Helston Railway

Location

About

If you're looking for a unique and memorable experience in Cornwall, look no further than the Helston Railway. Located in Prospidnick, England, this tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and experience the golden age of steam railways.

The Helston Railway was originally built in 1887 to connect Helston with the mainline railway network, but it was closed to passenger traffic in 1962 and completely shut down in 1973. In 2003, a group of dedicated volunteers began restoring the railway and today, visitors can ride on a beautifully restored steam train and experience the magic of this bygone era.

The railway operates on selected dates throughout the year, so it's important to check the schedule before planning your visit. When you arrive at the station, you'll be greeted by friendly volunteers who will help you purchase your tickets and provide you with information about the railway.

The train itself is a thing of beauty, with gleaming brass and polished wood accents. The journey takes you through some of Cornwall's most picturesque countryside, with stunning views of rolling hills and lush green fields. The train stops at several stations along the way, each one offering a unique experience.

One of the highlights of the journey is the opportunity to visit the historic signal box at Truthall Halt. Here, you can learn about the fascinating history of the railway and see the impressive mechanical workings of the signal box. Another stop along the way is at Prospidnick Halt, where you can explore the beautifully restored station and learn about the local area.

For younger visitors, the Helston Railway also offers a range of activities and events throughout the year. These include Santa Specials at Christmas, Easter Egg Hunts, and Teddy Bears' Picnics. There's even a miniature railway that children can ride on, which is sure to delight the little ones.

In addition to the train ride, the Helston Railway also has a small museum and gift shop. Here, you can learn more about the history of the railway and purchase souvenirs to remember your visit.

Overall, the Helston Railway is a wonderful tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and experience the magic of steam railways. With its beautiful scenery, friendly volunteers, and range of activities, it's an experience that's sure to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. If you're planning a trip to Cornwall, make sure to add the Helston Railway to your itinerary.

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Things to do nearby

Helston Railway is a picturesque narrow-gauge railway located in Cornwall, England. Running along a 4-mile track from Nancegollan to Truthall Halt, it is a popular attraction for tourists who want to experience the charm of a traditional steam train ride. However, the fun doesn't have to stop there. Helston and the surrounding area have plenty of exciting activities and attractions to keep visitors busy. In this article, we'll explore some of the best things to do and places to visit near Helston Railway.

1. The Lizard Peninsula

The Lizard Peninsula is a beautiful coastal region located just south of Helston. It is known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and rugged coastline. Visitors can explore the many walking trails that criss-cross the peninsula, taking in sights such as Kynance Cove, one of the most picturesque beaches in Cornwall. The Lizard is also home to the famous Lizard Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the coastline.

2. Poldark Mine

Poldark Mine is an underground tin mine located near Helston. It offers visitors the chance to explore the mine's rich history, with guided tours taking visitors through the old tunnels and workings. The site also features a museum, a gift shop, and a café.

3. Flambards Theme Park

Flambards is a popular theme park located just outside Helston. It offers a wide range of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, log flumes, and a giant Ferris wheel. There are also indoor exhibitions and displays, such as the Victorian Village, which recreates life in a Cornish village in the 1800s.

4. Trebah Garden

Trebah Garden is a beautiful sub-tropical garden located near Falmouth. It is home to a wide range of exotic plants and flowers, as well as a number of water features and ponds. Visitors can explore the gardens on foot, taking in sights such as the famous Tunnel of Rhododendrons.

5. The National Seal Sanctuary

The National Seal Sanctuary is located near Gweek, just a short drive from Helston. It is a rescue and rehabilitation center for seals and other marine animals, and visitors can watch feeding sessions and learn about the center's work. There are also daily talks and displays, as well as a gift shop and café.

6. St Michael's Mount

St Michael's Mount is a small island located just off the coast of Cornwall, near Penzance. Visitors can access the island via a causeway at low tide, or by boat at high tide. The island is home to a medieval castle and church, as well as beautiful gardens and stunning views of the coastline.

7. Kynance Cove

Kynance Cove is a picturesque beach located on the Lizard Peninsula. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sands, and dramatic rock formations. Visitors can explore the beach and its surrounding cliffs on foot, or take a dip in the sea on a hot summer's day.

8. Cornwall's Great Gardens

Cornwall is home to a number of beautiful gardens and estates, including the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project. These attractions offer visitors the chance to explore stunning botanical displays, unique architecture, and a wide range of cultural events and exhibitions.

In conclusion, Helston Railway is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exciting things to do and see in Cornwall. From beautiful gardens and beaches to historic mines and castles, there is something for everyone in this stunning part of England. So why not hop on board the steam train and start exploring all that Cornwall has to offer?