Spring steam adventures: Take the train and save £20pp with the MK Citizen

Let the train take the strain as you head over the famous Settle & Carlisle Line or along the dramatic Cumbrian coast. Sit back and relax as you experience a memorable day out reminiscent of the golden age of rail travel.

Chose your steam adventure now, book with the MK Citizen £20pp discount code and look forward to a great day out.

Settle & Carlisle Line

Step on board the Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express from Milton Keynes on Saturdays, February 7, 21 and 28, for a day to remember. These trains will head north to Carnforth where they will be met by a magnificent steam locomotive for the onward 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 Line. This stunning route includes the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, a steep climb up to Ais Gill summit and views of the mighty Three Peaks.

The Cumbrian Coast Express

The scenic grandeur of the Cumbrian Fells and the exposed Cumbrian coastline provide contrasting views from your seat as you travel on board The Cumbrian Coast Express on Saturday, March 21.

Again, departing from Milton Keynes, this special train will set out hauled by a Blue Class 86 electric locomotive for an exciting run over the Cumbrian Fells, including challenging climbs up to Grayrigg and Shap summits.

Following a visit to Carlisle, where you can stretch your legs, the train will be joined by an historic steam locomotive for the return route which will take you along the coast with spectacular cliff edge views and the Isle of Man visible on a clear day across the Irish Sea, followed by a run along the shoreline towards St Bees.

The Cumbrian Mountain Express

On Saturday, March 28, there is another opportunity to travel over the dramatic Settle & Carlisle Line by steam. The Cumbrian Mountain Express will meet an historic steam locomotive at Carnforth, then make its way over the rugged Cumbrian Fells into Carlisle.

Visit ancient Carlisle’s castle, see the cathedral, check out the Tullie House Museum or explore the shops, then step back on board for the return over the breathtaking Settle & Carlisle Line, one of the best loved stretches of railway line in Britain. Watch out for viaducts, including the Ribblehead, long tunnels through hillsides, England’s highest railway station at Dent and views of the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, along the way.

Details of these and other steam adventures are available on The Railway Touring Company’s website.

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-clad 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.