The 2026 season at the Leighton Buzzard Railway is set to begin on Sunday, 15 March, following the early completion of major construction works at the Level Crossing over Stanbridge Road. Finishing ahead of schedule has allowed the historic line to move into the new season with confidence.

The mayor of Leighton-Linsdale has been invited to perform the traditional duty of waving off the first train, with the Town Crier also set to mark the occasion in customary style.

Opening day coincides with Mother’s Day, and families can expect a celebratory atmosphere. Mothers will receive a complimentary family photograph and a flowering plant. Visitors can also explore the Stonehenge Works site to discover more about the town’s sand quarrying and transport heritage.

The volunteer-run railway will launch the season with two Andrew Barclay locomotives, ‘Doll’ and ‘Gertrude’, which will haul five departures per-day for visitors to enjoy.

Services are expected to operate every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday through to Halloween, with additional openings during school holidays. Refreshments will be available at the on-site CuriosiTea Rooms.

During 2026, several special events are planned, including steam and diesel galas, a beer festival, a Vintage Vehicle Rally, and a pirate invasion.