England's most picturesque cathedral cities are the principal destinations of these steam drawn excursions. Scenic itineraries take in Bath Abbey and Cathedrals at Canterbury, Salisbury, Winchester and Wells as well as historic cities, seasonal events and Christmas Specials. First Class passengers receive complimentary champagne or OJ; Premier Dining Class passengers enjoy champagne brunch and three course dinner. Destinations and days of operation vary.

This duo deluxe brings the excesses and pagentry of grand rail travel to those not caring to venture beyond Brittania's shore. The Northern Belle -- aka 'Orient-Express of the North' -- is described by the proprietor as the first luxury train of the new millennium. Year-round excursions range from countryside luncheons to weekend tattoos to week-long grand tours. British Pullman's complementary journeys host guests aboard the magnificently restored Pullman carriages of the Venice Simplon Orient-Express. Day excursions and short breaks throughout the UK makeup its schedule.

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Out of Edinburgh's Waverly Station, the Highland-bound luxury train disappears past the Firth of Forth to re-emerge crossing green hills and misty glens, calling on ancient castles and, depending upon your itinerary, a hunting lodge, a game preserve or the Strathisla Distillery of Chivas Regal fame. Two- and four-day tours are scheduled.

This circular tour of North Wales and the Borders follows a magnetic itinerary drawing history-buffs, rail-fans and nature-lovers, alike. Rare narrow-gauge locomtives steam along rolling hills and misty bays, past grazing sheep and nesting seabirds, in view of medieval turrets and Celtic spires. Among the tour's most unique aspects is its self-guided nature walks. Riders may board or detrain at Chester, Llandudno Jct, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Porthmadog, Machynlleth and Shrewsbury -- taking a day or more to complete the circuit.