Royal Carriage Journey & Afternoon Tea at Bolton Abbey
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required; accessibility varies with station setup.
Overview
Step aboard Queen Victoria’s Royal Saloon in Bolton Abbey for a unique one-hour journey featuring Afternoon Tea with Prosecco. This exclusive trip offers a glimpse into 19th-century royal travel set against the scenic beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
First Class Return Travel in Queen Victoria's Carriage with Afternoon Tea
All Ages • 1 hour • Afternoon tea in Royal decadence!
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About This Adventure
Experience a taste of history aboard Queen Victoria’s Royal Saloon, restored for an exclusive journey. Enjoy a delightful Afternoon Tea with Prosecco while traveling in a coach once used by royalty. With only 18 seats available, this unique trip offers a memorable glimpse into 19th-century royal travel.
Feel Royal for the day! Travel in Queen Victoria’s Royal Saloon while being served a fresh Afternoon Tea with Prosecco on arrival.
Duration
1 hour round trip
About
Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway and Stately Trains are proud to offer the unique opportunity of a journey in Queen Victoria’s saloon.
Built for the London and South Western Railway’s Royal Train in 1885 it was altered to become Queen Victoria’s personal coach in her Golden Jubilee year, 1887. She used it to travel from Waterloo to Gosport from where she journied on the Royal Yacht to the Isle of Wight to Osborne House. Several European heads of state used the coach when making a state visit to Britain.
Following Queen Victoria’s death in 1901 it continued in Royal use for several years before being converted to a family saloon and eventually being sold as a body by the Southern Railway in 1930. From then until the 1980’s it was a home for a gamekeeper before being moved to various sites for preservation.
Restored by Stately Trains at Embsay in 2017 it is being used on special trains to give passengers a taste of 19th century Royal travel.
Passengers may enjoy an assortment of delicacies that were Queen Victoria’s favourites while sipping a glass of prosecco. This is truly a unique opportunity and passenger numbers are limited to 18 per train.
Important Information
• Please note when selecting tickets, that purchasing one "Afternoon Tea for Two" will be valid for two people and the price is for two people, one "Afternoon Tea for Three" will be valid for three people and the price for three people, and one "Afternoon Tea for Four" will be valid for four people and the price for four people. • If you are with a group of five, please purchase one "Afternoon Tea for Two" and one "Afternoon Tea for Three". If you are with a group of six, you can purchase one "Afternoon Tea for Two" and one "Afternoon Tea for Four", or two "Afternoon Tea for Three".
- Please note that due to the limited catering preparation facilities onboard the train, we are unable to accommodate any dietary allergies or intolerances. We appreciate your understanding.
- No dogs are allowed – except accredited assistance dogs, please contact the railway directly before booking
Please arrive 20 minutes before your experience starts.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Boarding
Guests should arrive at Bolton Abbey Station at least 20 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding.
Limited Seating Capacity
With only 18 seats available, book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot on this exclusive royal journey.
No Dietary Accommodations Onboard
Due to limited catering facilities, this experience cannot accommodate dietary allergies or intolerances.
Assistance Dogs Only
Dogs are not permitted except for accredited assistance dogs. Contact the railway ahead of booking if needed.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red deer roaming the moorland hillsides.
- Peregrine falcons nesting along the limestone cliffs.
History
Queen Victoria’s Royal Saloon was built in 1885 and modified for her Golden Jubilee in 1887, used on journeys from London to the Isle of Wight.
Conservation
The Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway promotes heritage conservation by restoring historic railcars and maintaining scenic rural tracks with minimal environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Leeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket or Sweater
Spring weather can be cool and changeable, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
spring specific
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protect yourself from UV exposure during sunny summer journeys.
summer specific
Warm Coat and Gloves
The carriage can be chilly despite heating; dress warmly for winter trips.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the scenic views and historic interiors on your unique royal ride.