YOUNG ENGINEERS DAY AT THE WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY

Celebrating 50 years of the West Somerset Railway!

Following the success of last year’s event, we are delighted to announce two new Young Engineers Days for 2026.

Join Chris Vine, author of the popular Peter’s Railway books, along with staff and volunteers from the West Somerset Railway and West Somerset Railway Heritage Trust, for a full day dedicated to engineering on heritage railways.

Designed for children aged 5–15 with an interest in railways and engineering, the day offers a hands-on and behind-the-scenes experience exploring how a working heritage railway operates.

What’s Included?

The day begins at 10:30am at the Gauge Museum, located at Bishops Lydeard Station, and includes:

• Introductory talk from Chris Vine
• Guided signal box tour
• Model railway tour
• Museum tour
• Train journey from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead, with activities led by Chris Vine
• Turntable demonstration
• Free time to explore Minehead
• Exclusive Minehead shed tour (rarely open to the public)
• Return journey to Bishops Lydeard

You will arrive back at Bishops Lydeard at approximately 6:00pm, when the event concludes.

Bonus for Young Engineers

Each child attending will receive a free hardback copy of one of Chris Vine’s Peter’s Railway books, included in the ticket price.

Ticket Information

Tickets are sold for one adult and one child, and an adult must attend for safety reasons.

For safety requirements:

• Maximum two children per adult
• Children must be aged 5 or over
• If you wish to bring more than two children, please call 01643 704996 to discuss options.

Food & Refreshments

Please bring a packed lunch, as catering is not included in the ticket.

Refreshments are available to purchase at:

• Cafés at Bishops Lydeard and Minehead stations
• The onboard buffet car during your journey