Canadian Pacific Launch - The Watercress Line

About

Step aboard history in motion as Canadian Pacific, one of the last surviving Merchant Navy Class locomotives, takes to the tracks for her long-awaited return. Built in 1941 during World War II, this iconic engine has been lovingly restored to her former glory, representing resilience, innovation, and an enduring connection to Britain's railway heritage.

This exclusive event offers the first opportunity to ride behind Canadian Pacific since her restoration, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her storied legacy. Join us on March 20–23, for an unforgettable journey, with tailored experiences inspired by the golden age of steam travel and luxury boat trains.

Immerse yourself in the glamour of the 1950s golden era as you step into a world of vintage charm. Enjoy live music performances that bring the era to life, browse our exclusive merchandise stands for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and celebrate the enduring magic of steam travel.

The Launch Train

20 March 2025

Step aboard 35005 Canadian Pacific for her first public journey since restoration and celebrate the return to steam of this Bulleid Merchant Navy and two Bulleid carriages, 4211 and 1456. Built in 1941 by Southern Railway in Eastleigh, 35005 Canadian Pacific was built to innovative express passenger design but a mixed traffic designation, allowing her to see vital wartime service on the south coast route.  After the war, she hauled the luxurious boat trains of the mid-20th century, such as the Bournemouth Belle, Royal Wessex, and Atlantic Coast Express.

Opt to travel in two beautifully restored 1947-48 Bulleid carriages, originally designed by Oliver Bulleid himself, and experience a piece of history that has been painstakingly rebuilt. These carriages, with their wartime austerity construction, were at risk of being lost to time due to significant deterioration. Now, after a comprehensive rebuild, they feature new roofs, doors, refurbished interiors, and modern accessibility improvements, all while retaining their original charm.

Begin your journey with a reviving breakfast, enjoy the scenic Hampshire countryside, and immerse yourself in 200 years of railway history on this historic run. Each ticket also includes a special souvenir to commemorate the occasion.

Tickets are strictly limited, so don't miss this rare opportunity to travel on the first public train hauled by Canadian Pacific since its restoration and experience the magic of steam in an exclusive and unforgettable way.

Be part of railway history—secure your place today!

Inaugural Dining Train

20 March 2025

Be part of an exclusive celebration as Canadian Pacific hauls her very first public dining train since restoration. Travel in our lovingly restored Bulleid and Belle carriages, reliving the glamour of luxury boat trains from the 1950s. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch or dinner while passing through the picturesque Hampshire countryside.

This premium experience includes an exclusive souvenir to commemorate this historic milestone. Tickets are extremely limited—don't miss your chance to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event.

Your ticket is valid for one Canadian Pacific service as well as unlimited travel on regular running services of the day.

First Public Train Ride

21 March 2025

Be part of history as Canadian Pacific begins her first public service since restoration. This is your chance to experience the inaugural public journey behind this legendary locomotive after her restoration. Passengers will travel through the beautiful Hampshire countryside aboard our classic carriages, pulled by one of Britain's most iconic steam engines. To enhance the experience, you can purchase a Pacific Provisions Pack snack box to add an extra touch of indulgence to this landmark event.

Spaces are limited, so book early to ensure you are part of this historic moment.

Your ticket is valid for one Canadian Pacific service as well as unlimited travel on regular running services of the day.

If yourself or someone from your group is a wheelchair user and cannot be transferred to a regular seat upon boarding, please email reservations@watercressline.co.uk to book an accessible ticket.

Heritage Rides

22 & 23 March 2025

Continue the celebration as Canadian Pacific hauls passengers on its first weekend of public service. These heritage rides offer an authentic steam experience for enthusiasts, history lovers, and families alike. Step back in time as you travel aboard our beautifully restored carriages and connect with the enduring magic of steam travel.

Make a day of it! Your ticket is valid for one Canadian Pacific service as well as unlimited travel on our regular running services of the day. Plus, don't miss the chance to visit the engineering workshops where Canadian Pacific was restored by our dedicated staff and volunteers. Explore the craftsmanship and behind-the-scenes work that brought this iconic locomotive back to life.

This isn't just a train ride – it's a journey through history. Celebrate the monumental restoration of Canadian Pacific and experience the magic of steam in its full glory. Secure your tickets now and make history as one of the first to ride behind this legendary engine!

Your ticket is valid for one Canadian Pacific service as well as unlimited travel on regular running services of the day.

If yourself or someone from your group is a wheelchair user and cannot be transferred to a regular seat upon boarding, please email reservations@watercressline.co.uk to book an accessible ticket.