The Middleton Railway - Image 1

The Middleton Railway

Leeds, United Kingdom•4.6(117)•Heritage Site, Museum

Ride restored steam and diesel trains on the world's oldest continuously working railway, a 260-year-old heritage attraction with museum exhibits and family-friendly experiences.

The Middleton Railway is a world-renowned heritage attraction established in 1758, making it the oldest continuously working railway in operation. Located in Leeds, this award-winning venue preserves over 260 years of industrial railway history and is run entirely by dedicated volunteers. Visitors can experience authentic journeys aboard beautifully restored steam and diesel trains, traveling from the Moor Road headquarters to the scenic Park Halt. The venue features an impressive Engine House museum and display hall showcasing a collection of historic locomotives and artifacts from the Leeds locomotive building industry. The railway is significant for its role as a pioneer of the first Railway Act of Parliament and for witnessing the world's first commercially successful steam locomotives in 1812. Families and rail enthusiasts of all ages will find engaging activities including regular steam and diesel running days, special events, and educational programs. The venue also offers unique experiences such as footplate passes, party trains for celebrations, and Creation Station activities. With its combination of interactive heritage experiences, outdoor train rides, and indoor museum exploration, the Middleton Railway provides a memorable educational day out for families interested in industrial history and transportation heritage.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

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

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in or book in advance

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

Café

On-site café offering refreshments

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Google Reviews

4.6(117 reviews)
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Benjamin Starkey

Benjamin Starkey

3 months ago

Took Great Nephews out on trains today at Broom Pit Railway,12 year old just rode up and down on steam train, while 6 year old played with toys,and explored the museum and static displays, we also explored Middleton woods, a fun day was had by all the family,and all for £22 ticket.

K
K. Peake

K. Peake

a year ago

This was a brilliant heritage railway to visit, with green steam trains pulling the classic red carriages! Wooden interior feels different and the style feels polished while well-maintained, railway runs to one stop where the train turns around. Green spaces are to be walked around here and the departure platform is grand in itself, with a pretty black and red hut. History is delved into of Middleton Railway as the world's longest running passenger railway with the old trains shown, it was fascinating that a couple even allow visitors to walk into the cabs! Stories are told of the trains being imported from countries like Denmark which is evident in their different designs and underground locomotives are demonstrated for how mines were once accessed, giant rail crane is outside of the entrance too.

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Adam Burt

Adam Burt

2 years ago

This in my living area, visit twice, first to look around as there small muesum, shop and cafe. Even bought few things. Do see that black stream train alot when go past as it display outside. And staffs maybe volunteers, it Oldest Working RAilway and surprice it can be around. Second time, I visit I use the train to Middleton Park.

L
Laurence Keir

Laurence Keir

9 years ago

Went for the first time in years and it's great! Took outer little boy to see a steam train for the first time. All the volunteers are helpful and friendly, the displays are interesting and well labelled. The train ride is brilliant, you get to see the engine swap round at each end and the engineers are more than happy to explain what they're doing.

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Kris B

Kris B

9 years ago

Fantastic experience! loved every minute of it. The family popped here in Summer, We wondered through the sheds looking at the old steam trains and engineering equipment and then took the train from the sheds to the bottom of Middleton Park and back again. You can have a walk round Middleton park before returning as the train takes about 20minutes there and back again, The day we went they had a model railway show on which was brilliant for my little one to see. Will be going back. Parking is limited but we parked on a near by street.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at The Middleton 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 The Middleton Railway

Is The Middleton Railway free to visit?

The Middleton Railway is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is The Middleton Railway dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at The Middleton Railway.

Is there parking at The Middleton Railway?

The Middleton Railway doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at The Middleton Railway?

Yes — Café is on site at The Middleton Railway. On-site café offering refreshments

Is The Middleton Railway pushchair-friendly?

The Middleton Railway isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at The Middleton Railway?

The Middleton Railway is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to The Middleton Railway by public transport?

The Middleton Railway is well-served by public transport.
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