Bring a friend, gather the family, plan that spring day out you’ve been promising… and be part of the milestone moment of La’al Ratty steaming into its 150th passenger year.
Improved facilities and a few temporary changes while we refurbish
Visitors returning to the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway this season will notice several improvements designed to make this much-loved Lake District heritage railway even more enjoyable. As part of ongoing investment in the visitor experience, a number of areas across the railway have recently been refreshed. A few projects are still being completed, and temporary arrangements are in place while refurbishment continues. These upgrades will enhance facilities for guests travelling between Ravenglass and Dalegarth, helping to make a day out on one of the Lake District’s most scenic narrow gauge railways even better.
Wakefield’s at Dalegarth Station
Our brand new afternoon tea space has opened on the upper floor of Dalegarth station, creating a wonderful setting to relax after your journey through Eskdale. This dedicated space is reserved for the First Class Afternoon Tea Experience. Guests can pre-book their afternoon tea online to secure a table, or enquire on the day of travel (subject to availability). It’s an ideal way to enhance your visit to one of the Lake District’s most unique railway attractions.
New retail offering at Dalegarth
The retail experience at Dalegarth station has also been refreshed, offering visitors an expanded selection of souvenirs and gifts. Our updated shop now incorporates the Veg Patch retail brand and features a wide range of items. You’ll find popular brands such as Jellycat alongside railway-themed gifts, toys and memorabilia. Visitors can browse the range in person or shop online, making it easy to take home a reminder of your railway journey.
Catering during refurbishment
1876 Ravenglass Station Café has recently received a refresh, along with a new menu featuring freshly made sandwiches, traybakes, cakes, snacks, hot sausage rolls, pies, and a selection of hot and cold drinks.
At Dalegarth station, work is currently underway to complete the new lower-floor café space, which is expected to reopen from 27 April. In the meantime, there will be a temporary pop-up solution for light refreshments outside, so you can pick up a takeaway treat or two during your visit.
New play area coming soon
We are also developing a brand-new outdoor play area at Dalegarth station, creating an exciting space for younger visitors as part of a family day out in the Eskdale Valley. The previous playground may be closed during your visit while construction takes place. The new play area is expected to open later this spring, adding another family-friendly attraction at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. Once complete, the play area will provide even more for children to enjoy before or after their steam train journey through the Western Lake District.
