Excursions By Rail – the fast-growing North East rail events company behind the Edinburgh Express, the first ever direct train from Stanhope to Edinburgh – have confirmed that another special journey from Weardale is on the way for 2026.
The company made headlines in August 2025 when the Edinburgh Express sold out within days of going on sale, attracting passengers from across the UK to experience the historic one-off journey. Now, Excursions By Rail say they are “going even bigger” next year, with a new Weardale departure offering an enhanced premium experience.
Passengers can expect Pullman-style dining, four-course dinners, and an upgraded onboard service, marking a significant step up in luxury for their growing programme of mainline charters. Full details of the 2026 train – including destination and date – will be revealed in the coming days.
Luke Allan Holmes, CEO of Excursions By Rail, said:
“The response to the Edinburgh Express was overwhelming – the Weardale community embraced it, rail enthusiasts loved it, and people travelled from all over the country to be part of something historic. For 2026, we’re raising the bar again.
We want every passenger stepping onto one of our trains to feel like they’re part of a truly special experience – unforgettable destinations, fine dining, and the kind of railway magic you simply won’t find anywhere else. This next charter will be our most ambitious yet.”
Excursions By Rail, which also supports heritage operations and runs events across the national network, has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, creative rail experiences that celebrate both regional heritage and modern innovation.
The company confirmed that ticket sales for the new Weardale charter will open in the coming weeks. Passengers are encouraged to register for updates to secure seats early, as demand is expected to be extremely high.
