
Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway
A charming miniature steam railway offering scenic rides through Lakeside Country Park, perfect for families and train enthusiasts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Trains run more frequently

Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway
Best Time
Trains run more frequently

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming miniature steam railway offering scenic rides through Lakeside Country Park, perfect for families and train enthusiasts.
"Fantastic little railway, staff all helpful and polite, just short of £6 an adult for a return journey is really good value."

🚂 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the steam train, especially during busy periods or special events. Check their website for availability!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring Lakeside Country Park, so comfy footwear is a must for walks and playground fun.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Miniature Steam Train Ride
Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway
Experience the magic of a real steam train on a scenic journey through Lakeside Country Park. A delight for all ages!

Lakeside Country Park Exploration
Lakeside Country Park
Wander around serene lakes, enjoy nature walks, and let the kids burn energy at the playground. A perfect complement to the train ride.

Variety of Steam Locomotives
Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway
Marvel at the diverse collection of miniature steam locomotives, each with its own unique charm and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Country Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the steam train, especially during busy periods or special events. Check their website for availability!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring Lakeside Country Park, so comfy footwear is a must for walks and playground fun.
☕ Cafe & Ice Cream
Enjoy reasonably priced food and delicious New Forest ice cream at the on-site cafe.
🅿️ Parking Tips
Free parking is available, but can get busy. Try turning right into the car park upon approach for easier access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the steam train, especially during busy periods or special events. Check their website for availability!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring Lakeside Country Park, so comfy footwear is a must for walks and playground fun.
☕ Cafe & Ice Cream
Enjoy reasonably priced food and delicious New Forest ice cream at the on-site cafe.
🅿️ Parking Tips
Free parking is available, but can get busy. Try turning right into the car park upon approach for easier access.
💨 Sit Towards the Back
If you're sensitive to the smell of coal smoke, opt for seating towards the rear of the carriage.
🚸 Playground Stop
The train journey includes a stop at a playground, perfect for breaking up the trip for younger children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway, highlighting its charm and value for money. It's a beloved spot for families, offering a delightful miniature train ride through a beautiful country park. While some mention minor improvements needed for toilet facilities, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the friendly staff and scenic setting.
"I come here alot as I live close by for my mental health walks and daily exercise. if I didnt end up getting lost one day I would never would of found this place, we are very fortunate to have a little closed off space to enjoy nature surrounding.
can always hear the miniature train even from the house. great little place to visit for the hole family."
emma bayliss
"Fantastic little railway, staff all helpful and polite, just short of £6 an adult for a return journey is really good value. Even had an ice cream, again good value for a big cone and two very ample scoops of New forest icecream. I would suggest as the approach the station turn right in to the carpark there. The main carpark was full and a nightmare to turn around in."
Duncan Jones
"Brilliant for families and kids, although toilet facilities could be improved. Playground at the other end of the line breaks the train journey up and the railway is set in a beautiful country park with several lakes. Café can be busy but both the food and the train tickets are reasonably priced."
Paul Farquharson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The railway is located in Lakeside Country Park, Wide Lane, Eastleigh, SO50 5PE. It's about a 15-minute drive from Winchester and easily accessible by car. If arriving by train, Southampton Parkway station is a short, flat walk away.
Yes, there is free parking at Lakeside Country Park. However, it can get busy during peak times, especially in warmer weather. Some visitors suggest turning right into the car park upon approach for easier access.
Southampton Parkway train station is a short walk from the railway. You can also check local bus routes that serve the Eastleigh area.
While specific accessibility details can vary, miniature railways often have some accessible carriages. It's best to contact the railway directly for the most up-to-date information on wheelchair access.
The railway is situated within Lakeside Country Park, which features lakes, walking paths, and a playground. It's also close to Southampton.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary slightly between First Class and Standard Class. As of recent information, adults can expect to pay around £5.10 for First Class return and £4.60 for Standard Class return, with children's tickets being slightly less.
It's recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for special events or during peak seasons, to guarantee your ride and avoid disappointment.
Operating hours can vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's best to check the official Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway website for the most current operating schedule and any special event timings.
Yes, you can choose between First Class and Standard Class carriages, offering slightly different experiences and prices.
Lakeside Country Park generally offers free entry, with charges typically only for the steam train ride itself.
🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience
The steam train takes you on a scenic loop through Lakeside Country Park, with a stop at a playground. The total journey offers lovely views of the lakes and surrounding nature.
Toilet facilities are available within Lakeside Country Park, though some reviews suggest they could be improved.
The railway boasts a large variety of miniature steam locomotives, including replicas and historical models. You might see anything from 'Ivor' to 'William Baker' or even models inspired by 'The Titfield Thunderbolt'.
Yes, there is a gift shop located at the station where you can purchase souvenirs and train-related items.
Yes, the train makes a stop at a playground area, allowing passengers to disembark for a break before rejoining the train for the return journey.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site that serves food and drinks. It can get busy, but the offerings are generally considered reasonably priced.
The cafe offers a selection of food items, and visitors have praised the value and quality of their ice cream, particularly New Forest ice cream.
While not explicitly stated, picnics are often welcome in country parks. However, enjoying the cafe's offerings is part of the experience for many visitors.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in reviews, but it's always a good idea to check with the cafe staff upon arrival for current menu choices.
Reviews suggest that both food and train tickets are reasonably priced, offering good value for money.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the steam trains as they depart from the station, chug through the park, or cross bridges. The scenic park setting also offers beautiful backdrops.
Absolutely! Many visitors share videos of the steam trains in action on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, showcasing the locomotives and the journey.
Generally, photography for personal use is welcomed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and railway staff.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light, while midday can be good for capturing the steam and activity. Special event days often provide unique photo opportunities.
Keep an eye out for special locomotives like 'Lion' (a replica of The Titfield Thunderbolt), 'Ivor', 'William Baker', and various GWR or Black 5 models that make appearances during galas and events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the train, Lakeside Country Park provides ample space for exploration with its lakes and walking trails. The on-site cafe offers reasonably priced refreshments, and free parking is a bonus. It’s an ideal spot for a fun, engaging, and relatively stress-free family day out.
🚂 Railway Enthusiasts
Enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering marvels and the dedication of the volunteer staff who maintain these engines. The opportunity to see various locomotives in operation, sometimes even double-headed, makes for a truly special experience. Keep an eye on their event calendar for themed galas that showcase specific engines or eras.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Walkers
Combine a scenic train ride with a peaceful walk around the park. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, offering a tranquil escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Miniature Steam Railways
These railways are often run by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about preserving railway heritage. This passion is evident in the well-maintained tracks, the beautifully restored engines, and the friendly service provided to visitors. The experience is not just about the ride; it's about immersing yourself in a bygone era and appreciating the craftsmanship involved. Many visitors, like one reviewer who described it as a 'mild obsession,' find themselves captivated by the charm and detail of these miniature marvels.
Beyond the trains themselves, the Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway benefits from its location within Lakeside Country Park. This synergy allows visitors to combine a delightful train journey with outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for a family day out. The park provides a scenic backdrop, enhancing the overall experience and offering opportunities for relaxation and exploration alongside the railway adventure.
A Family-Friendly Day Out
The surrounding Lakeside Country Park further enhances its family-friendly appeal. With its lakes, walking paths, and dedicated play area, there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained before or after their train ride. The park offers a safe and natural environment for exploration, making it easy to create a full day of fun without needing to travel far.
Practical considerations like reasonably priced tickets and food at the on-site cafe add to the appeal for families. While toilet facilities could be improved according to some reviews, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many families returning for repeat visits. The combination of a charming train ride and ample park activities makes it a memorable outing for all ages.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit