The Ayrshire Railway Preservation Group was founded in 1974, at a time when it was clear that private industrial railways were closing and an era was coming to an end. It has always been the Group’s special aim to preserve some of Scotland’s industrial railway heritage, especially that of Ayrshire and south-west Scotland.

The NCB railway system at Waterside in the Doon Valley was one of the largest private systems in Scotland, and was also one of the last places where steam could be seen at work. As such it became something of a Mecca for steam enthusiasts after the end of steam on BR. When it also closed down in 1978, the ARPG was determined to preserve at least a part of it.

The ARPG took over the lease of the derelict site at Minnivey in 1980, by which time little of the original infrastructure remained. The Group laid track, built a small engine shed and converted the few remaining buildings to workshops, a museum and a shop. Exhibits were also obtained from various sources. An extensive 2’6″ gauge demonstration line was also built. The site was reconnected to the “main” line at Chalmerston, and a platform with its own loop was built. Brakevan rides were given on summer Sundays, using a small section of the Pennyvenie line.

Note - Locos that show as resident may be based here but loaned to other sites, click on 'Loco' to view the most recent location

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