A LUXURY steam train journey taking day-trippers to one of Britain's "prettiest city centres" is setting off from Southend next month.

Passengers will be welcomed aboard Steam Dreams' vintage carriages at Southend Central before stopping at stations across Essex and skirting London, where a steam locomotive will join for the "fascinating" new journey to the historic city of Chester.

The Royal Scot, the scheduled steam locomotive for the trip, will run along the West Coast Main Line and pass through the "beautiful" countryside before arriving in the Chester's Tudor-and-Victorian heart.

The Steam Dreams website says: "This unique tour offers a fascinating adventure across country as we traverse England by steam, travelling past a rich tapestry of intertwined rivers, canals and fields to visit the historic city of Chester where modern life is inextricably linked with its past.

"The city’s Tudor-and-Victorian heart is justifiably famous as one of Britain’s prettiest town centres."

The day-trip will set off from Southend Central at 6.55am on Thursday, August 8, arriving at Chester for 2pm before returning to the south Essex city again at 10.50pm.

Premium standard carriages are sold out but customers can still choose between first class and Pullman-style dining.

Prices for these packages range from £205 to the top price of £410, which includes a signature Champagne cocktail, followed by a multicourse breakfast. 

For more information and to get tickets, visit steamdreams.co.uk/journey/southend-to-chester/.