A County Durham–based rail events company is inviting local community groups to experience a unique day out this summer, with exclusive group discounts being offered as a thank you to the volunteers and organisations who do so much to support local communities.
Excursions By Rail, headquartered in Bishop Auckland, is offering group booking discounts to community groups, voluntary organisations, social clubs and local societies across County Durham and Darlington for its flagship charter train experience, “The High Speed Sonnet.”
Operating this June, the special train will run direct from Stanhope, Frosterley, Wolsingham, Witton-le-Wear, Bishop Auckland and Darlington to Stratford-upon-Avon, offering passengers a relaxed and elegant way to enjoy a full day in one of England’s most historic market towns.
The experience features:
- Comfortable reserved seating throughout
- Friendly onboard hosts and attentive service
- Optional dining and refreshments served onboard
- A sociable group atmosphere
- Stress-free travel with no driving, parking or motorway congestion
Passengers will have time to explore Stratford-upon-Avon at leisure, including Shakespeare’s historic sites, riverside walks, independent shops, cafés and theatres, before returning home the same evening.
To encourage community participation, Excursions By Rail has introduced tiered group discounts, with savings increasing as group size grows, including enhanced discounts for groups booking an entire carriage together.
Luke Holmes, CEO of Excursions By Rail, said:
“Local community groups are the backbone of County Durham and Darlington. From social clubs and charities to volunteers and neighbourhood organisations, they play a huge role in bringing people together and supporting wellbeing.
We wanted to give something back by making one of our most popular rail experiences more accessible to groups who might enjoy travelling together for a special day out. The High Speed Sonnet offers comfort, atmosphere and a sense of occasion that you simply don’t get on normal transport.”
The company is encouraging any local organisation interested in arranging a group outing to get in touch.
If you are involved with, or run, a local community group that may be interested in making a group booking, please contact:
📧
📞 01388 661394
🏢 Or pop in and speak to the team at Bishop Auckland Railway Station
Group availability is limited and early enquiries are encouraged.
