Vintage Trains is running a steam enthusiast’s dream train on the 6th September (Saturday).

A special double-headed express, named ‘The Mayflower’, will run a round trip from Bristol to Plymouth.

The tour will explore the South Devon Banks unassisted.

Named after a short-lived British Railways Western Region Express, ‘The Mayflower’ will be hauled by 45596 ‘Bahamas’ and 7029 ‘Clun Castle’.

Starting at Birmingham New Street, the tour will initially be hauled by a diesel locomotive, making a few stops before its arrival at Bristol Temple Meads.

This is where the rare, mainline steam experience begins, reimagining the golden age of steam that you won’t want to miss out on.

Both Clun Castle and Bahamas will attach themselves to the front of the train at Bristol and haul the train unassisted to Plymouth and back over the challenging gradients across South Devon.

Passengers will have numerous dining options, including a full English breakfast and a four-course dinner in Pullman.

Within First Class, the treats continue across the day, featuring an Afternoon Tea. Tourist passengers will also be able to pre-order bacon rolls and afternoon teas, with a buffet with light refreshments available as well.

Booking is advised as soon as possible for this picturesque opportunity. Information on how to do that can be found on their website.

“We are delighted to bring back ‘The Mayflower’ for a second year, following its incredibly successful introduction in 2024. Like last year, we are sure this will a highlight for enthusiasts and the public alike, especially with a Castle and Jubilee being paired together this year. We would like to thank the Bahamas Locomotive Society for allowing us use of their locomotive once again and look forward to another brilliant run with her, in what will be one of her final mainline runs in 2025.”

Alex Knudsen, Sales & Marketing Manager at Vintage Trains.