Steaming through the Countryside on the way to Oakworth Station.
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Keighley and Worth Valley Railway

4.7
·3k reviews·Haworth, United Kingdom

Step back in time on a heritage steam railway, famous for 'The Railway Children' film, through picturesque West Yorkshire.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends & School Holidays

More trains and events running

CrowdHigh
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Steaming through the Countryside on the way to Oakworth Station.

Keighley and Worth Valley Railway

Best Time

Weekends & School Holidays

More trains and events running

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time on a heritage steam railway, famous for 'The Railway Children' film, through picturesque West Yorkshire. Instagram

4.7
(3k reviews)

"A spectacular day out on a regular line, now maintained by a volunteer organisation. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Rover Tickets

Get an all-day rover ticket to hop on and off at different stations, maximizing your exploration.

🚂 Check the Timetable

Steam and diesel services vary. Always check the official timetable before your visit to see what's running.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Steam Train Ride

Vintage Steam Train Ride

Keighley to Oxenhope

Experience the romance of steam travel on a preserved heritage line, chugging through picturesque West Yorkshire countryside.

Instagram
Iconic 'The Railway Children' Setting

Iconic 'The Railway Children' Setting

Various stations along the line

Walk the platforms and see the landscapes made famous by the beloved 1970 film adaptation.

Instagram+1
Haworth Station & Museum

Haworth Station & Museum

Haworth

Explore a meticulously preserved Victorian station and a fascinating museum showcasing railway history.

Instagram
Themed Event Experiences

Themed Event Experiences

Various stations

Enjoy special events like Christmas trains, steam galas, or murder mystery nights for a unique adventure.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Themed Events

Popular themed events like Christmas trains or steam galas sell out fast. Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment and secure your spot on these special journeys. Reddit

Embrace the Heritage Experience

This isn't just a train ride; it's a step back in time. Allow ample time to explore the immaculately preserved stations, visit the museum, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekends & School Holidays
Why
More trains and events running
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful journey
Crowd
Low
When
Themed Event Days
Why
Unique experiences, festive fun
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @amberdobson22 keighly is an ineresting place. 6/10 tho! #fyp #foryou #theram #keighly
@brodytheram
3.7K likes • 57.3K views

🎟️ Book Rover Tickets

Get an all-day rover ticket to hop on and off at different stations, maximizing your exploration. Reddit

🚂 Check the Timetable

Steam and diesel services vary. Always check the official timetable before your visit to see what's running. Instagram

Keighley are you ready?! Just weeks away from opening now!
@legends.uk
973 likes • 33.9K views
Coach 2856 at the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. This coach was built in 1898! Check out the first class compartment!! ##kwvr##railway##heritage##Iner## fyp
lifeontheheritagerails
186 likes • 3.1K views

☕ Enjoy Onboard Refreshments

Some carriages offer a bar with local beers or afternoon tea for a special treat. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Haworth Village

Combine your train journey with a visit to the charming village of Haworth, home of the Brontë sisters. Instagram

The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway is a heritage railway that was reopened in 1968 and runs from Keighley to Oxenhope through Brontë country and was the main setting for the 1970 British drama The Railway Children. Here’s a brief snapshot of our fab day railing up and down the route. #steamtrain #brontecountry #westyorkshire
fullerpeter
17 likes • 209 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Rover Tickets

Get an all-day rover ticket to hop on and off at different stations, maximizing your exploration. Reddit

🚂 Check the Timetable

Steam and diesel services vary. Always check the official timetable before your visit to see what's running. Instagram

☕ Enjoy Onboard Refreshments

Some carriages offer a bar with local beers or afternoon tea for a special treat. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Haworth Village

Combine your train journey with a visit to the charming village of Haworth, home of the Brontë sisters. Instagram

📸 Capture the Nostalgia

Bring your camera to photograph the vintage locomotives and beautifully preserved stations. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway for its authentic heritage experience, friendly staff, and well-maintained locomotives and stations. The connection to 'The Railway Children' film adds a unique charm, and themed events are highly recommended for an extra special visit. Some find the regular services can be crowded during peak times.

"Steam train on a regular line. A spectacular day out. It’s a regular line and engine, now maintained by a volunteer organisation. There are both steam and diesel engines. The carriage has a great bar with local beers. The shops at the station have interesting gifts. People are super friendly."

James Naismith

"Small,but perfectly formed line,with immaculately preserved stations. Staff very personable,great carriage stock,and excellent value for money,with a great addition of the museum,adding to the all round experience. Fantastic to be on the iconic platform, as featured in the Railway Children,and of course,the quaint smallest station in Britain. My son is a railway enthusiast,and adored it. Highly recommended"

Eric Coudrill

"Just had the traditional afternoon tea experience. Absolutely blown away. Fantastic food, excellent service, in short a really brilliant day, when I felt I got full value for my money. There is a nice selection of sandwiches, meringues/ macaroons and a large scones with cream and jam. Also included in the price is an all day rover ticket. A very enjoyable day and highly recommended."

matt wilcock

What People Like

Authentic heritage experience
Friendly and passionate staff
Well-preserved stations and locomotives

What People Dislike

Can be crowded on event days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Leeds Bradford Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Leeds train station, then catch a train to Keighley. The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway station is a short walk from Keighley station. Alternatively, a taxi directly from the airport to Keighley is an option. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Keighley station, though it can get busy, especially on event days. Consider arriving early or using public transport if possible. TikTok

Absolutely! Keighley is well-served by public transport. Trains run regularly to Keighley, and the railway station is conveniently located nearby. Reddit

The main stations include Keighley (the starting point), Ingrow West, Damems, Haworth, and Oxenhope (the terminus). Instagram

Accessibility can vary by train and station. It's best to contact the railway directly to inquire about specific accessibility arrangements for your visit. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online in advance through the official Keighley and Worth Valley Railway website, or at the ticket office on the day of your visit. Booking ahead is recommended for popular events. Reddit

A Rover Ticket allows you unlimited travel on the railway for the entire day, enabling you to hop on and off at any station along the line. Reddit

Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and families. Check the official website for current pricing and any special offers or discount codes. TikTok

Operating hours and days vary depending on the season and scheduled services. Always check the official timetable on their website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

If you have a voucher, ensure it's valid for the date and service you wish to use. Present it at the ticket office or follow online booking instructions if applicable. TikTok

🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience

The railway operates a mix of heritage steam locomotives and diesel multiple units (DMUs), offering a diverse experience for train enthusiasts. Instagram+1

Haworth Station is a beautifully preserved Victorian station featuring a museum, gift shop, and often hosts special events. It's a key stop for experiencing the railway's history. Instagram

Yes, the engine sheds are often open to visitors, allowing you to see the locomotives up close and learn about their maintenance and operation. Reddit

Photography is generally welcomed, especially at stations and during events. However, always be mindful of safety and operational areas. Instagram

The railway is famous as the filming location for 'The Railway Children'. Special events and themed rides recreate the magic of the film, immersing visitors in the story. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, some carriages offer a bar with local beers, and special dining experiences like afternoon tea or fish and chips are available on certain services. Reddit

Stations like Haworth and Keighley often have cafes or kiosks selling snacks and light refreshments. For more substantial meals, consider dining on a themed train service. Reddit

Yes, the railway offers a traditional afternoon tea experience on select services, which includes an all-day rover ticket. Booking in advance is essential. Reddit

This is a themed evening event that includes a steam train journey, fish and chips, and onboard entertainment, offering a unique dining and travel experience. Reddit

Dining options can vary. It's advisable to check with the railway when booking special dining experiences to confirm dietary provisions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Key photography spots include the stations themselves (especially Haworth and Keighley), and scenic points along the line like Oakworth Station, where 'The Railway Children' was filmed. Instagram+1

Yes, the engine sheds are often accessible and provide excellent opportunities to photograph locomotives up close, especially during open days or galas. Reddit

The railway occasionally hosts steam galas or diesel galas which are prime times for photographers, with multiple locomotives in operation. Instagram+1

Expect classic shots of steam billowing, powerful locomotives climbing gradients, and the nostalgic atmosphere of heritage rail travel. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted for safety and operational reasons. Always check the railway's specific policy on drones before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway is a fantastic destination for families. The thrill of riding a real steam train is captivating for children, and the connection to 'The Railway Children' story adds an extra layer of magic. Instagram+1 Consider booking a 'Rover Ticket' so kids can enjoy hopping on and off at different stations. The museum at Haworth Station offers educational insights, and many themed events are specifically designed with younger visitors in mind. Reddit

Pack snacks and drinks, as while there are refreshments available, having your own can be handy. Check the timetable for family-friendly services and be aware that some themed events can be very popular, so booking ahead is crucial. Reddit

🚂 Railway Enthusiasts

For dedicated railway enthusiasts, the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway is a paradise. The chance to see and ride behind a variety of heritage steam and diesel locomotives is a major draw. Instagram+1 Keep an eye on the schedule for Steam Galas and Diesel Galas, which are prime opportunities to witness multiple engines in operation and capture unique photographic moments. Instagram Exploring the engine sheds and learning about the restoration and maintenance efforts from the passionate volunteers is also a highlight. Reddit

Don't miss the chance to explore the immaculately preserved stations, each with its own character and history. The railway's commitment to authenticity means you'll experience a genuine slice of railway heritage. Instagram Engaging with the staff and volunteers can provide invaluable insights into the world of heritage railways. Reddit

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

A ride on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway can be a wonderfully romantic experience. Opt for the traditional afternoon tea service for a delightful and intimate meal aboard a vintage carriage, complete with stunning countryside views. Reddit The nostalgic atmosphere and the gentle rhythm of the steam train create a perfect backdrop for a memorable day out together. Instagram

Combine your train journey with a visit to the charming village of Haworth, known for its literary connections and quaint streets. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, perhaps followed by a cozy pub lunch, before embarking on your scenic railway adventure. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through 'The Railway Children' Country

The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway holds a special place in cinematic history as the primary filming location for the iconic 1970 film, 'The Railway Children'. Visitors can retrace the steps of the Waterbury family, experiencing the very platforms and landscapes that brought the beloved story to life. Instagram+1 The railway actively embraces this heritage, with special events and themed experiences that immerse visitors in the magic of the film, making it a must-visit for fans and families alike. Instagram

Key filming locations along the line include Oakworth Station, which was transformed into the fictional 'Rendlesham' station for the movie. Exploring these stations, like the immaculately preserved Haworth Station, offers a tangible connection to the film's era and its enduring charm. Instagram The railway's commitment to preserving its heritage ensures that the romantic atmosphere of 'The Railway Children' is palpable on every journey. Instagram

The Heart of Heritage Rail: Locomotives and Stations

The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway is a living museum, showcasing a diverse collection of heritage steam and diesel locomotives. From powerful LMS Black 5s and 8Fs to smaller tank engines like the LB&SCR A1 Terrier, there's a locomotive to capture every enthusiast's imagination. Instagram+1 The railway also operates diesel multiple units (DMUs), offering a different, yet equally engaging, rail experience. Instagram

The stations along the line are as much a part of the attraction as the trains themselves. Haworth Station, in particular, is a stunning example of Victorian railway architecture, complete with original signage and a charming museum. Instagram Other stations like Keighley and Oxenhope are also meticulously maintained, providing authentic glimpses into the golden age of rail travel. Instagram Visitors can often explore the engine sheds, getting up close to these magnificent machines and learning about the dedicated volunteers who keep them running. Reddit

Experiencing Themed Events and Dining

Beyond regular services, the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway excels in offering unique themed events throughout the year. These range from spectacular Steam Galas, where multiple locomotives are in action, to festive Christmas trains and even immersive 'Murder Mystery' evenings. InstagramReddit These events are incredibly popular and often require advance booking, providing a special occasion for families and enthusiasts. Reddit

For a truly memorable experience, consider the railway's dining options. The traditional afternoon tea, served in a vintage carriage, is a highlight, offering a delightful spread with an all-day rover ticket included. Reddit Alternatively, the 'Haworth Haddock' event provides a fun evening with fish and chips and onboard entertainment. Reddit These culinary journeys, combined with the scenic train rides, make for a comprehensive and enjoyable day out. Reddit

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