The Cathedrals Express to Canterbury hauled by locomotive 35005 'Canadian Pacific' waiting for departure at London Victoria station.

Manufactured in 1941 its combined weight (Locomotive and Tender) is 151 tons. When originally sent to be scrapped it had travelled nearly one million miles. The locomotive was 'rescued' from the scrapyard in 1973 and restored to full working order.

The Buffet Car and some of the standard class seating beyond.

The buffet serves snacks such as Sausage Rolls, Sandwiches, Tea, Coffee and cold drinks both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. If you want tea or coffee to carry back to your seat whilst the train is travelling at speed then you definitely want lids for the cups.

There is something very relaxing about having good food and drink on a train.

One of the Standard Class coaches.

It was obvious that many people travelling on this train had been on other trips and were intending to go again. I can now understand just how they feel.

The rolling stock, apparently, dates from the 1950s.

Stopped at a red signal for a short time on the way to Canterbury.

Yet another chance to look at the locomotive so heads pop out all the way along the train.

We were soon on our way again listening to the rapid pulse of the exhaust as we picked up speed.

A family dining in one of the First Class coaches.

Luxury picnic hampers are available in both the First Class and Standard Class coaches, as an alternative to the Premier Dining option, but must be ordered in advance before you travel.

In the Kitchen Coach with the starter courses ready to serve to the passengers in the Premier Dining coach.

All meals served on The Cathedrals Express are prepared in this Kitchen Coach.

The Premier Dining coaches provide a light meal with Champagne on the journey out and a full 3 course meal including a vegetarian option, from a set menu, on the return part of the journey.

Treat yourself - you know you deserve it!

Leaving Canterbury West Station, heading for Dover and Folkstone, on the return trip to London.