Step into the charming world of steam railways as you board ‘The Midlander’ for an unforgettable lunchtime adventure. Departing from Loughborough station on select Fridays, this unique experience invites you to relax and indulge as you traverse beautiful landscapes that are best enjoyed from the comfort of a vintage train carriage.
With every ticket, you’ll receive a full day pass, allowing you to explore the impressive Great Central Railway at your leisure. Delight in a carefully crafted three-course meal, inspiring your taste buds while you revel in captivating views passing by your window.
As you sit back and soak in the historic ambiance, friendly staff will ensure your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. It’s not just lunch; it's a scenic escape that promises to refresh your mind and nourish your body in the perfect setting.
What's Included
- Two course lunch served aboard a first class restaurant car
- The steam locomotive takes you on a leisurely journey through the Charnwood countryside
- Your meal is served during the journey
- The train usually pauses on Swithland viaduct with magnificent views across the reservoir to Charnwood Forest
- Lunch guests receive a 'runabout ticket' for the day allowing you on as a passenger on any train and to roam around the platform and museum
- Your table on the steam train luncheon departure is reserved for you
- The journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes
When Is It Available
- The Midlander runs on selected Fridays from February - November
- Departures are at 13:00, returning at approximately 14:30
- On booking, the operator may ask for you to make your choices in advance
- Seating is generally on tables accommodating up to two or four people
Vouchers are valid for any of the scheduled dates, subject to availability.
Request your preferred date when booking in for your experience.
2025 Schedule
- Friday 14th February
- Friday 18th April
- Friday 9th May
- Friday 6th June
- Friday 20th June
- Friday 27th June
- Friday 11th July
- Friday 25th July
- Friday 1st August
- Friday 15th August
- Friday 22nd August
- Friday 29th August
- Friday 12th September
- Friday 19th September
- Friday 26th September
- Friday 10th October
- Friday 24th October
- Friday 7th November
Location
- The trains depart from the Great Central Station in Loughborough then head south for around 4 miles where the train pauses to take in the beautiful views from the Swithland viaduct, near Rothley
- The train continues a further 4 miles to Leicester North and follows follows the same route back to Loughborough Central Station
- The Central station has good access from the M1 (J23) and A6
Suitable For
- Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- Minimum age 5
Spectators
- There are full facilities on board the trains and at the stations
- Spectators wanting to see off the train will need to buy a platform ticket which allows access to the museums
- There are disabled facilities available on site
- Children aged 5 and over are welcome on these lunchtime trips
- The operator can also assist and advise on local accommodation in the area
- The dining car is not suitable for wheelchairs
