A Celebration of Steam

A Celebration of Steam

This year we are celebrating the 45th anniversary of the arrival of the Miniature Railway when it opened at Easter 1980.

For many, a ride on the miniature railway is there first memory of a visit to Weston and over the last 45 years it has carried over 250,000 passengers.  The railway is a beloved feature of the estate, offering generations of visitors a unique way to experience the beauty of Capability Brown’s landscape.

First introduced as a mode of transportation around large country estates – pioneered by Sir Arthur Heywood, narrow gauge railways were used to transport coal and other goods, for example at Eaton Hall in Cheshire.  They soon became staples of the stately home experience transporting visitors and offering scenic tours.  Weston’s is no exception, providing an experience that combines nostalgia, adventure and heritage.

The railway at Weston was originally part of the Hilton Valley Railway near Bridgnorth and was briefly installed at Hilton Manor.

Weston’s railway also has the honour to have held a Guinness World Record! In 1994, its steam locomotive ‘Peggy’ set the record for greatest distance covered by a model steam locomotive in 24 hours.

To mark the historic 45th anniversary we will be hosting a celebration of steam on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th April.  Over the weekend there will be special visiting engines, a look back on the history of the railway and a return appearance of the record-breaking Peggy!

Standard Park & Gardens admission applies.