Train Gift Experiences

Enjoy a Fabulous Day out on a Classic Train

Trains originated over five hundred years ago, originally consisting of old wagons that minors would push along a wooden ‘wagonway’. The tracks turned to iron in the 1700s and carts began to be pulled by horses, as they could move a heavier loads. The inaugural full-scale steam train and railway was constructed in 1804, designed by British inventor Richard Trevithick. The first journey took place near Merthyr Tydfil in Wales and departed on 21st February. Steam trains were restricted to carrying goods at this point, but a passenger train service was developed in 1825 by George Stephenson. Train trips became instantly popular amongst the upper classes.

The train service boomed in between the two world wars, as trains continued to develop in terms of luxury and speed. In 1933, the UK experienced ‘electrification’. Diesel and electric powered trains overtook the steam locomotives and the speeds began to exceed 120mph. Modern day train services are quick and extensive, taking you all over the country and across the continent.

Train Journey Gift Ideas

Our Train gift experiences take you back to the golden era of travel, when the enjoyment of the train journey was just as important as the need to reach a destination as quickly as possible. Older-style Trains offered luxury, comfort and great hospitality. In fact, the journeys through beautiful countryside were considered a short holiday on wheels!

We have a terrific choice of train presents, including day trips on the Orient Express and luxury steam train journeys. Most of these travel gifts feature a delicious lunch or dinner and a refreshing glass of champagne. Many also offer the chance to explore the city of your destination or a specific famous landmark. Below you will find more information about our popular train gifts – book quickly to avoid disappointment!

Gift Experiences on the Orient Express

The Orient Express is the most famous train in history and has been immortalised in literature and film, such as Agathie Christie’s "Murder on the Orient Express" and James Bond’s "From Russia with Love." Founded by Georges Nagelmackers and originally named Constantinople, the Orient Express began as a long distance passenger train that ran to destinations such as Paris, Vienna and Istanbul. The first Orient Express journey departed Paris in October 1882 and the train featured deluxe leather furniture and beds made with silk sheets. It was a train for the wealthy and was described as "the king of trains and the train of kings."

The Orient Express still delivers a luxurious national service and we offer a selection of wonderful excursion gifts. A Taste of the Orient Express for two includes a return train trip to a selection of destinations and admission to a tour of a castle or gardens at your chosen city. A delicious three-course dinner will be provided on either the outward or return Orient Express journey. This wonderful train experience is shared with a friend or relative.This excursion on the Orient Express incorporates a champagne brunch on the outward journey and a four-course meal on the return trip.

Gift Experiences on the Northern Belle

The Northern Belle is a sister train of the Orient Express and these beautifully detailed carriages capture the magic of the original 1930s ‘Belle’ trains. The stylish locomotives depart from a selection of major train stations. A Northern Belle Dining Experience includes a four-course lunch or dinner with wine and champagne.

Classic Steam Train Gift Experiences

Steam trains used coal to boil water, which produced a steady flow of steam that would power the train’s engine and create movement. We have a variety of steam train gifts, which give you the chance to experience a fabulous ride on these unique and traditional trains. The Cathedral Express is pulled by vintage steam engines and you can choose your destination from a selection of cities, such as Bath, Cambridge and Stratford upon Avon. The steam train days out will allow you plenty of time to look around your chosen destination. You will also be given a souvenir DVD to commemorate your nostalgic steam train journey.

Our steam train presents include a classic Steam Train Journey and Steam Train Journey - For Two, which feature a buffet service with your day trip.

Our most prestigious steam train present is a VIP Train Journey - For Two, which offers first class travel, champagne and a sumptuous hamper to accompany each journey.

Signal Box Experience Gifts

A Signal Box Gift Experience enables your recipient to become a signalman and run a railway for a day. You will gain first-hand experience of working in a busy signal box, as you man the railway points and learn how to signal correctly. This railway operations day takes place at Rolvenden station in Kent, at a railway line designed for steam trains and heritage diesel locomotives. In addition to directing trains, your railway day out will include a full briefing, a tasty packed lunch and a certificate of completion.