Spring Steam Spectacular on the West Somerset Railway
Step aboard for an unforgettable long-weekend of steam on the West Somerset Railway. The Spring Steam Spectacular is the headline heritage event of the year on the line, typically taking place over three days and often coinciding with the first May bank holiday. Expect a packed celebration of historic locomotives working through glorious West Country scenery — from Exmoor and the Quantock Hills to sweeping views of the Bristol Channel.
What to expect
Across three full days you’ll find an intensive timetable from morning into the evening, with frequent services and plenty of variety. You can hop on and off to explore stations, small museums and model railway displays; ride local passenger workings, demonstration goods trains and spirited non-stop runs; and — when advertised — enjoy rare mileage such as the line beyond Bishops Lydeard towards Norton Fitzwarren, the turning triangle and Minehead turntable. It’s a brilliant outing for enthusiasts, photographers and families alike.
Star locomotives
Each year features a mix of visiting guest engines alongside the WSR home fleet. Past highlights have included express passenger favourites and Victorian tank engines — living history brought to life against Exmoor’s dramatic backdrop. Guest line-ups are announced in the run-up to the event, so keep an eye on official updates for the latest roster.
Make a weekend of it
With so much steam action, it’s the perfect excuse for a short break. Stay in a cosy cottage near the line and combine your railway days with coast-and-moor walks, great local pubs and time to unwind. Find a cottage near the West Somerset Railway on our site and make travel to and from the event effortless.
Good to know
Timetables, locomotive rosters, ticket options and any family offers are confirmed by the railway closer to the event. Check the West Somerset Railway’s official channels for the latest details and booking information.
Ready to plan your steam-filled escape? Browse nearby cottages and set your base for a brilliant long weekend on Exmoor.
Make the Most of Your Visit – Stay Nearby!
Why not turn your visit into a steam-filled getaway? With so much to see and do, the Spring Steam Spectacular is the perfect excuse for a long weekend in Exmoor. Stay at one of our cosy nearby cottages, just a short drive from the railway, and enjoy easy access to the event, along with breathtaking walks, local pubs, and stunning countryside. Find a cottage near the West Somerset Railway
📅 Book your tickets and find out more about the event on the West Somerset Railway website.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the magic of steam
Read more about the Great Western Railway in our article here.
It typically runs over three days and often coincides with the first May bank holiday. Exact dates are confirmed by the West Somerset Railway each year.
An intensive timetable with frequent services, visiting guest locomotives alongside the home fleet, hop-on-hop-off travel, demonstration goods trains, non-stop runs and, when advertised, rare mileage.
Services run along the West Somerset Railway between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead. When published, use the official timetable and map to plan connections and photo stops, allowing time for platform changes.
Yes—stations and trains are geared for families. Accessibility varies by station and train; accessible coaches and facilities are available on selected services. If you have specific needs, contact the railway before you travel.
Day and multi-day tickets are usually available, with advance online booking recommended for busy periods. Dog policies and any charges can change—please check the West Somerset Railway’s current guidance.
Most visitors start from Bishops Lydeard (near Taunton) or Minehead, where parking is available. Make a weekend of it with a nearby cottage base for easy access to the line and local walks, pubs and coast.