Most Northern Belle journeys are hauled by heritage diesel locomotives. Journeys advertised as steam specials are planned with a heritage steam locomotive, but steam can't be guaranteed.
A diesel locomotive may replace steam if:
conditions are dry and there's a risk of lineside fires from embers, or
the steam locomotive has a mechanical problem; many are over 100 years old.
Your journey still runs as planned, with the same dining and itinerary. If your steam special is diesel-hauled, you'll receive a £30 credit per person, equivalent to the steam supplement, as set out in our booking terms. The reservations team will contact you to arrange it. A change of locomotive isn't classed as a major change, so it doesn't give a right to cancel without charge.
Which locomotive will haul us? We can't confirm the locomotive in advance, and no particular engine is ever guaranteed.
Related: What if Northern Belle changes or cancels my journey?