On the 13th and 14th of September, enjoy a behind-the-scenes look through The Watercress Line’s Engineering Hub at Ropley Station and discover what’s involved in renovating and maintaining a steam locomotive.
On the 13th and 14th of September, it’s possible to explore behind the scenes of the Watercress Line’s Engineering Hub at Ropley Station and discover what’s involved in renovating and maintaining a steam locomotive.
Walk through the main workshops to explore how the railway restores the engines and carriages which run on the line, allowing visitors to get up close to these magnificent machines as well as speak to some of the staff and volunteers that work on them. Visitors can also explore the other sights and activities at Ropley station including the viewing galleries, society stands and displays, steam crane demonstration, Kings Cross footbridge that featured in the Harry Potter film, plus more.
We will also be producing a special video for Heritage Open Days on our popular YouTube channel.
Timings & Tours
Saturday 13 September: Tours: 11am - 3:15pm
Sunday 14 September: Tours: 11am - 3:15pm
Location & directions
Directions: Use Bighton Hill, SO24 9SQ to reach our Top Car Park at Ropley station, next to the Watercress Lodges.
Contact on day: Helen Broadbent
Telephone number: +441962733810
Booking information
Pre-booking requirement: Pre-booking not required
Accessibility Details
Ropley station is wheelchair accessible, however our workshops are a heavy engineering environment with uneven surfaces, steps and obstructions to be maneuvered around. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate wheelchair visitors in certain areas. · Visitors must be able to walk on rough surfaces and step over objects unaided. · Robust footwear and clothing must be worn; flip-flops, sandals and open-toed shoes are not permitted. · Pets, including assistance dogs, are not permitted in the workshops. · Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Additional Information
The Watercress Line is a heritage railway running from Alresford to Alton. Our workshops at Ropley station restore, preserve and overhaul our locomotives, carriage and rolling stock as well as providing engineering work for other heritage railways and private owners.