Ride the world's oldest continuously running 15-inch gauge miniature railway along Southport's scenic Marine Lake since 1911.

Lakeside Miniature Railway is a historic narrow-gauge railway that has been operating continuously since 1911, making it the oldest of its kind in the world. Located in Southport, Merseyside, this charming attraction runs along the seaward side of Marine Lake, offering passengers a scenic 1.5-kilometre round trip journey between the Pleasureland and Marine Parade terminals. The railway features a single track with traditional run-round loops at each end, allowing locomotives to change direction. Visitors can experience authentic miniature train travel aboard carefully maintained steam and diesel locomotives, including historic engines like "Jenny" and the "Wild West" loco added to the fleet in 2020. The Pleasureland terminus has been significantly developed with family-friendly amenities including a refreshment kiosk, traditional roundabout, and helter-skelter ride. Suitable for families with young children and railway enthusiasts of all ages, Lakeside Miniature Railway combines heritage and nostalgia with modern visitor facilities. The attraction operates in an open-air setting along the picturesque Marine Lake, making it an ideal activity for families seeking a unique seaside experience. With outdoor seating, food facilities, and dog-friendly policies, it offers a memorable outing for visitors exploring Southport's attractions.

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

F

Franck Pasternak

11 months ago

Great nice moment, peaceful time in this mini train

D

DRIVER CRAIG

a year ago

Not sure what’s happend but maybe it’s because it’s out of season. But it looks like the rail way needs saving and some money spending on its up keep and the general well being of the whole site. Needs something and quick !

J

John Livesey

3 years ago

Really well maintained miniature railway. Always popular with the kids and older kids.

B

Brian Jones

4 years ago

Nice for the kids but parts of it are in desperate need of repair. Building has been demolished at the pier end of the line and nothing much there in facilities. The Pleasure Beach end of the line is better, but parts of the engine shed are falling off. Bits of unused tracks litter the site around the station area.

R

Robert Shaw

7 years ago

Great customer service - we got to the station just after the train departed and it came back to get us! One star subtracted because it's not a real steam engine! 😋

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026