‘Back in Steam’ launched
Our founder, Gerry Cochrane, launches his book – the definitive story of the restoration of the railway – in a ceremony at our station in Downpatrick.
150 years of railways in Downpatrick
We celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Belfast & County Down Railway reaching Downpatrick with a gala dinner in the Slieve Donard Hotel.
No. 90’s official launch
GSWR Steam locomotive No. 90 was officially launched at a ceremony at Downpatrick by Dick Fearn, the chief executive of Iarnród Éireann.
Tourism Heroes award
DCDR volunteer Ian Davis wins Down District Council’s Tourism Heroes award. You can read about Ian’s award here.
Raising Steam is broadcast
BBC Northern Ireland broadcasts a 40 minute documentary about the restoration and running of our railway. You can watch the programme here.
Museum accreditation
Downpatrick & County Down Railway becomes an accredited museum.
GSWR No. 90 arrives
GSWR steam locomotive No. 90 arrives in Downpatrick, in a move facilitated by Irish Rail.
BCDR carriage restoration complete
BCDR carriage No.148’s restoration is complete.
The new Company is formed
The Downpatrick & Ardglass Railway and the Downpatrick Railway Society formally merge to form a new company, the Downpatrick & County Down Railway Society Ltd.
Twinning with the Lartigue Monorail and Museum
The first of a series of events are held to mark our twinning with the Listowel railway museum, with a Murder Mystery night!