Uploaded May 2024 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Great Western Castle class 4079 'Pendennis Castle' is seen on the Picturesque Churnet Valley Railway in Staffordshire on a standard operating day. Having missed the steam gala at the start of May we were afforded a chance to witness the sight and sound of a single chimney Castle pounding up the steep climb to Ipstones Loop. While the highlight of the railway will always include the climb to Ipstones, you could argue that the railway's jewel in the crown is the rural station of Consall.
Consall is generally only accessible via train or along the canal footpath, the road down to it is a bit rough to say the least. The station is well preserved and the surrounding area well kept. The highlight of the location is no doubt 'The Black Lion Pub' which sits adjacent to the railway and canal and offers superb views of railway and its station infrastructure. While waiting between trains we of course sampled the delights of one the finest pubs along any preserved railway. 4079 is due to leave The Churnet Valley Railway at the start of June so there is still time to enjoy the sight and sound of the current loudest Castle class in operation today !
I hope you enjoy the video.
Great Western Castle class 4079 'Pendennis Castle' is seen on the Picturesque Churnet Valley Railway in Staffordshire on a standard operating day. Having missed the steam gala at the start of May we were afforded a chance to witness the sight and sound of a single chimney Castle pounding up the steep climb to Ipstones Loop. While the highlight of the railway will always include the climb to Ipstones, you could argue that the railway's jewel in the crown is the rural station of Consall.
Consall is generally only accessible via train or along the canal footpath, the road down to it is a bit rough to say the least. The station is well preserved and the surrounding area well kept. The highlight of the location is no doubt 'The Black Lion Pub' which sits adjacent to the railway and canal and offers superb views of railway and its station infrastructure. While waiting between trains we of course sampled the delights of one the finest pubs along any preserved railway. 4079 is due to leave The Churnet Valley Railway at the start of June so there is still time to enjoy the sight and sound of the current loudest Castle class in operation today !
I hope you enjoy the video.
