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Steam Train Dining Experiences in Staffordshire

Steam Train Dining Experiences

Trade the usual restaurant view for rolling countryside and the hiss of a vintage whistle, on the UK's only steam railway where every dish is crafted with care — with many freshly prepared in our onboard kitchen, and others thoughtfully sourced to ensure quality and flavour.

Our Most Popular Dining Experiences

Breakfast Trains

Step aboard our heritage Breakfast Train—savour from our choice of breakfast options, enjoy limitless hot drinks, and celebrate the journey with optional Prosecco—all as The Staffordshire Moorlands countryside unfolds around you.

Price: £28.50 / person
Departure time: 10:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Sunday Lunch Trains

Savour a delicious 3-course Sunday Roast aboard our heritage train—choose from tender beef, roast chicken, or a hearty vegetarian option, all served with traditional trimmings and impeccable service as you journey through the Staffordshire countryside.

Price: £64.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Saturday Lunch Trains

Enjoy a 3-course Saturday Lunch with scenic countryside views—featuring favourites like Bangers & Mash, vegetarian options, and more. Drinks can be pre-ordered or purchased on the day and are served straight to your table.

Price: £64.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Staffordshire Cream Tea

Enjoy our no-sandwich take on afternoon tea with savoury nibbles, oven-fresh scones, cakes, and unlimited hot drinks—all served aboard our heritage train as you roll through the Staffordshire Moorlands countryside.

Price: £38.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Lunch Trains

Sunday Lunch Trains

Savour a delicious 3-course Sunday Roast aboard our heritage train—choose from tender beef, roast chicken, or a hearty vegetarian option, all served with traditional trimmings and impeccable service as you journey through the Staffordshire countryside.

Price: £64.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Saturday Lunch Trains

Enjoy a 3-course Saturday Lunch with scenic countryside views—featuring favourites like Bangers & Mash, vegetarian options, and more. Drinks can be pre-ordered or purchased on the day and are served straight to your table.

Price: £64.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Midweek Lunch Trains

Savour a midweek escape with a 3-course lunch and stunning views—pre-book your drinks for table delivery, or choose from the bar on the day as the countryside drifts past.

Price: £64.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Evening Meals Onboard

Pie & Mash Takeaway

A 22-mile sunset steam journey through the Staffordshire-Moorlands with your choice of steak-and-ale or two-cheese pie, creamy mash and onboard drinks for just £15—running select Saturdays, June–September.

Price: £17.50 / person
Departure time: 18:30
Duration: ~2 hours
Back In 2026

Murder Mystery

Become the sleuth aboard our Summer Mystery Steam Train—fine dining, vintage carriages, and two fresh 2025 whodunits to crack. Interrogate suspects, hunt clues, and solve the case.

Price: £80.00 / person
Departure time: 18:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Bombay Express

Hop aboard the Bombay Express for lunch or dinner—fragrant curries, authentic sides, and a charming heritage train setting, perfect for date nights or unforgettable group outings.

Price: £38.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30 ⁄ 18:30
Duration: ~2 hours

Have questions?

What Dining Experiences are available?
We offer an unforgettable range of dining experiences, including our popular Breakfast Train, delicious Midweek and Saturday Lunches, traditional Sunday Roast Dinners, indulgent Cream Teas, the flavourful Bombay Express Curry Train, classic Pie & Mash takeaways, and exciting themed evenings such as our immersive Murder Mystery Dinner.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out, a special celebration, or a unique gift experience, our heritage train journeys combine nostalgic charm with fantastic food.
Is there a “Steam Train Dining for Two” experience?
This popular experience is an ideal treat for couples or a thoughtful gift for special occasions. It typically includes a nostalgic steam train journey through the stunning Churnet Valley, a delicious multi-course meal served on board, and full table service in a beautifully restored heritage dining carriage

Please note: package options may vary, so we recommend checking current availability and exact inclusions when booking. At present, this experience is exclusively available through our trusted partner, Into the Blue.
What’s included in each dining experience?
Each experience at Churnet Valley Railway includes a carefully curated themed set menu, full table service, and access to our licensed bar, offering a selection of beers, wines, and spirits. Selected packages also include unlimited heritage train travel for the day, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenic Staffordshire countryside in comfort. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique day out, our on-board dining experiences offer a memorable journey through the heart of the Churnet Valley.
How long do the dining train experiences last?
Most dining experiences last between 1.5 and 2 hours, with exact journey times confirmed at the time of booking.
How do I book a dining experience?dining experience?last?
Bookings can be made online via our website. Pre booking is essential. Gift vouchers are also available and make ideal presents – these are available from Into the Blue
What should I wear?
We recommend smart casual attire. Please avoid wearing sportswear such as tracksuits or trainers to maintain the experience's traditional ambiance. Flip flops are not permitted.
Can I bring my dog or bicycle on the train?
Only assistance dogs are permitted on our dining trains. Bicycles are not allowed on board dining services, but there may be space to secure them at the station.
Are special dietary requirements catered for?
Yes, we can accommodate most dietary requirements including vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals. Please inform us when booking.
Is the train accessible for guests with disabilities or limited mobility?
We aim to be as accessible as possible. Staff are available to assist with boarding, and accessible seating may be available. Please contact us in advance to discuss your needs.
What happens if the train or experience is cancelled?
If a service is cancelled, you’ll be offered options to reschedule or receive a refund, depending on the situation.
Where is the Churnet Valley Railway located?
Our principal station is Kingsley & Froghall, located in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands, just 20 minutes from Alton Towers and on the edge of the picturesque Peak District National Park. The station offers free parking and a range of visitor facilities.
Are there things to do nearby before or after the train ride?
Yes! The Churnet Valley and surrounding Staffordshire Moorlands offer a wide range of attractions and activities, making it easy to turn your visit into a full day out. Here are some popular options:
  • Stroll Along the Caldon Canal: Enjoy a peaceful walk right from Froghall Station. It’s ideal for taking in the countryside before or after your journey.
  • Explore Consall Nature Park: Just a short walk from Consall Station, this hidden gem features woodlands, picnic spots, and wildlife-rich trails.
  • Visit Alton Towers Resort: One of the UK’s top theme parks, just 20 minutes away by car – great for families or thrill-seekers.
  • Tour Cheddleton Flint Mill: An atmospheric working mill with waterwheels, historic buildings, and a lovely riverside setting.
  • Relax at Froghall Wharf: Unwind at this scenic canal basin, perfect for a picnic or hot drink with views of the surrounding hills and boats.
  • Visit Biddulph Grange Garden (National Trust): A beautiful, exotic Victorian garden with themed areas, located about 25 minutes away by car.
  • Walk the Roaches: This dramatic gritstone ridge offers breathtaking views, great walking trails, and even the chance to spot wild wallabies.
  • Explore Leek Market Town: A historic town full of character, independent shops, antique markets, and local eateries – just a short drive from the railway.
  • Discover Rudyard Lake: Ideal for boating, walking, or enjoying the miniature railway that runs along the lake’s edge.
With so much to see and do nearby, your steam train journey can be part of a full and varied day of countryside relaxation, culture, and adventure.

Step back in time and dine in style aboard our dining service. Travelling through the picturesque Churnet Valley, our heritage steam train dining service combines the romance of traditional rail travel with freshly prepared meals served at your table. From elegant lunches and cream teas to themed evenings and immersive events, we offer something for every taste and occasion—including  through our partners a Steam Train Dining for Two gift voucher -  perfect for a memorable day out.

All dining experiences depart from Froghall Station, where free parking is available. A fully licensed bar is open (drinks sold separately if not pre-ordered) on every train, offering a range of local ales, wines, spirits, and soft drinks. Our friendly team provides full table service throughout your journey in beautifully restored heritage dining carriages. On some service there is also a trolley service.

We recommend smart casual dress to complement the classic setting. Due to the historic nature of our trains, wheelchair access is limited—please contact us in advance with specific requirements. With the exception of assistance dogs, pets are not permitted on dining services.

Vegetarian and gluten-free options available with advance notice.