Valentines Day brought love to many relationships last week, and for some that involved a journey embracing the Romance of Steam as the Churnet Valley Railway’s dining season was signalled off for the start of the 2020 season. This year has seen a new chef join the team, and a complete overhaul of the menus on offer for diners on this popular service.
Valentines was the first chance for guests to sample one of the new menus, and the fillet steak with portabello mushroom went down a treat with those on board. Following the success of this service the railway is delighted to announce its full program of dining services for 2020. The ever-popular Moorlander Lunch serving the traditional Sunday Roast remains largely unchanged, but with a change in side vegetables and a new selection of desserts on offer.
The Saturday Lunch Service has been rebranded to "The Churnet Valley Limited” and offers a more stylish twist on a 3-course lunch for those wanting a more exciting taste experience away from traditional roasts. Still served aboard one of our dedicated dining coaches, this is proving to be popular with pre-bookings being made on several dates already.
For those unable to make a weekend then fear not, as a third Lunch service is to be launched for 2020 offering a midweek 2-course meal! "The Valley Pioneer" will allow you to dine in style and enjoy the beautiful countryside from the comfort of your own seat, as you’re served a freshly prepared meal from our dedicated kitchen car.
If lunch isn’t your thing however don’t worry, we have two further services to cater for your taste buds. Our Staffordshire Cream Tea is making its return for 2020, with more dates now on offer serving a selection of the finest bite sized cakes alongside freshly baked scones – all washed down with as much tea and coffee as you can manage. And then completing the day time offering is our brand new dining experience for 2020 – Wine Tasting Experience. With the first service due to depart in June, come and join our wine connoisseur as they guide you through the tasting notes for five different wines, explaining the intricate flavours you sample during your journey. A selection of appropriate nibbles and canapes will be served during your journey to accompany the various wines on offer.
Finally for 2020 sees the return of evening diners but once more completely rebranded. Our Murder Mystery Nights were hugely popular in previous years and so we are excited to announce that they will return once more. Join in discovering 'Whodunnit', as you become your own Marple or Poirot whilst enjoying an evening in Staffordshire’s hidden valley. Or for those wanting something without the games, why not come and try our new Bombay Express curry train where you enjoy tastes from the East as you watch the sun set in the West.
Whatever you fancy, there is something for everyone on the Churnet Valley Railway this year, so why not book your experience now and come and create your own memories. The full program of events is available to book online now.