North Bay Railway
Britain's largest miniature railway, offering nostalgic steam train rides along the Scarborough coast since 1931.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
North Bay Railway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Britain's largest miniature railway, offering nostalgic steam train rides along the Scarborough coast since 1931.
"A cool installation that must not be missed in Scarborough, offering lots of fun and memories."
💳 Go Cashless
Remember, it's a cashless attraction! Bring your card for tickets & souvenirs.
⏰ Arrive Early
Popular departure times fill up fast. Get there a bit early to snag your preferred slot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Coastal Journey
Peasholm Station to Scalby Mills Station
Enjoy a charming 2-mile round trip along the North Bay coastline, offering picturesque views and a nostalgic ride.
Historic Steam Trains
Various stations
Experience the thrill of riding behind beautifully maintained steam locomotives, a true heritage railway experience.
Peasholm Park Activities
Peasholm Station
Beyond the train, discover boating, water zorbing, and a water chute in the adjacent Peasholm Park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Cashless Attraction
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💳 Go Cashless
Remember, it's a cashless attraction! Bring your card for tickets & souvenirs.
⏰ Arrive Early
Popular departure times fill up fast. Get there a bit early to snag your preferred slot.
📸 Capture the Views
The coastal scenery is stunning! Have your camera ready for memorable shots.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Ends
Hop off at Scalby Mills or Peasholm to explore before your return journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
💳 Go Cashless
Remember, it's a cashless attraction! Bring your card for tickets & souvenirs.
⏰ Arrive Early
Popular departure times fill up fast. Get there a bit early to snag your preferred slot.
📸 Capture the Views
The coastal scenery is stunning! Have your camera ready for memorable shots.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Ends
Hop off at Scalby Mills or Peasholm to explore before your return journey.
🌐 Check Website
Operating hours can change. Always check the official website before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the North Bay Railway for its charming heritage steam trains and scenic coastal journey. The convenience of the railway as a link to Peasholm Park and the Sea Life Centre is also a significant plus. While generally a positive experience, some note that it can get very busy, and booking in advance or arriving early is recommended.
"Nice little trip on the train around to the Sealife Centre. Train was clean and tidy, buying tickets was straightforward but be aware they are a cashless attraction so make sure you have a credit/debit card on hand. Advise also to get there a little earlier to make sure you get the departure time you want as it can get very full very quickly."
Adler Doz
"After the walk down from the main Scarborough station the kids were excited to get on the train - one of the first in queue, predicting it might be busy...! The train takes about 10/ 15 mins to go from one station to the other, at which point you can jump off and have a wonder round before travelling back again. The main station at Peasholme has a cafe, toilets, gift shop etc. The other station has a smaller area with gifts and cafe but not as big. You get a nice view along the coast line during the ride...!"
Andrew Cartwright
"Such a cool installation that must not be missed in Scarborough whether you are on holiday, visiting for the day or a local. In addition to the miniature railway you will also find the artificial lake with boating activities, water zorbing and water chute.
There’s a cafe and toilet facilities.
Lots of fun and memories to be made here!"
Legends l
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Bay Railway is located in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. You can reach it via Marine Drive or by walking from the main Scarborough station. It's also accessible from Peasholm Park.
Parking is available in Scarborough, though some options like the Sea Life Centre car park can be pricey. Consider public transport or walking if possible.
Yes, local buses serve the Scarborough area, and the railway itself acts as a transport link between Peasholm Park and Scalby Mills.
While the railway offers a scenic ride, accessibility details for wheelchairs should be confirmed directly with the attraction. The nearby Sea Life Centre has wheelchair routes.
The most enjoyable way is by taking the train itself! It offers a 2-mile return journey, taking about 15 minutes one way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, and it's recommended to book online in advance for the best rates and to secure your spot. Check their official website for current pricing.
Tickets can be purchased on the day, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak times, as popular departure slots can sell out quickly.
Yes, the North Bay Railway is a cashless attraction. All purchases, including tickets, must be made with a credit or debit card.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and are subject to change. It's essential to check the official North Bay Railway website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Information on group or family discounts is best found on the official North Bay Railway website. Booking in advance is often key to securing the best value.
🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience
Besides the train ride, the area around Peasholm Station offers boating activities, water zorbing, and a water chute in Peasholm Park. The railway also connects to the Sea Life Centre.
The train journey from Peasholm Station to Scalby Mills Station takes approximately 15 minutes one way. A round trip will take around 40 minutes.
Yes, the main station at Peasholm has a cafe, toilets, and a gift shop. The station at Scalby Mills also has smaller cafe and gift facilities.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic attraction for children, offering a fun and memorable experience with steam trains and nearby park activities.
The railway operates with beautifully maintained steam locomotives, offering a genuine heritage railway experience. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities exist along the route, especially near the stations and along the coastline. The open-air theatre area also offers unique vantage points. 
Yes, you can take photos from the train, but be mindful of other passengers and ensure your camera is secure. The coastal views are excellent from the carriages.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography. Weekdays generally have fewer crowds, making it easier to frame your shots.
You can photograph various steam locomotives, including BR Standard Class 4MT and BR Standard Class 2 engines, as well as unique engines like 'Titan'.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the train, Peasholm Park offers additional fun with boating and a water chute, while the Sea Life Centre provides an engaging educational experience. Arriving early is key to securing your preferred departure time and ensuring a smooth, enjoyable day for everyone. Remember it's a cashless attraction, so bring cards for all purchases.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
+1Exploring the Grosmont MPD (Motive Power Depot) during events like the Annual Steam Gala can offer even more insight into the maintenance and operation of these magnificent machines. The railway's commitment to preserving these engines ensures an authentic and memorable experience for enthusiasts.
📸 Photography Lovers
Look for unique angles near the stations, along the Marine Drive, and even from the Open Air Theatre area for dramatic shots. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, while weekdays generally mean fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed compositions. Don't forget to capture the details of the historic locomotives themselves!
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The North Bay Railway's History
Originally built to serve the attractions along the North Bay, it has evolved into a beloved heritage attraction. The railway is often referred to as Britain's largest miniature railway, offering a unique glimpse into a bygone era of travel.+1Throughout its history, the railway has seen various locomotives and operational changes. It plays a vital role in connecting key points of interest, including Peasholm Park and the Sea Life Centre, making it a convenient and scenic mode of transport for families and tourists alike. The dedication of volunteers and staff, like Operations Manager Steve Johnson, has been crucial to its continued success and recognition, even leading to award nominations.
+1Today, the North Bay Railway continues to operate with a fleet of beautifully maintained steam engines, offering a nostalgic and enjoyable experience for all ages. The charm of chugging along the coast, with the sound of the steam whistle and the sea breeze, makes it a must-visit attraction in Scarborough.
Beyond the Rails: Exploring the North Bay Area
Connecting to the other end of the line at Scalby Mills is the Scarborough Sea Life Centre. This popular attraction houses a diverse range of marine life, from sharks and penguins to delicate jellyfish. It offers interactive exhibits and educational displays, making it an engaging visit for both children and adults. The railway conveniently serves as a transport link between these key points of interest.
For those interested in photography, the coastal route offers stunning views. The area around the Open Air Theatre also provides unique vantage points to capture the trains in motion against the seaside backdrop.
+1The Heart of the Operation: Steam Locomotives
Visitors can often see a variety of engines in operation, including models like the BR Standard Class 4MT and BR Standard Class 2. The railway also boasts unique engines such as 'Titan', adding to its diverse fleet. The sight and sound of these powerful machines are a major draw, especially for train enthusiasts and families alike.
+1The railway's commitment to preserving these historic locomotives ensures that the magic of steam travel continues to enchant visitors, offering a tangible connection to the golden age of rail.
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