Sheffield-based enthusiast society running track-bashing railtours over freight lines, depots and rare curves, usually for charity.
The Branch Line Society is a voluntary association founded in 1955 with more than 2,500 members. Its interest is the physical railway rather than locomotives, and its railtours are designed to cover lines, curves and sidings that normal passenger trains never use, from freight loops and depot roads to test tracks.
Mainline fixtures are typically diesel hauled, often with a pair of locomotives top-and-tailed so the train can reverse in yards. Recent examples include The Paxman Quarrier around Bristol, the Toots Express to Edinburgh behind two Class 50s and The Snow Flake in December 2026. Many tours raise money for charity and are supported by freight operators and Network Rail.
Booking is online only via the society's fixtures page. Members receive priority booking and discounted fares; non-members are welcome on most tours.
DieselBranch Line Society's December 2026 mainline track-bashing tour, following the society's Toots Express and Paxman Quarrier tours earlier in the year.