Gloucestershire’s historic Sharpness branch railway is celebrating its 150th anniversary by reopening to passenger services for the first time in over six decades. Originally opened on August 1, 1876, the line connected Berkeley Road station to Sharpness port over a four-mile stretch.
Passenger trains ceased running on this branch in 1964, after which it was used exclusively for freight traffic. To commemorate this significant milestone, the Vale of Berkeley Railway Charitable Trust is running a special passenger service for three days, from Friday, July 31, to Sunday, August 2.
During the anniversary weekend, six return trips will operate daily, with the first departure at 9:45 AM and the last at 3:45 PM. Passengers will enjoy a 45-minute, eight-mile round trip starting and ending at Oldminster Sidings in Sharpness. The journey travels past historic sites including the former Berkeley Station and Berkeley Road junction, all aboard the Trust’s 1980s Class 143 Pacer train. A guided narration will share the rich history of the branch and the iconic Pacer trains.
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Tickets are priced at £20 for adults and £10 for children and include access to an exhibition at the nearby Sharpness Sports & Social Club. For a unique hands-on experience, a “Drivers for a Fiver” option allows participants aged 18 and over to drive the Planet diesel locomotive under supervision for 10-15 minutes along the sidings, provided they meet UK driving eyesight standards.
This event not only celebrates railway heritage but also supports the Vale of Berkeley Railway’s ongoing efforts to upgrade facilities at Oldminster Sidings and strengthen its role as a key community asset in Sharpness.
To encourage sustainable travel, the VoBR is offering free return bus service from Cam and Dursley Station for ticket holders of the “Return to Sharpness” event. The bus route includes stops at Cam Pitch and Berkeley High Street and aligns with train connections from Gloucester and Bristol.