The launch of Canadian Pacific in March 2025 marks the culmination of a 13-year restoration project, bringing one of Britain’s most iconic steam-era locomotives back to life. This milestone aligns with Railway 200, celebrating two centuries of railway innovation and the people who shaped Britain’s transport history. Built in 1941, 35005 Canadian Pacific is a Southern Railway 4-6-2 Merchant Navy class locomotive, designed by Oliver Bulleid to haul prestigious express trains such as the Atlantic Coast Express. Combining cutting-edge engineering with post-war elegance, Canadian Pacific’s name honours the Merchant Navy shipping line, which suffered devastating losses during World War II, losing all its pre-war ships by 1945.
From March 20–23, 2025, the Watercress Line will host Canadian Pacific’s launch week, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride behind this historic locomotive on its first official runs since restoration. Experiences will include exclusive dining, themed journeys, and general admission rides, with full details on our website.
The event offers something for everyone: railway enthusiasts will celebrate the return of one of the Merchant Navy class’s most celebrated locomotives, history lovers can explore its wartime and post-war connections, cultural and heritage tourists will connect with Britain’s industrial legacy, and local communities can join in celebrating the craftsmanship and dedication behind the restoration. Canadian Pacific embodies Railway 200’s spirit, from its historical significance in wartime logistics and recovery to its technological innovation and the community spirit that enabled its revival through thousands of hours of volunteer labour.