West Somerset Railway Spring Steam Spectacular 2026

Over the May Bank Holiday weekend, the West Somerset Railway held its annual Spring Steam Spectacular featuring an impressive array of visiting steam locomotives. The event placed a strong focus on both former visiting engines and resident locomotives with a long association with the line. This year’s event was especially significant, marking the railway’s 50th anniversary. The gala featured an intensive timetable, with up to 11 steam locomotives in operation. The star guest of the gala was LNER Class A4 No. 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'—a locomotive making its debut on the railway, and a rare sight on a former GWR branch line. Other star visitors included a pair of former West Somerset Railway stalwarts 3850 and 2996 'Victor'. Additional visiting locomotives included 80078 and 1589 'Newstead' famously known as the “lost engine”. One of the most notable pairings which wasn't planned was 2996 'Victor' working alongside 60007, offering a striking contrast between industrial tank engine power and express passenger elegance. Locomotives featured in this video: LNER Class A4 No. 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' GWR "Manor" Class No. 7812 'Erlestoke Manor' GWR "2884" Class No. 3850 GWR "Manor" Class No. 7828 'Odney Manor' GWR "Manor" Class No. 7802 'Bradley Manor' GWR/WSR "Mogul" No. 9351 BR Standard Class 4MT No. 80078 Hunslet Works 0-6-0ST No. 1589 'Newstead' W G Bagnall Works 0-6-0ST No. 2996 'Victor' Filmed at various locations along the line, including Crowcombe and Washford Bank and features some banking duties and double headers as well. If you enjoyed the video, please like, comment, and subscribe to my channel.