[A]s part of the ongoing celebrations following the reopening of the Settle-Carlisle railway, the Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company has announced a special excursion from Carlisle to York, to run on Saturday 25th November this year.
Named the ‘Christmas Comet’, the locomotive hauled train (operated by the West Coast Railway Co) will depart Carlisle at approximately 0700, arriving in York at about 1100. The return journey will depart at around 1600. This will give passengers ample time to explore the historic city and soak up the atmosphere of its famous ‘St Nicholas Fair’ Christmas markets.
The trip will provide a unique opportunity for residents along the Settle-Carlisle line to make a through journey to York. They will travel in style on the diesel-hauled, ten-carriage train; seated at tables of four throughout standard class. Refreshments will be on sale from the buffet car, as well as being available to pre-book online. In the first-class section, complimentary hot drinks will be served and an at-seat trolley service will be on hand throughout the journey. A festive atmosphere is guaranteed. Father Christmas is planning to park up his sleigh for the day and make an appearance on board, assisted by his happy elves.
The train will call at: Langwathby, Appleby, Kirkby Stephen, Garsdale, Settle and Skipton. Standard class return fares start at £65.00 for adults and £40.00 for children over 5.
The Settle-Carlisle line was hard-hit last year by engineering works, with residents at the northern end of the line experiencing the worst of the disruption to their rail services. Since repairs were completed at the end of March, passenger numbers have been extremely healthy, as locals and tourists have been keen to get back on to the line. This excursion should be the icing on the cake.
Drew Haley, General Manager of the Settle Carlisle Railway Development Co said: “This should be a fantastic excursion – a chance to travel in comfort to one of the UK’s most fascinating destinations, especially so at Christmas. We also want to do something positive for the Settle Carlisle railway’s local residents after all the difficulties of last year.”
More information (and ticket sales) at www.settle-carlisle.co.uk.
