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

North Dorset Railway
The North Dorset Railway is a heritage standard gauge railway based at Shillingstone Station off the main A357 road, in the heart of rural Dorset. The station is on what was the Somerset and Dorset Railway, which opened in 1862. It eventually became part of British Rail Southern Region and was closed with the ‘Beeching’ cuts in 1966. The track and all of the infrastructure, fortunately excluding the station building and platforms, were removed and the site abandoned. Around 1997, restoration work was started by a group of dedicated volunteers and the North Dorset Railway Trust was formed as a charitable trust to restore this part of the railway as it was in the 1960s and to develop it as a ‘living museum’. Its aim is to bring the station back to life and the first section of track was re-laid in the station in 2008. Significant work has already been completed by the growing army of volunteers and it is now intended to extend the track, initially northwards towards Sturminster Newton, and to run trains on the length of track then available. We warmly welcome visitors to see the progress we have made and enjoy the facilities we offer. We will strive to help make your visit both informative and memorable and look forward to seeing you.
- Location
- Shillingstone Station, Station Road, Shillingstone, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 0SA, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Museum
- Phone
- 01258 860 696
What's Nearby?
Gartell Light Railway
Yeovil Railway Centre
Moors Valley Railway

North Ings Farm Railway
We currently have a steam tram and eight industrial diesel locomotives, together with a further two on loan from the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum in Tywyn, Wales. The passenger train carriages were recently acquired from the former Abbey Light Railway in Leeds, which closed in 2013. The original carriages are in store. The wagon fleet has been collected over the years from many sources. Some have been converted to new uses, such as our original coaches, but we have retained at least one example of each in its original form. The signal box at Pear Tree Junction was recovered from Holmes Yard at Lincoln, where it was latterly in use as a paraffin store. The lever frame is from the former Skellingthorpe box near Lincoln.
- Location
- Fen Road, Dorrington, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN4 3QB, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Museum
- Phone
- 01526 833100
What's Nearby?
Rocks By Rail
Lincolnshire Wolds Railway
Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway

North Norfolk Railway
Operated almost entirely by Volunteers from all walks of life, the line is East Anglia’s premier heritage railway. Steam trains operate daily from April to October.
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Website
- http://www.nnrailway.co.uk
- Phone
- 01263 820 800
What's Nearby?
Bure Valley Railway
Whitwell & Reepham Railway
Wells & Walsingham Light Railway

North Yorkshire Moors Railway
The North Yorkshire Moor Railway is one of the world’s greatest heritage railway experiences with thrills and family fun at its heart. Climb on-board a steam or heritage diesel train and experience 24 miles of Yorkshire’s amazing scenery.
- Location
- 12 Park Street, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7AJ, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Website
- http://www.nymr.co.uk
- Phone
- 01751 472 508
What's Nearby?
Scarborough North Bay Railway
Scarborough Spa Cliff Lift
Central Tramway Scarborough

Northampton & Lamport Railway
Based at Pitsford & Brampton Station, near the village of Chapel Brampton. We offer both steam and diesel hauled heritage train rides. Throughout the year we hold several different events to suit both enthusiasts and families. For more information visit our website at www.Nlr.org.uk
- Location
- Pitsford & Brampton Station, Pitsford Road, Chapel Brampton, NORTHAMPTON, NN6 8BA, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Website
- http://www.nlr.org.uk
- Phone
- 01604 820 327
What's Nearby?
Northamptonshire Ironstone Railway
Irchester Narrow Gauge Railway Museum
Rushden, Higham & Wellingborough Railway

Northamptonshire Ironstone Railway
The Northamptonshire Ironstone Railway Trust is based within the grounds of the Hunsbury Hill Country Park which is located at Hunsbury Hill, Southwest of Northampton. The Trust has a small museum and café, workshop and of course its gardens. It features a 1.5 mile long Heritage Railway line that runs through the park of which a small section has been approved for public use. The line is mainly dedicated to freight working, featuring many sharp curves and steep gradients which were typical of the Industrial Railway. Rides are available in a variety of vehicles including a converted brake van.
- Location
- Hunsbury Hill Road, Camp Hill, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN4 9UW, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Phone
- 01604 702 031
What's Nearby?
Northampton & Lamport Railway
Irchester Narrow Gauge Railway Museum
Rushden, Higham & Wellingborough Railway

Nottingham Heritage Railway
Heritage Steam & Diesel services re-create the experience of train travel from when it was more than just a way to travel from one place to another. Entirely staffed by volunteers, all income is used to preserve railway & transport heritage for future generations. The GCRN is a great experience for all the family. Come and enjoy a day with us!
- Location
- Mere Way, Ruddington, Nottingham, NG11 6NX, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Website
- http://www.gcrn.co.uk/
- Phone
- 0115 940 5705
What's Nearby?
Great Central Railway
Golden Valley Light Railway
Midland Railway - Butterley

Old Kiln Light Railway
Hop aboard the charming narrow gauge railway in the rural Surrey countryside. Situated in the Rural Life Living Museum, a peaceful, Open Air, Village museum, bordering RSPB Heathland; the Old kiln railway takes you on short but characterful journey, behind one of the many preserved locomotives from all walks of life. From the forests of Portugal, to the Welsh Slate Quarries of Penrhyn, our fine collection of preserved locomotives and stock provides an abundance of railway history to discover and enjoy.
- Location
- Rural Life Living Museum, Reeds Road, Tilford, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 2DL, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Narrow Gauge Railway (15”+)
What's Nearby?
Frimley Lodge Park Railway
Hollycombe Steam In The Country
Mizens Railway

Peak Rail
Whether it’s simply a nostalgic journey back to a bygone age or a discovery of the sights and sounds for very first time of a steam or diesel locomotive Peak Rail welcomes you to experience the thrill of our preserved railway whilst travelling through the delightful Derbyshire countryside. As well as our normal train journeys, there is something for everyone to enjoy, luxury dining is available on our Palatine Restaurant Car which offers Sunday Lunches, Christmas Lunches, Afternoon or Cream Teas and operates on various days during the year. A whole host of various special events take place throughout the year perfect for all the family or enthusiast.
- Location
- Matlock Station, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3NA, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Website
- http://www.peakrail.co.uk
- Phone
- 01629 580 381
What's Nearby?
Steeple Grange Light Railway
Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
National Tramway Museum, Crich

Perrygrove Railway
Armed with a key, clues and a day of fun ahead, explore the whole of Perrygrove to unlock your box of treasure. A trip takes just over 30 minutes but most passengers get off to go to the picnic and play area at Foxy Hollow, or to go treasure hunting or den building in the woods. There is no charge for extra rides – your ticket lasts all day and you can ride the train as many times as you like. There are four stations on our railway, each with paths leading to lovely walks through beautiful woodland. Our Indoor Village is great fun for children and just about big enough for most grown ups too! The Treetop Adventure is perfect for some outdoor fun, with a slide, bouncy bridge and ladders to climb. We have recently installed a new tunnel system at Foxy Hollow play area, which is proving to be a massive hit!
- Location
- Perrygrove Road, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8QB, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Narrow Gauge Railway (15”+)
- Website
- http://www.perrygrove.co.uk
- Phone
- 01594 834 991
What's Nearby?
Dean Forest Railway
Vale of Berkeley Railway
Broomy Hill Railway

Plym Valley Railway
The Plym Valley Railway was founded in 1980 with an aim of restoring part of the ex-Great Western branch line from Plymouth to Tavistock that was closed in 1962. The first milestone, Marsh Mills to World’s End, was complete in September 2001. The second milestone, Marsh Mills to Lee Moor Crossing was opened in May 2008 which allowed passengers to ride 3/4 mile of track along the Plym Valley.
- Location
- Coypool Road, Marsh Mills, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 4NW, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Website
- http://www.plymrail.co.uk
- Phone
- 01752 345 078
What's Nearby?
South Devon Railway
Launceston Steam Railway
Trago Mills Steam Railway

Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway
Blaenavon's Heritage Railway is set in the heart of a World Heritage Site on the edge of the Brecon Beacons. There is ample free car and coach parking at our main station, Furnace Sidings, located close to the Garn Lakes. From here our trains head north to the Whistle Inn public house and south to Blaenavon High Level Station, the latter a short walk from the town centre. In addition, we also operate a short branch to the Big Pit mining museum. Whether you're looking for a family day out or you are a devoted railway enthusiast, we have something for you!
- Location
- 13A Broad St, Blaenavon, Pontypool, Gwent, NP4 9ND, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Website
- http://www.bhrailway.co.uk
What's Nearby?
Brecon Mountain Railway
Heath Park Miniature Railway and Tramway
Perrygrove Railway

Railway Preservation Society of Ireland
Our fascinating five gallery museum allows you to rub shoulders with the giants of steam. You can step on the footplate of a 140 year old engine, get on board a 1950s carriage from the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland’s collection and see our restoration workshops, where these historic vehicles are brought back to life. You can explore the museum at your leisure, aided along the way by our wonderful guides who will be on hand to help with any questions. They have a rich knowledge of Irish railway heritage - some have been part of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland for over 50 years!
- Location
- Whitehead Railway Museum, Castleview Road, Whitehead, Co. Antrim, BT38 9NA, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Museum
- Phone
- 028 9358 6200
What's Nearby?
Downpatrick & County Down Railway
Giants Causeway & Bushmills Railway
Great Laxey Mine Railway

Railworld Wildlife Haven
Volunteers with the help of many companies, groups and individuals have transformed the derelict coal yard into an inner-city green space, a landscaped haven with ponds and waterfalls, creating increased biodiversity and habitat for our wildlife... plus restored and repurposed Victorian aqueducts and bridges in true 'Circular Economy' style! Over 30 years - Volunteers have also created the ‘Globe Hall Earth Centre’ with a solar powered ‘World’ – Plus over 2,000 sqft of intriguing, exciting model railways!
- Location
- Oundle Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE2 9NR, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Other
- Website
- http://www.railworld.org.uk
- Phone
- 01733 344 240
What's Nearby?
Ferry Meadows Miniature Railway
Nene Valley Railway
Rocks By Rail

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway
The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway has been running since 1875, originally as a 3ft gauge line and, since 1915, as a 15in gauge railway. Trains today travel through seven miles of splendid Lakeland scenery from the coast at Ravenglass uphill and inland to Eskdale, home to pubs, riverside walks and mountain climbs. The imposing sight of Scafell and Harter Fell greets the trains on arrival at Dalegarth. Trains are typically steam-hauled, with a limited diesel operation on the high season yellow timetable. The locomotive fleet includes River Irt, the oldest working 15in gauge steam engine in the world, and River Mite, the first new-build steam locomotive in the preservation era.
- Location
- Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1SW, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Narrow Gauge Railway (15”+)
- Phone
- 01229 717 171
What's Nearby?
Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway
Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum
Carnforth Station Heritage Centre

Rhyl Miniature Railway
Our steam trains were built in Rhyl during the 1920s, and so have been hauling passengers around Marine Lake for the last eighty years! Even our first train from 1911 recently returned to us after over 90 years away! Upon returning to ‘Central Station’, find out more about our story in our museum, where there are hands on exhibits to amuse the younger ones. Our ticket office sells tea and coffee, confectionery and a good range of children’s gifts. The station, museum and toilets are open on every day that trains are operating. We have good facilities for disabled visitors. The railway is located at Marine Lake, only a short walk from the new iconic pedestrian bridge Pont y Ddraig.
- Location
- Central Station, Marine Lake, Wellington Road, Rhyl, LL18 1AQ, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Miniature Railway (<15”)
- Phone
- 01352 759109
What's Nearby?
Great Orme Tramway
Conwy Valley Railway Museum
Wirral Transport Museum & Heritage Tramway

Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
Whatever the weather, you can expect a warm and friendly welcome from Ribble Steam’s team of committed volunteers. Whether you are a keen steam enthusiast, or just simply looking for a fun and relaxed day out, Ribble Steam offers a memorable experience of Lancashire’s world famous Industrial heritage. Visit the museum discover the history of Preston docks and the story of the first electric trains. There is much to explore in the “hands on†museum, complete with a fabulous indoor miniature railway for young hearts. Watch industrial engines and locomotives lovingly being restored, behind the scenes. Remember to check out the RSR shop to find that special visit memento, present, specialist publication or popular railway character memorabilia. Look out for art activities, special events, such as Steam or Diesel Galas, and exhibitions, Friendly Engines, Family Fun on our Teddy Bears Specials, Classic Car Day on Father's Day, Model Tramways weekend and our Fabulous Santa Specials.
- Location
- Chain Caul Road, Riversway Docklands, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 2PD, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Standard Gauge Railway
- Website
- http://www.ribblesteam.org.uk/
- Phone
- 01772 728 800
What's Nearby?
West Lancashire Light Railway
Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours
Lakeside Miniature Railway

Rocks By Rail
Rocks by Rail is an outdoor adventure, cast in an ironstone quarry. Covering 19 acres of reclaimed quarry, railway tracks and nature trails, Rocks By Rail is a journey back in time. It’s an unmissable opportunity to experience an awesome industrial landscape. Explore fascinating nature trails. Take a train trip. Drive a classic loco. Tour the workshop and loco yard. View the ironstone exhibition and learn about its importance throughout history. Then sit back with a cuppa in a 1960s style café, or browse the Museum shop. Rocks By Rail is a big value day out. Whether you’re a family seeking informative fun, a rail and digger enthusiast, or a teacher looking for ways to bring lessons to life – you’ll find the living ironstone museum so involving you’ll wonder where the hours went!
- Location
- Ashwell Road, Cottesmore, Rutland, LE15 7FF, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Heritage Centre (all one site)
- Website
- http://www.rocks-by-rail.org
What's Nearby?
Nene Valley Railway
Ferry Meadows Miniature Railway
Railworld Wildlife Haven

Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Known as "Kent’s Mainline in Miniature", our world famous one-third full size steam & diesel locomotives have powered their way along the 13½ miles of track from the Cinque Port town of Hythe, terminating in Dungeness; a National Nature Reserve. With 4 stations in between, all within walking distance of a beach, our railway provides you with an opportunity to explore this unique corner of Kent. Coast & country walks, with all manner of wildlife & flora to be seen, cycle rides, medieval churches and iconic lighthouses are all on our doorstep. With excellent catering facilities available at some stations, our ever-popular Model Railway Exhibition, play parks, good station shops, free car parking and facilities to assist our disabled visitors, RH&DR is the perfect any-weather, all-generations great day out.
- Location
- New Romney Station, Littlestone Road, New Romney, Kent, TN28 8PL, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Narrow Gauge Railway (15”+)
- Website
- http://www.rhdr.org.uk
- Phone
- 07592 760 607
What's Nearby?
Kent & East Sussex Railway
East Hill Cliff Railway
West Hill Cliff Railway

Romsey Signal Box Working Museum
Romsey Signal Box is a building from 1873 and a working museum which gives an insight into the life of a railway signalman. As well as the main attraction, the site has visitor centres containing a miniature signalbox where working demonstrations are run most open days, along with restored artefacts, photographs and information about the history of the restoration. There are also picnic and garden areas. There are modest charges to enter the site, the funds from which are used to continue with our restoration projects. The site is accessible by wheelchair, although the working floor of the signalbox can only be accessed by climbing the authentic steps. However, a CCTV link has been established linking the box to the pavilion for wheelchair users and visitors who are not confident using stairs.
- Location
- Romsey Signal Box, Brick Lane, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 8LG, GB
- Distance
- Railway Type
- Museum