Bluebell Railway (Uckfield, United Kingdom)
This was the first standard gauge railway in the UK to be preserved, and is now run by volunteers. Originally part of the London Brighton and South Coast Railway, it now operates on the section from Sheffield Park to Kingscote, stopping at Horsted Keynes. An extension to East Grinstead is planned. The original service was closed in 1955, but was forced to re-open after opposition from local residents. It finally closed for good in 1958 and was taken over by the Bluebell Preservation Society, who re-opened it in 1960. It is now a major tourist attraction, but the Society is also committed to preserving the steam locomotives, rolling stock and signalling typical of a rural branch line. Themed days and other special events are held, and a Pullman restaurant car operates on certain days. A full timetable is available on the website. Car parking is available at Sheffield Park and Horsted Keynes. Disabled access varies from point to point on the railway, and again, full information is provided on the website.
Contact
Sheffield Park Station, TN22 3QL, Telephone: +44 (1825) 720800 | Fax: +44 (1825) 720804 | Official site