Launceston - Birmingham Society of Model Engineers

Launceston Steam Railway
Launceston
Cornwall
PL15 8DA
Tel. 01566 775655

Approaching the Station at Launceston, Narrow Gauge Rails beckon......
The line has been built on the trackbed of the old North Cornwall Railway.

There are many sidings at the Launceston Terminus, the centre one leading to an Engine shed.

Velinheli and Covertcoat can just be seen as they position to couple up to the first morning train.

Marvellous to see Velinheli looking so pristine.
Notice the attention to detail on the shed in the background. Those fretworked bargeboards would grace any period house.

Velinheli's lining is in keeping with original practice, not contrasting but just light enough to stand out.

Covertcoat comes up at the rear, bringing along its purpose built tender (not unlike that drawn for the 4" Milner Hunslet).

The loco / tender combination is quite pleasing, although none of these quarry locos had such things in Dinorwic or Penryhn.

More of Velinheli

Covertcoat blows its fire up in preparation

Covertcoat 'running round' at the New Mills terminus..........

.....preceeded by Velinheli

The two run round coupled for a double head return journey to Launceston

Covertcoat's footplate and backhead

And a picture that says all.......

'Lilian' on display in her shed at Launceston. Counting 'Dorothea' (currently being restored by Kay) there are no less than 4 Quarry Hunslets at Launceston, maybe more than any other collection.

At the New Mills terminus there is a farm displaying many things (a modest entrance fee applies), not least of which is this splendid water wheel. It is well worth breaking the return journey to visit the Farm, having something to interest all age groups. Tickets at Launceston are good for the whole day, making local walking tours and so on easy to fit in.

Launceston has a nice relaxed atmosphere, the Railway, its locos and rolling stock are very well maintained and presented. Workshop viewing is encouraged by prior arrangement and few areas are 'off limits'.

The Railway is run with a friendly and fair approach. Tickets are not expensive (Ł6.50 adult return) and good for all day. Parking is easy and free (Ffestiniog and WHR take note!)

The pleasant Cafe serves snacks and excellent meals (I have to recommend the Cheese, Onion and Potato pie!) whilst beverages like Tea and Coffee come with free refills, a refreshing change in today's profit over care times.

The bookshop is very well stocked, giving plenty fo choice to the avid reader. The gift shop has much to offer too.

I recommend a Launceston visit to anyone interested in Railways.

They don't have a website as yet, maybe I should write one for them........?!

Steve Sparrow 22/09/04

Approaching the Station at Launceston, Narrow Gauge Rails beckon...... The line has been built on the trackbed of the old North Cornwall Railway.
There are many sidings at the Launceston Terminus, the centre one leading to an Engine shed.
Velinheli and Covertcoat can just be seen as they position to couple up to the first morning train.
Marvellous to see Velinheli looking so pristine. Notice the attention to detail on the shed in the background. Those fretworked bargeboards would grace any period house.
Velinheli's lining is in keeping with original practice, not contrasting but just light enough to stand out.
Covertcoat comes up at the rear, bringing along its purpose built tender (not unlike that drawn for the 4" Milner Hunslet).
The loco / tender combination is quite pleasing, although none of these quarry locos had such things in Dinorwic or Penryhn.
More of Velinheli
Covertcoat blows its fire up in preparation
Covertcoat 'running round' at the New Mills terminus..........
.....preceeded by Velinheli
The two run round coupled for a double head return journey to Launceston
Covertcoat's footplate and backhead
And a picture that says all.......
'Lilian' on display in her shed at Launceston. Counting 'Dorothea' (currently being restored by Kay) there are no less than 4 Quarry Hunslets at Launceston, maybe more than any other collection.
At the New Mills terminus there is a farm displaying many things (a modest entrance fee applies), not least of which is this splendid water wheel. It is well worth breaking the return journey to visit the Farm, having something to interest all age groups. Tickets at Launceston are good for the whole day, making local walking tours and so on easy to fit in.