Gartell Light Railway - Image 1

Gartell Light Railway

Yenston, United Kingdom•4.7(80)•Heritage Site, Museum

Ride narrow gauge steam and diesel trains through Somerset countryside while experiencing a working museum of traditional railway heritage and practice.

The Gartell Light Railway is a delightful narrow gauge railway located in South Somerset's beautiful Blackmore Vale countryside. Privately owned and operated by the Gartell family since 1991, this working railway museum offers visitors a unique journey experience through the route of the historic Somerset & Dorset Railway. Trains are operated using traditional methods with steam and diesel locomotives, semaphore and colour-light signals controlled from two signal boxes, providing an authentic glimpse into classic railway operations. Visitors can enjoy frequent train services departing every 20 minutes from the main station at Common Lane, with stops at three additional stations including Pinesway Junction, Park Lane, and Tower View. A highlight of the timetable includes an interesting manoeuvre where engines 'run-round' their trains before departing in the opposite direction. The railway also features two trains regularly departing side by side to different destinations, with one descending a gradient to pass under a bridge as the other passes overhead. The venue is suitable for all the family with multiple attractions beyond the train rides. Facilities include The Pines Buffet serving hot and cold drinks and snacks, a Visitor Centre containing local railway memorabilia, a GLR Shop offering mementos, and a lakeside picnic area perfect for watching trains pass by. The railway is notably accessible with level access from the car park, wheelchair-adapted coaches, and helpful staff assistance for disabled and less-abled visitors. 2026 marks the final year of operation, making this a special time to experience this beloved Somerset attraction.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 09:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 17:00
Friday: 09:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

The Pines Buffet

Volunteer-run catering offering a range of hot and cold refreshments including breakfasts, bacon rolls, sandwiches, cakes, hot dogs, burgers, ice cream, and afternoon tea with locally sourced products where possible.

Google Reviews

4.7(80 reviews)
M
Mike Lambden

Mike Lambden

a month ago

Unfortunately this was the VERY LAST DAY of this magnificent light railway 🚂🚃🚃 The news was that after many years of providing joy and entertainment to 1000's if people, it was finally having Close PERMANENTLY. There will be a few Auction Day Events open to the public but sadly 😭😩 the Railway Days are ended!! There was NO News (at the time of posting) of any 'resuce plans'! 😕🧐☹️😢 Hopefully this little Railway, Museum, Cafe and Picnic Areas is saved!! 🙏🤞🍀 We Really enjoyed our day out here together with our 4 dogs!

G
Grahame Wells

Grahame Wells

5 months ago

What a gem. Run as as beloved hobby and helped by volunteers. See it before it disappears. Open generally last Sundays in month Ap-Oct + some BHs. Fascinating, snorting, tooting, gleaming light steam trains pulling carriages. Can ride around the fields several times. Great little cafe with homemade cakes etc. Other attractions. Free parking. Go.

J
JF Mulligan

JF Mulligan

11 months ago

The railway wasn't open when we arrived but just a check of the operation over the fence clearly shows this is an amazing little railway. The attention to detail in the track, signal and equipment areas is first class.

J
Jenny Brice

Jenny Brice

a year ago

A fantastic afternoon out. My husband and I took our toddler and baby here and had such a fun time! As others have mentioned, the volunteers are just brilliant. So friendly; greeting you by name, taking photos for you, answering questions and cooking up lovely food and drinks in the cafe. We went on the diesel train twice today and enjoyed playing with the model trains that Trevor kindly brought in to entertain the little ones (and older ones!) The whole site was well maintained (such fun watching the lawn mowing robot), with picnic area, pond and space to run and play. Lots of indoor and outdoor seating. We bought some lovely cards and gifts from the shop too and appreciated learning something of train history! If we are in the area for holiday again we’ll be back - thank you all for giving up your time and knowledge so cheerfully 🚂

J
Jenny Masters

Jenny Masters

a year ago

Fantastic light railway. We visited today for the first time with our grandson and had a great time. We were first visitors on site today and were immediately impressed with the site, huge car park, everything well sign posted and exceptionally clean. All staff/volunteers were exceptionally friendly and helpful. A particular mention to William whom our grandson took a shine to, asking him question after question, which was answered in an appropriate and friendly way. We were able to visit the Signal Box and again William answered our questions in a very informative way. The cafe served simple food but was very tasty and well priced and the coffee was great too. Fantastic value, this was our first visit but definitely won’t be our last.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Gartell Light Railway

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Gartell Light Railway

Is Gartell Light Railway free to visit?

Gartell Light Railway is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is Gartell Light Railway suitable for?

Gartell Light Railway is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Gartell Light Railway dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Gartell Light Railway.

Is there parking at Gartell Light Railway?

Yes, Gartell Light Railway has on-site parking.

Is there food at Gartell Light Railway?

Yes — The Pines Buffet is on site at Gartell Light Railway. Volunteer-run catering offering a range of hot and cold refreshments including breakfasts, bacon rolls, sandwiches,…

Is Gartell Light Railway pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Gartell Light Railway is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Gartell Light Railway?

Gartell Light Railway is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Gartell Light Railway by public transport?

Gartell Light Railway is well-served by public transport.
Kiddy Compass