Trains have played a massive part in shaping Britain’s history. They connected cities like never before and helped several industries flourish over the years. And luckily for anyone who is obsessed with trains, tucked away in Leeds is one small railway with a claim no other line in the world can match.
The Middleton Railway in West Yorkshire is the world’s oldest continuously working railway. It first opened in 1758 to move coal from the Middleton Colliery into Leeds and has never stopped running since. That makes it nearly 300 years old, and still going strong.
Originally, horses pulled carts full of coal along its tracks. But by 1812, the colliery turned to steam to save costs, using some of the world’s first successful locomotives.
Designed by John Blenkinsop and built by engineer Matthew Murray, these early engines helped put Leeds on the map as a centre for locomotive manufacturing.
Today, the Middleton Railway is run by volunteers and welcomes visitors throughout the year.
It offers short but charming rides on heritage steam and diesel trains between Moor Road and Park Halt.
Before you board, there’s plenty to see. The Engine House at Moor Road includes a museum, a gallery explaining the railway’s history, and a shop and café serving drinks and snacks.
Visitors can climb into old engine cabs, explore the display hall, and even see a cutaway boiler showing how steam engines work.
The highlight, though, is the train ride itself. Departing from Moor Road, the journey takes visitors to Park Halt, right by the entrance to Middleton Park.
The park covers over 600 acres of woodland and green space, with walking trails, a boating lake, and a children’s play area.
Passengers can choose to hop off and explore or return on the same train.
Ticket prices are affordable. A Day Rover ticket costs £9 for adults and £4 for children, with family tickets available for £22.
Single journeys are also an option, and annual passes start at £30. Extra discounts are available for students, Leeds Card holders, carers, and Rail Riders members.
The Middleton Railway is about two miles south of Leeds city centre and can be found using the postcode LS10 2JQ.
Drivers can access the site easily from the M621, while several buses stop nearby on Dewsbury Road or Church Street.
Taxis from Leeds station are another option, and staff at the railway can help book a return ride.
Tickets and more information can be found here.