THE chance to combine ale and rail while taking a festive journey on one of Britain's most scenic lines.

The Settle-Carlisle Railway is to celebrate the advent of Christmas with a special on-train event.

Real ales, carols and mince pies will bring festive cheer to a dark, winter’s night.

The railway has a great track record of running the popular Music & Ale trains during the summer months.

This special Christmas train will run on Saturday, December 13, departing at the usual time of 8pm from Skipton station.

It returns there at 9.38pm having travelled as far as Ribblehead.

Josephine Shoosmith, of the Settle-Carlisle Railway Development Company, said: “The summer season of Music and Ale trains is always really popular. We had so many requests for a Christmas version that we just couldn’t refuse.

"The atmosphere of these events is always friendly and fun – and for this one we will add some real Christmas cheer.”

Advance ticket holders will be treated to mince pies and port. As ever, the real ale bar will be serving a selection of locally brewed beers which will include some special seasonal brews. Warming mulled wine will also be on tap.

Everybody on board will be encouraged to join in the carol singing – and there is even a rumour that Father Christmas will be pulling pints behind the bar.

The Settle-Carlisle Railway is not alone in organising on-train events of this kind. There are many more nationwide, from Hexham to Exeter, usually staffed by volunteers with the aim of promoting their local railway.

It seems the British cannot resist the combination of two enduring passions - train travel and beer.

Any funds raised on the Carols & Ale train will ultimately be invested in projects to improve the Settle-Carlisle Railway.

More information and tickets are available at shop.scrdc.co.uk