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Steam Train Dining Experiences in the Heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands
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The Valley Pioneer - £64.50 Per Person - Departs Froghall 13:30

The Valley Pioneer - £64.50 Per Person - Departs Froghall 13:30

Midweek Lunch Train

Midweek Steam Train Lunch Experience

Enjoy freshly-prepared 3-course lunch as the Staffordshire countryside unfolds before you

Price: £64.50 / person

Seats sell out fast, so book early to secure your spot!

Booking for 15 or more people? Contact us to arrange

Escape the Ordinary with a Midweek Steam-Powered Lunch

Take a break from the everyday and enjoy a leisurely afternoon aboard the Valley Pioneer—a vintage steam train lunch experience through the stunning Staffordshire Moorlands. Settle into beautifully restored mid-century dining carriages, where white tablecloths, polished service, and the rhythmic charm of steam travel set the tone for a truly memorable escape.

This 22-mile round trip combines freshly prepared cuisine, full table service, and breathtaking countryside views—all served with a side of nostalgia. Whether you’re catching up with friends, celebrating a special moment, or impressing a client, this is a dining journey unlike any other.

*** Event not bookable ⁄ sold out ***

Freshly Prepared for you by our chefs in our on-board kitchen

Midweek Lunch Menu

All dishes are freshly prepared and served on board as the Staffordshire scenery rolls gently past your window.

Starters

Light, flavourful, and freshly prepared — the perfect way to whet your appetite as journey begins.

Tomato Bruschetta

Crisp toasted bread topped with ripe marinated tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of basil. Light, refreshing, and full of sun-kissed flavour.

Gluten-free available on request

Chicken Liver Pâté

Rich and velvety pâté with warming spices, served with a sweet onion chutney and crisp toast. A timeless favourite.

Sweet Potato & Red Pepper Soup (V)

Silky-smooth and subtly spiced, served piping hot with a thick wedge of crusty bread. Soul-warming and hearty.

Gluten-free available on request

Mains

Hearty, home-style classics and bold flavour pairings — each dish made to comfort, satisfy, and impress.

Boeuf Bourguignon

Tender beef slow-braised in red wine with mushrooms and herbs, served over creamy mashed potatoes. Deep, comforting, and indulgent — best enjoyed with a glass of Shiraz or Malbec.

Vegetarian Lasagne (V)

A hearty vegetarian lasagne layered with rich tomato sauce, served with warm garlic bread.

Gluten-free available on request

Cod With Chorizo

Served on a bed of Manestra Orzo

Desserts

A sweet finale to savour. From nostalgic favourites to indulgent delights, each dessert is a fitting end to your countryside feast.

Apple Crumble

Spiced and golden, with lashings of custard.

Fruit Salad

Light and refreshing, served with pouring cream.

Gluten-free available on request

Banoffee Pie

A classic banoffee pie with a buttery biscuit base, layers of caramel and banana, finished with a light cream topping.

Extras

The perfect finishing touch. Classic cheese and biscuits to linger a little longer — an indulgent British tradition worth every bite.

Cheese & Biscuits (+ £6.50)

A handpicked selection of local cheeses served with biscuits and traditional accompaniments.

Drinks Menu

Mid-Week Lunch Train Drinks Menu

We offer a wide selection of drinks to suit all tastes including:

Red, White and Rose wine by the bottle or glass
Local craft beers, ales and IPAs
Quality champagne and prosecco
Soft drinks
Tea & coffees

Drinks can be pre-ordered when booking your ticket or purchased onboard.

What's Included in Your Lunch Train Experience

A freshly prepared 3-course lunch crafted on board using locally inspired ingredients
Your ticket for a 22-mile round trip through the picturesque Staffordshire Moorlands
Full table service in vintage heritage dining carriages
Vegetarian & gluten-free options (with advance notice)
Refreshment trolley service throughout your journey
Fully licensed bar offering local ales, wines, spirits, and soft drinks (sold separately)
A relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere perfect for couples, friends, special occasions, or weekday escapes
Free parking at Froghall Station, where all journeys begin and end

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are priced at £64.50 per person

Where is the Midweek Lunch Train Experience?

All Train journeys depart from Froghall Station (ST10 2HA)

Have questions?

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes-pre-booking is essential. Seating is limited and Lunch train experiences often sell out quickly. We recommend booking early to secure your preferred date.

Where does the train depart from, and is parking available?

All Lunch Train journeys depart from Froghall Station (ST10 2HA). Free parking is available for all customers, with a limited number of disabled bays.

How long is the journey?

The round-trip journey lasts approximately 2 hours. Please allow extra time for check-in. If you're paying by card for additional drinks, there may be a short delay on return.

Is the train heated during colder months?

Yes. Our heritage dining coaches are heated, providing a cosy and comfortable environment year-round—whatever the weather.

What should I wear or bring?

We suggest smart, casual attire for the Lunch Train. While the experience is informal, we ask guests to avoid tracksuits, trainers, flip-flops and baseball caps. A camera is highly recommended to capture the scenic views.

Are children allowed on the dining trains?

We welcome well-behaved children aged 8 and above on our Lunch dining trains.

Can I board the train in a wheelchair or with a walking frame?

Unfortunately, due to the heritage design of our coaches, we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or walking frames on board. However, we encourage you to contact our office to discuss your needs—we'll always do our best to assist.

Is alcohol available?

Yes. Our licensed bar is open during the experience, offering a selection of local ales, wines, spirits, and soft drinks. You can also pre-order drinks to have them waiting at your table. Drinks from the bar are not included in the ticket price.

Can I get off the train during the journey?

For safety reasons, it is not possible to get on or off the train other than at Froghall Station. We also ask guests to remain seated during meal service.

Are there toilets on board?

Yes, customer toilets are available on board the dining train.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

We are able to offer gluten-free and vegetarian options. We regret that we cannot cater for vegan, dairy-free, nut-free, or halal requirements due to the limitations of our onboard heritage kitchen.

What happens in bad weather?

Our Lunch trains operate in most weather conditions. Our enclosed carriages provide shelter and warmth throughout your journey.

Can I make changes to my booking?

Booking changes may be possible depending on availability and providing you are emailing with at least 7 days before you are due to travel. Please contact our booking office as early as possible with your booking reference to discuss your options.

Can I take photos on board?

Absolutely! Guests are encouraged to take photos of their experience, food, and views. Tag us on social media to share the magic!

Are dogs allowed?

Only registered service dogs are permitted on the dining train. Other dogs are not allowed on board.

Where Can I Book A Midweek Lunch Dining Experience?

You can book directly via the Churnet Valley Railway’s official website on the Midweek Lunch page.

What Is Included In The Midweek Lunch Experience?

The experience includes a heritage train journey with a three course meal cooked and served on board in vintage-style carriages.