1 / 2West Lancashire Light Railway
📍 Preston, North West
Heritage narrow-gauge railway operating passenger trains on a 400-metre woodland route between Becconsall and Delph stations. Children participate in flag waving and whistle duties.
🏆 Funzaroo Verdict
Best for train-loving families with children of any age who want a hands-on heritage railway experience rather than a passive ride. The volunteer engagement is the headline attraction — children leave having actively participated rather than just watched. Plan for a 30-minute to 2-hour visit depending on the event programme.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →436 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Eddie Birtwistle
6 months ago
“We had a brilliant afternoon at the WLLR. It's a fantastic place to learn about narrow gauge railways. Especially liked the way that the volunteers engaged with the Children they had them involved with waving flags and blowing whistles to start the trains off . Sounding klaxon on the diesels and even 'helping' to drive a diesel shunter Along with some very nice tea and cakes it is a very enjoyable place to spend a Sunday afternoon.”
Owen Messer
a year ago
“Can't believe I hadn't heard of this place sooner! Lovely place to take the kids, mine are very young but older kids or adults with an interest in steam engines or trains would love it too! The cafe is nice and very reasonable. The staff are some of the nicest people you'll meet, we came in late October and they were giving away pumpkins!”
Andrew Teather
8 months ago
“What a lovely place this is. I went for the gala this weekend and had a great time with five engines, and a few stalls. Such friendly staff, really well run trips and all for five pounds.”
💬 What parents mention
Overview
The West Lancashire Light Railway is run entirely by volunteers on a 400-metre route through woodland. On gala days, up to five locomotives operate simultaneously. Children are actively involved — flag waving, sounding klaxons on diesel engines, and driving supervised experiences are offered by engaged volunteers. The tearoom serves tea, coffee, and cakes at reasonable prices. Special events run across the year including Easter egg hunts, Halloween, and Santa trains.
