This year marks the 200th anniversary of the first commercially successful railway—the Stockton & Darlington Railway. Its opening not only revolutionised transport but also cemented railways as a defining force in global industrial progress. At UKPO Magazine, we were eager to play a small part in the ‘Railway 200’ campaign, which led us to the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR)—a remarkable heritage line powered by passion and dedication.
A Heritage Railway Like No Other.
The GWSR boasts an impressive 950 volunteers with just 12 paid staff, an extraordinary ratio unmatched by any other major heritage railway. Our visit was arranged by UKPO Magazine reader Jonathan Taylor—a huge thanks to Jonathan for making it happen!
We met Jonathan in Gretton, a charming village about five miles from Cheltenham. It was a crisp January morning, and from our elevated vantage point, we were greeted by breathtaking views of the rolling Cotswold hills. Not our usual site visit setting, but as we approached the worksite, we were warmly welcomed—despite the rumble of a Kobelco excavator hard at work. More on that later!
We were introduced to Andrew Laycock, Head of Drainage at GWSR, who reassured us that, despite standing on the rail line, the track was closed for the season to allow essential maintenance. Today, we were about to witness one of those crucial projects, a culvert restoration.
A Brief Encounter with the Line.
The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway occupies 14 miles of the former Great Western Railway (GWR) main line, which once linked the Midlands with the Southwest and Wales.
– Originally opened in 1906, the line thrived until the 1960s and 70s, when station closures and declining traffic led to its demise.
– The line was closed in 1976, with tracks lifted in1979/80.
– Fortunately, railway enthusiasts successfully negotiated to purchase the line in 1982.
– Over the past four decades, volunteers have painstakingly re-laid tracks, rebuilt stations, and restored the line to its former glory.
– In 2018, Broadway Station—rebuilt entirely by volunteers—was reopened, completing this picturesque heritage route.
Today, the line offers spectacular views along the Cotswold escarpment and operates classic steam and diesel locomotives, as well as historic British Railways Mark 1 passenger coaches.
Among its standout events is the Cheltenham Festival service, ferrying racegoers in vintage style to this National event…without the hassle of traffic jams! Fulfilling the old Great Western Railway’s advertising: ‘Go by Rail to the Races!’.
The Culvert Project: Keeping the Tracks Safe.
On this particular day, Andrew and his 11-strong volunteer team were focused on maintaining a culvert that had been in place since the 1950s. Their work is vital ensuring the track’s stability and preserving the railway’s future.
While none of the volunteers are professional civil engineers, they’ve mastered the craft through hands-on experience and the guidance of experienced infrastructure managers. The collaboration ensures that jobs are prioritised, completed safely, and to the highest standards.
Andrew and his team rely on a small but mighty fleet of equipment, including:
– A Thwaites 2-tonne dumper
– A Takeuchi mini excavator
– Essential Isuzu and Ford pickups for transport
With additional heavy equipment hired in from local operators and contractors.
On this project, they were replacing a deteriorating brick-wing-walled culvert with a modern GRP chamber ring system, stabilizing the track bed, and ensuring proper drainage—crucial for keeping both the railway and nearby farmland protected from excess water.
The railway lies between the limestone Cotswold hills and the rivers Avon and Severn, so a lot of water flows across the line through some 70 culverts, three bridges, two siphons and even an aqueduct. Drainage across and alongside the line is therefore of utmost importance, a fact little recognised by the travellers enjoying a day out on this beautiful line.
The Best View on the Railway.
Amidst the stunning natural surroundings, Andrew pointed out that this exact spot was his favourite view along the entire 14-mile track. With the Malvern Hill to the left and Cleeve Hill ahead, it was easy to see why.
Adding to the charm, the Royal Oak pub’s beer garden overlooks the railway—an idyllic spot to watch the trains go by on a warm day with a pint in hand!
Walk on the Wildside.
Beyond its historical and engineering significance, the railway is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Throughout the seasons, the line plays host to an array of species:
– Red Kites, Kestrels, Hawks, and Buzzards** soar overhead.
– Owls are regularly seen scanning this wildlife corridor for small mammals
– Grass snakes, adders, and lizards slither through the undergrowth.
– Deer (of every variety except the lesser-spotted red deer) roam freely.
– Rabbits and even badgers make regular appearances—though their burrowing habits can be a challenge!
– Wild flowers attract a huge variety of insect life
Staying on Track: A Team Effort.
As we moved down to trackside, we saw first-hand the dedication of Andrew’s team. Beyond railway preservation, they actively collaborate with local farmers and landowners, ensuring drainage systems keep surrounding land dry and productive.
Andrew proudly described his team as “enthusiastic railway men”—a fitting tribute to their hard work and passion.
Join the Journey!
We had an incredible time with Andrew and his team, witnessing the dedication that keeps this historic railway alive.
Want to experience it for yourself? Whether it’s a nostalgic steam journey, a family day out, or a stylish ride to Cheltenham Festival, GWSR has something for everyone.
Visit their website www.gwsr.com and discover the magic of heritage railways today!
