Sandstone Estates - Pty Ltd

12/09/2026

The FarRail Tour group from Germany joined us this morning for two days of photography at Sandstone. From very early, NG6 "Lawley" number 97, was in steam for a freight run to Grootdraai. Later today the NG10 number 61 and NGG16 88 will be at work for the photographers. Tomorrow morning NGG13 number 49 will conclude the visit with a run towards Vailima. The group then moves on to Bethlehem for some main line steam action. Our picture gallery shows the Lawley preparing for the day and on the line to Grootdraai at sunrise.

10/09/2026

From Angola to Sandstone, this was no ordinary locomotive recovery. 🚂

In 2003, Sandstone travelled into post war Angola in search of steam locomotives that had been left behind after years of conflict.

What they found led to an extraordinary rescue mission: historic locomotives recovered from the bush, transported to South Africa and, through years of restoration, given a new lease on life.

Today, these remarkable machines form part of Sandstone’s Angolan Collection, preserving another fascinating chapter of southern African railway history.

Read the full story of the rescue mission on our website. Link in bio. 🔗

09/09/2026

History doesn’t only run on rails at Sandstone; sometimes, it takes to the skies ✈️

Against the backdrop of the Maluti Mountains, Sandstone’s aviation partners bring another remarkable chapter of the past back to life.

From the iconic De Havilland Tiger Moths and Chipmunks, to the beautiful Boeing Stearman, this impressive collection of classic aircraft are so much more than museum pieces, they’re true history in motion.

Classic aircraft are only on site during our heritage festivals, such as the upcoming Cherry Steam Festival in November. For more info, link in bio 🔗

03/09/2026

“Sir, I think your truck engine is steaming!” 💨

Built in 1934, Sandstone’s Sentinel S4 No. 9178 is a reminder of an extraordinary era when steam-powered trucks shared the roads with their petrol-powered counterparts.

After 18 years of hard work since its previous major rebuild, our Sentinel is undergoing an extensive overhaul, from its braking system and boiler to its engine and regulator assembly.

So what’s the goal? To have this remarkable 92-year-old machine full steam ahead and ready for Sandstone’s November event.

There’s a lot more happening beneath the surface. Read the full overhaul story on our website, link in bio 🔗

01/09/2026

All aboard the Sekonyela Explorer! 🚂

Stretching across 23.6 km of the Sandstone Steam Railway, the Sekonyela line winds its way through the spectacular landscapes of the Eastern Free State and the iconic Soutkop Mountain, offering a journey like no other.

This 2-hour flagship rail experience is not to be missed at a Sandstone event 💨

Book your tickets to the Cherry Steam Festival today, and add on a Sekonyela Explorer journey 🌅 https://www.quicket.co.za/events/380875-sandstone-cherry-steam-festival-2026/ #/

25/08/2026

We often receive pictures of our locos in their working days on the SAR. Garratt Bucher has sent us a couple of real gems. The first is of NGG13 49 at Port Shepstone in early 1979 taken by his father, Robert Bucher, and the second of NGG16 88 in Classens Siding at Paddock in 1985 taken by John Hilton. Great days and the locos live on at Sandstone!

23/07/2026

Tickets are now on sale for the SANDSTONE CHERRY STEAM FESTIVAL, 12-14 November 2026 - a living showcase of South Africa's mechanical, military, agricultural, aviation and steam heritage.

The Sandstone Steam Railway, one of the largest private collections of steam locomotives in the world, will be in full swing over the Cherry Harvest weekend, alongside vintage tractors and earthmoving machinery, Afrikaner trek oxen, classic trucks and cars, an extensive military heritage display in partnership with the SA Armour Museum, and classic aircraft from the Classic Flying Collection.

Food and craft stalls, our Flywheel Bar and beer tent will be open during the festival each day. More info, tickets and camping bookings can be found at https://www.quicket.co.za/events/380875-sandstone-cherry-steam-festival-2026/ #/

Please also take a look at our new website www.sandstone.co.za and subscribe to our newsletter for updates on our farming and heritage activities.

16/06/2026

We received this pic from a visitor to the Durango and Silverton Railway in the south west of Colorado in the USA. Our fame is spreading!

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

Coach 57 "Letsani" has arrived at Sandstone and, after some specialised "shunting" by the lowbed driver and our TLB driver, is now in position near the Waenhuis alongside our two dining cars. A full story on the coach, which is in amazing condition for a vehicle that is now 116 years old!,will be on our website soon.