Crewe Depot Opens Its Doors as DRS Confirms 2026 Charity Open Day

Direct Rail Services has confirmed that its popular charity open day will return later this year, offering the public a rare opportunity to explore behind the scenes at one of the UK’s major rail freight operators.

The family-friendly event will take place at the company’s Gresty Bridge maintenance depot in Crewe, where visitors will be able to tour the site and see how locomotives are maintained and prepared for service. Guests will also have the chance to climb into the driver’s seat of several locomotives, speak with rail industry experts and learn more about the work carried out by the freight operator.

The open day will run from 10:00 until 16:00 on Saturday 11 July. It is designed to give rail enthusiasts and families alike an insight into the operations of Direct Rail Services while supporting charitable causes across the UK.

Adult tickets are priced at £6.13, which includes a booking fee, while children under the age of 16 can attend free of charge. The £5 base ticket price will be donated to charities, community projects and other good causes through the company’s sponsorship and donation fund.

Direct Rail Services is part of Nuclear Transport Solutions, and the organisation says the event continues to play an important role in supporting charitable initiatives nationwide.

Tony Hewitson, Interim Rail Director at Nuclear Transport Solutions, said:

“I’m delighted we’re able to host another fantastic open day this year, I am very excited to welcome guests to this wonderful family experience. The money raised from the open day goes to help charities, community projects and good causes across the country and we’re really proud of the support we provide through this fabulous event.”

Tickets must be booked in advance through Eventbrite and will not be available to purchase on the day of the event. While Eventbrite charges a booking fee, the full £5 ticket price goes directly towards Direct Rail Services’ charitable sponsorship and donation fund. Tickets can be found by clicking here.

Image: DRS