Today, to kick-start the upcoming Spirits of the Railway event Signal Radio are broadcasting live from Churnet Valley Railway’s Froghall Station. Visitors to the railway today will be hosted by ‘The 9’0’clock Rewind’ presenter Elliot Holman and his team between 10am – 2pm
Churnet Valley Railway, Staffordshire’s much-loved heritage attraction is preparing for its annual event, Spirits of the Railway. This event is a 4-day foray starting on Friday 23rd August. Replacing the former boozy Gin and Trains occasion, this new event in the yearly calendar promises to be a bigger, better and boozier affair.
50 spirits will be on sale with whisky, rum and vodka accompanying the ever-popular gin. Botanical blends from regional gin producer Cheddleton-based Staffordshire Moorlands Papermill Distillery, are likely to be firm favourites with visitors over the long weekend. Their extensive range of gins include Blackberry Gin (46%) made with blackberries foraged on Cheddleton Heath.
The railway’s Gin Slushy is back by popular demand and available in the Signal Tearoom at Froghall Station.
Those who want to swap their spirit for an ale can try Churnet Valley Railway’s own brews. Drivers, under 18’s and those who prefer a lighter refreshment can choose from an assortment of hot and cold beverages.
Run by volunteers, the on-board bars will be stocked for train-travellers to sit back and sip their selected spirit, savouring the steam train experience of a by-gone era.
A variety of entertainment will be on each day with highlights from North-West artists:
- Guitarist vocalist Barry Goodison will treat visitors Friday 23rd August (6pm) to a range of his most popular numbers as he journeys through the decades from the 60’s to present day.
- Shout the Vows promise to get the party started on Saturday 24th August (1pm) as the masters of medley and mash-up.
- Ed Sheeran soundalike Paul Hand will be wrapping up the entertainment on Monday 26th August (1pm).
Jack Ilczyszyn, events manager at Churnet Valley Railway said “we’re super excited about this new event. Our gin event has been so popular over the last couple of years, so we thought it was time to expand and follow the latest drinks trend with rum being the next big thing. Our gin offering is quite special as we partner with Paper Mill Distillery”.
Paul Clarke, sales manager at Paper Mill Distillery said “we're privileged to be working so closely with the railway. This is the perfect event to showcase our products with the local community and visitors to the region”.
A full timetable of passenger trains will operate over all four days, with an additional discounted evening service on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Tickets available in advance : https://www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/booking/904/spirits-of-the-railway
Online prices :
- Adult (16-59 years)£12.00
- Child (4-15 years) £6.00
- Child (under 4 years) free
- Senior ticket (60+ years) £10.00
- Evening Ticket Only (between 4pm-10pm) £6.50
- Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children or 2 adults + 1 senior) £30.00
On the day prices :
- Adult (16-59 years) £15.00
- Child (4-15 years) £8.00
- Child (under 4 years) free
- Senior ticket (60+ years) £12.00
- Evening Ticket Only (between 4pm-10pm) £6.50
- Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children or 2 adults + 1 senior) £39.00
Contact:
01538 758 491
[email protected]