Hollycombe Steam Collection: A Journey Through Time -
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Hollycombe Steam Collection logo
Nestled in the heart of the South Downs National Park, the Hollycombe Steam Collection is a haven for steam enthusiasts and history aficionados alike. This remarkable collection, established in 1983 by the late Roger Pail, houses an impressive array of locomotives, carriages, and artifacts that chronicle the evolution of steam power from its early days to its modern-day applications.
Visitors to the Hollycombe Steam Collection are greeted by a sight that transports them back to a bygone era. Towering locomotives, their gleaming metalwork polished to perfection, stand proudly on display, their imposing presence evoking the romance and power of steam transportation.
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Hollycombe Steam Collection locomotives on display
Among the collection's highlights is the diminutive but mighty 0-4-0 tank engine, Gertrude. Built in 1898 by Peckett and Sons, Gertrude once served as a workhorse for the War Department, hauling supplies during World War I. Her diminutive size belies her impressive strength, which has earned her the affectionate nickname "Gertie the Mighty."
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Hollycombe Steam Collection Gertrude locomotive
Another gem of the collection is the GWR 0-4-2T tank engine, No. 1450. Affectionately known as "The Dockyard Shunter," this sturdy locomotive spent its working life at the Great Western Railway's South Wales Docks, shunting wagons and performing essential tasks around the bustling dockyards.
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Hollycombe Steam Collection GWR 042T tank engine No. 1450
For those seeking a glimpse into the opulence of first-class rail travel, the GWR First Class Pullman Car is a must-see. This luxurious carriage, built in 1935, once pampered first-class passengers with plush seating, fine dining, and panoramic views. Its ornate interior, with its polished wood paneling, plush upholstery, and intricate detailing, provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of luxury rail travel.
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Hollycombe Steam Collection GWR First Class Pullman Car
The Hollycombe Steam Collection is not just a static display of locomotives and carriages; it is a place where steam power comes back to life. On selected days throughout the year, visitors can witness the captivating sight of locomotives steaming under their own power, their pistons pumping and wheels turning with a mesmerizing rhythm that echoes through the years.
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Hollycombe Steam Collection steam locomotive in action
For those seeking an even more immersive experience, the Hollycombe Steam Collection offers footplate rides, where visitors can climb aboard the footplate of a steam locomotive and experience the thrill of steam travel firsthand. As the locomotive chugs along the track, passengers can feel the heat from the boiler, the rhythmic pounding of the pistons, and the exhilarating rush of speed.
Photo Source:www.hollycombe.co.uk
Hollycombe Steam Collection footplate ride
The Hollycombe Steam Collection is more than just a museum; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of steam power and the ingenuity of those who harnessed its power to revolutionize transportation. With its impressive collection of locomotives, carriages, and artifacts, and its dedication to preserving and sharing the history of steam power, the Hollycombe Steam Collection is a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for engineering, history, or the sheer magic of steam.
Hollycombe Steam Collection website: https://www.hollycombe.co.uk/
