Diesel Mini Gala at Downpatrick - 7th January 2023

This event is now sold out - sorry!

It is not possible to buy tickets on arrival.

Our hosts at Downpatrick and County Down Railway are seeing in the new year in style with a mini diesel gala, to give all you diesel enthusiasts a bit of a treat to kick off 2023.

Trains will be running on Saturday 7th January, with the day starting at 11am and expected to run until around 4pm.

Planned traction for the event is:

• A class A39R
• B class 146
• G class shunter G617
• 450 class Railcar 458

Trains will use the North Line from Downpatrick to Inch Abbey, as the South Line is currently under engineering possession. This will not detract from the fun, as the North Line is where the thrash is at!

The day should feature:

• At least one out and back run with each locomotive/railcar
• Some mix-ups and shunts to watch
• A loco start-up or two
• A demonstration ballast train with 146 and the ‘new’ Irish Rail ballast hoppers and plough van
• Hopefully we will offer brake van rides up and down the station platform (within our premises)
• Limited and strictly controlled lineside photo/video opportunities

Cab rides are not currently available for purchase, though we may offer some or raffle some on the day.

For ticket booking, visit the DCDR website here.