Top 5 things to do at Steam Gala 2024!

1. Ride behind Lady of Legend

This years visiting locomotive is none other than Lady of Legend! No.2999 in a recreation of the Saint Class locomotive and is Britain’s newest steam locomotive. It’s building was funded entirely by donations and bequests and with none of the original Saint Class locos surviving.

Lady of Legend will be joined by Large Prairie No.4110 and Ivatt Class No.46447 on the East Somerset Line taking passengers on a magical journey through the Somerset countryside. Tickets for Steam Gala 2024 include unlimited train rides throughout the day. Our full timetable can be found on our website.

2. Get snapping!

With such wonderful locomotives in full steam, Steam Gala 2024 is a fantastic opportunity for photographic enthusiasts to get the perfect snap.

We ask that all those taking photos are respectful of their surrounding and keep to official pathways to get their perfect shot.

3. Explore the Engine Shed

The East Somerset Railway would be nothing without its many teams of wonderful volunteers. Get an insight into how we keep these locomotives in tip top condition by visiting our engine shed where volunteers will be hard at work and happy to answer all questions and queries!

4. Check out David Shepherd’s Model Railway

2024 is a momentous year for the East Somerset Railway as it marks the 50th anniversary of its re-opening to the public as a heritage railway. This was in a large part down to the passion and work of wild life artist and railway enthusiast David Shepherd who purchased Cranmore Station to house his two locomotives, Green Knight and Black Prince – (both these locomotives now have new homes with other railways).

To commemorate this milestone the East Somerset Railway has acquired David Shepherd’s model railway. The village section of this will be on public display for the first time on Steam Gala 2024 weekend!

5. Pop into East Somerset Models

If you are inspired by the work of David Shepherd or are a model railway enthusiast then a trip to East Somerset Models is surely in order. This quaint and excellently stocked independent shop - Somerset's only specialist N Gauge model railway shop!

However these 5 ideas are only a taster of what you can get up to on our Steam Gala Weekend. We also have our museum and reconstructed ticket office to explore and The Station Café will be packed with delicious treats across the weekend.