Steam Dreams Rail Co’s enchanting Edinburgh Christmas Market holiday returns for 2025

The Steam Dreams Rail Co., provider of luxurious and unforgettable steam train journeys, is delighted to announce the return of their magical Edinburgh Christmas Market holiday for 2025. Departing from London Kings Cross Station on Thursday, 27th November 2025, passengers will enjoy three nights and two full days in one of the world’s most beautiful cities as it is transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland.

This captivating weekend tour follows the historic route from London along the East Coast Main Line, through breathtaking countryside showcasing some the UK’s most iconic landmarks including the imposing Durham Cathedral and Antony Gormley’s celebrated sculpture, the Angel of the North, before crossing the majestic Border Bridge en route to the storied city of Edinburgh.

Passengers will be able to immerse themselves in the romance, elegance and nostalgia from a bygone era in meticulously restored vintage carriages featuring traditional wooden marquetry, polished brass and impeccably set tables in one of the three classes of travel, each offering their own unique charm – Pullman Dining, First Class or Premium Standard.

Once in Edinburgh, passengers will have two full days to explore the resplendent Christmas Market, shimmering with festive enchantment and featuring everything from artisan gifts to mouthwatering seasonal treats as its historic streets and grand architecture glow with festive lights and the city buzzes with seasonal events and celebrations.

On day three, passengers can join an optional lunchtime steam train excursion (supplement applies) across one of the world’s railway engineering masterpieces, the Forth Bridge offering striking views out to sea. This magnificent trip offers uninterrupted views of the passing scenery, including the beaches and castles of Fife, before heading back along the Forth Estuary to Alloa and Stirling and returning to Edinburgh as twilight falls.

Steam Dreams Rail Co has handpicked a selection of hotel, chosen for their charm and idyllic location, and carefully selected to match each class of travel – Pullman Dining, First Class and Premium Standard.

Pullman Dining – from £1735 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. Pullman Dining passengers will stay at The Scotsman, one of Edinburgh’s finest hotels, or The Caledonian Hotel, a five-star hotel in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre.

First Class (non-dining) – from £995 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 the stylish four-star Hilton Carlton Hotel, located just a two-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station.

Premium Standard (non-dining) – from £725 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 a centrally located Premier Inn or similar.

Train only tickets are also available Pullman Dining from £985 per person, First Class from £485 per person and Premium Standard from £395 per person.

Holiday package prices: Premium Standard (non-dining) from £725 per person. First Class (non-dining) from £995 per person. Pullman Dining from £1735 per person. Price includes two days’ travel by private charter train from London to Edinburgh 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: “We are thrilled to be able to celebrate the festive season by announcing the return of our beloved Edinburgh Christmas Market holiday for 2025. This nostalgic Christmas escape combines the luxury and elegance of steam travel with impeccable on-board service, a selection of handpicked hotels and above all – the opportunity to unwind and enjoy a relaxed and stress-free festive getaway.”