The Somerset and Dorset Railway has issued information about its upcoming events, adding detail to the programme that it announced earlier this year.

The heritage railway, based in Midsomer Norton, based in Midsomer Norton in North East Somerset, has had what it calls “a strong and encouraging start to the year”. The Railway held three early‑season events – Easter, the 1940s Weekend, and Dinosaur Day – which all went well and provided a showcase for the Railway.

Its Events Team is now busy making preparations for its programme with events in the summer and into autumn.

The summer season is usually very busy, and the Somerset and Dorset Railway will be welcoming visitors to its running days and special events.

Wickham Season

In July, the popular Wickham Trolley will feature strongly. On the weekend of Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July, the Wickham Weekender will deliver two days of rides and activities.

On Wednesday 22 July, the Trolley will begin its weekly Wickham Wednesdays, which will run into September.

Summer Train Services

The Railway will run its passenger train services every Sunday, beginning on 26 July and continuing throughout the month of August.

Two of these will be special events, focused on families.

On 16 August, the Railway will host a Family Fun Day, and on the Bank Holiday Sunday and Monday (30 and 31 August) will welcome visitors to a Teddy Bears’ Picnic.

September events

In September, the Somerset and Dorset Railway will host two heritage events:

On Sunday 13 September, the Heritage Day will feature brake van rides, and Sunday 27 September will see the Autumn Gala. The Railway has promised to release more details of this event in its July update.

More to come

The standard-gauge railway is already planning the two biggest events of its year.

For the first time, its Halloween event will run over two days. And its Christmas programme is being prepared.

Volunteer!

The success of these events depends largely on the efforts of volunteers, and the Somerset and Dorset Railway is looking for more of them. It is asking people who have a few hours to spare to get in touch and offer their services. To discuss volunteering, contact Keith Turk, Head of Events, at [email protected]