Volunteer

The Gunpowder Railway is an ongoing, volunteer led project. Over the past decade, volunteers have laid over 1 km of track, restored a number of diesel locomotives to working order, and converted naval mine wagons into passenger carriages. In 2022 the railway had its first full opening season and has carried thousands of passengers since.

Everyone is welcome to volunteer with us regardless of experience or background. Our volunteers include both men and women, and come from a wide variety of backgrounds. There are lots of different ways to volunteer with the Gunpowder Railway including helping with administrative tasks, technical maintenance, laying new track, and becoming a train driver or guard.

Whether you would like to develop your technical understanding of locomotives or fulfil a childhood dream of becoming a train driver, volunteering with the Gunpowder Railway is the perfect way to learn new skills whilst having fun and meeting new people.

Gunpowder Railway Volunteers have the option of being on site up-to 2 days a week, plus on the Sunday Opening Days:

Wednesdays – are principally maintenance days repairing and keeping rolling stock in order so that they are safe for use on public open days.

Saturdays – are principally project days working on the bigger projects. Between Spring and Autumn these are also our primary running days.

Sundays – are our alternative running day.

If you are interested in becoming a Gunpowder Railway Volunteer please contact our Volunteer Resources Manager, Liz Went: volunteer@royalgunpowdermills.com