Steam Dreams Rail Co Announces Extraordinary Journey to the Lake District for 2025

The Steam Dreams Rail Co., provider of luxurious and unforgettable steam train journeys, today announces the launch of their much-anticipated Lakes Express holiday from the 9th – 12th September 2025.

Step back in time and journey through breathtaking landscapes aboard a classic steam train. Feel the power of the locomotive, hear the rhythmic chug of the wheels, and breathe in the nostalgia of a golden era of travel as you are whisked away on a unique holiday experience where every mile reveals stunning vistas and timeless elegance.

Over four days, passengers will enjoy two days of travel by private charter train to the Lake District and back. The journey will pass through dramatic mountain scenery, along the famous Settle & Carlisle Railway and the rugged coastal views of Cumbria.

Passengers will have two full days to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District with organised optional excursions, including a tranquil Lake Cruise and visits to two of the region’s most charming heritage railways – The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and the narrow gauge Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. For lovers of country houses and stunning gardens there will be trips to the enchanting Holker Hall, Wordsworth House and Beatrix Potter’s House.

With a selection of handpicked hotels all, boasting stunning views of Lake Windermere or the far-reaching countryside, each hotel has been chosen for its unique character and charm and carefully selected to match each class of travel – Pullman Dining, First Class and Premium Standard.

Pullman Dining – from £2250 per person.
A sumptuous culinary experience aboard lovingly restored vintage carriages, adorned with polished brass and fine woodwork. A multi-course seasonal menu will be served on days 1 and 4, accompanied by a half a bottle of wine per person with a cheese course and petit fours. Evening meals will be served in the hotel on days 2 and 3. Pullman Dining passengers will stay at the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa, just a short walk from the bustling town of Bowness-on-Windermere, perfectly located on the shores of the Lake. Facilities include a private jetty, lakeside moorings, one of the Lake District’s most popular spas and the Lakeview Restaurant. All rooms have a lake view or a partial lake view. Those looking for more seclusion have the option to a stay at the Grade II listed Storrs Hall*, shortlisted for the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2023. This impressive hotel boasts 17 acres of private grounds.

First Class (non-dining) – from £1225 per person.
A sanctuary for those seeking a refined and leisurely journey without dining-on-board, First Class offers guests an unparalleled journey into the past aboard elegantly restored carriages with comfortable and spacious seating around tables of two and four. First Class guests are greeted with Bucks Fizz and freshly brewed coffee and tea. Guests have the option to add an Afternoon Tea to their booking (supplement applies), visit the Buffet Car for additional drinks or snacks, or bring their own picnic on board. First Class Passengers will stay at either the characterful Cragwood Country House Hotel on the shores of Lake Windermere with acres of landscaped gardens, at the Ro Hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere in lake view rooms, or the award-winning Lindeth Fell Country House Hotel set in an elegant Edwardian house with far reaching views of Lake Windermere.

Premium Standard (non-dining) – from £850 per person
Offers a nostalgic and authentic journey on board a beautifully restored carriage that embodies the charm of a bygone era, with its classic decor and comfortable seating around tables for four. Complimentary tea and coffee are served during the journey, with additional drinks or snacks available to purchase from the Buffet Car. Guests also have the option to bring their own picnic on board. Premium Standard Passengers will stay at the Ro Hotel, a contemporary hotel which sits in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Holiday package prices: Premium Standard (non-dining) from £850 per person. First Class (non-dining) from £1225 per person. Pullman Dining from £2250 per person. Price includes two days’ travel by private charter train from London to the Lake District and return, hauled by vintage diesel, electric and steam locomotives, three nights’ hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, coach transfers between the train and hotels, luggage courier service, transporting all luggage from the station to hotel rooms and a team of helpful staff both on board the train and at hotels to ensure a memorable and enjoyable journey.

Juliet Soley, Head of Communications at Steam Dreams Rail Co. commented: ‘It is not often one can claim the journey is as magical as the destination but in the case of our Lakes Express holiday, this is definitely true. From the moment passengers are greeted by our livered stewards to enjoying impeccable on-board service, a stunning selection of hotels and range of excursions this trip promises memories that will last a lifetime.’