A historical market town with a “Victorian” railway is set to welcome the “UK’s first electric steam train.” Saffron Walden’s Audley End Enchanted Railway in Essex is aiming to blend sustainability with heritage charm with a new train nicknamed part of the “Steamless Revolution.”

For over six decades, visitors have enjoyed a 1.5-mile ride along a custom-built 10-inch-wide track that winds through Fulfen Forest. Now, it is turned into one of Essex’s most popular attractions. The beloved attraction, celebrating its 60th anniversary, will launch the new train called “Electra” on March 17, 2026.

Despite being created in 1964 by Lord Braybrooke, the railway is set to evoke 19th-century charm through its woodland setting and steam-outline locomotives.

A spokesperson said: “To mark the 60th anniversary, we introduced Electra, our pioneering electric locomotive, the first of her kind in the UK.

“Designed and built by specialist engineers at The Steam Workshop in the north of England, Electra brought cleaner, quieter and more reliable journeys to our woodland railway.”

The spokesperson added: “Now, in 2026, our newest locomotive takes innovation further — it looks, sounds, and even produces steam like a traditional scale engine, while running entirely on electricity.

“This combines sustainability with heritage, making it one of the most innovative developments in the UK’s miniature steam railway sector.”

Other reasons to visit

Saffron Walden, where the railway is located, is a picturesque, medieval town with a rich heritage of old buildings. The market has been held since 1141. Only 50 minutes from London, the market has won the title of ‘Best Small Outdoor Market’ in the 2018 Great British Markets Awards.

It is also known for celebrities who live there, such as Jamie Oliver, who patronises a number of the market’s food stalls. This town is also full of plenty of independent shops and other historic sites to visit.

Opposite the railway is Audley End House and Gardens estate, “one of England’s grandest country mansions, with grounds designed by Capability Brown,” as reported by Art Fund.

Built in the early 1600s, Audley End House welcomed Elizabeth I and later impressed Charles II, who purchased it in 1668 as a convenient retreat when attending the races at Newmarket.

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