Steam Dreams Rail review: I take a luxurious train journey through the Garden of England

There’s something magical about steam train travel. The cadence of the carriage, the period furnishings, the drama of entering a tunnel and watching clouds of white steam billow past the window. It harks back to an age of romance, drama, and mystery.

But this is now, and I’m travelling on the magnificent Britannia 70000, enjoying a leisurely lunch as I pass through the Garden of England.

This British Railways Standard Class 7 engine, built in 1951, boasts two cylinders and six driving wheels, and is capable of reaching speeds up to 100 mph. 

It once pulled the funeral train of King George VI, but today it’s taking me and my companion on a lunchtime saunter, one of several premium excursions offered by the Steam Dreams Rail Co.

Departing from London’s bustling Victoria Station, the train is making its way through the tranquil beauty of the Kent countryside. Once past Bromley, our route will weave through the scenic North Downs, cross the River Medway, and trace the North Kent Coast, offering glimpses of the White Cliffs of Dover before heading back to London via Tonbridge and Sevenoaks.

I’m travelling on the magnificent Britannia 70000, enjoying a leisurely lunch through the Garden of England…

Steam Dreams Rail: The ultimate Pullman dining experience

There are several package options available on this Steam Dreams The Garden of England Lunchtime Tour daytrip.

Premium Standard offers nostalgic charm with classic décor. You get complimentary tea and coffee, and can buy snacks and drinks from the buffet car.

First Class travellers get to enjoy elegantly restored carriages and plush seating. You’ll be greeted with sparkling wine, while the exclusive Hippocrene Bar offers curated drinks.  

Pullman Dining, our chosen experience, is the pinnacle of steam travel luxury. On the menu is fizz and canapés, followed by a three-course lunch, finished with coffee and petit fours. The Pullman Dining carriage itself is stunning.

Steam Dreams Rail: A culinary journey  

Champagne is served around Fawkham junction, suitably chilled. There’s a sense of bonhomie in our carriage. Everyone is there for an indulgent good time. The dress code is smart but casual; some passengers have gone all out, the rest of us have made a modicum of effort. 

The service is impeccable, with staff attending to every detail (stowing away the plump cushions), ensuring a dining experience that complements the engrossing views.

Our Pullman Dining deal comes with a bar bill credit of £21 (for two). You can use this to buy a half bottle of house wine, perhaps a Chilean Chardonnay or Italian Chianti, or some other beverage of choice (I opted for a refreshing bottle of Wrexham lager). You can use the credit to offset a larger bill.

The temptations are there. The wine list includes Domaine Chante Cigale Extrait Chateauneuf-du-pap, Spanish Dominio de Atauta Ribera del Duero and Veuve Clicquot Rose Reims.

Canapés are served before a short stop at Canterbury East. Here there’s a chance to stretch our legs and, more importantly, grab selfies in the front of the locomotive. 

The meal is served on the second leg, as the Britannia steams majestically through Dover Priory and Folkestone. The route is clearly well known, as every station is peppered with train spotters recording our progress, many with quite elaborate photo gear. We must look quite a sight.

The menu takes us on its own journey, with dishes that use fresh, local ingredients inspired by the regions we traverse. The gentle rhythm of the train and the ever-changing scenery enhance this culinary adventure

We’re offered South Coast crab rillettes, followed by a new potato and spring onion salad, dressed with saffron and citrus emulsion, pickled radish and shoots. 

The star of the show is a duo of Kent Downs lamb. This beautifully cooked roast rump and braised shoulder is dressed with celeriac puree, English asparagus, a baby heritage carrot, kale and redcurrant jus. 

Desert is an apple and vanilla tart, with cream, apricot glaze and fresh lemon balm. Chocs and coffee follow.

Having departed Victoria at 10am sharp, we’re returned around 3.30pm, gratefully later than advertised. We disembark slowly, taking time for more snaps. 

Steam Dreams Rail: Verdict

Overall, we rate the Steam Dreams The Garden of England Lunchtime Tour a wonderful indulgence that will appeal to fine diners and railfans alike.  The Pullman Dining experience for two starts at £450. There’s a supplement of £75 for a private two seat table.

Whether you’re a lover of historic locomotives or simply seeking a luxe day out, this excursion offers a welcome escape into the elegance of yesteryear.

To book your own Steam Dreams Rail adventure, click here.