Great Western Railway Class 6000 Steam Locomotive

Discover more about one of GWR’s largest engines, built with prestige – and express speed – in mind.

4-6-0 Engine

The Great Western Railway Class 6000 Steam Locomotive is a type 4-6-0 engine developed for express passenger train services. As one of the largest locos built by Great Western, it was designed with prestige in mind – after Southern had introduced its Lord Nelson class – and each was named after a famous English king.

Introduced in 1927

The engine was first introduced in 1927 and although it could pull longer and heavier trains it was a while before platform lengths were adjusted and bridges strengthened to allow this. And, as less powerful diesel locomotives began to dominate, the engines were withdrawn from service in 1962.

Preserved for Future Generations

In all three of these GWR engines were preserved for future generations: 6000 King George V, 6023 King Edward II and 6024 King Edward I.