Bellarine Railway Drysdale
Ride heritage steam and diesel trains on scenic routes, with magical themed events and fine dining experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Christmas magic awaits!
Bellarine Railway Drysdale
Best Time
Christmas magic awaits!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride heritage steam and diesel trains on scenic routes, with magical themed events and fine dining experiences.
"The Polar Express™ was 'the real deal' - magical for kids and adults alike!"
Book Polar Express Early! 🚂
Tickets for The Polar Express™ sell out fast! Book months in advance for this popular Christmas event.
Q Train Dress Code?
While not formal, smart casual is recommended for The Q Train to match the fine dining experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Polar Express™ Experience
Bellarine Railway
Step into a magical Christmas world with characters, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa. A 90-minute adventure perfect for families.
Steam Light Nights
Queenscliff Station
A winter wonderland with fire pits, fairy lights, and marshmallow roasting on a steam train ride. Magical for all ages.
The Q Train Dining Experience
Drysdale to Queenscliff
Enjoy a multi-course degustation meal on a heritage train, offering fine dining with scenic coastal views.
Heritage Steam and Diesel Trains
Bellarine Railway Stations
Ride vintage steam and diesel trains, experiencing a journey back in time through the charming Bellarine Peninsula.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Themed Rides in Advance
Consider The Q Train for a Unique Meal
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Polar Express Early! 🚂
Tickets for The Polar Express™ sell out fast! Book months in advance for this popular Christmas event.
Q Train Dress Code?
While not formal, smart casual is recommended for The Q Train to match the fine dining experience.
Check Timetables
Train schedules vary by season and event. Always check the official Bellarine Railway website before visiting.
Family-Friendly Fun
The railway is fantastic for kids, with engaging performances and friendly stewards making it a memorable day.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Polar Express Early! 🚂
Tickets for The Polar Express™ sell out fast! Book months in advance for this popular Christmas event.
Q Train Dress Code?
While not formal, smart casual is recommended for The Q Train to match the fine dining experience.
Check Timetables
Train schedules vary by season and event. Always check the official Bellarine Railway website before visiting.
Family-Friendly Fun
The railway is fantastic for kids, with engaging performances and friendly stewards making it a memorable day.
Combine with Cycling
The rail trail offers a great cycling option between stations, perfect for an active day out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical experiences offered by Bellarine Railway, particularly The Polar Express™ and Steam Light Nights, praising the immersive atmosphere and friendly staff. The Q Train is lauded for its fine dining and scenic journey. Some note that regular market days can be more like car-boot sales, but the heritage trains and stations are consistently appreciated.
"We went on the Polar Express and my oldest said it was “the real deal” and not like “Puffing Billy who dresses up like the Polar Express.”
We travelled a long way from the Dandenong Ranges and were welcomed by the friendliest stewards, they were so wonderful with the kids, and the performances and acts really made the whole day. The train ride itself was perfect for the kiddos (not too long) and very entertaining. The highlight was meeting Santa and receiving a little bell. We can’t wait to be back for Thomas!"
Melbourne With Siri
"Wonderful way to spend a special day. Totally exquisite"
Paula Bernard
"The Q Train is a great experience. It’s a 6 course degustation menu, and the service is excellent."
Matthew Eno
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bellarine Railway Drysdale is about a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne. You can also take a train to Geelong and then a bus or taxi to Drysdale.
Yes, there is a large car park available at Drysdale Station, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While direct public transport to Drysdale Station can be limited, you can reach Geelong by train and then connect via local bus services.
Accessibility can vary depending on the specific train and carriages. It's best to contact Bellarine Railway directly to confirm accessibility for your visit.
Queenscliff Station is also accessible by car, and it's a popular starting point for The Q Train and other heritage services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the specific train service and any special events. The Polar Express™ and The Q Train have separate pricing. Check their website for current rates.
For special events like The Polar Express™ and Steam Light Nights, booking in advance is highly recommended as tickets sell out quickly.
A Q Train ticket typically includes a multi-course degustation menu featuring local produce. Drinks are usually an additional cost.
Occasionally, promotional codes are offered, such as a 10% discount for The Polar Express™ mentioned in some social media posts. Keep an eye out for these offers.
Operating hours and days vary significantly based on the season and scheduled events. It's essential to check the official Bellarine Railway timetable for your desired date.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
The railway features a mix of heritage steam and diesel locomotives, offering a diverse experience for train enthusiasts.
Standard heritage train rides can vary, but special experiences like The Polar Express™ are around 90 minutes, including the train journey. The Q Train experience is typically 3 hours.
Yes, especially during themed events like The Polar Express™, there are performances, character interactions, and a visit from Santa.
Absolutely! The historic stations and vintage trains provide excellent photo opportunities.
Both are heritage stations on the Bellarine Railway line. Drysdale is a key departure point for The Q Train, while Queenscliff is a picturesque historic hub.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Q Train offers a unique fine-dining experience with a multi-course menu. For other services, snacks and beverages may be available for purchase.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks is not permitted on The Q Train due to its dining focus. For other services, it's best to check the specific policy.
Drysdale and the surrounding Bellarine Peninsula offer various cafes and restaurants. Queenscliff also has several dining options.
The Q Train serves a 6-course degustation menu that highlights local produce from the Bellarine Peninsula.
It's advisable to contact The Q Train directly when booking to discuss any dietary requirements or allergies.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic stations themselves, especially Drysdale and Queenscliff, offer great backdrops. The curves of the track and the surrounding landscapes also provide scenic opportunities.
Yes, you can take photos from the train windows, but be mindful of reflections and the speed of the train. Opening windows on heritage carriages can offer clearer shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission. Always respect the operational areas.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) often provides beautiful light for train photography. For themed events, capturing the atmosphere with lights is key.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both the train and its surroundings. A wide-angle lens can be great for station shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking themed events well in advance as they are extremely popular. For a more relaxed experience, a standard heritage train ride offers plenty of excitement. There's also a good kids' playground at the station, making it a well-rounded family outing.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
During winter, the Steam Light Nights offer a magical atmosphere with fire pits and fairy lights, perfect for a cozy and enchanting evening. Even a regular heritage train ride can be a charming and nostalgic outing for couples looking for a relaxed and scenic day trip.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts & History Buffs
For those interested in the mechanics and history, the variety of rolling stock and the operational heritage line offer a fascinating glimpse into railway operations. Keep an eye out for special heritage events or working days that might offer even deeper insights into the preservation and operation of these vintage trains.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of The Polar Express™
Social media buzz highlights the authenticity of the experience, with one reviewer noting it felt like 'the real deal' compared to other themed rides. The friendly stewards and engaging performances are frequently praised, making it a truly memorable day for families. Due to its immense popularity, booking tickets months in advance is crucial, especially for weekend slots.
Beyond the train ride, the highlight for many is meeting Santa Claus himself and receiving a special memento. This event is a prime example of how the Bellarine Railway leverages its heritage assets to create unique, seasonal attractions that draw visitors from across the region.
The Q Train: A Culinary Journey
The journey itself is part of the experience, with the train winding through picturesque coastal landscapes. The service is consistently praised for being excellent and attentive, complementing the culinary delights. The Q Train operates on specific days, and booking is essential due to its popularity. While the menu is designed to showcase regional flavors, it's always recommended to inquire about dietary requirements when booking to ensure a seamless experience.
This venture beautifully blends the charm of heritage rail travel with the sophistication of modern gastronomy, creating an unforgettable outing. It's a testament to the Bellarine Railway's versatility, offering more than just scenic rides but also premium experiences.
Exploring Drysdale and Queenscliff Stations
Queenscliff Station is another gem, a picturesque historic hub that serves as a terminus for some services and a scenic stop. It's often associated with the Q Train's route and is a beautiful place to explore. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and the ambiance of these well-preserved stations. For those looking for a more active experience, the rail trail offers a fantastic opportunity for cycling between the stations, providing a different perspective of the Bellarine Peninsula.
Both stations are more than just transit points; they are destinations in themselves, offering a tangible connection to Victoria's railway history. They serve as excellent starting points for exploring the wider Bellarine Peninsula, whether by train, bike, or car.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit