The Bluebell Railway – A Line For All Seasons

The Bluebell Railway – a Line for All Seasons

By Michael Welch

A new book in full colour about the world-famous Bluebell Railway. With photographs dating back to the very first days of preservation and before, colour views by famous photographers from over the years portray the line and all its aspects, from locomotives, signalling, permanent way, carriage restoration and much more.

From all the four seasons, the author describes all of the main achievements of the Bluebell from its very earliest days. The rare and important colour photographs portray the early train operations including the first in 1960 and of the rail tours that occurred using the line’s engines in the local area. Various specials would be run as the line from East Grinstead to Sheffield Park and beyond was preparing for complete closure.

The outstanding achievements of the preservationists over the years are commended in colour when engines and carriages were restored and overhauled in less than suitable outdoor locations at Sheffield Park and Horsted Keynes. The infrastructure is not forgotten with scenes of signalling and lineside progress. The incredible restoration of Pullman cars is viewed illustrating again progress at the famous Sussex line.

Many of the line’s locomotives are seen plus many of the visitors from over the 64 years. The book is right up-to-date with the launch of the Beachy Head project in August 2024. Altogether a book to celebrate the Bluebell Railway’s entry into seven decades of preservation.

Book, 112 pages in full colour with 150 images – £20 hardback. (plus £1 extra for postage as it is a hardback book)