Home / Arts and Entertainment / Branch Line Weekend: Eardington Expects 23 Train Stops
Branch Line Weekend: Eardington Expects 23 Train Stops
23 Feb
Summary
- Eardington station will host an unprecedented 23 train stops.
- The event marks the 35th anniversary of the railway's first diesel unit.
- The restored rural station was named Station of the Year in the past year.
Eardington station, a historic 157-year-old site, is set to experience an unprecedented level of activity during the upcoming Branch Line Weekend on February 28 and March 1. Organizers have scheduled 23 train stops at the station, a figure higher than at any point in its history. This special event commemorates the 35th anniversary of the Severn Valley Railway's (SVR) first diesel multiple unit (DMU) arrival.
The Branch Line Weekend aims to capture the authentic bustle of a traditional country branch line. Visitors can expect a variety of services, including autotrain workings, short local trains, and DMUs operating shuttle and full-line services. This surge in train activity contrasts with the station's usual operation, where passenger trains typically pass through without stopping, except during special galas.
Station master Steve Downs noted the historical significance, comparing the upcoming schedule to past timetables. While Saturdays historically saw more service, Sundays had minimal stops. The restored rural station, which reopened in September 2023 after over 40 years closed and was named Station of the Year last year, will be fully open. An enhanced timetable will allow visitors to explore other stations along the SVR line, which runs between Bridgnorth and Kidderminster.
