Step back in time aboard the Shakespeare Express, a vintage train journey that combines scenic views, gourmet dining, and lively entertainment for a truly memorable day out in the Midlands.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required, suitable for most age groups
Wildlife
History
The Shakespeare Express has been running since 1990, celebrating Midlands railway heritage with themed journeys and special events.
Conservation
Vintage Trains actively supports rail preservation and promotes sustainable tourism through its operations.
Vintage Trains
Step back in time aboard the Shakespeare Express, a vintage train journey that combines scenic views, gourmet dining, and lively entertainment for a truly memorable day out in the Midlands.
Vintage Trains is a Birmingham-based heritage rail operator that runs a programme of steam- and diesel-hauled excursions, dining trips and depot tours across the UK. Founded and based at Tyseley Depot, the company preserves historic locomotives and carriages while operating scheduled special trains such as THE POLAR EXPRESS™, The Shakespeare Express and long-distance explorers to destinations including Manchester, Newcastle and North Wales.
Operating from Tyseley Depot in Birmingham, Vintage Trains offers curated day trips, festive events and themed dining experiences designed for families, rail enthusiasts and leisure travellers. Signature journeys include the festive THE POLAR EXPRESS™ family experience, seasonal Christmas market excursions, full dining services such as three-course Sunday lunches and thematic entertainment like Murder on The Shakespeare Express and Mad Hatter’s Tea Parties.
Tyseley Depot tours provide behind-the-scenes access to a 1908 Great Western Railway locomotive depot, including the roundhouse, turntable and working locomotives with guided interpretation. Vintage Trains combines heritage conservation with public operations, maintaining restored rolling stock to operate authentic rail experiences.
Tickets, seating classes and catering options vary by trip; Tourist seats and Pullman dining are available on selected services. The operator runs both steam-hauled specials and diesel-hauled explorers and highlights regional routes such as the Welsh Highland Railway segment on the Welsh Highland Explorer. Vintage Trains focuses on delivering historically informed, family-friendly excursions and accessible depot tours from its Birmingham base.
Booking, safety and accessibility information are published for each trip, and advance reservations are recommended for popular seasonal services and dining experiences during peak travel periods.
Tours Offered
Multiple
Day trips, dining and depot tours
Depot Since
1908
Original GWR roundhouse and turntable
Heritage Fleet
Restored locomotives
Steam and diesel-hauled services
Family Friendly
All ages
Events and themed trips
Book now for themed dining, family events or depot tours — limited availability on seasonal services and festive trains.
Arrive early at Stratford station
Allow plenty of time for check-in and to settle into your carriage before departure.
Dress comfortably but in vintage style
The train's nostalgic ambiance is enhanced by period-appropriate attire; smart casual is recommended.
Book your tickets in advance
Seats fill quickly during peak seasons, so securing your spot early is wise.
Bring a camera
Capture scenic moments and vintage details along the route for lasting memories.
Comfortable walking shoes
Good shoes make boarding and walking around the station more enjoyable.
Warm layer or light jacket
Weather can vary, so bring an extra layer for comfort.
spring;fall;winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture scenic views and special moments during the trip.
Small bag or purse
Keep essentials close without cluttering your seat.