Choo choo! New steam train trips from Victoria station have been announced for Summer 2023.
Sunset Steam Express tours are 3.5-hour round trips from Victoria out into the Surrey Hills. On leaving London, the special services pass Guildford before enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Surrey Hills — designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — before descending the Vale of Holmesdale, and travelling through the towns of Dorking and Reigate, and back to London Victoria.
The carriages — all wood-panelled exteriors, making for a nostalgic experience — are hauled by steam engines (either a Mayflower 61306 or 70000 Britannia, for those in the know about these things).
You can choose from three classes of travel:
- Pullman Style Dining: Think armchair seating, crisp linen and fine crockery. A glass of champagne on arrival, and a three-course seasonal menu is served at your table during the trip. From £155 per person;
- First Class: The same carriages and seating as the above, but with a glass of sparkling wine, and a savoury snack box to enjoy as the countryside whizzes past your window. From £119 per person;
- Premium Standard: Tables of four, with complimentary tea and coffee available, and refreshments available to buy at the buffet bar — or bring an on board picnic. From £69 per person.
The Sunset Steam Express runs Tuesday evenings, 22 June-29 August 2023. It departs Victoria station at 6.15pm and returns at 9.45pm.
