About Us
The Launceston Steam Railway links the historic town of Launceston with the hamlet of Newmills. The line runs for two and a half miles through the glorious Kensey Valley along the trackbed of the old North Cornwall Railway, where once express trains from Waterloo thundered along.
Your train is hauled by narrow gauge (2' 0") locomotives built in Victoria's reign, and you can ride in open or closed carriages depending on the weather; whatever you choose, you are assured of a marvellous view. A seat in the front of the train is as good as being on the footplate.
Tickets are "Day Rovers" so you can ride the trains as often as you wish, or you can break your journey for a picnic, to explore the footpaths around the Kensey Valley or visit the Newmills Farm Park.
With a train every hour, many passengers choose to enjoy a picnic or a walk in the valley, and return on a later service. The guard will stop the train, on request, at Hunt's Crossing.
Launceston Station
 
More photographs of Launceston station |
Launceston Station is the place to wander around the Railway Workshops and the Engineering Museum. The museum houses a fascinating collection of items associated with transport, from the days when British engineering was the envy of the world. Many of the wide range of exhibits are demonstrated at work. You can also browse in the much acclaimed Gift Shop, renowned for its large selection of quality gifts and its well stocked bookshop. The shop also offers a mail-order service; for more information, please telephone or write to us. The station area was once the site of an Augustinian Priory some of which can be seen by visitors to the Railway. Also at the station is the buffet where a wide choice of refreshments are available, including of course, cream teas! |
Hunts Crossing
 |
Hunts Crossing is a small halt halfway along the railway. It is a request stop, so please ask the guard to stop the train if you wish to alight here. |
Newmills
More photographs of Newmills |
Newmills station is the end of the line, and the train will be here for about ten minutes while the locomotive runs round the train. From the station there are a choice of footpaths (ask for a leaflet), including a hilly walk which leads to Tregadillet with its renowned pub, or on a more level route which leads to Hidden Valley. Next to the station at Newmills is the riverside farm park with indoor and outdoor games for children. The park is not owned by the railway company so there is a small charge - but we heartily recommend a visit. |