Description

The GWR Class 3700 locomotives were designed by George Jackson Churchward and ten were built in 1903 at the Swindon Locomotive Works. GWR also converted ten of its Class 4100 locomotives and these were released in 1902 and 1907-1909. The converted loco’s retained their names of cities in the British Empire whilst the ‘new-builds’ were given the names of well-known British cities.

They were fitted with the 4-4-0 wheel arrangement which was popular at the time and were mainly used on express passenger and parcel delivery services.

All twenty engines were withdrawn between 1927 and 1931, with nineteen scrapped and only 3717 'City of Truro’ surviving for preservation. ‘City of Truro’ was donated to the National Rail Museum’s National Collection by GWR.

The distinctive Class 3700 locomotives are presented here in a set of authentic liveries and with different cabs depending on the era depicted. Also included is a set of Clerestory and Just Trains Mk1 coaches, both with passenger view. 12 exciting custom scenarios (including some that require additional routes) complete the package!

The 'City of Truro' locomotive would become famous on May 9, 1904 when it was timed at 102.3 MPH while descending the 1-in-86 Whiteball bank with the ‘Ocean Mails’ parcel service. The accuracy of this speed has been questioned and investigated a number of times, but the loco was certainly travelling in excess of 98 MPH when it passed Milepost 171 near Wellington in Somerset! If we believe the recording of Charles Rous-Marten it is certain that 3440 ‘City of Truro’ was the first steam locomotive to reach 100 MPH anywhere in the world. We have included a scenario to see if you can also get to this magic number!