I like trains. In the train world that comes across as a bit strange but I find them fascinating. I think because I love machines. I love steam trains and my husband is into D & Es. So a year ago this weekend we headed to Swanage to see my in-laws and to attend the Diesel Gala. It is happening again this weekend and I hope it is as successful as it was last year as it was a lot of fun. Swanage Diesel Gala.
The weather was perfect and they had a wonderful beer festival at Harmon’s Cross so there was a great festive feel to the whole weekend. In Swanage there is a great spot on the bridge to take pictures of all the action coming and going.
The next day was gorgeous so we hiked to Corfe Castle and saw the trains rumble past.
And of course we had to stop at Harmon’s Cross to sample the local beers and ciders.
And lucky for me they still kept the steam trains running. 🙂 They had a bit of fun and added the D to the number for the occasion.
Personally, I like to be where all the fun is so I grab a footplate ride when I can. My FIL is the driver on this trip. 🙂 It’s the best seat in the house!
They have the steam gala in September and some day I hope to go to that one. That would be amazing.
Those photos are beautiful, I wish I could visit!
It is such a beautiful area.
Great pictures! Your FIL did have a great seat. Sounds like a fun weekend 🙂
Being on a footplate ride means you stand up there with the driver and fireman. :). It’s awesome.
I remember hiring an old cottage for holidays in the countryside between Corfe and Swanage, The children were young and loved it, as did we. Good memories. When I was at prep school I went on a steam train at the beginning of every term, leaving from Paddington and going to Kidderminster.
There is something special about steam trains. I had never been on one until my first visit to swanage 4 years ago. I love the sound of the train. It must have been neat as a child for you. Corfe is my favourite station to pull into with the castle right there.
I had forgotten all about the steam trains at Swanage. So happy it is still going and by the looks of it strongly.
It’s doing very well. That group works very hard. They usually have a dinner train on the weekends which is a lot of fun as well. You can have a lovely meal while the steam train takes you through the countryside.