Did you realise that 2024 marks 125 years since the opening of the Great Central Railway ‘London Extension’? That included the two sections of line now preserved by heritage railway groups between Ruddington and Birstall in Leicester – which are soon to be reconnected in Loughborough, if all goes to plan.
Meantime this weekend those two groups, Great Central Railway (Nottingham) and Great Central Railway (Loughborough), are holding a joint celebration for the first time, and encouraging visitors to enjoy what’s on offer at their sites. On both Saturday 16th March and Sunday 17th March a Rail Replacement Bus Service will reunify the two halves of the historic railway via a service between Ruddington Station (at the Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre) and Quorn & Woodhouse Station to allow transport enthusiasts to explore all of their attractions with one inclusive ticket – which will be valid for entry to all sites and includes train travel and the reunification bus service.
Malcolm Holmes, general manager of the Great Central Railway, says: “We’re extremely excited to invite train enthusiasts and families alike. This is the perfect opportunity to experience our historic railways in a way that has never been seen before.”
Unfortunately there’s been no confirmation that ‘big’ trains will be able to run again on GCRN’s Ruddington line, as had been hoped. However, there will be free vintage bus rides from the Heritage Centre to Rushcliffe Halt, where special displays and refreshments will be available. Plus, of course, there’s chance to ride aboard the heritage services all weekend on the southern section of track operated by GCR.
Also, here in Ruddington, GCRN says visitors can ‘Meet the Fleet’ of heritage locomotives, the Miniature Railway and Model Railway will be running, the Bric-a-Brac shop will be open, there’ll be guided public viewing of the Nottingham Area Bus Society (NABS) heritage collection, plus you’ll be able to enjoy The Heritage Cafe; open all day and serving up its famous all-day breakfast.
Organisers say you can start your experience at any of their locations. Tickets will be valid across the Great Central Railway, the Great Central Railway Nottingham and the Rail Replacement Bus Service between Ruddington (Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre) and Quorn & Woodhouse Station.
Day Tickets for either day – which are £35 for adults, £25 for concessions and just £1 for children – can be pre-booked >>HERE<<.
