South Downs Light Railway - Image 1

South Downs Light Railway

Pulborough, United Kingdom•4.9(141)•Country Park, Heritage Site

Ride a miniature steam railway winding nearly a mile through scenic South Downs grounds, complete with tunnels and steep cuttings for a nostalgic family adventure.

South Downs Light Railway is a 10¼ inch gauge miniature railway nestled in the grounds of a garden centre in Pulborough, West Sussex, within the South Downs National Park. Since opening in 2000, this beloved attraction has delighted visitors of all ages with its charming journey that winds nearly a mile through the garden centre grounds, climbs a steep fourteen-foot-deep cutting, and passes through an atmospheric tunnel. Trains typically run from March to September and are hauled by real coal-burning steam locomotives, offering an authentic heritage railway experience in miniature. The railway features multiple restored locomotives with individual histories, detailed on their dedicated pages, allowing enthusiasts to learn about the engines powering their journey. The venue continually enhances its facilities, with recent additions including a new station and ticket office, engine shed, extended carriage shed, water tower with coal bunker, and turntable. The railway celebrates its heritage with a 25-year anniversary book documenting its evolution and the earlier 7¼ inch gauge railways that operated on the site. Suitable for families with children of various ages, the outdoor setting and pushchair-friendly amenities make it accessible for young visitors. Special experiences include Christmas events and children's parties, ensuring memorable days out year-round.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Contact venue for details

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

Google Reviews

4.9(141 reviews)
J
Jack Handley

Jack Handley

5 months ago

Cheap and fun, fairly short run but it is a tiny train. Staff were lovely

C
Charmaine Gunter-Clark

Charmaine Gunter-Clark

11 months ago

No matter your age; there's a child in all of us - delighted at the prospect of travelling on steam trains! I took my friend Geoff to see Pulborough Garden Centre and he was so excited. The staff kindly showed us where they maintain the trains. Yay! Afterwards we had a thick bacon butty in the garden café. A lovely time indeed.

D
David Williamson

David Williamson

2 years ago

We took the grandkids for a trip on the Santa's Special here and it was brilliant! What an absolute bargain at only £4 a ticket ( take a look at how much the Bluebell line costs!) and the little ones loved it. All the staff really put themselves out. Can't recommend this enough and we can't wait for some more trips in the summer!

I
Ian Callagan

Ian Callagan

2 years ago

What a great find, was looking for something to do with my 3 year old grandson and stumbled across this gem. We thought it would only be a short quick ride on a miniature railway as it is set up at a garden centre, how wrong were we. The volunteers that run it are so friendly and enthusiastic they help make the day special. The day we went they had more than one train running, the trains go up hills across bridges and through tunnels. My grandson absolutely had the day of his life ( so did we to be honest) It also made a change they thought about the visitors and the cost. It was fantastic value we bought the 4 ride savers which was £4.50 for children aged between 4 and 14, and 2 adult 4 ride saver at £6.00 each. Or you could buy single tickets at £1.50 and £2.00. We have been to the Bluebell Railway before but that unfortunately has got so expensive and to be honest to see the smile on my grandson face and the excitement he had the whole day we spent here I think this is the place we will definitely be heading to again soon

J
James Hutchison

James Hutchison

4 years ago

My two sons and I visited the Teddy bear's picnic last Sunday and had a fabulous afternoon. There were lots of trains running and the staff had gone to a lot of trouble to make the day exciting for the kids. Everyone was really very helpful and friendly making the event great fun for all. A lovely railway to visit and I would thoroughly recommend to others.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at South Downs Light Railway

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about South Downs Light Railway

Is South Downs Light Railway free to visit?

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

Is South Downs Light Railway dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at South Downs Light Railway.

Is there parking at South Downs Light Railway?

South Downs Light Railway doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at South Downs Light Railway?

South Downs Light Railway doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is South Downs Light Railway pushchair-friendly?

Yes, South Downs 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 South Downs Light Railway?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to South Downs Light Railway.

How do I get to South Downs Light Railway by public transport?

South Downs Light Railway isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
Kiddy Compass