'Steam special' train journey first since 1967 to call in at Nuneaton

Steam is to return to the Bletchley and Bicester section of the old Varsity Line



A 'steam special' train journey is set to call in at Nuneaton. Locals can also get onboard The Chiltern Explorer in November.

The Railway Touring Company has said that it is the first time that a locomotive will be on the Bletchley and Bicester section of the old Varsity Line since 1967.

Following the closure of the historic Varsity Line to passenger services in 1967, The Bletchley to Bicester stretch of around 41 miles reopened in 2024. However, the firm says it behind the first to be steam hauled over this reinstated stretch, which includes the newly reconstructed Bletchley Flyover.

The Chiltern Explorer is set to take the special journey on November 1. It will depart from Manchester Piccadilly, picking up at Stockport, Wilmslow, Crewe, Nuneaton, Rugby and Milton Keynes. As well the novelty of steaming along the Bletchley to Bicester section, passengers will enjoy a visit to either Oxford or to Reading.

"We are constantly looking for new and interesting routes for our mainline steam excursions," commented Kelly Osborne, The Railway Touring Company’s managing director. "It’s great to see former railways being reinstated and we know rail enthusiasts, as well as anyone seeking an interesting day out, will appreciate this opportunity to travel by steam on another section of the historic Varsity Line.”

Locomotive power is to be announced closer to the dates. The train will make its return journey diesel hauled. Standard tickets start at £115 per person.

There will be first and premier dining options available. More details can be found online here