The Great Central Railway is gearing up to host its annual Beer Festival, with this event set to be Leicestershire‘s largest beer festival of the year, featuring a special anniversary selection: 125 beers to commemorate 125 years!

This historic north-to-south Victorian high-speed line was inaugurated in 1899, and to celebrate this 125-year milestone, the heritage railway is offering visitors an array of 125 beers, with one brew representing each year.

The Great Central Railway first opened in 1899, and was integrated into the London and North Eastern Railway in 1923 and subsequently became a part of British Railways at the nationalisation of the Railways at the start of 1948.

The line was gradually closed, with the final trains operating in 1969. Whereafter volunteers immediately initiated preservation efforts to save a section of the line.

Now over 50 years on, the Great Central Railway, is in the Planning Permission stages to become one of the longest standard gauge Heritage Lines in Britain with its Reunification Project.

The line is already well known for being the only double-track Heritage Railway in the county.

The event, occurring from the 19th to the 22nd of September, offers free entry and includes bars at Loughborough Central, Quorn and Woodhouse, and Rothley stations.

Additionally, there will be refreshments available on the award-winning trains of the railway.

“This is always a wonderful social occasion, and we have plenty to draw visitors this time. From the wide range of beers, to live music and trains running through the day and into the evening. It’s family friendly too. We’ve really pulled out the stops for the anniversary year and we look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate with us.”

Malcolm Holmes, General Manager of the Great Central Railway

Considering contemporary dietary preferences, a diverse range of Vegan and Gluten-Free beers will be offered.

Additionally, for those less inclined towards beer, a gin bar will debut at Quorn and Woodhouse station. Cider and non-alcoholic beverages will be accessible as well.

Additionally, the guest diesel locomotive, Class 31 No. 31108, constructed at the Brush Works in Loughborough, is set to make its final appearance on trains before it returns to its home railway.

Tickets for the event can be found at www.gcrailway.co.uk