The Steam Dreams Rail Co., provider of luxurious and unforgettable steam train journeys, today announces the launch of their much-anticipated Lakes Express holiday from the 9th – 12th September 2025.

 Step back in time and journey through breathtaking landscapes aboard a classic steam train. Feel the power of the locomotive, hear the rhythmic chug of the wheels, and breathe in the nostalgia of a golden era of travel as you are whisked away on a unique holiday experience where every mile reveals stunning vistas and timeless elegance.

Over four days, passengers will enjoy two days of travel by private charter train to the Lake District and back.  The journey will pass through dramatic mountain scenery, along the famous Settle & Carlilse Railway and the rugged coastal views of Cumbria.   

Passengers will have two full days to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District with organised optional excursions, including a tranquil Lake Cruise and visits to two of the region's most charming heritage railways - The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and the narrow gauge Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. For lovers of country houses and stunning gardens there will be trips to the enchanting Holker Hall, Wordsworth House and Beatrix Potter's House.

With a selection of handpicked hotels all, boasting stunning views of Lake Windermere or the far-reaching countryside, each hotel has been chosen for its unique character and charm and carefully selected to match each class of travel – Pullman Dining, First Class and Premium Standard. 

Pullman Dining - from £2250 per person.

A sumptuous culinary experience aboard lovingly restored vintage carriages, adorned with polished brass and fine woodwork. A multi-course seasonal menu will be served on days 1 and 4, accompanied by a half a bottle of wine per person with a cheese course and petit fours. Evening meals will be served in the hotel on days 2 and 3. Pullman Dining passengers will stay at the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa, just a short walk from the bustling town of Bowness-on-Windermere, perfectly located on the shores of the Lake. Facilities include a private jetty, lakeside moorings, one of the Lake District's most popular spas and the Lakeview Restaurant. All rooms have a lake view or a partial lake view. Those looking for more seclusion have the option to a stay at the Grade II listed Storrs Hall*, shortlisted for the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2023. This impressive hotel boasts 17 acres of private grounds.

First Class (non-dining) - from £1225 per person.

A sanctuary for those seeking a refined and leisurely journey without dining-on-board, First Class offers guests an unparalleled journey into the past aboard elegantly restored carriages with comfortable and spacious seating around tables of two and four. First Class guests are greeted with Bucks Fizz and freshly brewed coffee and tea. Guests have the option to add an Afternoon Tea to their booking (supplement applies), visit the Buffet Car for additional drinks or snacks, or bring their own picnic on board. First Class Passengers will stay at either the characterful Cragwood Country House Hotel on the shores of Lake Windermere with acres of landscaped gardens, at the Ro Hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere in lake view rooms, or the award-winning Lindeth Fell Country House Hotel set in an elegant Edwardian house with far reaching views of Lake Windermere.

Premium Standard (non-dining) - from £850 per person

Offers a nostalgic and authentic journey on board a beautifully restored carriage that embodies the charm of a bygone era, with its classic decor and comfortable seating around tables for four. Complimentary tea and coffee are served during the journey, with additional drinks or snacks available to purchase from the Buffet Car. Guests also have the option to bring their own picnic on board. Premium Standard Passengers will stay at the Ro Hotel, a contemporary hotel which sits in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Holiday package prices: Premium Standard (non-dining) from £850 per person. First Class (non-dining) from £1225 per person. Pullman Dining from £2250 per person. Price includes two days' travel by private charter train from London to the Lake District and return, hauled by vintage diesel, electric and steam locomotives, three nights' hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, coach transfers between the train and hotels, luggage courier service, transporting all luggage from the station to hotel rooms and a team of helpful staff both on board the train and at hotels to ensure a memorable and enjoyable journey.

Juliet Soley, Head of Communications at Steam Dreams Rail Co. commented: 'It is not often one can claim the journey is as magical as the destination but in the case of our Lakes Express holiday, this is definitely true. From the moment passengers are greeted by our livered stewards to enjoying impeccable on-board service, a stunning selection of hotels and range of excursions this trip promises memories that will last a lifetime.'

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

- ENDS-

For further information contact WixHill PR:

Jo White

jo@wixhill.co.uk

+ 44 (0) 798 9814340 

Editor's Notes:

Resource Library

Please access further information and images here. The carriages currently in use differ to those used prior to Steam Dreams joining the LSG family. Pictures held on file from past years are not an accurate reflection of the enhanced carriages now in use. Additional images are available on request.

Gift Vouchers

Valid for a full year from date of purchase, gift vouchers must be booked before the voucher expires but travel can take place after this date. Gift vouchers start at £50. Gift tickets can also be purchased which summarize the trip itinerary purchased without prices and come in a special presentation wallet.

Carbon Offset

The Steam Dreams Rail Co, was the first rail charter to be carbon neutral. For the last ten years the company has offset annually the carbon footprint of all aspects of its operation.

Steam Dreams journeys are pulled by a range of locomotives:

• 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley
• 61306 Mayflower
• 70000 Britannia
• 46100 Royal Scot
• 34046 Braunton

About The Steam Dreams Rail Co.

• The first tour left London for Salisbury in December 1999
• 25 years later, the company is proud to be offering day trips to multiple destinations, picking up passengers at regional stations across the UK every year
• The Steam Dreams Rail Co. is now delighted to offer a number of multi-day tours around the British Isles.
• In June 2022, The Steam Dreams Rail Co. was acquired by Locomotive Services Group (LSG).
• LSG have been involved in the railway industry for many years and bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge as well as a large stable of locomotives and different carriages.