The U.K.’s Leading Special Trains Operator
Steamtown Open Day
26th & 27th July 2008
Brought to you by ‘West Coast Railways’ In partnership with ‘The Railway Magazine’
When steam on British Railways ended 40 years ago on August 11, 1968, the steam motive power depot at Carnforth, Lancs, played a key part in that historic day. Even now it still has a special place in the hearts of many railway enthusiasts.
Using the 40th anniversary of BR’s 1968 steam finale and WCRC’s own 10th anniversary an Open Day is expected to field an impressive display of up to 30 steam and diesel locomotives, including visiting locos.
Among those expected to be ‘on shed’, operations permitting, are the elusive ‘Royal Scot’ No. 46115 Scots Guardsman, making one of its first public appearances for years in a yet-to-be announced livery. Also present are expected to be ‘Jubilee’ No. 45699 Galatea, 8F No. 48151, GWR ‘Hall’ No. 5972 Olton Hall, ‘Battle of Britain’ No. 34067 Tangmere. A very special loco with links to 1968 could also appear on the Sunday. For the modern enthusiast, there will be representatives of traction classes 08, 20, 25, 33, 37, 47, 57 and 66.
This event is highly unlikely to be repeated, so is a rare chance to come and see what you’ve been missing and to relive fond memories.
While the event will be of interest to anyone interested in railways, for the more serious enthusiast, a night photography session is planned for the Friday night from 20.00 to 23.00 for which special tickets are required (see below), and are limited in number.
Similarly, for those wanting access ahead of the general public, an ‘early bird’ ticket is available on Saturday or Sunday, for admission from 08.00, again, quota controlled. Both the night photo ticket and the early bird cover access for the main public opening.
Admission prices:
On the day:-
Adult: £15.00
Accompanied child under 16: £5.00
Note that this is CASH ONLY. There is no facility to accept debit/credit cards or cheques on the day.
In advance:-
Adult: £13.00
Accompanied child under 16: £5.00
Due to safety requirements, there will be no admittance to unaccompanied children under 16 years of age.
Advance Booking details
Payment by cheques, credit/debit cards - Call West Coast Railways on 01524 732100, or apply by post to:
WCRC Open Day
Jesson Way
Carnforth
LA5 9UR.
For Railway Magazine readers - Discounted admission available at £10, (but only with the published coupon (not a photocopy)) in the June, July and August issues of The Railway Magazine. Maximum of two adult tickets per coupon application.
Night Photography: £30, includes site admission on Saturday or Sunday. Early Bird: £30, available for pre-public admission from 08.00 to 10.00 and site admission for remainder of the day of issue.
Opening Times: Saturday and Sunday 10.00 - 17.00.
Parking on the site will be available for a small charge but will be limited. There is limited public parking available around Carnforth itself, however it is strongly recommended public transport is used to get to the event. There will be access to the site from Carnforth via footbridge and it is expected that Carnforth Station Visitor Centre, including the famous ‘Brief Encounter’ Café will be open on both days.
There will be a number of trade stands selling railway merchandise and other related items (telephone requests for application forms should be made to 020 3148 4683), plus on-site refreshments and toilets.
Updates will be available as exhibits are confirmed.