Stroud-based Pathfinder Railtours has announced it will cease operations in December, bringing to an end more than half a century of running charter rail tours across the UK.
The company’s very first excursion ran from Gloucester to Pwllheli in 1973 under the name F&W Railtours. Pathfinder Railtours was formally established in 1987, running its first charter service the following year. Its final trip is scheduled for 20 December, with locomotive D1015 set to feature in a farewell outing.
In a statement, the firm stressed it is not insolvent and will continue operating as normal until closure, with the decision down to retirement.
Founder Peter Watts said he was proud of “more than 50 years of continued operation” and thanked staff, stewards and passengers. Chief executive and current owner Barry Cordell said it was the right time to retire and praised the support shown by volunteers and the wider rail industry.
From its Stroud base, Pathfinder became one of the UK’s best-known charter operators, offering rail enthusiasts and day-trippers memorable journeys to destinations nationwide.