Steam Trains & Midland Memories
Step back in time and discover the rich heritage of the Midlands on this fascinating five-day break.
Overview
Combining historic houses, heritage railways, a relaxing river cruise, and award-winning museums, this tour offers something for everyone. Explore the story of Britain’s transport history, enjoy nostalgic steam train journeys through beautiful countryside, cruise along the River Avon, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Black Country’s industrial past.
Single Room supplement – Nil (Limited availability)
Supplement for sole occupancy of a Twin/Double from £100.00
Highlights
- ✦Executive coach travel
- ✦4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast
- ✦Coventry Transport Museum
- ✦Admission to Baddesley Clinton House
- ✦River Avon Cruise
- ✦Journey on the Severn Valley Railway
- ✦Journey on the Great Central Railway
- ✦Admission to the Black Country Museum
Day by day
- Day 1
Monday
Depart from your local pick-up point and travel to the Midlands, arriving at the Chesford Grange Hotel in the afternoon. After settling into your room, enjoy dinner and relax ahead of the days to come.
- Day 2
Tuesday
Today’s excursion begins in the historic city of Coventry, where we visit the fascinating Coventry Transport Museum. Home to an impressive collection of vehicles and transport memorabilia, the museum celebrates Britain’s rich motoring heritage and showcases over a century of innovation. There will be free time to enjoy lunch and perhaps visit the nearby Coventry Cathedral before we continue to the beautiful Baddesley Clinton. This atmospheric moated manor house has a fascinating history, including secret priest holes used during times of religious persecution. Explore the elegant interiors, tranquil gardens, fish pools, and romantic lakeside setting before returning to the hotel.
- Day 3
Wednesday
This morning we travel to the historic market town of Stratford-upon-Avon, world-famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Here we enjoy a relaxing cruise along the River Avon, taking in views of the riverside scenery while learning about the town’s rich history. Afterwards, there is free time to explore Stratford-upon- Avon at your leisure and enjoy lunch. Later, we head to the northern outskirts of Leicester to board the heritage Great Central Railway. Enjoy a nostalgic steam train journey through the Leicestershire countryside to Loughborough, crossing the picturesque Swithland Reservoir along the way.
- Day 4
Thursday
Today we travel to Kidderminster where we join the renowned Severn Valley Railway. This heritage railway follows the scenic Severn Valley through beautiful countryside and charming restored stations to the historic town of Bridgnorth. Following our railway journey, we visit the award-winning Black Country Living Museum. This remarkable open- air museum brings the industrial history of the region to life through reconstructed streets, historic buildings, traditional shops, and fascinating exhibits. Fans of the television series Peaky Blinders may also recognise many of the filming locations found throughout the museum.
- Day 5
Friday
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the Midlands and begin our journey home, taking with us wonderful memories of heritage railways, historic attractions, and scenic countryside.
Where you'll stay
Chesford Grange Hotel
The Chesford Grange Hotel enjoys an attractive setting near the banks of the River Avon and provides an excellent base for exploring the heart of England. Hotel facilities include a health club, indoor swimming pool, and spa. All bedrooms are en-suite and equipped with a television, telephone, hairdryer, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Pickup points
Choose your preferred pickup at checkout. Specific times are confirmed after booking.
| Pickup point | Pickup time |
|---|---|
| Norwich, Harford P&R | After booking |
| Long Stratton, The Plain Bus Stop | After booking |
| Harleston, Broad Street Bus Shelter | After booking |
| Diss Depot, Simonds Depot, Oak Drive | After booking |
| Diss, Park Road, Bus Station | After booking |
| Botesdale, Simonds Court Bus Stop | After booking |
| Stanton, Shepherds Grove Park Main Gate | After booking |
| Stanton, The Memorial | After booking |
| Ixworth, Greyhound bus stop | After booking |
| Ixworth, Pykkerell | After booking |
| Bury St Edmunds, Bus Station Bay 9 | After booking |
| Newmarket, A14/A142 Fordham Road Tesco Bus Stop | After booking |
| Dereham - Boots, The Market Place | After booking |
| Watton - The Crown, High Street | After booking |
| Thetford - The Chase | After booking |
Alternative pick-ups may be available on request. Please call 01379 647 300.