The Magnificent GWR Castle Class – Kings of the Western Main Line Few locomotives have captured the romance, pride, and engineering brilliance of the Great Western Railway quite like the Castle Class. Introduced in 1923 under the genius of Chief Mechanical Engineer Charles Collett, these 4-6-0 express engines became the very heart of GWR prestige. With their elegant lines, copper-capped chimneys, and immense presence, Castles weren’t just beautiful—they were powerful. Capable of over 100 mph, th

This locomotive was built in 1942 and withdrawn in 1965. It is a GWR 2884 class locomotive, number 3850. These locomotives were designed mainly to pull heavy freight trains. Seen here at Quorn & Woodhouse station on a recent visit to the Great Central Railway. | Adrian Watson