The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway has announced details of a new tour for small groups wanting to experience the age of steam in the Lake District.

With seven miles of track, the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway is one of the oldest and longest narrow gauge railways in England.

The railway, working in partnership with National Trust Steam Yacht Gondola and Muncaster Castle, has launched launch this full-day itinerary that will enable visitors to experience the smells and sounds of steam, which in its heyday was the height of innovation used for both pleasure and industry.

The day starts in Coniston where visitors will float back in time and travel on board the National Trust’s Steam Yacht, Gondola.

The route from Coniston to Eskdale takes the group via the highest road passes in England – Wrynose Pass then Hardknott Pass before heading into the Eskdale Valley and arriving at Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway’s Dalegarth Station for lunch in the café.

Then all aboard to travel in the first-class luxury aboard the Railway’s brand new First Class Carriage. At Ravenglass station, visitors can choose to go on a tour of the Railway Museum with optional Victorian Dress-Up.

The final experience of the day is a visit to the impressive 14th century Muncaster Castle, to enjoy the internationally acclaimed gardens with splendid rhododendrons and azaleas (April-May) and a regular bird of prey flying displays by the Hawk & Owl Centre.

Itinerary details

• 10.45am – Arrive Coniston Pier
• 11am – Gondola cruise from Coniston pier with commentary
• 11.50am – Depart Coniston Pier for Dalegarth (over Wynose & Hardknott Pass)
• 1pm – Arrive Dalegarth Station for lunch
• 2pm* – Depart in the new First Class Observation Car for Ravenglass (time TBC)
• 3pm – Arrive Ravenglass and either:
  • depart for Muncaster Castle for tea/cake (extra cost)
  • or Railway Museum tour with options for Victorian Dress Up – FREE add on the itinerary

Ticket prices for the Lake District Steam Tour are £35 per person, which includes lunch with tea/coffee at Dalegarth Station. The cost of transport is not included. The minimum size of group is six and the maximum is 12.

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