1912 steam locomotive ‘Lily’ to be welcomed at museum in West Sussex

Amberley Museum in West Sussex is excited to welcome Decauville 0-4-0T works No.648, known as ‘Lily’, to its Rail Gala on 20 and 21 July. This special event marks the first visit of a steam locomotive to the museum in eight years, showcasing what the museum calls “a remarkable piece of railway history.”

Lily, originally named ‘Dimitrias’, was built in 1912 and served on the Thessaly Railway in Volos, Greece. After working at a chrome mine in Lamia, Lily was neglected for over twenty years before being rescued and restored. Since then, it has passed through various owners before finding its current home at the private Richmond Light Railway in Kent.

Amberley Museum is offering a special photo charter organized by 30742 Charters on Monday, 22 July, providing enthusiasts with the opportunity to capture Lily in all her glory. Visitors interested in this unique experience must book their place through 30742 Charters.

In addition to Lily’s visit, the Rail Gala will feature steam and diesel passenger train rides, including the 1918 Bagnall Steam Locomotive ‘Peter’. Model rail exhibitors will also be present at the event.

Those planning to attend the gala must book their tickets online in advance through the museum’s website. Amberley Museum boasts over twenty exhibition areas showcasing vintage vehicles, communications, and more, as well as nature trails, a narrow-gauge railway, and historic buses.

The museum is open to the public from February to November, Wednesday to Sunday, with additional hours on Bank Holidays. The on-site Limeburners Café offers a variety of food options, and dogs are welcome on leads.

Conveniently located near Amberley station and major access roads in West Sussex, including the A27, Amberley Museum is easily accessible for visitors. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of history and celebrate the enduring legacy of locomotion at the Rail Gala.