For more than 30 years Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway, has been captivating the hearts of families and train enthusiasts alike. But as the railway changes owner, the Daily Echo takes a nostalgic journey back through the years, tracing the remarkable evolution of this cherished attraction.

The story of the Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway began in 1992 with a spark of an idea and the laying of a temporary track. 

This initial venture, featuring a 7.25" gauge, quickly proved to be a resounding success, igniting a passion for miniature steam within the local community. 

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Encouraged by this early triumph, the following year saw the transition to a more permanent track, a signal of the attraction’s popularity and the vision of its founder, Clive Upton. 

This pivotal step was made possible by securing a three-year lease, laying the foundation for the railway's long-term presence in Lakeside Country Park.  

The late 1990s marked a period of significant growth and development for the railway. 

After considerable negotiations with Eastleigh Borough Council, a long lease was granted in 1998, securing the railway's future within the park. 

This crucial agreement paved the way for ambitious expansion plans, including the construction of two new stations: Eastleigh Parkway and Monks Brook Halt. These stations significantly enhanced the visitor experience, providing more areas of the railway.

The introduction of these stations marked a key stage in the railway's development, transforming it from a simple end-to-end line into a more comprehensive and engaging attraction.  

The dawn of the new millennium brought further transformative changes. 

In 2000 major extensions were completed, bringing the railway's route to the impressive 1¼ mile circuit that visitors enjoy today. 

This expansion not only increased the length of the journey but also saw the addition of double tracks along much of the route, allowing for a more dynamic and efficient operation.

Not long after, in 2003, another significant addition was made to the railway's infrastructure: the construction of a 355ft tunnel. 

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This feature added an element of surprise and excitement to the journey, further captivating the imaginations of young and old alike.  

Beyond the tracks themselves, the Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway boasts a range of features that contribute to its unique charm. 

The inclusion of pneumatically operated semaphore signals adds a touch of traditional railway authenticity, reminiscent of the former London & South Western Railway practice. 

These signals, meticulously constructed within the railway's own workshops, not only enhance the visual appeal but also play a vital role in the safe operation of the miniature trains. 

Throughout the 1¼ mile journey, passengers are also treated to fine views of the surrounding area, offering glimpses of the tranquil lakes and landscapes of Lakeside Country Park.  

A cornerstone of the Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway's appeal is its impressive fleet of miniature locomotives. 

Over the years, the collection has grown to include 19 steam locomotives, two diesel hydraulics, and a unique battery-powered electric locomotive named Eurostar. 

This diverse fleet, one of the largest collections of miniature locomotives on a commercial railway, showcases a fascinating array of engineering and design. 

Many of these locomotives hold historical importance, with several dating back to the 1930s. Engines such as "The Monarch" (built in 1932), "The Empress" (built in 1933), and locomotive number 1908, which predates World War II, offer a tangible link to railway history. 

The diesel locomotives, "Eastleigh" and "Florence," along with the battery-powered "University of Southampton" and "Eurostar," which was a collaborative project with Southampton University, further demonstrate the railway's commitment to innovation and its local connections. 

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In February 2005, the construction of the Lakeside café and an extended station building with full toilet facilities was completed. 

This development provided a welcoming space for visitors to relax and refuel before or after their train ride, further enhancing the railway's appeal as a family-friendly destination. 

To accommodate these new amenities, the railway's workshop was also moved and significantly expanded, creating what is considered one of the finest facilities for a railway of its size in the country. 

Equipped with standard machine tools, an overhead crane, and a wheel drop, the workshop plays a crucial role in maintaining and restoring the railway's impressive fleet.  

In keeping with the rich railway heritage of Eastleigh, the Lakeside Steam Railway takes pride in its own engineering capabilities. 

The carriage fleet's steelworks, bogies, and general assembly were all handled by the railway itself, upholding the tradition of railway engineering within the Borough of Eastleigh, especially following the closure of Alstom's Eastleigh Works. 

Notably, the railway has even served as a test track for unique plastic bogies made of fiberglass, showcasing its innovative spirit. 

The signaling system, including the impressive signal gantry at Parkway station, along with the turntable and traverser, were also constructed within the railway's own workshops.

The recent transition to new ownership with experienced operators John Kerr and Peter Bryant taking the helm alongside current director Robert Bullock, signals an exciting new chapter in the railway's history, ensuring that the legacy of the Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway will continue to thrive for generations to come.