Sustainability at Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway​

We take our responsibility to look after our planet and minimise our impact on the environment very seriously. That is why we are committing to sustainability for future generations. The stunning local Lake District landscape means everything to us. We are passionate about protecting it by using resources more responsibly and reducing our carbon footprint. By using local suppliers where possible, reducing waste, and recycling, we aim to make a difference.

We hold environmental accreditations and support the Lake District Foundation to deliver sustainable tourism programmes and promote sustainable practices through visitor donation schemes.

Travel by Train

Be green and leave the car behind. With great links to Northern Rail mainline, not only do you save money but you reduce your carbon footprint, too!

Northern Rail services connect daily at Ravenglass with direct trains to Carlisle, Whitehaven, Barrow, and Lancaster. The Cumbrian Coastline has some of the most beautiful lineside scenery anywhere in the country, so why not take a journey?

Please cross-check our current timetable with Northern's to plan your visit accordingly.

The main railway line running alongside the Ravenglass and Eskdale railway's car park

Electric car charging

It will soon be even more economical and environmentally-friendly to visit the Railway, especially if you have an electric vehicle. We have installed 22kW EV electric charge point at Ravenglass station in addition to upgrading the 7.2kW EV charge point at Dalegarth for Boot station. You can enjoy your day out with us, safe in the knowledge that you are saving your pennies and saving the planet too!

Electric Car Charging at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

Our cafés

We have recently been working on ensuring that our cafĂ©s are environmentally-friendly. At both the Turntable and Fellbites cafĂ©s, we’ve swapped plastic straws for paper straws, stopped using plastic sauce sachets and bottled sauces, and all takeaway items are now served in compostable containers, including wooden cutlery and compostable coffee cups. 

All fizzy drink bottles are now being swapped for aluminium cans or glass bottles and we have installed a water tap in the café at Dalegarth so customers can refill their own bottles free of charge.

Cafes at the Ravenglass and Eskdale railway, serving light lunches, snacks and cream teas to go alongside a train ride

Conservation

We have actively promoted conservation projects in the Lake District National Park, with donation schemes going towards footpath projects in the local area to help preserve this fragile environment for future generations to enjoy. You can also get involved in some of the Lake District Foundation's projects.

Conservation initiatives running in the Western Lake District

Save Our Squirrels

Red squirrels can often be spotted from our trains on the journey to Dalegarth in the mornings. Keep your eyes peeled as the train makes its way through the woods near intermediate stations Miteside Halt and Murthwaite Halt. 

With squirrel feeders located in the woods, you will often spot these lovely little creatures having breakfast. Unfortunately, it is a sad fact that our native species are in decline and only cling onto a few pockets in England today.

Red squirrel protection in the area surrounding the Ravenglass and Eskdale railway

Tips for travellers

  • Recycle your rubbish
  • Use public transport where possible
  • Have car-free days on holiday
  • Walk and cycle instead of taking the car - more relaxed and you can really explore!
  • Eat local and stay local when visiting attractions
  • Visit businesses with Visitor Giving schemes in place
  • Purchase local crafts as souvenirs
Passengers onboard the train at Ravenglass railway statiom

Carbon Footprint

You can calculate your carbon footprint and learn how you can offset your holiday carbon footprint to do your bit for the environment.

We are striving to become a sustainable business and have taken the first steps to a 'greener' future.

The beautiful scenery of the Eskdale Valley and the Western Lake District