Severn Valley Railway has announced the return of extra steam nostalgia this summer season, with steam-hauled services operating on the first departure from Bridgnorth every Saturday throughout June, July, and August.

These services will replace journeys normally hauled by heritage diesel locomotives or the Diesel Multiple Unit during the peak summer season, increasing opportunities for passengers to travel behind steam from the northern end of the line.

The seasonal workings will pair one of the railway’s smaller steam locomotives with a set of historic Great Western Railway carriages, including GWR 4786, recently restored by volunteers at Bewdley, marking its 100th year in 2026.

The move to allow passengers to start their journey with steam traction from the Severn Valley Railway’s original preserved station forms part of the railway’s wider efforts to enhance the visitor experience, while showcasing its nationally significant historic rolling stock collection.

 “These special Saturday departures are all about celebrating what makes the Severn Valley Railway so unique. There is something very special about boarding a steam train at Bridgnorth behind a beautifully presented locomotive and travelling in some of our oldest and most historic carriages.

“We know there’s demand from visitors who want to start their journey behind steam from Bridgnorth, particularly during the summer months when Shropshire welcomes so many tourists and day-trippers. These services give passengers more flexibility while also helping us maximise capacity on some of our busiest operating days.”

Lewis Maddox, Severn Valley Railway visitor engagement manager.