Telford Steam Railway Takes Centre Stage on BBC’s Great British Railway Journeys
In a memorable broadcast on 21 April 2025, the Telford Steam Railway was featured on the BBC’s Great British Railway Journeys, shining a spotlight on this celebrated heritage railway and its role in preserving Britain’s rich rail history. Presenter Michael Portillo travelled through Shrewsbury and Telford, where he met a dedicated family restoring a 1959 Class 03 diesel locomotive. Over three generations, they have worked tirelessly to revive this piece of rail heritage, and their efforts earned praise as Portillo boarded the line’s flagship locomotive for the journey along the historic Wellington to Craven Arms route.
As the camera rolled at Horsehay and Dawley station, viewers caught sight of its charming brickwork and period details. Often described as one of the prettiest stations in Britain, it offered an authentic backdrop for Portillo’s travelogue. He paused to re-enact an archery demonstration inspired by the Battle of Shrewsbury, donning a longbow much like the longbowmen of 1403. This playful moment grounded the episode in local history, linking medieval conflict and modern restoration in a way that felt both educational and engaging.
Beyond the station platforms, Michael Portillo also explored Shrewsbury Cathedral, admiring its neo-Gothic spires and stained-glass windows. His journey then continued onto the heritage railway itself, where steam and diesel locomotives stand side by side. The sight of vintage carriages rolling over iron rails, under the careful guidance of volunteer crews, evokes a sense of nostalgia for the golden age of British rail travel. It’s this blend of living history and community spirit that makes Telford Steam Railway so special to visitors of all ages.
At the heart of the episode was the Class 03 diesel locomotive restoration project led by the local family. Three generations have contributed to bringing the 1959 engine back to life, from its metal frames to its polished dials. Their dedication highlights the collaborative nature of heritage railways, where young enthusiasts and seasoned volunteers alike work together to preserve mechanical marvels. Portillo commended their craftsmanship, noting how each renewed detail tells a story of skill and passion.
The feature coincided with the railway’s Easter Special, which marked the start of the new season. Steam engines huffed into view at every turn, while children hunted for eggs among floral displays and adults admired the collection of restored rolling stock. Family-friendly entertainment blended seamlessly with historical exhibits, from miniature engine demonstrations to guided tours of the signal box. This lively programme offered a clear reminder that heritage railways are not static museums but dynamic hubs of activity.
Throughout the journey, the revived Wellington to Craven Arms line took centre stage. Originally part of a network that linked market towns and industrial communities, this stretch has been restored to full operation thanks to countless volunteer hours. Riding in the passenger coach, Portillo pointed out the scenic landscapes that once carried coal, iron and passengers in the 19th and 20th centuries. The return of scheduled services on this line honours its past purpose and invites a new generation to appreciate its significance.
Heritage railways such as Telford Steam Railway play a vital role in conserving Britain’s railway legacy. They preserve mechanical ingenuity, architectural heritage and community traditions all at once. The worries and wonders of steam and diesel technology take on fresh meaning when shared among volunteers, families and visitors. The BBC feature serves as a timely reminder of the value in safeguarding these living museums, not merely for nostalgia, but as vibrant centres for learning and leisure.
Image credit www.shropshirestar.com
Original source https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/2025/04/21/telford-steam-railway-stars-in-episode-of-great-british-railway-journeys/
