Sussex Belle Historic Steam Train Returns to Sussex in 2026: Scenic Journey from London Victoria to the Coast – Book Your Tickets Now!

Published on December 16, 2025

The iconic Sussex Belle, a historic steam train, will make its highly anticipated return to the Sussex coast in April 2026. This charming journey, organized by the Railway Touring Company, will offer passengers an unforgettable trip from London Victoria to Eastbourne, Hastings, and beyond, passing through picturesque English countryside, with breathtaking views of the South Downs.

Scheduled for April 15, 2026, the Sussex Belle will start its journey at London Victoria Station, where it will be hauled by a Black 5 steam locomotive. From there, the train will wind its way through the heart of Sussex, offering a relaxing, scenic experience for tourists and train enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a local or visiting from abroad, this is a unique opportunity to experience one of the UK’s most scenic rail routes while enjoying a luxury dining experience onboard.

The Route: From London Victoria to Eastbourne and Hastings

The Sussex Belle’s journey begins around 11:00 AM at London Victoria, heading towards Brighton. The train will then divert through Cooksbridge to Lewes, joining the East Coastway Line towards Eastbourne, where it is expected to arrive around 1:00 PM. Along the way, passengers will be treated to stunning views of the Weald, North Downs, and the surrounding countryside, offering an authentic taste of rural England.

Once in Eastbourne, the steam locomotive will be serviced, allowing passengers to disembark and explore the town. With its Victorian architecture, seaside charm, and popular attractions like Eastbourne Pier and Beachy Head, the town provides the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon visit. After a short break, the train will continue along the coast to Hastings, another historic seaside destination known for its connection to the Battle of Hastings.

Journey Through Historic Sussex

After leaving Eastbourne, passengers will continue along the coast, passing through Normans Bay, Cooden Beach, and Bexhill before reaching Hastings. Here, the steam locomotive will again take charge, with the train heading north through Crowhurst, Battle, Royal Tunbridge Wells, and Sevenoaks, before returning to London Victoria around 6:00 PM.

The Sussex Belle’s route is designed to offer a balance of both scenic beauty and historic value, providing a charming experience that transports passengers back in time. It’s not only an opportunity to admire the stunning countryside but also to appreciate the heritage of the UK’s steam railways.

Classes of Travel: Premier Dining, First Class, and Standard

Travelers aboard the Sussex Belle can choose from three classes of service, each offering a different level of comfort and luxury. The Premier Dining experience is the most luxurious, offering a full four-course silver service lunch at your seat, accompanied by Buck’s Fizz and morning tea or coffee with Danish pastries.

For those opting for First Class, the service includes a more relaxed offering of morning tea or coffee, a breakfast roll, and a muffin. In the afternoon, an additional tea or coffee service will be provided, alongside a scone with butter and jam. Standard class passengers will be given a reserved seat, typically at a table for four, and can enjoy the scenic journey in comfort.

Prices for Premier, First Class, and Standard class fares are as follows:

• Premier Dining: £319 for adults, £225 for juniors, and £975 for a family ticket.
• First Class: £215 for adults, £160 for juniors, and £670 for families.
• Standard Class: £115 for adults, £85 for juniors, and £363 for a family ticket.

Tables for two are available in Premier Dining and First Class for an additional £50 per person, subject to availability. A buffet car will also be in operation, offering a selection of tea, coffee, snacks, and light refreshments throughout the journey.

The Sussex Belle Experience: A Perfect Day Out for Families and Tourists

The return of the Sussex Belle provides a wonderful opportunity for tourists and families to experience one of Britain’s most scenic and historic train routes. The journey offers the perfect blend of relaxation, sightseeing, and luxury dining, making it an ideal experience for visitors who want to take in the countryside and coast while enjoying top-tier service.

Families will appreciate the family tickets available, which offer a fantastic way to experience this historic journey without breaking the bank. Moreover, the train’s carefully crafted timetable ensures a leisurely day out, with plenty of time to explore Eastbourne and Hastings before heading back to London. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to enjoy a scenic day trip, the Sussex Belle offers something for everyone.

Quick Tips for Tourists:

• Book early: The Sussex Belle is likely to sell out quickly, so be sure to book tickets as soon as possible to secure your preferred class of travel.
• Arrive early at London Victoria: With the train departing promptly at 11:00 AM, be sure to arrive at the station early to avoid any last-minute rush.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Although the journey will be luxurious, the train’s route through scenic areas can be chilly, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
• Explore Eastbourne and Hastings: Both towns are well worth exploring, offering plenty of historical landmarks and stunning views along the coast.
• Check weather conditions: As the journey will take you through varying weather conditions, it’s a good idea to check the forecast ahead of time.

Conclusion: A Historic Experience Not to Be Missed

For train enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of southern England, the Sussex Belle provides an unforgettable experience. This scenic journey from London Victoria to Eastbourne and Hastings offers the chance to step back in time, appreciating the classic elegance of a historic steam train while traveling through some of the UK’s most stunning countryside.

With luxurious dining, comfortable travel options, and the chance to explore two iconic coastal towns, the Sussex Belle is the perfect way to experience Britain’s railway heritage. Whether you’re a local or visiting from abroad, make sure to book your tickets early for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Historic Steam Train: The Sussex Belle returns in April 2026, providing a scenic route from London Victoria to Eastbourne and Hastings.
• Three Classes of Service: Premier Dining, First Class, and Standard class options, with a luxurious four-course lunch in Premier Dining.
• Explore Eastbourne and Hastings: Both towns offer a wealth of history and beautiful coastal scenery, perfect for tourists.
• Book Early: Due to high demand, ensure you secure your seat on this iconic journey ahead of time.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated