Enjoy a day out by steam this summer – and save £20 per person with the Milton Keynes Citizen in 2026


For a special day out to remember this summer, how about a steam journey across the dramatic Settle & Carlisle Railway, along the beautiful Cumbrian coast or to fun-filled Blackpool?
The Railway Touring Company is offering MK Citizen readers a £20pp saving on a choice of exciting steam adventures departing from Milton Keynes.
Select and book your day out, step on board, sit back and relax as your special train takes you back to the golden era of rail travel – a memorable adventure for all the family.
The Cumbrian Coast Express
On Saturday, June 27, The Cumbrian Coast Express will head north to meet a historic steam locomotive at Carnforth for a scenic journey with dramatic views of the Cumbrian Coast.
A stop at Ravenglass provides the opportunity to visit the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, which is included in the ticket price, or for an extra £30pp you can choose to visit Muncaster Castle.
Celebrate 150 years of the Settle & Carlisle Railway
The Settle & Carlisle Railway opened to passenger trains in 1876, so why not make this 150th anniversary the year you experience England’s most breathtaking route?
The Cumbrian Mountain Express will leave from Milton Keynes on Saturday, August 1, to travel north to Carnforth where this vintage train will be met by a magnificent steam locomotive for the journey over the Cumbrian Fells, including a run through beautiful Lune Gorge.
Stopping at border city Carlisle for a break, there is chance to explore the castle, cathedral, museum, shops and cafes before re-boarding for the highlight of the day – steam across the Settle & Carlisle Railway. This stunning route includes the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, a steep climb up to Ais Gill summit and views of the mighty Three Peaks.


The Blackpool Steam Express
For a day combining steam, sea, sand and, hopefully, sun take The Blackpool Steam Express on Saturday, August 22. Departing from Milton Keynes early in the morning, the train will be joined by a mighty steam locomotive at Crewe for the onward journey to the North West’s most famous seaside resort.
At Blackpool there is lots to see and do! Check out the famous Tower and Winter Gardens, enjoy the beach, visit Madame Tussauds, stroll along one of the three piers or take a vintage tram ride along the seafront before rejoining your train for the homeward journey with steam as far as Crewe.
Find more details of these and other steam adventures visit The Railway Touring Company’s website at: https://www.railwaytouring.net/milton-keynes
Treat yourself – dine on board
The Railway Touring Company’s travel options include Standard, with refreshments to purchase on board, or bring your own picnic, and First with brunch in the morning and a light meal in the afternoon served at your seat.
Special occasion? Go for Premier Dining. Sit back at your linen-covered table to enjoy a full English breakfast and a four-course dinner, all freshly prepared on board, silver served to you as you watch the world go by.
Save £20pp
The Railway Touring Company is offering MK Citizen readers a £20 per person discount. Visit The Railway Touring Company for details, booking code and T&Cs.
