Railtrail Festive & Winter 2020 Brochure

Railtrail Festive & Winter Brochure - Flipping Book

®

QUAL I TY E SCORT ED HOL I DAY S BY TRA I N

© RHB

F e s t i v e & W i n t e r

LIMITED AVAILABILITY

NO CURRENCY SURCHARGES – GUARANTEED FARES

Please may I have a moment of your time? It is so important for our personal well-being to lift the curtain of gloom that Covid-19 has brought to each of us and let light back into our lives.

mindful that they have all handled the pandemic threat superbly well and at the time of writing are either virus free or very close to it. I trust that travelling with a tour operator as caring as Railtrail will give you the confidence to book a winter break with us, and that it will help you take another step towards normality. Finally, may I ask a huge favour? If you have been impressed with the ethos of our company and the manner in which we treat our clients would you please vote for us in the forthcoming British Travel Awards mentioned below – it will be very much appreciated, Thank You. Take care, Kind Regards, 1 ST CLASS

Here at Railtrail we can take pride in having treated our clients right, including refunding all monies from cancelled tours during the pandemic. Now we turn our attention to more positive actions, and I am delighted to offer you a diverse selection of Festive & Winter tours where we have concentrated on the safest environments in the safest destinations. If you are a little nervous about travelling again, we have the perfect answer – a short 3 day break based in a fine hotel in beautiful Bath including the renowned Festival of Lights at Longleat. Whilst other short tours celebrate the festive period in England at Classic Chatsworth, Victorian Ironbridge, and Yuletide Yorkshire. Lovely little breaks to lift your spirits. Scotland, as always, is a hugely popular destination and perhaps the fresh clean air of the Scottish Highlands is just what you need. On the continent we have chosen Switzerland, Germany & Austria – all countries that are a tourist’s dream at this time of the year, whilst also being

I

L

A

T

R

R

A

I

L

40 YEARS

Dave Felstead, Owner & Managing Director

BRITISH TRAVEL AWARDS 2020… VOTE FOR RAILTRAIL! Railtrail Tours is a long-standing family firm with a great reputation for quality rail holidays, and we are delighted to announce that we have been nominated for the British Travel Awards 2020 in the category of Best Rail Holiday Company (small company) in our 40th anniversary year. The British Travel Awards are recognised by consumers as the “symbol of excellence” in travel and tourism and we are facing some fierce competition. Awards are voted for by members of the public and for you to vote for us would mean a huge amount to all the team and be just the boost needed for us to start 2021 on a positive high! Please put the voting dates in your diary – we need you! Please get voting on our website from the 6th September and wish us luck. It will only take a minute and we would be hugely grateful, for your help THANK YOU.

Voting will begin on the 6th September and will continue until 22nd November . The British Travel

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

2

2

BOOKING WITH RAILTRAIL BONUS Railtrail Rewards Loyalty

Railtrail Frequent Traveller Club The Railtrail Frequent Traveller Club rewards the loyalty of our most frequent travellers. Once you have travelled with us a minimum of 5 times you automatically become a member of a select club that receive special fare offers and free tour upgrades and gifts including a quality pin badge to wear with pride. The more you travel the higher the reward for bronze, silver and gold members.

We genuinely feel that our tours, staff and service are the best and that is why our clients choose Railtrail Tours for their holiday. In addition to this however, once you have travelled with Railtrail, we reward your loyalty via our ‘Railtrail Rewards’ Loyalty Points scheme. For every pound spent you will receive Loyalty Rewards Points on return from your holiday, which can then be used as a discount on future bookings. Loyalty Points remain valid for 3 years after your return from your holiday. The more loyalty points you earn, the greater the discount you will receive on your next tour – no other escorted rail holiday company operates such a scheme. Extra Benefits Rewarding your Loyalty The vast majority of our customers are either repeat bookings or recommendations and should you recommend Railtrail to someone not already on our database, then when they travel on their first tour YOUR Railtrail Rewards Loyalty account will be credited with the value of £25 per person booked if it was a UK tour, £50 per person booked if European / Grand tour, or £100 per person if they travelled on a Worldwide tour.

During the Covid-19 Pandemic Railtrail have: Continued to put people before profit Refunded payments when a tour was cancelled Put back the balance of payment deadline dates Kept Customer Care phone lines open Offered 2021 tours at 2020 prices for a limited period

3 3 3 3 3

Book with confidence, book Railtrail Tours

FESTIVE & WINTER DEPARTURES 2020-21

4 & 5 6 & 7 8 & 9 Pages

Luxury Bath & Longleat Festival of Light

NEW TOUR

Yuletide Yorkshire

NEW TOUR

Scottish Christmas Markets, Steam & Sail

10 &11 12 & 13 14 & 15 16 & 17 18 &19 20 & 21 22 & 23 24 & 25 26 & 27 28 & 29 30 & 31 32 & 33 34 & 35 36 & 37 38 & 39

Festive Chatsworth & The Peaks

Festive Steam in Saxony

NEW TOUR

Ironbridge Victorian Christmas & Steam

NEW TOUR

Festive Rhine, Wine & Glühwein Festive Highlands More Inclusive Spectacular Scotland at Christmas Christmas Time by The Romantic Rhine Swiss Christmas Snow Train Adventure Black Forest New Year Steam Celebration Austria New Year Celebrations with Steam New Year Celebrations by the Romantic Rhine White Pass – Swiss Winter Snow Train Adventure

Harz Mountains Winter Wonderland Scottish Highlands More Inclusive

Springtime Highlander

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

3

L uxury B ath & L ongleat F estival of L ight

Treat yourself to a pre-Christmas luxury short break with Railtrail to beautiful Bath. With stunning honey-coloured Georgian architecture like a scene from a Jane Austen novel, this compact, visitor-friendly city is perfect for a relaxing break. Bath offers a great selection of museums, galleries, restaurants, bars, and wonderful independent shops, that are ideal for Christmas shopping inspiration! During our stay we can discover the history of Bath’s famous waters at the ancient Roman Baths or visit the thoroughly modern Thermae Bath Spa, which houses the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain you can bathe in. We also journey beyond the city with an evening visit to Longleat’s magical Festival of Light with its stunning display of colourful festive lanterns. Fares From £329

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ Stay at a Grade 1 listed luxury Georgian townhouse hotel on a half board basis ★ ★ Explore Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage site ★ ★ Visit Longleat Light Festival and its illuminating lantern spectacle ★ ★ Admire the stunning honey- coloured Georgian architecture ★ ★ Discover the ancient history of the Roman Baths dating back to 70AD ★ ★ Stroll around Bath’s remarkable collection of museums and galleries DAY 1 Arriving in the historic city of Bath , we make our way to our accommodation for the next two nights at our Grade 1 listed Georgian townhouse hotel, The Francis. Shortly after we check in our coach transfers us to the magnificent Longleat Estate to see the renowned Festival of Light , now in its seventh year. The illuminating lantern spectacle consists of hundreds of silk-strewn colourful themed scenes and digital installations embellishing the ornate Longleat Estate, bringing the spirit of the festive season to lustrous light. Following our wonderful evening we return to our hotel by coach and enjoy dinner. (D)

DAY 2 Today we enjoy a day at leisure to explore the fascinating city of Bath that became a World Heritage site in 1987. We are free to immerse ourselves in Bath’s remarkable collection of

museums and galleries including the Jane Austen Centre, Royal Crescent, Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery. We can discover the iconic buildings and architecture that have shaped this wonderful city including the

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

4

4

N E W T O U R

3 DAYS

DEPARTS Sunday 22 November 2020

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £449 £455 £485 £535 £509 £529 £569 £625 £685 £605 £395 £545 £779

STANDARD

London: Paddington Greater London South of England

£405 £409 £429 £459 £425 £459 £485 £485 £525 £479 £369 £429 £575 £329

Royal Crescent, Circus, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge and of course the Roman Baths built in around 70AD as a grand bathing and socialising complex. The Roman Baths are one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world, where 1,170,000 litres of steaming spring water, reaching 46°C, still fill the bathing site every single day, we can walk on ancient pavements as the Romans did 2,000 years ago, and explore chambers historically housing changing rooms and plunge pools. During our day we can even swim in the natural spring water at the modern Thermae Bath Spa. Our pre-Christmas break is also the perfect time to indulge in festive shopping at some of the city’s many unique shops or alternatively we can travel by train to nearby Bristol and visit the wonderful Bristol Christmas market. The possibilities today are endless! After our busy day we enjoy a relaxing dinner at our hotel. (B,D) DAY 3 This morning we bid farewell to beautiful Bath and we make our way homeward. (B)

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotel

Single Room Supplement £100 2 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach transfer as described All excursions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

HOTEL Francis Hotel, Bath

Located on the prestigious Queen Square in the heart of Bath, the Grade1 listed 4-star Francis Hotel opened in 1884 and remains one of the most famous hotels in the city. The hotel has 98 stylish and well decorated bedrooms all equipped with TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The restaurant is bright and traditional in design, the bar is stylish and cosy and there is also a luxurious lounge.

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

5

Y uletide Y orkshire

Our new Harrogate winter break visits Castle Howard to see the wonderful festive decorations and iconic 25 foot Christmas tree in the Great Hall adorned with over 3000 baubles. We explore York’s famous St Nicholas Fayre with over one hundred traditional stalls scattered throughout the atmospheric streets. We enjoy festive afternoon tea as we steam through the Dales on the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway and visit the RHS Harlow Carr Gardens as dusk falls to view the beautifully illuminated trees. Fares From £474

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ 3-night stay at the impressive Majestic Hotel on a half board basis ★ ★ Explore the Yorkshire Spa town of Harrogate ★ ★ Discover Castle Howard transformed for the festive season ★ ★ Visit York’s famous St Nicholas Christmas Fayre ★ ★ Steam through the stunning winter scenery of Yorkshire Dales ★ ★ Enjoy festive afternoon tea on the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway ★ ★ View RHS Harlow Carr Gardens in a different light during the glow-winter illuminations DAY 1 Arriving in the spa town of Harrogate, we transfer to the Majestic Hotel. We can explore the delightful spa town or enjoy the hotels leisure facilities* ahead of dinner. (D) DAY 2 Today we travel by coach to Castle Howard , a house that is beautiful in all seasons but none more so than winter when the house is transformed for the

we enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the many attractions including York Minster, Jorvik Centre and National Railways Museum. We can enjoy a mulled wine and take a stroll around preserved medieval streets of The Shambles and visit the St Nicholas Fayre with over 100 traditional stalls, perfect for Christmas shopping. We journey back to Harrogate by train and return to our hotel for dinner. (B,D)

festive season. Built over 300 years ago the house has a rich and varied history and has been used as a popular film location including ITV’s Victoria and Brideshead Revisited. During our morning we stroll through the grand state rooms dressed in their lavish festive finery and see the iconic 25 foot Christmas tree in the Great Hall adorned with over 3000 baubles. In the afternoon we continue by coach to the medieval walled city of York where

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

6

6

N E W T O U R

4 DAYS

DEPARTS Thursday 26 November 2020

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £635 £649 £685 £699 £765 £685 £619 £559 £675 N/A £715 £679 £675

STANDARD

London: Kings Cross

£565 £569 £589 £595 £629 £589 £545 £519 £585 £549 £609 £585 £585 £479

Greater London South of England

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

DAY 3 This morning is free to explore delightful Harrogate with its magnificent buildings, independent shops, and many attractions including the Royal Pump Rooms, Mercer Art Gallery and of course, the famous Betty’s Tea Room. In the afternoon, a fabulous trip to the Dales awaits as we transfer first to Bolton Abbey for a ride on the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway along the former Skipton-Ilkley Line, which was built in 1888. During our one hour round trip we enjoy mulled wine and a festive afternoon tea as we sit back and admire the stunning Yorkshire winter scenery. Following our steam railway journey, we travel by coach to the RHS Harlow Carr Gardens and enjoy a winter walk around an illuminated trail as the magnificent trees and shrubs ‘glow’ as dusk falls before we return to our hotel for our final dinner. (B,LR,D)

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotel

£5 tour discount for holders of National Railcards Single Room Supplement £120 3 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal plus one light lunch Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach transfer as described All excursions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

DAY 4 We bid farewell to wonderful Harrogate and Yorkshire as we make our way homeward. (B)

HOTEL Majestic Hotel, Harrogate

The 4-star Majestic Hotel built in 1900 has recently undergone a fifteen million pound refurbishment transforming the property to its former glory. The hotel is located in central Harrogate, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. All bedrooms are decorated to a high standard. Meals are served in the stunning Carters Champagne Bar & Grill. *The hotel has spa including indoor pool, gymnasium, sauna, and steam room (please note charges apply).

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

7

S cottish C hristmas M arkets , S team and S ail

Our Scottish Christmas markets tour is based in stunning Stirling and packed with festive cheer! We explore Edinburgh and Glasgow’s extensive Christmas markets, enjoy a scenic cruise along the Firth of Forth, experience two great rail journeys and sample a wee dram at the Dalwhinnie Distillery! Fares From £549

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ Explore Glasgow and its extensive Christmas Markets ★ ★ Visit Edinburgh’s beautiful Christmas Markets in the heart of the city ★ ★ Cruise along the Firth of Forth underneath the iconic Forth bridges ★ ★ Marvel at the vistas as we travel by train on the Highland line to Aviemore ★ ★ Steam on the former Highland Railway with the Strathspey Steam Railway ★ ★ Enjoy a tour and tasting at the Dalwhinnie Distillery ★ ★ Spend time in historic Stirling and explore the castle and Old Town DAY 1 We arrive in Stirling and check into the Stirling Highland Hotel, an attractive, historic building and formerly the city’s school. The hotel will be our base for the next four nights and we have the chance to take a wander around the Old Town before dinner. (D)

DAY 2 This morning is free for us to explore Stirling , we may wish to visit the nearby Stirling Castle, once a Royal residence and the former home of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. This afternoon, we travel by train to Glasgow for the Christmas Markets at George Square

and St Enoch Square where we can sample delicious festive food and drink and buy unique handmade gifts. (B,D) DAY 3 One of Scotland’s great rail journeys awaits today as we head north into the Cairngorms , passing dense forests and wild moors, flanked by the Grampians, on our way to the mountain resort of Aviemore . Here we enjoy a return steam excursion from Aviemore to Broomhill on the preserved section of the Highland Line known as the

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

8

8

5 DAYS

DEPARTS Thursday 26 November 2020

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £765 £775 £809 £829 £889 £809 £785 £719 £679 £745 £825 £769

STANDARD

London: Kings Cross

£669 £675 £695 £705 £739 £695 £675 £645 £625 £639 £699 £669 £579 £559

Greater London South of England

East Anglia South West

Strathspey Steam Railway . Back in Aviemore, we visit the Dalwhinnie Distillery for a tour and tasting served with specially selected chocolate that combines beautifully with the Whisky. (B,D) DAY 4 Today we head to Edinburgh where we start with a cruise on the Firth of Forth. From the water, we take in the views of the Three Forth Bridges above us whilst we enjoy a mulled wine and mince pie. Once we are back on dry land, we head to the heart of Edinburgh to experience the magical festive atmosphere at the Christmas Markets in Princes Street Gardens. (B,D) DAY 5 We bid farewell to beautiful Stirling and make our way home. (B)

Heart of England

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Scotland

N/A

Join & Leave at Hotel

£10 tour discount for holders of National Railcards Single Room Supplement £135 4 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’Hôte evening meal Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Stirling (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

HOTEL Stirling Highland Hotel

Just a short walk from Stirling Castle is the historic 4-star Highland Hotel. The hotel’s Scholars restaurant offers quality locally sourced food and the comfortable bar is the perfect place to enjoy a wee dram! The leisure club, including swimming pool is a great place to relax. Built in the 19th century as the city’s High School, this characterful building still houses a working observatory in its roof.

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

9

F estive C hatsworth & T he P eaks

Magnificent Chatsworth House is even more glorious at Christmas time with an array of lavish festive decorations adorning the house, our popular Derbyshire tour will be a truly festive experience! Our great value short break in the beautiful Peak District also includes visits to the pretty market town of Bakewell, home of the famous Bakewell pudding and a journey beneath the earth to explore the two million year old vast limestone chambers of Poole’s Cavern! Fares From £359

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ 3-night stay at the Palace Hotel on a half board basis ★ ★ Enjoy free time in the Derbyshire Spa town of Buxton ★ ★ Take in the stunning winter scenery of The Peak District ★ ★ See magnificent Chatsworth House adorned in festive finery ★ ★ Sample an original Bakewell Pudding ★ ★ Journey beneath the earth at Poole’s Cavern DAY 1 Arriving in the spa town of Buxton in the heart of the Peak District, we make our way to the conveniently located Palace Hotel, close to the railway station. Explore this spa town or enjoy the hotel’s leisure facilities* ahead of

dinner. (D) DAY 2

A short coach journey takes us to the charming market town of Bakewell , perhaps best known for its famous Bakewell pudding . Here we experience how to make this world-

© Chatsworth House Trust / DPC Photography © Chatsworth House Trust / DPC Photography

famous treat and enjoy a tea or coffee whilst our pudding bakes, ready for us to take home. We then have free

time to take a leisurely stroll along the river or visit the many shops selling Christmas gifts. In the afternoon we continue to Poole’s Cavern where we take a journey beneath the earth with an expert guide, exploring a two million year old limestone cave lined with stalactites and stalagmites! (B,D)

© Chatsworth House Trust / DPC Photography

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

10 1

4 DAYS

DEPARTS Monday 30 November 2020

FARES

FARE REGION London: Euston Greater London South of England

FIRST £559 £569 £609 £635 £549 £495 £425 £429 £539 £495 £669 £455 £609

STANDARD

£445 £459 £485 £499 £445 £419 £399 £395 £455 £409 £455 £405 £495 £359

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

DAY 3 This morning we visit magnificent Chatsworth House , the ancestral home of the Dukes of Devonshire since the 1500’s. Each year the house has a different festive theme and is transformed into a Christmas wonderland. During our visit we have many rooms to explore including the impressive Painted Hall, State Rooms and Sculpture Gallery all dressed in an array of festive finery. In the afternoon we return to Buxton with its stunning architecture, individual shops and famous spa water. (B,D) DAY 4 We bid farewell to beautiful Buxton and the Peak District as we make our way homeward. (B)

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotel

Single Room Supplement £60 3 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach transfer as described All excursions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

HOTEL Palace Hotel, Buxton

The Palace Hotel is situated in the centre of Buxton, close to the railway station. The hotel has been an important building in the spa town since 1868 and is perfectly located for exploring the Peak District National Park. The hotel has retained much of its Victorian character and meals are served in the elegant Dovedale Restaurant. *The hotel has leisure facilities including indoor pool, gymnasium, sauna and steam room (please note charges apply).

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

11

F estive S team in S axony

Enjoy the festive season with a Saxony Steam escorted rail holiday combining two fabulous mainline steam excursions, including a trip to Prague by steam, with three wonderful Saxon narrow-gauge steam lines, plus tours of Dresden Alstadt steam depot and the Transport Museum. Topped off with free-time at both Dresden

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ Steam along the whole of the Lössnitzgrundbahn from Radebeul to Radeburg and return ★ ★ Visit the Czech Republic by steam train from Dresden to beautiful Prague ★ ★ Steam on the extended Weisseritztalbahn from Freital to Kipsdorf in the Ore Mountains ★ ★ Enjoy a return steam journey from the Saxon city of Leipzig to Zeitz ★ ★ Experience a return journey on the Zittau narrow gauge railway to the Polish border ★ ★ Guided tour of Dresden Museum of Transport ★ ★ View the reserve collection not normally open to the public ★ ★ Enjoy the nostalgia of Dresden Altstadt steam shed and locomotives ★ ★ Visit the traditional Christmas markets in Dresden & Leipzig ★ ★ Centrally located hotel in the heart of historic Dresden DAY 1 We depart London St. Pancras International and travel by Eurostar and ICE train to Erfurt for our overnight at the InterCity Hotel. We enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

and Leipzig traditional Christmas Markets where only local products manufactured in the region are sold.

Fares From £1345

DAY 2 This morning we depart Erfurt to Dresden by train and after dropping off luggage at our hotel we travel by train to Radebeul for a 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 return to Dresden and arrive at our accommodation at the centrally located Ibis Hotel in the heart of this historic city. (B) DAY 3 We transfer by train to enjoy a morning of 750 mm gauge steam on the extended Weisseritztalbahn line meandering up the Weisseritz valley. Operating over 26 kms through delightful scenery, with 13 stations, and the steepest part of the line including the reopened section to the terminus at Kipsdorf. Known as one of Europe’s great narrow-gauge railways , this is a ride not to be missed. In the afternoon

we enjoy a trio of guided visits to the Dresden Museum of Transport, the steam depot at Alstadt, and the reserve collection, which is not normally open to the public. (B) DAY 4 This morning we travel to Prague, the capital of Czech Republic by steam train from Dresden and enjoy a light snack served on board. Prague is an architectural gem with many famous attractions including the famous 15th century Charles Bridge, Castle and Old Town Square. The Czech Republic is home to some of the world’s finest breweries and is the perfect place to

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

12 1

N E W T O U R

7 DAYS

DEPARTS Wednesday 2 December 2020

FARES From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to / from Dresden, including Standard Eurostar Supplement for Standard Premier Eurostar upgrade return First Class rail travel to / from Dresden, including Standard Premier Eurostar Join & Leave at Dresden Single Traveller Supplement 6 nights’ bed & breakfast plus 1 lunch & 1 evening meal Rail travel of your choice and seat reservations where available

£1345 £199 £1745 £1079 £125

sample a famed national brew such as Budweiser Budvar in one of the city’s many bars and cafes. After our busy day we return to Dresden enjoying the nostalgic atmosphere aboard a steam train after dark.(B) DAY 5 Today we transfer by train to Leipzig and have some free time to explore this Saxon city and one of Germany’s oldest Christmas Markets which dates back to 1458 and also enjoy a return mainline steam train excursion to the historic town of Zeitz . (B) DAY 6 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. A main course lunch is also included during our day excursion. We then return to the Ibis hotel for our last night in beautiful Dresden. (B,L) DAY 7 We conclude our tour with return rail travel aboard the ICE trains from Dresden via Frankfurt to Brussels and onwards to London St Pancras via Eurostar. (B) Important Note: Whilst the arrangements for all described steam train travel are in place at the time of tour compilation, we do reserve the right to make substitutions and changes to the itinerary should it be deemed necessary for whatever reason.

All transfers, excursions, and admissions as detailed Services of an experienced Railtrail Tour Manager GUARANTEED FARE

HOTELS InterCity Hotel, Erfurt

Located adjacent to the railway station, this 4-star hotel has a pleasant bar and restaurant serving local and international specialities. The modern en- suite bedrooms include satellite TV, radio, mini-bar, and Wi-Fi. Ibis Dresden Zentrum Hotel, Dresden The 3-star Ibis is ideally situated just a short stroll from the railway station and in the heart of the city near to the historic Old Town. The modern and comfortable en-suite bedrooms are equipped with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, satellite TV and hair dryer.

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

13

I ronbridge V ictorian C hristmas & S team

Step back in time and experience the magic of Christmas in a bygone era on our new Shropshire festive tour. Explore Blists Hill Victorian town, soak up the atmosphere, revel in the traditional celebrations and see 1800’s style entertainment. Explore the historic market town of Shrewsbury with its black & white timber buildings, abbey, and castle. Steam through the beautiful Severn Valley in vintage carriages. Tempt your taste buds at Birmingham’s Christmas market with bratwursts and glühwein! Fares From £379

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ 3-night stay at the Ramada Telford Ironbridge Hotel on a half board basis ★ ★ Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Victoria Christmas at Blists Hill ★ ★ Explore the medieval streets of Shrewsbury, one of England’s most ancient market towns ★ ★ Steam through the rolling Shropshire countryside on the Severn Valley Railway ★ ★ Visit Birmingham’s Christmas market, the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany! DAY 1 Arriving at Telford Central station, we transfer to the Ramada Ironbridge Hotel. We can explore the town or enjoy the hotels leisure facilities ahead of dinner. (D) DAY 2 A short coach journey takes us to Blists Hill , a recreated 1800’s town and time capsule of a bygone age. Here we experience the wonder of a

magical Victorian Christmas and can walk the streets under falling snow, warm up by the fireside in the cosy cottages and watch as the townsfolk

busily prepare for Christmas. We can enjoy delicious food, and soak up the festive atmosphere before we transfer by coach to Shrewsbury . During our afternoon in this historic riverside town we are free to wander around the medieval streets with timbered buildings, visit the award winning Old

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

14 1

N E W T O U R

4 DAYS

DEPARTS Friday 4 December 2020

FARES

FARE REGION London: Euston Greater London South of England

FIRST £635 £649 £695 £725 £659 £549 £465 £639 £729 £595 N/A £529 £795

STANDARD

£499 £515 £529 £545 £535 £459 £439 £529 £575 £495 £479 £459 £609 £399

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Market Hall, explore the Museum & Art Gallery and learn about Charles Darwin who was born in the town and visit the castle or abbey. Following our fascinating day, we return to Telford by train and have dinner at our hotel. (B,D) DAY 3 This morning we travel to Kidderminster for a journey on the Severn Valley Steam Railway and settle into our seats in the festively decorated vintage carriages. Preservation of this historic full size standard gauge line began in 1965 and we take the scenic 16 mile route closely following the River Severn from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth return and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery glide past our windows. We then continue by train to Birmingham to visit the Frankfurt Christmas market to wander around the festive stalls, purchase some traditional Christmas gifts and to sample some delicious continental food and drink. We return to Telford by train and enjoy our final dinner together. (B,D) DAY 4 We bid farewell to beautiful Shropshire and we make our way homeward. (B)

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotel

£20 tour discount for holders of National Railcards Single Room Supplement £85 3 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach transfer as described All excursions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

HOTEL Ramada Ironbridge Hotel, Telford

The 3-star Ramada Ironbridge is situated close to the centre of Telford. The comfortable en-suite bedrooms overlook landscaped lawns and are equipped with tea /coffee making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi and safe. The hotel offers has a light and spacious restaurant and bar and, also has leisure facilities including indoor pool and gymnasium.

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

15

F estive R hine , W ine and G lühwein !

Our great value rail holiday to the Rhine Valley Christmas Markets is based at the popular family run Hotel Pinger and includes visits to two contrasting Rhineland festive markets, the impressive Cologne Christmas Market at the Dom and the traditional Christmas market in picturesque Rudesheim. This escorted railway holiday also includes a scenic Rhine cruise, visit to the pretty walled town of Ahrweiler plus lunch and wine tasting at Germany’s oldest wine co-operative! Fares From £635

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ Your choice of First or Standard Class rail travel from London to Germany and return ★ ★ 4 nights at the family-run Hotel Pinger in Remagen ★ ★ Excursion to Cologne with its five Christmas Markets ★ ★ Excursion to the traditional Rudesheim Christmas Market ★ ★ Cruise along the stunning UNESCO Rhine Gorge ★ ★ Wine-tasting and lunch at Germany’s oldest wine co-operative DAY 1 We depart London St Pancras by Eurostar, speeding across Kent and towards France. Our Eurostar terminates at Brussels, where we change onto a high-speed train into Germany. Our hotel for four nights is the Hotel Pinger in the Rhine riverside village of Remagen and on arrival we enjoy a traditional festive welcome drink of ‘Feuerzangenbowle’ (D) DAY 2 This morning we take the train along the Rhine to St Goar and from here we cruise along the stunning UNESCO Rhine Gorge to the beautiful town of Rudesheim . The town is well known

DAY 3 We travel to Cologne by train to visit its Christmas Markets . In the weeks before Christmas Cologne’s squares are transformed into a sea of festive colour. From the station it is a short walk to Cologne’s Gothic masterpiece cathedral, which overlooks the Christmas Market at the Dom , the market boasts the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland and over 100 stalls selling wooden toys, hearty food, warming glühwein and a myriad of

for producing high quality white wines from the Reisling grapes grown locally, during our free time we can sample a glass, or two at the town’s famous Drosselgasse filled with numerous traditional wine taverns. We can also explore Rudesheim Christmas Market , beautifully situated in the old quarter selling traditional goods and tasty delights galore. (B,D)

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

16 1

5 DAYS

DEPARTS Monday 7 December 2020

FARES From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to / from Remagen, including Standard Eurostar Supplement for Standard Premier Eurostar upgrade return £199 First Class rail travel to / from Remagen, including Standard Premier Eurostar Join & Leave at Remagen Single Traveller Supplement 4 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal, plus 1 lunch Rail travel of your choice and seat reservations where available £635 £935 £469 £95

Christmas decorations. A short walk further is the Christmas Market at the Alter Markt in the Old Town amidst pretty squares and Cologne’s famous brewery taverns. If you would like to venture further afield, a local road train connects you to Cologne’s other markets, including the ‘Market of Angels’ at Neumarkt and the Rudolphplatz Christmas Market at Hahnentor, one of the old city gates. On the bank of the Rhine, close to the Chocolate Museum, is the Maritime Christmas Market with a nautical theme. (B,D) DAY 4 Today we explore the local region by scheduled service through the scenic Ahr Valley, an enclave of red-wine production in a predominantly white- wine area. We stop first at the lovely town of Altenhar before heading back down the valley to the pretty walled

town of Ahrweiler . During the day we are treated to a lunch platter and a tasting of local wines at Germany’s oldest wine co-operative in Mayschoss . (B,L,D) All transfers, excursions & admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager GUARANTEED FARE

DAY 5 Leaving Remagen, we change trains onto the high speed line in Cologne. In Brussels we join the Eurostar service to London St Pancras. (B)

HOTEL Hotel Pinger, Remagen

Conveniently situated for Remagen’s centre and its railway station, yet just a short stroll from the Rhine Promenade, the family-run Hotel Pinger is very much the hub of this small Rhineland town. The hotel boasts a traditional restaurant, bar and coffee shop. The Pinger brothers are the third generation to manage the hotel, which was bought as a restaurant by their grandfather and converted into a hotel after WWII.

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

17

F estive H ighlands M ore I nclusive

Our great value pre-Christmas Scottish tour stays at the traditional Alexandra Hotel in Fort William and is packed with fantastic included attractions and stunning scenery! This winter warmer in the Western Highlands includes excellent excursions, great rail journeys on the West Highland Line and Kyle Line, full

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ Tour of the Ben Nevis Distillery with a wee dram ★ ★ Trundle across the Glenfinnan Viaduct en route to Mallaig on the West Highland Line ★ ★ Take an original ‘Great Rail Journey of the World’ on the spectacular Kyle Line ★ ★ Entrance into the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle ★ ★ Coach trip along the Great Glen and Loch Ness ★ ★ Dinner every day, plus 4 lunches ★ ★ 3 Drinks Vouchers each evening in the hotel ★ ★ Entertainment on 1 evening DAY 1 For those booking our rail inclusive package, our Tour Manager will meet you at Glasgow Central, transferring across the city to Queen Street Station for our evening journey on the West Highland Line to Fort William , where a light meal will be waiting at our hotel for the next four nights, the conveniently located Alexandra Hotel . (D) DAY 2 This morning a truly stunning coach journey awaits as we travel into the

board at the hotel and three drinks vouchers each evening, along with entertainment on one night.

Fares From £395

Great Glen, driving alongside Loch Ness en route to Inverness. Here we join the original ‘Great Railway Journey of the World’ made famous from Michael Palin’s trailblazing programme – The Kyle Line . We enjoy our picnic lunch as our train climbs past great forests, stopping briefly in small hamlets, before descending through lochs and stunning seascape scenery to Kyle of Lochalsh , overlooking the Isle of Skye. Our circular tour is then completed by coach with a visit to

the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle before heading south through the western Highlands to Fort William for our evening meal. (B,L,D) DAY 3 Today we pick up our packed lunches from the hotel and rejoin the West Highland Line for the final part of the epic rail journey to Mallaig , trundling first past Neptune’s Staircase – the impressive flight of locks bringing the Caledonian Canal down to sea level. We then head through rocky mountain landscapes, crossing Glenfinnan Viaduct , where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s monument and Loch Shiel are viewed before

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

18 1

5 DAYS

DEPARTS Tuesday 8 December 2020

FARES

FARE REGION London: Euston Greater London South of England

FIRST £805 £819 £859 £859 £869 £725 £709 £645 £629 £655 £775 £805

STANDARD

£595 £609 £625 £635 £659 £575 £569 £535 £525 £535 £605 £595 £509 £405

bursting out onto the Atlantic coastline of golden white sands with distant views of Rhum and Eigg. Enjoy time in Mallaig with views across the sea to Skye before returning by train to Fort William. (B,L,D) DAY 4 After breakfast there is free time to have a look around Fort William and you may wish to visit the West Highland Museum in the centre of the town. We enjoy a light lunch at the hotel before our local coach takes us the short distance to the Glencoe Visitor Centre , which tells the history of this haunting, yet stunning area. In the afternoon we visit the nearby Ben Nevis Distillery for a tour and a warming ’wee dram’ before returning to our hotel. (B,L,D) DAY 5 The hotel provides one final packed lunch today, as we bid farewell to Fort William. For those having booked our rail inclusive package we will see

East Anglia South West

Heart of England

Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales

Scotland

N/A

Join & Leave at Hotel

£10 tour discount for holders of National Railcards Single Room Supplement £85

4 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’Hôte evening meal, 4 lunches (including 3 packed lunches) Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions & admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Hotel Porterage

most of the West Highland Line in wintry daylight glory, climbing high across the heather of Rannoch Moor , whose splendid isolation can only be experienced by train or on foot (no road leads here), before skirting Lochs Lomond, Long and Gareloch en route to Glasgow, from where we transfer to homeward bound trains. (B,L)

HOTEL The Alexandra Hotel, Fort William

Situated in the heart of Fort William, close to the railway station this traditional Victorian hotel offers comfortable bedrooms with TV and radio, telephone, and hospitality tray. The hotel has a homely bar with open fire and the spacious restaurant offering locally sourced dishes.

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

19

S pectacular S cotland at C hristmas

The West Highland Line, the Kyle Line & the Cairngorms Line – experience a truly magical pre-Christmas circular rail tour of the Scottish Highlands in all their wintry glory, followed by a relaxing and homely Christmas in Stirling with all the trimmings and an excursion to the Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh. Fares From £975

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ The beautiful West Highland Line to Fort William ★ ★ Tour of the Ben Nevis Distillery with a wee dram ★ ★ Take an original ‘Great Rail Journey of the World’ on the spectacular Kyle Line ★ ★ Cut through the Grampians on the Cairngorm Line ★ ★ Enjoy a relaxing Christmas in the 4-star Stirling Highland Hotel with an entertainment programme ★ ★ Boxing Day excursion to The Royal Yacht Britannia & Edinburgh with time to explore its fabulous Christmas Market DAY 1 Travelling by train to Stirling , we transfer to the Stirling Highland Hotel, enjoying a welcome tea or coffee. Explore the handsome city or enjoy the hotel’s leisure facilities ahead of An early start this morning, as we depart Stirling for Glasgow. Here we change onto the West Highland Line . Catching the railway during the seasonally limited daylight hours, we skirt the shores of Gareloch, Loch Long and Loch Lomond , with scenery becoming ever more dramatic, before we climb high across the heather of Rannoch Moor , whose splendid isolation can only be experienced by train or on foot (no roads lead here). One of the world’s greatest railway dinner. (D) DAY 2

journeys then descends into Fort William , in the shadow of brooding Ben Nevis . On arrival a coach takes us the short distance to the Nevis Gondola cable car which whisks us high up Aonach Mor for incredible views. The Ben Nevis Distillery then awaits for a tour and a warming ’wee dram’ before checking into the Alexandra Hotel for two nights. (B,D) DAY 3 Today we rejoin the West Highland Line for the final part of the epic journey to Mallaig . Trundling first past the Caledonian Canal’s locks, we head through rocky mountain landscapes, crossing Glenfinnan Viaduct , where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s monument and Loch Shiel are viewed before bursting out onto the Atlantic coastline of golden white sands with distant views of Rhum and Eigg. Enjoy time in Mallaig with views across the sea to Skye before returning to Fort William. (B,D) DAY 4 A truly stunning coach journey heads through untouched lochs and glens, past

the romantic Eilean Donan Castle en route to Kyle of Lochalsh , overlooking Skye. Here we join the original ‘Great Railway Journey of the World’ made famous from Michael Palin’s trailblazing programme – The Kyle Line . Leaving the western seascapes behind, our train climbs past lochs and forests, stopping briefly in small hamlets, before descending to Inverness, where we stay for a night at the Mercure Hotel in the city centre. (B,D) DAY 5 – Christmas Eve Our morning train once again allows incredible daylight views of the Grampians which we cut through on the Cairngorm Line . Passing the ski resort of Aviemore and the charming town of Pitlochry, we arrive back in Stirling for included lunch at the Stirling Highland Hotel . In the afternoon why not relax in the hotel, which will show a festive movie on the big screen with popcorn. Dinner is followed by live music this evening, we are treated to mulled wine and mince pies later in the evening as Christmas Day approaches. (B,L,D)

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

20 2

DAY 6 – Christmas Day After an action packed few days, unwind in the homely surroundings of the Stirling Highland, enjoy its leisure facilities and, above all, relax. At lunchtime, a sparkling wine reception precedes a sumptuous Christmas lunch with all the trimmings . The hotel organises a treasure hunt around Stirling in the afternoon or a festive movie. A light buffet ends the day with entertainment. (B,L,D) DAY 7 – Boxing Day

8 DAYS

DEPARTS Sunday 20 December 2020

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £1299 £1315 £1359 £1365 £1465 £1359 £1289 £1235 £1175 £1235 £1359 £1289 £1109

STANDARD

London: Kings Cross

£1165 £1169 £1195 £1199 £1255 £1195 £1155 £1125 £1095 £1115 £1195 £1145 £1045 £995

Greater London South of England

East Anglia South West

Our coach excursion takes us to the Royal Yacht Britannia , voted Scotland’s best visitor attraction for the past 12 years. During our visit, the famous floating royal residence will be proudly decorated in all its festive finery. The Royal Yacht served the Royal Family for over 44 years and travelled over one million nautical miles on 968 state visits, hosting world leaders such as Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Ronald Reagan and Rajiv Gandhi. Following our fascinating visit, we enjoy free time in Edinburgh , Scotland’s proud capital. Take in the glorious architecture of the Royal Mile , enjoy the Boxing Day sales on Princes Street or explore Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets . Back in Stirling, dinner is followed by lively Scottish entertainment to round off your festive Christmas holiday. (B,D). HOTELS Heart of England Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Scotland Join & Leave at Hotel

£20 tour discount for holders of National Railcards Single Room Supplement £95 7 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’Hôte evening meal, 2 lunches Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions & admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

DAY 8 We bid you farewell and ‘haste ye back’. (B)

bar provide comfortable surroundings to unwind in a festive atmosphere. The Alexandra Hotel, Fort William Located in the heart of Fort William, close to the railway station this 3-star traditional Victorian hotel offers comfortable bedrooms with TV and radio, telephone, and hospitality tray. The hotel has a homely bar with open fire and the spacious restaurant offering locally sourced dishes.

Mercure Hotel, Inverness Situated in the centre of Inverness, the 4-star Mercure hotel boasts an excellent waterside setting overlooking the River Ness. The railway station is conveniently located just a short walk from the hotel. The recently refurbished, stylish bar and restaurant have fantastic views. The hotel also has a gymnasium. The modern bedrooms are well equipped with free Wi-Fi, TV, hairdryer, and tea/coffee making facilities.

The Stirling Highland Hotel Our base over Christmas is set in the heart of Stirling, just a short walk from Stirling Castle. The Highland Hotel is 4-star and its restaurant boasts an AA Rosette. The leisure club, including swimming pool, is a great place to relax. Built in the 19th century as the High School, this historic building still houses a working observatory in its roof. Rooms are well-equipped and the restaurant and

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

21

C hristmas T ime by the R omantic R hine

A festive and relaxing rail holiday, we invite you to celebrate Christmas by the Rhine in riverside Remagen with dinner every evening, two lunches and a complimentary evening bar on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Uncover Remagen’s history on a guided walk with our hotelier, sail along the Loreley Valley from beautiful Boppard, climb through the Ahr Valley by train, experience the Vulkan Express and travel on Germany’s oldest rack railway, the Drachenfelsbahn. Fares From £1035

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ ★ Your choice of First or Standard Class rail travel from London to Germany and return ★ ★ 6 nights at the family-run Hotel Pinger in Remagen ★ ★ Excursion by train to the scenic Ahr Valley ★ ★ Christmas Party with live music and 5-course dinner ★ ★ Evening complimentary bar on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day ★ ★ Return trip on Germany’s oldest rack railway, the Drachenfelsbahn ★ ★ Excursion to Boppard in the Rhine Gorge ★ ★ Scenic Rhine Gorge river cruise ★ ★ Return journey on the Vulkan Express heritage railway ★ ★ Guided historical walk around Remagen with mulled wine DAY 1 We depart London St Pancras by Eurostar to Brussels. Here we change onto a high-speed train into Germany. Our hotel for six nights is the Hotel Pinger in the Rhine riverside town of Remagen . (D)

DAY 2 This morning is free to relax and explore at leisure before we cross the Rhine travelling to Königswinter for a return trip on Germany’s oldest

rack railway, the Drachenfelsbahn , up 220 metres to the castle - Schloss Drachenburg where there is a charming Christmas Market and the castle will be lit up after dark. We then return retracing our tracks to Remagen. (B,D) DAY 3 Travelling by train southwards alongside the Rhine to the beautiful riverside town of Boppard. Here, we join one of the river cruise ships for a round trip along the most scenic part

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

22 2

Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker