Norfolk has more heritage railways than most people realise. Ten of them, in fact, ranging from full-size steam lines to narrow-gauge miniature railways winding through the Broads. We’ve spent a lot of time on Norfolk’s railways, and whether you’re a lifelong train enthusiast or just looking for a good day out with the kids, there’s something genuinely special about travelling by steam.
This guide covers every steam and heritage railway in Norfolk, with everything you need to know before you go.
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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. 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, running nine miles along the 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 lovely 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 longest 10¼-inch narrow gauge steam 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 Norfolk 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 sits on the Norfolk-Suffolk border and combines narrow-gauge steam train rides, a working Victorian fairground, beautifully kept gardens, and a museum packed with steam-powered machinery. It’s been welcoming visitors since 1961 and there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy.
One highlight is the Gallopers carousel, built in 1897 by Savages of King’s Lynn, which still runs to the sound of a traditional fairground organ. There’s also an on-site café and an ice cream hut serving locally made treats.
Open from late March through October, with special events throughout the year. Not all attractions run daily, so check the website here before you go.
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 lovely spot for railway enthusiasts and families, with two miniature ride-on lines running along the river. As well as the train rides, there’s a museum filled with railway artefacts and an original full-size signal box where you can watch the signalman at work. Homemade cakes by the river are an added bonus.
The railway has been running since 1963 and has a long tradition of donating proceeds to local charities, which feels very in keeping with the community spirit that runs through so many of Norfolk’s heritage railways.
Trains don’t run every day, so 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.
Wensum Valley Miniature Railway
The Wensum Valley Miniature Railway is a hidden gem near North Elmham, run by the passionate volunteers of the North Norfolk Model Engineering Club. The raised dual-gauge track winds through the grounds of County School Station, and the trains themselves have all been hand-built by club members, a mix of steam and battery-driven engines.
It’s a relaxed, community-run experience that’s well worth seeking out, particularly if you have younger children in tow. Running days are on selected dates throughout the year, so check their Facebook group here before you visit.
King’s Lynn Miniature Railway
The King’s Lynn Miniature Railway is run by the King’s Lynn and District Society of Model Engineers at the Lynnsport leisure centre site in King’s Lynn. The track is a continuous loop running 5 and 7¼-inch gauge trains, all operated by volunteers who clearly love what they do.
It’s a great little outing if you’re visiting King’s Lynn with children. Check their Facebook page here for upcoming running days before you visit.
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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