After more than 50 years of steam, diesel and electric adventures across the UK, one of the country’s most iconic special rail companies is about to make its final stop.
Pathfinder Railtours, based in Stroud, is shutting shop in December so its chief executive and owner, Barry Cordell, can enjoy his well-earned retirement. But it’s not quite the end of the line yet. For those hoping to hop on board before it’s gone, there are still two November tours on sale to Shrewsbury and Chester. And the final excursion is planned for December – although the itinerary is still under wraps.
Since the 1970s, Pathfinder Railtours has been taking train lovers on unforgettable journeys across the UK. The very first trip ran in 1974 from Gloucester to Pwllheli in Wales under the original name F&W Railtours. A rebrand in 1987 gave it the Pathfinder name, and just a year later, it became one of the first UK charter train operators to introduce a full dining service on board.
Since then, passengers have enjoyed everything from steam train trips along unusual routes to the diesel-hydraulic locomotives powering their way to the north and west of Scotland, reaching destinations like Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh.
Pathfinder Railtour’s business founder Peter Watts said: ’When five years is a long time in the rail industry, to have achieved more than 50 years of continued operation, is truly remarkable, and something that I am incredibly privileged to have undertaken.
’My sincere thanks to our loyal passengers who have supported us, enjoyed numerous excursions, and hopefully travelled to many places they may not, otherwise, have visited.’
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