It was founded in 1994 to conserve the original Southern Railway turntable, which was erected in the late 1940s and to offer facilities for mainline steam trains at Yeovil Railway Centre, which is located in Somerset. Since then, the turntable has been completely refurbished, and visitors may enjoy the spectacle of huge steam engines being rotated and serviced as they pass through Yeovil Junction from a specially constructed observation platform.
Lord Fisher, an Andrew Barclay steam engine, is now in service and supplies the power for public rides on the demonstration line, which is approximately a third of a mile in length. Visitors can choose between riding in a classic brake van or riding in a coach. A wide variety of miniature and model railroads, as well as light refreshments, are usually on hand at these Steam Day events. There are a number of industrial diesel trains on the premises.
On a regular basis, special events (such as model railways, tractors, and Halloween) are held, and the ever-popular Santa Specials are held in December (pre-booking required!).
In addition to presents, they have DVDs, new and a big range of second-hand books, as well as other railroad-related goods. The Shop is open during events and on Sunday mornings as well as during the week.
The Transfer Shed, which was erected in 1864, serves as the Visitor Center and Café. Remember the days when the Great Western Railway’s Broad as well as other Companies Standard Gauges met and the necessity for the movement of goods between waggons? This is a throwback to those days. In addition to being a venue for meetings and exhibits, it has a very atmospheric atmosphere.
The charity is operated by a pleasant team of volunteers who go out of their way to make their guests feel as welcome as they possibly can.
