Wessex Belle in Purbeck

We bought this as a belated birthday gift for my MIL, after the last couple of years we were very much looking forward to it. Unfortunately, as we arrived we were told that we would be stationary for the majority of the meal as the driver had been working all day and will now be over hours. We stated that this is not what we had paid for and all we were told was “they were trying their best”. We were fine with accepting that it would be a diesel train instead of a steam train due to the heatwave, but to sit in a hot carriage with a view of Swanage’s finest COOP was not the experience we were expecting. We feel poor planning by the organisers if they are reliant on only 1 or 2 drivers for an event that had to be booked months in advance. We spent over £200 for this much awaited birthday gift and the only compensation we got was just £10 off our bar bill. Would not recommend this line. Also, do not choose the crumble, it came burnt and is served dry with no cream/custard/ice-cream.

VIP service from the start as my wife and I were met at Swanage station and escorted to a warm carriage in the side platform for mulled wine (for me) and a non-alcoholic orange juice (for my wife). The train pulls into the main platform and we are ushered on board the wonderful Observation Car tastefully bedecked for Christmas. Before we even set off on the journey to Norden we have champagne (for me) and sparkling elderflower (for my wife) served. As the sun started to set we left the station, steam bellowing from the engine immediately in front. A plentiful supply of canapés and constant topping up of our glasses for the outward leg, group photos gleefully snapped by the excellent waiter. At Norden a 10 minute turnaround of the engine allowed our host to provide a detailed story of the chequered history of the Observation Car. A visit from Santa Claus and a souvenir Christmas card and gift. Then the return journey, past Corfe Castle lit up with Christmas lights, and Stollen cake and mince pies served up, and yet more champagne to round off the wonderful 70 minute round trip. See you all next year!

A lovely birthday treat from my wife. The meal was out of this world as for the Swanage Railway I was lucky enough to fire the engines that are still preserved at Swanage back in the great steam days of British Railways

A different way to eat a meal with friends. Setting was plush in the First class carriage, with decent table cloths and cutlery. The majority of the waiting staff were young and not extremely well trained. They never did seem to grasp that going back to the kitchen empty handed meant more trips...or indeed carrying one plate at a time was a wasted effort. Who knows? maybe its H&S? Food was adequate..Only just warm mains. A novelty, but could do better. All staff cheerful and pleasant to deal with.

Fantastic evening on the Swanage Railway’s Wessex Belle dining train with a 5 course meal as we traversed the line pulled by 257 Squadron which was a very impressive engine. The restaurant car was immaculately prepared. Dinner was perfectly cooked and the main that I had of lamb shank was delicious and tender and the other main that our party chose of salmon was good too. Starter, Desert, Cheese and Coffee finished of a fine meal. Full bar on the train but note cask only with very friendly staff and servers. We travelled up and down the line twice taking in the sights before the sunset. Corfe Castle with the sun setting was a beautiful sight. Would thoroughly recommend for a special occasion. Very different.

the dining experience in the evening is a must. the five course dinner was excellent and the staff were very good, and to cap it all strict dress code made the evening

We went on the Wednesday luncheon special last week ,it was the most disappointing trip that we have been on in a long time mainly because we were not pulled by a steam engine but by a diesel ,the only reason we booked was we love the steam experience and thought we would pay the extra to have dinner as well ,what was there not to like, seemingly everything.The meal was spread out over 3 hours whilst travelling up to Corfe Castle and back to Swanage twice at one point overlooking a field in the siding whilst eating our main course,my husband could see Corfe Castle not so me,the food itself was mediocre soup was lukewarm ,the cauliflower was raw ,pork was actually very nice the saving grace of the main course,apple pie was delicious.The staff were all very pleasant and helpful no complaints there .On hindsight should have just gone on the regular train to Corfe as they had the steam engine and had a dinner back in Swanage and saved ourselves a bit of money and a lot of disappointment of not having the steam experience we thought we had paid for,would not do it again I would like to know who decides which engine steam or diesel pulls which train as the luncheon excursion is not cheap by any means.

We had lunch today on the new Wednesday lunch trip on Swanage Railway. Up and down the line twice in fine weather and pulled by the T9 engine. A really nice and relaxing meal with lovely scenery and a passed the Flying Scotsman at Corfe.

Spend a Saturday evening being pampered by friendly servers, enjoying a fine meal. Go two to tree weeks into April or later if you are after the views from the train trip

Booked the Christmas Belle for a friend as a birthday present and we all went on it today. WOW WOW! What an amazing trip. Plenty of Champagne. Canapés and Desert Canapés are tasty. Staff on the train are helpful and entertaining. Pullman carriage is fantastic, there is a short talk given about the history of the coach which is very interesting. Views from the train are great. Can’t recommend highly enough.

Just spent a lovely day on this wonderfully restored steam train celebrating a special anniversary with family. The whole railway experience is like stepping back in time & it is heartwarming to see these beautiful old steam trains lovingly restored & mainland. I had my reservations as to the quality of food. I needn’t have worried though as the whole lunch was fabulous from start to finish & excellent value for money. We were a table of 4 and to start chose 2 soups & 2 pates followed by 4 roast chickens. Plenty of food & all perfectly served. Deserts were 2 apple pies & 2 Black Forest gateau’s. the train went from Swanage to Corfe Castle twice giving you plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely lunch. Thoroughly recommend & would like to do again on a not such rainy trip as ours was.

Very pleasant Sunday Lunch in out of the ordinary location with good and helpful service by volunteers of the heritage railway. An experience to remember.

Such a great idea, Friday Bistro night on the Wessex Belle. Very well organised and reasonably priced. Efficient service, not very friendly though. The 'enjoy your meal' felt forced rather than meant. I think youth, inexperience and maybe shyness played a part in that. A bit of customer service training could soon sort that. Very comfortable seats. The food was good, the chicken was a little dry but, other than that, it was good. A nice experience to eat whilst traveling on the train. I would say it's best to go in the Summer when the evenings stay lighter longer as we couldn't see much after the fist part of the trip in September. Still a very enjoyable evening.

This evening event has standards (sadly lacking today) you are expected to dress in reasonable smart casual attire scruffy jeans and trainers are a no no. I like this because it shows they have some pride and expect it of their customers. Our journey was from Swanage to Corfe Castle and back twice. Seeing the castle at twilight was a special experience. The train itself was spotlessly clean and had a very nice old time ambience. For dinner we had the veggie option (Gnocci with Artichoke ) our two guests both meat eaters had the lamb dish, all washed down with a bottle of Prosecco followed by fresh fruit salad and then biscuits and cheese with coffee and mint to finish. The food was very good indeed,the staff looking after us were lovely, some of whom were volunteers We spoke to the lady chef who told us her and her son were both volunteers and were passionate about the railway. So, a big thank you to all of the staff who looked after us so well .

Took my friend for her 30th Birthday. The food, atmosphere and service were amazing. Well worth the money. They cater for different diets including gluten free rolls. I phoned up to request my sauce on the side and to change my order. It was no bother at all. The staff came and sang Happy Birthday to my friend and we were given the opportunity to climb into the engine for a ride near the end of our meal. She had a fantastic time and I would so recommend trying it.

We did the Friday Bistro train and enjoyed every moment. We were greeted on the platform and advised of our table number. The carriages looked lovely with their gingham tableclothes and table lamps. If you were being picky you might say cotton rather than plastic tablecloths would be better but I understand the practicality. We had table 2 so were about as far as you could be from the kitchen car but all the hot food arrived hot. Service was friendly and very efficient but the meal progresses at a nice relaxed pace as you go along the line from Swanage to Norden and back twice. Plenty of time to look at the scenery along route while enjoying good food. Everything we ate was very good: smoked salmon, pate, braised beef, chicken, vegetables, apple pie, fruit salad all nicely presented and tasty. Drinks prices were reasonable and drinks service was also efficient. All four of us really enjoyed the experience and would recommend it. A bonus, we were expecting diesel but got steam.

We booked the Wessex Belle for our anniversay and had a lovely evening, the food and drink were perfect and the service second to none. The scenary from the carriage while travelling made it more special, this sort of dinning is a thing of the past and it reminds us of how stylish dinning was on railways. We would highly recommend booking this for a different experience than a normal restaurant for a special ocassion.

Really lovely Sunday Luncheon served on board a steam train.

My partner and I and two friends enjoyed our three course Sunday lunch on the Swanage Railway steam train. The food was a good standard, the staff were attentive and polite and overall we had a very good experience. What a lovely way to spend a few hours doing something little bit different

My wife and myself were treated by our daughters to a trip on the Wessex Belle, Saturday 7th April. We were shown to our well-restored (warm) carriage. The ambience was excellent, the food well presented and tasty. The wine was reasonably priced £15 for a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc and the staff friendly and helpful. At the end of the meal/journey my wife was invited into the cab of the steam locomotive in her white tuxedo and silver high heels. It rounded off a wonderful evening.

went here for Christmas lunch when it was actually snowing. dinner was really nice and so was the service. shame that while we were eating the train didn't move though.But I will be back for more, I wouldn't mind trying the curry night one evening.

We were met on the platform and shown to our table which was beautifully prepared and in a comfortable vintage carriage. As this was the end of March and cold, the carriage had been standing with no heat so it was rather cool until the steam locomotive was coupled up. Our pre-ordered Prosecco in a bucket of ice was delivered to the table, and as the train pulled away service of the 5-course meal began. The service was leisurely and the food was just divine, my braised steak simply fell apart with a fork. You have two complete round trips of the line while dining, unfortunately this early in the season it was dark for the second trip. I have rarely had such a good meal in a restaurant, so to have such a high standard on a railway carriage is astounding. I would do this again, but go later in the year when it's warmer and there's more daylight.

Absolutely nothing to fault, such friendly staff from beginning to end and well organised, of course, very nostalgic being on a steam train.

We were keen on enjoying a celebratory dinner aboard the Steam Railway.Upon arrival at the station we were informed that the Steam Engine was not in service and was replaced by a Deisel Engine. A great disappointment as we were looking forward to the Steam Engine.

What a lovely way to spend an evening, travelling on the Wessex Belle. The food was delicious, the staff couldn't do enough to make sure it was a special experience. From the Wessex Belle, large G n T to coffee, the whole evening was great. And the views spectacular, a very special experience.

A really good night out it was a hot night so no real nice dress code very comfortable carriages and a steam engine pulling us two trips along the line with plenty of stops along the way the food was good pity we were in the last coach so service was a bit slow other wise a real good night out

Mi esposa y yo nos alojamos en Swanage y decidimos probar el tren curry. Creemos que sólo sale una vez al año, pero valió la pena esperar!

we went on the Friday night bistro train. we had a lovely meal and a trip up and down the line to Norden.

We had pre booked the evening meal on the Wessex Belle steam hauled dining train, an excellent evening for lovers of England's Railway heritage, the food and the service were first class, I managed some how to meet the chef and be given a tour around the catering car, well done to the hospitality team, on and off the train. Well worth booking.

Noche maravillosa y la comida era excepcional. Si te gusta la buena comida y los trenes de vapor recomiendo encarecidamente que vayas en esta experiencia única 10 10

El Wessex Belle ofrece una experiencia culinaria diferente con el paisaje cambia constantemente durante su comida. Nos gustó que el servicio de bebidas estaba bien dirigido, y la comida llegó rápidamente tener pre-ordenados en el momento de la reserva. Esta es una buena manera de...

Mi mujer nunca había comido en un verdadero coche comedor antes, así que estaba encantado de tratar su a una comida de Navidad. La comida y el servicio acogedor y ambos eran de oro estándar raelly disfrutado por ambos. Como fue el viaje de vuelta...

Our friends booked the Wessex Belle on Saturday as a surprise for us. We wondered why we were told to forget the shorts on the evening for something smarter!

Lovely experience aboard this lovely train was enhanced by the skilled waiting staff. Everything arrived immaculately cooked and beautifully served. How they managed to spill nothing and miss each other in the corridor - I'll never know. Beautiful food, reasonably priced drinks and the moon rising above Corfe Castle as we passed by. An experience not to be missed - many thanks.

From the moment that you enter Swanage station and see the Wessex Belle dining cars with the steam wafting by you start to get into the atmosphere of a wonderful dining experience.The dining car is comfortable and very well presented, the food is good and the staff are friendly.There is a reasonable wine list and the prices are very reasonable.The night was wet and windy but this coupled with the steam from the engine, which enveloped the coach, just added to the atmosphere.A great evening with great friends.One point of note, you need ash for any on board purchases.

As you enter Swanage Station you can smell the coal, taste the coke which takes you back to the age of the steam train, immaculately restored carriages makes you feel you are in the olden days. You then hear the whistle as the guard waves his flag for the train to leave and she then chugs and puffs her way out of the station, plumes of smoke fill the sky. Get to the engine before she pulls away and watch the engine being filled up with water then the engine is stoked and you can see the red embers glowing before she gets ups full steam to pull away. A must trip for everyone.

We had out table for 3 booked for last Saturday. On arrival, boarding the train was a speedy process. You could queue for a drink at the bar if you wished, just be aware that they only take cash on board, no cards. On departure, our meal was served promptly. I had prawn cocktail which was good, followed by braised steak, which was excellent and well cooked, served with roast potatoes and plenty of fresh vegetables. The desert I ordered wasn't available but the substituted gateaux was delicious. This was followed by a selection of cheese and biscuits, followed by coffee. All in all, well worth the money and two trips on the steam train.

We stayed for a weekend in Swanage (family of four with two primary school aged girls) and this was the highlight. It's very picturesque journey and the stations are well kept. The destination is fantastic and we had a lovely walk once we arrived at the castle.

I regret very much writing this review as I know the Railway is staffed by volunteers, who I have to say worked very hard last night but that did not compensate for the poor evening. It started badly when my bottled cider was served at room temperature. We were promised freshly prepared food but when my pate arrived, after first being given soup, it was from a packet. The Melba Toast was from a packet as was the dry mixed leaves. The main course had the worst 'roast' potatoes ever, burnt on the outside and wet and squishy inside. The Chicken was very dry, probably being kept warm for a long time, the Carrots were cold and the rest was only lukewarm. The Belgian Apple Pie was served cold with a dob of aerosol cream but is was okay. The highlight of the meal was the hot coffee and chocolate mint! Plastic tablecloths and Table Lamps that did not work did not help the ambience. As the three hour event wore on the train got colder and colder and I was glad to be able to get back to my car and put on my fleece! I am sorry Swanage Railway but £50 for the evening was poor value for money.

Our first day on holiday and we had prebooked Sunday lunch. Very impressed with the young men and women serving who were very courteous and helpful. I hadn't realised until we were speaking to a member of staff on a later train trip to Corfe, that the meal is entirely cooked on board. For that reason, I was even more impressed. The food was hot, tasty and plenty of it. Two complete trips on the train which had a lovely relaxed atmosphere, probably helped by the rather nice bottle of red accompanying our meal. We and our fellow diners felt so relaxed that nobody wanted to get up from their seats when we got back to Swanage. I think we would have been happy to go for another trip! Well worth the money.

Such a nice dinner. I was surprised by my spouse, who promised dinner and brought me here and enjoyed every minute of it. Such a different experience. Very nice service. Nice food. A beautiful scenery outside. a wonderful, different, night out.

We went on the Saturday evening Wessex Belle on 14th May and it was great. We've always wanted to have dinner on a train and this experience did not disappoint. The food was delicious - not overly pretentious but just tasty and well presented homecooked food. Impressive achievement given it's cooked and served on the train! We had Menu B and our choices were fresh prawn cocktail/lovely sweet potato and roasted pepper homemade soup, braised beef which was beautifully tender and very tasty, and fruit salad/cheesecake, followed by cheese and biscuits and tea/coffee. We felt it was well worth the £44.90 a head which is relatively cheap when compared with other steam train dining experiences around the country. Cost of drinks was also very reasonable - £23 for a bottle of wine, a J20 and 5 bottles of mineral water! Would be much more than this in any other restaurant! The journey itself was smooth and it was nice to see the scenery around corfe castle on the first leg when it was light. The driver stopped the train at various intervals so that the main course could be served and eaten overlooking corfe castle, and so the coffee could be poured when the train wasn't moving which seems fair enough! The lamps on the tables added to the coziness of the experience. The carriages themselves are great given their age - don't go expecting anything new and plush but do expect a lovingly maintain old train manned by very efficient and attentive staff volunteers.We would recommend if you fancy a dinner with a difference!

We booked our trip on the Wessex Belle dining train for Easter Saturday.On arrival, we were shown to the Wessex Bar where we ordered our drinks and a bottle of bubbly for the meal, before taking our places in the dining carriage.This experience is truly a step back in time to a more elegant era.Our train was hauled by the sole remaining Southern Railway Drummond M7 0-4-4T locomotive, a rare treat for the steam enthusiasts. the loco making easy work of the two full round trips of the Swanage Railway. The journeys were smooth and quiet, thanks to the skill of the engine crew.The excellent four-course evening meal was served in a smooth and timely manner by the volunteer staff. It would be no exaggeration to say that a vast number of professional restaurant staff could learn a great deal from these volunteers!The meal was extremely good on all counts, food being full of flavour and beautifully presented.Our delightful evening was rounded off with coffee and mints as we returned finally to Swanage.A wonderful, romantic evening that we look forward to repeating, and can recommend whole-heartedly to anyone who enjoys something a little different to the norm.Excellent!

We booked this just a few days before the trip and had an enjoyable time.The carriages are from a time gone by and are well kept and comfortable for the 3 hour trip. Boarding is via a carriage containing a bar and seating area should you wish to sit with a drink before going to your table. The trip is effectively a return ride done twice with food courses spread throughout the whole time. Five courses are served, starter, main, dessert, cheese and biscuits and finally coffee - you choose the first three courses from available options at the time of booking. The food was good and so was the service.As the trip started a 7 30pm at the end of March it was dark outside throughout and would guess that on day trips or light nights the scenery would add to the experience.Overall a nice trip to take with good food and service.Thanks to all.

Lovely experience with good food and great service. This is a sit down meal in ththe dining car with lovely large seats. The waiting staff were all youngsters which was great to see and the service was fantastic, friendly and professional. Food was good, pate or soup to start both were good although a little more bread to go with pate would have been nice. Main course of chicken was good and the beef on the next table looked good too with amazing Yorkshire's. The roast potatoes are amazing! Desserts were good followed by coffee. Each course is served on a different leg of the journey, you join the train at swanage and travel up and down the line twice. Was very comfortable at the end and would have liked a little longer for a snooze!

Went in the Pullman Observation car for the Christmas Belle. OMG what a lovely surprise. Was approached as I was queuing at the ticket office to pick up my prebooked tickets and whisked away to a waiting room (coach) just for Pullman guests. Mulled wine served and then boarded the train. The observation car is lovely (although the sets are clearly from the 1940s), lovely canapés, free flowing champagne, mince pies, a personalised Christmas card and then to top it all a Christmas gift each. Fantastic value. The views are superb, the service excellent. Thoroughly recommended.

a great evening, treating my mum for her 70th birthday, service and food fantastic and all served on board a moving train. This experience should be tried by all as a alternative to static restaurants.

It was lovely and we took our 9 year old grandaughter. She loved the idea of having dinner on an old train. If there is one criticism I would say I would prfer more choices on the courses. But being sensibleabout it , it doesnt seem very practical, because of the actual situation. But the service was good the food was good and whay mores can youa sk for?

Excellent day out. It is a totally different experience. Fab, fab, fab. Stopped to visit Corfe Castle, which is stunning. Then took the train to Norden Station where they have a 'clay mine' museum which is fascinating and worth a visit. Then on our return train to Swanage we stopped at the Corfe Castle tea rooms for Dorset cream tea, yummy and right beneath the Castle.

Great set-up with lots of things to interest a wide variety of folk, not just steam buffs. We coupled it with a hike from Corfe Castle and used it to complete the loop back from Swanage, thankfully

Great service at all times, good selection of reasonably priced wine to accompany the meal. Food quality brilliant. Well worth a visit

The wessex belle is a beautiful old train has a nice restaurant and a bar you can have a drink before your meal in a relaxing atmosphere travelling between swanage and corfe Castle the wiew of the hills and the castle specially lunch the food is good the staff are very professional.specialy old John. Olso sometime they serve dorset cream tea I love their famous cherries scones.my advice just go for it I am sure you will love it.

This was booked for my birthday dinner as a surprise by my partner. The trip, including meal, lasted about 2.5 hours and was a really excellent evening. Starting out from Swanage, the steam train passes the stunning scenery on its way to Corfe, and does this twice. The food was excellent from a choice of two set menus. It was well cooked and served by proficient and friendly staff. It was well priced given that you get several courses: starters, main, desert, cheese and crackers and coffee. Drinks are also very competitively priced particularly when compared to local restaurants. A delightful and enjoyable step back in time making my birthday dinner extra special. The evening is highly recommended, however, from what I experienced on the evening it’s extremely popular so I would suggest you book online in plenty of time to avoid disappointment.

A birthday surprise, I was delighted to find myself in the dining car of an old steam train. It took me right back to my childhood. The service was excellent, the food was good, and everyone was very friendly. We chugged gently to Norden and back twice. A lovely experience all round.

Excellent staff very friendly food excellent and it felt very decadent It is not cheap but I think well worth the money

We went for an evening meal as a birthday treat. The Corfe Castle beer was lovely on the platform. The food was excellent. The staff were very friendly and helpful. It was a lovely ride through the Purbeck hills. Highly recommended.

A gentle ride, up and down the Swanage Railway, with excellent food served by dedicated staff who must walk miles during the course of the evening. The food was prepared and cooked on board by a mother and son team. We would recommend spending a Saturday evening on the Wessex Belle.

What is there not to like? Great food, choice of drinks, friendly volunteers staffing the train and a steam train. Book yourself on now.

If you are interested in Steam or just fancy a day out which is a bit different then it is definitely worth booking yourself in for a meal on the Wessex Belle.The food is good and the service was great. A bit pricey £42.95 per person, but it is definitely worth experiencing at least once.

We visited a few days before Christmas and took relatives for an alternative Christmas meal. Booking was easy. On arrival we were welcomed onto the train in an efficient manner and quickly seated. No queue or fuss. I have been on other trains at Swanage railway and, whilst they were perfectly clean and a great day out, I hadn't been expecting such plush carriages and seats on the dining carriages. They were old carriages but still felt very plush and the seats offered lots of space and great comfort. The carriage is laid out with a table for four on one side of the carriage and two on the other. This allows plenty of space in the seats and for serving in the aisle and also privacy from other diners. The tables were beautifully laid and had table lamps. Drinks orders were taken and delivered before we left the station, wine was reasonably priced starting from about 13.99? Soft drinks also available. Staff were impeccably dressed and all polite and helpful. Our server had a dry sense of humour that might be a little off putting to some but the rest of the staff were great and once you understood the dry humour it was fine. For a Christmas event it would have been nice to have had crackers to add to the festivities but the carriage was festively decorated. Starters of pate or soup were great, we were told soup was homemade. Mains were perfectly acceptable but personally I thought gravy was a little insipid and a shame the turkey appeared to be a formed type of product. These were minor issues and the meal was perfectly acceptable and certainly up to hotel standard Christmas meals. The roast potatoes were amazing though! The puddings choc fudge cake or Christmas pud were lovely. Coffee afterwards was fine but not amazing (a little weak) and a mini mince pie would have the a nice festive touch. Service was great, I'm amazed about the standard and timing of service bearing in mind they are on a train and use volunteers. Definitely just as good if not better than a hotel meal. Food was good, with just a couple of tweaks could be excellent. Portion sizes good. Great views from the train, a novel approach to a meal out. Train goes up and down the line twice so in terms of time its a lovely afternoon out and meal does feel rushed. Price wise I would say it was just about OK. Personally I think any more expensive would be just too much. If driving consider parking in the long stay carpark signposted as parking for the railway. Its a little walk but not too far and was much cheaper than elsewhere.Overall, a lovely afternoon out, unusual setting, great experience, food good, service great and acceptable price. I hope Swanage town treasure this attraction as it must bring in trade. Well done to all the volunteers.

We were looking for something different and we found it,the Wessex Belle. I went onto the platform and enquired about it to a member of staff hewas enthusiastic and askedthat we join in so we did.On the train we visited the bar got drinks and went to our dining car. Luxurious seats in the car was from the old days of Bristish rail pure quality. The train pulled out and off we went to towards Norden chugging along past Corfe Castle as the sun started setting and with dear appearing in the firlds we had three courses all a very good standard we returned to Swange but nor long as we were off again so we went up and down the track twice. What a nice evening a great meal in luxurious surroundings.

Today four of us travelled on the Wessex Belle to Corfe Castle from Swanage enjoying lunch on the way. In fact Starter was served on the first run from Swanage to Corfe. The main course was served from Corfe to Swanage, The pudding was served from Swanage to Corfe and the coffee was served on route back to Swanage. The food was very enjoyable, a simple menu that we all enjoyed (Tomatoe soup - Roast beef and trimmings- Apple pie- Coffe and mintAn excellent day out to sit and chat enjoying the views and the company, pluss a couple of nice bottles to enhance the conversation.Travelling first class in a well fitted out compartment was also a lovely experience. They have worked very hard to make these old trains usable in todays market place.After the journey I stood alongside the engine and was amazed to be reminded of the engineering, the size and power on the machine. The steam drifting out across the platform and that smell of burning coal. There are a lot of dedicated volunteers making this all work so well. Very good day out and I'm looking forward to the Christmas menu…..just might take my granddaughter.

we spent, and have in previous visits spent time in the belle having tea and coffee, and in fact the young man went off and made me a milky coffee, which he offered to do, which I thought was very kind

I did put a review on last year for the Wessex Belle and made an error on the overall rating.I only marked it as one which shows up as terrible..I am very sorry for my mistake it should have been a five as the service was excellent all round. We got married at Durlston the day before and then lots of our guests went on the steam train for a Sunday roast. A great afternoon was had by all and I would love to go again.

My wife, Mum, And Myself, started our day from norden park & ride, We were greeted by all the voluntary staff who were all very helpful & friendly, This is a great way to spend the day, and would recommend it to all, This is a very well organized steam railway, Keep up the good work.

Sunday lunch Sunday 20th JulyForty minutes late in starting so first course eaten while overlooking Co-op car park. No reason or explanation for delay given.First course OK, but main course was canteen quality at best. Roast beef was OK if somewhat overdone, yorkshire pudding out of a packet, 2 small roast potatoes and a dribble of gravy. No horseradish or mustard offered. Apple pie out of a packet was followed by weak coffee.Service friendly but very amateurishRide was pleasant but the whole experience no worth the amount paid.

We booked Sunday lunch on the dining cart of the old Steam train as a surprise for my mums birthday. It was a great experience for all of us. The food was delicious and nice and hot. You are seated in the first class carriage and your mind wanders as to what it would have been like back in the days. Trip lasted just over 2 hours with great views of Corfe Castle. Well worth the £30 a head cost.

We've been on this dining train a few times over the years. Perfect for a special birthday, anniversary etc. Train runs back and forwards to Norden during the evening, duration on board is from about 7pm to about 10.30, and the food is equal to a very good restaurant.

I would like to thank everyone involved in organising my party, which my guests thoroughly enjoyed, and was a very special day for me.I have had many compliments on the food and service on the train. It is hard enough in a normal restaurant to serve 76 diners with different meals at the same time, but to do it so well on a moving train was considered exceptional. The food was delicious and very well presented. Thank you Adam and John.The catering and service was an important part of the day, but I am very grateful that I was able to entertain people with visits to the cab of a marvellous engine, which I understand took a lot of work to prepare. Thanks Billy and the behind-the-scenes crew, and all who ensured that it ran to time!I am very happy to recommend the “Belle” for a corporate event and will post my comments on Trip Advisor too.A wonderful day for me and my family, staff, friends and clients, that I will never forget.

Felt like going back in time, eating on a moving train in plush, first class surroundings. We booked the evening meal to celebrate my birthday, a change from sitting in a normal restaurant with a static view. The food was very good, the staff were excellent and the ride very smooth.The changing views out of the window made it a memorable experience, especially the views of Corfe Castle in the twilight.

What fun going back in time .A long meal as we travelled up and down the railway twice .the food was really good and we praised the cook Adam via his dad who was a waiter .service incredible but also quiet really well organised and unobtrusive manythanks an evening we will always remember

We booked the dining train as we were in swanage for the diesel gala. The bar was well run, the restaurant manager was helpful and organised when giving out table numbers etc.The food I had was lovely, whilst it wasn't the best meal I've ever eaten it was tasty, well cooked and piping hot. The waiting staff were friendly but not in your face all the time.We had a lovely evening and it was the perfect end to the gala. The only thing I would say is it was very cold by the last trip and I did need coffee to warm up, but it didn't detract from the evening and I hope so much to be able to book for next year.

Loved the journey on the steam train through beautiful countryside to Corfe Castle. The railway staff were all friendly and relaxed - just like on the Railway Children! Corfe Castle is well worth a visit on the train and do eat at The Greyhound. The food was excellent!

Liked the illusion of sitting in a Pullman carriage. Friendly attendant and nice cuppa & cake. Great for a bit of nostalgia!

We went out for an evening meal on the railway last Friday. Four of us. A delicious three course meal served by lovely people in a style long since lost elsewhere. It was simply a pleasure to help these volunteers by being part of such events. I commend it to you all!

My wife booked a surprise trip and meal on the Wessex Belle steam train as part of my 50th birthday celebrations. We arrived early in Swanage and managed to park for free fairly close by - but it was a Sunday. All of the staff we encountered were very friendly and even if you are not interested in steam trains there is something for everyone. We boarded the train about 20 mins before it set off and our seats were in a former First Class carriage. Very comfy seats and great views, especially of Corfe Castle, as we went up to Norden and back on two occasions.The waiting staff were a mixture of seasoned pros and youngsters but everyone was polite and courteous. Our drinks order was taken first and quickly served - we only had to pay (cash only accepted) as we headed back to Swanage for the last time. The main course was delicious and made the experience all the more enjoyable.I would certainly recommend this for a special occasion and it has ensured that my wife & I will be looking for other similar steam train journeys as we continue our travels.

We had really lovely evening on Saturday to celebrate our wedding anniversary. The food was wonderful, and the atmosphere great. Thanks for a great time.

This is what it must have been like in the 'good old days'. First class rail travel with a wonderful meal. Ok so we were only making the return trip from Swanage to Norden (twice to allow time for the meal) but it was great fun. The food really was excellent and a credit to the team that prepared and served it in clearly difficult conditions. The only slight drawback was the lack of gravy on our roast beef but I guess that is down to practicalities of serving food on a moving train.It was great to feel so important as we pulled into each station and the waiting passengers stared and pointed at the 'posh people'.

It was an excellent day it was for my friends 65th birthday who loves steam trains. Meal was served hot and the service was excellent. All were volunteers would recommend

We visited Wessex Belle on a weekend away to Swanage - we booked as saw on trip advisor it was popular. Very good food! Cool atmosphere but friendly and knowledgeable staff. Not the cheapest but the atmosphere was worth It! We'll be back if in Swanage again!

The Sunday Lunch Time dining service offers the relatively reasonably priced experience of being able to partake of a three course meal on a steam hauled train, something which is beyond the reach of most on a mainline steam excursion. The experience on Sunday 14th July 2013 was good but not outstanding. Although the arrangements on the train were pleasant there were a number of annoying factors which do require attention. The service was slow mainly due to meals having to be carried in twos from a kitchen car at the end of the four coach train. The carriage nearest the kitchen where I and my friend was travelling had to wait until every one else had been served. The main meal was not exciting and the small portion of vegetables had to be shared by two - not really enough. There was only one roast potato each - that being one having been sliced in two. There was no gravy offered. When I asked for horse radish sauce that was not served nor it being forthcoming. Although the Swanage Railway have kept the price down, the meal itself was bland and lacked trimmings. The experience was great and the small staff worked well under the intense heat of the day but at the end of the day it was just average.

Having enjoyed two Friday evening excursions (with one more booked) I have to admit to being a bit of a fan!This is one of the most relaxing ways to start the weekend. In very comfortable seats you can settle back and enjoy the superb Purbeck countryside with a drink from the Buffet bar. The food is tasty, good value and served well by the very jovial volunteer staff.

Not really sure what to say about experience as have tried to book for the train before but is was always full and now a little disappointed, perhaps it is the cost for what you get and the shortness in miles of the trip. Duly arrived on time for Saturday night trip at 7.15 for 7.30 and given a lovely seat for 2 by the window. The train is as you would expect and charming. The bar car on the train is big and empty and could do with making it more ambient, but the drinks are great value. Food was average considering you are paying £39.95 ( okay the return trip is £10.50) for the trip and the meal. Starters were meagre, soup bowl not filled up and salad small. Mains were average, charred potatoes with the cod and gelatinous mint sauce with the lamb. Lime cheesecake a little too uninspired and no fresh milk/ cream with your coffee. However the cheeseplate was a treat. The Purbeck scenery speaks for itself but the trip is too short to feel the thrill of the steam train and you are parked up for far too long to eat your main course at Corfe. Better if the journey was a shorter time as 3 hours was too long as you only go up and down twice and once it gets dark you can see nothing. I guess the Friday night bistro car would be a better experience as the meal options are a bit better or the shorter and cheaper Sunday luncheon.

We did this on the last Friday of our Swanage holiday. We'd done the Wessex Belle before and wondered whether the quality of the Bistro would compare. We needn't have worried - it was excellent. For a wonder, I fancied everything on the menu, but my wife and I ended up having the same - soup followed by chicken breast stuffed with Wensleydale cheese and wrapped with bacon. For sweet we had fresh fruit salad.It was simply the best meal we had in our week in Swanage, and the service was excellent and friendly. There was a good selection of drinks at the bar - there were four excellent local ciders so I didn't have to suffer the usual plastic rubbish from the big brewers (can I say Strongbow and Magners?)The train did 1 1/2 circuits of the line (Swanage / Norden / Swanage / Harman's Cross / Swanage) and the train stopped for the main course while the sunset showed Corfe Castle at its dramatic best. It wasn't as well patronised as it deserved, probably due to the appalling weather and the early date, but we shall definitely do it again.

This train ride lasts about 40 Minutes, past wonderful countryside, park your car at Norden, the train will take you via Corte Castle, coming into Swanage is just great.

Defo recommend was amazing the food is 5* . Excellent atmosphere brilliant felt like royalty. Service amazing.

I have been a regular traveller on the evening Wessex Belle Bistro and have been on the Christmas Lunch service and the Wessex Belle dining train. The Wessex Belle Bistro offers excellent value for money if you are a Premier Life Member and do not book in advance as there is free travel. I used the service virtually every Friday this Summer. The food and service were excellent and I had superb views of the coutryside and Corfe Castle especially when the train stopped at the viaduct. The other services gave good value for money compared with other preserved railways but there were no travel concessions. Unfortunately the Swanage Railway has introduced a compulsory reservation scheme for the Halowe'en Bistro and the Christmas Lunches which effectively stops me and other single people from using the service. Not only do Premier Life Members not get the travel concession but they have to book two places at £6 per person so it costs an extra £12 which is not refundable. Since the majority of people in Swanage and in the whole Country are single this discriminates against them.I have been a active supporter of the Swanage Railway since 1972 and I have some friends on the Railway but I am not involved in running the Railway.

The train journey is quite enjoyable, if very expensive - so best to go for a lunch trip when you can enjoy the beautiful Purbeck scenery rather than an evening meal in the dark. The food is very, very ordinary and will do nothing to add to your pleasure I'm afraid. OK if you want something different and don't mind parting with quite a bit of your hard earned cash, but this really is nothing special if you're looking forward to a good meal. Limited choice and very boring at that, think the people running this think the novelty factor is enough, what a shame.

Have been on the train many times but have never eaten. We booked in for the three course Sunday lunch, £27.50 which includes the ride on the train and tea or coffee... I sort of envisaged that this would be warmed up frozen pre cooked food... How wrong could I be. The beef was tender, the vegetables cooked perfectly and everything served with a smile.. I can not fault this food, the homemade soup was wonderful the apple pie to finish was excellent. Don't get me wrong, this is not Michelin star country but good honest food served well. A great experience which I will repeat..

Had Sunday lunch today on the Wessex Belle, took friends with us and had a really nice 3 course dinner. Pâté for starters, roast beef for main, and black Forrest Gateu for dessert. We all really enjoyed it, the Wessex Belle is old school railway at its best, takes you back. The staff are very professional and the service is very good. Would do it again tomorrow, only £27 pp + drinks (teas and coffees included). Highly recommended experience.

Nothing to dislike, great food and service, we went as a special Birthday meal for my Husband. Highly recommenended for special occassions.

After reading reviews on TA I happily booked a table for two for a 'first class' experience on the Wessex Belle'. Unfortunately we received a poor third class service and even worse meal. Little touches have been forgotten it seems, at the cost to us enjoying our experience. There was no welcome on the platform, no pre-dinner drinks. Whilst other diners enjoyed first class carriages, we were plonked on a table for four, that looked like an after thought and was served like one throughout the night. The was mediocre pub food, and our total experience cost us £133 with wine, with hindsight could have been better spent else where. Our suggestion? Take the train to Corfe castle, buy a ticket for £4.50, buy a lovely bottle of champagne, and a nice packet of sarnies from M & S and you will have a better and cheaper experience than we did. Awaiting reply from Swanage Railway, hoping for full refund...fingers crossed

We aim to go on the Friday night Bistro every year and this year was no exception. It may only be a few miles up and down the line to Norden but the experience of dining on the train is always fun. The food is good, the service friendly and the view until it gets dark is magnificent.

Visited for their summer Friday Bistro service, and was not disappointed.Didn't pre-book but was still able to get a seat, and enjoyed a full 3-course meal which was freshly cooked onboard. The stewards serving us were all dressed very smart and were very polite as they served us along our journey. The train was stopped just outside Corfe too, where we were able to enjoy the view of the Castle ruins there. Definately recommended for those wanting a dining experience with something different.

Second time we've taken this trip and first time for two friends travelling with us - food and service very good as before. Seating surprisingly comfortable given the vintage rolling stock. Good atmosphere with a full carriage of holidaymakers.Food selections reasonable - chicken with medley of roasted potatoes and vegetables seemed to have a limited selection of vegetables (was heavy on potatoes and not much else) especially compared with the pork sausages option (which was really good).Only two starters on the menu: soup and pâté - and there needs to be more than two tiny pieces of "packet" Melba toast with the pate.Scenery on first trip excellent as usual - a bit obscured by the driving rain!! Spotted two deer at the edge of the woods as night fell.Will definitely go again - but earlier in the year to get more of the trip in daylight.

Booked this as a surprise for my wife on our recent trip to Swanage. The trip, including meal, lasted about 2.5 hours and was a really excellent evening. Starting out from Swanage, the steam train goes to Norden, passing the stunning scenery at Corfe, and does this twice. The food was very good from a choice of two set menus. It was well cooked and served by efficient and friendly staff. I suppose it was about as close as you will get to the bygone age of a steam train with a dining car. Everything was as you would expect it to be had you stepped on a train in the 1930s. It was well priced given that you get several courses: starters, main, desert, cheese and crackers and coffee. Drinks are also very competitively priced particularly when compared to local restaurants. I would recommend booking on line to avoid disappointment. A charming and enjoyable experience which is well worth the price.

Fantastic experience and the food and service was impecible. And being pulled by a steam train and going pass corfe castle how surperb. I would go again and again

Good quality food, friendly and attentive staff, a reasonably priced wine list and all round good value for money. Would recommend!

Had a surprise evening meal on the Wessex Belle. Food was surprisingly good and included 4course and coffee .Lovely view of Corfe Castle as the sun was setting although as you go up and down twice you do see it a lot !! Recomended .

Last week we had yet another great evening on the Wessex Bistro, chugging merrily along between Swanage and Corfe as we enjoyed a 3 course meal. This was the 4th or 5th year we have been (group of 4 adults), it's always just such a lovely and fun evening. Join the train about 7.15 and pick up your drinks in the bar, then settle back while the staff take your dinner orders. The train trundles up and down the track twice, with a longer stop near Corfe. It's all very civilised, with lovely and friendly staff, good food (surprising what they can turn out of a train kitchen) and of course excellent company! Typical mains include local sausages, beef & ale pie and Cajun chicken. 3 courses is barely £20 so it's amazing value and drink prices are very reasonable.