LINESIDE CLEARANCE
Joining the Lineside Clearance Department at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway offers a unique and rewarding way to be part of one of Britain’s most celebrated heritage railways. Working behind the scenes, our dedicated teams play a vital role in keeping the line safe, scenic, and operational. The team meet on most Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the year, usually from around 09.30 to 15:30.
Protecting a Living Railway
The GWSR runs through some of the most beautiful countryside in the Cotswolds. Keeping the trackside clear of overgrown vegetation is essential for safe train operations, protecting signalling equipment, maintaining clear sightlines, and preventing leaf fall and debris from affecting services. By joining the Lineside Clearance Department, you help safeguard both our passengers and our historic rolling stock. There’s something deeply fulfilling about seeing a steam locomotive pass along a stretch of line you’ve helped maintain, knowing your work contributes to a smooth and safe journey.
Working in stunning surroundings
From embankments to cuttings, woodland edges to open fields, our volunteers experience the railway from a perspective few passengers ever see. The route between Cheltenham and Broadway showcases classic Cotswold landscapes, and our lineside management work provides the opportunity to enjoy the changing seasons up close. For those who appreciate the outdoors, it’s a refreshing alternative to indoor volunteering roles.
Building Practical Skills
Lineside clearance work develops valuable, transferable skills. Volunteers receive training in the safe use of basic tools and equipment, vegetation management techniques, and railway safety procedures. If you want to, the opportunity to train and use power tools such as chainsaws and brushcutters and our wood chipper machine can be arranged. Whether you are experienced with practical outdoor work or completely new to it, the department provides full guidance and support.
Camaraderie and Community
One of the strongest benefits of volunteering with the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway is the sense of community. The Lineside Clearance teams foster teamwork and mutual support. Tasks are carried out in groups, encouraging friendships and shared achievements. Volunteers frequently describe the railway as more than a hobby - it becomes a social network, a learning environment, and a place where contributions truly matter.
Supporting Railway Heritage
The GWSR is run largely by volunteers who are passionate about preserving Britain’s railway history. By helping maintain the lineside, you will be directly supporting the continued operation of historic locomotives and rolling stock for future generations to enjoy.
Every cleared section of track, every maintained embankment, and every improved sightline contributes to keeping living history alive. Joining the Lineside Clearance Department is not just about cutting back vegetation—it’s about teamwork and pride in maintaining a cherished railway. For those who value fresh air, meaningful work, and being part of something historic, it offers a uniquely rewarding experience.
Fitness
As you might expect, the work is almost entirely outdoors and in all but the worst of weather, so suitable protective footwear and clothing, including sturdy gloves are essential. There is no specific level of fitness required, but you will be on your feet for most of the day. The work can take you anywhere along the Railway and will involve quite a bit of walking, including going up and down steep inclines, as well as digging, shovelling, sawing and raking. You will also need to be able to carry equipment and be able to load/unload vehicles.
Regular breaks are taken during the day but please be aware that working on remote stretches of line can mean that facilities are often non-existent, so you will have to be self-sufficient and will need to bring your own food and drink with you for the day.
Current volunteer opportunities
We are always looking for people to join either the Wednesday or the Saturday team (or both if you prefer!). If you would like more information, please contact the Head of Department by email pway.manager@gwsr.com.
