Children of all ages love trains and there are plenty of fun train-related activities and days out in and around Berkshire for train enthusiasts of all ages. Here is a selection of just some of them.
Railway Centres and Attractions
Didcot Railway Centre: This former Great Western Railway engine shed has been converted into a fascinating railway museum. There is plenty to explore in the museum itself and you can take a ride on some of the trains too. Please do check their website to book and for opening times.
Watercress Line: The Watercress Line makes for a perfect day out for all the family with plenty of activities included in the ticket price – children can play in the brand-new playground and experience the thrill of a trip on a steam train through the spectacular Hampshire countryside. There are children’s trails to follow, exhibitions to explore, you can watch the locomotives being restored and ride on the miniature railway too. They also run themed ‘Day out with Thomas’ days. Please check the website for full details.
Bekonscot Model Village and Railway: This is the world’s oldest original model village. The model village is made up of 7 little towns which are located around the gardens and of course the model railway is the main highlight. Admission charges apply and for an additional £1.50 you can ride on the miniature railway. There is also a playground, tea room, ice cream shop and gardens to explore.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre: Visit the centre for steam train rides (on Steaming Days), ride the miniature railway, watch the model trains, visit the Railway Museum and Visitor Centre with shop and café and more. Check the website for further details and for information on their special events (including Teddy’s Train Ride and a Day out with Thomas).
Miniature Railways
Pinewood (Wokingham) Miniature Railway: The Pinewood Railway runs for half a mile through a woodland setting. Please note it is only open on the 3rd Sunday of every month from March – October. Pinewood Miniature Railway also run a popular Santa special. We have previously loved visiting here, click here to read about our visit. There is also a cafe, adventure playgrounds and a lovely woodland walk here.
Prospect Park Miniature Railway: Compromised of two tracks and located in Prospect Park in Reading, this railway is open in the afternoon of the 1st Sunday in every month. It is run by the Reading Society of Model Engineers.
Jocks Lane Miniature Railway: Jocks Lane Recreation Ground plays host to the Bracknell Railway Society which provides miniature steam train rides on selected dates throughout the year. Please visit their website for running dates and further details.
Mizen’s Railway: Passengers can choose from a variety of routes and locomotives for their miniature railway ride. The station building houses refreshments and a shop. Please visit the website to check running times.
Frimley Lodge Miniature Railway: This miniature railway offers a scenic ride for a kilometre in the park and features steam and ‘diesel’ hauled trains. It is open on the first Sunday of each month from March to November and they also hold some other special events throughout the year. There is also a lovely walk along the Basingstoke Canal, just a minute away from the miniature railway.
Train Activity Providers
Fun with Trains: A family run business bringing the ultimate train track events to venues around the country. In Berkshire, they work with Loddon Valley Leisure Centre in Reading. Children will love the giant, super-charged train tracks featuring many popular character trains, tunnels, stations, garages and bridges.
Train Master Berkshire: Trainmaster have multiple ‘stations’ across the country for children to jump on board and play. They fill their rooms with a giant hands-on train track, electric trains, a ride on train, crafts and fancy dress. The sessions run in Thatcham.
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