I had the pleasure of taking a historic train (as old as me) from Lancaster to Oban this week. The best bit was that mum.came along for the ride. I do have to say that 5.30am.is a very early start … especially when the train didn’t arrive until 7 due to a technical fault.

When this beauty turned up (with the air con full given the heatwave) we were very relieved and very hungry. Still never mind breakfast have a Bucks Fizz!

I have to say that the food was amazing not to bore you with tens of photos of food but suffice to say granola and yoghurt followed by a full English (we were in Lockerbie by then) with tea and coffee was a decent start. The views were getting better the farther North we travelled.

We had a table and for two whilst our seat mates opposite were a table for four and there was much chatter and banter throughout the journey. One of our seatmates was on a quest to take every luxury train in the UK and seemed to know most of the lovely staff. Sadly they were in tartan waistcoats not the traditional white and blue Pullman livery.

Despite the early start and a huge breakfast and pastries we still had enough energy in Oban to take a walk around the harbour. I know it sounds unlikely but we actually had to stop to buy suncream!

Obviously the late start meant our time in Oban was brief but to be honest a return to air conditioning was more than welcome. No more that half an hour out the diner service started. That was maybe four o’clock. We were still eating at nine! From the amuse bouche through the starter, main, cheese, and dessert we just about made it to the petit fours. Lovely to share a bottle of wine too.

Was I ready for bed when we made it back? Yes, very much so. Would I do it again? Yes,in fact mum has already found us another adventure by rail for the autumn if all goes to plan. Best bit? Getting to spend a full day with mum. I don’t often get her to myself.

Thanks to the folks at Midland Pullman for a very special day.