‘Sunset Shuttle’ connects Swanage, Harman’s Cross & Corfe Castle

Photo: Andrew P.M. Wright

A ‘Sunset Shuttle’ summer evening heritage diesel train service connecting Swanage, Herston Halt, Harman’s Cross and Corfe Castle – Dorset’s most scenic evening out set to create golden memories for passengers - is being launched by dedicated Swanage Railway volunteers.

Combining value, convenience and beautiful countryside views, the service operates on selected evenings during late July, August and early September, 2025, with some ‘Sunset Shuttle’ trains operating to Norden station next to Dorset Council’s Purbeck Park long-stay car park off the main A351 road from Wareham to Corfe Castle.

‘Sunset Shuttle’ operating days and train times can be found at swanagerailway.co.uk – simply click on Your Visit and the timetable option – while ‘Sunset Shuttle’ all evening travel tickets can be purchased on the train or in advance via Events & Experiences at swanagerailway.co.uk.

The ‘Sunset Shuttle’ train service also operates during the Swanage Regatta and Carnival evening fireworks events, the Purbeck Film Festival evenings in the grounds of Corfe Castle during August and the Swanage Folk Festival in September.

Unlimited evening travel tickets on the ‘Sunset Shuttle’ are £10 for adults, £5 for children aged 5 to 15, £25 for a family of two adults and two children aged 5 to 15 with dogs travelling free.

Swanage Railway volunteer commercial director Alexander Atkins said: “The Swanage Railway is proud partners with the Swanage Regatta and Carnival fireworks events, the Swanage Folk Festival and the Purbeck Film Festival which makes the ‘Sunset Shuttle’ the ideal scenic and stress-free rail connection to memorable and unforgettable summer experiences.

“There is no better way to enjoy the beautiful Isle of Purbeck countryside than from our summer holidays ‘Sunset Shuttle’ heritage diesel train service connecting hotels as well as camping and caravan sites with restaurants and bars in Corfe Castle and Swanage.

“Combining value and convenience, it has never been easier to leave the car and let the train take the strain while enjoying breathtaking evening views of the Isle of Purbeck and the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle.

“Whether you are looking for a peaceful solo ride, a romantic outing or a family adventure, our ‘Sunset Shuttle’ offers a relaxed and nostalgic way to experience the beauty of the Isle of Purbeck at the golden hour.

“Our convenient ‘Sunset Shuttle’ evening train services make it easy and convenient to enjoy evenings out in Corfe Castle or Swanage, explore charming pubs, dine at local restaurants or experience summer events while skipping the stress and hassle of driving and finding somewhere to park with the train carrying you home.

“While discounted ‘Sunset Shuttle’ tickets are available – giving unlimited evening travel – daytime return tickets and Freedom of the Line unlimited travel tickets can also be used on the ‘Sunset Shuttle’ trains,” added Alexander who is a volunteer steam locomotive driver on the Isle of Purbeck heritage line as well as being deputy chair of Swanage Railway Trust and a director of the Swanage Railway Company.

Depending on operational requirements, the ‘Sunset Shuttle’ trains will be formed of the Swanage Railway’s 1950s diesel mechanical multiple unit - known as a DMMU - or a rake of its 1950s Mark One carriages hauled by 1960 Class 33 heritage diesel-electric locomotive D6515 ‘Lt Jenny Lewis RN’ that hauled the last freight train from Wimborne and Broadstone in May, 1977.

The ‘Sunset Shuttle’ evening train service operates on the following dates:

- Thursday 24 July to Saturday 2 August 2025, inclusive. - Thursday 7 August to Saturday 9 August 2025, inclusive. - Thursday 14 August to Saturday 16 August 2025, inclusive. - Thursday 21 August to Sunday 24 August 2025, inclusive. - Thursday 28 August to Saturday 30 August 2025, inclusive. - Thursday 4 September to Saturday 6 September 2025, inclusive.

The Swanage Railway welcomes new volunteers and anyone interested in finding out more should contact the Swanage Railway volunteer recruitment and retention officer Lisa Gravett on 01929 475212 or via email at iwanttovolunteer@swanagerailway.co.uk. Details about volunteering can also be found at swanagerailwaytrust.org/volunteering

Story and photograph by Andrew P.M. Wright,

Swanage Railway official photographer and press officer.