Date announced for annual steam festival in Swanage

First established in 2021, the Roads To Rail event held by Swanage Railway will feature up to 50 traction and miniature engines, steam rollers, and showman’s engines as well as fairground rides, trade stalls, food stalls, bars, and entertainment.

The three-day event will take place in a field next to Norden station from June 28 to 30.

Robert Patterson, volunteer Swanage Railway Company commercial director, said: “We’re very proud to be hosting our fourth ‘Roads to Rail’ event.

“This is an evocative festival of steam large and small for all of those who love vintage steam-powered vehicles on the road or on the rails.

“Last year’s ‘Roads to Rail’ event was incredibly successful and this year more than a hundred exhibitors have confirmed their attendance at the event.

“With people attending the steam rally also having the rare opportunity to go on the footplate of one of our steam locomotives, ‘Roads to Rail’ is a great day out for all the family and we hope that it will again draw in the crowds.

“These types of events are critical for helping to fund the continued operation and development of the Swanage Railway as well as drawing visitors to the wonderful Isle of Purbeck ahead of the main summer season.”

One of the event’s dedicated organisers, Patrick Cattle, said: “Our ‘Roads to Rail’ steam rally is unique because there is also the opportunity to include a steam or heritage diesel train ride through the Isle of Purbeck as well as the rare chance to visit the fascinating footplate of one of our steam locomotives, next to the ‘Roads to Rail’ showground, that usually hauls trains between Norden, Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross, and Swanage.

“We would like to thank our generous sponsors and advertisers for their important help staging this year’s ‘Roads to Rail’ event which will be even better and takes place within sight of the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle.”

Entry to the event costs £8.50 for adults, with or complimentary tickets for children under 16.