Somerset & Dorset

Which site would you say is the best to visit?
(exclude Washford as I've been there)

 

My two choices would either be Midsomer Norton, or Shillingstone.

 

You could do the bike ride from Midford to Bath, through Coombe Down and Devonshire Tunnels for something a bit different

 

not unless they've widened the tunnels and have a de-fib on stndby

 

What could I expect to see?

 

Midsomer Norton (South) has had the entire site restored, complete with all track. Currently, they have 1 mile of track, and are fundraising to extend another mile to Chilcompton cutting, bringing them to 2 miles of track. They have a Sentinel 0-4-0VBT, a Class 08, and a EE 0-6-0DH
Shillingstone has the station building restored, along with the down platform. Track has been relaid towards Stourpaine and Durweston Halt, and Lamb Bridge (north of Shillingstone) has been saved from demolition and for future northwards extension. They have two Czech 0-6-0T's, a Ruston, and a Class 08 (under overhaul/repairs) as motive power

 

I think both have websites if you google it

 

of course I have done, but websites are sugar coated usually and I prefer to ask for first hand independent views.

Both sound as if they are in their infancy but worth calling in to for half an hour.

I tried calling into Midsomer Norton last year but the place was all closed up with nowhere to park and a very busy road outside (Saturday morning).

 

Have you forgotten that lynbarn is reopening the whole thing?

 

no but I'm thinking of going this month

 

Yugoslavian built (not Czech) 0 6 0 based on American WD Yankee tanks. Number 30075 and 30076. 30075 originally restored at Swanage in early 90's

 

Thanks for the correction, Daddsie.

 

Highly recommend Midsomer Norton, very atmospheric even if nothings running

 

Thanks, I tried before but it was all closed up and nowhere near to park

 

There is a large free public car park in South Street. If you are going down the hill, right & right again.

I was there on Saturday with my two youngest and we had a great time