A special guest spent an overnight stay in Preston last night.

The Railway Touring Company brought its Great Britain VI steam train to Preston station before setting off on a journey north to Scotland.

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The railway station became a steam enthusiasts dream this morning as platform 6 was taken over by two huge engines puffing and billowing smoke up and over the station canopy. It made quite a draw for commuters and passersby. The train left Preston mid morning hauling several Pullman coaches full of delighted passengers.

The all steam-hauled tour began at London Victoria station and took a scenic route through the West of England main line to Newquay then made its way from South Wales via Swansea to the awesome Central Wales Line.

The rail journey ‘holiday’, which lasts from 20 April until 28 April 2013, follows the successful Great Britain V rail tour and transports passengers to the beautiful Island of Skye taking in the spectacular Mallaig & Kyle of Lochalsh railway routes.

Premier Class on this luxurious trip would have set you back £2,755. First Class just £1,850. This included eight nights stay-over in hotels and meals and afternoon tea silver service served at passengers deep cushioned Pullman seats on the train. A trip of a lifetime. And they got to see the sights of Preston as well.

Here are a few shots taken this morning of the steam train at Preston Railway Station: