There’s far more to the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway than just the journey itself. Along our 14-mile line from Cheltenham Race Course to Broadway, you’ll find beautifully restored stations, fascinating exhibits, peaceful countryside walks, and a real sense of history brought to life by our dedicated volunteers.
Whether you’re a lifelong railway enthusiast, a lover of the great outdoors, or simply someone who enjoys stepping back in time for a few hours, there’s plenty to see, do and discover.
Heritage & History at Every Stop
Each of our stations tells its own story. From the lovingly recreated Broadway Station, built entirely by volunteers in authentic Great Western style, to the operational hub at Toddington, where locomotives are restored and maintained, history runs through everything we do.
Across the line you’ll find heritage displays, vintage signs, and railway memorabilia that capture the spirit of the golden age of steam - reminders of the men, machines and moments that shaped Britain’s railways.
The Discovery Coach & Model Railways
At Winchcombe Station, our Discovery Coach offers an engaging look at the history of the GWSR, with exhibits and models showing how the railway came back to life.
Nearby, the Royal Mail Model Railway Coach houses several impressive working layouts built and operated by volunteers - a must-see for anyone with an interest in model engineering or the magic of miniature worlds.
Guided tours of the Locomotive sheds at Toddington
On Sundays and Tuesdays, our Guides will take you on an interesting and informative tour of our sheds at the following times:
Purple | Pink | Blue Timetable
11:45 | 13:00 | 15:00
Red | Green Timetable
12:00 | 13.20 | 14:50
Tours last about 40-45 minutes and are subject to the availability of a Guide. Terms and Conditions apply. Meet at the GWRT Information Office, opposite Toddington station building.
There is no admission charge but donations are invited (suggested minimum £3 per person) by a bucket collection.
Wildlife Along the Line
As the train winds its way through the rolling Cotswold countryside, keep an eye out for the local wildlife that makes our railway so special. Buzzards and red kites soar overhead, rabbits dart through the hedgerows, and in the quieter stretches, you might even spot deer grazing in the fields.
The route passes through a mix of open farmland, woodland, and wildflower meadows - a haven for photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone who loves the natural world.
Relax and Explore
Each of our stations offers something different to explore - from tearooms serving fresh cakes and coffee to peaceful picnic spots and classic photo opportunities. Many of our visitors enjoy breaking up their journey, stepping off to watch the engines run round, or simply soaking up the sights, sounds, and smells of steam travel.
Whether you visit for a few hours or make a full day of it, the GWSR is a place where time slows down, stories unfold, and every whistle and puff of steam connects you to a living piece of history.
Get Up Close to Our Locomotives
No trip to the railway is complete without seeing our engines in action. Whether it’s the hiss of a Great Western steam locomotive or the rumble of a heritage diesel, you can get a brilliant view of these historic machines throughout your visit.
On the Platforms: Take a closer look before boarding at Broadway or Cheltenham Race Course. When time allows, our footplate crews are always happy to give a wave and answer questions from curious youngsters.
Toddington Yard: Head to our main locomotive depot at Toddington, where you can safely view engines being prepared, coaled, and watered from the viewing area.
Check our daily timetable to see whether steam or vintage diesel traction is scheduled to run on the day of your visit.
