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09 October, 2025 ( 18:30 - 21:00 UK time) - Bighton Hill, Ropley

Experience Day: Steam Trains - Sir Nigel Gresley

Overview

An Exclusive Evening of Photography with Sir Nigel Gresley

For One Night Only – A Rare After-Hours Experience

Join us for an extraordinary evening as we open the gates to a rare, after-hours photography session at Ropley Yard, offering you the chance to capture the legendary 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley in a truly unique setting.

For one night only, step into an atmospheric scene specially arranged to showcase this iconic locomotive alongside 35005 Canadian Pacific, the Watercress Line’s flagship engine. With both locomotives positioned for dramatic effect, there will be many opportunites to explore creative angles and capture images that are impossible during regular operating hours.

This exclusive experience is hosted in partnership with the Watercress Line’s in-house photography team. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or simply passionate about steam heritage, you’ll be supported throughout with expert guidance, technical advice, and tips to help you get the most from your session.

This unforgettable photography experience takes place from 6:30pm to 9:00pm, and spaces are limited to ensure an intimate and focused evening. Don’t miss your chance to see — and shoot — these majestic locomotives like never before.

This course is not applicable to promo discount codes, only Nikon School Vouchers.
Book this course
£250.00 per attendee
Experience Day: Steam Trains - Sir Nigel Gresley - Bighton Hill, Ropley
09 October, 2025
( 18:30 - 21:00 UK time)
Quantity:

Course Contents

Step Back in Time: An Exclusive Evening of Steam Photography

Join us for a unique, after-hours photography experience that brings you up close to two legendary steam locomotives: 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley and 35005 Canadian Pacific. Set against the evocative backdrop of Ropley’s historic train yard, this immersive session offers an exceptional opportunity to capture dramatic and atmospheric images of these engineering icons.

Under the creative direction of the Watercress Film Team and Nikon School, the locomotives will be staged with studio lighting, smoke machines, and period re-enactors, recreating the ambience of a working steam yard in its heyday. You'll have the freedom to explore a variety of striking compositions and cinematic scenes, all designed to enhance your portfolio and spark your creativity.

Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, Nikon’s experts will be on hand to offer practical, real-time guidance—helping you refine your technique, experiment with settings, and make the most of this rare photographic environment.

Key Highlights:

  • Capture stunning images of Sir Nigel Gresley and Canadian Pacific in a professionally lit heritage setting.
  • Work alongside Nikon School professionals and the Watercress film crew.
  • Try out Nikon’s latest gear (available by prior arrangement).
  • Learn new techniques and get creative with light, shadow, and atmosphere.
  • Enjoy light refreshments and connect with fellow photography enthusiasts.

Important Information:
Please note that the historic nature of the train yard includes uneven ground and restricted access in some areas. Unfortunately, this experience is not suitable for those with limited mobility.

Don't miss this rare opportunity to photograph one of Britain’s most iconic steam locomotives—Sir Nigel Gresley—in all its nostalgic splendour.

Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.

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Course Requirements

Technical
Equipment

  • DSLR/Mirrorless camera
  • Lenses
  • Spare battery
  • Tripod
  • Memory card
  • ND & grad filters

Other Essential
Equipment

  • Warm/wet weather clothing
  • Appropriate walking shoes

Course
Presrequisites

Knowledge of:

  • ISO, Shutter Speed and Aperture

Activity / fitness
level involved

Low level activity

EMAIL US TO DISCUSS FURTHER

Course Location

Watercress Line,
Ropley Station,
Bighton Hill, Ropley,
Hampshire,
SO24 9SQ

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This course is not applicable to promo discount codes, only Nikon School Vouchers.
£250.00 per attendee
Experience Day: Steam Trains - Sir Nigel Gresley - Bighton Hill, Ropley
09 October, 2025 - ( 18:30 - 21:00 UK time)
Quantity:
Book this course
This course is not applicable to promo discount codes, only Nikon School Vouchers.
Experience Day: Steam Trains - Sir Nigel Gresley - Bighton Hill, Ropley
09 October, 2025
£250.00
per attendee
Quantity: