Skip to content

Severn Valley Railway cancels Step Back to the 1940s event

The Severn Valley Railway has cancelled its two 1940s-themed weekends later this year, in the light of the conflict taking place in Ukraine.

SVR chairman Mike Ball said:

“Like everyone in the country, we have been horrified and saddened at the atrocities that are taking place in Ukraine as the result of Russia’s invasion. We feel that the wartime elements of our Step Back to the 1940s events would be inappropriate at this time, and have therefore decided we will not hold them.

“The Severn Valley Railway will make arrangements for a future fundraising event in aid of British Red Cross’ Ukraine Crisis Appeal. All ticket holders for the 1940’s event are being encouraged to hold onto their tickets which will be valid for a future date.

“Although we know the news will come as a disappointment to those who were looking forward to what is an extremely popular and enjoyable event under normal circumstances, we hope that everyone will understand the current situation, and that we are doing what we believe is the right thing. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine.”

The railway will reopen on 2nd April for the Open House Weekend, before the Spring Steam Gala and Spring Diesel Festival in April and May respectively, will go ahead as planned.

All current ticket holders are encourage to check their email, where our team have already been in touch regarding their booking.

 © Severn Valley Railway 2026 – Trademarks, Images and brands are the property of their respective owners.

Severn Valley Railway Society Limited 1 Comberton Place, Kidderminster, DY10 1QR. 

Registered under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014.  Registration No 9742