Great Central Railway News and Updates

[WesternLancer]

Is there a thread here for GCR north?
Specifically ref forthcoming Flying Scotsman visit

 

[Jacob Porrett]

08784 form the GCR is running passenger services at the Telford Steam Railway today. First service is from 11am.

 

[NY SAARSS]

Is there a thread here for GCR north?
Specifically ref forthcoming Flying Scotsman visit

I think the event is run by Fox and Edwards Events. try looking at foxandedwards.com/events. If you can find it there is some information on their website.

 

[WesternLancer]

I think the event is run by Fox and Edwards Events. try looking at foxandedwards.com/events. If you can find it there is some information on their website.

Thanks. Yes found the official links.

Was wondering if a thread to biscuit was on here but maybe not.

 

[Flying Phil]

Is there a thread here for GCR north?
Specifically ref forthcoming Flying Scotsman visit

I think there used to be a separate GCR(N) thread but as the two organisations are getting much closer together, recent posts about GCR(N) have been on this one thread...which is good.

 

[Amos390]

A question on when Scotsman is at GCRN, what will the consist look like when it’s running, will the DBSO be on the back and Scotsman will push the set for the parts after it’s changed ends, or will there be a second loco on the back that will do the journey after it’s reversed?

 

[Iskra]

A question on when Scotsman is at GCRN, what will the consist look like when it’s running, will the DBSO be on the back and Scotsman will push the set for the parts after it’s changed ends, or will there be a second loco on the back that will do the journey after it’s reversed?

I’ve heard a diesel on the back

 

[Amos390]

I’ve heard a diesel on the back

Ok thanks, any ideas what that is?

 

[Iskra]

Ok thanks, any ideas what that is?

A 37 was mentioned, it was mentioned that when reversing FS would still be providing most of the power. I don’t know how realistic that is.

 

[Amos390]

A 37 was mentioned, it was mentioned that when reversing FS would still be providing most of the power. I don’t know how realistic that is.

Ok thanks, sound like it should be good fun if it is a tractor.

 

[WesternLancer]

Just picking up my post a short while ago ref Flying Scotsman (and I think Tornado) at the GCR North in late may.

I can see tickets to travel on the services along with a variety of packages are on sale on line - that's all clear (well that seems to be for Scotsman, not sure about Tornado).

Whilst these are not cheap that's fair enough as funds need to be raised for both the locos and the line.

However, it's just rather more than I would have wanted to pay - and I'm not actually bothered about the haulage

But it would be good to see the locos

So my question is on the days that Scotsman (and Tornado maybe) are in steam operation on the line is it possible to pay an entry price to the Ruddington site in order to get in and see them, along with whatever else there is to enjoy at Ruddington?

or is the event going to be so busy with people travelling plus others wanting to see them by doing this that it's not really realistic to think of doing this.

I can't see anything on the GCR(N) webpage that talks about tickets for site access only on the days Scotsman travel tickets are being sold - but apols if I have missed that.

Views and opinions welcome!

 

[duffield]

Just picking up my post a short while ago ref Flying Scotsman (and I think Tornado) at the GCR North in late may.

I can see tickets to travel on the services along with a variety of packages are on sale on line - that's all clear (well that seems to be for Scotsman, not sure about Tornado).

Whilst these are not cheap that's fair enough as funds need to be raised for both the locos and the line.

However, it's just rather more than I would have wanted to pay - and I'm not actually bothered about the haulage

But it would be good to see the locos

So my question is on the days that Scotsman (and Tornado maybe) are in steam operation on the line is it possible to pay an entry price to the Ruddington site in order to get in and see them, along with whatever else there is to enjoy at Ruddington?

or is the event going to be so busy with people travelling plus others wanting to see them by doing this that it's not really realistic to think of doing this.

I can't see anything on the GCR(N) webpage that talks about tickets for site access only on the days Scotsman travel tickets are being sold - but apols if I have missed that.

Views and opinions welcome!

I expect the Rushcliffe Country Park bridge overlooking the station is going to be a popular location. In fact it might get unsafely overcrowded...
And then there's the Asher Lane level crossing. Probably get a bit of daft behaviour there!
Some crowd controls needed I expect.

 

[WesternLancer]

I expect the Rushcliffe Country Park bridge overlooking the station is going to be a popular location. In fact it might get unsafely overcrowded...
And then there's the Asher Lane level crossing. Probably get a bit of daft behaviour there!
Some crowd controls needed I expect.

Thanks - off site there are a several decent lengths of public footpath that run right beside the line beyond the boundary fence, which presumably provide decent viewing posts for those prepared to walk across the field footpath rights of way.

I'm really just interested in ability to pay to go into the site and see what you can see - but given Scotsman's crowd pulling potential that could sell out or get overcrowded (or do such crowds melt away when an entrance fee is asked for....?)

 

[Forty29]

Never heard of a Heritage railway just charging an entrance fee but probably has been.

 

[SECR 65]

Never heard of a Heritage railway just charging an entrance fee but probably has been.

At the Bluebell Railway visitors to Sheffield Park or Horsted Keynes are asked to purchase a platform ticket for a few quid to look round the site - there is quite a lot to see and do. No fee is charged for Kingscote and East Grinstead where there aren't so many additional attractions.

 

[duffield]

Never heard of a Heritage railway just charging an entrance fee but probably has been.

I think I've seen quite a few have platform tickets for galas.

 

[WesternLancer]

Never heard of a Heritage railway just charging an entrance fee but probably has been.

GCR South has Loughborough only ‘platform tickets’ that get you into site only.

GCR north is a heritage centre so i assumed people go in on non running days or maybe in the past that was my vague recollection.

 

[50002Superb]

Last time i went to GCR(N) they wouldn’t let you through the gates without a ticket to travel.

It was the day there was a gala involving both the GCR and GCR(N).

 

[Forty29]

Yes thought of platform tickets but forgot to say.

 

[matt]

On the 16th and 17th May there is a model railway exhibition being held at Ruddington

Model Railway Exhibition (Day 1) | Great Central Railway (Nottingham) Ltd.

gcrn.co.uk

Features

• Displays covering more than 10,000sq.ft.
• Trade stands to expand your collection
• Open 10-5pm (Sat), 10-4pm (Sun)
• Other Heritage Central attractions open as usual

Entry information

• Adults £8
• Children 5-16 years £2
• Parking £3

Also that weekend Fox and Edward Events are advertising a trip behind Tornado and a visit to the footplate of Flying Scotsman.

Steam Celebration Tornado Flying Scotsman Ruddington Nottingham

Steam Celebration Tornado Flying Scotsman Ruddington Nottingham

www.foxandedwards.com

Event Summary​

Duration: 200 minutes approx.

Departure Point: Ruddington Fields Station (NG11 6JS) - Car parking available (charges may apply).

What's Included: A return journey behind visiting locomotive 'Tornado', entry to the Model Railway Exhibition and the opportunity to visit the footplate of 'Flying Scotsman'

I'm not sure if you visit for just the model exhibition whether you would be able to see Tornado and Flying Scotsman.

 

[Amos390]

I believe there is a handful of foot crossings along the main stretch, they are in fields though so may be hard access, likewise the handful of small bridges along that stretch.

Just picking up my post a short while ago ref Flying Scotsman (and I think Tornado) at the GCR North in late may.

I can see tickets to travel on the services along with a variety of packages are on sale on line - that's all clear (well that seems to be for Scotsman, not sure about Tornado).

Whilst these are not cheap that's fair enough as funds need to be raised for both the locos and the line.

However, it's just rather more than I would have wanted to pay - and I'm not actually bothered about the haulage

But it would be good to see the locos

So my question is on the days that Scotsman (and Tornado maybe) are in steam operation on the line is it possible to pay an entry price to the Ruddington site in order to get in and see them, along with whatever else there is to enjoy at Ruddington?

or is the event going to be so busy with people travelling plus others wanting to see them by doing this that it's not really realistic to think of doing this.

I can't see anything on the GCR(N) webpage that talks about tickets for site access only on the days Scotsman travel tickets are being sold - but apols if I have missed that.

Views and opinions welcome!

 

[WesternLancer]

Last time i went to GCR(N) they wouldn’t let you through the gates without a ticket to travel.

It was the day there was a gala involving both the GCR and GCR(N).

Thanks. That’s helpful

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 20 Apr 2026 ==

On the 16th and 17th May there is a model railway exhibition being held at Ruddington

Model Railway Exhibition (Day 1) | Great Central Railway (Nottingham) Ltd.

gcrn.co.uk

Also that weekend Fox and Edward Events are advertising a trip behind Tornado and a visit to the footplate of Flying Scotsman.

Steam Celebration Tornado Flying Scotsman Ruddington Nottingham

Steam Celebration Tornado Flying Scotsman Ruddington Nottingham

www.foxandedwards.com

I'm not sure if you visit for just the model exhibition whether you would be able to see Tornado and Flying Scotsman.

Thanks. So that’s £30 to include the trip behind tornado at the model rail exhibition.
Info and links appreciated.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 20 Apr 2026 ==

I believe there is a handful of foot crossings along the main stretch, they are in fields though so may be hard access, likewise the handful of small bridges along that stretch.

Yes. Quite a long stretch of public footpath beside the line that commences in nearby villages about a mile from the line. Those are rights of way.
Easy to see on OS maps inc points where paths cross the line. But the path follows the line side fence for a decent length.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 20 Apr 2026 ==

Last time i went to GCR(N) they wouldn’t let you through the gates without a ticket to travel.

It was the day there was a gala involving both the GCR and GCR(N).

Suspect this will be the case at these events in some form. Tho the model railway event has its entrance fee which must involve people wanting to go to that with no intention to travel.

 

[DarloRich]

Does anyone know if there are any buses running from the mainline station to the CGR station in Loughborough for the diesel weekend? I have a former colleague wanting to go but due to an operation he wont be up to walking between the two stations.

Alternatively: would a cab be an option? I know it isn't THAT far but if you aren't mobile it may as well be a marathon.

 

[LowLevel]

Does anyone know if there are any buses running from the mainline station to the CGR station in Loughborough for the diesel weekend? I have a former colleague wanting to go but due to an operation he wont be up to walking between the two stations.

Alternatively: would a cab be an option? I know it isn't THAT far but if you aren't mobile it may as well be a marathon.

No buses, but there is a taxi rank at Loughborough Midland station which normally has cars on it and Uber is widely available in the town, or of course you could call a local taxi.

 

[DarloRich]

No buses, but there is a taxi rank at Loughborough Midland station which normally has cars on it and Uber is widely available in the town, or of course you could call a local taxi.

Cheers - we will get him a cab. Last time I went to the CGR they ran some kind of heritage bus shuttle to/from the mainline station.

 

[LowLevel]

Cheers - we will get him a cab. Last time I went to the CGR they ran some kind of heritage bus shuttle to/from the mainline station.

They do on occasion, but much depends on things like driver availability (it's usually run by the affiliated Leicester Transport Heritage Trust) and they've got a large bus rally on at Quorn in 3 weeks which I assume is their focus. Obviously fuel is a massive expense at the minute too.

 

[DarloRich]

They do on occasion, but much depends on things like driver availability (it's usually run by the affiliated Leicester Transport Heritage Trust) and they've got a large bus rally on at Quorn in 3 weeks which I assume is their focus. Obviously fuel is a massive expense at the minute too.

no criticism - I was at Beamish the other week and they were running 5 heritage buses. The fuel costs must be huge at present. O/T obvs.

 

[WesternLancer]

Cheers - we will get him a cab. Last time I went to the CGR they ran some kind of heritage bus shuttle to/from the mainline station.

Recent event I was at (steam gala) the Heritage buses were advertised for the Saturday on the GCR website (including on the day) but when I and a few others got off the EMR train at L'boro Midland there was no sign of the buses and no signage about whether they were running or not.

After waiting a short time for the scheduled bus time I went to the EMR ticket office and the staff said they had not seen any heritage buses and presumed it was not operating that day (I later heard that flooding between the heritage bus depot and Loughboro was the potential reason they were not operating)

So whilst it was not ideal that the GCR had not updated the website on the day, EMR station staff were informative - even if they clearly did not know definitively.

So on your question - if I was a person with limited mobility needing to do the walk I would either rely on the taxi rank or pre book a taxi to meet you at Loughborough Midland station. I would not rely on a heritage bus being there despite the obvious commitment of the bus operators and volunteers to do their best.

Since I enjoy the heritage bus if there was a chance of one I'd probably then rely on the taxi rank if I found no heritage bus rather than pre book a taxi - but I would know I could walk it anyway - if I was of limited mobility or helping someone who was I think i'd want more of a guarantee of a taxi being available so pre booking may be wise

 

[LowLevel]

no criticism - I was at Beamish the other week and they were running 5 heritage buses. The fuel costs must be huge at present. O/T obvs.

https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/visit/events/20260424-spring-diesel-gala/?fbclid=IwY2xjawRUmrtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA80MDk5NjI2MjMwODU2MDkAAR5Zjz7tTqdWWazkthjLH9Ik8GJw-QfWWmaBK5O5udECglfQ4h2Y-tFSaHwzrQ_aem__JOXYroC9sqsFph1Rn7tnw

You'll be delighted to hear that there will now be a free bus service on Friday and Saturday, only announced this afternoon. Timetable on attached link, as well as one or two other updated attractions.

 

[WesternLancer]

https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/visit/events/20260424-spring-diesel-gala/?fbclid=IwY2xjawRUmrtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA80MDk5NjI2MjMwODU2MDkAAR5Zjz7tTqdWWazkthjLH9Ik8GJw-QfWWmaBK5O5udECglfQ4h2Y-tFSaHwzrQ_aem__JOXYroC9sqsFph1Rn7tnw

You'll be delighted to hear that there will now be a free bus service on Friday and Saturday, only announced this afternoon. Timetable on attached link, as well as one or two other updated attractions.

Excellent. Hope the op’s friend could use this as the buses are always interesting.

All credit to the bus operators for this!