Hastings Miniature Railway
A charming seaside miniature railway offering delightful rides along the Hastings coast, perfect for families and train enthusiasts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Hastings Miniature Railway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming seaside miniature railway offering delightful rides along the Hastings coast, perfect for families and train enthusiasts.
"This is the best flipping thing I've been on in many moons sir. Was worth every penny and we all loved it."
🎯 Bring Cash!
The railway is cash-only, so come prepared!
⏰ Arrive Early
To avoid queues and get the best seats, aim to arrive before opening.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seaside Voyage
Along the seafront
Enjoy charming views of the sea on one side and the town on the other. A delightful journey for all ages.
Variety of Engines
Depot
Experience different diesel engines operating frequently, adding variety to your ride. Kids especially love this!
Family Fun Hub
Near amusement park
A great value family attraction that connects to the amusement park, making for a perfect day out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Cash is King
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Cash!
The railway is cash-only, so come prepared!
⏰ Arrive Early
To avoid queues and get the best seats, aim to arrive before opening.
📸 Capture the Views
The coastal scenery is lovely, perfect for photos!
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
Great value for families, kids love the train rides.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Cash!
The railway is cash-only, so come prepared!
⏰ Arrive Early
To avoid queues and get the best seats, aim to arrive before opening.
📸 Capture the Views
The coastal scenery is lovely, perfect for photos!
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
Great value for families, kids love the train rides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the Hastings Miniature Railway are mixed, with many praising its value, family-friendliness, and the charm of the ride. However, some visitors feel the ride is too short and the scenery is not as impressive as expected, deeming it a 'waste of money' for the price.
"Waste of money, it says coastal ride you only see abandoned fisher man houses, car parked. Hardly any nice scenery. Also about 5mins ride. Its not worth it. You see lot more walking. Of you really want the ride just get single ticket"
Salima Begum
"This is the best flipping thing I've been on in many moons sir. I saw it and knew it had to be ridden like a drunk chick at a mechanical bull ride. Was worth every penny and we all loved it.
I may have been the most excited but people's were waving and stuff was epic"
Taylor Thunderbear
"Single trip is around 5 min. The fare is £5 for a round trip. We paid £20 for 5 person. Infant and kids paid the same. We ride 2 different diesel engines. The kids love it."
Monkey Choi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from London Bridge or Charing Cross to Hastings, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. +1 From the station, it's a short walk or a quick taxi ride to the railway. Major car parks are also conveniently located nearby.
Yes, there are major car parks close to the Hastings Miniature Railway, making it easily accessible for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Trains from London are a popular option, and once in Hastings, the railway is accessible via walking or local transport. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A single ticket is around £2-£3, and a round trip is approximately £3-£5 per person. Infants and children pay the same fare as adults.
No, the Hastings Miniature Railway is cash-only. It's essential to have enough British Pounds with you.
A single trip on the miniature railway lasts about 5 minutes, offering a quick but enjoyable experience.
Yes, family tickets are available, for example, a family of 5 (2 adults, 3 children) might cost around £17.50.
Operating hours can vary, but they are often open on weekends and during specific event days. It's best to check their schedule before visiting.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The railway features various diesel engines that operate frequently, offering a chance to ride behind different locomotives.
The ride offers views of the sea on one side and the town, including parts of the fishing village, on the other. Some visitors note that scenery can be limited to abandoned fisherman's houses and car parks.
Yes, it's a highly recommended attraction for families and children, who often love the experience.
Absolutely! The coastal views and the miniature trains themselves make for great photo opportunities.
The railway is close to major car parks and other attractions, including amusement parks and the historic Old Town of Hastings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the railway itself might not have extensive dining, Hastings offers traditional fish and chips and other seaside treats nearby.
Picnics are generally welcome at most outdoor attractions, but it's always good to check for any specific rules.
📸 📸 Photography
The stretch along the seafront offers great opportunities to capture the train with the sea in the background. The depot area can also be interesting for train enthusiasts.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the charm of the miniature trains, especially with the coastal backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a day of it by exploring Hastings' other family-friendly spots, such as the beach, arcades, or even the SEA LIFE Hastings aquarium. The town's compact nature makes it easy to navigate with children, and the miniature railway serves as a charming focal point for a seaside adventure.
🚂 Rail Enthusiasts
While the route itself might not offer dramatic landscapes, the charm of a well-maintained miniature railway and the friendly atmosphere are often highlighted. Enthusiasts might also appreciate the proximity to other heritage railways or railway-themed attractions in the wider region.
🚶 Day-Trippers from London
Combine the train ride with a stroll along the seafront, exploring the historic Old Town, or enjoying some classic fish and chips.
The railway's location near major car parks and other attractions makes it a convenient starting or ending point for your Hastings adventure. Just remember to bring cash for your tickets! Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Miniature Railways
+1Several diesel engines operate on the line, ensuring frequent departures and a chance to see different locomotives in action. While some reviews mention the scenery being limited, others highlight the simple pleasure of a seaside train ride and the value for money.
For those interested in the mechanics and history, the railway is a small but significant part of Hastings' local attractions. It connects key points along the seafront, making it a convenient way to travel between areas or simply enjoy a scenic loop.
Navigating Hastings: Beyond the Railway
The town also boasts the East Hill Cliff Railway, the UK's steepest funicular railway, offering spectacular panoramic views of the coastline and the English Channel. +1For a taste of local culture, the Hastings Fishermen's Museum provides insight into the town's maritime heritage, while the Jerwood Gallery showcases contemporary British art. The seafront itself is a hub of activity, with arcades, amusements, and plenty of opportunities to sample classic seaside fare like fish and chips.
Getting to Hastings is straightforward, with regular train services from London taking around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an accessible day trip destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit