Great Central Railway
Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by Suzy McCullough
The Great Central Railway is located in Loughborough, Leicestershire and runs to a new terminus in the north of Leicester. It is the UK’s only double-track heritage railway. This means you can see full-size steam engines passing each other by. The line runs for 8.25 miles.
What is there to do at Great Central Railway?
Trains run for every weekend of the year plus bank holidays and selected weekdays in the summer. You can even book a restaurant car and enjoy a five-course meal. The railway runs many special events, including meet and greets with TV characters, 1940s weekends, Santa specials and more.
Loughborough Central Station is the railway’s principal station. There is a museum with historical information and artefacts from the start of the railways. They run both steam and diesel services and you can check ahead before you book. The second station is Quorn and Woodhouse with a NAAFI-style tearoom and a cafe. Next on the line is Rothley. There is another tearoom and a cafe. Adjacent to the station is the Charnwood Forest Garden Railway. It is run separately to GCR and there is a small charge to visit.
The final stop is the Leicester North station. There is another tearoom and if you are looking for something extra to do the Abbey Pumping Station and the National Space Centre are just a 15-minute walk away. (just make sure you don’t miss the train back)
Further Information
Is there food and drink available?
There is a range of tearooms and cafes at most stations. You are welcome to bring a picnic.
What are the main things to do?
Heritage railway line with steam and diesel train rides. There is a museum and things to do in the area. There are toilets and a choice of places to purchase food and drinks.
What are the ticket prices?
An adult day return costs £18, children £9, family tickets and cheaper ticket options are also available.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.
Is there parking?
There are car parks close to most stations, so there may be a charge to park.
When are they open?
The GCR runs a varied timetable. For up-to-date opening times please visit their website.
Dog friendly?
Guide dogs are welcome, pet dogs are permitted although there are terms around this and their travel can’t always be guaranteed.
Are they accessible?
Please note that the map location is not exact.