A bright start to the New Year will be the Steam & Light Festival at Suffolk’s only standard gauge preserved railway.  John Reeve says, “Join us on January 1st for your first steam train ride of the year and visit to the Historical Lighting Association’s display of fascinating vintage oil lamps dating from the Mid-Victorian era and as seen everywhere from grand houses to practical work places.”

Visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere created at the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, Suffolk’s award winning heritage railway. During the day you will be able to ride the trains as often as you like. The genuine Great Eastern Railway Victorian four-wheeled coaches are a historical experience for any passengers, especially children.

‘Illingworth’ will be the duty locomotive. It’s a 1916 built Hudswell Clarke 0-6-0 saddle tank which was last seen on the Middy in 2018.

The Tea Room will be open for tasty New Year treats and beverages. Plus, the museum, which tells the story of the old ‘Middy’, will also be open to complete your visit.

The Eastern Counties Bus Preservation Society will be running a Free shuttle bus service between Stowmarket and Brockford MSLR Station during the day.

Tickets are available online at www.mslr.org.uk or from the booking office in the Middy Shop when you arrive.
Venue: Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, Brockford Station, Hall Lane, Wetheringsett IP14 5PW. (Off the A140, follow the brown signs).
Date: New Year’s Day. 1st January 2026.