Derby Shakespeare Express

at Vintage Trains
Derby Available from Sun 26 Apr to Sun 26 Apr

2 dates available

Limited tickets remaining

Book Derby Shakespeare Express tickets & enjoy a full steam day out to Stratford‑upon‑Avon

Travel from the East Midlands to Shakespeare country aboard a classic steam‑hauled express, combining vintage rail travel, beautiful countryside and time to explore Stratford‑upon‑Avon at your leisure.

  • Journey behind heritage steam power through the Warwickshire countryside
  • Depart from Derby, Burton‑on‑Trent, Tamworth or Coleshill Parkway
  • Travel at express speeds on the Shakespeare Line or Chiltern mainline
  • Approximately 4.5 hours free time in Stratford‑upon‑Avon
  • Upgrade to Pullman Class with dining served at your seat
  • A relaxed family confirm friendly day out from the East Midlands

Ride the Derby Shakespeare Express to Stratford‑upon‑Avon

  • Dates: Sunday 26th April & Sunday 25th October
  • Duration: Approximately 8.5 hours
  • Joining Stations: Derby, Burton‑on‑Trent, Tamworth, Coleshill Parkway
  • Tickets include: Reserved seating, steam‑hauled return journey & free time in Stratford‑upon‑Avon

Travel in style through the heart of England on a classic steam express

Join The Shakespeare Express for a nostalgic rail journey through the rolling landscapes of Warwickshire, passing historic stations that still retain their original Great Western Railway character.

Arriving in Stratford‑upon‑Avon at around 12:40, you’ll have around 4.5 hours to explore this historic market town. Enjoy lunch by the River Avon, browse independent shops, or visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and other iconic landmarks before your return journey at 16:45.

Pullman Class Experience:

  • Reserved seating in an original 1960s Pullman carriage
  • Full English breakfast served on the outward journey
  • Afternoon tea served on the return journey
  • Tea & coffee served throughout, with additional drinks available to purchase
  • Choice of individual seating or private tables for two

First Class Experience:

  • Reserved seating in original 1960s British Railways Mk1 carriages
  • Table seating available for two
  • Light refreshments available from the on‑train buffet

Standard Class Experience:

  • Reserved seating in original 1960s British Railways Mk2 carriages
  • Light refreshments available from the buffet
  • Family tickets available (2 adults & 2 children)

Travel Timings (approximate)

  • Derby: Departs 10:40 | Returns 19:05
  • Burton‑on‑Trent: Departs 11:00 | Returns 18:45
  • Tamworth: Departs 11:15 | Returns 18:25
  • Coleshill Parkway: Departs 11:30 | Returns 17:50

Please note: Final timings will be confirmed 48 hours before departure and are subject to operational changes.

Whether you’re enjoying Pullman dining, classic First Class comfort or a relaxed Standard Class journey, the Derby Shakespeare Express offers a timeless steam‑hauled adventure to one of England’s most famous historic towns.

Seats are limited on this popular excursion. Book your Derby Shakespeare Express tickets today and enjoy a classic day out by steam — tickets delivered instantly via email.

Location

Derby Train Station

Railway Terrace,
Derby,
DE1 2RU
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How to find us

Please note: The Derby Shakespeare Express picks up at multiple locations. Please ensure you are attending the correct location at the correct time. 

  • Derby: Derby Train Station, Railway Terrace, Derby DE1 2RU
  • Departs at 10:40am - Returns at 19:05.
  • Burton-on-Trent: Burton Station, Borough Rd, Burton-on-Trent DE14 2DA
  • Departs at 11:00am - Returns at 18:45.
  • Tamworth: Tamworth Railway Station, Victoria Rd, Tamworth B79 7JT
  • Departs at 11:15am - Returns at 18:25
  • Coleshill Parkway: Coleshill Parkway, Coleshill, Birmingham B46 1JZ
  • Departs at 11:30am - Returns at 17:50.
  • Stratford-upon-Avon: Stratford-upon-Avon Railway Station, Station Rd, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6PL
  • Arrive at 12:40pm - Depart at 16:45.
More Info
What time does Derby Shakespeare Express depart and arrive?

Please note: The Derby Shakespeare Express picks up at multiple locations. Please ensure you are attending the correct location at the correct time. 

  • Derby: Derby Train Station, Railway Terrace, Derby DE1 2RU
  • Departs at 10:40am - Returns at 19:05.
  • Burton-on-Trent: Burton Station, Borough Rd, Burton-on-Trent DE14 2DA
  • Departs at 11:00am - Returns at 18:45.
  • Tamworth: Tamworth Railway Station, Victoria Rd, Tamworth B79 7JT
  • Departs at 11:15am - Returns at 18:25
  • Coleshill Parkway: Coleshill Parkway, Coleshill, Birmingham B46 1JZ
  • Departs at 11:30am - Returns at 17:50.
  • Stratford-upon-Avon: Stratford-upon-Avon Railway Station, Station Rd, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6PL
  • Arrive at 12:40pm - Depart at 16:45.
Where does Derby Shakespeare Express pick up from?
  • Derby: Derby Train Station, Railway Terrace, Derby DE1 2RU
  • Burton-on-Trent: Burton Station, Borough Rd, Burton-on-Trent DE14 2DA
  • Tamworth: Tamworth Railway Station, Victoria Rd, Tamworth B79 7JT
  • Coleshill Parkway: Coleshill Parkway, Coleshill, Birmingham B46 1JZ
  • Stratford-upon-Avon: Stratford-upon-Avon Railway Station, Station Rd, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6PL
What is the difference between carriages and classes on Vintage Trains?

There are multiple seating options with Vintage Trains:

First Class:

  • Reserved seats in an original 1960s First Class Carriage
  • Brunch served at your seat
  • Tea & Coffee served throughout with additional drinks available to purchase from servers

Standard

  • Reserved seats in an original 1960s British Railways Mk2 Carriage
  • Light refreshments available from the on-train buffet
Can you bring your own food and drink onboard Vintage Trains?

If you are travelling in a Tourist Class or Pullman Cars where no restaurant service is offered, then you are more than welcome to bring your own food.

Food is not permitted in First and Pullman Class restaurant cars.

Is The Shakespeare Express wheelchair accessible?

Yes, there are limited wheelchair-accessible facilities on the Flying Scotsman:

  • Only up to 2 wheelchair spaces are available, located in the Buffet Coach, not in First Class or Pullman carriages.
  • Standard wheelchairs and mobility scooters (max 700 mm × 1200 mm) are accepted, but larger or non-standard mobility devices (e‑scooters, hoverboards, etc.) are not permitted.
  • The Buffet Coach with wheelchair spaces does not have disability-friendly toilets, and the First Class carriages are not wheelchair-accessible.

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