The much-loved Diesel Gala returns to The Watercress Line in Hampshire from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 July, for three unmissable days of powerful heritage diesel engines, hands-on experiences, and for the first time ever – a Real Ale & Cider Festival!
This year’s event features an intensive running timetable across the scenic heritage railway, powered by an exciting mix of home fleet favourites and six visiting locomotives, including:
Class 50 50008 Thunderer – running Saturday only; Class 52 D1015 Western Champion; Class 42 D821 Greyhound, Class 46 46045 plus a Class 70 and a Class 66 whose specific identities have yet to be revealed!
New for 2025, the Real Ale & Cider Festival will offer brews from 10 Southern breweries, with up to 35 different ales and a variety of local ciders, from:
Alresford Station Forecourt – local ales from The Flower Pots Brewery
Ropley Station Picnic Area – seven breweries and the ‘Cider Junction’
Medstead Platform – ales and offers from nearby Triple FFF Brewery
Travelling Ale Bar – an Alfred’s Brewery takeover on board!
All pints are just £4.50, available via a simple token system (tokens sold at all ticket offices and outlets).
The Watercress Line’s own fleet of restored diesels on the line will be Class 08 D3462 (08377); Class 20 D8059 (20059); Class 20 D8188 (20188); and Class 47 47579 James Nightall GC. In addition, Class 08 08288 Phoenix Class 50 50027 Lion and Class 08 08032 (13044 / 3044) will be on static display.
Hands-on fun includes the Drive a Diesel experience and free guided tours around the Engineering Workshops. There will be society stands at Ropley, and gift shops and refreshments at all key stations.
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line, said:
“This year’s DieselGala promises to be one of our most exciting yet, with iconic visiting diesel locomotives, a brand-new Real Ale & Cider Festival, and a real celebration of railway heritage.
“We’re especially proud to pay tribute to the team from Plymouth’s Laira depot, whose dedication helped preserve so much of what visitors will enjoy. Whether you’re a heritage railway enthusiast or just looking for a memorable day out, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy.”
For more information and to book your tickets, visit https://watercressline.co.uk/special-days/diesel-gala/
