The Steam Dreams Rail Company is set to embark on a Christmas day trip on December 13, and it will be departing from right here in the city. Passengers will be welcomed aboard the vintage carriages of the classic Sir Nigel Gresley 60007 train at Colchester before stopping at stations along the way in Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Ely. The journey will then steam across the heart of the Midlands to Nuneaton before a fast run through Staffordshire.
Passengers will pass beautiful countryside as the railway traverses more rural parts of Cheshire before arriving in the city of Chester at about 2pm, ready for its iconic Christmas market. A spokesman said: “This unique tour offers a fascinating cross-country adventure as we traverse England, travelling past a rich tapestry of intertwined rivers, canals and fields to visit the historic city of Chester where modern life is inextricably linked with its past. “The city’s handsome Tudor-and-Victorian heart is the perfect setting for its magical Christmas Market.
” A total of 70 traders will surround an iconic 90ft sparkling tree in the square around the town hall offering unique, locally-made produce and handmade crafts and stocking fillers. More shopping opportunities are available at the unique 700-year-old Rows, a series of two-level galleried arcades offering an array of independent shops and boutiques. Once you’ve found the perfect gifts, visitors can visit Chester’s other attractions including the most complete city walls.