Introduction
The Bure Valley Railway runs from Wroxham, heart of the Norfolk Broads, to the quiet market town of Aylsham. The standard gauge passenger service was withdrawn in 1952, although the line was open for freight until the early 1980s. After closure the track was relayed to 15 inch gauge and todays Bure Valley Railway was born.
Norfolk By Rail Review
July 2000 The stock and stations were mostly purpose built for the line and are, therefore, in good condition. Aylsham station was based on Midland and Great Northern architecture. Sadly this building has far less character than the wonderful Great Eastern station which was demolished to make way for it. The only other station of consequence is Wroxham, which has a basic shop and waiting room in a generic railway style. The intermediate stations are concrete slab platforms - although the original Buxton and Coltishall station buildings still survive in private hands.
The coaches are well built and have good ride qualities. All carriages are enclosed and one set is equipped with train heating. Disabled passengers can be carried.
There is a very good footpath/cycleway running beside the railway (not owned by Sustrans) which provides good views of the line, but can spoil photographs.
Built on part of the Great Eastern Railway's Wymondham to Wells line (the same line as the Mid-Norfolk Railway), the ten and a quarter inch gauge WWLR is reputed to be the longest of it's type in the world.
Passenger's travel in open or semi-open coaches behind the railway's unique Garratt steam locomotive, "Norfolk Hero" - named after Horatio Nelson.
Norfolk By Rail Review
July 2000 The stations are basic, with the only passenger facilities being contained in a former Great Eastern Railway signal box at Wells. Intermediate stations, and the terminus at Walsingham, are simple rail level platforms.
The stock is surprisingly comfortable considering the gauge - although a cushion is a worthwhile travelling partner. The impression of speed at the low level of travel can be amazing at times.
There is talk of the WWLR extending to meet the MNR at Fakenham. If that happens this will become one of the most impressive rail corridors in preservation history.
Wells and Walsingham Light Railway (Amendment) Order
A small narrow gauge steam and diesel line running from Wells town to the beach. Very similar to it's big sister, the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway.
Operates a regular shuttle service during the Summer months.