The Wells and Walsingham Light Railway, located in Norfolk, is the UK’s smallest public railway and one of the world’s smallest public railways. With a 260mm gauge, the train runs between Wells-next-the-Sea and Walsingham in east England.
The railway provides a delightful 30-minute journey each way through the stunning English countryside. Travellers will enjoy views of bridges, a historic hill fort, and even a mysterious ghost platform along the way.
For over 15 years, the railway has been operating two steam locomotives, including the famous Norfolk Hero. Originally, the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway (RH&DR) in Kent was recognised as the world’s smallest public railway from 1926 until 1978.
It lost this title to the Réseau Guerlédan in France in 1978, but reclaimed it a year later in 1979 when that line ceased operations. However, in 1982, the RH&DR lost the title once more to the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway, which has been a beloved tourist destination on the Norfolk coast since its opening that same year.
For anyone planning a visit, you’ll need to wait until next month as it is currently closed for winter, but will reopen Saturday, March 15. It could be a fantastic trip out for all the family and something different to do.
Dogs and children four years old and under can ride for free. There is no need to book in advance, you can turn up on the day and pay the guard. You can find more information about times and prices on the WWLR website.
|
Departs Wells |
Departs Walsingham |
| 10.30am | 11.15am |
| 12pm | 12.45pm |
| 2pm | 2.45pm |
| 3.30pm | 4.15pm |
On TikTok, travel blogger Alina, who goes by the username @Alina_msr, posted a video about the railway and its surrounding towns. She said: “Wells is a small seaside town on the north Norfolk coast. Lovely town centre with lots of local shops and food, a beautiful harbour and I love the beach with all the beautiful beach huts.
“Walsingham is a small village in the Norfolk countryside which has been popular for pilgrims for almost 1,000 years! This village really took me by surprise and it’s definitely one of my favourite villages in England now!”
She added: “Lots of beautiful houses, a cute tearoom and the romantic ruins of Walsingham Abbey taking the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway was such a unique experience. I’ve never seen such a small railway, 10/10.”
In the comment section, one viewer replied: “Oh how lovely this looks.” Another put: “I used to live there, the train track runs right past my old house, i used to hear it everyday in the summer.”
The railway begins its journey at Wells Station, situated along the A149 coast road, just south of the town. This station features a spacious car park, the Signal Box Café, a shop, and a waiting area.
The trip to Walsingham Station takes approximately 30 minutes. This station is nestled in the charming Saxon village of Walsingham, right by the River Stiffkey. You can find parking at the Mill pay-and-display car park, located between Coker’s Hill and Bridewell Street.