CHARITY GALA – 27 & 28 JUNE

Just a few days away now, our biggest event of 2026.

This year’s gala is set to be the biggest and best yet. Over the two days there will be multiple steam engines operating on both the ground level loops, and the raised track will be in operation too. There will also be some petrol and electric traction out, for those of you that like that sort of thing… We even have a visiting traction engine making an appearance.

Loki and Gloin seen preparing for duty at the 2025 event; both will be in attendance again this year.

All proceeds from the weekend are being given to Let’s Farm, a real working farm for people with learning disabilities in Cheshire, which is our chosen charity for 2026. Let’s Farm offers people with learning disabilities the chance to take part in farming life, make new friends and develop new skills in a safe but exciting environment. Most importantly Let’s Farm is about having fun and supporting mental wellbeing. You can read more about this splendid charity at https://www.letsfarm.org.uk/

The ever-popular locomotive Lady Joan will be on hand

For this special event we will operate specially extended opening hours. The first public trains will run at 10:30am on both Saturday and Sunday, so why not make two visits – a couple of locomotives will swap duties between the two days.

The mighty Balrog (seen at the rather damp 2024 gala) is due to make another appearance. Coming all the way from Yorkshire, it is probably the biggest locomotive ever to run at Sandiway.

We look forward to seeing you at the Gala; remember, we now take card and electronic payments, so there’s no excuse – dig deep for our wonderful charity. See you at the weekend!