Bluebell Railway | Giants of Steam | 16th-18th October 2026

71000 "Duke of Gloucester" announced

 

First guest announced as 71000 Duke of Gloucester

 

92134 just announced as the second guest for the event.

 

GUEST ANNOUNCEMENT: A CLASH OF GIANTS!
We are thrilled to announce that the legendary BR Standard Class 9F No. 92134 will be joining us for the 2026 Giants of Steam gala!
This heavy-freight icon won’t be alone—it will be appearing alongside the unique BR Class 8P No. 71000 'Duke of Gloucester'. Together, they represent the absolute pinnacle of British Railways standard design—one built for raw, unyielding power, and the other for ultimate express speed.
Witnessing these two "Giants" together on our line will be a highlight of the decade for enthusiasts and families alike. Don't miss your chance to see over 300 tons of Crewe-built history in action!
A Special Thank You
This landmark appearance is made possible through the incredible generosity of the Self Family and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR). We are deeply grateful for their support in allowing 92134 to take part in this spectacular weekend.
Save the Date: 16th – 18th October 2026
Location: Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station
Tickets: Are available NOW! Visit https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/giants-of-steam

 

41313 returns to the railway for this gala and will remain over the winter

 

A very useful loco to join the Bluebell fleet. <BJ>

''Another locomotive joins the line-up for Giants of Steam!
We're delighted to welcome back Ivatt Class 2 No. 41313 to the Bluebell Railway, courtesy of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
We look forward to this popular locomotive taking part in our autumn steam gala this year, alongside visiting locos 71000 'Duke of Gloucester' and 92134.
No. 41313 will be participating in our flagship event before remaining with us for a period over the winter. More information on its additional running dates will be announced soon.
A huge thank you to our friends at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for making this visit possible''.
Book your tickets for Giants of Steam:https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/giants-of-steam/...

 

A sensible decision by the Bluebell Railway regarding the present weather conditions. .

Note also that the Bluebell on Parade event on 7th - 9th August has been cancelled. <BJ>

Important Service Update – Steam Services
Following advice from the fire service and in light of the current hot, dry weather conditions, prolonged lack of rainfall and the increased risk of lineside fires, the Bluebell Railway has taken the decision that, from tomorrow, no steam locomotives will operate until further notice.
This decision has not been taken lightly. Whilst we understand that many of our passengers, volunteers and supporters will be disappointed, our priority must always be the safety of the railway, our neighbours and the beautiful Sussex countryside through which we operate.
The Bluebell Railway has a comprehensive fire risk management process in place and continuously monitors weather conditions, ground conditions, vegetation, wind direction and other operational factors throughout the year. During periods of prolonged dry weather and elevated fire risk, additional measures are introduced to help mitigate the possibility of lineside fires.
However, with the current exceptional weather conditions, extremely dry ground and the ongoing lack of rainfall, we believe it is the responsible course of action to temporarily suspend steam operations. This precaution has been taken to help protect our lineside, neighbouring land, local wildlife and surrounding communities, while ensuring our operations do not place any unnecessary demand on local fire and emergency services.
We appreciate that many visitors come to experience the sights, sounds and atmosphere of steam, and we thank everyone for their understanding and continued support during this period.
Every visit to the Bluebell Railway helps support the preservation of our historic railway, and we hope you will continue to visit us throughout the summer holidays.
Services from Thursday 30 July.
Our daily service timetable has been amended and will operate as follows. All services, including our dining and supper trains, will be operated by heritage diesel locomotives.
Departures from Sheffield Park:
10:30
1:00
3:00
Our Customer Services Team will be contacting all booked groups and third-party operators shortly.
We will continue to review the situation daily in consultation with the relevant authorities and will resume steam operations as soon as it is safe to do so.
Thank you for your continued understanding, patience and support. We look forward to welcoming you to the Bluebell Railway.

 

Latest news from the Bluebell Railway. <BJ>

A huge thank you to Hastings Diesels Limited!
Our sincere thanks go to our friends at Hastings Diesels Limited, whose 4-car heritage diesel unit will be on its way to the Bluebell Railway to support us during this challenging period.
The unit will help supplement our own and visiting diesel fleet while steam locomotive operations remain temporarily suspended, and we're delighted that it will also be taking part in our 2026 Diesel Gala, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Network SouthEast.
We're incredibly grateful to everyone at Hastings Diesels Limited for stepping in to help at short notice. It's another wonderful example of the support and collaboration that exists across the heritage railway movement.
Further details of operating days for the unit will be announced in due course. Please join us in thanking Hastings Diesels Limited for their fantastic support!

Today's moves:
5Y23 https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:00092/2026-07-31/detailed
5Y24 https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:00190/2026-07-31/detailed

 

Not expecting any rain for quite a while then.

 

This is the Giants of Steam thread...