Present-Day Cholsey & Wallingford Railway
The CWR remains an entirely volunteer-run railway, hosting regular services and special events, including Santa Specials and themed gala days. It is known for its connections to author Agatha Christie, who lived nearby. Wallingford is believed to have inspired the fictional town of “Market Basing” in her novels.
Preservation
Shortly after closure, railway enthusiasts formed the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway Preservation Society to save the line. Restoration efforts began, and the first heritage train service ran in 1985. The railway operates steam and diesel services between Cholsey and Wallingford, providing a nostalgic experience of branch line travel.
History of the Cholsey & Wallingford Railway
The original line was built by the Wallingford and Watlington Railway Company and opened in 1866. It was intended to connect Wallingford to Watlington, but construction was limited to the 2.5-mile stretch between Wallingford and Cholsey, where it connected with the Great Western Railway (GWR) mainline. The GWR took control of the line in 1872, operating it primarily as a branch line for local passengers and freight, including agricultural produce and goods from Wallingford. As road transport grew in popularity, passenger numbers declined. The line’s passenger service ended in 1959, though freight services continued until the early 1980s. The branch line officially closed to all traffic in 1981.