Give the gift of steam this Christmas – and save £20 per person with the MK Citizen

How about a journey of a lifetime travelling by steam over Britain’s most famous railway, the Settle & Carlisle Line?

The Railway Touring Company’s Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express will run on Saturdays, February 6 and 27. Setting out from London Euston, this special train will pick up passengers at Watford Junction, Milton Keynes and Rugby for a rail adventure to remember.

What better way to brighten up someone’s new year than a great day out reminiscent of the golden age of rail travel and you can save £20pp with the MK Citizen!

Steam across the Cumbrian Fells

The Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express offers a wonderful winter’s day out, combining a high-speed run up the West Coast Main Line with the unforgettable experience of steam over the Cumbrian Fells and the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway.

The train will travel north behind a blue Class 86 electric locomotive before a historic steam locomotive joins the train from Carnforth. From there, you can enjoy the drama of the Cumbrian Fells with the challenging climb towards Grayrigg, beautiful Lune Gorge and the testing ascent up to Shap.

Descending through Penrith and on to Carlisle, you will have time to explore this ancient border city with its castle, cathedral, museum, shops and places for refreshments.

The famous Settle & Carlisle Line

In the afternoon the legendary Settle & Carlisle Railway awaits. One of Britain’s best-loved and most spectacular railway routes, the line climbs through the Eden Valley pausing at Appleby for the loco to take on water before tackling the climb up to Ais Gill, the highest point on the Settle & Carlisle Line. The train steams through dramatic landscapes of sweeping fells, tunnels and impressive viaducts, including the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct.

Later in the afternoon, while you relax on board this special train will leave the steam loco at Preston where it will be rejoined by the blue electric locomotive for a fast run home.

Treat yourself – dine on board

The Railway Touring Company offers four travel options, including Standard and Standard First both with the option of purchasing refreshments from the buffet car and licensed bar or bringing your own picnic. First includes brunch in the morning and tea or coffee with a sweet treat served at your seat in the afternoon.

For a real treat select Premier Dining to sit back at your linen-covered table for a full English breakfast and a four-course dinner, all freshly prepared on board and silver served to you as you watch the world go by.

How you can 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.