The Wensleydale Railway is set to host its annual Diesel Gala over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, running for 3 days from Saturday 23rd May to Monday 25th May 2026.
The event, centred at Leeming Bar Station, features a special timetable with trains running to Scruton, Bedale, Finghall Lane, and Leyburn. A major highlight for this year is the addition of a visiting guest locomotive, Class 37 number 37421, courtesy of Colas Rail Freight services. This visitor will join the railway’s home fleet, including the Class 37 (37250), Class 47 (47714), and the Class 121 “bubble car” (55032).
For families looking to make the most of the weekend, the railway is offering an all-day ‘Ranger’ ticket for £25, allowing unlimited travel and “hop on, hop off” flexibility throughout the day. In a significant saving for parents, children aged 3 to 15 travel for just £1 when accompanied by a paying adult.
Nick Keegan, Marketing and Fundraising Manager at Wensleydale Railway, said: “Our annual diesel gala is a great opportunity for us to operate a special timetable and showcase some of our heritage diesel locomotives, and stunning scenery, to the public. 3 of our home diesel fleet will take part in this event, along with a visiting guest locomotive, number 37421. We are very grateful to our friends at Colas Rail for allowing the use of their locomotive.”
He added: “In addition to Leeming Bar, Bedale and Leyburn, Scruton Station will be open during the weekend, so don’t miss the opportunity to come and visit this beautifully restored Edwardian station. Step back in time at this delightful example of a small rural station, tour the beautifully restored station building and enjoy a living museum experience with our wonderful team of period-costumed volunteers as you learn about railway life in the 1900s.”
