Passengers stepped into Christmas in style as Britain's poshest train returned to the city for a unique festive experience.
The Northern Belle, once part of the iconic Orient Express group, departed from Norwich Station at just after midday on Monday (December 12) and then picked up another group of passengers from Ipswich Station at 1.30pm.
It harks back to the golden age of rail travel with 1930s-style Pullman carriages named after British castles and stately homes.
Passengers, dressed in their finery, were greeted by a team of conductors and went from the chilly platform to the warm and cosy dining carriages with luxury armchairs and festive decorations.
The tables were set for Christmas with crackers and gold-lined crockery.
Tickets cost £340pp which includes a five-hour round-trip on the train, a welcome champagne reception, seven-course Christmas lunch with a cheeseboard and a bottle of wine per couple.
There is also onboard entertainment, including a table magician and strolling musicians.
Despite the price tag, there are many regulars on the Northern Belle who think it is well worth the cost for the quality of food and service.
Graham Frid, from West Beckham, who has been going with his wife Jill since 2005, said: "It gets Christmas off to a great start and we are old-fashioned so we like the comfortable dining and it has a lovely atmosphere."
Sue Day, from Norwich, who has been "dozens" of times, said: "We keep coming back because it is so elegant and relaxing.
"It is the old-fashioned way of doing things with the service and the smiley faces and the food is great - it is just a lovely day."
Thankfully, the plummeting temperatures and recent rail strikes did not impact the journey.
David Clay, meet and greeter for the Northern Belle, said: "It is an excellent day out with good food and drink.
"There has been chopping and changing with the rail strikes but there have been no problems on this trip, fortunately.
"It is a sell-out for today's train and a unique experience - really harking back to the 1930s art deco days of luxury trains."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here