SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER 2024

We are pleased to present this tour of freight branches, loops and curves in the Thames Valley. The offered joining points are from Burton-on-Trent via Birmingham and Cheltenham Spa to Swindon. From there we continue east to the Didcot area to visit the Appleford freight terminal (courtesy of Heidelberg), returning round Didcot West Curve to enter Milton Siding, a rare visit. Restarting eastward the tour takes us through Reading and on to Maidenhead, traversing as many passenger and freight loops as possible, within the constraints of a heavily utilised route.

A visit is then made to the Colnbrook Branch (Oil terminal gates limit requested), then by way of further loops to Hanwell and the Down West Loop to reach Park Royal Sidings (limit to be confirmed). Back out then on to the GW main line and via Acton Wells Junction and the West London line for a short break at London Victoria. The return is by way of Willesden South West Sidings and Kew Junctions, then the Feltham Up/Down Arrivals to Reading.

We are very grateful to a member of Network Rail staff, who was instrumental in devising this tour of Thames Valley freight branches and loops.

REQUESTED ROUTE (subject to confirmation): As the pick-up points to Swindon then Appleford Sidings – Milton Siding – Didcot Parkway Up/Down Goods Loop – Reading Up Passenger Loop – Reading – Maidenhead Loop – Slough Up Goods Loop – Langley Siding – Iver Up Goods Loop – West Drayton Up Goods Loop – Colnbrook Branch – Dawley Up Goods Loop – Hanwell Jn – Down West Loop – Greenford East Curve – Park Royal Sidings – West Ealing – Acton West – Up Poplar – Acton Wells Jn – Kensington Olympia – London Victoria (short break of approx 1 hour). Return via Kensington Olympia – West London Jn – Acton Wells Jn – Old Kew Jn – Hounslow – Feltham Up/Down Arrivals – Wokingham – Reading – Down Festival Line – Didcot Parkway and as outward.

Requested Motive Power is Top / Tail WCRC Class 57/0s throughout. 

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ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE:
– Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows
– A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone
– The Gricers Grill will be served on this train
– A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks 
– Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards!

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