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Railtours, Preserved Railway Events, Ferries and Service Trains Gen List
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- Last updated: Thu 02 Jul 2026
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Summer Diesel Gala Friday 7 August to Sunday 9 August 2026 Summer Diesel Gala | 7/8/9 August We're really looking forward to our Summer Diesel Gala, which will take place over the weekend of 7, 8 and 9 August. Gates will be open from 8.00am, as will our station café, serving a range of breakfast sandwiches, tea and coffee to fuel up your day. Confirmed Locomotives Class 08 D3236 Class 33 33103 Class 47 D1842 Class 73 73001 Bubble Car W55006 plus Derby Lightweight M79612 Guest Locomotive Confirmed We're delighted to confirm that we will be welcoming Class 20, number 20166, for our Summer Diesel Gala. Originally built as D8166 in 1966 by the Vulcan Foundry, in Newton-le-Willows, it spent much of its life operating locally to our railway as it was allocated to the Nottingham Division, which included Derby. Renumbered to 20166 in 1974, and following it's career with British Rail, it was used for the construction of the Channel Tunnel. Later, it became part of the Harry Needle Railroad Company fleet, and still carries a distinctive de-branded orange livery.
Diesel Running Weekend 2026 Friday 7 August, Saturday 8 August and Sunday 9 August 2026
The Jolly Fisherman Saturday 8 August 2026 New for 2026 is our evening Jolly Fisherman Train where you can sit back and relaxy and enjoy a full 2 round trip on the Ecclesbourne Vally Railway with Fish and Chips or Chips and sausage. there will be a fully licened bar on board with a large collection of real ales , ciders and largers, And of course the evening charter will be hauled by our visiting loco class 20166.
Summer Diesel Gala Friday 7 August to Sunday 9 August 2026 Summer Diesel Gala | 7/8/9 August We're really looking forward to our Summer Diesel Gala, which will take place over the weekend of 7, 8 and 9 August. Gates will be open from 8.00am, as will our station café, serving a range of breakfast sandwiches, tea and coffee to fuel up your day. Confirmed Locomotives Class 08 D3236 Class 33 33103 Class 47 D1842 Class 73 73001 Bubble Car W55006 plus Derby Lightweight M79612 Guest Locomotive Confirmed We're delighted to confirm that we will be welcoming Class 20, number 20166, for our Summer Diesel Gala. Originally built as D8166 in 1966 by the Vulcan Foundry, in Newton-le-Willows, it spent much of its life operating locally to our railway as it was allocated to the Nottingham Division, which included Derby. Renumbered to 20166 in 1974, and following it's career with British Rail, it was used for the construction of the Channel Tunnel. Later, it became part of the Harry Needle Railroad Company fleet, and still carries a distinctive de-branded orange livery.
Diesel Running Weekend 2026 Friday 7 August, Saturday 8 August and Sunday 9 August 2026
Summer Diesel Gala Friday 7 August to Sunday 9 August 2026 Summer Diesel Gala | 7/8/9 August We're really looking forward to our Summer Diesel Gala, which will take place over the weekend of 7, 8 and 9 August. Gates will be open from 8.00am, as will our station café, serving a range of breakfast sandwiches, tea and coffee to fuel up your day. Confirmed Locomotives Class 08 D3236 Class 33 33103 Class 47 D1842 Class 73 73001 Bubble Car W55006 plus Derby Lightweight M79612 Guest Locomotive Confirmed We're delighted to confirm that we will be welcoming Class 20, number 20166, for our Summer Diesel Gala. Originally built as D8166 in 1966 by the Vulcan Foundry, in Newton-le-Willows, it spent much of its life operating locally to our railway as it was allocated to the Nottingham Division, which included Derby. Renumbered to 20166 in 1974, and following it's career with British Rail, it was used for the construction of the Channel Tunnel. Later, it became part of the Harry Needle Railroad Company fleet, and still carries a distinctive de-branded orange livery.
Diesel Running Weekend 2026 Friday 7 August, Saturday 8 August and Sunday 9 August 2026
08 Day Sunday 9 August 2026 One for all of the Gronk fans out there. Come and join us for a day of 08 traction. Subject to availability, all three of our resident 08s will be in action throughout the day. We will aim to double-head on some trains and may even run a triple-headed train. Trains will depart from Wallingford at 1100, 1230, 1400 and 1530. Departures from Cholsey will be at 1130, 1300, 1430 and 1600. The following should be rodding 08022, 08060 and 08123.
Autumn Diesel Gala Thursday 3 September to Saturday 5 September 2026 Gear up for an action-packed weekend at our annual Autumn Diesel Gala! Our home fleet will be joined by visiting guest locomotives, offering the chance to ride behind an impressive range of traction. This event is a highlight in any diesel enthusiast's calendar and a great day out for families, as we start off the new season with a weekend of diesel traction. We're delighted to announce the first guest for this event will be Class 33, 33103 curtesy of Nemesis Rail and the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. We're already excited to pair 33103 with classmate D6535 (33116). Guest Locomotives Class 14 D9525 Joining us for the 2026 season, this will be the first opportunity to enjoy D9525 on GC metals - a first-time visitor to the line. Appearing with thanks to D9525 Ltd. Class 33 33103 British Rail Class 33 No. 33103 Swordfish was built in 1960 as D6514 for British Rail's Southern Region. One of the popular Class 33 locomotives, it worked both passenger and freight services across the south of England before later being preserved on heritage railways. Class 55 D9015 'Tulyar' After 35 years out of service, D9015 will be making its debut return to passenger service during the event - a historic moment in preservation history not to be missed! Appearing courtesy of the Deltic Preservation Society.
Autumn Diesel Gala Thursday 3 September to Saturday 5 September 2026 Gear up for an action-packed weekend at our annual Autumn Diesel Gala! Our home fleet will be joined by visiting guest locomotives, offering the chance to ride behind an impressive range of traction. This event is a highlight in any diesel enthusiast's calendar and a great day out for families, as we start off the new season with a weekend of diesel traction. We're delighted to announce the first guest for this event will be Class 33, 33103 curtesy of Nemesis Rail and the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. We're already excited to pair 33103 with classmate D6535 (33116). Guest Locomotives Class 14 D9525 Joining us for the 2026 season, this will be the first opportunity to enjoy D9525 on GC metals - a first-time visitor to the line. Appearing with thanks to D9525 Ltd. Class 33 33103 British Rail Class 33 No. 33103 Swordfish was built in 1960 as D6514 for British Rail's Southern Region. One of the popular Class 33 locomotives, it worked both passenger and freight services across the south of England before later being preserved on heritage railways. Class 55 D9015 'Tulyar' After 35 years out of service, D9015 will be making its debut return to passenger service during the event - a historic moment in preservation history not to be missed! Appearing courtesy of the Deltic Preservation Society.
Bluebell Diesel Gala 2026 - Celebrating 40 Years of Network SouthEast! Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September 2026 As part of the gala, we will proudly celebrate the 40th anniversary of Network SouthEast (NSE) - marking four decades since the launch of this bod, colourful and much-loved era of British railway history. Network SouthEast transformed commuter and regional rail travel across London and the South East, and its distinctive red, white and blue branding remains iconic to this day. NSE 40 will form a fantastic addition to the 2026 Diesel Gala, with plans already underway to ensure the anniversary is celebrated in fitting style. We are delighted to be working in partnership with NSE Friends, the 1305 Thumper Gang, and the B350 Preservation Group to help bring this celebration to life. Together, we aim to showcase and honour the legacy of Network SouthEast through locomotives from the era, rolling stock, displays and carefully curated elements that capture the spirit of the era. Join us as we celebrate 40 years of Network SouthEast and make Diesel Gala 2026 a true highlight of the heritage railway calendar! Visiting locomotives include 03179 courtesy of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway Company, 33108 courtesy of the 33/1 Preservation Company and 50026 courtesy of Paul Spracklen and PTG Tours.
Autumn Diesel Gala Thursday 3 September to Saturday 5 September 2026 Gear up for an action-packed weekend at our annual Autumn Diesel Gala! Our home fleet will be joined by visiting guest locomotives, offering the chance to ride behind an impressive range of traction. This event is a highlight in any diesel enthusiast's calendar and a great day out for families, as we start off the new season with a weekend of diesel traction. We're delighted to announce the first guest for this event will be Class 33, 33103 curtesy of Nemesis Rail and the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. We're already excited to pair 33103 with classmate D6535 (33116). Guest Locomotives Class 14 D9525 Joining us for the 2026 season, this will be the first opportunity to enjoy D9525 on GC metals - a first-time visitor to the line. Appearing with thanks to D9525 Ltd. Class 33 33103 British Rail Class 33 No. 33103 Swordfish was built in 1960 as D6514 for British Rail's Southern Region. One of the popular Class 33 locomotives, it worked both passenger and freight services across the south of England before later being preserved on heritage railways. Class 55 D9015 'Tulyar' After 35 years out of service, D9015 will be making its debut return to passenger service during the event - a historic moment in preservation history not to be missed! Appearing courtesy of the Deltic Preservation Society.
Bluebell Diesel Gala 2026 - Celebrating 40 Years of Network SouthEast! Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September 2026 As part of the gala, we will proudly celebrate the 40th anniversary of Network SouthEast (NSE) - marking four decades since the launch of this bod, colourful and much-loved era of British railway history. Network SouthEast transformed commuter and regional rail travel across London and the South East, and its distinctive red, white and blue branding remains iconic to this day. NSE 40 will form a fantastic addition to the 2026 Diesel Gala, with plans already underway to ensure the anniversary is celebrated in fitting style. We are delighted to be working in partnership with NSE Friends, the 1305 Thumper Gang, and the B350 Preservation Group to help bring this celebration to life. Together, we aim to showcase and honour the legacy of Network SouthEast through locomotives from the era, rolling stock, displays and carefully curated elements that capture the spirit of the era. Join us as we celebrate 40 years of Network SouthEast and make Diesel Gala 2026 a true highlight of the heritage railway calendar! Visiting locomotives include 03179 courtesy of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway Company, 33108 courtesy of the 33/1 Preservation Company and 50026 courtesy of Paul Spracklen and PTG Tours.
Heritage Shunters Trust (at Peak Rail) Diesel Day Saturday 5 September 2026
Bluebell Diesel Gala 2026 - Celebrating 40 Years of Network SouthEast! Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September 2026 As part of the gala, we will proudly celebrate the 40th anniversary of Network SouthEast (NSE) - marking four decades since the launch of this bod, colourful and much-loved era of British railway history. Network SouthEast transformed commuter and regional rail travel across London and the South East, and its distinctive red, white and blue branding remains iconic to this day. NSE 40 will form a fantastic addition to the 2026 Diesel Gala, with plans already underway to ensure the anniversary is celebrated in fitting style. We are delighted to be working in partnership with NSE Friends, the 1305 Thumper Gang, and the B350 Preservation Group to help bring this celebration to life. Together, we aim to showcase and honour the legacy of Network SouthEast through locomotives from the era, rolling stock, displays and carefully curated elements that capture the spirit of the era. Join us as we celebrate 40 years of Network SouthEast and make Diesel Gala 2026 a true highlight of the heritage railway calendar! Visiting locomotives include 03179 courtesy of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway Company, 33108 courtesy of the 33/1 Preservation Company and 50026 courtesy of Paul Spracklen and PTG Tours.
Shunter Sunday Sunday 6th September 2026 Are you ready to travel back to the 1980s, when British Rail blue dominated the railway and diesel power ruled the rails? If so, then back by popular demand following last year's successful event, our two BR blue shunters?03078 and 08915?are once again stepping out of the yard and into the spotlight for our 2026 Shunter Sunday! Usually confined to shunting duties and standby work for the steam fleet, this is their chance to take charge of the line. Throughout the day, the pair will haul a varied mix of passenger and freight services, recreating the sights and sounds of a bygone era. Expect double-headed action, top-and-tail formations, and plenty of rare mileage behind both locomotives as they work a busy and intensive timetable. Whether you joined us last year or are looking to experience something a little different, this is a day not to be missed.
Diesel Gala Saturday 12 September and Sunday 13 September 2026 DFR announcement, 14th June 2026: We are delighted to announce Class 31, 31210, as our first visitor courtesy of Hanson & Hall. You may be aware that 31210 was a resident here at the DFR for a significant period of time, and can be seen at Lydney Junction almost 10 years ago in this photo courtesy of Paul Cook. The loco has just made her return to preservation service, and is now booked to appear at various events during the remainder of 2026. Given her previous long term residency here, we were very keen when the opportunity arose and are especially thankful to Hanson & Hall for returning to the DFR - their last outing here was back in October with 50008, which visited us to run alongside 50021. 31210 will join E6003 and other as-yet unconfirmed locomotives on the 12th & 13th September for two days of diesel action in the Forest of Dean.
Diesel Pioneers Gala 12 and 13 September 2026 Celebrate the Legacy of Industrial Diesel Power! Join us this September for the Diesel Pioneers Gala. Taking place on the 12th and 13th of September 2026, this gala is a tribute to the industrial diesel locomotives that played a vital role in Britain's railway heritage - featuring STAR guest locomotive soon to be confirmed! What's on over the weekend? Visiting locomotive, (announced later in 2026) in action with a variety of freight and passenger trains. An intensive timetable is in operation with a RARE chance to travel behind our diesel fleet. Visit our 1854 built Marley Hill engine shed, see the work that goes on to keep the railway running. Browse around our well stocked book shop at Andrews House station. Take part in guided tours of the site. Live music across the site & kids activities.
Diesel Gala Saturday 12 September and Sunday 13 September 2026 DFR announcement, 14th June 2026: We are delighted to announce Class 31, 31210, as our first visitor courtesy of Hanson & Hall. You may be aware that 31210 was a resident here at the DFR for a significant period of time, and can be seen at Lydney Junction almost 10 years ago in this photo courtesy of Paul Cook. The loco has just made her return to preservation service, and is now booked to appear at various events during the remainder of 2026. Given her previous long term residency here, we were very keen when the opportunity arose and are especially thankful to Hanson & Hall for returning to the DFR - their last outing here was back in October with 50008, which visited us to run alongside 50021. 31210 will join E6003 and other as-yet unconfirmed locomotives on the 12th & 13th September for two days of diesel action in the Forest of Dean.
Diesel Pioneers Gala 12 and 13 September 2026 Celebrate the Legacy of Industrial Diesel Power! Join us this September for the Diesel Pioneers Gala. Taking place on the 12th and 13th of September 2026, this gala is a tribute to the industrial diesel locomotives that played a vital role in Britain's railway heritage - featuring STAR guest locomotive soon to be confirmed! What's on over the weekend? Visiting locomotive, (announced later in 2026) in action with a variety of freight and passenger trains. An intensive timetable is in operation with a RARE chance to travel behind our diesel fleet. Visit our 1854 built Marley Hill engine shed, see the work that goes on to keep the railway running. Browse around our well stocked book shop at Andrews House station. Take part in guided tours of the site. Live music across the site & kids activities.
Autumn Diesel Gala 25, 26, 27 September 2025 The diesel fleet come to the fore for three Autumn days of fantastic action over our challenging gradients! The home fleet, including our shunting locomotives, along with some interesting visiting locomotives will be put through their paces over some of the most challenging gradients in preservation. We'll have British Railways blue liveried locomotives working with our blue and grey liveried coaching stock too! Class 20 diesel locomotive 20227 hauls a train into North Weald station Class 47 diesel locomotive 47635 at North Weald station Class 03 D2170 Class 08 08114 Further details to be announced What to expect As usual we will be running a 3 train intensive service throughout the weekend with evening Real Ale trains on Saturday - these are included in your great value fare! You'll be able to see our blue locomotives hauling our rake of blue and grey coaching stock, travel on shuttle trains into Epping Forest and hear the locomotives working hard over our challenging gradients! Vintage London buses will provide connections to Epping Underground station (Central Line, zone 6) with all our train services, with some bus services also operating to Shenfield station (for Greater Anglia and Elizabeth Line services) On train bars Our on train bars will be also be open, serving a selection of real ales, as well as a range of wines, lagers and soft drinks, and, on the Saturday evening, we will be running our Real Ale Train. LNER Cafeat North Weald and the Buffet Stop at Ongar Our catering outlets will be open all day. Hot snacks and other light refreshments and hot and cold drinks are available at the LNER Cafeat North Weald, including breakfast rolls until 11.30; the Buffet Stop at Ongar will be offering hot and cold drinks and other light refreshments.
Autumn Diesel Gala Friday 25 September, Saturday 26 September and Sunday 27 September 2026 An itnesive three days of running (TBC) with our home diesel fleet. Expect a range of passenger and goods trains with appearances from our Class 47, Class 08 and Class 121. Subject to maintenance our Class 37 may also be available for the Gala. Visiting locos to be confirmed.
Autumn Diesel Gala Friday 25 September, Saturday 26 September and Sunday 27 September 2026 An itnesive three days of running (TBC) with our home diesel fleet. Expect a range of passenger and goods trains with appearances from our Class 47, Class 08 and Class 121. Subject to maintenance our Class 37 may also be available for the Gala. Visiting locos to be confirmed.
Autumn Diesel Gala 25, 26, 27 September 2025 The diesel fleet come to the fore for three Autumn days of fantastic action over our challenging gradients! The home fleet, including our shunting locomotives, along with some interesting visiting locomotives will be put through their paces over some of the most challenging gradients in preservation. We'll have British Railways blue liveried locomotives working with our blue and grey liveried coaching stock too! Class 20 diesel locomotive 20227 hauls a train into North Weald station Class 47 diesel locomotive 47635 at North Weald station Class 03 D2170 Class 08 08114 Further details to be announced What to expect As usual we will be running a 3 train intensive service throughout the weekend with evening Real Ale trains on Saturday - these are included in your great value fare! You'll be able to see our blue locomotives hauling our rake of blue and grey coaching stock, travel on shuttle trains into Epping Forest and hear the locomotives working hard over our challenging gradients! Vintage London buses will provide connections to Epping Underground station (Central Line, zone 6) with all our train services, with some bus services also operating to Shenfield station (for Greater Anglia and Elizabeth Line services) On train bars Our on train bars will be also be open, serving a selection of real ales, as well as a range of wines, lagers and soft drinks, and, on the Saturday evening, we will be running our Real Ale Train. LNER Cafeat North Weald and the Buffet Stop at Ongar Our catering outlets will be open all day. Hot snacks and other light refreshments and hot and cold drinks are available at the LNER Cafeat North Weald, including breakfast rolls until 11.30; the Buffet Stop at Ongar will be offering hot and cold drinks and other light refreshments.
Autumn Diesel Gala Friday 25 September, Saturday 26 September and Sunday 27 September 2026 An itnesive three days of running (TBC) with our home diesel fleet. Expect a range of passenger and goods trains with appearances from our Class 47, Class 08 and Class 121. Subject to maintenance our Class 37 may also be available for the Gala. Visiting locos to be confirmed.
Diesel Gala Sunday 27 September 2026
Autumn Diesel Gala 25, 26, 27 September 2025 The diesel fleet come to the fore for three Autumn days of fantastic action over our challenging gradients! The home fleet, including our shunting locomotives, along with some interesting visiting locomotives will be put through their paces over some of the most challenging gradients in preservation. We'll have British Railways blue liveried locomotives working with our blue and grey liveried coaching stock too! Class 20 diesel locomotive 20227 hauls a train into North Weald station Class 47 diesel locomotive 47635 at North Weald station Class 03 D2170 Class 08 08114 Further details to be announced What to expect As usual we will be running a 3 train intensive service throughout the weekend with evening Real Ale trains on Saturday - these are included in your great value fare! You'll be able to see our blue locomotives hauling our rake of blue and grey coaching stock, travel on shuttle trains into Epping Forest and hear the locomotives working hard over our challenging gradients! Vintage London buses will provide connections to Epping Underground station (Central Line, zone 6) with all our train services, with some bus services also operating to Shenfield station (for Greater Anglia and Elizabeth Line services) On train bars Our on train bars will be also be open, serving a selection of real ales, as well as a range of wines, lagers and soft drinks, and, on the Saturday evening, we will be running our Real Ale Train. LNER Cafeat North Weald and the Buffet Stop at Ongar Our catering outlets will be open all day. Hot snacks and other light refreshments and hot and cold drinks are available at the LNER Cafeat North Weald, including breakfast rolls until 11.30; the Buffet Stop at Ongar will be offering hot and cold drinks and other light refreshments.
Last Hurrah Diesel Gala Saturday 21 November and Sunday 22 November 2026 Ending the season with a weekend of diesel action Why should steam fans have all the fun? Say goodbye to 2026 and get some miles in with an intensive weekend timetable starring the GCR diesel home fleet. Following the popular Last Hurrah Steam Gala, the spotlight turns to heritage diesel traction for one final gala weekend of the year. Expect a busy timetable, plenty of mileage, and the chance to see the Great Central Railway's diesel fleet out in force. Whether you're a long-time diesel enthusiast or simply enjoy the distinctive sights and sounds of classic diesel locomotives, this is the perfect opportunity to round off the year on the railway.
Last Hurrah Diesel Gala Saturday 21 November and Sunday 22 November 2026 Ending the season with a weekend of diesel action Why should steam fans have all the fun? Say goodbye to 2026 and get some miles in with an intensive weekend timetable starring the GCR diesel home fleet. Following the popular Last Hurrah Steam Gala, the spotlight turns to heritage diesel traction for one final gala weekend of the year. Expect a busy timetable, plenty of mileage, and the chance to see the Great Central Railway's diesel fleet out in force. Whether you're a long-time diesel enthusiast or simply enjoy the distinctive sights and sounds of classic diesel locomotives, this is the perfect opportunity to round off the year on the railway.
Winter Diesel Gala Monday 28 December and Tuesday 29 December 2026
Winter Diesel Gala Monday 28 December and Tuesday 29 December 2026