Moors Valley Railway

Location

About

Moors Valley Railway is a charming and unique tourist attraction located in the heart of Moors Valley Country Park, near Ringwood in Hampshire, England. The miniature steam railway offers visitors a scenic tour of the beautiful countryside, through a 100-acre woodland area, across fields, and alongside lakes. The railway is an excellent day out for families with young children, train enthusiasts, or anyone looking to experience a fun and relaxing outdoor activity.

The Moors Valley Railway is run entirely by volunteers who have a passion for steam engines and railways. They have created a wonderful experience for visitors to enjoy. The trains run regularly throughout the day, with a selection of different carriages to choose from, including an open wagon, closed carriage, and first-class coach. The carriages are designed to suit different needs, whether you want to be in the open air or have a more enclosed experience.

As the train sets off from the station, visitors can sit back and relax, enjoying the beautiful views of the countryside. The sound of the steam engine chugging along adds to the experience, taking visitors back to a bygone era. The train ride lasts for around 15 minutes, providing plenty of time to take in the scenery, and there are opportunities to take photos as the train stops at different locations around the park.

The railway has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with knowledgeable volunteers on hand to answer any questions visitors may have. Children will love the experience of riding on a real steam train and will enjoy waving to other visitors as the train passes by. There is also a play area located near the railway station, providing children with the opportunity to run around and burn off some energy before or after their train ride.

In addition to the train ride, Moors Valley Country Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. There are several walking and cycling trails throughout the park, as well as a Go Ape high ropes course and a tree-top adventure playground. The park also has several picnic areas and a restaurant serving hot and cold food and drinks.

Overall, Moors Valley Railway is a charming and unique tourist attraction that provides visitors with an enjoyable and memorable experience. The friendly atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and nostalgic train ride all combine to create a fantastic day out. The railway is an excellent choice for families with young children, train enthusiasts, or anyone looking to enjoy a fun and relaxing outdoor activity. With so much to see and do in Moors Valley Country Park, it's easy to see why this attraction is so popular with visitors from all over the world.

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Things to do nearby

If you're visiting the Moors Valley Railway in Dorset, UK, you'll be pleased to know that there are plenty of other nearby attractions and activities to keep you busy. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just want to have some fun, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the best places and things to do nearby Moors Valley Railway from a tourist perspective.

1. Moors Valley Country Park: This is the perfect place to explore nature and get some fresh air. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and birds, and has a network of walking and cycling trails that take you through woodlands, meadows, and around the lake. There's also a play trail, play areas, and a tree-top walkway for the kids.

2. Ringwood Brewery: If you're a beer lover, then you'll definitely want to check out Ringwood Brewery. This traditional brewery has been producing award-winning beers for over 40 years, and you can take a tour of the facilities to learn about the brewing process and sample some of their delicious beers.

3. Avon Heath Country Park: This beautiful nature reserve is just a short drive from Moors Valley Railway and offers over 500 acres of heathland, woods, and ponds to explore. There are several walking trails to choose from, as well as a picnic area, a children's play area, and a visitor center.

4. The New Forest: The New Forest National Park is a stunning area of natural beauty and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including ponies, deer, and birds. You can explore the forest on foot, by bike, or even on horseback, and there are plenty of charming villages and towns to visit along the way.

5. Beaulieu National Motor Museum: If you're a car enthusiast, then the Beaulieu National Motor Museum is a must-visit attraction. The museum is home to over 250 vehicles, including vintage cars, motorcycles, and even a monorail. There are also interactive exhibits, a driving simulator, and a children's play area.

6. Highcliffe Castle: This beautiful castle is located just a short drive from Moors Valley Railway and offers stunning views of the coastline. The castle was built in the 1830s and has been beautifully restored to its former glory. There are guided tours available, as well as a tea room and gift shop.

7. Bournemouth Beach: If you're looking for some fun in the sun, then head to Bournemouth Beach. This popular seaside destination offers seven miles of golden sand, clear waters, and plenty of activities, including beach volleyball, watersports, and even a zip line.

8. Poole Harbour: Poole Harbour is the largest natural harbor in Europe and is a great place to explore by boat. You can take a guided tour of the harbor, go crabbing off the quayside, or even charter a boat for a fishing trip.

In conclusion, if you're planning a visit to Moors Valley Railway, there are plenty of other attractions and activities to explore nearby. From nature reserves and beaches to castles and breweries, there's something for everyone. So why not make a day of it and discover everything that this beautiful part of Dorset has to offer?