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Marcus' Model Railway Journey
- Thread starter Marcus Antonius
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28th March, 2026
A steam cavalcade on the Bure Valley Railway.
This year, the Bure Valley Railway in Norfolk will allow visitors to imagine they are in the West Country with a journey on the Cream Tea Express.
Next to a trip on a steam train, holidays in Devon or Cornwall are never complete without a cream tea, and starting on the 1st April and continuing through to November, the Cream Tea Express is the Bure Valley Railway’s new experience, It is designed so that visitors can celebrate the pleasures of a slow train journey, with the timeless enjoyment of a cream tea.
Even better, for visitors travelling on the Cream Tea Express, the cream tea is included in the cost of their ticket.
More details about other events on the Bure Valley Railway are available here.
As well as the Cream Tea Expresses, the Bure Valley Railway holds regular events throughout the year, such as a series of Teddy Bear Expresses during the February half term, where children were invited to bring their teddy bears on trains travelling between Aylsham and Wroxham.
The railway has also been exploring alternatives to coal for its steam engines, and in 2024 carried out a trial of ovoids, which use coal residue from the production of other ovoids with a resin binder.
Enjoy a cream tea on a Norfolk train journey
A steam cavalcade on the Bure Valley Railway.
This year, the Bure Valley Railway in Norfolk will allow visitors to imagine they are in the West Country with a journey on the Cream Tea Express.
Next to a trip on a steam train, holidays in Devon or Cornwall are never complete without a cream tea, and starting on the 1st April and continuing through to November, the Cream Tea Express is the Bure Valley Railway’s new experience, It is designed so that visitors can celebrate the pleasures of a slow train journey, with the timeless enjoyment of a cream tea.
Even better, for visitors travelling on the Cream Tea Express, the cream tea is included in the cost of their ticket.
More details about other events on the Bure Valley Railway are available here.
As well as the Cream Tea Expresses, the Bure Valley Railway holds regular events throughout the year, such as a series of Teddy Bear Expresses during the February half term, where children were invited to bring their teddy bears on trains travelling between Aylsham and Wroxham.
The railway has also been exploring alternatives to coal for its steam engines, and in 2024 carried out a trial of ovoids, which use coal residue from the production of other ovoids with a resin binder.
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28th March, 2026
Siemens Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives
Siemens Mobility has signed a framework agreement with locomotive and passenger train leasing and maintenance company Akiem for the purchase of 80 Vectron locomotives.
Coinciding with the agreement is the launch of a new dual-mode electric/battery version of Siemens’ Vectron Locomotive.
The initial order under the agreement is for 50 locomotives, with the first deliveries to Akiem scheduled for 2029/2030, and an option for an additional 30 units.
The new locomotives expand Siemens’ Vectron family to include a battery-based version, allowing the locomotives to operate under overhead lines and use on-board traction batteries on non-electrified lines.
This is not the first time that Siemens Mobility has entered a partnership with Akiem, as Akiem has ordered a total of 120 Vectron and Vectron Dual-Mode locomotives since 2021.
The new locomotives will be based on the proven Vectron Dual-Mode platform and designed for similar operations.
However, a modular traction battery system will replace the diesel engine to enable operation on non-electrified lines as well as from overhead power.
The design will plan for flexible battery configurations of up to more than 2 MWh, and deliver up to 2,400 kW to the wheels in both battery and overhead electric mode.
The locomotives will weigh approximately 90 tonnes, have a maximum speed of 160 km/h, a maximum tractive effort of 300 kN, and train supply power of 480 kVA.
Fabien Rochefort, Akiem CEO, commented that Akiem and Siemens’ teams share a common vision that the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives will meet the vast majority of its customer needs when operating on non-electrified lines, significantly reducing costs of operations against existing market solutions, while reducing CO2 emission and noise.
In January, Siemens Mobility received authorisation for its Vectron Dual Mode locomotives to operate across the border between Germany and Austria.
“Akiem’s decision is a strong vote of confidence in our technology, and we greatly value that trust. With the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, we are taking a major development step based on the proven Vectron platform, adding a new fully electric member to the Vectron family. For customers, this means greater operational flexibility on routes where electrification is not continuous, while supporting the transition to more sustainable rail operations.”
Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility
Siemens secures order for 80 dual-mode electric/battery locomotives
Siemens Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives
Siemens Mobility has signed a framework agreement with locomotive and passenger train leasing and maintenance company Akiem for the purchase of 80 Vectron locomotives.
Coinciding with the agreement is the launch of a new dual-mode electric/battery version of Siemens’ Vectron Locomotive.
The initial order under the agreement is for 50 locomotives, with the first deliveries to Akiem scheduled for 2029/2030, and an option for an additional 30 units.
The new locomotives expand Siemens’ Vectron family to include a battery-based version, allowing the locomotives to operate under overhead lines and use on-board traction batteries on non-electrified lines.
This is not the first time that Siemens Mobility has entered a partnership with Akiem, as Akiem has ordered a total of 120 Vectron and Vectron Dual-Mode locomotives since 2021.
The new locomotives will be based on the proven Vectron Dual-Mode platform and designed for similar operations.
However, a modular traction battery system will replace the diesel engine to enable operation on non-electrified lines as well as from overhead power.
The design will plan for flexible battery configurations of up to more than 2 MWh, and deliver up to 2,400 kW to the wheels in both battery and overhead electric mode.
The locomotives will weigh approximately 90 tonnes, have a maximum speed of 160 km/h, a maximum tractive effort of 300 kN, and train supply power of 480 kVA.
Fabien Rochefort, Akiem CEO, commented that Akiem and Siemens’ teams share a common vision that the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives will meet the vast majority of its customer needs when operating on non-electrified lines, significantly reducing costs of operations against existing market solutions, while reducing CO2 emission and noise.
In January, Siemens Mobility received authorisation for its Vectron Dual Mode locomotives to operate across the border between Germany and Austria.
“Akiem’s decision is a strong vote of confidence in our technology, and we greatly value that trust. With the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, we are taking a major development step based on the proven Vectron platform, adding a new fully electric member to the Vectron family. For customers, this means greater operational flexibility on routes where electrification is not continuous, while supporting the transition to more sustainable rail operations.”
Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility
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2-4-2T tank locomotive originally built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1898.
The locomotive shown is a functional, new-build replica completed in 2017.
The locomotive shown is a functional, new-build replica completed in 2017.
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28th March, 2026
A table for 4 in Pullman class
Vintage Trains is celebrating winning two awards this month by offering passengers discounts on tickets for its Easter tours.
Vintage won the Heritage Railway Association’s Manisty Award for Excellence, which is named after preservation pioneer Captain Peter Manisty, at the HRA’s annual awards ceremony held in Llandudno in North Wales on Saturday 7 March.
The award recognised Vintage Trains’ efforts in operating the replica Locomotion No. 1 in a recreation of the first locomotive-hauled train journey.
This event was held last year as part of Railway 200, the industry’s celebration of two centuries of the modern railway.
At the West Midlands Tourism Awards, Vintage won a Silver award in the ‘Experience of the Year’ category for its Shakespeare Express service.
The Shakespeare Express service runs between Birmingham and the playwright’s home town of Stratford-upon-Avon, and travels along the Shakespeare Line and the Chiltern Main Line.
Vintage Trains cuts fares to celebrate double award win
A table for 4 in Pullman class
Vintage Trains is celebrating winning two awards this month by offering passengers discounts on tickets for its Easter tours.
Vintage won the Heritage Railway Association’s Manisty Award for Excellence, which is named after preservation pioneer Captain Peter Manisty, at the HRA’s annual awards ceremony held in Llandudno in North Wales on Saturday 7 March.
The award recognised Vintage Trains’ efforts in operating the replica Locomotion No. 1 in a recreation of the first locomotive-hauled train journey.
This event was held last year as part of Railway 200, the industry’s celebration of two centuries of the modern railway.
At the West Midlands Tourism Awards, Vintage won a Silver award in the ‘Experience of the Year’ category for its Shakespeare Express service.
The Shakespeare Express service runs between Birmingham and the playwright’s home town of Stratford-upon-Avon, and travels along the Shakespeare Line and the Chiltern Main Line.
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Shakespeare Express at Stratford
In celebration of these two awards, Vintage Trains is reducing the price of both Standard and Pullman class tickets by one-fifth on all eligible journeys in the spring.
It opened the offer for new bookings on Wednesday 25 March, and will close it on Friday 10 April 2026.
However, the operator is advising the public that only a limited number of tickets are available for its tours that take place over the Easter weekend, and it expects tickets to sell quickly.
Vintage Trains runs train journeys on the main line from the West Midlands, with services hauled by classic locomotives.
Standard class travel provides passengers with the experience of riding behind a working locomotive while enjoying some of the country’s most memorable main line routes.
In addition, Pullman class passengers benefit from a classic on-board experience, which includes table service and heritage railway décor.
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Locomotion and Vintage Trains team at Darlington
Passengers may not combine this offer with other offers or with group rates.
The discounts do not apply retrospectively to bookings that have already been made.
Prospective passengers can see the full details of all journeys on the Vintage Trains website.
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28th March, 2026
Hope and Heritage by Vincent Butler (1989) at its new home on Springburn Station
A long-hidden piece of railway heritage has returned to the spotlight in Springburn.
Heritage and Hope, a 1989 sculpture by Vincent Butler, is back on public display after more than 20 years in storage.
The artwork depicts a railway worker and his daughter guiding a symbolic figure of hope, a tribute to the community that built Scotland’s locomotive legacy.
Forgotten railway statue finds new home at Springburn station.
Hope and Heritage by Vincent Butler (1989) at its new home on Springburn Station
A long-hidden piece of railway heritage has returned to the spotlight in Springburn.
Heritage and Hope, a 1989 sculpture by Vincent Butler, is back on public display after more than 20 years in storage.
The artwork depicts a railway worker and his daughter guiding a symbolic figure of hope, a tribute to the community that built Scotland’s locomotive legacy.
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Hope and Heritage by Vincent Butler (1989) at its new home on Springburn Station
It was put away following the closure of Springburn Museum in 2001, but local artist Mandy McIntosh led efforts to revive it in 2024.
With support from Network Rail, ScotRail and community groups, the sculpture has been restored and installed on platform one at Springburn Station for hundreds of thousands of passengers to enjoy each year.
Its return not only honours the area’s past, but also signals ongoing investment in the station’s future, including potential accessibility improvements and station frontage works.
“This sculpture is so important in recognising Springburn’s industrial heritage It’s fitting that Heritage and Hope now has a permanent home at the train station. It’s a wonderful link to the future for people and place in an area of such significance.”
Paul McKay, ScotRail communications director, said: “Springburn has an incredible railway history, so it’s fantastic to see the Heritage and Hope statue back at the heart of the community that inspired it.
“This sculpture is a powerful reminder of the generations of railway workers and families who helped shape Scotland’s Railway and the communities around it.”
Mandy McIntosh, local artist.
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29th March, 2026
Easter Bunny at Ropley Station
This Easter, those visiting Hampshire can visit The Watercress Line for some egg-citing fun.
Their Easter Bunny Trains will run from the 2nd to 6th April, where you can meet the Easter Bunny, take part in Easter activities and enjoy numerous train journeys.
Those visiting Ropley station will be greeted by the Easter Bunny, pose for photos and receive a chocolate egg.
Easter helpers will also be on board trains, leading Easter-themed songs and jokes.
Further information on the activities and trains can be found on their website.
“The Easter Bunny Train is one of our most joyful events of the season, combining classic steam train travel with springtime activities. Join us to make happy memories this Easter.”
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line
Easter Bunny to visit Hampshire Railway
Easter Bunny at Ropley Station
This Easter, those visiting Hampshire can visit The Watercress Line for some egg-citing fun.
Their Easter Bunny Trains will run from the 2nd to 6th April, where you can meet the Easter Bunny, take part in Easter activities and enjoy numerous train journeys.
Those visiting Ropley station will be greeted by the Easter Bunny, pose for photos and receive a chocolate egg.
Easter helpers will also be on board trains, leading Easter-themed songs and jokes.
Further information on the activities and trains can be found on their website.
“The Easter Bunny Train is one of our most joyful events of the season, combining classic steam train travel with springtime activities. Join us to make happy memories this Easter.”
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line
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29th March, 2026
New-generation Frecciarossa train
Hitachi Rail has secured a €260 million contract to supply an additional nine new-generation Frecciarossa trains to Italy’s Trenitalia, part of the FS Group.
The order follows an order signed in 2023 for the supply of 36 trains, together with ten additional trains as part of a call-off option.
The order is part of a renewal programme for the Frecciarossa fleet to provide an increasingly modern, innovative, and sustainable service.
It is planned that 57 new trains will be in service from 2029, and a total of 74 by 2031.
The new-generation Frecciarossa trains will be manufactured by Hitachi Rail at its Italian plants in Naples and Pistoia.
Designed to operate at speeds up to 300 kilometres per hour, the trains will be certified for a maximum limit of 360 kilometres per hour and equipped with advanced traction systems for improved efficiency.
The external design will be similar to existing Frecciarossa trains, but the interiors will be upgraded to designs by Giugiaro Design, and the on-board instruments will be in a Made-in-Italy style.
An innovation in the new trains is the use of Hitachi Rail’s HMAX for Rail digital suite, which is a digital asset management system that processes data in real time to optimise traffic, maintenance, and energy consumption.
Several years ago, Hitachi Rail, in partnership with Bombardier, signed a contract to supply 23 Frecciarossa trains to Trenitalia for its new Intermodalidad de Levante service, and for another 30 trains for service in Italy, but which can be used elsewhere in Europe, including high-speed lines in France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands.
“With this investment, Trenitalia takes a further step to strengthen its High-Speed fleet, consolidating Frecciarossa’s position as a benchmark for rail transport in Europe. Our trains are becoming more efficient and more sustainable to meet our passengers’ expectations. And we will continue to invest in this direction, both in Italy and on international markets, to build an increasingly modern, integrated and future-oriented transport system.”
Gianpiero Strisciuglio, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Trenitalia
Hitachi wins contract to supply more high-speed trains to Italy
New-generation Frecciarossa train
Hitachi Rail has secured a €260 million contract to supply an additional nine new-generation Frecciarossa trains to Italy’s Trenitalia, part of the FS Group.
The order follows an order signed in 2023 for the supply of 36 trains, together with ten additional trains as part of a call-off option.
The order is part of a renewal programme for the Frecciarossa fleet to provide an increasingly modern, innovative, and sustainable service.
It is planned that 57 new trains will be in service from 2029, and a total of 74 by 2031.
The new-generation Frecciarossa trains will be manufactured by Hitachi Rail at its Italian plants in Naples and Pistoia.
Designed to operate at speeds up to 300 kilometres per hour, the trains will be certified for a maximum limit of 360 kilometres per hour and equipped with advanced traction systems for improved efficiency.
The external design will be similar to existing Frecciarossa trains, but the interiors will be upgraded to designs by Giugiaro Design, and the on-board instruments will be in a Made-in-Italy style.
An innovation in the new trains is the use of Hitachi Rail’s HMAX for Rail digital suite, which is a digital asset management system that processes data in real time to optimise traffic, maintenance, and energy consumption.
Several years ago, Hitachi Rail, in partnership with Bombardier, signed a contract to supply 23 Frecciarossa trains to Trenitalia for its new Intermodalidad de Levante service, and for another 30 trains for service in Italy, but which can be used elsewhere in Europe, including high-speed lines in France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands.
“With this investment, Trenitalia takes a further step to strengthen its High-Speed fleet, consolidating Frecciarossa’s position as a benchmark for rail transport in Europe. Our trains are becoming more efficient and more sustainable to meet our passengers’ expectations. And we will continue to invest in this direction, both in Italy and on international markets, to build an increasingly modern, integrated and future-oriented transport system.”
Gianpiero Strisciuglio, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Trenitalia
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NEW UK STAMPS
Definitive Tariff 2026
March 26 2026Definitive
Designed by Royal Mail Group Ltd
Size 39mm (h) x 30mm (v)
Printed by Cartor Security Print
Print Process Gravure
Perforations 15 x 14.5
Gum Self Adhesive
Purple Heather
£3.60
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Aqua Green
£3.80
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Sapphire Blue
£4.60
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Presentation Pack
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First Day Cover
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Last edited:
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30 Mar 2026
Abergele & Pensarn - Class 197
Transport for Wales (TfW) has confirmed additional rail services to support fans travelling from North Wales to the JD Welsh Cup Final between Caernarfon Town and Flint Town United.
The Welsh cup final held at Rodney Parade, Newport on Sunday, 12 April is one of the most celebrated dates in the domestic football calendar.
With both finalists from North Wales, thousands of supporters are expected to make the journey to Newport.
To meet the demand, TfW has introduced dedicated rail services to make sure fans can travel to and from the game:
“We want everyone to have a memorable match day experience and ask that all passengers travel responsibly and treat our staff with respect.”
Macsen Jones, FAW Fan Engagement Executive said:“We’d like to thank Transport for Wales for their support of the JD Welsh Cup Final and for providing additional rail services for this year’s match.
“These services will help ensure supporters of both Caernarfon Town and Flint Town United can travel to Newport and return to North Wales safely and conveniently on the same day.
“Strong collaboration between major events and transport partners is essential in supporting football fans across Wales.”
TfW is working in close collaboration with British Transport Police to monitor expected passenger numbers.
Extra security will be present at key stations and on board services.
Passengers are reminded that anti-social behaviour or verbal abuse toward staff will not be tolerated.
Fans are encouraged to book their rail tickets in advance via the TfW app or website – www.tfw.wales
Extra rail services announced for JD Welsh Cup Final
Abergele & Pensarn - Class 197
Transport for Wales (TfW) has confirmed additional rail services to support fans travelling from North Wales to the JD Welsh Cup Final between Caernarfon Town and Flint Town United.
The Welsh cup final held at Rodney Parade, Newport on Sunday, 12 April is one of the most celebrated dates in the domestic football calendar.
With both finalists from North Wales, thousands of supporters are expected to make the journey to Newport.
To meet the demand, TfW has introduced dedicated rail services to make sure fans can travel to and from the game:
- 08:20 Holyhead – Newport
- 18:09 Cardiff – Holyhead
“We want everyone to have a memorable match day experience and ask that all passengers travel responsibly and treat our staff with respect.”
Macsen Jones, FAW Fan Engagement Executive said:“We’d like to thank Transport for Wales for their support of the JD Welsh Cup Final and for providing additional rail services for this year’s match.
“These services will help ensure supporters of both Caernarfon Town and Flint Town United can travel to Newport and return to North Wales safely and conveniently on the same day.
“Strong collaboration between major events and transport partners is essential in supporting football fans across Wales.”
TfW is working in close collaboration with British Transport Police to monitor expected passenger numbers.
Extra security will be present at key stations and on board services.
Passengers are reminded that anti-social behaviour or verbal abuse toward staff will not be tolerated.
Fans are encouraged to book their rail tickets in advance via the TfW app or website – www.tfw.wales
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
30th March, 2026
WLLR's Y Caban artist's impression
West Lancashire Light Railway has announced that construction is officially underway on a new building that is set to become a vibrant visitor, volunteer, and community hub.
The building, named ‘Y Caban’, takes inspiration from the traditional shelters used by North Wales quarrymen.
Designed with both practicality and community in mind, Y Caban will house a tearoom open on operational days, a classroom for educational visits, and a meeting room and training space for staff and volunteers.
Set for completion in late summer 2026, the project aims to create a welcoming environment for learning, collaboration, and friendship.
West Lancashire Light Railway announce the construction of new ‘Y Caban’
WLLR's Y Caban artist's impression
West Lancashire Light Railway has announced that construction is officially underway on a new building that is set to become a vibrant visitor, volunteer, and community hub.
The building, named ‘Y Caban’, takes inspiration from the traditional shelters used by North Wales quarrymen.
Designed with both practicality and community in mind, Y Caban will house a tearoom open on operational days, a classroom for educational visits, and a meeting room and training space for staff and volunteers.
Set for completion in late summer 2026, the project aims to create a welcoming environment for learning, collaboration, and friendship.
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West Lancashire Light Railway’s Y Caban poster
With total costs expected to exceed £200,000, the initiative has already secured significant backing.
Funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund and the West Lancashire Borough Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) will cover around three-quarters of the total.
The remaining £45,000 is now being sought through donations from members, supporters, and friends of the railway, as the project gathers momentum toward its ambitious goal.
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30th March, 2026
Peckett & Sons No. 1351 ‘Lion’
The North Tyneside Steam Railway has announced an exciting visitor for their Steam Gala on the 5th to 7th June.
Peckett & Sons No. 1351 ‘Lion’ will feature in the gala as well as a photographic evening on the 5th June.
The locomotive is the sole surviving Peckett ‘E’ class and finally returned to steam in 2025 following an overhaul which saw both boiler tubeplates and part of the backhead replaced and the cab rebuilt to its original state.
This is the first time the locomotive has visited the railway since its overhaul, and it is appearing courtesy of Lion’s owner and the Lincolnshire Wolds Railway.
Further information on the gala will be released in the coming weeks on their website.
Lion steam locomotive to star at North Tyneside gala
Peckett & Sons No. 1351 ‘Lion’
The North Tyneside Steam Railway has announced an exciting visitor for their Steam Gala on the 5th to 7th June.
Peckett & Sons No. 1351 ‘Lion’ will feature in the gala as well as a photographic evening on the 5th June.
The locomotive is the sole surviving Peckett ‘E’ class and finally returned to steam in 2025 following an overhaul which saw both boiler tubeplates and part of the backhead replaced and the cab rebuilt to its original state.
This is the first time the locomotive has visited the railway since its overhaul, and it is appearing courtesy of Lion’s owner and the Lincolnshire Wolds Railway.
Further information on the gala will be released in the coming weeks on their website.
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30th March, 2026
Class 37 No. 37025
The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway are hosting their Deisel Gala this summer on the 18th-21st June.
The Railway has partnered up with GB Railfreight and The Branchline Society to offer special railtours to and from the gala on the 17th and 22nd June.
They have confirmed that Class 37 No. 37025 will visit the gala after its current overhaul.
Further information on the railtours and the gala will be released soon.
Tickets for the gala will also be released in the coming weeks and will be available on their website.
Special Railtour to run for Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Diesel Gala
Class 37 No. 37025
The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway are hosting their Deisel Gala this summer on the 18th-21st June.
The Railway has partnered up with GB Railfreight and The Branchline Society to offer special railtours to and from the gala on the 17th and 22nd June.
They have confirmed that Class 37 No. 37025 will visit the gala after its current overhaul.
Further information on the railtours and the gala will be released soon.
Tickets for the gala will also be released in the coming weeks and will be available on their website.
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ScotRail 156 crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland line
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30th March, 2026
DMU leaving Berwyn for Llangollen
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway is set to host one of its biggest events of the year as the Branchline Gala returns from 10 to 12 April.
A highlight of the Gala celebrations includes Chris Greve and Friends performing live at 6 pm in the Station Master’s Marquees at Llangollen station on Saturday, 11.
The event offers visitors a chance to unwind after a busy day of gala action.
Greve, a London-born musician raised in Calgary and now based locally, is known for blending UK Americana with Celtic influences.
He brings years of experience from both solo work and performances with his band, Claymore.
He will be joined by champion fiddler Richard Powell, alongside guest appearances from John Hughes, the Singing Farmer.
Llangollen Branchline Gala to host live musical performance
DMU leaving Berwyn for Llangollen
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway is set to host one of its biggest events of the year as the Branchline Gala returns from 10 to 12 April.
A highlight of the Gala celebrations includes Chris Greve and Friends performing live at 6 pm in the Station Master’s Marquees at Llangollen station on Saturday, 11.
The event offers visitors a chance to unwind after a busy day of gala action.
Greve, a London-born musician raised in Calgary and now based locally, is known for blending UK Americana with Celtic influences.
He brings years of experience from both solo work and performances with his band, Claymore.
He will be joined by champion fiddler Richard Powell, alongside guest appearances from John Hughes, the Singing Farmer.
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Chris Greve
On the rails, the gala will showcase an impressive line-up.
Visitors can see the return of GWR Small Prairie No. 4555 to the Dee Valley for the first time in six decades, alongside the final running days of Class 14 D9525.
Home fleet favourites, including No. 7754 and No. 3802, will also feature.
Taking centre stage is GWR No. 1369, a rare pannier tank and the sole survivor of its class, making it a must-see for enthusiasts.
Footplate rides and free vintage shuttle buses to Ruabon add to the experience.
Entry is free with a gala ticket, or £5 otherwise.
“It’s really special to be performing here in Llangollen. The railway is such an iconic part of the town, and to be able to play music in that setting, with friends, is something I’m really looking forward to. After a day at the Gala, it’s the perfect way to wind down, and we’re excited to put on a great show for everyone.”
Chris Greve
“We’re really pleased to be welcoming Chris Greve and Friends to the Gala this year. It’s a fantastic addition to what is already a packed weekend, and gives visitors the chance to enjoy some high-quality live music in a unique setting. The Station Master’s Marquees will be a great place to round off the day, and we’re sure it will be a very popular part of the event.”
Iain Ross, Branchline Gala organiser.
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30th March, 2026
Heitage carriage on the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway
The Exmoor National Park Centre in Lynmouth will host a free exhibition on the history of the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway from 6th April to 21st May.
The exhibition will feature volunteers and a selection of special artefacts from the original railway, offering visitors the chance to explore the story of the region’s iconic steam trains.
Visitors can view the full set of interpretation boards created for last year’s Railway 200 event, which are normally displayed across Woody Bay, Blackmoor, and Chelfham.
As part of the programme, a special talk will be held on 9 April at 2 pm, focusing on the workings of the railway and ongoing restoration efforts.
Volunteers will be available to answer questions and provide insight into all aspects of the railway.
Entry to both the exhibition and the talk is free.
Exmoor National Park Centre to host Lynton & Barnstaple Railway exhibition and talk
Heitage carriage on the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway
The Exmoor National Park Centre in Lynmouth will host a free exhibition on the history of the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway from 6th April to 21st May.
The exhibition will feature volunteers and a selection of special artefacts from the original railway, offering visitors the chance to explore the story of the region’s iconic steam trains.
Visitors can view the full set of interpretation boards created for last year’s Railway 200 event, which are normally displayed across Woody Bay, Blackmoor, and Chelfham.
As part of the programme, a special talk will be held on 9 April at 2 pm, focusing on the workings of the railway and ongoing restoration efforts.
Volunteers will be available to answer questions and provide insight into all aspects of the railway.
Entry to both the exhibition and the talk is free.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
30th March, 2026
West Coast Railways 37 706
The Swanage Railway is set to come alive on Saturday, 9 May, with its much-loved Diesel Gala and Beer Festival, drawing enthusiasts and day-trippers alike to the Dorset coast.
Travelling aboard The Dorset Coast Explorer, hauled by a Class 73, passengers can alight straight into the event.
A diverse line-up of resident and visiting locomotives is to be expected, along with a festival atmosphere stretching across the line, with the popular Beer Festival hosted at Corfe Castle.
Railtour to bring passengers to Swanage Diesel Gala and Beer Festival in style
West Coast Railways 37 706
The Swanage Railway is set to come alive on Saturday, 9 May, with its much-loved Diesel Gala and Beer Festival, drawing enthusiasts and day-trippers alike to the Dorset coast.
Travelling aboard The Dorset Coast Explorer, hauled by a Class 73, passengers can alight straight into the event.
A diverse line-up of resident and visiting locomotives is to be expected, along with a festival atmosphere stretching across the line, with the popular Beer Festival hosted at Corfe Castle.
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Swanage Railway Class 117 Wareham heritage diesel train, Corfe Castle
With boarding available from stations including Derby, Leicester, Bedford, and Watford Junction, the journey itself is part of the experience.
Passengers can alight at Bournemouth, Swanage (for the Gala and Beer Festival), or Weymouth for a memorable day combining mainline rail travel with one of the heritage calendar’s standout diesel celebrations.
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30th March, 2026
S15 506 at Ropley on The Watercress Line
The Watercress Line in Hampshire is set to host its Spring Steam Gala from 24 to 26 April.
This three-day celebration of classic locomotives promises non-stop action along the scenic 10-mile heritage railway.
The star-studded line-up includes both the railway’s home fleet and visiting legends.
Highlights feature BR Standard 5 Class No. 73156, built in 1957 and one of only five preserved examples.
Furness Railway No. 20, the oldest working standard-gauge steam locomotive in Britain, is appearing thanks to the Great Central Railway and The Bolton Steam Locomotive Company. Austerity Tank Engine No. 68067, a wartime veteran later reborn in British Railways black.
Spring Steam Gala to be held at Hampshire’s Watercress Line
S15 506 at Ropley on The Watercress Line
The Watercress Line in Hampshire is set to host its Spring Steam Gala from 24 to 26 April.
This three-day celebration of classic locomotives promises non-stop action along the scenic 10-mile heritage railway.
The star-studded line-up includes both the railway’s home fleet and visiting legends.
Highlights feature BR Standard 5 Class No. 73156, built in 1957 and one of only five preserved examples.
Furness Railway No. 20, the oldest working standard-gauge steam locomotive in Britain, is appearing thanks to the Great Central Railway and The Bolton Steam Locomotive Company. Austerity Tank Engine No. 68067, a wartime veteran later reborn in British Railways black.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
73156 on the Great Central Railway
Fans can also enjoy beloved home engines like S15 Class No. 506, LMS Class 2MT Ivatt No. 41312, and the flagship Merchant Navy Class No. 35005 Canadian Pacific.
Beyond thrilling rides, the Gala offers behind-the-scenes experiences: visitors can operate the DS58 Steam Crane (pre-booking required), explore the Ropley Engineering Works, ride the Queen Mary brake van, and browse miniature railways, Goods Shed exhibits, and railway society stands.
With unlimited travel across beautifully preserved stations, plus gifts, snacks, and refreshments, the Spring Steam Gala delivers a full-on nostalgia-packed weekend for all ages.
Tickets to the event are available online.
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