Shropshire's Great Days Out - Telford Steam Railway
Ben Bentley continues his month-long campaign to highlight the area's top visitor attractions. Today it's the turn of Telford Steam Railway. Click here for an overview of the great days out campaign and check back each day for the latest idea.
Ben Bentley continues his month-long campaign to highlight the area's top visitor attractions. Today it's the turn of Telford Steam Railway.
Click here for an overview of the great days out campaign and check back each day for the latest idea.
Where is it? Off Bridge Road, Horsehay, Telford, TF4 2NF.
What is it? Located on the western side of the historic industrial area of Telford , close to the Ironbridge Gorge, the Telford Steam Railway is a preserved railway operated by a small and friendly team of volunteers on Sundays and Bank Holidays from Easter to the end of September and at Christmas.
How much is it? Adults £5, Child £3 and a family for £12 on standard running dates. The ticket includes unlimited travel on the standard gauge train and narrow gauge steam tram, visits to the extensive model railway, but there is a small additional charge for the adjacent Miniature Railway operated by the Phoenix Society. There is also a souvenir shop and a cafe open on most operating days.
What is there to do? Ride the trains, of course. Stand on the station platform and immerse yourself in the atmosphere, sounds and smells of a bygone age. Although a relatively short ride along the line, there is plenty of fun to be had.
You can learn lots about the history of the line here too. The railway was originally part of a main through line from Wellington to Craven Arms via Much Wenlock but closed 50 years ago this year. Telford Steam Railway volunteers have been restoring it to its former glory for the best part of 40 years since Telford Development Corporation decided it wanted an old steam loco to display!
The ultimate aim of TSR is to re-open the line from Lawley Common to the World Heritage Site of Ironbridge Gorge and to offer park and ride services.
Unknown to most people, all the workers on the railway are volunteers and carry out all the restoration and service operating in their own time, for free.
Volunteer Dave Angell says: "We are either very keen on our hobby or mad – some both! Would you fit into either of these categories? If so, maybe come and join as a helper."
Opening times: 11am to 4.30pm Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Verdict: An enjoyable day out for children and steam enthusiasts alike at a good value price. The team of volunteers who run the railway have bags of enthusiasm and are happy to spend time chatting about their work.
Further information: Visit www.telfordsteamrailway.co.uk or call 07816 762790.
