Bucket list experience:
First opened in 1875, this 7-mile line from Ravenglass to Dalegarth chugs along a scenic valley, and was originally built to ferry iron ore from the mines out to the coast.
Affectionately known as La’al Ratty, the miniature trains puff up to the high point at Miterdale for spectacular views of the Scafell range.
Some of the trains are steam-powered, but others have diesel engines – so check the timetable if you’re particularly keen on steam.
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Destination Guide >The trains travel the 7-mile route between Ravenglass and Dalesgarth. You can join from either station – follow the brown road signs. The journey takes 40 minutes each way.
Trains runs daily March to December, and weekends in January and February. Departures are hourly from Ravenglass and Dalesgarth stations.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Great Langdale, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[25.5 miles]
The Lakeland version of a deluxe ski lodge, offering supremely plush rooms, a lavish spa and a very private location on a Langdale estate. It’s also adults-only – making this an ideal place for couples looking for a place to pamper themselves.
Official star rating:
Grasmere, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[27.5 miles]
A large, lakeside hotel not far from Grasmere, with a variety of rooms to suit all kinds of visitors – families, couples, walkers and weekend breakers will all find a happy home here.
Official star rating:
Grasmere, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[28.1 miles]
One of the very best of the Lake District’s boutique hotels, a reinvented country mansion, brimming with wit, style and invention. In prime position for exploring the Lakes..
Official star rating:
Windermere, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[30.3 miles]
A charming, cosy boutique hotel, perched on a private hillside on a 67-acre estate, with an excellent restaurant and grandstand views across Lake Windermere.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)
Imposing mountains, wild landscapes, tranquil lakes and picturesque towns combine to make the Lake District uniquely beautiful, and one of the best places in Britain for walking, climbing, boating and biking.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Wasdale, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[16.8 miles]
Climb up to the highest point in England for a memorable view of the Wasdale fells – and a special sense of achievement. But don’t expect to be on your own if the weather’s fine
Best for ages: 13+ | Free | Full day
Keswick, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[22 miles]
Venture underground into the dark mines under Honister Pass to discover the history of Lakeland slate mining – and, if you’re feeling brave, tackle an underground climbing expedition.
Best for ages: 3+ | £18
Buttermere, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[22.4 miles]
Spectacular scenery and a tranquil waterside location combine on this 4.5-mile circular walk around Buttermere Lake.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2 hours
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Ravenglass, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[1.8 miles]
This castle near the Cumbrian coast belongs to the Pennington family, who have owned it for more than 800 years. It’s notoriously haunted, including by a playful spook though to be the original Tom Fool. It also has a hawk and owl centre that stages flying displays.
Best for ages: 8+ | £17 | 3 hours
Keswick, Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)[21.9 miles]
Thrilling rock climbing made more accessible – an adventure course of cables, rungs, ladders and bridges.
Best for ages: 10+ | £60 | 3 hours
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
Be it jaw-dropping scenery, a rich historical significance, the tradition and atmosphere of the train itself – or a combination of all three – here’s our round-up of the world’s best.
