If you’re a fan of vintage locomotives and the golden age of rail travel, then you’re in for a treat. Norfolk is home to some of the best steam railways in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned train enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, Norfolk’s steam railways have something for everyone.
From the historic engines and carriages to the picturesque scenery, there’s no better way to explore the landscape of this beautiful county. So, sit back, relax and let me take you on a journey through the best steam railways in Norfolk.
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Where to Find Steam Trains in Norfolk
Steam trains were once a symbol of progress, and today they offer a nostalgic trip back in time. Riding one feels like stepping into history, with the rhythmic chug of the engine, the scent of coal smoke, and the gentle sway of the carriages.
Norfolk is lucky to have eight heritage railways, each requiring skill, dedication, and funding to keep running. Some also operate diesel trains, so check the timetable before you go.
North Norfolk Railway
Hop aboard the North Norfolk Railway, also known as the Poppy Line, for a journey along the North Norfolk Coast that you won’t forget. This historic railway is almost entirely run by a team of passionate volunteers who are committed to preserving the region’s railway heritage.
You can ride this railway daily during the February half-term and from April through October, with both steam and diesel trains running as noted in their timetable. The train will take you from the Victorian seaside resort of Sheringham to the picturesque Georgian town of Holt, with a brief stop in Weybourne along the way. The round trip ride covers 11 miles, giving you plenty of time to sit back, relax, and soak up the scenery.
If you’re looking to explore Holt, you can either walk or catch the bus from near the entrance to the North Norfolk Railway Station site, which is about a mile from the town centre. However, if that sounds like too much effort, you can always stay and explore Holt Station itself, which is a faithful recreation of a Midland and Great Northern Joint Railway (M&GN) station.
There are plenty of things to enjoy at the station, including a small buffet and gift shop, a model railway display of Broad Sidlinch, and the William Marriot Museum housed in a recreated goods shed. You can also check out the beautifully preserved goods vehicles in the loading bay outside the museum.
The North Norfolk Railway has a rich history dating all the way back to 1887 when it was built to serve the booming tourist market. During World War II, the railway played a crucial role in supporting military operations at the nearby Weybourne training camp and artillery range.
Despite its ups and downs over the years, the railway was lovingly restored by dedicated preservationists and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norfolk. If you’re a steam train enthusiast, you’ll love the special railway experiences on offer, including a steam driver experience and a signalling experience day.
The North Norfolk Railway hosts a packed calendar of themed events throughout the year. Their Christmas Lights Express is one of the most popular Christmas events in Norfolk. Foodies will adore the dining trains offering everything from fish and chips to cream teas to gin tastings. And for those looking for a little mystery, try out the murder mystery train, we enjoyed the Sherlock Holmes-themed one.
Getting to this railway is a breeze. You can drive and park at the Sheringham North Norfolk Railway station or take the Bittern Line from Norwich run by Greater Anglia, with the stations just a few minutes’ walk apart.
Get more information here.
Bure Valley Railway
The Bure Valley Railway is Norfolk’s longest narrow gauge steam railway. This delightful train ride goes along the nine-mile long Bure Valley Path through the Norfolk Broads.
It runs between the towns of Aylsham and Wroxham, and the railway passes through stations in Brampton, Buxton, and Coltishall. You can disembark and explore these picturesque Broadland villages. (Brampton, Buxton, and Coltishall stations are request stops only.)
A single journey between Aylsham and Wroxham takes 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the experience. If the weather is good, why not walk or cycle one-way and take the train back? If you get hungry, you can check out the 80-seater Whistlestop Café at Aylsham Station serving everything from a cup of tea to a full meal.
The railway also offers souvenir shops, free car and coach parking at both Aylsham and Wroxham Stations, and special wheelchair accessible coaches that allow both wheelchair and able-bodied passengers to travel together. Plus, there are disabled toilet facilities at both stations for your convenience.
Trains operate daily from April to October, with special events taking place throughout the year. If you’re part of a group of 20 or more, you can take advantage of discounted group rates.
Bure Valley Railway also offers a one-day course that lets you get behind the controls of one of their unique narrow gauge steam locomotives. Please note that this experience is only available for people aged 18 years and over who are suitably fit.
Get more information here.
Mid-Norfolk Railway
The Mid-Norfolk Railway is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and history lovers, offering a glimpse into the region’s railway past. As the longest standard-gauge heritage railway in Norfolk, it runs from Dereham to Wymondham Abbey, with ongoing restoration work extending the line north towards County School Station.
Operated by the Mid-Norfolk Railway Preservation Trust, this working museum captures the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the 1950s and 60s under British Railways. At Dereham Station, don’t miss the museum room, where you can explore local railway exhibits and chat with the steward on duty.
The railway also hosts special events, including a festive Polar Express experience at Christmas and afternoon tea services. Be sure to grab tickets for these early as they do sell out.
Get more information here.
Wells & Walsingham Railway
The Wells & Walsingham Light Railway is the smallest public railway in the world! This charming railway runs between the beautiful village of Walsingham, a renowned pilgrimage centre famous for its snowdrops, and the lovely seaside town of Wells-next-the-Sea.
Hop on board one of the steam-operated or diesel-powered trains, and choose from an enclosed ‘all weather’, covered or open carriage. As you head out on the half-hour journey through picturesque countryside, you’ll pass by a hill-fort and a real ghost platform.
You can start your journey from either end of the line, and there’s no need to book in advance. Just turn up and join the queue on a first-come, first-served basis. If you want to bring your dog(s), they are welcome to join you as long as the train is not too busy.
When you ride the train, you can park your car at the Wells station for a small fee and leave it there while you explore the town. If you get peckish, you can grab a snack from the Signal Box Café, a charming tearoom and shop located in a converted signal box.
It’s worth noting that the Railway closes during the winter months for maintenance, so be sure to check the website here for more information.
Bressingham Steam & Gardens
Bressingham Steam and Gardens, on the Norfolk-Suffolk border, is a unique attraction where steam power meets lush gardens. Founded by Alan Bloom, this hands-on museum has welcomed visitors since 1961, offering a mix of steam-powered engineering, narrow-gauge railways, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Climb aboard one of the steam trains and explore over four miles of track, with four different routes to choose from. The historic Gallopers carousel, built in 1897 by Savages of King’s Lynn, is another highlight, spinning at speeds of up to six revolutions per minute to the sound of a traditional fairground organ.
The on-site café, Carriages, has been newly refurbished with a fresh menu, and there’s an ice cream hut serving locally made treats. Snacks and drinks are also available in the museum gift shop.
Open from late March through October, Bressingham hosts special events throughout the year. Not all attractions run daily, so it’s best to check their website here before visiting.
Whitwell & Reepham Railway Station
Whitwell and Reepham Railway Station is a hidden gem in the Norfolk countryside, just off Marriott’s Way and a mile from Reepham. Left derelict for years, it was rescued in 2007 by rail enthusiast Mike Urry, who helped restore it to its former glory.
The long-term plan is to extend the line along Marriott’s Way, recreating the historic Themelthorpe Curve to Reepham railway station and possibly reconnecting with the North Norfolk or Mid-Norfolk Railway. For now, visitors can explore the museum, gift shop, garden, and The Sidings café.
On weekends, train rides are available. Steam engines run on the first Sunday of the month and bank holiday Sundays, while diesel trains operate on other weekends. The station also hosts special events throughout the year, including its popular Steam Rallies.
Entry to the station and museum is free (except on gala days), with a small charge for train rides.
Get more information here.
Barton Miniature Railway
Barton House Railway in Wroxham is a miniature ride-on railway that brings the golden age of steam to life. With two operating lines, the Midland Railway (3.5″) and the Riverside Railway (7.25″), plus a third, the Museum Line, under construction, it’s a great spot for railway enthusiasts and families alike.
The Riverside Railway opened in 1980 and was extended the following year, while the Midland Railway reopened in 2001 after repairs. In 2013, the railway celebrated its 50th anniversary. In addition to the train rides, visitors can explore a museum filled with railway artefacts, enjoy homemade cakes by the river, and watch the signalman at work in an original full-size signal box.
Work on Barton House Railway began in 1960, and it officially opened in 1963. In its early years, all funds raised went toward restoring Wroxham Church. Since 1971, proceeds have supported various charities, continuing the railway’s tradition of giving back to the community.
Trains don’t run every day, so it’s best to check their Facebook page here for schedules and special events.
Eaton Park Miniature Railway
If you’re looking to ride a miniature train in Norwich, head to Eaton Park. The railway has two tracks: the original elevated 5″ gauge Heritage Track and the Mainline, a longer ground-level dual gauge track added in 2006.
The Mainline, around 800 metres long, mostly runs 7.25″ gauge trains and includes an accessible carriage for wheelchair users, prams, and guide dogs. The Heritage Track, dating back to the 1960s, was extended in the 1970s but is currently closed for refurbishment.
Run entirely by volunteers from the Norwich and District Society of Model Engineers, the trains operate every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday from Easter to late September, with occasional pop-up days depending on availability.
A highlight of the year is the festive Tunnel of Lights, a Christmas tradition in Norwich. For updates on pop-up trains and special events, check the Eaton Park Miniature Railway Facebook page here.
What is the Best Steam Railway in Norfolk?
Norfolk has many wonderful steam railways so it is not easy to pick one that is the best. It is going to depend on your personal preferences. Our favourite is the North Norfolk Railway because we love the views of the coast, but you can’t go wrong with any of the options on this list.
More Steam Attractions in Norfolk
If you enjoyed these steam railways, you might also like to visit the steam museums in Norfolk.
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