125 Group HST Set For Carlisle Railtour On “The Citadel Circle”

The 125 Group has announced plans to take its HST to Carlisle next summer, with “The Citadel Circle” set to run on Saturday 25 July 2026.

The special railtour is being organised in partnership with Retro Railtours, which will manage the booking arrangements on behalf of the 125 Group.

The trip is expected to start from Manchester Victoria at around 07:00, before picking up passengers at Crewe, Derby, Sheffield and York. The train is then due to arrive in Carlisle at approximately 13:30, giving passengers a break in the city before the return journey begins at around 16:00.

All timings remain approximate until confirmed by Network Rail.

The planned outbound schedule is:

• Manchester Victoria – 07:00
• Crewe – 08:15
• Derby – 09:30
• Sheffield – 10:10
• York – 11:10
• Carlisle – 13:30

On the outward journey, the HST will travel north on the East Coast Main Line, where it is expected to show its full speed capability. The route will then take the train from Low Fell to Norwood Junction before a more relaxed run across the Tyne Valley, passing via Haltwhistle on the way to Carlisle.

The return leg will take the train south on the West Coast Main Line direct to Crewe. Connections for Manchester will be available from there, although these are not included in the fare.

After Crewe, the tour will complete the circular route by retracing its steps to set down passengers at Stoke, Derby, Chesterfield and Sheffield. The final set down is planned for Wakefield Kirkgate.

The planned return schedule is:

• Carlisle – 16:00
• Crewe – 18:00
• Derby – 19:30
• Sheffield – 20:10
• Wakefield Kirkgate – 20:40

First Class and Standard Class seating will be available on board, with a counter service buffet offering hot and cold food and drinks throughout the journey.

The 125 Group says it is looking forward to welcoming passengers aboard “The Citadel Circle” when the HST heads for Carlisle on 25 July 2026.