The 34046 Braunton steam train was set to make a visit to London this week for a rare outing to Bath. 

But a government ban on steam has forced the company behind the day trip, Steam Dreams, to cancel the classic train appearance. 

It comes following extreme heat across the nation last week that saw limited rainfall and an increased risk of fire beside tracks due to the dry weather. 

Forcing all steam hauled charters to no longer be permitted across England and Wales. 

Although the trip is still taking place, the steam train is now being replaced by the vintage diesel locomotive that is likely to be a British Rail Class 47, 37 or 33. 

Passengers were informed of the swap by a letter from Head of On Board Services & Passenger Experience Aimee Stevenson who said: 

"We have been advised that due to the limited rainfall following a prolonged unprecedented period of dry weather and extreme heat over the last week, the recently imposed National Steam Ban by Network Rail in England and Wales has been extended to Friday of this week."

Adding that they: "would like to reassure you that you will still receive the same high level of service in our beautiful vintage carriages with large picture windows."

What time does the British Rail Class, 47, 37 or 33 leave London

The locomotive will visit six stations but will only stop at four, with the journey starting at London Victoria and making its way through Staines, Ascot, Slough, Reading and Bath. 

However, it will only stop at London Victoria, Slough, Reading and Bath and will visit the stations at the following times:

  • London Victoria: 8.48am outward- 9.46pm return
  • Slough: 9.58am outward- 8.39pm return
  • Reading: 10.20am outward- 20.02 return
  • Bath: 13.19am outward- 16.52 return

The British Rail Class, 47and 37:

These vintage trains are diesel-electric locomotives that were developed back in the 1960s by Brush Traction. 

Class 47 had a total of 512 built at Crewe Works and Brush's Falcon Works, Loughborough between 1962 and 1968 making them the most numerous class of British mainline diesel locomotive. 

Whilst Class 37, also known as the English Electric Type 3 was built as part of the British Rail modernisation plan.

The 37 became known by some train enthusiasts as Tractors as a nickname over the agricultural sound of the diesel engine of the locomotive.

How to get tickets for the British Rail Class, 47and 37 London to Bath journey: 

Tickets for the journey start at £109 for premium standard and reach highs of £274 for Pullman style dining for a taste of luxury. 

Or there is the option for premier dining that costs £219 which gives you a taste of both worlds. 

You can book tickets now via Steam Dreams.