The Strawberry Line – Wells & Shepton Mallet

The Cheddar Valley Line, which once ran from Yatton railway station through Cheddar, Wells, Shepton Mallet to Witham Junction became known as the “Strawberry Line” because of the volume of locally grown strawberries that it carried to London and Birmingham markets. The line was also a vital economic link for passengers, quarrying, agriculture and general goods. The Cheddar Valley Line endured until the mass railway closures of the 1960s (the ‘Beeching axe’). There are, however, still places where the railway age is honoured. A small section of steam railway east of Shepton Mallet has been preserved as the East Somerset heritage railway

As a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, the Strawberry Line Society has a committee elected by its members. Volunteers are essential to the opening of new sections of the route and maintenance of paths, from vegetation clearing to path sweeping, fencing or tree planting. Local volunteers have also supported with land access negotiations, preparatory works ahead of construction, creating local walking routes and managing the local ecology.

Getting involved is infinitely cheaper than the gym, considerably more sociable and definitely more purposeful. No commitment required! Join the team once a year or turn up every week, it’s up to you.