Railway Station, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3JB (Show me directions) Show Map
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About Us...
We operate with a blended team of professional staff and volunteers and each and every person is needed and valued. We wouldn't want to be without our teams of volunteers, who turn up every week, whatever the weather, to paint the signal box or clean the station signs, fix the fences and maintain the track - it's not all glamorous engine driving! They are happy to pass on experience and skills acquired during other employment, as well as on our own heritage buildings and assets.
The main content is under construction because we want to catch the teams together to get updated photographs so bear with us and keep checking back to see when we manage to catch everyone!
More Information....
Shop & Ticket Office
The shop and ticket office are housed in the same building. The ticket office is in keeping with the historic charm of the railway and is staffed by a team of people who are always happy to help.
We stock a wonderful array of gifts and keepsakes in the shop, with memorabilia dedicated to some of our most popular locomotives. If you visit the railway don't forget to leave time to have a wander around the shop - you never know what treasures you may come across!
Santa Specials
Every year Santa makes some special stops in magical places to see the boys and girls, and Santa's Toyland Railway at Alston is one of those places.
Ride the steam train back in time to be greeted by the chief elf who will lead you across to see Santa in his cosy Grotto where he waits patiently to give you your present.
Santa's Toyland Railway is a traditional Christmas experience that is visited by thousands of visitors every year and is described by visitors as 'authentic' and 'magical.'
We would love to see you with us this year!
30th Anniversary
On 30th July 1983 a train, hauled by a little blue diesel locomotive called Phoenix, left Alston station. It was the first passenger service to leave Alston since the closure of the standard gauge line on 1st May 1976.
Although the official opening of the narrow gauge railway wouldn't occur until a year later, 1983 is a landmark in the history of the South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society because the dream of re-establishing a railway on the old Alston to Haltwhistle branch line, (albeit a much shorter one), had come to fruition.
The 30th July 2013 marked 30 years of narrow gauge passenger services from Alston and in celebration a 4-day 'weekend' of events was held and encouraged by the hot weather in early July, Pimm's and Lemonade was served on-board the buffet car throughout the 4 day event.
Although the weather was not quite as glorious as it had been during the Wimbledon weekend, the Pimm's was a particularly welcome refreshment for groups of walkers and especially weary parents!
Engine shed tours were also offered throughout all of the 4 days. Immaculately turned out in his guard's uniform, our knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteer, Daniel, could be heard on the tannoy, announcing the tour departures from the station platform, before gathering up groups and leading them down the track to the sheds where our collection of steam and diesel engines were out on display.
Call or visit our website for more information.
