17  October 2023: The Steam Dreams Rail Co. announces the launch of their exclusive festive train, The Spirit of Christmas, departing London Paddington on the 20th of December at 18.00 for a magical evening of celebration aboard the only evening vintage steam train departing London this season.
 
Passengers will be transported to a bygone era of Christmas past as they are warmly welcomed onto festively decorated vintage carriages for a five hour round trip amidst the twinkling lights of the capital as the train makes its way out through Berkshire and Wiltshire before returning to Paddington.
 
There will be four classes of travel available, including a new elevated Pullman Dining class, The Helicon Club. Pullman Dining, First Class and Premium Standard are also available.

Guests in The Helicon Club will start their evening in the stylish Hippocrene Bar, which strikes the perfect balance of history and contemporary spirit, accommodated in the beautifully restored Bar Car 6708, Mt Helicon. Guests can mingle and enjoy bespoke entertainment, whilst delighting in an intoxicating prelude of Champagne and canapés before being escorted to their sumptuously appointed dining carriage, for the evening's repast. Liveried stewards will attend to their every whim as they savour each morsel of the delectable four-course Pullman Dining carte du jour including a Great British Cheeseboard, paired with a bottle of wine per couple from our sommelier's selection, at tables laid with crisp linen, and embellished with fine crockery, fresh flowers, and glassware.  Created with a pastiche of seasonal delicacies, the menu is artfully created on-board by Executive Chef Nicholas Allen and his culinary team.
 
After dinner passengers can make their way back to the Hippocrene Bar to wind down with a digestif and freshly brewed coffee before disembarking.  Dress code includes a jacket and tie, and cocktail attire. Seats are limited to one carriage, book now to avoid disappointment. Available at £400 pp. Table for two supplement applies £150 per table.
 
Juliet Soley from Steam Dreams commented: 'We are very excited to be launching a stunning new Christmas Dining Experience; The Spirit of Christmas and an elevated and exclusive dining class; The Helicon Club. A conclave of decadence and luxury. The Helicon Club is limited to 42 people with exclusive use of the sophisticated Hippocrene Bar and a private dining carriage. Guests will experience the finest hospitality, enjoy live entertainment and an elevated Pullman Dining Menu.
 
Soley added: 'Passengers love the nostalgic experience travelling by steam train affords. This coupled with its luxurious interiors reminiscent of a bygone era, locally sourced menus with an exciting array of dishes (for those choosing the dining option) makes for an exquisite evening out and a lovely alternative to traditional festive dining, creating memories to last a lifetime.'
 
Pullman Style Dining passengers will travel in style, aboard festively bedecked vintage carriages that have been meticulously restored and appointed with plush interiors, elegant armchair seating, beautiful wood panelling and period details. Guests will experience the highest levels of service and comfort as they are served Champagne on arrival, followed by a sumptuous four-course seasonal menu a cheeseboard, and a bottle of wine per couple, at tables laid with crisp linen, and embellished with fine crockery, fresh flowers, and glassware. Available at £275 pp. Table for two supplement applies £125 per table.
 
Guests in First Class will be welcomed onboard with a glass of sparkling wine as they settle into comfortably appointed carriages with cushioned seating. Each guest will receive a snack box to enjoy on this special journey along with tea and coffee. Available at £125 pp. Table for two supplement applies £100 per table.
 
Premium Standard passengers will be seated in a restored period carriage with large picture windows, offering excellent views of the evening skyline. Complimentary tea and coffee will be available. Available at £95 pp.
 
Guests travelling in First Class and Premium Standard can visit our beautifully restored buffet car with a choice of Champagne, wine, beer, spirits, and a range of nibbles on hand to purchase. These guests are welcome to bring their own picnics on-board.
 
Online bookings can be made here.  Alternatively, bookings can be made via our reservations team by calling 01483209888.  www.steamdreams.co.uk

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Editor's Notes:

Resource Library

Please access further information and images here. The carriages currently in use differ to those used prior to Steam Dreams joining the LSG family. Pictures held on file from past years are not an accurate reflection of the enhanced carriages now in use. Additional images are available on request. VIEW OUR LATEST PROMOTIONAL VIDEO

Gift Vouchers

Valid for a full year from date of purchase, gift vouchers must be booked before the voucher expires but travel can take place after this date. Gift vouchers start at £50. Gift tickets can also be purchased which summarize the trip itinerary purchased without prices and come in a special presentation wallet.

Carbon Offset

The Steam Dreams Rail Co, was the first rail charter to be carbon neutral. For the last ten years the company has offset annually the carbon footprint of all aspects of its operation.

Steam Dreams journeys are pulled by a range of locomotives:

• 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley
• 61306 Mayflower

• 70000 Britannia
• 45231 Sherwood Forester
• 46100 Royal Scot
• 34046 Braunton
• 46233 Duchess of Sutherland

About The Steam Dreams Rail Co.

• The first tour left London for Salisbury in December 1999 23 years later, the company is proud to be offering day trips to multiple destinations, picking up passengers at regional stations across the UK every year

• The Steam Dreams Rail Co. is now delighted to offer a number of multi-day tours around the British Isles.
• In June 2022, The Steam Dreams Rail Co. was acquired by Locomotive Services Group (LSG). LSG have been involved in the railway industry for many years and bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge as well as a large stable of locomotives and different carriages