Rail enthusiasts across Essex are in for a treat this April, as a Class 66-hauled rail tour is set to travel from Norwich to London on 25 April 2026 — with a scheduled pass through Chelmsford.

What is the Class 66 Rail Tour?

The British Rail Class 66 is one of the most recognisable diesel locomotives in the UK, typically used for freight services rather than passenger trains.

Special rail tours like this are popular with:

  • Trainspotters
  • Railway photographers
  • Heritage rail enthusiasts

Seeing a Class 66 hauling a passenger-style rail tour is relatively rare, making this a notable event on the rail calendar.

Route: Norwich to London via Chelmsford

The tour is expected to run along the Great Eastern Main Line, linking East Anglia to the capital.

Key locations on the route include:

  • Norwich (departure point)
  • Ipswich
  • Colchester
  • Chelmsford 👀
  • Stratford
  • London (arrival)

As it passes through Chelmsford, this will be a great opportunity for locals to catch a glimpse without needing to travel far.