Watercress Line - 2025 Diesel Gala - 11 - 13/07/2025

[TFT YouTube]

It will be a three day event, taking place from Friday 11 July through to Sunday 13 July and will see an intensive train service operating over the steeply graded route, providing the opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of both heritage and modern diesel traction.

This year’s Diesel Gala is a Laira Reunion, gathering some of the team from the Plymouth Laira back together! They were responsible for saving many of the locomotives on the line this weekend.

NEW this year:
Introducing our Real Ale & Cider Festival!
Drive our Class 08 Diesel D3462 (at Medstead station)

Expected Home Fleet:
BR Class 08 - D3462 (Medstead Only)
BR Class 20 - D8059 & D8188
BR Class 47/4 - 47579 'James Whitehall G.C'

Visiting Fleet
BR Class 50 - 50008 'Thunderer'
BR Class 52 - D1015 'Western Champion'
LU 4TC Set

 

[31160]

I think as 50008 is working a charter there that's also on the list

 

[TFT YouTube]

I think as 50008 is working a charter there that's also on the list

Is It?

 

[Kite159]

Is It?

THE THUNDERING POSITIONING MOVE – UK Railtours

www.ukrailtours.com

 

[TFT YouTube]

Amazing can't wait

THE THUNDERING POSITIONING MOVE – UK Railtours

www.ukrailtours.com

 

[Jack2015]

Will 50027 be operational?

 

[TFT YouTube]

Will 50027 be operational?

Probably not

 

[Towers]

Shame we can’t have 4TC+VEP! One day, I’m sure…

 

[Forty29]

50008 is getting it's share of diesel gala's this year, but is a good way of getting other locos and rolling stock to the line it's visiting.

 

[Jack2015]

As its creating a Laira era event might we see further 50's, a warship or a rat?

And possibly 45108

 

[TFT YouTube]

As its creating a Laira era event might we see further 50's, a warship or a rat?

And possibly 45108

Most likely, 45108 does seem to be doing the rounds this year so certainly wouldn't surprise me too much.

 

[Johnacoles]

Still no more gen on anymore visiting locos, I know its not til July but a bit more news would be handy.