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🚂Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway
A 7-mile narrow-gauge heritage railway running through the scenic Lake District from Ravenglass to Eskdale. Known as the La'al Ratty, it offers steam and diesel train rides with stunning views of mountains, rivers, and woodland. Families can enjoy a museum at the station, a play area, cafe, and picnic spots. Trains are buggy-friendly, and there are frequent services. Highlights include the chance to see the driver at work and the beautiful Eskdale scenery.
- Suitable for all ages, from babies to grandparents.
- Facilities: toilets, baby changing, cafe with children's menu, gift shop, and a small museum.
- Practical tips: dress for weather, bring a camera, and check timetable for special events like Santa specials.
Travel tips
Trains are buggy-friendly
You can take pushchairs on board, making it easy to travel with babies and toddlers without needing to fold buggies away.
Baby changing facilities available
The station has baby changing facilities, so you can change nappies comfortably before or after your journey.
Check the timetable for special events
Look for special services like Santa specials during festive periods, which often appeal more to children than regular services.
Dress appropriately for changing weather
The Lake District weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and waterproof jackets even if it looks fine, as it's open-air travel.
Frequent train services mean flexible timing
With frequent services throughout the day, you don't need to plan your visit around specific train times, giving you flexibility with young children.
Bring a camera for the scenery
The 7-mile route through mountains, rivers, and woodland offers brilliant photo opportunities. Have your camera or phone ready during the journey.
Explore beyond just the train ride
There's a museum at the station, a play area, and a cafe, so you can spend 2-3 hours here rather than just the train journey itself.
Cafe with children's menu on site
The station cafe serves food including a children's menu, so you don't need to pack all your own supplies, though picnics are also welcome.
Picnic spots available
There are designated picnic areas at the station, so bringing a packed lunch is a good value option for families.
Watch the driver at work
Children often enjoy watching the steam or diesel train operators in action, especially younger ones fascinated by how trains work.
Plan for open-air exposure
This is outdoor train travel with minimal shelter, so expect wind and potential sun exposure. Bring sun cream and hats in warmer months.
Toilets are available at the station
Facilities include toilets, so you can use them before boarding rather than worrying about facilities mid-journey.
Suitable for all ages from birth
The railway welcomes everyone from babies to grandparents, so there's no age limit for enjoying this heritage attraction.
Gift shop for souvenirs
There's a gift shop at the station where children can choose a small memento from their train ride.
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