The Weardale Railway offers a captivating heritage experience, inviting visitors to journey through the picturesque landscapes of County Durham aboard vintage trains. This 18-mile line, connecting Bishop Auckland to Eastgate, provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the region.
Passenger services operate seasonally over a 16-mile stretch between Stanhope and Bishop Auckland, with plans to extend to Eastgate in the future. The route features several stations, including Frosterley, Wolsingham, Witton-le-Wear, and the recently added Kingfisher Leisure Park halt, all accessible to visitors. The trains, primarily diesel multiple units from the 1960s and 1980s, offer a comfortable and nostalgic travel experience.
For those interested in a more immersive experience, the railway hosts special events throughout the year. Notably, the ‘Santa Express’ provides a festive adventure with live onboard performances, a narrated Christmas story, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. Additionally, the ‘Stargazing at the Weardale Railway’ event combines a scenic train ride with astronomical observations, guided by experts from the Bishop Auckland Astronomical Society. These events offer unique opportunities to engage with the railway beyond standard journeys.
Culinary offerings are available at the ‘Platform One’ café located at Stanhope Station. The café serves a range of homemade refreshments, including breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas, and a selection of cakes. Onboard refreshments, such as packed lunches, can also be pre-ordered to enhance the travel experience. The café is committed to accommodating various dietary requirements and holds a 5-star food hygiene rating.
Accessibility is a priority for the Weardale Railway. Disabled parking spaces are available at Stanhope, Frosterley, and Wolsingham stations, with disabled toilet facilities at Stanhope Station. Ramps are provided for wheelchair access to the trains at all stations, and staff are always ready to assist passengers with additional needs.
For those interested in contributing to the railway’s operations, volunteering opportunities are available across various departments. Roles include station duties, maintenance of rolling stock and track, gardening, and operational positions such as guards and drivers. Training is provided, and volunteers are encouraged to become members of the Weardale Railway Trust to support the preservation and development of the line.
The Weardale Railway offers a rich and engaging experience for enthusiasts of heritage railways, combining scenic journeys with special events, quality catering, and a commitment to accessibility. For more detailed information on services, events, and volunteering, please visit the official website.
