Present-Day Bluebell Railway
The Bluebell Railway operates an 11-mile route and offers regular steam services, special events, and dining experiences. It is recognized for its role in television and film productions, showcasing its authentic historical ambiance. The railway remains a major attraction, supported by a large volunteer base and drawing visitors from around the world.
Preservation and Reopening and Growth and Development
The Bluebell Railway Preservation Society was formed in 1959, making it one of the first heritage railways in the world to be preserved by volunteers. The society aimed to restore and operate steam-hauled services. In 1960, the Bluebell Railway became the first standard gauge preserved passenger railway to reopen to the public, operating between Sheffield Park and Horsted Keynes. The railway gradually extended northwards, reaching Kingscote in 1994 and eventually reconnecting with the national rail network at East Grinstead in 2013, after extensive work to clear a landfill blocking the route. Alongside track restoration, significant efforts were made to preserve and restore locomotives, carriages, and infrastructure. The Bluebell Railway is renowned for its extensive collection of vintage rolling stock, much of which predates 1939.
History of the Bluebell Railway
The original railway line, part of the Lewes and East Grinstead Railway, opened in 1882 under the operation of the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR). It primarily served rural communities and transported goods, including agricultural produce. The line later became part of the Southern Railway in 1923 and eventually the Southern Region of British Railways after nationalization in 1948. Following a period of reduced passenger and freight use, the line was earmarked for closure under post-war railway rationalization. Despite local protests, passenger services ceased in 1955, and the line officially closed in 1958, largely due to competition from road transport.