Steam Tours 2019 Itineraries

Steam Tours 2019 - In Full with Day to Day Itineraries.

D resden S team F estival & U ltimate S axon N arrow G auge

FOCUS ON STEAM WITH RAILTRAIL TOURS

9 DAYS

14 DAYS

Everything you can’t do in the UK – Dresden Steam Festival with visiting engines coming on and off shed. Footplate rides.Tour the reserve collection not normally open to the public. Plus 4 amazing mainline steam journeys from Dresden including parallel running, 2 private steam charters at Saxon Narrow gauge lines, and experience three more of the other famous Saxon narrow gauge steam lines and a relaxing evening paddle steamer cruise. Then we travel into the beautiful Ore Mountains for another mainline steam tour, the three remaining and remote Saxon narrow gauge steam lines, plus steam on a brilliant Parkeisenbahn, and two wonderful steam depots. Lots and lots of steam action both standard and narrow gauge with rare haulage and the chance to ‘complete the set’ of all Saxon lines in one go!

OR

DEPARTS Wednesday 10th April 2019

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ Dresden Steam Festival at Dresden Altstadt Depot ★ ★ 4 mainline steam excursions ★ ★ Private steam photo charter on Döllnitztalbahn ★ ★ Private steam photo charter on the Waldeisenbahn Muskau ★ ★ Visit Railway Museum at Weisswasser ★ ★ Articulated 8-wheeled Saxon-Meyer locomotives ★ ★ Ride the newly extended Weisseritztalbahn ★ ★ A full day on the Zittau-Oybin-Jonsdorf line ★ ★ Tour Bertsdorf shed ★ ★ Steam along the whole of the Lössnitzgrundbahn ★ ★ Paddle steamer cruise on the River Elbe ★ ★ Centrally located hotel in Dresden ★ ★ Visit the superb Chemnitz Railway Museum (Double Roundhouse over 60 locos steam/ diesel) ★ ★ Steam on the Chemnitz Parkeisenbahn ★ ★ A full day of steam on the mountainous Fichtelbergbahn ★ ★ Guided tour of Schwarzenburg Railway Museum (steam locos in former DB steam shed) ★ ★ Rare opportunity to enjoy steam on the remote Schönheide line ★ ★ Full day mainline steam excursion ★ ★ Steam on the delightful Pressnitztalbahn ★ ★ Lovely hotel in the scenic Ore Mountains Region FARE From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to / from Dresden, including £2499 Standard Eurostar First Class rail travel to / from Erfurt / Chemnitz, including £2799 Standard Premier Eurostar Single Room Supplement £299 13 nights’ bed & breakfast, 3 evening meals, 4 light lunches / snacks Standard Class rail travel and seat reservations where available (subject to selected rail travel option) All transfers, excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager GUARANTEED FARE – no currency surcharge Fare based upon sharing a twin-bedded en-suite room; single rooms available – supplement as shown. Important Note: Whilst the arrangements for all described steam train travel are in place we do reserve the right to make substitutions should it be deemed necessary for whatever reason. Your acceptance of this is a condition of your booking.

Fares 9 DAYS From £1799 14 DAYS From £2499

Dresden Steam Festival

© SDG Kati Schmidt

Dresden Steam Festival

© Dirk Fisher

Lößnitzgrundbahn

© SDG Kati Schmidt

Schönheide Line

Fichtelbergbahn

Dresden Waterfront

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

ITINERARY

DAY 1 Wednesday 10 April: Depart London St. Pancras International and travel by Eurostar and ICE train, via Frankfurt Flughafen (Airport) to Erfurt. For one night at the InterCity Hotel. (D) DAY 2 Thursday 11 April: We transfer by train to Oschatz for an exclusive private steam photo charter on one of our personal favourite lines the 20 kms long Döllnitzbahn. Our private charter is scheduled for one of the beautiful Saxon- Mayer locomotives and we will have a light snack lunch aboard the train. We then continue to Dresden for our accommodation at the centrally located Ibis Hotel in the heart of this beautiful city. (B,L) DAY 3 Friday 12 April: We transfer by private coach for a visit to the fabulous Dresden Steam Festival at Alstadt amidst the nostalgic atmosphere of a traditional working steam shed, with lots of locos in steam, footplate rides and visiting engines, including the opportunity to visit the reserve collection of the museum not normally open to the public. Dresden is also home to the biggest paddle steamer fleet in the world and our day concludes with a relaxing evening paddle steamer cruise along the River Elbe with the remainder of the evening free to enjoy this truly wonderful city with its magnificent waterfront of historic buildings. (B) DAY 4 - 5 Sat - Sun 13 - 14 April: It’s two full days of steam out on the mainline from Dresden using locomotives from the festival. Whilst destinations have not yet been announced we have always previously been able to include the unique experience of parallel steam running over a considerable distance, and a thrash up the steep Tharandt incline with the two trains each taking turns overtaking the other - see our Dresden Steam Festival film on our website it’s an amazing sight giving all participants the opportunity to see at close quarters powerful steam locomotives hard at work. Over the two days we are anticipating a total of four different runs two each morning and afternoon. (B) DAY 6 Monday 15 April: We board our regional train to the Polish border for one of Saxony’s finest 750 mm narrow gauge routes, from Zittau to the mountain spa resorts of Oybin and Jonsdorf, which is still very much a public service over the ten miles long route. This is a full day rover so all lines will be covered, including the opportunity to photograph the parallel departure at Bertsdorf, along with a main course lunch and an engine shed tour at this junction station. (B) DAY 7 T uesday 16 April: Travelling by train we alight at Radebeul for a morning steam run on the 750 mm narrow gauge Lössnitzgrundbahn, a delightful 17 kms line which still operates a public service between Radebeul and Radeburg including some street running! We then transfer by train to enjoy an afternoon of 750 mm gauge steam on the newly extended Weisseritztalbahn line meandering up the Weisseritz valley with an open coach to travel in if you wish. Operating over 26 kms through varying scenery, with 13 stations, and the steepest part of the line on the newly reopened section to the terminus at Kipsdorf. Known as one of Europes’ great narrow gauge railways, this is a ride not to be missed. We then return by train to Dresden for an evening free to further explore this beautiful city. (B)

DAY 8 Wednesday 17 April: Travelling by train we visit the Forest Railway at Bad Muskau, the Waldeisenbahn. Here we have a private steam photo charter along this 600 mm line using one of its 0-8-0T locomotives which will operate either between Muskau and Weisswasser or through the Forest and parkland to Kromlau. A light snack lunch is included. We return by train to Dresden for a final evening in this wonderful city. (B,L) DAY 9 Thursday 18 April: 9 day tour participants returning to London via Frankfurt and Brussells, whilst those on 14 day tour our luggage is privately transferred by road we travel by train from Dresden to Chemnitz for a visit to probably the biggest steam railway museum in Germany housed in the original dual roundhouses set in the extensive old railway yard at Chemnitz Hilbersdorf. Home to a magnificent collection of over sixty standard gauge steam, diesel and electric locomotives Chemnitz is a genuine trip into a time warp bubble of yesteryear. After our visit which includes a light lunch at the depot we continue by train high into the scenic Ore Mountains region to the pretty town of Annaberg-Bucholz situated almost on the border to the Czech Republic. Here we enjoy 4 nights at the traditional Wilder Mann hotel in the heart of the town and enjoy this evening a welcome 3 course dinner. (9 day B) (14 day B,L,D) DAY 10 Friday 19 April: By train from Annaberg-Bucholz on the short scenic journey along the Sehma Valley to Cranzahl where a day of steam awaits on the fabulous 17 km long, 750 mm gauge Fichtelbergbahn, climbing around 250 m through nine stations to the ski resort of Oberwiesenthal, the highest town in Germany. We include lunch and a tour of the loco workshops whilst completing two full-line return journeys, including crossing the 100 m long, 23 m high, lattice girder bridge at the entrance to Oberwiesenthal station. (B,L) DAY 11 Saturday 20 April: Staying high up in the Ore Mountains region a private coach will transfer us to the town of Schwarzenberg where we visit the railway museum located in the former DB roundhouse which has a fine collection of steam and diesel locomotives. Our coach will then take us very close to the Czech border and the very rural Museumsbahn Schönheide where we have an afternoon trip on the 4 Kms long, 750 mm, narrow gauge Museumsbahn Schönheide line. (B) DAY 12 Sunday 21 April: A day of standard gauge steam aboard an excursion using one of the Schwarzenberg locomotives through the Ore mountains region over a route rarely used by steam excursions. (B) DAY 13 Monday 22 April: Saxon narrow-gauge steam in idyllic pastures. We travel to Jöhstadt for our final Saxon line, the 9 km long, 750 mm Pressnitztalbahn. A wonderfully relaxing run along a most scenic rural line. We conclude this fabulous tour travelling back to Chemnitz where we visit the Parkeisenbahn for a steam hauled trip around Küchwald Park. We then transfer to the Dorint Hotel for our final evening followed by dinner at a charming local restaurant. (B,D) DAY 14 Tuesday 23 April: Today it’s homeward bound, our private coach will transfer us to Chemnitz Railway Station for a journey back to London St. Pancras. (B)

HOTELS InterCity Hotel, Erfurt

Wilder Mann, Annaberg-Bucholz A lovely traditional hotel located in the Market Square of the Ore Mountains town of Annaberg-Bucholz. The hotel has two restaurants including a cellar bar. All rooms are equipped with bath / shower, WC, hair dryer, cosmetic mirror, TV incl. Sky-Cinema,

Situated adjacent to the station the hotel has a pleasant bar and restaurant serving local and international specialities. Modern en-suite rooms include satellite TV, radio, mini-bar and WiFi. Ibis Hotel, Dresden A short stroll from the station, located in the heart of the city near to the historic Old Town, the Ibis hotels are inviting and modern, with comfortable bedrooms, air- conditioning, WiFi access, satellite TV and en-suite bathrooms with shower and hair dryer.

telephone, free W-LAN and minibar Dorint Hotel, Chemnitz

A short walk from the station and in the centre of Chemnitz. The Hotel room has bath/ shower WC, hair dryer mirror, flat screen tv, free wi-fi, and small refrigerator. All rooms have tea and coffee making facilities.

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

D evon R iviera by S team

A wonderful short break on the English Riviera to explore the beauty and charm of Devon’s magnificent coast by boat and two of Devon’s finest steam railways.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Fares From £359

DAY 1 For those travelling with us by train, experience one of England’s most quintessential holiday welcoming moments – the great railway journey along the sea wall at Dawlish , before climbing high into the rural pasturelands of the Devon hills then descending back to the coast to arrive on the English Riviera at Torquay . We transfer to the Livermead House Hotel, conveniently situated on Torquay’s seafront. (D) ★ ★ Dinner every evening ★ ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ ★ Hotel Porterage ★ ★ A lovely introduction to Devon ★ ★ Arrive in Torquay along one of Britain’s truly great coastal rail journeys ★ ★ Enjoy the South Devon Steam Railway to Buckfastleigh ★ ★ Travel by steam train along the beautiful English Riviera coast line ★ ★ Glorious sightseeing around Torquay ★ ★ Visit Dartmouth, historic naval town ★ ★ Idyllic circular cruise viewing sights from the majestic River Dart ★ ★ Hotel on the stunning seafront Also included in your Tour Fare:

Dartmouth Steam Railway

4 DAYS

© Mark Dickin RTL

DAY 2 We travel to Totnes , where we join the oldest preserved steam railway in the south-west, the South Devon Railway. Following a pretty route through the Dart Valley on a former GWR branch line, we follow a scenic seven mile journey connecting the beautifully maintained stations at Totnes and Buckfastleigh . After free time we return to Torquay . The day is then free for you to enjoy at leisure in Torquay; perhaps take ”the mile” stroll around the harbour and seafront spotting the clues linked to a character in Agatha Christie’s books, or take the sea ferry to Brixham, home of the “Golden Hind” replica of the iconic Tudor ship (B,D) DAY 3 Today we travel by steam train alongside the English Riviera coastline to Churston, then on through the wooded slopes of Long Wood bordering the Dart Estuary to Kingswear. We take a short ferry crossing to the historic resort of Dartmouth where there is free time for some sightseeing and a gentle circular river cruise viewing Bayards Cove, Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, Britannia Royal Naval College, Dittisham Village, and Sir Walter Raleigh’s Boathouse. We return by steam train to Paignton, and onwards to our hotel. (B,D) DAY 4 We bid farewell to new found friends and return homeward. (B)

DEPARTS

Monday 8 April 2019 Wednesday 8 May 2019 Monday 3 June 2019 Monday 23 September 2019

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST STANDARD RC

London: Paddington Greater London South of England

£510 £540 £540 £565 £420 £535 £570 £630 £685 £600 £670 £615 £735

£450 -£10 £470 -£15 £470 -£15 £495 -£20 £395 -£5 £460 -£15 £460 -£15 £505 -£25 £530 -£25 £485 -£20 £485 -£20 £485 -£20 £570 -£30

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Scotland

HOTEL The Livermead House Hotel The Livermead House Hotel in Torquay is an elegant hotel built in 1820 on the edge of Cockington Valley on Torquay sea front in the heart of The English Riviera, Torbay. The Livermead House offers a traditional flavour on Torquay’s water’s edge. It’s a level walk along the promenade to the town centre and there is free Wi-Fi Internet access in all public areas. £359 MAY / JUNE / SEPT Departure Supplement £30 Single Room Supplement £40 3 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’Hôte evening meal Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Hotel Porterage Join & Leave at Hotel

South Devon Railway

© SDR

Beautiful Torquay

River Dart Cruise

© Adobe Stock

© Dartmouth Steam Railway

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

K ent & S ussex E aster S team E xplorer

FOCUS ON STEAM WITH RAILTRAIL TOURS

We stay beside the River Medway in the historic county town of Maidstone on this fascinating Easter break featuring six famous steam lines, a historic dockyard steam festival - plus a taste of Kent with a real ale Brewer’s Supper.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Fares From £599

DAY 1 Travel from your home station to Maidstone. After registering at the Travelodge Hotel we have a welcome evening tour of the renowned real ale Shepherd Neame brewery. Upon completion of the tour we have a 2 course Brewer’s Supper, including a tasting of their fine ale, whilst enjoying the opportunity to chat and socialise. (D) DAY 2 Today we visit two of Kent’s finest heritage railways, commencing at the beautiful Kent & East Sussex Railway where we take the steam train journey from Tenterden to Bodiam and return. We break our journey on the return at Rolvenden to view the locomotive collection. We also include time to enjoy lunch and to look around at Tenterden station, including entrance to the Colonel Stephens Museum who built this and many other light railways. This afternoon, we continue by coach to Hythe for a journey on the superb Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway - the world’s smallest public railway (15” gauge). The exhilarating journey takes us to Dungeness then returning as far as New Romney to view the locomotives and model railway. Our coach returns us to Maidstone where the evening is free for you to dine at leisure. (B) DAY 3 A short road journey brings us to the Spa Valley Railway where we have ample time for a steam ride on the 5 miles route to Eridge and to view the locomotive and rolling stock collection in the historic, original, 1886 shed at Tunbridge Wells West station. A second diesel hauled run along the line includes complimentary sandwich, hot and cold drinks, or a bottle of real ale from a local brewery. In the afternoon we take the short journey to Isfield station, home of the Lavender ★ ★ Bluebell Railway ★ ★ Kent & East Sussex Railway and loco collections ★ ★ Colonel Stephen’s Museum, Tenterden ★ ★ Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway - the world’s smallest public railway ★ ★ The Festival of Steam & Transport Gala at Historic Dockyard Chatham ★ ★ The unique Sittingbourne & Kemsley Steam Railway ★ ★ The Spa Valley Railway ★ ★ The Lavender line ★ ★ Shepherd Neame brewery tour

Kent & East Sussex Railway

5 DAYS

© Bill Oates

line for a 2 mile run through the Wealden countryside at this very friendly standard gauge line. (B,L) DAY 4 Returning to the rails we travel by train to visit the Chatham Historic Dockyard for its Festival of Steam & Transport Gala, combining road, rail and sea. In the afternoon we continue by rail to Sittingbourne for steam on the unique Sittingbourne & Kemsley Railway. Having been close to closure it is reassuring to be able to visit the unique 760 mm gauge line at this paper mill site - a true industrial light railway. We conclude our day with our return rail journey to Maidstone, where again the evening is free for you to dine at leisure. (B) DAY 5 Our tour concludes with a private coach transfer to the Bluebell Railway - Britain’s very first standard gauge preserved steam railway. Here we have individual day rover tickets affording multiple return journeys along the length of the line including time to view the wonderful locomotive collection at Sheffield Park and the historic station at Horsted Keynes, which has featured many times in films and television period dramas. After our visit to “The Bluebell” we bid farewell at approx. 17.00 hrs at East Grinstead to those having booked with Railtrail Tours’ unique ‘rail-inclusive’ tour fares, whilst those having booked ‘Tour Base’ fares return by private coach to Maidstone arriving approx. 18.15 hrs. (B)

DEPARTS Thursday 18 April 2019

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST STANDARD

London: Terminal Greater London South of England

£650 £655 £685 £710 £785 £835 £835 £850 £905 £885 £785 £895 £930

£635 £640 £655 £670 £710 £695 £695 £735 £725 £710 £725 £725 £780

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotel

£599

Single Room Supplement £125 4 nights’ bed & breakfast 1 Brewers supper 1 Light lunch Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

HOTEL Travelodge Hotel, Maidstone

The Travelodge Maidstone Central Hotel is river-side, a short walk from the High Street shops and restaurants. The hotel has a bar and café restaurant, where we will take our buffet-style full English breakfast. Bedrooms are en-suite and have TV and coffee & tea making facilities. Low cost evening meals are available at the hotel as an optional extra.

Bluebell Railway

Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

© Derek Haywood

© Tony Dimmer

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

B elgium ’ s I nternational S team F estival & M ore

FOCUS ON STEAM WITH RAILTRAIL TOURS

Spend a day at Maldegem’s International Steam Festival, explore Belgium’s seaside by specially chartered vintage tram, steam through the Dutch countryside on the Goes-Borsele Railway and enjoy our private steam charter on part of Belgium’s Puurs- Dendermonde heritage line. Based in gorgeous Gent, explore the city by tram, cruise its waterways and taste Belgian beer at a renowned brewery.

DAY 1 Our journey begins at London St Pancras International, travelling by Eurostar to Brussels Midi. Here we change trains for the short journey to Gent, where we spend four nights at the conveniently located Ibis Budget Hotel Gent Dampoort. This afternoon we visit Gent’s Gruut Brewery for a tour and tasting of their beers, brewed the traditional way using herbs rather than hops. After enjoying a light meal in the brewery restaurant, we end the day with a great introduction to Gent on an included canal cruise. (D) DAY 2 This morning a coach whisks us to the scenic Belgian coastline at Knokke. For 30 years the organisation TTO Noordzee has been carefully restoring vintage trams on the line serving 67km of coastal tramway from Knokke to De Panne close to the French border. Today we will cover as much of the route as possible along a picturesque coastline of seaside villages and popular resorts on our privately chartered vintage tram. We also have the chance to visit TTO Noordzee’s museum and depot in De Panne, before returning to Gent by coach. (B) DAY 3 Although steam was shelved in this part of Belgium in 1966, since the 1990s a group of pioneers have gradually restored the lines and abandoned railway buildings around Maldegem, plus a number of locomotives, both steam and diesel. What exists now is the largest collection of steam locomotives in Flanders, which operate on the standard gauge line to Eeklo, 10 km away, on the former line towards Gent. In the TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ ★ Rail travel from London to Belgium and return ★ ★ Tour, Tasting and Welcome Dinner at Gent’s Gruut Brewery ★ ★ Get to know Gent from the water on our included canal cruise ★ ★ Privately chartered ride on the TTO vintage coastal tram from Knokke to De Panne ★ ★ Full day at Maldegem’s ‘International Steam Festival’ ★ ★ Public steam trip on the Goes-Borsele Railway ★ ★ Private steam charter on part of Puurs- Dendermonde Steam Railway ★ ★ Free morning to explore Gent’s beautiful city centre

Fares From £799

Maldegem Steam Festival

5 DAYS

other direction, a shorter narrow gauge track has been preserved on the former line towards Bruges. During Maldegem’s ‘International Steam Festival’ it is expected to have 6 or 7 locos in steam on both standard and narrow gauges. After a day steaming through rural Meetjesland we return to Gent. (B) DAY 4 Today begins with an excursion across the border into the Netherlands to visit the Goes-Borsele Steam Railway. Steam trains ply the route from Goes itself, where the society’s engine sheds are open to the public, along 13km of track to the charming village of Hoedenskerke through an unspoilt rural route through the Zeeland countryside of orchards, fields and small villages. In the afternoon we continue to the Dendermonde-Puurs Railway. The society has preserved a 14km section of line running alongside the picturesque River Scheldt since 1977. After visiting the society’s workshops in Baasrode, we embark on a specially chartered steam journey along the line to Oppuurs, before continuing to Gent for a farewell evening meal in a local restaurant. (B,D) DAY 5 After a little free time this morning to sightsee in Gent, which has its own extensive tram system, we travel by train to Brussels Midi, where we join the Eurostar service to London St Pancras. (B)

DEPARTS Thursday 2 May 2019

HOTEL Ibis Budget Hotel Gent Dampoort A brand new, modern 2 star hotel with compact but cosy rooms, en-suite bathroom, free WiFi and TV. The hotel is strategically situated by the railway station at the entrance of the historical city centre and provide comfort at value prices with an unlimited buffet breakfast. FARE From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to/from Begium including £799 Standard Eurostar Single Traveller Supplement £120 4 nights’ bed, breakfast & two evening meals Eurostar and rail travel to Gent and return All transfers, excursions & admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager GUARANTEED FARE – no currency surcharge Fare based upon sharing a twin-bedded en-suite room; single rooms available – supplement as shown. Important Note: Whilst the arrangements for all described steam train travel are in place we do reserve the right to make substitutions should it be deemed necessary for whatever reason. Your acceptance of this is a condition of your booking.

Maldegem Steam Festival

Stoomtrein – Puurs Dendermonde

Not all steam powered!

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

I sle of M an E xplorer

The fantastic Isle of Man at its very best! A wonderful sea-front hotel on a traditional promenade, horse drawn trams, steam railways, heritage electric trams, a mountain railway and superb scenery.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DAY 1 We arrive in Douglas on the Isle of Man where we transfer to the Empress Hotel in its prime location on the Victorian promenade overlooking Douglas Bay. Enjoy a stroll along the seafront before our evening meal. (D) DAY 2 Today we enjoy a whiff of steam on the magnificent Isle of Man Railway to Port Erin with time to view the excellent refurbished railway sheds, steam trains and carriages at the neighbouring Railway Museum . We return by steam train to Castletown and the island’s ancient capital, Castle Rushen , one of Europe’s most finely preserved medieval fortresses. We also visit the fascinating Old House of Keys , the former meeting place of the Isle of Man Parliament, where you may even have the chance to join a debate in the chamber. ★ ★ Dinner every evening ★ ★ Rail travel, seat reservations & ferry from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ ★ Hotel Porterage ★ ★ Discover the captivating heritage of this independent isle ★ ★ Rover ticket for all the Isle of Man railways ★ ★ Laxey Mines private steam charter ★ ★ Ride the unique Manx Electric Railway ★ ★ Explore the harbourside town of Ramsey ★ ★ Steam journey on the Isle of Man Steam Railway ★ ★ Discover medieval Castle Rushen ★ ★ Fascinating Old House of Keys ★ ★ Spectacular views from Snaefell Mountain Railway ★ ★ Steam journey on the Groudle Glen Railway Also included in your Tour Fare:

Fares From £550

Isle of Man Steam Railway

5 DAYS

© Visitisleofman.com

Alternatively, enjoy a full day of steam alighting at whatever stations you wish to explore and for photography. (B,D) DAY 3 A great day of heritage starts with boarding the Manx Electric Railway to Laxey where we have a special steaming on the mines railway and visit “Lady Isabella” – the Great Wheel of Laxey . We depart Laxey by tram to Ramsey where there is time to take lunch and stroll around the pier and harbour before returning by electric railway and horse drawn tram to Douglas. Alternatively, use your travel pass to take a bus from Ramsey to Peel and explore the island’s main fishing port and Peel Cathedral. (B,D) DAY 4 Travelling by tram to Laxey we transfer to the electric Snaefell Mountain Railway for our journey to the top of the island’s highest peak, Snaefell at 2,036ft; on a clear day it is said one can see the six kingdoms - Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, Isle of Man and Heaven. After a lunchtime break we return to Laxey and continue by tram to Groudle, for a steam train journey on the narrow gauge Groudle Glen Railway to the cliff tops of Sea Lion Rocks. We conclude our exciting day by Manx Electric Railway tram to Douglas. (B,D) DAY 5 Our island exploration draws to a close as we board the morning ferry to Heysham and head homewards. (B)

DEPARTS

Thursday 2 May 2019 Thursday 20 June 2019 Saturday 20 July 2019* Thursday 5 September 2019

FARES

FARE REGION London: Euston Greater London South of England

FIRST STANDARD RC

£865 £905 £915 £925 £865 £780 £770

£735 -£10 £765 -£15 £775 -£15 £775 -£15 £745 -£15 £705 -£10 £695 -£10

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

N/A £685 -£10 N/A £680 -£10

£735 £815 £795 £780

£675 -£10 £720 -£10 £700 -£10 £705 -£10

Scotland

HOTEL Empress Hotel, Douglas, Isle of Man The hotel commands a prime position on the Victorian promenade overlooking Douglas Bay; built at the end of the 19th Century, it has been extensively upgraded and proudly maintains its status as one of the best hotels on the island. All bedrooms have luxurious en-suite marble bathroom, complimentary refreshments, TV, hairdryer, trouser press, and Wi-Fi. * Please note that the July date stays at the Ascot Hotel instead, just off the promenade Join & Leave at Hotel £550 Join & Leave at the port of Heysham £629 Sea View Twin Room Supplement £40pp Single Room Supplement £85 4 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’Hôte evening meal Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Hotel Porterage

Laxey Wheel

© Visitisleofman.com © Natalie Smith

Peel Castle

Laxey Station

© Visit IOM/Liam Miller

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

W onderful W ales

Steaming through Snowdonia on the new ‘wonder of the world’ – the Welsh Highland line is just one of many great rail journeys taking you from glorious sea at Llandudno to the peak of Mount Snowdon.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DAY 1 After arriving in Llandudno we journey to Bodnant Gardens for afternoon refreshments, picturesquely located above the River Conwy – a wonderful place to relax into your holiday. We then return to Llandudno and the superbly traditional Empire Hotel. (T,D) DAY 2 Heading into Snowdonia, we take a steam train ride on the Llanberis Lake Railway followed, after a relaxing break, by a steam journey on the amazing Snowdon Mountain Railway . After enjoying this kaleidoscope of vistas we return through the National Park and Conwy Valley to Llandudno. (B,D) DAY 3 Take a traditional great railway journey as we head along the beautiful Conwy Valley Line to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Here we board our narrow gauge steam ★ ★ Dinner every evening, plus 2 teas ★ ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ ★ Hotel Porterage ★ ★ Stunning scenery, amazing history, nostalgic journeys - and much more… ★ ★ Steam through Snowdonia - the Welsh Highland Railway, world famous Ffestiniog Railway and picturesque Llanberis Lake Railway ★ ★ Spectacular Snowdon Mountain Railway steam train ★ ★ Glorious Bodnant Gardens for tea ★ ★ Conwy Valley scenic train journey ★ ★ Magnificent Penrhyn Castle and its exotic Gardens ★ ★ Enjoy afternoon tea on Victorian Bangor Pier ★ ★ Great Orme Mountain tram ride ★ ★ Relax at the renowned Empire Hotel, amidst friendly ambience and elegant comfort Also included in your Tour Fare:

Fares From £819

Snowdon Mountain Railway

6 DAYS

© Snowdon Valley Railway

train on the world famous Ffestiniog Railway to travel to Porthmadog . The afternoon is free to enjoy lunch and explore; you may wish to travel on the quaint Welsh Highland Heritage Railway . Late afternoon we return by steam train, climbing steep gradients back to Blaenau Ffestiniog, then down the Conwy Valley line to Llandudno with seats on the opposite side as outward so no vista is missed. (B,D) DAY 4 We follow in the footsteps of Victorian holidaymakers aboard a vintage tramcar to the summit of the Great Orme , offering magnificent views across the Irish Sea. The day is then free for you to enjoy at leisure in Llandudno to savour the Edwardian elegance of this charming resort. (B,D) DAY 5 A truly scenic rail journey as we board the magnificent Welsh Highland Railway at Caernarvon for a steam hauled journey climbing into Snowdonia, twisting around forests to Beddgelert and through the much treasured beauty of Aberglaslyn Pass. We then visit magnificent Penryhn Castle with stunning views over Snowdonia and Menai Strait and so much to explore, including an exotic tree and shrub collection and Victorian walled garden, plus a fascinating industrial railway museum. Our day concludes at Bangor where we stroll on the beautifully restored pier. (B,T,D) DAY 6 A reluctant farewell to Llandudno and the lovely Empire Hotel sees us make our way to the station for our journeys homeward. (B)

DEPARTS

Monday 6 May 2019 Wednesday 3 July 2019 Monday 2 September 2019

FARES

FARE REGION London: Euston Greater London South of England

FIRST STANDARD RC £1025 £925 -£10 £1065 £945 -£10 £1100 £965 -£15 £1130 £975 -£15 £1100 £985 -£15

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

£995 £985

£905 -£10 £915 -£10

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

N/A £930 -£10 N/A £965 -£15

£950

£890 -£10

£1060 £930 -£15

£860

£845 -£5

Scotland

£1060 £945 -£15

Join & Leave at Hotel

£819

JULY, SEPT Departure Supplement £30 Single Room Supplement £180 5 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’Hôte evening meal & 1 tea Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Hotel Porterage

Conwy Valley Scenic Train Journey

HOTEL

© Pauline Felstead © Welsh Tourist Board

The Empire Hotel, Llandudno Faithful to its Victorian character, all rooms are furnished with antiques and beds with down bedding - and have private bathroom, colour TV with satellite, DVD player, safe, refrigerator and tea/coffee making facilities. The award-winning Watkins and Co. restaurant offers the finest local produce; a creative chef, elegant surroundings and friendly service all combine to ensure a memorable experience. The indoor heated swimming pool has a sauna, steam room and whirlpool; the small outdoor heated pool has a spa bath.

Stroll along Llandudno Pier

Great Orme Tramway

© Visit Wales

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

C hiltern H ills S team , R ail & A le T rail

FOCUS ON STEAM WITH RAILTRAIL TOURS

A superb variety of steam, from garden railways to a steam gala, as we visit FIVE steam venues and journey through attractive scenery on this amazing short break based in historic Aylesbury.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Fares From £599

DAY 1 Arrive inAylesbury,thecountytownofBuckinghamshire and after depositing our luggage at the Travelodge we travel by train to Beaconsfield where we have a private evening visit to Bekonscot Model Village which has recently been extended. We will have a welcome talk on the history of this the world’s oldest model village. After which you’ll be free to explore 1930s England in miniature at your leisure including a tour of the replica Great Western Railway Signal Box which oversees the running of the extensive Gauge 1 Model Railway using an ex Southern Region Lever Frame. During the visit we will have a light buffet dinner with a drink included and take a train on the short but unique 7¼” gauge Bekonscot Light Railway. (D) DAY 2 This morning we travel by coach to the Leighton Buzzard Railway where we have arranged a private steam hauled charter on this delightful narrow-gauge line which was originally built to carry sand from the quarries. We’ll visit the sheds at both ends of the line to view the extensive collection of ex industrial railway locomotives and rolling stock. Our coach then takes us to The Malt Brewery where we have a guided tour and sample the local ale along with a souvenir glass. (B,L) DAY 3 Today we have a very Great Western Day! Our coach takes us to Didcot Railway Centre home of the Great ★ ★ Time to explore Marlow with its famous bridge ★ ★ Steam and Ploughman’s Lunch at the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway ★ ★ Travel on Freight only line to Quainton Road (TBC) ★ ★ Visit Buckinghamshire Railway Centre for their Gala and Bus Rally ★ ★ Stay in Aylesbury, the county town of Buckinghamshire ★ ★ Bekonscot Model Village and Miniature Railway - Private evening visit with buffet ★ ★ Steam charter at the Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway ★ ★ Tour of The Malt Brewery, Prestwood ★ ★ Steam at Didcot Railway Centre – Home of The Great Western Society ★ ★ Steam/Guinness Diesels on the Cholsey & Wallingford Railway ★ ★ Trip on the Scenic Marlow Branch with Bourne End reversal (The Marlow Donkey)

Leighton Buzzard Railway

5 DAYS

DEPARTS Thursday 23 May 2019

Western Society with a locomotive in steam and we also have ample time to view their fine collection of Great Western Steam Locomotives including newbuilt 2999 Lady of Legend, carriages, wagons and architecture. We then take a short train journey to Cholsey where we ride the Cholsey & Wallingford Railway travelling behind steam or the Guinness diesel locos. After our visit we travel by scheduled train service along the scenic Thames Valley section of Great Western Main Line to Maidenhead where we take the scenic Marlow branch, with the unusual Bourne End reversal. We have some free time in Marlow before transferring back to Aylesbury. (B,) DAY 4 Another day in Great Western territory taking the branch line train from Aylesbury to Princes Risborough and changing here for a steam train on the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway which runs along the base of Bledlow Ridge. After arrival at Chinnor, where a classic car show is being held, we take two round trips of the line whilst a Ploughman’s Lunch and beer is served. The first round trip will be diesel hauled and the second steam. The rest of the day is yours to make use of your rover ticket or explore Princes Risborough at your leisure.(B,L) DAY 5 This morning we hope to take a rare trip on the former section of the Great Central Main Line still open for freight trains. Twice a year a passenger train is run on this line to Quainton Road, home of the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, for its annual Steam Gala and Bus Rally. Should the freight-only route train not be operating we will travel to Quainton by road. Locomotive Met No.1 and the newly restored 6989 Wightwick Hall are scheduled to be in steam whilst the day itself is free to explore the site with its wide variety of different rolling stock including NCB No. 66, the last standard gauge steam locomotive to be commercially built in Britain, an ex South African Steam Locomotive, Sentinel Steam Power Multiple Unit and London Underground trains. You’ll have unlimited rides of their demonstration line and the chance to take a trip on the extensive Golding Spring Miniature Railway. This, one of the oldest heritage venues, faces an uncertain future in its current guise and this may be the last

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST STANDARD RC N/A £625 -£5

London: Marylebone

Greater London South of England

£639 £705 £695 £779 £705 £825 £815 £859 £869 £759 £869 £885

£630 -£5 £660 -£10 £660 -£10 £719 -£20 £659 -£10 £699 -£15 £719 -£20 £749 -£25 £729 -£20 £705 -£15 £729 -£20 £760 -£30

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotel

£599

Single Room Supplement £149 4 nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation 1 Traditional Ploughman’s Lunch Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) All excursions & admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

HOTEL Travelodge Aylesbury Central

This comfortable, modern hotel is located just a 10 minute walk away from the station and is ideally located in the town centre. Every room has a comfy king size Dreamer™ bed, complete with a cosy duvet and four plump pillows. Rooms also have en-suite shower rooms, a spacious desk, a TV with freeview and WiFi. Enjoy complimentary hair and body wash and coffee and tea making facilities. Single travellers have sole occupancy of a double room. opportunity for us to experience it in its original form. After returning to Aylesbury passengers booking our rail inclusive package will journey homeward by train whilst those having booked the Tour Base fare travel homeward independently. (B)

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre

© Henry Allum

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

B avarian 50 S team F estival

FOCUS ON STEAM WITH RAILTRAIL TOURS

The Bavarian Steam Railway Museum celebrates its 50th anniversary at Nördlingen with a super steam festival. We combine this great gala with a summer visit to three glorious scenic steam lines in this beautifully picturesque region.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Fares From £1395

DAY 1 Depart London St. Pancras International and travel by Eurostar and ICE train, via Brussels and Frankfurt to Stuttgart for a welcoming evening meal at the Maritim Hotel our tour base for 3 nights. (D) DAY 2 We transfer by train to Amstetten for an exclusive private steam photo charter train on the delightful 6 Kms long metre gauge Alb-Bähnle between Amstetten and Oppingen. (B,L) DAY 3 We transfer by train to Rudersburg-Oberndorf where we have a scenic steam hauled ride along the 23 Kms long “Schwäbische Waldbahn” which climbs high into the Swabian Forest to Welzheim and return. We then take the train to Heilbronn where we have a private visit to the South Germany Railway Museum home to around 15 steam locomotives and a similar number of heritage diesel locomotives. After returning to Stuttgart the evening is free to enjoy this wonderful city with its magnificent historic buildings. (B) DAY 4 Leaving Stuttgart by coach we travel South to the unique “Sauschwänzlebahn” for a steam hauled trip on this famous 26 Kms long German line constructed with numerous twists, viaducts, and a spiral tunnel! to ★ ★ Day ticket at the 50 years jubilee of Bavarian steam ★ ★ Private charter on the metre gauge Alb-Bahnle ★ ★ Steam on the 23 kms Schwäbische Waldbahn ★ ★ Guided tour Heilbronn railway museum (former steam depot) ★ ★ Steam on the superb Sauschwänzlebahn ★ ★ Mainline steam run from Nördlingen ★ ★ Based in the beautiful medieval walled town of Nördlingen

Schwabische Waldbahn

7 DAYS

avoid crossing into Switzerland. We then travel onto the historic walled town of Nördlingen where we are based at the Arthotel for the next three nights. (B) DAY 5 Today we visit the Bavarian Railway Museum in Nördlingen which is holding a Bavarian 50 Steam Festival. This historic gem of a former DB railway depot is home to around 60 locomotives of which over 30 are steam locomotives and also featuring diesel, electric, battery electric, railcars, and even a battery electric railcar. Full details of the event are still to be published. (B) DAY 6 Today we have a main line steam trip from Nördlingen using one of the event locomotives - full details of destination and locomotive are published nearer departure date. (B) DAY 7 We bid farewell to Nördlingen and commence our journey across Germany to Cologne where we travel to Brussels where we take the Eurostar back to London St. Pancras. (B)

DEPARTS Tuesday 28 May 2019

FARE From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to / from Germany, including £1395 Standard Eurostar First Class rail travel to Stuttgart / from Nördlingen, including £1695 6 nights’ bed & breakfast, 1 evening meal, 1 light lunch Rail travel and seat reservations where available (subject to selected rail travel option) All transfers, excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager GUARANTEED FARE – no currency surcharge Fare based upon sharing a twin-bedded en-suite room; single rooms available – supplement as shown. Important Note: Whilst the arrangements for all described steam train travel are in place we do reserve the right to make substitutions should it be deemed necessary for whatever reason. Your acceptance of this is a condition of your booking. Standard Premier Eurostar. Single Traveller Supplement £175

Alb-Bahnle

© Mario Mehner

HOTELS Maritim Hotel, Stuttgart

Close to the station, the hotel has a pleasant bar and restaurant serving local and international specialities. Modern en-suite rooms include satellite TV and WiFi. The hotel also has a swimming pool, sauna and gym. Arthotel ANA Flair, Nördlingen Adjacent to the station and a short stroll to the historic town centre which is located on Germany’s ‘Romantic Road’. All bedrooms are en-suite and tastefully designed, with WiFi, TV & hairdryer. Breakfast is an unlimited buffet.

Heilbronn Depot

Sauschwaenzlebahn

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

S wiss M aximum S team

This unique steam-packed ten days includes more highlights than we could have ever envisaged when we started to plan it! Six steam train excursions, 5 paddle steamers, a steam tram, Lucerne’s excellent Transport Museum, Swiss Vapeur Park, and a historic electric train with accompanying absinthe Schnapps! Our visit to Blonay Chamby also

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DAY 1 Relax as we let the European train system transport us through France to Winterthur for two nights at the excellent 4* Hotel Banana City. (D) DAY 2 Our first steam excursion is on the Bauma to Hinwil line . Formerly part of the Uerikon-Bauma Railway, 11 km of track is preserved, operating steam trains hauling vintage heritage carriages dating from the 1900s. Our day continues with a visit to the Schinznacher Baumschulbahn , whose steam locos operate on Switzerland’s only 600mm gauge track on a 3km round trip through the tree nursery. (B,D) DAY 3 The scenic Voralpen Express heads south to Lucerne , where we visit the excellent Swiss Transport Museum . A short paddle steam trip transports us to Lucerne, continuing by train over the beautiful mainline Brünig Pass for three nights in Interlaken at the 3* Hotel City Oberland. (B,D) ★ ★ Bauma to Hinwil Steam train ★ ★ Schinznacher Baumschulbahn steam excursion ★ ★ Voralpen Express train to Lucerne ★ ★ Visit to the Swiss Transport Museum ★ ★ Paddle Steam boat trip on Lake Lucerne ★ ★ Paddle Steam boat trip on Lake Brienz ★ ★ Brienz Rothornbahn steam ★ ★ Paddle Steam boat trip on Lake Thun ★ ★ Tour of Bern by Bern Steam Tram ★ ★ Golden Pass Line train to Montreux ★ ★ Paddle Steam boat trip on Lake Geneva ★ ★ Visit to Swiss Vapeur Park ★ ★ Steam charter at Vallée de Joux ★ ★ Paddle boat trip on Lake Neuchatel ★ ★ Historic electric train from Neuchatel to Travers with ‘Green Fairy’ schnapps ★ ★ Steam excursion from St Suplice to Travers ★ ★ Swiss Steam Festival at Blonay Chamby Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ ★ 9 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal ★ ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

coincides with the 2019 Swiss Steam Festival! Oh, and there’s also the Brünig Pass, Voralpen Express and Golden Pass Line to top off our ultimate, scenic Swiss spectacular!

Fares From £2795

© STC

Brienz Rothornbahn

DAY 4 Another paddle steamer transports us to Brienz . Here we join the wonderful Brienzer Rothorn Railway , Switzerland’s oldest steam cog railway. The railway steams and smokes its way up the mountain now as it did when it opened in 1892, climbing from Lake Brienz for 7.6km to Brienzer Rothorn Alp summit station at a height of 2,244m. (B,D) DAY 5 Today’s paddle steamer heads across Lake Thun to Thun. In Bern, Switzerland’s handsome capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, we enjoy a city tour Railtrail style on the Bern Steam Tram , dating from 1894. (B,D)

DAY 6 The scenic Golden Pass Line transports us across the mountains, descending through the vineyards to Montreux. Transferring to paddle steamer on Lake Geneva , we enjoy time at Swiss Vapeur Park , one of Europe’s most prestigious miniature railways. We continue for four nights at the 4* Moevenpick Hotel in Lausanne . (B,D) DAY 7 Today we enjoy a privately chartered ride on the Vallée de Joux Steam Railway , a 14-kilometre-long railway line from Le Brassus to Le Pont dating from 1899. In Le Pont you have the chance to visit the small local steam train depot before we board a public train

Bern

Bauma to Hinwil Line

Railtrail Tours Ltd 43 St. Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire Moorlands ST13 5DN Telephone: 01538 382323 Fax: 01538 382525 email: enquiry@railtrail.co.uk www.railtrail.co.uk

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