Hertford East line celebrates 200 years of the railway with special event

A special event to celebrate 200 years of the railway will take place on the New River Line between Hertford East and Broxbourne today.

People are encouraged to take a trip on the line following the launch of an activity guide and a new colouring book, illustrated by local artist Jen Kimber, which will help families to explore and discover the area.

And, the first 100 visitors will receive free train travel as New River Line Community Rail Partnership volunteers will be giving out travel vouchers at each station along the line.

The event includes an open day at the Hoddesdon Model Railway Club from 10am until 4pm. An amazing range of model trains and layouts will be on display with sit-on trains, railway themed stalls and history exhibitions. The club, which is only open to the public a couple of times a year, is a short walk from Broxbourne station.

Cllr Ann Woodward, Chair of the Development & Leisure Committee at Hertford Town Council, said: “The New River Line is an important transport link, keeping Hertford connected with local communities and the capital.

"Sustainable travel is hugely important to Hertford Town Council, having passed a climate emergency in 2023, and more recently developing a Sustainable Tourism Strategy - so supporting events such as this and the New River Line in general, are key to our aims to get more people travelling to our county town, by train.”

Katie Goldthorpe, New River Line CRP Officer, said: “We can’t wait to welcome people to our event to mark 200 years of the modern railway and hope they enjoy discovering our branch line. Head up and down the line to explore the area and enjoy the guided walks and ideas from our Activity Guide.

“Walk between and around one of our stations, visit an independent cafe, enjoy a tasty meal at one of the many restaurants and pubs found in the towns and villages along the line and don’t forget to call in at the Hoddesdon Model Railway Club.”

The New River Line Community Rail Partnership was established to bring together local authorities, community groups and organisations to work with Greater Anglia to promote and celebrate the branch line from Hertford East to Broxbourne.

It aims to encourage and promote use of the rail branch line between Hertford East and Broxbourne, supporting local projects developed in partnership with community groups businesses and the train operator, Greater Anglia.

The focus is on projects that promote the stations and encourage rail travel through engagement, economic growth and sustainable active travel for all.