The Severn Valley Railway is set to celebrate its Railway 200 event with a distinctive weekend dedicated to the history of train travel, scheduled for the 5th and 6th of July. The event, themed “Trains through the Ages,” will showcase two spectacular examples of railway heritage and innovation.
The LNER Peppercorn Class A1 No 60163 ‘Tornado’ will be a highlight of the festivities, freshly back in operation after its recent overhaul last fall. This locomotive will traverse the scenic Severn Valley, pulling a historical collection of LNER teak carriages from 1922, providing a nostalgic journey back in time.
In contrast, showcasing modern advancements in railway technology, the Severn Valley Railway will also present the HydroFLEX, the UK’s pioneering hydrogen-ready passenger train. This cutting-edge train, developed by Porterbrook at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre, boasts a hydrogen fuel system consisting of 36 high-pressure tanks holding up to 277kg of hydrogen. This innovative technology powers fuel cells that convert hydrogen and atmospheric oxygen into clean electricity, emitting only water as a byproduct, thus marking a significant step forward in sustainable travel.
During the Railway 200 celebration at the Severn Valley Railway, visitors will have the opportunity to explore an exhibit of historic narrow gauge engines from the 1800s located at The Engine House in Highley. Additionally, the event will feature rides on the SVR’s own Great Western Railway engines, the 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’ and the 1450, pulling coaches that date back to the early to mid-20th century, alongside a classic diesel locomotive paired with 1950s-era Mark 1 carriages. Modern rail technology will also be showcased, including the innovative HydroFLEX among other contemporary railway traction systems.
This upcoming weekend marks the last opportunity to experience the ‘Inspiration’ exhibition train at the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) before it departs to continue its tour across the UK. This unique train, celebrating Railway 200, arrived at the SVR on 26 June as the initial stop of its nationwide journey. It aims to showcase the evolution of railways and to spark enthusiasm among the future talents of the railway industry. The event will not only draw the general public but also host a significant number of students through its educational programs focused on the ‘Inspiration’ theme.
Further details about this exciting weekend event, “Railway 200: Trains through the Ages,” can be found at svr.co.uk. Although admission to the ‘Inspiration’ train from 27 June to 6 July is free, it requires advance booking through svr.co.uk. Please note that these tickets grant access only to the exhibition train. Separate tickets are needed for any travel arrangements.
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