Narrow Gauge Railways – Eaton Hall Railway

Narrow Gauge Railways 

Eaton Hall Railway

‘New’ Katie

The 1st Duke of Westminster (1825-1899) commissioned Sir Arthur Percival Heywood to construct the narrow gauge, 15 inch railway at Eaton in 1895. Linking with the main line the new railway provided an efficient haulage service for coal and stores on the estate, as well as an enjoyable passenger service for visitors to the Hall including members of the Royal Family, local dignitaries and schoolchildren.
The first of several engines was named Katie, after the 1st Duke’s second wife, Katherine Cavendish, then in 1922 a petrol-mechanical locomotive replaced the steam-powered originals. In 1947, during the period when Eaton Hall was leased to the War Department, the railway was taken up and sold on the instructions of the 2nd Duke. Just short of half a century later, in 1996, the 6th Duke reinstated the railway using a replica of Katie to pull the carriages.

‘Old’ Katie

Shelagh

For further information about the Eaton Hall Railway, including open days, go to:

http://www.eatonestate.co.uk

http://www.eatonestate.co.uk/Events/Garden+Open+Days.htm

Canal News – Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge, Weaver Navigation

Canal News

Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge, Weaver Navigation

We’re carrying out a huge engineering project to refurbish the Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge in Cheshire.

Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge

 As part of our annual programme of restoration and repairs to historic canal and rivers across the country, we’re inviting you to join us for a behind-the-scenes tour of the £4.5 million restoration of 90 year-old Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge in Cheshire. You’ll get the chance to see the engineering works up close and chat to the project manager. The bridge when open carries over 20,000 vehicles a day.

The £4.5 million restoration, carried out in partnership with Cheshire West & Chester Council, started in June 2013 and is the biggest engineering project currently taking place on the waterways.

Tours run every hour on the hour from 10am to 3pm on both days (the event finishes at 4pm). The tours are free but booking is essential as there is a limited number of places available. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow time for you to register. Car parking for the event will be located in the works compound on the Sutton Weaver side of the bridge. Please wear sensible footwear and clothing for your visit.

Book now to secure your free place 

Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge