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Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is one of the oldest, longest and narrowest gauge railways in England, affectionately known as ‘La’al Ratty’ meaning ‘Little railway’.  The heritage steam engine transports passengers from Ravenglass the only coastal village in the Lake District National Park. The journey itself crosses seven miles of wonderful Cumbrian scenery with sights of England’s highest mountains and a little piece of heaven. Enjoy a 40 minute ride in the protected nature reserves of the Ravenglass Estuary, through ancient woodlands onto the fells of the Eskdale Valley.

Do you have little ones? Why not ask them to see if the can spot wildlife along the way including Greylag Geese, Curlew, Shelduck, Red Squirrels and Buzzards.

The steam trains are the perfect attraction to visit even on those rainy days with both covered and open top carriages. There are two main station stops including Ravenglass Station where you will find ‘The Turntable Café’. This licensed station café is located on Platform 1 and has a spacious seating area downstairs overlooking the platform as well as a children’s play area.

Why not enjoy a little retail therapy and visit the Ravenglass gift shop with a selection of gifts, snacks and walking/cycling guides.

You can opt to break your journey at Dalegarth for Boot Station and enjoy a walk or bike ride followed by a treat at ‘Fellbites Café’. The upper level overlooks the main platform where you can happily watch the engines go back and forth. Why not also pop into the Scafell Gift Shop with something to suit all budgets while letting the children burn off a bit of steam in the outdoor children’s play area, complete with its own stationary wooden train.

Hints/Tips: Free wifi at Fellbites Café at Dalegarth for Boot Station. Bring extra layers as it can get chilly as the train picks up speed, especially if you travel in one of the open top carriages. You can combine a trip on the railway with a trip to Muncaster Castle by purchasing a joint ticket.

Why we like it: Dogs are welcome for a small fee. There are a number of walks from Dalegarth which offer some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside. The cakes are pretty amazing too!