Crossing the Ribblehead Viaduct

To celebrate the 50th birthdays of my friends C and L, we went on a train trip up from Milton Keynes to Carlisle, returning via the Settle - Carlisle line. A lot of the journey was steam hauled using the engine Galatea (a last minute replacement for another steam train).

We travelled first class, having tea and danish on the outward trip and tea, sandwiches and a scone on the return.  Fortunately we were sat next to three guys who regularly do such trips, and who were able to warn us of key points coming up, like the Ribblehead Viaduct shown in shadow in the main picture.

In the extras I've included two shots which I thought summed up the day - a mono of the front of the steam train surrounded by steam, and two of the steam enthusiasts enjoying their afernoon tea with the wonderful scenery of the Settle-Carlisle line in the background.

I would love to have had more time to explore Carlisle, just managed a peek at the cathedral, the outer walls of the castle and a look at the Hadrian Wall walk (no wall in evidence on the bit we saw, just a raised bank).

I've always wanted to travel on a steam train, to take afternoon tea in a vintage carriage, and to travel the Settle - Carlisle line - so we managed all three in one trip.  A fabulous day - the scenery was soooo beautiful!