Rail Express  |  January 2021
Find out what it’s like to drive the veteran Island Line units inside the new January edition of Rail Express.
The first issue of Rail Express magazine in 2021 is essential reading for today’s rail enthusiasts.
If you’d like to read this latest issue of Rail Express magazine, then you can download the digital version, order the print magazine, or better yet take out a subscription for the best value offers. Here’s what to expect this month…

Headline News
Transport review will promote levelling up; ‘Aventras’ enter service with Greater Anglia; Funding for Irish rail schemes; Spread rails led to Sheffield derailment; More lines and stations proposed; Harrogate line goes tokenless; Funding for solar powered rail scheme; More money approved for Crossrail; HRA announces 2021 shortlists; Worksop cleared of wagons; Uncertain future for Elsecar Railway.
Swanson of the ‘483s’
Two drivers recount their experiences with the Class 483/1938 Stock in London and on the Isle of Wight.
100 up for Freightmaster
The printed version of the enthusiast’s guide to freight is about to end with the publication of its 100th edition.

PLUS! All the latest news covering Railtours, Preservation, Units, Shunters, Coaches, Wagons and the Irish modern traction scene.
Rail Express magazine is on sale in UK newsagents and supermarkets, and you can buy the current issue in digital and paper formats here!
You can also buy stacks of back issues of RE, but it’s cheaper to subscribe.
Subscribers save money, get their copies delivered to their doorstep and never miss an issue!
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First produced in print in 1996 and published every month, Rail Express is your monthly insight into the world of modern railway. Boasting the tagline: ‘Essential reading for today’s rail enthusiast’, the title brings you all the latest in rail-industry news, including developments, changes in policy and lots more.
25 years later and Rail Express has firmly cemented its status as the go-to publication for UK rail fans. With an entire section devoted to modelling and news for modellers, insightful and in-depth features on some of the important issues facing rail enthusiasts today, and stories that unveil the history of British trains and bring them to life in front of your very eyes. Whether it’s overground or underground or electric or steam trains that blow your whistle, Rail Express contains everything the modern rail enthusiast needs to know.
With a whole host of rail-related news and in-depth features, upcoming events in the world of train fans, comprehensive scale-model guides and letters and reviews from fellow enthusiasts, Rail Express brings you coverage of absolutely everything train-related. No matter what kind of trains you’re into, you’ll be on track with your hobby with an annual Rail Express Magazine digital magazine subscription - download the latest edition to your device today.
A Rail Express Magazine digital magazine subscription is your go-to for all things rail-related, subscribe today and enjoy:
- The UK’s favourite modern rail enthusiast title
- Essential features and news for today’s rail enthusiast
- A comprehensive scale models guide
- Superb photographs of trains in action
- Reviews and letters from fellow enthusiasts
- Delivered directly to your device every month
You'll receive 12 issues during a 1 year Rail Express magazine subscription.
Note: Digital editions do not include the covermount items or supplements you would find with printed copies.
Articles in this issue
Below is a selection of articles in Rail Express January 2021.