47596 60th Anniversary
28th March 2026
On Saturday 28th March 2026, the Mid-Norfolk Railway is proud to host a very special one-day event marking the 60th Anniversary of our very own Class 47 locomotive, No. 47596 “Aldeburgh Festival.”
Few locomotives have captured the hearts of enthusiasts and the travelling public quite like the Brush Type 4s, and 47596 is no exception. Introduced in 1966, this locomotive has spent six decades at the very heart of Britain’s railways, from hauling top-link passenger services to working heavy freight and eventually finding a cherished home here on the Mid-Norfolk Railway. To celebrate its milestone anniversary, we are turning back the clock for a special day of heritage running, nostalgia, and history.
What to Expect
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Star of the Show: Class 47596 “Aldeburgh Festival” will be working a full roster of services along the line, recreating the power and presence of mainline diesel traction in its heyday.
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Authentic Timetable: We’ll be running an intensive schedule designed to evoke the classic diesel era, giving enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to ride, photograph, and enjoy the atmosphere.
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On the Ground: Our stations will come alive with information displays, archive photographs, and volunteer talks charting the history of the Class 47s, the Aldeburgh Festival namesake, and the role of 47596 in British Rail service.
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Refreshments & Souvenirs: Commemorative pre-bookable tickets, and hot food and drinks will be available at our Dereham station throughout the day.
A Locomotive with a Legacy
The Class 47s were once among the most numerous classes on the BR network, but each survivor tells its own story. For 47596, named “Aldeburgh Festival” in honour of the famous Suffolk arts celebration, its working life is deeply connected with the changing face of Britain’s railway scene. Now, six decades on, it continues to bring pleasure and inspiration to a new generation of enthusiasts and families who come to ride behind it on the Mid-Norfolk Railway.
Join Us
This one-day only event is not to be missed – a unique chance to step back in time, celebrate a remarkable locomotive, and share in 60 years of railway history. Whether you are a dedicated diesel enthusiast, a photographer in search of that perfect shot, or a family looking for a memorable day out, the 60th Anniversary of 47596 “Aldeburgh Festival” promises to be an unforgettable occasion.
📅 Date: Saturday 28th March 2026
📍 Location: Mid-Norfolk Railway, Dereham Station (NR19 1DF) or Wymondham (NR18 9PH)
🎟️ Tickets: Available soon via our website – early booking advised!
Come and be part of the story. Help us celebrate 60 years of 47596 “Aldeburgh Festival” – still going strong, still inspiring, and still at the heart of Britain’s preserved railway scene.
Fares - Advance Tickets
🎟️ Save Time & Money – Book in Advance!
Purchase your 47596 Anniversary tickets online at a special discounted rate and enjoy faster entry on the day..
🚫The Kids Go Free offer does not apply to this special event.
Fares - On the day
Tickets for our 47596 Anniversary can be purchased on the day of travel from the ticket offices at Dereham or Wymondham Abbey. If you are joining the train at one of our intermediate stations - Yaxham, Thuxton, or Kimberley Park - tickets can be bought on board directly from our friendly Ticket Inspectors or Guards.
Please note that same-day tickets are slightly more expensive than advance tickets, and queues are likely during busy periods. We strongly recommend booking in advance to save money and guarantee a smoother start to your day.
🚫The Kids Go Free offer does not apply to this special event.
*Please note that a valid MNR HOPS ID Card is required to obtain a MNRPT Working Members ticket.
Timetable
Saturday 28th March - To be confirmed
Traction
Below is the current list of traction set to attend and operate during our upcoming Diesel Gala. This line-up will be complemented by guest locomotives, which will be added once they are confirmed and officially announced.
Please note: All locomotives and units are subject to availability. The Mid-Norfolk Railway reserves the right to change or cancel any traction without prior notice.
Event - Terms & Conditions
*Please note that our Kids Go Free offer is NOT valid at this event. Any child between the ages of 5 - 15 must purchase a ticket to travel.
**Please note that whilst every effort is made to the advertised traction & services we do reserve the right to amend, alter or cancel service, The Mid-Norfolk Railway does not accept any responsibility for any inconvenience caused.
***Please note that the Mid-Norfolk Railway do operate a Challenge 25 policy and reserves the right to ask for Photo Identification/proof of date of birth. The Mid-Norfolk Railway also reserves the right to not serve alcohol to anyone it believes is below 18 years old, no refund will be made in this case. The Mid-Norfolk Railway will not tolerate any abuse or violence towards its staff members at any time.
****The Mid-Norfolk Railway are unable to offer any cancellations, refunds or reschedules to any orders, therefore please ensure you can attend the date/time you select before you make payment and book. By making a booking you agree that you shall not take on board the carriage any alcoholic drinks or illegal substances.
Full Terms & Conditions can be found here