GRES 2024 Outing was organised by our Chairman – Ella Marcar
Plan for the day
- 08.00 – Suggested time to be at St Paul’s URC Church, Singlewell
- 08.15 – Departure of midi-coach (with a comfort stop part-way)
- 10.30 to 12.30 – Visit to Colne Valley Railway (CVR)
- 13.45 to 16.45 – Visit to Epping & Ongar Railway (EOR)
- 17.00 to 18.30 – Meal and drinks at the King’s Head, Ongar
- 19.30 – Approx arrival time back at St Paul’s URC Church, Singlewell.
Visit to Colne Valley Railway (CVR)
Our first destination of the day was to Colne Valley Railway.
The Colne Valley Railway (CVR) is a heritage railway located in Castle Hedingham, Essex. It operates on a short preserved stretch of the former Colne Valley and Halstead Railway, which was originally opened in 1860 and closed to passenger traffic in 1961. The CVR aims to recreate the atmosphere of a country branch line, featuring a variety of steam and diesel locomotives, along with a collection of vintage rolling stock.
The CVR has a diverse collection of steam and diesel locomotives, as well as vintage carriages and wagons. These are often meticulously restored and maintained by dedicated volunteers.
Like many heritage railways, the CVR relies heavily on the efforts of volunteers who contribute to the operation, maintenance, and administration of the railway.
Unfortunately, a tree had fallen near the bridge so we where limited to one direction of travel for the train rides.
Main exhibits include a miniature railway, a large (10m x 5m) 00-gauge layout, The Brewster Centre museum, Hedingham signalbox, travelling post office and HST and DVTs.
Visit to Epping & Ongar Railway (EOR)
Our afternoon visit was at Epping & Ongar Railway (EOR). The Epping and Ongar Railway (EOR) is a heritage railway located in Essex. It operates on a preserved section of the former London Underground Central Line, which originally ran between Epping and Ongar until its closure in 1994. The EOR is the closest heritage railway to London, making it a popular destination for railway enthusiasts and families looking for a historical and recreational experience.
The EOR runs a variety of steam and diesel locomotives, along with vintage carriages, offering a nostalgic journey through the Essex countryside. The railway operates regular services, special events, and themed experiences throughout the year
The railway includes several stations along its route, such as North Weald, Ongar, and the former Epping to Ongar branch. North Weald Station serves as a central hub for the railway’s operations.
In addition to the train services, the EOR also operates heritage buses, providing connections to nearby locations, including Epping Underground Station, thereby linking the heritage railway with the current London Underground network
The railway relies on a dedicated team of volunteers who assist with the operation, maintenance, and restoration of locomotives, carriages, and infrastructure.
Meal and drinks at the King’s Head, Ongar
