Bluebell Railway

Make sure you check out the Locomotive's new carriage restoration! The Locomotive is one of many famous trains that have graced the rail lines at Bluebell Railway. Riley & Sons (E) LTD have been sprucing up the train in time for the centenary celebrations in 2023!

History of Bluebell Railway

The railway was first opened in 1882 and ran between Lewes and East Grinstead. The Bluebell Railway operates a variety of trains, including steam and diesel engines. Featuring a collection of vintage carriages, some of the finest in the country, that have been restored to their original condition! All thanks to the Bluebell Railway Preservation Society.

You can choose to ride in first-class, second-class, or third-class carriages, depending on the train and the date of travel. As well as taking part in and experiencing a variety of special events and themed days throughout the year. Which class will you choose?

One of the highlights of a visit to the Bluebell Railway is the opportunity to see the working steam engines up close and to learn about the history of the railway. Which is a must for train enthusiasts! With expert guides on hand to provide you with all the information you need and answer all your questions, you can find out all the tricks and trades of the Bluebell Railway world!

Also, the railway is also home to one of the few remaining British Pullman carriages, which were originally built in the 1920s and were used on luxury train services.

Things To Do

Get up close to a real and working steam engine and don’t miss all of the hands-on interactive exhibitions too. Sit back and relax as your journey back through time through the glorious Sussex scenery, train enthusiasts and history lovers will love it.

Beyond the railway itself, the surrounding area also offers plenty to see and do. Sheffield Park, the railway's southern terminus, is home to a beautiful 18th century country house. 

Sheffield Park Garden features a variety of gardens, including a formal Italian garden and a large lake with a working steam-powered water garden! East Grinstead, the railway's northern terminus, is a charming medieval town with a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Worth checking out!

Special Events

Always keep your eyes peeled for exciting events like The Flying Scotsman! These tickets allow you to travel on the Flying Scotsman ‘Express’ from Sheffield Park Station to East Grinstead railway and a return ticket. There are also opportunities to dine out on the Flying Scotsman in the Golden Arrow Dining Experience.

For the kids, they can enjoy the "Thomas the Tank Engine" days, where children can meet the popular children's character and take a ride on one of the railway's Thomas-themed trains. Definitely something to add to the list of things to do during the half-term week or summer holidays!

Food & Drink

Enjoy excellent dining services, supper specials, picturesque views and maybe even a cheeky afternoon tea. Luncheon Train? Yes, please! It's the perfect setting for chatting, relaxing and choo-ing on scrumptious meals.

With beautiful countryside, friendly staff and a fascinating history to uncover, the Bluebell Railway offers a truly memorable experience!

Great collection of vintage steam locomotives and carriages.Travel back through time on the steam railway or try out the dining train experience with afternoon tea! Loads of great interactive exhibits, authentic railway station & enjoy heritage railways