Rail · STEAM TRAINS
Preserved steam runs on volunteer timetables, which means set days and a closed season. These 15 lines are compared on fare, running calendar and how much of the route is worth staying awake for.
Ride Puffing Billy, a preserved steam railway built in 1900, through Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges. Choose a journey from Belgrave or Lakeside, enjoy the famous leg-dangling tradition where permitted, and allow 2 to 4 hours for the train ride and time at Emerald Lake Park.
“I loved the views and the whole trip! I really recommend this journey, I'd do that again”
Travel from Palma by coach through the Serra de Tramuntana to Sa Calobra, cruise 40 minutes along the rocky coast, ride the Sóller tram, and board a wooden railway carriage built in 1912. Guides such as Pepe, Angela, Marta, and Juan provide multilingual help, while included tickets keep the day moving.
“Super well organized and well guided. Perfectly paced. Beautiful scenery and geography. Lots of information about what we were seeing was provided.”
Spend 12.5 hours exploring Loch Ness and the Highlands by coach, then ride the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig. Guides such as Iain, Karen, Craig, Sonia, and Harrison are known for lively stories and Scottish history. Expect photo stops, free time in Mallaig, and a long but scenic day.
“Our guide, DumbleTorq, was amazing!!! He was very informative, yet funny at the same time. He even went out and bought so many bottled waters that it filled up an entire cooler. He knew it was going to be super hot on the train and prepared for it. (It is not a standard procedure.) He was very thoughtful- always checking to see if all of us were doing ok. We really appreciate his effort, kindness, and the wonderful experience he gave to us all! Thank you!!!”
Spend 13 to 14 hours traveling from Edinburgh into the Highlands, with stops in Glencoe, Mallaig, Glenfinnan, and Pitlochry. The optional Jacobite steam train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Your English-speaking driver-guide, such as Ian, Brendan, Brian, or Dougie, provides Scottish history, film facts, and practical help throughout the day.
“A nice trip and an unforgettable experience, although we didn't ride the train on the first try due to problems with the track, the agency allowed us to ride on the next trip. Many thanks to Ian, Danny, and especially Suzan.”
Leave Melbourne by comfortable coach for a one-hour Puffing Billy ride from Belgrave to Lakeside, with open-sided carriages, rainforest views, and the famous leg-dangling tradition. Then explore Healesville Sanctuary for koalas, kangaroos, and bird shows. Guides such as Gary, Stuart, Anthony, and Gina add local stories and practical help throughout the day.
“We enjoyed the whole day. It was truly very enjoyable.”
This 12-hour tour pairs Puffing Billy’s steam train through the Dandenong Ranges with The Nobbies and Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade. English-speaking guides such as Gina, Alan, Jose, and Stuart lead the day, sharing wildlife tips and keeping the long transfers on track. General viewing is included, while Penguin Plus offers a closer view for an extra fee.
“Absolutely fantastic experience. Stuart was our guide, he’s knowledgeable and entertaining, he was very attentive to everyone’s needs and made sure we all had a good time.”
Travel from York in a 16-seat, air-conditioned minicoach through the North York Moors to Hutton-le-Hole, Whitby and Goathland. Add a 45-minute steam train ride from Whitby to the Harry Potter station at a local discount. Guides such as Mark and Chris provide history, photo stops, and practical help throughout the day.
“Mark our tour guide and driver was absolutely amazing. He did a wonderful job with telling us about all the history everywhere we visited. He stopped at some nice scenic views so we could take photos. He was extremely helpful. I have no hesitation in recommending this tour to anybody who would like to see the North Yorkshire Dales and Whitby.”
Travel from York in a climate-controlled minivan with a local guide such as Chris or Pete. Visit Helmsley, Hutton-le-Hole, Whitby, and Goathland, then ride the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to Pickering. The group is capped at seven, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
“Best tour of our trip! Even despite poor weather we had a great time. We looked at other similar tours and are so glad we booked this one. Our guide really made our trip and the locations visited were well rounded, well timed, and comfortable. Thank you for a great day!”
Leave York in a small, air-conditioned minibus with an English-speaking guide such as Mark or Chris. Visit Hutton-le-Hole, Whitby, Goathland, and North York Moors viewpoints, with time for fish and chips, Captain Cook, Dracula, or a discounted steam train ride. The train costs extra locally.
“Mark our guide was brilliant, his knowledge was second to none, he took the scenic route gave us opportunities to take photographs at safe places, we were very well looked after. A highly recommended trip especially with Mark as your guide, train ride fabulous, our history talk was very informative and the cost of the ride great. First trip to Yorkshire was amazing.”
Travel from central Melbourne to Belgrave by air-conditioned coach, then ride Puffing Billy through fern-filled forest to Lakeside. You will cross Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge, explore Emerald Lake Park, and return around 1:15 PM. Guides such as Robbo, Lisa, Jono, and Jools are known for lively local stories and helpful photos.
“We had a great experience with Go West guide Angel Sophie. Puffing Billy Railway experience was a must do one. You get to sit on the window rails whilst the steam train passes through narrow rail lines laid through beautiful scenic forests. The bus ride was good but it did not had a charging port which could be considered in future.”
Take a 75-minute, 7-mile round trip from Fort Bragg along Pudding Creek Estuary. Ride in restored railcars, listen to recorded local history, watch for herons and ospreys, and pause at Glen Blair Junction for a short forest walk. Snacks, drinks, restrooms, and an open-air car add comfort and fun.
“It was super fun, informative and nostalgic as I used to do this as a child. The ride is beautiful through the redwoods while a recording provides the deep history of the area and the train! Perfect for all ages.”
Ride a vintage diesel-electric train from Willits into Mendocino’s redwood country for about two hours. You’ll hear live commentary, and some departures include a singing conductor, guitar, and even flute. The train stops at a former logging camp before returning to 299 E Commercial St. Open-air seating, food, drinks, and wheelchair access make it easy to enjoy.
“Malakai was the best!! If he wasn't there I would have given it a two star. His entertainment was outstanding!!!”
Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam railway for an hour through rainforest and wooded hills, with open carriages and dangling-leg seats. Your English-speaking guide, such as Gina, Mark, or Michael, handles the day from Melbourne pickup to Lakeside Station. Add a short bushwalk, native birds, café time, and railway exhibits for a simple escape from the city.
“Amazing tour guide. Gina is incredible, informative and very friendly. We love our experience here. I traveled with my 80 year old mother and she had such an amazing time. Highly recommended!”
Ride a narrated steam train through St. Nicholas Abbey’s fields and mahogany woods to Cherry Tree Hill, where you get Atlantic views and a 15-minute stop. The experience continues with the Jacobean Great House, museum, distillery, and rum tasting. Guides such as Virginia and Simon add local detail and humor.
“It was truly a wonderful experience...my children were thrilled and the staff was very friendly. Definitely recommend 👌”
Travel from central Melbourne to Sherbrooke Forest, ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train with legs dangling from the carriage, then visit Healesville Sanctuary. Guides such as Gerry, Andy, Margaret, and Mark have added local stories, wildlife facts, and practical help. The day lasts about 8.5 hours and includes transport and admission.
“Matt was an excellent l guide and it was a fantastic trip. Beautiful views and a taste of the wonderful countryside surrounding Melbourne.”
By the kind of train, or by the country the track runs through.
