West Somerset Railway

Station Terrace
Minehead
Somerset
TA24 5BG

Tel: +44 (0)1643 704 996
+44 (0)1643 704 996 (talking timetable)
Fax: +44 (0)1643 706 349
Web: http://www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/


The West Somerset Railway recaptures the era of the branch line country railway in the days of steam. Enjoy 20 miles of glorious Somerset scenery as the train gently rolls back the years on its journey beside the Quantock Hills to the Bristol Channel coast. Just sit back in your seat and watch the steam and the countryside drift past the window.

The West Somerset Railway seeks to recreate the atmosphere of a Great Western Railway branch line. There are ten restored stations along the route, each having its own individual charm and character; many have signalboxes, engine sheds, museums, displays, steam engines and other rolling stock to see.

From Bishops Lydeard, trains run beside the Quantock Hills northwards to the Bristol Channel coast at Watchet and Blue Anchor. The end of the line is the holiday town of Minehead, with its sandy beach, thrilling fun fair, beautiful gardens and lots of shops to explore. Buses run on Exmoor and steamers call at the harbour.

You can break your journey at any station and enjoy a country walk or coastal stroll. Why not seek out a village pub for lunch, or visit some of the many interesting places near the line?

General Information:

  • Shop at Minehead station
  • Buffet and bar facilities on all trains
  • Wheelchair access to trains
  • Ramped access at all stations except Doniford
  •  

    Opening Times
    (2006 times)
    Please telephone for timetable details.

    Admission Charges
    (2006 prices)
    Fares vary from £2.00 to £12.40 depending on the length of journey.

    Day Rover Tickets offer complete freedom of the line for just £12.40 for adults and £31.20 for families(2+4).

    Directions
    Bishops Lydeard station is 4 miles from Taunton, close beside the A358 road to Minehead.
    Follow brown signs to West Somerset Railway before turning right onto the A358.

    The West Somerset Railway is also signposted on this road and motorists should note that the station is to the LEFT of the main road, Bishops Lydeard village being on the right.

    Bishops Lydeard Station has a large free car park but, with the exception of Minehead, parking at all other stations is somewhat limited.
    Show map of West Somerset Railway...

    Nearby Attractions
    West Somerset Rural Life Museum (4 Miles)*
    The Rural Life Museum is housed in the old Village School leased from the National Trust. It was a school from 1821 to 1981 and opened as the Rural Life Museum in 1983.
    Exmoor Falconry and Animal Farm Ltd (5 Miles)*
    Exmoor Falconry and Animal Farm is a unique visitor attraction within Exmoor National Park where the animals come out to meet you.
    Cleeve Abbey (6 Miles)*
    The picturesque Cistercian abbey of Cleeve boasts the most impressively complete and unaltered set of monastic cloister buildings in England, standing roofed and two storeys high.
    more nearby attractions...
    * Distances shown are in a direct line. Distances by road will be longer.

    Nearby Hotels
    The White Hart Hotel (11 Miles)*
    The White Hart Hotel is a coaching inn which underwent extensive refurbishment in 2006. The room designs are a sympathetic blend of original features with all the modern conveniences expected.
    Holiday Inn Express Cardiff Airport (14 Miles)*
    The Express by Holiday Inn Cardiff Airport is a modern hotel next to Cardiff International Airport and only 15 minutes from the M4, making it an excellent choice for guests whether here for business or pleasure.
    Holiday Inn Express Cardiff Airport and 15 days parking (14 Miles)*
    The Express by Holiday Inn Cardiff Airport is a brand new hotel next to Cardiff International Airport and only 12 minutes from the M4, making it an excellent choice for guests whether here for business or pleasure.
    more nearby hotels...
    * Distances shown are in a direct line. Distances by road will be longer.

    Nearby Self Catering
    Willow Thatch (2 Miles)*
    Grade II listed thatched cottage sleeps 4 + 1 in a double room (with king size bed) and a twin room with two singles. A drop sided cot and highchair are also available to make little ones feel at home.
    Duddings Country Cottages (2 Miles)*
    13 Cottages sleeping 2-12 in 1-6 bedrooms. Set in a stunning unspoiled location, with lovely views of the surrounding countryside.
    Croft Holiday Cottages (6 Miles)*
    The Croft is a tranquil courtyard of four cottages and two bungalows situated within the conservation area of Old Watchet.An approximate 300 metre level walk will bring you to restauraunts,pubs,small shops,the marina.
    Your property could be here
    Advertising your self catering property or holiday cottage on AboutBritain.com will get you noticed by thousands of potential guests every day.
    more nearby self catering...
    * Distances shown are in a direct line. Distances by road will be longer.

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