The oldest narrowgauge railway in Mid Wales celebrates Railway200 with a Gala to be held on Saturday 24th May 2025 with the first train of the day departing Corris at 10.30 commencing an intensive timetable. This Gala will be an opportunity to see older locos from the fleet less often seen in more recent years heading a variety of consists, alongside The Railway’s newly built loco, No. 10 Hughes 0-4-2 ‘Falcon’ as well as No. 11 Orenstein & Koppel 0-4-0 ‘Vlad’.
For Corris Railway members there will be several opportunities to ride on the Gravity Train, for those wishing to eschew the more usual comforts of the saloon coaches. Ride down the Dulas valley like slate mine workers of yesteryear. Only current members of the Corris Railway can ride on a gravity train but it’s not too late to become a member in time for the Gala. Adult annual membership is £22.00 and can be purchased online – https://www.corris.co.uk/membership-application/
Depending on crew availability, The Railway hopes to use Loco No. 5 Motor Rail Simplex 4w ‘Alan Meaden’ to offer rides in exchange for a small donation, in Guard’s Van 204 down to the railhead of the Southern Extension when No. 5 is not required for its timetabled duties.
The workshops at Maespoeth Junction will be open to the public and there will be fun games for children of all ages to play. Visitors to the Gala will also be able to see the work being carried out by the Corris’ volunteer workforce including carriage number 24 which once complete will allow first class travel on the line for the first time in at least 90 years. The Museum and Shop at Corris station will also be open.
Advance Gala Day Rover tickets can be purchased via www.corris.co.uk and are priced at £10.00 for adults, £5.00 for children aged 5-15, children under 5 are free and dogs are £1.00.