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Brewers uncorks paint donation for signal box, museum
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December 18, 2025
Signal Box trustees are very grateful to decorating suppliers Brewers, Haslemere, who are donating paint for both the signal box restoration and sprucing up the museum space above the ticket hall. Work on both projects is due to begin early in the New Year. In the picture, Brewers manager Simon Acott (left), hands the first pot of paint to signal box trustee, John Harris. |
Work starts on Trust's railwayana display area
December 11, 2025
The Trust has secured a lease on the vacant former flat/offices above the station entrance and booking hall for use as a display area for a growing collection of railway items.
The display will eventually include a model of Haslemere station from a past era when, in addition to the platforms that remain in use to this day, it had busy goods sidings on the 'up' side – now the industrial estate – and the 'down' side where the two-storey car park stands.
With the signal box, the display will add significantly to the Trust's educational focus and provide a permanent home for the railwayana collection, currently in storage.
Work on the premises will begin shortly, helped with a generous donation of decorating materials from the Haslemere branch of Brewers.
More details on this aspect of the project will be released as soon as possible.
The Trust has secured a lease on the vacant former flat/offices above the station entrance and booking hall for use as a display area for a growing collection of railway items.
The display will eventually include a model of Haslemere station from a past era when, in addition to the platforms that remain in use to this day, it had busy goods sidings on the 'up' side – now the industrial estate – and the 'down' side where the two-storey car park stands.
With the signal box, the display will add significantly to the Trust's educational focus and provide a permanent home for the railwayana collection, currently in storage.
Work on the premises will begin shortly, helped with a generous donation of decorating materials from the Haslemere branch of Brewers.
More details on this aspect of the project will be released as soon as possible.
Signal Box Trust's charities fair debut draws public interest
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24 November 2025
Haslemere Signal Box trustees John Harris (left) and Philip Hunt – with fellow trustee Jock Gardner (behind the camera) – were on duty at the Haslemere Charities Fair at the weekend. There was considerable public interest in the signal box preservation project and the Trust's plans for displays of railway memorabilia and a memorial garden. The team signed up a good number of new 'Friends of Haslemere Signal Box' who will get email updates on the preservation project – and the opportunity to become more deeply involved as it progresses.
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Final operational week for Haslemere Signal Box
20 October 2025
When the final Portsmouth-bound train leaves Haslemere Station around midnight on Friday (October 24) it will end the unbroken 130-year service of Haslemere signal box.
It will also mark the start of a nine-day blockade of the line between Guildford and Havant, enabling Network Rail to put the finishing touches to the resignalling of the Portsmouth Direct Line.
When the line reopens it will be monitored from the Rail Operating Centre (ROC) in Basingstoke. Train movements will be watched on a dedicated new computerised display in the ROC, linked to new signals and axle-counters along the line. Signallers will be on hand to oversee round-the-clock operation – including safety at level crossings.
The final South Western Railway down train, marking the end of the signal box's operational life, is expected to be 444-040 The D-Day Story.
Meanwhile, Haslemere Signal Box Educational Chartered Incorporated Organisation, is working with both Network Rail and South Western Railway on plans to preserve the signal box, an adjoining patch of land and the former signaller's flat above the booking hall as a new visitor attraction. Opening dates have not yet been confirmed, but trustees are hoping to welcome visitors as soon as possible during 2026.
When the final Portsmouth-bound train leaves Haslemere Station around midnight on Friday (October 24) it will end the unbroken 130-year service of Haslemere signal box.
It will also mark the start of a nine-day blockade of the line between Guildford and Havant, enabling Network Rail to put the finishing touches to the resignalling of the Portsmouth Direct Line.
When the line reopens it will be monitored from the Rail Operating Centre (ROC) in Basingstoke. Train movements will be watched on a dedicated new computerised display in the ROC, linked to new signals and axle-counters along the line. Signallers will be on hand to oversee round-the-clock operation – including safety at level crossings.
The final South Western Railway down train, marking the end of the signal box's operational life, is expected to be 444-040 The D-Day Story.
Meanwhile, Haslemere Signal Box Educational Chartered Incorporated Organisation, is working with both Network Rail and South Western Railway on plans to preserve the signal box, an adjoining patch of land and the former signaller's flat above the booking hall as a new visitor attraction. Opening dates have not yet been confirmed, but trustees are hoping to welcome visitors as soon as possible during 2026.
- Please bookmark this website and monitor our social media channels for updates.
Waterloo marks 210th anniversary of the battle
18 June 2025
South Western Railway and Network Rail partnered with veteran wellbeing and archaeological charity Waterloo Uncovered and the Household Cavalry Museum to celebrate Waterloo Day at London Waterloo station today.
The Battle of Waterloo, fought in 1815, saw the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte by British and allied forces led by the Duke of Wellington. The victory brought an end to decades of war in Europe and gave its name first to Waterloo Bridge — and then, in 1848, to Waterloo Bridge station, the terminus now known as London Waterloo and Britain’s biggest railway station.
The celebration began with a morning bugle call by Trooper Davis – a trumpeter for the Life Guards regiment in the Household Cavalry. He was joined by fellow Life Guard, Trooper Barlow, and Chelsea Pensioners in their iconic scarlet coats. Throughout the day, customers were transported back to the Napoleonic Wars by live re-enactors, dressing-up opportunities, mock excavations and the story of a remarkable young cavalryman.
Peter Williams, Customer and Commercial Director at South Western Railway said: “SWR has a longstanding and close relationship with the Armed Forces. We are proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant, and veterans make a huge contribution to our railway, including many SWR colleagues in our Armed Forces Network.
“As Britain’s busiest station, it’s fitting that we begin our Railway 200 celebrations at London Waterloo station by marking the anniversary of its historic namesake, the Battle of Waterloo.
“As we work towards achieving the Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, this partnership with Waterloo Uncovered and the Household Cavalry Museum is another example of our ongoing collaboration with military organisations.”
Waterloo Uncovered – Patron: the 9th Duke of Wellington, brings recovering veterans and serving personnel together to explore the history and impact of the battle through archaeology. The charity presented an interactive archaeological experience, inviting customers to dig beneath foam ‘soil’ with tools and metal detectors to uncover a horse skeleton replica — echoing their real excavations of the historic battlefield.
Abigail Boyle, Chief Executive at Waterloo Uncovered, said: “Waterloo Uncovered is delighted to be able to bring the impact of our charity to Waterloo station, as we mark 210 years since the Battle of Waterloo alongside Railway 200. Our veteran wellbeing support today links conflicts past to conflicts present, as we uncover physical evidence from that epic battle and demonstrate the impact of war.”
Meanwhile, the Household Cavalry Museum showcased the moving story of John Edwards, a 16-year-old Life Guard who sounded the charge at Waterloo, and invited customers to try on authentic Household Cavalry uniforms and helmets.
Nicola Ayrton-Guest, Director of the Household Cavalry Museum, said: “It’s incredibly moving to see stories from our collection reflected in the archaeological discoveries made by Waterloo Uncovered. The bravery and resilience shown by young men like John Edwards at the Battle of Waterloo are brought into sharper focus through these finds. His tiny tunic, on display in our museum, reminds us of the personal sacrifices made in service—and it’s an honour to help bring that history to life for new audiences.”
Mark Goodall, Network Rail’s Wessex route director, said: “I’m delighted we’re working with Waterloo Uncovered and the Household Cavalry Museum alongside our partners SWR to mark 210 years since the Battle of Waterloo.
“The name and history of London Waterloo, one of the country’s busiest stations, is synonymous with the Battle of Waterloo so it’s fitting we are celebrating this significant historical milestone.
“The station has been bristling with a wide range of interactive activities that will be both informative and entertaining for any passengers or visitors to the station who wish to get involved and learn more about how the Duke of Wellington’s troops triumphed over Napoleon Bonaparte.”
SWR and Network Rail are both proud signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant, with active Armed Forces Networks of colleagues who have served their country. SWR holds a Silver Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and is working towards achieving Gold, following in the footsteps of Network Rail and other leading employers.
SWR has created a new Waterloo Walk Guide — a self-led tour from the station to Hyde Park Corner highlighting London’s Napoleonic landmarks, including monuments, museums, and historic pubs along the two-mile route in central London.
South Western Railway and Network Rail partnered with veteran wellbeing and archaeological charity Waterloo Uncovered and the Household Cavalry Museum to celebrate Waterloo Day at London Waterloo station today.
The Battle of Waterloo, fought in 1815, saw the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte by British and allied forces led by the Duke of Wellington. The victory brought an end to decades of war in Europe and gave its name first to Waterloo Bridge — and then, in 1848, to Waterloo Bridge station, the terminus now known as London Waterloo and Britain’s biggest railway station.
The celebration began with a morning bugle call by Trooper Davis – a trumpeter for the Life Guards regiment in the Household Cavalry. He was joined by fellow Life Guard, Trooper Barlow, and Chelsea Pensioners in their iconic scarlet coats. Throughout the day, customers were transported back to the Napoleonic Wars by live re-enactors, dressing-up opportunities, mock excavations and the story of a remarkable young cavalryman.
Peter Williams, Customer and Commercial Director at South Western Railway said: “SWR has a longstanding and close relationship with the Armed Forces. We are proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant, and veterans make a huge contribution to our railway, including many SWR colleagues in our Armed Forces Network.
“As Britain’s busiest station, it’s fitting that we begin our Railway 200 celebrations at London Waterloo station by marking the anniversary of its historic namesake, the Battle of Waterloo.
“As we work towards achieving the Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, this partnership with Waterloo Uncovered and the Household Cavalry Museum is another example of our ongoing collaboration with military organisations.”
Waterloo Uncovered – Patron: the 9th Duke of Wellington, brings recovering veterans and serving personnel together to explore the history and impact of the battle through archaeology. The charity presented an interactive archaeological experience, inviting customers to dig beneath foam ‘soil’ with tools and metal detectors to uncover a horse skeleton replica — echoing their real excavations of the historic battlefield.
Abigail Boyle, Chief Executive at Waterloo Uncovered, said: “Waterloo Uncovered is delighted to be able to bring the impact of our charity to Waterloo station, as we mark 210 years since the Battle of Waterloo alongside Railway 200. Our veteran wellbeing support today links conflicts past to conflicts present, as we uncover physical evidence from that epic battle and demonstrate the impact of war.”
Meanwhile, the Household Cavalry Museum showcased the moving story of John Edwards, a 16-year-old Life Guard who sounded the charge at Waterloo, and invited customers to try on authentic Household Cavalry uniforms and helmets.
Nicola Ayrton-Guest, Director of the Household Cavalry Museum, said: “It’s incredibly moving to see stories from our collection reflected in the archaeological discoveries made by Waterloo Uncovered. The bravery and resilience shown by young men like John Edwards at the Battle of Waterloo are brought into sharper focus through these finds. His tiny tunic, on display in our museum, reminds us of the personal sacrifices made in service—and it’s an honour to help bring that history to life for new audiences.”
Mark Goodall, Network Rail’s Wessex route director, said: “I’m delighted we’re working with Waterloo Uncovered and the Household Cavalry Museum alongside our partners SWR to mark 210 years since the Battle of Waterloo.
“The name and history of London Waterloo, one of the country’s busiest stations, is synonymous with the Battle of Waterloo so it’s fitting we are celebrating this significant historical milestone.
“The station has been bristling with a wide range of interactive activities that will be both informative and entertaining for any passengers or visitors to the station who wish to get involved and learn more about how the Duke of Wellington’s troops triumphed over Napoleon Bonaparte.”
SWR and Network Rail are both proud signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant, with active Armed Forces Networks of colleagues who have served their country. SWR holds a Silver Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and is working towards achieving Gold, following in the footsteps of Network Rail and other leading employers.
SWR has created a new Waterloo Walk Guide — a self-led tour from the station to Hyde Park Corner highlighting London’s Napoleonic landmarks, including monuments, museums, and historic pubs along the two-mile route in central London.
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Heads bowed in silence during memorial service ahead of unveiling of memorial plaque and laying of wreaths. RIGHT: The plaque in its temporary position on the rear wall of the signal box. It is flanked by artist's impressions of the proposed memorial garden. The wreaths laid during the service are now in the InfoHub window.
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VE Day anniversary event boosts interest in signal box project
8 May 2025
Railway, heritage and civic representatives rubbed shoulders with a cross-section of local people for a special VE Day 80 event in Haslemere station car park.
The event, led by Rev Chris Bessant, rector of Haslemere, and Rev Chris Henley, railway chaplain, included the unveiling of a new memorial to the 626 Southern Railway victims of World War 2.
Ken Griffiths, chair of Haslemere Signal Box Trust, says: "We felt there was previously not enough to honour these people. Southern's World War 1 victims – all 585 – are all named in a memorial at London Waterloo. But the nearby World War 2 plaque simply refers to the 626 victims.
"We are hoping to identify each of the 626 by name – and perhaps gather details of where and how they died."
The new Haslemere plaque, temporarily mounted on the rear of the signal box is destined to become the focal point of a memorial garden planned for a wedge of land extending beyond the signal box and behind the cycle store.
Among the guests at the event were representatives of Network Rail, South Western Railway, the Railway Heritage Trust, Railway 200 and the Community Rail Network. Local MP Gregory Stafford was also present.
The signal box trust – formally the Haslemere Signal Box Educational Chartered Incorporated Organisation – is a development of the community rail concept which underpins the volunteer-run Information Hub in former retail premises on the station forecourt. The trust aims to preserve the signal box after it is decommissioned in the coming months when its function moves to the Rail Operating Centre in Basingstoke.
Preservation plans are well advanced and the trust hopes to have the 1895-vintage signal box and its levers open to the public as soon as possible after decommissioning.
Meanwhile, the trust is also hoping to secure the former flat above the station booking hall as a display venue for a growing collection of railway memorabilia and reference materials.
Ken Griffiths says: "Haslemere Station is an important gateway to the town and surrounding areas, and is used by commuters and day trippers. Our plans are to turn spaces with little or no economic value in today's climate into visitor attractions, so that the station becomes a destination in its own right."
Railway, heritage and civic representatives rubbed shoulders with a cross-section of local people for a special VE Day 80 event in Haslemere station car park.
The event, led by Rev Chris Bessant, rector of Haslemere, and Rev Chris Henley, railway chaplain, included the unveiling of a new memorial to the 626 Southern Railway victims of World War 2.
Ken Griffiths, chair of Haslemere Signal Box Trust, says: "We felt there was previously not enough to honour these people. Southern's World War 1 victims – all 585 – are all named in a memorial at London Waterloo. But the nearby World War 2 plaque simply refers to the 626 victims.
"We are hoping to identify each of the 626 by name – and perhaps gather details of where and how they died."
The new Haslemere plaque, temporarily mounted on the rear of the signal box is destined to become the focal point of a memorial garden planned for a wedge of land extending beyond the signal box and behind the cycle store.
Among the guests at the event were representatives of Network Rail, South Western Railway, the Railway Heritage Trust, Railway 200 and the Community Rail Network. Local MP Gregory Stafford was also present.
The signal box trust – formally the Haslemere Signal Box Educational Chartered Incorporated Organisation – is a development of the community rail concept which underpins the volunteer-run Information Hub in former retail premises on the station forecourt. The trust aims to preserve the signal box after it is decommissioned in the coming months when its function moves to the Rail Operating Centre in Basingstoke.
Preservation plans are well advanced and the trust hopes to have the 1895-vintage signal box and its levers open to the public as soon as possible after decommissioning.
Meanwhile, the trust is also hoping to secure the former flat above the station booking hall as a display venue for a growing collection of railway memorabilia and reference materials.
Ken Griffiths says: "Haslemere Station is an important gateway to the town and surrounding areas, and is used by commuters and day trippers. Our plans are to turn spaces with little or no economic value in today's climate into visitor attractions, so that the station becomes a destination in its own right."
Town and train coming together in next step to attract visitors
5 May 2025
When town and train come together on Thursday in a special celebration to mark 80th anniversary of VE Day, Haslemere Station will no longer be just a gateway to local and regional attractions.
The unveiling on May 8 of a new memorial to the 626 Southern Railway victims of World War 2 is the first in a series of community rail projects with potential to attract visitors – and making the station a destination in its own right.
And with this year also marking the 200th anniversary of the pioneering rail trip between Stockton and Darlington, there is renewed interest in railway heritage.
This week’s event, organised by Haslemere Community Station and Signal Box Trust in collaboration with Network Rail and South Western Railway, will bring together senior railway and civic representatives as well as local interest groups and volunteers.
Guests will see the inauguration of a special plaque, temporarily on the signal box. In due course the plaque will be moved to a permanent position in the proposed memorial garden beside the railway and beyond the signal box, towards Foster’s Bridge.
The 1895-vintage signal box is due to be decommissioned in the coming months when train control between Farncombe and Petersfield is transferred to the Rail Operating Centre in Basingstoke on completion of the current resignalling project. Plans are well advanced for the Haslemere box to be preserved as a ‘working’ museum.
Community rail activity at Haslemere is evolving into a strong resource focusing on tourism, heritage and outreach.
Its core element is the volunteer-led Information Hub based in former retail space on the station forecourt. This tourism element helps visitors to enjoy the attractions of the town and its surroundings, especially in the Surrey Hills, South Downs and local National Trust areas.
Outreach activity includes ‘Try the Train’ programmes which give local primary school children the know-how and confidence to travel safely by train when the move up to secondary schools in other towns.
The heritage component follows the formation the trust – officially Haslemere Signal Box Chartered Incorporation Organisation.
In addition to the signal box preservation and the memorial garden, the trust is working towards repurposing the former signaller’s flat above the booking hall as a further heritage resource to house a growing collecting of railway artefacts and an extensive library assembled over many years by the late Vic Mitchell – railway preservation pioneer and founder of Middleton Press.
When town and train come together on Thursday in a special celebration to mark 80th anniversary of VE Day, Haslemere Station will no longer be just a gateway to local and regional attractions.
The unveiling on May 8 of a new memorial to the 626 Southern Railway victims of World War 2 is the first in a series of community rail projects with potential to attract visitors – and making the station a destination in its own right.
And with this year also marking the 200th anniversary of the pioneering rail trip between Stockton and Darlington, there is renewed interest in railway heritage.
This week’s event, organised by Haslemere Community Station and Signal Box Trust in collaboration with Network Rail and South Western Railway, will bring together senior railway and civic representatives as well as local interest groups and volunteers.
Guests will see the inauguration of a special plaque, temporarily on the signal box. In due course the plaque will be moved to a permanent position in the proposed memorial garden beside the railway and beyond the signal box, towards Foster’s Bridge.
The 1895-vintage signal box is due to be decommissioned in the coming months when train control between Farncombe and Petersfield is transferred to the Rail Operating Centre in Basingstoke on completion of the current resignalling project. Plans are well advanced for the Haslemere box to be preserved as a ‘working’ museum.
Community rail activity at Haslemere is evolving into a strong resource focusing on tourism, heritage and outreach.
Its core element is the volunteer-led Information Hub based in former retail space on the station forecourt. This tourism element helps visitors to enjoy the attractions of the town and its surroundings, especially in the Surrey Hills, South Downs and local National Trust areas.
Outreach activity includes ‘Try the Train’ programmes which give local primary school children the know-how and confidence to travel safely by train when the move up to secondary schools in other towns.
The heritage component follows the formation the trust – officially Haslemere Signal Box Chartered Incorporation Organisation.
In addition to the signal box preservation and the memorial garden, the trust is working towards repurposing the former signaller’s flat above the booking hall as a further heritage resource to house a growing collecting of railway artefacts and an extensive library assembled over many years by the late Vic Mitchell – railway preservation pioneer and founder of Middleton Press.
Picture: Network Rail
Picture: John Harris
Picture: Gareth David
Steam special makes history for Haslemere signal box
Click to watch Network Rail video HERE
26 April 2026
Haslemere signal box today signalled its last steam-hauled train – hauled by Merchant Navy class 35208 Clan Line – on the first leg of a nationwide rail tour, Great Britain XVII.
The day's run, from London Victoria to Bristol via Haslemere, Southampton and Salisbury, was also a steam farewell to the signal boxes at Farncombe and Petersfield. Later this year, a long-term programme to upgrade the signalling between Farncombe and Petersfield will be completed, with control transferred to the Basingstoke Rail Operating Centre (ROC).
Network Rail says the new digital signalling technology – part of wider upgrades to the railway between London and Portsmouth – will improve reliability and increase the potential capacity of the line for more and faster train services.
Once control of the signalling has been moved to the ROC, Farncombe, Petersfield and Haslemere signal boxes will be decommissioned. Haslemere signal box, which was first opened in 1895 and has been staffed round the clock, will become a museum, run by Haslemere Community Station and Signal Box Trust.
Ashley Hillier, signaller at Network Rail, signalled today's steam train through Haslemere. He said: “It’s a delight and an honour to be part of this fantastic piece of history and to get to take part and to cherish that in your memories going forward as I take that into my career. It’s fantastic. I’m very very proud.”
Tom McNamee, Network Rail’s Wessex route infrastructure director, said: “We have been working for many years to modernise the signalling on the Portsmouth Direct Line. The Farncombe to Petersfield scheme is just one of the areas we have been improving.
“Once this vital work has been completed, we hope to have increased capacity to run more services connecting Hampshire, Surrey and London with reduced journey times. We know that signal boxes across the route are part of the romance of the railway and we are delighted that Haslemere’s signal box will be preserved.”
Ken Griffiths, Chairman of Haslemere Community Station and Signal Box Trust, said: "We are determined in this year of Railway 200 to preserve Haslemere Signal Box as an educational facility for future generations to enjoy and celebrate the railway's heritage. We would like to thank Network Rail for their constructive support, and look forward to being able to open the signal box to the public in the very near future."
A Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society spokesperson said: “To see Clan Line on the final steam-hauled charter service signalled by Farncombe, Haslemere, and Petersfield signal boxes is a poignant and historic moment. These boxes have been an essential part of railway operations on the Portsmouth Direct Line for generations, and their closure marks the end of a remarkable era.
"With Clan Line’s strong links to the South Western division of the Southern Region during its operational life under British Railways and later under MNLPS ownership, it is the ideal locomotive to mark this milestone.
"The MNLPS is especially delighted that Haslemere signal box will be preserved through the efforts of the Haslemere Community Station and Signal Box Trust. This ensures the history of the route and its signalling legacy will continue to inspire and educate future generations. We’re proud and honoured to contribute to this moment in railway history.”
2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, inspired by the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825, a journey that changed the world for ever.
Under the banner of Railway 200, nationwide celebrations are planned throughout the year, showcasing how the railway shaped Britain and the world and how its pioneering pedigree continues today and is shaping tomorrow. Railway 200 encourages everyone to join in this once-in-a-generation opportunity, whether that’s by displaying the Railway 200 logo, organising events and activities, running competitions, or sharing rail stories.
Haslemere signal box today signalled its last steam-hauled train – hauled by Merchant Navy class 35208 Clan Line – on the first leg of a nationwide rail tour, Great Britain XVII.
The day's run, from London Victoria to Bristol via Haslemere, Southampton and Salisbury, was also a steam farewell to the signal boxes at Farncombe and Petersfield. Later this year, a long-term programme to upgrade the signalling between Farncombe and Petersfield will be completed, with control transferred to the Basingstoke Rail Operating Centre (ROC).
Network Rail says the new digital signalling technology – part of wider upgrades to the railway between London and Portsmouth – will improve reliability and increase the potential capacity of the line for more and faster train services.
Once control of the signalling has been moved to the ROC, Farncombe, Petersfield and Haslemere signal boxes will be decommissioned. Haslemere signal box, which was first opened in 1895 and has been staffed round the clock, will become a museum, run by Haslemere Community Station and Signal Box Trust.
Ashley Hillier, signaller at Network Rail, signalled today's steam train through Haslemere. He said: “It’s a delight and an honour to be part of this fantastic piece of history and to get to take part and to cherish that in your memories going forward as I take that into my career. It’s fantastic. I’m very very proud.”
Tom McNamee, Network Rail’s Wessex route infrastructure director, said: “We have been working for many years to modernise the signalling on the Portsmouth Direct Line. The Farncombe to Petersfield scheme is just one of the areas we have been improving.
“Once this vital work has been completed, we hope to have increased capacity to run more services connecting Hampshire, Surrey and London with reduced journey times. We know that signal boxes across the route are part of the romance of the railway and we are delighted that Haslemere’s signal box will be preserved.”
Ken Griffiths, Chairman of Haslemere Community Station and Signal Box Trust, said: "We are determined in this year of Railway 200 to preserve Haslemere Signal Box as an educational facility for future generations to enjoy and celebrate the railway's heritage. We would like to thank Network Rail for their constructive support, and look forward to being able to open the signal box to the public in the very near future."
A Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society spokesperson said: “To see Clan Line on the final steam-hauled charter service signalled by Farncombe, Haslemere, and Petersfield signal boxes is a poignant and historic moment. These boxes have been an essential part of railway operations on the Portsmouth Direct Line for generations, and their closure marks the end of a remarkable era.
"With Clan Line’s strong links to the South Western division of the Southern Region during its operational life under British Railways and later under MNLPS ownership, it is the ideal locomotive to mark this milestone.
"The MNLPS is especially delighted that Haslemere signal box will be preserved through the efforts of the Haslemere Community Station and Signal Box Trust. This ensures the history of the route and its signalling legacy will continue to inspire and educate future generations. We’re proud and honoured to contribute to this moment in railway history.”
2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, inspired by the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825, a journey that changed the world for ever.
Under the banner of Railway 200, nationwide celebrations are planned throughout the year, showcasing how the railway shaped Britain and the world and how its pioneering pedigree continues today and is shaping tomorrow. Railway 200 encourages everyone to join in this once-in-a-generation opportunity, whether that’s by displaying the Railway 200 logo, organising events and activities, running competitions, or sharing rail stories.
- Clan Line was today trailing 10 carriages with diesel 57314 bringing up the rear. The driver said there was no difficulty maintaining 60 mph up the 1-in-80 from Witley to Haslemere.
VE Day memorial honours Southern Railway war victims
20 March 2025
A special event at Haslemere Station on May 8 – the 80th anniversary of VE Day – will honour the 626 Southern Railway employees killed during World War 2.
Civic dignitaries and rail leaders will join directors of Haslemere Signal Box Trust, volunteers from Haslemere Community Station, other representatives of the railway sector and members of the public at the unveiling of a memorial plaque.
The event will be at 11:00.
Initially the plaque will be mounted on the rear of the signal box, but the longer-term intention is for it to form the focal point of the proposed memorial garden, beyond the signal box and towards Fosters Bridge.
In addition to playing a key part in the town’s VE Day celebrations, the event also ties in with this year’s nationwide celebration of Railway 200 – the bicentenary of railways, recognising the importance of George Stephenson’s epic steam-powered journey between Stockton and Darlington in 1825.
Trust chair Ken Griffiths says: “We are proud to celebrate these two anniversaries, both of which underpin significant development in our town and surrounding areas. Now, the Trust’s preservation plans will provide another lasting memorial to those killed while helping to keep the country moving in wartime.
“Our plans for signal box preservation will show current and future generations how rail safety was maintained in the pre-digital era.”
The trust aims to make Haslemere Station more than just a gateway to the town and surrounding countryside – rather a destination in its own right. With the Information Hub at the centre of local ‘community rail’ activity, this former retail unit on the station forecourt will become the gateway to three railway-themed attractions:
The preserved 1895-vintage signal box – still today staffed round the clock to control points and signals, but due to be supplanted by the new Rail Operations Centre in Basingstoke when the Portsmouth Direct signalling upgrade is complete – will be preserved so future generations may learn about past practices.
The memorial garden will provide a pleasant woodland walk, with a number of varied railway relics to provide interest on the way.
A new indoor museum to house the Trust’s growing collection of railway items – plus the library of prolific railway enthusiast, preservation pioneer and publisher Vic Mitchell, the founder of Middleton Press, who is remembered on a blue plaque outside Haslemere Station.
Ken Griffiths says: “We aim to breathe new life into redundant parts of our station. It is an important local feature – and will remain so.”
A special event at Haslemere Station on May 8 – the 80th anniversary of VE Day – will honour the 626 Southern Railway employees killed during World War 2.
Civic dignitaries and rail leaders will join directors of Haslemere Signal Box Trust, volunteers from Haslemere Community Station, other representatives of the railway sector and members of the public at the unveiling of a memorial plaque.
The event will be at 11:00.
Initially the plaque will be mounted on the rear of the signal box, but the longer-term intention is for it to form the focal point of the proposed memorial garden, beyond the signal box and towards Fosters Bridge.
In addition to playing a key part in the town’s VE Day celebrations, the event also ties in with this year’s nationwide celebration of Railway 200 – the bicentenary of railways, recognising the importance of George Stephenson’s epic steam-powered journey between Stockton and Darlington in 1825.
Trust chair Ken Griffiths says: “We are proud to celebrate these two anniversaries, both of which underpin significant development in our town and surrounding areas. Now, the Trust’s preservation plans will provide another lasting memorial to those killed while helping to keep the country moving in wartime.
“Our plans for signal box preservation will show current and future generations how rail safety was maintained in the pre-digital era.”
The trust aims to make Haslemere Station more than just a gateway to the town and surrounding countryside – rather a destination in its own right. With the Information Hub at the centre of local ‘community rail’ activity, this former retail unit on the station forecourt will become the gateway to three railway-themed attractions:
The preserved 1895-vintage signal box – still today staffed round the clock to control points and signals, but due to be supplanted by the new Rail Operations Centre in Basingstoke when the Portsmouth Direct signalling upgrade is complete – will be preserved so future generations may learn about past practices.
The memorial garden will provide a pleasant woodland walk, with a number of varied railway relics to provide interest on the way.
A new indoor museum to house the Trust’s growing collection of railway items – plus the library of prolific railway enthusiast, preservation pioneer and publisher Vic Mitchell, the founder of Middleton Press, who is remembered on a blue plaque outside Haslemere Station.
Ken Griffiths says: “We aim to breathe new life into redundant parts of our station. It is an important local feature – and will remain so.”
Haslemere signal box features in BBC Sounds interview
16 March 2025
Everything you've ever wondered about what happens inside Haslemere's signal box, as told by a signaller as Haslemere Signbal Box Trust chair, Ken Griffiths. A short recording, packed with interest. Click to listen HERE.
Everything you've ever wondered about what happens inside Haslemere's signal box, as told by a signaller as Haslemere Signbal Box Trust chair, Ken Griffiths. A short recording, packed with interest. Click to listen HERE.
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Memorial plan steams ahead with support for VE Day plaque
3 March 2025
Haslemere Community Station & Signal Box Trust's memorial garden plans are steaming ahead with news today that two key initiatives have gained official approval.
The Trust's plans reflect the nationwide Railway 200 anniversary and celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day – the end of World War 2 in Europe. Plans involve preservation of the Grade II listed signal box at the entrance to a memorial garden, honouring the 626 Southern Railway staff who died during the war.
Today, Waverley Borough Council's heritage team gave the nod to the trust's plan to fix a memorial plaque to the rear of the signal box. The plaque is due to be unveiled on May 8, VE Day. The plaque will subsequently be moved into the memorial garden.
Also just in is news that Network Rail has agreed to remove asbestos in the iconic platelayers' huts that stand in the future memorial garden and will be an important element of the railwayana on show outdoors.
The projects – together with the planned railway museum above the station booking hall – reflect Haslemere Community Station & Signal Box Trust's aim to attract visitors.
Haslemere Community Station & Signal Box Trust's memorial garden plans are steaming ahead with news today that two key initiatives have gained official approval.
The Trust's plans reflect the nationwide Railway 200 anniversary and celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day – the end of World War 2 in Europe. Plans involve preservation of the Grade II listed signal box at the entrance to a memorial garden, honouring the 626 Southern Railway staff who died during the war.
Today, Waverley Borough Council's heritage team gave the nod to the trust's plan to fix a memorial plaque to the rear of the signal box. The plaque is due to be unveiled on May 8, VE Day. The plaque will subsequently be moved into the memorial garden.
Also just in is news that Network Rail has agreed to remove asbestos in the iconic platelayers' huts that stand in the future memorial garden and will be an important element of the railwayana on show outdoors.
The projects – together with the planned railway museum above the station booking hall – reflect Haslemere Community Station & Signal Box Trust's aim to attract visitors.
Haslemere rail assets signal regional tourism boost
8 February 2025
As Railway 200 activities accelerate to mark a significant milepost in British – and global – rail transport history, a Haslemere group is working to repurpose and showcase surplus local rail assets as a stimulus for regional tourism.
Centrepiece of the current plan is the soon-to-be-redundant Network Rail signal box at Haslemere Station. The unusual platform-level box has been in service since 1895. It is Grade II listed and is staffed around the clock to facilitate scheduled and other train movements.
The signal box and its original levers – some of which are still in daily use – will remain in service until completion of the Portsmouth Direct line resignalling project, when functions will be transferred to the Rail Operating Centre in Basingstoke.
Haslemere Community Station & Signal Box Trust – formally the Haslemere Signal Box Educational Chartered Incorporated Organisation – recently received Charity Commission approval. The Trust’s board is actively engaged in preparations for opening the box to visitors, when it becomes available.
The Trust is also negotiating to take over a piece of Network Rail land between the signal box and Foster’s Bridge to create a memorial garden in honour of Southern Railway personnel who died during World War 2. The proposed garden will also provide display opportunities for a number of outdoor railway items of interest.
Currently in storage for the Trust is a fast-growing collection of railway memorabilia, to be housed in the former signaller’s flat above the current station entrance and booking hall. Already pledged to the collection is the full reference library of the late Vic Mitchell, prolific railway writer and publisher and pioneer of railway preservation.
The new preservation projects follow Haslemere’s involvement in the community rail movement – chiefly through the Information Hub on the station forecourt. The Hub will form the entrance to the other three elements when they open in 2026.
For further information and updates, please bookmark our website haslemereinfohub.co.uk or follow us on Facebook, X or Bluesky.
As Railway 200 activities accelerate to mark a significant milepost in British – and global – rail transport history, a Haslemere group is working to repurpose and showcase surplus local rail assets as a stimulus for regional tourism.
Centrepiece of the current plan is the soon-to-be-redundant Network Rail signal box at Haslemere Station. The unusual platform-level box has been in service since 1895. It is Grade II listed and is staffed around the clock to facilitate scheduled and other train movements.
The signal box and its original levers – some of which are still in daily use – will remain in service until completion of the Portsmouth Direct line resignalling project, when functions will be transferred to the Rail Operating Centre in Basingstoke.
Haslemere Community Station & Signal Box Trust – formally the Haslemere Signal Box Educational Chartered Incorporated Organisation – recently received Charity Commission approval. The Trust’s board is actively engaged in preparations for opening the box to visitors, when it becomes available.
The Trust is also negotiating to take over a piece of Network Rail land between the signal box and Foster’s Bridge to create a memorial garden in honour of Southern Railway personnel who died during World War 2. The proposed garden will also provide display opportunities for a number of outdoor railway items of interest.
Currently in storage for the Trust is a fast-growing collection of railway memorabilia, to be housed in the former signaller’s flat above the current station entrance and booking hall. Already pledged to the collection is the full reference library of the late Vic Mitchell, prolific railway writer and publisher and pioneer of railway preservation.
The new preservation projects follow Haslemere’s involvement in the community rail movement – chiefly through the Information Hub on the station forecourt. The Hub will form the entrance to the other three elements when they open in 2026.
For further information and updates, please bookmark our website haslemereinfohub.co.uk or follow us on Facebook, X or Bluesky.
To catch the traveller's eye
6 February 2025 Our new displays in the booking hall and on the platform.
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