In this video, we explore the British Rail Class 56, one of the most iconic and divisive locomotives to ever thunder across UK tracks. Known by railfans as “The Grid” for its distinctive horn grille, the Class 56 was introduced in the mid-1970s to meet the growing demand for powerful freight-hauling locomotives—especially in support of the coal and steel industries during the final decades of their dominance.
But the story of the Class 56 is far from straightforward…
Built partially in Romania and the rest in the UK, the Class 56 suffered from inconsistent build quality, high maintenance demands, and a reputation for being temperamental. Yet it also gained a loyal following among drivers and enthusiasts who appreciated its raw pulling power and distinctive sound.
In this video, we uncover:
The origins and industrial need that led to the creation of the Class 56
Why early Romanian-built units struggled—and how British engineering tried to fix them
The locomotive's vital role in transporting coal, steel, and aggregates across the UK
How the 56 compared to other British locomotives of its time (Class 47, 58, 60, and later, Class 66)
Why it was gradually phased out, and what modern locomotives are taking its place
Where you can still catch a glimpse (or a ride!) on a preserved Class 56 today
And ultimately, whether the Grid was a flawed design or an underrated workhorse
This is more than just a documentary—it's a tribute to a unique chapter in British industrial rail history. Whether you’re a trainspotter, rail historian, or just love the sights and sounds of classic diesels, this is a story you won’t want to miss.
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