HST Running Day
22nd March 2026
On Sunday 22nd March 2026, the Mid-Norfolk Railway will host a truly special HST Running Day, celebrating one of the most iconic trains ever to grace Britain’s rails – the High Speed Train.
This unique event will feature the last Laira Castle Set (2+4) that left Laira on Tuesday 17th February 2026, marking the end of an era for one of the most famous HST depots in the country. For this commemorative day, Powercars 43092 & 43093 will operate the set across the day, recreating the unmistakable sight, sound, and performance that made the HST a legend.
Few trains have captured the imagination of enthusiasts and the travelling public quite like the HST. Since its introduction in the 1970s, the InterCity 125 redefined rail travel in Britain, setting new standards for speed, comfort, and reliability. Now, as mainline HST operations start to draw to a close, this special day offers a rare opportunity to experience a complete Castle Set in preservation – powered by two true stalwarts of the fleet.
What to Expect
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🚄 Star Attraction: The Final Laira Castle Set
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The 2+4 Laira Castle Set will be in action throughout the day, hauled by 43092 & 43093, giving visitors the chance to ride behind and photograph a historically significant formation. This is not just another HST appearance – this is a set with genuine end-of-era significance.
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📅 Authentic, Intensive Timetable
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An intensive timetable will operate, maximising mileage and haulage opportunities. Whether you’re riding end-to-end, capturing lineside photography, or recording that iconic Rolls Royce MTU engine soundtrack, there will be plenty of chances to relive the golden age of high-speed diesel traction.
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📸 Photography & Heritage Atmosphere
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Stations along the line will provide excellent vantage points, with period touches and heritage ambience helping to evoke the feel of mainline HST operations in their prime. Expect that unmistakable departure growl and the sleek profile that defined British express travel for nearly five decades.
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🍔 Refreshments
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Hot food and drinks will be available at Dereham station. Plus an on train trolley service will be in operation.
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A Set with a Story
Laira depot has long been synonymous with HST excellence, particularly in its later years as home to the Castle sets. The departure of this final set on 17th February 2026 marked the closing chapter of operational HST history from one of its most iconic strongholds.
Now under ownership of Romic Group and reunited for this special day, the last Laira Castle Set stands as a tribute to the engineers, drivers, depot staff, and passengers who kept the InterCity 125 at the forefront of British rail travel for generations.
With 43092 & 43093 leading the charge, visitors will be able to witness, and ride behind, a formation that represents the very end of mainline Castle Set operation.
Join Us
This event promises to be a landmark moment in preservation history - a celebration of speed, engineering excellence, and the enduring appeal of Britain’s most successful high-speed train.
Whether you are a lifelong HST enthusiast, a photographer chasing that perfect powercar pairing, or a family looking for a thrilling and memorable day out, the HST Running Day at the Mid-Norfolk Railway is not to be missed.
📅 Date: Sunday 22nd March 2026
📍 Location: Mid-Norfolk Railway - Dereham Station (NR19 1DF) or Wymondham Abbey Station (NR18 9PH)
🎟️ Tickets: Available now via our website – early booking advised! See below to book tickets
Come and be part of railway history. Experience the final Laira Castle Set in action, hear the power of 43092 & 43093 once more, and celebrate the legacy of Britain’s iconic High Speed Train — still thrilling, still inspiring, and still turning heads.
Fares - Advance Tickets
🎟️ Save Time – Book in Advance!
Purchase your tickets online and enjoy faster entry on the day.
Fares - On the day
Tickets 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 (cash only).
Fare Type | Day Rover | Return Journey |
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Adult (16yrs +) | £22.50 | £21.00 |
Child (5 - 15yrs inclusive) | £8.00 | £6.00 |
Child (under 5yrs) | £0.00 | £0.00 |
Concession (Over 60s, Disabled & Students) | £20.50 | £19.00 |
Registered Carers | £14.00 | £14.00 |
Dogs & Cycles | £3.00 | £3.00 |
MNRPT Member | £13.50 | £12.50 |
MNRPT Working Member* | £5.00 | £2.50 |
*Please note that a valid MNR HOPS ID Card is required to obtain a MNRPT Working Members ticket.
**Please note that our Kids Go Free offer does NOT apply for this event.
Timetable
Sunday 22nd March - Please click here to view the timetable.
* Please note that, unfortunately, we are unable to provide wheelchair access to the HST Castle Set. We apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.
Traction
Below is the current list of traction set to attend and operate during our upcoming event.
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