The Severn Valley Railway (SVR) will welcome the New Year in spectacular style as its popular Winter Steam Gala returns on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 January 2026, offering an unmissable two-day festival of steam at a time of year when few heritage railways are in full gala mode.

Running between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth, the event will showcase the SVR’s impressive home fleet, operating an intensive, action-packed timetable. From the thunder of hard-working locomotives to the evocative sights of the Severn Valley in winter, the gala promises something special for both dedicated steam enthusiasts and families looking for a memorable winter day out.

Passengers will be able to travel in the comfort of steam-heated heritage carriages, watching crisp winter scenes glide past. With services running frequently, visitors who plan carefully will have the opportunity to ride behind every engine in action. They can also break their journey at The Engine House at Highley, and enjoy food, hot drinks and local real ales at stations along the route.

The SVR’s managing director Gus Dunster said:

“The Winter Steam Gala is all about starting the year with energy and excitement. There’s something magical about travelling through the Severn Valley behind a hard-working steam locomotive on a cold January day, enjoying the warmth of a heritage carriage. With a busy timetable, a strong line-up from our home fleet and so much to see and do along the railway, it’s a fantastic event for enthusiasts and general visitors alike.”

The stars of the show will include:

• GWR 1450
• GWR 4930 ‘Hagley Hall’ (Saturday)
• GWR 7714
• GWR 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’
• LMS 13268
• BR Standard 75069 (Sunday)
• BR Class 108 DMU

All locomotives are expected to face Kidderminster, and station gift shops, cafés and restaurant kiosks will be open throughout the weekend, as well as The Engine House visitor centre at Highley.

For timetables and further information, visit svr.co.uk.