Steam Dreams Rail Co, provider of luxurious and unforgettable steam train journeys, today announces its schedule of summer departures from London Victoria by historic steam locomotive. The Garden of England Lunchtime Tour to Kent and the Sunset Steam Express Evening Tour through The Surrey Hills return to the carefully curated collection of blissful explorations this summer, blending scenic beauty and unparalleled service with the romance of rail travel.

Passengers can travel in one of three classes: Pullman Dining, featuring menus crafted from the finest, locally sourced seasonal produce, served in lovingly restored vintage carriages with plush, spacious armchair seating; First Class, offering a sanctuary for those seeking a refined and leisurely journey without dining-on-board. New for 2024, First Class passengers will have access to the exclusive Hippocrene Bar; a private enclave where passengers can soak up the convivial atmosphere in this stylish bar with table and lounge seating or Premium Standard, where comfort and the destination are equally enchanting.

Garden of England Lunchtime Tour

Showcasing the beauty of the Kent countryside, this nostalgic tour offers passengers a view of Kent's picturesque landscapes, vibrant fauna and Flora, dynamic coastline, and the majestic White Cliffs of Dover.

This memorable day trip departs from London Victoria, before cutting eastward to the North Downs and crossing the River Medway to Canterbury. Leaving the Cathedral behind, the historic locomotive begins its final climb to the southernly tip of the Kent Downs before descending to meet the South Coast at Dover steaming beneath the famous White Cliffs alongside the Channel. The train will then run northwards, cutting across the heart of Kent to Tonbridge before passing through Sevenoaks on our way back to London Victoria.

Pullman guests will be welcomed on board with a glass of Champagne and canapés, followed by a three-course lunch, accompanied by a half bottle of wine per person and concluding with coffee and petit fours. First Class guests are welcomed on board with Bucks Fizz and freshly brewed coffee and tea. Additional drinks can be purchased from the luxurious Hippocrene Bar. Passengers also have the option to add a Traditional Afternoon Tea to their booking (supplement applies, subject to availability). Premium Standard passengers can enjoy the sights and sounds of steam travel and the camaraderie of fellow travellers, whilst enjoying complimentary tea and coffee.

2024 departure dates: 20 June, 9 July, 16 July, 23 July, 30 July, 6 August, 13 August, and 20 August.

Timings: The historic locomotive, 70000 Britannia will depart London Victoria at 10 a.m. and will return at 15.15 p.m.

Prices: Premium Standard (non-dining) from £85 per person, First Class (non-dining) from £145 per person, and Pullman Dining from £225 per person.

Sunset Steam Express

Also departing from London Victoria, this ever-popular odyssey offers a nostalgic steam voyage through The Surrey Hills, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Passengers will soak up stunning views as the train traverses the suburbs of London for the steep climb of the Surrey Hills at sunset. Often described as 'one of England's finest landscapes', The Surrey Hills stretch across the chalk North Downs. The grandeur and beauty of these hills embrace an amazing variety of countryside from rolling chalk downs and flower rich grasslands, to acid heaths and woodlands.

Pullman Dining guests will be welcomed on board with a glass of Champagne, followed by a three-course evening meal concluding with freshly brewed coffee. Special dietary requirements such as Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free and Pescatarian, can be catered for. First Class guests can sink into comfy seats as scenic vistas unfold, or venture through to the restored Hippocrene Bar (named after the fountain of Mount Helicon in Greek Mythology), available exclusively to First Class guests. Drinks from a specially curated cocktail menu can be purchased here whilst guests embrace the convivial atmosphere and mingle with fellow passengers. Premium Standard passengers will enjoy complimentary tea and coffee or can treat themselves to the selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks from the Buffet Car.

2024 departure dates: 20 June, 9 July, 16 July, 23 July, 30 July, 6 August, 13 August, and 20 August.

Timings: The historic locomotive, 70000 Britannia will depart London Victoria at 18.15 and will return at 10.00 p.m.

Prices: Premium Standard (non-dining) from £75 per person, First Class (non-dining) from £100 per person, and Pullman Dining from £175 per person.

For further information and to book call 01483 209888 or visit www.steamdreams.co.uk

To review a departure, please email Jo White, jo@wixhill.co.uk