Community

Railways are about connections.  From the very beginning the railways were a means of connecting communities. That continues today and is recognised by initiatives like the UK Government’s ‘Connecting Communities with the Railways’ strategy.

The West Somerset Railway couldn’t run without its volunteer workforce, many of whom live and work in the local communities along the railway from Taunton to Minehead.

The WSRA works to promote the cultural and social heritage of the railway, and to bring communities together and enable opportunities for social interraction, inclusion and well-being.

WSR Stations

The communities of the West Somerset Railway are grounded in its stations.  There are nine stations and one Halt that make up the operational railway, with an additional platform at Norton Fitzwarren which is used occasionally for events like the annual WSRA Steam and Vintage Rally.

Each WSR station has its own Station Master appointed by the WSR PLC and a volunteer work force keeping the station running and viable with a variety of skills and experience including gardening, catering, general maintenance and fundraising. They also manage the operational needs of the station, under the watchful eye of the station master.

Walking the WSR

The WSRA published its first book of  country walks from WSR stations in  1993 followed by a second volume,  Eight more country walks . Both were written and researched by Audrey and Ron Short.  In 2016 the WSR plc published a larger book written by Malcolm and Natalie Short.

We are now delighted to publish a whole series of walks in downloadable format so anyone is welcome to choose their walk and download the route.

WSRA would like to hear from community, health and well-being organisations who may benefit from a group ride and walk on the WSR.