GWR “The Great Bear” Project

When George Jackson Churchward set out to push the boundaries of express steam power, he created one of the most legendary locomotives. Built at Swindon in 1908, No. 111 The Great Bear was the Great Western Railway’s only 4-6-2 Pacific-type locomotive — an experimental giant designed for high-speed main-line express duties.

With a massive boiler, long wheelbase, and imposing presence, The Great Bear was intended to lead the GWR into a new era of powerful passenger traction. Though ultimately a one-off — displaced by the revolutionary Star and Castle classes — it left a lasting legacy as a bold engineering milestone. Withdrawn in 1924 and rebuilt into a 4-6-0 Castle-class engine (Viscount Churchill), its myth continues to captivate railway enthusiasts and modellers alike.

Now you can bring this iconic Pacific to your layout.

At an estimated price of £175, you can now subscribe and support us bringing The Great Bear roaring back to life on your railway!