The Sunset Steam Express — Steam Dreams

Steam Dreams, a private steam-train operator based near Guildford, sells the Sunset Steam Express as an evening circular tour from London Paddington. The operator says its Sunset Steam Express tours return to Paddington and that the journey is steam-hauled throughout, in beautifully restored vintage carriages with liveried stewards.

The route leaves beneath the roof of Paddington, passes through the leafy outskirts of West London and runs into the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The operator describes the scenery as the sun sinks: chalk hills, ancient woodland, Iron Age hillforts and Elizabethan homes. The circular tour is completed by a return through the Thames Valley.

Two classes are sold. Pullman Dining is a seasonal evening meal with fine wine: a welcome glass of Champagne, a three-course evening meal and freshly brewed coffee, in armchair seating around tables of two and four. First Class is non-dining: passengers may order drinks and snacks from the stewards to enjoy at their table, or bring their own picnic, with complimentary tea and coffee and a celebratory welcome drink.

The locomotive is announced, not promised. The operator names a pool of steam locomotives from its own collection, says the engine for the trip is "still to be confirmed", and adds that whichever locomotive is rostered "cannot be guaranteed and may be substituted for a different engine". Its FAQ says that on very rare occasions a diesel has been used as a last resort, in circumstances such as steam bans due to fire risk, drought or unexpected mechanical failures.

An evening circular round trip, boarding at Paddington in the early evening and returning in the late evening (timings are approximate). In Pullman Dining the custom is to dress smartly and the operator asks for no sportswear; there is no official dress code elsewhere. Temperatures on board vary because modern climate control is not in use, so the operator advises layers. Children are welcome in First Class; Pullman Dining is reserved for adults and children aged 12 and over.

Boards at London Paddington station, Praed Street, London. All trips are return and the return journey is included; the operator never sells a one-way service. The heritage carriages do not allow wheelchair boarding and the operator asks guests with mobility needs to contact it before booking. Lavatories are at each end of every carriage. Own food and drink may be taken in First Class but not in Pullman Dining. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and pescatarian meals are catered for in Pullman Dining as standard, and must be requested at least 14 days before travel. Tables for two can be booked instead of a shared table for four; the direction of seating cannot be guaranteed. Travel documents are sent by post or email about 5 to 7 days before departure, and an electronic ticket on a phone is accepted.