The Great Central Railway will welcome the return of its much-anticipated Spring Steam Weekend from Saturday 28 February to Sunday 1 March, celebrating the spectacle and atmosphere of main line steam on Britain’s only preserved double-track heritage railway.
Across the two days, an impressive line-up of visiting and home-fleet steam locomotives will operate an intensive timetable, offering visitors frequent opportunities to enjoy classic steam travel through the spectacular Charnwood countryside. Visiting locomotives will be joined by the Great Central Railway’s own resident steam fleet, ensuring near-constant activity along the line.
A particular highlight of the weekend will see Austerity No. 3809 and No. 68067 operating passenger services on the Mountsorrel Branch Line, giving passengers the chance to experience a lesser-used section of the railway alongside the main line action.
The event also marks the penultimate appearance of Class 35 D7018 ‘Hymek’, which will depart the railway following its participation in the Spring Diesel Gala (24–26 April 2026) after an extended period of hire. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy this distinctive diesel locomotive on the double-track main line, including use on selected services with onboard catering.
Commenting on the event, Malcolm Holmes, general manager of the Great Central Railway, said: “The Spring Steam Weekend is a real celebration of what makes the Great Central Railway special. With visiting engines, our own home fleet in action, and steam operating on both the main line and the Mountsorrel Branch, it promises a lively and atmospheric weekend for enthusiasts and families alike. We’re particularly pleased to be offering such a varied timetable, showcasing the railway at its very best.”
In addition to steam-hauled passenger services, the weekend will feature a range of complementary attractions, including heritage diesel and multiple-unit services, demonstration freight workings, and special double-headed steam trains. Refreshments will be available across the railway, from station cafés and platform tea rooms to on-train catering and the popular Tin Shed Bar at Quorn and Woodhouse station.
Heritage shuttle buses will also operate on the Saturday, providing a free connection between Loughborough Midland (EMR) station and Lovatt House (150 yards from Loughborough Central station), making it easier for visitors to travel between the national rail network and the heritage line.
Whether drawn by powerful express locomotives, industrial steam on the branch line, or simply the chance to soak up the sights and sounds of a traditional steam railway, the Spring Steam Weekend offers a compelling early season highlight on the Great Central Railway calendar.
For more information, and to book tickets for the GCR Spring Steam Weekend, visit: https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/visit/events/20260228-spring-steam-weekend/
Image credit: Great Central Railway
