Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more

Steam Train to Elgin - Day Seating

Cape Town

Activity Description

Ceres Rail Company offers a magnificent return trip to the Elgin Railway Market aboard our historic passenger train. Our train is usually hauled by a heritage steam locomotive and a diesel, but at times, due to the fire risk and other events beyond our control, the trip may be hauled by two diesel locomotives.

The journey begins at 08h05 (passengers to arrive between 07h00 and 07h30) from the platform at Harbour Bridge Hotel and Suites, Dockrail Road, Foreshore, Cape Town. Once aboard you will enjoy a 3-hour rail experience to Elgin, traveling through the beautiful Cape, up the majestic Sir Lowrys Pass, and then down into the Elgin Valley. We have a fully licensed cash bar on board as well as a dining car providing coffee and other snacks. Various books and memorabilia are also available for purchase onboard. We also have a card machine to make life easier.

Our destination is the fabulous Art Deco & Art Nouveau inspired Elgin Railway Market (www.elginrailwaymarket.co.za) where you will spend a few hours at your leisure. At the market, whilst enjoying the live music, you can wander through the many stalls offering delicious food, a wide selection of local wines, ciders and gin. Various bespoke craft stalls selling a wide range of goods including jewellery, leather goods, wire art, etc are also on site. There is a wonderful play area outside for the children to enjoy too.
We depart from Elgin at 14h15 , arriving back Cape Town at approximately 18h00.

08h00 Depart from platform at Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites (33.9135° S, 18.4260° E), Dockrail Rd, Foreshore, Cape Town
11h15 – 12h15 Arrive in Elgin
14h15 Departure from Elgin
18h15 Arrive back in Cape Town

We are so excited to have you on board!

Arrangements

Duration10 hours 15 minutes
WhenThe service is available all year round, generally operating on Saturdays and Sundays.
WhereThe train platform at Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites, Dockrail Rd, Foreshore, Cape Town
WeatherThis service runs in all weather conditions.
What to WearComfortable clothing. Closed footwear is advised.
Things to BringCash or Cards for goods sold on the train and at the market. A jersey or light-jacket should the weather change.
Guests or Spectators

Requirements

Minimum Age0 years
Minimum Height0.0 m
Maximum Height0.0 m
Fitness LevelNo Fitness Requirement
QualificationsNot Applicable
Maximum Weight0.0 kg
CertificationNone Required
Experience LevelNo Experience Requirement

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

The rail journey from Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market (Elgin) and back.
Unforgettable memories

ExclusionsFood, Drinks, all personal purchases are for your own account. We do have a card machine on board.

Notes

For information regarding wheelchair access, please email bookings@ceresrail.co.za
We do not permit own food or drinks on board, but we do allow baby foods and items related to health conditions
No smoking is permitted.
SEATING IS PRE-ALLOCATED

Provider

Google Business Profile

Ceres Rail Company

Customer Reviews

It was worth the wait, seeing that we have booked for the previous Saturday but due to a technical fault the trip was cancelled . The trip we went on was really a nice experience and worth the wait! The staff was nice and professional always checking in with us and answering any questions we might have had. And the market was also a nice touch! We have recommended the trip to our family and friends! Well done!!! - Lesley


Imagine you are busy having a heart attack,but this time you not calling out for help.You aware of the staff (doctor) you see the ER ward(cabin) doors that flang open and you just wish they will enjoy your heart attack as you enjoy your last moments.I hear nurse( barman ) calling a glass of Merloooottttt my hand stretch out yes yes yessss You about to go in to the pass(Sir Loures) the valley of joy about to get real,you hear the klank of wheel's (instruments), doctor shout( whistle) and you shout leave me alone please I ready to meet Joy. Ceres Rail staff. I can't thank you enough.You have lived up to all my expectations and will see you again soon. You and your families have a wonderful Christmas and joyful New Year 2024. Take care Andre - Andrè


An excellent day outing from Cape Town into the countryside and back. - Neil


The trip was a lovely experience for my father, uncle and myself. The secure parking at the start of the day sets a good note from the start and getting to the train itself was straight forward and had no fuss. We had some minor confusion finding our seats in our assigned car as we couldn't figure out what the right car was at first, but once we did it was straight forward. Seating was comfortable and the regular updates from the controllers plus the WhatsApp group was very welcome - knowing when to close windows, when the train was stopping for a break and so on was very well communicated. The trip itself was absolutely lovely, as it took us through parts of Cape Town we've never seen before. As amazing as the trip itself was however, it also brought out a feeling of sadness seeing the destruction and damage to the rail network in general. The rail network is not only needed more than ever, a fully functioning rail network could let CRC do trips to more destinations, which could bring in so many more tourists, but I must stress that is obviously not something CRC can do much about. In closing, I have spread the word of our trip to everyone I could and I could not stress enough how happy we all were with the trip, the facilities and everything else related to the trip. I am looking forward to taking the trip again for my birthday if all goes well and I am also keenly keeping an eye out in case additional routes are announced. Nothing beats the nostalgia and romance of a steam train trip! - Craig


Amazing experience. Highly recommended. Train ride was unforgettable and the staff were super friendly. Loved every moment of it. - Jackie




© 2024 Tornado Tour Systems (Pty) Ltd ta Activitar.

Help & Support