The Northern Belle - Special Events 20233/24

Tribute to the Bournemouth Belle

from £440 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

Back in the 1930s and 40s the rich and famous, including Hollywood legends, rock stars, aristocrats and even royalty would sip cocktails all dressed up in their finery, as they wallowed in the luxury of the legendary Bournemouth Belle, the last and most famous of Britain's great Pullman trains. Many were on their way to catch giant ocean-going liners to America from Southampton. Others were just heading off to "take the air" on the South Coast beaches. But all were determined to reach their destination with the utmost panache. For to mark the 90th anniversary of the Bournemouth Belle's very first trip from London on July 5, 1931, we are planning to recreate all the style of that glamorous journey with the Northern Belle's umber-and-cream painted Pullman-style carriages.

(Smart day wear is appropriate for this journey. Please remember that you will be outdoors for some of your time in Bournemouth).

Cheltenham Gold Cup

from £695 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

Arrive in style on the Northern Belle vintage train for one of Britain's most famous National Hunt races of the season. Gold Cup Day at Cheltenham Races. The Pinnacle of Jump racing. Unmissable for race goers worldwide. Named after the feature race, Gold Cup Day is a date for the diary as Owners, Trainers, Jockeys and their counterpart equines compete for one the most sought after titles in racing. The final day of The Festival promises the ultimate experience for all as the crowds rejoice for elite sporting champions and victory celebrations continue into the evening with top-class entertainment.

(Dress Code – Smart and Country Chic. Please remember that you will be outdoors for some of your time in Cheltenham).

Historic Edinburgh at Christmas

from £440 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

Edinburgh is a place famous for featuring all four seasons in one day. During Christmas, however, the weather suddenly renders itself appropriate! Come rain, shine, or snow, the glorious hues and cosy vibes created by the fusion of dewy droplets and wispy snowflakes are magnificent. A true pride and joy, the festive season truly begins when the Jenners Christmas Tree graces Edinburgh's favourite department store. Admiring this gloriously festooned tree from every floor has long been a tradition amongst locals for generations. The historic Scottish capital with its medieval Old Town, imposing castle and countless shops, really is the place to be at Christmas. After your afternoon in Edinburgh, return to the train for a champagne reception, a sumptuous dinner accompanied by wine is served as you mull over the many highlights of the day.

(Smart day wear is appropriate for this journey. Please remember that you will be outdoors for some of your time in Edinburgh).

Flying Scotsman - Edinburgh at Leisure

from £705 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

The Flying Scotsman

The legendary locomotive, Flying Scotsman, had its origins in Doncaster as the inaugural creation of the newly established London and North Eastern Railway (LNER). It commenced its service on 24 February 1923, designated with the number 1472. In 1924, the locomotive was christened 'Flying Scotsman' in honor of the renowned daily 10.00 London to Edinburgh rail service. A momentous milestone was reached in 1934 when the Scotsman clocked a record-breaking 100mph during a specialized test run, establishing its status as the first locomotive in the UK to attain such remarkable speed. This achievement vindicated the supremacy of steam power, thwarting the LNER's consideration of diesel power for high-speed services.

Fast forward to the year 2023, Flying Scotsman proudly commemorates its centenary. The National Railway Museum in York has meticulously crafted an extensive program of events to honor this momentous occasion including special mainline tours and visits to heritage railways.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh stands out among cities worldwide, boasting its grand castle atop a hill, gazing over the splendid Georgian architecture below. Take a leisurely stroll up Castle Hill, retracing the footsteps of historical figures, including kings, queens, soldiers, and perhaps a pirate or two. Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture by visiting museums, exploring numerous shops, or simply admiring the historical landmarks. Don't forget to pay your respects to Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier who faithfully sat beside his master John Gray's grave for 14 years. Many believe touching Bobby's statue brings them luck, making it a cherished tradition among visitors.

(Smart day wear is appropriate. You are asked not to wear jeans or trainers. Please remember that you will be outdoors for part of time whilst in Edinburgh).

Edinburgh Fringe Festival at Leisure

from £440 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is widely acknowledged to be the biggest arts festival in the world and takes place every August for three weeks in Scotland's capital city. Every year thousands of performers take to a multitude of stages all over Edinburgh to present shows for every taste. From big names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists looking to build their careers, the festival caters for everyone and includes theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, musicals, operas, music, exhibitions and events.

(Smart day wear is appropriate for this journey. Please remember that you will be outdoors for some of your time in Edinburgh).

Flying Scotsman - Edinburgh Royal Yacht Britannia

from £805 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

The Flying Scotsman

The legendary locomotive, Flying Scotsman, had its origins in Doncaster as the inaugural creation of the newly established London and North Eastern Railway (LNER). It commenced its service on 24 February 1923, designated with the number 1472. In 1924, the locomotive was christened 'Flying Scotsman' in honor of the renowned daily 10.00 London to Edinburgh rail service. A momentous milestone was reached in 1934 when the Scotsman clocked a record-breaking 100mph during a specialized test run, establishing its status as the first locomotive in the UK to attain such remarkable speed. This achievement vindicated the supremacy of steam power, thwarting the LNER's consideration of diesel power for high-speed services.

Fast forward to the year 2023, Flying Scotsman proudly commemorates its centenary. The National Railway Museum in York has meticulously crafted an extensive program of events to honor this momentous occasion including special mainline tours and visits to heritage railways.

Royal Yacht Britannia

In 1997, a poignant moment captured Queen Elizabeth II shedding tears during the "decommissioning ceremony" of the Royal Yacht Britannia. Having launched the ship in 1953, the Queen and her husband, Prince Philip, had embarked on an impressive one million miles of voyages aboard her. Throughout the years, they hosted numerous state visits, welcoming presidents, prime ministers, and foreign monarchs on board during more than 900 occasions.

Now berthed at Leith, a mere two miles from Edinburgh, Britannia has transformed into a captivating museum, earning the distinction of being voted the Best UK Attraction by consumer magazine Which?. As you explore the five decks, you'll feel like royalty yourself, marveling at the opulence of the State apartments, visiting the late Queen's cherished room, and gaining insight into the life of the captain on the bridge and the 220 sailors in their crew rooms.

(Smart day wear is appropriate. You are asked not to wear jeans or trainers. Please remember that you will be outdoors for part of time whilst in Edinburgh).

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

from £575 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the worlds most popular and renowned flower show. The best in gardening and horticulture is brought together in one place for one week in May each year, when the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea come alive with the sights and smells of the finest collections of flowers in the world. Nothing compares to the show gardens, each one created with attention to detail by some of the world's leading garden designers. Their stunning ideas will provide you with lasting memories and endless inspiration. The smaller Chic, City, Courtyard and Sun Flower Street gardens will show you exactly what can be achieved in modest plots.

(Smart day wear is appropriate. You are asked not to wear jeans or trainers. Please bear in mind that you will be outdoors for part of your time at RHS Chelsea Flower Show).

RHS Hampton Court Flower Show

from £495 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

Explore the gorgeous gardens packed full of beautiful blooms all in the stunning surrounds of Hampton Court Palace where you can enjoy the festival vibe. Expect designs which will inspire gardeners with different interests with Show, Global Impact and Get Started gardens. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring the beautiful show gardens, the vast range of plants and garden-related goodies as well as gleaning advice from experts and enjoying the entertainment.

(Smart day wear is appropriate for this journey. You are asked not to wear jeans. Please bear in mind that you will be outdoors for part of your time at Hampton Court).

Ladies Day at Royal Ascot

from £695 per person
£45 per person supplement for a table for 2
Insurance cover from £3.38 per person

There are few sporting venues that can match the rich heritage and history of Ascot Racecourse. For almost 250 years, Royal Ascot has established itself as a national institution as well as being the ultimate stage for the best racehorses in the world. Ladies Day at Royal Ascot is one of the most famous in the equestrian calendar and full of style and tradition. Your journey takes you to the Royal meeting at Ascot on Ladies Day, undoubtedly the most prestigious meeting in the year's racing and social calendar.

Grandstand badge included and free time to enjoy the racing and people spectacle.

What to wear :

Ladies within the main Grandstand enclosure are encouraged to dress in a manner as befits a formal occasion. Ladies are kindly asked to take particular note of the following:

• • A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times.
• • Strapless or sheer strap dresses and tops are not permitted.
• • Trousers must be full length and worn with a top that adheres to the guidelines above (i.e. strapless or sheer strap tops are not permitted).
• • Jackets and pashminas may be worn but dresses and tops underneath should still comply with the Grandstand Admission dress code. Midriffs must be covered.
• • Shorts are not permitted.

• Gentlemen are required to wear a suit with a shirt and tie.

Please note: All timings shown are for guidance only. Confirmed timings will be supplied with your travel documents which will be sent to you 5 - 7 days before departure.