Eyebrows were raised among the steam fraternity when the Watercress Line preserved a ‘Sprinter’ diesel multiple unit. Now the train has arrived at Ropley, MARK PEARCE delves deeper into what the move means for the future of heritage rail motive power.

In spring, thousands of daffodils illuminate the fields and riverbanks at Farndale, in a corner of North Yorkshire rich in folklore and history

Heather Nash’s Norfolk home is filled with warmth, ...

GARY ESSEX looks at the railways that have successfully diversified their income streams, from contract work for main line operators to reinventing themselves as invaluable training sites.

Train Landscape , 1940, watercolour on paper, 17¼in ...

Bulbs planted in autumn come to life now and deliver vibrant bursts of colour – a joy to see after the dark winter months. Daffodils (more on those overleaf) and tulips are enduring symbols of spring