The upcoming Spring Gala at the Severn Valley Railway in April will offer passengers a unique opportunity, in addition to watching and travelling behind 71000 ‘Duke of Gloucester’, LMS pug No.11243 and Port of Par Bagnall ‘Judy’.

The recently restored GWR ‘Toad’ brake van will also be available for rides during the gala, giving passengers the chance to ride on a heritage goods train along the Severn Valley, offering a long-lost experience of travelling on a working goods train.

Situated as the leading brake van, between the loco and the train of goods wagons, passengers will experience the rough and hard riding of a 4-wheel brake van right behind the steam engine.

For those wishing to travel on the veranda, an iconic feature of a ‘Toad’ van, there is the added experience of being partially exposed to the elements on three sides, plus the bonus of travelling through smoke, coal dust and near total darkness when passing through tunnels, all adding to the excitement.

Tickets for the Toad brake van / Goods Train experience must be bought in advance, in addition to a valid Severn Valley Railway Spring Gala Ticket.

Those with heart, back or respiratory conditions should seek advice before travelling, if they consider booking for a ride, on this unique experience.

Brake van rides will only be available on Thursday, 16th April and Sunday, 19th April.

On Thursday, 16th April, No. 4930 Hagley Hall will be the goods train engine with rides travelling the full 16-mile length of the railway. Leaving Kidderminster at 9:20 am and 2:05 pm, with one departure from Bridgnorth at 11:50 am.

On Sunday, 19th April, GWR Saddle tank No. 813 will be the goods train engine with rides running between Kidderminster and Highley. Departures from Kidderminster will be at 10:48 am and 2:30 pm, with one departure from Highley at 12:35 pm.

Tickets can be booked via the Severn Valley website.

“This is a truly special opportunity to experience a very different aspect of railway operation. Travelling in a brake van as part of a goods train is about as authentic as it gets. You’re right behind the locomotive, surrounded by the sounds, smells and atmosphere of a working railway. It’s noisy, it’s dirty, and it’s incredibly exciting. Experiences like this are rarely available, and they offer a real insight into the vital role freight trains once played on Britain’s railways.”

Lewis Maddox, the SVR’s visitor engagement manager