Avon Valley Railway – Gloucestershire, England

The Avon Valley Railway is a very popular three-mile long heritage railway based at Bitton station in South Gloucestershire in England. The original line was opened in 1869 by the Midland Railway company as a through-route between Birmingham and the South Coast. It was closed in the 1960s but later restored by a team of railway enthusiasts who re-laid the track and restored some vintage locomotives and carriages so passengers can enjoy a steam train ride along the picturesque Avon Valley.

Travellers can choose from taking a day trip on the train or enjoying a two or three course Sunday lunch on traditional railway car, the Pines Express. Other special events held on the train include the Teddy Bear’s Picnic and 1940s weekend and murder mysteries. Meanwhile train lovers can book driver experience courses for the opportunity to take the controls on the six-mile trip.

Prices from: £9
Departing from: Bitton Station
Journey length: 6 miles (round trip)

Avon Valley Railway route

The railway follows the valley south-east from Oldland Common, through Bitton and alongside the River Avon towards Kelson and Bath. 

The train

Over the past forty years the railway company has bought and restored a large collection of steam locomotives so there is not technically one train on this line. Some of these are already in use whilst others are in storage, awaiting an overhaul. Not surprisingly, this railway is of great interest to railway enthusiasts from all over the world.

Why we love it

As well as getting the chance to enjoy a ride on an historic steam train through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area, visitors can also enhance their trip with a visit to the beautifully restored Victorian station at Bitton. Here you can enjoy a traditional British lunch or afternoon tea in the station buffet and pick up a railway-themed souvenir from the station shop.