Spring Steam Gala returns to the rails at The Watercress Line
The thrilling Spring Steam Gala returns to The Watercress Line in Hampshire, from 24 to 26 April, with a line-up of historic locomotives.
Steam enthusiasts and families will have the chance to ride behind a variety of iconic locomotives, from both the railway’s home fleet and visiting heritage engines, operating an intensive timetable across the line.
The visiting locomotives include BR Standard 5 Class No. 73156, appearing courtesy of the Great Central Railway and The Bolton Steam Locomotive Company; Britain’s oldest working standard-gauge steam locomotive Furness Railway No. 20, built in 1863, visiting courtesy of the Furness Railway Trust; and Austerity Tank Engine No. 68067, running courtesy of the Great Central Railway.
The Watercress Line’s home fleet line-up includes S15 Class No. 506, the much-loved LMS Class 2MT Ivatt No. 41312, and the railway’s flagship Merchant Navy Class No. 35005 Canadian Pacific.
Across the three days, Gala visitors can enjoy unlimited travel behind these locomotives and stop off at The Watercress Line’s beautifully preserved heritage stations between Alresford and Alton.
Additional activities include the chance to operate the DS58 Steam Crane under supervision (pre-bookable for an extra cost); exploring the Engineering Works at Ropley with free guided tours; travelling on brake van rides; enjoying the miniature railway and a Goods Shed exhibition at Medstead & Four Marks Station.
Visitors can also browse at the railway society stands at Ropley, the Alresford gift shop and enjoy refreshments from the station buffets and kiosks
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line, said: “Our Spring Steam Gala is a highlight in our calendar. With an exciting line-up of guest and home-fleet locomotives, visitors can ride behind some truly impressive engines while enjoying everything our heritage railway has to offer.
“From guided tours of our engineering works to brake van rides, exhibitions and the chance to explore our stations along the line, there will be plenty for railway enthusiasts, families and first-time visitors to enjoy.”
Book tickets at: https://watercressline.co.uk/special-days/spring-steam-gala/