Go behind the scenes at The Watercress Line in Hampshire for a rare opportunity to discover the craftsmanship, engineering expertise and dedication that keeps one of Britain’s best-loved heritage railways running.
The fascinating Engineering Open Weekend takes place on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, when visitors will have exclusive access to the railway’s engineering hub at Ropley Station and many more highlights.
This includes thrilling rides through the South Downs National Park on the flagship Merchant Navy Class 35005 Canadian Pacific and other heritage steam and diesel locomotives.
Usually closed to the public, the workshops will allow visitors to see restoration projects in progress, meet the engineers behind the scenes and learn about the specialist skills needed to maintain the historic locomotives and rolling stock that operate along the 10-mile heritage line between Alresford and Alton.
Highlights of the Engineering Open Weekend include:
- Access to Ropley’s engineering hub, including the locomotive yard, engineering shed and carriage shop viewing galleries for close-up views of current restoration projects.
- A ‘behind the scenes’ tour route at Ropley for the chance to chat with staff and volunteers and find out more about the work they do at the railway, free admission as part of Heritage Open Days.
- Goods Shed exhibition ‘Delivering the Goods’ at Medstead & Four Marks Station.
- Unlimited rides on heritage steam trains throughout the weekend.
- Lever pulling in the period signal box at Medstead.
- Steam crane demonstration in Ropley yard.
- Brake Van rides with Kilmersdon (Saturday only)
- Society stands displaying their locomotive projects and find out more about the volunteering community.
- Children’s activities including Spot the Difference, Cogs and Building Bridges, plus colouring sheets at every station and the delightful miniature railway (on Saturday only).
Rebecca Dalley, Chief Executive of The Watercress Line, said:
“The Engineering Open Weekend is one of the few opportunities each year for visitors to step behind the scenes and experience the incredible work that goes into preserving our railway.
“From restoring historic locomotives to maintaining our carriages and infrastructure, our talented staff and volunteers combine traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering techniques to keep living railway history alive. It’s a fascinating day for railway enthusiasts, aspiring engineers and families alike.”
Full details and tickets are available at https://watercressline.co.uk/special-days/open-weekend/
