Annual Walk
Usually held on a Saturday in mid-September, the annual walk enables members from the different R.A.I.L. groups and their friends to get together for a pleasant stroll through London's railway heritage. There is usually a stop en-route for a picnic or pub lunch. Typical distances range from 10 to 15 miles, but the walking is usually easy and none too pressured. Walkers are welcome to obtain sponsorship for designated railway or charity projects if they wish, and sponsor forms will be endorsed by R.A.I.L. officials at the conclusion of the walk.
Past walks have included the former GNR line from Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace, the ex-LCDR lines from Nunhead to Greenwich Park and Crystal Palace, the LNWR Bushey - Rickmandsworth line, the Regent's and Grand Union canals, a tour of closed Underground stations, and further afield sections of the Welwyn - Luton, Alton - Winchester, East Grinstead - Tunbridge Wells and Longfield - Gravesend West branches. In 2004 we traced the route of the planned East London Line extensions from Clapham Junction to Dalston Junction, and in 2005 we explored the new Docklands Light Railway line between Woolwich Arsenal, London City Airport and Stratford.
Annual Supper
Usually held on the second Wednesday in November, the Annual Supper follows the annual business meeting, with a buffet supper and some form of entertainment or film show, giving members and representatives a chance to get together and chat. The evening is open to any members of the R.A.I.L. member groups.
Publicity Exchange
The annual R.A.I.L. Publicity Exchange takes place in mid-March, and offers a valuable opportunity for member groups to exchange publicity material ahead of the railway operating season, for distribution by other societies to their own members and to the general public. Whilst timetable leaflets form the bulk of today's materials, operating railways can also exchange larger posters and handbills for display on other railways' stations.
For further details contact the Hon Secretary at secretary@rail-london.org.uk.