This spring, passengers will be able to enjoy a slap-up, seven-course meal on board one of the world's most luxurious trains when it stops off in Greater Manchester.
Railway enthusiasts and food lovers are in for a treat as the Northern Belle, a 1930s Pullman-style train, makes it's first-ever red carpet visit to Rochdale on Friday, 21 April. Passengers will pay between £295 and £570 for the experience, which includes a champagne arrival drink and gourmet meal, accompanied by live entertainment.
After departing Rochdale, The Northern Belle will stop off at Hebden Bridge and Brighouse, before weaving its way around the Yorkshire countryside for five hours, as passengers tuck into a champagne afternoon tea or seven-course Spirit of Travel lunch. Adding to the experience, guests will be entertained by strolling musicians and the train's resident magician.
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The Northern Belle was once part of the iconic Orient Express group, and each one of its carriages are named after a castle or stately home, detailed with bespoke marquetry and mosaics. Last year, the train was voted the ninth most luxurious in the world by readers of Condé Nast magazine - the only British train to be named in the top 10.
A trip on "the Grand Dame of luxury travel”, as actor Bill Nighy referred to it on Channel 5’s 'The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys', isn't cheap, with prices starting at £295 for a champagne afternoon tea or £375 for lunch with fine wines. For an extra £195, passengers can also upgrade Krug Champagne Class in the special carriage, which was once part of the Royal Train, or Glamis, named after the former Queen Mother’s childhood home.
Rumour has it that the Duart Carriage houses what was once the Queen Mother's favourite seat, where she liked to relax with a gin and tonic while looking out the train window and waving. Northern Belle's staff are more than happy to point out the royal armchair for those interested.
Despite the high price tag, a spokesperson for Northern Belle said: "It’s the epitome of luxury. Nothing is too good for our pampered passengers. We transport them back to the golden days of rail travel. It’s going to be a treat for the people of Rochdale!”
The Northern Belle will pull into Rochdale Station on Friday, April 21 before embarking on a five-hour journey. It is scheduled to arrive back in Rochdale at 4.35pm.
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