Welcome to Swanage Railway aand Great Central Railway
CIRO is proud to welcome two new heritage railways to its growing network of corporate members: Great Central Railway and Swanage Railway.
Their membership signals a shared commitment to the continued development of professional standards, operational excellence, and collaboration across all areas of the rail industry.
Great Central Railway: A Living Legacy of Mainline Heritage
Based in Leicestershire, Great Central Railway( GCR) is the UK’ s only double-track, mainline heritage railway. Running between Loughborough and Leicester North, GCR recreates the golden age of steam with a unique operational setup that allows full-sized trains to pass each other— just like the national network.
Originally part of the London Extension of the Great Central Railway, completed in 1899, today’ s preserved line is an award-winning tourist attraction and education resource. GCR is also spearheading the ambitious Reunification Project, which will reconnect its preserved section with Nottingham via a new bridge, forming an 18-mile heritage corridor in the East Midlands.
This initiative highlights GCR’ s dedication to preservation, education, and sustainable tourism.
Swanage Railway: A Coastal Heritage Gem
Swanage Railway, located in Dorset, operates a historic rail line through the Isle of Purbeck, connecting the seaside town of Swanage to Norden via the picturesque Corfe Castle. The line offers visitors a nostalgic journey through spectacular countryside on steam and heritage diesel services.
Rebuilt almost entirely by volunteers after the original line was closed in 1972, Swanage Railway is a testament to community spirit and dedication. Today, it serves not only as a popular visitor attraction but also as an important educational and training site, offering young people and enthusiasts the chance to gain realworld railway experience in a heritage setting.
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