© Mark Fielding
As Ravenglass & Eskdale steam railway turns 150 years old in 2025, the iconic Lake District attraction is unveiling a variety of itineraries tailored for groups and FITs.
Along the seven-mile journey, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Cumbrian coast and dramatic mountain scenery between the Lake District National Park’s only coastal village in Ravenglass – part of two World Heritage Sites – and Dalegarth in the stunning Eskdale Valley.
As well as experiencing the UK’s longest narrow gauge railway, passengers can link up with other stand-out attractions or book ahead for Christmas 2025. The options include:
Throughout 2025 –
- Premium Carriage Hire: Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway has three VIP carriages, seating from 8-18 people on some scheduled services. Private charter train options are also available on request.
- Steam to the Hills: A return steam departure from Ravenglass station on the coast to Dalegarth. There is an option of either an immediate return journey from Dalegarth for Boot station or including time to alight and explore the dramatic landscape.
- Cream Tea for Groups: Choose from pre-order Cream Tea picnic boxes to enjoy on the train journey up the valley, or indulge in a full cream tea experience on the upper floor of The Turntable Cafe at Ravenglass station. Minimum 10 people.
- Railway and Muncaster Castle: A return steam journey from Ravenglass, including a visit to renowned Muncaster Castle and Gardens. This combined tour features a dramatic bird of prey display, too.
- Railway & Ullswater Cruise: Make the most of your time spent in the Lake District with a sailing on one of the area’s finest heritage attractions, Ullswater Steamers.
Christmas 2025 –
- Christmas at the Railway: A Christmas timetable will operate from Boxing Day, 26 December 2025, to 1 January 2026. Pre-book festive lunches at The Ratty Arms – transformed from disused railway buildings into a cosy hideaway – or enjoy a mince pie on ‘Mince Pie’ trains.
- Festive Food Lunches: Join the railway for a traditional Christmas lunch at The Ratty Arms – turkey dinner with all the trimmings and more. Pre book food offer for organised tour groups only. Min 10 persons. Limited dates in December.
Affectionately known as La’al Ratty, Ravenglass & Eskdale steam railway is also geared up to offer special incentives to group travel operators, including:
- Free coach parking at Ravenglass station
- The seven-mile journey each way takes around 40 minutes
- Tour guides travel for free on all group tours
- Free entry to the Ravenglass Railway Museum
- Food and drink options at Ravenglass Station or The Ratty Arms traditional pub.
For more information, visit: www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk/groups
