Stradbally Steam Rally

22/10/2025

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Rory Nagle’s passing today. The entire steam world mourns the loss of a passionate preservationist, a warm spirit, and a true gentleman.

Rory, son of the late Tim Nagle, was a cornerstone of steam heritage in Ireland. Together, he and his father dedicated 22 years to the restoration of McLaren No. 60, the oldest working McLaren in the world, a project that stands as a testament to their commitment and love for the movement.
Rory’s presence was always uplifting. He had a way of bringing light and laughter into any room, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

The Irish Steam Preservation Society CLG extends our heartfelt condolences to the Nagle family of County Cork. Rory’s legacy will live on in the steam he helped preserve and the community he helped build.

Rest in peace, Rory.

19/11/2023

The Irish Steam Preservation Society would like to offer its deepest sympathies to the Fennel family on their loss. Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time. May Billy rest in peace.

The death has occurred of William (Billy) Fennell, Main Street, Stradbally, Co Laois. Passed away on the 17th of November 2023 at University Hospital, Galway. Predeceased by his wife Margaret. Sadly missed by his daughter Tracy, son Brian, son-in-law Eugene, daughter-in-law Margaret, grandchildren Lorraine, Ruaidhri, Cathal, Fiachra, Líadan, Deirbhile, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and his many friends.

May He Rest in Peace

Billy will repose at the Presentation Chapel, Stradbally, from 6pm until 8pm on (Sunday 19th November), with Recital of the Rosary at 8pm. Requiem Mass on Monday in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Stradbally, at 11am. Interment to follow in Oakvale Cemetery.

Funeral Mass will be streamed live on the A. Comerford Lych Funeral Directors Website; (link to follow)

Family flowers only.
Donations, if desired, to The Alzheimer's Society of Ireland
House Strictly Private

28/08/2023

Looking for something today on 9th &10th September? Check out Knock Threshing Festival and the Ger Bowe Memorial Tractor Run.

22/06/2023

Moynalty Steam Threshing Festival are hosting the great Drive and Jive Meath Steam run 2023 on the 8th July. Lorries, cars, tractors, and motorbikes are all welcome for this run-in aid of Breast Cancer Ireland and Féileacáin. Followed by music by Paul kelly ,Meadhbh Walsh and Chelsea Kelly. Full bar and outdoor catering on site. Registration on the day from 11:30am to 1:30pm, departing at 2pm.

29/03/2023

It is with a very heavy heart that we share the news that one of our most avid and loyal supporters, David Glynn has gone before us.

David, a committee member for countless years on the National Steam Rally committee in Stradbally, rarely missed a meeting and seldom fell short of offering support, guidance and advice. His guidance and council will be missed and felt very deeply within our community.

The Irish Steam Preservation Society, The National Steam Rally and everyone from our Woodlands Railway offer our sincerest condolences to David’s wife Ann, his daughter Gillian, his sons John and Wesley, his Grandchildren, and to his extended family. May he rest in peace.

23/03/2023

The Irish Steam Preservation Society would like to express our deepest sympathies to the Cushen family on the passing of Tom. Our thoughts are with you all at this sad time. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam.

19/03/2023

We're open today, Sunday, March 19th from 11am-4pm for Mother's Day and all mothers/female guardians can get a free tea or coffee during their visit ☕️

It's the perfect family day out with a difference to round off the St Patrick's weekend!🚂

Tickets are sold on the day of your visit from our booking office next to the platform and are valid for unlimited train trips all day 🎟️
Prices: €8 adults, €4 children, €20 family of four. Cash and card accepted.
Search 'Stradbally Woodland Railway' on Google Maps to find your quickest route to us 🗺️

14/10/2022

Breaking news! The Stradbally Woodland Railway is the first heritage railway in Ireland to trial a 100% renewable biomass coal substitute and it has been a massive success 🚂
Irish Steam Preservation Society is well underway to becoming the first heritage organisation in the country to be carbon neutral in 2023 🛤️
Find out more at the link below⤵️

For immediate release – 14/10/2022 First Irish trial of a new fuel for Heritage Railways a huge success – IrBEA Heritage is big business because the tourism industry is big business. Heritage sites have traditionally burned coal, from open fire grates in historic houses to steam locomotives, tra...

12/10/2022

We are extremely proud and honoured to be shortlisted for the Midlands103 hospitality awards as Best Event in 2022
Thank you sincerely to each and everyone of you who supported and encouraged us along the way.

26/09/2022

This year we have invited Santa, Mrs Claus and his merry elves to Stradbally Railway, join us as we set off on an exciting adventure through the magical setting of Stradbally Woodlands.

Get to meet Santa and Mrs Claus and their band of merry elves.

Enjoy a hot chocolate while you take a wander through the stalls of our Christmas Market.

Go to www.irishsteam.net and book your place today.