A Magic Journey with Wightwick Hall 6989 — Watercress Line

For three days only, the Watercress Line runs special services behind the heritage steam locomotive Wightwick Hall, BR (Western Region) 4-6-0 5MT No. 6989. The operator calls it a rare opportunity to travel behind the engine.

Wightwick Hall was salvaged from Barry Island scrapyard in January 1978 by Buckinghamshire Railway Centre volunteers and then went through a restoration lasting over forty years. The operator says the locomotive will play the role of the iconic Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter television series, a collaboration it says will ensure the engine's future for many years.

The experience is one return journey on the train from Alresford to Alton. Booking is essential, and seating is available as adult, child and unallocated bench tickets, or as a compartment for up to six people.

One return journey from Alresford to Alton behind No. 6989 Wightwick Hall. Seats are allocated automatically in tables of four, so smaller parties may share a table; a compartment for up to six people can be booked.

Trains leave from Alresford station: The Railway Station, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG. Booking is essential and a booking fee applies. Children under 2 ride free on a lap. Seating for one to three people may be put on a table with others; bench seating is unallocated. Buggies cannot be taken on the train and must be left at the station at the owner's risk. Parking at Alresford is pay and display (Winchester City Council), with disabled parking and electric charge points. Accessible bookings and groups of 15 or more should contact the railway.