Ride a historic miniature railway around a freshwater lake with wheelchair and dog-friendly carriages in this Victorian-era park.

Poole Park Railway offers families a charming heritage experience aboard diesel engine 'Howard', which takes passengers on leisurely rides around the park's scenic freshwater lake. The 32-person capacity carriages are fully wheelchair and pushchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors of all ages and abilities. Dogs travel free, and the friendly crew happily toot the whistle as you journey through the park. Located within Poole Park, a beautiful Victorian landscape with open parkland, gardens, and lakeside views, the railway operates year-round with daily services from 10am-4.30pm during spring and summer months. The service runs less frequently during winter weather. The railway has a fascinating history dating back to 1949, and was recently relaunched in October 2022with new track and livery paying homage to the Southern Railway that operated in the area from 1923-1947. Tickets are affordable at £3.90 per standard ticket, with children under two travelling free and family tickets available. The park offers multiple attractions nearby including The Kitchen & Scoops café, crazy golf, tennis courts, and watersports, making it an ideal venue for a full day of family activities. Contactless payments only accepted.

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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Hussain M

a month ago

This park and the train ride is very underrated. At 1st i was abit underwhelmed but for my 1 year old son he loved it and the soft play too. Cause he enjoyed me and my wife enjoyed. Definitely a hit and visit needed if your planning a day with the family in Pooley em

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Chris J

5 months ago

Great bunch of volunteers. Check Facebook for times before you go, super friendly and our toddler loved it

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Thomas Ellis

2 years ago

Wonderful experience at Poole Park, we saw positive reviews online and couldn't believe how beautiful and family friendly this park is. The closest thing to this we have in our local area is Cannon Hill Park in Birmingham. Train ride was relatively cheap for 2 laps if the track, Volunteer staff were very friendly.

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Jestina Anderson

2 years ago

Spent half a day in the sunshine at Poole Park with our Grandkids and Godchildren . It offered a wide range of activities from the play area, boats, mini golf, soft play and steam railway. As well as allowing plenty of running around and climbing. We all had an enjoyable afternoon.

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Helen Allsebrook

2 years ago

As an adult, reliving childhood memories, I thought this was FANTASTIC, particularly for only £3.50. The volunteers were wonderfully welcoming and friendly. Leave your inhibitions behind and hop on!

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026