Audley End Miniature Railway
Saffron Walden, Essex
About Audley End Miniature Railway
Welcome to Audley End Miniature Railway, a magical destination nestled in the ancient woodlands of North Essex, near Saffron Walden. With over 2,000 glowing reviews online, Audley End Miniature Railway is a beloved attraction offering a unique and enchanting day out for families.
Our railway glides through 1.5 miles of breathtaking Capability Brown-designed woodland, providing a charming ride that delights all ages. Featuring steam, diesel, and electric trains, we celebrate a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, preserving the heritage of classic locomotives while embracing modern advancements. Along the journey, you’ll pass by 11 beautifully themed creations, such as a smoke-breathing dragon, all handcrafted by our creative team. You'll also travel through our enchanted grotto, which changes seasonally to amaze and delight. During Easter, Halloween, and Christmas, the train stops at the grotto, where children receive a gift and enjoy a special show before continuing their journey.
Created by Lord Braybrooke, who had a lifelong passion for steam trains, the railway was officially opened to the public in 1964 with the help of racing legend Sir Stirling Moss. With over 60 years of heritage, Audley End Miniature Railway has evolved from simple picnics and teddy bear spotting to a vibrant calendar of activities and special events.
As the holiday season approaches, from 21st November to 24th December, experience our Christmas Special. Climb aboard the miniature Christmas Express, where the Nutcracker station master will guide you through the enchanted woods to Santa’s winter workshop. Every boy and girl will meet Father Christmas, who will visit your carriage with a special gift. After your magical train ride, take a stroll through our beautifully illuminated woodland walk, make your own reindeer feed bags, and write your Christmas wish list—complete with a fast-track stamp to pop in our special-delivery letterbox! With a festive stage show and a magical carousel, there’s no shortage of Christmas cheer.
There's so much to enjoy at Audley End Miniature Railway all year round!
For your convenience, we offer disabled parking adjacent to the station platform, accessible toilets, and a specially designed carriage with room for one wheelchair. Our on-site cafe and shop are perfect for refreshments and souvenirs. Additionally, we run SEN-friendly sessions after carefully considering and listening to the needs of many parents of children with special educational needs or disabilities. We have made thoughtful adjustments to our Enchanted Summer Adventure to create a more inclusive and comfortable experience. Our SEN sessions will take place at the beginning of the day, ensuring that visitors will be the first customers on-site, making the environment quieter and more serene. We’ve implemented reduced or eliminated queuing times for ease of movement. To accommodate sensory sensitivities, the volume of sound and music will be reduced, and there will be no microphones, flashing lights, or unexpected events or sounds. Additionally, all staff are trained to reflect the advice provided by specialists and parents, ensuring a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for all our visitors.
You’ll love Audley End Miniature Railway if you enjoy magical experiences, love spending time outdoors, and appreciate a blend of history and modern innovation. This attraction is perfect for families seeking a unique day out filled with adventure, enchantment, and nature.
Visit Audley End Miniature Railway and discover why our community is so strong and our events are so popular. Don’t miss out on the magic—plan your visit today!
Looking for Easter events near you? Visit our Easter Events Page to discover top rated Easter Events!
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Magical Woodland Railway and Seasonal Events for Families.
Set in the ancient woodlands in North Essex, near Saffron Walden, Audley End Miniature Railway offers a magical day out for families. With a rich history spanning over 60 years, the railway has evolved from simple picnics and teddy bear spotting to a vibrant calendar of activities and special events. Visitors can enjoy a full calendar of activities including Woodland Adventure Days, Train & Play days as well as our ever-popular Special Events. Audley End Miniature Railway captures the imagination, fosters a love for the outdoors, and creates lasting memories for children of all ages. Experience the magic and make unforgettable memories with us.
The UK's First Electric Heritage Train!
Glide through 1.5 miles of breath-taking Capability Brown-designed woodland, powered by a robust battery with an impressive 150-mile range on a single charge. With a battery weight of 300kg, this marvel of modern engineering is not just eco-friendly but also exceptionally efficient. Later this year, we aim to set a new record for the longest distance travelled on a single charge by a battery electric train, striving to surpass the current 84-mile benchmark. Join us on this pioneering journey and witness the future of railway heritage unfold!
Diverse Range of Unique Activities Changing every Event.
We offer a diverse array of actors and props that change with every event, ensuring each visit provides a unique experience. Delight in our magical Fairy & Elf Walk, where you can spot fairies and elves, immersing yourself in the enchantment of our attraction. As an outdoor venue, we promote a strong relationship with nature, encouraging children and families to explore and appreciate the great outdoors. Enjoy the magic and wonder of our Nature Corner.
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Dog Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Opening Times
- Monday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, 09:00 - 17:00
26th October - 3rd November - 9:00-19:30
21st November - 24th December - 9:00-20:00
Pricing & Tickets
- Babies and Toddlers (0-1) : Free
Enchanted Summer AdventureAdults from £15.00-£16.00Kids (over 92 cm) from £15.00-£16.00 Kids under 92cm from £7.50-£8.00Under 1's: Free
Carer of Disabled
Special Events - Prices vary
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Audley End Miniature Railway by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 3 - 4 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
JacketPotatoes - Cheese|BakedBeans|TunaMayo - from £4.50
HotWraps - Brie&Bacon|Chicken&Mozzarella| - from £7.50
Falafel&Mozzarella|MeatFeastPizza
Pizza - 9"12"Margherita,Pepperoni - from £10.50
Burger*|HotDog*|BaconRolls* - from £5.50
Freshly made Baguettes - from £6
Sausage Rolls & Vegan Sausage Rolls - from £4.50
Pasties* - Vegan pasty, BBQ pulled pork - from £7
Children's Activity Lunch Bags Cheese or Ham Mini Brioche Roll, Apple, Orange or Apple Juice, - £6.50
Ice Cream - £3.50
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
Audley End Miniature Railway
Audley End
Saffron Walden
Essex
CB11 4JB
England
Our woodland carpark is a 5 minute walk from our entrance. We know that through the summer there are often roadworks, and we know there are some in Newport throughout July. Please do check your route before you come. If you are delayed, where possible we will get you on the next available train.
Tel: 01799510726
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
Train station Audley End is a 4 minute drive or 30 minute walk. 20 minute walk from Saffron Walden Town Centre
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Last Updated: 13:52 19/11/2024
Audley End Miniature Railway Reviews
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