West Coast Railways: Data & Information
West Coast Railways is a railway spot-hire company and charter train operator based at Carnforth MPD in Lancashire, utilising buildings and other facilities previously owned by the Steamtown Carnforth visitor attraction.
In June 1998 the company became the first privately owned company to be given a licence as a train operating company. West Coast Railways provides locomotives, stock and crews to other companies within the rail industry. The company operates charter trains, some of which are hauled by steam locomotives. The company provides stock and crews for steam workings on the national network, and for diesel tours. The headquarters, engineering base and depot are at Carnforth, where locomotives and stock are stored and maintained, and where contract work is undertaken for other operators.
Read MoreIn June 1998 the company became the first privately owned company to be given a licence as a train operating company. West Coast Railways provides locomotives, stock and crews to other companies within the rail industry. The company operates charter trains, some of which are hauled by steam locomotives. The company provides stock and crews for steam workings on the national network, and for diesel tours. The headquarters, engineering base and depot are at Carnforth, where locomotives and stock are stored and maintained, and where contract work is undertaken for other operators.