Railways

Over 150 heritage railways in the UK for a great family Railday out!

  • All
  • Funicular / Cliff Railway
  • Standard Gauge Railway
  • Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
  • Heritage Centre (all one site)
  • Miniature Railway (<15")
  • Heritage Tramway
  • Museum
  • Other
Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway

Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway

Sittingbourne, Kent,

The line which is built to a gauge of 2 6, continues to use the steam engines and rolling stock that were supplied to operate the railway in its working life prior to preservation in 1969.

Location
The Wall, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 2XD, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01795 424 899
Snaefell Mountain Railway

Snaefell Mountain Railway

Laxey, Isle of Man,

The Snaefell Mountain Railway takes you on a journey winding high up into the Manx Hills to the Islands Highest Summit; Snaefell Mountain 2,036 feet above sea level. Along the journey unrivalled views of Laxey Valley and the Great Laxey Wheel can be taken in from the railway. At The Bungalow the railway crosses the world famous TT and MGP course. As the railway climbs higher the mountain scenery opens up as the railway spirals around Snaefell with far reaching views of the Sulby Valley and northern plains. Upon reaching the Summit you can take time to relax inside the Snaefell Summit Hotel or take a short walk to the peak of the Summit for a view of the ‘Seven Kingdoms’, The Kingdom of Mann, England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and The Kingdoms of Heaven and Neptune.

Location
Laxey Station, Laxey, Isle of Man, IM4 7NY, IM
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01624 662 525
Snowdon Mountain Railway

Snowdon Mountain Railway

Llanberis, Gwynedd,

You can relax in our flower-lined forecourt, taking in the views of the surrounding mountains, before they begin their journey up through the clouds to Yr Wyddfa, Snowdon. Our station gift shop is housed in the original Booking Hall from 1896. The original beams are exposed, and Victorian shop fittings were sourced to enhance the stations heritage. The shop has a selection of authentic Welsh products including locally crafted ales and spirits, unique Snowdon Mountain Railway souvenirs, clothing and Celtic jewellery. Our fully licensed Station Buffet and Platform Grill serve a tasty variety of hot and cold snacks from burgers, hot dogs and fries to delicious sandwiches. Hot and cold drinks and a selection of cakes from the local bakery are also available throughout the day, you can even enjoy a Whippy or soft scoop ice cream from our vintage ice cream tram.

Location
Llanberis, Gwynedd, LL55 4TT, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01286 870223
Somerset & Dorset Heritage Railway

Somerset & Dorset Heritage Railway

Midsomer Norton,

At Midsomer Norton you will find the restored station buildings, signal box, goods shed and also two museums: one in the original Victorian Stable Block and the other in our WWII Pill Box (a candidate for the smallest museum in Britain). We have two diesel locomotives, a fully restored Sentinel 0-4-0 vertical-boiler steam locomotive, plus freight and passenger rolling stock and a static buffet coach open for refreshments. Visit the station gift shop and the second-hand bookshop while you are there and enjoy the atmosphere and exhibits on this once-proud and much-loved holiday route.

Location
Midsomer Norton South Railway Station, Silver Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2EY, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01761 411 221
South Devon Railway

South Devon Railway

Buckfastleigh, Devon,

The SDR is a seven mile former Great Western Railway branch line, built in 1872, which runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. We run steam trains with heritage rolling stock and offer a wonderful all day, all weather attraction for families and people of all ages. While you are with us, visit the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm and Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies: 3 Great Attractions, 1 Amazing Day. Find us just off the A38 at Buckfastleigh, very close to the famous Buckfast Abbey, or by train to Totnes on the Great Western main line. Buckfastleigh is around 22 miles from Exeter, 21 miles from Plymouth, 19 miles from Dartmouth and 13 miles from Paignton.

Location
The Station, Dart Bridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01364 644 370
South Downs Light Railway

South Downs Light Railway

Pulborough, West Sussex,

Trains run from March to September and are usually hauled by a real coal burning steam engine. It's great fun for adults and children alike. The railway started in 2000 and we have carried many thousands of passengers on a journey of just under one mile. We are always working to improve the railway and over the last few years, have built a new station and ticket office, an engine shed and extended the carriage shed. We have built a tunnel and added portals in 2017. Currently under construction is a purpose built water tower with coal bunker, and the re-installation of our turntable was completed in 2021.

Location
Stopham Road Station, Pulborough Garden Centre, Pulborough, West Sussex, RH20 1DS, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Miniature Railway (<15")
Phone
07518 753 784
South Tynedale Railway

South Tynedale Railway

Alston, Cumbria,

Maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of a red squirrel or a roe deer as you travel along. Our stations and trains are accessible and there are accessible toilets and cafe facilities at both stations.

Location
The Railway Station, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3JB, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01434 307 419
Southend Cliff Lift

Southend Cliff Lift

Southend-on-Sea,

The line is owned and operated by Southend Borough Council, and has the following technical parameters: Length: 130 feet (40 m) Height difference: 57 feet (17 m) Gradient: 43,4% Cars: 1 Capacity: 12 passengers per car Configuration: Single track, with separate counterweight track Main track gauge: 4 ft 6 in (1,372 mm) Counterweight track gauge: 21 in (533 mm) Traction: Electricity The line has an unusual configuration, as it runs on a single-track elevated structure. The counterweight track runs within this structure, immediately below the main track that carries the passenger car. The Cliff Lift is run by volunteers and the opening times are dependant on availability. A dedicated Cliff Lift Facebook page has been set up to advertise when it is open.

Location
Clifton Terrace, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1DT, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Funicular / Cliff Railway
Phone
01702 212534
Southwold Railway

Southwold Railway

Southwold,

The Southwold Railway was a remarkable 3 foot narrow gauge railway linking the fashionable Suffolk seaside resort of Southwold with the Great Eastern main line at Halesworth 8¾ miles inland. Opened in 1879, it gently wound its way towards the sea through the beautiful valley of the River Blyth, with intermediate stations at Wenhaston, Blythburgh and Walberswick. After almost 50 years the line closed suddenly in April 1929, and we at the Southwold Railway Trust are dedicated to preserving the memory of this special little railway and re-opening as much of the old route as we can.

Location
Steamworks, Blyth Road, Southwold, IP18 6AZ, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01502 725 422
Spa Valley Railway

Spa Valley Railway

Tunbridge Wells, Kent,

We are the railway with... "A DESTINATION AT EVERY STATION!" Explore Eridge, Groombridge, High Rocks or Royal Tunbridge Wells throughout your visit and make a day of it, with plenty of local attractions easily accessible by train you will find something for all the family to enjoy. The Spa Valley line runs through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known as the High Weald which covers 560sq miles and extends across Kent, Sussex & Surrey. The area is characterised by a medieval landscape of vast rolling hills, extensive woodland, sandstone outcrops such as High Rocks itself or Harrison's Rocks near Eridge, scattered farms and ancient roadways. A major part, often viewed as the jewel in the crown of the High Weald, is the Ashdown Forest. It is the largest area of open access land in the South East. Popularly known in children’s story books as the home of Winnie the Pooh, the Spa Valley Railway’s Groombridge Station takes you close to the edge of the famous forest. You can travel on board a steam or heritage diesel train hopping on and off as you please to experience the wonderful attractions that can be found close to our stations. We also offer a range of on train dining experiences, our Dining in the Weald trains give you the opportunity to experience the bygone era of dining on a train. Dine in style on board our beautifully restored 1960s carriages as you take take a ride through the glorious High Weald countryside. With a range of products to choose from, including Gin tasting, Afternoon Tea and 5-course evening dining there is something for everyone’s taste.

Location
West Station, Nevill Terrace, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5QY, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01892 300 141
St Albans South Signal Box

St Albans South Signal Box

St Albans,

Early in 2002 a group of St Albans residents decided that the signal box at the end of their road had been left to decay for 25 years too many. It could surely be put to a better use than a pigeon nesting box (they got in through the cracks in the boards). So we looked at possibilities and talked to a few people and the end result was a determination to save the Grade 2 listed signal box, as the only other alternative was to let it disintegrate. We also discovered that it has a rare 1906 Midland Railway 'tumbler' interlocking lever frame. In order to accomplish this goal, we formed a Building Preservation Trust. As a registered charity, we have been awarded grants which have enabled us to lease the signal box from Network Rail and restore it. The building has been structurally restored, painted and rewired and is now a valued community resource and heritage attraction. It has been recognised with awards from several bodies. This lever frame is restored to working condition and a simulated signalling system replicates the procedures used in the box's working life. The 'locking' room on the ground floor has been turned into a museum and new toilet facilities installed. Much work has already gone into the surrounding land turning it into a 'signalman's garden'.

Location
Ridgmont Rd, St Albans, AL1 3AF, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Museum
Statfold Barn Railway

Statfold Barn Railway

Tamworth, Staffordshire,

An idyllic narrow-gauge steam railway and museum provides the backdrop for weddings, parties, conferences, days out and special events. We are home to one of largest collections of preserved narrow gauge locomotives from across world and manufacturers. Statfold Barn Railway has a number of railways of a variety of gauges. Ranging from the 12 ¼ inch gauge miniature railway to the 3 foot gauge tramway, however the main running lines are of 2 foot gauge. From time to time, Statfold’s own locomotives are joined by visiting locomotives from other Heritage Railways or private collections. Statfold Barn Railway and the wider Statfold Country Park are run by Statfold Narrow Gauge Museum Trust. The Trust was established in August 2017 to secure future of collection of this unique collection of railway stock beyond it’s then current owners Graham and Carol Lee lifetime. The Trust’s aim is to preserve best of past for our future. We do this by making Railway and Museum accessible to current and future generations through the maintenance and selective operation of historic locomotives and rolling stock and through sharing the worldwide stories that the collection can tell with the widest possible audience. The Statfold Narrow Gauge Museum Trust Ltd relies on donations, legacies and revenue from fundraising events to continue to remain open. We run a range of events and operating days throughout year to raise funds for our internationally important collection including Statfold Steam in Miniature, Magical Santa Express and our spectacular end of season gala celebrating all things Road, Rail and Ale! Our Spectacle of Steam events for rail enthusiasts showcase our wonderful collection where you can see our Railways at full steam. We also have a selection of events for those who love all things road related from Statbus to Cars in Strawberry Park. We are perfect day out for all members of family with something for everyone! Little ones can let off some steam in our Railway themed soft play at Toby's Barn. Feel the breeze through your hair as you dance with swirling lights around you while you enjoy throw-back family fun skating in our Retro Roller Disco! Grab a bite to eat or something drink in Peelers Bar, Diane’s Dinner or Christophers! Stretch your legs with our woodland walk in the Mease Valley woods. Make a weekend of your visit by using our camping and camping facilities in our wider country park. To find out more about Statfold Barn Railway and Statfold Country Park, please visit www.statfold.com or look at our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.

Location
Ashby Road, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 0BU, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01827 830389
STEAM: Museum of the Great Western Railway

STEAM: Museum of the Great Western Railway

Swindon,

Situated right opposite the Swindon Designer Outlet, the museum tells the story of the men and women who built, operated and travelled on the Great Western Railway, often referred to by historians and railway fans as ‘God’s Wonderful Railway’. The pioneering vision and engineering genius of Isambard Kingdom Brunel led to the Great Western Railway network becoming regarded as the most advanced in the world.

Location
Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EY, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Museum
Phone
01793 466646
Steeple Grange Light Railway

Steeple Grange Light Railway

Matlock, Derbyshire,

It is built on the trackbed of the Killer’s Branch of the old Cromford and High Peak Railway, now the High Peak Trail. Motive power is provided by ex-industrial diesel, petrol, and battery-electric locomotives, and passengers are carried in old manriders once used to convey miners below ground. When you visit the railway you can enjoy a unique 25-minute round-trip train ride up our main line to Middleton, passing through dramatic limestone cuttings, together with a shorter trip along our branch line into Steeplehouse Quarry. On most days operating days volunteers are on hand to answer questions about the local railways and show visitors the fossils to be found in the area.

Location
The Engine House, Old Porter Ln, Wirksworth, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 4GE, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Stephenson Steam Railway

Stephenson Steam Railway

North Shields, Tyne & Wear,

Travel back in time to when coal was king at the Stephenson Steam Railway. Take a trip on our 2 mile industrial railway, passing the factories and businesses that it once served. Ride in style in our 1950's British Railways carriages and listen as the locomotives work hard climbing the steep gradients away from the Tyne towards the old coal fields of Northumberland. In the station yard at Middle Engine Lane you can see a large variety of wagons and rail vehicles that were once a common sight on the railways of Tyneside. Inside the museum, see a range of steam, diesel and electric locomotives that each have a fascinating story to tell. Visit the cab of Clio and try your hand at driving a steam engine on our simulator. Learn about George and Robert Stephenson and their influence on the development of the steam locomotive through animations and artefacts from the time. On selected days, you can enjoy light refreshments in the Waggonway Tea Room. In the museum: See Steam, Diesel and Electric locomotives from collieries, steelworks and power stations in Tyneside and beyond. Killingworth Billy - Built by George Stephenson in 1816, it is the third oldest surviving steam locomotive in the world. Tyneside Electric Parcel Van - built in 1904 and beautifully restored at the museum in the 1980s, it is the only surviving vehicle from the Tyneside Suburban Electric Railway. In the yard: See a variety of railway vehicles which were used for all manner of jobs in days gone by. On days when steam trains are running, be sure to visit the water tower to see the fireman filling the tanks with water whilst the driver oils around all of the moving parts of the engine.

Location
Stephenson Steam Railway, Middle Engine Lane, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE29 8DX, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
0191 277 7135
Stradbally Woodland Railway

Stradbally Woodland Railway

Stradbally, Co Laios,

Situated in the woods of the Stradbally Hall estate, the railway stemmed from an earlier idea which saw an original Guinness Brewery steam locomotive steamed while mounted on blocks for the August 1968 National Steam Rally. A short section of 1ft 10½in track was laid for the 1968 event and the engine pulled several passenger carriages. In 1969, the line was relaid to 3ft gauge following the arrival of our steam locomotive, the pride of the fleet, 1949-built Andrew Barclay 0-4-0WT No 2/LM44 Róisín. Róisín spent her working life on the bog railways of counties Laois and Offaly for Bord na Móna alongside her sister steam engines, Nos 1 and 3. Róisín has now called Stradbally her home for over 50 years and she’s been lovingly cared for by our small but dedicated Irish Steam Preservation Society volunteers since the day she arrived.

Location
Stradbally Hall, Main Street, Stradbally, Co Laios, R32 YC5X, IE
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Strathspey Railway Company

Strathspey Railway Company

Aviemore, Inverness,

Brought back to life in 1978 by a dedicated group of volunteers, this ten mile restored section of the original Highland Railway Line enables you to travel back in time to an era when steam whistles blew , carriage doors slammed shut and there was a familiar click-clack, rhythm of the rails, as the train travels along the track.

Location
Strathspey Railway Company, Aviemore Station, Dalfaber Road, Aviemore, Inverness, PH22 1PY, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01479 810 725
Summerfields Miniature Railway

Summerfields Miniature Railway

Bedford,

The railways (there are three track systems at the Summerfields’ site) are a popular visitor destination for children and parents alike. Please check the Events Calendar on the website to learn when public running days are scheduled.

Location
Summerfield Barns, High Road, Haynes, Bedford, MK45 3BH, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Miniature Railway (<15")
Phone
07498 869 902
Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life

Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life

Coatbridge,

Summerlee operates the only heritage electric tramway, offering rides on both modern and Edwardian open-topped trams. And don't forget the mine tour! Summerlee has re-constructed a traditional 'Miners Row' which shows off the domestic conditions of the mining family from the 1840's to the 1980's. Just by the cottages is the Summerlee Coal Company pithead site, complete with recreated addit mine that shows off the cramped and damp conditions in which the miners worked.. Summerlee also has a separate exhibition gallery showing a programme of temporary exhibitions, tearoom and gift shop. Admission to Summerlee is FREE.

Location
Heritage Way, Coatbridge, ML5 1QD, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Heritage Centre (all one site)
Phone
01236 638 460
Swanage Railway

Swanage Railway

Swanage, Dorset,

Located in the Isle of Purbeck, the rebuilt Swanage Railway is the perfect place to enjoy a great family day out on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. The heritage railway attraction operates full-size steam and diesel passenger trains along the five and a half miles of line from Norden to Corfe Castle and down to the Victoria seaside town of Swanage. The line has stations at Corfe Castle and Harman’s Cross as well as a halt at Herston, on the outskirts of Swanage. There are refreshment buffets at Norden and Swanage stations with picnic tables at most of the stations so you can soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a picnic. Our station shop at Swanage is well stocked with souvenirs, railway books and DVDs, a large selection of items for model railways as well as clothing, railway prints and gifts for all ages. If you are looking for something special, you can book on one of our dining trains or attend one of our special events such as a footplate experience on a steam locomotive or railway photography day. Whether you are a railway enthusiast, looking for something to do with the family or planning a visit to the beach, the Swanage Railway will provide interest and enjoyment for all. There is convenient parking at Purbeck Park, next to Norden station, and a five minute walk from Swanage station in the Victoria Avenue car park.

Location
Station House, Railway Station Approach, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1HB, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01929 425 800