Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway
A charming heritage steam railway offering scenic rides through the Lake District, connecting to Lake Windermere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming heritage steam railway offering scenic rides through the Lake District, connecting to Lake Windermere.
"A truly magical experience, like stepping back in time with the chug of a steam engine through beautiful scenery."
🚗 Parking & Payment
Ample parking available. Note: car park machines may be out of order; get permits from the ticket office. :parking:
💺 Sit on the Right!
For the best views on the journey out, try to sit on the right-hand side of the train. :seat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Steam Train Ride
Haverthwaite Station to Lakeside
Experience the charm of a bygone era aboard a beautifully preserved steam locomotive, chugging through scenic landscapes.
Lake Windermere Connection
Lakeside Station
Arrive at Lakeside station, perfectly positioned for onward travel via boat across the iconic Lake Windermere.
Engine Shed Exploration
Haverthwaite Station
Get up close with the magnificent steam engines and learn about their history in the free-to-explore engine shed.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine with a Lake Cruise
Check Timetables & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Payment
Ample parking available. Note: car park machines may be out of order; get permits from the ticket office. :parking:
💺 Sit on the Right!
For the best views on the journey out, try to sit on the right-hand side of the train. :seat:
Combine with a Cruise
Consider a combined train and boat ticket for a full day of Lake District exploration. :ferry:
Family Fun Guaranteed
Kids will love the 'real Thomas the Tank Engine' feel; it's a magical experience for them. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Payment
Ample parking available. Note: car park machines may be out of order; get permits from the ticket office. :parking:
💺 Sit on the Right!
For the best views on the journey out, try to sit on the right-hand side of the train. :seat:
Combine with a Cruise
Consider a combined train and boat ticket for a full day of Lake District exploration. :ferry:
Family Fun Guaranteed
Kids will love the 'real Thomas the Tank Engine' feel; it's a magical experience for them. :child:
Rainy Day Rescue
A great option for a rainy day, especially when combined with the nearby Lake Aquarium. :umbrella:
Check Timetables
Always verify the latest train and ferry timetables before your visit. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway for its nostalgic charm and scenic beauty. It's a highly recommended experience, especially for families and train enthusiasts, offering a delightful step back in time. While the train ride itself is relatively short, its connection to Lake Windermere cruises enhances its appeal for a full day out.
"Visited with my wife & dogs whilst on holiday.
We arrived a short time before departure but found ticket purchasing & car park validation simple. The car park machine was out of order but were able to purchase a conventional paper ticket as part of our excursion.
The train was busy with a couple coach loads of tourists & privately booked carriages but we found no issues taking a seat.
The ride itself to the Lakeland terminus is relatively short but enjoyable all the same. We had a complimentary sailing voucher from our hotel so boarding "Teal" from the train station was a breeze."
Daniel Wheeler
"I recently had the wonderful opportunity to experience my very first steam train ride during our visit to The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway on 21st August 2025, and it was truly worth every moment.
From the moment we stepped onto the platform, I felt a sense of excitement and nostalgia in the air. Having never been on a steam train before, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but the charm of the locomotive — with its billowing steam and rhythmic chugging — immediately set the tone for a unique journey.
What made the experience even more special was sharing it with my 4-year-old son. For him, it felt like stepping into the world of Thomas the Tank Engine come to life. His eyes lit up as he saw the engine up close, and throughout the journey, he could hardly contain his excitement at being inside a “real Thomas train.” Watching his joy made the experience unforgettable for me as a parent.
The ride itself was serene and picturesque, winding through beautiful countryside landscapes. The views of rolling green hills, woodland, and open fields were simply stunning, even more so in the crisp winter air. Although it was a chilly day for August, the cold only added to the charm — the steam rising from the train mingled with the mist in the air, making the whole experience feel timeless and magical.
Overall, our visit to The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway was an absolute highlight of our trip. It was more than just a train ride; it was a step back into history, a scenic journey through breathtaking landscapes, and a joyful family memory I know we’ll cherish. For anyone who hasn’t experienced a steam train ride before, I can wholeheartedly recommend it — it’s an adventure worth taking."
Lino James
"Went on a grey day, around the time of a storm. Last service was cancelled as were the ferry rides... so that was disappointing but understandable.
The train is nice and the trip on it was relaxing... try to sit on the right hand side when facing the direction of travel out as that provides the best views.
Car park with ample parking.. card payments aren't avaliable on the machine but you can get parking permits from the shop or ticket office.
Toilets and cafe on site.
Car park closes promptly after the last train returns so be mindful of that if you're planning to take a walk or leave the car there for any reason.
Worth a trip in my opinion, especially if you have family who are into steam trains."
Lukman Chowdhury
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Windermere by train from major cities like Liverpool or London. From Windermere train station, a bus (routes 555 or 599) can take you to Haverthwaite. This is a popular method for those without a car, allowing you to explore the Lake District easily.
Yes, there is a large car park at Haverthwaite Railway Station, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Be aware that the car park machine might be out of order, so you may need to purchase parking permits from the ticket office or shop.
Yes, from Windermere train station, you can catch a bus that travels through Bowness and Ambleside, with stops accessible to the railway. This is a good option if you're doing a day trip and don't drive.
If you're near Windermere, you can take a bus towards Haverthwaite. Many visitors also combine a train journey to Windermere with a bus or taxi to the railway.
Yes, the railway is accessible by train. You can travel to Windermere station and then take local transport to reach Haverthwaite.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but some sources mention prices around £6.30 per person for the train journey. It's best to check the official website or purchase tickets at the station for the most current pricing.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the station on the day of your visit. Some visitors have found it simple to buy conventional paper tickets even if the car park machine is out of order.
Yes, combined tickets for the steam train and a boat trip on Lake Windermere are often available. This is a popular option for a comprehensive Lake District experience.
While booking in advance is often recommended for popular attractions, many visitors successfully purchase tickets at the station on the day.
Some hotels offer complimentary sailing vouchers which can be used in conjunction with your visit. It's worth checking with your accommodation provider.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The journey is a scenic 3-mile ride through beautiful countryside, offering views of rolling hills and woodlands. It's a relaxing and picturesque experience, often described as stepping back in time.
At Haverthwaite Station, you can explore the engine shed for free to see the historic locomotives up close, enjoy the cafe, and there's a small play park for children.
Yes, the engine shed is free to explore, allowing visitors to get a close-up look at the magnificent steam engines.
The train travels through lovely countryside. For the best views on the outward journey, try to sit on the right-hand side of the train.
Absolutely! Children often find the steam train experience magical, likening it to 'Thomas the Tank Engine'. It's a fantastic family-friendly attraction.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site at Haverthwaite Railway Station that serves drinks, cakes, and snacks.
While specific afternoon tea services are not widely advertised, the cafe offers cakes and snacks. For a dedicated afternoon tea experience, you might need to look elsewhere in the Lake District.
Lakeside Station is the terminus and connects directly to boat services. Dining options are more prevalent in Windermere or Bowness, but check for any available refreshments at Lakeside.
📸 📸 Photography
Haverthwaite Station itself, with the steam engines and vintage carriages, offers great photo opportunities. The scenic countryside views during the train journey are also picturesque. 
Yes, you can take photos inside the vintage carriages. Capturing the interior details and the view from the window can make for memorable shots.
Lakeside Station offers a chance to photograph the train arriving or departing, with the backdrop of Lake Windermere.
This attraction is ideal for heritage railway photography, landscape shots of the countryside, and family portraits with a unique vintage backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
🚶 Day-Trippers (Car-Free)
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heritage Steam Experience
The experience is characterized by the rhythmic chugging of the engine, the smell of coal smoke, and the charming atmosphere of the old stations. Visitors can explore the engine shed at Haverthwaite Station for free, where they can get up close to the magnificent engines and learn about their history and restoration.
Whether you're a seasoned railway buff or simply looking for a unique and scenic day out, the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway provides an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to slow down, enjoy the journey, and appreciate the simple pleasures of steam travel amidst stunning natural beauty.
Connecting with Lake Windermere
The journey from Haverthwaite to Lakeside is relatively short, making it an ideal prelude or conclusion to a boat trip. Many visitors opt for combined tickets that include both the steam train ride and a cruise on the lake, providing excellent value and a comprehensive day out.
This allows you to experience the charming steam train and then glide across the largest natural lake in England, taking in the breathtaking fells and picturesque villages that surround it.Whether you choose a short hop or a longer cruise, the connection at Lakeside Station ensures a smooth transition between two of the Lake District's most beloved attractions. It's a perfect way to maximize your time and see more of what this beautiful region has to offer.
+1A Family-Friendly Adventure
Beyond the train ride itself, Haverthwaite Station offers amenities that cater to families. There's a small play park where children can burn off energy, and the free-to-explore engine shed provides an engaging educational element, allowing them to marvel at the powerful locomotives.
Many parents rave about the joy their children experience, making it a memorable outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit