Luxury Train Travelers Face Bus Journey Due to Station Renovations

Passengers who paid up to £700 each for a luxury train experience from Huddersfield encountered an unexpected detour as they were required to board a rail replacement bus service. The trip, which took place on Saturday, was disrupted by ongoing renovation work at Huddersfield’s historic Grade I-listed station, affecting its entrance, platforms, and roof.

To mitigate the inconvenience, the trip organizers offered each passenger a bottle of champagne as compensation. Despite the disruption, the organizers ensured a seamless experience by arranging a luxury coach for 40 passengers to travel the 28 miles to Manchester. From there, they embarked on the much-anticipated steam-hauled journey along the picturesque Settle-Carlisle line.

Local businessman David Pitts, who owns the 1930s Pullman-style Northern Belle, orchestrated the luxury coach transfer. Pitts, who resides in Thurstonland and manages the marketing agency DP Publicity in Wakefield, acquired the train from the renowned Orient Express group. He organized the luxury coach to ensure passengers traveled in comfort and style, despite the unforeseen detour. As a gesture of goodwill, passengers were given a bottle of champagne to enhance their experience.

The Northern Belle is set to return to Huddersfield next month, offering travelers a journey to Edinburgh with an opportunity to visit the former Royal Yacht Britannia. Additionally, in August, passengers can look forward to another steam-hauled trip over the Settle-Carlisle line, followed by a festive Christmas lunch journey in December.