Great Western Railway is set to operate rare passenger services this week, using a little-traversed stretch of track to help visitors reach the Railway 200 ‘Inspiration’ train during its stop at the West Somerset Railway. The touring exhibition, marking two centuries of the modern railway, will be based at Bishops Lydeard as part of its nationwide journey.

To support the event, GWR will run special shuttle services between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard tomorrow (25 November) and Friday (28 November). The route, which leaves the main line at Norton Fitzwarren before joining the West Somerset Railway for the final 3.5 miles, is seldom used by regular passenger trains. Four return trips will operate each day at 1005, 1120, 1350 and 1505, offering a convenient rail link directly to the exhibition.

Travel on the shuttles is free for those holding tickets to the Railway 200 display, a family-oriented experience co-curated by the National Railway Museum. Entry remains free, with tickets available through the West Somerset Railway website or via its booking line.

GWR Head of Train Planning Matt Cambourne said:

“Obviously the best way to get to the Railway 200 ‘Inspiration’ train is by rail. We’re really pleased to be partnering with the West Somerset Railway to allow visitors to arrive by a GWR train over this rarely used section of track.”

The shuttles will be formed of a Class 150 unit operating between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard. Return journeys from Bishops Lydeard will depart at 1040, 1155, 1425 and 1540.

Image: Great Western Railway