Dorset to fire up UK’s first WiFi-connected steam train
Local council awarded DSIT grant to provide free WiFi on steam trains run by Swanage Railway, one of the most rural and oldest rail networks
The Swanage Railway branch line first opened in 1885. Today, a heritage railway group operates the 15 km line from Wareham to Swanage, with stops including the famous ruin of Corfe Castle. Four steam locomotives are currently in service – popular with steam enthusiasts, tourists and local commuters.
Photograph courtesy of Dorset Council.
Now, Dorset Council has been awarded £163,000 by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) to bring the service up to date as part of the national Rural Connectivity Accelerator programme.
Leading tech company Excelerate Technology is working with the council to provide public WiFi on the railway’s steam service from early 2025, as well as to Norden train station and Purbeck Park car park. To achieve this across the rural line, it will employ a combination of advanced connectivity solutions, including low Earth orbit satellites.
In doing so, the project will address the urgent need for reliable connectivity in such areas that, due to a number of factors, have limited service from traditional network operators. The hope is that the initiative will, by demonstrating the effectiveness of advanced technology in rural areas, set a precedent for similar projects across Dorset and the UK.
Swanage Railway already contributes more than £15m to the Dorset economy each. Better connectivity will enhance its services, enabling cashless systems and helping to ensure its continued success as an important tourist attraction.
Cllr Richard Biggs, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Property & Assets and Economic Growth at Dorset Council, says: ‘This is a ground-breaking project at Swanage Railway, which could help pave the way for better connectivity in the future. Not only will it enhance the visitor experience for people using the railway but it will explore how these technologies can improve services in remote areas. It is a fantastic example of how we’re working towards a more connected and inclusive Dorset, ensuring that everyone benefits from digital innovation.’
Gavin Johns, Chairman of Swanage Railway Company, adds: ‘The Swanage Railway is delighted to be partnering with Dorset Council and Excelerate to deliver enhanced rural WiFi connectivity on trains and at Norden station. As we look forward to 2025, with Rail 200 celebrating the bicentenary of railways in the UK and the 140th anniversary of trains to Swanage, this is a great opportunity to show that old and new can work together for the benefit of rural communities and our customers and staff.’
Bethan Evans, Chief Operating Officer at Excelerate Technology Ltd, says: ‘We are thrilled to partner with Dorset Council on this project. Our advanced technology is designed to meet the unique challenges of rural environments. We believe that technology can transform how communities engage with heritage and tourism, and we are proud to be part of this initiative.’
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