What’s happening in 2025 at the Epping Ongar Railway?

In mid-August, the railway will enter a new phase with the appointment of Nick Arthurton as general manager.

Nick comes from a family with a long tradition of working in the railway industry, which stretches back to his great-grandfather who joined in 1888.

Nick started his own railway career with London Underground (LU) in 1994 as a duty station manager, and his most recent position was as the commercial director of the Elizabeth line.

Having worked for Network Rail and Chiltern Railways, and having been involved in the setting up of Transport for London’s (TfL’s) operation of the extended Jubilee line (1997–1999), he now brings that wealth of experience to the EOR.

Now a cherished heritage line, the railway between Epping and Ongar first opened its tracks to passengers back in 1865—marking more than 150 years of transport history.

Originally operated by the Great Eastern Railway, it has since seen various ownerships, including the LU Central line.

The last official LU passenger service ran from Ongar in September 1994.

Since 2012, the ten kilometres of track east of Epping LU Station to the buffer stops at Ongar station have been operated by the Epping Ongar Railway (EOR) as a heritage line.

The railway has stations open for public use at North Weald and Ongar.

The collection of steam and diesel locomotives is often added to by visiting engines during special events.

Through the enchanted forest – Pitchford enters a surreal world of neon-lit trees (Image: Tony Goulding) Most of the carriage stock consists of maroon and blue/grey Mk I and Mk II coaches, with a number of wagons primarily used for maintenance tasks.

On most days, a heritage bus service is offered from Epping LU Station and Shenfield main line station.

Southern charm in motion – Schools Class No. 926 ‘Repton’ steams through the countryside (Image: North Yorks Moors Railway)The next big event at the railway, the Southern Giants – Steam Gala, is scheduled to take place between September 19 and September 21.

The home fleet will work alongside some Southern Region giants, including Bullied Pacific No. 34072, 257 Squadron and Maunsell Schools Class No. 926 Repton.

Up to five steam locomotives are expected to be in action, subject to availability.

The railway not only provides a heritage experience but also for catering to younger visitors with character events such as Paddington Bear and Peppa Pig.

The Battle of Britain class 34072 ‘257 Squadron’ cuts a striking figure on a heritage line run (Image: Southern Locomotives Limited) A small playground is being developed at North Weald station for younger children.

For autumn, there will be a Fright Week – Halloween event held on October 25, 26, 29, 30 and 31.

The Epping Ongar Lights Express will return from late November to early January, featuring a light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of coloured LED lights.

Steam and steel at sunrise – GWR 4953 Pitchford Hall powers through in a cloud of steam (Image: Andy Duncan) Read more

In addition, Santa will return on his special train from early December until Christmas Eve. All children will receive a present from Santa.

The EOR directly employs a small number of paid staff, who are supported by around 300 volunteers performing various roles, from drivers and guards to station and catering staff.

For those interested in joining the volunteer team, the EOR invites them to get in touch by volunteering@eorailway.co.uk.