Diesel Gala and Real Ale Festival to Take Over Watercress Line Railway

Strategic Insights -

The Watercress Line Railway is hosting its annual Diesel Gala, running from Friday, July 11, to Sunday, July 13, offering three days of heritage diesel locomotives, hands-on experiences, and a Real Ale and Cider Festival. The event promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with iconic visiting diesel locomotives and a celebration of railway heritage. Rebecca Dalley, Chief Executive of The Watercress Line, highlighted the pride in paying tribute to the team from Plymouth's Laira depot, whose dedication preserved much of what visitors will enjoy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Diesel Gala will feature an intensive running timetable along the scenic heritage line, powered by a mix of home fleet locomotives and six visiting engines.
  • The event will showcase iconic visiting diesel locomotives, including Class 50 50008 Thunderer, Class 52 D1015 Western Champion, Class 42 D821 Greyhound, and Class 46 46045.
  • A Class 70 and Class 66 will also appear, though their exact identities are yet to be announced.
  • The Real Ale and Cider Festival will feature brews from 10 Southern breweries, with up to 35 ales and a selection of ciders on offer.
  • Drinks will be available at multiple locations along the line, including the Alresford Station forecourt, Ropley Station picnic area, Medstead platform, and a travelling ale bar.
  • Pints will be priced at £4.50, using a token system.
  • The Watercress Line's own fleet will be out in force, including Class 08 D3462 (08377), Class 20 D8059 (20059), Class 20 D8188 (20188), and Class 47 47579 James Nightall GC.
  • Additional locomotives, Class 08 08288 Phoenix Class 50 50027 Lion and Class 08 08032 (13044 / 3044), will be on static display.
  • Visitors can also enjoy the Drive a Diesel experience, free guided tours of the engineering workshops, society stands at Ropley, and gift shops and refreshments at all key stations.

Statistics:

  • 10 Southern breweries will be featured at the Real Ale and Cider Festival, offering up to 35 ales and a selection of ciders.
  • 3 Days of heritage diesel locomotives and the Real Ale and Cider Festival, running from Friday, July 11, to Sunday, July 13.
  • 6 visiting diesel engines, including Class 50 50008 Thunderer, will be showcased during the event.
  • 4-6 visiting locomotives, including Class 70 and Class 66, will appear, though their exact identities are yet to be announced.
  • 35 ales and a selection of ciders will be available at the Real Ale and Cider Festival.
  • Pints will be priced at £4.50, using a token system.

Sources:

  • Byline: Sophie Day
  • The Watercress Line website