Ride steam-powered miniature locomotives through Central Park on two-scale railway tracks operated by model engineering enthusiasts.

Chelmsford City Miniature Railway offers a unique heritage experience where visitors can enjoy passenger rides pulled by authentic steam locomotives on meticulously maintained two-scale railway tracks. Situated in Central Park in central Chelmsford, the railway is operated by the Chelmsford Society of Model Engineers, a 91-year-old club dedicated to preserving and showcasing model engineering craftsmanship. The railway runs on Sunday afternoons, providing families and visitors with an opportunity to experience the nostalgia and engineering marvel of steam-powered transport. The venue welcomes members of the public to ride the trains and observe the intricate workings of these impressive scale models. Junior members aged under 16 can participate with adult supervision, making it suitable for families with children. The on-site Clubhouse provides light refreshments during public running sessions, ensuring comfort for visitors. The club maintains a well-equipped facility for infrastructure and rolling stock maintenance, reflecting the high standards of the model engineering hobby. The venue represents a living museum of engineering heritage, combining historical interest with interactive passenger experiences that appeal to railway enthusiasts and families alike.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

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Andrew Cartwright

4 months ago

"A five star railway isn't it dad!" A big thumbs up from my son! Warmly greeted on entering, tickets are £1.50 each or 6 tickets for £7. There was about 4 different trains for the kids to try on our visit. They have managed to jam in quite a good bit of track into the space they have. On leaving we also grabbed some refreshments from the cafe, cans were £1.30, and I think the kids fruit shoots were about 60p. They also had ice pops at just 10p! Very very reasonable prices! I suspect we shall return again at some point in the future and will come back - assuming its a sunday afternoon...! Note: Parking in nearby Meteor Way car park is free on a sunday.

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Jodi McAllister

4 months ago

My 4 year old daughter absolutely loved riding the trains, thanks to all your lovely staff! You are all so kind and lovely to talk to. Thanks for the happy memories!

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Emma A

5 months ago

Fantastic afternoon out for little ones. Really reasonably priced and run by lovely people. Would absolutely recommend for little kids. Great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Check their Facebook page for opening times but it usually runs every Sunday (except the first Sunday of the month) from April - October.

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Ellis

12 months ago

Cool place with people genuinely passionate about their hobby. Lovely cake and only a quid to ride on the trains!

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Sharada Keats

7 years ago

Amazing, tiny little steam trains with real little coal furnaces, lovely afternoon out, super friendly, 3yo loved it as much as his parents did 👍😁

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026