Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway
Sightseeing attraction | Ulverston | England | United Kingdom
The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway in Ulverston, England, is one of the most charming historic railway lines in the Lake District and a real highlight for lovers of nostalgia, steam locomotives, and picturesque nature. This 5.1-kilometer museum railway runs through the idyllic Leven Valley, connecting Haverthwaite with Lakeside at the southern end of Lake Windermere, England's largest lake. Originally part of the Furness Railway, the line opened in 1869 and served both freight transport – particularly of coal and iron ore – and promoting tourism in the region. After its closure in 1965 as part of the Beeching reforms, it was revived in 1973 by a group of dedicated enthusiasts and is now one of the most popular attractions for families, railway enthusiasts, and visitors to the Lake District.
The starting point of the journey is Haverthwaite Station, a lovingly restored Victorian station that immediately exudes an atmosphere of bygone times. Here, visitors board the traditional 1950s carriages pulled by steam-powered locomotives. The journey itself is a leisurely experience, taking passengers through the gentle landscape of the Leven Valley – past green meadows, dense forests, and along the River Leven. The locomotives, including the rare Fairburn Class 4 MT Tank Engines, are carefully restored and maintained by a team of engineers and volunteers. Visitors can observe the machines up close and learn more about their history at the Haverthwaite engine shed.
At the end of the line, the train reaches Lakeside Station, a bustling hub right on the shores of Windermere. This station is not only a terminus but also a gateway to further adventures: from here, visitors can seamlessly switch to Windermere Lake Cruises, which operate historic steamboats to Bowness or Ambleside. The proximity to the lake and the option to continue the journey on the water make the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway a perfect combination of land and water experience. In the Lakeside area, there are also other attractions, such as the Lakes Aquarium showcasing the region's underwater world or the Lakeland Motor Museum displaying an impressive collection of historic vehicles.
The railway experience is particularly family-friendly. Children can enjoy the ride, marvel at the technology in the engine shed, or play in the Woodland Playground in Haverthwaite, an adventure area amidst nature with views of the tracks. Dogs are also welcome and can share the journey with their owners. Picnic opportunities along the route, including elevated viewpoints of Haverthwaite Station, invite visitors to linger. A Victorian-style tearoom at Haverthwaite Station offers homemade food and drinks, while a gift shop provides souvenirs such as model trains, local products, and mementos of the day.
The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is more than just a train ride – it is a journey back to the era of steam power and a window into the industrial history of the Lake District. Once part of a larger network facilitating the transport of raw materials and tourists, the line was revived only through the dedication of volunteers and the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway Company. Today, it embodies the preservation of a piece of British culture while offering a relaxed way to discover the region's beauty. The connection between steam train rides and lake excursions makes it unique, combining the best of both worlds: the nostalgia of the railway and the tranquility of the water.
The railway operates seasonally, with the peak season covering the warmer months, and offers special events such as Diesel Days or themed rides to enrich the program. The scenery of the Leven Valley changes with the seasons – from the fresh green of spring to the golden hues of autumn – making each journey a new experience. For railway enthusiasts, the opportunity to see rare locomotives in action is a special draw, while families appreciate the combination of adventure and relaxation. The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is a place that keeps history alive while making the natural beauty of the Lake District accessible in an unforgettable way.
