USEFUL INFORMATION
Frequently Asked Questions
Click on a question below to see the answer. If you have any other questions which have not been covered on this page please do not hesitate to contact us on +44 (0)1483 209888 or email [email protected].
Are the carriages suitable for wheelchairs?
Unfortunately, our heritage carriages don’t allow for wheelchair boarding. Please contact us to discuss specific mobility needs in relation to wheelchair use, and we’ll be able to advise on any route-specific accessibility issues (such as station footbridges).
Can I request a forward facing seat?
Unfortunately we never know prior to departure which way round our train will be configured in relation to direction of travel, so this is not possible.
Can we take our own food and drink items when travelling in Standard or First Class?
Yes, it is perfectly in order to do this and many people chose to take their own picnic hampers on board and use the range of products from the buffet bar to top up as required. Please note though it is not permitted to do so when travelling in Pullman Dining.
Do you have lavatories on the train?
Yes, lavatories are situated at each end of every carriage on the train.
For Pullman Dining can you cater for dietary requirements other than Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free and Pescatarian?
There are multiple types of special dietary requirements, as a rule of thumb we cater for the main variants being Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free and Pescatarian as standard which must be requested no later than 7 days prior to departure. If you have a requirement other than that please call our reservation team to discuss before booking as many requests can sometimes be quite easily accommodated by our experienced on board Chefs. If we can , we will, if we can not we will be honest and tell you before you book.
How do I know which platform my train departs from?
Upon arrival at your departure station please check the information screens or ask a member of station staff.
I’ve booked a tour that departs from a specific station, but I’d like to embark further up the line. Is this possible?
Yes, you can. Please let us know so our crew can look out for you, and bear in mind that you’ll pay the same price wherever you embark.
What is the dress code on board?
There is no official dress code for our trains although if you are travelling in Pullman Dining, the custom is to dress smartly. We do request that no sportswear is worn in Pullman Dining. Please be aware that temperatures can vary on the train (modern forms of climate control are not in use), so it is advisable to wear layers that can be added or removed as required.
Will my carriage always be pulled by a steam locomotive?
We will always do our best to ensure our trains are hauled by steam locomotive. On very rare occasions, we have needed to substitute the steam engine with a diesel locomotive. This is always a last resort and only when absolutely necessary in circumstances such as steam bans due to fire risk, drought or unexpected mechanical failures.
Will my party be seated together?
Yes, we always seat parties of any number together at the same, adjacent or consecutive rows dictated by the number of people.
ACCOMODATION FAQ’S
Are there transfers between the station and the hotel?
When hotel accommodation is included as part of the tour we always provide transfers for you and your luggage between the railway station and the hotel.
How do I find out more about my hotel?
The best way is simply to look at the hotel’s own website. This should be able to give you all the information you need about the hotel’s facilities.
BOOKING FAQ’S
Can I book my children onto a tour?
Yes, you can. Children are welcome in First and Standard Class; however, the Premier carriage is reserved for adults and children aged 12 and over only.
Is the return journey included in the price?
All trips are return and this is included in the cost. We never offer a one-way service.
What is the difference between Pullman Dining and First Class?
Pullman Dining includes all meal services on board the train as specified in the tour information. First Class includes an at seat service of complimentary beverage and snack items as well as a comprehensive range of further items to purchase as you require from our buffet bar.
When will we receive our travel documents?
Travel documents including boarding cards, confirmed passenger timings and any relevant itinerary information will be sent to you by post or email and you should receive these approximately 5-7 days prior to the departure date.