Moors Valley Railway offers an authentic steam railway experience, providing visitors with a scenic journey through Moors Valley Country Park in Dorset, England. This heritage narrow gauge railway features a picturesque route of just over a mile, traveling along the banks of Moors Lake, through tunnels, a forest incline, and a spiral loop around play areas. The journey begins at Kingsmere Station and concludes at Lakeside Station, with a return trip taking approximately 20 minutes.
The railway operates a fleet of 19 steam and 2 diesel locomotives, many of which have been constructed in-house by a dedicated team of full-time staff and volunteers. This commitment to craftsmanship ensures an authentic and immersive experience for all passengers.
At Kingsmere Station, visitors can explore the Railway Gift Shop, which offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including model trains, Thomas the Tank Engine items, and Moors Valley Railway memorabilia. The Station Buffet provides a variety of refreshments, such as hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, sweet treats, and ice cream. For those interested in a more hands-on experience, the Footplate Experience Course allows individuals aged 18 and over to receive full-day tuition in driving and firing a steam engine, complete with lunch and a special train ride for up to six guests.
Lakeside Station features children’s play areas, picnic spots, and a kiosk offering cold drinks, snacks, sweet treats, and ice cream. The surrounding Moors Valley Country Park provides additional attractions, including walking and cycling trails, woodland and lakeside play areas, Go Ape high-wire forest adventures, and a golf course. The park is open daily, except on Christmas Day, with individual attraction opening times varying.
Throughout the year, Moors Valley Railway hosts special events, such as the Grand Summer Gala and Autumn Gala, featuring the entire home fleet of locomotives in operation, visiting locomotives, demonstration freight trains, and displays of classic cars and model railways. These events offer unique opportunities to experience the railway’s heritage and community spirit.
For those interested in contributing to the railway’s operations, volunteering opportunities are available for individuals aged 18 and over. The railway also offers part-time roles for those aged 16 and over, including positions as guards, café, and shop staff.
Moors Valley Railway is committed to sustainability, implementing measures such as a 10kW photovoltaic system to provide electricity for the railway station and toilets, solar panels to heat water at the Visitor Centre, and a biomass boiler fueled by locally sourced wood chips. These initiatives reflect the railway’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact.
For more detailed information on facilities, services, and upcoming events, please visit the official Moors Valley Railway website.
