Our "garden" layout has been developed over a number of years to give easy and enjoyable running. Currently, there are three main running tracks. The upper level is laid in twin loops offering both 32 and 45mm gauge running, whilst the lower level gives our locos a good run round the 100-yard loop, laid in 32mm gauge rail. There are steam-up bays at both levels. No track is electric-powered at the moment but we intend to electrify the upper 45mm loop by Summer 2023.
We have one of the 16mm Association's boiler testing kits to assist members keeping their locos in good order. In addition to the track, we have a club hut with drinks-making facilities (i.e. an electric kettle and water), and toilets are located nearby.
Butterley Station (under the road bridge) also has a small buffet where one can buy refreshments, so you see we have everything a garden railway enthusiast might want!
Our layout is immensly improved by a well tended garden and an enthusiastic Gardenning Crew headed by Glenis, our Garden Manager.
Front of layout at the bottom.
Track Layout (not to scale) Black = Lower Layout with 32mm gauge Peco Track
Yellow Highlights = Upper Layout with 32mm track for the inner loop and 45mm track for the outer loop.
45mm sidings to the left and 32mm sidings to the right.
Front of layout on the right
Track Layout (not to scale) Black = Lower Layout with 32mm gauge Peco Track
Yellow Highlights = Upper Layout with 32mm track for the inner loop and 45mm track for the outer loop.
45mm sidings to the top and 32mm sidings to the bottom.
Many thanks to Rod Nipper
Great shot during our Coal Firing Day (Sunday 23rd April 2023)
We should mention the Elephant in the Room. The coach in a blue canvas wrap.
It's a clearstory balcony ended Midland Pullman Coach from circa 1874.
in recent years its condition has deteriorated and now lies under the distinctive blue tarpaulin.
In its prime it would have looked like the photo above.
Boiler testing is NOT compulsory at BGRA but is recommended as good practice.
Boiler Test Day.
If you need a boiler testing then we are able to do this for you. We have one of the 16mm Association kits and a qualified tester.
We aim to be able to do tests, strictly by appointment, at any regular Wednesday running session.
But you MUST contact Mike Riley to confirm before attending.
Mike Riley
E-mail: m.riley@ntlworld.com
Telephone: 01509 554574
Mobile: 07522 554446
Boiler testing is NOT compulsory at present but is recommended as good practice. See the 16mm association website for more details.
Enjoying sunshine and showers in April 2024
showing the benefits of loving attention.
Elliot's train running through the garden.
Mosses and mini plants bedding in.
Spring growth.
Our garden with a railway.
Promoted on our Facebook site.
Looking great in April 2023
Looking more established in the improved rockery.
Daffodils in abundance in the 'Not The Bog Garden'
Birds loving their feed at the back of the cabin.
Some rockery Improvements in Spring 2023
Glenis inspects the work done.
Some pansies to give instant colour.
Other plants will give more cover later in the year.
Trains ready to run.
Final touches.
Mike preparing for a run.
Still recognisable but much altered due to track renewals
The Gardening Crew
We have taken on the task of maintaining the MRT flower bed in front of the toilet block. Glenis, with Tom, Dave (and initial work by Mike) have made a great start. It’s all part of our presentation to the public who pass by when using the facilities.
Glenis says...This is NOT the BOG GARDEN
ED: (Can you suggest a better name?)
In bloom during Spring 2023