Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway
Sarah Gaffney-Lang, Families Editor
Calling steam train enthusiasts big and small!
In picturesque West Cumbria, the historic Ravenglass & Eskdale railway is ready to transport you back in time.
Departing at Ravenglass – the only coastal village located in two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the route covers seven miles, with seven stops and takes 40 minutes each way – covering a vast landscape with estuaries, open countryside and England’s highest mountains as a spectacular backdrop from some 210ft above sea level.
A ride on the La’al Ratty was one of Alfred Wainwright’s favourites trips and immortalised in his walks from to ‘Britain’s Favourite View’ – Wastwater which is a short walk away.
Travellers can choose from the open top upper carriage or the cosier half-covered option depending on the weather. Both provide stunning views for the not-to-be-missed photo opportunities at Irton Road (on the outward leg) and Murthwaite Crushing Plant (on the return).
The main season runs from March until October (there are special heritage train rides organised annually during the winter months including over Christmas and into the New Year).
A ride in the Ravenglass & Eskdale railway carriage with your little ones is not to be missed.
