‘We've got a packed programme of events lined up’: Severn Valley Railway looking forward to 2026 after ‘rollercoaster year’

The year marked 60 years of the heritage line and was also the 200th anniversary of the modern railway - but “disaster struck” just a few weeks into the year.

About 30 metres of the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) track and track bed were damaged in a landslip on January 30.

The landslip occurred near the Mor Brook bridge, between the Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade stations following exceptional rainfall.

This incident closed the northern section of the line for approximately six months. During this period the rest of the railway remained open, albeit on a shortened track operating between Kidderminster and Hampton Loade.

When the 16 miles of line reopened in July, the first train to run the full line was hauled by the famous locomotive Flying Scotsman. 

"It's certainly true that 2025 was a complete rollercoaster of a year for the SVR,” said Gus Dunster, SVR managing director. “We started with everything to look forward to: our 60th anniversary in preservation, the 200th anniversary of the modern railway with Railway 200. Then, disaster struck, and we were hit with a catastrophic landslip at Mor Brook bridge.

“In true SVR style, we got on with the job. Drawing on the collective knowledge, skills and relationships that make our railway so special, we set about rebuilding the embankment and bridge. The scale of the challenge was immense, but the determination shown by everyone involved was even greater. The speed and efficiency with which the work was completed amazed many, and rightly so.

“By late July, we achieved what had once felt impossible: the full line reopened. Watching ‘Flying Scotsman’ haul our reopening service, under perfect summer skies, was one of the proudest moments I have ever experienced at the SVR. It was a day that embodied hope, teamwork and sheer tenacity.”

Mr Dunster said that despite the challenges of the landslip, Christmas celebrations were in full swing, and they have exciting plans for 2026.

"Right now, we’re delivering two brand-new Christmas experiences, the Santa Steam Specials and the Elf Express, both already proving firm favourites with visitors. And from Boxing Day right through to January 4, we've got something on offer every day to help ward off the winter chills,” said Gus.

"Looking ahead to 2026, I feel cautiously optimistic. For the railway to thrive, we must continue to evolve, manage costs carefully and broaden our appeal. The One Railway project and our transition to a Charitable Community Benefit Society will underpin this, alongside the new five-year strategy that’s now in development.

"We've got a packed programme of events lined up, including the smash hit Boogie Lights Express in February and March. Most of these are already on sale on svr.co.uk, and we can't wait to welcome people back to the wonderful Severn Valley Railway."