Swanage Railway

Between Norden and the coastal town of Swanage in Dorset, the Swanage Railway provides a heritage steam and diesel service that is more intensive than almost any other preserved railway. It runs a frequent schedule of historic trains throughout the year, catering to tourists and railway enthusiasts alike.

The programme centres on the Swanage Railway, a preserved line that runs from Norden down to the coastal town of Swanage in Dorset. Its focus is the railway’s provision of a heritage service that is notably more intensive than that offered by almost any other preserved railway in the region. The core of the show highlights the railway’s dual operation of both steam‑powered and diesel‑powered trains. By comparing the frequency and depth of its schedule with those of comparable heritage lines, the series demonstrates how the Swanage Railway delivers a level of service that stands out as exceptionally comprehensive along the stretch between Norden and Swanage. Additional coverage is given to the line’s setting within Dorset, underscoring its connection between the inland terminus at Norden and the seaside destination of Swanage. The programme also points out that, as a preserved railway, it maintains historic rolling stock while providing a regular, intensive timetable that rivals – and often exceeds – the offerings of similar heritage operations elsewhere.