West Clare Railway, Heritage narrow-gauge railway in West Clare, Ireland
The West Clare Railway is a narrow-gauge railway in West Clare on Ireland's western coast. The site today preserves restored diesel locomotives and passenger coaches that visitors can see and explore.
The railway began operating in 1887 following the Tramways Act of 1883, which opened the way for narrow-gauge lines in remote Irish regions. This legislation provided financial backing for rural railway expansion in areas that would otherwise have been overlooked.
The railway system transformed local commerce by facilitating cattle trade in the Burren area and connecting rural communities throughout County Clare.
The site sits on Ireland's western coast and allows visitors to walk through and examine the preserved locomotives and coaches. Plan enough time to explore the different machines and passenger areas on display.
Steam locomotive Number 5 Slieve Callan returned to service in 2009 after extensive restoration work. This achievement represented the first time steam trains operated on this railway in over five decades.
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