A MAGICAL Christmas steam train has set off from Southend as it embarks on a journey to “one of the best Christmas markets in Europe”.

Steam Dreams Rail Co is hosting a magical trip to Winchester, which set off from Southend this morning. 

Echo: Wow - Steam Dreams Rail CoWow - Steam Dreams Rail Co (Image: Julie Linge-Smith)

Steam train enthusiasts were able to see the scheduled Sherwood Forester locomotive as it departed from Southend Central at 8:34am.

It later stopped at Leigh station at 8:41am, as well as Barking at 9:45am, before being due to arrive at Winchester at 1:11pm.

Echo: Julie Linge-SmithJulie Linge-Smith (Image: Julie Linge-Smith)

The enchanting locomotive will later then arrive back in Shoebury at approximately 9:51pm.

Echo: Iconic - Steam Dreams Rail CoIconic - Steam Dreams Rail Co (Image: Julie Linge-Smith)

Since its construction nearly 90 years ago, 45231 Sherwood Forester has worked across the UK, from routes in Wales and Northern England during its "working life" prior to preservation, to the beautiful Mallaig line in Scotland, where Harry Potter was filmed.

Echo: Smokey - Steam Dreams Rail CoSmokey - Steam Dreams Rail Co (Image: Julie Linge-Smith)

As the trains arrives in Winchester, guests will be able to visit the city's popular and famous Christmas market.