SATURDAY 15 MARCH 2025

We are pleased to present this tour of freight branches, loops and sidings in the Thames Valley, with joining points from Derby via Birmingham and Cheltenham Spa to Swindon. From there we continue east to the Didcot area to visit the Appleford freight terminal (courtesy of Heidelberg), returning round Didcot West Curve to enter Milton Siding. Eastward again then through Reading to Maidenhead and on to London Paddington, traversing as many passenger and freight loops as possible on this intensely used route. A visit is also proposed to the Colnbrook Branch (Oil terminal gates limit requested). A short afternoon break will be taken at London Paddington. 

The return has been requested to take us back through Royal Oak Sidings to Southall, where we reverse in the Yard before traversing the Brentford branch. Back on the main line we have requested traversal of the Kennet Loop and the Festival Line at Reading as we make for our set-down stations.

We are very grateful to a member of Network Rail staff, who was instrumental in devising this tour of Thames Valley freight branches and loops.

REQUESTED ROUTE (subject to confirmation): As the pick-up points to Swindon then Appleford Sidings (rev)– Milton Siding (rev) – Didcot Parkway Up/Down Goods Loop – Reading Up Passenger Loop – Reading – Maidenhead Loop – Slough Up Goods Loop – Langley Siding – Iver Up Goods Loop – West Drayton Up Goods Loop (rev) – Colnbrook Branch (rev) – Dawley Up Goods Loop – Hayes Up Goods Loop – Hanwell Goods Loop – West Ealing – Acton Dive-under – Royal Oak Sidings – London Paddington (short break, rev). Return via Royal Oak Sidings – Southall West Loop (rev) – Brentford Branch (rev) – Slough – Kennet Passenger Loop – Reading – Down Festival Line – Didcot Parkway and as outward.

Requested Motive Power is Top / Tail WCRC Class 57/0s throughout. 

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ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE:
– Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows
– A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone
– The Gricers Grill will be served on this train
– A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks 
– Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards!

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