Hampshire’s popular Watercress Line is getting back on track for an exciting season of events when it reopens tnis Saturday (March 19).
A series of special activities is planned, from the family-friendly Days Out With Thomas, now featuring Sir Topham Hatt, and three new entertainment shows, to nostalgia days – such as War on the Line, a 1950s and 1960s weekend, and a Vintage Vehicles event, displaying locomotives, cars, motorbikes and tractors.
Rail enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enjoy Spring and Autumn Steam Gala days and a summer Diesel Gala showcasing visiting and home fleet freight and passenger trains. The spooky Wizard Week will return in October – and there will be more exciting news about events for the festive session later this year.
The special events calendar features: Spring Steam Gala, April 29 to May 2; Vintage Vehicles, May 20-22; Day Out With Thomas, May 28 to June 5; War on the Line, June 18/19; Diesel Gala, July 15-17; Day Out With Thomas, August 6-14; 1950s and 1960s Weekend, August 27-29; Open Weekend, September 10/11; Autumn Steam Gala, October 7-9; Wizard Week, October 24-30.
The railway is also open on various dates throughout the year for trips on its preserved steam locomotives from Alresford to Alton, via Ropley, Medstead and Four Marks heritage stations. Staff are always happy to chat about the railway and the work that takes place to keep it running smoothly – and visitors are welcome to take a peek at the footplate, while chatting to the crews.
The Watercress Line’s acting managing director, Alison Houghton, said: “All the staff are looking forward to the reopening of our much-loved railway on March 19 and welcoming everybody back on board. We have an exciting year ahead, with a wide range of special events planned for families with children, heritage steam railway enthusiasts and anybody who wants a great day out filled with fun and happy memories.
“Join us for a trip back in time to the railway’s golden eras, view our steam locomotives up close and take a ride on board through the glorious Hampshire countryside. There’s plenty to enjoy, so don’t miss out – visit our website and book your tickets in advance for any special events.”
Find out more and book tickets at www.watercressline.co.uk
Advert
