The Staycation Express is a popular privately-run train on the Settle to Carlisle Railway, usually running six days a week (no services on Friday) and twice a day in either direction during the summer.
What is the Staycation Express?
This First Class only charter train comes with private tables, reclining leather seats, large viewing windows, plug sockets and COVID secure Perspex screens, so you can enjoy the 72-mile journey safely and in style. This year you can also enjoy premium at-seat dining, including afternoon tea, and an enhanced onboard buffet.
What to see along the way
Not sure what to look out for? Don't worry, there'll be an onboard guide pointing out areas of interest as you travel along the line. Some of the highlights for us include:
The Yorkshire Dales National Park
You'll see plenty of drystone walls, woodland, streams and waterfalls, farms, and meadows along the way.
The Three Peaks area
Famous for those looking to take part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenges, look out for Pen-y-Ghent, Ingleborough, and Whernside, the best-known hills in the Dales.
The Ribblehead Viaduct
The most impressive structure along the line, this huge viaduct is made up of 24 stone arches and sits 32 metres above the moor, offering breath-taking views.
Appleby
This charming market town is home to a medieval castle, red sandstone buildings, and peaceful riverside walks.
Settle - Carlisle Railway 2021 ticket types and prices
Although Northern services run along the same line as the Staycation Express, National Rail tickets are not valid on this service. Tickets for the Settle - Carlisle Railway must be pre-booked.
|
Ticket type |
Morning price |
Afternoon price |
|---|---|---|
|
Adult |
£37 |
£57 |
|
Adult with afternoon tea |
N/A |
£74 |
|
Family (4 people) |
£111 |
£172 |
|
Family with afternoon tea (must include at least 1 child under 15 years) |
N/A |
£260 |
Prices correct July 2021
Staycation Express 2021 timetable
The charter train runs twice a day in each direction between Carlisle and Skipton during the summer season, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. You can find specific timings for each day of the week in the tables below.
Carlisle - Appleby - Settle - Skipton
Monday to Thursday
Saturday
Sunday
Skipton - Settle - Appleby - Carlisle
Monday to Thursday
Saturday
Sunday
Northern services running on the Settle Carlisle line
The Staycation Express isn’t the only train you can take along this scenic line. The charter service runs alongside Northern’s daily service during the summer. Although Northern trains won’t come with all the perks of the Staycation Express, you can still travel along this line and hop off at the main stations all year round.
Carlisle to Leeds calling points
Leeds to Carlisle calling points
Book Northern train tickets online with us today
If the Staycation Express has caught your interest, why not check out some of the other amazing heritage and steam railway trips the UK has to offer.
Looking for more summer day trips or holiday inspiration? Our UK travel inspiration hub is full of ideas and itineraries for your next day out by train.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Staycation Express run to and from?
The Settle - Carlisle Railway, also known as the Staycation Express, runs through the Yorkshire Dales between Skipton, Settle, Appleby and Carlisle.
What months does the Staycation Express operate?
The Staycation Express operates during the summer months. This year, the charter train is running from 19th July to 9th September 2021. But you can also take a Northern train along this route all year round.
How much does it cost to travel on the Settle - Carlise Railway?
For 2021, prices for an adult ticket start from £37 and from £111 for a family of four.