Case ten

This case provides a snap-shot of the UK heritage railway industry. It represents a modern tourism phenomenon in the recreation of the industrialized past found in many countries across the globe. UK heritage railways haven been thrown into sharp emphasis with Railway 200 and the national celebration of the bicentennial of the world’s first railway – the Stockton & Darlington Railway in September 1825. The chapter traces the evolution of the heritage railway movement from an enthusiast recreational activity to one in recent decades where they have become substantial businesses closely embedded in many local leisure and tourism economies. Some now work in tandem with national railway network systems delivering joined-up visitor services. Heritage railways are also important film and TV locations, and as venues for events with many providing annual galas that are firmly part of the tourism calendar. It provides a marketing template that may be applied in many diverse heritage locations reflecting different stages of development, and the many varied and local conditions to be found. As a global visitor attraction movement it is also timely as media interest focuses on the many railway bicentennial celebrations that will occur over the next decade.