Preserving the Past

Nationalisation brought mixed fortunes to the railway. Millions of pounds were spent by the government to regenerate the network but this did not always result in huge profits. Diesel and electric engines gradually replaced steam, and many smaller lines and stations were closed to cut costs. These decisions were not popular, and passenger use declined until the 1970’s and 1980’s, when high speed services were introduced and made train travel more convenient. The railway was privatised again during the 1990’s.

Swindon Railway Works remained open until 1986, but its operations had considerably reduced since 1960 and the farewell to steam powered engines. Its quieter conclusion could not, however, take away its magnificent past, and the site is now home to the Museum of the Great Western Railway, often known as ‘God’s Wonderful Railway’. A number of original steam locomotives and other forms of memorabilia are kept on display and attract many visitors each year. In 2020, the Museum provided virtual tours that led to it being placed in the top 10 per cent of attractions worldwide on TripAdvisor.

You can find out more about the history of the railway and visit the Museum for yourself on Day 4 of our Bath Spa to Shakespeare’s Stratford course itinerary, when we will head over at lunchtime before returning to class.