The third tram to have run in passenger service at Beamish so far in 2026 has been Oporto 196 and that is the latest tram we focus on in this series.
Oporto 196 was built in 1935 in the tramway company’s own workshops and is a four wheel single decker. It was withdrawn from service in Portugal after it suffered damage in a collision and it was acquired by Beamish in 1989. It was originally purchased with the intention of using it for spare parts but upon arrival its condition was found to be better than expected and so the decision was made to restore it to use (another tram from Oporto – 176 – was subsequently acquired for parts).
Entering service in 1992 the tram was originally completed in a Gateshead livery and was often described as Beamish 196. An overhaul in 2012 saw it enjoy a repaint into the attractive South Shields blue and primrose yellow that it carries to this day. Although having a small capacity the tram is regularly used on the tramway circuit, and has seen fairly extensive use so far during 2026.
Oporto 196 is seen in this image as it approaches the Entrance with a service around the full museum tramway circuit. Its just tackled the infamous Pockerley Bank. (Photograph by Gareth Prior, 7th May 2023)