Ride heritage steam and diesel locomotives on this volunteer-run miniature railway set in a public park, featuring authentic signal boxes and railway infrastructure.

Swanley New Barn Railway is a heritage railway attraction operated by dedicated volunteers and housed within Swanley Park in Kent. Visitors can experience rides on both steam and diesel locomotives, offering a unique journey through railway history. The railway features authentic operational infrastructure including a restored Westinghouse Type L signal frame from Gloucester Road (Croydon), colour light signalling systems, and fully interlocked points and track circuits that demonstrate real railway engineering principles. The venue is particularly notable for its meticulous attention to historical detail and technical authenticity. The signal box, named Holborn Crossing in memory of the railway's founding member, controls 17 signals and 7 sets of points using both original mechanical elements and modern electronic systems. The railway operates seasonally on weekends and during Kent school holidays, opening from 11am to 5pm. Swanley New Barn Railway is family-friendly and welcomes visitors of all ages to experience a working heritage railway. The open-air location in Swanley Park provides a pleasant setting for a day out, with the venue being dog-friendly and pushchair-accessible. With operating since the early 1980s and celebrating its 40th anniversary, this volunteer-run attraction offers educational value alongside entertainment, appealing to both railway enthusiasts and families seeking a distinctive day trip.

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

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Anna H

2 months ago

A Brilliant afternoon out. Our little ones loved it. A decent sized park. The regular min train service is great, has a carriage for big bag/ pram goes from the car park to the lovely splash zone & playground / lake, perfect for our little one. It was a hot day and the fair was there too, super busy! Best book the splash play in advance. The cafe food was good and theres plenty of shady grassy spots by trees around to pop a mat down & have a rest.

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Terry Hutchinson

2 months ago

Amazing little line. Lovely volunteers, beautiful locos and I was allowed to have a go on one of them! Would highly recommend for those with children and enthusiasts! I will be joining the team!

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Francesca Hibbert

7 months ago

We love a visit ti Swanley Park for the train ride! Its so much fun and is low cost for a day out.

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salomena washington

8 months ago

A lovely lovely place to go with friends and family! Kids enjoyed so much.

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Ali Ashford

a year ago

Great little ride from the car park to the activities, very welcome on a hot day carrying our things for the splash pool. £2 each return, good value abd the kids loved it. Recommend!

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026