GWR 6800 "Grange" Class Gallery

The highly capable GWR 6800 Class, universally known as the "Grange" Class, was introduced by Charles Collett in 1936 as a powerful, mixed-traffic 4-6-0. Built at Swindon Works using the recycled wheels and motion from withdrawn 4300 Class moguls, a total of 80 of these versatile engines were produced. Essentially a smaller-wheeled version of the famous "Hall" Class, they provided excellent tractive effort and rapid acceleration, making them perfect for hauling heavy fast-freight and holiday passenger trains alike. Sadly, every original member of the class was scrapped by 1965, but dedicated preservationists triumphantly filled this missing link in Western steam history by building a brand-new 81st member, number 6880 "Betton Grange", which entered service in 2024.
 

This gallery celebrates a remarkably successful and popular design, shining a light on a class of versatile thoroughbreds that have finally returned to the British heritage rail network.