Britain's poshest train heading to Aberdeen as bosses warn annual visit in doubt

Aberdeen may be set to miss out on its annual visit from ‘Britain’s poshest train’ due to crowded rail schedules, bosses have warned.

The 1930s Pullman-style Northern Belle will once again take champagne-sipping passengers on a slap-up day out this August.

The luxury to rain, which even has its own band, was a noted favourite of the late Queen Mother.

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But now its annual visit north could be in jeopardy, with operators saying it may be impossible to return in 2025.

A spokesman for the Lancashire-based train, once part of the iconic Orient Express, said: “We are having great difficulty arranging a corridor to get the Belle to Aberdeen next year.

“Obviously that would be a big disappointment for us as well as our loyal passengers – but all the more reason not to miss this year’s trip!”

The umber-and-cream painted Northern Belle – described by actor Bill Nighy on Channel 5 as he “Grand Dame of luxury travel” – will head to the 13th century Dunrobin Castle on Sunday, August 4.

Dubbed “the jewel in the crown of the Scottish Highlands”, the castle boasts its own station, built in 1871 by the third Earl, with an arts and crafts style waiting room added in 1902.

Passengers will board over a red carpet laid across the platform at Aberdeen station before being handed their first glass of champagne.

Then they will be served a three-course brunch on the way to Dunrobin, followed by a lavish six-course banquet with wine during the evening journey home.

Musicians will serenade passengers while they dine, with a conjuror wandering through the carriages to bring an extra touch of magic to the trip.

A Northern Belle spokesman said: “We are still trying to sort another visit for 2025, but if not it will be ‘au revoir rather than goodbye’ because we certainly aim to be back in 2026.”

Fares on the Northern Belle start at £295. For more details, see www.northernbelle.co.uk