The Dalesman Returns for the 150th Anniversary of the Settle-Carlisle Line
17th April 2026
Bookings are now open for The Dalesman 2026 season, celebrating 150 years of the Settle-Carlisle line.
The line opened to passengers on 1 May 1876. It was nearly lost in 1989 when British Rail proposed closure, but a national campaign saved what Lonely Planet now ranks among the top ten most scenic railway journeys in Europe. This year it turns 150.
To mark the anniversary, The Dalesman returns with eight steam-hauled journeys across 73 miles of the Yorkshire Dales and the Eden Valley. Two routes. Vintage carriages lovingly restored. The Ribblehead Viaduct, Dent Station, Ais Gill Summit. A once in a lifetime day out.
From York (Tuesdays), via the Settle to Carlisle line with steam from Hellifield:
7th July, 21st July, 11th August, 25th August and 15th September 2026. Calling at York, Castleford, Woodlesforth (Leeds), Keighley and Skipton.
From Chester (Thursdays), outbound via the Settle to Carlisle line, returning via the West Coast Main Line over Shap:
11th June, 6th August and 10th September 2026. Calling at Chester, Frodsham, Warrington Bank Quay, Leyland and Preston.
The Chester route offers two iconic railway journeys in a single day.
Four classes are available:
Standard from £98 | First Class from £185 | Premier First from £225 | Premier Dining from £329
Children (16 and under) from £49
Eight dates. Limited seats. These departures sell out every year.
Book online at westcoastrailways.co.uk/