Sir Percivale at Cropthorne 10¼” Gauge Light Railway — A May Day to Remember

The May Bank Holiday saw the season spring to life in style, with events and gatherings taking place up and down the country. One such standout was the Cropthorne Walkabout Open Gardens event, a much-loved annual celebration in the Worcestershire village of Cropthorne. With gardens open to the public, village life on full display, and activities for all ages, it offers a wonderfully traditional English weekend — and one of its star attractions is the Cropthorne Light Railway.

PNP Railways was proud to be part of the festivities with our "Sir Percivale", the ex-Oakhill Manor Southern Railway King Arthur 4-6-0, making a special guest appearance. With gleaming brass and a full head of steam, Sir Percivale ran alongside a fascinating and historic line-up of 10¼” gauge locomotives representing a wide range of British railway history.

Other Locomotives in Attendance Included:

• GWR 1400 Class 0-4-2 with a matching rake of wagons — a charming branch line classic.

• The historic LMS Compound 4-4-0, beautifully turned out and evocative of Midland express duties.

• The ex-Bob Syms GWR Railcar — a rare and unique piece of miniature railway history.

• The impressive GCR “Ypres” 4-4-0, a distinctive pre-grouping express engine.

• A mighty ex-SR Rebuilt Merchant Navy “Cunard White Star Line” 4-6-2, a true express thoroughbred.

• The historic North Eastern Atlantic “Stanley Baldwin” 4-4-2, originally built circa 1920 for W.J. Bassett-Lowke’s accountant’s private railway — an extraordinary piece of model engineering heritage.
  

The railway was in fine form throughout the weekend, providing rides and demonstrations that delighted both railway enthusiasts and garden visitors. Set against the backdrop of the village’s manicured lawns, flower beds, and winding footpaths, the locomotives added another layer of charm to an already picturesque setting.

This event truly celebrated community, history, and heritage railways — a perfect blend of garden serenity and mechanical spectacle. A huge thank you to the organisers and volunteers who make the Cropthorne Walkabout a success year after year.

We’re looking forward to more appearances and gatherings as the season continues. Keep an eye on our newsletter and social media for future updates, events, and behind-the-scenes news from PNP Railways.