Saphos Trains, part of Locomotive Services Ltd, have released the dates for their 2018 Tours.

Saphos Trains is the final piece of the puzzle for Locomotive Services Ltd to Operate and Promote their own Mainline Steam Tours.

Locomotive Services Ltd gained its Train Operating Licence (TOL) in Summer 2017, allowing them to Operate their large fleet of Steam Locomotives. Before this, both West Coast Railway Company and DB Cargo operated all Mainline Steam Tours.

Saphos Trains will, therefore, be using Steam Engines owned or cared for by Locomotive Services Ltd.

Currently, Three Engines are listed to possibly haul the 12 Tours this year. These are SR West Country Class No. 34046 “Braunton” (currently running as 34052 “Lord Dowding” and BR Green Late Crest), LMS Rebuilt Royal Scot Class No. 46100 “Royal Scot” (BR Green Early Crest) or BR Standard 7 No. 70000 “Britannia” (last appeared BR Green Early Crest).

How much do the tours cost?

To celebrate the first year of operating Tours, all classes of tickets have got around 50% off the normal price. Standard Class starts at £45, First Class starts at £70 and Premier Dining starts at £170.

The first Tour starts on April 14th, and is called the “North Wales Coast Express”. Starting off in Crewe the Tour heads for its destination Holyhead, before making its return to Crewe.

All Tours will be added to RailAdvent’s Events Calendar in due course.

• Visit the Saphos Trains Website
  For more information