
Heatherslaw Light Railway
A delightful miniature steam railway journey through scenic Northumberland countryside, connecting charming villages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the steam trains

Heatherslaw Light Railway
Best Time
Enjoy the steam trains

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A delightful miniature steam railway journey through scenic Northumberland countryside, connecting charming villages.
"Absolutely fantastic railway, a lovely pleasant journey to Etal castle. "

🚂 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot on the steam train, especially for popular locomotives like Bunty or Katie.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore Etal village and the mill area, so comfy footwear is a must.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Steam Locomotive Ride
Heatherslaw to Etal
Experience the charm of a steam train journey through beautiful countryside and along the riverside.

Etal Village Exploration
End of the line
Discover the historic Etal Castle, a new cider brewery, and quaint independent shops in this picturesque village.

Heatherslaw Mill Museum
Heatherslaw Station
Visit the mill museum, cafe, and craft shops located near the Heatherslaw station, offering local crafts and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Train Ride
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot on the steam train, especially for popular locomotives like Bunty or Katie.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore Etal village and the mill area, so comfy footwear is a must.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The riverside views and charming villages are perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera!
☕ Enjoy Local Cafes
There are cafes at both Heatherslaw and Etal stations for refreshments.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot on the steam train, especially for popular locomotives like Bunty or Katie.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore Etal village and the mill area, so comfy footwear is a must.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The riverside views and charming villages are perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera!
☕ Enjoy Local Cafes
There are cafes at both Heatherslaw and Etal stations for refreshments.
🗺️ Check Operating Days
The railway operates seasonally; always check the timetable before visiting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Heatherslaw Light Railway for its charming steam train experience and the beautiful scenery it traverses. The friendly staff and the picturesque destinations of Etal village and Heatherslaw mill are frequently highlighted as major positives. While it's a short ride and not a full-day attraction, it's highly recommended for a pleasant and memorable excursion in Northumberland.
"It's a tourist mostly steam miniature railway, not busy even in July. It's not a long run, around a mile by road, and it takes the train around 20 minutes each way. It's not historic, it was built purely for tourist reasons. There's a cafe at each end, a mill at the Heatherslaw end, a castle and cidery at the Etal end. Don't expect this to be a full day out, but if you time it to include lunch it will kill a little while."
Michael R (cuddlemonkey)
"Was told of this place by a colleague. We absolutely loved this place. Ford and Etal are very picturesque. Lovely for walking, independant shops like jewellery, plants and other little shops. Totally Recommended.
We will definitely be coming back."
Leslie Brown
"Absolutely fantastic railway, a lovely pleasant journey to Etal castle.
The staff are friendly and approachable and helpful if you are interested in railways.
It's definitely a MUST if you are in the area.
We will definitely be calling again. 😁👍👍"
Steve Lamb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Heatherslaw Light Railway is located in Northumberland, near Berwick-upon-Tweed. Driving is the most common way to reach it, with free parking available at both Heatherslaw and Etal stations. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Yes, there is free parking available at both the Heatherslaw and Etal station ends of the railway line.
Public transport to Heatherslaw Light Railway is limited. The nearest major town is Berwick-upon-Tweed, from where you would need to arrange local bus services or a taxi. It's advisable to check current bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
The nearest main train station is Berwick-upon-Tweed. From there, you would need to arrange onward travel, such as a taxi or local bus, to reach the railway.
While specific accessibility details can vary, miniature railways often have some accessibility considerations. It's best to contact the railway directly to inquire about wheelchair access on the trains and at the stations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but a family ticket is often around £30, which is considered reasonable for the experience and supports the railway's operation. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to ensure you get a spot on your desired train.
Heatherslaw Light Railway operates seasonally, typically opening around April 1st and running through the summer months. Operating days and hours can vary, so it's essential to check their official timetable before your visit.
While it might be possible to buy tickets on the day, booking in advance is advised to avoid disappointment, particularly if you have a specific date or time in mind.
Family tickets are often available and offer good value. It's worth checking their website for any specific group discounts or special offers that might be running.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire route offers scenic opportunities, especially the sections along the river. The stations themselves, with the steam engines, are also great for photos. Don't forget to capture the charming village of Etal too.
Yes, passengers are generally allowed to take photos from their seats on the train. Be mindful of other passengers and avoid obstructing views.
Drone usage is typically restricted at heritage railways and tourist attractions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check the railway's specific policy on drone usage before flying.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile zoom lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is ideal for capturing both the trains and the scenery. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the village shots.
Absolutely! The Heatherslaw Light Railway often features specific steam locomotives like Bunty and Katie. Capturing them at the stations or chugging along the line makes for fantastic railway photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes located at both the Heatherslaw and Etal station ends. These offer refreshments and light meals.
Picnicking is a great option, especially if you're combining the train ride with exploring Etal. There are lovely spots by the river in Etal where you can enjoy a picnic.
The cafes typically offer a selection of hot and cold drinks, cakes, sandwiches, and light snacks.
While Etal Castle itself is a historical site, the nearby village of Etal has cafes and potentially pubs that offer dining options. The railway's end station is in Etal, making it convenient to find food there.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally acceptable, especially for picnics. Please be mindful of disposing of any waste responsibly.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
It's a charming miniature steam railway offering a scenic 20-minute journey each way between Heatherslaw and Etal. Visitors enjoy the steam engines, beautiful countryside, and the picturesque destinations.
The train journey from Heatherslaw to Etal takes approximately 20 minutes each way.
At Etal, you can explore Etal Castle (free to walk around), visit a new cider brewery, and browse independent shops.
The Heatherslaw end features a mill museum, a cafe, a shop selling crafts, and other retail areas.
Yes, it's a fantastic experience for families and children who love trains. The short journey and the novelty of steam engines are usually a big hit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Couples & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Steam Locomotives
The railway often features specific engines for limited periods, adding an element of excitement for enthusiasts. For instance, 'Katie' has been highlighted for special visits. This means checking the railway's schedule can reveal which particular locomotive will be in service during your visit, adding an extra layer of anticipation for train lovers. The dedication of the staff and volunteers in maintaining these historic engines is evident and contributes greatly to the overall experience.
Exploring the Ford and Etal Estates
At the Etal end, the village is a highlight, boasting Etal Castle, which is free to explore, a cidery, and a collection of independent shops. This offers a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll, some unique shopping, and a taste of local produce. The Heatherslaw end complements this with its own attractions, including the mill museum, a cafe, and craft shops. This combination of natural beauty and charming villages makes the Heatherslaw Light Railway a gateway to a wider, enjoyable exploration of Northumberland.
A Historical Note on Berwick-upon-Tweed
Adding to its historical intrigue, there's a quirky tale about Berwick-upon-Tweed being technically at war with Russia for over 100 years due to an unresolved declaration from the Crimean War. While likely apocryphal or a historical curiosity, these stories add a layer of mystique to the area surrounding the railway. Understanding this context can enrich a visit, as you're exploring a region steeped in centuries of historical significance and border lore.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit