South Tynedale Railway is England’s highest narrow gauge railway and lies in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) sandwiched between two World Heritage Sites and a National Park. You can climb aboard at any of our four stations for a leisurely ride through the scenic South Tyne Valley and take in the stunning views of wide open skies and wildlife aplenty. You’ll meet our volunteer train crews who will happily tell you more about the railway and the local area.
At Alston station you’ll learn more about the history of the railway and the vintage locos which haul our trains when you visit the Discovery Centre and Engineering Workshop Gallery. There’s also a gift shop stocked with something to suit every pocket and interest; from railway memorabilia, to souvenirs of your day, to locally produced gifts and toys for our younger visitors, and there’s even a free spotter sheet to collect for your journey!
The Crossing Café at Alston serves an exciting seasonal menu with an emphasis on locally sourced produce and gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options and you can treat yourself to an awesome afternoon tea in our bespoke afternoon tea carriage ‘Number 12’. A take-out menu is available so you can stop off at one of our four picnic areas or enjoy refreshments as you journey through the countryside. The lineside Buffet Car at Slaggyford station is usually open for drinks and snacks and it’s worth alighting from the train and exploring this picturesque little station. 
The historic market town of Alston with its quaint shops and cobbled streets is only a short walk away from the station and well worth a visit. Walk or cycle the South Tyne Trail which runs alongside our line and take advantage of our All Day Rover or Station Hopper Tickets.
All areas of our award winning site (with the exception of the signal boxes) are accessible and we haul an accessible carriage on every train. All areas of the site are dog friendly so you can bring the four legged members of your family with you too! There are free car parks at both Alston and Slaggyford.
Trains run from Easter to October with special events throughout the year and at only 35 minutes away from Northumberland National Park we aren’t as remote as you might think!