Cheltenham Racecourse Station GWSR
A charming heritage steam and diesel railway offering scenic journeys through the Cotswolds, run by passionate volunteers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Trains run more frequently.
Cheltenham Racecourse Station GWSR
Best Time
Trains run more frequently.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming heritage steam and diesel railway offering scenic journeys through the Cotswolds, run by passionate volunteers.
"A brilliant day out on this train service through the beautiful countryside, with helpful staff and a great old-fashioned feel."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early to secure a spot.
☕ Enjoy Station Cafes
Grab a bite or a cuppa at the station cafes; food is good but can be a bit pricey.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steam Train Journey
Cheltenham Racecourse to Broadway
Experience a scenic steam or diesel train ride through the Cotswolds countryside.
+1
Heritage Stations
Winchcombe, Toddington, Broadway
Explore beautifully preserved stations with historical displays and friendly volunteers.
Special Events
Various stations
Enjoy themed events like the Santa Express, offering a magical experience for families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Accessibility & Mobility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early to secure a spot.
☕ Enjoy Station Cafes
Grab a bite or a cuppa at the station cafes; food is good but can be a bit pricey.
📸 Capture the Steam
Great photo opportunities of steam trains at stations and along the line.
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
The staff are passionate volunteers; they love sharing stories about the railway.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early to secure a spot.
☕ Enjoy Station Cafes
Grab a bite or a cuppa at the station cafes; food is good but can be a bit pricey.
📸 Capture the Steam
Great photo opportunities of steam trains at stations and along the line.
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
The staff are passionate volunteers; they love sharing stories about the railway.
🧳 Pack for the Journey
Bring snacks and drinks if you're on a budget, though onboard options are available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway for its brilliant day out, highlighting the helpfulness and passion of the volunteer staff. The heritage steam train journeys through the Cotswolds are a major draw, offering a nostalgic and scenic experience. While some find the onboard refreshments a bit pricey, the overall organization, cleanliness, and friendly atmosphere make it a highly recommended attraction for families and railway enthusiasts alike.
"Brilliant day out on this railway yesterday. The station assistant, Ken, was especially helpful in finding us an accessible parking space at the start of our journey.
All the staff throughout the day were very helpful and had good knowledge of the railway past and present.
We travelled the lime from Cheltenham racecourse to the far end at Broadway.
A great day out for all the family, thank you."
Dave Farmer
"A great day out on this train service from this station to Broadway. It takes about an hour through the beautiful countryside. This station has easy access from the car park. A gentle slope down, so easy if you have mobility problems. On the platform there's a ticket office, refreshments hut, toilets and plenty of benches to sit on. Access onto the trains if you have wheelchairs is easy as ramps onto the train are available if you have wheelchairs. All the staff are volunteers and love what they do. They are very chatty and interesting to talk to. Loved my day here. Thank you all!"
Emyr Foxhall
"Lovely well organised railway. A must visit not just to experience an old fashioned steam train ride but also to see how things used to be when people took pride in their job and their surroundings. The stations were clean and tidy, the toilet facilities were great, something you certainly don't get on modern stations.
A big round of applause goes out to all the staff and volunteers who make the experience a nice day out for all those who visit.
One thing I would say though is that the Broadway is not as picturesque as other places in the area, we only stayed for a short while as nothing really appealed to me apart from the Mancave shop."
beaker882002
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cheltenham Racecourse Station is easily accessible by car, with dedicated parking available. It's also served by local bus routes. For those arriving by train, it's a short taxi or bus ride from Cheltenham Spa station.
Yes, there is parking available at the station. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on busy event days, to secure a space.
Local bus services connect to Cheltenham Racecourse. If arriving by national rail, Cheltenham Spa is the main station, from which you can take a bus or taxi.
The station is located adjacent to the Cheltenham Racecourse. Follow signs for the racecourse and then for the railway station.
Yes, the station is well-signposted and located at the well-known Cheltenham Racecourse complex, making it straightforward to find.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online in advance through the official Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway website, or at the ticket office on the day of travel. Booking ahead is recommended for popular services.
The station's operating hours vary depending on the train schedule. It's best to check the official GWSR website for the most up-to-date timetable and opening hours for ticket sales and cafe facilities.
The GWSR often offers family tickets and sometimes group discounts. Check their website for current pricing and any special offers.
Tickets are typically valid for a specific service or a day of travel on scheduled services. It's important to check the terms and conditions of your ticket.
Refund policies can vary, especially for special events. It's advisable to review the GWSR's terms and conditions regarding cancellations or changes to bookings.
🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a steam train ride, explore the heritage station, visit the cafe, and learn about railway history through displays. Special events offer additional activities.
Yes, clean and well-maintained toilet facilities are available at Cheltenham Racecourse Station and other stations along the line.
Absolutely. Ramps are available to help wheelchair users board the trains, and staff are on hand to assist.
Yes, there's a refreshment hut or cafe at the station offering hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals.
A journey from Cheltenham Racecourse to Broadway typically takes about an hour each way, with time to explore Broadway station.
📸 📸 Photography
Stations like Toddington and Broadway offer great vantage points. The line itself, winding through the Cotswolds, provides scenic backdrops.
Yes, passengers are welcome to take photos from their seats or on the platform. Be mindful of other passengers and railway staff instructions.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional or commercial photography may require prior permission. Always respect safety guidelines.
You'll see a mix of steam and diesel heritage locomotives, including iconic engines like the Merchant Navy class.
Yes, the railway operates between several stations, allowing you to photograph trains at various points along the line and at different heritage station settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Book tickets in advance for popular events, arrive early for parking, and consider bringing snacks to keep little ones happy. The accessibility features mean even families with strollers or very young children can enjoy the day.
♿ Visitors with Mobility Issues
Recommendations: Inform staff upon arrival about any specific needs. The gentle slopes at the station and the ease of boarding make it a viable option for a day out.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Photography tips: Explore different stations like Toddington and Broadway for unique angles. Be prepared for dynamic shots of steam trains in motion. Remember to respect safety guidelines and other passengers' experiences.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Friendly Line' Experience
+1 The railway is run by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about preserving railway history and providing a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Visitors often praise the GWSR for its well-maintained stations, clean carriages, and the genuine enthusiasm of its staff. The journey itself is a highlight, offering beautiful views of the countryside and a chance to step back in time. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or looking for a family-friendly day out, the GWSR provides a charming and memorable experience.
Special events, such as the popular Santa Express, add an extra layer of magic, particularly for families with children. These events often feature themed decorations, activities, and even visits from characters like Father Christmas, making them a highly anticipated part of the year.
Accessibility and Family Fun
Families often find the GWSR to be a fantastic day out. The 'Harry Potter' style compartment carriages can be a particular hit with younger visitors, adding an element of fun and imagination to the journey.
Beyond the train ride, the stations themselves offer points of interest. You can explore historical displays, learn about the railway's past, and enjoy refreshments. While Broadway station might not be as picturesque as other Cotswold locations, the overall experience of the railway journey and the friendly service make it a worthwhile visit for all ages.
Photography Opportunities
+1Key locations for photography include the beautifully preserved stations like Toddington and Broadway, where you can frame shots of trains arriving and departing. The line itself, winding through rolling hills and picturesque countryside, offers scenic opportunities.
+1 Many visitors enjoy capturing the steam and smoke as the engines power along the track. When photographing, remember to be aware of your surroundings and follow any safety instructions from railway staff. Capturing the 'golden hour' light can also enhance your railway photographs, adding a warm glow to the vintage locomotives and stations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit