Tornado in the Fells, crossing Ais Gill Viaduct in 2010 - Mike Glen
On the 30th May, Tornado tackles the Settle & Carlisle Railway again! Using the popular chocolate and cream liveried carriages (that form the 'Torbay Express' in the summer months) Pathfinder Tours presents this great steam day out originating from Severnside and Midlands stations.
The day starts with the train running diesel hauled via the pick up stations to Crewe, where Tornado takes over on its own, steaming northbound over the West Coast Main Line to the Preston area for a water stop. Once replenished, our train presses on towards the fells with the town of Appleby-in-Westmorland as the destination, reached via the fearsome climb of Shap, the Carlisle avoiding line and a run along Eden Valley.
Appleby is reached late lunchtime and we have requested a two hour break in this former county town, which also allows Tornado to be serviced. Departing mid-afternoon the rugged Settle & Carlisle Line is now traversed, giving Tornado the challenge of lifting the 13-coach train up to the summit at Ais Gill. Spectacular views unfold through the carriage window over several hours before the West Coach Main Line is re-joined south of Preston to complete our circular Northern Fells journey, with Tornado giving way to the diesel loco back at Crewe for the final run homeward.
Full details and timings as well as booking details can be found on the Pathfinder website.