Following on from previous successful special events held already this year such as the Spring Steam Gala and the Summer Art Events & Exhibition, The Watercress Line, is offering enthusiasts and members of the public the chance to attend ‘behind the scenes’ Engineering Open Weekend tours on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September.

The renowned heritage railway is set to open its doors at every station between Alresford and Alton, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness the committed efforts of staff and volunteers that keep operations running seamlessly. 

The latest restoration efforts will be showcased at Ropley Station’s ‘engineering hub’, where visitors can access the yard, engineering shed, and carriage shop viewing galleries.

Additionally, guests are invited to board the steam trains for unlimited travel and explore all four heritage stations spread across the 10-mile line.

The following experiences will be on offer:

• Enjoy a ‘behind the scenes’ tour at Ropley, where you can meet Watercress Line staff and volunteers, and learn about their roles and opportunities to volunteer. This tour is complimentary as a part of Heritage Open Days.
• Ropley yard will host a Steam crane demonstration
• Medstead Signal Box will host leaver and signalling demonstrations. 
• Miniature railway rides at Ropley (Saturday 15^th September, only) 
• The Goods Shed exhibition ‘Delivering the Goods’ at Medstead & Four Marks Station; 
• Society stands with information about ongoing locomotive projects; 
• Refreshments at West Country Buffet (Alresford) and T-Junction (Ropley) and the Kiosk at Alton; 
• Gift shops at Alresford and Ropley. 

“We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to enjoy a tour of discovery at The Watercress Line’s Engineering Open Weekend. 

It is a wonderful opportunity to see the work that is carried out behind the scenes by our wonderful staff and volunteers to keep our heritage railway on track! 

With restoration projects on show, a free tour route, demonstrations, unlimited steam train travel and much more, it promises to be a fascinating day out for everyone”.  

The Watercress Line’s CEO Rebecca Dalley

To book tickets for this event visit their website at https://watercressline.co.uk/open-weekend/ 

This event is free for members and shareholders of the Watercress Line, but advanced booking to secure tickets is required.