Jonathan and Jane visit Bath on the Sir Nigel Gresley steam train

Last week, Jonathan our Chair and fellow Board Director Jane, who both have a visual impairment, went on a trip to the Christmas Markets in Bath on the Sir Nigel Gresley steam train! They were very lucky and were in the Pullman dining car. They were served brunch which consisted of granola, yoghurt, melon, brioche, pastries and lots of cups of tea and prosecco!

They arrived in Bath at 1.30pm and were escorted off the train by the staff from Steam Dreams. Jonathan and Jane met up with another couple from the train who weren’t in the Pullman dining car but really enjoyed helping them around the Christmas market in Bath.

There were lots of interesting stalls and Jane bought a beautiful grey and maroon scarf whilst Jonathan bought some cheese and marmalade. Once they had exhausted the market stalls they went into a hut which was serving hot drinks. Jane enjoyed a hot chocolate with marshmallows, whilst Jonathan had toffee apple cider!

They headed back to Bath station for 4.30pm but unfortunately the train was delayed by an hour. At 6.30 pm the train rolled in and there was a big cheer from everyone. They eventually arrived back in Staines at 9.30pm. Due to arriving back later than planned Steam Dreams arranged for them both to have a taxi home.

Jane said the trip was an amazing birthday/Christmas present, the best she could have wished for and it looks like Jane has also got some work producing Braille for the company as there are other visually impaired people who travel with Steam Dreams a lot.

Jane said it was an amazing day and one she will treasure. Both Jane and Jonathan are hoping to do it all again next year!

If you have been on an amazing trip that you would like to share with our members please contact Yasmin at: involvement@surreycoalition.org.uk