Steam locomotive 80150 is a remarkable survivor. She nearly did not make it into the world. 80150 was part of the last batch of five Standard 4 Tanks ever built. British Railways tried to cancel this build due to the impending dieselisation. However, the construction was so far advanced that this final batch had to be […]
Heritage Railway
Steam Locomotive Dating Rewrites History
A recent archaeological survey carried out on Stephenson Railway Museum’s star exhibit, Billy, reveals that the locomotive is even older than previously thought. In March 2018, railway experts Michael Bailey and Peter Davidson wrote a very interesting report. It concludes that Billy was built in 1816, not 1826 as previously thought. This establishes the locomotive as […]
A Railway Enthusiast vists the Llangollen Railway
I have always wanted to visit the Llangollen Railway but had never been. Finally, the chance came to see this beautiful scenic railway and check out the progress they were making on various locomotive projects.
Telford Steam Railway Rolling Stock
The Telford Steam Railway (TSR) in Shropshire is based at Horsehay which was once served by passenger trains operating between Wellington and Craven Arms (part of the Great Western Railway) a distance of around 28 miles.
Top UK Steam and Diesel Train Trips
Steam train trips in the UK are offered by an abundance of heritage and tourist railways. We are very fortunate to have the choice of visiting a steam railway in most parts of the country. Indeed, the Heritage Railway Association report that an incredible 185 of member organisations regularly open to the public.
Luxury Travel On The Dartmouth Steam Railway
For a recent birthday treat, we decided to take a trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway. The train arrived in the platform behind a Army USA Army Transportation Corps S197 locomotive. I observed the former Devon Belle observation car directly behind the engine.
Somerset and Dorset Railway Anniversary Event
In March 2017, the Somerset and Dorset Railway Midsomer Norton marked another year since the railway closed on the 6th of March 1966 with a Gala. Two locomotives were rostered: Steam Sentinel 7109 Joyce and British Railways built Class 08 diesel D4095.
North Norfolk Railway Review
I recently visited the North Norfolk Railway with some railway friends. I hadn’t been to this heritage railway since the early 1970s although I always follow its progress in the media.
An Enthusiast Reviews The Epping Ongar Railway
I paid an interesting visit to the Epping Ongar Railway on Sunday 23rd April 2017. History of the Epping and Ongar Railway The Great Eastern Railway built the branch from Loughton Junction to Ongar and it opened in 1865. Before World War II, plans existed for London Transport to take over the branch as an […]
The Unique History of Railway Restaurant Carriages
Ever thought about using converted railway carriages to make a restaurant in your back garden? How about adding a platform and a station? Find out how Michael Attle has done just that! But first, let me tell you how I became aware of this amazing place: