The Royal Wessex Fine Dining Sunday Lunch
Sunday Lunch Fine Dining Service
We are delighted to announce the return of The Royal Wessex Fine Dining Sunday Lunch in 2026.
Thanks to our acclaimed caterers, Lemon Stone Events, guests can enjoy a contemporary take on the traditional Sunday Roast. Relax in the sumptuous comfort of our first class carriages, admire the South Downs countryside and savour a gastronomic 3 course lunch created using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. There will also be an extensive wine menu, including a locally sourced sparkling wine.
The original Royal Wessex service was originally launched by British Railways on 3rd May 1951. It was one of a number of named trains introduced to commemorate the Festival of Britain of that year, and transported people from the South Coast to the festival in London. The train was normally hauled by a “Merchant Navy” or “West Country” class locomotive and used a dedicated set of the newly designed all-steel standard “Mark1” carriages, which are still used on the Watercress Line today.
You can relive the same ambience today in our Pullman-style carriages with the warm ambience of richly upholstered seats, original wooden interiors, cosy table lamps in the windows, curtains, and tables with white damask cloths. Be it a family celebration, a special get-together or a romantic two-some, it will be an unforgettable experience.
Price includes:
Warm Bread Rolls with Salted Butter
3 Course Lunch
Coffee or Tea
A curated selection of quality wines will be available to purchase with your meal on board.
Dress code
Smart attire
Menu
Any dietary requirements can be catered for. Please make sure you confirm dietary requirement during the booking process to ensure we can provide the meal you would like. Unfortunately, we cannot cater for any changes on the day.
Lunchtime Overview
The train departs from Alresford Station at 1pm, returning to Alresford at 4:30pm.
The services on the 14th June & 13th September will depart at 12:40pm and return at 4:04pm.
Please note, the train cannot be boarded at Alton station.
Add Something Special
Make your visit extra special with one of our additions, available to order with your tickets.Â
Louis Pommery English Sparkling Wine
£50.00
Domaine Fontval Mediterranean Rosé
£23.00
Azabache Rioja White Wine
£22.00
Hornhead Malbec Red Wine
£24.00
£11.95
Treat a loved one to a box of 9 delicious white, milk and dark chocolates handmade in Alresford by the Master Chocolatiers at Chocolate Craft.
In a stylish presentation box, they will be awaiting your guest at the table.
(Chocolates include 2 champagne hearts)
Delightful bouquet of white, pink & yellow roses
(in water)
£45.00
Created for you by a local florist to make your evening extra special.
Beautiful cushion of spring roses in a heart shape
£35.00
Created for you by a local florist to make your evening extra special.
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Testimonials
Tickets
Tables for Two
(Sharing)*
£185
Tables for Two
(Exclusive)
£199
Tables for Three
(Exclusive)
£320
Tables for four
(Exclusive)
£398
Please note:
Our dining trains have a minimum age of 12 years.
If you wish to purchase drinks on board, there will only be card payments.
* Due to the layout of our trains, we have a limited number of tables for 2 people exclusively, so you will be sitting opposite your companion but sharing a table of 4 with another couple.
You are not permitted to bring your own drinks on the train.
Booking fee of £2.50 will apply.
Alresford Accommodation
If you are planning to book The Watercress Belle, why not extend your visit by booking to stay in the delightful Georgian town of Alresford?
We have selected a lovely place to stay, where you will receive a warm welcome and even better, just a two minute walk from Alresford Station. Quote ‘The Watercress Line’ to get the best deal when booking.
The Swan Hotel
11 West Street, Alresford
Tel:Â 01962 732 302Â
Within stumbling distance of The Watercress Line, this historic hotel in the centre of Alresford has 22 spacious bedrooms, all recently refurbished with bespoke furniture and a contemporary yet cosy charm. It serves bar food and has several lounge spaces for relaxation.
The Bell Inn
12 West Street, Alresford
Tel: 01962 732 429
This is a family run 16th century former coaching inn with a very cosy bar, log fire in winter and traditional style bedrooms in sumptuous colours. A new outdoor terraced area is due to open in early summer 2024. They do excellent, very reasonably priced food and we especially recommend the ‘Twice Baked Watercress Soufflé’ if you stay for lunch on Sunday!
Parking
Alresford: Pay & display car park, operated by Winchester City Council.
Disabled parking and electric charge points are available. Cash or RingGo app location 42519.
The company does not guarantee that the trains will arrive or depart at the times stated and reserves the right to cancel, alter or suspend any train without notice, or to substitute a different train should this be necessary for whatever reason.
