, coaching stock, route and times run train operating company or the locomotive owner. Where as advertised but we reserve the right to amend or cancel possible we will try to make this clear at the time of booking any part of the tour at any time. Steam Dreams cannot accept but it may be necessary for changes to be made at a later stage any responsibility for the action of third parties and strongly for operational reasons. If for reasons beyond our control a recommends that all passengers take out travel/cancellation trip has no steam traction a partial refund of £15 in Premium insurance. Charges do apply should passengers need to cancel Standard, £20 in First Class, £25 in Premier Dining and £30 or postpone their trip for whatever reason, whether their plans in Pullman Style Dining may be offered. Alternatively we may change due to ill health, travel issues or weather conditions. offer a credit note for treble this amount to be used against a To avoid disappointment or unnecessary expense, passengers future trip. The nature of the compensation must be agreed on are advised not to pre-book transport links or accommodation, the date of the trip, otherwise the credit note will be issued. unless the costs associated with cancelling these arrangements Passengers who have booked using a Steam Dreams or third are covered by the passengers own insurance, as Steam Dreams party voucher will be issued with a credit note for the amounts cannot be held liable for additional costs incurred in passengers stated above. travel plans. Timings, routes and locomotives are subject to Traveller Health Conditions change as Steam Dreams is dependent on third parties and To get the most out of our trips, passengers must be able these are not within their control. Timings displayed in Steam to board the train and walk through the carriage(s) to their Dreams brochures and on the Steam Dreams website are allocated seat unassisted. Passengers must make Steam Dreams approximate and subject to change. Steam Dreams will use staff aware of any mobility assistance required at least a week its best endeavours to ensure the boarding/alighting stations prior to the date of the tour. Mobility assistance includes listed in their brochure and website are those which are used the use of wheelchairs, walking frames and walking sticks. on the day. However, due to operational reasons, occasionally Wheelchairs, walking frames and mobility scooters must be of our operators final timings do not include one of the boarding the fold-up variety and will be issued with an identity tag before stations we have requested. In these circumstances, Steam being stored in the guards van and cannot be used on board the Dreams will take responsibility for ensuring that passengers are train. If in doubt, please contact the Booking Office for advice. able to join the train at the nearest available boarding station at Passengers may have to walk up to 500 yards to access hotels no additional cost (usually by service train). or coaches. Steam Availability Dining on board Steam Dreams will use its best efforts to provide steam traction Please check the individual trip itinerary and the route sections on trips rostered for steam haulage, for the sector(s) advertised to see what meals are included on each trip. Steam Dreams will as such, but this cannot be guaranteed. On occasion a diesel endeavour to ensure delivery of the dining service to Pullman locomotive may be substituted, mainly due to fire risk, drought, Style and Premier Dining Passengers as listed in our publicity route restrictions or locomotive failure. All steam locomotives material. On-board meal service is dependent on train timings are subject to a Fitness to Run (FTR) exam 24 hours prior (issued to Steam Dreams by third parties), provision of utilities to running on the main line, which means it is sometimes and access to re-stock, and therefore on very rare occasions necessary for a substitute to be made at the last minute. On may be subject to revisions from what has been advertised.
Steam Dreams will endeavour to cater for allergies or severe • Up to 4 months before travel - 10% fee (or loss of deposit)
dislikes of some foods, but cannot guarantee that all our food •B
etween 4 months and 3 months before travel - 15% fee
will be totally free of specific allergens (such as nut, garlic or (or loss of deposit)
gluten) as it is prepared in kitchens where traces of allergens •B
etween 3 months and 2 months travel - 40% fee (or loss
may be found. of deposit)
Hotel Accommodation
• Between 2 months and 1 month before travel - 75% fee
Steam dreams reserves the right to transfer passengers to a
• Within 1 month before travel - 100% fee
different hotel of an equal standard.
All hotel payments are non-refundable within 3 months before
Payment
Bookings may be paid for by debit or credit cards. Other the date of travel.
payment methods including paying by cash or cheque* are still Customer Transfers – All holidays
be available for telephone bookings only and remain free of Should the customer choose to transfer from one booked
charge, although cleared funds must be received at least 14 short break to another trip for whatever reason, the greater
days prior to travel. Cash payments may be made by of the following charges will apply:
arrangement with the Booking Office or on-train staff. *We
TERMS AND CONDITIONS – FOR ALL HOLIDAYS
• Up to 3 months before travel - 10% fee (or loss of deposit)
are unable to accept payment by cheques less than 21 days •B
etween 3 months and 2 months before travel - 30% fee
prior to departure. This is to allow for postage and time to (or loss of deposit)
process the payment. • Between 2 months and 1 month before travel - 50% fee
Gift Vouchers, Credit Notes & Discounts
• Between 1 month and 14 days before travel - 75% fee
All third party gift vouchers, Steam Dreams gift vouchers, credit
• Within 14 days of travel - 100% fee
notes or discounts must be redeemed through the Booking
Office by telephone and cannot be used for online bookings. All hotel payments are non-transferable within 3 months
In the event of a train being cancelled or you cancelling your before the date of travel. Outstanding balances should be
booking, vouchers are non-refundable as a cash payment, paid in full 3 months before departure to ensure your
however vouchers can be transferred for use against another booking is not cancelled.
Steam Dreams trip. In the event of a customer cancellation, the Terms & Conditions for Holidays (5+ days)
cancellation/transfer conditions stated below will apply. Third Customer Cancellation
party vouchers may only be redeemed on particular trips, as Should the customer choose to cancel their booked trip on
specified by Steam Dreams. If you choose to cancel a booking The Cathedrals Explorer for whatever reason, the greater
made with a third party voucher within 7 days of departure, the of the following charges will apply:
third party voucher is non-transferable. Discounts may only be • Up to 4 months before travel - 10% fee (or loss of deposit)
used against bookings made after the date of issue and cannot
•B
etween 4 months and 3 months before travel - 25% fee
be retrospectively added to any previous bookings.
(or loss of deposit)
Deposits
• Between 3 months and 2 months before travel - 50% fee
All deposits are non-transferable or refundable, even if
• Between 2 months and 1 month before travel - 75% fee
subsequent payment has been made for the full balance.
Outstanding balances should be paid in full two months • Within 1 month of the departure date - 100% fee
before departure to ensure your booking is not cancelled. Outstanding balances should be paid in full 4 months before
Terms & Conditions for Short Breaks (2-4 Days) the departure date to ensure your booking is not cancelled.
Customer Cancellation During your time with us, please bring any problems you may
Should the customer choose to cancel their booked short experience to the attention of the management so that we may
break for whatever reason, the greater of the following try to rectify them swiftly. Optional day trips running as part
charges will apply: of a holiday are covered by day trip terms and conditions.
35STEAM DREAMS, PO BOX 169, ALBURY, GUILDFORD, SURREY, GU5 9YS
CALL VISIT EMAIL
01483 209 888 www.SteamDreams.co.uk info@steamdreams.co.uk
Follow us on The Steam Dreams Rail Co. @Steam_Dreams
and @cathedralsexpress
Bryherley Ltd, Albury Lodge, The Street, Albury, Guildford, Surrey GU5 9AE. Registered in England No. 4036827You can also read
