Middleton Railway Trust

My daddy, my daddy. I’ve not lost my marbles (not fully); I’m just getting down with my train reference lingo. That of course comes from the Railway Children and the stunning surroundings of Haworth. I’m also down with the Middleton crew. Okay maybe getting all street when it comes to trains is wrong. Let me rephrase, I’m also partial to a splendid day out to the Middleton Railway and the fine locomotives. Better?
Established in 1758 it’s one of the oldest working railways in the world. How’s that for a claim. So if you like your trains, chances are you’ll like it here. As do I. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a fulltime train spotter (complete with plastered black rimmed glasses and padded coat) but I appreciate some of the things in life that have improved our world.
Not only can you take a ride but you’ll also be able to learn more about the place at the Engine House, consisting of a training room/​classroom, display hall, a display and an interactive area. It’s a nice set up for little ones and it taught me a thing or two as well. Definitely one to mark down if you like to go choo choo and a family day out.

It’s like being in a real-​life episode of Thomas the Tank Engine, oh the nostalgia. Providing a home for old locomotives as well as historical information on where and when the machines where built and by whom. Not only a home but a place for restoring steam and diesel engines back to a former glory such as the North Eastern Railway 1310. Every locomotive has a story attached and you can ride on these machines throughout the year. It is best to check online for current event/​opening days. A nice family day out or a good place for enthusiasts.

This is a wonderful steam railway, situated within very easy access of the centre of Leeds. It runs steam train rides nearly every weekend, with special events happening at Christmas and other times of the year.
The building itself contains many types of steam trains that you can climb on before leading out to the platform and boarding the train which runs up into Middleton Woods, where you can get off and enjoy for a while before returning on the same train, or waiting for the next one to return.
The prices are very reasonable and the train can also be hired, or a coach can, for parties, such as birthdays etc.
There is a café in the main building which has light refreshments and a range of extremely good value train related items, such as egg cups, calenders and a wonderful range of toys.
The staff are wonderfully helpful and welcoming, and I would recommend a visit to this railway for anyone visiting Leeds. I grew up in Beeston and have very fond memories of going on the steam train. I now take my chlidren would adore it, with the horn blowing and the chugging of the carriages.