Sample the atmosphere and take a ride on an award winning period country railway. A pretty line, relocated station buildings, signal boxes and bridges all lovingly restored and rebuilt. A large and varied collection of operational vintage steam and diesel engines, carriages and wagons that represent much of our Railway Heritage is available to explore around.
Garden Railway
Visit our new attraction for all ages. A few of our volunteers have developed a miniature railway in a Garden Environment. SM32 gauge trains run around 100 metres of track through a tunnel, stations and over bridges. Can you find Nessie?
Miniature Railway
Opened in 2008 this has now been extended with a new station and turntable. In 7 ΒΌ inch gauge and 400 metres long, the railway runs on all open days
Model Railway
Two 00 gauge model layouts. Operated by Halstead Model Railway Club. Open only on special days. Call railways for dates.
Exhibition Centre
Open most operational Sundays and at special events. See how our railway has developed over the years, and the previous Colne Valley & Halstead Railway’s early history.
Farm Park
Meander amongst rare breeds in our adjoining Farm Park. Enjoy the woodland picnic area, walks beside the River Colne beside animal pens
Signalbox
This working Signalbox is open for visitors on all operational days.
‘Sidings’ Buffet Car
Open every operating day, serving hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and home made cakes. For special parties please contact the railway.
Station Shop
Open all operational days and at special events, stocking a wide selection of Thomas toys and Railway souvenirs.
2009 Events
Teddy Bears Picnic
Wednesdays in August β 6th, 13th, 20, 27th.
Every child bringing a Teddy Bear gets 50% discount on the admission ticket.
Freight Train Gala β 20th April.
Several steam trains with a typical rural goods train – shunting demonstrations.
Travelling Post Office Day β 11th May.
Commemorates the end of Travelling Post Offices on the Main Line. Our own Travelling Post Office Carriage will be operating with demonstrations.
Colne Valley Railway at War β 8th June
The Colne Valley Railway played a major part in the war effort as it served many local airfields. This day will feature evacuation trains, bomb trains, military vehicles and staff in period costumes.
Model Railway Exhibition β 29th June
A festival of Model Railways, supported by trade stands. In association with Halstead Model Railway Club.
Steam Gala β 31st August
All available Steam Locomotives with be hauling trains, with goods trains, crane demonstrations and other displays.
Diesel Railcar Gala β 25th and 26th October
All available diesel railcars will operate. A vintage bus service will operate to the East Anglian Rail Museum at Chappel. In association with Diesel Railcars Association and the East Anglian Railway Museum.
All special events entrance fees are as follows:
Β£8 adults, Β£4 child, Β£6 senior, Β£24 family (2 adults and up to 4 children)
Santa Specials
December 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd.
Where?
Colne Valley Railway
Castle Hedingham
CO9 3DZ
By phone
01787 461174
Website
www.colnevalleyrailway.net