A Dozen Locomotives Dazzling During Steam Spectacular

The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway hosted a breathtaking Spring Steam Gala from the 20th to the 23rd of March, drawing in an impressive crowd of 4,000 visitors. With twelve magnificent steam locomotives in action, the event again proved why this heritage railway is becoming one of the UK’s leading historical railway attractions.

A particularly heartening aspect of the weekend was the notable presence of younger rail enthusiasts. The growing influence of social media figures like TikTok sensation Francis Bourgeois has played a role in reviving interest in heritage railways, demonstrating that the charm of classic locomotives and the romance of the Golden Age of Travel still captivate audiences today. When high-quality events like this Steam Gala are organised, crowds eagerly flock to relive and celebrate a bygone era of travel.

A Community Effort

Heritage railways across the UK are largely dependent on the dedication and passion of volunteers, and the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway is no exception. For the Steam Gala to run smoothly, over 120 volunteers were required daily. Their efforts were integral to the event’s success, and the sense of community spirit they brought was truly infectious.

Volunteering on a heritage railway is an incredibly rewarding experience, offering not only the satisfaction of preserving history but also the joy of seeing thousands of visitors delight in the spectacle of steam. The hard work and commitment of these volunteers ensure that the magic of historical railway travel remains alive for future generations.

Bringing the Past to Life

Noel Hartley, Business & Operations Manager at the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, reflected on the event’s impact, stating:

‘I am very proud of what has been achieved, particularly how we can create a journey back in time where, as a customer, you are completely immersed in a world that just doesn’t exist anymore in everyday life. To continue to bring this world to life is really important to give some balance to what’s on offer in the leisure and tourism industry, but also to provide opportunities for people to be involved in, or experience, how railways changed the world 200 years ago.’

As heritage railways continue to attract a new generation of enthusiasts, events like the Steam Gala highlight the enduring appeal of steam travel. The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway’s spectacular display was not just a celebration of locomotives but a testament to the dedication of volunteers, the power of nostalgia, and the importance of preserving history for the future.