Calling all train fans in the North West, if you’re looking for a toddler day out with a miniature railway then we have you covered. The list keeps growing as we visit more places or get recommendations so do let me know your favourite places.
6 Best Toddler Days Out with Miniature Trains in the North West
Highlight of my top picks along with recommendations from fantastic North West family days out accounts on Instagram below (they’re great and definitely worth a follow) then scroll on down for more info.
View this post on Instagram
Haigh Woodland Park – Wigan
The model railway at Haigh Woodland Park has ⅓ mile long raised track with diesel outline engines that you can sit on top of. The attraction is supported entirely by visitor donations.
Situated at the lower end of Hall Drive, near Picnic Area II and the small Play Park, the Model Railway is a fantastic ride-on attraction run by dedicated volunteers from the Wigan Model Engineering Society (WMES).
The Main Platform for the 15″ Miniature Gauge Railway is located near the Model Railway, right beside Picnic Area II. Diesel-powered locomotives transport passengers along a ¾-mile track winding through the Upper Plantations, offering scenic views of ponds, lush woodlands, and the Walled Gardens. Currently, the railway is closed as redevelopment efforts are underway to enhance this well-loved Haigh attraction. The restoration project aims to fully reinstate the service by the end of 2026, with a partial reopening of the track planned for 2025.
St Anne’s Miniature Railway – Lytham St Anne’s
The miniature train ride at Lytham St Anne’s is a great value and does a short loop around the 18 hole par 3 links golf course. With a beach, promenade to amble along and splash pad, it’s a great day out.
South Park – Cheadle Hulme
There’s a great little play park suitable for 3-10 year olds at South Park in Cheadle Hulme near Stockport as well as a scooter park and basketball area for older kids. Kids love going on the little train which runs around the park thanks to Stockport Model Engineering. All they ask is for a small donation and it’s run by volunteers.
Buxton Railway – Buxton
The Pavilion Gardens is a beautiful, historic garden dating back to 1871. Situated just 40 minutes from Stockport, Buxton is in the heart of the Peak District and has been welcoming visitors for many years.
There is a small miniature railway situated in the centre of the gardens, which costs £2.00 per person. It’s a small train ride more suitable for children aged 10 and under and it takes you a couple of times around the duck pond and through a tunnel…which our children enjoyed! It’s certainly another great way to take in the view.
The train is open at weekends only during term time, then every day during Derbyshire school holidays, weather permitting. The train operates from 10am until 4pm.
Dragon Miniature Railway – Marple
The Dragon Miniature Railway, featuring a 7¼-inch gauge track, has been operating trains for 24 years at Dobbies Garden Centre in Marple near Stockport. The Railway opens every weekend and bank holiday through out the year with special events around Halloween and Santa Specials at Christmas.
There’s a children’s play area too. Hop on the train and for no extra charge, you can request a stop at Riverside Halt, where you can disembark to enjoy the play area and catch a later train back—all on the same ticket.
Stamford Park – Stalybridge
A popular Tameside park with plenty to keep the kids busy with a playground, water fountains, space to explore, boating lake and of a miniature railway which runs in school holidays and weekends.
Thompson Park – Burnley
The 7¼-inch miniature railway at Thompson Park is a favorite attraction for park visitors, whether you’re hopping aboard for a ride or simply enjoying the sights. Since opening to the public in 2001, it has continued to expand with new features, extended track, and an accessible carriage.
A dedicated team of passionate volunteers operates and maintains the railway, always welcoming new members to join their efforts.
Trains run from the first Saturday in April through to the end of September, with a variety of special events held throughout the season.
Grosvernor Park – Chester
Located just a short walk from Chester’s historic city center, Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway is a 7¼-inch gauge railway nestled within the scenic Grosvenor Park. The railway features both steam and diesel locomotives, running on a ¼-mile circuit that loops around the park’s picturesque lake.
