Railway is set to host legendary locomotive
AN historic steam train will be visiting East Lancashire Railway in the spring as part of its centenary celebrations and there’s the chance you can enjoy a luxury dining experience while on board.
Steam locomotive 4079 ‘Pendennis Castle’ will visit the Bury-based railway for selected dates in April.
Originally built for the Great Western Railway, the locomotive is renowned for outperforming its rivals in speed and efficiency, as well as working alongside the Flying Scotsman in Australia. Normally based in Didcot, rail enthusiasts will have the rare opportunity to ride behind the locomotive along East Lancashire Railway.
The historic steam locomotive was built in 1924 for the Great Western Railway and was chosen to represent the UK at the British Empire Exhibition in 1925. Following retirement from mainline service she continued to represent us overseas, working on preservation lines in Australia until 1994 . She came back home in 2000 and was returned to service in 2021.
As well as providing passengers with a unique rail experience on several dates in April, Pendennis Castle will also haul the popular Dining with Distinction trains across three evenings.
On April 13 passengers can enjoy the Red Rose Diner, tucking into a three-course, silverserved meal in fullyrestored Pullman style carriages.
For those who fancy themselves a bit of a detective, it will host a Murder at the Ritz dinner on April 20. During the glamorous 1920s-themed evening, guests will have to solve the murder while enjoying an indulgent meal. Then on April 27 guests can have the ultimate luxurious experience with the Premium Night Dinner, with live music, freshly prepared canapes, on board entertainment and more.
Mike Kelly, Chairman of the East Lancashire Railway, said: “It’s an incredible opportunity to be able to welcome “Pendennis Castle” to ELR, especially for its 100th anniversary.
Anyone who loves trains will want to catch a glimpse of this iconic locomotive, or even eat a luxury meal whilst being pulled behind it!”
The 4079 “Pendennis Castle” will visit East Lancashire Railway on April 10-14, 20-21, and 27-28. Tickets can be bought on the East Lancashire Railway website.