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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 27 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Sarah Barrell

Steeped in the glamour of rail travel’s golden age, the vintage British Pullman train harks back to the roaring 1920s, with wood-panelled lounge cars, retro upholstery and liveried waiters serving Champagne and canapés.

Sister train to the Orient Express, the Pullman operates a variety of themed tours, visiting famous British cities and attractions (Bath, Bristol, Oxford, Highclere Castle, Sissinghurst, Chatsworth House & more) – a great way to tick off two bucket list experiences at once. Or you can simply go on a tour of the countryside while enjoying a Champagne afternoon tea.

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Price from: £350
Minimum age: 18
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Duration: 4+ hours

Getting there & doing it

All journeys – including all the circular day trips – depart from London Victoria. For a slightly higher fee, you can be pulled by steam locomotive (look out for the ‘Golden Age of Travel by Steam’ experience on the website).

Journeys are listed on the website for online booking; there are limited departures, so you need to book weeks, if not months, ahead. Dress smartly for the occasion – no jeans or trainers are permitted; this experience isn’t recommended for children.

When to do it

Different themed trips and destinations are available at selected dates throughout the year – see the website for listings and dates.

Blenheim Palace

Woodstock, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)

One of Britain’s greatest country houses, and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim boasts 300 years of history in a spectacular setting.

Best for ages: 13+ | £32

Chatsworth House

Bakewell, Derbyshire, United Kingdom (UK)

One of England’s most imposing stately homes, 17th century Chatsworth House is a treasure trove of art and antiques. It’s surrounded by beautifully-landscaped gardens, including a playground and farmyard for kids.

Best for ages: 8+ | £29

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Artists Residence London

London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.5 miles]

An agreeably-priced boutique hotel filled with a dizzying variety of artworks, tucked away in a quiet corner of charming Pimlico. Away from the rush, but with excellent transport into the city centre.

Official star rating:

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park

London, United Kingdom (UK)[1.3 miles]

A gloriously opulent Edwardian hotel, with Michelin-starred dining, a subterranean spa and a wonderful location overlooking Hyde Park – one of the capital’s most expensive, most luxurious addresses.

Official star rating:

Marriott County Hall

London, United Kingdom (UK)[1.8 miles]

Get a front-row seat for the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and a sparkling stretch of the River Thames, at this Grade-II listed Westminster waterfront address. Right in the city center, it’s walking distance to the major sites.

Official star rating:

Ham Yard Hotel

London, United Kingdom (UK)[1.9 miles]

Set in the heart of the buzzing West End, this super-chic hotel is as popular with Londoners as visitors, giving it a vibrant, authentic vibe.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Bath

Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)

A lovely west country city of world-class Georgian architecture, ancient and modern spas, and an atmosphere of romance and refinement.

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Bristol

United Kingdom (UK)

Bristol is the beating heart of the UK’s South West, with an offbeat focus on culture and the arts plus interactive history, a cutting-edge independent food scene and street eats all on offer.

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London

Greater London, United Kingdom (UK)

World-class culture, fashion, music, food and history – and a mind-boggling array of bucket list experiences – packed into one extraordinary, incomparable destination. 

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Oxford

Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)

One of Britain’s most beautiful and historic cities, graced by heartstopping architecture and home to the world’s second-oldest university.

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