What Can I Expect

The Rothley Rose steam train dinner locomotive is ready to depart! This steam-hauled evening service on the Great Central Railway in Leicestershire includes a delicious three-course meal served at your table.

Your dining train sets off from Rothley. The station is mid-way along the Great Central line and there is ample free parking. It's a lovely Edwardian-style countryside station that has been recreated and restored to be just as it would have been in 1912, the heyday of the railway.

You'll be boarding the train to set off at 19:30, returning to Rothley at 21:30. The mellow summer and autumn evenings are thoroughly lovely times to journey on the GCR. As the sun goes down, the vintage gas lights come on, bathing the platforms in a soft hue, as the steam rises from the locomotive on the platform. It certainly all adds to the atmosphere!

Your steward will welcome you aboard and show you to your seat in the First Class dining cars. Your table will be set up for your three-course dinner. All you have to do is sit back and relax in your beautifully restored carriage.

As the Rothley Rose draws out of the station, your thoughts will turn to dinner. All dishes will be served at your table and the menu celebrates traditional cuisine, using seasonal ingredients. There is also an on-board bar, so you can purchase drinks to make a toast to your Rothley Rose journey!

And our tip for you : before your departure, make sure you allow time to explore Rothley station. The waiting rooms are just as they would have been back in the day. And do pop your head into the secret little Parcel Office at the end of the platform, for an insight into a bygone age!

These Rothley Rose steam train departures are always popular, so make sure you buy your vouchers and book your table well in advance. 

When Is It Available

• Selected Fridays for 2024 
• Trains depart at 19:30 returning at 21:30
• Due to the popularity of this experience it is recommended to book well in advance to avoid disappointment

Please note: Dates for 2024 are fully booked. Please check back soon for dates in 2025 which will be released shortly. 

Suitable For

• Minimum age 5
• Under 18s must be accompanied by a participating adult

Spectators

• Spectators are welcome to watch your departure from the platform

Anything Else

• Additional drinks can be purchased from the onboard licenced bar
• Please note that the menus and timetables are samples only and subject to change
• When booking your date the operator will ask for your choice of main course in advance
• The Steam Locomotive may be substituted for a Heritage Diesel Loco when Steam is not available
• Dining vouchers are not redeemable between 24 November 2023 and 2 January 2024 

Menu