If you register, you can do a lot more. And become an active part of our growing community. You'll have access to hidden forums, and enjoy the ability of replying and starting conversations.

3801 Operations in 2026

Discussion in 'International Heritage Railways/Tramways' started by buzby2, Jul 24, 2026.

  1. buzby2

    buzby2 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Mar 26, 2009
    Messages:
    1,901
    Likes Received:
    747
    Location:
    Swanage
    After some time out for overhaul, 3801 is back!
    Thirlmere Loaded Test Train: https://www.thnsw.com.au/post/locomotive-3801-completes-load-trials
    Now available for main line rail tours: https://www.thnsw.com.au/post/locomotive-3801-returns-to-passenger-service
    First outing being this weekend with Penrith Steam Train Rides: https://www.thnsw.com.au/experiences/penrith-jul-26 which are (surprise. surprise) sold out.
    The same ticket (non-)availability on the Blue Mountains Flyer on the following weekend: https://www.thnsw.com.au/experiences/blue-mountains-flyer-aug-2026
     
    buzby2, Jul 24, 2026
    #1
    torgormaig likes this.
  2. buzby2

    buzby2 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Mar 26, 2009
    Messages:
    1,901
    Likes Received:
    747
    Location:
    Swanage
    buzby2, Oct 18, 2026 at 2:22 PM
    #2
    torgormaig likes this.
  3. torgormaig

    torgormaig Part of the furniture Friend

    Joined:
    Jul 17, 2007
    Messages:
    5,505
    Likes Received:
    9,657
    It seems that 3801 is in fine form these days. The two Newcastle Flyer trips, run on the locos old stamping ground, were a resounding success. On both days it tackled the twisting 5 mile long 1 in 40 Cowan Bank unaided and never faultered - and that with a seven coach load as against a normal unassisted limit of six coaches. As you might expect it was down to walking pace in places but sounded on top of the job all the way. Fortunately it is still allowed to put cameras out of the train windows over there and there is some excellent on train footage of the climb on YouTube. Pure steam in 2026 doesn't get any better than this.

    Peter
     
    torgormaig, Oct 18, 2026 at 6:50 PM
    #3

Share This Page