TETBURY BRANCH

Built for: Tetbury Railway Terminus: Tetbury Main line connection: Kemble (Gloucester-swindon main line) Opened: December 2 1889 Length of line: 7 miles Intermediate stations: 4 Closed: April 4 1964 Key locomotives you’ll need? ‘58XX’ 0‑4‑2T, ‘16XX’ 0‑6‑0PT, AC Cars railbus Why’s Tetbury special? Some branch lines became famous because of their idiosyncratic locomotives and rolling stock. The Tetbury branch, in glorious Gloucestershire, is arguably better known for its buildings. The goods shed is distinctive enough but the engine shed, with the tank supported over the entrance, has been immortalised by Wills and has starred on GWR ‘BLTS’ for generations. What’s left? Just the goods shed, which is being restored as an arts centre. Where can I find out more? The Tetbury Branch by Stephen Randolph (Wild Swan).

COLOUR‑RAIL Although the bulk of the building is partially obscured by ‘14XX’ No. 1472, the unmistakable outline of Tetbury’s engine shed is clearly visible in this April 5 1964 photograph. The station is to the far right of the image, while the goods shed is...