A HERITAGE railway in the heart of South Devon will open its 2026 programme with the return of its popular Winter Steam Gala.

The three-day event at the South Devon Railway, which takes place from January 2 to 4, offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy steam action before the railway reopens for the main season at February half term.

Trains will operate to an intensive timetable, providing plenty of opportunities to travel behind a varied line-up of heritage steam locomotives.

The gala will feature five locomotives in service, drawing on a combination of South Devon Railway’s home fleet and visiting engines, with Hunslet Works No.1589 ‘Newstead’ confirmed to be appearing at the Winter Steam Gala, courtesy of owner Alex Alder.

Built in 1929, Newstead spent most of its working life at a colliery in South Kirkby before gaining almost legendary status after disappearing from view and being widely believed scrapped.

In reality, the locomotive spent years in the garden of a convent, finally re-emerging in 2016.

Joining Newstead will be Bagnall 2572 ‘Judy’, visiting courtesy of the Bodmin Railway.

This diminutive locomotive was originally built for shunting China Clay wagons at Par Docks, where its short wheelbase was essential to pass beneath low bridges.

Alongside the visiting engines, the gala line-up will be completed by South Devon Railway’s GWR winter resident 2-8-0 No.2807, together with home fleet locomotives 5526 and 1369.

Positioned at a time of year when the Dart Valley can be seen in its full midwinter beauty, the event provides a rare chance to travel the line when leafless trees open up clear views of the River Dart and the surrounding hills.

Organisers say the gala is designed to appeal both to families looking for an all-weather day out and to dedicated rail enthusiasts seeking one last steam experience before the new operating season begins.

The Winter Steam Gala has become a fixture in the railway’s calendar and consistently draws strong crowds between Christmas and the New Year.

South Devon Railway is positioning the January weekend as an opportunity for visitors to reconnect with heritage travel, enjoy time with friends and family, and experience traditional steam operation at close quarters.

Ernie Elsworth Wilson, General Manager at South Devon Railway, said the Winter Steam Gala continues to play a key role in the organisation’s year-round events programme.

‘It is an early highlight of the year for many of our visitors’, Ernie said.

‘The mix of locomotives and the busy timetable offer something for everyone, and the atmosphere on the line at this time of year is very special.

‘It is a reminder that heritage railways are not just a summer activity.

‘Our trains run in all weather, and the views in winter are often the most impressive’, Ernie added.

For more information, and to book tickets, visit southdevonrailway.co.uk