Excursions by Rail has confirmed the return of The Edinburgh Express, its charter train from Weardale to Edinburgh, following a sold-out debut in 2025. The premium service will run on November 7, departing from Stanhope, Frosterley, Wolsingham, Witton-le-Wear, Bishop Auckland and Darlington, with passengers travelling onboard a high-speed Intercity 125.
Premium Dining Introduced for First Time
This year's excursion introduces a Premium Dining service for the first time. Jack Purdham, Chief Rail Officer, said: "We are delighted to bring the Edinburgh Express back for 2026 following its successful debut last summer."
"This year’s train promises to be even better, as we are introducing our Premium Dining service to the Edinburgh Express for the first time. Passengers on the High Speed Sonnet were thrilled with the standard of food on offer, and we are aiming to raise the bar even further," he added.
First Class and Standard Options
Passengers can choose between First Class or Standard Class. First Class guests receive a full breakfast on departure and a luxury three-course dining service on return, served at their seat in a premium first-class carriage. Standard Class passengers can relax in comfortable seating with a trolley service offering snacks and drinks during the journey.
Excursions by Rail, part of Durham-based Holdham Group, specialises in premium charters with dining services and private train hire. Bishop Trains, another arm of Holdham Group, was recently Highly Commended for Customer Service Excellence at the 2026 National Rail Awards.
Five Hours in Edinburgh
Once in Edinburgh, guests will have five hours to explore the city, including shopping on Princes Street or St James Quarter, walking the Royal Mile, visiting the National Museum of Scotland or Edinburgh Castle.
Earlier this year, Excursions by Rail operated The High Speed Sonnet, a luxury day excursion to Stratford-upon-Avon. In June 2026, it ran the Rail Live Express from London to raise money for Railway Children, a charity supporting vulnerable children at risk of or living on the streets.
Tickets for the Edinburgh Express can be booked online at www.ExcursionsByRail.co.uk, by calling 01388 661394, or in person at Bishop Trains.
