Branch Line Society announces The Garsdale Growler rail tour

The Branch Line Society has added another tour to its Fixture List with the announcement of a return trip on the 27th August from Derby to Carlisle as day two of its two-day exploration of freight lines.

The tour, from Derby to Carlisle and return, will be hauled by a pair of DRS Class 37s over the scenic Settle to Carlisle line and will raise funds for Martin House Children's Hospice. Among the locations visited will be a much sought-after freight installation, and this could be the last time a pair of DRS Class 37s work a passenger charter service.

Among the highlights include Dore Curve, Earles Down Goods Loop, Stockport Down Main, Stockport to Denton Junction, Ashton Moss Curve, Bolton Platform 3 to Down & Up Darwen, Blackburn to Hellifield ‘DalesRail' route, Newbiggin Kirby Thore British Gypsum, and Cockshute Up Goods.

DB Cargo will operate the charter with Mk.2 coaching stock, with a DB Cargo Class 66 forward from Carlisle. The Branch Line Society has requested a different Class 66 from the one used on the previous day's charter. There will be a time for a leg stretch and photo opportunities at Carlisle.

A Buffet Car will be available serving a wide range of hot and cold drinks, hot food, snacks, and light refreshments, as well as hand-pulled real ales and ciders.

During the journey, there will be a charity raffle, with all proceeds being donated to Martin House Hospice.

Indicative routing and timings are:

Derby P5 (PU 08.50) – Chesterfield P1 (PU 09.20) – Dore Curve – Earles DGL – Hazel Grove –  Stockport Dn Main – Reddish South – Denton Jn – Ashton Moss North Jn – Manchester Victoria P5 (PU 11.08) – Bolton P3 – Darwen – Blackburn – Daisyfield Jn – Clitheroe – Hellifield Dn Gds – Settle – Ribblehead Viaduct – Garsdale – Appleby – New Biggin Kirby Thore British Gypsum – Carlisle P3 (SD 15.46 / RM / break) – Penrith P1 (SD 17.33) – Preston P4 (SD 18.44) – Warrington – Crewe P12 (SD 20.37) – Cockshute Up Goods – Stoke on Trent P1 (SD 21.07) – Uttoxeter – Derby P2 (SD 21.57).

Fares will be £214 First Class, Non-Dining, at a guaranteed table for two, £189 First Class, Non-Dining, and £119 Standard Class. There is a £59.50 reduction for all accompanied under 18s.