The Heritage Railway Association Group Travel Guide by Richard Barnett

CONTENTS A WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR, DAVE RICHARDSON .................................................................5 MARK L. SMITH, VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION ................................................7 DR PETE WATERMAN, OBE, DL ..............................................................................................................................9 NATIONAL CODE OF PRACTICE FOR VISITOR ATTRACTIONS.............................................11 COLOUR-CODED MAP OF REGIONS ...............................................................................................................12 REGIONAL FOCUS ................................................................................................................................................13 – 62 APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS ....................................................................................................63 – 73 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS............................................................................................................................................74 Photo Credits: Avon Valley Railway, Bala Lake Railway, Beamish, Bluebell Railway, Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway – Ian Lothian, Bodmin & Wenford Railway, Bure Valley Railway, Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway – Rich Evans, Churnet Valley Railway – Dave Gibson, Crich Tramway Village, Dartmouth Steam Railway & Riverboat Company, Dean Forest Railway, East Lancashire Railway, Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway, Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway – Exbury Gardens Ltd, Ffestiniog Railway – Bob Bloodworth & Roger Dimmick, Foxfield Railway, Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Great Central Railway - © Steve Taylor, Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum, Isle of Man Railways, Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, Keith & Dufftown Railway, Kirklees Light Railway, Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, Launceston Steam Railway, Leighton Buzzard Railway, Llanberis Lake Railway, Llangollen Railway – Rishi Sharma, Lynton & Barnstaple Railway, Mid Hants Railway - Watercress Line - © Jarrold Publishing, Middleton Railway – Andrew Gill, Midland Railway, Butterley, Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum, National Railway Museum, Nene Valley Railway, North Norfolk Railway – Poppy Line, North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway – Alistair Grieve, Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, Ribble Steam Railway, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Severn Valley Railway, Snowdon Mountain Railway, South Devon Railway, South Tynedale Railway - © D. Hewitt, STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway, Strathspey Railway, Swanage Railway – Andrew P.M. Wright, Talyllyn Railway, Ulster Folk & Transport Museum, Waverley Excursions, Wells & Walsingham Light Railway, Welsh Highland Railway – Roger Dimmick & Robin Stewart-Smith, Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, Wensleydale Railway, West Coast Railways - The Jacobite - © VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint, West Somerset Railway

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Travel Media Ltd. The opinions expressed by all editorial contributors within this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. All care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this guide is accurate at the time of going to press. The publisher cannot accept any liability for inaccuracies, omissions or amendments that arise after compilation. No part of this guide may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form whatsoever. Any infringement of the copyright will be vigorously pursued.

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ISLE OF MAN RAILWAYS 2011 SCHEDULED SERVICES Steam Railway: Saturday 12th March to Sunday 6th November Manx Electric Railway: Saturday 19th March to Sunday 6th November Snaefell Mountain Railway: Saturday 16th April to Sunday 2nd October

2011 SPECIAL EVENTS Rush Hour on the Railways: Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th April Manx Heritage Transport Festival: Wednesday 27th to Sunday 31st July

More special events are held on all three railways throughout the year. Check www.iombusandrail.info or call 01624 662525 for details.

RIBBLE STEAM RAILWAY A great day out - whatever the weather!

WENSLEYDALE RAILWAY

The Ribble Steam Railway is based on the docks in Preston. Visitors can travel behind one of our restored steam engines in oldfashioned carriages, enjoying a three-mile return trip around the dock and along the riverbank, taking in views that can only be seen from the railway. There’s much more than just a train ride to enjoy - we have an extensive museum that houses a variety of industrial locomotives some of which we invite you to get ‘hands on’ with - and a series of displays about the history of Preston Docks, its railways and its operation.

When you’ve visited the museum, why not relax with a snack and drink in our tea room and then have a look in our workshop, where you can see the work in progress on the many projects under way? The railway is open every weekend and Bank Holiday from May to October, and also at Easter and on Sundays in April. In the winter, we have Santa Special trains running on weekends in December. We also have a number of special events throughout the year - call our Talking Timetable for more information.

Chain Caul Road, Preston PR2 2PD Tel: 01772 728800 www.ribblesteam.org.uk Open Wednesdays throughout August

• Go back in time to how train travel used to be from the 1950s through to the 1980s • 16 miles of railway through Herriot and Turner country - the stunning Yorkshire Dales • Take in the best of the National Park, with a trip back in time on a vintage bus of the 1960s to Aysgarth Falls • Experience the classic Yorkshire market towns of Bedale and Leyburn with something to enchant everyone from the hungry to the curious • Operating from 12th February to 31st December 2011 • Perfect for groups, schools and families - offering great discounts for groups

1 Leases Road, Leeming Bar, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 9AR Tel: 01677 425805 / 08454 50 54 74 • Fax: 01677 427029 E: admin@wensleydalerailway.com W: www.wensleydalerailway.com

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A WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR Exactly 60 years ago, a bunch of volunteers in an obscure part of Wales got together to save an old railway line, little realising they were about to make history. The Talyllyn Railway became the first preserved or heritage line in the world, at a time when noone could foresee the end of steam power and the destruction of many rural railways which were to follow in the 1960s. This year’s anniversary celebrations at Tywyn on the Talyllyn Railway are an opportunity to celebrate a thriving heritage railway movement that has since spread around the world. Heritage railways are now major contributors to the tourism industry and the areas around them. Just a few miles up the coast from Tywyn at Porthmadog, the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways generate over £15 million a year for the local economy and create 350 jobs in addition to their 65 full-time staff. The bunting will be out at Porthmadog too this year as the link between these two railways is finally completed, creating a 40-mile route from Caernarfon to Blaenau Ffestiniog. When we think of heritage railways we think of steam engines and rural branch lines, but they are more diverse than that. In this guide you will also find details of museums welcoming groups, from the National Railway Museum to working depots where engines are prepared in much the same way as for over 150 years. Many attractions also use historic diesels and a few run vintage electric trams. And don’t forget day excursion operators on the national rail system, some of which run steam-hauled tours on a regular basis which are ideal for groups. Heritage railways are not all about the past, but also about the future. A few railways plan commuter services to take traffic off roads in areas of great beauty, while engineering skills are being passed on to a new generation. The first newly built large steam locomotive for nearly 50 years, Tornado, is a regular sight up and down the country, while the Ffestiniog Railway claims the distinction of building locomotives across three centuries – including the 21st! This guide lists most railways and museums that welcome groups – including those in Ireland for the first time – but there are many more. For a full listing, see the Heritage Railway Association website – www.heritagerailways.com In 2010 I visited railways as far apart as the Strathspey in Scotland and the Swanage Railway in Dorset, from the Talyllyn in West Wales to the Colne Valley in East Anglia. This is the third edition of the guide and I’m seeing a lot more coach groups on my travels – long may that continue!

Dave Richardson

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

The Lavender Line is part of the former Lewes to Uckfield Railway opened on 18th October 1858. Between 1859 and 1922 the line was operated by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway and passed into the ownership of the Southern Railway in 1923. In 1948 it then became part of the nationalised British Railways Southern Region. In its heyday, the line saw extensive use by local, London, Brighton, Tunbridge Wells and Dover services. However, due to a combination of factors including the Beeching cuts and the unsafe bridges on the approach to Lewes, the line was closed on 22nd February 1969. In the 1980s the railway passed into private hands and the then owner started to rebuild the track.

Alas he was not able to continue with the line and it was sold to the current preservation society in the early 1990s. Isfield station has now been restored to early Southern Railway colours and looks very much as it would have done in the 1920's and 30's. The track has been extensively overhauled and modified since the society took over and the line is approx one mile long. Why are we called the Lavender Line? This is because the coal merchants which used to operate from Isfield station yard were A.E. Lavender and Sons of Ringmer and uniquely Isfield retains its old coal office which has been restored and now houses our model railway.

Address: The Lavender Line, Isfield Station, Near Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 5XB Tel: 01825 750515 Website: www.lavender-line.co.uk

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

Welcome to the 2011 edition of THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE. For so many people, journeys by train have signalled important moments in our lives. Leaving home for college, university, a new job or to serve in the forces, our great celebrations, that first independent holiday, honeymoon, or maybe just a special escape for a much needed break. A visit to a heritage railway captures this and offers a perfect opportunity to indulge in reminiscence or nostalgia especially for our older passengers. However a trip on one of our trains offers so much more. Many of our lines traverse beautiful or otherwise inaccessible countryside. They offer a pink knuckle ride usually from a comfortable seat, well heated in the cooler months, and always with a good view from the carriage window.

“The heritage railways listed in this guide are here because they make special efforts for parties.” A heritage railway is much more than an indulgence in nostalgia. Most steam trains were replaced by the mid-1960s. We are taught that the railways were at the heart of the transformation of our country from agriculture to industry. For young people a visit to a heritage railway offers a first opportunity to bring the history books to life, to experience the sight, sound and smell of the steam train and to gain some first-hand experience of the traditional railway at work. The heritage railways listed in this guide are here because they make special efforts for parties. As well as the train ride there may be a museum or visitor centre. Some have play and picnic areas, carefully restored railway buildings, signals and station furniture. There will almost certainly be an opportunity to get a decent cup of tea, and many have cafes or restaurants either on the trains or at stations, though you must discuss your requirements in advance so that they can be properly prepared for your party. If you want an itinerary for a whole day visit, you will find that the heritage railway often has partnership arrangements with other attractions nearby so that your ride on the train can be combined with a visit to a garden or historic house; a river or lake cruise or perhaps even a market. Do take advantage of the railway’s good local knowledge to help you plan and there may of course be combined tickets on offer with additional discount or other special features. Finally a plea; please arrive at the railway in plenty of time. Part of the appeal is to look around, have that all important picture taken alongside the steam engine, and just relax into an earlier time when life was not so hectic, and the trains were always friendly.

Mark L. Smith Vice-Chairman Heritage Railway Association

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Step back in time at this wonderfully sleepy rural railway by taking a 10.5 mile return steam train journey through Staffordshire's most beautiful countryside. Alight from the train at our idyllic station at Consall Forge and take a stroll along the river or canal before completing your journey by travelling through Leekbrook Tunnel.

STEAM TRAINS SUNDAYS - MARCH TO SEPTEMBER SATURDAYS - EASTER TO SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAYS - IN JULY & AUGUST PLUS ALL BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS

Trains depart throughout the day, no booking required

Churnet Valley Railway (1992) plc, Kingsley & Froghall Station, Froghall, Staffordshire ST10 2HA

Tel: 01538 750755 Fax: 01538 758496 e: enquiries@churnet-valley-railway.co.uk Visit our website:

www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk

How to find us: From the M6 Junction 36, Follow A590 and Brown Train Signs Find us by SAT NAV LA12 8AL

Steam into the heart of the Lake District in 2011.... Steam Trains operate daily from 9th April to 30th October 2011. Combined tickets are available with Windermere Lake Cruises, Lakes Aquarium, The World of Beatrix Potter, Lakeland Motor Museum and Brockhole Visitor Centre.

SPECIAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR • Station Restaurant serving homemade scones and speciality meals, cakes & snacks. • Brand New Gift Shop (built 2010) offering an array of gifts and souvenirs • Engine Shed-home to our collection of locomotives

DISCOUNTED GROUP RATES ARE AVAILABLE FOR PARTIES OF OVER 20 PEOPLE

Please call for all enquiries and bookings 015395 31594 Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway Co Ltd, Haverthwaite Station, Nr Ulverston Cumbria LA12 8AL

www.lakesiderailway.co.uk info@lakesiderailway.co.uk

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What should we do now? Or, where are we going next? How many times have these or similar questions been asked when trying to organise some sort of group excursion? The answer is probably 'all too many times' - particularly when you haven't got a clue! For me personally, whilst time is always an issue, the answer to 'where' has always been simple - how far do I want to go at that particular moment in time and which of our Heritage Railways have I not been to for a couple of weeks. Ideally, I would then get a group of pals together, arrange an outing and I guarantee we would have a fantastic trip. As we discuss and dissect it later, like all travellers, we will have seen more than we remember and remember more than we've seen! Very few of us can actually grasp just how big the Heritage Railways scene is (and I include myself in that)! It is a huge industry and one which covers the whole of Great Britain offering pretty much something for everybody - whether it be trips on boats, up mountains or just sitting in coaches on a train watching some of the most beautiful sights of Britain slip by. Since our Heritage Railways are predominantly rural based, it's possible to combine delving into our industrial heritage with time spent absorbing and admiring our beautiful and ever changing landscape as nature and the seasons do their job. It has often been said that fantasy cannot become reality just as H. G. Wells never believed that anybody would really build a time machine but in a way this publication, THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE, belies that thought. It is a guide to the best time machine ever since the journeys offered here can transport you back any day of the week to the 1930s, 40s or whatever year you fancy - you decide since Heritage Railways cover decades of our history. Uniquely, it's not just sights that take you back, it's the sounds as well. They can recall childhood memories and importantly the smells which re-create the past in a way that few other experiences can. The Heritage Railway Association offers something for everybody and in this Group Travel Guide they show the benefits of travelling with like-minded souls. Let your Tour Operator or Coach Company do all the hard work of planning the journey whilst you look

forward to a trip which starts from the minute you leave the house and doesn't end until you return. From tram to trolley bus, from train to boat, this publication offers ideas for destinations and excursions to suit every hope and dream. I cannot write this article without talking briefly about the Heritage Railway Association volunteers without whom so much of our history would be lost. These people freely give their own time to make sure that we today can see the roots of the railway industry in all its bitterness and hardship. In our fathers’ and grandfathers’ time, working life was very hard with days starting as early as 3.30am and working all day Saturday was the norm. Working on the railways was like a religion - a way of life for all the family as father followed grandfather and son followed father and in some cases you could trace a connection with the railway back for several lifetimes. Although remuneration was merely sustenance, we know from the work of the Heritage Railway Association that certainly the drivers were on a par in the community with doctors, vicars and schoolteachers. It was all down to the pride they took in their work and this is true of the work that the volunteers do today. Most are unpaid and spend their weekends opening doors and showing people to trains or even getting really stuck into the nuts and bolts of the engines. I would like to take this opportunity to applaud the work of the volunteers since very few travellers ever realise that most staff on these heritage trains are unpaid - they do it simply for the love of it. It is indeed a special breed of men and women who do not shy away from getting dirty with hard manual work but for a quarter of a million or so volunteers this is exactly what they do most of the year. It was Rev. Awdry who said that "railways and the church have their critics, but both are the best ways of getting a man to his ultimate destination". Well to this I would add "with a little help from the THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE”. Enjoy your travels wherever they may take you.

Dr Pete Waterman, OBE, DL

www.justliketherealthing.com

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

x Open March - October Sundays and Bank Holidays x Sunday Afternoon Cream Teas x Murder Mystery Dining Trains and other Special Events. x Contact us on 07979 055366 for coach parties, group bookings, film and television hire or general enquiries.

Keeping the Golden Age of Steam Alive!

OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM MID FEBRUARY TO EARLY NOVEMBER

A VICTORIAN WATER POWERED LIFT CONNECTING THE TWIN TOWNS OF LYNMOUTH AT THE BOTTOM TO LYNTON SOME 500FT ABOVE. ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY ITS ONLY POWER BEING WATER AND GRAVITY.

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre is a working steam museum where you can step back in time as you view the giants of the steam age displayed on our spacious 25 acre site. The Centre boasts excellent facilities including a gift shop, museum, disabled parking and d cafe. cafe Experience the Golden Age of Steam here at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. We look forward to your visit!

340 METRE SPECTACULAR CLIFFSIDE DROP FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY.

Tel: 01598 753486 EMAIL: enquiries@cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk WEBSITE: www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk

www.bucksrailcentre.org www.bucksrailcentre.org or tel 01296 655720 The Cliff Railway,The Esplanade, Lynmouth, North Devon EX35 6EQ

Quainton Road Station, Quainton, n, near A Aylesbury, yylesbury, Bucks HP22 4BY

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OUR PROMISE TO YOU (National Code of Practice for Visitor Attractions) The owner and management have undertaken: 1.

To provide in promotional materials, an accurate description of the amenities, facilities and services of the Attraction.

To indicate on all such promotional materials any requirements for pre-booking, and any significant restrictions on entry.

To make available an Access Statement, describing the accessibility aspects of a visit to the Attraction, and to respect the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act by making suitable provision, where reasonable and practicable, for people with disabilities and/or those with special needs.

To describe accurately and display clearly : a) Any charges for entry (including service charges and taxes where applicable), and any additional charges for individual attractions or special exhibitions. b) Dates and hours of operation, both opening and closing.

To provide in promotional materials for visitor enquiries, a postal address, a telephone number (and where it exists, a website address) from which the detailed information specified in 1, 2, 3 and 4 can be obtained.

To provide signage and orientation information as appropriate to the Attraction, to assist visitors in understanding and enjoying the Attraction.

To consider the needs of visitors for whom English is not their first language and, as appropriate to the Attraction, to make arrangements that enable them to be adequately informed to enjoy their visit.

To manage the Attraction in such a way as to ensure visitor safety, comfort and service, by sustaining a high standard of maintenance, customer care, courtesy and cleanliness.

To ensure that all staff who meet visitors can provide information and guidance about the Attraction, and are readily distinguishable as staff, whether employees or volunteers.

10.

To have regard to the need to manage and operate the Attraction in a sustainable way.

11.

To provide, as appropriate to the nature, scale and location of the Attraction, coach, car, motor-cycle and bicycle parking, adequate toilets, and catering facilities. If any of these requirements cannot be made available on site, to provide information at appropriate points on where they can be found locally.

12.

To hold a current public liability insurance policy or comparable Government indemnity, and to comply with all applicable planning, health, safety, fire and other statutory requirements and regulations.

13.

To deal promptly and courteously with all enquiries, requests, reservations, correspondence and comments from visitors, and try to resolve any complaints on site at the time of the visit.

14.

To provide a facility on site for comments to be recorded and to advise clearly the name and contact details (address, telephone and e-mail) of the person to whom comments by visitors should be addressed.

15.

To display prominently this National Code of Practice.

16.

In the event of any disruption to advertised train or tram services, each member will: a) keep both passengers and prospective passengers as fully advised of the situation as circumstances permit, b) help to arrange alternative transport and facilities whenever necessary and practicable.

Visitors’ concerning Visitors’comments comments conc erning thisthis attraattraction’s ction’s com mpl p compliance iance with thiswith Natithis onal National Code of Code of Practice made during tobe member Practice sshould hould bebe made during yourr vyour isit to visit a mem b ar of f staff or inofwstaff riting or to tin he writing Managerto , the Manager, with copy Quality Visites England,1 Palace Street, Victoria, with a copy y to Qaual ity Dto epar tment, Department, VisitBritain, Tham Tower, Blac ks Road, London SW1E Hammer smith,5HE London W 6 9EL

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REGIONAL BREAKDOWN

South West South of England South East East of England Midlands North West Isle of Man Yorkshire & North East Wales Scotland Ireland

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SOUTH WEST

closed in 1966, while the line’s fleet of diesel locomotives can be seen at Williton. The West Somerset has a main line connection on the outskirts of Taunton, which is used occasionally by special trains.

For many people, the South West is synonymous with sleepy branch lines to the seaside – an atmosphere that can still be enjoyed today. But some of the region’s railways also run through moorland, forests and hills.

What else is in the area?

West Somerset Railway

Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company

This is Britain’s longest single heritage line, although the combined Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland railways are now longer. Running for 20 miles from Bishops Lydeard (near Taunton, Junction 25 on the M5) and Minehead, the route passes through the outstanding natural beauty of the Quantock Hills and along the Exmoor Coast. Aside from the seaside town of Minehead, other stations serve the medieval village of Dunster with its castle, Washford for Cleeve Abbey and a working cider farm, and the ancient harbour town of Watchet. Crowcombe Heathfield and Stogumber stations are popular alighting points for walking groups.

“One new venture is a combined steam train ride and coach tour round Exmoor...” The railway operates at weekends for most of the year and has daily operations from late May to early October, with travel on Mondays and Fridays attracting extra discounts for groups. One new venture is a combined steam train ride and coach tour round Exmoor with a stop at a hostelry for lunch, available for groups of up to 23 and must be booked in advance. Gala events happen throughout the year, and although group travel with pre-booked seats is not available during galas, discounts on Rover Tickets can be obtained if booked in advance. Familiarisation trips for group organisers and company reps can be arranged.

Cleeve Abbey (English Heritage), a working cider farm and medieval Dunster with its Castle (National Trust) are along the route. A visit can be combined with a tour of Exmoor.

This is the new name for the Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverlink, offering combined steam railway, river and sea excursions for days out in south Devon. Dartmouth Steam Railway trains travel seven miles along the coast, with glimpses of wonderful beaches outside Paignton and then the rural surroundings of picturesque Churston before running past wooded slopes bordering the Dart Estuary into Kingswear. Here you can board a passenger ferry for a short trip across the River Dart to the historic town of Dartmouth. Various combinations are available for a longer trip, with the company’s Round Robin tour being voted the UK’s best day out by The Sunday Times. Round Robin trips start with the Paignton to Kingswear steam train ride (30 minutes), then foot passenger ferry to Dartmouth (7 minutes) and river cruise between Dartmouth and Totnes (75 minutes). A bus trip between Totnes and Paignton (25 minutes) rounds off the day.

Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company Dartmouth is a great place to wander, being home to the Britannia Royal Naval College, Bayards Cove, Butterwalk and Dartmouth Castle. River boats offer scheduled services to the historic town of Totnes and to the picturesque village of Dittisham, and harbour cruises operate daily. Special events include Murder Mystery evenings, Summer Jazz and Dinner Cruises with guest speaker. West Somerset Railway Journey time is 75-90 minutes each way, so many groups travel one-way only. Minehead station is directly opposite the beach and just off the town centre, and here you can watch steam locomotives being turned on a turntable – a rare sight on a heritage railway and guaranteed to bring out the cameras. The ambience of the line is Great Western, with the original section to Watchet having the renowned Victorian personality I.K. Brunel as its consulting engineer. Washford Station has a railway museum dedicated to the Somerset and Dorset line, which

What else is in the area? You’re close to the major resort of Torquay and also to Dartmoor, with a wide choice of attractions ranging from a zoo and model village to castles and stately homes.

South Devon Railway This is a beautiful rural branch line of the old Great Western Railway, where historic GWR steam engines haul trains on a

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round trip between Buckfastleigh and Totnes along one of the most tranquil stretches of river in the South West. But this is a railway that offers far more than a steam train ride through glorious countryside, as the South Devon Railway is a member of 3 Great Attractions, 1 Amazing Day. Other members are Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies, which is adjacent to Buckfastleigh station, and the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, adjacent to the SDR’s Totnes station. Visitors have a range of activities and a whole day’s worth of entertainment. At Buckfastleigh there is ample free car and coach parking and much to see and do, including a riverside walk and picnic area, gardens, a fascinating museum, an engineering workshop, historic steam and diesel engines, and well stocked shop and refreshment rooms. At Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies you can wander around the otter sanctuary and butterfly farm, see new butterflies emerge in tropical surroundings, and watch otters swimming underwater in glass enclosures. Buckfastleigh is midway between Exeter and Plymouth on the A38, with plenty of coach parking and turning space and very easy to reach.

“... this is a railway that offers far more than a steam train ride through glorious countryside...”

to the unusually narrow gauge of 1ft 11½ in and lay dormant for nearly 70 years from closure in 1935 to partial re-opening in 2004. It operates from Woody Bay Station, which is actually two miles from the bay it is named after.

“From the station there are woodland walks as well as train rides, and coach parking is free.” From the station there are woodland walks as well as train rides, and coach parking is free. A new steam locomotive called Lyd, built to an original design, sometimes visits the railway. Other steam engines are also named after local rivers: Axe, built in 1915 for service on the Western Front in the First World War; and Sid, which was built in 1925 in Munich to work in the construction industry in the Black Forest. What else is in the area? The railway is on the edge of Exmoor, and close to the major seaside resort of Ilfracombe.

The seven-mile line hugs the River Dart for almost all its length offering superb, tranquil views of outstanding Devon scenery and an abundance of wildlife. The line’s southern terminus is at Totnes Littlehempston station, a short walk from the town and the main line station. Just cross the line at the end of the station platform, the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm has a wonderful collection of animals. What else is in the area? Buckfast Abbey is nearby. Dartmoor and Torbay are both close, plus easy access along the A38 trunk road from all the attractions of Exeter and Plymouth.

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway

Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway No group trip to the picturesque towns of Lynton and Lynmouth would be complete without a trip on the world famous Cliff Railway - it’s the best and most exciting way to travel between these two historic towns. Enjoy stunning views of the North Devon Coastline as you glide up and down the 862 foot length of track; from Lynmouth nestling at the foot of the cliffs to Lynton perched 500 feet above. South Devon Railway

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Originally opened in 1898 to transport holidaymakers to Lynton and Lynmouth, and farmers to market in Barnstaple, this narrow gauge railway is the only heritage line in north Devon. It was built

Designed in the early 1890s by George Marks, the lifts need absolutely no power to operate, water is its motive power. This water is not damaged or polluted in any way, just used as ballast and dropped on the beach at Lynmouth about 100 metres away from the river, from which it was taken. The lifts themselves do not create any emissions, their carbon footprint today has not

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significantly changed since the lift opened. It is probably one of the most environmentally friendly tourist attractions in the country and has been for well over 120 years.

Bodmin & Wenford Railway The Bodmin & Wenford Railway had another record breaking season in 2010, when it carried more than 50,000 passengers for the first time in the year to September 30th. The former Great Western Railway branch line is going from strength to strength as one of the top leisure attractions in Cornwall.

“ The Bodmin & Wenford Railway had another record breaking season in 2010...” It offers a leisurely 13-mile round trip through beautiful countryside, recalling the golden age of Cornish branch lines in the 1950s. Trains operate between Bodmin Parkway station – where connections can be made directly with main line railway services – and Boscarne Junction via Bodmin General, the line’s main station where free coach parking is available. The line was once renowned for carrying china clay, and it has some diminutive tank engines which once pulled this traffic. The railway recommends that groups start and finish the journey at Bodmin General as this provides the best access, whereas Bodmin Parkway station is reached via a bridge and the nearest road access to Boscarne Junction is approximately 800 yards away.

steam steam t trains rains boat trips s & boa at trip

Bodmin & Wenford Railway The best value ticket is for the whole line round trip and this normally takes about two hours, but you can do a journey of 40 to 50 minutes if required. The shorter return journeys are from Bodmin General to either Boscarne Junction (40 minutes) or to Bodmin Parkway (50 minutes). Cornish Cream Tea can be served during the journey. Guided tours of Bodmin General Station

01803 555872

www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk www w.dartmou . uthrailriverr.co.uk .

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including the locomotive shed and maintenance workshops are usually available free of charge. In August 2010, the railway welcomed back a famous locomotive that once ran in Cornwall and Devon, and is now part of the National Railway Museum’s collection. T9 Drummond Greyhound locomotive number 30120 is one of the mainstays of the loco fleet, and once operated over the long-closed Southern Railway branch lines to north Devon and Cornwall. What else is in the area? Bodmin is on the A30 trunk road and roughly halfway between the north and south Cornwall coasts. Eden Project is easily reached, as are historic Fowey and fashionable Padstow.

What else is in the area? Launceston is Cornwall’s only walled town and a delight to explore on foot, with attractions including the famous Norman castle. Bodmin Moor, Dartmoor and the north Cornwall coast are within easy reach.

Seaton Tramway Seaton Tramway is one of East Devon’s most popular destinations. Its narrow gauge trams operate on a three-mile line running through glorious countryside, providing views of the Axe estuary and its birds, including Kingfishers, Oystercatchers, Egrets, Shelducks, Lapwings and Redshanks. The open-top trams are purpose built, based on heritage designs. Three enclosed saloons, which operate during bad weather, have been created using original full-size trams from London, Bournemouth and Exeter.

“Seaton Tramway is one of East Devon’s most popular destinations.” The Tramway originates from Claude Lane’s portable 15" gauge system of 1949, which evolved into the 2ft gauge Eastbourne Tramway (1954-1969). In 1970, the company opened the first section of the 2'9" gauge Seaton Tramway on the route of the former railway (1868-1966). Despite Claude Lane's death in 1971, the company survived and the final extension to Colyton opened in 1980. Colyton town centre is a short ten-minute walk from the Tramway, with winding streets, enticing shops and amiable pubs. Notable sights include the 12th century St Andrews Church, with its unusual lantern tower. Colyford, the halfway stop, has been a Royal Borough since the reign of King John. It has its own Mayor and holds a Goose Fair in September, and the period filling station is reputedly where TE Lawrence “of Arabia” was last seen prior to his fatal motorcycle crash in 1935. Seaton town centre is close to the tram terminus. The pedestrianised area offers an agreeable atmosphere and welcoming shops, and the Esplanade stretches a mile between Seaton Chine and Axmouth Harbour. What else is in the area?

Launceston Steam Railway

Launceston Steam Railway The railway runs through the beautiful Kensey valley on a track gauge of 1ft 11½ in, following the trackbed of the old North Cornwall line and using locomotives which formerly worked on the Dinorwic and Penrhyn railways in North Wales. Launceston station has a museum of vintage cars and motorcycles and a collection of stationary steam engines which are demonstrated at work. At the far end of the line there are pleasant riverside walks and a shaded picnic area, adjacent to Newmills Farm Park. The station area was once the site of an Augustinian Priory, some of which can be seen by visitors. The railway links the historic town of Launceston with the hamlet of Newmills, running for 2½ miles along a route where express trains from Waterloo once thundered along. A wide choice of hot and cold refreshments is available at the Railway Buffet.

The historic harbour town of Lyme Regis is close by, and so is the town of Axminster - famous for its carpets.

Avon Valley Railway Here you can enjoy a relaxing journey back in time to the glorious days of steam on the former Midland Railway line between Bristol and Bath. Whether you’re visiting for an hourlong, six-mile steam train journey or a more leisurely 3½ hours to also include a scenic River Avon boat trip and cream tea, the railway has an experience to offer groups. Free coach parking is available on the station forecourt at Bitton, and free travel and refreshments are offered for the driver (for groups of 20 or more). Conveniently situated midway between Bristol and Bath on the A431, the 1860s-built Bitton station has been lovingly restored to its former glory by dedicated volunteers over the last 30 years. A new cafeteria offers a wide selection of hot and cold food, and the enlarged souvenir shop provides mementos of your visit. Three

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miles of the former line have now been re-laid, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the scenery of the Avon Valley. At Avon Riverside station you can leave the train and enjoy riverside walks, picnic areas and a 40-minute pleasure boat trip on the River Avon from a nearby landing stage.

“At Avon Riverside station you can leave the train and enjoy riverside walks, picnic areas and a 40-minute pleasure boat trip...”

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What else is in the area? Roman Bath with all its historic attractions is just a few miles away, while in Bristol you have the iron ship ss Great Britain, Clifton Suspension Bridge and great shopping.

East Somerset Railway Operating through the rolling Mendip countryside on a five-mile round trip from Cranmore, just off the A36 between Frome and Shepton Mallet, this railway was restored by the artist David Shepherd, who specialised in the wild animals of Africa and steam engines. His book A Brush with Steam is available from the gift shop, and his renowned wildlife and railway pictures can be viewed in the railway’s art gallery. In the engine sheds you can see how locomotives are looked after, and in the museum you can find out about the 150-year history of the line. Step into the signal box (open most weekends) to watch the signalman at work.

“...this railway was restored by the artist David Shepherd who specialised in the wild animals of Africa and steam engines.” What else is in the area? Cheddar Gorge with its caves and tradition of cheese making is easily combined with a visit, as is mystic Glastonbury, supposed site of King Arthur’s Camelot.

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Dean Forest Railway This charming branch line near Lydney in Gloucestershire really lives up to its name, as it offers great views of the ancient Forest of Dean on a meandering route from the outskirts of Lydney to the picturesque village of Parkend. The railway’s headquarters is at Norchard on the B4234, with trains operating via Lydney Town (and across the A48 trunk road!) to Lydney Junction, within a mile of Lydney Harbour. Trains then run via Norchard (an intermediate station) to Parkend.

“This charming branch line near Lydney in Gloucestershire really lives up to its name, as it offers great views of the ancient Forest of Dean...” In these very rural surroundings it is odd to think that this was once a coal mining area, but coal and iron were the main reasons for the line’s existence. Parkend was once a mining village but is now a rural backwater, and due to the lack of parking coaches should drop off at Norchard. One of the charming if sometimes dangerous things about the Forest of Dean is that sheep have the right to roam freely – and that may include all the roads and the station platforms at Parkend!

The Dean Forest Railway celebrated the 200th anniversary of the Severn & Wye in 2010, its 40th year of existence. Authorised by George III, under an Act of Parliament in 1809, the original horse-worked tramroad began its working life in June 1810 and connected with the Severn railway bridge, crossing the River Severn to Sharpness.

“Coach parking is free, and group discounts are available – normally 15% for parties of 20 or more.” What else is in the area? Apart from the Forest of Dean itself, the historic border town of Chepstow (with castle) and scenic Ross-on-Wye are always worth a visit. Historic Gloucester is close by.

STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway The Dartmoor Railway runs from Okehampton to Meldon on the edge of Dartmoor, and plans to extend services eastwards to Yeoford over an existing Network Rail route. The Swindon and Cricklade Railway is Wiltshire’s only heritage railway, but the Great Western themed STEAM museum can be found in Swindon itself. Swindon in Wiltshire was once one of the greatest railway towns in the world, as headquarters of the Great Western Railway. Passing through today you might think there is nothing left of this once mighty empire apart from the busy railway station, but STEAM is part of Swindon Railway Works which opened in 1843 and by 1900 was employing over 12,000 people. At its peak in the 1930s, the works covered over 300 acres and could build three locomotives a week. The last steam locomotive for British Railways – Evening Star – was built here in 1960.

“Life-like characters, interactive exhibits and imaginative displays take you through the ages as the story of the railway unfolds.” The works closed in 1986, and although most of it was demolished, STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway is housed in a beautifully restored Grade II railway building in the heart of the former works. It tells the story of the men and women who built, operated and travelled on the Great Western Railway – “God’s Wonderful Railway” -- a network that, through the pioneering vision and genius of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, was regarded as the most advanced in the world. Dean Forest Railway The railway is 4½ miles in length and a round trip takes around 1¾ hours. Services are operated by steam trains (or heritage diesels on some days), and there is a large car park at Norchard Station together with a well stocked gift shop, cafeteria and museum. Norchard station was once the site of a drift mine and has two platforms, one high level and one low level, which is very unusual for a preserved railway. Coach parking is free, and group discounts are available – normally 15% for parties of 20 or more. Coach drivers get a free ride on the train and a voucher for light refreshments at the café.

Life-like characters, interactive exhibits and imaginative displays take you through the ages as the story of the railway unfolds. Famous locomotives on display include GWR Castle Class No 4073 Caerphilly Castle, GWR Manor Class No 7821 Ditcheat Manor, and No 4003 Lode Star - the only remaining GWR Star Class locomotive. “Meet the Railway Workers” is a fortnightly Saturday event when visitors are invited to climb up into the cab of the locomotives and chat with GWR drivers and firemen. They come from the strong volunteer team at STEAM and offer visitors the valuable experience of linking the present day to the past. Other events in the STEAM programme for 2011 include the annual Swindon Railway Festival on 10 and 11 September, the Great Western LEGO Show on 1 and

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2 October and Christmas at STEAM on 3 and 4 December, with many more events planned. STEAM is located on Fire Fly Avenue as part of the Churchward site that also includes the Swindon Designer Outlet shopping centre, The National Trust HQ, English Heritage and the National Monuments and Records Centre. It is just a few minutes from Junction 16 of the M4.

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What else is in the area? STEAM is next door to the Swindon Designer Outlet, a huge undercover shopping centre offering discounts on designer and high street brands. It is also close to the National Monuments Record Centre, the public archive of English Heritage, and the Railway Village Museum. Cotswolds attractions are also close by.

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Other Railways The Dartmoor Railway runs from Okehampton to Meldon on the edge of Dartmoor, and plans to extend services eastwards to Yeoford over an existing Network Rail route. The Swindon and Cricklade Railway is Wiltshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only heritage route.

Torbay Express This is not a heritage railway as such, but a special train running regularly in summer over the national system from Bristol Temple Meads to Paignton, where it joins the tracks of the Dartmouth Steam Railway to continue down the branch to Kingswear. Featured on the BBCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coast documentary, the Torbay Express has space for prebooked groups and offers a full day out, travelling via Taunton, Exeter and along the famous stretch of line by the sea wall at Dawlish in south Devon.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Featured on the BBCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coast documentary, the Torbay Express has space for prebooked groups and offers a full day out...â&#x20AC;? It operates on most summer Sundays from June to September, using famous steam locomotives such as King Edward II and Tornado. First Class now includes tea, pastries and afternoon tea, and there is plenty of time for lunch off the train with Torquay added as a stop in 2011.

Journey from Seaton, gateway town to the World Heritage Jurassic Coast through two nature reserves alongside the Axe estuary to historic Colyton. Open daily: 12th-27th Feb, 2nd Apr-30th Oct, 26th Dec-1st Jan 2012 Open weekends: 5th-27th Mar Santa Specials: 4th, 11th, 18th, 23rd, 24th Dec Any size group welcome â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20 or more passengers travel on their own tram. Please contact us for further details.

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SOUTH OF ENGLAND Working museums, branch lines and a unique garden railway are all part of heritage railway appeal in this diverse part of England, from the south coast and beyond to the Home Counties.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway Many railways can claim to be unique, but this little railway is really special. Nearly all its trains date back at least 100 years to the Edwardian or Victorian eras, whereas many railways use 1950s carriages. 2011 will be a year of celebration to mark the 40th anniversary of the opening of the railway in 1971, with an ambitious programme of special activities spread throughout the year including two gala weekends.

“2011 will be a year of celebration to mark the 40th anniversary of the opening of the railway in 1971...”

Island pedigree in steam together, and may include the return to steam of the Railway’s historic 1878-built Terrier class locomotive, No. 11 Newport. This follows the return to service in 2010 of No. 24 Calbourne, last survivor of the 1966 closures. During 2011 it will run trains on some 200 days across the year from March to December, along a five-mile line which links Wootton, Havenstreet, Ashey and Smallbrook Junction. There will also be 25 “regular” special events from fine wines and real ales to world class jazz musicians and Land Army girls.

“ The Isle of Wight Steam Railway offers a nostalgic journey back in time to an era when everyone travelled by steam train...” The Isle of Wight Steam Railway offers a nostalgic journey back in time to an era when everyone travelled by steam train – even Queen Victoria while visiting her island residence at Osborne House. Locomotives and carriages have all been painstakingly restored to pristine condition with the oldest locomotive built in 1876 and carriages dating back to 1864. You can settle back in beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages and take a 10-mile round trip to view some of the island’s unspoilt countryside.

The Isle of Wight Steam Railway grew from the early commitment and enthusiasm of a small group of individuals determined to save a few relics from the Island’s once extensive railway network. Following the end of steam in 1966, only the Ryde to Shanklin line remained open and was electrified – the rest of the network was abandoned. On April 12th, 2011, “The First Train” of the new era will be recreated with a series of special workings between Havenstreet Station and Woodhouse, using the same locomotive and carriages as 40 years ago.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway The railway’s base is at Havenstreet near Ryde, running in either direction to Wootton, or to Smallbrook Junction where there is a connection to the Ryde to Shanklin line. In the longer term the railway hopes to run trains into Ryde itself. What else is in the area? Everywhere is within easy reach on the island, including Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle, the Dinosaur Isle exhibition and Ventnor Botanic Garden.

Mid Hants Railway

Isle of Wight Steam Railway The first of the gala weekends will be held over the Spring Bank Holiday at the end of May, when it is planned to have all of the of the Railway’s available locomotives in steam, together with guest locos from other railways – possibly making it the largest gathering of locomotives in steam on the Island since 1966. In September, the second gala will feature locomotives with an

Often known as the Watercress Line, this former secondary route between London and Winchester runs for 10 miles through beautiful Hampshire countryside. Eastbound it runs from the picturesque Georgian town of Alresford to Alton station, where it connects with the national rail network. Part of the route is known to railwaymen as “The Alps” due to the steep climbs, with engines having to work hard on departure westbound from Alton. Be sure to break your journey at Ropley station and have a prebooked tour of the engine shed by one of the volunteers, to see at first hand the impressive restoration work taking place on locomotives and carriages. This is where some of the largest steam locomotives operating in Britain have been restored, and

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here you will see large locomotives that used to haul expresses from London to the south coast, including Wadebridge and Canadian Pacific. Ropley (which also has a picnic area) and the other wayside station Medstead & Four Marks, have real country atmosphere. Travel in authentic green liveried carriages that recall British Railways’ Southern region, and book ahead for luxury dining trains the Watercress Belle (dates on Saturday evenings) and the Countryman (Sunday lunch). These former Pullman boat trains, which once took passengers from London to the great liners at Southampton Docks, really bring back the golden age of rail travel.

“Travel in authentic green liveried carriages that recall British Railways’ Southern region...” Free pre-booked coach parking is available at Alresford station. The railway is open on weekends from January to October, plus Tuesdays to Thursdays from May to September. On midweek journeys, groups can be served a special menu on board including ploughman’s lunches and cream teas. What else is in the area? It operates multi-destination group deals with local attractions such as Milestones in Basingstoke, Basingstoke Canal, Jane Austen’s House, the Gilbert White Museum and Intech near Winchester. Winchester Cathedral and shopping, and all the attractions of Southampton and Portsmouth, are nearby.

Mid Hants Railway - Watercress Line

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YOUR VISIT TO THE AWARD-WINNING ISLE OF WIGHT STEAM RAILWAY WILL ENGAGE, INSPIRE AND EXCITE YOU HAVENSTREET STATION, HAVENSTREET, NR RYDE, ISLE OF WIGHT PO33 4DS 01983 882204 www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk

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Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway Exbury Gardens in the New Forest opens for the new season in March 2011, and will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of the opening of its narrow-gauge steam railway. Unlike most heritage railways which have been created on former parts of the national rail system, the Exbury railway was newly built in 2001 as an integral part of a garden attraction in the New Forest.

“Beaulieu, with its palace and motor museum, is just down the road, and Exbury can be a focal point for a tour of the New Forest.” The tale of the “Dream that became Steam” – the construction and opening of the Exbury Gardens Railway and Rhododendron Line – is told in an exhibition that opened in Exbury’s spacious Engine Shed in 2010, and a special celebratory event weekend is planned for August 13/14. New display boards have been introduced, explaining different aspects of the Garden and the plants and trees within it so that visitors can learn about the Rothschild family connections and their links with the famous Plant Hunters.

The hugely popular Ghost Trains and Santa Specials will steam through the Gardens at Hallowe’en and during December. Exbury Gardens opens on Saturday March 19 and will remain open until 7th November 2011. What else is in the area? A nearby highlight is a trip on the Hythe Pier Railway, about eight miles from Exbury – the oldest of its kind in the world. Beaulieu, with its palace and motor museum, is just down the road, and Exbury can be a focal point for a tour of the New Forest.

Swanage Railway The Swanage Railway claims to offer a more intensive heritage steam and diesel train service than virtually any other preserved railway. It has now mounted an appeal to extend the railway into Wareham station in Dorset, its original junction with the main Bournemouth-Weymouth main line, an extension which at present is used only by occasional special trains.

Swanage Railway

Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway The Exbury year begins with an exhibition of rare and delicate South African lachenalias in the Five Arrows Gallery in March, followed by the delights of the Daffodil Meadow and wonderful displays of camellias, magnolias and primroses until mid-April. Exbury’s “Glory of the Garden” – the colourful high season – runs from mid-April through May. Breakfast Walks, railway events, open-air theatre, PhotoTrek workshops, family trails and a series of art exhibitions will take place during the season.

Easy parking at Norden Station, near Wareham, allows visitors to travel through six miles of beautiful Dorset scenery to Swanage and avoid the Purbeck peninsula’s sometimes heavy traffic. The Swanage coach drop-off point is adjacent to the station, and coach parking is available at Norden free-of-charge if booked in advance. Stations at Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross and Herston provide access to historic villages, country walks and the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, and along the way many passengers stop off to see the majestic ruins of Corfe Castle, a beautiful village where the railway has helped alleviate traffic congestion. Alongside the views, there is an abundance of wildlife that can be spotted during the journey.

“ The Swanage Railway lovingly re-creates the time when everyone travelled by train to the seaside.” The Swanage Railway lovingly re-creates the time when everyone travelled by train to the seaside – whether it’s true that “Summer Comes Sooner in the South” or not, as claimed by an old railway poster! It runs trains on over 250 days of the year, including

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services every weekend from mid-February until the end of the year and every day from late March until the end of October. Cream teas and light lunches are available through the station buffets at both ends of the line, which should be booked in advance for larger groups.

The Museum’s Depot in Acton includes rare road and rail vehicles, the famous poster and artwork stores, signs, ceramic tiles and ephemera. Access is available during special open weekends and guided tours on the last Saturday and Sunday of the month. What else is in the area? In this part of London you’re spoilt for choice, from the West End shops and Theatreland to the British Museum and River Thames cruises.

Leighton Buzzard Railway The Leighton Buzzard Railway, in deepest Bedfordshire, was built at the end of the First World War, using materials and equipment—some still on display—that were surplus from the supply lines to the trenches of France and Belgium. It was always one of the longest narrow-gauge light railways in England, and over the years has become a unique survivor of this bygone form of transport, with its sharp curves, steep inclines, level crossings and roadside running. It is now operated as a tourist attraction and working museum by a team of dedicated volunteers, the round trip from Page’s Park station taking 1hr 10mins.

Swanage Railway Swanage is a traditional seaside resort with sandy beach that awaits at the end of the journey. The Blue Flag rated beach is only a short walk from Swanage Station, which is the railway’s headquarters and little has changed from the days when it was part of the national network. Groups can enjoy a delicious cream tea here before taking the train, or watch the comings and goings at the engine shed a few minutes’ walk away. Alongside the regular timetable there is a programme of special events, and the railway is also actively involved in local events such as Swanage Carnival, Victorian Swanage and the Purbeck Walking Festival. What else is in the area? Other local attractions include Corfe Castle, Studland beach and nature reserve, the Tank Museum at Bovington Camp, and Monkey World.

London Transport Museum The London Transport Museum is a very worthwhile attraction in the heart of Covent Garden, telling the story of the world’s first mass transit system established in the 19th Century. Lively galleries tell the story of London’s transport network and how it shaped the lives and culture of people living and working in the capital, including current and future transport developments. The Design for Travel gallery showcases original artworks and advertising posters. The museum’s collection contains a wealth of material relating to the development of London’s public transport network including rail and road and vehicles, photographs, film and video footage, uniforms, signs and tickets.

Leighton Buzzard Railway The 2ft track gauge is very common throughout the world, so the museum collection now includes working locomotives from India, Africa, the United States and Europe, as well as the UK, and from backgrounds as diverse as steelworks and sugar cane plantations. The Leighton Buzzard Railway is conveniently located, a few minutes from the M1 or the A5. What else is in the area? It is close to both Whipsnade and Woburn, either of which can form a distinctive 2-hour add-on. Bletchley Park, home of the wartime codebreakers, is also a short drive away.

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Buckinghamshire Railway Centre This museum near Aylesbury offers visitors a glimpse of life in the Golden Age of steam travel, and at the centre of this compact site you will find Oxford Rewley Road Station. Moved from the middle of Oxford and re-erected on site some 10 years ago, this Grade 2* listed building was constructed with the same design and materials as the Great Exhibition Building of 1851 – the “Crystal Palace”. The building now houses some of the Centre’s greatest treasures including a coach from the Royal Train of 1901 and another used in World Ward II as a mobile conference room for D-Day planning. Also of particular interest is a fully operating railway cinema coach where visitors can view period railway films.

“Waddesdon Manor and the National Trust’s Claydon House are within a few miles...” Elsewhere on Buckinghamshire Railway Centre’s 25-acre site are many displays on the theme of “The Railways in Society”, with particular emphasis on how the coming of the railways changed the way of life of an entire population in the 19th century. Live steam-hauled train rides with one of a large collection of locomotives, and miniature railway rides, are provided on Steaming Open Days. Facilities for visitors are excellent with full disabled access throughout, a gift shop, refreshment room, museum and spacious car park with designated parking for up to 10 coaches. By prior arrangement, conducted tours may be booked with an experienced guide. What else is in the area? Waddesdon Manor and the National Trust’s Claydon House are within a few miles, as are Bletchley Park and Milton Keynes shopping.

Since August 1994, trains have been running at weekends from a base at Chinnor Station. The railway is open for passenger services from mid-March until the end of October and holds many special events including Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Halloween Spooks Express, Gala days and Murder Mystery dining trains. The next stage of development will be to negotiate a lease with Network Rail to enable the railway to continue into Princes Risborough station from Thame Junction, connecting with the Chiltern Railways route. Once the lease is obtained the railway will relay derelict track and restore the former bay platform to a condition suitable for passenger operations. The Grade II listed Princes Risborough North signal box will also be included in the lease. What else is in the area? Oxford, Henley-on-Thames and the Chiltern Hills are within easy reach.

Didcot Railway Centre Although not actively promoting itself to group business, the headquarters of the Great Western Society includes a working engine shed dating from 1932 (now listed) and a restoration centre handling some of the most ambitious projects in railway preservation. It also has a short demonstration line, museum and self-service restaurant. Didcot is undertaking some of the most impressive restoration projects in Britain, with King class locomotive King Edward II due to be steamed for the first time in nearly 50 years in April 2011, returned to service in an unusual blue livery as in the early 1950s. The locomotive Pendennis Castle, repatriated from Australia in 1999, is also being restored to main line condition, while County and Saint class locomotives – both long extinct – are being built from parts donated by other types. The engine shed’s many original features survive, including a functioning coal stage where you can see how steam locomotives were fuelled using manual labour. It has a turntable, where demonstrations are given on steam days, as well as a traverser, into the carriage and wagon works.

“ 2010 saw Didcot Railway Centre gain full accreditation as a working museum...” Another interesting feature is a section of broad gauge line using materials recovered from a disused railway in Devon, recalling the seven-foot broad gauge built by Brunel which was abandoned in 1892. A broad gauge replica locomotive, Fire Fly, operates on advertised days.

Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway

Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway This small and friendly railway on the Oxfordshire/ Buckinghamshire border is just 30 minutes away from Oxford, Marlow or High Wycombe. The railway runs for 3½ miles along the foot of the Chiltern Hills, parallel to the historic Icknield Way passing through attractive countryside, with outstanding views across the Vale of Whiteleaf where red kites can often be seen circling overhead.

2010 saw Didcot Railway Centre gain full accreditation as a working museum by the Museums, Libraries and Archives council (MLA), as meeting the national standard for UK museums. 2011 will see celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Great Western Society as well as the unveiling of the steam rail motor, as operated on branch lines, to be housed in a new shed. Didcot is open every weekend and on certain weekdays, including school holidays. It is accessed via Didcot Parkway station. What else is in the area? Didcot is about 14 miles from the centre of Oxford, and close to historic Abingdon (for Thames cruising) and the scenic Vale of the White Horse.

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SOUTH EAST The South East boasts some of the longest established heritage railways in Britain, and with two major extension projects coming to fruition, 2011 is a good time to re-discover them.

Bluebell Railway Fresh from celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2010, the Bluebell is making steady progress with a northbound extension to East Grinstead which would re-connect it to the national rail system and open up new opportunities to attract visitors to the line. Britain’s first standard gauge heritage railway ran its first trains in May 1960 from Sheffield Park station, near Haywards Heath in West Sussex, to just outside Horsted Keynes. It later extended the line from Horsted Keynes to Kingscote and is now in the final stages of extending to East Grinstead, where a new platform has been built alongside the national rail station. Over £5 million is being spent to clear a municipal rubbish tip blocking the way and install track and signals, and trains may start to operate to East Grinstead in 2011.

Jack, a stuffed dog which raised over £4,000 for orphans during his time collecting donations at Waterloo station from 1923-31; a coffin carrier; and an old telephone box complete with buttons A and B. A sign on the old-style Gents warns: “Please Adjust Your Dress Before Leaving”. With real coal fires and many period advertisements, Horsted Keynes station is a wonderful re-creation of a country junction during the inter-war period. Not surprisingly the Bluebell Railway is a favourite location for film makers, appearing in The Wind in the Willows, The Railway Children, Station Jim, The Ruby in the Smoke, Miss Potter, Poirot and many other productions. Directors including Ken Russell have returned on many occasions. Special events this year include Bluebell Specials (May 3-6), Southern at War Weekend (May 7-8), Vintage Transport Weekend (August 13-14) and Autumn Tints Observation Car Specials (November 1-3). The Golden Arrow Pullman dining train recalls the famous boat express which once ran between London and Paris, the carriages being loaded onto a crossChannel ferry. What else is in the area? Sheffield Park Garden is on the doorstep, being a National Trust landscaped garden laid out in the 18th Century by Capability Brown. Tunbridge Wells and Ashdown Forest are nearby.

Kent & East Sussex Railway You might think everywhere in the South East is densely populated, but not if you travel over this quaint little line that traverses some deeply rural countryside along the borders of the two counties. The Kent & East Sussex is a tribute to Colonel Stephens, a man who created many “light railways” around the turn of the 19th/20th Centuries which did not require an Act of Parliament. Light railways could be built without all the heavy engineering required of more conventional railways, allowing many rural communities to be connected by rail before widespread car ownership and use of buses and lorries brought to an end their short lives.

Bluebell Railway Sheffield Park is where most coach parties join, and here you will find a restaurant and museum where many steam locomotives are on display or under restoration. They range from diminutive tank engines such as Stepney, to large Pacifics such as Battle of Britain class Sir Archibald Sinclair, which returned to service in 2009.

“...the Bluebell Railway is a favourite location for film makers...” The journey from Sheffield Park is a pleasant run through woods and fields, and in spring you’ll see the bluebells that give the line its name. Passengers should definitely spend some time at the intermediate station of Horsted Keynes, which has been lovingly restored and has a genuine “big station” feel with five platforms connected by a subway. Curiosities on view here include London

“The Kent & East Sussex is a survivor, and the museum at Tenterden in Kent tells the story of Colonel Stephens...” The Kent & East Sussex is a survivor, and the museum at Tenterden in Kent tells the story of Colonel Stephens (1868-1931) and his contribution to railway history. Trains amble along at a very sedate pace between Tenterden and Bodiam in East Sussex, crossing the border of two of southern England’s most rural counties with views of oast houses and even vineyards. This railway was known as the “Hoppers’ Line” as it used to transport hop pickers, and the beer making tradition is kept alive by the Rother Valley Brewery near Northiam whose products are available on the trains and at the restaurant at Tenterden. Onboard catering includes Fish and Chips supper trains, and light lunches can be provided for a minimum of 15 passengers. The Wealden Pullman operates on Saturday nights and Sunday lunchtimes on selected dates, and must be pre-booked. The line passes over several level crossings where road traffic must stop and wait – revenge, perhaps, for some of Colonel Stephens’ 16 light railways which are no longer with us. Trains

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may stop in the middle of nowhere, as the ticket inspector confides there are sheep on the line. Intermediate stations include Wittersham Road, three miles from the village of that name and with no sign of habitation in sight, but plenty of pheasants. Re-opened by dedicated volunteers in 1974 following its closure to passenger traffic in the 1950s, the K&ESR is one of Britain’s most loved, most original heritage railways. It runs steam and diesel trains for 10½ miles on the preserved central section of the original line from Tenterden, affectionately known as “The Jewel of The Weald”, through the Rother Levels, a marshland valley difficult to appreciate any other way but by train. What else is in the area?

• Group discounts available for groups of 10+

Bodiam Castle is a 10-minute walk from the railway’s western terminus, a National Trust property built in 1385. Tenterden itself is well worth a visit, and was one of the Cinque Ports before coastal erosion ended this role. The historic coastal town of Rye is nearby.

• Additional discount for regular customers

Spa Valley Railway

• Travel through unspoilt Sussex countryside

A much anticipated extension is expected to open early in 2011, which will not only make the Spa Valley accessible to passengers arriving via the national network, but firmly establish it as one of the heritage railways “big league”. Already a leading tourist attraction in historic Royal Tunbridge Wells, it has run only as far as Groombridge for the last few years, a 3½-mile trip. Completion of the route to Eridge will create a round trip of ten miles, with Spa Valley trains running alongside Southern’s diesel trains for the last mile into Eridge.

“The Spa Valley operates fish and chips specials and real ale trains, and groups can also hire complete trains with weddings a speciality.” The Spa Valley operates from the site of the long closed Tunbridge Wells West station, the buildings of which are now in use as a restaurant. A supermarket car park now occupies much of the site, but the railway is not short on atmosphere having an authentic former engine shed dating from the steam era adjacent to the platform. The short run to Groombridge soon passes through open countryside, with many passengers alighting at High Rocks station for country walks or to visit Groombridge Place Gardens. Since, opening in 1996 the railway claims to have become the biggest single tourist destination in Tunbridge Wells, attracting over 30,000 visitors a year. Joint ticketing, events and publicity are organised with Groombridge Place Gardens, and the High Rocks Inn paid for and built a new halt for the railway. The Spa Valley operates fish and chips specials and real ale trains, and groups can also hire complete trains with weddings a speciality. It is a friendly, progressive line which will be given a big lift by extending to Eridge, and it hopes to attract coach groups heading for Eastbourne. What else is in the area? Groombridge Place Gardens were designed in the 17th Century and include the children’s attraction, Enchanted Forest. Tunbridge Wells offers the historic Pantiles shopping area and Chalybeate spring.

• Run every weekend and daily April-October • On-board catering available on some trains (booking essential)

• All services steam hauled • Bookings essential for some services. Please ring for more information

For more information

Tel: 01825 720800 Fax: 01825 720804 info@bluebell-railway.co.uk

www.bluebell-railway.com

Kent & East Sussex

Railway

Tenterden T enterden · N Northiam orthiam · B Bodiam odiam

E n g l a n d ’s finest England’s f i est rural light fin rrailway a i l w a y welcomes welc w e l comes groups

10% dis discount iscoun nt on gr group group ro fa fare fares res es fo for 20+ On train offers include Fish & Chips or Ploughmans Lunch, together with delightful Cream Teas. Some notable 2011 events: 1940s Weekend - 14 & 15 Mayy, CAMRA Beer Festival - 18 June Hop Pickers Weekend - 10 & 11 September. Please contact our friendly full-time reservation team.

01580 765155 • kesr kesr.org.uk .org.uk

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Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway This attraction in Kent claims the title “World’s Smallest Public Railway”, and opened in 1927. It operates between Hythe and Dungeness via Dymchurch, St. Mary’s Bay, New Romney and Romney Sands covering a distance of 13½ miles, stopping also at Romney Warren Halt serving a Visitor Centre. The stations at New Romney, Dungeness and Hythe are all on or near the A259 trunk road which runs along the Kent and Sussex coast, Hythe station being only three miles from junction 11 of the M20.

EAST OF ENGLAND The East of England suffered more than its fair share of railway closures in the 1950s and 1960s, when whole networks such as the Midland & Great Northern Joint Railway disappeared. But this rural part of England has a growing heritage railway movement, with several lines and museums in coastal and rural locations.

North Norfolk Railway Otherwise known as the Poppy Line because of the brightly coloured flowers which line its tracks in summer, this heritage railway offers one of the most scenic steam trips in the UK. Named by The Sunday Times as Britain’s best full-size heritage railway trip, it runs from the Victorian seaside resort of Sheringham along the cliffs to Weybourne, and up through gorseand heather-studded heathland to a terminus just outside the Georgian market town of Holt.

Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway Although this is a miniature railway, some of the locomotives are modelled on full-size engines such as Flying Scotsman. They were all built in the 1920s and 1930s to a scale of 15 inches, but in all other respects this is a “real” railway providing a transport link for locals as well as visitors. One of the highlights of this year’s special events programme is the 1940s Weekend on May 8/9, which has attracted significant interest from coach operators. A Steam and Diesel Gala on October 2/3 will see all available locomotives in traffic.

“This attraction in Kent claims the title “World’s Smallest Public Railway...” What else is in the area? Romney Marsh is an attraction in its own right, including a nature reserve. The seaside towns of Rye or Folkestone make a good base for tours.

The Lavender Line The Lavender Line is part of the former Lewes to Uckfield Railway opened in 1858. It operates at weekends from the beautifully restored Isfield station in East Sussex. In the 1980s the railway passed into private hands and was sold to the current preservation society in the early 1990s. Isfield station now looks very much as it would have done in the 1920s and 30s. The track has been extensively overhauled and modified since the society took over and the line is approximately one mile long.

North Norfolk Railway - Poppy Line The three stations are superb examples of rural railway building. The diminutive Holt Station was built at Stalham on the Norfolk Broads in 1887; it has been lovingly re-erected using more than 90% of the original materials, including the magnificent woodblock floors. A replica goods shed at Holt houses the William Marriott Museum, named after the man who built the line and ran it for 40 years. Steam locomotives include a branch line engine that is 99 years old and a main line express engine from 1928. Carriages include an 86-year-old “Quad Art” wooden-bodied train which once ran in the London suburbs, and pioneered the articulated technology used on today’s Eurostars.

“Vintage lunch and dining trains run during the summer, and can be booked for private parties and corporate entertaining...” Steam trains operate every day from April 1-October 30, plus Santa Specials in December. Vintage lunch and dining trains run during the summer, and can be booked for private parties and

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corporate entertaining. Groups of 20 to 200 are catered for, with free coach parking at Holt (by prior arrangement), free refreshments for the driver and free travel for the tour manager. There is wheelchair access to most trains and level access to all stations. Allow one and a half to two hours for your visit.

East Anglia’s favourite Narrow Gauge Steam Railway

Special events during 2011 include Quad Arts week from July 3-10, Vintage Transport Festival on July 3, the Annual Beer Festival on July 15-17, and Famous Forties Weekend on September 17-18. The North Norfolk hosts special trains running via the national network, having completed a level crossing at Sheringham for occasional use. What else is in the area? The seaside resort of Cromer is nearby, and it is easily reached from Great Yarmouth, King’s Lynn and Norwich.

Bure Valley Railway The Bure Valley Railway is Norfolk’s longest fifteen-inch gauge steam railway and operates between the old market town of Aylsham and Wroxham, the “Capital of the Norfolk Broads”. It was built on the track bed of part of the former Great Eastern Railway and the nine-mile line runs through the picturesque Bure Valley countryside, following the meandering river through meadowland and ancient pastures, stopping at small country villages. A foot and cycle path also runs alongside the track.

Open all year - Free Parking - Whistlestop Café - Souvenir Shop Disabled Access - Group Discounts

Trains Running from both Aylsham and Wroxham Why not take the Broadland Boat Train and combine a journey by steam with a cruise on the beautiful Norfolk Broads

www.bvrw.co.uk

Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW

Tel 01263 733858

Bure Valley Railway The purpose-built headquarters of the line is situated in Aylsham. The buildings were erected in 1989 to a traditional railway design and house a large souvenir and model railway shop, the Whistlestop Café and a tourist information centre. The Whistlestop Café can seat up to 80 people and can provide everything from a cup of tea to a full meal. A specially priced two-course group menu is available. The railway’s workshops are also based at Aylsham and are often open to the public.

“The Whistlestop Caf can seat up to 80 people and can provide everything from a cup of tea to a full meal.”

Main Events in 2011 Days Out With Thomas June and Sept. Dining Services Sunday Lunches Sidings Buffet Car

Wizards Evening Model Railway Exhibition Vintage Vehicle and Bus Rallies Santa Trains Steam Driving Experience

The entire railway is on a single level, providing easy access for wheelchair passengers. All trains have special wheelchair accessible coaches which allow wheelchair and able bodied passengers to travel together. All coaches are fully enclosed and

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upholstered, with heating during the cooler months. Ample free parking with dedicated spaces for coaches is available at both Aylsham and Wroxham stations. Trains operate daily from the beginning of April to the end of October, with special events throughout the year. The railway also offers a very popular boat train with a journey by steam followed by a cruise on the Norfolk Broads. What else is in the area? The railway is adjacent to the Norfolk Broads, near Norwich and close to the coast, including the resort of Great Yarmouth.

Wells & Walsingham Light Railway Operating from the seaside and harbour town of Wells to the picturesque town of Walsingham, famed for centuries as a centre of pilgrimage, this is a scenic journey by narrow gauge trains. It is claimed to be the longest 10¼-inch steam railway in the world, and on the regular service you have ample time to explore Walsingham with its shops, restaurants and inns, as well as the famous shrine.

Mid-Norfolk Railway This mainly diesel operated railway runs between the Norfolk market towns of Dereham and Wymondham, and is a fairly recent addition to the heritage railway map. A Preservation Trust was established in 1995 with the aim of buying and restoring the then disused line. The rate of progress has been rapid, with a passing loop at Thuxton opened during 2010 to make possible the running of two trains at the same time.

“A representative of the railway will travel with your party in reserved carriages...” The MNR operates a full service of timetabled trains and it is possible to pre-book a group on any of these services. A representative of the railway will travel with your party in reserved carriages, and it can offer three packages for group operators. A trip on the line can be followed by a visit to Gooderstone Water Gardens, a cruise on the Rivers Wensum and Yare (from central Norwich), or a visit to Gressenhall Farm and Museum of Norfolk Life. All packages include lunch, and tea or light refreshments. At Dereham station there is a large car park which is also suitable for coaches. The car park at Wymondham Abbey is too small for coaches, but passengers can still be picked up here. What else is in the area? The attraction is close to Norwich and Thetford Forest Park.

Wells & Walsingham Light Railway Small does not mean less powerful, as trains are operated by unique purpose-built articulated Garratt steam locomotives. For the past 23 years, the service has been operated by “Norfolk Hero” during which time it has covered over 200,000 miles. This year a second similar locomotive “Norfolk Heroine” (named after Edith Cavell) enters service, together with two extra covered carriages. More capacity should increase the railway’s appeal to the group travel market, and the ever increasing number of pilgrim groups visiting the shrines at Walsingham. The railway opens on April 9 and operates a timetabled service every day of the week until October 29, with up to five round trips and a journey time each way of 30 minutes. Evening charter trains are also available by prior arrangement during most of the season.

“More capacity should increase the railway’s appeal to the group travel market...” What else is in the area? Walsingham – described as “England’s Nazareth” – has both Anglican and Roman Catholic shrines dating back nearly 1,000 years, and guided tours are available. The railway is close to Holkham Hall and at the heart of the north Norfolk coastline.

Nene Valley Railway

Nene Valley Railway Situated just outside Peterborough, it operates a 7½-mile route from Wansford station, next to the A1, to the outskirts of the city. Wansford is the main headquarters with loco depot, refreshment room and shop. Parties can easily be catered for in the Turntable Café before or after enjoying either a single or return trip, using one of several large steam locomotives.

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The original “Thomas” tank locomotive is based here, having been named by famous author the Reverend Awdry, and is regularly in steam throughout the year. The railway is open every weekend, plus Wednesdays and some other weekdays in the summer season, and there are numerous special event weekends. These range from Thomas trips for young children, vintage vehicle rallies, Rail Mail weekends (featuring a Travelling Post Office in operation), and a 1940s Gala with wartime entertainers and staged battles.

“The original ‘Thomas’ tank locomotive is based here having been named by famous author the Reverend Awdry...” Many passengers enjoy the NVR’s highly regarded Santa Specials. In 2010 it started a tie-up with nearby Sacrewell Farm, another of the area’s popular attractions, which offers cream teas as well as a trip around the farm. A London Routemaster bus ferries visitors from the NVR. What else is in the area?

Visit the longest 10¼” narrow gauge steam railway in the world and see the unique Garratt locomotive “Norfolk Hero” built specially for this line. Enjoy our timetable service from the seaside and harbour town of Wells next-the-sea to the picturesque town of Walsingham, famed for centuries as a centre of pilgrimage. Take a scenic four mile journey with five bridges as it runs through the lovely North Norfolk countryside.

- OPEN 7 days a week FROM 9th APRIL to 29th OCTOBER 2011 Visit our website for further details, fares and the daily timetables. Group & Coach Tour discounts. Evening charter trains available.

Peterborough is famed for its cathedral, and nearby are Burghley House, historic Stamford and Cambridge.

Wells & Walsingham Light Railway, Stiffkey Road, Wells next-the-sea, Norfolk, NR23 1QB Tel: 01328 711630 (8am to 5pm) www.wellswalsinghamrailway.co.uk

ALTOGETHER THERE’S MORE TONOW! SEE ON THE POPPY LINE

Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum

Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum The Mid-Suffolk Light Railway ran from Haughley Junction to the village of Laxfield, ë from nowhere to the middle of a fieldë as it was once put. It was founded in 1902 but closed in 1986, when local railway enthusiasts set up the museum. Today it has a collection of station buildings, appropriate rolling stock, exhibition rooms displaying artefacts and photographs, tea room, shop and a demonstration line on which steam trains run on event days (which is when the real ale bar is also open). The train consists solely of Victorian coaching stock with the aim being to re-create a typical country railway from the turn of the century. The museum is situated close to the A140, the main road linking Ipswich and Norwich, and the nearest town is Stowmarket. It seeks to re-create the atmosphere of this railway by staying as close as possible to the original, and has a very rural setting with views over neighbouring fields.

North Norfolk’s scenic steam railway

Magnificent views of coast and country between Sheringham and Holt Full size steam engines and 3 Victorian stations Easily accessible from Norwich, Cromer and Gt Yarmouth Discounts for groups of 20 - 200 STEA Free travel for group organiser, free refreshments T AINM for driver DAIL S -A pril 1s Free parking at Holt Station NR25 6AJ t-

Visit www.nnrailway.co.uk or call 01263 820 800

Oct 30

N O RT H N O R F O L K R A I LWAY

Sheringham Station, Norfolk NR26 8RA

LIVE STEAM – LIVING HISTORY

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What else is in the area? You are close to historic Bury St Edmunds and Newmarket, with its racecourse.

East Anglian Railway Museum In a rural part of Essex but easily reached from Colchester, this is a working museum dedicated to preserving the history of railways in the East of England. Chappel station is still part of the national system on a branch line running from Marks Tey to Sudbury, with the museum’s trains operating over a short demonstration line alongside it.

“This museum is in the heart of Constable Country and close to Roman Colchester.” The museum has a comprehensive collection of railway architecture, locomotives, carriages, wagons and ephemera, set in Constable Country adjacent to one of the largest railway viaducts in the East of England. It tells the story of railways in the Eastern counties from the 1840s through to the 21st Century and displays artefacts about local and regional railway history, and the development of both freight and passenger traffic. It offers a discount for group visits of 10 or more people, and requires advance notice of more than 20 people if they want catering or a guide. It holds regular beer and cider festivals throughout the year. What else is in the area? This museum is in the heart of Constable Country and close to Roman Colchester.

MIDLANDS If you think you know the Midlands, think again. Heavy industries of the past might once have given birth to the railways, but many of the region’s heritage lines operate through glorious countryside.

Severn Valley Railway The 70-minute steam train journey operates between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth in period carriages hauled by historic steam locomotives, with stops at the delightful “timewarp” stations of Bewdley, Arley, Highley and Hampton Loade. The River Severn is visible from the train for much of the route from Bewdley to Bridgnorth, being visible on the right side when leaving Bewdley or the left side when heading south from Bridgnorth. It has been one of Britain’s premier heritage railways for over 40 years, but until recently it did not have a museum large enough to display its many non-operational locomotives and rolling stock. This has now changed as The Engine House Visitor & Education Centre in the Shropshire countryside at Highley displays the reserve collection in a fun and interesting way. All trains stop at Highley so this is a great place to break your journey, and the views from the first floor of Buffers Café at the Engine House are beautiful. From here you can see the trains go by whilst enjoying a snack or light meal, and on a fine day the outdoor picnic area is a great place to linger. A well-stocked gift shop is also available.

Colne Valley Railway Situated near the Essex/Suffolk border close to the towns of Braintree and Sudbury, this little gem of a railway is part of a route operated by the Colne Valley & Halstead Railway, which remained independent right up to 1923 at a time when most small railways had been swallowed up. That spirit lives on, with volunteers setting up a heritage base in 1974 about ten years after closure. The operational line is short but there is always something to watch, with trains coming and going through Hedingham station. The buildings here are historic but re-assembled from their original sites, including station buildings from nearby Castle Hedingham, and a working signal-box from near Braintree. There is ample parking at Hedingham station, and a buffet in a restored carriage where groups are welcome by appointment. Pullman dining trains are also operated, including Sunday lunch and Murder Mystery evenings. Special events include a beer festival, vintage vehicle rally and the Colne Valley at War, and adjacent to the station is the Colne Valley Farm Park with many traditional and rare breeds. What else is in the area? Medieval Hedingham Castle is just a few miles away, and Clare Castle stands in a charming village of the same name.

Other Railways The Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway is in Lincolnshire, while the Lincolnshire Wolds Railway is the county’s only standard gauge heritage line.

Severn Valley Railway The Group Travel information pack for 2011 is packed with ideas for days out not just to the railway, but to other local attractions. The popular combined visits include Blists Hill open air museum at Ironbridge (a package called Victorian and Steam), while Choc and Steam with Cadbury World is a must for all chocolate lovers. Groups can also combine it with the West Midland Safari Park with its pride of white lions, which is visible from the train.

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Pre-booked groups of 15 or more adults qualify for the group discount, and coach drivers accompanying groups receive a complimentary meal and travel voucher. The Engine House has facilities for disabled visitors. What else is in the area? Apart from Blists Hill and the other museums at Ironbridge, groups can visit the West Midland Safari Park, the Black Country and Birmingham.

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway This all volunteer-run railway hit hard times in 2010 due to a landslip that closed the southern end of the line as well as Cheltenham Race Course station. Trains could only operate over a short section from its Toddington headquarters through Winchcombe, but it is hoped that work to restore the line will be completed in the first few months of 2011. June is the provisional date for re-opening to Cheltenham, and a short extension northwards towards Broadway will formally open at the same time.

LOOKING FOR A GREAT DAY OUT ?

JUDGED AS ONE OF THE TOP 50 UK ATTRACTIONS BY THE COACH DRIVERS CLUB

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway The railway has grown from nothing in 1980 to become one of the leading tourist attractions in north Gloucestershire, with steam trains running through glorious Cotswold scenery with outstanding views to the Malvern Hills and beyond to the Black Mountains of Wales. The northward extension will eventually reach the popular Cotswolds tourist village of Broadway, and in the meantime the line has been extended over a viaduct towards Laverton giving a great new experience for visitors. When the line is re-opened to Cheltenham, a round trip of about 25 miles will be on offer taking over an hour and a half. On some days, this may provide the added excitement of changing trains to experience the full splendour of the line.

Organise your next trip to the Severn Valley Railway. We can cater for coaches or groups from 15 up to 400 and generous discounts are available. Come and enjoy a nostalgic 16 mile steam-hauled train journey along the beautiful Severn Valley and visit the Engine House Visitor and Education Centre at Highley.

the line for all seasons For full information contact the Group Travel Co-ordinator on 01299 403816 email: grouptravel@svr.co.uk or write to Severn Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 1BG

www.svr.co.uk

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Views from the train are exceptional, and the railway also offers cream teas and other refreshments if pre-booked, as well as hot and cold drinks including its very own Rail Ale. Light meals can be served on board or at the Flag and Whistle tea rooms in Toddington. Groups are especially welcome on the “Friendly line in the Cotswolds” and volunteers will be happy to work with group leaders in organising days out to include a ride on the steam train to explain the history of the railway. What else is in the area? Nearby are Snowshill Manor, Stanway House and many attractive Cotswold villages such as Broadway, Stow-on-the-Wold or Bourton-on-the-Water. A shopping visit to Cheltenham Spa or Gloucester can be added.

at Quorn and Rothley are worth a look round. First class dining trains run on Saturday and Sunday lunchtimes and on Saturday evenings, called the Charnwood Forester and Master Cutler. Groups get discounts on tickets, complimentary hospitality for coach drivers, and a tour guide if required. Many special events are held throughout the year with thousands flocking to its steam and 1960s galas, with some events even during the winter months. Pre-booked parties are welcome and enjoy discounted tickets, complimentary hospitality for coach drivers and tour guides when requested. What else is in the area? The city attractions of Leicester and Nottingham are nearby, and it is close to the M1 for easy access to a wider area.

Great Central Railway

Great Central Railway (Nottingham)

The Great Central Railway won gold for the best tourism experience in the region last year, as awarded by East Midlands Tourism. It has invested heavily in upgrading passenger facilities at Loughborough Central station including a new lift to help people who use wheelchairs to reach the platform, which is welcome news for many group organisers.

The long-term aim is to create a heritage railway running from the outskirts of Leicester to the outskirts of Nottingham, but major infrastructure works are needed at Loughborough for this to happen. In the meantime, the Great Central Railway (Nottingham) offers over 10 miles of ex-main line heritage railway running through South Nottinghamshire and North-West Leicestershire with services operated by historic diesel and steam locomotives.

“The Great Central Railway won gold for the best tourism experience in the region last year...” This railway holds the distinction of being the only double track heritage line in Britain, meaning that trains can pass each other at speed rather than waiting in a siding while another train passes. Operating between Loughborough and Leicester North, it covers eight miles of the former Great Central main line once used by the express trains from Nottingham Victoria to London Marylebone, opened as late as 1899 but closed as a through route in 1966.

The railway is based at the Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre just outside the village of Ruddington in the south of Nottinghamshire. In addition to standard gauge steam and diesel trains, the centre is home to classic buses, model railways and a miniature railway. All services operate from Ruddington and serve Rushcliffe Halt at East Leake. Many services are extended through the currently disused East Leake Station to Loughborough, and although there is no station at the Loughborough end of the route, the journey offers a very picturesque ride with spectacular views of the Soar Valley. What else is in the area? The railway is just a few miles from Nottingham, with its castle and historic links with Robin Hood.

Midland Railway, Butterley This railway and museum complex in a former mining area of Derbyshire can rightly claim to be more than simply a railway attraction, as a major Country Park can also be experienced. Trains operate a round trip from Butterley station with the opportunity to see the museum and country park attractions at Swanwick Junction, and to stretch your legs at Hammersmith station after crossing a scenic reservoir. The reservoir was constructed to feed water to the Cromford Canal and is now the haunt of wildfowl, fishermen and photographers.

“...the Country Park at Swanwick has a wide variety of habitats which encourage wildlife throughout the year...” Great Central Railway Loughborough Central station has a “big station” feel with its long island platform, period features and coal fires in winter. Visitors are welcome at the locomotive depot in Loughborough where restoration work takes place, and the intermediate stations

The Midland Railway once ran from London as far north as Carlisle, and this attraction is devoted to its history. The museum at Swanwick has locomotives, carriages and other memorabilia, and many heritage steam and diesel locomotives are on display outside the museum and running shed. The separate West Shed is home of the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust which owns Princess Margaret Rose and Duchess of Sutherland, and the

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former is on permanent display along with some 21-inch gauge locomotives originally built for Butlin’s Holiday Camps. Although it covers only 35 acres, the Country Park at Swanwick has a wide variety of habitats which encourage wildlife throughout the year and a network of footpaths, ponds and marsh areas to give variety. Brittain Pit Farm is one of the most popular parts of the museum site, with a friendly atmosphere and range of animals. The “Tin Tabernacle” Victorian St. Saviour’s Church has been rescued from the railway village of Westhouses and is the latest building to be opened, as the first stage of a planned Victorian Street Scene.

Crich Tramway Village Crich Tramway Village is no ordinary day out. The village setting of lovingly restored buildings is the home of the nation’s collection of vintage trams and gives visitors the opportunity to experience the nostalgia of a time now past. Visitors are welcome to ride the trams as often as they wish but it’s hard not to be distracted by all the other activities going on. The Workshop Gallery gives you the opportunity to watch engineers close up as they go about servicing working vehicles, and carrying out restoration work on needy trams. Visit the depots and you will be able to see over 50 vintage trams from many different eras, towns and countries. Across the yard you will find the exhibition hall which tells the story of the tram, from its horse-drawn origins to the nearly silent electric vehicles working in many cities today.

“The village setting of lovingly restored buildings is the home of the nation’s collection of vintage trams...” Midland Railway, Butterley What else is in the area? Midland Railway, Butterley is close to the A38 and M1, and you can soon be in the Peak District. Chatsworth House is a popular local attraction.

The buildings that make up the village have come from all parts of the country, many demolished brick by brick before being transported to Crich and lovingly rebuilt and restored. In the heart of the village you will find the souvenir shop Scothern & Williamson and Barnett’s Traditional Sweet Shop, and should you be in need of refreshment there are also Rita’s Tearooms and the Red Lion Pub, which welcomes all members of the family whatever their age. The Woodland Walk allows visitors to stretch their legs on a trail that winds through native woodland dotted with sculptures by local artists.

Steam into the Peak District for 2011 Ecclesbourne Valley Railway Bring your coach party for something new

Close to Carsington Water for a full day tour Wirksworth Station, DE4 4FB www.e-v-r.com 01629 823076 THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

What else is in the area? Crich is on the edge of the Peak District, and easily combined with Midland Railway, Butterley or Peak Rail.

parties are offered refreshments such as afternoon teas in the first class dining car, plus free parking. What else is in the area? Matlock and the Peak District are easy to reach, and the market town of Ashbourne.

Churnet Valley Railway Despite being a relatively recent arrival on the heritage railways scene, this has grown rapidly and claims to be second only to Alton Towers as the Stoke-on-Trent area’s leading tourist attraction. It is also connected to a “new” heritage railway, Moorland and City, which operated its first trains in November 2010.

“...second only to Alton Towers as the Stoke-on-Trent area’s leading tourist attraction.” Crich Tramway Village

Peak Rail Located in the Derwent Valley, Peak Rail operates regular steam and diesel hauled passenger trains between Rowsley and Matlock Riverside, over part of the former Midland Railway line between Manchester Central and London St. Pancras which closed between Buxton and Matlock in 1968. The railway has extended its line to operate passenger services from Matlock main line station, and this will come into operation in Spring 2011.

The Churnet Valley Railway is a 5½-mile former North Staffordshire Railway line running through a surprisingly scenic part of the county. Running from the railway’s base at Kinglsey & Froghall station, the line runs through an area called “Little Switzerland” alongside the River Churnet and Caldon Canal enroute to Consall and Cheddleton stations. The journey continues through the 531-yard long Cheddleton Tunnel to Leekbrook, where the engine runs round and the train returns to Cheddleton. Eventually, it hopes to reach the market town of Leek.

Rowsley Station is the main base and set in 28 acres, on the site of the former locomotive depot. Facilities include free parking, a large buffet, ticket office, exhibition area, station master’s office and gift shop. There is also a large picnic area and a narrow gauge railway. Rowsley is the best choice for groups with ample parking for over 200 vehicles. For people with disabilities Peak Rail has a specially adapted carriage which is fully accessible for wheelchairs, and is available on all service trains. The Palatine Restaurant Car offers afternoon and cream teas throughout the summer months, seating 71. What else is in the area? The Peak District is Britain’s first National Park, with attractions including the Heights of Abraham Cable Car.

Ecclesbourne Valley Railway Also located in Derbyshire, and very close to Matlock, this is a good example of a small heritage railway trying hard to attract groups. It provides services operated by heritage diesel railcars, and in April 2011 the line is being extended from the station at Wirksworth all the way to Duffield at a cost of about £1.5 million. Following a ten-year restoration project, the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway is now a fully operational passenger railway and will offer at least four trains a day at weekends and on other operating days in the season between April and October. The initial timetable has been designed to connect with East Midlands Trains’ Nottingham to Matlock service at Duffield.

“The Ecclesbourne Valley is claimed to be one of the loveliest valleys of Derbyshire...” The Ecclesbourne Valley is claimed to be one of the loveliest valleys of Derbyshire, running southwards from the ancient Peak District town of Wirksworth. The line is very close to Carsington Water, and many coach tour visitors spend the morning at the lake before calling at Wirksworth to visit the railway. Coach

Churnet Valley Railway In the middle of the journey is the delightful stop at Consall, where passengers can alight for a stroll along the Caldon Canal and River Churnet. Within a short walk of the station is Consall Nature Reserve with its visitor centre housing a shop and natural history displays. Many walks through the sprawling woodland on the valley sides start from here, and for the less energetic there is also a pub. Kingsley & Froghall Station is home to the main tea room and enlarged souvenir shop. It is hoped to relocate the listed Whitebridge Crossing keeper’s cottage from Stone to Cheddleton Station where it will eventually be used as a new tea room.

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Group visitors are increasing, and a popular sell-out event during the summer of 2010 was the afternoon cream tea specials. Regular events for 2011 will include a 1940s weekend, Alf Tunstall Classic Bus Rally, Victorian weekend, Velocipede Rally, Classic Car and Folk Festival, Halloween Ghost Train and Santa & Steam. Throughout the year it operates Sunday lunch specials & wine and dine evenings using the Moorlander dining train. Many of these evenings are themed and have included Brief Encounter, Murder Mystery and an Elvis Tribute.

“Throughout the year it operates Sunday lunch specials and wine & dine evenings...” In November 2010, Moorland and City Railways in conjunction with the CVR re-opened the line from Leekbrook to Cauldon Low, making the total return journey 27 miles. The line from Leekbrook to Stoke-on-Trent is being assessed with the intention of running quarry traffic from Cauldon Low, but following the success of the November 2010 events, more heritage operations are likely over the steeply graded route. What else is in the area? Apart from Alton Towers you can visit Potteries attractions such as Wedgwood, and Trentham Gardens. The Peak District is also close.

More than just a Railway

Foxfield Railway

Foxfield Railway The Foxfield Railway is one of the UK’s earliest heritage railways with the preservation Society being formed in 1967 soon after closure of the line. It immediately started operating steam locomotives over the 3 mile long branch line and building up a unique collection of locomotives, rolling stock and artefacts. The Railway is in the southern Staffordshire Moorlands and has the steepest gradients on any standard gauge railway in the UK, which results in spectacular sounds and sights as locomotives climb the hills.

A great destination for groups with a train taking you to a large Museum site that includes the Railway Exhibition Hall, West Shed Experience, the Country Park, Victorian Railwayman’s Church, Demonstration Signalbox, Road Transport Display, Stationary Power Collection, Golden Valley Light Railway, Miniature and Model Railways • Special Events throughout the year. • Attractive packages available • Lunches, Afternoon Teas Contact us for more information: MIDLAND RAILWAY – BUTTERLEY Butterley Station, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3QZ

Tel. 01773 747674

Email: midland.railway@btconnect.com www.midlandrailwaycentre.co.uk

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Although the main station at Blythe Bridge (Caverswall Road) dates only from 1996, it has been designed in the style of the classic branch line termini of 100 years ago. It does, however, have the most modern of facilities and is fully accessible. The railway is staffed by volunteers so trains normally operate every Sunday and Bank Holiday Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays from Easter until Christmas. It also runs on Wednesdays in August and special trains for groups can be arranged for other times.

“In 2009, the line received an accolade when it was used as the location for the BBC’s costume drama Cranford...” In 2009, the line received an accolade when it was used as the location for the BBC’s costume drama Cranford starring Dame Judy Dench together with the line’s own “titled lady”, the locomotive Bellerophon. The Foxfield can be found six miles to the east of Stoke-on-Trent, close to the Blythe Bridge junction on the A50 and only eight miles from the M6.

NORTH WEST Some of this region’s best-known heritage railways are in the scenic Lake District, but the largest is in Lancashire as befits a once heavily industrial area. The North West gave birth to the world’s first inter-city railway, the Liverpool and Manchester, in 1830.

East Lancashire Railway You’ll get all the trimmings you would expect to find on one of Britain’s best preserved railways, including lovingly restored stations, level crossings and tunnels, not to mention stunning views across the Pennine Moors. The mainly steam-hauled service travels between the towns of Heywood, Bury, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall and operates every weekend and Bank Holidays throughout the year, with services also on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from May to September. The railway is home to several large locomotives and its steam galas are renowned.

What else is in the area? The Potteries are the main attractions, and also Alton Towers.

East Lancashire Railway Foxfield Railway

Other Railways The Chasewater Railway and Battlefield Line, in Staffordshire and Leicestershire respectively, are two other Midlands railways recalling the area’s industrial past. Barrow Hill Roundhouse, near Chesterfield, is a working locomotive depot which stages several gala events each year.

Shakespeare Express Another regular special steam-hauled train running over the national rail system, the Shakespeare Express is operated by Vintage Trains linking Birmingham with the tourist hot-spot of Stratford-upon-Avon. Trains operate on summer Sundays with both morning and afternoon departures in each direction, and a journey time of one hour. Passengers can spend around 3½ hours in Stratford by taking the morning train from Birmingham and returning in the afternoon. Standard or Premier Class are offered, with Premier Class including cooked breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea.

The line runs from Rawtenstall along the scenic Irwell Valley with views of the West Pennines, as it crosses and re-crosses the River Irwell passing over viaducts and through tunnels. As you leave Rawtenstall you get splendid views of the moors from your carriage window before arriving at Irwell Vale, a destination popular with hikers. Then it’s onward again to Ramsbottom where you can explore the Victorian town with its shops and Dickensian connections, while the more energetic can climb Peel Tower on top of Holcombe hill, a monument to Sir Robert Peel. The next stop is Summerseat, a quaint, typically British village.

“ You’ll get all the trimmings you would expect to find on one of Britain’s best preserved railways...” The largest town on the line is Bury, noted for its famous market and large shopping centre. Here you could visit the railway’s Trackside Bar and the newly restored Bury Transport Museum, open after a £3 million investment, which portrays transport history

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both road and rail in the local area. From Bury you head east to Heywood crossing the Metrolink tramway then high above the River Roch on a seven arched viaduct with dramatic views of Holcombe Hill. What else is in the area? At Rawtenstall you can visit Britain’s last Temperance Bar, and Helmshore Textile Museum with its demonstration water wheel providing a fascinating insight into Lancashire's Industrial Heritage. Bury is noted for its famous market and you are only a few miles from Manchester.

Ribble Steam Railway Situated in Preston Docks, this railway has been open to the public since 2005 and has one of the largest collections of industrial locomotives in Britain housed in a new purpose-built museum and workshop buildings with full disabled access. The museum displays are continually being updated to give visitors an inter-active experience of the many aspects of industrial railway history of the North West, and guided tours can be arranged on request.

“ 2011 events include two Steam Galas held in February and September.”

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway This is the Lake District’s oldest, longest and most scenic line. Starting life as a three-foot gauge line in 1875, it was re-gauged to its current 15 inches during World War One. Known locally as La’al Ratty, Cumbrian dialect for little, narrow way, the railway faced closure in the 1950s but 2011 sees the 50th anniversary of its rescue, the forming of a Preservation Society and the involvement of the Wakefield family of Kendal, its current owners.

“This is the Lake District’s oldest, longest and most scenic line..” The 7-mile line links the coastal village of Ravenglass with the hidden valley of Miterdale and exquisitely beautiful Eskdale, terminating at Dalegarth Visitor Centre near Scafell, part of England’s highest mountain range. Heritage steam engines, including the world’s oldest working 15-inch gauge locomotive, haul trains of open-top, open-sided and cosy covered carriages on the 40-minute journey in each direction.

Visitors can travel behind one of the restored steam engines, enjoying a three-mile return trip around the dock and along the river bank, taking in views that can only be seen from the railway. Snacks and drinks are available in the tea room with views into the main museum building. The Gift Shop carries a wide range of merchandise for all.

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

Ribble Steam Railway 2011 events include two Steam Galas held in February and September. Regular steam train operations run on Sundays in April, on Wednesdays in August and school half-terms and full weekends from May to September. Events for vintage cars, Halloween and Santa Claus also operate. What else is in the area? Preston is close to the seaside resorts of Blackpool and Southport, and also to Liverpool and Manchester.

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is an experienced player in the group travel market, and has dedicated free coach parking spaces at Ravenglass, level access to the trains, and either level or ramped access to all the facilities. For 2011 a brand new purposebuilt cafe at Ravenglass will offer both greater space and comfort, while retaining its much praised classic menu concentrating on home made delights. The Dalegarth Visitor Centre is fully equipped for all ages and abilities.

“ The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is an experienced player in the group travel market...” Apart from offering coach operators and groups particularly advantageous rates for return travel, the railway has linked up with nearby Muncaster Castle to present a further season of Steam on the Wildside. This package includes rail travel and a

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visit to meet the owls of the World Owl Trust, to enjoy the historic surroundings of a stately home with a difference. Another package, One Happy Family, is spread over two days – one on the railway and the other at the Wakefield family-owned Ullswater ‘Steamers’, cruising on England’s most beautiful lake. Prices have been frozen once more at £8 per adult for a return journey on the railway and at £11.50 per head for One Happy Family. Steam on the Wildside costs £13. What else is in the area? You’re close to the Cumbria coast as well as the Lake District, and within easy reach of north Lancashire.

Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway Established in 1973, the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is a family-run business in the heart of the Lake District. With steam trains operating daily from April 9-October 30 through the picturesque Leven Valley at the southern end of Lake Windermere, it is a must when visiting the Lakes. Connections are available with Windermere Lake Cruises so you can enjoy a scenic cruise to Bowness or Ambleside.

What else is in the area? The Lakes Aquarium, the World of Beatrix Potter, Lakeland Motor Museum and Brockhole Visitor Centre are nearby, plus of course Windermere Lake Cruises.

South Tynedale Railway This is the highest narrow-gauge railway in England, situated in the North Penines at Alston which is a place designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In 2011 it is hoping to open a new café, the Buffer Stop, on the platform at Alston, as well as an extension to Lintley which will increase the length of the line by nearly two miles. Special events include a Roman weekend in conjunction with Whitley Castle, the highest stone-built Roman fort. In December it will again be running Santa Specials.

“ Special events include a Roman weekend in conjunction with Whitley Castle, the highest stone-built Roman fort.” Trains run from Easter to the end of October, and every day from mid July to the end of August with four trains daily from 11 am. Most trains are hauled by steam. The railway runs through the South Tyne Valley with views across to Kirkhaugh, a little hamlet with a church nestling by the South Tyne river. The South Tyne Trail runs beside the railway, and long-distance footpath the Pennine Way also crosses the railway on its way to Scotland. What else is in the area? Hadrian’s Wall and the Lake District are within easy reach.

Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway Special events throughout the year including Pensioners Days, Family Fun Weekends, Witches Week, Santa Weekends and, only in 2011, Royal Wedding Day. Haverthwaite station’s restaurant serves a selection of homemade meals, and snacks and homemade scones. The new Gift Shop, opened in 2010, boasts an extensive array of gifts and souvenirs. Visitors can view the collection of lovingly restored steam and diesel locomotives in the Engine Shed. As the premier standard gauge steam railway in the Lake District, its friendly, helpful staff and top quality facilities will provide a most enjoyable experience.

South Tynedale Railway

“... friendly, helpful staff and top quality facilities will provide a most enjoyable experience.” The line operates from Haverthwaite on the A590 trunk road to the southern shore of Lake Windermere, and the 20-minute trip is operated several times a day.

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A captivating journey through the Irwell Valley with spectacular views of the West Pennine Moors CO M SO ING Rea ON!

l Tra Ale il

• • • • • • • • •

Picturesque historic towns and villages en route New interactive Bury Transport Museum Luxury steam-hauled dining trains throughout the year Award-winning annual events Café and shop Free coach parking with free travel & refreshments for coach driver Tailored itinerary planning Meet & Greet Service Big discounts for groups

Open every weekend all year and Wednesday to Friday, April to September.

Visit ww www.east-lancs-rly.co.uk www.ea w ww.east-lancs-r ww ancs rlly y..co..uk uk or call 0161 764 7790.

SOUTH TYNEDALE RAI LWAY Alston, Cumbria Northern England’s Highest Narrow-Gauge Railway

The South Tynedale Railway operates narrow gauge passenger trains along a 21⁄4 mile line in the scenic South Tyne valley between Alston, in Cumbria and Kirkhaugh, in Northumberland. Free parking and disabled access.

www.strps.org.uk SOUTH TYNEDALE RAILWAY, THE RAILWAY STATION, ALSTON, CUMBRIA CA9 3JB Tel: 01434 382828 for talking timetable or 01434 381696 for other information

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YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST Britain’s busiest heritage railway, the National Railway Museum and a museum celebrating the dawn of railways are among the highlights of this very rich and diverse region.

National Railway Museum The National Railway Museum (NRM) in York covers over 300 years of railway history and its collections include over 100 locomotives, some 250 items of rolling stock and thousands of other objects - from posters and tickets to uniforms and silverware.

steam locomotive, which it is hoped will return to service during 2011. You can watch a working turntable in action in the Great Hall, and there is a daily programme of talks, tours and demonstrations for those that want to know more about the National Collection. Admission to the museum is free, but a charge may be made for special events. Events this year include the Japan Festival from April 9-24, showcasing Japanese culture and marking ten years since the Bullet Train arrived at the NRM, and Welcome Home Flying Scotsman, on dates to be announced. The NRM will be launching a new contemporary art gallery space in 2011 featuring its unseen art collection and art works from across the world inspired by railways. The NRM’s own art collection has 7,000 posters, 3,061 prints and engravings and 1,049 paintings.

“Nostalgia seekers will love the evocative Station Hall where you can marvel at the collection of Royal Trains.” In giant halls full of trains and railway legends, visitors can get up close to a diverse range of locomotives. Jewels of the collection include the elegant, maroon liveried Duchess of Hamilton, recently restored to its original streamlined form; a replica of Stephenson’s groundbreaking Rocket, which ran on the world’s first inter-city railway in 1830; the iconic Japanese Bullet Train, Shinkansen, which is the only one of its kind outside the UK; and the imposing Chinese Locomotive, one of the largest steam engines ever built in Britain.

National Railway Museum Pre-booking a group visit is simple as this allows you to secure your coach parking space and entitles your group to special offer vouchers including 2 for 1 on the Road Train (linking the NRM with York Minster), half price on the Simulator, 10% off in the shop and a free lunch for the coach driver. What else is in the area? York’s numerous attractions are well-known, from the Minster, Castle Museum and Roman Walls to shopping in the Shambles and river cruises.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

National Railway Museum Nostalgia seekers will love the evocative Station Hall where you can marvel at the collection of Royal Trains. The opulence of Queen Victoria’s favourite carriage provides a remarkable insight into the world of Royal travel. The Warehouse is an Aladdin’s Cave of railway memorabilia, with thousands of items on open display all telling a story. It is well worth joining the Warehouse Tour to learn more. Search Engine is the state-of-the-art library and archive centre where you can browse among the books, use the research facilities or join tours to view unseen artefacts. In the conservation workshops you can watch engineers at work, maintaining and conserving locomotives, carriages and wagons – including Flying Scotsman, probably the world’s best-known

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway claims to be the world’s most popular heritage steam railway attracting around 350,000 visitors per year, and helping to inject £30 million into the local economy. Many visitors come to see Goathland station which starred in the first Harry Potter film as Hogsmeade station, and the railway has been featured on numerous occasions in ITV’s 1960s drama Heartbeat.

“...the world’s most popular heritage steam railway attracting around 350,000 visitors per year...” This year the NYMR is celebrating two major events, the 175th anniversary of completion of the Whitby and Pickering Railway, and the final phase of an extensive building programme at Pickering station. This will conclude with the unveiling of the newly reinstated roof at Pickering, bringing the station back to its 1840s glory. Both events will be the main feature of the Spring

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All aboard for a great tour.

North East’s

multi-award winn ing

No.1 Tour Destination

Six Times Winner ‘BEST UK ATTRACTION FOR GROUPS’ Discounts for groups of 15+ Plus FREE... ...coach driver hospitality ...admission for tour organiser and driver ...coach parking ...promotional literature including visitor maps

Explore 300 acres of living history, throughout the seasons and meet the people who lived and worked in the past.

0191 370 4026 bookings@beamish.org.uk

beamish.org.uk

Visit the place where railways were born! Following a £1.7m refurbishment in 2008, Head of Steam offers a unique experience to visitors of all ages, including: I I I I

Interactive displays and audio visual equipment Temporary exhibitions Themed family event days Ken Hoole Study Centre

I I I

Educational events and children’s activities Conference and event facilities Locomotion No. 1, built by railway pioneer George Stephenson

There really is something for everyone!

Head of Steam - Railway Museum, North Road Station, Darlington DL3 6ST. Tel: 01325 460532 Email: headofsteam@darlington.gov.uk Website: www.head-of-steam.co.uk

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Steam Gala. The 175th anniversary Gala from April 29-May 8 will reflect the history of railways and the Pickering to Whitby line, and will feature visiting locomotives Tornado, Rocket and Planet. Customer expectations are ever higher, and to enhance the value for money experience the railway is providing more information about marked walking and cycling trails, local landmarks, the history of the area and information of fauna and flora. It will also continue to promote its highly regarded home-made food using fresh, locally sourced seasonal products in the tearoom at Pickering Station. The dining train will also continue to feature popular menus and hold special theme nights.

“Groups usually join trains at Pickering station, and the NYMR issues comprehensive information to groups...”

Groups usually join trains at Pickering station, and the NYMR issues comprehensive information to groups including parking and bridge restrictions. Private train charter is available (weddings a speciality!), and seats can be booked on Sunday lunch dining trains. What else is in the area? Apart from Whitby, the NYMR is handily placed for combining with trips to Scarborough, Castle Howard, Ryedale and York.

Keighley & Worth Valley Railway The Railway Children is one of the best-loved films shown often on TV, and made into a play with a real steam engine that was staged at London’s Waterloo station in 2010. To see where it was filmed you should visit the wild moorland landscape of West Yorkshire’s Brontë Country, home not just to Cathy and Heathcliff of Wuthering Heights fame, but also to a scenic heritage railway connecting the busy town of Keighley with Haworth and Oxenhope.

The railway will increase the number of services to Whitby on a Friday, and will be offering customers Fish and Trip offers to promote services to this renowned North Yorkshire port and resort. It is also reaching out to the new markets of conference provision and corporate entertaining, with a new conference room on Platform 1 at Pickering and bespoke charter services. The NYMR’s core route runs across the moors from Pickering to Grosmont, offering great scenery and including the stop at Goathland which doubles as Aidensfield in Heartbeat. Many passengers get out at Goathland to view the village (a steep walk from the station), including the pub which appears as the Aidensfield Arms and Bernie Scripps’ old-fashioned garage.

Keighley & Worth Valley Railway To coincide with the 40th anniversary of the making of this classic film in 2010, the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway has produced a book which takes a behind-the-scenes look at the film through the eyes of the railway volunteers who were actually involved in its making. Learn the truth about the famous “Daddy, My Daddy!” scene and much more! The steep gradient up the Worth Valley from Keighley has been a challenge for locomotives ever since the line opened in 1867, and the few remaining woollen mills recall why the line was built. The five-mile journey offers views of windswept moors, rushing streams and stone-built villages, and most of the stations along the route are little pieces of history in themselves. North Yorkshire Moors Railway The locomotive yard can be viewed at Grosmont where many of Britain’s most famous locomotives make their home, including Sir Nigel Gresley, a sister of the record breaking Mallard. To get there from the station you take a short walk through what is claimed to be the world’s oldest railway tunnel, once used by horse-drawn carriages. The seven-mile route from Grosmont to Whitby is shared with Northern Rail’s diesel trains, and gives the NYMR a vital added dimension. The refurbished station at Whitby is close to the town centre and quayside, with the hilltop ruins of Whitby Abbey – mentioned in Bram Stoker’s original Dracula novel – making a photogenic backdrop.

“...visit the wild moorland landscape of West Yorkshire’s Brontë Country...” Keighley station, shared with Northern Rail services, has a big station feel with a long ramp down from the footbridge spanning the tracks. Oakworth has been beautifully restored to its 1905 condition, including milk churns and enamel signs, and was used in The Railway Children film. The railway has also appeared in Sherlock Holmes films, Last of the Summer Wine, Sons and Lovers, Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, Poirot, Born and Bred, The Royal, Where The Heart Is and A Touch Of Frost.

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At Oxenhope you can visit a museum where the railway’s nonoperational fleet is on display, including the Jubilee class locomotive Bahamas. Haworth has an extensive shop and viewing area for the locomotive shed, but the village’s famous steep cobbled street is a tough uphill walk from the station and best accessed by coach via one of its car parks. The Brontë Parsonage Museum is close to the village centre. What else is in the area? Apart from the Brontë attractions, you are close to the model village of Saltaire and Bradford attractions including the Media and Industrial Museums.

GRAND DAYS OUT FOR GROUPS Recapture a golden era brought to life by the story of the railways. FREE entry, coach parking and special offers for pre-booked groups. FORE NEW 1 TH F 201URN O T RE F! Y! NGAN TS! S! O

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway This railway runs for four miles between Bolton Abbey and Embsay station in the Yorkshire Dales, and recreates a section of the former Midland Railway with picturesque Holywell Halt being ideal for summer picnics. The line operates almost every weekend throughout the year, building up to a daily service from mid July to the end of August.

“Groups are welcome throughout the year by appointment...” It hosts many events during the year, including a 1940s weekend in September. Another ever-popular visitor is Santa Claus, who rides the line between mid November and Christmas. Most trains are hauled by one of the line’s collection of magnificently restored steam tank engines, although occasionally services may be operated by a heritage diesel locomotive. During the summer, in addition to the advertised steam service, vintage trains using Victorian and Edwardian carriages operate at weekends. In summer the line has gift shops open at both Embsay and Bolton Abbey stations.

Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ 0844 815 3139 www.nrm.org.uk

Steam through the unique beauty of Brontë Country

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway Embsay station has a famous railway transport bookshop. Both stations have tearooms and picnic areas, and there is ample free parking at both Bolton Abbey and Embsay. Groups are welcome throughout the year by appointment, and it may be possible to hire a special train at a reasonable cost on days when no trains are advertised. What else is in the area? The ruins of Bolton Abbey, a famous beauty spot, are a pleasant 1½-mile walk away, and the Bolton Abbey estate has large coach parks. Nearby is the attractive market town of Skipton, and joint visits can be arranged with Skipton Castle or the operators of cruises on the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

Every weekend and daily throughout the summer Richard Willock

THE KEIGHLEY & WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY PRESERVATION SOCIETY The Railway Station, Haworth, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD22 8NJ Telephone 01535 645214 www.kwvr.co.uk Keep up to date with the KWVR 24hr Info 01535 647777

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Kirklees Light Railway The picturesque village of Clayton West is home to “Yorkshire’s Great Little Steam Trains” offering visitors a seven-mile roundtrip through beautiful countryside in the attractive South Pennine foothills. The 15-inch narrow gauge railway was built on the track bed of a former British Railways branch line, and trains are hauled by four resident steam engines called Hawk, Badger, Owl and Fox.

The Middleton is just over one mile south of the centre of Leeds, and is a working museum where many of the locomotives are used to haul trains. Your visit will be enhanced by new facilities including shop, refreshments, toilet facilities and full access for the disabled. Trains carry only about 100 passengers, so group organisers should make enquiries beforehand.

Middleton Railway Kirklees Light Railway Trains run every weekend throughout the year, and daily during school holidays, with steam galas in spring and autumn. There are picnic areas at both Clayton West and Shelley stations, as well as a large coach park, café and shop at Clayton West. The railway is close to Junctions 38 and 39 of the M1.

What else is in the area? Other attractions of an industrial nature nearby are the Thwaite Mills museum, with two working water wheels, and Armley Mills Industrial museum, one of the largest textile mill museums in the world.

What else is in the area?

Beamish - The Living Museum of the North

You are close to Holmfirth, the village made famous by Last of the Summer Wine, and also the Peak District.

At Beamish you can step back into a time when the telephone was less than mobile and television was just a twinkle in a Scotsman’s eye, when your living room was your bathroom and your toilet was out in the cold. The past is brought vividly to life at Beamish, and railways and working trams are very much part of its appeal.

Middleton Railway The Middleton Railway in Leeds was first established by Act of Parliament in 1758, when it was a horse-drawn tramway. It claims to be the first standard gauge railway to be run entirely by volunteers, preserved after abandonment by the National Coal Board in 1960, and has continued that way ever since. Supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2005, the railway has now become an Accredited Museum with a magnificent new Engine House.

“The Middleton is just over one mile south of the centre of Leeds...” You can now enjoy learning how the oldest working railway in the world has progressed over the years, through moving coal in 1812 when the first ever revenue earning steam locomotives were introduced, to the present day when you can travel in former miners’ coaches. As well as many interesting artefacts and displays, the Engine House holds part of the Leeds Collection of locomotives, both steam and diesel, built in the city.

“The past is brought vividly to life at Beamish, and railways and working trams are very much part of its appeal.” Take your group around 300 acres of living history and meet people who lived and worked in the past. Talk to the dentist, school teacher, miners, farmers, engine drivers and a pitman’s wife, and relax in between with a ride on one of the splendid restored trams and replica buses. Beamish has much to offer groups and is ideal for day trips or inclusion in tour itineraries. There are no increases in group rates for 2011 and admission charges have been held since 2005, but developments continue. A real, coal-fired Fish & Chip Shop serving delicious meals for everyone to enjoy is opening early in the summer of 2011.

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History is presented in two periods – the 1820s (when the world’s first steam railways began to develop in the North East), and 1913, just before the First World War. Apart from the trams and buses, you can visit the Town’s railway station, a typical country station as it would have been in 1913 with signal box dating from 1896. The station was first built in 1867 and came from Rowley, near Consett. Then visit the 1820s Pockerley Waggonway to see replicas of pioneering steam engines Elephant and Locomotion and take a ride in open-top wagons, just like on the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825.

Take a step back in time A steam train adventure through the stunning North York Moors Visit us at www.nymr.co.uk Call us on 01751 472508

it us at www.nymr.co.uk

A long since expatriated steam locomotive will be making a transatlantic journey in spring 2011 to its new home at Beamish. Dunrobin, an 0-4-4T steam locomotive, was built in 1895 for the Duke of Sutherland and exported to Canada in 1965, but will take pride of place working at the museum’s Victorian station. Throughout the year there are special events at Beamish, all at no extra charge. Enjoy The Great North Steam Fair from April 1417 with visiting locomotives adding to the museum’s collection of steam vehicles. Power from the Past, from September 1-4, is a major display of working vehicles, from cycles and motorcycles to road rollers and traction engines. A whole season of Christmas festivities, from November 19 until January 3, 2012 is when the Town and Colliery Village will take on a festive feel. Period decorations from the early 1900s and traditional entertainment are featured and, at weekends, Father Christmas in his grotto and skating on a real ice rink in the Pit Village.

Special Events for 2011 include: Q ‘Spring Steam Gala’ – 29-30 April and 1, 2, 6, 7, 8 May Q ‘Sixties Weekend’ – 11-12 June

Q ‘Vintage Vehicle Weekend’ – 9-10 July Q ‘Railway in Wartime’ – 14-16 October

Beamish With so much to see and do at Beamish, it’s no wonder that the museum has been voted Best UK Attraction for Group Visits – Long Visit six times since 2000. What else is in the area? All the historic attractions of Durham are within easy reach, as are Newcastle’s shopping, theatre and nightlife.

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Tanfield Railway This offers a six-mile return trip along the track bed of a horsedrawn waggonway dating from 1725, which makes it the world’s oldest railway. Passengers have been carried for over 30 years by steam trains using vintage carriages, normally on Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays throughout the year, as well as Wednesdays and Thursdays in the school summer holidays. On operating days groups can hire a carriage on a service train, or even a complete train before regular services start running. On non-operating days, a complete train can also be hired. The railway is ideal for groups requiring a short steam train ride and makes a great finale to a week or short break in the North East. Andrews House Station was voted the North East’s No.1 Picnic site in 2009, and a café and shop are also located here. It is located on the A6076 road at Old Marley Hill, between Stanley and Sunniside, near Gateshead, only 15 minutes’ drive from the A1 (M).

It has preserved 22 miles of the former line from Northallerton to Garsdale that opened to passengers in 1878, and is actively working to restore the full length of the line. You can take the historic diesel trains to Redmire and then visit Bolton Castle, the last place of internment of Mary Queen of Scots, or Aysgarth Falls in the heart of the National Park. Continue by coach to the famed market town of Hawes with its creamery, rope works, quaint streets and shops. Trains call at the lovely market towns of Bedale and Leyburn en route, making the Wensleydale Railway a great day out.

What else is in the area? Gateshead’s Metro Centre and all the attractions of Newcastle are just a few miles away.

Weardale Railway 2010 was an eventful year for the Weardale Railway which reopened services from Stanhope to Bishop Auckland which are used by local people as well as tourists, connecting here with Northern Rail’s service to Darlington and beyond. In 2011 it expects further developments including carrying coal, and is in discussions about building new stations at Witton le Wear and Witton Park. Re-introduction of a more regular heritage steam service is also planned, with the possibility of offering buffet service and a First Class option.

“This is a railway with big ambitions, and looks set to soon become a popular group attraction...” This is a railway with big ambitions which looks set to soon become a popular group attraction in rural County Durham. The heritage service, by steam or diesel trains, operates between Stanhope and Wolsingham – a journey taking 25 minutes oneway or a 1½-hour round trip. It eventually plans to re-open 18 miles of line from Eastgate to Bishop Auckland and if plans to use the railway to carry coal go ahead, this would be a “first” for a heritage line. The line was originally built by the Stockton & Darlington Railway in 1847, to transport limestone to the ironworks of Teesside. Carrying coal would therefore mean a return to its industrial traditions, but for tourists it offers a scenic ride through the wild dales scenery of the rural North East. What else is in the area? Durham and the Yorkshire Dales are close by, and also Barnard Castle.

Wensleydale Railway The Wensleydale Railway is an authentic heritage railway which also serves the local community, offering a great value day out in the Yorkshire Dales as it runs for 16 miles through “Herriot Country” between Leeming Bar and Redmire (for Bolton Castle) in North Yorkshire. Here you can experience the scenic Yorkshire Dales, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Wensleydale Railway Suggested itineraries for groups include a 12-mile one-way trip between Leeming Bar and Leyburn that takes 40 minutes with refreshments served at your seats, and the full 17-mile trip to Redmire taking about 1¼ hours. Trains are operated by diesel railcars offering great views from all seats and also of the line ahead (or behind!) from seats in the end sections. There is an on-board buffet on certain services. What else is in the area? Apart from the Wensleydale attractions mentioned above (including cheese, of course!), you are close to Georgian Richmond, Ripon and Harrogate.

Darlington Railway Museum The Head of Steam, Darlington Railway Museum is housed within the original North Road Station built in 1842 and very evocative of the Victorian era. Visitors can venture back in time and see Stephenson’s Locomotion Number One, built in 1825 for the opening of the Stockton & Darlington, the world’s first steam worked public railway. Explore the display of locally-built engines including Derwent, the earliest surviving Darlington-built locomotive. Discover the Booking Office where time has stood still for over 168 years, and journey through exhibition galleries to find out why Darlington was the birthplace of the railways. A range of smaller items including station and lineside signs, uniforms, furniture, tableware and paintings, complement the larger exhibits. The entrance hall and ticket office are restored in period style, enhanced by displays of items such as porters’ barrows, luggage, posters and advertising signs. What else is in the area? Darlington is within easy reach of the Yorkshire Dales and Durham.

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ISLE OF MAN

centre in its own right. Places of interest within walking distance of Castletown station include Castle Rushen and “The Peggy” nautical museum.

Set in the heart of the Irish sea off the north-west coast of England lies Britain’s best kept secret - the Isle of Man. The island developed a thriving tourism industry and much of the Victorian infrastructure remains, including one of the largest functioning networks of steam and electric railways.

The Isle of Man is renowned for its railway-themed special events, and for 2011 these include Rush Hour on the Railways, from Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th April, with three days of additional services, unique combinations, special events and photo opportunities. The Manx Heritage Transport Festival from Wednesday 27th to Sunday 31st July is a five-day celebration of historic transport on the island.

The island is home to the longest operating tramway in the British Isles, the Manx Electric Railway, which includes many unique and rare vehicles such as Tram Car No.1, recognised in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest working tram still in operation. The Manx Electric Railway dates back to 1873 and runs for over 17 miles from Douglas through Groudle, Laxey and Maughold to Ramsey, a journey that takes 75 minutes (or 30 minutes from Douglas to Laxey). It hugs the island’s east coast as you pass through leafy glens, gorse-topped hills and spectacular coastal scenery, winding your way northwards.

Manx Electric Railway The Isle of Man Steam Railway will operate from Saturday 12th March to Sunday 6th November; the Manx Electric Railway from Saturday 19th March to Sunday 6th November; and the Snaefell Mountain Railway from Saturday 16th April to Sunday 2nd October. Designated coach parking is available near most main stations, and group discount bookings of 25% are available for groups of 20 or more. Isle of Man Steam Railway Laxey is the starting point of the Snaefell Mountain Railway, a Victorian enterprise which climbs up above 2,000 feet to the top of Snaefell, the island’s only mountain. Built in 1895, it is a major feat of engineering and the only electric railway of its kind in the British Isles, with a gauge of 3 ft 6 in and a steep incline of 1 in 12. You should allow at least one hour for a return trip and always dress warmly, as it can be windy and cold even on sunny days. At the top enjoy breathtaking views, refreshments and sunset dinners in the Summit Hotel Cafe.

What else is in the area? The island’s many other attractions include Victorian Douglas with its horse-drawn trams, the Manx Museum, Laxey Wheel and House of Manannan exploring the Viking and Celtic past.

“The island developed a thriving tourism industry and much of the Victorian infrastructure remains...” Opened in 1874, the narrow-gauge Isle of Man Steam Railway still runs with its original locomotives and carriages, through an ever-changing landscape from Douglas to a choice of destinations in the south of the island. The journey from the old Victorian Station in Douglas takes about 60 minutes, with lovely views of farmland and the distant Irish Sea. It runs for approximately 15.5 miles from Douglas through Castletown, Ballasalla and Port St Mary before reaching its terminus at Port Erin, a major tourist

Snaefell Mountain Railway

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WALES With the Welsh Highland Railway opening to passengers right through to Porthmadog this year, another new chapter in the story of Welsh heritage railways is written. Completion of Britain’s most impressive restoration project comes in the same year as another Welsh railway celebrates its 60th anniversary as a heritage route – a world “first”.

Talyllyn Railway The Talyllyn Railway’s celebrations on May 14/15 are not just another gala event, but a major milestone for the heritage railway movement. When volunteers re-opened the line in 1951 it became the world’s first heritage railway, and the 60th anniversary is a time to celebrate the success of heritage railways generally.

“Groups are especially welcome and most of the carriages are enclosed...”

narrow gauge for lower costs and greater adhesion, especially in mountainous areas. The museum includes the study of Reverend Awdry (1911-1997), author of the Thomas the Tank Engine books, who was inspired to write them when he became a regular visitor to the Talyllyn. Many special events are planned during 2011, including the anniversary gala on May 14/15, when Dolgoch will return to steam after restoration. An all-night steam event on June 4/5 is another highlight, and the Victorian Train will operate every Thursday from June 9 to July 14 and on Thursdays in September. Fish and Chip trains run on Fridays in peak season and a Murder Mystery Evening is planned on August 2. Groups are especially welcome and most of the carriages are enclosed, with opening windows and comfortable seats. Although Tywyn is not on the main coach touring routes, a visit here is highly recommended and it is easy to reach from the main touring centres. What else is in the area? The market town of Machynlleth can be easily reached, and the resorts of Aberystwyth and Barmouth.

This narrow gauge railway running into the hills from Tywyn, on the Cambrian Coast north of Aberystwyth, was once part of an extensive network of lines used to transport slate over steeply graded routes. It operates from the port of Tywyn to Dolgoch, Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol, passing through deeply rural scenery of sheep pastures, grazing cattle and oak woods. Passengers ride in vintage trains including the original Victorian carriages which operate on special occasions, behind historic steam locomotives including Dolgoch, which operated the first train in 1866 and returns to service this year. The Talyllyn reconnects visitors with nature and red kites may be seen among the native wildlife around Dolgoch Waterfalls and the tree-lined Nant Gwernol ravine.

Ffestiniog Railway

Ffestiniog Railway With sister operation the Welsh Highland Railway now completed to Porthmadog, this links up with the Ffestiniog to create 40 miles of narrow gauge steam railway running from Blaenau Ffestiniog all the way to Caernarfon. But passengers continue to ride on each line separately. The Ffestiniog claims the distinction of being the world’s oldest independent railway, being founded in 1832. The railway was built as a gravity and horse-drawn line to transport slate from quarries in the mountains around Blaenau Ffestiniog. Many of its original engines - including the world’s oldest locomotive still operating on its original line - are still in regular use, and it is also a centre of engineering excellence having constructed steam locomotives during three centuries with the newest, called Lyd, being completed in 2010. Talyllyn Railway Start the experience with a meal in the bistro at Tywyn Harbour station (also open for evening meals), before touring the Narrow Gauge Museum (free for passengers) spread over two floors. This tells the story of how railway builders around the world chose

The Ffestiniog route from Porthmadog Harbour crosses a causeway called The Cob, which it shares with the A487 trunk road. The Cob celebrates its bicentenary this year as it was constructed in 1811 as part of a road from London to the Llyn peninsula and a proposed ferry port for Dublin, which never became a reality.

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The line then climbs from sea level, clinging to the hillside of the Vale of Ffestiniog and offering great views of rivers, lakes, ancient oak woodland and waterfalls. Rural Tan-y-Bwlch offers woodland walks for people of all abilities, along with a cosy café. After Penrhyn the line climbs steeply with views over a reservoir, before doubling back on itself before passing through open scenery. At journey’s end, the dramatic landscape of North Wales’ slate capital of Blaenau Ffestiniog offers a fascinating insight into an industry that once exported its produce throughout the world. Many groups join at Blaenau as it is close to Llandudno with its many hotels, and a tour of Llechwedd Slate Caverns in the town is usually included.

“The Ffestiniog claims the distinction of being the world’s oldest independent railway, being founded in 1832.” The Ffestiniog may be narrow gauge but feels like a “big” railway, with some trains of at least 10 carriages. All trains feature at-seat service for tea, coffee, drinks and snacks. For smaller groups, individual carriages can be hired and charter trains can also be provided.

• Refreshments • Picnic sites Room for coach turning and parking at Llanuwchllyn

BALA LAKE RAILWAY

What else is in the area? The world-famous fantasy village of Portmeirion is a short walk from Minffordd station on the Ffestiniog Railway. Llanberis (for Snowdon) and the resorts of Barmouth and Pwllheli are within easy reach.

The Station, Llanuwchllyn

01678 540666

www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk Llanberis Lake Railway Steam trains in the Heart of Snowdonia 1971 1971 -- 2011 2011 Celebrating Celebrating 40 40 years years of of service service

• • • • • •

vintage steam trains one hour trips café, gift shop and toilets disabled facilities FREE coach parking excellent driver facilities

Welsh Highland Railway

Welsh Highland Railway Trains will run into Porthmadog Harbour station for the first time in 2011, but this will be a very limited service. Details had not been finalised at the time of writing, but the first train out of Porthmadog Harbour in the morning will probably run to Caernarfon with the last train from Caernarfon running through to the Harbour. Welsh Highland trains have to cross the busy A487 trunk road to access the station, so the southern terminus for most trains will continue to be Pont Croesor, a location with plenty of parking just outside Porthmadog.

For group rates We are open and reservations most days Easter Call us on to October, (01286) 870549 daily June to August. Padarn Park, Also open during Llanberis. LL55 4TY February/ March, and Turkey & www.lake-railway.co.uk Tinsel trips in November

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The railway cost £28 million to complete and is due to be opened officially on April 20, having been completed in stages southwards from Caernarfon over a period of 14 years. The original railway opened in 1881, but did not reach Porthmadog until 1923 and closed in 1936, having been a financial disaster. It now boasts the UK’s only standard gauge/narrow gauge level crossing where the WHR passes over the national system main line from Machynlleth to Pwllheli.

What else is in the area? Caernarfon is a major historic centre, conveniently placed for Snowdon, the regional centre of Bangor, and the island of Anglesey.

Welsh Highland Heritage Railway This is a separate organisation to the Welsh Highland Railway and also based in Porthmadog, operating a short length of line and museum. The museum explains how Porthmadog showed the world that smaller trains could be as successful as the larger versions. Visitors are only on the train for part of their visit, as the train takes you for a short trip though the countryside before stopping at the Engine Sheds and interactive museum, where you can climb on board the engines and see how things work.

Snowdon Mountain Railway There are only two ways of reaching the summit of Snowdon – by walking, or on the Snowdon Mountain Railway! This is a highly popular railway with most trains full to capacity, with up to 27 round trips every day in peak season carrying nearly 1,400 passengers each day. Groups are encouraged to travel outside peak season, with more attractive fares on offer from March until mid-July and from late September until the end of October.

Welsh Highland Railway It is the most ambitious heritage railway restoration project for many years, which has involved rebuilding of the 25-mile line running from beneath the castle walls in Caernarfon to Porthmadog. The scenic highlight is when the train passes through the Aberglaslyn Pass, voted the UK’s most beautiful spot by members of the National Trust. The contrasting views from the railway, from high above the fast flowing river of the Aberglaslyn Pass to the tranquil farmland just a few metres above sea level, are dramatic. The panoramic views from the flatlands are superb, the railway being surrounded on three sides by the mountains of Snowdonia and the ancient sea cliffs of the Glaslyn estuary. Passengers also enjoy magnificent views of Snowdon and delightful villages such as Beddgelert, home of the legendary “faithful hound”.

“The WHR crosses the full width of the Snowdonia National Park...” The WHR crosses the full width of the Snowdonia National Park using the most comfortable narrow gauge carriages in the UK, with at-seat buffet service and on-train toilets. Heritage and luxurious first class Pullman carriages include a magnificent observation car built in the company’s own workshops in 2009, and you can also ride in open-sided carriages where you really feel close to nature as you follow the twists and turns of the line. The views of the National Park are second to none, as the railway runs high above the road offering a spectacle unavailable from a coach. As with the Ffestiniog, you feel you are riding on a “big” railway with very powerful locomotives in charge, including some that were built to tackle steep gradients in South Africa. Many groups join at the walled town of Caernarfon, where the station is close to the medieval castle, and do either a round trip or one-way trip to Pont Croesor from here.

Snowdon Mountain Railway This is a fully commercial operation, unlike most heritage railways which are wholly or mainly run by volunteers. Trains depart from a busy terminus in Llanberis and are propelled up the mountain by either steam or diesel locomotives, the main attraction being the scenery rather than the trains. Each train has only one carriage so that locomotives can cope with the steep incline, using a “rack” system rather than simply relying on adhesion. On the one-hour trip to the summit you listen to a recorded commentary and soon climb above the tree line, passing alongside the walking routes through a desolate landscape of rock and scree. Even on a hot summer’s day the weather can be dramatically different at the summit, which at 3,560ft (1,085m) makes Snowdon the highest mountain in Wales. Winds can be fierce, and on some days – usually off-season – trains do not proceed all the way up. Most visitors spend 30 minutes at the summit, with time for a short but steep walk to the very top. The Snowdon Summit Visitor Centre, Hafod Eryri, opened in 2009 and provides a welcoming environment whatever the weather. Designed to complement the landscape, this landmark

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SUPERB SCENERY • COMFORTABLE CARRIAGES • ON-TRAIN TOILETS AND BUFFET SERVICE THE FFESTINIOG RAILWAY - starts beside Porthmadog’s harbour and runs 13½ miles through the Snowdonia National Park to Blaenau Ffestiniog, with its famous slate caverns, just a few miles from Betws-y-Coed. This historic line - the world’s oldest independent railway company, with unique steam locomotives - has provided a quality experience to visitors for more than fifty years. Spooner’s Café/Bar and our gift shops also add to your visit... THE WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAY - North Wales’ Newest Railway, starts from the historic walled town of Caernarfon, and provides spectacular views of the magnificent scenery as it twists and turns through one of the

more ‘off the beaten track’ areas of Snowdonia. Trains climb, then descend, 650ft round dramatic horseshoe bends as they cross the slopes of Snowdon on a 22-mile journey, via Beddgelert and the magnificent Aberglaslyn Pass, to Pont Croesor - just three miles from Porthmadog town. During 2011, some train services will be extended to run the full 25-miles to/from Porthmadog... WE OFFER YOU A CHOICE of two distinctive narrow-gauge railways with a wide range of journey options and destinations to suit tour operators and group travel organisers alike. Our experienced staff are very happy to supply further information, advice and help with itinerary suggestions.

FFESTINIOG & WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAYS, HARBOUR STATION, PORTHMADOG, LL49 9NF E-mail: groups@festrail.co.uk Phone: 01766 516024 Website: www.festrail.co.uk

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2011 Edition

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building “grows out” of the mountain and features spectacular panoramic windows giving travellers unimpaired views across the Snowdonia range and the Irish Sea. Welsh Oak is used for the interior, where visitors can enjoy teas and snacks including a “Welsh Oggy” pastie.

“The Snowdon Summit Visitor Centre, Hafod Eryri, opened in 2009 and provides a welcoming environment whatever the weather.”

the cabs are removed in hot weather! The return trip takes about one hour, and the operating season has been extended so that trains now run from mid-February to late November, and daily from late May until late August.

Bala Lake Railway Occupying the trackbed of the former Ruabon to Barmouth line of the Great Western Railway, this narrow gauge line operates between the peaceful village of Llanuwchllyn and the market town of Bala. Opened as a narrow gauge railway in 1972, it is one of the youngest of the narrow gauge railways but uses steam locomotives over 100 years old.

Trains depart from Llanberis every 30 minutes between 09.30 and 14.00, and up to 17.30 on busy days in summer. A free audio visual presentation, “To the Summit of Snowdon”, is offered in a 72-seat theatre, and the station also has a café and gift shop. A large car and coach park is opposite the station. What else is in the area? Llanberis is a major touring centre, close to Caernarfon, Bangor and the Conwy valley resort of Betws-y-Coed. It is only about 45 minutes from the large resort of Llandudno.

Llanberis Lake Railway Situated just a few minutes’ walk from the Snowdon Mountain Railway station, this little railway offers a very scenic trip along Lake Padarn. Although it was only built in 1970-71, it can trace its history back to the 1820s when the need arose to transport slate from the quarry at Dinorwic near Llanberis to the port at Felinheli on the Menai Strait.

Bala Lake Railway The railway uses the original standard gauge station buildings and signal box, and while there have been considerable changes, the character of the buildings remains. It has all the charm of an old-fashioned narrow gauge railway, priding itself on its friendly volunteers who welcome passengers on an almost individual basis. Its base is just off the A494 in the village of Llanuwchllyn, where there is parking and a café/gift shop. From Llanuwchllyn the line descends to almost lake level and is never far from the lakeside. Picnic sites at Llangower provide the perfect spot for a break in the journey.

“It has all the charm of an old-fashioned narrow gauge railway, priding itself on its friendly volunteers...” Llanberis Lake Railway This year it celebrates its 40th anniversary, with special events planned for July. The five-mile round trip from Llanberis to Penllyn hugs the lake shore for most of its length, the main station being at Gilfach Ddu on the edge of Llanberis where free coach parking is available at the entrance to Padarn Country Park. The original quarry workshops at Gilfach Ddu have been reborn as the Welsh Slate Museum, and the Old Quarry Hospital Museum can also be visited. One of the curiosities of this line is that the diminutive steam locomotives have only a driver and no fireman, and sometimes

What else is in the area? The railway is in the Snowdonia National Park, easily reached from the touring centres of Llangollen and Dolgellau.

Great Orme Tramway Britain’s only cable-hauled street tramway uses four original Victorian tramcars named after saints to offer fantastic views of Llandudno’s sweeping bays and the Great Orme itself, a site of specific scientific interest. St Tudno (which gave the town its name), St Stilio, St Seiriol and St Trillo were also names formerly carried by the North Wales coastal steamers.

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On the one-mile journey to the summit of the Great Orme Country Park and Nature Reserve, views stretch as far as the Isle of Man on a clear day. Back in the early 1900s, the Great Orme Tramway didn’t just carry passengers but was used for transporting goods, parcels and even coffins to the Halfway Station for burial in St. Tudno’s churchyard.

“On the one-mile journey to the summit of the Great Orme Country Park and Nature Reserve, views stretch as far as the Isle of Man on a clear day.” What else is in the area? Llandudno has all the attractions of a traditional seaside resort, while close by are Conwy Castle, the Conwy Valley and other resorts including Colwyn Bay.

Llangollen Railway The Vale of Llangollen is home not just to the premier standard gauge steam railway in Wales, but also to a World Heritage site that complements it perfectly. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct at Trevor and the associated canal network from Weston Rhyn through to the Horseshoe Falls reflect the pre-eminence of inland waterways before the railway age – now both are central to the leisure and tourism industries.

Llangollen Railway The Llangollen Railway operates through the highly scenic Dee Valley to the current terminus at Carrog, with plans to extend in the coming years to the pretty town of Corwen. This makes an ideal add-on for coach parties to Llangollen who can make a oneway trip by the heritage railway, usually steam powered but possibly by diesel railcar in the off peak, or the complete return trip. The railway journey gives views of the dramatic setting of the River Dee not otherwise available from the local roads, notably the A5. The line remains close to the river for most of its length, crossing via the Dee Bridge approximately one mile upstream. All along the route it offers lovely scenery, running past sheep pastures and pheasant-filled fields with great views of the mountains. The railway’s aim to extend to Corwen was boosted when a Transport & Works Order was granted in August 2010. However, the project is subject to grant aid from the Welsh Assembly Government and is now seen as being completed in

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two phases. The first phase will allow for a temporary platform on the outskirts of Corwen with a shuttle service from Carrog. The second phase will include a terminus nearer to the town, which will be used by all trains from Llangollen. Both phases will allow the Llangollen Railway to access a different sector of the North Wales tourist market. A large car park at Corwen will enhance facilities for coach parties, but not until 2012 at the earliest, and subject to raising matched funds for grant aid of £500,000. The distance from Llangollen to Carrog is 7½ miles, with Corwen being two miles further along the A5 road. Because of access problems at Llangollen, coach drivers can use Carrog as their starting point. Groups can pre-book an escorted tour of the workshops at Llangollen, where a Grange class locomotive – none of which survived the scrap man – is being built from scratch to a 65-year-old design. Entire trains may be chartered for exclusive use with either steam or diesel power, and an Edwardian Auto Train with GWR Pannier tank engine is also available. What else is in the area? A train trip can be combined with boat trips on the Llangollen Canal from Llangollen Wharf. The Llangollen Canal, including Pontcysyllte aqueduct, received World Heritage status in 2009. The Vale of Llangollen, Dee Valley and Chester are close.

Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway Imagine trundling along a rural branch line on open verandah carriages, as the train stops for the crew to open level crossing gates or to shoo stray sheep off the line. This may sound like the Australian Outback, but in fact this is rural Wales.

the Powis Estate, guinea fowl, pheasant and deer can be seen and a wide variety of wild flowers. From the open verandahs of its unusual Hungarian and Austrian carriages you will see the beautiful mid-Wales countryside roll slowly by as you travel into the delightful Banwy Valley. Your train will be hauled by a historic steam locomotive such as The Earl and The Countess, supplied new to the railway in 1902. It takes a leisurely 50 minutes to cover the eight-mile journey, with the fireman leaving the engine at level crossings to guard the train’s passage with a red flag. Llanfair Caereinion is the western terminus and headquarters, and here the visitor can see the locomotive works and engine shed. There is always a member of staff on hand to answer questions, and also a buffet.

“The Welsh Marches border country is very scenic, and Shrewsbury is brimming with history...” The passenger service commenced in April 1963, and the W&L was only the second stretch of line previously owned by British Railways to be taken over and operated by a preservation company (the first being the Bluebell Railway in Sussex). What else is in the area? The Welsh Marches border country is very scenic, and Shrewsbury is brimming with history and interesting shops. The railway is easily visited en route to the coast.

Gwili Steam Railway Situated three miles north of Carmarthen on the A484, this standard gauge railway is a living reminder of a Great Western Railway branch line in South Wales. It was voted one of Carmarthenshire’s Top Attractions in 2009. The first train ran at Easter 1978 and since then it has developed into one of the principal tourist attractions in the area. The trip down memory lane starts at Bronwydd Arms Station, and the train follows the route originally taken by the Carmarthen to Aberystwyth line to a delightful halt at Danycoed. Special events include Sunday lunch trains, evening dining trains with live music, Murder Mystery and cabaret evenings. A round trip takes approximately one hour with a stop at Llwyfan Cerrig on the return, a delightful picnic site alongside the river with abundant wildlife. Visitors can inspect the preserved Travelling Post Office before taking a trip on the Miniature Railway. What else is in the area? Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway Wildlife is very much part of the appeal of this line in central Wales, which even has its “own” resident heron as well as lots of pheasants. It is easy to reach, located just across the border less than 20 miles beyond the A5 dual carriageway at Shrewsbury. It offers ample parking for coaches at both ends of the eight-mile route, with many coach operators dropping off at Welshpool Raven Square for passengers to enjoy a 50-minute train ride to Llanfair Caereinion. The route parallels the busy A458 trunk road, but runs through a valley below as it negotiates farm tracks and then runs alongside a river. Soon after leaving Welshpool, it negotiates a viaduct and river bridge, climbs steep gradients and steams serenely through beautiful countryside. As the train runs through

Carmarthen is just off the A40 trunk road leading into southwest Wales, close to the National Botanic Garden and within easy reach of the resort of Tenby.

Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway You can now travel directly to the Big Pit coal mining museum by steam train – an appropriate way to travel bearing in mind that the prosperity and major industries of South Wales all depended on King Coal. The new branch to Big Pit is operated by the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway, which operates within the Blaenavon World Heritage Site and offers a 45-minute round trip from its base at Furnace Sidings just outside Blaenavon to Blaenavon and the Whistle Inn.

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The return journey from Blaenavon High Level Station features fearsome gradients which really make the locomotives work. New for 2011 is the branch from Furnace Sidings to Big Pit, allowing passengers to take the train right to the doorstep of the National Mining Museum of Wales. The railway’s main facilities and car park are located at Furnace Sidings, whilst Blaenavon High Level is very convenient for the Heritage Town. Furnace Sidings is an excellent base to explore as other attractions are close by including Cordell Museum in Blaenavon, and the ironworks made famous by the BBC Coal House series.

“You can now travel directly to the Big Pit coal mining museum by steam train...” The railway runs from April until October with a mix of steam and heritage diesel services, and holds a variety of events throughout the season. These include: June 25, Blaenavon World Heritage Day; July 9/10, 1940s Weekend; August 28/29, Annual Transport Rally; and September 16-18, Autumn Steam Gala - “Industrial Steam of South Wales” guests, plus home fleet.

SCOTLAND Scotland remains one of the most popular touring destinations in Britain, so why not build a steam railway into your next tour? Although there are only a few heritage lines in Scotland, they are easily combined with some of the country’s top attractions and you can also book groups on the longest established and most regular steam service in Britain passing over the national network.

Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway Easy to reach from both Edinburgh and Glasgow – and the motorway network of central Scotland – this is also home to the Scottish Railway Exhibition and the Scottish Railway Preservation Society, which runs main line excursions. It is close to the M9 and less than an hour from either city or from Stirling, Perth and Dundee.

What else is in the area? Apart from the National Mining Museum of Wales where you can actually descend to the coal face, you are close to the Brecon Beacons.

Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway

Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway

West Coast Railways – the Cambrian West Coast – operator of the long-established Jacobite tourist train in the Scottish Highlands – also operates a regular steamhauled train over the national rail system along the west coast of Wales. The Cambrian runs from the market town of Machynlleth to either Porthmadog or the seaside resort of Pwllheli, offering a day out along one of the most scenic stretches of coast in the Principality. The Cambrian passes over the famous Barmouth Bridge. In 2011 the service will run from 25th July - 29th August (Monday Friday).

The railway’s main base is at Bo’ness, a once thriving port on the banks of the Forth. The train travels along the shore of the River Forth with views of the majestic Ochil hills, before it climbs a tree-lined gradient passing beautiful woods, wild flowers and waterfalls and arrives at Birkhill. Watch out for wildlife in the rural surroundings of the line, as the woodlands are a pleasant contrast to the open foreshore and many wild animals can be seen, including squirrels and deer. As the train leaves the woods and turns inland it crosses the route of the Roman Antonine Wall.

“At Bo’ness visit the Scottish Railway Exhibition, a museum dedicated to Scotland’s railways...” Alight at Birkhill to experience the Fireclay Mine or take a stroll in the ancient woodlands of the Avon Gorge. Beyond Birkhill, travel on the newly opened section of line across the River Avon viaduct to Manuel, beside the main Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line. This stretch of line opened in 2010, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the volunteers who run the railway.

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At Bo’ness visit the Scottish Railway Exhibition, a museum dedicated to Scotland’s railways. Have a go at operating a railway signal and points, climb aboard and get close to historic locomotives, and take the time to sort some letters in the Travelling Post Office. Allow at least one hour to visit the Scottish Railway Exhibition, for a comprehensive explanation of the role railways played in developing heavy industries as well as connecting the Lowlands and Highlands. It showcases locomotives, carriages and wagons, as well as models and displays that tell the history of railways in two purpose-built exhibition halls. What else is in the area? With Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling nearby, you’re spoilt for choice. You’re also very close to the Falkirk Wheel with its dramatic boat lift, and the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots at Linlithgow Palace.

base (a separate entrance on the opposite side from the ScotRail station), where there is also a gift shop and toilets. What else is in the area? Around Aviemore you will find numerous attractions including the Cairngorm Funicular Railway, for spectacular views. Distilleries within easy reach of Grantown-on-Spey include Cragganmore, Glenfarclas and Cardhu.

Keith & Dufftown Railway North-east Scotland is one of the hidden tourist gems of the UK, a rarely visited area redolent with history and renowned for the friendly welcome given to visitors. It’s a land of mountain and glen, open moorland, deep forests, lochs and rolling farmlands; dotted with castles, cut by fast flowing rivers and home to half the distilleries in Scotland.

Strathspey Railway The longest established heritage railway attraction in the Highlands is right in the heart of the region’s tourism at Aviemore, close to the Cairngorm Mountains and just off the A9 trunk road linking Perth and Inverness. Trains share Aviemore station with ScotRail services, running in a north-easterly direction towards Speyside.

Strathspey Railway It operates over nearly 10 miles of the former Highland Railway line from Aviemore to Broomhill, via the pretty station at Boat of Garten where services commenced in 1978. The Strathspey Railway has been used for filming Monarch of the Glen, with Broomhill doubling as Glenbogle Station, Dr Finlay’s Casebook and the BBC’s Street Doctor series. Visitors enjoy a nostalgic train ride in restored carriages usually hauled by a steam locomotive, with Caledonian Railway no. 828, turned out in a highly attractive deep blue livery, having returned to service in 2010. Plans to extend the line to Grantown-on-Spey are now well developed with fund raising continuing. The Strathspey Railway Charitable Trust is a separate company which acts as the promoter, fund-raiser and constructor of the extension to Grantown-on-Spey, in the heart of Scotch malt whisky country. A bridge has been donated by Network Rail and delivered to Boat of Garten, for the crossing of the River Dulnain. Most trains have buffet services, and dining trains with a full three-course menu operate on two evenings a week in the summer, plus Sunday lunch (the Highlander and the Clansman). There is plenty of free coach parking at the railway’s Aviemore

Keith & Dufftown Railway Hidden away in the hills of the old Scottish County of Banffshire and taking advantage of this enchanting landscape is the Keith & Dufftown Railway, the volunteer-run “Whisky Line” where you can enjoy the scenery and wildlife from its comfortable diesel trains that evoke the quiet nostalgia of the 1960s branch line. Relive those days as you enjoy a 22-mile round trip between the old market town of Keith and the malt whisky capital, Dufftown. The line’s Diesel Multiple Units date from the 1960s and offer great views including out of the front and back of the train.

“You can combine your train ride with a visit to one of the local distilleries or castles.” The “Buffer Stop” restaurant at Dufftown Station provides morning coffee, light lunches and afternoon teas, all freshly prepared on the premises. The restaurant car is fully licensed so you can enjoy a glass of wine or a dram with your lunch. Car and coach parking is available at all stations and there are disabled facilities and wheelchair access to Dufftown and Keith Town stations, and wheelchair access to the “Buffer Stop” restaurant and on most trains. You can combine your train ride with a visit to one of the local distilleries or castles. Group bookings and coach parties are welcome, and charter trains are available on days when no public service is running. Special arrangements and distillery visits are organised during the Spring and Autumn Whisky Festivals.

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What else is in the area? Apart from distilleries (such as Glenfiddich and Strathisla), there are numerous castles including Craigellachie and Drummuir. Keith is a pleasant market town and regional centre.

Isle of Mull Railway Please note that this a short narrow-gauge line linking the ferry terminal at Craignure with Torosay Castle closed at the end of the 2010 season, and is no longer operational. Despite extension of its lease by two years, the proposed sale of the Torosay Castle Estate and closure of the castle to the public negates the purpose of the line. It may be re-constructed in future on a completely different site.

The paddle steamer Waverley Here’s something completely different – powered by steam, but not a heritage railway. Operated by Waverley Excursions, it sails on day, afternoon and evening cruises from a wide variety of ports in Britain including its home base of Scotland.

KEITH & DUFFTOWN RAILWAY Experience Malt Whisky Country by Train Open Easter to the end of September Saturday & Sundays plus Fridays in Jun, Jul & Aug. Special events and Whisky Festival trains. 22 mile return journey takes 90 minutes. Enjoy wooded hills and valleys, lochs and castles and the rolling countryside of Banff in our heritage DMU’s. Group bookings at special rates are welcome on all services. Charters trains are available throughout the year. The Buffer Stop Restaurant at Dufftown Station is open between 10am and 4pm on operating days, freshly prepared refreshments and light meals. Special arrangements can be made for small parties or charters. For further details visit our website at

w w w .k e it h - d u f f t o w n - r a ilw a y .c o .u k or call Rod Furr on 01340 821181(summer weekends)

The Waverley The 2011 season includes Easter sailings from April 22-May 3 from Glasgow to a wide choice of west coast ports, including very scenic voyages to Campbeltown on the Mull of Kintyre, Islay, Oban, Mull, Fort William, Skye, Mallaig and Kyle of Lochalsh. In July and August the Waverley will return to its base on the Clyde for a series of cruises “Doon the Watter” to explore the islands of Arran and Bute.

“The 2011 season includes Easter sailings from April 22-May 3 from Glasgow to a wide choice of west coast ports...” The Waverley also operates from many ports in England during the summer season. In the Bristol Channel you can visit seaside resorts, charming harbour towns, World Heritage coastlines or cruise under famous bridges. Sail along the Jurassic South Coast and round the Isle of Wight, or along the River Thames.

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Built in 1946 for the London and North Eastern Railway, the Waverley has been joined by a second historic ship, the Balmoral, which operates some cruises in the Bristol Channel. In November 2010 the Balmoral won £50,000 from ITV’s People’s Millions programme to restore the lounge.

West Coast Railways - The Jacobite West Coast is the largest operator of steam-hauled special trains on the national railway system including the most regular steam excursion of all, The Jacobite. The 42-mile journey between Fort William (depart 10.20) and Mallaig (arrive 12.25) in the Scottish Highlands is very scenic, being part of the West Highland line and passing over the famous 21-arch concrete Glenfinnan Viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films.

IRELAND The Irish rail network of today is a pale shadow of what it was until the 1950s, when mass closures of unprofitable lines wiped out most cross-country routes. At one time it had over 500 miles of narrow gauge railways, all now closed – but the spirit of the past is kept alive at several narrow gauge and full-sized attractions on both sides of the border. The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI) is the only provider of mainline steam hauled trains in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The RPSI has built an enviable collection of 10 steam locomotives, a growing collection of preserved diesel locomotives and more than 40 railway carriages since its inception in 1964. For over 40 years it has developed Ireland’s only steam locomotive restoration base in Whitehead, County Antrim, a centre of engineering excellence, which it opens for tours on selected summer Sundays or by appointment. A full programme of mainline steam trains from Dublin and Belfast is available from www.steamtrainsireland.com. Highlights in 2011 will include a Heritage Weekend of enthusiast oriented steam and diesel excursions from Dublin; family steam trains at Easter, Halloween and Christmas; mid-summer excursions from Dublin; the Steam and Jazz trains from Belfast; and the late-summer Portrush Flyer.

West Coast Railways – The Jacobite For 2011 it operates daily on Mondays to Fridays from May 16 to October 28, and also on Saturdays and Sundays from June 25 to August 28. The route offers wonderful views down Loch Shiel, where Bonnie Prince Charlie rallied the clans in 1745, and you also catch glimpses of the villages of Lochailort, Arisaig and Morar, plus the Small Isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck and Canna. The southern tip of Skye is visible as the train passes Arisaig before arrival at Mallaig, a ferry port for the Isle of Skye. Here passengers have over an hour and a half to take in the atmosphere before returning at 14.10 (arriving Fort William at 16.20). There’s time to view the fishing port or enjoy fish and chips, and one-way tickets can be booked for groups continuing to Armadale on Skye by Caledonian MacBrayne ferry.

“West Coast is the largest operator of steam-hauled special trains on the national railway system...” West Coast also operates regular steam-hauled excursions south of the border, including the Cambrian (Machynlleth to Porthmadog and Pwllheli in Wales), and the Scarborough Spa Express from York to Scarborough.

“The RPSI has built an enviable collection of 10 steam locomotives, a growing collection of preserved diesel locomotives and more than 40 railway carriages since its inception in 1964.” 2011 will see the return to steam of the UK’s only inside-cylinder mogul, ex Dublin and South Eastern Railway Beyer Peacock No.461 following a major overhaul. No.461 will augment 1879 vintage Sharp Stewart J15 0-6-0 tender locomotive No.186, the oldest mainline steam locomotive in action in the British Isles. Although the mainline carriage fleets in Belfast and Dublin date from the 1950s and 1960s, work also continues on the RPSI’s vintage carriage fleets in Dublin and Whitehead. 2011 will see the return to traffic of ex-Midland Railway corridor 1st/3rd No.68, augmenting former Ulster Transport Authority Dining Car No.87 which returned to traffic last year. Both carriages are used, along with HRA C&W award winning brake van No.81 on demonstration steam trains at Whitehead open days. With easy access via air and sea, RPSI excursions are uniquely famous for a warm Irish welcome, on board Guinness and a chance to savour Ireland’s finest scenery from a lovingly restored steam train. Visit us and sample the broad gauge.

Downpatrick & County Down Railway This is Ireland’s only full-sized heritage railway, the gauge in Ireland being 5 ft 3 in – a few inches wider than in Britain. Built on the trackbed of part of the Belfast and County Down Railway, which ran to Newcastle, the old line was closed and abandoned nearly 60 years ago but more than two miles of track have now been re-laid.

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Steam locomotives from the 1920s and 1930s, or diesels from the 1960s, convey their passengers in 50- to 100-year-old carriages past rebuilt railway buildings and into the County Down countryside. Trains operate from Downpatrick to the terminus at Inch Abbey, crossing the River Quoile on its way to the peaceful remains of the 12th Century monastery. In 2010 the railway and the Environment and Heritage Service teamed up to provide something special for visitors – a living-history “monk” who greeted passengers and provided them with a talk about the ruins of the abbey. It is hoped that the monk will return this year! The railway runs through the beautiful countryside of the Downpatrick Marshes, with totally different aspects at each season of the year. The best views of Downpatrick Cathedral are from the railway, and St Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, is reputed to be buried beside it. From mid-June until mid-September trains run on Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm till 5pm, when travellers may enjoy the comfort and experience of rail travel at its most traditional. What else is in the area? The Down County Museum, St Patrick Centre and Quoile Countryside Centre are all nearby.

Ulster Folk & Transport Museum At this leading attraction just outside Belfast the past truly comes alive – you can touch it, smell it and even taste it in the streets, houses and villages of an Ulster from centuries gone by. The Irish Railway Collection is part of a very extensive site and is effectively the national railway museum of Ireland, with exhibits from both sides of the border.

Most of the folk museum is outdoors, set in 60 rolling acres overlooking Belfast Lough. Buildings taken from their original locations across Ulster have been painstakingly re-erected, in very picturesque locations. There are whitewashed cottages with thatched roofs, stone farmhouses, churches, a school, a forge, a corn mill and many other buildings you would associate with rural Ulster life.

“At this leading attraction just outside Belfast the past truly comes alive...” What else is in the area? You are only a few miles from Belfast, with its excellent museums, shopping and nightlife.

Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum All railways disappeared from rural County Fermanagh more than half a century ago, but the past is kept alive at a barber’s shop with a “rail” difference in the county town of Enniskillen. The unusual association between the barber’s shop and the Irish railway theme was inspired through the family's interest in local railway history, and it now has one of the largest collections of Irish railway memorabilia on display. The journey starts at the reconstructed Railway Booking Office where the ticket collector invites you to step on board and enjoy the nostalgia, social heritage and artifacts associated with the railways which operated throughout Fermanagh and the Border Counties until their closure in 1957.

Ulster Folk & Transport Museum It tells the story of over 150 years of railway history, the earliest exhibit being a carriage from Ireland’s first line, the Dublin and Kingstown Railway. The star attraction is Maedb, the largest and most powerful steam locomotive to be built and run in Ireland, which hauled expresses on the Dublin to Cork route. Ireland’s many narrow gauge railways are also covered, including exhibits from the once extensive County Donegal system. The Road Transport Galleries feature horse drawn carriages, electric trams, shiny red double-decker buses, fire-engines, motorbikes, vintage cars and sports cars… even that troubled icon of the Irish motor industry, a De Lorean sports car. There are also exhibits devoted to aviation and shipbuilding, including Titanic.

Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum The exhibition lovingly recreates working environments such as the Station Master’s Office, Station Booking Office and Railway Signal Box, while showcasing uniforms, signalling instruments, signs, lamps, tableware, timetables, tickets and photographs from three railway companies – The Great Northern Railway (Ireland), The Sligo Leitrim & Northern Counties Railway, and The Clogher Valley Railway. What else is in the area? Enniskillen Castle Museums and the Waterbus to Devenish Island are in town, and nearby are Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre and National Trust Properties at Castle Coole, Florence Court and Crom.

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Giant’s Causeway & Bushmills Railway Providing a link between the historic town of Bushmills and the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway World Heritage Site, the railway has been built to the Irish narrow gauge of 3 ft and runs for two miles along the trackbed of the former Giant’s Causeway Tram. The locomotives and rolling stock were once used at defunct Shane’s Castle Railway near Belfast, and in 2010 a specially built diesel locomotive and three new carriages carrying up to 90 passengers entered service.

“Apart from the Causeway itself, visit Bushmills Distillery (Ireland’s oldest, from 1608) and the attractions of the Antrim coast.” The new locomotive and carriages have been designed to recreate the passenger experience of the original electric tram, providing a nostalgic journey linking Bushmills to Northern Ireland’s most famous tourist attraction. What else is in the area? Apart from the Causeway itself, visit Bushmills Distillery (Ireland’s oldest, from 1608) and the attractions of the Antrim coast.

The railway runs through scenery full of tradition, myth and folklore, and alongside the clear waters of Loch Finn. Donegal once had 200 miles of narrow gauge railway operated by the County Donegal and Londonderry & Lough Swilly railway companies, and this line brings a little of that atmosphere back to life. What else is in the area? The railway is within easy reach of Donegal Town (where Donegal Railway Centre operates a museum) and the rugged west coast.

Waterford and Suir Valley Railway A heritage narrow gauge railway running along a few miles of the abandoned Waterford-Dungarvan line from Kilmeadan in south-east Ireland, this allows visitors to experience the beauty of the Suir Valley. You take in panoramic views of the river, rolling farmland and mountains as you run along the banks of the River Suir with views of Mount Congreve Gardens, and a recently discovered Viking settlement. The rolling stock includes a restored Simplex locomotive, which had an arduous working life in the peat industry and was also used in excavating the Channel Tunnel. It now pulls two partially open carriages travelling at 15km per hour and can accommodate up to 90 passengers, with a journey time of approximately 40 minutes. What else is in the area?

The Lartigue Monorailway & Museum This is a unique form of rail travel – a highly unusual short line and museum in Listowel, County Kerry which is not a conventional railway, but a system built in the Victorian era when engineers were trying out all kinds of innovations to link rural communities at low cost. The original steam-powered monorail (designed by Frenchman Charles Lartigue) ran for nine miles between Listowel and the seaside resort of Ballybunion. Operating from 1886 to 1924, it carried passengers, livestock and freight along a rail supported on A-shaped trestles. During its lifetime it was an object of much interest, curiosity and amusement. Nowadays, visitors can take a short journey on a full-scale diesel-powered replica of the original monorail, and visit the museum to watch a film of the original Lartigue and see models, displays and memorabilia of the Lartigue and main-line railways.

“This is a unique form of rail travel – a highly unusual short ` line and museum in Listowel, County Kerry...”

Mount Congreve is one of Ireland’s finest stately homes. Waterford is famed for its crystal.

Other Railways Ireland has several other small, mainly narrow gauge heritage railway attractions. These include the Cavan and Leitrim, Tralee & Dingle and West Clare Railways, and the home base of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland at Whitehead, near Larne in County Antrim.

What else is in the area? Listowel is a picturesque small market town in north Kerry in the south-west of Ireland. Also visit the Kerry Writers Museum, Listowel Castle and nearby attractions including the Foynes Flying Boat Museum.

Fintown Railway This is the only operational railway in County Donegal. Set amidst spectacular scenery overlooking Lough Finn, the threemile line is a restored section of the County Donegal Railway whose steam or petrol-driven trains once carried passengers and their livestock on meandering journeys to town and market until road transport took over.

Ulster Folk & Transport Museum

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APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Avon Valley Railway Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6HD Tel: 0117 932 5538 • Fax: 0117 932 5935 E: info@avonvalleyrailway.org W: www.avonvalleyrailway.org Main periods of operation: Steam trains operate Sundays from Easter to end of October, plus Bank Holidays, Tuesdays to Thursdays during school holidays and Wednesdays in June and July. Diesel services operate on some Saturdays.

Groups of 25+: Adult - £9.20, Child - £4.00, Senior Citizen - £8.40 Groups of 10-24: Adult - £10.35, Child - £4.50, Senior Citizen - £9.45 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: Lunches, Cream Teas etc. Please contact us to discuss your individual requirements.

Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway

Principal Group Rates: 50p discount per ticket

Union Street, Bo’ness, West Lothian EH51 9AQ Tel: 01506 825855 • Fax: 01506 828766 E: office@srps.org.uk W: www.srps.org.uk

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 60

Contact name for Group Bookings: Margaret Haynes

Catering available for Groups: Cream Teas, snacks, lunches (pre booking essential)

Main periods of operation: Weekends 2 April - 30 October, most days in July & August

Conference Facilities available: (5 – 40 person capacity): Catering provided. Mobile & static facilities.

Coach parking facility: Plenty of free parking for both cars and coaches

Coach parking facility: Available on station forecourt

Bala Lake Railway

Principal Group Rates: Discount of 10% for groups of 12-39 paying passengers, 20% for groups of 40 or more (excludes some special event days)

The Station, Llanuwchllyn, Gwynedd LL23 7DD Tel: 01678 540666 E: balalake@btconnect.com W: www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 12 Max: 300

Contact name for Group Bookings: Roger or Bobby Hine

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre

Main periods of operation: Easter to end September except some Mondays & Fridays

Catering available for Groups: The Station Coffee Shop at Bo’ness offers a range of catering from teas, coffees & home baking to full meals.

Principal Group Rates: £4.40 single, £7 return

Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Nr Aylesbury HP22 4BY Tel: 01296 655720 • Fax: 01296 658569 E: office@bucksrailcentre.org W: www.bucksrailcentre.org

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 100

Contact name for Group Bookings: Group Booking Organiser

Catering available for Groups: Cold filled rolls, tea, coffee, cakes. Café seats 48 maximum.

Main periods of operation: Easter to end October with steam trains on Sundays, Bank Holiday Mondays and Weds in school hols. Full events programme listed on website

Bluebell Railway

Coach parking facility: space for 10 coaches in main car park close to entrance

Coach parking facility: At Llanuchllyn, roadside at Bala

Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex TN22 3QL Tel: 01825 720800 • Fax: 01825 720804 E: info@bluebell-railway.co.uk W: www.bluebell-railway.com Contact name for Group Bookings: Customer Services Main periods of operation: Every weekend & daily May-October. Some dates require advance booking. Coach parking facility: At Sheffield Park Station Principal Group Rates: £10.00 Adults or £5.00 Children; Groups 10+; If booking 3+ dates: £9 Adults £4.50 Children Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: none Catering available for Groups: Licensed restaurant at Sheffield Park Station.

Principal Group Rates: 10% reduction for groups of 15 and 20% reduction for groups of 25 or more Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: Everything from just a coffee stop to full roast meal available by prior arrangement. Hot meals & snacks as part of daily operation.

Bure Valley Railway Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW Tel: 01263 733858 • Fax: 01263 733814 E: info@bvrw.co.uk W: www.bvrw.co.uk

Bodmin & Wenford Railway

Contact name for Group Bookings: Judith Harvey

Bodmin General Station, Lostwithiel Road, Bodmin, Cornwall PL31 1AQ Tel: 0845 125 9678 • Fax: 01208 77963 E: enquiries@bodminandwenfordrailway.co.uk W: www.bodminandwenfordrailway.co.uk

Coach parking facility: Dedicated free coach parking at both Aylsham & Wroxham Stations

Contact name for Group Bookings: Rachael Wilson or Richard Jones Main periods of operation: Selected dates January-May, daily 21 May9 October 2011, selected dates October-December Coach parking facility: FREE parking available for coaches at Bodmin General Station Principal Group Rates: Freedom of the Line (All Day Rover) Ticket

Main periods of operation: Daily 2 April – 30 October 2011

Principal Group Rates: Single Train: £7.50 Adults £4.50 Children (516), Return Train: £11.00 Adults £6 Children (5-16), Single Train & Cruise: £13.50 Adults £9.50 Children (5-16), Return Train & Cruise: £16.50 Adults £11 Children (5-16) Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: 80-seater cafe at Aylsham Station which is open daily and serves a wide range of hot & cold snacks, drinks & full meals. In addition, a special 2-course group lunch is available by prior arrangement.

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway Station Approach, Station Road, Chinnor, Oxon OX39 4ER Tel: 07979 055366 E: Enquiries@chinnorrailway.co.uk W: www.chinnorrailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Don Williams Main periods of operation: Open some Saturdays, every Sunday and Bank Holiday from 20th March until 30th October (Halloween). Train Times 10.15, 11.45, 1.15, 2.45 and 4.15. Saturdays and Sundays during December for Santa and Mince Pie Specials.

Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company Queen’s Park Station, Torbay Road, Paignton, Devon TQ4 6AF Tel: 01803 555 872 • Fax: 01803 664 313 E: bookings@dsrrb.co.uk W: www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Sarah Roach Main periods of operation: April - October. Santa Specials in December.

Coach parking facility: Yes - Maximum 1 coach per train

Coach parking facility: No coach park but two minutes away from multi-storey car park

Principal Group Rates: 10% discount 8-15 and 20% discount 16+

Principal Group Rates: Please call for a timetable or visit our website

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 8 Max: 144

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 300

Catering available for Groups: On-board catering for 44 passengers in RMB coach.

Catering available for Groups: Cafe at Paignton & Kingswear.

Churnet Valley Railway Kingsley & Froghall Station, Staffordshire Moorlands ST10 2HA Tel: 01538 750755 Fax: 01538 758496 E: enquiries@churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk W: www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Admin Office

Dean Forest Railway Company Limited Forest Road, Lydney, Gloucestershire GL15 4ET Tel: 01594 845840 E: Enquires through DFR website W: www.dfr.co.uk Contact name for group bookings: Mrs Lynne Wentworth

Main periods of operation: Weekends April – end September. Every Wed, July & August, plus all Bank Holiday Mondays

Main periods of operation: March to early November & December for Santa Specials

Coach parking facility: Cheddleton Station & Froghall

Coach parking facility: Large FREE car & coach park at Norchard station on the B4234 just north of Lydney.

Principal Group Rates: 10% discount when pre-booked Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: By arrangement on trains & stations.

Colne Valley Railway Yeldham Road, Castle Hedingham, Essex CO9 3DZ Tel: 01787 461174 Fax: 01787 462254 E: info@colnevalleyrailway.co.uk W: www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Evan Bailey Main periods of operation: April to October Coach parking facility: Yes Principal Group Rates: Contact railway for information Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15 Catering available for Groups: Max 60 Sidings Buffet (railway carriage hence max no.)

Principal Group Rates: 15% discount offered for groups of 20 or more. The discount applies to reductions on standard rate fares which apply to normal running days. We DO NOT give group discounts on special days, i.e. DOWT and Santa Specials. Refer to the DFR website for days of operation & timings or see the 2011 publicity brochure. Standard Fares for 2011 season: Adults £11.00. Senior Citizens £10.00. Children, five & above, £5.00. Special event day reductions are subject to negotiation before the day of the visit. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Payment: A deposit is required, but full payment can be made on the day BUT before travel, for all members of the group. Catering available for Groups: Light buffet facilities are available, which offer Light Lunches, Salads, Sandwiches, Cakes, Hot Pasties, Potatoes, Soup, Hot & Cold drinks and Ice creams. When booking, to assist catering requirements, please indicate the number of persons who may require use of these facilities. Coach drivers can opt to receive a free return trip on the railway or a redeemable £5 voucher for use in the buffet on the day of the visit.

Crich Tramway Village National Tramway Museum

Didcot Railway Centre

Crich, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 5DP Tel: 01773 854321 • Fax: 01773 854320 E: enquiry@tramway.co.uk W: www.tramway.co.uk

Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 7NJ Tel: 01235 817200 • Fax: 01235 510621 E: info@didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk W: www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk

Contact name for Group Bookings: Laura Greaves

Contact name for Group Bookings: Michael Bodsworth

Main periods of operation: April to October

Main periods of operation: Daily from 29 May to 12 September

Coach parking facility: Free - close to entrance

Coach parking facility: nearby

Principal Group Rates: Adult - £9, Senior - £8, Child - £5 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10

Principal Group Rates: Admission depends upon events etc: Adult £5 - £10, Child £4 - £10 and Seniors £4.50 - £9

Catering available for Groups: Booked in advance.

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Catering available for Groups: Luncheon, tea & refreshments available at Centre and on special trains by arrangement. Conference Facilities available: (15 – 100 person capacity) Catering provided. Great Western Steam train with special salons (max. 50).

East Anglian Railway Museum

Ecclesbourne Valley Railway Wirksworth Station, Station Road, Wirksworth, Derbyshire DE4 4FB Tel: 01629 823076 E: wirksworth_station@wyvernrail.co.uk W: www.e-v-r.com Contact name for Group Bookings: Anton Shone

Chappel Station, Colchester, Essex CO6 2DS Tel: 01206 242524 • Fax: 01787 224473 E: information@ earm.co.uk W: www.earm.co.uk

Main periods of operation: mid April to end of October

Contact name for Group Bookings: Karen Nelson

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min:10.

Main periods of operation: All year except Christmas Day & Boxing Day

Catering available for Groups: Lunches & Afternoon teas available for up to 80 covers in air conditioned former Gatwick Express coaches.

Coach parking facility: At front of station

Conference Facilities available: (2 – 20 person capacity): Catering provided in Buffet Car or in room.

Principal Group Rates: £3.60 Adult, £3.15 Senior, £1.80 Child Steam days: £7.20 Adult, £6.30 Senior, £3.60 Child Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 100 Catering available for Groups: By prior arrangement only. Light meals, drinks, ice creams.

East Lancashire Railway Bolton Street Station, Bury, Lancashire BL9 0EY Tel: 0161 764 7790 (10am – 4pm) • Fax: 0161 763 4408 E: admin@east-lancs-rly.co.uk W: www.east-lancs-rly.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Passenger Services Manager Main periods of operation: Weekends throughout the year, and Wednesday to Friday between April & September. Please see our website for further details Coach parking facility: Drop off and pick-up points in front of stations and weekend coach parking available if advised in advance. Principal Group Rates: Various discounts available for groups, depending on size of party. Please contact our Passenger Services Manager for further details. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10

Coach parking facility: Ample free parking at Wirksworth Station Principal Group Rates: All line £9.00 Adult; £5.00 Child

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway Bolton Abbey Station, Bolton Abbey, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 6AF Tel: 01756 710614 • Fax: 01756 710720 W: www.embsayboltonabbeyrailway.org.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Stephen Walker Main periods of operation: All Year Coach parking facility: Ample - up to 30 spaces at Bolton Abbey Station Principal Group Rates: Adult £7.60 Return / £5 Single Concession £7 Return/£4 Single Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Catering available for Groups: 2 Cafes plus Buffet Cars Conference Facilities available (70/80 person capacity): Catering provided and special Wine & Dine Service available.

Exbury Gardens Railway

Catering available for Groups: Catering available on train or in our restaurant by prior arrangement. Ranges from small buffets to full dining packages.

The Estate Office, Exbury, Southampton, Hants SO45 1AZ Tel: 023 8089 1203 • Fax: 023 8089 9940 E: nigel.philpott@exbury.co.uk W: www.exbury.co.uk

East Somerset Railway

Contact name for Group Bookings: Nigel Philpott, Commercial & Marketing Manager

Cranmore Railway Station, Cranmore, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4QP Tel: 01749 880417 E: info@eastsomersetrailway.com W: www.eastsomersetrailway.com

Main periods of operation: 19 March - 6 November 2011 Gardens open at 10am Coach parking facility: Free parking for up to x 50 coaches, hard-standing

Main periods of operation: Weekends April-September plus selected weekdays in summer

Principal Group Rates: £8 per person for Gardens; £3 per person for Steam Railway, if booked in advance. Groups constitute 15 or more persons. Gardens entrance required to purchase railway tickets. Special offer 19 March - 5 June - Pay Gardens and Railway entrance and receive a FREE return ticket for autumn colours between 1 Sept - 21 Oct.

Coach parking facility: Yes

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min:15

Principal Group Rates: Group Adult rate: £7.50 Group Concession rate: £6.50 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20

Catering available for Groups: Group lunches available – visit Exbury website for full details. “Railwayman’s Package” also available – see Exbury Group Organiser Manual for info

Catering available for Groups: Whistlestop Café or on-train catering (selected dates, pre-booking required).

Conference Facilities available: (20 – 100 person capacity) Catering provided.

Contact name for Group Bookings: Group Bookings Co-ordinator Chris Brown

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Ffestiniog Railway

Great Central Railway

Harbour Station, Porthmadog, Gwynedd LL49 9NF Tel: 01766 516024 • Fax: 01766 516005 E: groups@festrail.co.uk W: www.festrail.co.uk

Great Central Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire Tel: 01509 230726 • Fax: 01509 239 791 E: sales@gcrailway.co.uk W: www.gcrailway.co.uk

Contact name for Group Bookings: Samantha Hughes

Contact name for Group Bookings: Booking Office

Main periods of operation: Daily 27 March – 30 October 2011. Winter timetable has a limited service but runs most weeks.

Main periods of operation: Weekends throughout the year: selected weekdays during the summer. Also special events.

Coach parking facility: Coach parking available at Porthmadog Harbour Station, Blaenau Ffestiniog (Council)

Coach parking facility: On-street parking at Loughborough; car park at Quorn (weekends)

Principal Group Rates: Porthmadog – Blaenau Ffestiniog Single – Adult £7.75, Concession £7.75, Child £3.90

Principal Group Rates: 10% reduction on groups of 15 or over. Coach drivers & guides travel for free.

Return – Adult £15.50, Concession £13.95, Child £7.80

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 100

Catering available for Groups: Snacks, Griddle Car (all-day breakfasts, afternoon teas etc) through to luxury dining services.

Catering available for Groups: At seat buffet service, pre-booked catering for groups available either on train or at station restaurant.

Great Orme Tramway Foxfield Railway Caverswall Road, Blythe Bridge ST11 9BG Postal Address: PO Box 1967, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 8YT Tel:01782 396210 / 07983 950 237 E: enquiries@foxfieldrailway.co.uk W: www.foxfieldrailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Richard Barnett Main periods of operation: Easter to October and December Coach parking facility: Tarmaced carpark for 6 coaches Principal Group Rates: POA, substantial discounts on our 'turn up and go fares' Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 25 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: On-site cafe provides home cooked meals & desserts to suit requirements. Conference Facilities available (12 – 36 person capacity): Catering provided. Details on request.

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway The Station, Toddington, Gloucestershire GL54 5DT Tel: 01242 621405 E: grouptravel@gwsr.com W: www.gwsr.com Contact name for Group Bookings: Colin Fewell Main periods of operation: Open April-December – every Sat, Sun, Bank Hols & selected weekdays during school holidays.

c/o Conwy County Borough Council, Library Buildings, Mostyn Street, Llandudno LL30 2RP Tel: 01492 879306 • Fax: 01492 574040 E: tramwayenquiries@conwy.gov.uk W: www.greatormetramway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Susan Kent/Julie Jones Main periods of operation: 26th March - October 31st 10am to 6pm daily (5pm during March & October) Coach parking facility: Dedicated coach parks within the town, drop off point at Prince Edward Square near the Pier Principal Group Rates: £5.80 for adults, with a 10% discount for groups of 10 or more, each tram car takes 48 people Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10

Gwili Steam Railway The Railway Station, Bronwydd Arms, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire SA33 6HT Tel: 01267 238213 E: dllg80@tiscali.co.uk W: www.gwili-railway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Jeremy John Main periods of operation: Open daily between 4th April and 31st October 2011. “Thomas” event over Easter Weekend 2011. Coach parking facility: Plenty of parking. Coaches welcome

Principal Group Rates: On application

Principal Group Rates: Adult £8.00, OAP £6.00, Children £1.00 and under 2 free. Dogs welcome and free! 10% reduction for groups – drivers & couriers free. Different fares for Thomas and all other special events.

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10

Catering available for Groups: At Toddington Station (or on trains by prior arrangement).

Catering available for Groups: Strawberry teas, cream teas, light lunches, teas & coffee, bacon rolls.

Coach parking facility: Yes

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Isle of Man Steam Railway Department of Community, Culture and Leisure, Transport Headquarters, Banks Circus, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 5PT Tel: 01624 663366/662525 • Fax: 01624 663637 E: heritagerailways@gov.im W: www.iombusandrail.info, www.gov.im/dccl Main periods of operation: Mid March to early November 2011 Coach parking facility: Douglas: set down point, limited parking by prior arrangement. Castletown: set down/pick-up only by station. Coach park in Main town. Port Erin: coach spaces reserved in adjacent public car park. Principal Group Rates: Contact 01624 697473 for details. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20

Contact name for Group Bookings: Rod Furr Main periods of operation: Weekends from Easter to end of September plus Fridays in Jun, Jul & Aug Coach parking facility: At Dufftown Station & Keith Town Station Principal Group Rates: Discount off normal fare depending on size of group. Return journey discounts of 50p per person for group of 10+, £1.00 per person for groups of 20+. Charter trains available on none service days, ring for details. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min:10 Max:75 Catering available for Groups: Morning Coffee, Light Lunches or Afternoon Teas. Limited to approx 30 in any one sitting unless special arrangements made. Special arrangements required for other events, details on request.

Catering available for Groups: Douglas & Port Erin

Kent & East Sussex Railway Isle of Wight Steam Railway The Railway Station, Havenstreet, Nr Ryde, Isle of Wight PO33 4DS Tel: 01983 882204 • Fax: 01983 884515 E: liz.king@iwsteamrailway.co.uk W: www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Liz King Main periods of operation: Trains run on most days during March, April & May, then daily from early June until early October, then on selected days in October, November and December. Coach parking facility: Free coach parking available on tarmac hardstanding, in part of main car park at Havenstreet Station

Tenterden Town Station, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6HE Tel: 01580 765155 • Fax: 01580 765654 E: enquiries@kesr.org.uk W: www.kesr.org.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Sales Office Main periods of operation: Please refer to timetable. Daily service 27th July – 4th September 2011 Coach parking facility: Ample and free at Tenterden & Northiam Stations Principal Group Rates: 10% discount on standard fares for 20+

Principal Group Rates: Adults £8, Child (5-15) £4

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 200

Catering available for Groups: Both at Tenterden Station and on train, cream teas, ploughman’s lunches, fish & chips.

Catering available for Groups: The licensed Refreshment Rooms are ideal for a warming meal, a light bite, or a scrumptious cream tea! Conference Facilities available: (10 – 60 person capacity) Catering provided.

Keighley & Worth Valley Railway The Railway Station, Station Road, Haworth, Keighley BD22 8NJ Tel: 01535 645214 • Fax: 01535 647317 E: admin@kwvr.co.uk W: www.kwvr.co.uk Main periods of operation: Every weekend throughout the year & daily from the beginning of July till the end of August

Conference Facilities available: (50 person capacity) Catering provided. See website for details.

Kirklees Light Railway Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Nr Huddersfield HD8 9XJ Tel: 01484 865727 Fax: 01484 866333 E: info@kirkleeslightrailway.com W: www.kirkleeslightrailway.com Contact name for Group Bookings: Graham Hurd or Stuart Ross

Coach parking facility: Oxenhope & Ingrow Station

Main periods of operation: Weekends & Whitsun through to September

Principal Group Rates: Phone for further details

Coach parking facility: Large free car & coach park

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20

Principal Group Rates: 15-29 Persons: Adult £5.50, Concession £5, Child £4

Keith & Dufftown Railway

30+ Persons: Adult £5, Concession £4.50, Child £4. On non-operating days, there is a minimum charge of £120

1 Hedge Road, Garmouth, Moray IV32 7NU or Dufftown Station, Dufftown, Moray AB55 4BA Tel: 01343 870429 E: rod.furr@keith-dufftown-railway.co.uk W: www.keith-dufftown-railway.co.uk

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15 Max: Contact for details Catering available for Groups: Cafe & tearoom serving drinks and hot & cold food.

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway Haverthwaite, Nr Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 8AL Tel: 015395 31594 Fax: 015395 30503 E: info@lakesiderailway.co.uk W: www.lakesiderailway.co.uk

Main periods of operation: Every Sunday throughout the year. Mondays to Friday during February & October half term school holidays.Wednesdays & Thursdays during August. Coach parking facility: Yes - room for several coaches on site. There is also turning room.

Main periods of operation: 9th April - 30th October 2011

Principal Group Rates: 10% discount on entrance fees & discounts on catering depending on what is required.

Coach parking facility: Yes

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10

Principal Group Rates: £3.25 per adult single journey

Catering available for Groups: Buffet on site serving hot & cold food and drinks.

Contact name for Group Bookings: Karen Maher

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: Excellent Station Restaurant at Haverthwaite serving morning coffee, homemade scones, local speciality homemade meals & cakes.

Leighton Buzzard Railway

The Lartigue Monorailway & Museum

Page’s Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard, Beds LU7 4TN Tel: 01525 373 888 E: station@lbngrs.org.uk W: www.buzzrail.co.uk

John B. Keane Road, Listowel, Co. Kerry, Ireland Tel: +353 (0)68 24393 E: station@lartiguemonorail.com W: www.lartiguemonorail.com Contact name for Group Bookings: Martin Griffin Main periods of operation: Open May to September – Open daily from 1 pm to 4.30 pm. Open for group bookings outside of these hours (Please allow 2 days notice). Coach parking facility: Yes

Contact name for Group Bookings: Traffic Manager Main periods of operation: Sundays & Bank Holiday weekends; 13th March – 30th October plus extra days during school holidays and summer months. See website for full information. Coach parking facility: At Page’s Park Station Principal Group Rates: Adult £6.40, Seniors £4.80, Child £3.20. Charter train hire also available - ask for details.

Principal Group Rates: Adults: 5.00 EURO Children (Aged 12 & under) 2.50 EURO

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 60

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: 10 or more

Conference Facilities available: only when railway is not operating (10 – 30 person capacity). Catering provided.

Catering available for Groups: Light Refreshments

Catering available for Groups: At Page’s Park Station

Conference Facilities available: Yes (for small groups)

Launceston Steam Railway Launceston, Cornwall PL15 8DA Tel: 01566 775 665 E: jm@lsr.eclipse.co.uk W: www.launcestonsr.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Jonathan Mann Main periods of operation: 2nd - 9th April, 30th May – 4th June, Sunday – Tuesday in June (from 6th June), daily except Saturdays 4th July – 24th September, 24th – 29th October. Trains hourly from 11a.m. to 4p.m. Coach parking facility: Free coach & car park Principal Group Rates: 15 persons or more: Adults £5.50 (if an adult group contains a few children, these will be £4 each) Child Groups (3 -16 years; under 3 free): 15 Children or more: £4 each, 1 adult travels free for every 6 children. Train ride + Cream Tea: Adults £8; Children £6 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15

Llanberis Lake Railway Gilfach Ddu, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TY Tel: 01286 870549 Fax 01286 870549 E: sales@lake-railway.co.uk W: www.lake-railway.co.uk Contact name for group Bookings: Osian Tomos or David Jones Main periods of operation: Open from mid-February to early December, Tues/Weds throughout, then Daily from Easter to end October (except Sats in April, May, Sept, Oct & Fris in Oct) Coach parking facility: free coach park at Gilfach Ddu station for 12+ coaches, shared with Welsh Slate Museum Principal Group Rates: Adult /senior return £5.90; child return £3 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 150 Catering available for Groups: Self service café at Gilfach Ddu station for lunchtime meals, light snacks & afternoon teas; seating for 60+

Catering available for Groups: By arrangement

Llangollen Railway The Lavender Line Railway Isfield Station, Isfield, Nr Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 5XB Tel: 01903 761455 E: mariontaylor0@googlemail.com W: www.lavender-line.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Marion Taylor

The Station, Abbey Road, Llangollen LL20 8SN Tel: 01978 860 979 Fax: 01978 869247 E: llangollen.railway@btinternet.com W: www.llangollen-railway.co.uk Main periods of operation: Weekends January to Easter. Full running Easter to Middle of October

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Coach parking facility: Market Street Car Park, Llangollen

The Mid Hants Railway ‘Watercress Line’

Principal Group Rates: Groups of 10 or more – up to 20% discount. Groups of 35 or more - Adults & Seniors £7 each, Children £4 each.

The Railway Station, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG Tel: 01962 733810 Fax: 01962 735448 E: info@watercressline.co.uk W: www.watercressline.co.uk

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 35 Catering available for Groups: Afternoon teas & menu selections available can be served in Victoria’s Tearoom or onboard by prior arrangement.

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Woody Bay Station, Martinhoe Cross, Parracombe, Devon EX31 4RA Tel: 01598 763487 E: enquiries@lynton-rail.co.uk W: www.lynton-rail.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Robin Horne Main periods of operation: Easter to end October, December Santa Specials Coach parking facility: Yes Principal Group Rates: £3.50 per person, tickets valid all day Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: Tea-rooms with snacks, sandwiches, cakes and beverages.

Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Contact name for Group Bookings: Tony Gibbs/Karen Butler Main periods of operation: Weekends January to November, Public Holidays, Half Terms & selected mid week days from May to September. Coach parking facility: Free coach parking by prior appointment. Principal Group Rates: Adult - £14, Child (2-16) - £7, Child under 2 FREE, Family (2A + 2C) - £35. Discounted group rates apply to parties of 15 persons +. We also operate multi-destination packages with local attractions such as Jane Austen’s House and Milestones Museum. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15 Catering available for Groups: Please contact Reservations on 01962 733810 to discuss your particular requirements. Our Cream Teas on the trains are very popular! Conference Facilities available: (10 – 90 person capacity. Catering provided. Steam train trip & driving experience can be included.

Midland Railway, Butterley

E: enquiries@cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk

Butterley Station, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3QZ Tel: 01773 747674 • Fax: 01773 570721 E: midland.railway@btconnect.com W: www.midlandrailwaycentre.co.uk

W: www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk

Contact name for group Bookings: Alan Calladine

The Esplanade, Lynmouth, North Devon, EX35 6EQ Tel: 01598 753486

Contact name for Group Bookings: Ceri Hughes or Ashley Clarke Main periods of operation: Mid February to beginning of November Coach parking facility: Not onsite but nearby in Lynton, Bottom Meadow Carpark & Lynmouth, Lower Lyndale Car park, there is coach parking, which at the time of writing is free for Coaches Principal Group Rates: 10% discount on normal rates for pre booked groups Number of passengers required for Group Rate: 10 Catering available for Groups: Nearby in the Towns of Lynton & Lynmouth

Main periods of operation: Weekends throughout the year & weekdays in school holidays Coach parking facility: At Butterley Station (Free) Principal Group Rates: Small groups attract a 10% discount, larger groups need to contact the railway for details. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 12 Max: 120 Catering available for Groups: Dining Trains available & static catering in two buffets.

Mid-Norfolk Railway Manx Electric Railway Department of Community, Culture and Leisure, Transport Headquarters, Banks Circus, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 5PT Tel: 01624 663366/662525 • Fax: 01624 663637 E: heritagerailways@gov.im W: www.iombusandrail.info, www.gov.im/dccl Main periods of operation: Late March to early November 2011 Coach parking facility: Douglas – adjacent highway on reserved spaces. Laxey – nearby reserved coach spaces on public parking off Mines Road. Ramsey – none nearby.

The Railway Station, Station Road, Dereham, Norfolk NR19 1DF Tel: 01362 690 633 • Fax: 01362 698 487 E: info@mnr.org.uk W: www.mnr.org.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Stephen Smith Main periods of operation: March - December weekends, May October plus Wednesday. July - August plus Thursday, Bank Holidays. Coach parking facility: Dereham

Principal Group Rates: Contact for details – fares to be finalised.

Principal Group Rates: 10% discount pax. 20% - 20-60 pax based on full return fares. Above 60 pax is negotiable.

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 150

Catering available for Groups: Laxey only

Catering available for Groups: Tearooms at Dereham Station up to 100.

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum Brockford Station, Wetheringsett, Stowmarket IP14 6PW Tel: 01473 890 622 E: secretary@mslr.org.uk W: www.mslr.org.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Chris Baddeley Main periods of operation: Easter to end of September Coach parking facility: Yes Principal Group Rates: 10% discount on standard rates

Contact name for Group Bookings: Customer Services / Gerry Bacon Main periods of operation: 26 March - 30 October 2011 Coach parking facility: Not at stations but coach park in Pickering Eastgate Car Park or Goathland in village. Principal Group Rates: Prices on application. 20% discount for prebooked parties of 20 or more but not applicable 1st July - 31st August or special events. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 100 Catering available for Groups: Tearooms at Pickering, Goathland & Grosmont. Tea hut at Levisham.

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 54 Catering available for Groups: Snacks rather than full hot meals

North Bay Railway, Scarborough Station Building, Northstead Manor Gardens, Burniston Road, Scarborough YO12 6PF Tel: 01723 368 791 • Fax: 0871 244 9484 E: david@nbr.org.uk W: www.nbr.org.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: David Humphreys Main periods of operation: 2nd April to end of October. Weekends all year. February - school half term. Between Christmas & New Year. Coach parking facility: Ring for details Principal Group Rates: £1.70 per person - return Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 12 Max: 100+ Catering available for Groups: Glass House Cafe/Bistro at Peasholm Park Station (see www.glasshousebistro.co.uk).

North Norfolk Railway (The Poppy Line) The Station, Sheringham, Norfolk NR26 8RA Tel: 01263 820 800 Fax: 01263 820 801 E: enquiries@nnrailway.co.uk W: www.nnrailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Cherrill Butterworth or Vinny Blake Main periods of operation: 1st April - 31st October plus Santa Specials, December weekends Coach parking facility: Public coach parking close by Sheringham Station. Parking at Holt Station by prior arrangement. Principal Group Rates: 10% discount for groups of 20-200 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: Lunch or dinner trains may be hired by prior arrangement. Sheringham Station Buffet open to groups, but not exclusively. Conference Facilities available: (10 – 50 person capacity) Catering provided. Facilities in Railway Institute but static carriage also available.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway Pickering Station, Park Street, Pickering, North Yorkshire YO18 7AJ Tel: 01751 472508 • Fax: 01751 476970 E: info@nymr.co.uk W: www.nymr.co.uk

Peak Rail Matlock Station, Matlock DE4 3NA Tel: 01629 580381 • Fax: 01629 760 645 E: peakrail@peakrail.co.uk W: www.peakrail.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Claire Statham / Steve Slinn Main periods of operation: March - December Coach parking facility: Free Principal Group Rates: 10% for 10-30 visitors. 15% for 30+ visitors Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Catering available for Groups: Buffet on station & on train.

Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway 13A Broad Street, Blaenavon, Torfaen NP4 9ND Tel: 01495 792263/01874 730775 E: info@PBRly.co.uk W: www.pontypool-and-blaenavon.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Norman Clymer Main periods of operation: April - October + December Coach parking facility: Yes - up to 20 Principal Group Rates: 10% discount Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 70 Catering available for Groups: Part of the Blaenavon World Heritage site, close by Big Pit, The Iron Works & Blaenavon’s World Heritage Centre (all free). At the head of the Eastern Valley of South Wales in a unique industrial landscape surrounded by mountains and the birth place of Britain’s industrial Revolution.

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway Ravenglass, Cumbria CA18 1SW Tel: 01229 717171 • Fax: 01229 717011 E: steam@ravenglass-railway.co.uk W: www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: David Jenner Main periods of operation: Daily trains from 2nd April to 30th October inclusive, most winter weekends plus daily 26th December to 2nd January 2012 Coach parking facility: Ravenglass - dedicated free parking spaces for all pre-booked coaches – close, level access to the trains & other facilities Principal Group Rates: Steam to the Hills, (full line return journey) £8.50 per adult; One Happy Family, (a day on the railway & a day

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS with Ullswater ‘Steamers’, our sister attraction) - £11.50 per adult; Steam on the Wild Side, (a full line return journey on the railway & a visit to the neighbouring attraction of Muncaster Castle) - £13 per adult; Steam and Smugglers (a full line return journey and a visit to Whitehaven’s Rum Story exhibition) - £12.00. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 (negotiable) Catering available for Groups: Purpose-built visitor centre includes the Eskdale Room which is always available for groups to use. In house catering team offer Cumbrian flavours with flair – from a snack to a banquet, all options available. Conference Facilities available: (up to 75 person capacity). Catering provided.

Ribble Steam Railway Chain Caul Road, Preston PR2 2PD Tel: 01772 728800 E: ribblesteamrailway@gmail.com W: www.ribblesteam.org.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Booking Clerk Main periods of operation: Sundays & Bank Holidays in April. Weekends: May-September. Summer & Half Term midweek services – check website for details. Coach parking facility: On site. Free car parking. Disabled facilities Principal Group Rates: 10% discount on all groups

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 12 Catering available for Groups: Devon Cream Tea £4.25, Buffet Style Lunch (min 8 people) £6.50 to include a drink, Two Course Lunch £8.50 to include a drink - further details on request. Conference Facilities available: (12 – 30 person capacity). Catering provided.

Severn Valley Railway The Railway Station, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 1BG Tel: 01299 403816 • Fax: 01299 400839 E: grouptravel@svr.co.uk W: www.svr.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Lisa Meredith Main periods of operation: Open daily May - September. All school holidays and most other weekends. See website for full information. Coach parking facility: Free parking at Kidderminster, Bewdley & Bridgnorth station Principal Group Rates: For pre-booked groups of 15 or more adults/seniors - £9.00 per person, single journey Kidderminster to Bridgnorth. £13.30 per person, return journey. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15 Max: No max subject to prior arrangement

Catering available for Groups: Buffet with light refreshments.

Catering available for Groups: pre-booked catering is available by prior arrangement at The Engine House at Highley & The Valley Suite at Kidderminster Station.

Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

Snaefell Mountain Railway

New Romney Station, New Romney, Kent TN28 8PL Tel: 01797 362353 • Fax: 01797 363591 E: sandraandphilrefault@rhdr.org W: www.rhdr.org.uk

Department of Community, Culture and Leisure, Transport Headquarters, Banks Circus, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 5PT Tel: 01624 663366/662525 • Fax: 01624 663637 E: heritagerailways@gov.im W: www.iombusandrail.info, www.gov.im/dccl

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20

Contact name for Group Bookings: Sandra Refault / Lesley Maxim Main periods of operation: Weekends except November, Daily 27th March to 31st October 2011 Principal Group Rates: Single Hythe to Dungeness £7.91. Dayrover £11.90 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: Unlimited with reservation

Main periods of operation: Late April to early October 2010 Coach parking facility: Laxey – nearby reserved coach spaces on public parking off Mines Road. Bungalow – adjacent to station. Principal Group Rates: Contact for details – fares to be finalised. Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 48

Catering available for Groups: Full self service restaurant service & snacks/sandwiches at New Romney & Dungeness. Open all running days.

Catering available for Groups: Laxey & Summit

Seaton Tramway

Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TY Tel: 0844 493 8120 • Fax: 01286 872 518 E: bookings@snowdonrailway.co.uk W: www.snowdonrailway.co.uk

Harbour Road, Seaton, Devon EX12 2NQ Tel: 01297 20375 E: info@tram.co.uk W: www.tram.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Sue Bowman Main periods of operation: Daily 12th -27th February, 2nd April-30th October; 26th December - 1st January 2012. Weekends: 5th - 27th March Coach parking facility: Seaton-East Devon District Council Coach Park & own car park at Colyton Principal Group Rates: Return Journey - Adult £7.90 , Senior £7.20 , Children (3 -16) £3.60

Snowdon Mountain Railway

Contact name for Group Bookings: Sue Vowell Main periods of operation: Mid-March - End of October 2011 Coach parking facility: Drop off point at the station & third party parking nearby Principal Group Rates: For a full list of fares, please contact Sue Vowell on 0844 493 8120 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min:15 Catering available for Groups: Please contact us for further details.

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS South Devon Railway The Station, Buckfastleigh, Devon TQ11 0DZ Tel: 0845 345 1420 • Fax: 01364 647140 E: sales@southdevonrailway.org W: www.southdevonrailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Neil Smith Main periods of operation: End of March – end of October Coach parking facility: Free at Buckfastleigh Principal Group Rates: Adults from £5.70 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15 Catering available for Groups: Our Refreshment Rooms at Buckfastleigh are open every day and serve a range of hot & cold meals.

South Tynedale Railway The Railway Station, Alston, Cumbria CA9 3JB Tel: 01434 381696 • Talking Timetable: 01434 382828 W: www.strps.org.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Neil Holmes Main periods of operation: Good Friday 22nd April - 30 October 2011. Every day from 16th July - 31st August 2011. Coach parking facility: Car park adjacent to station Principal Group Rates: Discounts for 10+ on application Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 100 Catering available for Groups: At stations: limited. On train: Buffet carriage – 20 seats.

Strathspey Railway Aviemore Station, Dalfaber Road, Aviemore PH22 1PY Tel: 01479 810725 • Fax: 01479 812220 E: laurence.grant@strathspeyrailway.co.uk W: www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Laurence Grant Main periods of operation: April to October Coach parking facility: At Aviemore and Broomhill Stations Principal Group Rates: Single Aviemore – Broomhill: £5.50. Return Aviemore-Broomhill-Aviemore: £9.50 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 150 Catering available for Groups: Tea or coffee and shortbread at table. Full meals available. Contact the caterer at reception@cairngorm.com

Swanage Railway Station House, Swanage, Dorset BH19 1HB Tel: 01929 425800 • Fax: 01929 475208 E: info@swanage-railway.co.uk W: www.swanagerailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Reservations (01929 475207) Main periods of operation: February until December, Daily April until end October. Coach parking facility: Yes at Norden P&R, free if booked in advance. Swanage - coach drop-off adjacent to station Principal Group Rates: Norden to Swanage (or vice versa) Party Adult return £8, Party Child return £6, Party Adult single £5.50, Party Child single £4 Norden to Corfe Castle - Party Adult return £1.50 (saving of 25% per person) Party Child return £1 (saving of 30% per person)

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15 Catering available for Groups: Buffets in Swanage, Norden & on-train. Wessex Belle dining train also available. Groups should be booked in advance

Talyllyn Railway Wharf Station, Tywyn, Gwynedd LL36 9EY Tel: 01654 710472 • Fax: 01654 711755 E: enquiries@talyllyn.co.uk W: www.talyllyn.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Ed Lund Main periods of operation: 2 April - 30 October Coach parking facility: Yes (Free) Principal Group Rates: Tywyn - Abergynolwyn: Single: £6.50, Return: £9.50 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15 Catering available for Groups: By prior arrangement Conference Facilities available: (35 person capacity). Catering provided.

Tanfield Railway Old Marley Hill, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear NE16 5ET Tel: 0845 463 4938 (Groups: 0191 384 7888) • Fax: 0191 387 4784 E: daveholroyde@aol.com W: www.tanfield-railway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Dave Holroyde Main periods of operation: Every Sunday & Bank Holiday Monday, plus Wed/Thu in school summer holidays Coach parking facility: Hardstanding on site Principal Group Rates: £5 per head Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 15

Weardale Railway Stanhope Station, Station Road, Stanhope, Bishop Auckland, Co. Durham DL13 2YS Tel: 01388 526203 (only available on operating days) E: enquiries@weardale-railway.org.uk W: www.weardale-railway.org.uk Main periods of operation: We operate all year round. See the website for special events, Santa Specials & Mince Pie Specials, updates on service and dates specific engines are operating. Coach parking facility: Contact the railway Principal Group Rates: Contact the railway Catering available for Groups: Station buffet serving hot & cold drinks, light snacks, sweets & ice cream.

Wells & Walsingham Light Railway Stiffkey Road, Wells Next-the-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1QB Tel: 01328 711630 (8am to 5pm only) W: www.wellswalsinghamrailway.co.uk Contact name for Group Bookings: Lt. Cmdr Roy Francis Main periods of operation: 9th April - 29th October. 7 days a week, timetable service – see website Coach parking facility: Coach Park about 300 yds from Walsingham Station, NR22 6BT Principal Group Rates: 10% reduction on all fares

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

APPENDIX OF HERITAGE RAILWAYS Number of passengers required for Group Rate:

Min: 20

Max: 50

Catering available for Groups: Limited catering facilities and drinks vending machine at Wells Station. Good facilities in both Wells & Walsingham.

West Coast Railways Jesson Way, Carnforth, Lancashire LA5 9UR Tel: 01524 737751/53 • Fax: 01524 735518 E: jacobite@wcrc.co.uk W: www.westcoastrailways.co.uk

Welsh Highland Railway, Caernarfon

Contact name for Group Bookings: Michael Townley

Harbour Station, Porthmadog, Gwynedd LL49 9NF Tel: 01766 516024 • Fax: 01766 516005 E: groups@festrail.co.uk W: www.festrail.co.uk

Main periods of operation: May - October

Contact name for Group Bookings: Samantha Hughes, Victoria Towers or Rebecca Whalley

Catering available for Groups: Light Refreshments

Main periods of operation: Most days 27 March - 30 October 2011 plus TBC 27 December - 2 January 2012

West Somerset Railway

Coach parking facility: Drop off / Pick up at Caernarfon, Waunfawr (Pub Car Park), Rhyd Ddu, Beddgelert, Pont Croesor or Porthmadog.

The Railway Station, Minehead TA24 5BG Tel: 01643 700384 • Fax: 01643 706349 E: sam.com@wsrail.net W: www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk

Principal Group Rates: Caernarfon – Beddgelert: Single - Adult £9.50, Child £4.75. Return - Adult £19.00, Child £9.50. Caernarfon - Pont Croesor Single: Adult £12.50, Child £6.25. Return - Adult £25.00, Child £12.50. Porthmadog to Caernarfon Single: Adult £13.50, Child £7.25. Return: £27.00, Child: £13.50 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 50 Catering available for Groups: Refreshment trolley service & pre-booked catering available for groups.

Coach parking facility: Fort William Principal Group Rates: 10% Discount Number of passengers required for Group Rate: 10

Contact name for Group Bookings: Commercial Dept. Main periods of operation: Selected dates Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov & Dec. Daily: early April to early October. Coach parking facility: Free at Bishops Lydeard Station. In town at Minehead. See website for other stations. Principal Group Rates: Adults - £12.60, Seniors - £12, Children - on application. Further discounts on Mondays & Fridays (except Bank Holidays)

Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 16

The Station, Llanfair Caereinion, Powys SY21 0SF Tel: 01938 810441 • Fax: 01938 810861 E: info@wllr.org.uk W: www.wllr.org.uk

Catering available for Groups: On application Conference Facilities available: (8 – 16 person capacity - Bishops Lydeard. 12 person capacity - Minehead). Catering provided.

Contact name for Group Bookings: Kevin Heywood Main periods of operation: Weekends from Easter until end of October & most days in June, July, August, early September & October half term Coach parking facility: At Welshpool & Llanfair Caereinion Stations Principal Group Rates: £6 Single or £8.50 Return. Further discounts for children

The information contained within this Appendix has been provided separately by each of the railways that are listed. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any omissions where railways did not submit their relevant details at the time of going to press.

Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 10 Max: 200 Catering available for Groups: Our tea room serving snacks & light refreshments is available at Llanfair Caereinion Station.

Wensleydale Railway 1 Leases Road, Leeming Bar, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 9AR Tel: 01677 425805 • Fax: 01677 427029 E: admin@wensleydalerailway.com W: www.wensleydalerailway.com Contact name for Group Bookings: Amanda Pearson Main periods of operation: 12th February 2011 - 31st December 2011 (not always daily - please see website) Coach parking facility: At Leeming Bar & Redmire. Nearby at Bedale & Leyburn Principal Group Rates: Depends on journey. Between £9.00 for full line return to £4.20 single from Leeming Bar to Leyburn Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 11 Max: 350 Catering available for Groups: Light refreshments.

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS BALA LAKE RAILWAY ....................................................51

LAKESIDE AND HAVERTHWAITE RAILWAY ...............8

BEAMISH ..........................................................................43

THE LARTIGUE MONORAILWAY & MUSEUM ...........4

BLUEBELL RAILWAY.......................................................27

THE LAVENDER LINE......................................................6

BODMIN & WENFORD RAILWAY ...............................19

LEIGHTON BUZZARD RAILWAY.................................25

BO'NESS & KINNEIL RAILWAY ....................................59

LLANBERIS LAKE RAILWAY..........................................51

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE RAILWAY CENTRE..................10

LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY.................................................6

BURE VALLEY RAILWAY................................................29

LYNTON & LYNMOUTH CLIFF RAILWAY.................10

CHINNOR & PRINCES RISBOROUGH RAILWAY .....10

MIDLAND RAILWAY, BUTTERLEY ..............................37

CHURNET VALLEY RAILWAY.........................................8

NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM...................................45

COLNE VALLEY RAILWAY ............................................29 CRICH TRAMWAY VILLAGE ........................................33 DARTMOUTH STEAM RAILWAY & RIVERBOAT COMPANY ................................................15 DEAN FOREST RAILWAY ........OUTSIDE BACK COVER EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY ......................................41 ECCLESBOURNE VALLEY RAILWAY ...........................35 EMBSAY & BOLTON ABBEY STEAM RAILWAY.........43 EXBURY GARDENS & STEAM RAILWAY....................25

NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY (THE POPPY LINE) ....31 NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY ...................47 RAVENGLASS & ESKDALE RAILWAY/ULLSWATER 'STEAMERS' ....................................................................41 RIBBLE STEAM RAILWAY ................................................4 SEATON TRAMWAY.......................................................19 SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY...........................................33 SNOWDON MOUNTAIN RAILWAY .............................55 SOUTH DEVON RAILWAY.............................................17

FFESTINIOG & WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAYS .......53 SOUTH TYNEDALE RAILWAY ......................................41 FOXFIELD RAILWAY ........................................................8 STEAM - MUSEUM OF THE GREAT WESTERN GLOUCESTERSHIRE & WARWICKSHIRE

RAILWAY ..........................................................................10

RAILWAY ..........................................................................37 GREAT ORME TRAMWAY ............................................53 HEAD OF STEAM - DARLINGTON RAILWAY

SWANAGE RAILWAY ......................................................25 TALYLLYN RAILWAY......................................................55

MUSEUM ..........................................................................43

TANFIELD RAILWAY.......................................................47

ISLE OF MAN RAILWAYS .................................................4

WEARDALE RAILWAY......................................................6

ISLE OF WIGHT STEAM RAILWAY...............................21

WELLS & WALSINGHAM LIGHT RAILWAY...............31

KEIGHLEY & WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY .................45

WENSLEYDALE RAILWAY...............................................4

KEITH & DUFFTOWN RAILWAY .................................59

WEST COAST RAILWAYS .........INSIDE FRONT COVER

KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY .................................27

WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY .........................................15

THE HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE