Spring Gala @ Isle of Wight Steam Railway

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100 YEARS OF THE SOUTHERN RAILWAY

Join us for a special gala weekend to celebrate 100 years of the Southern Railway. Until 1923 the Island's railways had been run by three independent local companies. The creation of the Southern Railway on 1 January 1923 led to many changes, including larger locomotives, the introduction of longer bogie carriages, and modernisation of the track and stations. With the Isle of Wight busy with holidaymakers, this was a golden era for the Island's railways, which we'll celebrate during this action-packed weekend.

STEAM ACTION

There'll be plenty of action on the line during this three-day event. Look out for a number of special services, including a photographic line-up, and double-headed trains.

Our flagship locomotive W24 Calbourne will be action, plus our resident 'Terrier' W11 Newport, both resplendent in their Southern Railway liveries.

We hope to be joined by a visiting loco for the weekend - details to follow!

LUCOMOTIVE FENCHURCH

Fenchurch, the A1 'Terrier, built in 1872 will be visiting the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for this event. It has recently been overhauled and will provide a dramatic and colourful sight when running on the line. 

DREWRY RAILCAR NO 2

There'll be opportunities to travel on board our award-winning Drewry Railcar, originally built for the Southern Railway for service on the Ryde Pier Tramway. With room for only 20 passengers, and panoramic windows at either end, you'll enjoy a unique experience with a driver's eye view along the line.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

See our Lineside Photography Guide for details of vantage points along the line. A popular spot is rural Ashey halt - why not alight here, then return on a later train.