Due to its growing popularity, Swanage Railway’s three day Roads to Rail steam rally is moving to a larger field close to Norden station near the village of Corfe Castle in Dorset.
Now in its sixth year, the event from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June 2026, has established itself as one of the best steam rally events in Dorset, combining steam powered vehicles and locomotives.
Catch a nice cool breeze travelling in the heritage brake
Steam train ride in a heritage brake van
Featuring more than 60 traction and miniature engines, steam rollers and showman’s engines – as well as fairground rides, trade stalls, food stalls, bar and live music – organisers say the larger event field provides more space, easier access and an improved environment for visitors and exhibitors.
A new attraction for Roads to Rail steam rally in 2026 is the chance for the public to enjoy a three-mile 15 minute steam train ride in a heritage brake van from Norden to Furzebrook and back with the train departing from next to the event field.
With two performance and display arenas, the Roads to Rail showground gates open at 10 am on all three days with the event running until 11.30 pm on the Friday and Saturday and until 5 pm on the Sunday.
Heritage steam vehicles on show in 2025
Plenty of fascinating steam vehicles to see – big and small!
Full size and miniature steam engines
Event highlights are a display of full size and miniature steam engines; tractors, stationary engines and commercial vehicles; a traditional funfair, food stalls and a real ale bar as well as live music throughout the three days of the ‘Roads to Rail’ steam rally. Family activities include circus skills.
Steam and diesel heritage trains will also be running between Norden, Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross, Herston Halt and Swanage throughout the event – including a special evening heritage diesel on the Friday and Saturday evenings.
The event takes place near Corfe Castle although it will be in a larger field for 2026
The event is expected to attract even more steam enthusiasts in its sixth year
“One of a kind event”
Swanage Railway chief executive officer Abbie King said:
“Our much-loved Roads to Rail steam rally returns for its sixth year and will be bigger and better than before with new improvements to make the experience of visitors even more enjoyable.
“It’s a chance to experience the magic of steam in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck and enjoy an evocative celebration of vintage heritage, live music and family fun alongside the Swanage Railway.
“Our Roads to Rail event is a one of a kind event combining the charm of a heritage railway with the thrill of a classic steam rally – it’s perfect for enthusiasts, families and visitors of all ages.
“Special events – such as our Roads to Rail steam rally – are critical for helping to fund the continued operation and development of the Swanage Railway as well as drawing visitors to the wonderful Isle of Purbeck ahead of the main summer season.
“The Roads to Rail event takes a lot of dedicated planning and organising from our staff and volunteers and I would like to pay tribute to all the hard work that has been put into the event.”
