One very early Saturday morning in August last year saw Paul and me waiting at Lincoln railway station for the train to Carlisle. I was eyeing up the other passengers on the platform all dressed in their best outfits. Some ladies were wearing cocktail dresses and fascinators but I had opted for comfort (it was going to be a very long day) and wore white linen trousers with a touch of animal print and a hat for some extra panache. Paul wore his best safari print shirt and jacket (“I am NOT wearing a tie). We were all waiting for the Northern Belle, Britain's most luxurious train that boasts 'opulent 1920's style and glamour whilst gliding through spectacular countryside'.
Just a few minutes later than scheduled the Northern Belle cruised into view and once stationery the carriage doors were flung open, red carpets rolled out and liveried staff stood to attention and welcomed us aboard. We were ushered to our sumptuous armchair seats in the Belvoir carriage and served sparkling Mimosas. The service was amazing and nothing was too much trouble for the stewards. Fortunately our travelling companions were delightful and we were soon chatting like old friends, enjoying a three course brunch as we headed north through Yorkshire and Lancashire countryside.
It took several hours to reach our destination but the time went so quickly as we were entertained by musicians and a magician strolling through the carriages. At Carnforth (Lancashire) we were hooked up to the 1947 steam locomotive Tangmere and we eventually arrived in style as we puffed our way into Carlisle, the capital city of Cumbria.
 |
| waiting for brunch |
 |
| trombone player |
 |
| Paul letting off steam |
We only had an hour or so in Carlisle so we did a quick tour of the Cathedral which is situated quite close to the station before re-joining the train for the return journey to Lincoln. This time we were greeted by champagne and canapes followed by a six course dinner. We steamed across the infamous 24 arch Ribblehead Viaduct although, as passengers on the train, we could see nothing of this spectacle!
It was evening when we slowly rolled back into Lincoln station, the sun had set and Lincoln Cathedral was beautifully illuminated. I was exhausted but it had certainly been a grand day out.
What a lovely day ! You look very elegant.
ReplyDeleteIt was a fantastic day.
DeleteIt sounds wonderful. I agree you look very elegant.
ReplyDeleteThank you Carol.
DeleteWhat great fun - you certainly had wonderful day out. Were you celebrating a special occasion?
ReplyDeleteNo, just something I have always wanted to do. It was super fun.
DeleteI kept waiting to see if Hercule Piorot would appear! lol
ReplyDeleteHow fantastical! I would love to do that, someday! Glad you had fun!
hugs
Donna
Haha, it definitely had that sort of vibe.
DeleteYou and Paul look great and very nicely styled for your day of luxurious train travel. Train travel when the carriages are perfectly appointed and carry all the amenities is nothing less than fabulous. It all sounds wonderful.
ReplyDeleteThe marquetry depicting Belvoir Castle in our carriage was exquisite.
DeleteWow! That looks like an amazing trip and you two really look dashing! Glad you had such a great time.
ReplyDeleteIt was an absolutely lovely experience.
DeleteFirst of all, you both look fabulous! Secondly, what a wonderful experience! I love the opulence of old time train travel. All the food and drink sounds good, too. -Jenn
ReplyDeleteThank you Jenn. I just loved everything about the train, the food and drink, the staff, our fellow passengers - it was delightful. Not forgetting the beautiful countryside we travelled through.
DeleteThe trombone player looks very dapper.
ReplyDeleteDoesn't he just.
Delete