23rd February 2020

Glavon Group - Visit to Didcot Railway Centre

Visit to Didcot Steam Centre OX11 7NR

Sunday 23rd February

Meet Membury Services M4 eastbound RG17 7TZ

9.45am for 10.15am departure

Didcot Railway Centre is a living museum based at the original Didcot 81E locomotive shed where steam engines were stabled and serviced for the GWR and later BR (WR) and which now holds a large selection of beautifully restored locomotives from diminutive tank engines to King Edward II, one of the mighty King Class express engines and the most powerful ever built by the GWR. All the features of a steam era shed are present including the original coaling stage and extensive workshops. A restored 1908 'Railmotor', (a self propelled steam powered rail car) the forerunner of the later GWR diesel railcars, plus a locomotive propelled Auto Train which at one time would all have been frequently seen in the Stroud area, can be seen now at Didcot.

As well as original locomotives and rolling stock there is an amazing re-creation of Brunel's original Broad Gauge system. There are signalling displays including the Swindon Panel which took the place of 32 signal boxes when installed in 1968 and controlled the main line until 2016. There is a very interesting museum, shop, café and much more.

Ample parking is available at Didcot Foxhall multi-storey station car park at £4.20 with covered walkway to the entrance at the main station building.

Admission charge on our group booking is £9pp payable on the day, but we need to enter together as a group. Please note that access does include a flight of steps.

Martin has arranged a guided tour at £20, the cost of which to be apportioned between those participating.

Please let Martin know if you intend coming on 07771 730941 or

martinjhall@btinternet.com