Anniversary Exhibition Draws Over 800 Visitors Buntingford Railway & Local History Society marks 60 years since the last goods train on the Buntingford Branch Line The Buntingford Railway & Local History Society (BRLHS) is celebrating the success of its Farewell to the Bunt exhibition, which attracted more than 800 visitors over two days at the Manor House, Buntingford (20–21 September 2025).
The exhibition commemorated the 60th anniversary of the last goods train to run along the Buntingford Branch Line. Visitors young and old explored an evocative collection of rare artefacts, original station signs, photographs, historic documents, video, and a detailed Ngauge model railway recreating part of the route. Many who once travelled the line shared their personal memories, while younger generations discovered the railway’s story for the first time.
Dean Weston, BRLHS spokesperson, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the response. More than 800 people came through the doors, proving just how deeply the Buntingford Branch still resonates in local memory. What was once an ordinary rural railway has become an extraordinary thread connecting generations, with stories shared of school journeys, holiday trips and market days reminding us that history isn’t abstract, it’s lived experience.
“What struck us most was the mix of generations coming together – those who travelled the line in its working days standing side by side with children seeing it come alive through artefacts, photographs and models. That blend made the exhibition feel less like looking back at something lost, and more like keeping a living story alive for the future. And fittingly, in 2025 we also celebrate 30 years since the formation of the BRLHS, which makes this anniversary all the more special.”
The Buntingford Branch Line, affectionately known as The Bunt, opened in 1863 and once linked Buntingford with Westmill, Braughing, Standon, the Hadhams, Widford, and Wareside before terminating at St Margarets. Passenger services ended in November 1964, and the final goods train ran on 17 September 1965.
Founded in 1995, the BRLHS is dedicated to preserving the history of the line and its role in shaping East Hertfordshire.
For more information, visit www.thebunt.co.uk or contact the BRLHS at buntingfordrailway@gmail.com
