Latest News

Help us celebrate a major milestone! 2027 marks the 50th Anniversary of The Watercress Line reopening in 1977. To mark the occasion, our goal is to decorate Ropley Station’s Viewing Gallery and Education Room with 50 metres of handmade, train-themed bunting for our celebration in May 2027. Whether you contribute a single flag or an...

Christmas is set to shine brighter than ever as The Watercress Line’s Steam Illuminations returns to Hampshire from 27 November 2026 to 2 January 2027, promising families and friends an unforgettable evening of sparkling lights, favourite tunes and festive fun. The popular heritage railway experience transforms a traditional steam train into a mesmerising lightshow with...

The Watercress Line Heritage Railway Trust has been recognised with a prestigious Sandford Award for Heritage Learning, celebrating the railway’s outstanding work in providing engaging, inspiring and curriculum-linked learning experiences for children and young people. The award recognises The Watercress Line’s distinctive approach to bringing history, engineering and the local environment to life through its...

The spirits are gathering and something spooky is brewing on the tracks at The Watercress Line in Hampshire this Halloween, as it prepares to welcome visitors for two spellbindingly spooky experiences. From 29 to 31 October, the heritage railway will transform into a supernatural setting for two separate Halloween events – a magical, family-friendly adventure...

Steam enthusiasts and families are invited to step back in time when the thrilling Autumn Steam Gala returns to The Watercress Line in Hampshire, from 2 to 4 October. Highlights include a spectacular line-up of steam locomotives, unlimited train rides on an enhanced timetable, and behind-the-scenes experiences at the heritage railway – promising a packed...

Go behind the scenes at The Watercress Line in Hampshire for a rare opportunity to discover the craftsmanship, engineering expertise and dedication that keeps one of Britain’s best-loved heritage railways running. The fascinating Engineering Open Weekend takes place on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, when visitors will have exclusive access to the railway’s engineering...