125 Group are pleased to announce that we will be taking our HST to Carlisle on Saturday 25th July 2026.
Working with our good friends at Retro Railtours, who will manage all aspects of the bookings on our behalf, “The Citadel Circle” will operate as follows:
(UPDATE 21/07/2026 – TIMINGS NOW CONFIRMED AND UPDATED)
Outbound –
Departs Manchester Victoria – 0625
Crewe – 0736
Stoke-on-Trent – 0816
Derby – 0913
Chesterfield – 0935
Sheffield – 0955
York – 1053
Carlisle – 1307
Departs Carlisle – 1558
Crewe – 1834
Stoke-on-Trent – 1914
Derby – 2003
Chesterfield – 2032
Sheffield – 2051
Wakefield Kirkgate – 2135
Manchester Victoria – 2240
Return –
The train will then travel north on the East Coast Main Line and should demonstrate its full speed capability before taking the spur from Low Fell to Norwood Junction for a more leisurely run across the Tyne Valley via Haltwhistle to Carlisle for a break.
The return will be via the West Coast mainline direct to Crewe (with connections for Manchester available – these are NOT included in the fare), before completing the circle for everyone by retracing our steps to set down at Stoke, Derby Chesterfield and Sheffield. Our final set down will be at Manchester Victoria.
First Class and Standard class seating will be available on board and a counter service buffet serving hot and cold food and drinks will be available throughout.
The following fares are available:
- First Class Adult – £149
- First Class Child – £129
- First Class table for 2 supplement – £50
- Standard Class Adult – £99
- Standard Class Child – £79
E-Tickets will be sent out no later than a week before (for bookings before Fri 17th). We look forward to welcoming you aboard “The Citadel Circle” on the 25th July.
