Get steaming up the Doon Valley
Looking to blow off some steam this summer season?
The Scottish Industrial Railway Centre ( SIRC) at Dunaskin near Patna is open and has several new attractions on offer.
The SIRC is a ‘ living museum’ where unique and historically significant industrial steam and diesel locomotives are restored and can be seen working in an authentic setting.
On offer at the family- friendly centre is a two- mile round trip uphill from the Dunaskin station to a position from which there are stunning views of the Doon valley and the Galloway hills.
Passengers can enjoy this longer journey in comfort as they ride in the Centre’s refurbished observation saloon.
Originally built in 1944 as a private inspection vehicle for officers of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway, the saloon now carries seating for thirty passengers, all under cover, and with uninterrupted views from every seat.
Another new venture for 2019 is the introduction of occasional days of diesel- hauled trains instead of steam.
The Scottish Industrial Railway Centre opens to the public on Sundays only until the end of August. There’s plenty to see at the 1847 built engineers shop museum, memorabilia can be bought at the souvenir shop and lunch can be enjoyed at the Signal Box cafe.
The Centre is open from 11am to 4.30pm, with trains departing every 20 minutes from 11.20am onwards.
Tickets: Adults (£ 7), Kids over four (£ 4) and a family ticket of two adults, three kids (£ 18).
Cash or card is accepted and dogs on leads are welcome on site. Wheelchairs can access almost all of the site. For further information, visit : www. scottish industrial railway centre. org. uk, see the Centre’s page on Facebook or call the information line on 01292 269260.