All aboard the Weardale Railway for afternoon tea with a view
PASSENGERS are invited to enjoy a unique experience this summer as the Weardale Railway
combines a traditional afternoon tea with a scenic heritage train journey through the Durham Dales.
With trains running from Bishop Auckland Railway Station on Saturday 13 th September and from
Stanhope on Saturday 18 th October, guests will be served a selection of sandwiches and cakes with a
fruit scone all beautifully presented in handtied boxes, while the train pauses at one of the line’s
most picturesque viewpoints – Etherley Viaduct for journeys from Bishop Auckland, or Broadwood
crossing the River Wear for departures from Stanhope.
Guests can upgrade to a VIP experience where they will receive a welcome glass of prosecco.
Claire Gibbons, General Manager of Weardale Railway, said: “We’re delighted to offer this
experience which celebrates local food and drink while giving people a chance to relax and take in
the stunning views of Weardale. It’s a special way for friends, families, and visitors to spend time
together.”
The Weardale Railway is part of The Auckland Project, a regeneration charity creating new
opportunities for Bishop Auckland and the wider region through heritage attractions, galleries and
gardens. Since 2020, the railway’s programme of heritage services and events has been brought
back to life with the help of volunteers, including themed journeys and the much-loved Santa
Express, which will return this Christmas with passengers invited to enjoy a festive train ride
including a complimentary hot chocolate and cookie, and little ones will meet Santa and receive a
small gift.
Tickets for the afternoon tea train are available in multiples of two or four, with Premier and VIP
packages. VIP tickets include a welcome glass of Prosecco. Special dietary requirements can be
catered for.
For more details and to book tickets for the afternoon tea trains, visit: weardale-
railway.org.uk/afternoon-tea
For more information on Weardale Railway’s events, visit https://www.weardale-
railway.org.uk/events .
