Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway with Cream Tea

It was over 100 years ago in April 1913 that the original 3ft line closed and in 1915, the new 15in railway was born. Today, you can be transported through history as you gently travel from Ravenglass (the only coastal village in the Lake District and of huge significance during the Roman times, being a significant last defence point of Hadrians Wall) or Dalegarth to Boot where you can admire all that the Lake District has to offer, as the town is sits prettily some 210ft about seawater.

Perfect for couples, you can snuggle up on this heritage steam train, sit back and admire the views as you are transported to the quaint towns of the Lake District, surrounded by perfectly still water and rolling hills that never seem to end. In case this was not enough, you may even be lucky enough to see Greylag Geese, Curlew, Shelduck, Red Squirrels and even Buzzards!

Fancy a little adventure?

The valley of Eskdale and its surroundings provide the best and most scenic walking routes within the Park. Perfect for those who want a good walk and for those who just want a gentle stroll in the countryside – the National Park has something for everyone. Just hop off the train when you want and hop back on when your done and want another adventure!

Time for a spot of tea

After admiring the general splendour of the Lake District, stop off at either Ravenglass or Dalegarth and experience a traditional cream tea, complete with warm homemade scones, deliciously thick clotted cream and rich jam, with a nice and hot brew (English tea) – what could be a better way to break your journey?

You will have plenty of time to have a look around, take lots of pictures, go for a walk, spot some wildlife and then hop back on to continue your Lake District Adventure.

When you book, you will be emailed an e-Voucher. You must print this voucher and bring it with you to redeem for your ticket at Ravenglass or Dalegarth.

You must prebook your tour and cream tea at least 72 hours in advance. Contact details will be on your e-Voucher.

This experience is specifically for two or four adults only. If you do require additional guests, please enquire at time of booking. Booking details will be on your e-Voucher.

To ensure that everyone fully enjoys the cream tea experience, please advise at time of booking any dietary requirements you may have. 

There are seven intermediate stops and two main stations. Your ticket is valid all day, so you can hop on and off at your leisure.

You can only enjoy your cream tea in Ravenglass or Dalegarth – but don’t worry, both locations will take your breath away!

Operating times

First train from Ravenglass: 9.25am

First train from Dalegarth: 10.25am

Travel times vary so please check the timetable before you visit. These details will be on your e voucher.

Without stopping, the journey is 40 minutes, but this does depend on how many times you hop on and hop off.

How to get there

By car

From M6 junction 36: Follow the brown Western Lake District signs to Broughton-in-Furness, passing Newby Bridge on the A59- and turning right at Greenodd onto the A5092. From Broughton follow the A595 to Silecroft T junction (turn right) and beyond.

From M6 junction 40: Follow the brown Western Lake District signs past Keswick and Bassenthwaite Lake on the A66 towards Cockermouth. Turn left at the Cockermouth roundabout onto the A5086. Follow the A5086 to Egremont where it joins the A595. Turn left for Ravenglass following the A595.

From Ambleside and Coniston, consider using the A593 passing through Torver before arriving at Broughton. From Windermere and Bowness take the A592 to Newby Bridge.

Ravenglass Station: Post Code CA18 1SW

Dalegarth for Boot Station: Post Code CA19 1TF

By Rail

Visit by rail from Lancaster and Morecambe, Grange-over-Sands, Windermere, Preston, Carlisle and Oxenholme. Regular Northern trains travel on the scenic Cumbrian Coast Line between Carlisle, Whitehaven and Barrow calling at Ravenglass every day except Sunday. You can buy tickets from station ticket offices or from conductors on the train. Please check the train timetables before you travel.

Clothing

If you do decide to explore the Lake District National Park landscapes, please ensure that you wear suitable clothing when you visit, including sturdy boots/shoes.

Accessibility

Station car parks have disabled parking bays closer to the station

All cafes are easily accessible for both pushchairs and wheelchairs

Motorised chairs and mobility scooters allowed on the platforms

Service and guide dogs are welcome in all areas. Dogs are allowed on the trains but with a small fee payable when you redeem your voucher for your ticket.

There are wheelchair adapted carriages. Please inform Lake District tours when you ring to book your tour if you require this facility.