Gavroche Ascends to The Star

Published on: 23 Mar, 2026
Updated on: 23 Mar, 2026

Gavroche, the miniature traction engine, easily ascends the High Street gradient.

Steam engines are normally associated with the railways, but these days, together with their distinctive smells and sounds, they are seldom observed.

Having brought steam engine smells to Sunday shoppers of a certain age, it takes a right turn in Quarry Street. Where’s it heading?

But yesterday afternoon, Sunday (March 22), shoppers on Guildford High Street were treated to the sight of a miniature steam traction engine “Gavroche” as it ascended the lower High Street before turning into Quarry Street and parking up outside The Star pub.

The pub is the answer. Perhaps lubrication is required?

Perhaps all that steam and smoke leaves the crew parched?

Gavroche is a 6-inch scale model (ie one inch equals six inches) of a Savage Little Samson traction engine. It is a popular live steam miniature often seen at UK steam rallies and events, such as the Rural Life Living Museum and Amberley Museum.

Known for its detailed engineering, it is a frequent attraction in the Surrey area, including appearances in Guildford.

The name Gavroche has become a synonym for an urchin or street child. This stems from a fictional character in the 1862 novel Les Misérables by Victor Hugo. Gavroche is a boy who lives on the streets of Paris.

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