The Southwold Railway Trust is dedicated to preserving and restoring the historic 3-foot gauge Southwold Railway, which once connected the seaside resort of Southwold to Halesworth in Suffolk. Their website offers comprehensive information on the facilities and services available to visitors, highlighting the unique experiences that set this heritage railway apart.
Located at Blyth Road in Southwold, the Southwold Railway Trust operates the Southwold Railway Steamworks, a visitor centre that serves as the focal point for the Trust’s activities. The Steamworks site features a café, shop, and museum, providing a welcoming environment for guests. The café offers a selection of refreshments, and the shop sells exclusive Southwold Railway merchandise, including high-quality mugs, cards, new and secondhand railway books, models, and unique wooden gifts crafted by volunteers from reclaimed wood.
The Trust hosts public open days throughout the year, during which visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions. These include rides on a 7¼ inch gauge miniature railway, guided tours of the site, and demonstrations of ongoing restoration projects. The miniature railway offers a delightful experience for families and enthusiasts alike. The open days also provide opportunities to engage with volunteers and learn about the restoration efforts aimed at bringing narrow gauge steam back to Suffolk after a gap of over 90 years.
For those interested in the history and future of the Southwold Railway, the website provides detailed information on various projects, including the Heritage Train Project, which aims to build a complete heritage mixed train, and the Wenhaston Station Project, focused on recreating the original station site. These initiatives offer visitors a glimpse into the Trust’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of the Southwold Railway.
The Southwold Railway Trust’s website also features a blog that records the details of all their work to restore the Southwold Railway, keeping visitors informed about the latest developments and progress. This resource is invaluable for those interested in the ongoing efforts to revive this historic narrow gauge railway.
Visitors can access the Steamworks site on open days, with additional access possible on Wednesdays between 10 am and 3 pm, though this is primarily a volunteer workday, and areas accessible to visitors may be limited. The site is free to enter, with charges applied for train rides. The Trust also offers various forms of membership, including life membership for substantial donors, providing contributors with access to collectible items, dedicated newsletters, social events, and the satisfaction of supporting the restoration of the Southwold Railway.
For more detailed information on visiting hours, upcoming events, and the latest news, please refer to the Southwold Railway Trust’s official website.
