Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway

With the clickety-clack of the tracks below you, the countryside rolling by, and the occasional whistle cutting through it all – a trip along the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR) is an adventure impossible to forget. 

Some sights to keep an eye out for 

The track was originally part of the grand Great Western Railway, stretching all the way from Birmingham to Cheltenham.  

After over 100 years, 28 miles of the track still exists thanks to enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers, and you’re invited to hop aboard and experience it all.  

Cruising through the heart of the Cotswolds, you’ll have the option of covering the entire 28 miles, or half if time is short.  

On both, you’ll pass through quintessential Cotswold villages and through a countryside filled with a quiet peace.  

There are plenty of ticket options to cover all your needs. Single and return fares for both half and full journeys are available.  

But if you’re looking for something a little extra special, why not treat the train enthusiast in your life to a driving experience?  

Now it’s your turn to drive

On the Steam Footplate Experience, they’ll set off from Toddington station and travel between Broadway and Cheltenham Racecourse. Along the 42-mile trip, they’ll get the chance of a lifetime to operate the train for around seven miles. 

They’ll learn all about what it takes to control such an impressive locomotive.  

From reading dials to pulling levers, they’ll be leaving with a comprehensive knowledge of what it takes to power the trains of old, with a certificate as proof.  

Up for a unique train journey?

Alongside all the regular GWSR trips, be sure to keep an eye out for special events popping up throughout the year.  

Arrive onboard with the little ones for the Santa Experience and watch their faces light up with excitement as they spot Father Christmas himself making his way through the train.  

There’ll be mince pies to devour, tea to dunk biscuits into, and plenty of chances for you to snap some pics of your little one meeting Santa.  

Making accessibility a priority

The GWSR are dedicated to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience and enjoy their visit to the railway.  

Accessibility has been a priority of theirs, and most stations and trains are suitable for wheelchairs. Just be sure to call up beforehand to clarify where and when you’ll be arriving. 

Staff will be there to give you all the help you need to enjoy your day out.  

Over viaducts and through tunnels, your trip on the GWSR encompasses all the beauty of the Cotswolds in just a single day.  

Time to hop aboard and experience it for yourself!