Commuters got a pleasant surprise when they were invited to travel to work in style on the UK's most famous antique day train this morning.

Around 100 lucky passengers were invited aboard the Belmond British Pullman at Ashford International for one morning only, to make a nice change from the daily drudgery of rail travel.

Specially chartered for the occasion, the Belmond departed platform 6 at 7.35am, taking passengers on a direct non-stop 90-minute route.

VIDEO: Passengers enjoy a trip on the vintage train

It passed through Charing, Maidstone East, Otford and Swanley, before arriving at London Victoria just after 9am.

Those selected for the treat were welcomed by liveried stewards to a plush, roomy armchair and table set with white linen, silverware and crystal.

They were then served a three-course Bellini breakfast while the Spitfire Sisters laid on entertainment.

Marion Barber was among those on board as she made her way to her workplace for a law firm in the City of London.

She said: "I would love to start my day like this every day, it would really make things easy. I haven't had to put my elbows out to get a seat this morning."

Elizabeth Austin was also among the passengers as she travelled to work at Marks & Spencer's head office.

She said: "It's an amazing train, it's absolutely stunning and really is one of a kind. I don't think you can get this anywhere else in the world, so it's a special day.

"I had the ticket come through a few days ago, but nothing prepares you for when you actually get on the train, it's unbelievable."

Gary Franklin, managing director of Trains & Cruises Belmond said: "We felt commuters have had a rough ride recently, so we wanted to sprinkle some Christmas magic on the rails and do something that reminded people just how wonderful train travel can be when you have the luxury of time.

"We are very fortunate to own such a special train as Belmond British Pullman and it is lovely to be able to spread some festive goodwill and watch the reaction of people as they enter into a world away from the ordinary.

"We hope that passengers will love and share their experience with others- and you never know - this may be the start of a tradition for Belmond!"

Belmond British Pullman operates regularly out of London Victoria and is usually reserved for trips to historic cities, sporting venues and social occasions, with celebrity chef dinners taking place throughout the year.

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