Centenarian Locomotive No. 29 Arrives at Didcot Railway Centre for Summer Operations
Visitors exploring historic attractions in the Oxford area have a rare opportunity this season as a 1904-built veteran steam locomotive takes to the demonstration lines. Engine No. 29, a veteran 0-6-2T tank locomotive, has travelled from its usual home at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) to join the active roster for July and August.
What to Expect on the Demonstration Lines
This summer marks the first time the powerful machine has visited the heritage site. During its residency, No. 29 will operate alongside fellow centenarian No. 1340 ‘Trojan’, which recently returned to steam following an extensive overhaul, and the unique ‘Saint’ Class tender engine No. 2999 ‘Lady of Legend’.
Graham Hukins, Head of Visitor Experience & Marketing, noted the significance of bringing the two century-old engines together for operational duties side-by-side.
A Glimpse Into Industrial Railway History
Originally constructed to haul heavy coal loads on the Lambton Colliery Railway in County Durham, the visitor favourite carries unique historical design features. As the network evolved into the Lambton, Hetton & Joicey Collieries, connecting regional mines to the Port of Sunderland, specific engineering adaptations became necessary. No. 29 features a distinctive rounded cab, built intentionally narrow to allow safe passage through a restricted-bore tunnel leading to the port's coal staithes.
To plan your visit and discover more cultural highlights in the region, explore what else is happening through Musemap, where you can also check out the museums list and view the interactive map view for upcoming exhibitions.
