Afternoon Tea: Shakespeare Express with Flying Scotsman

at Vintage Trains
Birmingham Available from Sat 21 Feb to Sat 21 Feb

One day only

Limited tickets remaining

Book The Shakespeare Express tickets & enjoy Afternoon Tea behind the legendary Flying Scotsman

Make February truly memorable with a classic steam‑hauled journey aboard the world‑famous Flying Scotsman. The Shakespeare Express with Afternoon Tea blends vintage railway elegance, mainline steam power and indulgent dining, all departing from the heart of Birmingham.

  • Travel behind Flying Scotsman at true mainline speeds on the national rail network
  • Depart from Birmingham Snow Hill in beautifully restored 1960s vintage carriages
  • Relax and enjoy scenic views of the Warwickshire countryside
  • Upgrade to First Class for a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served at your seat
  • A timeless steam experience perfect for special occasions and railway lovers

Ride The Shakespeare Express with Flying Scotsman & Afternoon Tea

  • Date: 21st February 2026
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  • Meeting Point: Birmingham Snow Hill Station
  • Tickets include: Reserved seating, mainline steam haulage, vintage train journey, Afternoon Tea (First Class)

Sit back and soak up the romance of the golden age of steam as Flying Scotsman hauls your journey through the heart of the Midlands

From the unmistakable sound of the exhaust to the warmth of heritage interiors, this experience delivers steam travel exactly as it was meant to be.

First Class passengers will be treated to a delightful Afternoon Tea, freshly prepared and served directly to your seat. Tea and coffee are included throughout the journey, with additional drinks available to purchase as you unwind and enjoy the passing scenery.

With limited dates throughout February, The Shakespeare Express with Afternoon Tea offers a rare chance to enjoy Flying Scotsman at speed while dining in relaxed, vintage style.

First Class Experience:

  • Reserved seats in original 1960s First Class carriages
  • Traditional Afternoon Tea served at your seat
  • Tea & coffee served throughout the journey
  • Additional drinks available to purchase from onboard servers
  • Choice of a private table for two or an individual First Class seat

Standard Class Experience:

  • Reserved seating in original 1960s British Railways Mk2 carriages
  • Comfortable table seating throughout the train
  • Light refreshments available from the on‑train buffet

Travel Timings

  • Departure: Birmingham Snow Hill at 13:30
  • Return: Birmingham Snow Hill at approximately 17:45

Please note: Timings are approximate and will be confirmed 48 hours prior to departure.

Places are limited for this exclusive Afternoon Tea steam service. Reserve your seats today and experience the elegance, power and nostalgia of The Shakespeare Express with Flying Scotsman. Tickets delivered instantly via email.

Location

Birmingham Snow Hill Station

Colmore Row,
Birmingham,
B3 2BJ
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How to find us

Departure Point: Birmingham Snow Hill Station, Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2BJ

  • Departure Time: 13:30
  • Return Time: 17:45
More Info
What time does The Shakespeare Express depart and arrive?
  • Birmingham Snow Hill: Departs 13:30, Returns 17:45

Please note that these timings are approximate. Final timings will be confirmed 48 hours before departure.

Where does The Shakespeare Express pick up from?

Birmingham Snow Hill: Snow Hill Station, 7 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2BJ

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 Valentine’s Shakespeare Express:

  • 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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