DIESEL PIONEERS GALA

Celebrate the Legacy of Industrial Diesel Power!

Join us this September for the Diesel Pioneers Gala, a standout event in our Tanfield300 celebrations! Taking place on the 20th and 21st of September 2025, this gala is a tribute to the industrial diesel locomotives that played a vital role in Britain’s railway heritage – featuring STAR guest locomotive Myfanwy, 1962. 

What’s on?

• Visiting locomotive, 1962 built Myfanwy (3211) in operation, alongside home fleet diesel locomotives A. Reyrolles No2 , Tyne Improvement Commission No35 and Ribblesdale Cement No6. 
• An intensive timetable is in operation with a RARE chance to travel behind our diesel fleet.
• Visit our 1854 built Marley Hill engine shed, see the work that goes on to keep the railway running.
• Visit Marley Hill events for a display of heritage buses courtesy of the North East Bus Preservation Trust. Shuttles between East Tanfield and Marley Hill are in operation. 
• Browse around our well stocked book shop at Andrews House station.
• Take part in guided tours of the site (Sunday) as we take part in Heritage Open Days. 
• Kiddar’s Luck will be performing traditional folk music at East Tanfield station from 12pm to 2pm.

With thanks to Phil Civil for the loan of 3211 Myfanwy.

Train timetables:

Saturday train timetable, click here

Sunday train timetable, click here

Don’t forget Day Rover tickets allow unlimited travel all day!

Part of the Tanfield300 Celebrations

As we mark 300 years of Tanfield Railway, the Diesel Pioneers Gala offers a unique chance to celebrate the evolution of railway technology and the industrial diesels that followed in the footsteps of steam.

Plan Your Visit

Event Dates:

• Saturday, 20th September 2025
• Sunday, 21st September 2025

Tickets & More Info: Tickets on sale now, save 10% vs on the day prices by booking online.

Don’t Miss Out!

The Diesel Pioneers Gala is a must-visit for diesel enthusiasts, history lovers, and families looking for a unique and exciting day out.

Save the dates and join us to celebrate the pioneers of industrial diesel power this September!