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GWR King Class

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description GWR King Class Overview

The GWR King Class locomotive represents a pinnacle of steam power for passenger trains. Introduced by the Great Western Railway in 1927, these 4-6-0 articulated engines were notable for their exceptional tractive effort and speed on mixed traffic. Thirty locomotives were built under Charles Collett’s design, making them significant examples of British railway engineering. They are now primarily preserved and operated by enthusiasts and heritage railways, offering a powerful demonstration of steam locomotion.

help GWR King Class FAQ

How many GWR King Class locomotives were built?

Exactly thirty King Class locomotives were constructed by the Great Western Railway between 1927 and 1930. They were built to handle the heaviest express passenger trains and remained the largest locomotives ever built by the GWR.

Why were the GWR King Class engines named after Kings?

The Great Western Railway named the locomotives after English Kings, starting with King George V, to honor the British monarchy and project an image of supreme power. This naming convention reflected the prestige of the high-speed express services they were designed to pull.

What was the wheel arrangement of the Great Western King Class?

The GWR King Class featured a 4-6-0 wheel arrangement, meaning it had four leading wheels, six driving wheels, and no trailing wheels. While not articulated, this design provided exceptional tractive effort and stability for high-speed mixed-traffic operations.

Where can I see a preserved GWR King Class today?

Three of the original thirty King Class locomotives have been preserved: 6000 King George V, 6023 King Edward II, and 6024 King Edward I. They can often be found on heritage railways in the UK or occasionally running mainline rail tours.

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