The Severn Valley Railway (SVR) is set to mark 200 years of railways with an extraordinary weekend of celebrations this 5–6 July, bringing together icons of the past and future for a unique event titled ‘Railway 200: Trains Through the Ages’.
Two standout guest appearances will headline the festivities, with LNER Peppercorn Class A1 No. 60163 ‘Tornado’ representing the golden age of steam and HydroFLEX, the UK’s first hydrogen-ready passenger train, showcasing the next chapter in sustainable rail travel.
🚂 Steam Legend ‘Tornado’ Returns to the Valley
Fresh from overhaul, the world-famous 60163 ‘Tornado’ will once again take to the SVR’s tracks, hauling the line’s beautifully restored LNER teak carriage set, some dating back as far as 1922. Built new in 2008 by the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust, ‘Tornado’ remains a living link to steam’s golden era—and a perennial favourite with enthusiasts.
Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster, SVR Managing Director, said:
“We’re thrilled to welcome back ‘Tornado’ to the Valley for the Railway 200 weekend. Paired with our authentic teak coaches, it’ll offer visitors a spectacular glimpse into the elegance of historic rail travel.”
🌱 HydroFLEX: A Glimpse into Rail’s Sustainable Future
Adding a cutting-edge contrast to the line-up is HydroFLEX, developed by Porterbrook and the University of Birmingham. This innovative train uses up to 277kg of hydrogen stored in 36 high-pressure tanks, generating clean electricity through a chemical reaction that emits only water.
Ben Ackroyd, Chief Operating Officer at Porterbrook, commented:
“We’re delighted to showcase HydroFLEX at the Severn Valley Railway. This event highlights how far we’ve come and, just as importantly, where we’re headed. We hope HydroFLEX will inspire the next generation of railway innovators.”
🛤️ A Journey Through Time – On Rails
In addition to ‘Tornado’ and HydroFLEX, the SVR will be operating a range of traction from multiple eras:
- GWR 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’ and GWR 1450, hauling carriages from the 1910s to 1940s
- A classic 1950s diesel locomotive paired with BR Mark 1 carriages
- A narrow gauge locomotive display at The Engine House, Highley, featuring locos from the 1800s
- A variety of modern railway traction also on show
🚆 Final Chance to See Railway 200’s Touring Exhibition Train ‘Inspiration’
From 26 June to 6 July, SVR will host the first stop of the Railway 200 ‘Inspiration’ Train, a mobile exhibition celebrating the UK’s railway past, present, and future.
- Free entry tickets (27 June – 6 July) for the exhibition must be pre-booked
- A programme of school visits will run in the days leading up to the main weekend event
- Travel tickets for train rides must be purchased separately
‘Inspiration’ offers hands-on exhibits and inspiring stories to ignite a passion for rail among children, families, and railfans alike.
🎟️ Plan Your Visit
- Event Dates: 5–6 July 2025 (Railway 200: Trains Through the Ages)
- Exhibition Dates: 27 June – 6 July (Inspiration exhibition train)
- Location: Severn Valley Railway (Kidderminster to Bridgnorth)
- Advance booking is strongly advised
🔗 Visit the Railway 200: Trains Through the Ages event page for full details and ticket information.
