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Engineering Open Weekend


  • The Watercress Line Ropley Station, Bighton Hill Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9SQ United Kingdom (map)

On the 14th and 15th of September, enjoy a Behind the Scenes Tour through The Watercress Line’s Engineering Hub at Ropley Station and discover what’s involved in renovating and maintaining a steam locomotive.

On the 14th and 15th of September, it’s possible to explore behind the scenes of the Watercress Line’s Engineering Hub at Ropley Station and discover what’s involved in renovating and maintaining a steam locomotive. Tours through the workshops will explore how the railway restores the engines and carriages which run on the line will allow visitors to get up close to these magnificent machines. Visitors can also explore the other sights and activities at Ropley station including the viewing galleries, society stands and displays, Kings Cross footbridge that featured in the Harry Potter film, plus more. We will also be producing a special video for Heritage Open Days on our popular YouTube channel.

Event Times

  • Saturday 14 September: 11:00am-3:15pm for tours

  • Sunday 15 September: 11:00am-3:15pm for tours

Booking Information

Pre-booking: Preferred.

There is likely to be availability on the day too.

Address & Directions

The Watercress Line, Ropley Station, Bighton Hill, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9SQ.

Use Bighton Hill, SO24 9SQ to reach our Top Car Park at Ropley station, next to the Watercress Lodges.

Additional Information

45 minutes.

Ropley station is wheelchair accessible, however our workshops are a heavy engineering environment with uneven surfaces, steps and obstructions to be manoeuvred around. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate wheelchair visitors. Visitors must be able to climb steps, walk on rough surfaces and step over objects unaided. Robust footwear and clothing must be worn; flip-flops, sandals and open-toed shoes are not permitted. Pets, including assistance dogs, are not permitted in the workshops. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The route is not suitable for children under the age of 12.

The Watercress Line is a heritage railway running from Alresford to Alton. Our workshops at Ropley station restore, preserve and overhaul our locomotives, carriage and rolling stock as well as providing engineering work for other heritage railways and private owners.


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The Watercress Line

Header image: The Watercress Line Ropley Station_credit The Watercress Line