Heritage railways face no nationwide ban on steam
Britain’s heritage rail network is not covered by the widely reported ‘ban’ on steam locomotives. Although Network Rail can impose restrictions on the use of steam locomotives upon their own rails, the Heritage Railway Association can confirm that the vast majority of steam operations in the UK are not covered by that ban.
Individual heritage railways operating on their own infrastructure retain the ability to assess their own unique local circumstances during the current hot and dry weather. While some have decided to switch to diesel locomotives, many have been able to put in place other measures to ensure that steam can continue to operate safely.
Some heritage railways have developed water spraying equipment to keep the lineside damper, some have modified steam locomotives to use oil fuel to reduce the risk of sparks, and others have found that their location makes them less susceptible to fire risk. Extensive guidance, including expertise from as far afield as Australia, is also available to HRA members to help them find the best solutions to their own circumstances.
Heritage Railway Association Chief Executive, Steve Oates, said: “Running steam locomotives in summer has been a balancing act for more than 200 years. The conditions we’ve seen so far this year, have not been as challenging as they were in 2025 because the majority of the hotter weather has come later in the season, allowing greenery to establish itself.
“Nevertheless, heritage railways are responsible neighbours and landowners. Each and every heritage railway will be assessing their own circumstances and making the best decision for their unique situation. I’d urge everyone who loves the sight of historic trains in the British countryside to support them.”
