Enjoy an unforgettable Steam Gala at The Watercress Line 

Step back in time to discover the golden age of steam at The Watercress Line in Hampshire, from 2 to 4 October.

The popular Autumn Steam Gala returns with a spectacular line-up of steam locomotives, including an extremely rare Ivatt engine Triple Header, unlimited train rides, and behind-the-scenes experiences at the heritage railway. 

The visiting line-up will feature locomotives from the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway, Buckinghamshire Railway Centre and East Somerset Railway, bringing together a fascinating collection of historic locomotives.

Leading the visiting line-up is Ivatt Class 2, 41313, courtesy of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Designed for the London, Midland and Scottish Railway by George Ivatt, the class was introduced in 1946, with 130 locomotives eventually built. She is particularly special for The Watercress Line, as she is the sister locomotive to the railway’s own 41312. The Autumn Steam Gala will be the final appearance for 41312 before she is withdrawn for overhaul, making the presence of her sister locomotive a fitting way to mark the occasion.

Joining her will be GWR 4247, a heavy freight tank locomotive courtesy of Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway. Built at Swindon in 1916, 4247 was delivered new to South Wales, where she spent virtually all her working life, apart from a spell in Cornwall between 1952 and 1957. 4247 will be hauled by 30506 and 46447.

The third visiting locomotive will be 6989 Wightwick Hall, courtesy of Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. The BR (WR) 4-6-0 5MT locomotive was rescued from a Welsh scrapyard by volunteers in January 1978 and her meticulous restoration has taken more than four decades, transforming a locomotive once destined to become scrap metal into a working piece of Britain's railway heritage. 

Completing the visiting line-up is 46447, courtesy of the East Somerset Railway. The Ivatt Class 2 2-6-0 tender locomotive enjoyed a working life across the north of England and Wales before being withdrawn in 1966 and rescued from Woodham Brothers’ scrapyard. Following many years of preservation and restoration, 46447 returned to service in 2014, after a 48-year break from railway service.

The Autumn Steam Gala will bring three Ivatt locomotives together – 41312, 41313 and 46447 – providing a rare opportunity to see these closely related locomotives working alongside one another.

The visiting locomotives will join The Watercress Line’s own steam fleet for an intensive programme, with the opportunity to explore the heritage stations, enjoy delicious refreshments, visit the railway’s workshops and experience the sights, sounds and smells of steam in action.

For a hands-on experience, visitors aged 18+ can take the controls of 1788 Kilmersdon at Ropley Yard, under the guidance of a driver and fireman. Experiences run from 10.30am–3pm each day, lasting around 5 to 7 minutes. A gala ticket is required, and places must be booked in advance.

Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line, said: “This year’s Autumn Steam Gala promises a packed programme for all visitors to enjoy. Each of the visiting locomotives has a fascinating story to tell. 41313 from the Isle of Wight Steam Railway is particularly special because she is the sister locomotive to our own 41312, which is making her final gala appearance before overhaul. Having three Ivatt locomotives together will be a fitting celebration of this important part of our railway’s history.

“Book your tickets online and enjoy the unique atmosphere that makes The Watercress Line’s Autumn Steam Gala so memorable.”

Find out more at: https://watercressline.co.uk/autumn-steam-gala/