Train Simulator: West Somerset Railway Route Add-On is a simulation title for PC that brings the full 20-mile length of the UK's longest standard gauge heritage railway into the game. Players take control of authentic locomotives and rolling stock across the preserved line that runs from Minehead on the coast to Bishops Lydeard inland.
Gameplay
The core experience centers on operating three included locomotives along the route. The Class 7F No. 88 appears in Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway livery, the GWR Hall Class Raveningham Hall handles passenger duties, and the BR Green Class 33 D6575 provides diesel power. Each loco pairs with appropriate BR Mk1 coaching stock in chocolate and cream or GWR and BR freight wagons for varied hauls.
The route itself follows the real alignment through coastal sections near Dunster and Watchet before turning inland at Williton. It climbs beside the Quantock Hills to a summit at Crowcombe Heathfield and then descends the steep 1 in 81 gradient toward Bishops Lydeard. Scenery includes the seafront at Minehead, passing loops, extended platforms, and the oldest signal box on the line at Williton. Driving requires attention to steam or diesel controls, speed limits, and the changing gradients that affect traction and braking.
Game Modes
Nine scenarios are built into the add-on. These cover a range of tasks from basic operation to themed runs.
- WSR Simple Controls
- WSR: Driving a Steam Locomotive
- WSR Driving a Diesel Locomotive
- West Somerset Railway
- Santa Special
- Fall by the Wayside
- A Summer Spin
- Watchet for the Storm
- The Quantock Belle Special
Quick Drive mode allows free selection of locomotives, rolling stock, and starting points for unstructured sessions. Additional community scenarios appear through the in-game workshop system.
The Route and Its History
The line opened for passenger services on 31 March 1862 after proposals led by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. It carried holidaymakers to the coast and freight such as coal and iron ore. Conversion from broad gauge to standard gauge took place in 1882. Passenger services ended on 2 January 1971, yet the route reopened as a heritage line on 28 March 1976 and reached its full length by 1979. The preserved railway remains popular for its fleet of GWR and S&DJR locomotives and regular special events.
Is It Worth Playing?
This add-on suits players who enjoy detailed train simulation and British heritage railways. The included locomotives and the complete 20-mile route deliver focused single-player content centered on realistic driving challenges. The scenarios provide structured variety while Quick Drive supports repeated practice or exploration. Those interested in steam and diesel operations on a scenic preserved line will find the package self-contained and repeatable. No ongoing seasonal updates or multiplayer elements exist for this specific release, so the value rests on the core route and locomotives supplied at purchase.
